Pictured (L-R): Cindy Mabe/Chair & CEO, UMG Nashville, Luke Bryan, Kerri Edwards/KP Entertainment. Photo: Alan Poizner
Industry members gathered at Brooklyn Bowl earlier this week to celebrate country superstar, Luke Bryan.
The five-time Entertainer of the Year recently notched the milestone of 30 No. 1 hits. First topping the charts in 2009 with “Do I,” Bryan has changed the sound of country music in the last 15 years.
The occasion served as a celebration of Bryan’s life and work. So many executives and peers that helped his record-breaking career take shape were in attendance, and Bryan thanked a lot of them by name, telling funny stories about their time together. In short, it was a love fest.
Storme Warren served as the emcee for the event. He let the crowd know that Bryan was in prestigious company as a 30-time chart-topping artist, joining the ranks with such legends as George Strait, Ronnie Milsap, Conway Twitty and Alabama.
Luke Bryan, Dave Haywood and Hillary Scott. Photo: Alan Poizner
Bryan’s longtime partner in crime, KP Entertainment’s Kerri Edwards, spoke about her journey with Bryan from her days of booking his calendar at Roger Murrah‘s publishing company to stewarding him to superstardom.
“I could not be more excited to be here celebrating this moment with this artist, and everything that his been accomplished not only through his hard work, but by the hard work of many of you in the room,” Edwards said.
To honor Bryan’s 30 No. 1 hits, some artists came out to congratulate their friend. Hillary Scott and Dave Haywood from Lady A performed “Do I,” before Dierks Bentley gave a hilarious performance of “Play It Again.” Bentley turned his appearance into a full-blown Luke Bryan roast, tallying their No. 1 hits and playfully making fun of the entertainer. Bryan ate it up.
Up next was Marty Raybon of Shenandoah, a long-time musical hero to Bryan, who performed “Fast.” The final surprise performer was good friend Jason Aldean who sang Bryan’s “Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye.”
When Bryan got up to the podium to speak, he let us know it was going to take him a while. He generously thanked so many industry members for their contribution to his career.
Bryan also thanked the songwriters who had helped him reach the milestone, calling out frequent collaborators Dallas Davidson, Rhett Akins, Ben Hayslip, Ashley Gorley, Rodney Clawson and more, as well as his longtime co-writer and producer, Jeff Stevens, and his son Jody Stevens. Bryan also thanked the songwriters for the hits that didn’t make it to the top of the charts, hilariously recalling how they should count in the tally.
“There’s a beauty to me writing a song every now and then that I love, and then leaning on Nashville to send me their songs that they love. That’s where I love to be in life,” Bryan shared. “As long as I’m focusing on trying to be important and relevant in music, I will always lean on the songwriting community more than ever.”
He added, “It’s one of the most beautiful, organized machines in this whole world, watching the Nashville songwriting community write songs that change people’s lives and help country music fans through the good times and the bad times.”
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s LB Cantrell, Luke Bryan with his MusicRow No. 1 Challenge Coins, MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Alan Poizner
Bryan closed out the performances singing “Country On,” his 30th No. 1 hit.
During his career, Bryan has amassed a total of 21.7 billion global streams, 11.5 million global album sales and 52 million track sales worldwide. He is the most digital single RIAA certified country artist of all time with 83 million units and 15.5 million album certified units for a total of 98.5 million. He was recently presented with the SoundExchange Hall of Fame Award in recognition of his standing as one of the most streamed artists in SoundExchange’s 20-year history.
Bryan has won more than 50 major music awards, including five wins as Entertainer of the Year. Additional awards include six recognitions as a CMT Artist of the Year, NSAI Artist/Songwriter of the Year, the first-ever recipient of the ACM Album of the Decade Award for Crash My Party, seven CMT Music Awards, five Billboard Music Awards and four American Music Awards.
On Nov. 8 Bryan and NFL superstar Peyton Manning will return to host The 57th Annual CMA Awards to be broadcast live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena 8:00-11:00 PM/EST on ABC. In 2024, Bryan will once again return as a celebrity judge alongside Katy Perry and Lionel Richie for their seventh season on ABC’s American Idol.
