The 2023 Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductees Keith Urban, Kix Brooks, Rafe Van Hoy, Casey Beathard and David Lee Murphy. Photo: Bev Moser
Six iconic tunesmiths became the newest members of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Wednesday night (Oct. 11) in a grand ballroom at the Music City Center.
The evening was full of special musical tributes, moving speeches and Music Row camaraderie. It was the 53rd Anniversary Gala and the at-capacity crowd donned their best suits, gowns and cowboy hats for the occasion.
Pictured (L-R): Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Board Chair Rich Hallworth, inductees Keith Urban, Kix Brooks, Janet Jarrard (representing her late husband John Jarrad), Rafe Van Hoy, Casey Beathard, David Lee Murphy and NaSHOF Executive Director Mark Ford. Photo: Bev Moser
Casey Beathard and David Lee Murphy went into the Hall in the Contemporary Songwriter category, while Rafe Van Hoy joined in the Veteran Songwriter category. Keith Urban went into the Hall in the Contemporary Songwriter/Artist category and Kix Brooks entered in the Veteran Songwriter/Artist category.
The late John Jarrard was inducted into the Hall’s Legacy category, designed specifically to honor NaSHOF-worthy candidates who are deceased. Bobby Bare was also honored with the Frances Williams Preston Mentor Award, a distinction for those who serve as a champion of and cheerleader for songwriters.
“We are here tonight to honor the songwriters who have reached the pinnacle of success in their respective careers,” said Rich Hallworth, NaSHOF Board Chair. “We celebrate the creativity and talent that go into writing a song of merit, cultural value and long-lasting impact, and we do that tonight by welcoming these newest members into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.”
Jarrard was the first songwriter to be honored. The craftsman of hits such as “There’s No Way” and “You’ve Got The Touch” by Alabama, “Money In The Bank” by John Anderson, “Blue Clear Sky” by George Strait, “My Kind Of Girl” by Collin Raye and many more, had a life marked by health issues, but a voracious spirit.
Keith Urban, Dolly Parton and Eric Church. Photo: Bev Moser
Hall of Fame member Gary Nicholson spoke about Jarrard, telling stories of his perseverance in the face of a lifetime of struggle. BlackHawk honored Jarrard with a performance of his “I Sure Can Smell the Rain.”
His widow, Janet Jarrard, accepted on her late husband’s behalf. She spoke about his inspiring story and his philanthropic efforts. She shared that Steve Earle called Jarrard “the bravest man on Music Row.”
Next up, Bare was honored with the Frances Williams Preston Mentor Award for, as Hall of Fame member Gretchen Peters put it, being “one of the best friends songwriters ever had.”
Bare was the first recording artist to receive the honor. His son Bobby Bare Jr. accepted on Bare’s behalf by reading a note from the 88-year-old country legend.
“Don’t forget, the brightest, wittiest, funniest and most intelligent person in any room is always a songwriter. No exceptions. This room is full of them,” Bare wrote.
Beathard was the next songwriter to be honored. Hall of Fame member Buddy Cannon introduced him, and shared a story about the time Beathard pitched him “Boys Of Fall” for Kenny Chesney. After Cannon passed on the song, he heard from Chesney how much he liked it. “After multiple weeks at No. 1 and a successful movie inspired by Casey’s song, I admitted I was wrong. You really don’t have to be a genius to be a record producer,” Cannon quipped.
Eric Church did the musical tribute to Beathard. He shared that he had only cut three outside songs in his career before playing one of them, “Like Jesus Does” from his 2011 album Chief. Church’s old singing partner, the extremely talented Joanna Cotten, joined him for the performance.
When Beathard spoke, he talked a lot about how the perception of success changes through life and about the people in his path that helped him get to the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. He encouraged other songwriters in the room to stop chasing everything and feeling bitter about missed opportunities, and to take time to enjoy the ride.
“My plan was nothing like this. God’s plan was way better,” Beathard shared.
Kenny Chesney, David Lee Murphy and Craig Wiseman. Photo: Bev Moser
Van Hoy was the next songwriter to be honored. John Conlee sang his signature “Lady Lay Down,” one of several chart-toppers penned for him by Van Hoy. Member Bobby Braddock presented him, saying “I induct thee! I induct thee! I induct thee!” as Van Hoy joined the stage.
Van Hoy shared that he would try his best to stick to the five to six minute limit that event organizers had given him, but he blew past that in his many recognitions to the influential people in his life and career.
“There are so many people I want to thank. I am a product of everyone else’s help,” Van Hoy shared. “I couldn’t have had any of the success I’ve had without a lot of other people.”
Next up was Brooks. He was presented by Hall of Fame member Bob DiPiero, who spoke about Brooks’ multi-dimensional talents that included being a world-class songwriter.
