Pictured (L-R): Honorees, Tanya Tucker, Bob McDill and Patty Loveless attend the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images
At this year’s Medallion Ceremony inducting its newest members, several existing Country Music Hall of Famers shared the spotlight.
Staged on Sunday evening (Oct. 22), at the Hall’s CMA Theater, the event saluted Tanya Tucker, Patty Loveless and Bob McDill as the inductees. Among the highlights of the ceremony were the contributions of Vince Gill, Wynonna Judd, Charlie McCoy, Don Schlitz, Connie Smith, Dean Dillon and Brenda Lee, all of whom are previous inductees.
“We’re thrilled to be in the presence of country-music royalty,” said the Hall of Fame’s CEO Kyle Young. “This event is devoted to joy and celebration.”
Pictured (L-R): Don Schlitz, Honoree Bob McDill and Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum CEO Kyle Young onstage during the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images
First up was Texas native Bob McDill, who is already a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. He was honored for a stunning song catalog that includes “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful,” “Amanda,” “Don’t Close Your Eyes,” “Everything That Glitters (Is Not Gold),” “Come Early Morning,” “Why Don’t You Spend the Night,” “Baby’s Got Her Blue Jeans On,” “Gone Country,” ‘Song of the South,” “(Turn Out the Lights and) Love Me Tonight,” “Say It Again,” “Catfish John,” “It Must Be Love,” “Big Wheels in the Moonlight,” “I May Be Used (But Baby I Ain’t Used Up),” “I’ll Do It All Over Again,” “I’ve Been Around Enough to Know,” “Nobody Likes Sad Songs,” “I’ve Been Loved By the Best,” “Rake and a Rambling Man,” “The Door Is Always Open,” “We Believe in Happy Endings,” “You Never Miss a Real Good Thing,” “She Never Knew Me,” “In a Different Light,” “If Hollywood Don’t Need You,” “What She Is (Is a Woman in Love),” “Why Didn’t I Think of That” and “Red Necks White Socks and Blue Ribbon Beer.”
“They joked on Music Row that BMI stood for ‘Bob McDill Incorporated,’” commented Young. “For 30 years, no songwriter in Nashville was more meticulous about crafting country songs.” He related that the songwriter’s mentors and collaborators Allen Reynolds, Dickey Lee, Jack Clement and Bill Hall brought him to Music City in 1970. He also described McDill as “a songwriter’s songwriter” who maintained a nine-to-five office songwriting schedule until his retirement in 2000.
A video bio reminded everyone about the circumstances of McDill’s life. “He elevated the craft of country songwriting into an art and that is why we are inducting him into the Country Music Hall of Fame.”
Pictured: Jamey Johnson performs onstage at the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images
Texas honky-tonker Charley Crockett saluted McDill with a jaunty, drawling rendition of “Louisiana Saturday Night.” Dean Dillon offered his meditative version of “All the Good Ones Are Gone,” which he co-wrote with McDill. Jamey Johnson hushed the crowd with an eloquent performance of “Good Ole Boys Like Me,” which left many attendees misty-eyed and earned a standing ovation.
Kyle Young introduced the members of the superb Medallion All-Star Band — Biff Watson, Jeff White, Jen Gunderman, Deanie Richardson, Brent Mason, Jerry Pentecost, Carmella Ramsey, Richard Loy and Paul Franklin — and then brought on Don Schlitz to do McDill’s induction honors.
Schlitz saluted McDill with a cleverly written reflection on his fellow songwriter’s influence. “Thank you for the great example you’ve given me, and all of us,” Schlitz said.
McDill noted that he realized he was in an elite group of Hall of Fame members who are non-performing songwriters — Schlitz, Dillon, Harlan Howard, Bobby Braddock, Cindy Walker, Boudleaux & Felice Bryant, Fred Rose, Hank Cochran. “What a great honor this is,” he said. Schlitz put the medallion around his neck. Young unveiled McDill’s official Hall of Fame plaque.
Pictured (L-R): Honoree, Patty Loveless and Vince Gill onstage during the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images
The video bio for Kentucky’s Patty Loveless noted that she first came to town to attend Fan Fair. She stood in line to get Vince Gill’s autograph, who was a new and fairly unknown artist at the time. “One day, we’re going to sing together,” she told the budding star.
As a teenager, Loveless returned to town with a tape of her original songs and was befriended by Porter Wagoner, Dolly Parton, The Wilburn Brothers and her distant cousin Loretta Lynn. But she married, moved away and sang in rock bands for a decade. When she tried Nashville again in 1985, Tony Brown signed her to MCA and co-produced her records alongside Emory Gordy Jr., whom she married in 1989. That led to 20 top 10 hits in 1988-97, five CMA Awards, two Grammys and Opry membership.
“Patty Loveless has the ability to harken back to tradition and to move that tradition forward,” said Young. “Her voice is transcendent. She wanted to sing like her heroes. Today, artists say they want to sing like Patty Loveless. And that is why today she is joining the Hall of Fame.”
Medallion band member Deanie Richardson played in Loveless’s band for years (as did Ramsey). She and her all-female bluegrass group Sister Sadie gave tight harmony vocals to “Sounds of Loneliness.” Rock star Bob Seger got a standing ovation for his hearty rendition of “She Drew a Broken Heart.”
