Luke Combs and Vince Gill perform at Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
Tens of thousands of country music fans celebrated day one of CMA Fest 2023 on Thursday night (June 8). After a day full of great music across Nashville—and shockingly comfortable weather—attendees filed into Nissan Stadium for night one on the big stage.
This year’s CMA Fest is special, as it is the 50th anniversary of the country music pilgrimage to Nashville. The golden anniversary was front of mind for every performer that hit the stage Thursday night.
Tyler Hubbard performs at Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
After CMA CEO Sarah Trahern welcomed everyone to night one at Nissan, King Calaway did a beautiful job with the National Anthem.
Fans were thrilled when ’90s country icon Jo Dee Messina took the stage. She sounded as great as ever on her hits “Bye Bye,” “A Lesson In Leavin'” and “My Give A Damn’s Busted.”
“I’m so grateful to be a part of country music. I have been for the last few years… If you know how many, keep it to yourself,” Messina said. “I’ve had a wonderful run.”
Messina brought out Christian artist Ben Fuller to sing a new song that could be called “He Got A Hold Of Me.” She talked about how her faith had changed her life 10 years ago, and said that the tune would be a single soon.
Before leaving the stage, Messina got the crowd super rowdy with “Heads Carolina, Tails California.”
Jordan Davis performs at Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
Next up was Jordan Davis. He kept the energy high, performing a rousing version of his recent No. 1 hit “What My World Spins Around.” It was his first time playing in a venue as big as Nissan Stadium, and the star did it with ease and eyes full of wonder.
Fans bounced along to Davis’ hits “Singles You Up,” “Almost Maybes” and “Take It From Me,” but his real star power shined in the slower, reflective tunes. The crowd swayed and sang loudly to “Slow Dance in a Parking Lot” and “Buy Dirt.”
A highlight from Davis’ set was his sure-to-be next No. 1 hit, “Next Thing You Know.”
“I moved to Nashville 12 years ago this month to chase country music,” Davis said. “Next thing you know, you’re standing in the end zone at the Titans’ stadium playing CMA Fest.”
The loudest crowd response of the night came when Luke Combs appeared on stage. He blitzed the crowd with hit after hit, getting everyone’s booties shaking and hands in the air to “The Kind of Love We Make,” “1, 2 Many” and “When It Rains It Pours.”
Nissan went wild when Combs sang his cover of Tracy Chapman‘s “Fast Car,” which is quickly climbing the charts. Before he sang his 2017 mega-hit “Beautiful Crazy,” he let the crowd know that he had been presented with a Diamond-certified plaque for the song earlier in the day, aligning him with a very exclusive crowd of Diamond-selling country songs.
One of the night’s top highlights came when Combs invited out a hero of his to sing a song. “I have never been as excited as I am right now in my entire career to bring out my absolute hero. He’s an absolute legend on the guitar and on vocals. Singing one of his incredible songs, give it up for Vince Gill!” Combs said.
Gill joined the young star to sing his infectiously fun “One More Last Chance.” Combs closed with a chest-pumping “Beer Never Broke My Heart” before saying goodbye to a very satisfied Nissan Stadium.
Jo Dee Messina and Carly Pearce performs at Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
In between a few big performances, audience members turned their attention to a platform stage to hear from some newer artists. RVSHVD, one of Thursday night’s featured artists, gave attendees a taste of his country, hip-hop fusion with tunes such as his new song “For The Streets.” Ashley Cooke charmed the audience with “Getting Into” and “It’s Been A Year.”
Carly Pearce was next to perform—it was also her first time playing the big stage. As she has done so well in her career thus far, she put her heart on full display for her seven-song set, frequently letting fans in on the backstory behind her songs and talking about her love for country music.
“I just have one question for you: are you ready for some country music tonight?” Pearce said.
The singer-songwriter brought the sass on “Diamondback” and “Easy Going,” and the relatability on “Next Girl” and her Grammy-winning “What He Didn’t Do.”
In another awesome collaborative moment, Pearce brought back Messina for her “I’m Alright.” The two sounded so fabulous together that we will definitely need a recording.
Pearce closed her set with “I Hope You’re Happy Now” and beamed up at the crowd as she gracefully exited.
Darius Rucker performs at the VIP Stage in Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
In a surprise moment, Darius Rucker appeared on a small satellite stage in the middle of excited fans. With an acoustic guitar and a few band members, he played his new single “Fires Don’t Start Themselves.” When Nissan Stadium heard the first strums of Rucker’s titanic “Wagon Wheel,” they lost their minds.
Back on the big stage, Tyler Hubbard was the next performer. Complete with backup dancers, Hubbard showed off some of his new solo music, playing songs like “Tough,” “35’s,” “Me For Me” and “Inside and Out” from his debut solo album.
Fans really enjoyed hearing “Small Town Me” and his first No. 1 as a solo artist, “5 Foot 9.” “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to have two first singles in my career,” Hubbard said when he introduced the song.
