Thunder Ridge art. Photo: Courtesy of ASM Global
There are hundreds of arenas, amphitheaters and rooms of various sizes across the nation that house memorable concerts every night, but there are only a handful of venues that reach icon status. Going to see a show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, The Hollywood Bowl or the Ryman Auditorium, for example, are experiences that make a lot of music lovers’ bucket lists.
A new spot that will undoubtedly find its way onto must-see venue lists is the Thunder Ridge Nature Arena in Ridgedale, Missouri.
Located just a few miles outside of Branson, the 1,200 acres that make up Thunder Ridge showcase breathtaking views of the Table Rock Lake inlets and gorgeous forested Boston Mountains. With a capacity of 18,000, the arena is the perfect place to enjoy some music and appreciate the majesty of nature that is so beautifully showcased in The Ozarks. And showcasing that beauty is precisely the goal.
Morgan Wallen plays at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena. Photo: David Lehr
Thunder Ridge Nature Arena has been developed for over a decade by noted conservationist and Bass Pro Shops Founder Johnny Morris. He is extremely dedicated to conserving The Ozarks, as the property’s land, its buildings and infrastructure have been donated and permanently set aside as part of a not-for-profit foundation committed to the cause of conservation.
Morris wants the venue to be “America’s most beautiful outdoor amphitheater.” He’s well on his way.
But in order to get fans in the doors, Thunder Ridge has to book great talent. They have partnered with ASM Global for that task.
The first artist to take the Thunder Ridge stage was country icon Garth Brooks, who played the venue before it underwent more finalizations. In May, superstar Morgan Wallen reopened Thunder Ridge and started the flow of concerts there this summer. Chris Stapleton also took the stage last month, and on deck for July are The Rolling Stones and Luke Bryan. Imagine Dragons and Pitbull shows are also forthcoming.
Jason Rio. Photo: Courtesy of ASM Global
“We’re learning about the market right now,” shares Jason Rio, SVP of Live Entertainment for ASM Global, who is intrinsically involved in the development of the live show experience at Thunder Ridge. “So far we feel like the market is across the board. Country is definite, and we’re doing some rock shows. It’ll take some time for people to understand what we’re trying to accomplish here, which is bringing great music to this part of the country, and giving the fans an experience that’s unlike anything that they have been part of.”
He adds, “If you live in Kansas City, St. Louis or Arkansas, you have your amphitheater that you would go to to see Tyler Childers or whoever it may be. Those venues are great, but seeing Tyler Childers here…Once you experience that, it will set a new bar for what the potential is.”
In his line of work, Rio is well-acquainted with the concert venues the United States has to offer, and notes that Thunder Ridge is in a class of its own.
“It’s a unique and special place given where it sits within the country and the world,” he says. “It’s so highly-curated. Getting to know Johnny and how he operates his business, with the attention to detail and the focus, it’s obvious how personal it is. It doesn’t take you long to realize why he is who he is.”
In addition to shows in a 18,000-seat amphitheater, Thunder Ridge provides the complete experience with Morris’ Big Cedar Lodge, a 4,600-acre rustic luxury resort close by, as well as miles and miles of walking trails with breathtaking views. There are limitless opportunities to hike, fish and enjoy the great outdoors.
Chris Stapleton plays at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena. Photo: Andy Barron
“As we’re advancing more shows and talking to more artists, the idea that the artist can show up a few days before, post up and relax is appealing. There’s a Tiger Woods-designed golf course [on the Big Cedar Lodge property]. There’s everything that you could want all within this area.”
The same is true for fans, who can drive in for just a show or make a vacation out of their trip to Thunder Ridge, adding potential for multi-day artist events or activations.
“It goes back to the unique experience that Johnny and his team are giving fans. The concert venue is another part of the package. There’s so many things to do there, and now you can go see an amazing show at an amazing venue,” Rio says.
