Pictured (L-R, back row): Leslie Roberts (BMI), Josh Miller (BMI), Will Bundy (ASCAP), Riley Green (BMI), Rhett Akins (BMI), Josh Thompson (BMI), Matt Dragstrem (ASCAP), Jon Pardi (BMI) and Mike Sistad (ASCAP);(L-R, front row): Julian Bunetta (BMI), Parker Welling (BMI), Thomas Rhett (BMI), Dann Huff (ASCAP) and Ashley Gorley (ASCAP) Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
In how many music towns would a format-leading superstar take time to speak about each of his co-writers on his last seven chart-toppers? Well that’s exactly what happened in Nashville on Tuesday (June 6) when BMI and ASCAP staged a rooftop party celebrating seven of Thomas Rhett‘s 20 career No. 1 hits.
BMI’s Leslie Roberts kicked everything off by welcoming the industry crowd. She quickly turned it over to Studio Bank’s Ron Cox, who made a special donation presentation on behalf of Rhett and the songwriters to Love One International.
“We’re celebrating 14 songwriters today and over 25 publishers,” Roberts shared. She turned everything over to Rhett, who became the emcee. He recognized each songwriter as he went through all seven of the celebrated songs, including “Remember You Young,” “Beer Can’t Fix” feat. Jon Pardi, “Be A Light” feat. Reba, Hillary Scott, Chris Tomlin and Keith Urban, “What’s Your Country Song,” “Country Again,” “Slow Down Summer” and “Half of Me” feat. Riley Green.
“It’s been four years since we had a No. 1 party. It’s important to me to acknowledge all these songwriters for the incredible impact they’ve had on my career,” Rhett said.
He started the presentations by recognizing Julian Bunetta (“Beer Can’t Fix”). “I met you seven years ago and from that day, you have taught me to calm down,” Rhett said as Bunetta made his way to the stage. “You’ve made a huge impact on my career and it’s been an honor to write with you and get to know you.”
Rhett and Bunetta’s co-writers on “Beer Can’t Fix,” Zach Skelton and Ryan Tedder, weren’t in attendance but were applauded.
Rhett also recognized Pardi, who was a featured vocalist on the song. Pardi was in attendance and said, “Awesome song. Awesome people. Awesome artist. This was a really cool moment, even though it was three years ago. It’s better now, right?”
Pictured (L-R, back row): MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson, Josh Miller, Will Bundy, Riley Green, Rhett Akins, Josh Thompson, Matt Dragstrem and Jon Pardi; (L-R, front row): Julian Bunetta, Parker Welling, Thomas Rhett, Dann Huff, Ashley Gorley and MusicRow’s LB Cantrell. Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
Next, Rhett recognized the writers on “Be A Light,” starting with Josh Miller. “He’s one of the kindest human beings in the world. I really wish he would make his own record.” Of “Be A Light” co-writer Matt Dragstrem, Rhett said, “You’re an incredible dude. Such a joy to be around and an incredible talent.”
Will Bundy (“Half of Me”) was the next songwriter to be praised. “You’re an amazing talent. This was your first country No. 1,” Rhett said.
Josh Thompson (“Be A Light” and “Half of Me”) was next. “Josh is the silent killer in the room,” Rhett stated. “You’re one of the most talented people I’ve ever been around.”
“You’re so fun to write with,” Thompson said to Rhett. “Thank you for being you.”
Rhett then recognized Green, who sang on “Half Of Me.” Green shared, “I appreciate you for letting me ride your coattails to No. 1. This was an awesome opportunity for me and a great song.”
Parker Welling (“What’s Your Country Song”) was the next songwriter up. “From the moment I met Parker, I knew she was going to make a gigantic impact on this town,” Rhett said. “I want to thank you for making me a better human being and challenging me as a writer.”
Welling thanked Home Team, Rhett’s publishing joint venture with Warner Chappell that signed her in 2020.
“This next guy is pretty new to town, you may not know him. His name is Ashley Gorley,” Rhett joked about the NSAI Songwriter of the Decade and ACM Songwriter of the Year. “Through the years, Ashley has been a go-to co-writer for me.”
Gorley (“Remember You Young,” “What’s Your Country Song,” “Country Again” and “Slow Down Summer”) made sure to thank all of the publishers and those who help make songs go to the top of the charts.
Finally, Rhett spoke about his dad, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Famer Rhett Akins. “You have been the source of every bit of inspiration I could have ever had,” he said. “You supported me [in every interest and passion I have had] and I think that’s why I have the mentality to go and get it today.”
Akins spoke about getting to write songs with his son, and thanked the crowd of supporters who have helped Rhett along the way.
