Inside Track on Music Row — December 2019

inside track on music row by preshias Harris


VERSE OF THE MONTH:

May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be – Saint Theresa.

ALBUM NEWS:

The highly anticipated movie about TV’s Mr. Rogers, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, starring Tom Hanks also spawned a companion compilation CD of Mr. Rogers songs, fincluding The Cowsills singing “Won’t You Be My Neighbor” and artists including Jon Secada, Kellie Pickler, Rita Wilson, Micky Dolenz, Lee Greenwood, Vanessa Williams & additional famous entertainers singing Fred Rogers’ other memorable songs. The Cowsills are currently recording a new studio CD. More about the Cowsills at http://cowsill.com/home/

AMERICANA NEWS:

Acclaimed American rock band Blackberry Smoke’s new live album, Homecoming: Live In Atlanta, debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Americana/Folk Album Sales chart. It is also currently in the top 10 on Billboard’s Country Album Sales chart and Rock Album Sales chart. Recorded at their annual “Brothers and Sisters Holiday Homecoming” show at Atlanta’s Tabernacle last November, the live album and its accompanying concert film—directed by Ted Roach and Lagan Sebert—are available to stream/purchase via https://www.blackberrysmoke.com/. Over the past six years, Blackberry Smoke has raised more than $350,000 to benefit children’s cancer research through a variety of “Brothers and Sisters” events such as the Holiday Homecoming shows, the “Brothers and Sisters Reunion Weekend” in Maryville, TN and their recent Ride For CURE event hosted by Tom Glavine. Reflecting on the project, lead singer Charlie Starr shares, “With this live album and film, we tried to capture that special energy. We feel that Homecoming lets you hear and see how much fun we have at those shows.”

ANNIVERSARY TOUR:

ALABAMA, the most successful band in the history of country music, has rescheduled it’s sold out “50th Anniversary Tour” concert in Nashville and has added a second show due to popular demand. The previously postponed live concert will take place next year at Bridgestone Arena on Friday, July 17 2020 with the second show to follow on Saturday, July 18. Charlie Daniels will join them at both events. Tickets for the second concert are now on sale via Ticketmaster.com, by phone at 800-745-3000, all Ticketmaster locations and the Bridgestone Arena box office. ALABAMA will announce all rescheduled “50th Anniversary Tour” 2020 live concert dates in the coming weeks. Tickets and tour info at https://www.thealabamaband.com/

ARTIST NEWS:

John Berry, the Grammy winning singer/songwriter, announced in January of this year, he had been diagnosed with throat cancer. Recent follow-up scans reveal he is cancer free. He continues to tour and is heading out on his 23rd Annual Songs and Stories With John Berry Christmas Tour. In a video narrated by Berry, he shares intimate moments filmed during a benefit held on his behalf in April as he performed his current single “The Richest Man” as well as his personal reflection about the inspiration behind the song. The song is dedicated to his dad who taught him that the most valuable things in life typically had very little to do with money. Find the video at https://www.johnberry.com/ “The Richest Man,” is from his latest project, Thomas Road.

BENEFIT NEWS:

Led by multi-platinum entertainer Dierks Bentley, 2019’s 3rd annual “Heal The Music Day” raised over $400,000 for Music Health Alliance (MHA). Entirely funded through grants and individual and corporate donations, “Heal The Music Day” highlights the music community’s efforts to provide financial support for the non-profit’s critical and life-saving free services. Members of the music community – songwriters, musicians, performers, artist managers, publishers, business managers, record labels, trade organizations and more – pledged their support for their fellow musicians and peers in the industry in times of medical crisis. With $400,000 raised in 2019 in support of Music Health Alliance, every dollar donated equals $30 in life-saving healthcare resources. Music Health Alliance’s free services range from access to doctors and hospitals, medicine, health insurance and finding financial assistance during times of illness. Support from “Heal The Music Day” helps to fund Music Health Alliance’s free programs and services in addition to The Ben Eyestone Fund, which assists un-insured or under-insured music industry professionals in Davidson and surrounding counties within Middle Tennessee receive life-saving diagnostics and treatment. More at https://www.musichealthalliance.com/donate-to-heal/

BLUEGRASS NEWS:

