Nashville Music Guide Artists Edition 2022 Vol. 30 Issue 201 by Nashville Music Guide

Volume 30 | Issue 201

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

NMG’s Must-Catch Moments for Country Radio Seminar 2022 Radio Spotlight with Keith Bradford Also Inside: CMT’s Next Women of Country, NMG’s Artists to Watch 2022, Inside Track on Music Row, Top Festivals for 2022, and more!

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Editor’s Notes Greetings & Salutations! It’s 2022, and while the world is still dealing with the pandemic, things are starting to get back to some semblance of normal well at least in the music industry. Live music and touring is returning and the year’s events look promising. We have missed it so and know that you have too and will never forget again how important live music can be for everyone whether it be financially or for the soul. We are excited to see the return of the Country Radio Broadcasters’ Country Radio Seminar this year. We think they have done a great job preparing us for a safe and in-person event. It’s going to be nice to see everyone again and be able to continue the traditions that have been a part of CRS in years past. This year boasts quite a line-up of sessions and musical performances that we are sure will not disappoint and which you can read more about in this issue, including our cover feature of CRS’s New Faces of Country Music Class of 2022. Speaking of new faces, we are also excited to have coverage in this issue of CMT’s Next Women of Country Class of 2022 and our own hot list of Artists to Watch in 2022. We are very excited about these new comers and are really loving the diverse blend of musical talent that we chose this year and think you will too. We also have highlighted a list of our Top Festivals that are slated to return this year. Music is alive and well and we could not be happier. As always, you will also find our very own Preshias Harris’ Inside Track on Music Row column which includes all the latest bizbuzz and news from Music Row and Beyond which is curated monthly by “Mama Preshias.” Her column is the longest running Country Music News column ... ever! We are so very honored that we have been able to share her column in Nashville Music Guide since 1995. As some of you have already noticed, our issues have now gone digital with the option to have a printed version mailed directly to your house. Like most industries, we too took a big hit from COVID and in order to keep the content and music flowing we have made this change. We are also currently in the process of adding all of our back catalogue online so that you can get copies of Nashville Music Guide dating all the way back to Issue one soon! Visit Magcloud.com and search Nashville Music Guide. We want to thank you all for your continued support of Nashville Music Guide and we are looking forward to all that 2022 will bring us in hopes that this year is better than the last. Best, Randy Rich & Amanda Andrews NashvilleMusicGuide.com

Publisher & CEO Randy Rich Editor@NashvilleMusicGuide.com 615-973-2188 Managing Editor Amanda Andrews akandrews@NashvilleMusicGuide.com 615-481-5837 Contributors Preshias Harris, Jessica Northey, Rick Amburgey, Sherryl Craig, Steve Kilgore, Jessica Andrews, Captain Joe Kent, Cilene Bosch, Krys Midgett, Jan Braun Photography Bob Coan, Jerry Overcast, Randi Radcliff, Mara Birdwell, Catrina Engelby, Alexandra Arielle, Danielle Del Valle Founder Dan Wunsch HOW TO REACH NMG Press releases, CD Reviews Editor@NashvilleMusicGuide.com To check out the digital version of this issue as well as back issues of Nashville Music Guide scan the QR Code

Features 6

Contents

23 Wareen Zeiders 24 Drew Green

CMT’s Next Women of Country

Alana Springsteen

Artists to Watch in 2022

Chayce Beckham

Ashley Cooke

Lily Rose

Conner Smith

Morgan Wade

Radio Spotlight: Keith Bradford

Cooper Alan

Zach Bryan

Spencer Crandall

Callie Twisselman

Boy Named Banjo

CRS 2021 Highlights

Nate Smith

CRS 2021 New Faces

Kat & Alex

Tyler Braden

Kenny Chesney Celebrates 34th No. 1

Drew Parker

Top Festivals For 2022

Callista Clark

Chase Matthew

ERNEST

Laci Kaye Booth

Willie Jones

Departments 4

Eddie Montgomery Mitchell Tenpenny Hannah Bethel Big Machine Travid Denning

Aaron Lewis Music City Media Tracy Lawrence Lauren Alaina

Country Music Success Stories Johnny Dailey Jason Cramer Jason Aldean

MusicRow Country Breakout Awards CJ Solar Kip Moore Lady A

Luke Bryan 30th Annual Tin Pan South Gene Watson Thomas Rhett

Texas Hill Who’s Looking & Who’s Cutting

Music Venues

Editor’s Letter

Sounding Board

The Oak Ridge Boys

Inside Track 43 44

Dustin Collins Wade Bowen Smokeshow Ent. Cole Swindell Raleigh Keegan Tim McGraw Hargus “Pig” Robbins

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Last month, CMT revealed the ten artists named to its prestigious “CMT NEXT WOMEN OF COUNTRY” (NWOC) franchise, the brand’s long-running effort to support and expose developing female talent. For the second consecutive year, CMT Hot 20 Countdown officially introduced the class of 2022 during a dedicated three-hour special episode on CMT. The special featured exclusive interviews and performances with each new NWOC member, plus an exclusive interview with NWOC alumna (2015) Maren Morris who reflected on her experience with the program. The “CMT Next Women of Country” Class of 2022 is Amythyst Kiah, Callista Clark, Camille Parker, Jenna Paulette, Julia Cole, Laci Kaye Booth, Lily Rose, Madeline Edwards, Miko Marks, and Morgan Wade. “We are so excited to welcome our newest class of ultratalented female artists into our beloved CMT Next Women of Country franchise,” said Leslie Fram, SVP of Music & Talent at CMT. “Each is boldly blazing their own spirited path on their own terms, destined to make a lasting impact on country music. We celebrate this diverse group of women and look forward to supporting their work and their careers in 2022 and beyond.” Over the next year, the new CMT NWOC class will receive cross-brand support for their music and videos across CMT, CMT Music, PlutoTV’s ‘CMT Equal Play’ channel, CMT Hot 20 Countdown, CMT.com and @CMT social channels, in addition to cross-promotional opportunities for ViacomCBS’ MTV Entertainment Group brands with live events, the

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ViacomCBS Times Square NYC Billboard and more. As part of the brand’s CMT Equal Play initiative, a dedicated effort to elevating all underrepresented voices in country music, CMT also provides its NWOC access to social impact and artist advocacy opportunities designed to assist them in supporting charitable causes and social issues. These resources will be provided by Nashville-based social impact firm, The Change Agent·cy. A staunch advocate for country music’s female artists, CMT first launched its “Next Women of Country” campaign in 2013 as a substantial, meaningful effort to support and expose developing female talent, both signed and unsigned, in a male-dominated format. The initiative has grown significantly since its inception, showcasing emerging female artists across all CMT screens, including CMT and CMT Music, various digital series, and six tours anchored by superstar acts including Jennifer Nettles, Martina McBride, Sara Evans and Tanya Tucker. This year’s 2022 class marks a total of 95 female acts that have been named as part of the program, including notable alumni of the franchise who have achieved both commercial and critical acclaim: Ashley McBryde, Brandy Clark, Brittney Spencer, Carly Pearce, Gabby Barrett, Ingrid Andress, Kacey Musgraves, Kelsea Ballerini, Lainey Wilson, Lauren Alaina, Lindsay Ell, Maren Morris, Mickey Guyton and Tenille Arts, to name a few. For updates and more information, visit NextWomenCMT. com, follow @CMT on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and TikTok and use #CMTNextWomen to join the conversation.

Amythyst Kiah

Julia Cole

Camille Parker

Morgan Wade

Laci Kaye Booth

Amythyst Kiah’s debut album, Wary + Strange marks the glorious collision of two vastly different worlds: the iconoclastic alt-rock that first sparked her musical passion, and the roots/old-time-music scene where she’s found breakout success. Along with tapping into the vibrant musicality she honed in part through her studies in East Tennessee State University’s Bluegrass, Old Time, Country Music program, the Chattanooga-bred singer/ songwriter expands on the uncompromising artistry she’s displayed as a member of Our Native Daughters - an allwomen-of-color supergroup whose Kiah-penned standout “Black Myself” earned a Grammy nomination for Best American Roots Song and won Song of the Year at the Folk Alliance International Awards.

Julia Cole has amassed over 55 million streams and gone viral with over 13.5 million views of her song “SidePiece” on TikTok. The Houston-based Cole got her start performing the Star-Spangled Banner before her own volleyball games, and soon found herself performing for NFL, MLB, MLS, NASCAR, INDYCAR, and ESPN events before crowds of 75,000. She’s a sponsored ambassador for Mizuno Athletic Wear and has helped raise thousands of dollars for Tennessee’s Boys & Girls Clubs’ sports programs. Cole has opened for such acts as Dan + Shay, Dierks Bentley, Kane Brown, Jon Pardi, Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, Michael Ray, and more.

California-born and North Carolina raised Camille Parker’s debut single “The Flame’’ has earned over 1.5 million on-demand streams and charted in the top 10 of Apple Music’s country charts in over 17 countries. Parker’s arresting vocal delivery, contemporary songwriting and genre-fluid approach to production has resulted in collaborations with some of Nashville’s brightest and most celebrated creators. Parker is currently recording her debut EP with GRAMMY award-winning and platinum-selling producers Chris McClenney and David Phelps. Most recently she supported Next Women of Country alumnae Brittney Spencer on her first headline American tour.

A native of Floyd, Virginia, HITS said Morgan Wade is “Kris Kristofferson as a Gen Z woman.” With her unabashed debut Reckless, she landed on TIME, Rolling Stone, New York Times, Stereogum, FADER and Rolling Stone Country’s various Best Album and Songs of 2021. Produced by Jason Isbell + the 400 Unit guitarist Sadler Vaden and Paul Ebersold, the trio worked to create a song cycle that pulled the lean rock of Tom Petty through a modern take on country -- and achieved a No. 1 SiriusXM Highway track with “Wilder Days.” As the acoustic guitar-driven “Days” scales country radio, Reckless Deluxe expands the conversation. Having toured with Lucero last fall, she joins Luke Combs’ stadiums plays in 2022.

After reaching the Top 5 on the 17th season of American Idol, Laci Kaye Booth moved to Nashville, signed a record and publishing deal, and dove deeper into her songwriting and musicianship. The Texas native released her self-titled EP in 2021 on BMLG, co-writing all eight tracks. Produced by Dann Huff, they honed in on her authentic and honest sound. Her current single “Shuffle” is now making the rounds at country radio.

Jenna Paulette

Madeline Edwards

Miko Marks

Lily Rose

Callista Clark

Making her way to Music California born, Texas Georgia native Lily Rose At 18-years old, Callista City in 2003, Miko Marks raised singer/songwriter garnered viral and critical Clark is the youngest received well-deserved Madeline Edwards has acclaim with her debut hit member ever named to accolades, yet her efforts transcended musical “Villain,” a runaway hit that the CMT Next Women of to be fully embraced by boundaries, incorporating recently received a RIAA Country franchise. Like so jazz, soul, gospel and country the industry proved to be Gold certification, a first many young and talented elusive. After a 13-year influences into her unique for Rose. She released her singer/songwriters that sound. Currently working on hiatus, Marks returns, latest project Stronger Than paved the way before her, eager to spread not only her debut album, Edwards I Am last year. With her this Georgia native wields her music, but a message of focus firmly on integrity, has already caught the her creative gifts as both a attention of the industry with unity and outspokenness for Rose’s bold mix of personal defense and an instrument notable features including a Black musicians in country lyricism and distinctive of peace as she puts her heart performance on Lady Gaga’s music and beyond. Based language meets the hooky on display with her debut in Oakland, Calif., Marks Born This Way Tribute sonics of a post-genre collection Real To Me. Her Record with supergroup, The works towards an everfanbase, as pure-Country debut single, “It’s ‘Cause I evolving dream of creating confessions merge with Hip- Am” has entered the Top Highwomen, and opening art that is not stereotyped slots for Jordin Sparks and Hop beats and R&B flow 20 as Country radio’s most or pigeonholed by a specific –plus representation where successful new artist debut Grammy award winner genre and is created with Raphael Saadiq. Her latest there was none before. All of 2021. no borders or boundaries. single, “The Road’’ has told, it gives new credence Her most recent album, Our to her “groundbreaking” garnered over 1 million streams. Edwards made her Country, was released in label. Rose also joined Chris March 2021, followed later Lane’s Fill Them Boots Tour national television debut in the year by her EP Race at the 2021 CMA Awards, throughout Fall 2021 and Records. She is currently where she sang alongside early 2022 and scored her writing new music. CMA nominee Mickey first ACM nomination for Guyton and Brittney Spencer. Best New Female Artist. NashvilleMusicGuide.com 7

Singer-songwriter Jenna Paulette is part of Nashville’s growing wave of female artists who are rewriting the rules and charting their own paths. The Lewisville, Texas native grew up moving cattle on her family’s ranch in Oklahoma, honing her voice singing in church and the great outdoors. Paulette earned a marketing degree at the Savannah College of Art and Design, and ultimately settled in Nashville, opening for such acts as Mason Ramsey, Parmalee, John Michael Montgomery and Clay Walker. Paulette’s success grew via TikTok, Pinterest and Instagram and she signed a publishing deal with Brad Paisley’s Sea Gayle Music last year.