Tasked with introducing the new venue to the music business, Rio states the only way to truly “get it” is to spend time at Thunder Ridge.
“Pictures are one thing, but you have to get out there. Having that big reveal when you come around the bend and see everything…I can’t put that into words,” he says. “In our business, there are so many shows and so many venues. The venues like Thunder Ridge are the exceptions to the rule. There’s a story behind it and deep meaning. You need to experience this in person because it is unlike anything that you have been a part of.”
Grand Ole Opry To Celebrate 30th Anniversary Of ‘Forrest Gump’ With Special Show
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Grand Ole Opry will celebrate the 30th anniversary of Paramount Pictures’ beloved classic Forrest Gump on July 28 with a special show.
The evening is set to include performances from the Gatlin Brothers, Mandy Barnett, Jamey Johnson, Gary LeVox, Scotty McCreery and more, in addition to the Opry debut of Gary Sinise & The Lt. Dan Band, featuring songs from the 12-time Platinum movie soundtrack.
Forrest Gump premiered on July 6, 1994 and became not only a global blockbuster, but a cultural touchstone, winning six Oscars/Academy Awards including Best Picture. The film’s soundtrack is composed of some of the most popular American music of the 20th century, including songs by The Byrds, Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Willie Nelson and Elvis Presley, among others.
Forrest Gump producer Wendy Finerman and actor Mykelti Williamson, who portrayed the iconic character Bubba, will appear as guest announcers during the show. Prior to the event, the Opry will also host a Forrest Gump-themed Plaza Party with music from the soundtrack, photo ops, giveaways, merchandise and more.
Fans can purchase an exclusive ticket package that includes a show ticket, post-show ticket, commemorative poster and more. Taking place in the Opry House’s Studio A, the post-show event in will feature a Q&A with Finerman, Williamson and Gary Sinise, who portrayed Lt. Dan, as well as photo ops on the famous park bench from numerous scenes in the film.
Package proceeds will benefit the Gary Sinise Foundation. (GSF), which was established in 2011 to support our nation’s veterans, first responders, heroes and defenders. The character of Lt. Dan in Forrest Gump made an enduring connection with veterans and service members, and amplified Sinise’s crusade to support those who have bravely served our country and their families. Five dollars from every ticket sold will also be donated to GSF.
For more information, click here.
Karley Scott Collins Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut
/by Lorie HollabaughKarley Scott Collins during her Grand Ole Opry debut. Photo: Rachael Black for Grand Ole Opry
Karley Scott Collins stepped into the hallowed circle to make her Grand Ole Opry debut, and her family proud, last Wednesday (June 26).
“I’m from a small town in Florida called Lake City, and it’s probably half empty back home tonight because my entire family is here,” Collins joked from the stage.
Charles Kelley performing with Karley Scott Collins during her Grand Ole Opry debut. Photo: Photo: Rachael Black for Grand Ole Opry
Performing songs from her recently-released EP, Write One, she kicked things off with “Heavy Metal,” before welcoming Opry member Charles Kelley of Lady A for their duet “How Do You Do That.”
The career milestone adds to a whirlwind past few months for Collins, as she toured with Willie Nelson and Dwight Yoakam in addition to releasing the new EP featuring Kelley and Keith Urban, who personally extended Collins her Opry debut invitation.
She is also slated to take the Ryman Auditorium stage to open for Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, and support Nate Smith and Corey Kent on their respective fall tours.
Jason Isbell And The 400 Unit Announce 2024 Ryman Residency
/by Liza AndersonJason Isbell and The 400 Unit
Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit have announced their annual eight-night residency at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, taking place in October.
The group has contributed the Mother Church’s legacy with their performances over the past decade, delivering a diverse lineup of opening acts each year. This year, they will be joined by an all-female lineup, consisting of Alice Randall, Garrison Starr, Mary Gauthier, Caitlin and Liz Rose, Matraca Berg, Iris Dement, Gretchen Peters and Kim Richey.