Everyone danced along to Hubbard’s second No. 1, “Dancin’ in the Country,” before he closed his set.
Dan + Shay performs at Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
Dan + Shay got the late shift for CMA Fest night one. They started their set at midnight, and were grateful to the troupers that stayed. “It’s past our bedtime so we appreciate you for being here,” Dan Smyers said to the crowd.
The award-winning duo got everyone on their feet for “10,000 Hours,” “Nothin’ Like You” and “You.” Fans sang their heart out to “How Not To,” “From the Ground Up” and “Speechless,” but no one sings better than Shay Mooney.
In the ultimate finale, Dan + Shay sang their Grammy-winning, seven times-Platinum hit, “Tequila,” leaving everyone who stayed for the long haul pleased.
Friday night at Nissan Stadium will feature music from Lainey Wilson, Miranda Lambert, Keith Urban, Hardy and more.
Bethany Mako Rejoins Warner Chappell Music Nashville
/by Lorie HollabaughBethany Mako has rejoined Warner Chappell Music as A&R Manager.
Mako comes to Warner Chappell from Songs & Daughters, where she was a Creative Manager on the team, working closely with Nicolle Galyon, Lauren Watkins and Tiera Kennedy. Prior to joining Songs & Daughters, Mako started her career at Warner Chappell, rising through the ranks from intern to assistant and then A&R Coordinator.
“We’re so happy to welcome Bethany Mako back to Warner Chappell,” says Ben Vaughn, President & CEO of Warner Chappell Music Nashville. “She literally brightens up every room that she’s in and her passion for music and songwriters has always shined through in her work. We’re incredibly excited to have her back on the team, and I’m really looking forward to working with her during this new chapter of her career.”
“I started at Warner Chappell as a 19-year-old intern, so it feels surreal to be back in this role,” says Mako. “I’m so grateful to Ben Vaughn, Phil May, and the rest of the team for being so supportive and welcoming me back with open arms. Warner Chappell is home to the best songwriters in the world, and it is an honor to be a part of their careers!”
Naomi Cooke Johnson Signs Solo Deal With BMG/BBR Music Group
/by Lorie HollabaughNaomi Cooke Johnson. Photo: P Tracy
Naomi Cooke Johnson, former lead vocalist of Runaway June, has signed with BMG/BBR Music Group. The upbeat “Girls of Summer” is the first taste of new music from Cooke Johnson as a solo artist, and is set for release June 23.
Raised in rural Virginia, Cooke Johnson was given her first guitar at age seven. By 15, she was helping support her family by waiting tables in a Florida restaurant until the seas of Alaska came calling, and she took a job as a deckhand on a salmon fishing boat.
She later moved to Nashville and began playing late night gigs at the legendary Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge as a staff musician. Leaning on influences like Bonnie Raitt and Shania Twain, Cooke Johnson began crafting songs about her life’s struggles and determination to overcome them. During her time as part of Runaway June, she helped craft many of the group’s hits, including the Gold-certified top 5 hit “Buy My Own Drinks.”
“Naomi’s evolution as an artist inspired us to write this next chapter together. Her spirited approach to songwriting, unbridled creativity and dogged persistence of her singular vision offers something unique to the world of music,” says BMG/ BBR Music Group GM Peter Strickland.
“I could not be more excited to be back with BMG/BBR Music Group,” says Cooke Johnson. “The teams in Nashville and around the world are unparalleled. They have fully embraced my vision, identity and the music I am creating…this time as Naomi Cooke Johnson.”
Cooke Johnson has also signed with artist management team Fusion Music/Red Light Management and inked a global publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music.
CMA Fest Night 4: Alabama, Tim McGraw, Luke Bryan & More Close Out The Weekend
/by Caela GriffinJosh Turner performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 11 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
Following the cancellation of the afternoon shows due to severe weather warnings, thousands of country music fans flooded into Nissan Stadium under cloudy skies for the final night of CMA Fest on Sunday night (June 11). The energy was electric for the closing performances of the legendary 50th anniversary year.
Throughout the night, those on stage regaled the early days of CMA Fest and thanked the fans for their continuous support through the years.
“There is nothing in the world like a country music fan, and we got a lot of them here tonight,” said Josh Turner, his voice booming as he opened the night.
Fans didn’t miss a beat as they sang along to his classics like “Why Don’t We Just Dance,” “Would You Go With Me” and “Your Man.” Turner also celebrated the newly 4x Platinum-certified “Long Black Train” with a rousing performance to close his set.
With over 40 total No. 1 country hits, more than 75 million records sold and over 200 awards from a variety of organizations, Alabama is one of the most successful bands in country music history. As they took the stage next for a surprise performance, the stadium was full of fans on their feet, jamming along to “Tennessee River,” “If You’re Gonna Play in Texas (You Gotta Have a Fiddle in the Band)” and “Mountain Music.” Blending “Dixieland Delight” with “Will The Circle Be Unbroken,” the entertainers celebrated over 50 years of music and honored their late bandmate, Jeff Cook.