NMG’s 22 Artists to Watch 2022

These upcoming artists have caught our attention and we think they will catch yours too. Full Story: www.NashvilleMusicGuide.com/ArtistsToWatch2022

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#22

COOPER ALAN

NORTH CAROLINA NATIVE NASHVILLE-BASED ARTIST With his deep voice, Cooper Alan trades in thoughtful, modern country music that nods to the genre’s ‘90s radio heyday and plumbs the depths of emotion. LABEL: Cooped Up Records HOT RELEASE: “Can’t Dance” MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Tom Petty, Sister Hazel, the Zac Brown Band, Kid Rock, Kenney Chesney, the Allman Brothers Band, Van Halen and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. IF YOU LIKE: Walker Hayes, Kameron Marlowe, Travis Denning STAY CONNECTED: www.cooperalanmusic.com www.tiktok.com/@cooperalan1 www.instagram.com/cooperalanmusic

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OKLAHOMA NATIVE LABEL/TEAM: Warner Records HOT RELEASE: “Condemned” MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Jason Isbell, Tyler Childers, and Evan Felker (Turnpike Troubadours) IF YOU LIKE: Sturgill Simpson, Riley Green, and Tyler Childers STAY CONNECTED: www.zachbryan.com www.tiktok.com/@zachlanebryan www.instagram.com/zachlanebryan

#21

ZACH BRYAN

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#20 SPENCER CRANDALL

COLORADO NATIVE NASHVILLE-BASED ARTISTS TEAM: OH Creative HOT RELEASE: “My Person” MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, Justin Timberlake, and Drake PERFORMED WITH: Dustin Lynch, Morgan Wallen, Chris Lane, LANCO, Big & Rich, Scotty McCreery and Josh Tuner IF YOU LIKE: Brett Young, Dan + Shay, Kane Brown STAY CONNECTED: www.spencercrandallmusic.com Socials: @SpencerCrandall

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#19

CALLIE TWISSELMAN

CALIFORNIA NATIVE NASHVILLE-BASED ARTIST LABEL: Cash is King HOT RELEASE: “Cowboy” MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Shania Twain, Dolly Parton, George Strait IF YOU LIKE: Runaway June, Southern Halo, Maggie Rose STAY CONNECTED: www.callietwisselman.com www.instagram.com/callietwiss NashvilleMusicGuide.com

BOY NAMED BANJO NASHVILLE-BASED GROUP LABEL: UMG Nashville HOT RELEASE: “Go Out Dancing”

#18

BAND MEMBERS: William Reames, Willard Logan, Barton Davies, Sam McCullough, and Ford Garrard MUSICAL INFLUENCES: The Steeldrivers, John Hartford, and The Infamous Stringdusters IF YOU LIKE: Moon Taxi, Kings of Leon, The Dirty Guv’nahs STAY CONNECTED: www.boynamedbanjo.com www.instagram.com/boynamedbanjo www.tiktok.com/@boynamedbanjo

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#17

CALIFORNIA NATIVE NASHVILLE-BASED ARTIST LABEL: Sony Music Nashville HOT RELEASE: “I Don’t Wanna Go To Heaven” Featuring a mix of gritty backwoods soul, rock ‘n’ roll swagger and velvet-thunder vocals, with a unique connection to life’s inner tug of war. IF YOU LIKE: Kameron Marlowe, Adam Doleac, Mitchell Tenpenny STAY CONNECTED: www.natesmithofficial.com www.instagram.com/natesmith www.tiktok.com/@natesmithmusic

NATE SMITH

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#16 KAT & ALEX

NASHVILE-BASED DUO LABEL: Sony Music Nashville HOT RELEASE: “Most Nights” MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Maná, Marc Anthony, Celia Cruz, Garth Brooks, Tim McGraw and Alejandro Fernandez FUN FACT: American Idol Contestants in 2020 IF YOU LIKE: Restless Road, Tenille Arts, Dustin Lynch STAY CONNECTED: www.katandalex.com www.instagram.com/katandalex www.tiktok.com/@katandalex

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ALABAMA NATIVE NASHVILLE-BASED ARTIST LABEL: Warner Music Nashville HOT RELEASE: “Try Losing One” MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Eric Church, Alan Jackson and Keith Urban to singer / songwriters including John Mayer, Ron Pope and Jason Reeves TOURED/PERFORMED WITH: Brantley Gilbert, Luke Combs, Gary Allan, Granger Smith IF YOU LIKE: Walker Montgomery, Travis Denning, Adam Dollar STAY CONNECTED: www.tylerbraden.com www.instagram.com/tylerbradenmusic/ NashvilleMusicGuide.com

#15

TYLER BRADEN

GEORGIA NATIVE NASHVILLE-BASED ARTIST LABEL: Warner Music Nashville HOT RELEASE: “While You’re Gone” MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Ronnie Dunn, Travis Tritt Randy Travis and Alan Jackson SONGWRITING: In addition to co-writing the hit “Forever After All” for Luke Combs, Parker has penned other notable songs, including co-writes on the feisty, high-energy cut “1, 2 Many,” the soulful ballads “Lonely One” and “Nothing Like You” as well for Luke Combs, and “Homemade” for Jake Owen, IF YOU LIKE: Walker Montgomery, Tucker Beathard, Riley Green

#14

STAY CONNECTED: www.drewparkermusic.com www.instagram.com/drewparkerplays www.tiktok.com/@drewparkerplays

DREW PARKER

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#13

CALLISTA CLARK

GEORGIA NATIVE LABEL: Big Machine Label Group HOT RELEASE: “It’s Cause I Am “ MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Travis Tritt, Randy Travis, The Judds, Ingrid Andress, Eva Cassidy IF YOU LIKE: Carly Pearce, Tensile Arts, Caylee Hammack FUN FACT: Callista is part of CMT’s Next Women of Country Class of 2022 STAY CONNECTED: www.callistaclark.com www.instagram.com/callistaclark www.tiktok.com/@callistaclark

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TENNESSEE NATIVE NASHVILLE-BASED ARTIST LABEL: Holler Boy Records HOT RELEASE: “Country Line” Chase released his new album Born For This in February 2022 which will include him hitting the road and playing venues across the nation. IF YOU LIKE: HARDY, Travis Denning, Hosier STAY CONNECTED: www.chasematthew.com www.instagram.com/iamchasematthew www.tiktok.com/@iamchasematthew

#12

CHASE MATTHEW

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#11 ERNEST

NASHVILLE NATIVE & BASED ARTIST LABEL: Big Loud Records

HOT RELEASE: “Flower Shops” (ft. Morgan Wallen) Ernest has now scored four #1 smashes with Morgan Wallen’s “More Than My Hometown,” Florida Georgia Line’s “I Love My Country,” Chris Lane’s “Big, Big Plans,” and Sam Hunt’s “Breaking Up Was Easy In The 90’s.” A MULTI-PLATINUM hit with Diplo and Wallen’s “Heartless” is also part of his growing catalog, and other notable cuts include Lane’s current single, “Fill Them Boots,” Kane Brown’s “One Mississippi,” FGL’s “Blessings,” and more – including 11 tracks on Wallen’s Dangerous: The Double Album. MUSICAL INFLUENCES: John Mayer, Alan Jackson, Eminem, Jack Johnson, George Strait IF YOU LIKE: David Lee Murphy, Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, FGL FUN FACT: His podcast Just Being ERNEST kicked off in the spring of 2020 and has hosted bigname guests including Keith Urban, Diplo, Jason Aldean and more. STAY CONNECTED: www.ernestofficial.com www.instagram.com/ernest www.tiktok.com/@ernest615 NashvilleMusicGuide.com

#10

LACI KAYE BOOTH

TEXAS NATIVE NASHVILLE-BASED ARTIST LABEL: Big Machine Label Group HOT RELEASE: “Shuffle” MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Merle Haggard, Stevie Nicks, Norah Jones, Katy Perry, Patsy Cline, Elvis Presley, The Chicks, Shania Twain FUN FACT: Placed Top 5 on Season 17 of American Idol IF YOU LIKE: Hailey Whitters, Kalie Shorr, Rachel Wammack STAY CONNECTED: www.lacikayebooth.com www.instagram.com/lacikayebooth www.tiktok.com/@lacikayebooth

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WILLIE JONES

LOUISIANA NATIVE NASHVILLE-BASED ARTIST LABEL: The Penthouse/Sony Nashville LATEST RELEASE: “American Dream” MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Kanye West, Taylor Swift, Hank Williams, Randy Travis, Josh Turner TOURED WITH: Dwight Yoakam, Willie Nelson, Chase Rice, Eli Young Band FUN FACT: Jones was a contestant on The X Factor in 2012 IF YOU LIKE: FGL, Jimmie Allen, Kane Brown STAY CONNECTED: www.williejonesmusic.com www.instagram.com/williejones www.tiktok.com/@williejones

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PENNSYLVANIA NATIVE LABEL: Warner Nashville LATEST RELEASE: “Burn It Down” MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Tyler Childers, Morgan Wallen, Chris Stapleton, Luke Combs IF YOU LIKE: Tyler Childers, Zach Bryan, Morgan Wallen, Whiskey Myers STAY CONNECTED: www.warrenzeiders.com www.instagram.com/warrenzeiders www.tiktok.com/@warrenzeiders

WARREN ZEIDERS

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TENNESSEE NATIVE TEAM: Warner/Chappell Music Cornman Music HOT RELEASE: “Hooch”

DREW GREEN

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MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Sammy Kershaw, Alan Jackson, Dr. Dre FUN FACT: In 2020, he submitted over 120 songs to his publisher. IF YOU LIKE: Mitchell Tenpenny, Dustin Lynch, Jordan Davis STAY CONNECTED: www.drewgreen.com www.instagram.com/drewgreen/ www.tiktok.com/@drewgreen

ALANA SPRINGSTEEN

VIRGINIA BEACH NATIVE NASHVILLE-BASED ARTIST LABEL/TEAM: Warehouse West Entertainment, SB Projects, UTA HOT RELEASE: “Always Gonna Love You” MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Shania Twain, Faith Hill, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, LANY, Sam Hunt, Ariana Grande FUN FACT: Springsteenis is a Ryan Seacrest Foundation Celebrity Ambassador IF YOU LIKE: Mickey Guyton, Abby Anderson, Carrie Underwood STAY CONNECTED: www.alanaspringsteen.com www.instagram.com/alanaspringsteen www.tiktok.com/@alanaspringsteen

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CALIFORNIA NATIVE NASHVILLE-BASED ARTIST TEAM: 19 Recordings/BBR Music Group/ Wheelhouse HOT RELEASE: “Can’t Do Without Me” (with Lindsay Ell) MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Chris Stapleton, Tyler Childers, Kolton Moore, The Clever Few American Idol Season 19 Winner - he was the first ever show winner to claim the title with an original song. IF YOU LIKE: Kolton Moore, Laine Hardy, Morgan Wallen STAY CONNECTED: www.chaycebeckham.com www.instagram.com/chaycebeckhammusic

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CHAYCE BECKHAM

NASHVILLE-BASED ARTIST LABEL/TEAM: Back Blocks Music

ASHLEY COOKE

HOT RELEASE: “Good Goodbye” (ft. Jimmie Allen) MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Rascal Flatts, Jason Aldean, Florida Georgia Line Cooke won Belmont’s Country Showcase in 2019 Cooke launched The 615 House with co-creator Chris Reedier. 615 House is a collective of content creators. Members of the “collab houses” promote one another’s social media posts, work together to produce content, and give each other emotional support. But unlike the Los Angeles houses, 615 House is comprised entirely of country musicians. IF YOU LIKE: Gabby Barrett, Maddie & Tae, RaeLynn STAY CONNECTED: www.ashleycooke.com www.instagram.com/theashleycooke www.tiktok.com/@theashleycooke

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#3 GEORGIA NATIVE NASHVILLE BASED ARTIST LABEL/TEAM: Big Loud Records, Back Blocks Music, Republic Records Country HOT RELEASE: “STRONGER THAN I AM” MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Rascal Flatts, Keith Urban, Bruce Springsteen, Katy Perry Rose joined Chris Lane’s Fill Them Boots Tour throughout Fall 2021 and in early 2022, she scored her first ACM nomination for Best New Female Artist. IF YOU LIKE: Priscilla Block, Ashley McBryde, Carly Pearce

LILY ROSE

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STAY CONNECTED: www.lilyrosemusic.net www.instagram.com/lilyrosemusic www.tiktok.com/@lilyrosemusicofficial

CONNER SMITH NASHVILLIAN & BASED ARTIST

LABEL/TEAM: Big Machine Label Group/ Valory Music Co. HOT RELEASE: “Learn From It” MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Johnny Cash, Randy Travis, Kenny Chesney, Eric Church

WRITTEN WITH: Ashley Gorley, Zach Crowell, Josh Osborne, Jessie Jo Dillon, Hunter Phelps PERFORMED WITH: Sam Hunt, Kane Brown, Kip Moore, Thomas Rhett Conner has been a BMI writer since he was 9. IF YOU LIKE: Dylan Scott, Dustin Lynch, Sam Hunt STAY CONNECTED: www.connersmithmusic.com www.instagram.com/connersmithmusic www.tiktok.com/@connersmith

