Jon Small, a video producer/director for dozens of Nashville stars, has died of cancer at age 79.
Small’s subjects in Music City included such Country Music Hall of Fame members as Reba McEntire, Garth Brooks, Ricky Skaggs, Toby Keith, Brooks & Dunn, Marty Stuart, Vince Gill, Ray Charles, and the four members of The Highwaymen — Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson and Waylon Jennings. He created network television specials and concert films as well as music videos.
Jonathan Craig Small was a native of Long Island whose longtime friend and collaborator was fellow Long Islander Billy Joel. The two joined the rock band The Hassles in 1964, with Small as the group’s drummer. After the band broke up in 1969, he and Joel worked as a duo dubbed Attila. Joel became a solo star in 1973. Small continued to perform as a drummer before working his way into music videos in the 1980s.
He directed Joel’s clip for “Tell Her About It” in 1983, and several more videos. He also produced six TV specials for the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer. Other early credits included directing Run DMC’s duet with Aerosmith on 1986’s “Walk This Way” and producing Whitney Houston’s 1986 clip for “The Greatest Love of All.” He also worked with such pop stars as Anita Baker, Van Morrison, Twisted Sister, Sting, Luther Vandross, Kool & The Gang, Herb Alpert, Janet Jackson, Barry Manilow, Neil Diamond, Chicago, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, among others.
Small first worked in country music in 1986 when he co-directed McEntire’s “Whoever’s In New England” video. She and he collaborated on at least seven more videos during the next nine years. By the early 1990s, Jon Small was focussed almost exclusively on country music. In 1994, he began a long association with Brooks, directing videos for “Standing Outside the Fire” (1994), “To Make You Feel My Love” (1998), and other clips, as well as three TV specials.
The videos for Jo Dee Messina’s 1998 star-making “Bye Bye” and “I’m Alright” were both directed by Small. So were Travis Tritt’s “It’s a Great Day to Be Alive” (2001), Brooks & Dunn’s “It Won’t Be Christmas Without You” (2002), and Joe Diffie’s “It’s Always Somethin’” (1996). He also directed music videos for Aaron Tippin, Faith Hill, and Rascal Flatts, among others in Nashville.
Small’s television specials included Billy Joel Live at Yankee Stadium (1990), Garth Brooks in the Life of Chris Gaines (1999), Brad Paisley 5th Gear (2007), Blake Shelton: It’s All About Tonight (2010), Billy Joel Live at Shea Stadium (2011), The Highwaymen Live at Nassau Coliseum (2018), and Garth Live at Notre Dame (2018). He was a producer on A Toby Keith Classic Christmas (2007), Garth Brooks Double Live (1998), and the TV series Nashville Star (2003-08), among many other credits.
One of Small’s last projects was co-directing the music video for 2020’s “Does to Me” with Luke Combs and Eric Church. The producer/director died on Friday, Sept. 4, in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Johnny Clawson Renews Publishing Deal With SMACKSongs
/by Lauryn SinkPhoto: Courtesy of SMACKsongs
Johnny Clawson has renewed his global publishing deal with SMACKSongs.
Clawson earned his first No. 1 in 2025 with Blake Shelton’s “Texas,” which was nominated for Song of the Year at the 2025 CMA Awards and named one of NSAI’s “10 Songs I Wish I’d Written.” Ella Langley’s “weren’t for the wind” became Clawson’s second chart topper at country radio. The triple-Platinum track earned Song of the Year at the 2026 AIMP Awards. Clawson has earned additional cuts with Kenny Chesney, Billy Currington, Chris Young, Dasha, Josh Ross, McCoy Moore, Redferrin, Jon Pardi, Ashley Cooke, Tyler Halverson, Ava Hall and Seaforth, among others.
“Johnny is a dream to work with,” shares Sam Sarno, Senior Creative Director of Publishing at SMACK. “He brings so much talent, heart, and dedication into everything he does, and his work ethic is truly unmatched. We’re really proud of everything we’ve accomplished so far, and can’t wait to keep building together.”
“SMACK and I have had an amazing four years,” says Clawson. “I’m so pumped to continue the hard work and expand on all the awesome things we’ve already accomplished together.”
Braxton Keith Brings ‘Real Damn Deal Tour’ To Nashville
/by Lauryn SinkBraxton Keith. Photo: @shotbyzap
Braxton Keith brought his “REAL DAMN DEAL TOUR” to Nashville on Friday (Sept. 11) for a sold-out show at the Brooklyn Bowl.
