Jelly Roll and Lainey Wilson perform at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Fans flooded Nissan Stadium on Saturday (June 8), eagerly anticipating performances from Jelly Roll, Keith Urban, Lainey Wilson, Old Dominon, The War And Treaty and more during the third night of CMA Fest.
Terri Clark performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Audacy’s Katie Neal of Katie & Company welcomed the crowd and introduced Canadian Music Hall of Fame and Grand Ole Opry member Terri Clark to kick off the show.
Clark stepped to the stage wearing her classic white cowboy hat, and reminisced on her first time attending CMA Fest in 1987, back when it was known as Fan Fair.
“Seeing how much Fan Fair has grown over the years makes my heart burst,” she said, beaming. She then proceeded to set the tone for the evening with throwback hits, “Better Things to Do,” “Girls Lie Too,” “I Just Wanna Be Mad” and “I Wanna Do It All,” the latter morphing into a version of Sheryl Crow’s hit, “All I Wanna Do.”
Next up, making their CMA debut, was The War And Treaty, who kept the energy up with “Yesterday’s Burn” and “Stealing a Kiss” before performing their newly released, “Called You By Your Name.” The husband-wife duo showed off their soulful vocals, powerful stage presence and infectious bond as they made their way off the stage to sing directly to the audience.
The War and Treaty performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
“It’s our very first CMA Fest, and I can’t believe we are playing at Nissan Stadium,” marveled co-frontman Michael Trotter. “If you would have told me back in 2005, while I was in Iraq fighting for our country, that when I made it back this would happen… I would have called you a liar. No matter where we are from, love will always lead us back home”
It was then that the duo sang their final song, “Lead Me Home,” rounding out an incredible set.
Shortly after, fans turned their attention to the Platform Stage where newcomer Tanner Adell, contributor to Beyoncé’s recent Cowboy Carter album, performed tracks “Buckle Bunny” and “Whiskey Blues.”
Back on the main stage, CMA’s 2023 Vocal Group of the Year, Old Dominion, stepped up to the plate. “We are on a mission to make sure Saturday night is the loudest night of all of CMA Fest,” declared lead vocalist Matthew Ramsey. “We’ve only got a short time, but we’re going to make the most of it.”
Old Dominion performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
And make the most of it they did, kicking off the performance with their high-energy hit, “I Was On a Boat That Day,” prompting the crowd to hop to their feet and join in. The group then reminded the fans why they have received ACM’s Group of the Year seven consecutive times as they played back-to-back hits, “Snapback,” “Hotel Key” and “One Man Band,” before closing with “Memory Lane.”
Back on the platform stage, singer-songwriter Dylan Marlowe, joined by two band members, performed his unreleased track “Heaven Sakes,” and noted excitedly that his next song, “Boys Back Home,” was his, “first ever song at country radio.”
Next, Wilson took to the stage to deliver a set worthy only of the reigning ACM and CMA Entertainer of the Year. She began with her own hit, “Hang Tight Honey,” before inviting Clark back to the stage for an unforgettable performance of “Poor Poor Pitiful Me,” with Wilson assisting in percussion and Clark strumming her guitar.
Lainey Wilson and Terri Clark perform at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Before continuing, Wilson took a page from Clark’s book and shared CMA memories of her own, reminiscing on her perfect CMA Fest attendance since she was 14 years old, and encouraging fellow girls in the crowd to follow their dreams.
Wilson’s energy never died down. She flawlessly worked every inch of the stage as she delivered hit after hit including “Heart Like a Truck,” “Watermelon Moonshine” and “Country’s Cool Again,” before closing out with her most recent No. 1 “Wildflowers and Wild Horses.”
In between main stage sets, newcomer Brittney Spencer brought the groove, performing “I Got Time,” fresh off of her new, debut album My Stupid Life.
Taking the energy up a notch, country icon Urban was up next. He began with “Straight Line” and “Messed up As Me” before inviting Wilson back on stage to join him in delivering an incredible performance of “Go Home W U.”
Keith Urban performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Urban took his performance to the next level as he hoisted up his mic stand and toted it down from the main stage and into the audience singing, “Blue Ain’t Your Color,” “Better Life” and “Long Hot Summer.” Adding to the fun during his fan-frenzied escapade, Urban snagged an audience member’s hat and adorned it during the final verses of his closing song, further firing up the crowd.
Closing up the night was CMA’s 2023 New Artist of the Year, Jelly Roll, The Nashville native’s performance was a special one. He was teary-eyed looking into the audience after singing, “The Lost,” and taking in the full-circle moment.