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Morgan Wade blasted onto the country scene in early 2021 with the devastatingly honest LP that has gone on to receive rave reviews from critics. Produced by GRAMMY Award winners Sadler Vaden and Paul Ebersold, Reckless has resonated as a confident debut that introduces the young singer-songwriter. Wade grew up keeping her writing and her singing to herself, convinced her voice, which differed from those coming from country radio, wasn’t good enough to share. At 19, Wade put her backing band the Stepbrothers together via Craigslist and discovered she loved the stage and decided to take her writing and voice public. A Floyd, Virginia native, Wade grew up surrounded by bluegrass, but she possesses an affinity for pop and rock in her writing, melding her influences to create a sound uniquely her own, catching the attention of Sadler Vaden, long-time guitarist for Jason Isbell as well as an acclaimed solo artist. Working alongside Sadler Vaden as producer, long-time guitarist for Jason Isbell as well as an acclaimed solo artist, and Paul Ebersold as engineer, the trio worked together on a new set of songs, spread out over the course of two separate weeks in the studio, shaping songs Wade has written over the years and developing brand new tracks, including “Wilder Days.” SiriusXM’s The Highway began playing Wade’s single “Wilder Days” in May 2021 when the artist was named as a prestigious “Highway Find” artist. Wade was subsequently signed to Sony Music and “Wilder Days” has since garnered 20 million streams. “Wilder Days” earned the second largest add week for a debut single this year as 41 first week stations added the song. “Wilder Days” was a release off of Wade’s Debut album Reckless. Upon Reckless’s release, Wade earned her first appearance on the Billboard Heatseekers and Emerging Artist charts, followed

by a feature for the outlet’s “Emerging Artists Spotlight,” and has landed on over 30 prominent playlists, including the cover of Spotify’s coveted Indigo playlist and Apple Music’s Country Risers of the Week. Following standout opening stints with Ashley McBryde, Anderson East, American Aquarium, Lucero, and Jason Isbell. With no signs of slowing down, Wade will kick off the new year opening select dates on Ryan Hurd’s Tour De Pelago and will support Luke Combs on multiple stadium dates throughout the summer. She is also slated to appear at C2C Festival in London (March 11), Glasgow (March 12), and Dublin (March 13). Reckless and “Wilder Days” have been recognized as: * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

25 Best Country and Americana Albums of 2021 (No. 1, Reckless) – Rolling Stone 10 Best Nashville Albums of the Year (No. 2, Reckless) – Tennessean 10 Best Country Albums of 2021 (No. 4, Reckless) – Stereogum 11 Best Country Albums of 2021 (No. 4, Reckless) – Taste of Country 10 Best Country Albums of 2021 (No. 5, Reckless) – Billboard 50 Best Albums of 2021 (No. 13, Reckless) – Rolling Stone 60 Best Albums of the Year (Reckless) – Boston Globe 20 Best Country and Americana Albums of 2021 (Reckless) – Wide Open Country Best 12 Debut Albums in Country Music in 2021 (No. 5, Reckless) – Lyric Magazine 10 Best Songs of 2021 (No. 9, “Wilder Days”) – TIME 15 Best Country Songs of 2021 (No. 12, “Wilder Days”) – Billboard 100 Best Songs of 2021 (No. 13, “Wilder Days”) – The FADER 50 Best Songs of 2021 (No. 14, “Wilder Days”) – Rolling Stone 20 Best Country and Americana Songs of 2021 (“Wilder Days”) – Wide Open Country Top 21 Country Songs of 2021 (No. 13, “Wilder Days”) – Taste of Country Top 25 Country Songs of 2021 (No. 4, “Wilder Days”) – Off the Record

LABEL/TEAM: Artists Nashville/ Sony Music, Thirty Tigers/Ladylike Records IF YOU LIKE: Ashley McBryde, Pistol Annies, Kacey Musgraves, Lainey Wilson MORE INFO: www.morganwademusic.com www.instagram.com/morganwademusic www.tiktok.com/@morganwademusic

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The Oak Ridge Boys Christmas Cheer and Greatest Hits AT Opryland show Review By Preshias Harris | Photo Credit: John Mir

across to what they called the ‘rocking chair set’ (thank you Cracker Barrel!), an intimate setting where each of them shared the special times with their families when they were growing up. Duane Allen told the story of his spiritual family time, gathering around the piano when his siblings come home. The Oaks sang a verse of “Silent Night” with the audience joining in to finish the final verse. So beautiful!

The Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville proudly hosted The Oak Ridge Boys, in residence over the holidays. Boasting one of the longest back stories in the entertainment industry, the Oaks can trace their history back to the 1940s when they were known as the Oak Ridge Quartet. They became popular in Southern gospel genre, changing their name to The Oak Ridge Boys in the mid 1960s and more than twenty-five ‘Boys’ have been part of the group over the past seventy-five years. Enough of the backstory! I attended the opening night of what was a thirty-one-show residency, and, like all the other enthusiastic members of the capacity audience, I wish everyone could see the Oaks’ Christmas show, aptly titled ‘Christmas in Tennessee’ that marks the resort’s 38th annual ‘A Country Christmas’ event. The ‘Christmas in Tennessee’ Dinner Show featured a delicious holiday meal prepared by the resort’s culinary team followed by The Oak Ridge Boys and their band performing Christmas classics, new favorites, and a few of the timeless hits that have shaped their legendary career. After kicking off the show with “All I Want For Christmas,” Joe Bonsall remarked that they have performed an annual Christmas show for thirty years, saying, “We are going to play some of our greatest hits first.” With a laugh, he added that this was so no one would be shouting “Play ‘Elivira’” in the middle of “Silent Night.” Sure enough, the set began with one of my favorites, “American Made,” then along came the others including “Y’all Come Back Saloon” and the Eddy Raven-written smash, “Thank God For Kids” … and of course “Elvira.” If I am not mistaken, everybody in the room was singing every word. Of course, the show included many of the Oaks’ Christmas songs from their albums over the years that have become fan favorites. A highlight of the show saw the Oaks move

William Golden told us of coming home to south Alabama after he had moved to Nashville and shared the story of “Thank God for Kids.” He also told us of the time he was in a cotton field and decided he didn’t want to pick cotton for a living. Because his family was known locally for their musical talents, he believed the road was open so he headed to Nashville. Richard Sterban took his turn and told about the inspiration for recording their new album and what they wanted it to represent. He said that producer Dave Cobb came to see their show a couple of years ago and wanted to capture the feel of singing on the front porch. The result: The Oaks’ 2021 album Front Porch Singin’ (Lightning Rod/Thirty Tigers), their fourth collaboration with Grammy-winning producer Cobb. His vision perfectly captures the essence of The Oak Ridge Boys. After a short visit from Santa Claus and the kids getting hugs, the Oaks rolled into their distinctive perfect harmonies as they performed “Swing Low Sweet Chariot.” Joe Bonsall told us what they always keep at the forefront of their Christmas show music: the baby Jesus lying in a manger. The reason for the season is Christ’s birthday. The Oak Ridge Boys have sold over 41 million units worldwide and are synonymous with “America, apple pie, baseball, and country music.” In addition to their awards and accolades in the country music field, the Oaks have garnered five GRAMMY® Awards, nine GMA DOVE Awards, and two American Music Awards. The group—Joe Bonsall, Duane Allen, William Lee Golden, and Richard Sterban, members of the prestigious Country Music Hall of Fame (2015 Inductees) and the Grand Ole Opry (since 2011)—is known worldwide as one of recording history’s most extraordinary musical successes. They have charted single after single and album after album, celebrating two double-platinum albums and more than 30 Top 10 hits, including No. 1 chart-toppers “Elvira,” “Bobbie Sue,” “Thank God For Kids,” “American Made,” and “Y’All Come Back Saloon,” among dozens more. For more information and to view upcoming tour dates for The Oak Ridge Boys, please visit www.oakridgeboys.com.

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KILGORE COUNTRY REVIEW: Radio Spotlight with Keith Bradford artist, but he is also a Honorary Inductee of the Rhode Island Country Music Hall of Fame (2005). The walls of his studio are covered with memorabilia, awards, and photos of his music career with famous artists such as Kitty Wells, Porter Wagoner, Roy Acuff, and many more. In the days of Opryland USA, Keith was featured on their show Country Music USA. The show traced country music through the years and included many of its various styles. Each year auditions were held around the country to find talented young musicians for its cast. Bradford won his audition and was a cast member from 1977 through 1980. After his experience at Opryland USA, he toured with Kitty Wells for over 16 years as her bandleader for the Tennessee Mountain Boys. A Nashville treasure sits behind the historical microphone that once was used by the Queen of Country Music, Ms. Kitty Wells, during the NBRNOnline.com’s Ya Gotta Luv it Radio Show with Legendary Country music industry Icon and Disc Jockey, Mr Keith Bradford. He begins his show every morning interviewing traditional Country music legends, up and coming artists, interacting with world wide audiences and fans, as well as talking to his special guests while sharing their great music on his show. Ya Gotta Luv It airs Monday thru Friday at 9 AM/CT on NBRN.FM out of Madison, Tenn. As a young Rhode Island boy, Keith’s grandparents would ask him to play the accordion and would toss nickels to him as he played so the family could dance to the Polka. That was his first paying gig. From that moment on he has entertained thousands of crowds from television and radio to the Grand Ole Opry stage, and touring all around the world. Bringing the joy of music to the ears of everyone he has met. Keith has recorded many albums, and has over 500 songs to his credit as songwriter which makes Keith one of the few Country songwriters in history to have written that many songs with various songwriters including Barbara Blevins, Clyde R Birkla and various other professional songwriters worldwide. Not only is he an accomplished, award-winning

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Bradford owns and operates KMA Records with his wife. Together they have produced, recorded & developed various talented artists throughout their Country music career. They have also helped independent artists from all over the world to have their music played on worldwide radio with his show on nbrnonline.com, which he owns with his Brother Mike Bradford. One of Keith’s proudest accomplishments was being inducted into the IDDS (Independent Superstars “Songwriters” Hall of Fame) in South Africa. With a smile on his face, Keith has been quoted as saying “I never dreamed my little songs would be recognized by such a prestigious organization. I have a huge smile on my face right now….” At 17, Keith left his dream behind to join The Navy, Serving in the Vietnam War, after which, he came back and fulfilled his dreams. Bradford is a dream maker, who provides an outlet for artists and writers in the industry to have interviews so that millions of people can hear their creativity just like traditional country music used to be. Ya Gotta Luv It. If you want to contact Keith Bradford to be on his show please contact him at keith@nbrnonline.com Story by Steve Merle Kilgore & Silver Stephens-Kilgore

CHECK OUT OUR GUIDE TO THIS YEAR’S MUST-CATCH MOMENTS work together. Twitch/Live Streaming for Music What is it? How does it work? Should you care? How do you do it? Join Allison Laughter, Head of Digital Marketing and Streaming at Red Light, and Lauren Black, Editor of Country NoW, TO LEARN ALL THIS AND MORE.

Music Discovery Through Streaming: Spotify Fan Study

Spotify drives 16 billion artist discoveries every month — meaning 16 billion times a month, fans listen to an artist they have never heard before on Spotify. In this session, Soy Kim, Creator Product Marketing Spotify for Artists, will share more about the Spotify Fan Study to help artists and their teams make sense of the rich data available via Spotify for Artists and better empower how artists can grow their careers on our platform.

Talk Data To Me: 2021 In Review

Continuing our ever-popular Talk Data To Me panel from CRS 2021, this panel will address streaming growth in Country music compared to the rest of the industry over 2021. This time with more robust streaming data, consumer data, and radio data and ask attendees…can you pick the hit?

Expanded, All-Day “Streaming Summit” Will Kick Off Road To The Next Big Thing: The Connected Car With Americans spending countless hours on the road each CRS 2022 year - what you listen to while in the car matters. Join us for The 2nd Annual CRS Streaming Summit kicks off CRS week on Wednesday, February 23, featuring targeted, informative sessions, combined with star-studded afternoon and evening music events. Established last year during CRS 2021: The Virtual Experience, the Streaming Summit proved so popular, the CRS Agenda Committee has expanded the program to an all-day educational event, accented with the Warner Music Nashville luncheon.

a panel with industry leaders across the automotive, audio streaming, and connectivity space to discuss what’s in store for the next generation of streaming in the car and dive even deeper into how the technology of the connected car is truly transforming the way consumers listen to their favorite music, news, entertainment, talk, and more.

Streaming Summit Networking Breakfast

A kick-off welcome from the Streaming Agenda Committee, DSPs, and label partners in the streaming, digital retail, and e-commerce world.

Introducing Chart-metric

How is country music represented in the radio and streaming platforms today, and how do they work together? The way people consume music changed in the last couple of years and it’s no exception for country music. Radio still plays a huge role, but streaming services such as Spotify, Pandora, Apple Music, Amazon, and YouTube are playing key parts in this ecosystem. How do they work together? Are they competing with each other, or complementing each other? How about new media services such as TikTok? We will explore the topic with the latest data, and find out how they

The official mobile app for Country Radio Seminar 2022 is available for download on iPhone and Android mobile devices. Access to the app is available through mobile app stores. Download the Cvent Event App, then search “CRS 2022.” The CRS 2022 app provides attendees with an expanded CRS agenda, session descriptions, speaker bios,

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artists performing, integrated calendar upgrades, a live q&a, and other event news. Users can create their own customized CRS schedule, rate the panels, and post updates and reviews directly to their social media profiles. Visuals sponsored by Quartz Hill Records/Stone Country Records. Panels at CRS cover a broad range of topics relevant to today’s Country radio industry, including social media and digital innovations, brand strategies, leadership skills, consumer research studies, the relationships and economics of the radio and record industries and much more. Some of this year’s agenda highlights include a full-day Streaming Summit, eighteen informative panels, six “CRS Heads of State” sessions, four mentoring breakfasts, three label-sponsored luncheons, a featured artist interview with Blake Shelton, “Amazon Music Presents: Country Heat at CRS,” “Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley,” the annual New Faces of Country Music® Show, and much more.