Tickets are available now. For more information, click here.
Rusty Golden, Songwriter & Son Of Oak Ridge Boys Member William Lee Golden, Passes
/by LB CantrellRusty Golden. Photo: Kris Rae
Rusty Golden, award-winning songwriter and musician and son of The Oak Ridge Boys member William Lee Golden, passed away on Monday (July 1) at his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee. He was 65.
Born William “Rusty” Golden on Jan. 3, 1959, in Brewton, Alabama, he is the eldest son of William Lee and Frogene Normand.
Music was ever-present in the Golden home, and young Rusty started sharing in the family passion at a young age. By the time he was 12, he was proficiently playing drums. A year later, at just 13, Rusty started playing drums for The Rambos featuring celebrated songwriter Dottie Rambo. He also showed a talent for songwriting at an early age, first putting his grandmother’s poems to music.
After attending an Elton John concert, a teenage Rusty was entranced by the piano. By age 17, he was good enough to play keys on the road with Larry Gatlin, and eventually started playing on studio sessions in Nashville. By age 20, Rusty was recording at Quadraphonic Studios for ABC Records.
He helped form The Boys Band, whose debut album for Elektra/Asylum Records included the single “Runner.” Another single, “Please Don’t Stop Me Baby,” landed on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The group disbanded in ’84, the same year Rusty received a Gold plaque for his songwriting contributions on The Oaks’ Bobbie Sue album.
Encouraged by his success, Rusty and brother Chris Golden joined with Marc Speer to start the group Golden Speer in ’85. Although their album was never released, their label changed directions the next year, leading Rusty and Chris to record under the name The Goldens. The duo moved to Capitol/SBK Records and released the album Rush for Gold in 1990, containing three charting singles “Take Me Back to The Country,” “Keep The Faith” and “Long Gone.”
After undergoing a quadruple bypass, Rusty devoted his songwriting back to his gospel roots. This transition was rewarded with several No. 1 southern gospel hits and two Song of the Year awards for “What Salvation’s Done for Me” by The Booth Brothers and “I Want to Thank You” by Karen Peck & New River.
In 2020, Rusty joined brother Chris and dad William Lee to work on their family band, William Lee Golden and The Goldens. They recorded and released 34 songs from 2020 to 2021 and added brother Craig, nieces Elizabeth and Rebekah and nephew Elijah into the mix, making the group a three-generation family band.
Rusty was regarded as a charismatic entertainer in addition to an accomplished songwriter and musician. Last year he was awarded Keyboard Player of the Year by the Josie Music Awards.
Rusty Golden is preceded in death by his mother Frogene Normand, grandparents Luke and Rutha Mae Golden, and Elliot and Estelle Normand. He is survived by his father William Lee Golden (Simone), and brothers Craig Golden, Chris Golden (Marie) and Solomon Golden, along with many nieces, nephews and other extended family members.
Funeral/memorial details are pending and will be made available at williamleegoldenandthegoldens.com and their Facebook page.
Weekly Register: Post Malone & Blake Shelton Attain Top Country Songs Debut
/by Liza AndersonBlake Shelton and Post Malone performing at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2024. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for Spotify
Post Malone and Blake Shelton‘s “Pour Me A Drink” attains the top debut on the country streaming songs chart this week, landing at No. 4 with 18 million streams, according to Luminate data.
Based on audio streams, Post Malone and Morgan Wallen‘s “I Had Some Help” maintains its No. 1 status with 33.5 million new streams, adding to 327 million ATD, followed by Shaboozey‘s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” at No. 2 with 33 million streams, adding to 365 million ATD. Zach Bryan‘s “Pink Skies” stays at No. 3 with 19 million new streams, adding to 127 million ATD, and Wallen and Moneybagg Yo‘s “Whiskey Whiskey” remains at No. 5 with 14 million streams, adding to 30 million ATD.