“Everyone make some noise for the juvenile detention center behind me. I know they can hear us, because I was once one of them, in and out of jail, but tonight I am here headlining CMA Fest in my hometown,” he said, covering his face with his cap.
Jelly Roll performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Jelly Roll took those heavy emotions and turned it into excitement and energy. He recalled listening to country music with his mother, but only ever hearing ’90s hip-hop from his brother’s room. In tribute, he began a medley of classic hits including “Boyz n the Hood,” “Lose Yourself,” “Ms. Jackson” and “Just a Friend,” sprawling out on the floor in awe as the lit-up crowd sang sang the latter back to him.
Jelly Roll continued to sing his hits such as his recent No. 1 hit “Halfway to Hell,” followed by “Son of a Sinner,” “I Am Not Okay,” “Wild Ones” and “Need A Favor.” He welcomed Wilson back to center stage to close out the unforgettable night with, “Save Me,” marking a triumphant end to night three.
Dr. Herbert C. Gabhart & Bob Mulloy Honored With Cecil Scaife Visionary Award
/by Lorie HollabaughLaRawn Scaife Rhea & Brittany Schaffer
The Cecil Scaife Visionary Award was presented posthumously to Dr. Herbert C. Gabhart and Bob Mulloy at a private reception preceding Belmont’s Best of the Best concert at The Curb Event Center on the Belmont University Campus on what would have been Cecil Scaife’s 97th birthday, April 13.
Nashville Record Producer Joe Scaife and his sister, LaRawn Scaife Rhea, created the award to honor their dad’s contributions to the Music Business Program at Belmont and to celebrate those whose lives and work have made it possible for future generations to realize careers in the music industry.
Along with the award, The Cecil Scaife Endowed Scholarship was created, and each year, a rising junior or senior in the Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business is awarded a scholarship.
“Without Dr. Gabhart and Bob Mulloy’s belief in Dad’s vision for this program, it would not have been possible. It is an honor and privilege to present this award posthumously to Dr. Gabhart and Bob Mulloy on behalf of my brother and his wife, Danielle, their children, Jaela and Tristan, and my husband Richard and me,” says LaRawn Scaife Rhea. “Mike Curb was the first recipient of this award in 2008, and he and his wife Linda have brought this program to where it is today.”
Brittany Schaffer, Dean of the Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business, accepted the award. The beautiful Kosta Boda black and clear crystal award will be showcased on campus to remind students of the men whose shoulders they stand on.
Past Visionary Award recipients celebrated for their contributions, in addition to the inaugural recipient Mike Curb, include Brenda Lee, Ray Stevens, Amy Grant, Tony Brown, Wynonna Judd, David Briggs, Norbert Putnam, Jo Walker-Meador, Senator Marsha Blackburn, “Sunshine” Sonny Payne and Harold Bradley.
Danielle Bradbery Set To Release First Independent Album In September
/by Lorie HollabaughDanielle Bradbery
Danielle Bradbery announced to fans during her set at Spotify House at CMA Fest last week that she’s releasing a brand new album, Danielle, her first independent project.
Danielle will be her first album in over six years, and is due out Sept. 6. The deeply personal project will take listeners on an emotional journey of heartbreak and healing as Bradbery explores a season of heartache, recounting the trials of a broken relationship and channeling the emotion of being let down time and time again and pushed to the brink, then coming out on the other side stronger than before.
“I’ve learned a lot the last several years, and with Danielle I am truly representing the woman I’ve become,” says Bradbery. “During the recording process, it was important to not only share my story, but also my love for the ranging styles of music that raised me and have continued to inspire me my whole life.
“This album takes listeners on a journey that is at times heartbreaking and angry, but at its core embodies the creative freedom that anchors the entire work. I’m so proud of this album—my first in almost seven years. I hope it makes you laugh and cry and if you happen to see a piece of yourself somewhere in this; I hope you feel seen and empowered.”
In conjunction with the album announcement, Bradbery has also released her latest track “Broken Boy,” which revisits an old flame and the distorted expectations we are taught about love, eventually learning to embrace the brokenness we all carry. “Broken Boy” appears on Danielle and follows the recently released track “Wedding or a Funeral.”