Brooks was honored with a performance of his “Only In America” by Cody Johnson, who sounded awesome on the classic Brooks & Dunn tune.
When Brooks spoke, he talked about how badly he wanted to be in the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. He shared that while he was grateful to be in the Country Music Hall of Fame with Dunn, that he didn’t know if he’d ever be able to wrap his head around that honor, but now that he’s in the Nashville Songwriters Hall, he feels he is with his people.
Bob DiPiero, Kix Brooks and Cody Johnson. Photo: Bev Moser
“I was in the rotunda a few days ago with some family members. Seeing Hank Williams on the wall, Patsy Cline and Johnny Cash… They’re not my peers. It’s so overwhelming for me to think I have a bronze plaque next to them. It’s going to take me a lifetime if I’m ever able to accept that,” Brooks said. “But I’ve got a room full of friends in this room tonight that I’ve written a lot of songs with. This is a club that I really wanted to be a part of so bad.”
Murphy was the next songwriter to be inducted. Craig Wiseman spoke about his charm, sharing we should all send Murphy off into the world to represent Music Row. Chesney then emerged to honor Murphy with his No. 1 hit, “Living In Fast Forward.”
Murphy shared similar sentiments as Brooks, sharing that the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame induction was a dream of his.
“All of my heroes have always been songwriters,” Murphy said. “I’m thankful I get to stand here tonight and have my name associated with all of those great songwriters.”
The last songwriter to be added to the Hall was Urban. He was inducted by superstar Dolly Parton, another Hall of Fame member. She shared how proud of Urban she was and that she had always admired him. Church then re-emerged on stage to honor Urban with a Chief-style version of “Who Wouldn’t Wanna Be Me.”
Bobby Braddock, John Conlee and Rafe Van Hoy. Photo: Bev Moser
When Urban took the podium, he put a “In Dolly We Trust” sticker on the front of it. He thanked all the folks on his team, many of which had spent decades with the star. Urban closed his speech with some lines from a song he wrote that he dedicated to his team.
“I know where you are now, I know what it’s like. You think they don’t understand you’re scared inside. But I’m here to let you know, that you’re alive. If you’ve been waiting on a sign, here it is tonight,” Urban recited. “I come from nothing but love and hard work. Born in the city but raised in the dirt. I wasn’t raised to be put in my place. I’m a lover, a fighter, whatever it takes.”
Earlier in the evening, Americana artist Will Kimbrough honored recently deceased Hall of Fame member Jimmy Buffett with a song the two co-wrote called “Bubbles Up.” The evening also featured a performance from Hall of Fame member Larry Gatlin, the Gatlin Brothers and nine other Hall of Fame members performing Gatlin’s song “Amazin’ (What Just The Right 3 Minutes Can Do).”
Additionally NaSHOF Board member Ken Paulson took a few moments to update the audience on the The Songwriters, a program he hosts that premiered in 2016 on WNPT and spotlights Hall of Fame members on public television stations across the country.
The gala, which kicked off with a welcoming performance from The Wildcards, featured its long-time announcer Bill Cody, the Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Famer and host of 650 AM WSM’s Coffee, Country & Cody.
On The Row: Alex Miller’s New EP ‘Country’ Shows Continued Growth After ‘American Idol’
/by Steven BoeroAlex Miller. Photo: Stephen Johnson
Since entering the country music scene with his appearance on season 19 of American Idol, Alex Miller has been building on his success, playing shows and working on his songwriting chops.
A product of Lancaster, Kentucky, Miller spent his upbringing working on his grandfather’s 800 acres, listening and singing classic country songs. He started writing songs from a young age—it was his original song “I’m Over You So Get Over Me” that earned him a trip to Hollywood on American Idol at the age of 17.
“They seemed to like me fairly well and they sent me on to a few rounds,” Miller shares about his audition process at American Idol. “I got to sing with Luke Bryan and do some fun things like that. It was a great experience.
“Being on national television—I never thought I’d ever do anything like that. I’m just a bumpkin from Lancaster,” he says. “I learned so much about how to grow your character and develop yourself as a person.”
Since that priceless experience, Miller has learned a lot about himself as an artist, knowing that sticking to his roots and doing his style of country music is what he wants to do. Thousands of fans have fallen in love with him for those exact reasons. Miller has played around the country at venues such as the Ryman Auditorium and Lucas Oil Stadium, and has opened for artists like Brooks & Dunn, Hank Williams Jr., Jamey Johnson, Josh Turner and more.