On the country albums chart, Wallen’s One Thing At A Time continues at the top with 73K in total consumption (1.4K album only/93 million song streams). His Dangerous: The Double Album reclaims No. 2 with 43K (363 album only/56 million song streams), while Shaboozey’s Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going holds No. 3 with 41K (2K album only/46 million song streams). Bryan’s self-titled album returns to No. 4 with 36K (3.1K album only/43 million song streams), as his American Heartbreak rises to No. 5 once again with 32K (1.2K album only/40 million song streams).
Bobby Wood To Be CMHOFM’s Next ‘Nashville Cats’ Honoree
/by Lorie HollabaughKeyboardist Bobby Wood will be featured in the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s in-depth interview series, “Nashville Cats,” on Aug. 17 at 2:30 p.m. in the museum’s Ford Theater.
Raised on a family farm in Mississippi, Wood moved to Memphis after high school to pursue a music career. His recording of “If I’m a Fool for Loving You” was rising up the charts in 1964 when a car wreck laid him up for months. After recuperating, Wood focused on session work and songwriting and became a pivotal member of legendary studio crew the Memphis Boys, who were responsible for numerous hits recorded at American Sound Studio, including records by Elvis Presley, Neil Diamond, Wilson Pickett and Dusty Springfield.
After moving to Nashville in 1972, Wood recorded with Garth Brooks, Kris Kristofferson, Kenny Rogers and Tammy Wynette, along with many others. He has played in Brooks’ studio band since the beginning of Brooks’ career.
The interview will be moderated by museum writer-editor RJ Smith and will be illustrated with vintage photos, film and recordings. “Nashville Cats” is included with museum admission and free to museum members. However, seating is limited, and a program ticket is required for admittance.
Thunder Ridge Nature Arena Provides A Unique Touring Destination For Artists & Fans [Interview]
/by LB CantrellThunder Ridge art. Photo: Courtesy of ASM Global
There are hundreds of arenas, amphitheaters and rooms of various sizes across the nation that house memorable concerts every night, but there are only a handful of venues that reach icon status. Going to see a show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, The Hollywood Bowl or the Ryman Auditorium, for example, are experiences that make a lot of music lovers’ bucket lists.
A new spot that will undoubtedly find its way onto must-see venue lists is the Thunder Ridge Nature Arena in Ridgedale, Missouri.
Located just a few miles outside of Branson, the 1,200 acres that make up Thunder Ridge showcase breathtaking views of the Table Rock Lake inlets and gorgeous forested Boston Mountains. With a capacity of 18,000, the arena is the perfect place to enjoy some music and appreciate the majesty of nature that is so beautifully showcased in The Ozarks. And showcasing that beauty is precisely the goal.
Morgan Wallen plays at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena. Photo: David Lehr
Thunder Ridge Nature Arena has been developed for over a decade by noted conservationist and Bass Pro Shops Founder Johnny Morris. He is extremely dedicated to conserving The Ozarks, as the property’s land, its buildings and infrastructure have been donated and permanently set aside as part of a not-for-profit foundation committed to the cause of conservation.
Morris wants the venue to be “America’s most beautiful outdoor amphitheater.” He’s well on his way.
But in order to get fans in the doors, Thunder Ridge has to book great talent. They have partnered with ASM Global for that task.
The first artist to take the Thunder Ridge stage was country icon Garth Brooks, who played the venue before it underwent more finalizations. In May, superstar Morgan Wallen reopened Thunder Ridge and started the flow of concerts there this summer. Chris Stapleton also took the stage last month, and on deck for July are The Rolling Stones and Luke Bryan. Imagine Dragons and Pitbull shows are also forthcoming.
Jason Rio. Photo: Courtesy of ASM Global
“We’re learning about the market right now,” shares Jason Rio, SVP of Live Entertainment for ASM Global, who is intrinsically involved in the development of the live show experience at Thunder Ridge. “So far we feel like the market is across the board. Country is definite, and we’re doing some rock shows. It’ll take some time for people to understand what we’re trying to accomplish here, which is bringing great music to this part of the country, and giving the fans an experience that’s unlike anything that they have been part of.”