Alabama performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 11 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
The Country Music Association presented Alabama with the Pinnacle Award to honor their career and accomplishments. The Pinnacle Award recognizes an artist or group who has undeniably redefined the pinnacle of success in the genre by achieving prominence through concert performances, consumption numbers, record sales and/or other significant industry achievements at levels unique for country music.
Following the legends, country newcomer Megan Moroney took the Platform Stage in Nissan Stadium. Donning Georgia red for her home state, she sang her rising hits “I’m Not Pretty” and “Tennessee Orange.” She thanked the fans for helping her grow her career over the last year to heights she had only dreamed.
Ashley McBryde performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 11 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville..
With an electric set, Ashley McBryde and her band kept the energy high after sundown. She thrilled fans with “Made for This” and her spunky hit “Brenda Put Your Bra On” before performing “Light On In The Kitchen” and “The Devil I Know.” Everyone was singing along at the top of their lungs to her closing song, “One Night Standards.”
Nate Smith then took the Platform Stage for a heartfelt performance of “World On Fire,” reminiscing on how far music has brought him over the last year. Fans were sticking it out through the rain to hear him play “Whiskey On You” as he closed his set.
Dierks Bentley performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 11 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
The rain did not hold Dierks Bentley back as he doubled as a co-host and performer for CMA Fest’s final night. From the main stage, he had the fans on fire with “Burning Man,” “Gone,” “Gold” and “Up On The Ridge.” Joined by Charlie Worsham, his stellar set included a cover of Garth Brooks‘ “Callin’ Baton Rouge,” with both Worsham and Bentley on the mics.
Bentley wowed the crowd with an energetic lineup of “Free and Easy (Down The Road I Go)” and “5-1-5-0” before closing with a his hits “I Hold On” and fan-favorite “Drunk On A Plane.”
Tim McGraw performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 11 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
Award-winning country superstar Tim McGraw packed punch after punch in his set, starting with his charged performance of “How Bad Do You Want It.” The crowd was keeping up with the energy, singing along to “Something Like That,” “Just To See You Smile,” “Southern Girl” and McGraw’s current single “Standing Room Only.”
He had the fans swooning as he sang “Real Good Man” and roaring to “Truck Yeah.” McGraw closed his set with some special guests—fifth and sixth grade students from the Metro Nashville Public Schools joined him onstage to sing and sign along to “Humble and Kind.” Ticket proceeds from CMA Fest go to the CMA Foundation’s work to provide students around the country with quality music education.
Luke Bryan performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 11 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
Luke Bryan had the fans’ full attention as he took the stage for the last set of the 50th anniversary weekend. He opened with “That’s My Kind of Night” and had fans cheering to “Rain Is A Good Thing,” despite the afternoon’s weather.
Bryan’s newest single “But I Got A Beer In My Hand” helped fans forget their troubles as they raised their hands high to “Country On” and “What Makes You Country.” Early into the morning hours, Bryan hyped the crowd with the “Drunk On You,” “Down To One” and “Play It Again.”
Everyone was on their feet for Bryan’s finales, kicking it back with “Country Girl (Shake It For Me)” and dancing it out to “I Don’t Want This Night To End”—a sentiment shared by all in attendance.
Chris Lane Signs With Red Street Records
/by LB CantrellChris Lane. Photo: Sean O’Halloran
Multi-Platinum country artist Chris Lane has signed a new record deal with Jay DeMarcus’ Red Street Records, in partnership with Lane’s new endeavor, Voyager Records.
Pictured: Chris Lane, Red Street Records and Red Light Management team members. Photo: Xander Calhoun
Lane celebrated his new record deal at CMA Fest over the weekend. The team at Red Street Records and Lane’s representatives at Red Light Management took over SiriusXM The Highway’s Music Row Happy House at Margaritaville to share the news.
Lane brings 1.7 billion on-demand streams, three career No. 1 hits, three Platinum and two multi-Platinum singles to Red Street Records. He has been nominated for iHeart Radio Music Awards, Radio Disney Music Awards and ACM Awards, and has made major television appearances on shows such as The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Bachelor, Seth Meyers, Conan, Today Show and more.
“I was looking for the right partner for my new music and venture Voyager Records and found it in Red Street Records,” Lane says. “Not only is Red Street an artist-driven label that supports my vision for music but Jay DeMarcus has been and continues to be a great friend. I have been spending the time needed to write and record new music and can’t wait to share what I have been working on real soon.”
Red Street’s DeMarcus shares, “I couldn’t be more thrilled to have Chris join our family here at Red Street. We’ve been friends since he opened for [Rascal Flatts] in the summer of 2016. It has been so much fun for me to watch him turn into the star that he has become over the last few years, and now we have the privilege of being his label home.