Luke Bryan’s 30 career No. 1 singles:
“Country On” – Written by: Mark Nesler, David Frasier, Mitch Oglesby, Styles Haury 12-12-22
“Buy Dirt” – Written by: Josh Jenkins, Jacob Davis, Jordan Davis, Matt Jenkins 1-24-22
“Waves”- Written by: Zach Crowell, Ryan Hurd, Chase McGill 8-30-21
“Down To One”- Written by: Dallas Davidson, Justin Ebach, Kyle Fishman 3-1-21
“One Margarita” – Written by: Michael Carter, Matt Dragstrem, Josh Thompson 7-6-21
“What She Wants Tonight”- Written by: Luke Bryan, Ross Copperman, Hillary Lindsey, Jon Nite 3-31-20
“Knockin’ Boots”- Written by: Hillary Lindsey, Gordie Sampson, Jon Nite 9-9-19
“What Makes You Country”- Written by: Luke Bryan, Dallas Davidson, Ashley Gorley 2-27-19
“Sunrise, Sunburn, Sunset”- Written by: Zach Crowell, Ryan Hurd, Chase McGill 9-10-18
“Most People Are Good”- Written by: David Frasier, Ed Hill, Josh Kear 3-26-18
“Light It Up”- Written by: Luke Bryan, Brad Tursi 12-11-17
“Fast”- Written by: Luke Bryan, Rodney Clawson, Luke Laird 4-3-17
“Move” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Michael Carter, Jay Clementi 11-7-16
“Huntin’, Fishin’, And Lovin’ Every Day” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Dallas Davidson, Rhett Akins, Ben Hayslip 6-20-16
“Home Alone Tonight” – Written by: Jody Stevens, Cole Taylor, Jaida Dreyer, Tommy Cecil 2-1-16
“Strip It Down” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Jon Nite, Ross Copperman 10-19-15
“Kick The Dust Up” – Written by: Dallas Davidson, Chris DeStefano, Ashley Gorley 8-3-15
“I See You” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Ashley Gorley, Luke Laird 2-2-15
“Roller Coaster” – Written by: Michael Carter, Cole Swindell 10-6-14
“Play It Again” – Written by: Dallas Davidson, Ashley Gorley 5-19-14
“Drink A Beer” – Written by: Jim Beavers, Chris Stapleton 2-3-14
“That’s My Kind of Night” – Written by: Dallas Davidson, Chris DeStefano, Ashley Gorley 10-21-13
“Crash My Party” – Written by: Rodney Clawson, Ashley Gorley 7-1-13
“Only Way I Know” – Jason Aldean, Feat Luke Bryan 2-4-13
“Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Jeff Stevens, Shane McAnally 11-5-12
“Drunk On You” – Written by: Rodney Clawson, Chris Tompkins, Josh Kear 6-4-12
“I Don’t Want This Night To End” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Dallas Davidson, Rhett Akins, Ben Hayslip 1-16-12
“Someone Else Calling You Baby” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Jeff Stevens 2-13-11
“Rain Is A Good Thing” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Dallas Davidson 7-11-10
“Do I” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Dave Haywood, Charles Kelley 12-13-09
Matthew West To Be Honored With ASCAP Golden Note Award
/by Steven BoeroMatthew West. Photo: Sean Hagwell
Songwriter and artist Matthew West will be honored by ASCAP with the prestigious ASCAP Golden Note Award.
A five-time Grammy nominee, West has had cuts by Rascal Flatts, Scotty McCreery, Casting Crowns (including back-to-back No. 1 singles), Michael W. Smith and Amy Grant, among others, and has notched 30 No. 1 songs as an artist and songwriter combined. He has released 11 albums with songs including the RIAA platinum-certified single, “The Motions,” and the RIAA gold-certified single, “Hello, My Name Is.”
West’s work has earned him a Billboard Music Award, an American Music Award, multiple Dove Awards, and a Primetime Emmy Award nomination. Additionally, West has authored six books and along with his father created popwe, a nonprofit ministry.
“Matthew’s remarkable gift for lifting others up with his music transcends genre or format,” says ASCAP Chairman of the Board and President Paul Williams. “He is one of our most-lauded Christian songwriters and artists and from the start of his nearly two-decade career, stars from Christian, country, and pop music have brought his passionate and profound songs of hope and healing to audiences around the world. We congratulate him on this well-deserved award.”