He adds, “If you live in Kansas City, St. Louis or Arkansas, you have your amphitheater that you would go to to see Tyler Childers or whoever it may be. Those venues are great, but seeing Tyler Childers here…Once you experience that, it will set a new bar for what the potential is.”
In his line of work, Rio is well-acquainted with the concert venues the United States has to offer, and notes that Thunder Ridge is in a class of its own.
“It’s a unique and special place given where it sits within the country and the world,” he says. “It’s so highly-curated. Getting to know Johnny and how he operates his business, with the attention to detail and the focus, it’s obvious how personal it is. It doesn’t take you long to realize why he is who he is.”
In addition to shows in a 18,000-seat amphitheater, Thunder Ridge provides the complete experience with Morris’ Big Cedar Lodge, a 4,600-acre rustic luxury resort close by, as well as miles and miles of walking trails with breathtaking views. There are limitless opportunities to hike, fish and enjoy the great outdoors.
Chris Stapleton plays at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena. Photo: Andy Barron
“As we’re advancing more shows and talking to more artists, the idea that the artist can show up a few days before, post up and relax is appealing. There’s a Tiger Woods-designed golf course [on the Big Cedar Lodge property]. There’s everything that you could want all within this area.”
The same is true for fans, who can drive in for just a show or make a vacation out of their trip to Thunder Ridge, adding potential for multi-day artist events or activations.
“It goes back to the unique experience that Johnny and his team are giving fans. The concert venue is another part of the package. There’s so many things to do there, and now you can go see an amazing show at an amazing venue,” Rio says.
Tasked with introducing the new venue to the music business, Rio states the only way to truly “get it” is to spend time at Thunder Ridge.
“Pictures are one thing, but you have to get out there. Having that big reveal when you come around the bend and see everything…I can’t put that into words,” he says. “In our business, there are so many shows and so many venues. The venues like Thunder Ridge are the exceptions to the rule. There’s a story behind it and deep meaning. You need to experience this in person because it is unlike anything that you have been a part of.”
Brennley Brown Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut
/by Lorie HollabaughBrennley Brown. Photo: Artisan Imagery
Former The Voice finalist Brennley Brown recently made her Grand Ole Opry debut.
The 22-year-old actually bought her Opry debut dress when she was just 11, and has been working towards the bucket-list goal ever since. At 14, Brown appeared on season 12 of NBC’s The Voice where she became a finalist and the show’s youngest, highest-charting artist to date. Following her run on the show, she began traveling monthly to Nashville to hone her craft and lean into her traditional country roots.
She earned her spot in the live music scene as an opener for Tim McGraw, Sheryl Crow, Dwight Yoakam, and others and released her debut EP Story Stays in 2020. After permanently moving to Nashville, Brown signed with Sony/Provident Label Group in 2023.
Grace Bowers & The Hodge Podge To Bring ‘Wine On Venus’ In August
/by Liza AndersonGrace Bowers will independently release her debut album, Wine On Venus, alongside her band, The Hodge Podge, on Aug. 9.
Produced by John Osborne of Brothers Osborne, Wine On Venus seeks to capture the energy of Bowers’ live performances with The Hodge Podge. The project features the artist and Prince Parker on guitar, Joshua Blaylock on the keys, Brandon Combs on drums and Eric Fortaleza on bass in addition to the vocal stylings of Esther Okai-Tetteh.
“I’m so excited to share my first album with the world in August! It’s been a long time coming, and I’m proud of what was created with the incredible Hodge Podge and John Osborne producing,” Bowers says. “We recorded everything live, as it should be, for this sonic journey. I hope you love it as much as I do.”
