February 2018 vol 26 #189 print version by Nashville Music Guide

Volume 26 | Issue 18

PUBLICIZING SINGERS, WRITERS & MUSICIANS TO MUSIC ROW AND BEYOND SINCE 1995

“ALL I’VE GOT GOING IS YOU” Might Be His Latest Single But There’s A Lot Going On In 2018 For Blair Mathews.

Dierks Bentley is honored as Artist Humanitarian of the Year and will be a featured speaker at CRS 2018.

COUNTRY RADIO SPECIAL EDITION

ALSO INSIDE: CRS New Faces of Country Music, Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley, 18 Artists to Watch in 2018, Earl Thomas Conley, Artists on the Rise, Inside Track on Music Row, Album Reviews and more.

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Nashville Music Guide is a premiere independent music magazine. Nashville Music Guide is the only magazine that publicizes singers, musicians and writers to Music Row and other targeted music markets including international markets, like Canada. For over 20 years, Nashville Music Guide has succeeded in being the fastest growing, music magazine for over hundreds of thousands of music fans. Access the power of Nashville Music Guide today in print, online and at live events. We take our tag line “Publicizing Singers, Musicians, & Writers to Music Row and Beyond Since 1995” seriously—so you’ll find Nashville Music Guide to be a publication like no other. With respect for both our subjects and our readers, Nashville Music Guide is for anyone who is selective in their approach to consuming the Nashville music culture.

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Letter from Publisher & Editor Nashville Music Guide is excited to kick-off 2018 with our annual Country Radio print edition and we would like to welcome back Country Radio Broadcasters and industry professionals to Nashville. Another year has come and gone, it is time again to gather for another Country Radio Seminar full of media magic, symphonic showcases, and some jubilations. I know that we are excited to make this year even better than the last with a full list of artists that we will be interviewing, shows we will be reviewing, and news that we will be sharing with you. In the midst of all the entertainment scandal news of late, we have chosen not to contribute our opinions. While it is important and relevant that it be brought to light and rectified, our main goal is to continue to spotlight and publicize the artists, musicians, and songwriters in Nashville and beyond. Nashville’s music industry might have had a shaky end to 2017, but it opened the door for new ventures in 2018. We wish the best of luck to all in their new endeavors and look forward to what this year will bring. We would like to extend our condolences to our staff writer Stephen Merle Kilgore, of “Growing Up Kilgore,” as he has had a rough time lately. He had a heart attack in November, then his wife had a heart attack in December, followed by the loss of his mother in January to cancer. Both are on the road to recovery and we are hopeful to have them both back with us by CMA Fest. At the beginning of each year, music journalists are submitting their “artists to watch” predictions on who’s going to be making the biggest moves and rising in the ranks of their prospective genres. Our very own, Amanda Andrews took a stab at the predictions for Nashville Music Guide’s 18 Country Artists to Watch in 2018 -- and she even ranked them. Be sure to check out the list of artists in this issue and go to NashvilleMusicGuide.com to listen and learn more about each artist. Also inside you will find stories on our cover artist Blair Mathews, CRS featured speakers Dierks Bentley and Brad Paisley, as well as a very special extended version of Inside Track on Music Row by our veteran writer Preshias “Mama P” Harris. We hope that you enjoy reading the stories as much as we enjoy writing them.

Be sure to be on the lookout for the Nashville Music Guide suburban around town this year. We are excited to show off our new star-studded wrap that features Presley and Taylor, Glen Templeton, Dylan Schneider, and Lewis Brice. Many thanks to the labels, management, and publicist teams for providing us the opportunity to spotlight these artists.

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Hoping and wishing everybody a prosperous 2018, we would like to thank the readers, artists, and all industry professional for their continued support of Nashville Music Guide. Also, a big thanks to all those that work on or with our team each issue to provide this content for print and online as well as giving us the opportunity to be a part of the Nashville media community. Best, Randy Rich

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Contents Features 6

CRS New Faces

Presley & Taylor

14 Tobi Lee 16 Brad Paisley

17 Dierks Bentley 18 Bob Kingsley 20 Blair Mathews

Publisher & CEO Randy Rich Editor@NashvilleMusicGuide.com 615-973-2188

Managing Editor

21 18 Artist to Watch in Amanda Andrews akandrews@NashvilleMusicGuide.com 2018 615-481-5837 24 Earl Thomas Conley 25 James Lann

Departments 4 9 10 13 15 26 35

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter Business Spotlight Sounding Board NMG CAM Artists on Rise Inside Track Music Venues

Contributors Preshias Harris, Jessica Northey, Rick Amburgey, Sherryl Craig, Steve Kilgore, Jessica Andrews, Tina Anderson, Captain Joe Kent, Katherine Poole, Krys Midgett, Olivia West, Jan Braun Photography Bob Coan, Jerry Overcast, Randi Radcliff, Chad Lee, Michael Jenkins, Julianna Birdwell, Cilene Bosch, Alexandra Arielle Founder Dan Wunsch HOW TO REACH NMG Press releases, CD Reviews Editor@NashvilleMusicGuide.com Physical Mail PO Box 330670 Nashville, TN 37203

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New Faces of Country Music

The Country Radio Seminar’s 2018 New Faces of Country Music ® are Lauren Alaina, Luke Combs, Midland, Carly Pearce, and Michael Ray. Cosponsored by the Academy of Country Music and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the annual new artist showcase event officially closes out the seminar and remains one of the most anticipated events each year at CRS. The 2018 New Faces of Country Music Show will be held Feb. 7, 2018, at the Omni Nashville. Five emerging artists who have achieved significant success at Country radio during the qualification period are selected each year to perform at the showcase event and are voted on by radio industry professionals.

Georgia native Lauren Alaina captured America’s hearts when she appeared on Season 10 of American Idol. In 2017, Lauren followed up her first No. 1 album, Wildflower, with the release of the eagerly-awaited Road Less Traveled. The collection of 12 songs all written by the young star includes Lauren’s first No. 1 hit, title track “Road Less Traveled” and her current single, “Doin’ Fine.” Lauren has shared the stage with superstars including Alan Jackson, Carrie Underwood, Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan and Martina McBride. Lauren heads out with Cole Swindell for the Reason to Drink Tour in February. Lauren is one of CMT’s Next Women of Country and she earned her first CMT Music Award this summer for Breakthrough Video of the Year. Lauren recently performed on the 51st Annual CMA Awards where she was also nominated for her very first CMA Award for New Artist of the Year. Lauren has also been nominated for several Teen Choice Awards, Radio Disney Awards and this spring, she earned her first ACM nomination for New Female Vocalist of the Year. For more information, visit: www.LaurenAlainaOfficial.com

River House Artists/Columbia Nashville’s artist Luke Combs stormed onto the Country music landscape as a force to be reckoned with. The 27 year-old Asheville, North Carolina native released his debut album This One’s For You which remains the largest selling debut country album to release in 2017. The album debuted No. 1 on the Billboard Country Albums chart. Combs’ radio single “Hurricane” set Country radio history topping both the Billboard Country Airplay chart and Mediabase chart for two consecutive weeks – rendering Combs the first new solo Country male artist to accomplish the feat since Blake Shelton with “Austin” in 2001. Combs made history once more when “When It Rains It Pours”, landed at No. 1 at twoweeks at Country radio. In 2017, Combs earned nominations for CMT Awards Breakthrough Artist Of The Year, CMA Award New Artist of the Year and MusicRow Breakthrough Artist/Writer Of the Year. By 2014 when Combs followed his calling to Nashville, he had an army of fans behind him, three self-released EPs and a set list full of songs that are true, authentic and demonstrate his signature modern throwback sound. He has shared the stage with Brantley Gilbert on his Devil Don’t Sleep Tour, joined star-packed line-ups at Austin City Limits, CMA Fest, and Bonnaroo and is currently on his headlining Don’t Tempt Me With A Good Time Tour.

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For more information, visit: www.LukeCombs.com

Hailing from Dripping Springs, TX lead vocalist Mark Wystrach fronts Midland’s rich sound, rounded out with lead guitarist Jess Carson and bass player Cameron Duddy. The trio, rooted in tradition in both sound and style, initially garnered attention playing clubs in the region. Their chart-topping lead single “Drinkin’ Problem” offers an intentional nod to Country music reminiscent of the 1970’s and 80’s. The GOLD-certified track embodies a throwback swagger with the Duddy-directed music video earning Midland their first CMT Music Awards nomination for Group Video of the Year in June 2017. Launching to rave reviews from notable outlets like Los Angeles Times, Rolling Stone Country with The Washington Post touted On The Rocks as “the year’s best Country Album.” Midland’s freshman album is available now on Big Machine Records, featuring 13 tracks with songwriting credits from each member alongside hit makers Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne. The Dann-Huff produced-album earned the No. 1 position on Billboard’s Top Country Album Sales chart upon release. For more information, visit: www.MidlandOfficial.com