Five-time Grammy-winner Steven Curtis Chapman has earned his 18th Grammy nomination with Deeper Roots: Where The Bluegrass Grows getting a nod for Best Roots Gospel Album at the 62nd Annual Grammy Awards, set to air Sunday Jan. 26 at 8:00 ET on CBS. “As a boy from Kentucky who grew up on Bluegrass music, to get to make a Bluegrass record with some of the best musicians in the world and have my dad, my brother, my son, Ricky Skaggs and Gary Levox sing on it with me…that was a dream come true. To have that record be nominated for a Grammy…I couldn’t even dream up something that amazing! I’m so honored and so grateful!” said Chapman. With Deeper Roots, Chapman earned his second No. 1 on the Billboard Bluegrass Albums chart and first No. 1 on the iTunes Country Albums chart. Details and ‘Acoustic Christmas’ tour dates at http://stevencurtischapman.com/

CD NEWS:

Lady Antebellum earned the biggest first week streams of their career with their critically acclaimed album Ocean (BMLG Records). With over 8 million streams, the 13-track project debuted at No. 1 on the Country album charts. It also debuted at the No. 2 spot on Billboard’s all-genre Top Country Albums chart while topping iTunes upon release. It features the Top 5 and climbing lead single “What If I Never Get Over You.” As a Country-radio staple, Lady A has amassed record-breaking success with nine No. One hits while ushering in more than 18 million album units and 34 million tracks sold, with over 4 billion digital streams. Tour updates and more at https://www.ladyantebellum.com/

CD RELEASES:

Always a storyteller, J.T. Hodges is bringing holiday cheer to millions of Lifetime viewers as the singer/songwriter returns to acting in Christmas Stars, a new movie, that also features never before heard Christmas tunes from Hodges, airing December 13 at 8PM ET/PT. Hodges has just released his new EP, All Through the Night: A Christmas Collection, which includes the original title track and Christmas classics with an arrangement that only Hodges can deliver, including standards like “Jingle Bells,” “Silent Night,” and “Deck the Halls,” as well as “God Rest Three Kings,” a melodic holiday tune that weaves in lyrics from “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” and “We Three Kings.” Christmas Stars is part of Lifetime’s largest holiday movie slate ever for the network’s annual It’s a Wonderful Lifetime programming schedule. More information, visit https://www.mylifetime.com/movies/christmas-stars. Hodges, known for his smash hits “Hunt You Down,” “Goodbyes Made You Mine” and “Sleepy Little Town,” which spent two weeks at No. 1 on Sirius/XM’s The Highway, is also in the studio working on all-new music for release in 2020.

CHARITY NEWS:

Singer-songwriter Lance Carpenter, co-writer of Kelsea Ballerini’s hit “Love Me Like You Mean It,” is joining forces with Lonestar’s Richie McDonald on the emotionally charged ballad “Last Night In Memphis.” The single, available now, celebrates the story of a child who is spending their last night in Memphis because they have won their battle with cancer. The tune written by the guys is the encouragement so many struggling people need this holiday season. “This is one of those songs that just reaches deep into your soul when things aren’t going so good and gives you a reason to smile,” says Carpenter. “‘Last Night In Memphis’ is a powerful song with an amazing performance delivered by Lance,” adds Richie. “It’s a song about hope for all the beautiful children of St. Jude.” A portion of the proceeds from the single will go to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Listen here: https://ffm.to/lastnightinmemphis

CMA NEWS:

“CMA Country Christmas,” aired Tuesday, Dec. 3 at 9/8c on the ABC Television Network. Trisha Yearwood hosts and performs during the festive special. In addition to Yearwood, the all-star lineup includes Dierks Bentley, Kristin Chenoweth, for KING & COUNTRY, Chris Janson, Tori Kelly, Lady Antebellum, Rascal Flatts, Runaway June, CeCe Winans, Brett Young and Chris Young coming together for a joyful night filled with Christmas classics and one-of-a-kind collaborations to celebrate the holidays. Thoughtfully designed by several “CMA Country Christmas” performers, CMA is selling a “Tacky” Country Christmas sweater for the first time ever. A portion of proceeds from the sale of the sweater benefit music education students and programs across the country through CMA’s nonprofit arm, the CMA Foundation. Purchase the sweater now at https://shop.cmaworld.com/ and help make a difference in the life of a child today.