Pictured: Bob Seger performs onstage during the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images
Vince Gill and Loveless have been singing on each others’ records for years. He’s on her “Timber I’m Falling in Love” and she’s on his “When I Call Your Name,” to mention just two examples. He offered a magnificent, swooningly beautiful rendition of her hit ballad “Lonely Too Long.”
“Blood harmony, that’s what we sound like together,” Gill said. “We have such a deep and respectful friendship. I think Patty probably represents the most authentic voice I’ve ever heard.” He put the medallion around his old friend’s neck and posed with her as her plaque was unveiled.
“I’m trying to hold it together,” said Loveless. “The one person I truly wish could be here tonight is my brother Roger. He passed away in June of last year, but this was always a dream of his… It’s amazing to me that I have been honored to live this life that I have lived. Forgive me: I’m a little bit taken aback by this. I can get so emotional. Thank you so much.”
The video bio for Tanya Tucker included rare footage of her as a child performer, described her hard-scrabble background and emphasized the unstoppable dedication of her father, Beau Tucker, into making her a star. Young noted that Tucker is just behind Dolly, Reba, Loretta and Tammy as the woman with the most top 10 hits in country-music history. She has 40 of them, plus a 1991 CMA Female Vocalist trophy and two Grammys.
Pictured (L-R): Connie Smith, honoree, Tanya Tucker and Brenda Lee onstage during the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images
“She sang with authenticity and grit,” Young said. “Nobody sounded like Tanya Tucker then and nobody has yet. She’s a survivor: She’s Tucker tough.”
Wynonna honored Tucker with a bluesy treatment of “Delta Dawn.” Accompanying her on eloquent harmonica was Charlie McCoy, her fellow Hall of Famer. Jessi Colter and Margo Price romped through “It’s a Little Too Late.” Colter beckoned for Tucker to join them on stage, and she did, to the crowd’s delight. Brandi Carlile and Colter’s son Shooter Jennings produced Tucker’s Grammy-winning 2019 comeback album. Carlile lauded the legend by saying, “You have carved out an ass-kicking path for all women in music, including me.” Then she sang Tucker’s favorite “Two Sparrows in a Hurricane,” a title that is on her parents’ tombstone. Another standing ovation ensued.
Connie Smith and Brenda Lee inducted Tucker. Smith recalled the times “The Texas Tornado” rode her horse down Lower Broadway and onto the stage of the Grand Ole Opry. ‘“She’s so real,” said Smith. “She is one of us, and I’m so proud that she is.” Lee brought down the house with her riotously funny speech. On a more serious note, she told the crowd that Tucker is “one of the most giving, loving, kind hearted people I know. If she is your friend, she is your friend.” Smith put on Tucker’s medallion, and Young unveiled the plaque while all three women held their medallions and beamed.
Pictured: Wynonna Judd performs onstage during the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images
“It’s so surreal,” Tucker said. “It’s really overwhelming to me…. Thank you for not giving up on me… I look back on those 52 years [since “Delta Dawn” made her a star], and it’s hard to make sense of it all. She thanked her late parents and brother, as well as her older sister LaCosta, and introduced the crowd to her children Presley, Beau Grayson and Layla. She added, “I think of my fans, who have always, always stood by my side.”
Addressing the crowd, she concluded by saying, “I’ll live out my days trying to thank you.” Whistles and screams accompanied her standing ovation.
The evening began with the sound of one of the discs in the Bob Pinson Recorded Sound Archive of the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum. It was the 1978 George Jones classic “Bartender’s Blues.” After opening greetings from Kyle Young, the institution’s board chair Mary Ann McCready introduced the members of the ceremonial Circle Guard, Steve Turner, David Conrad, Bill Denny, Ken Levitan, Mike Milom, Ken Roberts, Seab Tuck and Jerry Williams. Loud cheers and a standing ovation greeted the procession of Hall of Fame members Gill, Judd, Smith, Lee, McCoy, Schlitz, Dillon, Kris Kristofferson, Ray Stevens, William Lee Golden, Emmylou Harris, Bill Anderson, Jimmy Fortune, Randy Travis, Kix Brooks, Joe Galante, Ricky Skaggs and more.
CMA chief Sarah Trahern offered welcoming remarks. Her organization conducts the Hall of Fame balloting and underwrites the Medallion Ceremony. Kyle Young noted the passing of three Hall of Famers during the past year — Jerry Bradley, Jeff Cook and Jerry Lee Lewis — and asked for a moment of silence to honor them.
As is the tradition, the ceremony ended with the entire assembly singing The Carter Family’s “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.” This year’s sing-along was particularly memorable since the powerful voice of Wynonna Judd led the way. Following the induction celebration, attendees gathered for a cocktail supper where McDill, Loveless and Tucker mixed and mingled, as did the evening’s performers.
Industry Members Unite ‘At The End Of A Bar’ For Chris Young & Mitchell Tenpenny’s Hit
/by Liza AndersonPictured (L-R): Mitchell Tenpenny, Chris Young and Chris DeStefano. Photo: Moncell Allen
When walking into Losers Bar & Grill in Nashville’s Midtown on Tuesday afternoon (Oct. 17), any heavy worries seemed to become lighter as members of the music community gathered to celebrate Chris Young and Mitchell Tenpenny‘s No. 1 hit “At the End of a Bar,” which the artists wrote alongside Chris DeStefano, who co-produced the track with Young. The happy, relaxed energy within the venue elicited a mental exhale, creating a space for everyone to finally honor the 2022 chart-topper’s contributors.