“I have been so impressed with his growth musically both as a singer and a songwriter,” DeMarcus continues. “I cannot wait for everyone to hear what he’s been up to in the studio. He’s gonna surprise a lot of folks. I am even more impressed with the man Chris is, and he defines the kind of artist that we want to be in business with. This a big day for Red Street Records!”
Bailey Zimmerman Adds International Dates To ‘Religiously. The Tour.’
/by Lorie HollabaughBailey Zimmerman is taking “Religiously. The Tour.” internationally, adding some overseas headlining dates on the journey, which kicks off in February 2024.
The over 20-date tour will make U.S. stops in markets including St. Louis, Philadelphia, Boston and more before heading to England, Scotland, and Ireland for shows through May. Tickets will be available starting Wednesday (June 14) in each market through Zimmerman’s community presale. The Illinois native is also out on the road now on Morgan Wallen‘s “One Night At A Time World Tour.”
The news follows Zimmerman’s debut CMA Fest performance over the weekend, which closed the Riverfront Stage gates due to reaching a capacity crowd. Earlier in the week, Billboard honored the breakout star with their inaugural Country Rookie of the Year award, including him as a featured speaker on their Future of Country Music panel as well.
“Religiously. The Tour.” International Dates:
5/9/24 – London, England – KOKO
5/11/24 – Birmingham, England – O2 Institute 2
5/13/24 – Manchester, England – Academy 2
5/16/24 – Glasgow, Scotland – The Garage
5/19/24 – Belfast, Northern Ireland – Limelight
5/20/24 – Dublin, Ireland – The Academy
Fans Flock To Spotify House During CMA Fest 2023
/by LB CantrellReba McEntire performs onstage at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Rick Kern/Getty Images for Spotify
Spotify House at Ole Red in downtown Nashville was the place to be during the 2023 edition of CMA Fest, which took place Thursday (June 8) through Sunday (June 11). Lines started blocks away from Ole Red for the renowned event of free music, special surprises and lots of fun.
Diplo performs onstage at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for Spotify
Thursday’s lineup included Brett Young, Avery Anna, 49 Winchester, Ashley Cooke, Conner Smith, Warren Zeiders, Ingrid Andress, Chayce Beckham, Riley Green, Sam Hunt, Jordan Davis and Diplo Presents Thomas Wesley on the main stage as well as Mae Estes, Logan Crosby, Lauren Watkins, Sam Barber, Nolan Taylor and Wyatt Flores on the Fresh Finds stage.
Some highlights on Thursday included a CMA Fest 50th Spotlight Performance from Billy Currington as well as a surprise performance by Kelsea Ballerini.
On Friday, fans heard from Mackenzie Carpenter, Josh Ross, Ella Langley, Dalton Dover, Ian Munsick, Dierks Bentley, Chase Rice, Tenille Arts, Brian Kelley, Jon Pardi, Old Dominion, Brad Paisley and Chris Young on the main stage. The Fresh Finds stage featured Graham Barham, Abbey Cone, Grant Gilbert, Halle Kearns, Harper Grace and Payton Smith.
Pictured (L-R): Mary Catherine Kinney (Spotify), Dustee Jenkins (Spotify), Sam Hunt, Kelsea Ballerini, Jeremy Erlich (Spotify) and Rachel Whitney (Spotify) at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for Spotify
One of the highlights of the whole festival took place at Spotify House on Friday, when Reba McEntire made a surprise performance. She sang a new song set for release this fall, “Seven Minutes In Heaven,” in addition to her top hits.
Day Three at Spotify House featured music from Tanner Adell, Dylan Marlowe, Restless Road, Hailey Whitters, Colbie Caillat, Kameron Marlowe, Mickey Guyton, Luke Grimes, Danielle Bradbery, Ruston Kelly, Brothers Osborne and Cheat Codes + Friends on the main stage as well as Haley Mae Campbell, David Unlayao, Rodell Duff, Meg McRee, Griffen Palmer and Dipper on the Fresh Finds stage.
Fans were surprised on Saturday by performances from Craig Morgan and Turnpike Troubadours.
Pictured (L-R): Miller Guth (Spotify), Mary Catherine Kinney (Spotify), Jackie Jones (RIAA), Martha Earls (Neon Coast), Dylan Schneider, Joey Russ (Neon Coast), Rachel Whitney (Spotify) and Jackie Augustus (Spotify) pose as Schneider celebrates the Gold certification of his single “How Does It Sound” at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Ed Rode/Getty Images
On the last day of Spotify House, fans heard from Dylan Schneider, Lily Rose, Alana Springsteen, Mitchell Tenpenny, Kimberly Perry, Kylie Morgan and Lady A on the main stage. The Fresh Finds stage featured Matt Schuster, Shelby Darrall, Wyatt McCubbin, Angel White, Kasey Tyndall and Shaylen. Fans were also thrilled by a surprise performance from Megan Moroney on Sunday.