CMT NEWS:

When Arkansas native Blane Howard wrote “Promise to Love Her” it was never meant to be anything more than a simple gift. A gift that Howard surprised his bride, Megan, with on the morning of their wedding. Penning the song was, for him, less about writing a song, and more about translating his love for his wife into something they could always share. The song has quickly become his biggest success to date with more than 40 million streams across digital platforms. Shortly after the song’s release, at his fans’ behest, Blane and some friends created a video for the song, which included actual footage from his own wedding. While the original video has garnered more than 7.5 million views online, it was time to freshen it up for broadcast television. The official music video, featuring his wife, premiered on CMT Music and CMT.com. “Promise to Love Her” was written by Howard with ACM Award winner Jordan Reynolds and produced by Brad Hill. More at https://blanehoward.com/

CONCERT NEWS:

The 2019 Christmas 4 Kids concert was held at the Ryman Auditorium, with Phil Vassar headlining an evening of fan-favorite hits and holiday classics. The all-star lineup also included Lonestar, Matt Ramsey of Old Dominion, Jamie O’Neal, Olivia Ooms, Craig Wiseman, Jeffrey Steele and Adley Stump, of the online sensation The Adley Show, who also hosted the event. Each year, the organization provides hundreds of underprivileged children in Middle Tennessee with their very own Christmas shopping spree. Christmas 4 Kids is a not-for-profit organization that has been in existence for over three decades. The funds generated by the Ryman concert and Tour Bus Show/Artist Meet and Greet event, are used to give over 400 children from 29 different schools, a day-long shopping excursion. The special day consists of a chauffeured trip from their school aboard an entertainer’s luxury tour bus, dinner, and a party hosted by Santa and Mrs. Claus. Then the tour buses journey to the Hendersonville, Tennessee Walmart where the children receive a new winter coat, and $175.00 to spend however they choose. To sponsor a child, go to https://christmas4kids.org/

DIGITAL MUSIC NEWS:

It’s been a busy year for Clare Dunn, With the winter holidays now approaching, she remains as hardworking and prolific as ever, offering fans an early holiday gift in the form of her newest digital single: “Step Into Christmas.” Originally written and released by Elton John, whose own version became an international hit in the mid-1970s, “Step Into Christmas” mixes holiday cheer with what has now become Clare Dunn’s signature blend of country-rock sass and spice. Produced by the front woman herself and recorded in a single weekend with one-pass vocals. MCA/Universal Nashville singer/songwriter/producer Clare Dunn is known for her transfixing live shows, powerful vocals, and unparalleled guitar playing. As part of CMT’s 2019 Next Women of Country Tour, Clare took her “big voice” (The Boston Globe) on the road with Hannah Ellis and Cassadee Pope to cities including New York, Atlanta, Washington D.C. and Boston. Follow Clare on Social Media: instagram.com/claredunnmusic / facebook.com/ClareDunnMusic twitter.com/ClareDunnMusic.

DUO NEWS:

The Bellamy Brothers are “Over the Moon” in a new video, exclusively premiering on Billboard.com. It is the title track of their new album released earlier this year. The video features them singing and dancing with their real-life loves on their ranch in Darby, Florida. Shot by Derrek Kupish of dkupish productions, the video contains familiar faces from the brothers’ hit reality series “Honky Tonk Ranch” which is currently filming the third season. “This is one of Howard’s songs that he wrote and it really is a true dyed in the wool classic country song,” said David Bellamy. “Just an old romantic country song we made it that way to be slow moving and beautiful.” Fans can catch the on-the-go duo on Blake Shelton’s Friends & Heroes tour in 2020 as they hit the road for the second year in a row with Shelton alongside John Anderson, Trace Adkins and Lauren Alaina. Tour dates at https://bellamybrothers.com/

GARTH NEWS:

The Garth Brooks Stadium Tour is coming to Charlotte, NC. The concert will be Saturday, May 2nd, 7:00 PM at Bank of America Stadium. It’s Garth’s first time in Charlotte, NC in 22 years. This will be the only stop in the Carolinas on The Stadium Tour. Links to ticket purchasing at https://garthbrooks.com/ … Garth Brooks’ music video for “Dive Bar” with Blake Shelton surpassed 30 million views in just five days, only on Facebook. It’s the highest number of music video streams on Facebook in country music history. It’s Garth’s first new music video in 12 years. The album box set LEGACY, from the record setting pre-sales this past spring, began delivery in November, and the 7 vinyl album and 7 CD (+ bonus tracks) package, arrived at retail stores in time for Black Friday. The vinyl package broke pre-order records, moving over 1 million vinyl records. “Dive Bar” is available on Amazon Music and was the most added song at country radio upon its debut and is taken from Brooks’ forthcoming studio album Fun. It is his first musical collaboration with Shelton. The single inspired a 7-date stint of dive bar shows. Tour dates and more at https://www.garthbrooks.com/ AS OF 12/1/19 THE SHARING OF THE VIDEO IS AT 67,000 plus.