The award will be presented at ASCAP’s Christian Music Awards Celebration, Monday, Oct. 2, in Nashville, an invitation-only party that honors the songwriters and publishers of ASCAP’s most performed songs in Christian music of the past year.
The ASCAP Golden Note Award is presented to songwriters, composers, and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones. Previous recipients include Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, Michael W. Smith, Mark Lowry, Mary Mary and more.
DISClaimer Single Reviews: Colbie Caillat & Sheryl Crow Bring Breezy New Tune
/by Robert K OermannWe’ve got country duets coming out of our ears in this edition of DISClaimer.
Mind you, there is superb solo work from Sam Williams, Tyler Hubbard, Willie Nelson and Lori McKenna. But there’s no denying the force generated by Zach Bryan with Kacey Musgraves, Jenni Mudaur and Teddy Thompson and The Bellamy Brothers with K.T. Oslin.
Both of our award winners this week are collaborations, too. The Disc of the Day honor goes to the scintillating, uplifting Colbie Caillat and Sheryl Crow duet “I’ll Be Here.” The DISCovery Award goes to the husband-wife team of Alyssa and Wayne Brewer, whose George and Tammy recreation must be heard to be believed.
COLBIE CAILLAT & SHERYL CROW / “I’ll Be Here”
Writers: Colbie Caillat/Brett James/Jason Reeves/Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds; Producer: Jamie Kenney; Label: Blue Jean Baby Records/The Orchard
– This is the title tune of Caillat’s new country album (due Oct. 6). It is an uplifting, breezy tempo tune that exudes love and light, supportive friendship and spirit-lifting trust. She and Crow have migrated here from pop and both righteously belong in the country firmament, because they’re better country singers than half of the people that are already in the format. Play and believe.
JENNI MULDAUR & TEDDY THOMPSON / “If I Needed You”
Writer: Townes Van Zandt; Producer: David Mansfield; Label; Sun Label Group
– She is the daughter of Geoff and Maria Muldaur and he is the son of Richard and Linda Thompson. With such a royal folk-music lineage, is it any surprise that Jenni and Teddy absolutely nail this revival of the 1981 Emmylou Harris and Don Williams folkie duet? It is lilting and loving, a true balm for the soul. Their album is entitled Sing the Great Country Duets. Recommended without reservation.
ALYSSA & WAYNE BREWER / “We’re Gonna Hold On”
Writers: Bobby Braddock/Rafe Van Hoy; Producers: Wayne Brewer/Mason Brewer/Gary Brewer; Label: SGM/Sony/The Orchard
– This husband-and-wife duo are offering a collection titled A&W Sing George & Tammy. It takes courage to take on the repertoire made immortal by two of the greatest singers in country music history, but the Brewers are impressively up to the task. Both of them have pitch-perfect vocal chops and can match their Hall of Fame forebears lick for lick. Frankly, I was blown away.
DUSTIN LYNCH “Killed the Cowboy”
Writers: Jordan Reynolds/Devin Dawson/Anderson East; Producer: Zach Crowell; Label: Broken Bow Records
– Moody and minor key, this is a somewhat arty change of pace for Lynch. I think it’s a gutsy choice for a single. Although it’s haunting, the song doesn’t exactly scream “hit” to me.
LORI MCKENNA / “Wonder Drug”
Writer: Lori McKenna; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: CN Records/Thirty Tigers
– In a word, awesome. With just their acoustic guitars, McKenna and Cobb lay down a performance that will stop you in your tracks. The woman’s achingly brilliant song describes the devastation of drugs and asks, “Why couldn’t Love be the wonder drug?” This reminder of country’s folk roots belongs on your playlist at once. McKenna and the equally brilliant Brandy Clark are touring together this fall. I was hugely disappointed to learn that there’s no Nashville date on the schedule (Knoxville is Oct. 5 and Chattanooga is Oct. 6).