CRS Launches New Daily Series, “CRS Heads Of State” Featuring a mix of the industry’s most prominent leaders and highest-profile CEO. The “CRS Heads Of State Series” will usher attendees into the corner office of the biggest radio and label companies for daily exclusive, one-onone conversations. Each conversation will share unique insight and global perspective on the current status of the music and broadcast businesses, how they have emerged post-pandemic, and ways their respective companies plan to achieve continued success in the near future. Each day of CRS will start and end with one of these impactful conversations, which are sure to trigger fascinating CRS 2022 hallway chatter.

Mentoring & Networking Breakfasts Streaming Summit Networking Breakfast

A kick-off welcome from the Streaming Agenda Committee, DSPs, and label partners in the streaming, digital retail, and e-commerce world.

Programming Mentoring Breakfast

CRS Honors

Label Mentoring Breakfast

Jason Aldean will be recognized with the Artist Humanitarian Award during CRS Honors Wednesday, February 23 at 2 p.m. CT. Following his award presentation, Aldean will reveal the Country Radio Hall of Fame Class of 2022 inductees, who will be honored during the annual Country Radio Hall of Fame Ceremony on June 30, 2022, at the Virgin Hotel.

This breakfast meet up allows you to sit down with experienced PD’s and Format Leaders who can help build your skill set and learn some fresh new ideas from one of the most talented pools in our industry today. Bring your questions and your A-game. You will not want to miss quality time with this stand out line up. A unique meet and greet with the industry’s most inspiring record label executives to create a network, gain knowledge and connect on everything from mentorship to motivation. Mentor connections are set-up based on preregistration. Attendees will move from mentor-to-mentor throughout the session to ask questions and exchange information.

Records Nashville Breakfast

Mingle with your Record team and artists at a farm fresh breakfast at Kitchen Notes.

Womens Mentoring Breakfast

A chance to benefit from additional points of contact, business partnerships, associations and networking with other women in the industry that all truly embody the #BossBabe mentality.

While many of Aldean’s efforts are removed from the public eye, his charitable acts have gained recognition throughout the years. Aldean has contributed to numerous organizations over the course of his career, including Atrium Health Navicent Beverly Knight Olsen Children’s Hospital, GA’s Children’s Hospital, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, ACM Lifting Lives, Red Cross, and more. Kicking off CRS Honors will be a special performance of the National Anthem by Big Machine Record’s Callista Clark. Clark was recently named an iHeartCountry On The Verge Artist, and her debut single, “It’s ‘Cause I Am,” has entered the Top 20 as Country radio’s most successful new artist debut of 2021. CRS 2022 marks Clark’s first-ever appearance at Country Radio Seminar. Musically Fed is a sponsor of CRS Honors.

Safety protocols for CRS week

CRB’s top priority is to provide a safe, comfortable atmosphere for CRS 2022 attendees, sponsors, staff, and volunteers. ◊

Documentation of full COVID-19 vaccinations or a negative COVID test result, to be completed within 48-hours of arrival at the event submitted to 3P America

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CRB will supply and prefer masks in all CRS event spaces at the Omni Nashville Hotel: meeting rooms, performance halls, plus Legends and Broadway pre-function areas.

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All meeting room seating areas will be configured to provide adequate social distancing.

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Hand sanitizer stations will be located throughout the CRS event space.

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Traffic patterns in hallways surrounding the CRS footprint will be routed to avoid close contact in advance of all Broadway Ballroom performances (Warner Music Nashville Luncheon, BMLG Luncheon, New Faces of Country Music® Showcase) and “Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley” in Legends Ballroom.

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CRB is recommending attendees limit close personal contacts such as full, close contact embraces, and handshakes.

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CRB strongly encourages all members of our industry to exercise personal responsibility: CRB urges attendees to monitor their health daily, and anyone experiencing any afrom attending the event. If this is the case, CRB will extend the refund policy set forth at the time of registration.

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“Amazon Music Presents: Country Heat at CRS” The 5th annual “Amazon Music Presents: Country Heat at CRS” show will be held Feb. 23, headlined by Thomas Rhett, and features performances by Frank Ray, Lily Rose, Conner Smith, and Morgan Wade. The evening will be hosted by Nashville insiders, Kelly Sutton and Amber Anderson of Amazon Music’s original podcast, Country Heat Weekly. The showcase will take place from 6:00-8:00 p.m. in Omni Nashville Hotel’s Broadway Ballroom and will close out the first day of CRS 2022. “Country Heat” is the ultimate Amazon Music playlist for today’s country music fan, updated each week to feature a mixture of country hits and breaking singles from both new and established acts. Last fall, Amazon Music announced that its global music brand Country Heat had surpassed 13 billion streams in the U.S. since launching in Oct 2016.

“Team UMG at The Ryman” Luncheon The “Team UMG at the Ryman” event at CRS 2022 is known for its extraordinary star power, this year’s show will include performances by Dierks Bentley, Priscilla Block, Boy Named Banjo, Brothers Osborne, Jordan Davis, Sam Hunt, Little Big Town, Kylie Morgan, Jon Pardi, and Keith Urban. “Team UMG at the Ryman” will be held on February 24, 2022, at the historic Ryman Auditorium in downtown Nashville. Doors will open at 11:30 AM., and the show will begin at Noon. As in previous years, seminar registrants will have the option to either walk or use shuttles provided by UMG Nashville, going from the Omni Nashville Hotel to the Ryman Auditorium between 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM Attendees will receive a boxed lunch upon entry at the Ryman and before the performances.

“CRS Artist Interview’ with Blake Shelton Warner Music Nashville Luncheon Award-winning country superstar, Blake Shelton, is the featured artist for “The Artist Interview,” sponsored by BMI, at CRS 2022. Shelton will sit down with Country Aircheck Publisher/CEO and host of Westwood One’s Country Countdown USA, Lon Helton, and will speak candidly on his epic career, artistic process, and what’s on the horizon. CRS Board President, Kurt Johnson comments, “This is one you definitely don’t want to miss! Blake speaks his mind, often surprises, and always, always makes you laugh. Come to CRS and enjoy some quality time with one of our biggest superstars.” NashvilleMusicGuide.com

The fourth annual Warner Music Nashville Luncheon, to be held Feb. 23 at Noon CT. Headlined by Zac Brown Band along with Jessie James Decker, Morgan Evans, Cody Johnson, Randall King, Drew Parker, and Michael Ray. “We are excited to be live and in-person with CRS again this year!” said WMN SVP Radio & Streaming Kristen Williams. “What better way to celebrate than with these undeniable artists and their unforgettable performances? This will be a lunch you won’t want to miss!”

“Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley”

On Feb. 24, hit songwriters, artists, and CRS 2022 attendees will come together for “Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley.” Hosted by Fitz of Country Top 40 with Fitz, the evening will feature a lengthy list of songwriters, and there will be no shortage of County music’s biggest hits on the stage during the night that has become one of Country Radio Seminar’s most anticipated events. This lineup of songwriters has earned numerous No. 1 singles, CMA Awards, ACMs, Grammys, and millions in sales. The highly-awarded lineup includes Rhett Akins (“Boys ‘Round Here”/Blake Shelton, “Get Me Some of That”/Thomas Rhett, “When She Says Baby”/Jason Aldean), Kassi Ashton (Creative Nation/UMG Nashville recording artist), Barry Dean (“Pontoon”/Little Big Town, “Somebody’s Daughter”/Tenille Townes, “Think a Little Less”/Michael Ray), Emily Landis (“The Good Ones”/Gabby Barrett, “Nothin’ New”/Kalie Shorr), Luke Laird (“Space Cowboy”/Kacey Musgraves, “Diamond Rings and Old Barstools”/Tim McGraw, “Give Me Back My Hometown”/ Eric Church), Victoria Shaw (“The River” and “She’s Every Woman”/Garth Brooks, “I Love The Way You Love Me”/John Michael Montgomery), Allison Veltz (“Prayed For You”/Matt Stell, “Somebody Like That”/Tenille Arts, “Dare Ya”/Carly Pearce), Parker Welling (“Yours” and “Blue Tacoma” Russell Dickerson, “What’s Your Country Song”/Thomas Rhett), and more to be announced in the coming weeks. Country Top 40 with Fitz and “Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley” host Fitz remarks, “I am thrilled to be a part of this CRS tradition. Bob Kingsley loved the songwriters and loved giving them a platform to share their art and talent with our industry. I am honored to continue Bob’s commitment to showcasing the songwriter. I can’t wait for you to experience this Country Music Bucket List experience. You get to see the WHO behind the HITS at Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley.” Radio Ink will also present its “Top Country PDs” awards during the show. The awards have been presented at the Country Radio Seminar for over 20 years and are recognized as a hallmark of excellence by country radio program directors and country radio stations around the country.

Bob Kingsley had a simple directive for his 40-year plus countdown show, “Pay it off with a song.”

In addition, Bob Kingsley’s estate, under the stewardship of his wife Nan Kingsley, recently announced a partnership with The Bluebird Cafe and NSAI. This special collaboration will be recognized throughout the event. A significant portion of a financial donation will underwrite the digitization of a selection of historic Bluebird Cafe shows that were recorded over the years in a variety of mediums. Weatherford College in Weatherford, Texas, Kingsley’s home, announced that they have partnered with The Bluebird Café, also through a Kingsley Estate endowment, to have their students involved in digitizing the historical shows. Earlier this year, the Kingsley estate donated over 700 full shows and 3,200 interviews with songwriters, artists, and others to the County Music Hall of Fame. “The goal is to begin airing some of the iconic shows when The Bluebird Cafe’s celebrates its 40th birthday next June,” said General Manager Erika Wollam-Nichols. “Everyone who listened to Bob on the radio throughout his career understood that his love for Nashville’s songwriting community ran deep,” states Nan Kingsley. “It was for that reason I was proud to announce a multi-year partnership with Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) and The Bluebird Café in 2021. I am excited to know that the team at Country Radio Seminar will be collaborating with the Bluebird Café, ensuring Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley remains the preeminent event during CRS it has always been.” Sponsored by Country Top 40 with Fitz, Skyview Networks, and First Horizon Bank, with bar sponsored by ASCAP, “Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley” will take place on Thursday, Feb. 24 from 7-9:30 PM in Omni Nashville Hotel’s Legends D-G – Level 2, closing out the second day of CRS 2022.

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The Country Radio Seminar has unveiled the five artists who will be part of its New Faces of Country Music lineup in 2022: Gabby Barrett, Walker Hyaes, Parker McCollum, Jameson Rodgers, and Lainey Wilson will participate in the showcase that will close out the final day of CRS 2022. The CRS 2022 New Faces of Country Music® Show is set for Friday, Feb. 25 at the Omni Nashville Hotel. CRS’ New Faces program, which began in 1970, has become a rite of passage for virtually every artist who goes on to become a superstar. Each year, the seminar brings together radio programmers, labels, artists, journalists and more members of the country music industry, offering a chance for artists to preview the music they’ve got planned for the year to come. Gabby Barrett “has had one of the most recognizable faces in country,” deems Variety, as Warner Music Nashville’s Multi-Platinum star closes another monumental year on top. Continuing the gold rush of accolades, she was named Top Female Artist-Songwriter (Sony Music Publishing) by the National Music Publishers’ Association’s Gold & Platinum Program with five certifications for “I Hope” and “The Good Ones.” In addition, Country Now awarded Barrett Favorite Female Empowerment Anthem for her most recent single, “Footprints on the Moon,” during the fan-voted 2021 Country Now Awards. “I Hope” was also the first debut single by a solo female artist to top the Country radio charts since 2017 and made her the youngest artist with a #1 debut at Country radio in over two decades. Crowned ACM New Female Artist of the Year in 2021, Barrett has added even more elite wins to her goldmine of accolades from Billboard Music Awards, iHeartRadio Music Awards, CMT Music Awards, plus honored as one of the five 2021 CMT Artists of the Year. She was the MOSTNOMINATED Country music female at the 2021 American Music Awards, earning Favorite Country Album (GOLDMINE) and Favorite Country Song (“The Good Ones”). Co-host of the 12th annual holiday special, CMA Country Christmas; supporting an in-demand tour with Thomas Rhett; recognized as Billboard’s Top New Country Artist of 2020; an Amazon Music Breakthrough artist; one of Forbes’ 30 Under 30 in Music; and listed in Variety’s 2020 Young Hollywood Impact Report, Barrett continues to prove why she’s “the face of Gen-Z Country” (HITS).

Monument Records recording artist, Walker Hayes, is a GRAMMY Nominated singer/ songwriter originally from Mobile, Alabama. Country Stuff The Album officially debuted in the top 10 on Billboard’s Hot 200 Chart, and at No. 2 on the Billboard Country Albums Chart, while landing at No. 1 for country album sales.