Born into the bluegrass brawn of Kentucky, Carly Pearce has never known a moment that Country music wasn’t her destined path. Now, with her highly-acclaimed debut album Every Little Thing (Big Machine Records) and the GOLD-certified No. 1 blockbuster title track, Carly is the highest charting solo female debut since July 2015 and joins an elite group as one of only three women to accomplish this feat in the past 12 years. Previously scoring a three-week No. 1 on SiriusXM’s The Highway, Carly’s second chart-topper “If My Name Was Whiskey” helped solidify her in their “Class of 2017.” Aligned with sought-after producer/songwriter Busbee, Carly’s textured vocals and emotive songwriting prowess are emphasized across 13 tracks including her full-bodied new single “Hide the Wine.” The CMT Next Women of Country alum was named to multiple 2017 Ones To Watch Lists. With nearly 50 invitations to play the Grand Ole Opry, Carly previously joined the bill alongside Eric Church, Kelsea Ballerini, Martina McBride, Kip Moore and more. Following her sold-out run on Brett Young’s Caliville Tour, Carly heads out with Blake Shelton’s Country Music’s Freaks and Thomas Rhett’s Life Changes tours for 2018. For tour dates and more: www.CarlyPearce.com

March 2017 brought Michael Ray his second No.1 single with “Think A Little Less” off his debut self-titled album. This followed his first No. 1 single, “Kiss You In The Morning” which went to the top spot in just 24 weeks. Ray continues to grow his following, having toured with Sam Hunt, Kip Moore, Brantley Gilbert and Darius Rucker and wrapped up his own first 40 city headlining tour last year. Michael was raised in Eustis, Florida an hour from Orlando. The child of a family full of musicians, he began his professional career before he was a teenager, graduated to the bar scene as soon as he could drive and hasn’t let up on the pedal since. When he decided it was time to move to Nashville, the work Ray had put in began to pay off quickly as he landed a publishing contract with Warner/Chappell Music and a record deal with Atlantic Records /Warner Music Nashville. In between touring, Michael has been recording his new album expected for release in early 2018 with its first single, “Get To You,” at Country radio now. For more information, visit: www.MichaelRayMusic.com

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Presley & Taylor Bring Heart Over Mind to Nashville Country music’s newest sister duo Presley and Taylor were excited to take the time to chat about their upcoming events, music, and new life in Music City. After four years of traveling back and forth from their home in Connecticut, the girls recently settled in to their first apartment in Nashville. Fast-forward a month into life in Music City and they told us that being here full time has been great for studio work and band rehearsals. “Everyone told us to make the studio our home, you need to feel comfortable, get in the mood, and learn to laugh. It’s such an intimate experience.” Presley said “We just want our fans to know that we have been working really hard on this album. It’s really going to reflect who we are and what our sound is,” added Taylor. After listening to prior hit singles like “Looking For A Cowboy,” “My Hometown,” and “This Phone,” you can tell that these two have done just that. They are free spirts that let their music express who they are. “Music means so much to people and brings people together,” they explained. “It is always fun to find out how others view music.” Presley said that music is “inspiring,” while Taylor said that music makes her feel “at home,” but they both agree that music is “life changing.” Presley and Taylor’s music takes you back to the soul of Country music. They write about personal experiences and everyday life, but give it a touch of the past. “We are definitely sticking to our roots on how we grew up when it comes to the traditional sound of country that is in our music.” Taylor says as she explains the sound that they chose.“It was definitely a conscious decision that we made, “ Presley added. Some of their biggest influences include Alan Jackson, Randy Travis, and Pam Tillis.“All the greats and all the legends in Country music,” they said. “Our parents and grandpa had a lot to do with that.” The relationships with not just family but all aspects of life are very important to them. “You need to build strong connections and strong relationships with people.” Presley said. These social butterflies know and realize how important relationships are in life and it is reflected in their

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music and their push to strength their connections with Nashville. The duo looks forward to releasing their highly anticipated up-coming album, which features Country Music Icon, Pam Tillis on the song “Heart Over Mind.” The duo debuted the song “Heart Over Mind” with Pam Tillis on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry and have had success with it on the Music Row Country Breakout Chart. “Country Radio means so much to us. Just for supporting us, playing our music and getting our music out to fans.” Taylor said. “It’s so fun when you do a radio tour, or you get to play in some of the towns that have radio stations because in that time you get to go out and see all these people and radio DJ’s who have been playing our music and that have been talking about us, it’s really cool to put a face to a name,” added Presley. Presley and Taylor will be performing for radio professionals from across the country during the Country Radio Seminar being held a the Omni Nashville on February 5-7th. “Over the last month and a half our band has worked extremely hard to put together a brand-new show incorporating all of our new music and really cool covers that we are going to do. There is so much to look forward to this year.” Presley & Taylor have shared the stage with award-winning entertainers and hit-makers such as Martina McBride, Ashton Shepard, Bucky Covington, Janie Fricke, Sarah Darling, Jamie O’Neal, The Willis Clan, Buddy Jewell and Restless Heart. They have become regular performers at Tootsies Orchid Lounge, The Nashville Palace, the Hard Rock Café, Margaritaville and Ernest Tubb Record Shop in Music City- Nashville, TN. They have also made a number of in-studio, special-guest appearances on WSM-650AM, the radio home of the Grand Ole Opry. We look forward to seeing them at this year’s Country Radio Seminar. Be sure to download the CRS2018 Mobile App for more event information. For more info: www.presleyandtaylor.com Story By: Taraya Harvey

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ALBUM REVIEW: California by Glen Templeton

By andrew miller

Glen Templeton’s new album California is full of great songs and awesome stories. Every song helps you to get to know Templeton a little more.

“Big” is a fun and energetic song. It’s a song about falling in love. I think out of all the songs on the album this is one that really lets us hear the playful side of Templeton. “California” is the title track and it captures your attention. The melody is catchy and that of a traditional country song. You will find yourself tapping your hand to the beat. The melody and tempo follow the song and the story perfectly. Templeton’s voice is flawless. The more you hear the more you fall for his refreshing sound of country. The story line is sad. His love leaves him in a slow-moving town in Alabama to go to California with another man. “I just turned, and she was gone” is a repeated line within the song. He explains that he did all he could to make her happy, yet it wasn’t enough. “Wrong Side of lonely” is a slower song that really showcases Templeton’s voice. He hits a lot of notes not found within “California”. His voice is a little huskier. I really liked this song because it is raw with emotion. This song is all about learning life’s lessons. Glen currently lives in Nashville, but is an Alabama native. The title track “California” is a dedication to his father, Dwight Templeton, who passed away in 2006. Glen wanted to honor his father, who was also a singer. One of Glen’s many accomplishments was when he was chosen to portray Conway Twitty in a touring musical tribute to the country music icon. He says his early influences were Waylon Jennings, Merle Haggard, and Conway Twitty. Glen Templeton is sure to make music lovers happy with this album. He has a lot to offer Country music. Facebook: www.facebook.com/pg/gtmusic/ | website: www.glen-templeton.com/ | Twitter: @glentempleton

SINGLE REVIEW: “Morgan” by Julia Caprogrossi The spunky Julia Capogrossi is back and this time she is showcasing her vocals in her new single “Morgan”. This song is emotional and passionate. Julia’s vocals are flawless. The melody is subtle leaving her vocals to really shine. This song has a beautiful harmonic quality that we all know and love. Not only did she release this new single she also has a music video that really allows you to follow the story and the heartbreaking feelings that come with it. I like that we can watch the story unfold. Everything about this song and video is heartfelt. Many people can relate to a story like this. I really like that she allows her voice to be the center of it all. You can tell that her vocals aren’t forced she is just naturally talented and it really shows throughout this song. Julia Capogrossi was the co-writer of “Morgan”. She used her real-life heartache to write this heartbreaking song. Julia finds that everyday has a lesson to be learned. Originally from Stamford, CT she now lives in Music City. She finds inspiration in life and all the lessons that come with it. She is upbeat and high spirited. Julia hopes to one day share the stage with Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, or Keith Urban. 2017 was an eventful and very successful year for her, but 2018 is looking even better. Starting the year off with a new single and music video we are sure to see a lot of this rising star in the coming months. Website: www.JuliaCapogrossi.com | Facebook: @juliacapogrossimusic | Twitter: @juliacapogrossi | Instagram: @juliacapogrossi

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Catch Frankie’s Spin Doctors Rockin’ Country Fest CRS Performance at the Omni Hotel’s Cumberland Room Tuesday, Feb. 6, 8PM

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Sunday Night: Enjoy the Game in the comfort of our suite “Big Al’s Sports Bar & Karaoke”. Cheer on your team and belt out you favorite songs. Monday Night: Acoustic Night Come hang with us at the Spin Doctors “Music Emporium” (aka our suite in the Omni Hotel) our artists will be jamming their music in an acoustic setting. Tuesday Night: Rockin’ Country Fest Spin Doctors Is FULL TILT in the Cumberland Room 3rd Floor of the Omni Hotel. Our artists will Plug it in and Turn it up. Wednesday Night: After Party Its “Heart Over Mind” with Presley & Taylor in the Cumberland Room 3rd Floor of the Omni Hotel. Valentines is right around the corner and this duo will fan the flames of love with their performance after the New Faces Show.