WILLIE NELSON / “Good Hearted Woman”
Writers: Willie Nelson/Waylon Jennings; Producer: Buddy Cannon; Label: Sony Legacy
– Nelson goes bluegrass on his new album, which drops tomorrow (Sept. 15). This new take on his Waylon Jennings collab classic has lively banjo and fiddle backing. The real revelation is how strong his voice still sounds at age 90. Eternally a fan. The original, by the way, was the CMA Single of the Year in 1976.
ZACH BRYAN & KACEY MUSGRAVES / “I Remember Everything”
Writers: Zach Bryan/Kacey Musgraves; Producer: Zach Bryan; Label: Warner Records
– Slow, deliberate and eloquently painful, this ballad explores the anguish of heartbreak with an airy grace. Both singers languish in sorrow.
MUSTANGS OF THE WEST / “Sea of Heartbreak”
Writers: Paul Hampton/Hal David; Producers: Kirk Pasich/Colin Devlin; Label: KZZ Music/Blue Elan Records
– This durable, five-piece, all-female band takes on the exquisite 1961 Don Gibson golden oldie with verve. This song is one of my all-time country favorites, and their vocal harmonies are simply stunning. What’s not to love?
TYLER HUBBARD / “Back Then Right Now”
Writers: Tyler Hubbard/Jessie Jo Dillon/Geoff Warburton/David Garcia; Producers: Tyler Hubbard/Jordan Schmidt; Label: EMI Nashville
– Nostalgia for the good old days, set to an insanely catchy beat. This guy’s voice usually gets to me, and this outing is no exception. Turn it up and spin around the room.
THE BELLAMY BROTHERS & K.T. OSLIN / “I’d Lie to You for Your Love”
Writers: David Bellamy/Howard Bellamy/Frankie Miller/Jeff Barry; Producer: The Bellamy Brothers; Label: Select-O-Hits
– Recorded in 2006, before Parkinson’s took her from us too soon in 2020, Oslin takes the lead on this collaboration. The groove is slinky. The mood is romantic. The vibe is pure pleasure. David and Oslin trade saucy asides as the tune progresses with its steady groove. The song’s so-clever lyric is a proven winner, having topped the country hit parade for The Bellamy Brothers in 1985. Essential listening.
SAM WILLIAMS / “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry”
Writer: Hank Williams; Producer: none listed; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Sam honors his grandfather with this stately, smooth, sad revival of this cornerstone song of the Hank Williams catalog. The pace is cautious, as if heart, voice and instruments might all break at any moment. No matter how familiar you are with the original (or its many revivals), this version will touch your heart. Sam will take part in the concert saluting the 100th anniversary of Hank’s birth staged by the Country Music Hall of Fame on Sept. 21.
LUTHER DICKINSON / “Are You Sure”
Writers: Homer Banks/Raymond E. Jackson; Producer: Luther Dickinson; Label: New West Records/Antone’s Records
– Nashvillian Dickinson is noted for his work in the North Mississippi All Stars, but his new solo album revisits the songs he loved as a little boy growing up in Memphis. It includes such Americana guests as Yola, Allison Russell and Lillie Mae. On this sing-songy revival of a Staple Singers oldie, he is joined by daughters Sharde Thomas and Sharisse Norman. File under: Children’s Music.
Carrie Underwood Adds New 2024 Dates To ‘Reflection: The Las Vegas Residency’
/by Lorie HollabaughCarrie Underwood has added 18 new dates to her “Reflection: The Las Vegas Residency” for 2024.
Exclusively designed for the state-of-the-art venue, Underwood’s residency has garnered rave reviews and sell-out runs since its premiere in December 2021. She kicked off her 2023 run of shows in June and added three more December dates. Tickets and a limited number of VIP packages and upgrades to the new set of performances go on sale this Monday (Sept. 18). For more information, click here.
Additionally, Underwood joined NBC’s Today show this morning for a live performance at Today Plaza as part of the Citi Concert Series. Her Denim & Rhinestones (Deluxe Edition) album is set for release on Friday, Sept. 22, and features six new tracks, including her current single “Out Of That Truck.”