“This is a miracle. This does not happen to most artists. It doesn’t happen to most dads—to get to sit up here to watch your son receive seven No. 1s,” Akins said. “God is the only way that this happened. I pray we get to do it a lot more.”
Zach Crowell (“Country Again”), Sean Douglas (“Slow Down Summer”) and Jesse Frasure (“Remember You Young,” “What’s Your Country Song” and “Slow Down Summer”) weren’t in attendance, but Rhett recognized them as well.
In addition to recognizing his co-writers, Rhett managed to get humble producer Dann Huff out to a No. 1 party. “You have really helped me find my sound. You’ve let me be me and you’ve allowed me to explore,” Rhett said. “You’ve been an incredible staple in my career.”
Huff, who produced all seven No. 1 hits, shared, “The feeling is mutual. I learn as much from you.”
Big Machine Label Group’s Scott Borchetta, Allison Jones and George Briner gave a special presentation to commemorate Rhett’s 20 career hits. They each told the story of how they encountered Rhett.
Borchetta thanked the writers, his team at Big Machine and Rhett.
“Allison, myself and everyone who touches these records, we live for the moment when Thomas says, ‘I’m ready to play you new songs,'” Borchetta said. “It’s the thing that keeps me going and it’s the thing that drives our beautiful town.”
Colbie Caillat To Release Solo Debut Country Album
/by Lorie HollabaughColbie Caillat is readying her new country project, Along the Way, for a Sept. 22 release.
Produced by Jamie Kenney, the 13-track collection features current single “Worth It” as well as new song “Pretend,” out today. “Pretend” was written by Caillat alongside Liz Rose and AJ Pruis. A common theme found throughout the project, “Pretend” laments on the ending of a past relationship, but aims to focus on the happy times rather than succumbing to feelings of sadness and regret.
“I wrote ‘Pretend’ when I was reminiscing the good parts of my last relationship and wanting to pretend we were back together so I could re-live and feel those good times we shared again,” says Caillat. “Although the album is full of breakup songs, I felt it was important to share the optimism I still feel about the future and the respect I have for what I’ve experienced in the past.”
“Pretend” co-writers Rose and Pruis also penned Caillat’s current hit single “Worth It” which has amassed over 5 million streams since its release. The lyrical trio wrote seven of the 13 songs on the album, and other contributors include Alysa Vanderheym, Jordan Shellhart, Brett James, Jason Reeves and Kenny Edmonds.
Caillat will perform some of the new tracks for fans tomorrow, June 10, at Spotify House during CMA Fest.
Along the Way Track List:
1. “Wide Open” | Colbie Caillat, Alysa Vanderheym, Jordan Shellhart
2. “Pretend” | Colbie Caillat, AJ Pruis, Liz Rose
3. “Worth It” | Colbie Caillat, AJ Pruis, Liz Rose
4. “Sometimes You Need a Change” | Colbie Caillat, AJ Pruis, Liz Rose
5. “For Someone” | Colbie Caillat, AJ Pruis, Liz Rose
6. “Meant For Me” | Colbie Caillat, AJ Pruis, Liz Rose
7. “Still Gonna Miss You” | Colbie Caillat, Jason Reeves
8. “I’ll Be Here” | Colbie Caillat, Brett James, Jason Reeves, Kenny Edmonds
9. “Buying Time” | Colbie Caillat, AJ Pruis, Liz Rose
10. “Blue” | Colbie Caillat
11. “Two Birds” | Colbie Caillat
12. “Old and New” | Colbie Caillat
13. “The Other Side” | Colbie Caillat, AJ Pruis, Liz Rose
Noah Thompson Reveals Debut EP ‘Middle Of God Knows Where’
/by Lorie HollabaughPhoto: David McClister
American Idol winner Noah Thompson has released his debut EP Middle of God Knows Where.
The collection features fan-favorite songs and showcases his growth as an artist in just one year. He offers fans a glimpse into his songwriting ability on the album as the project includes two cuts co-written by the budding artist, the title track and “Us No More.” The title track takes listeners on a ride through heartbreak and the aftermath of emotions when an ex leaves, while the spirited “Us No More” is a heartbreak anthem, delivering the hard truth to the gossip mill that happens post-breakup.
The EP also features the romantic “One Day Tonight,” which went to No. 1 on iTunes All-Genre and Country charts upon release and is still racking up an over a million on-demand streams per week. Earlier this year, Thompson returned to the singing competition show to mentor this year’s finalists and perform a special duet version of the hit track with last year’s runner-up HunterGirl.