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See your Spin Doctors/SMG Rep for your admission laminate

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Over favorite photos from 2017 by Alexandra Arielle (Captions from L-R): Top Row: Drew Holcomb at LOTG2017, Rosie and the Riveters at Americana Fest 2017, LP at LOTG017, Emi Sunshine performing for Music City Roots. Middle Row: Carnifex at the 2017 Vans Warped Tour, New Years Day at Vans Warped Tour 2017, Bad Cop/Bad Cop at Vans Warped Tour 2017, Bottom Row: SHEL at LOTG2017, Lady Antebellum performing at the Country Music Hall of Fame for Hilton Honors. Sheryl Crow at LOTG2017, Kelsea Ballerini at CMT Next Women of Country Awards.

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International Touring Artist, Tobi Lee: Big Smile, Big Voice & Funky Hair Hailing from southern Indiana, Tobi Lee has always known she was born to be an entertainer. At the age of four she performed for a Gong Show produced by a local country radio station and raised $500 for Muscular Dystrophy. By five she was on stage acting as Annie Oakley’s little sister, and by 12 she was hosting her own local cable television show. By the time she graduated from high school, Tobi had her own band, reigned as Little Miss Indiana, Miss Jr. Teen Indiana, and Jr. Teen Miss North America, - where a Country song was always performed during the talent portions - recorded an album with the renowned Christian act, the Bill Gaither trio, and had released a single. Tobi has studied dance and gymnastics, been a professional actress in theatre, radio, and television, and done both print and runway modeling. Tobi has appeared in over two hundred performances of Sound Of Music and one hundred eighty performances of Fiddler on the Roof. Tobi can also play just about any instrument she sets her mind to. Tobi was inspired by Barbara Mandrell and taught herself to play lead rhythm, bass, and steel guitar. She is also accomplished on dobro, mandolin, banjo, keys and drums. Her love for country music took her to new horizons and levels of momentum. Nashville became her dream and she has done well to win it over. Music Row’s Robert K. Oermann describes Tobi as an entertainer that “Sings with Moxie.” Tobi Lee, synonymous with International Touring Artist, big smile, big voice, and notorious funky hair has also announced her soon to be released, hot new video for the single “You Don’t Know.“ “You Don’t Know” was penned by NashvilleMusicGuide.com 14

Tobi and Grammy, CMA and ACM, award winning writer, Frank Myers She is the writer or co-writer on all the songs that she is currently in studio producing for her next project. Tobi has performed alongside Little Jimmy Dickens, Leroy Van Dyke, Porter Wagoner, Martina McBride, Big and Rich, Blake Shelton, Neal McCoy, Gretchen Wilson, Tammy Wynette, Tanya Tucker, Lonestar, Luke Bryan and many others. Tobi Lee is a high energy, talented artist that draws her audience into her performance. Redneck Women, magazine describes her as, “Sit on the edge of your seat exciting and about as calm as a twister in a trailer park.” As an International Touring Artist, Tobi Lee has performed in Switzerland, Japan, Egypt, France, Spain, Italy, Canada, Korea, Kuwait and many other countries as well as from coast-to-coast in the US. Albi Matter of Switzerland has booked Tobi Lee in Zurich many times and now has asked Tobi to appear on their 2018 Mediterranean Country Cruise. From April 21-28, the cruise will make five port stops as it travels around the country of Italy. Many fans have booked this trip and if you are interested, please contact: maya.metzger@hotelplan.ch For more information: Facebook.com/tobileeNMSB Instagram: @the_tobilee

ARTISTS O

THE RISE

Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to Learn More About What These Rising Artists Have To Offer.

Lewis Brice

Lewis Brice, may have a famous last name (brother to Lee Brice), but he puts his South Carolina soul on the line on performances like the blues-laden “Messin’ With My Mind,” and if he can get a fair shot…..he can go the distance!

Lance Carpenter

Lance Carpenter released his EP, Mustang, in 2017 and recently signed to Toby Keith’s Show Dog Nashville label. His debut single, “Anyone Else,” is a romantic duet with Keith’s daughter, Krystal.

Adam Doleac

Signed as an artist just last year, he released his six-song EP in June. Doleac’s honest storytelling and yearning vocals draw the listener in. His current single “Whiskey’s Fine” highlight his soulful voice.

Ben Gallaher

One of the top new artists at Sony, Gallaher’s music reflects the hard-working ethic of his native Pennsylvania. There’s a raw grittiness to his EP on showcase moments such as “Against The World.”

LANCO LANCO is poised for a breakout year in 2018 with the growing popularity of their single, “Greatest Love Story.” Their recent LP was guided by producer Jay Joyce (Erich Church, Little Big Town).

Abby Anderson

With her breakthrough hit, “This Feeling,” Abby Anderson introduced herself as a powerhouse vocalist with a distinctly modern vibe. At only 20 years old, she’s signed with Black River Entertainment.

Bailey Bryan Bailey Bryan turned to country music for hope, healing and the gospel of Taylor Swift as a tween. Now 19, she’s released her pop-leaning EP SO FAR in 2017 as well as several one-off singles, including “Own It.”

Levon

Songs like “Why Oh Why” embody spot-on harmonies that recall the Eagles and impressive musicianship that bring to mind the band Levon. Levon’s self-titled major label EP released in 2017.

Frankie Justin

Frankie Justin forges ahead with a new single announcement coming soon. CRS Performance Spin Doctor’s Rockin Country Fest Tues. 2/6 8PM Cumberland Room at Omni Hotel.

Jericho Woods

Jericho Woods bring their own down-home spin to modern country music. “Better Now,” an infectious and uplifting tune about the rejuvenating power of love.

Danielle Bradbery Danielle Bradbery is renowned for her extraordinary performances on The Voice, and has introduced a new voice with the toe-tapping “Sway.” from her album, I Don’t Believe We’ve Met.”

Dylan Schneider

With a radio friendly sound, smooth vocals, and often rapid fire lyrics, Dylan Schneider is one new voice bound to make a major leap this year, starting off with the single “No Problem.” NashvilleMusicGuide.com

Brad Paisley: “The Art & The Artist Country music superstar Brad Paisley will be the center of conversation during a Q&A session at Country Radio Seminar 2018. Titled Brad Paisley: The Art and The Artist, the interview will take place Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2018 from 3-4 p.m. RJ Curtis of All Access Nashville and Beverlee Brannigan of E.W. Scripps Co. will conduct the interview, which will highlight how Paisley anticipates the future while honoring country tradition, as well as how he remains focused and is always exploring new and creative ways to do things. Since moving from West Virginia in the early 1990’s, Brad Paisley has carved out his niche in Country Music. Aside from being a Country music superstar, he is just as well known for his extraordinary gift of storytelling through songs, quick-wit and his guitar prowess. Brad Paisley’s critically acclaimed talents have earned him numerous awards, including three GRAMMYs, two American Music Awards, 14 Academy of Country Music Awards and 14 Country Music Association Awards (including Entertainer of the Year), among many others. He has been a proud member of the Grand Ole Opry since 2001. Paisley’s successful 2017 Weekend Warrior World Tour continues through March of 2018 with an additional 30 shows; Paisley has written 21 of his 24 #1 hits and “Heaven South” is his current single from his 11th studio album, LOVE AND WAR, which was released April 21, 2017. It is his 9th consecutive studio album to debut #1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart. On April 28, 2017, LOVE AND WAR was released as country music’s first ever-visual album for a limited time exclusively on Apple Music and now is available on VEVO. Paisley partnered with Sarah Cannon, the Cancer Institute of HCA Healthcare, and Sony Music Nashville, by launching 2017 Band Against Cancer. The campaign spreads the word of community-based treatment, options, and support and will continue through the first quarter of 2018. Sarah Cannon adopted Paisley’s #1 hit “Today” as the campaign’s theme song. Paisley’s Netflix comedy special debuted August 15, 2017 – “Brad Paisley’s Comedy Rodeo.” Paisley has also partnered with Boot Barn® and developed an exclusive line of jeans, hats, T-shirts, jewelry, belts and woven shirts called Moonshine Spirit by Brad Paisley. Connect with Brad at BradPaisley.com, Facebook.com/BradPaisley, Twitter & Instagram @Brad Paisley, YouTube at YouTube.com/BradPaisley

