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.”
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.
Tom Petty Estate Inks Administration Deal With Warner Chappell Music
/by Liza AndersonTom Petty. Photo: Mark Seliger
The Tom Petty Estate has signed a worldwide administration deal with Warner Chappell Music for the late rock star’s catalog.
The agreement includes his Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers work in addition to his work as a solo artist, including enduring hits such as “Wildlflowers,” “Free Fallin’,” “Learning To Fly,” “Refugee,” “Here Comes My Girl,” “I Won’t Back Down,” “The Waiting,” “Don’t Come Around Here No More,” “Mary Jane’s Last Dance,” “Runnin’ Down A Dream” and more.
“Tom Petty’s music is woven into the fabric of our lives, not just across America, but around the world. He captured the full range and resilience of the human spirit in songs about freedom and dreams, outcasts and rebels, relationships and heartbreak, the personal and the universal,” state Warner Chappell Co-Chair & CEO Guy Moot and Co-Chair & COO Carianne Marshall. “Tom’s unmistakable sound and lyrics remain as timeless and vital today as ever, and all of us at Warner Chappell Music are honored to be joining with his estate to help amplify his extraordinary legacy on a global scale. Their work in recent years has already laid an incredible foundation, and we’re very excited to be partnering with such an innovative and forward-thinking team.”
“This landmark new deal spans 40 years of Tom’s hugely influential and much-loved songs. The depth and breadth of his catalog is exceptional, including 15 top-10 albums and an incredible stream of rock classics. Tom was a born storyteller, and he turned life experiences, both good and bad, into songs of extraordinary power and emotion that continue to captivate millions of fans,” adds Warner Chappell SVP, A&R and Catalog Greg Sowders. “Tom Petty and his songs are one of the reasons I became a musician and publisher. The whole team is looking forward to partnering with his estate to ensure that his music not only endures but that its impact continues to grow for many years to come.”
“We’re looking forward to this new partnership with the team at Warner Chappell, as we expand the reach of Tom’s iconic song catalog. This partnership will open the door to new licensing opportunities and serve to introduce his music to a new generation across the globe,” shares the Tom Petty Estate. “We’re excited for this new chapter of growth, and the preservation of Tom’s legacy both at home and abroad. We look forward to working closely with Carianne, Greg, Guy and their incredible team.”
The signing announcement follows the release of the Petty Country: A Country Music Celebration of Tom Petty tribute album via Big Machine Records in partnership with the Tom Petty Estate.
Kylie Taylor Joins Black River Entertainment As Graphic Designer
/by Lorie HollabaughKylie Taylor
Kylie Taylor has joined the Black River Entertainment creative department as Graphic Designer.
A graduate of Nashville’s Nōssi College of Art & Design in 2023, Taylor has demonstrated her artistic ability and creativity in various ventures including book design, logo design, layout design, website design and card design. Most notably, Taylor was tapped to design the cover of Nashville Scene‘s 2023 “Hey, Thanks” issue.
“I am thrilled to have Kylie complete our in-house creative team! She is an impactful visual storyteller who brings a collaborative spirit to this role,” comments Black River’s Vice President, Marketing Tanya Schrage. “I am looking forward with great expectation to all she will bring to Black River and our roster.”
“I’m thrilled to join Black River Entertainment as a graphic designer,” shares Taylor. “I look forward to bringing my passion and creativity to visually convey and complement the incredible music that Black River Entertainment’s artists are producing. I can’t wait for all that is to come!”
Taylor works out of Black River’s Nashville location on Music Row and can be reached at ktaylor@blackriverent.com.
Tanner Adell Makes History & Debuts New Single At BET Awards
/by Liza AndersonTanner Adell. Photo: Gene Mauss
Tanner Adell became the first female country artist to perform during the Black Entertainment Television (BET) Awards on Sunday (June 30), where she debuted her latest single, “Cowboy Break My Heart.”
Written by Adell, Akil “Worldwidefresh” King, Stephen “Di Genius” McGregor, Will Weatherly and Anthony Germaine White, “Cowboy Break My Heart” marks her first release since signing a record deal with Love Renaissance (LVRN) in Atlanta.
“This song is simply a bop,” she stated. “Though it is a track I want my fans to have fun with, I think it also shows how powerful heartbreak can be and how it doesn’t go away just like that. This guy—who was a massive Dallas Cowboys fan, hence the title—did some damage to my heart, but it led to some great songs of mine like ‘I Hate Texas’ and ‘Whiskey Blues.’ Safe to say I’ll be leaving that ‘Cowboy’ in the past, but what an empowering moment to be able to debut the song on the BET Awards stage.”
The tune follows her Twisters: The Album track, “Too Easy,” and her “Drunk In Love (Apple Music Sessions)” cover. Additionally, the 2024 CMT Next Women of Country artist also made her Billboard Hot 100 debut earlier this year with her “Blackbiird” collaboration featured on Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter collection.
Additionally, Adell will perform during Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Show, airing at 7:00 p.m. CT on NBC and Peacock, and is slated to appear at various festivals, including Faster Horses, GoldenSky and Ridin’ Hearts.
FBMM Elevates Two To Leadership Team
/by John Nix ArledgeBeth Tyson & Brian Gordner
Entertainment business management firm FBMM has promoted both Beth Tyson and Brian Gordner to Associate Business Manager, the firm’s second-highest position.
“The future of FBMM and business management is bright with talented individuals like Beth and Brian joining our next generation of leaders,” says FBMM Owner and Vice President Carmen Romano. “They are trusted advisers to their clients and incredibly deserving of this promotion. The other owners and I look forward to seeing Brian and Beth continue to grow.”
Since joining FBMM 17 years ago, Tyson has garnered a wealth of experience in touring, risk management, budgets, finances and more. She currently serves as the programs co-chair for SOURCE Nashville’s board of directors.
“I learned early on that you have to work doing something you love, and I am passionate about music and helping my clients achieve their financial goals,” explains Tyson. “At FBMM, we work behind the scenes to provide our clients with the resources and expertise needed for financially secure futures and I’m excited to continue to do so in this new role.”
Gordner, based in the company’s New York City office, also has over 17 years of experience in the music industry. After nearly a decade as a tour manager, Gordner knows the challenges of life on the road, which allows him to better understand his clients’ needs. He is a member of the Institute of Management Accountants and is a Certified Management Accountant.
“I worked closely with FBMM during my time as a tour manager and always had a great deal of respect for the firm,” says Gordner. “I’m proud to have spent the last 12 years using my touring expertise to help our clients. I look forward to continuing to serve my clients and support my growing team and their careers.”