Danielle Track List:
1. “Wake Me Up” (Kendall Greyson Brower Goodman, Fran Litterski, Anna Kline, Daniel Emilio Perez)
2. “Windows” (Michael McEachern, Kendall Grayson Brower Goodman, Tyler Spry)
3. “Broken Boy” (Emily Weisband, Jordan Reynolds)
4. “You Could” (Danielle Bradbery, Emily Weisband, Sam Sumser, Sean Small)
5. “Wedding or a Funeral” (Emily Weisband, Michael Ollin Lotten, Josh Miller)
6. “Real Ones” (Paige Blue, Jordan Keim)
7. “That’s Why (You Love Me)” (Alysa Vanderheym, Andre Davidson, Emily Weisband, Michelle Buzz, Ariowa Irosogie, Philip John Plested, Sean Davidson)
Tracy Lawrence Celebrates CMA Fest With Sold-Out Ascend Amphitheater Show
/by Lorie HollabaughTracy Lawrence celebrates one billion streams. Photo: Marisa Taylor
Tracy Lawrence fans had plenty to be happy about during his star-studded, sold-out CMA Fest show, “Tracy Lawrence and Friends,” on Saturday night (June 8) at Ascend Amphitheater.
The night featured performances and collaborations by Lawrence, Riley Green, Chris Young, Maddie & Tae, Priscilla Block, RaeLynn, Charles Esten, opener Kasey Tyndall and surprise guests Randy Houser and Lee Greenwood.
Mid-way through the show, Houser surprised Lawrence with a giant plaque commemorating one billion career streams, driven by some of his biggest hits including “Paint Me A Birmingham,” “Time Marches On,” “Find Out Who Your Friends Are,” “Sticks and Stones” and more. The massive achievement and sold-out show comes just one day after the release of Lawrence’s new EP Out Here In It, his first new album in three years.
BREAKING: Warner Chappell Promotes Jessi Vaughn Stevenson
/by LB CantrellJessi Vaughn Stevenson. Photo: Nathan Chapman
Warner Chappell Music has elevated seasoned A&R executive Jessi Vaughn Stevenson to Vice President, A&R and Digital.
Stevenson has worked with some of country music’s most influential songwriters, including Jessi Alexander, Rhett Akins, Parker McCollum, Riley Green, Hailey Whitters, Morgan Wallen, Randy Montana, Little Big Town and more. She will continue reporting to Ben Vaughn, President & CEO of Warner Chappell Music Nashville, as she strategizes around new and innovative opportunities for writers.
“The past eight years at Warner Chappell have been extremely educational and rewarding,” Stevenson says. “I feel blessed to continue to learn from the best in the business—from Admin and A&R teams to our world-class roster of songwriters and artists. Getting to fight for songs from inception to reception is my favorite part of publishing, and I look forward to finding new ways to develop and support our roster and their songs.”
Vaughn shares, “Jessi has always shown commitment to songwriters, helping them with their craft and careers. She is always thinking of new ways to support songwriters and is a wonderful team player. We’re happy to announce her promotion.”
The Nolensville, Tennessee native earned her Bachelor’s degree in music business at Belmont University. Prior to joining Warner Chappell, she worked across various facets of the industry in both Nashville and Los Angeles including stints at CMT, Warner Brothers Records, Bill Silva Entertainment and SoundExchange. In 2015, she formed JV Writer Management where she provided creative support for award-winning songwriters Alexander and Jon Randall, among others.
CMA Fest Day 3: Country Music Fans Beat The Heat
/by LB CantrellLily Rose performs at the Chevy Riverfront Stage on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Saturday (June 8) brought more fans to downtown Nashville for CMA Fest day three.
Pictured (L-R): Mark Wystrach, Jon Pardi, Cameron Duddy, Koe Wetzel and Jess Carson visit Spotify House at CMA Fest 2024 – Day 3. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for Spotify
The day kicked off at the Chevy Riverfront Stage with Priscilla Block. Following her were The War And Treaty, Chayce Beckham, Ingrid Andress, Restless Road, Lily Rose and more. The Chevy Vibes stage was graced by Dasha, Dylan Schneider, Kassi Ashton, Mark Wills and others.
On the Dr. Pepper Amp Stage, fans were treated to sets from David Nail, Catie Offerman, Alexandra Kay and more. The Good Molecules Stage featured Harper Grace, David J, John Morgan, RVSHVD and others.
Spotify’s final day of programming featured Ashley McBryde, Avery Anna, Brett Young, Carter Faith, Jon Pardi, Karley Scott Collins, Kassi Ashton, Koe Wetzel, Lauren Watkins, Mason Ramsey, Midland, Owen Riegling, Shaboozey, Tucker Wetmore and Wyatt Flores on the mainstage as well as Alexandra Kay, HunterGirl, Mike Parker, Jenna Paulette, Kashus Culpepper and Waylon Wyatt on the Fresh Finds stage powered by Samsung Galaxy.