The now 20-year-old singer-songwriter is continuing to stick to his traditional sound, but is looking to grow constantly, working with Nashville songwriters such as Jerry Salley, Wood Newton and Kent Blazy. Miller recently released his new EP, simply titled Country, through Billy Jam Records. The project features outside cuts such as “Girl, I Know A Guy” and “When God Made The South,” as well as songs Miller co-wrote like “Every Time I Reach For You,” “Puttin’ Up Hay” and “Gettin’ Lucky In Kentucky.”
“[I’m lucky to get to write with] a lot of the older guys I get to write with,” Miller says. “They’ve had some life experiences and learned what’s going on and how to do it.”
When Miller isn’t writing or in the studio, he is touring the county fair and festival circuit all over the south and midwest, performing a wide range of originals, old-time country songs and even some classic rock. He describes his shows being like George Strait meets KISS.
In the beginning of his young career, Miller has experienced a lot and continues to find his way through the constantly moving music industry. He’s finding his way while keeping true to his roots that his grandfather helped plant while growing as artist and songwriter. He hopes his EP highlights that journey.
“Everybody wants to know what’s going on with my music and what’s coming up next,” Miller says. “The EP is a combination of songs from everything that I like. ‘Gettin’ Lucky In Kentucky’ is more of a western swing, George Strait-sounding thing. ‘Girl, I Know A Guy’ is really progressive for me. I wanted to see what I could do as an artist—what worked and what didn’t work—that’s what this record is for me.”
Miller’s Country EP is available now.
DISClaimer Single Reviews: Hailey Whitters’ New Tune Is ‘Fizzy As Soda Pop’
/by Robert K OermannSomething old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.
Our veterans today are Sawyer Brown and Miss Reba. Our newcomers are Dillon James and Chris Ryan. The “borrowed” tune is “Thank God I’m a Country Boy.”
As for something blue, that would be “Scared to Go to Church” by our DISCovery Award winner, Chris Ryan, with an assist by Jelly Roll.
The Disc of the Day award goes to Hailey Whitters. Her challengers for the crown were all collabs—Craig Morgan & Luke Combs, Miko Marks & The Fisk Jubilee Singers and Noah Kahan & Kacey Musgraves.
NOAH KAHAN & KACEY MUSGRAVES / “She Calls Me Back”
Writer: Noah Kahan; Producers: Noah Kahan/Gabe Simon; Label: Mercury Records/Republic Records
– New Englander Kahan is a huge Americana favorite. His pairing with Nashville’s Musgraves is a hooky pop-rocker with a delicious punch. The wordy song is brought down to earth when Musgraves starts singing lead about midway through, and then the two singers take it home, joyously, together.
DYLAN SCOTT / “I’ll Be a Bartender”
Writers: Rocky Block/John Byron/Grady Block/Jordan Dozzi; Producers: Jacob Durrett/Grady Block; Label: Curb
– If you are heartbroken, head on over to Scott’s kitchen counter and he’ll mix you a pick-me-up. It helps that he’s got a crush on ya. The wooshing production of this breezy, midtempo outing adds perfect support to his supple singing.
MORGAN EVANS / “Thank God She’s a Country Girl”
Writers: Morgan Evans/Jesse Frasure/John Sommers; Producer: Chris DeStefano; Label: Warner
– It’s a rewrite of the 1975 John Denver smash “Thank God I’m a Country Boy.” Sommers was the song’s first creator. Evans and Frasure flip the gender and perspective. Thanks, I’ll take the original.
CARLY PEARCE / “Heels Over Head”
Writers: Shane McAnally/Carly Pearce/Josh Osborne; Producers: Shane McAnally/Carly Pearce/Josh Osborne; Label: Big Machine
– It’s not a single, yet, but this new track is as cleverly written as anything she’s done to date. The fiddle-led track skips along jauntily as she describes the cheap trash he’s fallen for. In the bedroom, the new gal is “heels over head” for him, you see.
HAILEY WHITTERS / “I’m In Love”
Writers: Lee Thomas Miller/Nicolle Galyon/Cameron Bedell; Producers: Jake Gear/Hailey Whitters; Label: Big Loud/Pigasus/Songs & Daughters
– Adorable. As cute as a kitten. As fizzy as soda pop. Ya gotta love this little ray of sunshine. Whitters is the reigning ACM New Female Artist of the Year and is vying for a similar CMA award next month. Play this.
SAWYER BROWN / “Get Me to the Stage on Time”
Writer: Mark Miller; Producers: Mark Miller/Blake Shelton; Label: SB
– The durable band is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a new documentary film, and this is its title tune. It is upbeat and propulsive like much of their classic work, but is not retro sounding. It’s very engaging and up to date.