He performed a 22-song set that included tracks such as “Gonna Come Back as a Country Song” and “I Own This Bar.” Keith invited Tyla Rodrigues to the stage for a special performance of their rendition of “Do I Ever Cross Your Mind?,” which has amassed more than eight million streams.
The tour continues later this month with four more Texas shows.
Braxton Keith. Photo: @shotbyzap
Braxton Keith. Photo: @shotbyzap
Braxton Keith. Photo: @shotbyzap
Mack Geiger Enters Top 20 On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart
/by Madison HahnenMack Geiger. Photo: Jared Hinz
Mack Geiger has moved into the top 20 on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. His solo-penned “Pouring” and “String By” put the singer-songwriter at No. 19 this week.
Dolly Parton stays at No. 1 this week with “9 to 5,” “I Will Always Love You” and “Jolene.” Ella Langley remains at No. 2 with “Be Her,” “Choosin’ Texas,” “I Can’t Love You Anymore,” “Jaded” and “Loving Life Again.”
Chase McGill (No. 3), Jordan M. Schmidt (No. 4) and Joybeth Taylor (No. 5) round out this week’s top five.
The weekly MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart uses algorithms based upon song activity according to airplay, digital download track sales and streams. This unique and exclusive addition to the MusicRow portfolio is the only songwriter chart of its kind.
Click here to view the full MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart.
Apple Music & United Record Pressing Unveil ‘This Is Country Music’ Mural In Nashville
/by Lauryn SinkPhoto: Courtesy of Apple Music/United Record Pressing
Apple Music and United Record Pressing have partnered for a new mural titled “This is Country Music.”
Located outside the pressing plant that historically served as a refuge for Black artists during segregation, the mural honors the significant cultural impact Black artists have had in shaping country music’s history. The two-panel mural was painted by Nashville-based artist, graphic designer and muralist Christian Green (also known as C3). Side A features Linda Martell and Charley Pride, recognizing their work breaking barriers for future generations. Side B pays homage to the past, present and future of Black artists in country music with vinyls bearing the names of Kashus Culpepper, Tiera Kennedy, Ray Charles, Breland, Shaboozey, Rissi Palmer, Kane Brown and more. A few vinyls have been intentionally left open as a symbol of future artists who will shape the genre.
“I am truly honored and excited to team up with Apple Music on a mural that means so much to me,” shares Green. “It honors country music trailblazers Charley Pride and Linda Martell — two Black pioneers who opened doors for so many country artists of color to follow. My approach has been to capture not just their likeness, but their spirit — the joy, the power, and the grit. This mural means everything to me as a Black artist here in Nashville, TN. I’m pouring all of my heart, passion, and dedication into every layer and brushstroke.”
“Black artists have been foundational to country music and this mural aims to highlight their legacy in the very heart of Nashville,” says Kelleigh Bannen, Apple Music Country host. “We’re proud to team up with United Record Pressing and Christian Green to share a piece of art that honors the past, celebrates the present, and leaves room for the new artists carrying the genre forward.”
All of the advertising revenue generated from the mural will be donated toward the renovation and preservation of the Motown Suite.
Photo: Courtesy of Apple Music/United Record Pressing
NOW OPEN: Applications For MusicRow’s 2027 N.B.T. Music Industry Directory
/by MusicRow StaffApplications are now open for MusicRow’s 2027 N.B.T. (Next Big Thing) Music Industry Directory.
MusicRow‘s N.B.T. Music Industry Directory showcases Nashville music business professionals who are rising through the ranks. This class of industry members occupy mid-level roles at their respective companies, and are on a trajectory of excellence to become future leaders in the Nashville music industry. Applicants should ideally have a minimum of five or more years experience in the music industry.
The final list will be featured in MusicRow‘s Touring/Next Big Thing print issue, which releases on Dec. 1. The print edition also includes the annual Next Big Thing artist list, with editorial features focused on the touring segment of our industry as well as professional development.
To apply for inclusion in this year’s edition of the N.B.T. Music Industry Directory, please click here to access the application form.
Please note that not all submissions are guaranteed to be listed in the directory. If you are submitting multiple candidates, you will need to click on SUBMIT at the bottom of the form before entering another candidate. Head shots can be sent to directory@musicrow.com.
New submissions for the directory close on Friday, Sept. 25. For questions, email directory@musicrow.com.
To reserve ad space in the 2026/2027 Touring/Next Big Thing issue, contact srobertson@musicrow.com. Rate card information is available here.