Mickey Guyton performs at the UMG Nashville Takeover at Skydeck. Photo: Chris Hollo
For day three of the UMG Nashville Takeover at Skydeck, capacity crowds watched sets from Anne Wilson, Josh Turner, Maddie & Tae and Mickey Guyton. Newly signed artists Vincent Mason and Carter Faith hit the stage, and Louie TheSinger wrapped up the day with a fiery performance.
SiriusXM’s The Highway had Lainey Wilson, Lauren Watkins, Alana Springsteen, Riley Green, Austin Snell and more out for their special Music Row Happy Hour live event at Margaritaville on Saturday.
Lainey Wilson at SiriusXM The Highway’s Music Row Happy Hour on Saturday (June 8). Photo: Getty Images for SiriusXM
Ashley McBryde performs onstage at Spotify House at CMA Fest 2024 – Day 3. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for Spotify
David J performs at the Good Molecules Reverb Stage on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
RVSHVD performs at the Good Molecules Reverb Stage on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Jelly Roll performs onstage at Spotify House at CMA Fest 2024 – Day 3. Photo: Rick Kern/Getty Images for Spotify
Pictured (L-R): Mary Catherine Rebrovick (VP Publicity, Warner Music Nashville), Emma Singleton (Crush South), Clark Tedesco (VP Artist Development, Warner Music Nashville), Ben Kline (Co-Chair/Co-President, Warner Music Nashville), Ingrid Andress, Rohan Kohli (VP A&R, Warner Music Nashville), Patrick Sabatini (SVP Legal & Business Affairs, Warner Music Nashville), Jake Turner (Crush South), Mike Dupree (SVP Creative Director, Warner Music Nashville). Photo: Courtesy of WMN
Josh Turner performs at the UMG Nashville Takeover at Skydeck. Photo: Chris Hollo
CMA Fest Night 3: Jelly Roll, Keith Urban, Lainey Wilson & More Light Up The Night
/by John Nix ArledgeJelly Roll and Lainey Wilson perform at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Fans flooded Nissan Stadium on Saturday (June 8), eagerly anticipating performances from Jelly Roll, Keith Urban, Lainey Wilson, Old Dominon, The War And Treaty and more during the third night of CMA Fest.
Terri Clark performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Audacy’s Katie Neal of Katie & Company welcomed the crowd and introduced Canadian Music Hall of Fame and Grand Ole Opry member Terri Clark to kick off the show.
Clark stepped to the stage wearing her classic white cowboy hat, and reminisced on her first time attending CMA Fest in 1987, back when it was known as Fan Fair.
“Seeing how much Fan Fair has grown over the years makes my heart burst,” she said, beaming. She then proceeded to set the tone for the evening with throwback hits, “Better Things to Do,” “Girls Lie Too,” “I Just Wanna Be Mad” and “I Wanna Do It All,” the latter morphing into a version of Sheryl Crow’s hit, “All I Wanna Do.”
Next up, making their CMA debut, was The War And Treaty, who kept the energy up with “Yesterday’s Burn” and “Stealing a Kiss” before performing their newly released, “Called You By Your Name.” The husband-wife duo showed off their soulful vocals, powerful stage presence and infectious bond as they made their way off the stage to sing directly to the audience.
The War and Treaty performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
“It’s our very first CMA Fest, and I can’t believe we are playing at Nissan Stadium,” marveled co-frontman Michael Trotter. “If you would have told me back in 2005, while I was in Iraq fighting for our country, that when I made it back this would happen… I would have called you a liar. No matter where we are from, love will always lead us back home”
It was then that the duo sang their final song, “Lead Me Home,” rounding out an incredible set.
Shortly after, fans turned their attention to the Platform Stage where newcomer Tanner Adell, contributor to Beyoncé’s recent Cowboy Carter album, performed tracks “Buckle Bunny” and “Whiskey Blues.”
Back on the main stage, CMA’s 2023 Vocal Group of the Year, Old Dominion, stepped up to the plate. “We are on a mission to make sure Saturday night is the loudest night of all of CMA Fest,” declared lead vocalist Matthew Ramsey. “We’ve only got a short time, but we’re going to make the most of it.”
Old Dominion performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
And make the most of it they did, kicking off the performance with their high-energy hit, “I Was On a Boat That Day,” prompting the crowd to hop to their feet and join in. The group then reminded the fans why they have received ACM’s Group of the Year seven consecutive times as they played back-to-back hits, “Snapback,” “Hotel Key” and “One Man Band,” before closing with “Memory Lane.”
Back on the platform stage, singer-songwriter Dylan Marlowe, joined by two band members, performed his unreleased track “Heaven Sakes,” and noted excitedly that his next song, “Boys Back Home,” was his, “first ever song at country radio.”