Another highlight from Spotify House was Schneider receiving his first ever RIAA plaque. “Thank you so much! This is the coolest moment ever. I was wondering if this would ever happen and now I got two [plaques] in one year,” he shared about the achievement. “Thank you guys for listening to this music! I appreciate it and it’s great because we get to play this song right now.”
With another CMA Fest in the books, Spotify House once again proved to be a must-see destination at the beloved festival.
Mickey Guyton performs onstage at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Rick Kern/Getty Images for Spotify
Mitchell Tenpenny performs onstage at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Rick Kern/Getty Images for Spotify
Hailey Whitters performs onstage at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Rick Kern/Getty Images for Spotify
Chase Rice performs at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Rick Kern/Getty Images for Spotify
Danielle Bradbery performs onstage at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Rick Kern/Getty Images for Spotify
Pictured (L-R): Rodell Duff, Haley Mae Campbell and David Unlayao perform on the Fresh Finds Rooftop at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for Spotify
CMA Fest Night 3: Fans Jam To Jason Aldean, Jon Pardi, Old Dominion, More
/by LB CantrellOld Dominion performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 10 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
For night three of CMA Fest at Nissan Stadium on Saturday night (June 10), fans were ready to dance. The day was warmest day so far in the festival, and attendees were ready to get a “drink in their hands” and “dance the dirt” off their boots.
Tracy Lawrence performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 10 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
Tracy Lawrence kicked off the music on the big stage. He beamed out at the crowd as they sang every word to his iconic “You Find Out Who Your Friends Are,” “Alibis” and “Time Marches On.” Nothing compared to the reaction to Lawrence’s 2003 hit “Paint Me A Birmingham.”
After Lawrence left fans ready for more hits, Jason Aldean delivered. He let the crowd know he was going to make the most of his 30-minute set and he did just that.
Stadium attendees stayed on their feet with their fists in the air for “Tattoos On This Town,” “Fly Over States” and “Trouble With A Heartbreak.” He also played his newest single from his upcoming album, “Try That In A Small Town.”
Aldean guessed he had been performing at CMA Fest for 16 years. The loyalty of his hard-earned fans showed when he thrilled them with 2010’s “My Kinda Party,” 2009’s “She’s Country” and 2005’s “Hicktown.” When Aldean said goodnight, the crowd was thoroughly satisfied.
Jason Aldean performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 10 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
On the platform stage last night, Ian Munsick and Alana Springsteen were the new artists getting the chance to play to a stadium-sized crowd. Munsick brought “the west to the rest,” opting to play his hilarious “Barn Burner” and his duet with Cody Johnson, “Long Live Cowgirls.” Springsteen sounded beautiful on “You Don’t Deserve A Country Song” and “Amen,” complete with a cell-phone lighter response from the crowd.
The next act on the big stage, Little Big Town, has been playing CMA Fest since 2002. The foursome sounded wonderful as always and consistently smiled out at the fans who were singing the words back to the award-winning group.
After kicking their set off with “Boondocks,” Little Big Town delivered hit after hit, including “Little White Church,” “Better Man” and “Girl Crush.” Nissan Stadium attendees particuarly loved the group’s 2020 tune “Wine, Beer, Whiskey,” which including a fun mariachi moment.
Little Big Town performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 10 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
The band’s Karen Fairchild, Jimi Westbrook, Kimberly Schlapman and Phillip Sweet ended their set with gratitude for country music fans. “We’ve been a band for 24 years,” Fairchild said before their last song. “Thanks to country music fans like you, we get to do this for a living.”
Little Big Town then closed their set with a song dedicated to the fans, “Friends Of Mine.”
Another leading country group, Old Dominion, was next up to take the stage. “What a beautiful night to be together,” marveled band leader Matthew Ramsey.
The band kept the energy high throughout their set, playing feel-goods “Make It Sweet,” “One Man Band,” “Snapback” and “Hotel Key.”
Fans knew all the words to their rising single “Memory Lane.” Old Dominion ended the night with back-to-back fan favorites, “Song For Another Time” and “I Was On A Boat That Day.”
Jon Pardi performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 10 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
Jon Pardi‘s entire set was a highlight of the night.
Fans danced in the aisles to the new Grand Ole Opry member’s “Heartache On The Dance Floor” and “Tequila Little Time.” They sang to each other on Pardi’s “Night Shift,” “Your Heart Or Mine” and “Last Night Lonely.”
When Pardi closed his set with “Head Over Boots,” the crowd was still on their feet and wanting more.
The night’s closing act, Eric Church, took a creative risk with his seven-song set, which received mixed reactions from fans with some praising Church for one of the more unique, artistic sets at CMA Fest and others left missing hearing the singer’s hits.
After opening with a rousing “Country Music Jesus,” the entertainer played a few deep cuts, including “Bad Mother Trucker” and “Hangin’ Around” in a bluesy, funky style, which he also employed for his 2011 hit “Drink In My Hand.”