FANCY HAGOOD / “Southern Sound”
Writers: Fancy Hagood/Jon Green/Tofer Brown; Producer: Tofer Brown/Jon Green; Label: FH
– Hagood hosts “Trailblazers Radio” on Apple Radio. This tune teases his sophomore album. It’s the follow-up to his Southern Curiosity collection, which has accumulated more than 30 million streams. What we have here is a plaintive, aching plea of young lovers. Hagood’s heartbreak tenor vocal is framed by an echoey electronic production that is lustrous.
REBA McENTIRE / “Seven Minutes in Heaven”
Writers: Olivia Rudeen/Matt Wynn; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: MCA
– The Country Music Hall of Famer’s new Not That Fancy collection mainly consists of stripped down versions of some of her biggest hits. It also includes her new single, this tender-hearted ballad about missing a loved one. As always, she delivers the goods as a singer.
DILLON JAMES / “Walking Man”
Writers: Dillon James/Paul Sikes/Paul Wrock; Producers: Paul DiGiovanni/Paul Sikes; Label: Buena Vista/UMG/19 Recordings
– This American Idol alumnus rose from homelessness and substance abuse to garner a country recording contract. His disc debut has a deep-twang production and an intense vibe due to its autobiographical nature. To the accompaniment of electric, echo-chamber guitars he sings of going from being a “dead man walking to a walking man living.”
GABBY BARRETT / “Cowboy Back”
Writers: Gabby Barrett/Jon Nite/Jesse Frasure; Producers: Gabby Barrett/Ross Copperman; Label: Warner
– Barrett co-penned and co-produced this midtempo ode to hard working men with solid, good-guy values in honor of her hubby, a Texan. The production marries twin fiddles to a rocking rhythm track.
MIKO MARKS & THE FISK JUBILEE SINGERS / “Jubilee”
Writer: Lee Bob Wilson; Producer: none listed; Label: MM
– As you might expect, this has a gospel vibe, from the steady, stately piano work to the acclaimed, Grammy honored backing vocalists. Marks takes charge with a confident, assured lead vocal that lifts the song skyward. She and her celebrated choir singers will stage the first live performance of this stirring collaboration tomorrow evening (Oct. 13) at the Grand Ole Opry.
CRAIG MORGAN & LUKE COMBS / “Raise the Bar”
Writers: Craig Morgan/Billy Dean; Producers: Craig Morgan/Phil O’Donnell; Label: Broken Bow
– Morgan’s new Enlisted EP features collaborations with Lainey Wilson, Trace Adkins, Jelly Roll, Blake Shelton, Gary LeVox and Combs. The last named is as rousing and raucous as peerless country singer Morgan is on “Raise the Bar.” The two blue-collar buddies invade the wine-and-cheese crowd’s tavern while singing loud and proud about giving the place “some working class.” The snootier set soon sings along. Lots and lots of fun.
CHRIS RYAN & JELLY ROLL / “Scared to Go to Church”
Writers: Chris Ryan/Jelly Roll/Logan Turner/Dave Kuncio/Jay Joyce; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Warner
– A sinner wails the blues about his lifestyle. Ryan’s searing tenor begins the power-packed lament with an anguished delivery. Jelly Roll takes a verse that is even more intense. When newcomer Ryan returns to the mic, he drives the song home with ferocious emotion. A grand disc debut.
Music Industry Organizations Back Newly Proposed ‘No Fakes’ AI Bill
/by LB CantrellThe impact of artificial intelligence is being discussed on Capitol Hill after the Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe Act—or the No Fakes Act—was proposed.
Sponsored by Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), the bill seeks to protect singers, musicians actors and other creators from having their voices and/or likeness replicated by artificial intelligence in sound recordings and audiovisual works. The bill would hold people, companies and platforms liable for creating or hosting unauthorized AI replications of entertainers and creators.
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) applauded the introduction of the No Fakes Act via a statement made today (Oct. 12). The statement reads, “Our industry has long embraced technology and innovation, including AI, but many of the recent generative AI models infringe on rights – essentially instruments of theft rather than constructive tools aiding human creativity.
“We applaud Senators Coons, Blackburn, Tillis, and Klobuchar for recognizing that unauthorized uses of one’s name, image, likeness, and voice are a clear threat to artists, songwriters, performers, authors, journalists, photographers, and the entire creative community. We look forward to engaging in a robust bipartisan process with a strong bill that effectively protects against this illegal and immoral misappropriation of fundamental rights that protect human achievement.”
The Human Artistry Campaign, an alliance of entertainment companies who seek to keep human creativity at the center of technological innovation, also supported the act.
Their statement reads, “The Human Artistry Campaign believes AI could provide exciting new tools that assist human creativity if established in a responsible manner. However, generative AI applications that steal copyrighted recordings and images to produce voice clones and digital replicas or misappropriate the names and likenesses of artists and performers without consent are incredibly harmful to our society and culture.