BMI’s Mason Hunter welcomed everyone and called the writers to the stage. Hunter then said a few words about BMI affiliates Young and Tenpenny, noting that they’d both been with the PRO for over a decade. Hunter shared that “At the End of a Bar” marked Young’s 13th No. 1 as an artist and Tenpenny’s third. He went on to talk about their philanthropic endeavors, detailing Young’s work with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Tenpenny’s 10Penny Foundation, which recently raised over $92,000 with its annual Cornhole Tournament.
ASCAP’s Evyn Johnston took the floor next to talk about DeStefano. She shared that DeStefano has been affiliated with the PRO for over 25 years and has written multiple hits, with “At the End of a Bar” being his 20th No. 1. Johnston listed the WinSongs Music Publishing President & CEO’s numerous accolades, including his three CMA Triple Play Award wins as well as his three Grammy wins and more. She showed the party that DeStefano is a man of many talents, disclosing that he is also the active emergency back-up goaltender for the Nashville Predators.
Pictured (L-R, back row): Sony Music Publishing’s Rusty Gaston, Sony Music Nashville’s Ken Robold, ASCAP’s Evyn Johnston, BMI’s Mason Hunter, Riser House’s Brandon Perdue and RCA Nashville’s Dennis Reese; (L-R, front row): Mitchell Tenpenny, Chris Young, Chris DeStefano and Studio Bank’s Ron Cox. Photo: Moncell Allen
Next up was Riser House’s Brandon Perdue to expand on Tenpenny’s accomplishments and the birth of “At the End of a Bar.” He reminisced on the day of the writing session and stated that if you put “three of the best writers in town” in a room, you will oftentimes end up with “a melody that is radio gold.” Perdue concluded by thanking the Sony team and everyone involved in the song.
“Reverend” Rusty Gaston of Sony Music Publishing Nashville then took the mic. He started by expressing his appreciation for BMI and ASCAP. Gaston moved on to talk about how DeStefano “uses his momentum to build up other people” before diving into the Tenpenny’s family history with Sony. He talked about Tenpenny’s original approach to music, and told the artist that Sony “would always be in [his] corner.” Gaston finished by addressing Young and recognizing Universal Music Group Publishing (UMPG) Nashville’s Cyndi Forman, who first worked with the hit-maker when the song came into existence. He stated that Young “doesn’t let his emotions make his decisions for him, he really thinks about things, and he brings that into the writing room. When you hear songs like ‘At the End of a Bar,’ you hear his intention.”
Studio Bank’s Ron Cox was on deck next. He reminded us all what a gift being in the Nashville music industry is.
“Isn’t this just incredible that we get to do this? When you look around this room at the friends and the fellowship, it truly is a community,” he expressed. “The fact that we come together as a community to celebrate our great writers and our great artists is something very special and unique to Nashville.”
He continued by describing Studio Bank’s gratitude for and commitment to supporting the city’s musical talent. Cox then announced that a donation had been on behalf of the writers to St. Jude.
RCA Nashville’s Dennis Reese followed and took a moment to thank the individuals who supported the single, and explained its special timing and creation.
Finally, it was time for the talented tunesmiths to address the crowd. DeStefano went first, and seized what he described as “the perfect opportunity to thank everybody that [plays] such a big part in our lives.” He shouted out his wife and their two children, who were present, for their support as well as his Sony Music Publishing Nashville and ASCAP families, RCA Nashville and the radio promotion teams, his WinSongs crew and all the organizations that uplift songwriters. DeStefano went to thank his co-writers, sharing that he actually met Young at the end of a bar before spotlighting his collaborators individually.
“Thank you, [Chris] for being as much of a songwriter as you are a singer, and in my opinion, one of the best singers. Mitchell, you’re such an inspiration. I love working with you, you’re [also] top tier in the world in my opinion and a superstar in the making.”
Tenpenny was next and didn’t skip a beat when it came to expressing his gratitude for his teams all across the board including his wife, fellow artist Meghan Patrick, in addition to his management, Riser House, Sony Music Publishing and Sony Music Nashville. He recalled attending No. 1 parties growing up and everything he learned from his mother and grandmother, industry veterans Debbie Tenpenny and Donna Hilley. Tenpenny also recognized his co-writers and the whole room, while sharing that he, too, met Young at the end of a bar.
“You look around and there’s a million people in here that do everything every single day for us so that we can do this. Thank you for letting us write songs for a living and for letting us go on the road and perform them, I mean that from the bottom of my heart. The songwriters speak for themselves, thank you for letting me in the room with you.”
Young then brought it home by thanking his mother Becky Harris and her business partner Donna Huskins, RCA Nashville/Sony Music Nashville and all of the promotion team members involved, as well as UMPG Nashville, Sony Music Publishing Nashville and more. He shifted to praising Tenpenny and DeStefano, and highlighted their incredible ability to entertain.