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Dierks Bentley is Climbing The Mountain The Country Radio Broadcaster will be honoring multi-PLATINUM singer/songwriter Dierks Bentley with the CRS 2018 Artist Humanitarian Award, presented by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals during the Opening Ceremonies of the Country Radio Seminar on Monday, February 8, 2018. The CRB Artist Humanitarian Award was created in 1990 by the organization’s board to honor Country music artists who have exhibited exceptional humanitarian efforts during their career. Past recipients of the annual award have included Zac Brown, Keith Urban, Lady Antebellum, Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, Toby Keith, Brad Paisley, Brooks & Dunn, Reba McEntire, Vince Gill, Garth Brooks, Charlie Daniels, among others. Award-winning entertainer Dierks Bentley has demonstrated his dedication to giving back nation-wide through many charitable initiatives and events, as he has raised over $4 million for charities through his “Miles & Music For Kids” all-star motorcycle ride and concert, including Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals across the country. Additionally, in 2013 Bentley in partner with KMLE and KAFF as they organized and hosted the Country Cares Concert in Arizona, raising more than half a million dollars for the families of the Granite Mountain Hotshots. His first-ever song written and recorded for a motion picture, “Hold The Light,” featured in Columbia Pictures and Black Label Media’s Only The Brave embodies the spirit of the true heroism behind the firefighters depicted in the film. Bentley has also put the spotlight on local Nashville non-profit organizations such as Safe Haven Family Shelter, as his raw music video for “Riser” magnified a true story and the struggles of a formerly homeless mother. Later that same day - Monday, Feb. 5th from 4-5PM - Dierks will be highlighted as a featured speaker. The conversation, sponsored by DAV and titled “Climbing The Mountain,” will spotlight Bentley’s rise to super stardom built by following his own path and not trends, ultimately celebrating a career built on the combination of commercial success and critical acclaim. Since moving from Phoenix to Nashville in the 1990s, Bentley has established his own artistic path in country music. Instead of rehashing proven formulas, he’s doggedly reinvented his sound with every album and has ultimately built one of the most enviable careers in any genre of music. His program will explore the last decade of trials and triumphs that developed him into the artist who sells out enormous tours, is a perennial favorite of format radio stations, and earns critical acclaim without compromising his artistic vision. With a reputation as one of the hardest-working entertainers in country music, Dierks Bentley sells out enormous tours, is a perennial favorite of format radio stations and earns critical acclaim without compromising his artistic vision. With 17 No.1 hits and more than one billion digital streams, he continues to take risks that pay off”as his eighth studio album BLACK has been hailed the most fully-formed LP of his career. But he is not done climbing the mountain ... In January, Dierks announced the release of his ninth studio album, The Mountain, which was inspired by his performances this past summer at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival where he was surrounded by his musical heroes, deep in the box canyon of the Colorado mountain town. The writing process came together quickly when Bentley returned to Telluride a short time later for a retreat with fellow songwriters Natalie Hemby, Luke Dick, Ross Copperman, Jon Randall, Jon Nite and Ashley Gorley. The bulk of the album’s songs, including the title track were written during that week, which Bentley describes as the most inspiring creative experience he’s ever had. “Telluride just makes you want to reach for your guitar,” described Bentley. “We all went out there and got completely off the grid...out of our normal element and the grind that happens on Music Row and it was, from the very get-go, magic. We’d wake up every morning, grab a coffee, take the gondola up, watch the sun come up over the mountains, and by 8:30 we were writing. We just wrote non-stop.” “Obviously, the songs were written and recorded in the mountains. But it’s the mountain that we’re all faced with every day, and the struggle to put one foot in front of the other even when things are hard, that we all have in common. Looking back now, I think we were all searching for hope and optimism when we were writing this music.” For more information visit www.dierks.com.

NashvilleMusicGuide.com

Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley at CRS2018

Broadcasters, industry executives and a group of enormously talented country hit songwriters and performers will gather, for Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley featuring many of Country Music’s Top talent who pen the songs that are so often the beginning of the journey to the top of the charts. Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas between Country Radio and the Country Music Industry. Their motto is and has always been “Growth Thru Sharing”, and they strive to continue as the primary medium for the exposure of Country songs and recordings. Bob Kingsley has been the past recipient of the CRS Hall of Fame Award given to a Country Music On-Air Personality who has made significant contributions to the country radio/music industry; and in addition he has received the CountryRadio Broadcasters, Inc. President’s Award which is presented to an individual who has made a significant contributions to the marketing, production, growth and development of the Country Radio Seminar and the multiple services that Country Radio Broadcasters provides to the country radio and music communities. ASHLEY GORLEY has written 34 #1 singles and has over 300 songs recorded by artists such as Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, Florida Georgia Line, Blake Shelton, Brad Paisley, Jason Aldean and Darius Rucker.

COLE TAYLOR has quickly become an in-demand country songwriter, with Florida Georgia Line, Luke Bryan, Chase Rice and others lining up to record his songs. He is signed with Universal Music Publishing.

RHETT AKINS has placed at least one song on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart every week for the past seven years, and has peened songs for Brooks & Dunn, Jack Ingram, Joe Nichols, Blake Shelton, Jason Aldean, Josh Turner and Rodney Atkins, among others.

JT HARDING co-wrote “Smile” by Uncle Kracker, “Sangria” by Blake Shelton, “Somewhere With You” by Kenny Chesney, and.“Alone With You” by Jake Owen. He also has cuts by Keith Urban, Billy Currington, Goo Goo Dolls, and Rascal Flatts.

MATT ROGERS landed country star Randy Houser’s hit sing “We Went” and cuts with Dustin Lynch, Thompson Square, JT Hodges and Adam Craig. Rogers also had a Canadian top 20 single on Wes Mack (“Our Soundtrack”). NICOLLE GALYON has become an in-demand Nashville songwriter who has cowritten multiple songs for some artists, including Miranda Lambert, Kenny Chesney, FGL, Jana Kramer, Lady A, Raelynn, Lee Brice, and Thomas Rhett.

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HEATHER MORGAN’s songs have been featured on the TV show Nashville and recorded by Keith Urban, Brett Eldredge, Sara Evans, Eli Young Band, Maddie & Tae, and more. She is now a staff writer at Sony ATV Music.

CHRIS DESTEFANO is one of Nashville’s most successful contemporary songwriters, having co-penned No. 1 country hits for acts including Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert and Carrie Underwood.

JIMMY ROBBINS has celebrated five #1 singles and has songs recorded by Blake Shelton, Thomas Rhett, Keith Urban, Miranda Lambert, David Nail, Jake Owen, Tim McGraw, Chase Rice, Kelly Clarkson, FGL, and Lady A.

HILLARY LINDSEY has written songs with or for several popular artists including Michelle Branch, Faith Hill, Martina McBride, Shakira, Lady Antebellum, Gary Allan, Sara Evans, Carrie Underwood, Kellie Pickler, Bon Jovi, Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, Tim McGraw and Luke Bryan.

JON NITE has written 14 top ten hits for and has songs recorded by Tim McGraw, Chris Young, Dierks Bentley, Blake Shelton, Keith Urban, David Nail, Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney, Chase Rice, Jake Owen, Michael Ray, Darius Rucker, and many more TROY VERGES’ songs have been cut by Tim McGraw, Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts, Billy Currington, Faith Hill, Jason Aldean, Easton Corbin, Keith Urban and many more. Other diverse recordings include such artists as Celine Dion, Il Divo, Bon Jovi, Backstreet Boys, and Paulina Rubio.

NashvilleMusicGuide.com

“ALL I’VE GOT GOING IS YOU” Might Be His Latest Single But There’s A Lot Going On In 2018 For Blair Mathews. Fueled by an unwavering work ethic, developed as a kid growing up on a small rural farm, Blair Mathews has always been devoted to music. His earliest memories are the sounds of his mom’s Merle Haggard and Elvis Presley records playing constantly in the house. Involved in several rock and cover bands, he eventually landed an Artist Development deal with EMI Music. After that deal ended Blair continued to hone his songwriting. “I’m not interested in writing the same songs over and over again, or having a sound that is boring by the 3rd song,” explains Mathews. “I work very hard at mixing different music styles, beats and rhythms to create totally different feels for each tune.” In 2012 he started working with Grammy Award Winning Engineer, Chad Carlson (3 Taylor Swift Albums to Carlson’s credit - including “RED”). Chad and Blair have continued to work together, recording more than 70 songs at Sound Emporium, in Nashville. “Blair has a unique ability to fuse his rock sound with traditional country music.” says Carlson. In 2014 Chad introduced Blair to Nashville based Publisher, Dan Hodges. Mathews inked a deal with Dan Hodges Music at the end of 2014 and in addition to his own artist material he has several cuts in Australia. In 2014 Blair Released his debut single called “It’s About Us” and it climbed the Music Row Chart to #78. In late 2015 Mathews released “Ride” - the single was well received and made it to #60 on the Music Row Chart. Blair recorded several cuts with Grammy Award Winning Producer, Luke Wooten in 2015 at Station West, (Producer for Dierks Bentley and Brad Paisley), including his single “Worth Fighting For”. Mathews has co-written with several leading writers - like LA based pop artist and actor Daniel Capellaro, Australian Country artist Jared Porter and Nashville writer Keith Dozier. In 2016 Blair and Keith co-wrote “All I’ve Got Going Is You.” The song was selected as Country Finalist in the well respected ISC - International Song Competition. In late 2017 Blair worked with Award Winning Videographer, Sherri Justice - The Beauty of Music, on a new music video to support the upcoming release of “All I’ve Got Going Is You” in early 2018. This will be the first single of his next CD titled “All I’ve Got Going Is You.” Mathews is currently working on the next singles from that album, “Sunday” and “On The Inside.” The Blair Mathews band is in rehearsal now, working on the new album material and will play selected tour dates in 2018. The band is also focussed on a new series of Facebook LIVE concerts as well as other live streaming events, mainly based on and around a super unique property that the band uses for rehearsal space. The pre-Civil War era cabin and surrounding property is loaded with cool history and inspiration. Blair continues to write in Nashville and stays closely tied to his fan base. “My fans are everything…and the support and input I get from them is amazing.” Mathews explains. “I try to deeply touch each listener, with every track. After all…whether tears or joy, I believe that music should create an impact.” “All I’ve Got Going Is You” is available on iTunes now. For More information on Blair Mathews: blairmathewsmusic@gmail.com blairscountry.com | blairmathews.com | facebook.com/blair.mathews.549 NashvilleMusicGuide.com 20