“These supposed ‘tools’ attack the most basic elements of human individuality and creativity. We thank Senators Coons, Blackburn, Tillis, and Klobuchar for putting forward draft legislation to protect creators and their work. We look forward to working with all stakeholders to strengthen this proposal while providing clear and effective remedies to stop the wrongful appropriation of creators’ identities and encourage ethical AI practices.”
Of the bill, Tennessee’s senator Blackburn shared, “Songwriters, actors, and our incredibly talented creative community deserve the right to own their name, image, and likeness (NIL). This legislation is a good first step in protecting our creative community, preventing AI models from stealing someone’s NIL, and ensuring that those rights are given primary consideration under the law. I look forward to joining Senator Coons and my colleagues in the Senate and House to develop strong bipartisan legislation we can pass into law.”
Tidal Celebrates Country Music Month
/by Lorie HollabaughTidal is celebrating Country Music Month with an exclusive 101 Playlist Series, hand-picked curation and career spanning artist essentials.
The Country Music Month celebration at Tidal will present a wide range of country content, from playlists highlighting legends and stars of the genre, to sub-genres and emerging artists, providing an immersive experience for users. Tidal’s 101 Playlist Series, a new educational series of 101 playlists, will explore various country sub-genres such as the Nashville sound, western swing, red dirt, Americana, bluegrass, honky-tonk, gothic country and country rap.
Essential playlists of country legends and current stars of the genre will also be curated featuring Zach Bryan, Dolly Parton, Luke Combs, Charley Pride and Loretta Lynn, among others. A Rising Country playlist will highlight new country and Americana artists on the rise, such as Dalton Dover, Brittney Spencer, Marco Cilker, Angel White and Megan Moroney.
A weekly rotating playlist module on the front page of the app will showcase an array of the immersive, history and theme-based country playlists and recommendations that Tidal has to offer. Each day, users will be able to log on to a country live session of various themes.
“Country music has always been a priority for Tidal,” says Bjørn Hammershaug, Tidal’s Senior Director, Global Curation. “Since Tidal was founded, we’ve seen country grow to become a global powerhouse, encompassing a wider and more eclectic multitude of artists, styles, expressions and influences than ever before. We celebrate country music every day here at Tidal, but use the opportunity of Country Music Month to increase our editorial offering and showcase this incredible development.”
Lainey Wilson To Host Third Annual ‘Opry NextStage Live’ In December
/by Lorie HollabaughOpry NextStage alum Lainey Wilson will host and perform at the third annual “Opry NextStage Live” show at the Grand Ole Opry House on Dec. 6.
The Opry-style event will showcase some of country music’s top rising artists who are part of the Opry NextStage program, with performances from NextStage Class of 2023 members Ashley Cooke, Chapel Hart, Corey Kent, Ernest, Jackson Dean and Kameron Marlowe. Tickets will be available through an exclusive pre-sale on Oct. 19, with general public on-sale beginning Oct. 20 at 10 a.m. CT at opry.com.
“Opry NextStage holds a special place in my heart because it’s all about giving talented, emerging artists the spotlight they deserve,” says Wilson. “I know how it feels to chase a dream in this town, and the Opry has always championed up-and-coming artists like me. I am honored to have been a part of the NextStage community, and I can’t wait to share the stage with these awesome artists.”
Since 2019, the NextStage program has introduced new country talent and featured artists such as Wilson, Riley Green, Parker McCollum, Tenille Townes, Priscilla Block, Breland, Niko Moon, Megan Moroney, Ian Munsick, Restless Road, Nate Smith and Hailey Whitters, among others.
Sound Talent Group Adds Agent Steve Kaul, Opens New Nashville Office
/by Daniel CarterSteve Kaul
Sound Talent Group has added Steve Kaul as a new agent for the company. He will be based in STG’s newly-opened Nashville office.
Kaul has spent time at APA and CAA, and has built a roster that includes Built To Spill, Vanessa Carlton, Citizen Cope, In This Moment, The Lemonheads, Saint Asonia, Theory Of A Deadman and more.
Of his addition to the team, STG Co-Founder Tim Borror shares, “Steve Kaul is one of my favorite people in the business. He’s had incredible success over the years. We’ve wanted him to be part of what we are doing from the beginning, and we are so psyched to finally have him be a part of our crew. He’s got a lot to share with all of us, and we’re already benefiting from having him here.”
Kaul explains, “I’m excited to be joining some longtime friends at Sound Talent Group. Together, they have built a great agency, and I look forward to working closely with some of the best agents in the business, in a positive environment that is all about developing and growing artists.”
STG was founded in El Cajon, California and now represents over 450 artists with a diverse range of genres and styles. In its new Nashville office in the Berry Hill neighborhood, Kaul is joined by agents Beth Keith (Alexandra Kay, Lakeview), Jonathan Wilson (Spite, Lorna Shore, Struggle Jennings) and four others.