“We are absolutely going to celebrate [this song] because this does not happen everyday. I refuse to let anybody downplay the fact that it’s been little a while [since it went No. 1]. We are going to celebrate this song, because it’s a big deal to me, it’s big deal to these guys on stage and it’s a big deal to everyone who has been involved.”
Randall King Readies New Sophomore Project, ‘Into The Neon,’ For January
/by Lorie HollabaughRandall King is set to release his 18-track sophomore album, Into The Neon, on Jan. 26 via Warner Music Nashville. A new track from the project, “Hang of Hangin’ On,” is out now.
The album, which was co-produced by King with Jared Conrad, incorporates a blend of the influences who have inspired King’s sound, from George Strait and Keith Whitley to Dierks Bentley and Gary Allan.
Showcasing his ability to travel with ease from a toe-tapping waltzer on “When My Baby’s In Boots” to the yearning of “I Could Be That Rain,” King lays it all on the line with songs that could be enjoyed while slow dancing under the night sky or line dancing at a local honky tonk. On “Hang of Hangin’ On,” King finds himself graciously holding close to the girl he loves despite keeping “a goodbye up his sleeve” in the past. Writers contributing to the project include Jon Nite, Mitchell Tenpenny, Ava Suppelsa, Corey Crowder, Jake Worthington, Brice Long and more.
“You grow wiser with age, you grow wiser while you’re working and experiencing life, and I feel like I have a deeper understanding of what my music really is,” says King reflecting of the growth since his 2022 release, Shot Glass. “We’re moving into the neon era of country music. The pendulum is swinging, and you’re watching it happen… Now I just hope people get their mind blown.”
King is gearing up for his third annual KingFest in Luckenbach, Texas on Nov. 11 with Gary P. Nunn, Jon Stork and Braxton Keith also on the bill.
Into the Neon Track Listing:
1. “One Night Dance” (Randall King & Jon Nite)
2. “Somewhere Over Us” (Randall King, Mike Walker & Joey Hyde)
3. “When My Baby’s in Boots” (Trannie Anderson, Michael Carter and Jordan Walker)
4. “What Doesn’t Kill You” (Mitchell Tenpenny, Michael Whitworth, Nate Smith & Zach Kale)
5. “Hang of Hangin’ On” (Brett Sheroky & Brice Long)
6. “Burns Like Her” (Adam James, Greylan James & Mikey Reaves)
7. “Good Feelin’” (Michael Whitworth, Will Jones & Benjy Davis)
8. “The One You’re Waiting On” (Adam Wright & Shannon Wright)
9. “Into The Neon” (Randall King, Ben Stennis & Matt Rogers)
10. “Tonk ‘Til I Die” (Randall King, Dan Smalley & Benjy Davis)
11. “But It Ain’t” (Randall King, Jared Mullins & Ben Stennis)
12. “Coulda Been Love” (Jake Worthington, Kim Penz & Roger Springer)
13. “Damn You Look Good” (Ava Suppelsa, Aby Gutierrez & Andrew Peebles)
14. “Hard To Be Humble” (Ben Hayslip, Corey Crowder & Chris LaCorte)
15. “Right Things Right” (Trannie Anderson, Chris Dubois & Jordan Walker)
16. “As Far As We Go” (Brett Sheroky & Drew Kennedy)
17. “I Could Be That Rain” (Brian Fuller & Mason Thornley)
18. “I Don’t Whiskey Anymore” (Randall King & Gordie Sampson)
‘The Voice’ Winner Bryce Leatherwood Fills Out Team
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R, front row): Lori Christian, EVP, Marketing, UMGN; Bryce Leatherwood; Cindy Mabe, CEO and Chair, UMGN; Sabrina Butera, CAA; (L-R, middle row): Tom Luteran, Sony Music Publishing; Clint Higham, Morris Higham Management; Rod Essig, CAA; Robert Filhart, Morris Higham Management, Lauren Tweel, O’Neil Hagaman; James Deaton, Morris Higham Management; Sam Powers, O’Neil Hagaman; (L-R, back row): Rusty Gaston, Sony Music Publishing; Laura May, O’Neil Hagaman; Meredith Jones, CAA; Rob Femia, EVP, Business & Legal Affairs, UMGN. Photo: Chris Hollo
Bryce Leatherwood, the winner of season 22 of NBC’s The Voice, has signed his first major record deal with Universal Music Group Nashville in alliance with Republic Records. Leatherwood’s first song “The Finger” will release this Friday, Oct. 27.
Born and raised in Woodstock, Georgia, Leatherwood’s passion for music was cultivated throughout his childhood. After moving to Statesboro to attend Georgia Southern University, Leatherwood played college venues and continued to grow his stage presence and his country music repertoire.
Just weeks after graduating college, Leatherwood set his mind on a new task. In 2022, he competed on The Voice and was crowned the season 22 winner in December. With a full team intact including Morris Higham Management, Creative Artists Agency, Sony Music Publishing and O’Neil Hagaman, Leatherwood recently moved to Nashville where he has been songwriting and recording for a forthcoming project.
“Bryce Leatherwood grew up inspired by rich country roots listening to artists like Conway Twitty, George Jones and Merle Haggard who were introduced to him through his grandfather. He’s a phenomenal singer and performer and he wants to carry traditional country music with his own edge forward. I’m so excited for the passion Bryce brings to creating his own brand of traditional country music to the next generation of youth and I am so proud to have him on our team,” shares Cindy Mabe, CEO and Chair, UMGN.