Next, Wilson took to the stage to deliver a set worthy only of the reigning ACM and CMA Entertainer of the Year. She began with her own hit, “Hang Tight Honey,” before inviting Clark back to the stage for an unforgettable performance of “Poor Poor Pitiful Me,” with Wilson assisting in percussion and Clark strumming her guitar.
Lainey Wilson and Terri Clark perform at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Before continuing, Wilson took a page from Clark’s book and shared CMA memories of her own, reminiscing on her perfect CMA Fest attendance since she was 14 years old, and encouraging fellow girls in the crowd to follow their dreams.
Wilson’s energy never died down. She flawlessly worked every inch of the stage as she delivered hit after hit including “Heart Like a Truck,” “Watermelon Moonshine” and “Country’s Cool Again,” before closing out with her most recent No. 1 “Wildflowers and Wild Horses.”
In between main stage sets, newcomer Brittney Spencer brought the groove, performing “I Got Time,” fresh off of her new, debut album My Stupid Life.
Taking the energy up a notch, country icon Urban was up next. He began with “Straight Line” and “Messed up As Me” before inviting Wilson back on stage to join him in delivering an incredible performance of “Go Home W U.”
Keith Urban performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Urban took his performance to the next level as he hoisted up his mic stand and toted it down from the main stage and into the audience singing, “Blue Ain’t Your Color,” “Better Life” and “Long Hot Summer.” Adding to the fun during his fan-frenzied escapade, Urban snagged an audience member’s hat and adorned it during the final verses of his closing song, further firing up the crowd.
Closing up the night was CMA’s 2023 New Artist of the Year, Jelly Roll, The Nashville native’s performance was a special one. He was teary-eyed looking into the audience after singing, “The Lost,” and taking in the full-circle moment.
“Everyone make some noise for the juvenile detention center behind me. I know they can hear us, because I was once one of them, in and out of jail, but tonight I am here headlining CMA Fest in my hometown,” he said, covering his face with his cap.
Jelly Roll performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Jelly Roll took those heavy emotions and turned it into excitement and energy. He recalled listening to country music with his mother, but only ever hearing ’90s hip-hop from his brother’s room. In tribute, he began a medley of classic hits including “Boyz n the Hood,” “Lose Yourself,” “Ms. Jackson” and “Just a Friend,” sprawling out on the floor in awe as the lit-up crowd sang sang the latter back to him.
Jelly Roll continued to sing his hits such as his recent No. 1 hit “Halfway to Hell,” followed by “Son of a Sinner,” “I Am Not Okay,” “Wild Ones” and “Need A Favor.” He welcomed Wilson back to center stage to close out the unforgettable night with, “Save Me,” marking a triumphant end to night three.
CMA Fest Night 2: Jon Pardi, Kelsea Ballerini, Cody Johnson & More Electrify Fans
/by Liza AndersonKelsea Ballerini performs at Nissan Stadium on Friday, June 7 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Natasha Moustache/CMA
Country music fans returned to Nissan Stadium on Friday (June 7) for the second night of CMA Fest.
Kelly Sutton and Amber Anderson of Amazon Music’s Country Heat Weekly podcast welcomed the crowd and introduced the fierce Gretchen Wilson as the evening’s first performer.
Gretchen Wilson performs at Nissan Stadium during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Acacia Evans/CMA
Dressed in a black tank top, ripped jeans and tall black boots, Wilson got the audience riled up in the best way with “Here For The Party.” She then paused to greet to everyone, and expressed how great it felt to be back the annual event after so many years. Wilson thanked her loyal fans for sticking with her, and grabbed her guitar for a new tune titled “Little Miss Runner-Up.” Wilson revealed that the song, set to be released this coming week, is the sequel to her 2004 track “Homewrecker.” She asked all the hardworking people present to make some noise as she dove into “Work Hard, Play Harder.” Wilson then inquired about the rednecks in the attendance before belting “Redneck Woman.” The large screens placed on each side of the main stage showed fans singing alongside her as she closed with the classic.
As the sun went down, Jelly Roll came out to keep the energy high for the night’s next act, Parker McCollum. Red rays of light of covered the crowd as he began to strum his guitar for “To Be Loved By You.” Wearing a black baseball cap, blue jeans and black t-shirt that read “made by music,” McCollum moved into “Pretty Heart” and “Young Man’s Blues.” He declared “God bless country music” before playing “Handle On You” and unreleased song “Big Old Fancy House.” McCollum shared how honored he felt to be onstage along with “such incredible talent” and thanked his label for believing in him, in addition to attendees. He grasped his gold mic for “Burn It Down,” descending the main stage stairs to interact with fans as he sang.
