Pictured at The Heartland Network Studios in Nashville, Tennessee: Joel Wertman, CEO, Get After It Media; Rob Hatch, Co-Founder, Entersong Entertainment; Emily Bronze, SVP/GM,
The Heartland Network/Get After It Media and Alan Kates,VP of Strategy, The Heartland Network/Get After It Media. Photo: Chase Thompson, The Heartland Network
Entersong Entertainment, the live events company founded by Rob Hatch and Mike Every, has formed a strategic partnership with The Heartland Network. Reaching 88 million households, The Heartland Network is part of multi-platform broadcast and streaming company Get After It Media (GAIM).
This partnership marks Entersong Entertainment’s first move into original television and streaming content. Together, the companies will develop and produce original music-focused programming with filming expected to begin later this year.
Entersong Entertainment is best known for producing the Las Vegas Songwriters Festival, the largest gathering of songwriters in Las Vegas history. Through its events and industry connections, Entersong has become a respected platform for showcasing songwriting and the stories behind the songs.
“Every great song starts with a story. I’ve learned that people like knowing more about a song than just what they hear on the radio or on a finished album. They appreciate hearing about the creative sparks behind their favorite songs and music. This partnership with The Heartland Network gives us an opportunity to pull back the curtain in a fresh way and share those special stories,” says Hatch. “We’ve spent years building relationships with some of the most talented creators in music, and this gives us a new canvas to showcase their stories. The goal isn’t just to make another music show—it’s to create experiences audiences can’t find anywhere else.”
“What excites me most about this partnership is the chance to rethink how music stories are told and experienced,” shares Every. “By combining Entersong’s relationships and creative vision with Heartland’s incredible reach, we’re creating a space where artists, songwriters and fans can connect in ways that feel meaningful. The most exciting ideas happen when great people, great stories, and great platforms come together. That’s exactly what this partnership is to us.”
“This partnership is rooted in years of relationships built on trust, mutual respect and a shared belief in the power of great storytelling,” adds Alan Kates, VP of Strategy, The Heartland Network/Get After It Media. “I’ve had the privilege of knowing and working alongside Rob, Mike and many of the artists on the Entersong roster for many years, and what stands out most is their unwavering commitment to art and excellence. This melds naturally with what Joel Wertman has built at The Heartland Network. Joel is a leader in TV and a leader in the music space going back many years; he immediately saw the long-term vision. I couldn’t be more thrilled.”
“When Alan brought this idea to me, it was an instant, ‘yes’ to concept, talent and team. As we continue investing in original programming that resonates with audiences across broadcast and streaming, this fits right in the creative pocket,” says Joel Wertman, CEO of Get After It Media. “We’re looking forward to the creative process and giving viewers unprecedented access to the artists, songwriters and stories that shape the soundtrack of their lives.”
The Entersong Entertainment partnership expands The Heartland Network’s growing lineup of original programming, which includes High Dollar Hill with Keith Stegall, Barbecue Country, and The Chuck Wicks Show. Like those shows, the new projects will highlight songwriters, artists, and the stories behind the music.
More details about the programs, featured artists, distribution plans, and premiere dates will be announced in the coming months.
Unanimous Senate Action Advances NO FAKES Act Toward Passage
/by Lorie HollabaughRandy & Mary Travis appear in DC to promote consensus bill supporting both IP and AI on April 9, 2025. Photo: Dan Swartz
The Recording Industry Association of America has renewed its strong support of the NO FAKES Act (“Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe Act of 2026”).
The latest effort pushes the NO FAKES Act closer to passage this Congress as Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Katie Britt (R-AL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Ashley Moody (R-FL), Peter Welch (D-VT) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) add their support.
The NO FAKES Act is a measured, vetted approach that considers individual rights, mitigates costly litigation and allows U.S. AI companies to compete globally while defending the voices and likenesses of its people. A broadening coalition of creators, advocacy groups and technology stakeholders is driving nationwide protection for every American to maintain control over their own voice and likeness from exploitive unauthorized AI-generated voice and image clones while also encouraging innovation and protecting free speech, creating clear momentum for Congressional passage this year.
“RIAA applauds the steadfast leadership of Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Chris Coons (D-DE), Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and US Representatives María Elvira Salazar (R-FL-27), Madeleine Dean (D-PA-4), Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-1), Becca Balint (D-VT) and Laurel Lee (R-FL-15), alongside a growing number of bipartisan colleagues in both Houses of Congress driving the NO FAKES Act,” says RIAA Chairman & CEO Mitch Glazier. “We are encouraged by today’s passage in the Senate Judiciary Committee and look forward to the bill’s passage into law later this year” he continues. “An extraordinary cross-sector coalition including the creative community, child safety groups, free market groups, labor unions, free speech advocates, and AI developers have come together to support these protections for Americans’ voice and likeness from exploitive digital deepfakes, and consumers agree: 92% worry about the impact of AI deepfakes on authenticity, society and culture. The NO FAKES Act answers the call.”