Eric Church performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 10 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville..
Church’s next selection was a cover of Little Feat‘s “Sailing Shoes,” which turned into “Cold One” from his 2014 album The Outsiders.
After letting the eager crowd know that he planned to play late into the night a few moments earlier, Church played “Smoke A Little Smoke,” said “Thank you, Nashville,” and walked off stage. When the lights came on, there were audible boos from some fans in Nissan Stadium who wanted more.
CMA Fest will come to a close with tonight’s show (June 11), featuring music from Luke Bryan, Dierks Bentley, Tim McGraw and Ashley McBryde.
CMA Fest Night 2: Tanya Tucker, Lainey Wilson, Cody Johnson & More Wow The Crowd
/by Liza AndersonElle King and Tanya Tucker perform with Lainey Wilson at Nissan Stadium on Friday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
Country music lovers packed Nissan Stadium once again on Friday evening (June 9) for CMA Fest’s second night lineup.
With the beloved three-day event’s 50th anniversary celebration in full swing, a sparkling Tanya Tucker took the stage. Draped in a metalic ensamble trimmed with snow white fur, she serenaded the stadium with classics including “Delta Dawn,” pausing to let the audience take the mic. Appreciative tears welled in her eyes and she dabbed them away with a glittery handkercheif as she finished her set.
Reba performs with Cody Johnson at Nissan Stadium on Friday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
The Tennessee Titans’ newly drafted rookies were on deck to toss some footballs to fans in between acts.
Lainey Wilson then emerged in dark-colored hat and yellow top paired with a rose-toned sequin pair of her signature bell bottoms, singing “Hold My Halo.” Lights of the same lemony essence flashed across the smiling faces swaying along as she moved to “Smell Like Smoke.”
“50 years of CMA Fest how about it, y’all” said Wilson addressing the crowd. “I’ve been coming every year since I was 14 years old and [would sit] way up [at the top of the stadium] and [dream] about being right here [on stage]. I’ve got news for you, don’t let anybody tell you no, don’t let anybody tell you you can’t do it. If they do, that should make you want it even more.”
Turquoise lights gleamed through the venue and a matching CMA Fest 50 logo shined underneath Wilson on the screens raised above both sides of the main stage as she refreshed fans with “Watermelon Moonshine,” her smooth southern sound coating the crowd. Before performing her very first No. 1 “Things A Man Oughta Know,” she shared that lately “[she’s] been watching her dreams come true right before [her] eyes,” and thanked everyone for giving her the opportunity to live out her dreams.
Wilson welcomed Elle King, dressed in a powder blue set, to the stage and shimmery Tucker returned to join them for her song “Texas (When I Die).” The ACM Female Artist of the Year and Album of the Year winner ended with hit “Heart Like A Truck,” which had the fans belting the lyrics alongside Wilson with just as much passion as the talent herself.
Miranda Lambert and Elle King perform at Nissan Stadium on Friday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
All heads turned to Hailey Whitters as she graced the platform below the main stage. Dawning a blue patch-covered maxi skirt and deep blue babydoll crop top, she coated Nissan with her sweet and classic country style, performing “How Far Can It Go?,” which she recorded with Trisha Yearwood, and her first top 20 tune “Everything She Ain’t.”
Cody Johnson took the big stage and had fans light up the dark night with their flashlights during “Dear Rodeo,” encouraging them to sing along.
Red lights radiated along with the strums of his guitar as Johnson put his incredibly skills on full display with “Me and My Kind,” dressed in blue jeans and a muted red button down and light-colored cowboy hat.
He then touched each attendee with his hit “Human” and the story behind it.
“The reason I released this song to radio was not for a No. 1 hit. It was not for fame, it was not for money. The reason I released this song to country radio is because I wanted to send a message,” stated Johnson. “I don’t care what color you are, I don’t care what gender you are, I don’t care how much money you make, I don’t care where you’re from. At the end of the day, we’re all human and we’re all still trying to figure it out.
“Your problems may be different then my problems, but they’re still the same problems. We’re just a bunch of human being right here on God’s green earth trying to figure out how to make this whole thing work, am I right? I believe in country music and I hope this song speaks to your soul the way it speaks to my soul.”
Keith Urban performs at Nissan Stadium on Friday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
Johnson surprised the crowd with Reba McEntire and the two blessed everyone with their intertwined vocals on her song “Whoever’s In New England.” Fans went wild as he wrapped with his inspiring smash “‘Til You Can’t,” high-fiving the ones below as he sang.
Dalton Dover was next to take the stage placed among music lovers. He exhibited his raw talent with “Giving Up On That” and his cover of Alicia Keys’ “If I Ain’t Got You.”