“Reflection: The Las Vegas Residency” New Dates:
March 2024: 6, 8, 9, 13, 15, 16
May 2024: 22, 25, 26, 29, 31
June 2024: 1
Aug. 2024: 14, 16, 17, 21, 23, 24
Tiera Kennedy Signs With Hill Entertainment Group, WME
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Hill Entertainment Group’s President/CEO Greg Hill, Client Coordinator Palmer Heath and Director of Business & Client Development Kodi Chandler, Tiera Kennedy, WME’s Partner Risha Rodgers and Agent Carter Green
Rising singer-songwriter Tiera Kennedy has signed with Hill Entertainment Group for management, and WME for global representation in all areas.
Kennedy will be managed by Kodi Chandler, Greg Hill and their team, and represented by WME’s Risha Rodgers and Carter Green.
The Alabama native recently offered a taste of her upcoming debut project with her new single “Jesus, My Mama, My Therapist” via The Valory Music Co., out now. Kennedy is currently putting the finishing touches on her forthcoming full-length debut, and as the host of Apple Music Country’s The Tiera Show, she puts her stamp on the genre daily.
Having landed on several of 2022’s most impressive Artist to Watch Lists, including CMT’s Listen Up, MusicRow’s Next Big Thing and Pandora’s Country Artist to Watch, Kennedy took her songs on the road, opening for artists including Kelsea Ballerini and Danielle Bradbery, while playing festivals across the country.
Grand Ole Opry Honors Johnny Cash’s Life & Legacy
/by Lorie HollabaughJohn Carter Cash, Ana Cristina Cash, Joseph Cash, The Gatlin Brothers, Jamey Johnson and The Tennessee Four performing “Daddy Sang Bass” during “Opry Honors Johnny Cash.” Photo: Chris Hollo/Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry celebrated the life and legacy of Johnny Cash on the 20th anniversary of his passing on Tuesday night (Sept. 12).
The special evening of “Opry Honors Johnny Cash” included tribute performances by his son John Carter Cash, Ana Cristina Cash and Joseph Cash as well as artists who have been influenced by his work including Rodney Crowell, Erin Enderlin, The Gatlin Brothers, Chris Janson, Jamey Johnson and William Beckman.
The Tennessee Four—made up of Cash’s oldest grandson Thomas Gabriel on vocals and musicians who played with Cash including Paul Leim (drums), Kerry Marx (guitar) and Dave Roe (bass)— also took the stage, making their Grand Ole Opry debut.
Rodney Crowell performing during “Opry Honors Johnny Cash.” Photo: Chris Hollo/Grand Ole Opry
Chris Janson and Jamey Johnson performing an acoustic duet of “Sunday Morning Coming Down” during “Opry Honors Johnny Cash.” Photo: Chris Hollo/Grand Ole Opry
Luke Bryan Looks Back On His Career & 30 No. 1 Hits
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R): Cindy Mabe/Chair & CEO, UMG Nashville, Luke Bryan, Kerri Edwards/KP Entertainment. Photo: Alan Poizner
Industry members gathered at Brooklyn Bowl earlier this week to celebrate country superstar, Luke Bryan.
The five-time Entertainer of the Year recently notched the milestone of 30 No. 1 hits. First topping the charts in 2009 with “Do I,” Bryan has changed the sound of country music in the last 15 years.
The occasion served as a celebration of Bryan’s life and work. So many executives and peers that helped his record-breaking career take shape were in attendance, and Bryan thanked a lot of them by name, telling funny stories about their time together. In short, it was a love fest.
Storme Warren served as the emcee for the event. He let the crowd know that Bryan was in prestigious company as a 30-time chart-topping artist, joining the ranks with such legends as George Strait, Ronnie Milsap, Conway Twitty and Alabama.
Luke Bryan, Dave Haywood and Hillary Scott. Photo: Alan Poizner
Bryan’s longtime partner in crime, KP Entertainment’s Kerri Edwards, spoke about her journey with Bryan from her days of booking his calendar at Roger Murrah‘s publishing company to stewarding him to superstardom.
“I could not be more excited to be here celebrating this moment with this artist, and everything that his been accomplished not only through his hard work, but by the hard work of many of you in the room,” Edwards said.
To honor Bryan’s 30 No. 1 hits, some artists came out to congratulate their friend. Hillary Scott and Dave Haywood from Lady A performed “Do I,” before Dierks Bentley gave a hilarious performance of “Play It Again.” Bentley turned his appearance into a full-blown Luke Bryan roast, tallying their No. 1 hits and playfully making fun of the entertainer. Bryan ate it up.