Mitchell Tenpenny’s Second Annual Cornhole Tournament Raises Over $92K
/by Daniel CarterPictured (L-R) Mitchell Tenpenny, Debbie Tenpenny and Devin Dawson. Photo: Brocoff Photography
Mitchell Tenpenny was joined by sponsors and friends for his second annual Cornhole Tournament outside Sony Music Publishing on Music Row on Tuesday, Oct. 10. This event turned out to be a massive success, raising $92,322.50 for his 10penny Fund, which benefits cancer patients across the country.
Cornhole Tournament. Photo: Brocoff Photography
Multiple stars and businesses participated in the event, including Chris Young, Cody Alan, Steven Curtis Chapman, Ashley Cooke, Devin Dawson, Adam Doleac, Lanco, Meghan Patrick, Michael Ray, Lily Rose, Conner Smith, Alana Springsteen, Matt Stell and many more. Businesses such as David Yurman, Gladwell Orthodontics and Love Your Melon donated considerable amounts.
The 10Penny Fund focuses on building a community for patients to encourage healing. Tenpenny founded this organization after losing his father to cancer in 2014 and has since helped countless patients through fundraisers like this one.
Tenpenny is currently joining Jason Aldean’s “Highway Desperado Tour” through Oct. 28.
Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inducts Six During Special Night Of Music
/by LB CantrellThe 2023 Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductees Keith Urban, Kix Brooks, Rafe Van Hoy, Casey Beathard and David Lee Murphy. Photo: Bev Moser
Six iconic tunesmiths became the newest members of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Wednesday night (Oct. 11) in a grand ballroom at the Music City Center.
The evening was full of special musical tributes, moving speeches and Music Row camaraderie. It was the 53rd Anniversary Gala and the at-capacity crowd donned their best suits, gowns and cowboy hats for the occasion.
Pictured (L-R): Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Board Chair Rich Hallworth, inductees Keith Urban, Kix Brooks, Janet Jarrard (representing her late husband John Jarrad), Rafe Van Hoy, Casey Beathard, David Lee Murphy and NaSHOF Executive Director Mark Ford. Photo: Bev Moser
Casey Beathard and David Lee Murphy went into the Hall in the Contemporary Songwriter category, while Rafe Van Hoy joined in the Veteran Songwriter category. Keith Urban went into the Hall in the Contemporary Songwriter/Artist category and Kix Brooks entered in the Veteran Songwriter/Artist category.
The late John Jarrard was inducted into the Hall’s Legacy category, designed specifically to honor NaSHOF-worthy candidates who are deceased. Bobby Bare was also honored with the Frances Williams Preston Mentor Award, a distinction for those who serve as a champion of and cheerleader for songwriters.
“We are here tonight to honor the songwriters who have reached the pinnacle of success in their respective careers,” said Rich Hallworth, NaSHOF Board Chair. “We celebrate the creativity and talent that go into writing a song of merit, cultural value and long-lasting impact, and we do that tonight by welcoming these newest members into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.”
Jarrard was the first songwriter to be honored. The craftsman of hits such as “There’s No Way” and “You’ve Got The Touch” by Alabama, “Money In The Bank” by John Anderson, “Blue Clear Sky” by George Strait, “My Kind Of Girl” by Collin Raye and many more, had a life marked by health issues, but a voracious spirit.
Keith Urban, Dolly Parton and Eric Church. Photo: Bev Moser
Hall of Fame member Gary Nicholson spoke about Jarrard, telling stories of his perseverance in the face of a lifetime of struggle. BlackHawk honored Jarrard with a performance of his “I Sure Can Smell the Rain.”
His widow, Janet Jarrard, accepted on her late husband’s behalf. She spoke about his inspiring story and his philanthropic efforts. She shared that Steve Earle called Jarrard “the bravest man on Music Row.”
Next up, Bare was honored with the Frances Williams Preston Mentor Award for, as Hall of Fame member Gretchen Peters put it, being “one of the best friends songwriters ever had.”
Bare was the first recording artist to receive the honor. His son Bobby Bare Jr. accepted on Bare’s behalf by reading a note from the 88-year-old country legend.
“Don’t forget, the brightest, wittiest, funniest and most intelligent person in any room is always a songwriter. No exceptions. This room is full of them,” Bare wrote.
Beathard was the next songwriter to be honored. Hall of Fame member Buddy Cannon introduced him, and shared a story about the time Beathard pitched him “Boys Of Fall” for Kenny Chesney. After Cannon passed on the song, he heard from Chesney how much he liked it. “After multiple weeks at No. 1 and a successful movie inspired by Casey’s song, I admitted I was wrong. You really don’t have to be a genius to be a record producer,” Cannon quipped.