HOPE RADIO NEWS:

Nile “Big Daddy” Peaytt of Hope Nation Radio (HNR) recently launched two new weekly syndicated radio shows. 90’s Country Flashback focuses on country hits from the 90’s while 615 The Grind is geared towards today’s country, new country artists and country news. Though the shows have only been around for a short amount of time, both have already been picked up internationally. 90’s Country Flashback has seen success in Dublin, Ireland where it has been picked up on Total Country FM (listen online via TuneIn) aired four times weekly. 615 The Grind has been successfully added on The Wolf Australia, the only Australian radio station dedicated to playing new country. This show which airs every Tuesday at 6:15PM Sydney/Melbourne time brings fans the latest and greatest country straight from Nashville. Both shows have also been picked up in London and Luxembourg. London listeners can tune in to Sunshine Radio UK and fans can also tune in to 94.7FM Gilsdorf, the one and only country radio station in Luxembourg. More about Hope Nation at http://www.hopeiseverything.org/

INDIE NEWS:

Every year various artists release their take on time honored Holiday classics. For their first-ever Christmas song, Honey County put their spin and added their three-part harmonies to the hit “This Christmas.” Honey County is more than likely to put you in the holiday spirit with their high-energy version. The lyric video was featured on The Boot as an exclusive first listen before it was released. “This Christmas” was self-produced by Honey County’s Katie Stump. Tour dates, music and more at http://www.honeycounty.com/ …. Nashville newcomer Jenny Tolman has just one wish for Christmas, and she’s sharing it with us. With longing in her voice, Tolman sings to Santa, “I want a cowboy for Christmas … wrapped up in some old Wrangler jeans.” The song, “Cowboy for Christmas,” is a throwback country and western love song with simple acoustic and bass accompaniment that can’t help but put you in the holiday spirit. Tolman playfully shares, “Last fall I got to tour for the very first time in Texas which led to me falling in love with COWBOYS! (Haha)! So Dave Brainard, Bill Whyte, and I wrote this tune, “Cowboy for Christmas,” and I couldn’t be more excited to share it with y’all. Hope you love it!” Check out the song and her current album, There Goes the Neighborhood, go to https://www.jennytolman.com/

INT’L NEWS:

Chris Young celebrated a record year on the road as his Raised On Country World Tour 2019, sponsored by USAA, played to over 400,000 fans in 3 countries in 2019. The headlining tour, which started May 5 in the UK and wrapped in Lexington, KY, covered 35 states across the U.S. as Chris welcomed special guests Chris Janson, Eli Young Band, Dylan Scott, LOCASH, Jimmie Allen and Matt Stell on various dates throughout the year. Since launching the North American leg in May, Chris has headlined shows in Charlotte, Boston, Dallas, Las Vegas, Indianapolis, St. Louis, Phoenix, San Diego, Oklahoma City and more, including a career-topping 21,500 fans from Philadelphia’s BB&T Pavilion. During the final show of the tour at Lexington’s Rupp Arena on Nov 23, Chris surprised a special fan who had just undergone chemo by joining her in the crowd to sing his hit “Who I Am With You.” Tour updates at https://www.chrisyoungcountry.com

LABEL NEWS:

(BMLG Nashville) Just weeks after announcement and initial ticket on-sales, multi-PLATINUM performer Brett Young’s headlining The Chapters Tour is off to an explosive start. Young, “who already has incredible live feats under his belt” (Billboard), notched immediate overwhelming fan demand across North America, with several cities seeing additional shows and/or seats added, while many dates have quickly sold-out. Featuring special guest Matt Ferranti, the tour kicks off in Knoxville, TN on January 30 and remaining tickets are available now at BrettYoungMusic.com. Following an incredible 2019, The Chapters Tour celebrates and integrates milestones from every corner of Young’s storied journey. His current single “Catch” continues its fast climb at Country radio, currently inside the Top 25.

LYRIC VIDEO NEWS:

Southern Halo’s latest lyric video, “Missing Mississippi,” marks home and family on an emotional map as it reflects on the Morris sisters’ connection to the state of their birth. The creative clip is filled with a montage of personal photographs that range from toddler to teen interspersed with high-energy stage snaps, text message screenshots and images of keepsakes and mementos of their travels. The often moving visuals offer a refreshing and surprisingly deep dive into the “sister soul” togetherness and Southern grace that are central to Natalia (principal songwriter, guitarist, lead vocalist), Christina (drums) and Hannah (bass), and solidify the sense of “family” and “home.” The song details the first night Natalia spent alone in the siblings’ Nashville condo. The lyric video, created by DiamondBack Productions, premiered on The Boot. The song, from Southern Halo’s 2018 album, Just Like In The Movies, is a fan favorite at shows, and releasing the lyric video is a way for the group to acknowledge the support Halo-ites have given the tune. Music and more at https://www.southernhalo.net/