The nine-track collection includes songwriting collaborations with Ben Chapman, Meg McRee, Maggie Rose and Lucie Silvas. Among the featured tunes are a new version of Sly & The Family Stone’s “Dance to the Music” as well as previously-released single “Tell Me Why U Do That” and the title track, which is available now.
“My nana was 100 years old when she passed away last year. She would always tell me that when she died, she would be drinking wine on Venus,” reflects Bowers. “She was a little eccentric but thought that was just something so cool. When she passed, I wrote a song about it.”
Bowers was recently selected to be U.S. Global Music Ambassador as part of the U.S Department of State and YouTube’s Global Music Diplomacy Initiative, and raised $30,000 for MusiCares and Voices for a Safer Tennessee with her second annual “Grace Bowers & Friends: An Evening Supporting Love, Life & Music” benefit.
She is also up for Instrumentalist of the Year at the 2024 Americana Music Association Honors & Awards, and plans to celebrate to her 18th birthday by making her Grand Ole Opry debut on July 30.
Wine On Venus Track Listing:
1. “Won No Teg”
2. “Get On Now”
3. “Tell Me Why U Do That”
4. “Holding Onto Something”
5. “Madame President”
6. “Lucy”
7. “Dance To The Music”
8. “Mookie’s Blues”
9. “Wine On Venus”
Gilles Godard To Be Inducted Into Canadian Country Music Hall Of Fame
/by Lorie HollabaughGilles Godard has been named the 2024 Stan Klees Builder inductee for the Canadian Country Music Hall Of Fame.
A native of Cornwall, Ontario, Godard has over five decades of music industry experience, and currently serves as the President of Anthem Music Publishing Nashville. He began his career with Anthem (formerly known as ole) as a writer, working his way up through key positions including Chief Creative Officer, Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Senior Vice President Publishing.
Throughout his tenure, Godard facilitated acquisitions such as Jody Williams Music, which includes Taylor Swift cuts; the Blacktop Catalog featuring Rascal Flatts and Blake Shelton and the Better Angels Catalog, which includes Cody Johnson’s 2022 Grammy-winning No. 1 single “Til You Can’t.” He was also instrumental in signing Jordan Davis and initiating a Timbaland deal that encompassed works by Justin Timberlake, Jay-Z and Beyoncé, along with the acquisition of catalogs from Paul Cardall, Carl Falk, Rami Yacoub and the Old Gringo catalog, which contains Sam Hunt songs including “Take Your Time,” “House Party” and “Break Up In A Small Town.”
An accomplished writer, publisher, artist and producer, Godard has received two CCMA Awards, two BMI Awards, four SOCAN Awards including an International Songwriter Achievement Award, a Felix Award and multiple JUNO nominations. Over 400 of his songs have been recorded by artists including Terri Clark, Patty Loveless, Anne Murray, Ricky Skaggs, Blackhawk, Tracy Byrd, The Road Hammers and more.
“Inducting Gilles Godard into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame is a tribute to his exceptional achievements, remarkable business acumen, and long-standing career,” says Amy Jeninga, President of CCMA. “His contributions continue to shape and inspire the country music industry as he works to build an enduring legacy and a vibrant future for generations of artists and songwriters.”
“When Amy Jeninga reached out to let me know that I was going to be inducted in the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, I felt surprised, very humbled, and truly honored,” shares Godard. “And then I started to think about all the incredible people who paved the way and opened the doors; the teachers, the mentors, the music that inspired me, the writers, the artists, the musicians, every single person who helped me find my way in this incredibly magical world of music. Someone once told me that there are only two types of people who belong in the music industry; the dreamers, and the believers; and I am happy to be a little bit of both. Thank you to the CCMA, I am proud and honored to be inducted in the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame class of 2024!”
Both Godard and recently-announced 2024 Canadian Country Music Hall Of Fame Artist inductee K.D. Lang will be celebrated in an exclusive induction ceremony during Country Music Week 2024, taking place in Edmonton, Alberta over Sept. 11–14.