Eric Church did the musical tribute to Beathard. He shared that he had only cut three outside songs in his career before playing one of them, “Like Jesus Does” from his 2011 album Chief. Church’s old singing partner, the extremely talented Joanna Cotten, joined him for the performance.
When Beathard spoke, he talked a lot about how the perception of success changes through life and about the people in his path that helped him get to the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. He encouraged other songwriters in the room to stop chasing everything and feeling bitter about missed opportunities, and to take time to enjoy the ride.
“My plan was nothing like this. God’s plan was way better,” Beathard shared.
Kenny Chesney, David Lee Murphy and Craig Wiseman. Photo: Bev Moser
Van Hoy was the next songwriter to be honored. John Conlee sang his signature “Lady Lay Down,” one of several chart-toppers penned for him by Van Hoy. Member Bobby Braddock presented him, saying “I induct thee! I induct thee! I induct thee!” as Van Hoy joined the stage.
Van Hoy shared that he would try his best to stick to the five to six minute limit that event organizers had given him, but he blew past that in his many recognitions to the influential people in his life and career.
“There are so many people I want to thank. I am a product of everyone else’s help,” Van Hoy shared. “I couldn’t have had any of the success I’ve had without a lot of other people.”
Next up was Brooks. He was presented by Hall of Fame member Bob DiPiero, who spoke about Brooks’ multi-dimensional talents that included being a world-class songwriter.
Brooks was honored with a performance of his “Only In America” by Cody Johnson, who sounded awesome on the classic Brooks & Dunn tune.
When Brooks spoke, he talked about how badly he wanted to be in the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. He shared that while he was grateful to be in the Country Music Hall of Fame with Dunn, that he didn’t know if he’d ever be able to wrap his head around that honor, but now that he’s in the Nashville Songwriters Hall, he feels he is with his people.
Bob DiPiero, Kix Brooks and Cody Johnson. Photo: Bev Moser
“I was in the rotunda a few days ago with some family members. Seeing Hank Williams on the wall, Patsy Cline and Johnny Cash… They’re not my peers. It’s so overwhelming for me to think I have a bronze plaque next to them. It’s going to take me a lifetime if I’m ever able to accept that,” Brooks said. “But I’ve got a room full of friends in this room tonight that I’ve written a lot of songs with. This is a club that I really wanted to be a part of so bad.”
Murphy was the next songwriter to be inducted. Craig Wiseman spoke about his charm, sharing we should all send Murphy off into the world to represent Music Row. Chesney then emerged to honor Murphy with his No. 1 hit, “Living In Fast Forward.”
Murphy shared similar sentiments as Brooks, sharing that the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame induction was a dream of his.
“All of my heroes have always been songwriters,” Murphy said. “I’m thankful I get to stand here tonight and have my name associated with all of those great songwriters.”
The last songwriter to be added to the Hall was Urban. He was inducted by superstar Dolly Parton, another Hall of Fame member. She shared how proud of Urban she was and that she had always admired him. Church then re-emerged on stage to honor Urban with a Chief-style version of “Who Wouldn’t Wanna Be Me.”
Bobby Braddock, John Conlee and Rafe Van Hoy. Photo: Bev Moser
When Urban took the podium, he put a “In Dolly We Trust” sticker on the front of it. He thanked all the folks on his team, many of which had spent decades with the star. Urban closed his speech with some lines from a song he wrote that he dedicated to his team.
“I know where you are now, I know what it’s like. You think they don’t understand you’re scared inside. But I’m here to let you know, that you’re alive. If you’ve been waiting on a sign, here it is tonight,” Urban recited. “I come from nothing but love and hard work. Born in the city but raised in the dirt. I wasn’t raised to be put in my place. I’m a lover, a fighter, whatever it takes.”
Earlier in the evening, Americana artist Will Kimbrough honored recently deceased Hall of Fame member Jimmy Buffett with a song the two co-wrote called “Bubbles Up.” The evening also featured a performance from Hall of Fame member Larry Gatlin, the Gatlin Brothers and nine other Hall of Fame members performing Gatlin’s song “Amazin’ (What Just The Right 3 Minutes Can Do).”
Additionally NaSHOF Board member Ken Paulson took a few moments to update the audience on the The Songwriters, a program he hosts that premiered in 2016 on WNPT and spotlights Hall of Fame members on public television stations across the country.
The gala, which kicked off with a welcoming performance from The Wildcards, featured its long-time announcer Bill Cody, the Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Famer and host of 650 AM WSM’s Coffee, Country & Cody.