Brooks & Dunn To Be Honored With 2026 CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Brenden Oliver (CMA Director, Awards Stewardship), Ronnie Dunn, Sarah Trahern (CMA CEO) and Kix Brooks backstage at Bridgestone Arena, where Trahern and Oliver shared news of Brooks & Dunn’s CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award honor. Photo: Braden Carney
The Country Music Association has announced Brooks & Dunn will receive the 2026 CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award as part of a special tribute during The 60th Annual CMA Awards Nov. 18.
“Few artists have left a mark on Country Music quite like Brooks & Dunn,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “As the most-awarded duo in our genre’s history, Kix and Ronnie have spent more than three decades shaping the sound of country music. Their music has set a standard that still resonates with new generations of artists, while continuing to win over new generations of fans. We are proud to celebrate everything they’ve given to this genre and the mark they continue to leave on its future.”
Since first debuting in 1990, Brooks & Dunn have established themselves as one of the most influential and celebrated duos in country history. With 20 No. 1s, over 40 Top 10 hits, and more than 30 million albums sold worldwide, the duo has spent more than three decades defining the sound of modern country music with hits like “Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” “Neon Moon,” “My Maria” and “Believe” becoming enduring staples.
Their achievements include two Grammys, 58 CMA Award nominations and 20 CMA Awards, (16 for Vocal Duo of the Year alone.) The duo also hosted the CMA Awards from 2004-2006 and has been inducted into both the Country Music Hall of Fame and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. Their influence extends beyond the studio as well, with more than 17 million tickets sold throughout their touring career.
Brooks & Dunn’s legacy continues to evolve as evidenced by their groundbreaking 2019 album REBOOT, which paired the duo with a new generation of artists including Luke Combs, Kacey Musgraves, Thomas Rhett and Ashley McBryde, introducing their iconic catalog to a new era while earning the duo another Top 10 album on the Billboard 200. REBOOT II continued that tradition in 2024, bringing their classic songs together with artists including Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, Morgan Wallen, HARDY, Hailey Whitters and Marcus King.
Previous recipients of the CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award include Willie Nelson (2012), Kenny Rogers (2013), Johnny Cash (2015), Dolly Parton (2016), Kris Kristofferson (2019), Charley Pride (2020), Loretta Lynn (2021), Alan Jackson (2022), George Strait (2024) and Vince Gill (2025). The 60th Annual CMA Awards airs live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena Wednesday, Nov. 18 on ABC, Disney+ and next day on Hulu.
Lauren Daigle’s Annual ‘Behold Christmas Tour’ To Kick Off Dec. 2
/by Lorie HollabaughThe dates will feature some of Daigle’s seasonal favorites from her best-selling Christmas album, Behold: A Christmas Collection, and will include performances in two of the cities she is proud to call home: at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, and at the legendary Saenger Theatre in New Orleans with The Preservation Hall Jazz Band opening, followed by a performance at Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center.
In addition to the shows, Daigle will continue the tradition of giving back to these communities through her foundation, The Price Fund. Tickets will officially go on sale Friday, (Sept. 18). Fan will have the opportunity to join a special Krewe Pass presale on Sept. 15 via Lauren’s official app, The Krewe Pass, which also features exclusive content only found on the app.
“The Behold Christmas Tour” Dates:
Dec. 2 – Nashville – Ryman Auditorium
Dec. 3 – Nashville – Ryman Auditorium
Dec. 5 – New Orleans – Saenger Theatre
Dec. 12 – Orlando – Dr. Phillips Center
Lainey Wilson, Noah Kahan, More Set To Appear On ‘Amazon Music Live’ Season Five
/by Lorie HollabaughAmazon Music Live returns this month for Season Five beginning Sept. 24 with a broadcast of Noah Kahan’s final show of his “Great Divide World Tour” at T-Mobile Park in Seattle.
This season, the star-studded show is hitting the road, capturing performances from some of the biggest tours in the country, with each episode bringing fans inside a landmark concert from one of music’s most electrifying performers, delivering the energy and spectacle of a sold-out arena directly to viewers at home.
On Oct. 1, Amazon Music Live highlights Don Toliver during the finale of the second leg of his sold-out North American “OCTANE Tour” at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. On Oct. 15, Lainey Wilson’s performance from Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut, where she played her first arena show, will be featured. The season wraps Oct. 29 with Doja Cat’s special birthday show from The Forum in Los Angeles, with a few surprises planned for the performance.