All eyes were soon placed on the platform stage to watch Puddin, also known as K. Michelle, perform two tracks from her forthcoming country collection. Jelly Roll then reemerged to welcome Jon Pardi. Pink lights protruded through the stands as he opened with his No. 1 “Your Heart Or Mine.” Pardi had hips swaying as he grabbed a teal-colored guitar for “Heartache On The Dance Floor,” and kept audience members moving as he put it away for “Last Night Lonely.” He gleamed with giddiness as he surprised Nissan with country icon Clint Black. The two then began “Killin’ Time” together. They brought each other into a deep embrace, receiving immense applause and praise, before Black made his exit. In an all black ensemble and tan cowboy hat, Pardi announced that is was time to start the “Night Shift” and went to work on fan-favorite number.
Parker McCollum performs at Nissan Stadium on Friday, June 7 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Hunter Berry/CMA
“I’m always thankful to be a part of CMA Fest, especially at Nissan Stadium,” he said. “I want to give a shoutout to all the artists playing everywhere else. Nashville is full of people and artists right now, so I want to give a round of applause everybody out there for singing their hearts out and to all the country music fans from all over. We are country music, and we’ve all got a little dirt on our boots,” concluded Pardi as smoothly slid into “Dirt On My Boots.”
He made his way downstairs to slap the sea of hands on the stadium floor and take some selfies while he sang. Heels continued to joyfully click the concrete the songsmith ended his set with “Head Over Boots.”
The spotlight shined on the platform stage once again as Dasha kept toes tapping with “Didn’t I” and viral tune “Austin.”
Donning a denim-patterned jumpsuit and matching jacket, Kelsea Ballerini was on deck to enchant Nissan with her soft-yet-powerful vocal skills. White light beams swirled among the seats accented by the stage’s blue and purple hues as she emerged singing “Mountain With A View,” the opening number of her Grammy-nominated project Rolling Up The Welcome Mat. She followed by addressing the audience and requesting a trip down memory lane, which granted with many cheers. Ballerini then threw it back with her debut single, “Love Me Like You Mean It.” She shed her jacket and grabbed a pink guitar to call “Dibs” on Nashville with the next tune, blending it into “Yeah Boy.”
Holding a glass of red wine, Ballerini checked in with the crowd and reminisced on attending CMA Fest as little girl with her mother. She speculated that there must be a lot of holes in bottles, being that it was a Friday night in Music City, and toasted to that by with “Hole in The Bottle.” While performing, she introduced her band and immersed herself into the mass of music lovers below.
Jon Pardi and Clint Black perform at Nissan Stadium on Friday, June 7 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Hunter Berry/CMA
After raising her glass to Nissan, she shared, “Last year during CMA Fest, I was on tour and wasn’t able to be here. Which means the last time I played this stadium with you was two years ago. My life [now] is unrecognizable [compared] to when I last played here, and that [change] came with a lot of really hard choices and really hard walk things to walk through. But I’ve never been so proud to just be exactly where I am.”
The artist slowed things down by giving a CMA Fest debut performance of “Penthouse,” kneeling down as the stadium belted the lyrics beside her. She then moved into “Blindsided” before bringing out a black guitar to finish with “If You Go Down (I’m Goin’ Down Too).”
While fans were eagerly awaiting the next act, a small square stage residing among the floor seats began to glow, and the audience was in awe as Little Big Town suddenly graced it for a surprise performance of “Girl Crush.”
A mash up of tunes honoring the Lonestar State boomed through the venue and Cody Johnson soon came into view. Dressed like a true cowboy, he continued to pay homage to his home state by kicking off his set with “That’s Texas,” further emphasizing his devotion by showing off his Texas-themed chest tattoo. Johnson took out his guitar to cover Charlie Daniels’ “Long Haired Country Boy,” and welcomed Jelly Roll onstage for a touching performance of “Whiskey Bent.” Jelly Roll then asked everyone to give it up for Johnson, deeming him ‘one of the best humans [he’s] ever met, one of the greatest singers to ever do it [and] one of the best overall entertainers.” Johnson had the crowd do the same for Jelly before the two said goodbye with a sincere hug.
Cody Johnson performs at Nissan Stadium on Friday, June 7 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Natasha Moustache/CMA
Prior to singing his second No. 1 “The Painter,” he stated, “I want to thank country radio not only for this No. 1, but for what they do because I saw people today from Australia, Germany, Canada and more to celebrate country music with us.”