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The 13-song project showcases why fans love Hayes’ music. Featuring his signature witty lyrics, sticky melodies and autobiographical storylines, he doesn’t shy away from difficult topics. Hitting on sobriety, loss, love and country fun, the album was produced by Hayes with Joe Thibodeau and Multi-GRAMMY Award winner Shane McAnally. County Stuff The Album features single “AA” and smash hit “Fancy Like.” “Fancy Like” has topped every sales and streaming chart since its release, spending a collective 6 months and counting at the number one spot on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs. The song was featured in a national Applebee’s ad campaign and hit the top 5 on Billboard’s Hot 100 Songs. The proud father of six has performed his music, including the Double-Platinum RIAA certified hit “You Broke Up With Me,” to national audiences on Good Morning America, Late Night with Seth Meyers, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and the TODAY Show, and was profiled for CBS Sunday Morning. His headlining The Fancy Like Tour is currently underway. Singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Parker McCollum released his major-label debut last fall. His Hollywood Gold EP was met with widespread critical acclaim and it became the top-selling debut country EP of 2020. McCollum earned his first-ever No. 1 hit with his Platinum-selling debut single, “Pretty Heart,” and his follow-up single, “To Be Loved By You,” is now playing on country radio. “To Be Loved By You” is a single release on McCollum’s debut album Gold Chain Cowboy. In November 2021, McCollum made his late-night TV debut performing on Jimmy Kimmel Live. McCollum has been named an ‘Artist to Watch’ by Rolling Stone, Billboard, SiriusXM, CMT, RIAA , and more with American Songwriter noting, “The Texas native teeters on the edge of next-level superstardom.” A dedicated road warrior, McCollum already sells out venues across the country including record-breaking crowds in Austin (7500+), Lubbock (7700+), Jackson, MS (5000+), Kearney, NE (3000+), Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, and three nights at Fort Worth’s iconic Billy Bob’s Texas. McCollum recently earned his first ACM nomination for New Male Artist of the Year and made his debut playing the Grand Ole Opry in Feb 2021. Raised on the country rebels of old, country music’s newest powerhouse Jameson Rodgers currently finds himself basking in the success of two consecutive No. 1 hits, with his Platinum-certified debut “Some Girls” and follow-up smash “Cold Beer Calling My Name,” featuring label mate Luke Combs, making back-to-back runs up the charts. And now, with the release of his debut album Bet You’re from a Small Town, the soft-spoken yet edgy country traditionalist just might find himself landing in superstar territory. An already established singer/songwriter on multi-Platinum-selling hits for Florida Georgia Line (Top 10 single “Talk You Out of It”) and Chris Lane (Number 1 smash “I Don’t Know About You”), Bet You’re From a Small Town is a gritty country music masterpiece effortlessly travels both sonically and lyrically between love songs (“Porch with a View”) and breakup songs (“Girl with a Broken Heart,”) party songs (“Cold Beer Calling my Name”) and songs that tell the story of the deepest of losses (“Good Dogs.”) Rodgers is currently headlining his Cold Beer Calling My Name Tour. One of Country music’s most promising young stars, Lainey Wilson is the total package. Earning the enthusiasm of the industry, named as an “Artist to Watch” by Spotify, MusicRow, Pandora, The Boot, and Sounds Like Nashville and included in CMT’s “Next Women of

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Country” and “Listen Up” programs, the Louisiana native is one of Nashville’ most buzzed-about new artists, garnering early praise for her “unabashedly down-home and unflappably worldly” (NPR) style and exhibiting “just enough scars and pragmatism to write great, universal country songs” (Taste of Country). Her music has already been featured in the hit drama series Yellowstone three times, graced the Grand Ole Opry stage and was covered in publications like Forbes, Rolling Stone, New York Times, Billboard and NPR. With a rockstar stage presence, her artistry has taken her across the globe, performing for sold-out crowds throughout the US, UK, and Germany with notable names like Justin Moore, Tyler Farr, Ashley McBryde, Randy Houser, Josh Turner and more. Creating a sound and style all her own with “Bell Bottom Country,” which blends traditional Country with a modern yet retro flare, Lainey is a fresh, fierce voice in Nashville. A prolific writer (having co-writer credits on songs by artists including Luke Combs), Lainey shares her feelings, stories, experiences and understandings through her music. Described as “a cross between easy listening and hard truths” by The Boot, Lainey’s music (and character) is largely driven by her values and self-conviction. Her new album, produced by GRAMMY Award-winning mastermind Jay Joyce (Eric Church, Miranda Lambert), Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin,’ is available now via BBR Music Group/ Broken Bow Records. Following the sentiment of the title track, the entire album is rooted in authenticity, honesty and thoughtfulness—representative of Lainey’s own character. The album includes her current radio single and “song every country fan needs to hear” (Taste of Country), “Things A Man Oughta Know.” With more than 35 million streams, the song is a fan and critic favorite, spurring a flurry of activity across social media as well as included in “must listen” lists in publications like NPR and Rolling Stone.

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AMERICANA NEWS: With the recent release of sixsong EP Where Phones Don’t Work, Texas troubadour Wade Bowen offered fans a glimpse at his first new solo music in over three years, driven by a renewed sense of focus and passion inspired by his time off the road. 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 nashvillemusicline.com.

“If I am chasing your dream faster than you, then I am in the wrong dream.” – Preshias © (TM)

Now, with live shows making a comeback, the “perennially popular” man who MusicRow proclaims “can always be counted on for country excellence” brings the new music and more to Nashville’s famed Exit/In on Wednesday, March 23. “It had been a long time since I’d come to Nashville to write music before this EP,” reflects Bowen. “It felt incredible once I got together with some of my songwriting friends here – almost like a fresh start 20 years into my career, which was really inspiring – so it’s only right that we celebrate with the amazing fans in the city that played such an important role in crafting this next chapter of music.” Tickets and tour info at https://www.wadebowen.com and follow on Facebook @TheWadeBowen or Twitter/IG @WadeBowen.

ANNIVERSARY NEWS:

ALBUM NEWS: Billboard No. 1 singersongwriter Dustin Collins has enlisted industry veterans Buddy Cannon (Kenny Chesney, Willie Nelson, Reba McEntire) and Bill McDermott (Tim McGraw, Martina McBride, Brad Paisley) to produce his new album, Working Man. The 11-track project is slated for release this summer from DCDL Entertainment. A portion of proceeds from the lead single and album will benefit GUMI (Glad You Made It) Camp USA. GUMI focuses on providing U.S. veterans with the tools they need to help them heal after deployment overseas and enable them to re-enter society. The camp is located on a 258-acre piece of property in southeast Taney County, Mo. Veterans may reside without cost to them and heal at their own pace. Working Man follows Collins’ latest album, It’s Been Awhile, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Heatseekers South Central Albums chart. His independent single “Cold Dead Hands” ascended to No. 1 on the Billboard Singles Sales chart. The Kentucky native also earned a slot on Aaron Watson’s Vaquero Tour and has opened for Tanya Tucker, Clay Walker, Chris Janson, Granger Smith, Kane Brown and many more. More info at www.dustincollinsmusic.com and on socials @dustincollinsofficial.

Smokeshow Entertainment, an artist development and management firm established in 2015 to represent up and coming artists in the country music industry, begins a new era in 2022 by adding a full-service booking arm. Smokeshow’s current booking roster of artists, includes Keith Anderson, Clayton Shay, Phillip Michael Parsons, Carson Beyer, Noah Smith, Thomas Gabriel, Shannon Clark & The Sugar, Chad Wilson, David Starr, Warren Garrett, Chris Linton, Cody Bradley, Kaleb Sanders, Miller Holler, Tailgate Revival and 4 Low. Music genres represented in this group range from Americana and traditional country music to pop country, country rock and outlaw country. Market focus will include small and large venues, college, fair/festival, corporate and special events booking on a national and international scale. More info at www.smokeshowentertainment.com.

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ARTIST NEWS:

CONCERT NEWS: Cole Swindell and Billboard’s “Top New Country Artist of 2021” and CRS “New Faces of Country Music”Artist of 2022, Lainey Wilson have released their highly anticipated, fiery new video for their duet “Never Say Never.”

Directed by Michael Monaco (FlyHi Films) and filmed at Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary outside of Knoxville. “Never Say Never,” already in the Top 20 on the country singles chart and rising, was the most added song at country radio the week of release, giving both Swindell and Wilson their biggest ‘radio add day’ of their careers. The song, written by Swindell, Jessi Alexander and Chase McGill, is the Georgia native’s follow-up radio single to his back-to-back No. 1 hits “Love You Too Late” and most recently his milestone multi-week, 10th career No. 1 hit “Single Saturday Night.”

Produced by Live Nation, Tim McGraw’s Concert Tour 2022, limited to 17-city amphitheaters, kicks off on April 29th at Walmart AMP in Rogers, AR making stops across the U.S. in Charlotte, Atlanta, and more before wrapping up in Mansfield, MA at Xfinity Center on June 4th.Tickets are available now at ticketmaster.com. Joining McGraw on the road is multi-platinum recording artist Russell Dickerson, who will bring his high-energy show to the stage as the direct support for the tour. Known for bringing attention to up-and-coming artists, McGraw continues to shine a spotlight on several artists that are lighting up social media with their music, including Alexandra Kay and Brandon Davis, who will also join McGraw as opening acts on his forthcoming tour.

“Never Say Never” is also the follow-up single to Wilson’s No. 1 smash hit “Things A Man Oughta Know,” which is still streaming more than 3 million times each week since it peaked in September.

Earlier this year, Kay’s cover of “Don’t Take The Girl” went viral after McGraw took to socials to applaud her take on the song. McGraw also showed his support for rising country singer Brandon Davis, teaming up with him for a virtual duet of McGraw’s “Something Like That.” For tour dates visit https://www.timmcgraw.com and socials @TheTimMcGraw.

BREAKOUT NEWS:

DEEPEST SYMPATHIES:

Breakout Country artist Raleigh Keegan has released a brandnew track called “New To Nashville.” Written by Keegan with Daniel Leathersich and Ryan Brisotti, “New To Nashville” is the first track from his forthcoming EP, A Tale of 7 Cities. The new EP follows his critically acclaimed debut full-length album, Clocks Roll Forward, which released last October. “I wanted to start with ‘Nashville’ because it’s where I am now,” shares Raleigh of the new track. “A place where dreams are made, but no shortage of dreams don’t come true also. This song tells both sides of that story.” “New To Nashville” is the first of seven city-themed songs from A Tale of 7 Cities, which he has co-produced with Chad Judd. Raleigh has accumulated nearly 10 million streams across his catalog to date, and has opened for artists such as Eric Church, Brothers Osborne, Florida Georgia Line, Thomas Rhett, Drake White, and Mitchell Tenpenny. More about Raleigh at https://www.raleighkeegan.com and on socials @raleighkeegan.    . NashvilleMusicGuide.com

Hargus “Pig” Robbins, renowned pianist and Country Music Hall of Fame member passed away January 30, 2022. He was 84. Working thousands of recording dates since the late 1950s, Robbins has contributed to dozens of hits by artists in Country, rock, folk and pop. He garnered two CMA Awards throughout his career, CMA’s Instrumentalist of the Year in 1976 and 2000. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2012. “Hargus ‘Pig’ Robbins was a defining sound for so much of the historic music out of Nashville,” said Sarah Trahern, Country Music Association CEO. “His talent spoke for itself through his decades-spanning career and work as a session pianist with countless artists across genres. Our hearts go out to his friends and family during this difficult time.”

DIGITAL DELUXE ALBUM NEWS:

INDEPENDENT ARTIST NEWS:

Multi-platinum superstar Eddie Montgomery’s 13-track solo debut album, Ain’t No Closing Me Down, is now available digitally following the release of the physical CD last fall exclusively through Walmart. The digital deluxe version available on all streaming platforms includes one new song, “You Pissed Me All The Way Off,” written by Jim “Moose” Brown and Travis Meadows. The release of Ain’t No Closing Me Down marks a milestone in Montgomery’s storied career as he “keeps the sounds and spirit of Montgomery Gentry at the forefront” (Wide Open Country) on his solo debut album. Produced by acclaimed music producers Noah Gordon and Shannon Houchins, Montgomery co-wrote eight of the 13 tracks featured on the new project. Highlights on the album include the first love song Montgomery has ever written inspired by his wife, “She Loves Me;” “Higher, a duet with Tanya Tucker (the lyric video of the duet is on YouTube), and “My Son,” the featured theme song in the new movie, Old Henry, which Montgomery joined Noah Gordon to co-write. More at https://www.montgomerygentry.com.

Independent singer-songwriter, Hannah Bethel, has released her highly anticipated single, “Bad News Baby.” Early reaction to the track is very strong, with out-of-the-gate editorial playlist adds at Amazon - Fresh Folk & Americana, Spotify - New Music Nashville, TIDAL - Nashville Now and Amazon - Breakthrough Folk. “Bad News Baby” is the lead single from Bethel’s forthcoming EP, Until the Sun Comes Back Around, set to release on March 25, 2022. Written by Bethel, “Bad News Baby” is a heartbreaking ballad that tells the story of an experience she had with someone she believed to be her catalyst, a person or thing that precipitates an event. Recorded in Nashville, “Bad News Baby” was produced by Tim Craven (The Brethren/Boys Club for Girls) and mixed by GRAMMY Award-winning engineer, Brandon Bell (Steep Canyon Rangers/Brandi Carlisle/The Highwomen). Bethel is a rare artist who blurs lines between Americana, country, pop, and rock. More about Hannah Bethel and her new single at https://www.hannahbethel.com.

INDUSTRY NEWS: Music publisher Big Machine Music is opening a Los Angeles office, bringing on Timmy Haehl as Senior Director of Publishing. Landing in the top ten on Billboard’s Hot 100 Publishing Corp list the past five years running, BMM’s expansion from their Nashville-based headquarters comes on the heels of global successes.

DUET NEWS: Riser House/Columbia Nashville #1 hitmaker Mitchell Tenpenny enlisted the help of Grammynominated performer Danny Gokey to record a new version of his smash hit “Bucket List.” The two powerhouse vocalists, who connected through a mutual friend, spar it out on the refreshed track. The song, written by Mitchell, Chris DeStefano and Laura Veltz, was originally released on New Year’s Day 2021. The “Bucket List” original version is included on Mitchell’s current EP Midtown Diaries that was released in September.