“This season of Amazon Music Live will give fans a front-row seat to some of the most talked-about tours of the year,” says Kirdis Postelle, Global Head of Artist and Fan Experiences at Amazon Music. From Noah Kahan’s final U.S. stadium show to Doja’s hometown birthday celebration at the Forum, Amazon Music Live will continue to bring fans closer to the artists and shows shaping music and culture right now.”
Amazon Music Live Season 5 premieres Thursday, Sept. 24, immediately following Thursday Night Football on Amazon Music, Prime Video, Twitch, Amazon Live, and the Amazon Music app on Fire TV.
Riley Green To Headline World Bass Enterprises ‘WBE Concert 250’ In Nashville
/by Lorie HollabaughRiley Green. Photo: David Higgs
Riley Green will headline the World Bass Enterprises “WBE Concert 250” at The Champions bass fishing tournament on Oct. 30 at The Pinnacle.
Access to the concert is available exclusively through VIP packages for the tournament. Information on available packages can be found here.
“When I decided to host the inaugural ‘The Champions’ Tournament this fall, I knew we had to go big,” says WBE Founder and CEO Brian Bird. “There’s no bigger name in country music right now than Riley Green. Beyond who he is as a performer, Riley is a true outdoorsman and perfectly represents what ‘The Champions’ is all about. We’re looking forward to welcoming the top anglers in the world for five days of events all centered around our love of bass fishing. Riley headlining ‘WBE Concert 250’ the night before we crown the official champion is going to be a lot of fun.”
Additional performances throughout the tournament will include Randy Houser, Lee Greenwood, Trace Adkins, Elektrohorse, Dee Jay Silver and Sixwire. The event will feature a fireworks show, a flyover, interactive games, fishing activities for all ages, and food and beverage vendors.
Video Director Jon Small Passes
/by Robert K OermannJon Small, a video producer/director for dozens of Nashville stars, has died of cancer at age 79.
Small’s subjects in Music City included such Country Music Hall of Fame members as Reba McEntire, Garth Brooks, Ricky Skaggs, Toby Keith, Brooks & Dunn, Marty Stuart, Vince Gill, Ray Charles, and the four members of The Highwaymen — Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson and Waylon Jennings. He created network television specials and concert films as well as music videos.
Jonathan Craig Small was a native of Long Island whose longtime friend and collaborator was fellow Long Islander Billy Joel. The two joined the rock band The Hassles in 1964, with Small as the group’s drummer. After the band broke up in 1969, he and Joel worked as a duo dubbed Attila. Joel became a solo star in 1973. Small continued to perform as a drummer before working his way into music videos in the 1980s.
He directed Joel’s clip for “Tell Her About It” in 1983, and several more videos. He also produced six TV specials for the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer. Other early credits included directing Run DMC’s duet with Aerosmith on 1986’s “Walk This Way” and producing Whitney Houston’s 1986 clip for “The Greatest Love of All.” He also worked with such pop stars as Anita Baker, Van Morrison, Twisted Sister, Sting, Luther Vandross, Kool & The Gang, Herb Alpert, Janet Jackson, Barry Manilow, Neil Diamond, Chicago, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, among others.
Small first worked in country music in 1986 when he co-directed McEntire’s “Whoever’s In New England” video. She and he collaborated on at least seven more videos during the next nine years. By the early 1990s, Jon Small was focussed almost exclusively on country music. In 1994, he began a long association with Brooks, directing videos for “Standing Outside the Fire” (1994), “To Make You Feel My Love” (1998), and other clips, as well as three TV specials.
The videos for Jo Dee Messina’s 1998 star-making “Bye Bye” and “I’m Alright” were both directed by Small. So were Travis Tritt’s “It’s a Great Day to Be Alive” (2001), Brooks & Dunn’s “It Won’t Be Christmas Without You” (2002), and Joe Diffie’s “It’s Always Somethin’” (1996). He also directed music videos for Aaron Tippin, Faith Hill, and Rascal Flatts, among others in Nashville.
Small’s television specials included Billy Joel Live at Yankee Stadium (1990), Garth Brooks in the Life of Chris Gaines (1999), Brad Paisley 5th Gear (2007), Blake Shelton: It’s All About Tonight (2010), Billy Joel Live at Shea Stadium (2011), The Highwaymen Live at Nassau Coliseum (2018), and Garth Live at Notre Dame (2018). He was a producer on A Toby Keith Classic Christmas (2007), Garth Brooks Double Live (1998), and the TV series Nashville Star (2003-08), among many other credits.
One of Small’s last projects was co-directing the music video for 2020’s “Does to Me” with Luke Combs and Eric Church. The producer/director died on Friday, Sept. 4, in West Palm Beach, Florida.