Leatherwood shares, “If someone would have told me at this time last year that not only would I win ‘The Voice,’ but it would lead to a record deal in Nashville, I wouldn’t have believed it. I have worked really hard to hone my skills and talent as a country artist and I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity that I have before me. Not only am I excited to start putting music out to my fans, but I’m looking forward to writing some kick-ass songs with the incredible writers here in Nashville. I’d like to thank God, my family, and all of my supporters for getting me to this point. Now, let’s get to work. God bless country music.”
Gulf Coast Jam Reveals Full 2024 Lineup
/by Lorie HollabaughThe full lineup has been announced for the Gulf Coast Jam, presented by Jim Beam, taking place May 30 – June 2, 2024 in Panama City Beach, Florida.
Nearly two dozen artists will join already-announced headliners Morgan Wallen, Jelly Roll, Cody Johnson and Parker McCollum for four days of music, including Corey Kent, Russell Dickerson, Billy Currington, Nate Smith and more.
“This lineup has something for everyone,” says festival Executive Producer Rendy Lovelady. “We get feedback for 90s country, current artists at the top of the charts, young artists on the verge of exploding, and obviously the biggest headliners on the planet. So, here we go!”
May 30:
Parker McCollum
Flatland Cavalry
Corey Kent
Sadie Bass
Jim Beam Welcome Sessions Winner
May 31:
Jelly Roll
Russell Dickerson
Chase Matthew
Kidd G
Heartland
Shelby Darrall
June 1:
Cody Johnson
Billy Currington
Priscilla Block
Austin Snell
Peytan Porter
Chandler Flint
June 2:
Morgan Wallen
Nate Smith
Shane Smith & The Saints
John Morgan
Deana Carter
Jim Beam Welcome Sessions Winner
Chayce Beckham Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut
/by LB CantrellChayce Beckham during his Grand Ole Opry debut. Photo: Chris Hollo
Singer-songwriter and American Idol winner Chayce Beckham made his Grand Ole Opry debut last week.
Beckham performed his newly-Platinum-certified single “23,” which he wrote on entirely on his own and is currently top 20 at country radio. He also performed his tender ballad “Till The Day I Die” to a packed-out audience.
Pictured (L-R): Lisa Mastrianni (Wheelhouse Records), Jenn Tressler (Opry), Justin Hill (UTA), Elissa Felman (19 Recordings), Ken Tucker (Wheelhouse Records), Chayce Beckham, Kerri Edwards (KP Entertainment), Shelley Hargis (BMG), Jennifer Shaffer (Wheelhouse Records), Katie Kerkhover (BMG), Charlie Cook (Cumulus) and Dan Rogers (Opry). Photo: Chris Hollo
After his performance, Beckham was then surprised on stage with the song’s Platinum plaque by his mom, Windie Peterson, and manager, Kerri Edwards.
“Last night, so many dreams came true because of music,” said Beckham. “It’s been a long, long road, and I’d like to thank everyone who has been on it with me. It’s hard not to be emotional when something you have been working so hard at comes to fruition, and the people who got you there can hand you the award for it on the biggest stage in country music. Because of my family, my team and my fans, I got to step foot into the Circle and sing at the Grand Ole Opry. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.”
Toby Keith To Headline Two Vegas Shows In December
/by Lorie HollabaughToby Keith will headline two shows at Dolby Live at Park MGM in Las Vegas on Dec. 10 and 11.
“Y’all been waiting a long time to hear this, I’ve been waiting a long time to do this. I’m back, come see me. You’ll have the best time, I will too. We’ll never forget it. Can’t wait to see you there. Let’s go,” says Keith.
Ticket for the new shows go on sale on Oct. 27 at LiveNation.com. For the past few months, Keith has been making public appearances with hometown shows and his recent performance on the People’s Choice Country Awards, signaling his return to touring after an 18-month break to focus on his health.
Over this summer Keith surprised Oklahomans with two pop-up concerts, where he performed for hours at the historic Hollywood Corners roadhouse in Norman. Just weeks prior to that, he hosted his annual Toby Keith & Friends Golf Classic, which raised a record $1.8 million for the families of children battling critical illness in the Oklahoma City area.
On Nov. 3, Keith will release the album 100% Songwriter, a selection of 13 of many of his solo-written songs in one package.
Chris Lane’s New EP ‘From Where I’m Sippin” Out Now
/by Lorie HollabaughPhoto: Robby Klein/Courtesy of Red Street Records/Voyager Records
Chris Lane has released a new five-song EP, From Where I’m Sippin’.
Produced by Derek Wells and Michael Lotten, the project marks another step forward for Lane, who fuses gratitude, good times and more on the collection. The lead single from the EP, “Find Another Bar” is currently climbing the country charts. First shared in August, the moody, post-breakup anthem has already surpassed more than 3.4 million global streams.
The collection includes the romantic “Mistake,” the bittersweet heartbreak of “Way to Go Girl,” the flirtatious gamble of high stakes on “Betcha” and the good-life gratitude of the open-hearted title track, ushering in a new chapter of life for the chart-topping entertainer, husband and father, marking the first studio collection on Lane’s newly announced label home – a partnership of Jay DeMarcus’ Red Street Records and Lane’s own Voyager Records.