* Produced by Eric Arjes
1. “One Day Tonight” (Jared Griffin, Trannie Anderson, Brett Sheroky)^
2. “She Gets It From Me” (Michael Tyler, Chris LaCorte, Ross Ellis)^
3. “Us No More” (Noah Thompson, Jared Griffin, Levon Gray)*
4. “Middle of God Knows Where” (Noah Thompson, Allison Veltz, Eric Arjes)*
5. “Make You Rich” (Jason Nix, Craig Wiseman, Driver Williams)^
6. “Stay” (Mikky Ekko, Justin Parker)^
King Calaway Releases Title Track From Upcoming Album ‘Tennessee’s Waiting’
/by Lorie HollabaughPhoto: Andres Martinez
King Calaway will release their first new project in four years, Tennessee’s Waiting, on Aug. 4. The title track from the upcoming album is out now.
Produced by Zac Brown, the album features the lively songs and signature harmonies the band is known for, and includes collaborations with Marcus King and Hailey Whitters. The project also features the previously-released tracks, “When I Get Home” “I’m Feelin’ Good (Steve Miller Band)” and the band’s rendition of the vintage Vince Gill classic “When I Call Your Name.” Writers contributing to the 16-track collection include Connor Smith, Jonathan Singleton, Brandy Clark, Drew Kennedy and more.
“It’s been four years now since the release of our debut album, in that time, we’ve experienced a lot of change and growth as individuals and as a band,” says King Calaway. “Our style and approach to music has evolved. We became stronger songwriters and performers, and we’ve finally made Tennessee feel like home. It felt right for us to name this record Tennessee’s Waiting because of the connection we’ve made to our new home and the communities within. This album tells our stories the best way we can, and we’re excited to finally share it with the world.”
The group heads out on the road with Zac Brown Band’s “From the Fire Tour” this summer, starting June 30 at Nationwide Area in Columbus, Ohio.
Tennessee’s Waiting Track Listing:
1. “Best Thing About Me Now” (Simon Dumas, Dave Cohen, Shane Stevens, Brandon Day)
2. “Let It Flow” (feat. Hailey Whitters) (Connor Smith, Jessie Jo Dillon, Jonathan Singleton)
3. “High Cost of Loving You” (Jaren Johnston, Brandy Clark)
4. “California Gold” (Simon Dumas, Caleb Miller, Kevin Griffin)
5. “Denim Jacket” (Simon Dumas, Chad Michael Jervis, Seth Mosley)
6. “Tennessee’s Waiting” (Chad Michael Jervis, Chris Deaton, Caleb Miller, Adam Craig)
7. “Hometown Night” (Simon Dumas, Seth Mosley, Chris Tompkins)
8. “Ease My Troubled Mind” (Chris Deaton, Makayla Lynn Parry, Bay Simpson)
9. “When I Get Home” (feat. Zac Brown) (Zac Brown, Jonathan Singleton, Ben Simonetti)
10. “The Other Half” (Chad Michael Jervis, Phil Barton, Seth Mosley)
11. “When I Call Your Name” (Vince Gill, Tim Dubois)
12. “I’m Feelin’ Good (Steve Miller Band)” (Wendell Mobley, Chris Stevens, Neil Thrasher)
13. “Dive Bar” (Simon Dumas, Justin Morgan, Lonnie Fowler)
14. “What I Know Now” (Reid Isbell, Jacob Lutz, Daniel Ross)
15. “Heathen (feat. Marcus King)” (Chad Michael Jervis, Chris Deaton, Caleb Miller, Ellis Melillo)
16. “The Dash” (Chad Michael Jervis, Logan Wall, Drew Kennedy)
DISClaimer Single Reviews: Parker McCollum Shows His Star Power On ‘Smoldering Heartache Song’
/by Robert K OermannTeamwork makes the dream work.
A flurry of collaborations mark this edition of DISClaimer. Putting their voices together to create fine listening are Miranda Lambert & Leon Bridges, Bryan Ruby & Ty Herndon, Brothers Osborne and Kenny & Dolly, who are best harmony singers in the bunch.
But the Disc of the Day goes to a solo performer, Parker McCollum. He sounds more and more like a headliner every day.
The DISCovery Award belongs to singer-songwriter Julie Williams, a captivating new talent, for sure.
DYLAN SCOTT / “This Town’s Been Good to Us”
Writers: Dylan Scott/Ashley Gorley/Ryan Vojtesak/John Byron/Taylor Phillips; Producers: Charlie Handsome/Jacob Durrett; Label: Curb
– Memories of a time and place. Nostalgia and reflection for a well-spent youth. Engaging and hearty.
BOY NAMED BANJO / “What Keeps Me Going”
Writers: Barton Davies/Pat McLaughlin/William Reames; Producer: Oscar Charles; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Excellent vocal harmonies, a gentle vibe, soaring instrumental work and a feel-good message are the hallmarks of this uplifting ballad. The members of this band have been playing together since they were teens, and it shows.