MEDIA NEWS:

The countdown is on for the Grammys, set to air live, January 26, 8:00 pm ET/5:00 pm PT, and one artist who has been absent from Grammy consideration for years is back with a bang. Tanya Tucker has four Grammy nominations including Song Of The Year: “Bring My Flowers Now,” Best Country Album: While I’m Livin’, Best Country Solo Performance: “Bring My Flowers Now,” and Best Country Song: “Bring My Flowers Now.” The four nominations lead all 2020 Country Grammy nominees. Produced by Brandi Carlile and Shooter Jennings, While I’m Livin’, Tucker’s first new album in 17 years was released in August. Nominated for 10 Grammy Awards over her illustrious five-decade career, Tucker landed her first nomination with “Delta Dawn” in 1972 for Best Country Vocal Performance by a Female. The critically acclaimed album marks Tucker’s first for Fantasy Records and Sawyer & Garner Management. The record is her first Top Ten debut and tenth Top 10 album. Details and tour info at https://www.tanyatucker.com/

MILITARY NEWS:

Country music entertainer, TV host and Army veteran Craig Morgan returned to Korea for a special Thanksgiving week visit to our troops serving overseas. Craig, joined by CMT’s Cody Alan and members of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders squad, brought a taste of home to our military men and women during the visit to Camp Humphreys, South Korea. The visit will be highlighted in a special episode of CMT’s “Hot 20 Countdown,” airing at 9am ET/8am CT on Saturday, December 14 and Sunday, December 15 and again on Saturday, December 28 and Saturday, December 29. This was Craig’s twelfth USO tour and his second this year. Craig is a USO Merit Award recipient and has entertained more than 45,000 service members and military families in 15 countries. Prior to making it big on the country music scene, the singer/songwriter spent more than 10.5 years of service in the U.S. Army and 6.5 years in the U.S. Army Reserves. Visit https://www.uso.org/campaign/holidays to learn how you can help bring a piece of home to our heroes.

MUSIC NEWS:

Country music newcomer Zach Blair, who released his self-titled, four-track, debut in August, is now pursuing adds at radio with his lead single, “Candle to You,” released via CDX. Co-written by Zach, his father Rick Blair, and hit songwriter/recording artist, Rick Huckaby (whose cuts include Thomas Rhett’s “Beer with Jesus,” Tracy Lawrence’s “Steps,” Trace Adkins’ “Muddy Water,” Craig Morgan’s “Every Red Light,” Frankie Ballard’s “El Rio”, and others), the mid-tempo love song, “Candle to You,” complimentarily elevates a romantic interest above all others through carefully-crafted comparisons to iconic items and extraordinary emotions. “My home was always full of musicians, songwriters and music,” fondly recalls Zach, “I listened a lot to my Dad’s music, and stuff like the Rolling Stones, James Taylor, Garth Brooks, The Beatles, and Rick Huckaby…I honestly didn’t know that ‘Huck’ wasn’t just as big as star as the other artists because to me, he was larger than life. He’s an amazing songwriter and mentor.” Details at https://www.zachblairmusic.com/ and on all social media.

MUSICIAN NEWS:

During the James Burton and Friends event in November, singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Steve Wariner joined an incredible lineup of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame members and world-renowned guitarists, including Burton, Brian May of Queen, “Skunk” Baxter of Steely Dan, Sammy Hagar, Steve Cropper, as well as Tanya Tucker, and many more. The all-star event, which also included performances by Joe Walsh of the Eagles and Albert Lee, was hosted by Burton at The Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville. Proceeds benefited the James Burton Foundation by helping give the gift of music and guitars to school programs, hospitals for children and veterans nationwide. Wariner was recently inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame by longtime friend, collaborator and Country Music Hall of Fame member Garth Brooks. Gretsch Guitars also celebrated the incredible talents of the revered musician with the newly released G6120T-SW Steve Wariner Signature Nashville® Gentleman model. More at https://www.stevewariner.com/ and on social media.