The NO FAKES Act will give every American a right in their voice & likeness from invasive AI deepfakes & voice clones, not just celebrities and other prominent figures; expressly protect First Amendment uses such as for news reporting and parody; reduce litigation by creating one national rule and allowing UGC platforms to avoid liability when promptly removing unauthorized deepfakes; institute a new counter-notice process when content is improperly removed to support free speech; protect education and research for libraries and related institutions; and provide clear notice and takedown obligations for online services.
Congressional offices can be reached here to actively support the bill (S. 4591/H.R.8915) becoming law this year.
Country Cruising Adds Russell Dickerson, David Nail, More To 2027 Lineup
/by Lorie HollabaughRussell Dickerson & David Nail
Country Cruising has revealed the final additions to its 2027 cruise lineup April 11-18.
Russell Dickerson, Hannah Dasher, David Nail, Jacob Tolliver, FILMORE, Tyra Madison, Maddie Rose and Dawson Steagall are all set to join the seventh annual cruise, this year visiting Tampa, Cozumel, Belize, and Costa Maya.
The artists join previously announced performers Drake White, Alana Springsteen, Tiera Kennedy, Randy Travis, Paul Overstreet, Craig Morgan, James Otto, KC Johns and Maggie Baugh.
The seven night cruise will visit Tampa, Cozumel, Belize and Costa Maya. Booking information is available here.
David Nail Signs With 117 Entertainment, Carnival Music & New Frontier Touring
/by Madison HahnenPictured (L-R): 117 Entertainment’s Zach Farnum, Carnival Music’s Frank Liddell, New Frontier Touring’s Peter Loomis and David Nail. Photo: Randon Bopp
David Nail has signed with 117 Entertainment for management and public relations, New Frontier Touring for worldwide touring representation, and Carnival Music for publishing.
“One of the great honors of my career is to have been involved with David all these years. He is making his most inspiring music right now and it’s a lot of fun to watch. It’s moving to still be a part of such a wonderful artist and a beautiful career,” says Carnival Music’s Frank Liddell.
“David Nail is one of the musical diamonds in the rough of our generation. His catalog is full of wonderful art, and I believe that the best is still within him and yet to be heard. I’m excited to renew and strengthen our partnership and continue lengthening his career trajectory,” shares 117 Entertainment’s Zach Farnum.
“David has had an incredible career and continues to connect with audiences in a real way through both his authentic songs and live show. We’re excited to welcome David Nail to New Frontier Touring and be part of the next phase of his touring career!” adds New Frontier Touring’s Peter Loomis.
Nail will release his new album Flowers on Aug. 21, which features “The Crown,” “Fare Thee Well” and “She Knows.” He is also amidst his recently extended “Down to the Studs Tour,” which will visit Nashville, Albany, Louisville and more through November.
Katie Pruitt To Kick Off ‘Fools For The Fleeting Tour’ In September
/by Lorie HollabaughKatie Pruitt
Katie Pruitt will launch her 2026 “Fools For the Fleeting Tour” beginning on Sept. 23 in Raleigh.
The 33-city tour in celebration of Pruitt’s just-announced album, Fools for the Fleeting, will feature stops in Brooklyn, Chicago, Austin, Santa Fe, Boise, and more, wrapping in Nashville Dec. 2 at The Basement East. Tickets are on sale now.
The tour will feature tracks from Pruitt’s new album Fools For the Fleeting, due out Sept. 18, and will showcase Pruitt’s stellar guitar work, inviting audiences into moments of reflection, release, and connection. Last week Pruitt shared the album’s first single “Blackout,” featuring singer-songwriter Nolan Taylor.