JASON ALDEAN / “Try That in a Small Town”
Writers: Kurt Allison/Tully Kennedy/Kelley Lovelace/Neil Thrasher; Producer: Michael Knox; Label: BBR
– Tuneless, bellicose bellowing about how evil big cities are.
KENNY ROGERS & DOLLY PARTON / “Tell Me That You Love Me”
Writers: Todd Cerney/Buffy Lawson/Eric Pittarelli; Producer: Tony Brown; Label: UMG
– The late Kenny Rogers has a new album titled Life Is Like A Song. It contains previously unreleased performances and rarities, including this long-lost duet with Dolly. The jaunty rhythm and buoyant mood burble along while these two superb harmony vocalists bounce their voices merrily against each other. A total smile.
BECKY HOBBS / “About the Children”
Writer: Rebecca Ann Hobbs; Producer: none listed; Label: Beckaroo Records
– “It’s just another shooting in the U.S.A.” is the opening line of this heartfelt ballad about our society’s epidemic of gun violence. Our children are being murdered. “Thoughts and prayers are not enough,” she sings, adding, “When are we gonna say we’ve had enough?” and chanting a middle passage that demands reforming our gun laws.
BROTHERS OSBORNE / “Goodbye’s Kickin’ In”
Writers: John Osbornes/Lee Miller/Mike Elizondo/TJ Osborne; Producer: Mike Elizondo; Label: EMI Nashville
– This change-of-pace number is a bluesy, moody stomper with hot guitar licks that don’t quit. Highly listenable.
PARKER McCOLLUM / “Burn It Down”
Writers: Parker McCollum/Hillary Lindsay/Lori McKenna/Liz Rose; Producer: Jon Randall; Label: MCA Nashville
– The smoldering heartache song bursts into flame on its bridge and keeps on burning to its smoking-ashes finale. McCollum’s delivery is appropriately edgy and pained. The man is a star.
JULIE WILLIAMS / “Sugarcoat”
Writers: Julie Williams/Alex Slay; Producers: Michael Beckhart/Gabriel Klein/Gideon Klein; Label: Julie Williams Music
– Every time I have seen her at a Black Opry show, Williams has impressed me with her talent. Now she’s been chosen for the 2023 CMT Next Women of Country class. Last week, she celebrated the release of her debut EP with a show at Analog. On its title tune and first video, she’s showing her sweet self so he will never see her hurting. It’s a lilting, bright, pop-ish ditty that showcases her songwriting talent as well as her winsome vocal style.
MIRANDA LAMBERT & LEON BRIDGES / “If You Were Mine”
Writers: Miranda Lambert/Ashley Monroe/Jesse Frasure; Producer: Jon Randall; Label: Columbia
– These two Texans melt their voices together like an ice-cream sundae on a summer day in this deliciously dreamy duet. The band provides tasty licks between their vocal phrases to complete the sweet dish.
KIDD G / “Daylight Savings”
Writers: Alex Maxwell/Gabe Foust/Jonathan Gabriel Horne/Joybeth Taylor; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Rebel/Geffen Records
– Rocking country that sounds vaguely like an Aldean outtake. Youthful and rousing.
LAUREN ALAINA / “A Walk in the Bar”
Writers: Lauren Alaina/Casey Brown/Lydia Vaughan/Parker Welling; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud
– Getting over him is as easy as a barroom pick-up. A melody would have been nice.
BRYAN RUBY & TY HERNDON / “The Standouts”
Writers: Bryan Ruby/Chad Sellers/Anthony Fiddler; Producer: Smith Curry; Label: Pivotal Records
– This is a power-packed anthem celebrating heroes who display courage in their lives. Although it’s not specific in the lyric, they intend for it to be a song for Pride Month. Because among the several heroes depicted in the song are LGBTQ+ folks.
Carrie Underwood Announces Deluxe Album, Launches SiriusXM Channel
/by Lorie HollabaughCarrie Underwood is releasing Denim & Rhinestones (Deluxe Edition), an expanded version of her latest album, on Sept. 22.
Produced by Underwood and David Garcia, the deluxe edition features six new tracks including “Out of That Truck” and her new single out today, “Take Me Out.” Limited Denim & Rhinestones (Deluxe Edition) packages are also available for fans including a special double picture disc vinyl, CD, poster and more.
Today the superstar is also launching Carrie’s Country, SiriusXM’s newest year-round 24/7 channel curated and presented by Underwood. Available now on channel 60, Carrie’s Country highlights her friends, favorites and influences—new and classic country, workout hits, gospel and beyond. Listeners can also find high-octane favorites from classic to hard rock, as well as the stories behind her music, record-breaking career and life on the road. In addition to Underwood’s hits, subscribers will hear music from Keith Urban, Dolly Parton, Brad Paisley, Miranda Lambert, AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses, The Rolling Stones and more.