Phone flashlights formed a starry scene as he started to play “Dirt Cheap,” throwing his pick into rows below. He followed by thanking all first responders and checking in on each side of the stadium as he cranked it back up with “People In The Back.” Blue lights blared as he closed with his first chart-topper, “Till You Can’t,” running down the stairs to throw t-shirts and high-five fans.
Although he was the last to take the mic, Luke Bryan kept the stadium enthralled with “That’s My Kind Of Night.” He showcased his guitar skills during “Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye,” and jammed alongside both his guitarist and keyboard player for “Huntin’, Fishin’ And Lovin’ Every Day.” As his band rocked the house, Bryan placed his black baseball cap on his guitarist’s head and took a shot.
“I feel amazing, and I ready to have some fun with the greatest country music fans into world—you guys,” he said before shifting to his latest release “Love You, Miss You, Mean It” and his first No. 1 “Do I.” Fuchsia rays flashed as the audience joined him for “Play It Again,” before he threw another shot back for “One Margarita.” Green tones took over the stage as Bryan had every body bopping with “Country Girl (Shake It For Me),” before bringing it home with “I Don’t Want This Night To End.”
Luke Bryan performs at Nissan Stadium on Friday, June 7 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: John Russell/CMA
CMA Fest Day 2: Artists & Industry Members Keep The Party Rolling
/by Madison HahnenShaboozey performs at the Good Molecules Reverb Stage on Friday, June 7 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
CMA Fest continued yesterday (Friday, June 7) in downtown Nashville with more country stars and rising newcomers.
Ella Langley performs at the Chevy Riverfront Stage on Friday, June 7 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
The day kicked off at the Chevy Riverfront Stage with Gavin Degraw. Cooper Alan, Ella Langley, Alana Springsteen, Breland, Austin Snell, Kidd G, Niko Moon and Colbie Caillat also all took the beloved stage before Dylan Gossett closed the stage out for the evening.
Around town on the other CMA stages, festival goers were able to catch The Castellows on the Chevy Vibes Stage, MaRynn Taylor on the Dr. Pepper Amp Stage, Shaboozey on the Good Molecules Reverb Stage and John Hollier on the Hard Rock Stage to close out their day, among many more.
To beat the heat, fans also gathered in Ole Red for Spotify House. Michael Warren warmed the stage up for the day before Matt Schuster, Dasha, Lily Rose, Mickey Guyton, Sam Barber, Corey Kent, Parker McCollum, Danielle Bradberry, Riley Green, Lady A, Dustin Lynch and Breland all treated the crowd to electrifying performances. Keith Urban surprised Spotify House with a set before MGK closed the bar down.
Pictured (L-R): Rachel Whitney, Mary Catherine Kinney, Joe Hadley, Keith Urban, Monica Herrera, Tim Foisset and Dustee Jenkins visit Spotify House at CMA Fest 2024 at Ole Red. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for Spotify
SiriusXM’s The Highway gathered country music stars during special Music Row Happy Hour live events at Margaritaville. On Friday, attendees were treated to appearances from Jelly Roll, Cooper Alan, MacKenzie Porter, Kassi Ashton, Adam Doleac and more.
At the UMG Nashville Takeover at Skydeck, fans heard from Dalton Dover, Kassi Ashton and Sam Williams. The label also staged a new artist showcase featuring Belle Frantz, Colt Graves, Dillon James, Owen Riegling and Timothy Wayne, and country legend Lee Greenwood gave a heartwarming, and patriotic performance complete with a signing event for fans.
Starting Friday, Billboard presented Bud Light Backyard at CMA Fest for the first time. Kicking off the two-day event were performances from Corey Kent, Dalton Dover and Alana Springsteen.
Pictured (L-R): Patrick Worstell (Director Artist Development, Warner Music Nashville), Clark Tedesco (VP Artist Development, Warner Music Nashville), Cody Johnson, Cris Lacy (Co-Chair/Co-President, Warner Music Nashville) and Ben Kline (Co-Chair/Co-President, Warner Music Nashville). Photo: Courtesy of WMN
Kassi Ashton performs at the UMG Nashville Takeover at Skydeck. Photo: Chris Hollo
Jelly Roll at SiriusXM The Highway’s Music Row Happy Hour on Friday (June 7). Photo: Getty Images for SiriusXM
Alana Springsteen performs at Billboard Presents Bud Light Backyard at CMA Fest. Photo: Mary Hannah Harte
MGK performs onstage at the Spotify House at CMA Fest 2024 – Day 2 at Ole Red on June 07, 2024. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for Spotify
MaRynn Taylor performs at the Dr. Pepper Amp Stage on Friday, June 7 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Restless Road performs at Ascend Amphitheater on Friday, June 7 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Lainey Wilson Becomes A Grand Ole Opry Member
/by LB CantrellLainey Wilson inducted as the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. Photo: Chris Hollo for Grand Ole Opry
Grammy, CMA and ACM winner Lainey Wilson was officially welcomed into the Grand Ole Opry family Friday night (June 7) by Opry members Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood.