NASHVILLE EVENT NEWS:

Nashville’s Redneck Riviera hosts Operation Stand Down Tennessee Veteran Meet Up, December 10, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm. The event is free to veterans and their families (age 21+). OSDT empowers Veterans with the ability to build relationships with fellow Veterans and to establish a solid network within the Nashville community. If you are looking for a job or if you just want to have a beer with a fellow Veteran, this event will empower you to do so. More about Operation Stand Down Tennessee, a registered 501(c)(3), at http://osdtn.org/ Call (615) 248-1981 for info about the event. Redneck Riviera is at 208 Broadway Nashville. https://redneckrivieranashville.com/

New Year’s Eve with John Rich, December 31, 2019 open 9:00 p.m. at Redneck Riviera, Second Floor. This party will include an appearance by John Rich, live music, express entry into the venue, a champagne toast at midnight, light appetizers, desserts, and favors. VIP Standing Room: $100; Ultimate VIP with Seating: $250. Ages 21 and up. Must have IDs to enter the venue. No large bags allowed. Questions? Contact us at contact@redneckrivieranashville.com

Country/Pop Singer-Songwriter, Alayna is ready to ring in the holidays with “Christmas Party!,” her new single that was just released and is now available through all streaming platforms and digital retailers. The song, which showcases her powerful vocals and unique sound, is a fun, flirty holiday jazz song inspired by the great scat vocalists from the 1940s and 1950s. It was co-written with Kirsti Manna (Blake Shelton’s “Austin”) and Bill Warner (Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, and Michael W. Smith) who also produced the record. The corresponding lyric video was just released as well and is available on Alayna’s YouTube channel. Alayna will have a Christmas Party EP Release show on Tuesday, December 3rd at The Local in Nashville to celebrate her new project and the holiday season. Doors at 6 p.m., show at 7 p.m. There will be free cookies, giveaways, a photo booth, “reindeer punch,” and a special appearance from Santa and Mrs. Claus! Details, music, social media links and more at https://www.alaynasmusic.com.

NATD NEWS:

The Nashville Association of Talent Directors (NATD) held its 9th Annual NATD Honors Gala in November and chose honorees to receive awards for their accomplishments and service to the Nashville entertainment industry. Among those honored: legendary bluegrass and Americana agent Keith Case; CCM trailblazer Bill Hearn, who was instrumental in major labels developing arms in the Christian music industry (both Case and Hearn were honored posthumously); recently retired general manager of the Nashville Municipal Auditorium, Bob Skoney; Tennessee Radio Hall of Famer and “Mayor of Music Row” Charlie Monk; Gospel music icon CeCe Winans; Nashville Convention and Visitors Corp. head Butch Spyridon; Premier Global Productions and Country Thunder’s Troy Vollhoffer; and Bonnie Sugarman, a mainstay in the agency world, was presented with the Colonel Tom Parker Award. The Nashville Association of Talent Directors (NATD) was founded in 1958 and professionally represents, directs, and promotes the entertainment industry through its members. More at http://n-a-t-d.com/

PERFORMANCE NEWS:

To kick off the release of his ninth studio album, aptly titled 9, Jason Aldean teamed with SiriusXM for a “Dial Up The Moment” pop-up performance show at Nashville’s Margaritaville on Lower Broadway. Additionally, fans across the country can also now listen to “Jason Aldean 9: The Podcast” narrated by Golden Globe nominated actor Kevin Connolly. The series gives fans an inside look at the three-time Entertainer of the Year’s impressive career and is available at all podcast providers. Aldean partnered with over 100 Bar Louie neighborhood locations and independently owned bars across the country to exclusively present the special 9-song performance filmed from Jason Aldean’s Restaurant + Rooftop Bar in Nashville. Tour dates and more at https://www.jasonaldean.com/

RADIO NEWS:

Country artist James Robert Webb has released his reimagined version of the hit “Tulsa Time.” James brings his mix of modern and classic country to life in his take on the standard, sent to No. 1 by Don Williams in 1978 and has also been recorded by Eric Clapton and more. Check it out at https://www.jamesrobertwebb.com/. SiriusXM Willie’s Roadhouse has started spinning the song at Ch. 59 or on the SiriusXM app. The song was produced by award-winning producer, Buddy Cannon, and will be on Webb’s self-titled new album in early 2020. “To me, western swing music is the world’s best antidepressant,” said Webb. “My grandparents introduced me to it and told me stories about back in the day when they would listen to Bob Wills playing at the Cain’s Ballroom live on KVOO every Saturday. I remember hearing ‘Tulsa Time’ all the time when I was a kid, I thought everyone had a song about where they lived!” True to his blue-collar roots, James Robert Webb walks the line between traditional and contemporary country music.