“Between Big Machine Music’s crossover hits, the growth of our roster to include LA-based songwriters and our intercompany collaborations with SB Projects, it is a natural move for us to formally open a West Coast office, and Timmy is the perfect creative publishing executive with which to start,” said BMM’s General Manager Mike Molinar. IG @bigmachinemusic.

Tenpenny and Cokey shot a music video for “Bucket List” at the Melrose Church at Fiddlers Grove in Wilson County, Tenn. The film was shot with Director Tristan Cusick.

(Mercury Nashville)

LABEL NEWS:

“‘Bucket List’ is about trying to live everyday like it’s your last. You never know how long you have on this earth, so you need to try and live it to the fullest,” shared Mitchell. “I’ve been a big fan of Danny’s for a long time, his voice is so incredible.” More info at https://www.mitchell10penny.com.

Recording artist Travis Denning celebrated a new milestone, with the news that his first-ever No. One hit single “After A Few” has officially been certified Platinum by the RIAA, with over One Million units of the song being consumed since its release. NashvilleMusicGuide.com

Denning was surprised by his team at Universal Music Group, Red Light Management and the RIAA following a performance at Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. Denning cowrote “After A Few” with Kelly Archer and Justin Weaver. “I’m blown away,” shared Denning. “This moment really only happens because of the team effort. My label, management, agent, radio, band and crew are all equally responsible for this milestone. Never would’ve dreamed I’d have a platinum song!” A native of Warner Robins, Georgia, Denning has accelerated his ascent from a chart-topping single, releasing his debut EP Beer’s Better Cold that debuted in the Top 20 of Billboard’s Country Albums chart. Denning first made waves with the release of his Top 40 debut single “David Ashley Parker From Powder Springs.” Music, merch and more at https:// www.travisdenning.com.

writes are inspired by his own experiences and stories. Alyssa Bonagura is a celebrated songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist who spent the past decade fine-tuning a sound that reaches far beyond her Nashville roots, mixing the southern storytelling of country music, the free-thinking spirit of rock and roll and the cinematic sweep of Brit-pop. Singer-songwriter Dakota Poorman who is a breath of fresh air in the country music scene, entertaining audiences with his unique style of ‘Red White and Blue Collar’ country – raw rock n’ roll infused with a fiery fiddle and badass banjo. See their Artist Profiles at https://www.musiccitynews.com.

MUSIC NEWS: Fans of traditional country and the way that Tracy Lawrence does it have a treat right now. Tracy’s album, Hindsight 2020: Volume 3 Angelina is out now. The release completes the trilogy.

NOTE: He recently got engaged to Madison Mongomery (John Michael’s daughter.) (Valory Music Co.)

Having had two No. 1 Billboard Country Album debuts with Town Line and Sinner, Aaron Lewis has quietly made an impact on Country music without flexing to let everyone know what a big deal he was. With a decade invested in a genre that’s seen him record with Willie Nelson, George Jones, Charlie Daniels, Vince Gill, Alison Krauss, Mickey Raphael, the Cox Family and Dan Tyminski and producer Buddy Cannon, the 15 million-selling front man of Staind doubled down on Frayed At Both Ends, out now via The Valory Music Co.

Volume 1 was subtitled Stairway To Heaven, Highway To Hell, and Volume 2 was subtitled Price of Fame. A Deluxe Bundle consisting of all three volumes is also available from Tracy’s merch page on his website.

Frayed At Both Ends is a meditation on shrinking opportunities, mistakes made, consequences of our actions and squaring up to it all with the dignity it takes to be a fullgrown man. Drawing on the tattered reality and stoicism of Merle Haggard, the yearning of David Allan Coe’s Darlin’ Darlin’ era, the ragged fringe of Johnny Paycheck, Lewis collaborated with many of the songwriters who’ve become his friends over the last dozen years for the first time. More on the album and tour dates at https://aaronlewismusic.com.

OPRY NEWS:

MEDIA NEWS: Some of Music City Media’s emerging artists will be attending Country Radio Seminar ’22, Feb 23-25, 2022, and will be meeting with music media for interviews. Among those set to attend CRS: Mikayla Lane, inspired by traditional country music and the western lifestyle, sixteenyear-old Mikayla is a vibrant, young trendsetter who infuses yesterday’s heritage into today’s contemporary sound. Gavin Lee, whose ‘true grit’ sound has been influenced by traditional 90s country artists as well as the likes of Jason Aldean, Riley Green and Luke Combs, while the songs he NashvilleMusicGuide.com

Tracy is setting out on the road with his buddy Clay Walker. They will be joined by Alexandra Kay and Randall King on select dates. VIP Experiences are available and include a 30-minute Q&A session with Tracy and Clay, VIP laminate, signed 8x10 photo and more. No doubt, audiences will be treated to Tracy’s fan-favorites such as “Alibis” “How Cowgirls Say Goodbye” “Sticks and Stones” and his career-defining song “Time Marches On.” More info at https://www.tracylawrence. com/ and on Socials, @therealtracylawrence

Multi-platinum-selling No. 1 singer/songwriter Lauren Alaina will officially become part of the Grand Ole Opry family on Saturday, February 12. Opry member and Alaina’s friend/mentor Trisha Yearwood, who surprised her onstage in December with the Opry invitation, will return to be part of Alaina’s induction. The Opry was the first major stage Alaina played just a week after she was named runner-up on Season 10 of American Idol, making her Opry debut on June 10, 2011. She marked her 50th appearance on the Opry last Fall. Alaina’s Opry induction can be seen on the Opry’s television broadcast home, Circle Network, and as part of its Saturday night Opry Live livestream on Circle All Access Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. It can also be heard onopry.com and wsmonline. com, SiriusXM: Willie’s Roadhouse, and its flagship home, 650 AM-WSM.

Attention Singers & Songwriters:

“Honest, affordable career counseling for new and developing singer/songwriters to help you understand and benefit from every aspect of the music business. Personal, one-on-one guidance tailored to meet your unique career goals and current level of experience.” For More Information: 615-482-5823

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Yearwood duets with Alaina on her Gold-certified song “Getting Good” from her recent album Sitting Pretty On Top of the World and also wrote the foreword to her just-released Amazon best-selling inspirational book Getting Good At Being You. Lauren Alaina will launch her 2022 headlining Top of the World Tour presented by Maurices on February 24 in Silver Spring, MD. The tour is in support of her No. 1 debuting album Sitting Pretty on Top of the World which includes her current hit single “Getting Over Him” featuring Jon Pardi as well as the RIAA Gold-certified “Getting Good” featuring her friend and mentor Trisha Yearwood. Tour updates and more at https://www.laurenalainaofficial.com.

PODCAST NEWS: Award-winning broadcaster and podcaster, Candy O’Terry and Music City Mentor, Jacy Dawn Valeras have released another episode in their joint podcast project, Country Music Success Stories. The new podcast is an intimate conversation on location at CURB Word Music as they welcome Candy and Jacy into a writer’s room with CMA, ACM and Grammy Nominee, Bobby Tomberlin, for some heartwarming Country music success stories. Subscribe to the podcast @ www.candyoterry.com/countrymusicpodcast and listen on all podcast platforms here: https://smarturl.it/ countrymusicsuccess. “Being a guest on Country Music Success Stories with Candy and Jacy was a pleasure. It was easy to open up to them about my life and I shared stories that I had never told. I’m a big fan of their podcast!” expressed Bobby Tomberlin. Future guests include Jim Messina, Jim Vest, Pam Lewis and many others. Past guests have included Jamie O’Neil, Sonny LeMaire, Frank Myers, Lily Isaac, Chris Lindsay, Bill Anderson, John Schneider, Collin Raye, Aimee Mayo, John and Robin Berry, Steve Dorff, Naomi Judd, Jeannie Seely, Crystal Gayle, Lori McKenna, Karen Staley, Kent Blazy, Larry Strickland, T.G. Sheppard and Kelly Lang.

PUBLISHING NEWS: Endurance Music Group has signed breakthrough country songwriter and artist Johnny Dailey to a global publishing agreement. The Alabama native, part of the Morris Higham Management roster, landed in Nashville by way of Charleston, South Carolina, where he honed his performance chops by playing his original songs on the city’s infamous King Street. Hailed a “new, significant name in Music City” by American Songwriter, Dailey was a featured performer on ASCAP’s notable 30A Songwriters Festival showcases in January and kicks off 2022 with a new single, the Aaron Eshius-produced track, “Trouble,” Dailey’s debut EP, Dillashaw follows in early March. Dailey said of the signing, “I couldn’t be more excited to work with Michael Martin and the Endurance team. I’ve NashvilleMusicGuide.com

respected Michael since the day I met him because of his passion for songwriters and a great song. I’m thankful for this team’s belief in me and my music, and I look forward to what we will create together!” More at https://endurancemg.com and https://johnnydailey.com. @endurance_music

RADIO NEWS: Jason Cramer, the grandson of Opry performer, Country Music Hall of Fame and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame star Floyd Cramer is home on WSM radio with a new weekly radio show. Millions of music fans have enjoyed watching the Jason Coleman Show online since 2020. Now, a new weekly radio version has launched at WSM radio on Sundays at 8pm central time. The show will have a different theme each week highlighting the various hits and sounds making up the country music genre and the stories behind those songs performed on piano in the same slip-note style made famous by Jason’s grandad, Floyd Cramer who played on numerous hit songs recorded in the 50s, 60s and 70s, including Elvis Presley’s biggest songs. So, the music is endless and bridges generations. Jason Coleman’s upbeat personality and love for the legacy and history shine through years after first performing with his grandad on the Grand Ole Opry and popular TNN television shows. More details at https://jasoncolemanmusic.com. WSM is heard worldwide at https://wsmradio.com.

RELEASE NEWS: Jason Aldean has revealed more details today behind the expansive 10th release of his double-album Macon, Georgia (Macon Music/ Broken Bow Records), available April 22. Built slow through long months off the road, Aldean’s full 10th studio album represents the first chunk of time since Aldean was a teen that he was not hopping from city to city each night, and he put it to good use. Part all-new music and part career retrospective, highlighting the fiery live shows Aldean’s made his calling card, the massive set features 30 songs over two jam-packed releases – with 20 new tunes and 10 unheard live takes showcasing everything he does. The full release will also be marked by a commemorative threedisc vinyl set which fans can pre-order here. The collection’s second installment, Georgia, is available at https://jasonaldean. lnk.to/georgiaPR, and Macon is available at https://jasonaldean. lnk.to/macon. The three-time ACM “Entertainer of the Year” has bolstered 26 No. One hits, 15 billion streams and more than 20 million albums sold.

ROW NEWS:

SINGLE NEWS:

In place of the annual Country Radio Meet & Greet and CountryBreakout Awards, MusicRow will announce the winners of the 20th annual CountryBreakout Awards virtually on Feb. 23. Now in its 20th year, the MusicRow CountryBreakout Awards celebrate those who have dominated country radio’s secondary market. Winners in eight categories are determined by spins on the secondary market stations that report to the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart panel each week. Winners will be revealed on all MusicRow online platforms, including the website https://musicrow.com, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, on Feb. 23. Each winner will be featured in MusicRow’s Country Radio & Streaming issue, also out Wednesday, Feb. 23.

SIGNING NEWS: Award-winning artist and songwriter CJ Solar has signed with Empire. His first single on the label is the hard-driving, uptempo “The Future’s Neon,” released February 11, 2022, and his first full-length album of the same name will be available later this spring. Pre-save/add the single at https://music.empi. re/thefuturesneon. “Every artist wants to find a label that’s passionate about their music and career, and I’ve definitely found that with everyone at EMPIRE,” said Solar. “I’m as excited about this relationship as I’ve ever been and can’t wait to get this new music out to the world!” CJ wrote “The Future’s Neon” with fellow Louisiana natives Blake Griffith and Jim McCormick, and he produced the track with Nick Gibbens. He co-wrote all nine cuts on The Future’s Neon album, collaborating with Devin Barker, Kenton Bryant, Bart Butler, Frankie Courtney, Corey Crowder, Jackson Dean, Bob DiPiero, Aaron Eshius, Jeff Garrison, HARDY, Jason Lehning, Lynn Hutton, Joey Hyde, Billy Montana, and Lydia Vaughan on the other eight songs. CJ has kicked off his Nashville Hits The Roof tour of eight Tin Roof locations and will soon be announcing the release of new music. Tour updates and music at https://www.cjsolar.com. @cjsolar NOTE: When CJ Solar got booked to perform in Lake Tahoe for a New Year’s Eve concert, he knew it would be the perfect place to propose to his girlfriend, Courtney Kruckeberg… and it was! During his set – outside on a cold, snowy night at Heavenly Village - he called Courtney on stage, got down on one knee and popped the question. She said yes! CJ met Courtney, who is the Creative Manager at Endurance Music Group in Nashville, at a Whiskey Jam concert where CJ was performing several years ago. The beautiful ring holds great sentiment to the couple, as the center diamond originally graced the wedding ring of CJ’s great grandmother. No date for the nuptials has been set.