The eight-time Grammy-winner also returns this month to her “Reflection: The Las Vegas Residency” at Resorts World Las Vegas. She will also join Guns N’ Roses once again this summer for three stadium dates on the North American leg of their “2023 World Tour,” including Croix-Bieue Medavie Stadium in Moncton, New Brunswick, Parc Jean Drapeau in Montreal and GEODIS Park in Nashville.
Industry Ink: Josh Turner, Gary Allan, LoCash, Chris Tomlin, More
/by Lorie HollabaughJosh Turner Receives Platinum Surprise From Randy Travis & Family
Pictured (L-R): Mary Travis, Hampton Turner, Randy Travis and Josh Turner. Photo: Grand Ole Opry/Chris Hollo
Josh Turner received a big surprise on stage Tuesday night (June 6) at the Grand Ole Opry in the middle of his set, when legend Randy Travis, his wife Mary and Turner’s son Hampton surprised Turner with a plaque celebrating two new RIAA certifications. Turner’s hit single “Your Man” is now certified quadruple-Platinum, while his album, Your Man, is now certified triple-Platinum. Turner is performing this week during CMA Fest at Nissan Stadium on Sunday (June 11) and is currently on his “Long Black Train 20th Anniversary Tour” in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Turner’s hit album, Long Black Train.
Gary Allan Earns Pandora Billionaire Status
Pictured (L-R): Alina Thompson, Gary Allan and Bekah Digby
Gary Allan joined the Pandora Billionaires club this week, receiving a Pandora Billionaire plaque after exceeding one billion streams on the streaming service. Alina Thompson, Associate Director, Strategy & Operations, Artist & Industry Relations and Bekah Digby, Associate Director, Artist & Industry Relations – Country & Christian for SiriusXM and Pandora, were on hand to present the award to Allan during his CMA Fan Club party on Tuesday (June 6).
“It feels like we’ve logged a billion miles on the road, so it is an honor to receive this Billionaires award from Pandora,” says Allan. “Every night as I watch the fans sing songs back to us word for word, it proves that my music has connected with them, and honors like this show me my songs have stood the test of time with my fans. Thank you for showing up on the road and for streaming my music through Pandora. I could not do this without all of you!”
LoCash Named Honorary Guardians Of The U.S. Space Force
Pictured (L-R): LoCash’s Chris Lucas, Chief Towberman and LoCash’s Preston Brust. Photo: DeAnna Murano
LoCash became the first country act to become Honorary Guardians of the United States Space Force during an induction ceremony at Patrick Space Force Base on May 25. Chief Towberman presented the official certificates signed by the Chief of Space Operations General B. Chance Saltzman. Honorary Guardians exemplify the Space Force Core Values of Character, Connection, Commitment and Courage as captured in the Guardian Spirit, have a connection to the Space Force mission, the space domain or contribute to the success of the service as well as support the advancement of a safe, secure and stable space domain.
The United States Space Force administers the Honorary Guardian program to enhance the Guardian Spirit, build public trust and support, and strengthen partnerships the Space Force relies on to fulfill Space Force roles and missions.
Chris Tomlin’s Second Annual Troubadour For Others Vision Gathering Raises Over $12 Million
Pictured (L-R): For Others Founders Chris Tomlin, Lauren Tomlin, Kelley Spencer and Chad Spencer welcome guests to the second annual Troubadour For Others Vision Gathering. Photo: Courtesy of For Others
Chris Tomlin and wife Lauren’s nonprofit For Others, in partnership with the Troubadour Golf & Field Club in Middle Tennessee and Discovery Land Company Foundation, raised over $12 million at the second annual Troubadour For Others Vision Gathering last month. Over 30 celebrities from across sports and music participated in the benefit golf tournament and auction, including Nate Bargatze, Drew Brees, Kirk Herbstreit, Vince Gill, Tyler Hubbard, Shay Mooney, Golden Tate, TobyMac, Ben Roethlisberger, Tomlin and Carrie Underwood, among others.
“This year’s Troubadour For Others Vision Gathering exceeded our expectations in countless ways. What a day! Best golf experience, incredible ladies’ gathering and most of all, we witnessed an evening of laughter and heart that reached beyond our highest hopes. Because of the generosity of our guests, we’ll be able to fund even more adoptions than planned this year so that families can focus on welcoming their new child wholeheartedly without financial stress. I’m so sincerely grateful to everyone who attended and to those who chose to donate. You’re our heroes,” says Tomlin.