SINGLE NEWS:

GRAMMY Nominee Thomas Rhett is sharing his first-ever Christmas songs, helping fans ring in the holiday season. The singer/songwriter unveiled “Christmas In The Country,” a rollicking original track written by Thomas Rhett, David Garcia, Ashley Gorley and Chris Tomlin. Additionally, pairing his smooth vocals layered with jazzy melodies, Thomas Rhett also offers his rendition of the classic “The Christmas Song.” Find both songs at https://tr.lnk.to/ChristmasPR“Christmas is hands-down my favorite time of year,” said Thomas Rhett. “We have so many Christmas traditions in our family that include a lot of festive music, but I’ve never recorded anything myself. Lauren has wanted me to make some Christmas music for a long time, so this year felt like the right time to finally take a stab at writing something and to put my own twist on one of the all-time classics.” Info on new music and tour dates at https://centerpointroad.thomasrhett.com/

SONGWRITER NEWS:

Songwriters Jackson Browne and Leslie Mendelson released their single “A Human Touch,” on a special limited edition vinyl for Record Store Day on November 29, 2019. The 12inch 180 gram LP is red vinyl with custom etching, in a gatefold package that includes a digital download card of an mp3 of the song and a link to the official music video. This limited edition vinyl is available at local record stores. Browne, Mendelson and Steve McEwan wrote, “A Human Touch,” for the documentary film 5B. Distributed by Verizon Media, 5B is the story of everyday heroes who took extraordinary action to comfort and care for the patients of the first AIDS ward in the U.S. More about Browne and Mendelson at https://www.jacksonbrowne.com/ and http://www.lesliemendelson.com/. Proceeds from the limited edition vinyl will be donated to (RED) www.red.org

STOCKING STUFFER:

I have asked Santa for a special stocking stuffer this year. Known for a remarkable aptitude at crafting music with character-driven storylines, singer/songwriter Erin Enderlin unveiled her first new full-length album since 2017 with the release of Faulkner County in November. Faulkner County arrives amidst mounting anticipation generated through a series of digital EPs Enderlin released earlier this year. Those EPs, released roughly in eight-week intervals, garnered significant traction in the digital music space and led to Enderlin’s first significant playlisting on Spotify (Nashville Stripped, Next From Nashville, Wild Country), Apple Music (Country Roads, Speaking Easy) and Amazon Music (Fresh Folk & Americana). Enderlin’s fall has been defined by exciting career firsts and incredible momentum. After sold-out shows in her first-ever UK tour, she returned to Nashville to showcase at AmericanaFest. She’ll close out 2019 having played more than 100 shows. Tour dates, music and more at http://erinenderlin.com/

TEXAS MUSIC NEWS:

This summer Texas music artist Cody Wayne released his most personal song “Remember The Lost Ones” off his new album Bad Influence. By far one of the hardest songs he has ever written, not to mention sing, “Remember The Lost Ones” is a direct transport back to Cody’s time served in Iraq as a U.S. Marine and was musically orchestrated to pay homage to those who serve. On Veteran’s Day, Cody paid tribute to his veteran brothers in arms with the release of his deeply touching video for the song. Watching the video it is clear that Cody is still intensely connected to his experience in the service and his profound respect for our troops is palpable from start to finish. Marine Corps Times exclusively premiered the video on Veteran’s Day. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of “Remember The Lost Ones” will directly benefit The Boot Campaign, a non-profit organization based in Texas that provides life-improving programs for veterans and military families nationwide. More details at https://codywayne.com/

THANKSGIVING THANKS:

My buddy Tracy Lawrence does it again for the Nashville Rescue Mission. Tracy Lawrence’s 14th Annual Mission: Possible Turkey Fry and 5rd Annual Concert raised more than $148,000 for the Nashville Rescue Mission. This year, Lawrence welcomed the stellar musical talents of Justin Moore, Rhett Akins, Clay Walker, and Halfway to Hazard.

“The annual Mission:Possible Turkey Fry is my favorite time of the year,” says Lawrence. He continues, “Being able to bring awareness and raise money to Nashville Rescue Mission is such an honor.  As the homeless population grows in our country it’s important that we continue to work toward understanding all of the different situations that lead people down the path of homelessness. Rescue Mission is such an important part of our Nashville community and I look forward to working with them for many more years. Our goal as we move forward is to expand to other cities that are struggling with the same issues. I hope Mission: Possible can grow beyond Nashville.  We’re proud to have Center Ministries in Louisville, KY and Dallas Life in Texas as part of our Mission:Possible family.” If you like to helpfeed the homeless please visit https://nashvillerescuemission.org/ to see how you can help or donate.