Multi-Platinum singer/ songwriter Kip Moore is making good on a long-time back and forth with his loyal fanbase, officially releasing fan-favorite track “Crazy One More Time” (Revisited) to country radio. The original version was released as an album track on Moore’s widely celebrated debut album Up All Night and has gone on to grow a life of its own over the past ten years. One of the most requested songs during Moore’s signature live show, the original track has been streamed over 20 million times to date. Co-written by Moore with Chris Lindsey and Aimee Mayo, Moore hit the studio to put a 2022 update on the track. More at http://www.kipmoore.net. @ KipMooreMusic “The initial idea for ‘Crazy One More Time’ came about after running into someone that I hadn’t seen in years, and someone that I had a lot of history with,” shared Moore. “That’s kind of how I feel about this song right now, there is a history there, but now it has this new life sonically since we went back in the studio and recut it.”

SONG NEWS: Lady A launches into the new year with their next single “What A Song Can Do” (BMLG Records). The title track from their eighth studio album serves as a love letter to fans that is steeped in music’s power to get us through and has already garnered nearly 4 million ondemand streams. Written by the group’s Charles Kelley with Ryan Hurd, Sam Ellis and Laura Veltz, “What A Song Can Do” also illustrates the patience and optimism the trio has taken from their years together. For more information visit www.LadyAMusic.com. @ladya “We have been overfilled with gratitude after releasing this album and we don’t take it lightly that after eight albums our music still resonates with so many people,” Kelley said. “This song is the summation of where our hearts are right now and how much music can really pull us through in times of need. We love writing songs about lost love and things like that, but I feel like our favorite material comes with a strong positive message.”

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STADIUM TOUR NEWS: Five-time Entertainer of the Year Luke Bryan, who in his career has played sold-out shows for 12+ million fans inclusive of nearly 40 stadium concerts, Spring Break shows, Farm Tours and seven sold-out Crash My Playa destination concerts, has revealed details of his Raised Up Right Tour, launching June 9 in Charleston, WV, featuring Riley Green, Mitchell Tenpenny and DJ Rock and playing 30+ cities before wrapping in late October. The tour takes its name from the chorus of Luke’s current smash single “Up,” which is the sixth single from Luke’s #1 debuting Born Here Live Here Die Here album. Promoted by Live Nation, Citi is the official card of the tour. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com. https://www.lukebryan.com/raised-up-right-tour. @LukeBryan “My favorite place to be is on stage performing to country music fans,” said Luke. “So thankful every night when I walk out on that stage and know you are there to have a blast along beside me. It never gets old!”

TIN PAN SOUTH NEWS: The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), in partnership with Regions Bank has announced dates for the 30th annual Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival. The festival is scheduled to take place in Nashville, Tuesday, March 29th through Saturday, April 2, 2022 in Music City’s most popular venues spread throughout town. Each venue will host two shows per night showcasing hundreds of songwriters from Nashville and beyond. Tin Pan South is one of Nashville’s most revered and highly anticipated events of the year and the 2022 festival will be no exception! It will feature performances from a diverse array of exceptional musical talent spanning multiple genres, and the entire week will be filled with a variety of unforgettable events and networking opportunities for established songwriters and rising artists alike. The stellar 2022 Tin Pan South line-up will be revealed and passes will go on sale on March 1st at 10 AM CST. Details and updates at https://tinpansouth.com. @TinPanSouth

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TOUR NEWS: 2022 marks 60 years since country music legend Gene Watson released his first single to radio. To celebrate, Watson is embarking on his 60th Anniversary Tour, which will take Watson across the country. Watson’s single “If It’s That Easy” was released to radio in 1962 via Sun Valley Records. Since then, the ‘singer’s singer’ has charted 75 titles including 23 Top 10 hits, six No. 1 Country singles and five No. 1 gospel records. The Texas native continues to perform to sold-out crowds, singing in the same key as he did more than five decades ago and thrilling fans with his famous octave jumping ending to “Farewell Party” night after night. “I wasn’t ever signed to a company called Sun Valley Records, Sun Valley was just the name of the street the drummer lived on,” shared Watson. “I’d never heard myself on the radio before, so I couldn’t believe my ears when I heard it the first time on a local Houston radio station.” Additionally, Watson has been in the studio working on his new project due out in 2022. Socials: @GeneWatsonMusic 5X Grammy® Awards nominee Thomas Rhett is unveiling details today for his headlining Bring The Bar To You Tour. Produced by Live Nation and presented by Dos Primos, the tour kicks off June 17 in Gilford, NH, and will visit over 30 cities throughout the U.S. Taking its name from a to-bereleased song from the superstar’s upcoming sixth studio album Where We Started (The Valory Music Co.), the tour features special guests Parker McCollum and Conner Smith. Tickets are now on sale to the general public. HomeTeam members can access tickets early via pre-sale on Tuesday, January 25 at 10:00A local time. Citi is the official card of the tour. For complete ticket and pre-sale details visit www.thomasrhett.com. “Man, it feels good to share this tour news,” Thomas Rhett said. “I’ll never take for granted being able to come see y’all and I’m so fired up to play some of these new ones that were made with these nights in mind. I have a feeling things are going to get loud - I’m counting down the days already!” Pre-order the album at https://tr.lnk. to/WhereWeStartedPR.

TRIO NEWS:

Country supergroup Texas Hill (Craig Wayne Boyd, Casey James, Adam Wakefield) made their Grand Ole Opry debut, taking the iconic stage on Saturday, January 22. Adding to the excitement, their debut album, Heaven Down Here, dropped the day before the performance. The band stepped into the historic Opry circle to display their stunning vocals, opening as an acoustic trio with “Darkest Sky” and closing with “For the Love of It” accompanied by the Opry house band; they were received with a standing ovation from the audience. “We were so honored and unbelievably excited to get to step into the Circle together as brothers. And to see Ricky Skaggs standing there side stage rooting us on… we’ll never forget it,” said Craig Wayne Boyd. The 12-track project, which furthers the band’s soul-soaked, in-your-face harmonies, includes previously released tunes from their self-titled debut EP plus five new tracks including “Up One Side.” The trio first began writing and performing together in 2019 and announced the band publicly in June of 2020 via Billboard. More at https://www.texashillofficial. com. @texashill

WWWEBSITES TO CHECKOUT:

www.countrymusicfestivals.net | www.cmt.com | www.last.fm www. countrymusicnewsinternational.blogspot.com

WHO’S LOOKING * WHO’S CUTTING: Abby Anderson | Lindsay Ell | Chris Lane Alan Jackson | Chris Young

The official 2022 Tin Pan South poster was created by Charlie Hartrich, a freshman at Watkins College of Art at Belmont University).

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you hope for, what you dream.” Speaking about Entertainer of the Year Awards, Warner Music Nashville head John Esposito remarked that Kenny had “been there, done that” having won both the ACM and CMA Entertainer of the Year Award four times, second only to Garth Brooks.

Kenny Chesney and songwriters celebrate “Knowing You” at No. 1 party

Number One parties are all about the songwriters rather than the artist who recorded the song. Chesney is never one to hog the spotlight and remained inconspicuously in the audience while the songwriters were feted by the song’s publishers and record label executives. When called to the stage, Chesney noted that “Knowing You” was the first Number One credit for Adam James and Kat Higgins. He recalled his feelings when he achieved his own first chart-topper. Turning to them, he said, “I know the path you had to cut to sit up here.” He added that he was personally proud of them for their success.

Chesney, the songwriters and executives from the label and the music publishers all made a point of recognizing the tenacity and dedication of the promotion team at Warner Music Nashville By Preshias Harris who never gave up on the song throughout its climb to the top. There was also praise for the official music video of “Knowing Kenny Chesney joined with friends and members of Nashville’s You,” directed by Shaun Silva. See the video here: https://www. th music business community to honor the writers of his 34 youtube.com/watch?v=PkrTvtIxUaA. Number One hit, “Knowing You.” Chesney thanked the writers of “Knowing You” adding that he It seems like forever ago, but Number One parties were a regular will be, “the person who gets up on stage for the rest of his life occurrence in Music City – sometimes several in a month – but and sing this song.” concerns for the coronavirus put an end to the festivities. For those gathered at The Sutler in Nashville on January 25, it felt More about Kenny Chesney, including new 2022 tour dates, like a chance to reconnect and celebrate together. here: https://www.kennychesney.com/home.

34th Number One for Kenny Chesney

Clay Bradley, Vice President of Creative at BMI Nashville, opened the proceedings saying that Number One parties celebrate the milestones in the lives of songwriters and there would be more such celebrations as the music industry returns to normal. Released in March 2021 on Blue Chair/Warner Nashville, “Knowing You” was written by Adam James, Brett James and Kat Higgins, and produced by Chesney and Buddy Cannon. It was the fourth single release from his 2020 album, Here and Now. The song marks the 26th Number One country hit for Brett and a first chart-topper for both Adam and Kat. “Nobody’s ever done country music better than Kenny Chesney, period,” said Brett James. Addressing Chesney, he added, “Everybody knows you can’t find anybody that has a bad word to say about anything that you and your organization do.” Turning to his co-writers, Brett noted, “I’d never met either one of you until the day we wrote this song. I was completely blown away by your talent, your amazing spirits, your amazing hearts and your love for music. You guys have massive careers ahead of you. It was such fun to be part of this one. It’s such a thrill for me.” He added, “We are now all proud members of the People’s Republic of Kenny.” Adam James said that he had been looking up to Brett forever, adding, “It turns out our one song was pretty good!” Turning to Kat, Adam stated, “You’re so pure in your process and your spirit. When a song enters the room, you just know how to nurture it like nobody else. I’m so excited for you.” Kat responded, saying, “Writing with these guys, then having Kenny Chesney record this song the way that he did, it’s what NashvilleMusicGuide.com

About the songwriters Brett James is best known for co-writing Carrie Underwood’s massive hit, “Jesus Take the Wheel,” taking the Best Country Song Award at the 2005 Grammy Awards and won Single of the Year at the 2005 ACM Awards. Brett has the unique distinction of quitting medical school at the University of Oklahoma to follow of his dream of a music career in Nashville, waiting tables and going to open mic nights before finding his niche as a hit songwriter. He has writing credits on numerous Chesney hits including “You Save Me” and “When the Sun Goes Down.” Brett James was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2020. Kat Higgins, with her own career as a recording artist, grew up singing her family’s traditional Irish songs in her home in Vancouver, Canada. She went on to tour as part of The Higgins Family, snagging CCMA nominations for Group of the Year in both 2008 and 2009. Kat moved to Nashville in 2012 where her writing credits include “Mexico” for Carrie Underwood in addition to “Knowing You.” Adam James grew up near Buffalo, New York, and made his way to Nashville in a circular route. After graduating college with a music degree, he planned to head to Los Angeles. However, he moved south to Atlanta, Georgia, playing guitar, bass and keyboards in rock and R&B bands and beginning the recording of his Firecrackers EP. Moving to Nashville, he won a songwriting competition, signed a publishing deal and continues to perform solo, as a duo (Adam & Aubryn) and in a band (The Firecrackers). As a songwriter, in addition to “Knowing You,” Adam has had songs recorded by Dierks Bentley, Zac Brown Band, The Cadillac Three, Charlie Worsham and Filmore.

Nashville’s

Music venues

downtown HonkyTonk Central 329 Broadway 615-394-3457 honkytonkcentral.com

Loser’s

east nashville

The East Room

Basement East

917 Woodland 615-645-9174 thebasementnashville.com

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

3 Crow Bar

5 Spot

1006 Forrest Ave 616-259-9891 the5spotlive.com

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

Lipstick Lounge

Ingelwood Lounge 3914 Gallatin Pike (615) 490-6139

1400 Woodland 615-226-6343 thelipsticklounge.com

The Cobra

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

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

The Family Wash

Queen Ave

626A Main St. 615-645-9930

178 Queen Ave

elliston place Cafe Coco

210 Louise Ave 615-321-2626 cafecoco.com

The End

2219 Elliston Place 615-321-4457 endnashville.com

the gulch

Exit/In

2208 Elliston Place 615-321-3340 exitin.com

Station Inn 12th & Porter Rudy’s Jazz Room 402 12th Ave S 615-255-3307 stationinn.com

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

809 Gleaves 615-988-2458 rudysjazzroom.com

midtown Rebar

1919 Division St 615-345-6298 rebarnashville.com

Winner’s

Loser’s

1913 Division St 615-340-0004 losersbar.com

Hopsmith Tavern

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

1911 Division St 615-327-3115 losersbar.com

The Row

110 Lyle Ave 615-321-1224 therownashville.com

sobro

Third Man Records 623 7th Ave S 615-891-4393 thirdmanrecords.com

True Music

118 8th Ave S (The Cambria) cambrianashville.com

Decker & Dryer/L27

FGL House

Barlines

The Listening Room

807 Clark Place (The Westin) 615-248-2800 250 5th Ave S 615-782-5300 barlinesnashville.com

120 3rd Ave fglhouse.com

618 4th Ave S 615-259-3600 listeningroomcafe.com

Cannery-Mercy-HighWatt

3rd & Lindsley

1 Cannery Row 615-251-3020 mercyloung.com

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

City Winery

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

Schermerhorn

1 Symphony Place 615-687-6500 nashvillesymphony.com

Swinging Doors

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

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

Country Music Hall of Fame 222 5th Ave S 615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.com

Flying Saucer

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

west end 110 28th Ave N 615-320-4339 localnash.com

2613 West End Ave 615-327-4707 debichampion.com

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

221 Broadway 615-248-2706 facebook.com/bigasshonkytonk

Acme Feed & Seed

101 Broadway 615-915-0888 theacmenashville.com

Dawghouse Saloon 1538 Demonbreun 615-864-7393 dawghousesaloon.com

Tin Roof

1516 Demonbreun 615-313-7103 tinroofbars.com

Live Oak

1530 Demonbreun (615) 866-9716

Jason Aldean’s

Bridgestone Arena

Tequila Cowboys

Nudie’s Honky Tonk

Belcourt Theatre

Whiskey Bent

Crossroads

greater nashville

Back Alley Diner

Marathon Music Works Maxwell House Nashville Underground 1402 Clinton 2025 Rosa L Parks Blvd