“I cannot believe the day is finally here! I am so excited to introduce this next chapter with From Where I’m Sippin’,” shares Lane. “This set of songs is a rollercoaster journey of living and loving life, and I feel like it shows another side of me as a songwriter. Hope y’all love this project as much as I do!”
Brandon Lake Among Top Winners At 54th Annual GMA Dove Awards
/by Lorie HollabaughBrandon Lake accepting award for Artist of the Year. Photo: Terry Wyatt
Brandon Lake was the big winner of the night at the 54th Annual GMA Dove Awards in Nashville last week, taking home trophies for Artist of the Year, Songwriter of the Year – Artist, Worship Recorded Song of the Year and Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song of the Year.
Brandon Lake, Michael W. Smith, Phil Wickham, Naomi Raine. Photo: Blue Amber Photography
Song of the Year honors went to “Goodness Of God,” from songwriters Ben Fielding, Ed Cash, Jason Ingram, Jenn Johnson and Brian Johnson. Tasha Cobbs Leonard received both Gospel Worship Album of the Year and Traditional Gospel Recorded Song of the Year, while New Artist of the Year went to Katy Nicole. Jason Crabb and Dylan Scott took home Bluegrass/Country/Roots Recorded Song of the Year honors for their song “Good Morning Mercy,” and the movie Jesus Revolution was named Feature Film of the Year at the celebration, which was hosted by Tauren Wells.
A variety of guest performers surprised the audience during the star-studded show, including Jordin Sparks performing “Love Me Like I Am” with For King + Country, Pastor Mike Jr. and Ricky Dillard joining forces on “Impossible” and Tauren Wells including Davies on “Take It All Back.”
Gospel Hall of Fame members Take 6 joined forces with Ernie Haase & Signature Sound for a one-of-a-kind collaboration. The show also included a special moment highlighting the impact of hip-hop across the decades featured performances from Hulvey, Social Club Misfits Grits and TobyMac taking it all the way back with a reprise of 2002’s “Ooh Aah (My Life Be Like).”
Host Tauren Wells. Photo: Terry Wyatt
Composer, recording artist and choir director Dr. Bobby Jones was honored with the Jackie Patillo Leadership Award. Jones is among the foremost pioneers in bringing Gospel music to the masses, and many of today’s best known artists look to their appearances on the Dr. Bobby Jones Show as foundational to their widespread acclaim. A fixture in the industry since 1976, he is also a member of the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. A full list of winners can be found here.
The show aired on Oct. 20 on TBN and The TBN App and simulcast on SiriusXM The Message. An encore performance will air on TBN and The TBN App on Oct. 27 at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. ET.
Katy Nichole. Photo: Tessa Voccola
Luke Smallbone of For King + Country, Jordin Sparks, Joel Smallbone of For King + Country. Photo: Jason Davis
Photo: Blue Amber Photography
Tanya Tucker, Patty Loveless & Bob McDill Enter Hall Of Fame
/by Robert K OermannPictured (L-R): Honorees, Tanya Tucker, Bob McDill and Patty Loveless attend the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images
At this year’s Medallion Ceremony inducting its newest members, several existing Country Music Hall of Famers shared the spotlight.
Staged on Sunday evening (Oct. 22), at the Hall’s CMA Theater, the event saluted Tanya Tucker, Patty Loveless and Bob McDill as the inductees. Among the highlights of the ceremony were the contributions of Vince Gill, Wynonna Judd, Charlie McCoy, Don Schlitz, Connie Smith, Dean Dillon and Brenda Lee, all of whom are previous inductees.
“We’re thrilled to be in the presence of country-music royalty,” said the Hall of Fame’s CEO Kyle Young. “This event is devoted to joy and celebration.”
Pictured (L-R): Don Schlitz, Honoree Bob McDill and Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum CEO Kyle Young onstage during the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images
First up was Texas native Bob McDill, who is already a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. He was honored for a stunning song catalog that includes “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful,” “Amanda,” “Don’t Close Your Eyes,” “Everything That Glitters (Is Not Gold),” “Come Early Morning,” “Why Don’t You Spend the Night,” “Baby’s Got Her Blue Jeans On,” “Gone Country,” ‘Song of the South,” “(Turn Out the Lights and) Love Me Tonight,” “Say It Again,” “Catfish John,” “It Must Be Love,” “Big Wheels in the Moonlight,” “I May Be Used (But Baby I Ain’t Used Up),” “I’ll Do It All Over Again,” “I’ve Been Around Enough to Know,” “Nobody Likes Sad Songs,” “I’ve Been Loved By the Best,” “Rake and a Rambling Man,” “The Door Is Always Open,” “We Believe in Happy Endings,” “You Never Miss a Real Good Thing,” “She Never Knew Me,” “In a Different Light,” “If Hollywood Don’t Need You,” “What She Is (Is a Woman in Love),” “Why Didn’t I Think of That” and “Red Necks White Socks and Blue Ribbon Beer.”