Up next was Marty Raybon of Shenandoah, a long-time musical hero to Bryan, who performed “Fast.” The final surprise performer was good friend Jason Aldean who sang Bryan’s “Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye.”
When Bryan got up to the podium to speak, he let us know it was going to take him a while. He generously thanked so many industry members for their contribution to his career.
Bryan also thanked the songwriters who had helped him reach the milestone, calling out frequent collaborators Dallas Davidson, Rhett Akins, Ben Hayslip, Ashley Gorley, Rodney Clawson and more, as well as his longtime co-writer and producer, Jeff Stevens, and his son Jody Stevens. Bryan also thanked the songwriters for the hits that didn’t make it to the top of the charts, hilariously recalling how they should count in the tally.
“There’s a beauty to me writing a song every now and then that I love, and then leaning on Nashville to send me their songs that they love. That’s where I love to be in life,” Bryan shared. “As long as I’m focusing on trying to be important and relevant in music, I will always lean on the songwriting community more than ever.”
He added, “It’s one of the most beautiful, organized machines in this whole world, watching the Nashville songwriting community write songs that change people’s lives and help country music fans through the good times and the bad times.”
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s LB Cantrell, Luke Bryan with his MusicRow No. 1 Challenge Coins, MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Alan Poizner
Bryan closed out the performances singing “Country On,” his 30th No. 1 hit.
During his career, Bryan has amassed a total of 21.7 billion global streams, 11.5 million global album sales and 52 million track sales worldwide. He is the most digital single RIAA certified country artist of all time with 83 million units and 15.5 million album certified units for a total of 98.5 million. He was recently presented with the SoundExchange Hall of Fame Award in recognition of his standing as one of the most streamed artists in SoundExchange’s 20-year history.
Bryan has won more than 50 major music awards, including five wins as Entertainer of the Year. Additional awards include six recognitions as a CMT Artist of the Year, NSAI Artist/Songwriter of the Year, the first-ever recipient of the ACM Album of the Decade Award for Crash My Party, seven CMT Music Awards, five Billboard Music Awards and four American Music Awards.
On Nov. 8 Bryan and NFL superstar Peyton Manning will return to host The 57th Annual CMA Awards to be broadcast live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena 8:00-11:00 PM/EST on ABC. In 2024, Bryan will once again return as a celebrity judge alongside Katy Perry and Lionel Richie for their seventh season on ABC’s American Idol.
Luke Bryan’s 30 career No. 1 singles:
“Country On” – Written by: Mark Nesler, David Frasier, Mitch Oglesby, Styles Haury 12-12-22
“Buy Dirt” – Written by: Josh Jenkins, Jacob Davis, Jordan Davis, Matt Jenkins 1-24-22
“Waves”- Written by: Zach Crowell, Ryan Hurd, Chase McGill 8-30-21
“Down To One”- Written by: Dallas Davidson, Justin Ebach, Kyle Fishman 3-1-21
“One Margarita” – Written by: Michael Carter, Matt Dragstrem, Josh Thompson 7-6-21
“What She Wants Tonight”- Written by: Luke Bryan, Ross Copperman, Hillary Lindsey, Jon Nite 3-31-20
“Knockin’ Boots”- Written by: Hillary Lindsey, Gordie Sampson, Jon Nite 9-9-19
“What Makes You Country”- Written by: Luke Bryan, Dallas Davidson, Ashley Gorley 2-27-19
“Sunrise, Sunburn, Sunset”- Written by: Zach Crowell, Ryan Hurd, Chase McGill 9-10-18
“Most People Are Good”- Written by: David Frasier, Ed Hill, Josh Kear 3-26-18
“Light It Up”- Written by: Luke Bryan, Brad Tursi 12-11-17
“Fast”- Written by: Luke Bryan, Rodney Clawson, Luke Laird 4-3-17
“Move” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Michael Carter, Jay Clementi 11-7-16
“Huntin’, Fishin’, And Lovin’ Every Day” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Dallas Davidson, Rhett Akins, Ben Hayslip 6-20-16
“Home Alone Tonight” – Written by: Jody Stevens, Cole Taylor, Jaida Dreyer, Tommy Cecil 2-1-16
“Strip It Down” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Jon Nite, Ross Copperman 10-19-15