“Fools For the Fleeting Tour” Dates:
September 23 | Lincoln Theatre | Raleigh, NC
September 24 | The Atlantis | Washington, DC
September 25 | Levon Helm Studios | Woodstock, NY
September 27 | Ardmore Music Hall | Ardmore, PA
September 28 | Music Hall of Williamsburg | Brooklyn, NY
September 29 | Wonder Bar | Asbury Park, NJ
September 30 | Space Ballroom | Hamden, CT
October 2 | One Longfellow Square | Portland, ME
October 3 | Iron Horse Music Hall | Northampton, MA
October 4 | Crystal Ballroom at Somerville Theatre | Somerville, MA
October 5 | Higher Ground Showcase Lounge | South Burlington, VT
October 7 | The Drake | Toronto, ON
October 9 | Amsterdam | Saint Paul, MN
October 10 | Atwood Music Hall | Madison, WI
October 12 | Lincoln Hall | Chicago, IL
October 20 | The Heights Theater | Houston, TX
October 21 | The Kessler Theater | Dallas, TX
October 22 | 3TEN ACL Live | Austin, TX
October 24 | Tumbleroot Brewery and Distillery | Santa Fe, NM
October 26 | Valley Bar | Phoenix, AZ
October 27 | Troubadour | West Hollywood, CA
October 29 | The Chapel | San Francisco, CA
October 31 | Mississippi Studios | Portland, OR
November 1 | The District | Spokane, WA
November 2 | Neumos | Seattle, WA
November 4 | Parallel at Knitting Factory Boise | Boise, ID
November 6 | Globe Hall | Denver, CO
November 8 | Fox Theatre | Boulder, CO
November 10 | The Bottleneck | Lawrence, KS
November 13 | Neighborhood Theatre | Charlotte, NC
November 14 | Asheville Music Hall | Asheville, NC
November 15 | Terminal West | Atlanta, GA
December 2 | The Basement East | Nashville, TN
Jenna Wilson Joins Tape Room Music
/by Madison HahnenJenna Wilson. Photo: Makenna Wilson
Jenna Wilson has joined Tape Room Music as Coordinator. She will report to Director, A&R Caroline Hodson.
“Jenna has already proven herself as a great addition to the Tape Room team,” shares Hodson. “Her passion for country music and the people who create it was evident when we met her. We are happy to have her on board!”
Wilson has experience in publishing administration, royalty operations, artist management, and A&R support through roles at Capitol Christian Music Group, Warner Chappell Music, and Neon Coast. Her background includes songwriter administration, catalog management, co-write coordination, and creative support for songwriters and artists. Hailing from Southern California, Wilson moved to Nashville to pursue a career in the music industry and earned a Music Business degree from Belmont University.
Wilson can be reached here.
Entersong Entertainment & The Heartland Network Enter Joint Venture
/by Madison HahnenPictured at The Heartland Network Studios in Nashville, Tennessee: Joel Wertman, CEO, Get After It Media; Rob Hatch, Co-Founder, Entersong Entertainment; Emily Bronze, SVP/GM,
The Heartland Network/Get After It Media and Alan Kates,VP of Strategy, The Heartland Network/Get After It Media. Photo: Chase Thompson, The Heartland Network
Entersong Entertainment, the live events company founded by Rob Hatch and Mike Every, has formed a strategic partnership with The Heartland Network. Reaching 88 million households, The Heartland Network is part of multi-platform broadcast and streaming company Get After It Media (GAIM).
This partnership marks Entersong Entertainment’s first move into original television and streaming content. Together, the companies will develop and produce original music-focused programming with filming expected to begin later this year.
Entersong Entertainment is best known for producing the Las Vegas Songwriters Festival, the largest gathering of songwriters in Las Vegas history. Through its events and industry connections, Entersong has become a respected platform for showcasing songwriting and the stories behind the songs.
“Every great song starts with a story. I’ve learned that people like knowing more about a song than just what they hear on the radio or on a finished album. They appreciate hearing about the creative sparks behind their favorite songs and music. This partnership with The Heartland Network gives us an opportunity to pull back the curtain in a fresh way and share those special stories,” says Hatch. “We’ve spent years building relationships with some of the most talented creators in music, and this gives us a new canvas to showcase their stories. The goal isn’t just to make another music show—it’s to create experiences audiences can’t find anywhere else.”
“What excites me most about this partnership is the chance to rethink how music stories are told and experienced,” shares Every. “By combining Entersong’s
“This partnership is rooted in years of relationships built on trust, mutual respect and a shared belief in the power of great storytelling,” adds Alan Kates, VP of Strategy, The Heartland Network/Get After It Media. “I’ve had the privilege of knowing and working alongside Rob, Mike and many of the artists on the Entersong roster for many years, and what stands out most is their unwavering commitment to art and excellence. This melds naturally with what Joel Wertman has built at The Heartland Network. Joel is a leader in TV and a leader in the music space going back many years; he immediately saw the long-term vision. I couldn’t be more thrilled.”
“When Alan brought this idea to me, it was an instant, ‘yes’ to concept, talent and team. As we continue investing in original programming that resonates with audiences across broadcast and streaming, this fits right in the creative pocket,” says Joel Wertman, CEO of Get After It Media. “We’re looking forward to the creative process and giving viewers unprecedented access to the artists, songwriters and stories that shape the soundtrack of their lives.”
The Entersong Entertainment partnership expands The Heartland Network’s growing lineup of original programming, which includes High Dollar Hill with Keith Stegall, Barbecue Country, and The Chuck Wicks Show. Like those shows, the new projects will highlight songwriters, artists, and the stories behind the music.
More details about the programs, featured artists, distribution plans, and premiere dates will be announced in the coming months.