Noah Kahan Brings Thunderous ‘Stick Season Tour’ To Ascend Amphitheater
/by Caela GriffinNoah Kahan performing at Nashville’s Ascend Amphitheater. Photo: Tyler Krippaehne
Noah Kahan brought his thunderous fall “Stick Season Tour ’23” to Nashville’s Ascend Amphitheater for two nights last week (Oct. 3 and 4).
He opened with his hit track “Northern Attitude” as the setting sun illuminated the skyline behind him. Kahan then played “She Calls Me Back,” a song he re-released with Kacey Musgraves on Friday, Oct. 6.
His brutally honest songs “New Perspective,” “Everywhere, Everything,” “Your Needs, My Needs” and “Growing Sideways” followed as Kahan talked openly about his struggles with mental health, specifically anxiety and depression. He spoked candidly about his growth through therapy, and how his music is a reflection of that.
The crowd during Noah Kahan’s performance at Nashville’s Ascend Amphitheater. Photo: Tyler Krippaehne
“I would look up ‘artists with depression’ because I wanted to know that there was someone else that was successful that felt the way that I did. I found some people but I didn’t find a lot. I want to provide that for somebody out there who’s struggling [and let them] know that you can be up here and be all f*cked up in the head,” he told the crowd
His introspection shifted and he sang about his relationship with others, playing “Paul Revere,” All My Love” and his early release “False Confidence,” which helped to boost his career back in 2019. During Wednesday night (Oct. 4)’s performance of “Paul Revere,” Kahan was joined on stage by a favorite artist of his, singer-songwriter Gregory Alan Isakov, to the crowd’s utter glee.
With every note, new and old fans alike sang their hearts out to the raw lyrics backed by a New England mountain of sound. Kahan was having fun keeping the crowd on its toes by throwing in new ad libs and blending harmonies with his band.
He reminisced on his teenage years, and his move from New England to Nashville. “I moved down here after high school. I don’t think I ever imagined I’d play Ascend. There’s so many people who discovered me this year and got me here, and I wanna say thank you, guys. To all the new fans, thank you so much.”
Kahan’s “Call Your Mom” was a crowd favorite, especially following its re-release with singer-songwriter Lizzy McAlpine. “You’re Gonna Go Far” and “Orange Juice” let Kahan and attendees lean into the vulnerable emotions that come with healing as his powerful voice added a somber note to the evening. “Dial Drunk” had the whole audience on its feet from the pit to the back of the lawn as fans belted out the chorus.
“The View Between Villages” served as the beginning of the end of the shows. Even as Kahan prepared to close the set, the energy never waned. Passionate fans let out raucous screams as Kahan played his two encore tracks. With “Stick Season,” Kahan thanked the fans who have supported him, and treated Wednesday’s audience by bringing out Hozier to join on the track.
“I wanna say a special thank you to everyone who’s been riding with me for a long time, for many years, those who’ve stuck by me and listened to me,” Kahan remarked. “I just wanna say I’ll spend the rest of my life trying to repay you for getting me to this place. I’ll never forget it. Thank you so much.”
He closed the evening with everyone on their feet for the high energy track “Homesick.” The fans’ applause was near deafening for the artist as he left the stage. Kahan wrapped his leg of the fall tour in Florida last night (Oct. 10), and will head to Europe for a winter “Stick Season Tour.” Additionally, his “We’ll All Be Here Forever Tour” kicks off its North American leg in March 2024.
Kahan will return to Music City to perform at Bridgestone Arena May 24 and 25. For more information, click here.
The Crew To Host 13th Annual CMA Awards Viewing Party
/by Lorie HollabaughPhoto: Audrey Spillman
The Crew, a group of music executives representing all sectors of the industry, will host their 13th annual CMA Awards Viewing Party benefiting Musicians on Call at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 8.
Once again taking place at Tin Roof Nashville Downtown, industry professionals will have the opportunity to gather and raise money for Musicians on Call while cheering on fellow artists, songwriters and colleagues at the 57th Annual CMA Awards, which will be broadcast throughout Tin Roof live.
Current members of the Crew are Sony Music Nashville’s Jason McColl, Safford Motley PLC’s Lexie Rigler, Combustion Music’s Kelly Lyons, Big Loud Records’ Camille Kenny, Plaid Flag Music’s Kendall Warren, Concord Music Publishing’s Courtney Allen, Spirit Music’s Kara Jackson, Sony Music Publishing’s Synnovea Halsel, SMACKSongs’ Jeremy Groves and Kobalt Music’s Morgan Brasfield.
Last year, The Crew raised over $22,000 at their 12th annual CMA Awards Viewing Party. Organizations interested in purchasing a sponsorship package for this year’s event should contact Morgan Brasfield at morgan.brasfield@kobaltmusic.