Miranda Lambert made her way onto the main stage dressing in a black dress garnish with hot pink fringe. She started by soothing the stands with “Bluebird,” and proceeded to bring on an array of guests. Leon Bridges accompanied her for their silky new single “If You Were Mine.” Lambert switched gears and began to rock the mass as red lights beamed for “Mama’s Broken Heart” and “Little Red Wagon.” King came back, complimenting Lambert in hot pink pants and a jacket striped with the same pink, purple and white, to join her for their jam “Drunk (And I Don’t Want To Go Home).” Lambert kept the vibes high and the crowd rowdy with “Gunpowder & Lead.”
The collaboration on the night occurred when she and Avril Lavigne united for Lavigne’s “Sk8er Boi”— a moment nothing short of iconic and something us audience members didn’t know we needed.
Jelly Roll maintained that high energy as he does with every performance, turning it down a tad for his No. 1 “Son Of A Sinner.” He followed with “Need A Favor,” the crowd repeating the chorus right on beat.
Hardy performs at Nissan Stadium on Friday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
Wilson then introduced triple-threat superstar Keith Urban, who amplified the atmosphere with his insane guitar talent and comforting sound. Urban kicked off his set, fire colors surrounding him, with “Wild Hearts.” He continued with “Somebody Like You” and led either side of the stands in cheers. Blue lights took over as he transitioned into “Blue Ain’t Your Color” and walked to the fans lined underneath the stage. Urban made his way back up to the main stage and grabbed a deep red guitar for “Long Hot Summer,” quicky getting guests on their feet and dancing. He left us all electrified as he closed with “Wasted Time.”
The second night of CMA Fest ended on a high note as Hardy took the stage. Red lights returned with intensity as the hitmaker emerged to the pulsing beat of “Sold Out.” The country rock fusionist made complete use of the space provided as he ran to either side jumping up and down, motivating the remaining attendees to rage with him as he performed “Truck Bed” and more. Wilson returned for their award-winning No. 1 “Wait in the Truck” and Lauren Alaina and Devin Dawson joined Hardy for “One Beer.” The country rock fusionist then dedicated “Give Heaven Some Hell” to everyone who has lost someone close to them. He went out with a bang as he wrapped the evening with “Boots” and “Kill Sh!t Till I Die.”
Saturday night’s lineup will feature Eric Church, Little Big Town, Old Dominion and more.
CMA Fest Night 1: Dan + Shay, Luke Combs, Carly Pearce & More Thrill Fans
/by LB CantrellLuke Combs and Vince Gill perform at Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
Tens of thousands of country music fans celebrated day one of CMA Fest 2023 on Thursday night (June 8). After a day full of great music across Nashville—and shockingly comfortable weather—attendees filed into Nissan Stadium for night one on the big stage.
This year’s CMA Fest is special, as it is the 50th anniversary of the country music pilgrimage to Nashville. The golden anniversary was front of mind for every performer that hit the stage Thursday night.
Tyler Hubbard performs at Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
After CMA CEO Sarah Trahern welcomed everyone to night one at Nissan, King Calaway did a beautiful job with the National Anthem.
Fans were thrilled when ’90s country icon Jo Dee Messina took the stage. She sounded as great as ever on her hits “Bye Bye,” “A Lesson In Leavin'” and “My Give A Damn’s Busted.”
“I’m so grateful to be a part of country music. I have been for the last few years… If you know how many, keep it to yourself,” Messina said. “I’ve had a wonderful run.”
Messina brought out Christian artist Ben Fuller to sing a new song that could be called “He Got A Hold Of Me.” She talked about how her faith had changed her life 10 years ago, and said that the tune would be a single soon.
Before leaving the stage, Messina got the crowd super rowdy with “Heads Carolina, Tails California.”
Jordan Davis performs at Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
Next up was Jordan Davis. He kept the energy high, performing a rousing version of his recent No. 1 hit “What My World Spins Around.” It was his first time playing in a venue as big as Nissan Stadium, and the star did it with ease and eyes full of wonder.
Fans bounced along to Davis’ hits “Singles You Up,” “Almost Maybes” and “Take It From Me,” but his real star power shined in the slower, reflective tunes. The crowd swayed and sang loudly to “Slow Dance in a Parking Lot” and “Buy Dirt.”
A highlight from Davis’ set was his sure-to-be next No. 1 hit, “Next Thing You Know.”
“I moved to Nashville 12 years ago this month to chase country music,” Davis said. “Next thing you know, you’re standing in the end zone at the Titans’ stadium playing CMA Fest.”
The loudest crowd response of the night came when Luke Combs appeared on stage. He blitzed the crowd with hit after hit, getting everyone’s booties shaking and hands in the air to “The Kind of Love We Make,” “1, 2 Many” and “When It Rains It Pours.”
Nissan went wild when Combs sang his cover of Tracy Chapman‘s “Fast Car,” which is quickly climbing the charts. Before he sang his 2017 mega-hit “Beautiful Crazy,” he let the crowd know that he had been presented with a Diamond-certified plaque for the song earlier in the day, aligning him with a very exclusive crowd of Diamond-selling country songs.