AudioMasters Nashville Benefit Golf Tournament Return For 25th Year
Golfers gather for the start of the 25th annual AudioMasters Nashville Benefit Golf Tournament “Live Day,” sponsored by DiGiCo, at Harpeth Hills Golf Course.
The 25th annual AudioMasters Nashville Benefit Golf Tournament was held May 18-19. This year’s event, hosted by the AES Nashville Section, saw the return of title sponsor DiGiCo for the “Live Day” of play on Thursday, with Audio-Technica serving as title sponsor for “Studio Day” on Friday. From each day’s shotgun start to the 19th hole awards dinner and reception, the course offered a relaxed day of play on the course with peers, pros and audio students alike. Serving as the primary fundraiser for the Nashville Engineer Relief Fund (NERF), this year’s event also paid special tribute to Co-Founder of NERF and the AudioMasters Tournament, Bil VornDick.
Pickers Original Vodka Highlights Channing Wilson, Chris Canterbury, Music Health Alliance In New Mural
Pickers Original Vodka has unveiled the next mural in its series promoting Nashville artists Channing Wilson and Chris Canterbury and Music Health Alliance (MHA). The mural was created by local artist Bryan Deese, and is located at The Purple Building at 5 Points in Nashville. The mural series highlights Pennington Distilling Company’s pledge that a dollar for every bottle of Pickers Original Vodka sold at Middle Tennessee bars, restaurants and venues that support live music will be donated to MHA.
Jeff and Jenny Pennington, Co-Founders of Pickers Vodka, says, “We are excited to highlight artists who are active in the Nashville music scene while continuing to promote Music Health Alliance. We feel that Channing Wilson and Chris Canterbury are great additions to the Pickers Vodka Mural Series and this initiative. We’re proud to support the mission of Music Health Alliance as they provide support to music industry professionals with a variety of healthcare needs.”
Thomas Rhett Celebrates 20 No. 1s With Retrospective Vinyl Collection
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): The Valory Music Co.’s George Briner, Big Machine Label Group’s Scott Borchetta, Thomas Rhett, Big Machine Label Group’s Allison Jones. Photo: Steve Lowry
Thomas Rhett is marking a decade of constant hits with the release of a new retrospective vinyl collection celebrating his 20 chart-toppers, 20 Number Ones, out Sept. 29.
Set to include all 20 No. 1s so far and his current single, “Angels (Don’t Always Have Wings),” as a bonus track, the project traces the path behind the hardworking star. Through the tracks on the two discs, he pauses to acknowledge it all, taking the journey in realizing he’s already surpassed his dreams 100 times over. In commemoration of the the new project, fans will be able to purchase special edition packages along with a clear vinyl edition and gold metallic vinyl edition exclusively at Target and Walmart, respectively.
“To have 20 No. Ones is beyond wild—honestly more than I ever could have imagined,” says Rhett. “I’m grateful to have hit this milestone, but mostly it’s just exciting to look back at this journey so far and see how these songs represent the different chapters of my life—and hopefully the Home Team feels the same way. I want to say thank you to everyone for letting me be a part of the special moments in life—it’s hard to put into words what these past 10 years mean to me. Can’t wait for another great 10!”
Listeners can expect to hear fan-favorite tracks from “It Goes Like This,” and “Make Me Wanna,” to “Crash and Burn,” his smash “Die a Happy Man,” “Look What God Gave Her,” and more. With the reflective beauty of “Be a Light” and “Country Again” he brought positivity and simplicity back to country’s core, and with his most recent hits, “Slow Down Summer” and “Half of Me” (featuring Riley Green) Rhett continues to prove why he’s a consistent leader in the format.
Rhett penned 15 of the 20 chart-toppers on the new collection, and earlier this week, he hosted a celebration with BMI for his most recent seven No. Ones, all of which he co-wrote. Those tracks include “Half of Me” featuring Green; “Slow Down Summer;” “Country Again;” “What’s Your Country Song;” “Be A Light” featuring Reba McEntire, Hillary Scott, Chris Tomlin and Keith Urban; “Beer Can’t Fix” featuring Jon Pardi and “Remember You Young.”
20 Number Ones Track List:
SIDE A
“It Goes Like This”
“Get Me Some Of That”
“Make Me Wanna”
“Crash and Burn”
“Die A Happy Man”
SIDE B
“T-Shirt”
“Star Of The Show”
“Craving You” ft. Maren Morris
“Unforgettable”
“Marry Me”
SIDE C
“Life Changes”
“Sixteen”
“Look What God Gave Her”
“Remember You Young”
“Beer Can’t Fix” ft. Jon Pardi
“Be A Light” ft. Reba McEntire, Hillary Scott, Chris Tomlin, Keith Urban
SIDE D
“What’s Your Country Song”
“Country Again”
“Slow Down Summer”
“Half of Me” ft. Riley Green
BONUS TRACK
“Angels (Don’t Always Have Wings)”
Hailey Whitters Nabs First MusicRow No. 1 With ‘Everything She Ain’t’
/by LB CantrellHailey Whitters. Photo: Harper Smith
Hailey Whitters tops the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart for the first time this week with “Everything She Ain’t.”