“They joked on Music Row that BMI stood for ‘Bob McDill Incorporated,’” commented Young. “For 30 years, no songwriter in Nashville was more meticulous about crafting country songs.” He related that the songwriter’s mentors and collaborators Allen Reynolds, Dickey Lee, Jack Clement and Bill Hall brought him to Music City in 1970. He also described McDill as “a songwriter’s songwriter” who maintained a nine-to-five office songwriting schedule until his retirement in 2000.
A video bio reminded everyone about the circumstances of McDill’s life. “He elevated the craft of country songwriting into an art and that is why we are inducting him into the Country Music Hall of Fame.”
Pictured: Jamey Johnson performs onstage at the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images
Texas honky-tonker Charley Crockett saluted McDill with a jaunty, drawling rendition of “Louisiana Saturday Night.” Dean Dillon offered his meditative version of “All the Good Ones Are Gone,” which he co-wrote with McDill. Jamey Johnson hushed the crowd with an eloquent performance of “Good Ole Boys Like Me,” which left many attendees misty-eyed and earned a standing ovation.
Kyle Young introduced the members of the superb Medallion All-Star Band — Biff Watson, Jeff White, Jen Gunderman, Deanie Richardson, Brent Mason, Jerry Pentecost, Carmella Ramsey, Richard Loy and Paul Franklin — and then brought on Don Schlitz to do McDill’s induction honors.
Schlitz saluted McDill with a cleverly written reflection on his fellow songwriter’s influence. “Thank you for the great example you’ve given me, and all of us,” Schlitz said.
McDill noted that he realized he was in an elite group of Hall of Fame members who are non-performing songwriters — Schlitz, Dillon, Harlan Howard, Bobby Braddock, Cindy Walker, Boudleaux & Felice Bryant, Fred Rose, Hank Cochran. “What a great honor this is,” he said. Schlitz put the medallion around his neck. Young unveiled McDill’s official Hall of Fame plaque.
Pictured (L-R): Honoree, Patty Loveless and Vince Gill onstage during the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images
The video bio for Kentucky’s Patty Loveless noted that she first came to town to attend Fan Fair. She stood in line to get Vince Gill’s autograph, who was a new and fairly unknown artist at the time. “One day, we’re going to sing together,” she told the budding star.
As a teenager, Loveless returned to town with a tape of her original songs and was befriended by Porter Wagoner, Dolly Parton, The Wilburn Brothers and her distant cousin Loretta Lynn. But she married, moved away and sang in rock bands for a decade. When she tried Nashville again in 1985, Tony Brown signed her to MCA and co-produced her records alongside Emory Gordy Jr., whom she married in 1989. That led to 20 top 10 hits in 1988-97, five CMA Awards, two Grammys and Opry membership.
“Patty Loveless has the ability to harken back to tradition and to move that tradition forward,” said Young. “Her voice is transcendent. She wanted to sing like her heroes. Today, artists say they want to sing like Patty Loveless. And that is why today she is joining the Hall of Fame.”
Medallion band member Deanie Richardson played in Loveless’s band for years (as did Ramsey). She and her all-female bluegrass group Sister Sadie gave tight harmony vocals to “Sounds of Loneliness.” Rock star Bob Seger got a standing ovation for his hearty rendition of “She Drew a Broken Heart.”
Pictured: Bob Seger performs onstage during the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images
Vince Gill and Loveless have been singing on each others’ records for years. He’s on her “Timber I’m Falling in Love” and she’s on his “When I Call Your Name,” to mention just two examples. He offered a magnificent, swooningly beautiful rendition of her hit ballad “Lonely Too Long.”
“Blood harmony, that’s what we sound like together,” Gill said. “We have such a deep and respectful friendship. I think Patty probably represents the most authentic voice I’ve ever heard.” He put the medallion around his old friend’s neck and posed with her as her plaque was unveiled.
“I’m trying to hold it together,” said Loveless. “The one person I truly wish could be here tonight is my brother Roger. He passed away in June of last year, but this was always a dream of his… It’s amazing to me that I have been honored to live this life that I have lived. Forgive me: I’m a little bit taken aback by this. I can get so emotional. Thank you so much.”
The video bio for Tanya Tucker included rare footage of her as a child performer, described her hard-scrabble background and emphasized the unstoppable dedication of her father, Beau Tucker, into making her a star. Young noted that Tucker is just behind Dolly, Reba, Loretta and Tammy as the woman with the most top 10 hits in country-music history. She has 40 of them, plus a 1991 CMA Female Vocalist trophy and two Grammys.
Pictured (L-R): Connie Smith, honoree, Tanya Tucker and Brenda Lee onstage during the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images
“She sang with authenticity and grit,” Young said. “Nobody sounded like Tanya Tucker then and nobody has yet. She’s a survivor: She’s Tucker tough.”
Wynonna honored Tucker with a bluesy treatment of “Delta Dawn.” Accompanying her on eloquent harmonica was Charlie McCoy, her fellow Hall of Famer. Jessi Colter and Margo Price romped through “It’s a Little Too Late.” Colter beckoned for Tucker to join them on stage, and she did, to the crowd’s delight. Brandi Carlile and Colter’s son Shooter Jennings produced Tucker’s Grammy-winning 2019 comeback album. Carlile lauded the legend by saying, “You have carved out an ass-kicking path for all women in music, including me.” Then she sang Tucker’s favorite “Two Sparrows in a Hurricane,” a title that is on her parents’ tombstone. Another standing ovation ensued.