NashvilleMusicGuide.com

o t s t s i t r 18 A n 2018 i h c Wat

Devin Dawson

By : Amanda Andrews

Jordan Davis

Ashley McBryde

Ryan Griffin

#12

#13

Ryan Kinder

Carly Pearce

#16

Tegan Marie

NashvilleMusicGuide.com 22

Logan Mize

#17

Kalie Shorr

Morgan Evans

Jilian Jacqueline

The Reklaws

Emma White

#10

#11

Filmore

#14

Jimmie Allen

#15

Brandon Lay

Walker Hayes

#18

Stephanie Quayle

These artists were selected as our artist’s to watch this year based upon accolades, performances, and of course, talent. For information on these artists including, music, stats, and reviews; scan the QR code or go to NashvilleMusicGuide.com and search for “18 Artists to Watch in 2018”

NashvilleMusicGuide.com

Earl Thomas Conley His voice is one of a kind, his music is timeless. Earl Thomas Conley set the industry ablaze when he appeared on the music scene in the early 80’s. He was different, his voice was so different that even if you were new to his music you would immediately know it was him. Born in Portsmouth Ohio and growing up in Jamestown, Conley was found to be a natural when it came to art. He loved to paint, painting was a way to escape struggles of daily living during a rough patch for his family. He was offered an art scholarship at a young age but decided after graduation to join the U.S. Army. There he met and joined up with two other young men forming a Christian music based trio. It was then that he realized his destiny truly was in the music industry. The bug had bitten him for sure. He took cues from legendary greats such as George Jones and Merle Haggard finding himself firmly rooted in the classic country much genre. His music and style was much more than just country though, he was a cross between pop, country, R&B, and adult contemporary. After leaving the Army in 1968 Conley began making regular trips to Nashville where he eventually met record producer Dick Heard who also produced Mel Street. This new relationship formed a solid collaboration between Conley-Heard that presented country music fans with “Smokey Mountain Memories”, a top ten hit for Street. During the 70’s Conley worked blue collar jobs by day and played music by night in clubs around Nashville. Feeling that he was lagging he moved to Huntsville AL and took a job in the steel mills. During that time he signed a record deal with an independent label, GRT but again didn’t have much luck. His songwriting was bringing him greater recognition at the time. He wrote several songs that had done extremely well on the charts for artists Conway Twitty and Mel Street. Earl moved back to Nashville and in 1979 signed a record deal with Warner Bros. Records. Within two years of the signing he had his first top 40 hit, “Dreamin’s All I Do”. In 1981 he started the decade off with a bang with “Somewhere Between Right and Wrong” introduced a horn section that took it farther that the standard country music songs of the time. It was the perfect choice. Then in 1982 he presented the country music fans with a song that would become a signature staple in the career of Earl Thomas Conley. “Holding Her and Loving You” tells the story of a man torn between two loves and was known as one of the best country cheating songs of all time. Through out his career Earl’s talent led to multiple Grammy nominations and one in particular for “Holding Her & Loving You” that won Country Song of The Year in 1983. NashvilleMusicGuide.com 24

From 1985 to 1987 he released several other all time favorites. “We Believe in Happy Endings” with Emmylou Harris, “Nobody Falls Like a Fool” had a light bit of a pop country feel to it. Conley released “I Can’t Win for Losing You” on the ETC album in 1986 and fans loved it because it literally tore at your heart strings. You could not only hear the heartfelt pain and emotions but you could feel it too. It was a hugely requested song. Conley was given great credit by music critics who said that he broke down the barriers between Country music and Pop/RB when he worked with Anita Pointer and the Grammy winning Pointer Sisters on their hit single “Too Many Times”. It reached #2 on the Country charts and appeared as the title track on Conley’s album in 1986. Years ago I learned a song from the Geezinslaw Brothers called “I’ll Be Under The Table When I’m Over You”. Written by Earl Thomas Conley. One night years ago I did a show with Skip Ewing, Robert Byrne and ETC....I sang the song to surprise Earl. He said “That’s one horse that should have stayed in the barn.... amazing talent. ~Bernie Nelson.~ Conley’s music is evergreen. He looks deeply into the heart and soul of each character in each verse and brings out the deeply rooted heartfelt emotions inside of us all. Earl Thomas Conley is a legend and his music continues to this day to take us all back.... back to the days when country music was true country music. www.earlthomasconley.com

Story by Sherryl Craig

James Lann

Many singers both in Nashville and Texas wear cowboy hats, but George Strait and James Lann are two of the very few country stars who are genuine cowboys. “I grew up on cattle ranches in Arizona and New Mexico, I was born and raised cowpunching,” Lann says in a phone conversation from his home near Houston in mid-December. “I packed up and moved to Texas when I was 20, to pay my dues in the Honky Tonk’s of Texas like George Strait and many others. I was always thinking of creating a singing career.”

Congratulations to Destin Bennett for his song “Wild and Free” making the Forever My Girl Soundtrack!

James didn’t move directly to Nashville. Instead he moved to Texas because, he says, “I wanted to stand out from the crowd and have crafted a unique sound and really build a strong market for our music before we approached the national levels. We’ve been building our fan base here in our market and really creating a great springboard for our music. We really want to expand our markets and create great relationships in Nashville as we move forward.” Musically, Lann’s records feature strong, guitar-driven hooks with his smooth, confident baritone vocals. “Every Kiss Goodnight” has the kind of chimey guitars that artists like the Byrds made famous. This combination of retro and current stylings has helped James become a radio and fan favorite in the Lone Star State. Lann says his own musical influences run the gamut from AC/DC to George Jones, with countless stops in between. “The Talent Requires” also features many Brad Paisley-style shades and humor as well.

Facebook.com/DestinBennettMusic

COURTNEY DICKINSON

James grew up on a working cattle ranch. What was that like? “I think it instilled deep family roots, moreover a good work ethic,” he says. “Dad taught me that if it needs to be done, you do it. You don’t always have someone else to do things for you. If you gotta pull a well or do surgery on a cow out in the middle of nowhere, do it.” James has worked with several co-writers, both in Nashville and Texas, including Chuck Allen Floyd, Jon Goodwin, and Carson Chamberlain. Carson used to help run Mercury Nashville, and his production credits include Deana Carter’s No. 1 “Strawberry Wine.” Lann is also a huge fan of his fellow Texas artists, including Kevin Fowler, Wade Bowen and many others. Given his phenomenal work ethic and chart-topping radio success, 2018 figures to unfold as another amazing year for James Lann. James Lann is currenlty in Nashville working on his next project. Big things in the works for 2018. For more information visit: www.jameslann.com

This feisty redhead enjoyed a successful Top 40 Music Row Chart single in 2017. She is looking forward to the release of her new single “Freedom” in early 2018. Check Courtney more info at: www.CourtneyDickinson.com

NashvilleMusicGuide.com

Videographer of the Year Digital Video Consumption in the US: “According to eMarketer, in 2018, 181.5 million Americans will watch digital TV, a number that amounts to just over 55% of the US population. By 2021, it will swell to 194.4 million, or nearly 58% of the population.” [Source: eMarketer]

Book Your Music Video Today

Music Videos & Promotions Starting at $2,499 Contact: Sherri Justice | sherrijustice92@gmail.com | 256-783-0003 www.theBeautyofMusic.com

Sherri’s award-winning client list includes: Blake Shelton, Lee Greenwood, Charlie Daniels, Willie Nelson, Jamie O’Neal, Lorrie Morgan, Justin Moore, The Grascals, Ronnie Dunn, Clint Black, The Oak Ridge Boys, Rascal Flatts, Mickey Gilley, Alabama and many more

O t 1 s p s t a s i t e a w w i B NashvilleMusicGuide.com 26

ALBUM NEWS:

Send me stuff, I love to get it! PreshiasWriter@hotmail.com TN/USA Google “Preshias” Preshias Harris is a music journalist and music career development consultant with the emphasis on new and aspiring artists and songwriters. Her book, ‘The College of Songology: The Singer/Songwriter’s Need to Know Reference Handbook’ is available at www. collegeofsongology.com Follow her blog at www.nashvillemusicline.com.

The country recording duo, Dugger Band, will release its sophomore album, titled East Tennessee Son, (Dugger Band Music) on February 16, 2018. Co-produced by brothers Jordan and Seth Dugger alongside Paul David, the recording project features six originals: tunes that recall hometown memories, irresistible, explosive relationships and living in the Millennial moment. The tracks highlight traditional instrumentation (fiddle and guitar riffs) meshed with synth swells, electric organ, contemporary lyrics and production to lend a refreshing element of zest; East Tennessee Son sonically channels some of the brothers’ pop/country influences including Justin Timberlake, Michael Jackson and Brad Paisley. Visit duggerband.com to pre-order an autographed physical copy.