Co-written with Bryan Simpson and Ryan Tyndell, the tune appears on Whitters’ Pigasus Records/Songs & Daughters/Big Loud Records album Raised. “Everything She Ain’t” was certified Gold earlier this year, and Whitters took home the ACM New Female Artist of the Year in May.
Alongside Big Loud, “Everything She Ain’t” was promoted by Jerry Duncan Promotions. It is the secondary promotion company’s 95th No. 1 song.
Click here to view the latest edition of The MusicRow Weekly containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart.
Philadelphia’s WXPN Launches New ‘Artist To Watch: Black Opry Residency’ Podcast
/by Lorie HollabaughPhiladelphia public radio station WXPN has launched a new podcast called Artist To Watch: Black Opry Residency, airing each Thursday through Black Music Month.
Hosted by John Morrison, the podcast presents five stories of up-and-coming Black musicians seeking to reclaim country and Americana as inclusive genres. The first episode of the five-part series is available to stream across all digital platforms now, with subsequent episodes airing each Thursday.
“Artist To Watch: Black Opry Residency” is the culmination of WXPN’s first-of-its-kind artist development project, which launched earlier this year with the goal of helping selected artists build sustainable careers through mentorship from industry professionals and a weeklong creative residency in Philadelphia. Each episode offers a deep and personal dive into the real-life struggles of emerging performers and new talent, and the debut season delves into the lives and music of up-and-coming musicians who found support, community, and inspiration through the Black Opry Residency.
The first episode features country musician Tylar Bryant, a Texas native based in Nashville who marries modern and traditional country with rock and pop grooves. Each subsequent episode will focus on four other Black Opry Residency participants: Samantha Rise, a Philadelphia-based teacher, activist, performer and writer whose inclusive music is rooted in indie folk; Grace Givertz, a Boston-based folk artist and multi-instrumentalist whose witty, honest lyrics bring a refreshing energy and sound to folk music; Nashville-based twin brothers Brandon and Derek Campbell, who harmonize, write and perform as The Kentucky Gentlemen, blending pop, country and R&B; and soulful singer-songwriter Denitia, a Nashville-based artist music exhibits elements of country and folk.
“We’ve been focused on showcasing emerging talent through our Artist To Watch program for two decades,” says Bruce Warren, Associate General Manager for Programming at WXPN. “Building on that commitment, we really wanted to up our game and build an artist development residency. We chose to partner with Black Opry and focus on Black creators who have not traditionally been afforded access to resources to help their careers.”
The Black Opry founder and co-director, Holly G, adds, “The partnership with XPN for the Black Opry Residency has been such an easy fit, it felt like we were meant to work together. It can be hard to find people in the industry that are passionate about emerging artists and willing to provide the resources to support them, especially artists from marginalized identities in the country and American landscape. It displays a tremendous amount of leadership and faith that Bruce and his team were able and willing to put their efforts behind such a big project and I’m grateful they were so keen to listen to myself and people like Rissi Palmer about the needs of our community. My hope is that others will see the success of this project and realize that we need to do it many times over.
Thomas Rhett Commemorates Seven No. 1 Songs, Adding To 20 Total
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R, back row): Leslie Roberts (BMI), Josh Miller (BMI), Will Bundy (ASCAP), Riley Green (BMI), Rhett Akins (BMI), Josh Thompson (BMI), Matt Dragstrem (ASCAP), Jon Pardi (BMI) and Mike Sistad (ASCAP);(L-R, front row): Julian Bunetta (BMI), Parker Welling (BMI), Thomas Rhett (BMI), Dann Huff (ASCAP) and Ashley Gorley (ASCAP) Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
In how many music towns would a format-leading superstar take time to speak about each of his co-writers on his last seven chart-toppers? Well that’s exactly what happened in Nashville on Tuesday (June 6) when BMI and ASCAP staged a rooftop party celebrating seven of Thomas Rhett‘s 20 career No. 1 hits.
BMI’s Leslie Roberts kicked everything off by welcoming the industry crowd. She quickly turned it over to Studio Bank’s Ron Cox, who made a special donation presentation on behalf of Rhett and the songwriters to Love One International.