“Kick The Dust Up” – Written by: Dallas Davidson, Chris DeStefano, Ashley Gorley 8-3-15
“I See You” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Ashley Gorley, Luke Laird 2-2-15
“Roller Coaster” – Written by: Michael Carter, Cole Swindell 10-6-14
“Play It Again” – Written by: Dallas Davidson, Ashley Gorley 5-19-14
“Drink A Beer” – Written by: Jim Beavers, Chris Stapleton 2-3-14
“That’s My Kind of Night” – Written by: Dallas Davidson, Chris DeStefano, Ashley Gorley 10-21-13
“Crash My Party” – Written by: Rodney Clawson, Ashley Gorley 7-1-13
“Only Way I Know” – Jason Aldean, Feat Luke Bryan 2-4-13
“Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Jeff Stevens, Shane McAnally 11-5-12
“Drunk On You” – Written by: Rodney Clawson, Chris Tompkins, Josh Kear 6-4-12
“I Don’t Want This Night To End” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Dallas Davidson, Rhett Akins, Ben Hayslip 1-16-12
“Someone Else Calling You Baby” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Jeff Stevens 2-13-11
“Rain Is A Good Thing” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Dallas Davidson 7-11-10
“Do I” – Written by: Luke Bryan, Dave Haywood, Charles Kelley 12-13-09
Big Loud Records Expands To Australia & United Kingdom
/by LB CantrellBrianne Deslippe. Photo: Ryan Emberley
Big Loud Records has expanded into new territories, adding offices and label managers in London, U.K. and Brisbane, Australia. This bolsters its already established base in Toronto, Canada.
Industry executives Cayleigh Shepherd and Johnno Keetels have been tapped as label managers in the U.K. and Australia, respectively. On the Canadian team, Big Loud has elevated Justin Clark to Manager, National Promotion/Associate Label Manager for the territory.
“We started in year one with our Canadian office, and it has been a long-term goal of ours to have direct Big Loud representation in both Australia and the U.K.,” shares Seth England, Big Loud CEO/Partner. “We waited for the best strategic time, but now makes the most sense with how we’ve grown as a company. We continue to keep an eye on other emerging markets as well.”
All three label managers report to two-time CCMA Industry Person of the Year and SVP, Global Marketing & Strategy Brianne Deslippe.
Brisbane local Keetels joins Big Loud following stops at Warner Music Australia and most recently a 10-year run at Universal Music Australia in the Media & Editorial department. London-based Shepherd transitions from U.K.-based imprint Snakefarm Records, where she worked as a Marketing Manager for five years after a tenure with its parent company, Spinefarm Records, a subsidiary of Universal U.K. Clark started with Big Loud in 2020, contributing to and leading innovative promotion strategies on the international team and directly supporting Deslippe.
“There is so much growth potential in these markets, I feel like we’ve just scratched the surface,” says Deslippe. “For a long time, I was the only international team member having moved to Nashville from Canada, but I’ve always been made to feel like a valued member of the core team. I’m excited to pay this sentiment forward and invite some more unique and different voices to the table.”
“Getting these international pipes, if you will, set up now, has never been more important or timelier for us,” adds England. “This is the next logical step; be ready for the ones to come and stay prepared for the ones we have.”
Hozier & Maren Morris Team For ‘CMT Crossroads’
/by Lorie HollabaughHozier and Maren Morris are the latest artists set to appear on the CMT Crossroads franchise.
The new episode was filmed in front of a live audience at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, and reunites the Irish singer-songwriter with Morris following their first collaboration in 2019 when they released a version together of Morris’ crossover hit “The Bones.”
The show has the pair swapping stories and performing on each other’s most-celebrated songs, including Hozier’s “Take Me to Church,” “Work Song,” and two releases off his newest album, “Eat Your Young” and “All Things End.” They will also perform Morris’ “The Bones,” “My Church,” “Girl” and her brand new single, “The Tree.”