Trisha Yearwood presents the Opry member award to Lainey Wilson. Photo: Chris Hollo for Grand Ole Opry
“We are honored to be here tonight. There can never be too many women at the Grand Ole Opry,” Yearwood said when doing the honors. “I have had the chance to know you Lainey just a little bit and what I know and the biggest compliment I think I can pay you is that ‘you get it.’ You know what it means to love country music. You love the Grand Ole Opry and that’s really what it’s all about. I will tell you this, I know this, when I think about the future of country music, I know with you in it we are going to be okay.”
Brooks added, “I would say I’m so happy for you, but I’m so dang happy for the Grand Ole Opry. I really am. It’s just really rare that you find somebody at your age that already gets it. So I’m going to tell you, if it’s up to you, which I think it will be, your career is going to be as long as you want. There’s going to be highs. There’s going to be lows. The awards they give you now and you continue to receive will fade in time. The one thing that will continue is this family right here. Welcome to it.”
Yearwood ended by bringing Wilson in to the circle saying, “on behalf of all the Opry members past and present, welcome as the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry, Lainey Wilson.”
Opry members Trisha Yearwood, Jeannie Seely, Lainey Wilson, Terri Clark and Mandy Barnett. Photo: Chris Hollo for Grand Ole Opry
“Honestly, it feels like the biggest night of my life,” an emotional Wilson said. “We have had a crazy couple of years and all the awards and everything but this right here feels like the highest honor for me. It feels like the stamp of approval from everybody that stood right here. That just lights another fire under my butt.”
Wilson brought her entire family to the stage to stand in the circle with her saying, “I want my family to be up here because this is theirs too. They have worked so hard for me to have opportunities.”
Wilson performed earlier in the evening with Opry member Terri Clark, who was celebrating her 20th anniversary as a member. The two performed Clark’s “Poor Poor Pitiful Me” before Wilson joined another music icon, Wynonna, on Tom Petty hit “Refugee.” She then performed some of her own hits, including “Things A Man Oughta Know,” “Heart Like A Truck” and “Watermelon Moonshine” as well as new songs “Dreamcatcher” and “Hang Tight Honey.”
At a backstage party, numerous Opry members and friends were on hand to share their congratulations. Among those sharing video messages were Bill Anderson and Crystal Gayle—both of whom played the Opry the night Wilson visited the show as a nine-year-old—as well as Cody Johnson, Jelly Roll and Dolly Parton.
“When I see Lainey on the Opry stage, I know without a doubt I’m looking at an important part of the Opry’s future,” said Dan Rogers, Opry executive producer. “What a phenomenal Opry additon and what a great night.”
Wilson was invited to become a member of the Opry by member Reba McEntire live on The Voice. The multi-Platinum and reigning CMA and ACM Entertainer of the Year made her Opry debut on Valentine’s Day in 2020.
New Dolly Parton Wine Collection To Hit Markets In July
/by Lorie HollabaughDolly Parton announced from the stage at her Fan Fair X appearance at CMA Fest this week that she’s debuting her first collection of wines, Dolly Wines, in collaboration with Parton Family Cellars and Accolade Wines.
In celebration of the collaboration, Parton kicked off her Dolly! AllAccess pop-up experience at Fan Fair X featuring a Dolly Wines bottle photo opportunity. The first wine to be released from the collection, Dolly Wines California Chardonnay 2023, will go on sale in the U.S. to retailers in July. The crisp chardonnay offers a blend of white peach, sweet cream and toasty oak for a balanced sweetness, and starting today (June 7), it is exclusively available for pre-sale through Vivino on DollyWines.com.
The superstar was involved in every step of the winemaking process, offering her input on taste, look and feel to ensure each bottle represents the magic that Parton brings to the world. The initial Dolly Wines will be available in three varieties: chardonnay, rosé and prosecco, with a fourth selection, sparkling, launching in Australia in September 2024 under the Dolly Parton label. The rosé and prosecco will be released in fall 2024 to retailers across the United Kingdom.
“We are beyond excited to bring Dolly Wines to the world,” says Accolade Wines Chief Marketing Officer, Sandy Mayo. “Dolly herself was involved in all aspects of each wine, and we think they capture her captivating sense of fun and sparkle perfectly. Like the lady herself, we think everyone, everywhere will love it. Go ahead, pour yourself a cup of ambition!”