“We’re celebrating 14 songwriters today and over 25 publishers,” Roberts shared. She turned everything over to Rhett, who became the emcee. He recognized each songwriter as he went through all seven of the celebrated songs, including “Remember You Young,” “Beer Can’t Fix” feat. Jon Pardi, “Be A Light” feat. Reba, Hillary Scott, Chris Tomlin and Keith Urban, “What’s Your Country Song,” “Country Again,” “Slow Down Summer” and “Half of Me” feat. Riley Green.
“It’s been four years since we had a No. 1 party. It’s important to me to acknowledge all these songwriters for the incredible impact they’ve had on my career,” Rhett said.
He started the presentations by recognizing Julian Bunetta (“Beer Can’t Fix”). “I met you seven years ago and from that day, you have taught me to calm down,” Rhett said as Bunetta made his way to the stage. “You’ve made a huge impact on my career and it’s been an honor to write with you and get to know you.”
Rhett and Bunetta’s co-writers on “Beer Can’t Fix,” Zach Skelton and Ryan Tedder, weren’t in attendance but were applauded.
Rhett also recognized Pardi, who was a featured vocalist on the song. Pardi was in attendance and said, “Awesome song. Awesome people. Awesome artist. This was a really cool moment, even though it was three years ago. It’s better now, right?”
Pictured (L-R, back row): MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson, Josh Miller, Will Bundy, Riley Green, Rhett Akins, Josh Thompson, Matt Dragstrem and Jon Pardi; (L-R, front row): Julian Bunetta, Parker Welling, Thomas Rhett, Dann Huff, Ashley Gorley and MusicRow’s LB Cantrell. Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
Next, Rhett recognized the writers on “Be A Light,” starting with Josh Miller. “He’s one of the kindest human beings in the world. I really wish he would make his own record.” Of “Be A Light” co-writer Matt Dragstrem, Rhett said, “You’re an incredible dude. Such a joy to be around and an incredible talent.”
Will Bundy (“Half of Me”) was the next songwriter to be praised. “You’re an amazing talent. This was your first country No. 1,” Rhett said.
Josh Thompson (“Be A Light” and “Half of Me”) was next. “Josh is the silent killer in the room,” Rhett stated. “You’re one of the most talented people I’ve ever been around.”
“You’re so fun to write with,” Thompson said to Rhett. “Thank you for being you.”
Rhett then recognized Green, who sang on “Half Of Me.” Green shared, “I appreciate you for letting me ride your coattails to No. 1. This was an awesome opportunity for me and a great song.”
Parker Welling (“What’s Your Country Song”) was the next songwriter up. “From the moment I met Parker, I knew she was going to make a gigantic impact on this town,” Rhett said. “I want to thank you for making me a better human being and challenging me as a writer.”
Welling thanked Home Team, Rhett’s publishing joint venture with Warner Chappell that signed her in 2020.
“This next guy is pretty new to town, you may not know him. His name is Ashley Gorley,” Rhett joked about the NSAI Songwriter of the Decade and ACM Songwriter of the Year. “Through the years, Ashley has been a go-to co-writer for me.”
Gorley (“Remember You Young,” “What’s Your Country Song,” “Country Again” and “Slow Down Summer”) made sure to thank all of the publishers and those who help make songs go to the top of the charts.
Finally, Rhett spoke about his dad, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Famer Rhett Akins. “You have been the source of every bit of inspiration I could have ever had,” he said. “You supported me [in every interest and passion I have had] and I think that’s why I have the mentality to go and get it today.”
Akins spoke about getting to write songs with his son, and thanked the crowd of supporters who have helped Rhett along the way.
“This is a miracle. This does not happen to most artists. It doesn’t happen to most dads—to get to sit up here to watch your son receive seven No. 1s,” Akins said. “God is the only way that this happened. I pray we get to do it a lot more.”
Zach Crowell (“Country Again”), Sean Douglas (“Slow Down Summer”) and Jesse Frasure (“Remember You Young,” “What’s Your Country Song” and “Slow Down Summer”) weren’t in attendance, but Rhett recognized them as well.
In addition to recognizing his co-writers, Rhett managed to get humble producer Dann Huff out to a No. 1 party. “You have really helped me find my sound. You’ve let me be me and you’ve allowed me to explore,” Rhett said. “You’ve been an incredible staple in my career.”
Huff, who produced all seven No. 1 hits, shared, “The feeling is mutual. I learn as much from you.”
Big Machine Label Group’s Scott Borchetta, Allison Jones and George Briner gave a special presentation to commemorate Rhett’s 20 career hits. They each told the story of how they encountered Rhett.
Borchetta thanked the writers, his team at Big Machine and Rhett.
“Allison, myself and everyone who touches these records, we live for the moment when Thomas says, ‘I’m ready to play you new songs,'” Borchetta said. “It’s the thing that keeps me going and it’s the thing that drives our beautiful town.”