Max Alan Signs With Sony Music Nashville
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (L-R): Sony Music Nashville’s Jason McColl and Ken Robold; Max Alan; SMN’s Taylor Lindsey; Broad Highway Management’s Chris Crowley; SMN’s Margaret Tomlin. Photo: Matthew Berinato
Max Alan has signed with Sony Music Nashville.
“I’m so grateful for this team at Sony Nashville,” says Alan. “They were the first to really take a chance on me. I’m so excited to create meaningful music and have such a great crew supporting it.”
Born and raised in southwest Pennsylvania’s coal mining region, Alan began his musical journey writing poems in high school to win scholarships to fund his pursuit of a college education. Alan first garnered attention online with his 2024 self-released debut album, Appalachian Lullaby, that he recorded with the help of his cousin in his childhood bedroom.
Earlier this year, Alan released his Already Left EP. He is currently on tour with Josiah and the Bonnevilles and will support Dylan Gossett and Charles Wesley Godwin on their co-headlining run in the fall.
In celebration of the announcement, he will release “Love When We Were Young” tomorrow (June 19).
Industry Veteran Robert ‘Bob’ Fred Whittaker Passes
/by Lauryn SinkBob Whittaker.
Robert “Bob” Fred Whittaker passed away on June 5. He was 85.
Whittaker was born in Detroit, Michigan, on May 10, 1941. He spent his early years in Baxter, Tennessee, where he returned later in life.
Whittaker spent a majority of his career with Opryland USA before serving as General Manager of the Grand Ole Opry for the final nine years before his retirement.
He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Jean Whittaker, three children, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
The family held a funeral service earlier this month. Memorial messages can be shared here.
Graham Barham’s ‘CLUB COUNTRY TOUR’ On Tap For Fall
/by Lorie HollabaughGraham Barham. Photo: Matthew Berinato
Graham Barham is hitting the road on his headlining “CLUB COUNTRY TOUR” this fall across the U.S. and Canada. Jake Banfield and Fuller will serve as support on select dates.
Named for his just-released debut album, the tour kicks off Sept. 24 in Cocoa Beach, Florida and includes dates in Toronto, Atlanta, Pensacola, Charlotte and more, with a Nashville date set for Oct. 16 at Brooklyn Bowl. Tickets go on sale Friday (June 19) with artist pre-sale beginning tomorrow (June 18) here.
Barham recently drew a capacity crowd to Category 10 in Nashville during CMA Fest where he previewed the project for fans, and he also performed at Spotify House, and he packed out the Chevy Vibes stage for his daytime set.
“CLUB COUNTRY TOUR” Dates:
Sept. 24 – Cocoa Beach, FL – Dirty Birds Tiki Bar & Grill *
Sept. 25 – Stuart, FL – Terra Fermata *
Sept. 26 – Largo, FL – Cowboys Dance Hall *
Oct. 2 – Toronto, ON – The Opera House ^
Oct. 3 – Montréal, QC – Le Petit Campus ^
Oct. 8 – Atlanta, GA – The Loft ^
Oct. 9 – Pensacola, FL – Handlebar ^
Oct. 16 – Nashville, TN – Brooklyn Bowl Nashville ^
Oct. 17 – Charlotte, NC – Amos’ Southend ^
Nov. 17 – Spokane, WA – The District *
Nov. 18 – Vancouver, BC – The Biltmore Cabaret *
Nov. 19 – Portland, OR – Ponderosa Lounge *
Nov. 20 – Bend, OR – Domino Room *
* with FULLER
^ with Jake Banfield
Dylan Gossett To Headline Magnolia’s 11th Annual Silobration
/by Lorie HollabaughDylan Gossett. Photo: Harrison Hargrave
Magnolia, the home and lifestyle brand founded by Chip and Joanna Gaines, has revealed the return of Silobration, its annual fall celebration of live music, seasonal activities, a vibrant vendor fair, and family-friendly fun taking place Oct. 22-25 in Waco, Texas.
Dylan Gossett (Oct. 24), The Fray (Oct. 23) and Cory Asbury (Oct. 25) are set to perform during the 11th annual weekend at the Silos, bringing together guests beneath the Texas sky for an intentional sense of joy and togetherness, and fans can get early access to Silobration concert tickets by joining Magnolia Perks.
Last year’s Silobration drew its biggest crowd yet, welcoming more than 30,000 guests to the Silos in downtown Waco, and for the first time ever, this year’s celebration will extend through Sunday. This year will mark Magnolia’s largest celebration to date, hosting over 90 vendors showcasing curated goods from makers and artisans from across the country.
“Silobration is one of our favorite weekends of the year,” says Chip and Joanna Gaines. “Between the vendors and the music to all the fun and food, it’s the epitome of what we always dreamed for the Silos, which is to be a place where families and friends can gather, share a memory, be inspired, and leave feeling truly filled up.”