TOUR NEWS:

Some big tours have been announced for 2020: Garth Brooks has announced his first stadium date of the new year at Detroit’s Ford Field on Feb. 22. (Garth will also play Charlotte, NC, May 2nd, his first time in Charlotte in 22 years)

The Cadillac Three have already set 26 cities for their Country Fuzz Tour, starting Jan. 23 in Jackson, Tenn.

Matt Stell (on the heels of his No. 1 party for “Prayed For You,”) will kick off his Everywhere But On Tour, his first headlining tour, on Jan. 24 in San Diego.

Ryan Hurd has set 16 dates for his Platonic Tour starting Jan. 30 in Columbus, Ohio.

Kane Brown sets off on the first 23 stops on his Worldwide Beautiful Tour, starting in Dublin Ireland on Feb 2.

Zac Brown Band announced a 20-show extension of their Owl Tour, starting Feb. 28 in Moline, Ill.

Caylee Hammack will join Reba McEntire for 12 dates beginning March 20 in Evansville, Ind.

Jason Aldean launches his We Back Tour in Columbia, SC, on Jan 30 with Morgan Wallen and Riley Green opening.

Brett Young’s The Chapters Tour kicks off in Knoxville, TN on January 30 with many dates already sold out.

VIDEO NEWS:

CMT Music premiered CJ Solar’s hilarious music video for his upbeat new single, “Coming My Way.” The single will be the title track to Solar’s upcoming third EP, due out early 2020. Check out the new song at https://www.cjsolar.com/. The video has also been added to CMT Music 12 Pack Countdown, and fans can vote at http://www.cmt.com/shows. CJ wrote “Coming My Way” with Jake Mitchell and Hardy. Check it out now on Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube and Amazon. Produced and directed by Thomas Chi and shot near Huntington WV, the video features with CJ and his band pulling in to a grocery store parking lot to grab snacks on the way to a gig and racing shopping carts up and down the aisles. Two cops come in, drop their donuts, arrest two guys and tackle a third, as CJ crosses the finish line in victory. The cashier rings CJ back to reality, he pays for his macaroni and cheese and realizes his bus driver has left the scene.

VINYL NEWS:

Joe Diffie releases the first-ever vinyl LP of his storied 30-year career. Titled Joe, Joe, Joe Diffie!, the album’s track list includes 11 of his signature hits re-recorded, as well as new single “Pride & Joy,” which features soulful vocalist Marc Broussard. Joe, Joe, Joe Diffie! is now available exclusively on http://joediffie.com/vinyl/. A limited number of 500 vinyls have been pressed, each vinyl has been numbered and signed by Diffie. “Pride & Joy,” originally recorded by Stevie Ray Vaughan, is available to stream and download wherever music is available. The album covers three decades of No. 1 hits ranging from iconic classics like “John Deere Green,” “Third Rock From The Sun,” “Pickup Man” to jukebox favorite like “Honky Tonk Attitude,” “If The Devil Danced (in Empty Pockets),” “Prop Me Up Beside The Jukebox (If I Die)” as well as heartfelt tunes like “So Help Me Girl,” “Ships That Don’t Come In” and more. Diffie’s reign includes 13 albums and more than 20 Top 10 hits to his credit.

VETERANS MUSIC NEWS:

Country music entertainer, TV host and Army veteran Craig Morgan honored Veterans Day with his third consecutive sold out annual show at City Winery Nashville. The memorable evening included a live impromptu audience video call with a marine at Camp Lejeune and performances from surprise guests Gavin DeGraw, joining Morgan for “Soldier” to a standing ovation, and Brad Arnold from 3 Doors Down taking the stage for “Here Without You” and “When I’m Gone” for the capacity crowd. Another show stopping moment included Morgan’s performance of his faith-filled tribute to his son Jerry, “The Father, My Son, And The Holy Ghost.” The song first made national news this fall, hitting No. 1 on iTunes All Genres Top Songs chart in addition to the Top Country Songs chart with the support of longtime friend and fellow Opry member, Blake Shelton. More at https://www.craigmorgan.com/welcome.

WHO’S LOOKING * WHO’S CUTTING:

JasBrooke Eden, Gyth Rigdon, Jon Pardi, Canaan Smith, LoCash and Justin Moore.

Have a Blessed & Merry Christmas and a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

** Preshias Harris is a music journalist and music career development consultant with the emphasis on new and aspiring artists and songwriters. Her book, ‘The College of Songology: The Singer/Songwriter’s Need to Know Reference Handbook’ is available at www.collegeofsongology.com Follow her blog at www.nashvillemusicline.com

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