One of the night’s top highlights came when Combs invited out a hero of his to sing a song. “I have never been as excited as I am right now in my entire career to bring out my absolute hero. He’s an absolute legend on the guitar and on vocals. Singing one of his incredible songs, give it up for Vince Gill!” Combs said.
Gill joined the young star to sing his infectiously fun “One More Last Chance.” Combs closed with a chest-pumping “Beer Never Broke My Heart” before saying goodbye to a very satisfied Nissan Stadium.
Jo Dee Messina and Carly Pearce performs at Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
In between a few big performances, audience members turned their attention to a platform stage to hear from some newer artists. RVSHVD, one of Thursday night’s featured artists, gave attendees a taste of his country, hip-hop fusion with tunes such as his new song “For The Streets.” Ashley Cooke charmed the audience with “Getting Into” and “It’s Been A Year.”
Carly Pearce was next to perform—it was also her first time playing the big stage. As she has done so well in her career thus far, she put her heart on full display for her seven-song set, frequently letting fans in on the backstory behind her songs and talking about her love for country music.
“I just have one question for you: are you ready for some country music tonight?” Pearce said.
The singer-songwriter brought the sass on “Diamondback” and “Easy Going,” and the relatability on “Next Girl” and her Grammy-winning “What He Didn’t Do.”
In another awesome collaborative moment, Pearce brought back Messina for her “I’m Alright.” The two sounded so fabulous together that we will definitely need a recording.
Pearce closed her set with “I Hope You’re Happy Now” and beamed up at the crowd as she gracefully exited.
Darius Rucker performs at the VIP Stage in Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
In a surprise moment, Darius Rucker appeared on a small satellite stage in the middle of excited fans. With an acoustic guitar and a few band members, he played his new single “Fires Don’t Start Themselves.” When Nissan Stadium heard the first strums of Rucker’s titanic “Wagon Wheel,” they lost their minds.
Back on the big stage, Tyler Hubbard was the next performer. Complete with backup dancers, Hubbard showed off some of his new solo music, playing songs like “Tough,” “35’s,” “Me For Me” and “Inside and Out” from his debut solo album.
Fans really enjoyed hearing “Small Town Me” and his first No. 1 as a solo artist, “5 Foot 9.” “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to have two first singles in my career,” Hubbard said when he introduced the song.
Everyone danced along to Hubbard’s second No. 1, “Dancin’ in the Country,” before he closed his set.
Dan + Shay performs at Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.
Dan + Shay got the late shift for CMA Fest night one. They started their set at midnight, and were grateful to the troupers that stayed. “It’s past our bedtime so we appreciate you for being here,” Dan Smyers said to the crowd.
The award-winning duo got everyone on their feet for “10,000 Hours,” “Nothin’ Like You” and “You.” Fans sang their heart out to “How Not To,” “From the Ground Up” and “Speechless,” but no one sings better than Shay Mooney.
In the ultimate finale, Dan + Shay sang their Grammy-winning, seven times-Platinum hit, “Tequila,” leaving everyone who stayed for the long haul pleased.
Friday night at Nissan Stadium will feature music from Lainey Wilson, Miranda Lambert, Keith Urban, Hardy and more.
Ben Goldsmith Signs With Sony Music Nashville, UTA, UMPG Nashville
/by Liza AndersonBen Goldsmith. Photo: Matthew Berinato
Singer-songwriter Ben Goldsmith has signed with Sony Music Nashville, UTA and Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) Nashville. He has also released his new single “Flowers In Your Hair.”
Goldsmith’s musical journey started at four years old—when his violin teacher discovered he had perfect pitch—and has included jazz guitar studies at The Manhattan School of Music and Mannes College of Music in New York. He recorded an EP of original music at 11 years old and played all of the instruments. Goldsmith developed a commanding stage presence, performing live in School of Rock programs, local community events, fairs and clubs by the time he was 12 years old. At 13, he perfected his guitar skills with Tomo Fujita, whose teaching resume includes Berklee College of Music students and John Mayer.
Goldsmith was given a deal on the spot after performing for Sony Music Nashville executives at age 16. In his agreement with UMPG Nashville, he is signed to an exclusive global publishing deal. Goldsmith is currently managed by Mike Crowley.
“Flowers In Your Hair” will be part of his 15-track debut album, The World Between My Ears, out Sept. 22. The project is a result of the singer traveling back and forth to Nashville during the pandemic to write songs, create his own sound and woodshed in the studio with Brad Jones, who he co-produced the project with.
In the new track, the Long Island native refers to his new home of Music City as “the skyline of my dreams.” “Flowers In Your Hair” displays the singer’s powerful and emotionally resonant voice and lush melodies. He also nods at one of his favorite artists, Maggie Rogers, in the opening line “Sitting in my bedroom / Maggie on repeat.”
Additionally, Goldsmith was offered a slot at Bonnaroo this year after a solo showcase at Live Nation in Nashville. His performance will take place on Saturday, June 17, a week after he graduates from high school.