CMT Crossroads: Hozier & Maren Morris premieres with a special one-hour presentation on Sept. 22 at 9 p.m. CT, with an immediate encore at 10 p.m. CT, and on Saturday, Sept. 23 at 11 CT. It will also air live on Sept.r 23 on CMT.com, CMT VOD and the MTV app (CMT Crossroads), with subsequent premieres on CMT Music and MTV Live.
“Getting to share songs with Maren Morris for CMT Crossroads was a uniquely rewarding and fun experience,” says Hozier. “I’ve often felt a great deal of kinship between her work and my own. Getting to explore that and work alongside someone so outrageously talented was a joy. There were moments on that stage that I got to be a musician, a performer, collaborator and an audience member to Maren’s beautiful new music all at once.”
“Hozier is such a necessary artist to these times,” shares Morris. “He meets every moment with tenderness, clever wit and a strong moral stance for what is right. I’ve loved becoming friends with him over the years and I truly consider him to be one of the best of our generation. It was so much fun to collaborate again.”
Dan + Shay Slate ‘The Heartbreak On The Map Tour’ For 2024
/by Lorie HollabaughDan + Shay. Photo: Robby Klein
Dan + Shay have announced their 2024 “Heartbreak On The Map Tour,” kicking off in February. Ben Rector and Hailey Whitters will support the duo on the dates.
The tour will make stops in Austin, Oklahoma City, Knoxville, Kansas City, Chicago, Nashville and more before wrapping in Boston on April 14. Artist pre-sale tickets go on sale beginning Sept. 19, and additional pre-sales will run throughout the week ahead of the general on-sale Sept. 22. Fans can pre-register here until Sept. 18 to receive their early ticket access code.
The 19-city tour aptly receives its title from “Heartbreak On The Map,” the third song on the duo’s fifth studio album, Bigger Houses out tomorrow, Sept. 15 via Warner Music Nashville. The long-awaited new music follows the duo’s record shattering, multi-award-winning, Platinum album, Good Things.
In the 10 years since they formed, Dan + Shay have garnered more than 11 billion career streams globally, multiple international No. 1 singles and 49 total RIAA Platinum and Gold certifications in the U.S. alone.
BBR Music Group Promotes Lauren Crawford, Hillary Borden & Hayley Irvine
/by Steven BoeroPictured (L-R): Lauren Crawford, Hillary Borden and Hayley Irvine. Photos: Kevin Grace
BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville has elevated Lauren Crawford to Director of Marketing, Hillary Borden to Sr. Manager of Marketing and Hayley Irvine to Manager of Marketing.
Crawford, now head of the department, will lead the label’s marketing team and its initiatives as well as continue to manage artist projects such as Jason Aldean, Dustin Lynch and Jelly Roll, while also overseeing the rest of the roster. She joined the label from Capitol Christian Music Group, where she handled projects for artists such as: Chris Tomlin, Cody Carnes, Kari Jobe, We The Kingdom and more. Prior to Capitol, she worked for Nashville’s annual Pilgrimage Music Festival, driving its marketing initiatives and overseeing the festival’s administration.
Borden joined BBR Music Group as Marketing Manager. In her new role, she will continue to manage artist projects, create marketing plans, streamline advertising initiatives and coordinate with all departments on artist release plans and strategies. Borden came to the label from The Bobby Bones Show, where she served as a producer, booking artists for the show and writing the weekend show, Country Top 30.
Irvine joined BBR Music Group as Manager of Recorded Finance. Going above and beyond the scope of her job duties, Irvine’s devotion to the label’s roster solidified her as the right teammate to transition into this artist-relations role, serving as a needed addition to the marketing team. Upon arriving in Nashville, Irvine came straight to the label after a short stint working in finance at Vaco.
“Each of these women are a force,” says JoJamie Hahr, EVP, BMG Nashville. “They seamlessly lead artist projects with passion, intensity, organization, and creativity. Lauren is the perfect lead for this highly motivated, well-rounded group with her attention to detail, marketing smarts and strategic thinking. Hillary adds an important dimension to the team with her vast country radio knowledge, and Hayley’s finance experience further solidifies the department.”
All will be reporting to Hahr. Crawford can be reached at lauren@bbrmusicgroup.com, Borden can be reached at hillary@bbrmusicgroup.com and Irvine can be reached at hayley@bbrmusicgroup.com.