311 Broadway jasonaldeansnashville,com

305 Broadway 615-747-9078

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

501 Broadway 615-770-2000 bridgestonearena.com

409 Broadway facebook.com/nudieshonkytonk nudieshonkytonk.com 419 Broadway 615-650-9333 crossroadsbar.com

hillsboro village

2101 Belcourt Ave 615-383-9140 belcourt.com

217 Arcade Alley 615-251-3003 backalleydiner.com

105 Broadway 615-964-3000 nashunderground.com

615-891-1781 marathonmusicworks.com

The Frist

Bootleggers Inn

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

Fiddle & Steel

Benchmark

Hard Rock Cafe

Puckett’s

919 Broadway 615-244-3340 fristcenter.com

210 Printers Alley 615-251-9002 ﬁddleandsteel.com

100 Broadway 615-871-6779 hardrockcafe.com

Tin Roof Broadway

207 Broadway 615-457-3983 bootleggersnashville.com

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

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

Lonnie’s Western Room

316 Broadway 615-242-4446 tinroofbroadway.com

208 Printers Alley 615-215-1122 lonnieswesternroom.com

Legends Corner

Ms Kelli’s

428 Broadway 615-248-6334 lengendscorner.com

Bourbon Street Blues Bar 220 Printers Alley 615-242-5837 bourbonstreetbluesandboogiebar.com

207 Printers Alley 615-255-4423 mskellis.com

Skull’s Ranbow Room 222 Printers Alley 615-810-9631 skullsrainbowroom.com

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

Ryman Auditorium

Layla’s Bluegrass Inn

Second Fiddle

Rippy’s

The Stage

Scoreboard

Crazytown

TPAC

Music City Bar & Grill

429 Broadway 615-244-7477 rippysbarandgrill.com 308 Broadway 615-254-5460 facebook.com/crazytownnashville

TN Repertory Theatre 161 Rains Ave 615-244-4878 tennesseerep.com

Tootsie’s

422 Broadway 615-726-0463 tootsies.com

Wild Horse Saloon

120 2nd Ave N 615-251-1000 wildhorsesaloon.com

The George Jones

128 2nd Ave N 615-818-0128 georgejones.com

421 Broadway 615-678-4808 ajsgoodtimebar.com

Margaritaville

322 Broadway 615-208-9080 margaritavillenashville.com

Ole Red

300 Broadway 629-203-7822 olered.com

412 Broadway 615-726-0504 thestageonbroadway.com 505 Dedick St 615-255-2787 tpac.com

The Valentine

312 Broadway 615-202-6979 thevalentinenashville.com

Douglas Corner

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

Municipal Auditorium

420 Broadway 615-248-4818 theﬁddle.com

2225 Brandsford Ave 615-593-1872 santaspub.com

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

416 Broadway 615-244-9552 robertswesternworld.com

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

8400 Hwy 100 615-646-9700 lovelesscafe.com

4420 Whites Creek Pike 615-299-9590

Robert’s Western World

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

615-259-4343 milleniumhotels.com

Loretta Lynn Ranch

301 Broadway lukes32bridge.com

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

Belcourt Taps

2117 Belcourt Ave 615-915-3622 belcourttaps.com

Loveless Cafe

Luke’s 32 Bridge

AJ’s Good Time Bar

Springwater The Local Commodore 115 27th Ave N 615-862-8431 thespringwater.com

111 4th Ave S (615) 736-5050

demonbruen Kid Rock’s

Miss Jeanne’s Dinner Theater 600 9th Ave S 615-902-9566 missjeannes.com

opryland Gaylord 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

Redneck Riviera

208 Broadway 615-436-4070 redneckrivieranashville.com

Whiskey Row

400 Broadway 629-203-7822 dierkswhiskeyrow.com

Mellow Mushroom

423 Broadway 615-454-4990 mellowmushroom.com

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

NashvilleMusicGuide.com

Nashville Music guide’s

Top festivals of 2022 Tin Pan South (Nashville, TN) Dates: March 29- April 2 | TinPanSouth.com Tin Pan South is America’s largest music festival dedicated to songs and songwriters. The week‑long celebration highlights Nashville as the world capital of songwriting and draws attention to the wide variety of songwriters who live and work here, as well as the prestigous live music venues throughout the city.

SXSW Music Festival (Austin, TX) Dates: March 11-20 | SXSW.com Made up of a conference, interactive, film, comedy, and music festival, the week-and-a-half-long SXSW has much to boast about -- but its music showcases featuring a roster of 2000 acts are the real party of it all. Unlike a traditional festival, concerts are thrown at a variety of venues around Austin and made up of lineups of emerging artists trying to catch industry and media attention. If you tried, you could basically see a year’s-worth of live music over the course of several days, and absolutely discover “the next big thing” who you can brag to your friends about knowing before they blow up.

Pilgrimage Music & Arts Festival (Frnaklin, TN) Dates:TBA | PilgrimageMusicFestival.com

Beale St. Music Festival (Memphis, TN) Dates: April 29 - May 1 | MemphisinMay.org/ MusicFestival Early spring brings festies to the Beale Street Music Festival in the music mecca of Memphis. This three day event boasts an eclectic lineup that includes Rock, Blues, Soul, and a dash of everything else. This is just one part of a larger city celebration called Memphis in May.

NashvilleMusicGuide.com

Entering it’s 6th year, Pilgrimage was inspired by friendship, history, experience and the desire to create an authentic music festival. Live New Orleans Jazz Fest, it takes place during the day, and offers a diverse yet renowned lineup of rock and roll, altcountry, bluegrass, jazz, indie, gospel and more. Pilgrimage also pays homage to the roots of Americana with special exhibits and speakers as well as catering to their family-friendly image with play areas and a special stage with music just for the kiddos. Lineup: TBA. Past lineups have include Justin Timberlake, Chris Stapleton, Wilco, Willie Nelson, Beck, Hall & Oates, Jack White, Keith Urban, Foo Fighters, Leon Bridges and The Killers.

Sweet Water 420 Fest (Atlanta, GA) Dates: April 29-May 1 | Sweetwater420Fest.com Bringing a killer collection of brews and artists from around the country come together in downtown Atlanta’s Centennial Olympic Park to celebrate beer, food and fun. Past headliners have included Widespread Panic, Avett Brothers, Moon Taxi, Slightly Stoopid, Dirty Heads, Snoop Dogg, 311, Primus, AER, Gov’t Mule, Big Data, Cage The Elephant, and more.

Hang Out Music Festival (Gulf Shores, AL) Dates: May 20-22 | HangoutMusicFest.com Hangout takes music festivalling to the beach with a ocean view on the golden sands of Gulf Shores. The huge lineup of just about every genre frequently gives a sneak peak of what’s hitting the festival circuit for the summer. Hangout is as much a vacation as it is a festival. Offering more than just music, fans can take advantage of festival amenities including beach volleyball, carnival rides, Gulf-front hammocks, delicious seafood and more. Acts to check out: Kane Brown, Briston Maroney, Bren Joy, Breland, Moon Taxi, Leon Bridges, Fletcher, The Head and The Heart, and Tame Impala.

Lollapalooza (Chicago, IL) Dates: TBA | Lollapalooza.com Louder than Life (Louisville, KY) Dates: September 22-25 Taking place in the heart of America in Louisville, Kentucky, Louder Than Life proclaims to be the ‘World’s Largest Rock ‘N’ Roll Whiskey Festival.’ This three-day festival highlights hard rock, punk, heavy metal and alternative headliners only a few miles away from downtown Louisville. Over the span of the weekend, the festival features over 50 artists and continually brings in over 120,00 fans each year.

As ‘chella is to the West Coast, Lolla is to the Midwest. Held in Downtown Chicago’s sprawling Grant Park, Lolla is one of the few genuinely exciting corporate fests and its gravitose and energy basically transforms the city. It may have originally been founded as alternative music event, but its gotten away from those parameters, expanding to feature just about the best of the best from every genre under the sun. It’s a massive urban festival, but “palooza” is in its name for a reason; it’s just a damn good time.

NashvilleMusicGuide.com

Forecastle (Louisville, KY) Dates: May 27-29 | ForecastleFest.com

Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival (Manchester, TN) Dates: June 16-19 | Bonnaroo.com

Forecastle takes place at Louisville’s Waterfront Park, attracting over 75,000 attendees annually. Featuring alumni like Outkast, Jack White, The Black Keys, The Avett Brothers, Beck, Alabama Shakes, My Morning Jacket, and The Flaming Lips makes this a stellar summer event. And because it’s Kentucky, there’s definitely a taste of the state’s famous liquor in the Bourbon Lodge.

Why you should go: Even as camping festivals become more of a luxury experience, or remove that rough element entirely, the ‘roo lives on and prevails because of it. With its all-night dance parties, extremely extensive lineup, and embrace of anything-goes camping culture, Bonnaroo is a sort of mecca of major fest heads, and the place to be if you’re down for just about anything. It’s basically the quintessential festival experience.

Acts to check out: Tsha, Chelsea Cutler, Porter Robinson, San Holo, Maddy O’Neal

Acts to Check Out: Rezz, Lany, Ludacris, Chvrchs, Tove Lo, Maggie Rose, Whiskey Myers, and Andy Frasco

Americna Music Festival (Nashville, TN) Dates: September 13-17 | americanamusic.org This is a must-attend event for anyone who loves the melting pot of Americana’s influences including roots, folk, country, blues and soul-based music. The conference portion features numerous panels, seminars, exclusive day time performances, and much more, proudly providing Nashville’s most educational music industry forum. This special event covers the interests and needs of artists, managers, labels, radio stations, publishers, agents, promoters, retailers, legal and business affairs executives, merchandisers and new media professionals Lineup: TBA. Past headliners have included Tanya Tucker, Keb’ Mo’, Lee Ann Womack, Chris Stapleton, Loretta Lynn, Steve Earle, Patty Griffin, Joe Purdy, Mary Gauthier, Amanda Shires, Guy Davis, Hayes Carll, and Gary Clark Jr.

NashvilleMusicGuide.com

Mempho Music & Arts Festival (Memphis, TN) Dates: Sept 30 - Oct 2 | MemphoFest.com

Only in its third year, Mempho Music Festival creates a vibrant community grounded in music, energy, nature, and the history of Memphis, Tennessee.With music for all tastes and entertainment for all ages, this camping festival is aligned to be on the same level as Coachella and Bonnaroo. Bring a chair or blanket, arrive early and find a shady spot among the trees or make yourself at home in the sunshine. Line Up: TBA. Past headliners have included Post Malone, Janelle Monae, Wu-Tang Clan and Brandi Carlisle.

Austin City Limits (Austin, TX) Dates: October 7-9 & 14-16 | ACLFestival.com

Lineup: TBA. Past headlining acts have included Paul McCartney, Metallica, Arctic Monkeys, Odesza, Lizzo, Bob Dylan, Kanye West, Guns N’ Roses, Stevie Wonder, Childish Gambino, The Weeknd, Pearl Jam, Widespread Panic, Sheryl Crow, Willie Nelson and Dave Matthews Band.

Austin is the music city, and in its two weekends with over 125 sets, Austin City Limits does an excellent to reflect that. Taking place right in the city in Zilker Park, it’s a massive celebration of all kinds of music with everything from legacy acts and current pop stars to experimental newbies and local talent filling out its expansive lineup.

VooDoo Music & Arts (New Orleans, LA) Dates: TBA | VooDooFestival.com

Lineup: TBA. Past headlining acts include Red Hot Chili Peppers, Eminem, Neil Young, Green Day, Kiss, Pearl Jam, The Cure, and many more. Mash ups of popular bands along with local Louisiana talent.

Voodoo Experience has been held since 1999 in New Orleans City Park and features multiple music genres. Taking a trip down to New Orleans for Halloween would probably be like a supernatural experience, period. But Voodoo also goes down that same spooky weekend, and visiting this fest would undeniably elevate your trip to be out-of-this-realm because it’s as festive as it is a solid concert. Costumes are encouraged, and the bayou event really leans into the lore as an homage to the spirit of its hometown.

Electric Forest Music & Arts Festival (Rothbury, MI) Dates: June 23-26 | ElectricForestFestival.com E-Forest generally sells out before the lineup is even announced, this speaks volumes on how special this festival is. It is not just about the music (which is predominantly electronic), it is an experience unlike any other and it is something that I think any true festival-goer needs to experience at least once. Nestled in the stunning Sherwood Forest, the festival incorporates the natural beauty of the high woodland trees into the experience. By day fans can roam around the enchanting scenery or gather among the hundreds of hammocks dangling between the trees and pop up installations. Once the sun sets, you can watch as the forest is lit up and the magic begins. The exhilarating atmosphere combined with jaw-dropping light displays and spontaneous secret parties, all matched with a carefully curated lineup, generates a truly unique experience. Previous lineups have included ODESZA, Kygo, Flume, Bassnectar, Bonobo, Cut Copy and many more.

NashvilleMusicGuide.com

Nashville Music Guide Artists Edition 2022 Vol. 30 Issue 201

Articles inside

Morgan Wade

Nate Smith

Ashley Cooke

ERNEST

Cooper Alan

Chayce Beckham

CMT’s Next Women of Country

Chase Matthew