“If I am chasing your dream faster than you, MUSIC BUSINESS NEWS: then I am in the wrong dream.” As more and more Facebook – Preshias © (TM) users have included music or

videos in their posts in recent years, the platform has required BLUEBIRD CAFE NEWS: users to take down posts using infringing content. Facebook has been in negotiations with music rights holders for many months in an attempt to resolve the situation. Facebook has signed three more significant music licensing agreements – this time with SESAC’s HFA/Rumblefish platform, Kobalt Music Publishing and Irving Azoff’s Global Music Rights. Rumblefish was acquired by SESAC as part of its Harry Fox Agency (HFA) buyout in 2015, and specializes in services for US-based independent publishers – including composition and recording administration, data and Originally started as a restaurant in 1982 by founder Amy Kurland, royalty management, licensing and network monetization. The the Bluebird Café had evolved into a 90-seat listening room by current deal follows similar Facebook agreements with Universal 1984, holding regular ‘Writers’ Nights.’ In March 1985, three Music Group and Sony/ATV. See full details at sesac.com songwriters, J. Fred Knobloch, Don Schlitz and Paul Overstreet, performed the first ‘In The Round’ show, in which the three writers pfa Entertainment Media and sat in the center of the room and took turns playing songs and Marketing has named music telling the stories behind the songs, while audiences listened quietly industry veteran Regina Stuve and attentively. The ‘In The Round’ concept was an immediate to the position of VP/General success and was soon adopted by other venues, but The Bluebird Manager of its new Nashville is recognized as the place where it really all started and continues division. Stuve will oversee pfa’s to this day. After 36 years, the Bluebird Café is as popular as Nashville business development ever. It is still the place where songwriters really want to be seen providing an array of public and heard. Just take a look at the list of upcoming shows at their relations and marketing expertise website. Click on ‘shows’ and check out the astonishing list of hit and services. Stuve will continue writers scheduled to appear. While you’re at their site, it’s a good working with longtime client idea to click on ‘Reservations’ too. That’s where you’ll see the Jake Owen at pfa, as well as with Bluebird’s policy about booking seats. Info at Bluebirdcafe.com. author Farrell Mason. Other pfa clients include Keith Urban, for King & Country and Skillet. Details at pfamedia.net

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CABLE NEWS:

Country Artist Kellie Pickler and Ben Aaron have been cohosting the Nashville based daytime lifestyle show Pickler & Ben, since September 18th. The Scripps show was executed, created and produced by Country Music Artist Faith Hill, Sandbox Entertainment’s President and CEO Jason Owen, and Happy Street Entertainment Co-Founder/former Executive Producer of The Oprah Winfrey Show, Lisa Erspamer. Through a partnership with HSN, Pickler & Ben has featured an interactive format enabling viewers to “shop the show” by purchasing items featured on air directly on PicklerandBen.com and HSN.com. Now the Scripps network has given a green-light for a second season of the daytime lifestyle show. More info at www.picklerandben.com.

Ronnie McDowell has announced a one-of-a-kind tribute to Elvis Presley. ‘The King’ would have turned 83 in January 2018. An American Trilogy on Canvas, in concert with Ronnie McDowell will be held at Elvis Presley’s Birthplace in Tupelo, Mississippi on Saturday, February 17, 2018 at 6pm with special guest Chris McDaniel. The event is built around original artwork by McDowell that captures the birth of a musical legend. It is part of the launch of a new television venture for Ronnie McDowell, Painting America. And for this hour-long pilot, Ronnie McDowell has chosen to interpret the moment a young Elvis received his first guitar his mother purchased in the Tupelo Hardware Store. Ticket info at elvispresleybirthplace.com. A portion of the proceeds will be given to Regional Rehab Facility (an Elvis Presley Fan Club Charity).

ARTIST NEWS:

ASCAP NEWS: Columbia’s Maren Morris, is celebrating her FIRST number one with “I Could Use A Love Song” as a solo artist. Maren co-wrote the song with Jimmy Robbins and Laura Veltz. Morris is featured on Thomas Rhett’s number one “Craving You.” I thought “My Church” should have been a number one, but it wasn’t. Maren Morris is scheduled to go on tour with One Direction’s Niall Horan for his 2018 Flicker World Tour. The multi-date tour will launch in July and keeps him busy through September. Morris will join him for all 35 dates as they hit major markets including Nashville, Dallas, Chicago and Denver. Check out more on Maren at www. marenmorris.com. For the 8th consecutive year, ASCAP returned as a major sponsor of the 30A Songwriters Festival and presented three nights of songwriter rounds at The Lakehouse in WaterColor, Florida. The shows featured performances from hit songwriters Matt Dragstrem, Mark Irwin, Jaren Johnston, Charles Kelley, Josh Osborne and Jonathan Singleton, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame members Mike Reid and Craig Wiseman, songwriter-producer Blake Bollinger, and emerging songwriter-artists Jacob Davis, Adam Hambrick and Austin Jenckes. For the 4th year in a row, City National Bank co-sponsored the official ASCAP after party. Photo Credit: Shelly Swanger Photography

PR NEWS:

ART NEWS: Country legend T.G. Sheppard has signed on with Nashville-based Absolute Publicity for exclusive PR representation. Launched in January of 2009, Absolute Publicity represents some of the most recognizable names in country music. With 21 #1 hit songs and more than 40 years of show business under his belt, Sheppard is one of the great legends in country music. More at tgsheppard. com. NashvilleMusicGuide.com 28

NashvilleMusicGuide.com

BOOK NEWS:

CMHOF NEWS:

Moe Bandy’s highly-anticipated autobiography, Lucky Me, was released January 26, and includes a foreword written by former First Lady Barbara Bush. Told in Bandy’s own words, Lucky Me includes backstage stories of other Country music legends, the tale of the duo “Moe and Joe,” his battle with alcoholism, his love of the rodeo and details of his 30 year friendship with President George Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush. The book is now available at MoeBandyBook.com. The book includes 200 rare photos from Moe’s personal collection. “I wanted the book to be entertaining,” said Bandy. “And I wanted it to be honest. I think we accomplished both of those things. I am very proud of it. I hope my fans will be proud of it. And I hope my great grand kids will be proud of their ol’ grandpa.”

The Outlaw phenomenon greatly enlarged country music’s audience in the 1970s. Led by pacesetters such as Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Kris Kristofferson, and Bobby Bare, artists in Nashville and Austin demanded the creative freedom to make their own country music. The Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum’s upcoming major exhibition, Outlaws & Armadillos: Country’s Roaring ’70s, will explore an era of cultural and artistic exchange, revealing untold stories and rare artifacts. The exhibition, which opens May 25 for a multi-year run, will explore the complicated, surprising relationship between the two cities. The exhibit opens May 25, 2018. See full details, photos and videos relating to the upcoming Exhibits at countrymusichalloffame.org.

CONCERT NEWS:

ALABAMA, Chris Young, Lee Brice, Sara Evans and Travis Tritt have been added to the lineup for this year’s “Volunteer Jam XX.” The once-in-a-lifetime event already includes Charlie Daniels and The Charlie Daniels Band, Alison Krauss, Billy F Gibbons of ZZ Top, Blackberry Smoke, Bobby Bare, Chris Janson, Chuck Leavell, Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry, Jamey Johnson, Justin Moore, The Oak Ridge Boys, and Ricky Skaggs. More special guests are to be announced in the coming weeks. “This year we get back to basics, back to the free form rocking traditions the Volunteer Jam was known for. I’m planning a jam at the last part of the show that will blow the roof off Bridgestone. And we’ve got the pickers coming this year that can make that happen big time.” says Charlie Daniels. The all-star concert event is at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee on Wednesday, March 7, 2018 at 7 PM CT. Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster and Bridgestone Arena box office. A portion of the proceeds from 2018’s Volunteer Jam will be donated to The Journey Home Project, a 501(c)(3) non-profit co-founded by Daniels and manager David Corlew to help Veterans. Storme Warren will be returning as host. For the first time ever, rock great Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top will honor Daniels at the Jam. See official website for more information: VolunteerJammXX.com. NashvilleMusicGuide.com 30

TEXAS MUSIC NEWS:

The Texas Country Music Association, Inc. has announced that Brandon Rhyder will serve as spokesperson for the organization. Rhyder co-hosted the 2017 Texas Country Music Awards in his hometown of Carthage, TX on September 28 at the invitation of TCMA founders, Linda and Richard Wilson, and will also host the 2018 Awards. Rhyder, has released 7 studio and 2 live albums including a self-titled project in 2017. Details at texascountrymusic.org.

VIDEO NEWS:

Country newcomer Jess Taylor’s “Crooked Roots” video has been selected for Promo Only’s February 2018 Country Video issue. As the nation’s largest provider of promotional content for 24 years, Promo Only offers DJs, radio stations and entertainment venues unprecedented access to the hottest new releases at rates available exclusively to those who can generate public play. With platforms like Audio CD Series, Club Series, Video DVD Series and Digital Downloads. With 28 different genres of playlists for Country to Urban. This is the world’s leading video promotion company. More at www.promoonly.com.

One of only two female Country music artists to make The New York Times’ “54 Best Songs of 2017,” Ashley McBryde was the most added new artist and most added female artist with her debut Warner Bros. / Warner Music Nashville single, “A Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega.” The track, which hit No. 1 on SiriusXM’s The Highway Top 30 earlier this year, describes finding a muchneeded musical pick-me-up in an unexpected place. No stranger to the stage, McBryde has toured with some of the biggest names in country music, including Chris Stapleton and Eric Church. In conjunction with the success of “A Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega,” the singer/songwriter played select dates on the Sirius XM Presents: The Highway Finds Tour including stops in Washington, D.C., New York, and Nashville and will join Luke Combs in 2018 on tour. Music & tour updates at ashleymcbryde.com.