Connie Smith and Brenda Lee inducted Tucker. Smith recalled the times “The Texas Tornado” rode her horse down Lower Broadway and onto the stage of the Grand Ole Opry. ‘“She’s so real,” said Smith. “She is one of us, and I’m so proud that she is.” Lee brought down the house with her riotously funny speech. On a more serious note, she told the crowd that Tucker is “one of the most giving, loving, kind hearted people I know. If she is your friend, she is your friend.” Smith put on Tucker’s medallion, and Young unveiled the plaque while all three women held their medallions and beamed.
Pictured: Wynonna Judd performs onstage during the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images
“It’s so surreal,” Tucker said. “It’s really overwhelming to me…. Thank you for not giving up on me… I look back on those 52 years [since “Delta Dawn” made her a star], and it’s hard to make sense of it all. She thanked her late parents and brother, as well as her older sister LaCosta, and introduced the crowd to her children Presley, Beau Grayson and Layla. She added, “I think of my fans, who have always, always stood by my side.”
Addressing the crowd, she concluded by saying, “I’ll live out my days trying to thank you.” Whistles and screams accompanied her standing ovation.
The evening began with the sound of one of the discs in the Bob Pinson Recorded Sound Archive of the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum. It was the 1978 George Jones classic “Bartender’s Blues.” After opening greetings from Kyle Young, the institution’s board chair Mary Ann McCready introduced the members of the ceremonial Circle Guard, Steve Turner, David Conrad, Bill Denny, Ken Levitan, Mike Milom, Ken Roberts, Seab Tuck and Jerry Williams. Loud cheers and a standing ovation greeted the procession of Hall of Fame members Gill, Judd, Smith, Lee, McCoy, Schlitz, Dillon, Kris Kristofferson, Ray Stevens, William Lee Golden, Emmylou Harris, Bill Anderson, Jimmy Fortune, Randy Travis, Kix Brooks, Joe Galante, Ricky Skaggs and more.
CMA chief Sarah Trahern offered welcoming remarks. Her organization conducts the Hall of Fame balloting and underwrites the Medallion Ceremony. Kyle Young noted the passing of three Hall of Famers during the past year — Jerry Bradley, Jeff Cook and Jerry Lee Lewis — and asked for a moment of silence to honor them.
As is the tradition, the ceremony ended with the entire assembly singing The Carter Family’s “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.” This year’s sing-along was particularly memorable since the powerful voice of Wynonna Judd led the way. Following the induction celebration, attendees gathered for a cocktail supper where McDill, Loveless and Tucker mixed and mingled, as did the evening’s performers.
Big Loud Records Signs Multi-Genre Artist Maggie Rose
/by Liza AndersonPictured (L-R, back row): Big Loud Records’ Jeff Tanner, Stacy Blythe, Candice Watkins, Maggie Rose, Starstruck Entertainment’s Austin Marshall, Narvel Blackstock, Big Loud’s Joey Moi and Big Loud Records’ Brianne Deslippe; (L-R, front row): Big Loud’s Seth England, Big Loud Records’ Nate Yetton, Patch Culbertson, Big Loud’s Austen Adams and Big Loud Records’ Paul Logan. Photo: Brayln Kelly
Big Loud Records has signed singer-songwriter Maggie Rose.
The signing comes as the multi-genre artist preps to release new music that aligns with the label’s mission to expand their roster with talent in alternative genres such as Americana, indie, folk, alt-country and more. Big Loud Record’s VP of A&R Nate Yetton is leading the mission with support from the label team. Rose marks his first signing to the exciting new group of creators.
It was Rose’s soon-to-be-announced work that caught Yetton and Big Loud Records’ attention. Refusing to be defined by any one genre, she comfortably straddles different musical spaces and Big Loud has embraced the unique path Rose has paved for herself.
“Maggie is a world-class vocalist, performer, and songwriter,” says Yetton. “Earlier this year I was privileged enough to hear her new, unreleased album, and after one listen through, I knew that we had to find a way to partner with her and release this body of work via Big Loud Records. I truly believe it is her best, most undeniably authentic, compelling and complete work to date. This is the kind of art that transcends genre and will be playing at dinner parties and on stages across the globe for decades to come.”
“When I heard some of Maggie’s upcoming new music, I just loved the sound of it. The songs are something entirely their own; her voice speaks for itself. Happy that Big Loud is putting this music out and helping Maggie tell her story,” adds Joey Moi, Big Loud Partner/Producer/President of A&R.
Rose is already well-respected within Music City, as she was recently elected Governor of the Recording Academy’s Nashville Chapter and has played the Grand Ole Opry almost 100 times. She has shared stages with Eric Church, Kelly Clarkson, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Heart, Joan Jett, Gov’t Mule, The Mavericks, Fitz And The Tantrums, The Revivalists and more at various shows. She felt the time was right to join forces with the Big Loud Records team for this next chapter.
“Big Loud dove in headfirst and defied my preconceived notions of what I’d come to expect from a big label,” she explains. “They didn’t want me to change the music I was working on or ‘chase’ the trends. They understood the vision and believed in me from the outset.”
Additionally, Rose is set to embark on a nationwide theatre tour with St. Paul & The Broken Bones.