INDIE NEWS:

MUSIC NEWS:

Lewis Brice was named as one of ‘10 New Country Artists You Need to Know’ by Rolling Stone Country and has seen major streaming success with over 2.2 million streams and placement on various playlists across digital platforms, following the release of his self-titled EP in July 2017. Since then, Lewis has been burning up the road with Hank Williams Jr., LOCASH, Tyler Farr, The Cadillac Three, Lee Brice, Jerrod Niemann, Gary Allan and more in support of the project. Closing the 2017 year, Brice was honored to be asked to perform for the “Team USA Olympic Winterfest” in Nashville, and “Best Ex Ever” landed in MusicRow’s Top 40 Breakout chart. Tour dates and music at lewisbrice.com.

Indie country recording artist, Patrick Darrah, is set to release his first album titled Northern Truth The ten-song compilation (produced by Drew Smith and Kevin “Swine” Grantt) comes from Darrah’s newly-formed label, Double Darrah Entertainment, and will be available via all digital retail outlets (Amazon/iTunes/ Spotify/Rhapsody) on February 23, 2018. Darrah recruited some of Country music’s “who’s who” in the recording industry to round out the freshman project, featuring performances by James Mitchell on guitar (Cole Swindell/ Alison Krauss/LOCASH/Colt Ford), Robby Turner on pedal steel (Chris Stapleton/ Waylon Jennings/Loretta Lynn/The Highway Men) and background vocals by Monty Allen (Alan Jackson/Strayhorns). The debut single release from the album, “I Never Got Over You” (written by Brad Wolf and Don Goodman) is now at Country radio. Details and pre-orders at patrickdarrah.com.

SINGLE NEWS:

LABEL NEWS: (Warner Bros. Records)

Julia Capogrossi is kicking off the new year with a brand-new radio single, “Morgan.” This heartbreaking, emotional ballad follows her debut single, “Busch Light Budget,” and is available for download on iTunes and all digital retailers. “I went through

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a tough relationship, so I did the only thing I could — write,” Capogrossi said, who co-wrote the song. “I wasn’t going to release it, but after playing it out, everyone immediately loved it and was able to relate to it. I knew this had to be my next single.” This new release will jump-start another whirlwind year for Capogrossi as she heads out on the road for an extensive radio tour, following a successful 2017 than included performing in Argentina. More at JuliaCapogrossi.com.

NO. 1 NEWS:

GRAMMY NEWS:

The Recording Academy has announced its list of inductees into the 2018 GRAMMY Hall of Fame. 25 new recordings will be added - bringing the Hall’s display up to a total of 1,063 recordings - including a mix of both songs and albums that are at least 25 years old and have contributed qualitative or historical significance. One of my favorite songs “I Can’t Help Myself” by the Four Tops and “A Song For You” by Leon Russell (1970) are among the recordings to be inducted. Other inductees include recordings by Jimi Hendrix, Aerosmith, Public Enemy, Johnny Cash, Nirvana, Whitney Houston, Billie Holiday, Queen, David Bowie, The Rolling Stones and more. The two country artist are: Johnny Cash and Leon Russell.

Brett Young’s “Like I Loved You” marks his third number one, when it climbed to the top spot on both the Mediabase and Billboard Country Airplay Charts. The song also topped Shazam’s Country Chart, and follows his previous chart-toppers – Platinumselling lead single “Sleep Without You” and 2X Platinum smash “In Case You Didn’t Know,” the first Country song released in 2017 to reach Platinum-certification status and one of only two Country songs released last year to earn the honor. He has also earned a 2018 iHeartRadio Music Awards nomination for Best New Country Artist. Music, tour, info and more at brettyoungmusic.com. NOTE: The song is the third consecutive chart-topper from his self-titled debut album. Songwriters are Jesse Lee and Young.

RADIO NEWS:

INDUSTRY NEWS:

Entercom station in WDSY/Pittsburgh is bringing Texas Country Music to Pennsylvania with a new weekly show. Red Dirt Revival, which is hosted by Waynesburg, PA, native singer-songwriter Jackson Gardner, airs Sundays 9PM – midnight EST and started on January 7th. The show will feature music by artists like Aaron Watson, Pat Green and Eli Young Band. “The Texas Country Music genre is a rapidly growing sub genre of American country music,” says Entercom SVP/MM Michael Young. “These artists Talk about industry switcharooney. Kenny Chesney is leaving are making great contributions to country music overall, and we Sony Music to sign with Blue Chair Records/Warner Music are pleased to bring their great songs to the airwaves of Western Nashville. Kenny has called Sony home as his label for more Pennsylvania” It feels good when your office music circle is than 20 years and 22 albums. Of Chesney’s sixty-three singles, rocking the airwaves! Congrats to Jackson Gardner, he is one of twenty-eight have reached number one on this same chart, with our songwriters and artists that’s with publisher Lord & Thorns the first being “She’s Got It All” from 1997… On the other hand, Music Publishing. Way to go Jackson!! Go to radio.com and then Blake Shelton has re-signed with Warner that he has been his label call letters WDSY and listen in live on Sundays at 8 PM/CT home for his entire career (17+ years) and helped him garner 25 number one singles, 34 videos, 19 albums/EPs and over 60 RIAA WHO’S LOOKING * WHO’S CUTTING: certifications. With Kenny signing to Warner Brothers Records it becomes the most testosterone-fueled label in town, knocking Gary Allan | Brooke Eden | Chelsie Love | Dierks Bentley | Jess Capitol Records to second. Taylor | Runaway June | Tyler Farr

NashvilleMusicGuide.com

SONG NEWS:

M Brothers Osborne, Ryan Hurd, LANCO, Maddie & Tae, Maren Morris, Jon Pardi, Thomas Rhett, Cole Swindell and more. Mayor Megan Barry and the Nashville Predators were among the list of friends and family who helped celebrate. …

Singer-songwriter Jenny Tolman is premiering her new song “Something to Complain About” exclusively for readers of The Boot. See the video and Jenny’s comments at theboot.com/jennytolman-something-to-complain-about. Despite some of the witty/ snarky lyrics, the song is really about understanding how fortunate we all really are. Tolman has a feature on social media named ‘Jenny’s Joy Jar.’ Each week she tells viewers about something she is grateful and asks fans to do likewise. She adds viewers’ submissions to her ‘Joy Jar’ and then picks one, inviting that person to request a cover song for Tolman to sing. She tells The Boot that social media can seem inauthentic and she wants to find ways to make it more meaningful. Watch the video and learn about ‘Jenny’s Joy Jar’ at the URL, above, and find dozens of her videos at YouTube.com. Meanwhile, legendary country and comedy music artist Ray Stevens unveiled his two-year labor of love, the Ray Stevens CabaRay Showroom. The new 35,000 square foot dinner theatre TOUR NEWS: was packed with artists, music industry execs, media personalities, and politicians who came out to support the man who literally helped to pave the way for Nashville’s music scene. Those in attendance included Ricky Skaggs, Ralph Emery, the Gatlin Brothers, John Berry, Steve Wariner, Bill Anderson, TG Sheppard, Kelly Lang, T. Graham Brown, Jeannie Seely, Sharon White, Don Schlitz, Fred Foster, Bobby Goldsboro, Harold Bradley, Jerry Kennedy, Johnny Lee, Lee Roy Parnell, Williams & Ree, Jeff Bates, Mandy Barnett, Teea Goans, Charlene Tilton, Mark Ford, Bob Clement, Don Sundquist, Charlie Monk, Bill Cody, Larry Black, and more. Tickets and info at raystevenscabaray. com. NOTE: Nashville Mayor Megan Barry has officially declared, Wednesday, January 10, 2018, as Ray Steven Day in honor of the country and comedy music legend’s numerous music Bobby Marquez was just announced as one of the five finalists accomplishments and contributions to Music City, USA! for the Academy of Western Artists Pure Country Male Performer of the Year. The awards ceremony will be held in Fort Worth at Texas Christian University on Thursday, March 15th. Marquez For more Inside Track visit Nashvillemusicguide.com plans to share his latest single, “The Cowboy Way,” that weekend. The song is featured on his new EP along with a duet with the legendary Johnny Rodriguez. Marquez hits the road in February for Catch the first dates on his Honky Tonkin Cowboy Tour. Appropriately, Tyson Hanes perthe first shows will take place in the city he once called home, San Antonio, Texas. Details and tour schedule at bobbymarquez.com. forming at world

MEDIA NEWS:

famous “Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge”

Dierks Bentley and Ray Stevens both opened new Nashville venues in January. Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row Nashville is now open at the former Gruhn’s Guitars building on Lower Broadway. To break in the new restaurant and bar, Bentley with friends and family in tow celebrated with unscripted surprise performances by Lauren Alaina, Kelsea Ballerini, Bobby Bones, NashvilleMusicGuide.com 34

Facebook.com/pg/TysonHanesMusic

Nashville’s

Music venues

downtown HonkyTonk Central

329 Broadway 615-394-3457 honkytonkcentral.com

BB King Blues Bar

east nashville Basement East

The East Room

917 Woodland 615-645-9174 thebasementnashville.com

2412 Gallatin Ave 347-559-6031 facebook.com/theeastroom

3 Crow Bar

5 Spot

1024 Woodland St. 615-262-3345 3crowbar.com

LimeLight

201 Woodland 615-248-6334 limelightnashville.com

The Cobra

2511 Gallatin Ave 629-800-2515 facebook.com/the-cobra-nashville

1006 Forrest Ave 616-259-9891 the5spotlive.com

Lipstick Lounge 1400 Woodland 615-226-6343 thelipsticklounge.com

SoundCheck Nashville 750 Cowan St 615-726-1165 soundchecknashville.com

elliston place Cafe Coco

210 Louise Ave 615-321-2626 cafecoco.com

Exit/In

The End

2219 Elliston Place 615-321-4457 endnashville.com

Station Inn 402 12th Ave S 615-255-3307 stationinn.com

midtown

Hopsmith Tavern

1903 Division St. 615-327-8001 facebook.com/blue.bar.921

Loser’s

1911 Division St 615-327-3115 losersbar.com

Whiskey Rhythm

114 12th Ave N 615-678-7722 12andporter.com

Soulshine

1907 Division St 615-320-3472 facebook.com/soulshinenash

Rebar

1919 Division St 615-345-6298 rebarnashville.com

Winner’s

1811 Division 615-678-1898 facebook.com/whiskeyrhythm

1913 Division St 615-340-0004 losersbar.com

Bobby’s Idle Hour

The Row

1028 16th Ave S 615-726-0446 bobbysidlehour.com

sobro

110 Lyle Ave 615-321-1224 therownashville.com

Nudie’s Honky Tonk

305 Broadway 615-747-9078 cadillacranchnashville.com

Whiskey Bent

120 2nd Ave N 615-401-2580 whiskeybentsaloon.com

Back Alley Diner

Benchmark

Hard Rock Cafe

Puckett’s

210 Printers Alley 615-251-9002 ﬁddleandsteel.com

316 Broadway 615-242-4446 tinroofbroadway.com

Legends Corner

428 Broadway 615-248-6334 lengendscorner.com

220 Printers Alley 615-242-5837 bourbonstreetbluesandboogiebar.com

The Wheel

west end Commodore 2613 West End Ave 615-327-4707 debichampion.com

222 5th Ave S 615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.com

110 28th Ave N 615-320-4339 thecountrynashville.com

Springwater

green hills Blue Bird Cafe 4104 Hillsboro Rd 615-383-1416 bluebirdcafe.com

Ms Kelli’s

207 Printers Alley 615-255-4423 mskellis.com 222 Printers Alley 615-810-9631 skullsrainbowroom.com

Robert’s Western World

2101 Belcourt Ave 615-383-9140 belcourt.com

1402 Clinton 615-891-1781 marathonmusicworks.com

Loveless Cafe

Ri’chard’s Cafe

CabaRay

5724 River Rd. 615-327-4630 raystevenscabray.com

The Sutler

Santa’s Pub

south nashville 2600 Franklin Pk 615-840-6124 thesutler.com

The Basement

2025 8th Ave S 615-269-0221 zanienash.com

1604 8th Ave S 615-254-4801 grimeys.com

Zanie’s Comedy Club Grimey’s

Adventure Science Center 800 Fort Negley 615-862-5160 adventuresci.org

Miss Jeanne’s Dinner Theater

TPAC

Music City Bar & Grill

161 Rains Ave 615-244-4878 tennesseerep.com 422 Broadway 615-726-0463 tootsies.com

Wild Horse Saloon

120 2nd Ave N 615-251-1000 wildhorsesaloon.com 128 2nd Ave N 615-818-0128 georgejones.com

AJ’s Good Time Bar

505 Dedick St 615-255-2787 tpac.com

The Valentine

312 Broadway 615-202-6979 thevalentinenashville.com

600 9th Ave S 615-902-9566 missjeannes.com

opryland 2800 Opryland Dr 615-889-1000 gaylordhotels.com

2408 Music Valley Dr. 615-883-3866 scoreboardbar.net

2416 Music Valley Dr 615-883-2367 musiccitybar.com

Grand Ole Opry

2804 Opryland Dr 615-871-6779 opry.com

John A’s

2421 Music Valley Dr 615-885-1540 johnasresturant.com

Nashville Palace

2611 McGavock Pk 615-884-3004 nashvillepalace.net

Nashville Nightlife

2620 Music Valley Dr 615-885-5201 nashvillenightlife.com

Musician’s Hall of Fame

sylvan park

Famous Saloon

4425 Murphy Rd. 615-942-5052 neighborssylvanpark.com

301 6th Ave S 615-244-3263 musicianhalloffame.com 110 2nd Ave N 615-933-5000 famoussaloon.com

Neighbors

Blue Moon

525 Basswood Ave 615-356-6666 bluemoongrille.com

Big Shotz

115 2nd Ave N 615-244-9011 bigshotznashville.com

Swinging Doors

421 Broadway 615-678-4808 ajsgoodtimebar.com

111 4th Ace S. 615-736-5050 swingingdoorssaloon.com

322 Broadway 615-208-9080 margaritavillenashville.com

400 Broadway 629-203-7822 dierkswhiskeyrow.com

Whiskey Row

Ole Red

300 Broadway 629-203-7822 olered.com

Douglas Corner

2106 8th Ave S 615-298-1688 douglascorner.com

Scoreboard

308 Broadway 615-254-5460 facebook.com/crazytownnashville

2225 Brandsford Ave 615-593-1872 santaspub.com

1604 8th Ave S 615-254-8006 thebasementnashville.com

The Stage

412 Broadway 615-726-0504 thestageonbroadway.com

8400 Hwy 100 615-646-9700 lovelesscafe.com

4420 Whites Creek Pike 615-299-9590

Rippy’s

429 Broadway 615-244-7477 rippysbarandgrill.com

2025 Rosa L Parks Blvd 615-259-4343 milleniumhotels.com

Loretta Lynn Ranch

44 Hurricane Mills Rd 931-296-2800 lorettalynn.com

Gaylord Opryland

420 Broadway 615-248-4818 theﬁddle.com

Belcourt Taps

2117 Belcourt Ave 615-915-3622 belcourttaps.com

greater nashville

Second Fiddle

418 Broadway 615-726-2799 facebook.com/laylasbluegrassinn

South

1524 Demonbreun 615-724-1770 south-nashville.com

Marathon Music Works Maxwell House

Layla’s Bluegrass Inn

116 5th Ave N 615-889-3060 ryman.com

Tin Roof

1516 Demonbreun 615-313-7103 tinroofbars.com

hillsboro village

Belcourt Theatre

Ryman Auditorium

Margaritaville

115 27th Ave N 615-862-8431 thespringwater.com

Lonnie’s Western Room

208 Printers Alley 615-215-1122 lonnieswesternroom.com

1538 Demonbreun 615-864-7393 dawghousesaloon.com

Municipal Auditorium

417 4th Ave N 615-862-6390 nashvilleauditorium.com

The George Jones

The Country

500 Church St. 615-770-2772 pucketttsgrocery.com/nashville

Dawghouse Saloon

416 Broadway 615-244-9552 robertswesternworld.com

Tootsie’s

Country Music Hall of Fame

117 2nd Ave N 615-742-8887 benchmarknashville.com

Harp & Fiddle

1538 Demonbreun 615-252-1991 harpandﬁddlenashville.com

421 Broadway 615-390-6247 facbook.com/thewheel

Rockettown

1 Symphony Place 615-687-6500 nashvillesymphony.com

207 Broadway 615-457-3983 bootleggersnashville.com

Burbon Street Blues Bar Skull’s Ranbow Room

City Winery

Schermerhorn

Flying Saucer

Fiddle & Steel

TN Repertory Theatre

601 4th Ave S 615-843-4001 rocketown.com

419 Broadway 615-650-9333 crossroadsbar.com

Bootleggers Inn

919 Broadway 615-244-3340 fristcenter.com

Cannery-Mercy-HighWatt

609 Lafayette 615-324-1010 citywinery.com/nashville

Crossroads

The Frist

3rd & Lindsley

1 Cannery Row 615-251-3020 mercyloung.com

409 Broadway facebook.com/nudieshonkytonk nudieshonkytonk.com

111 10th Ave S 615-259-3039 beernurd.com

Crazytown

816 3rd Ave N. 615-259-9891 3andlindsley.com

501 Broadway 615-770-2000 bridgestonearena.com

217 Arcade Alley 615-251-3003 backalleydiner.com

The Listening Room 217 2nd Ave South 615-259-3600 listeningroomcafe.com

Acme Feed & Seed

101 Broadway 615-915-0888 theacmenashville.com

Tequila Cowboys

Barlines

250 5th Ave S 615-782-5300 barlinesnashville.com

411 Broadway 615-251-1515 paradiseparkonline.com

Bridgestone Arena

411 Broadway 615-747-5851 thebigbangbar.com

Tin Roof Broadway 12th & Porter

Paradise Park

Big Bang Piano Bar

100 Broadway 615-871-6779 hardrockcafe.com

2208 Elliston Place 615-321-3340 exitin.com

the gulch

152 2nd Ave S 615-256-2727 bbkingbluesclub.com

demonbruen

If you would like to list your venue, please submit your information to editor@nashvillemusicguide.com | ATTN: Music Venue Submission

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