Garth News:
Garth Brooks is on the way to seeing his name on a bar/eatery in Nashville. He has announced the upcoming opening of a three-story, 40,000 square foot venue located at 411 Broadway that was previously occupied by Paradise Park. The new venue will be named “Friends in Low Places.” Garth is reportedly partnering with Strategic Hospitality on the new venture. With Garth’s wife Trisha Yearwood enjoying a ‘side gig’ with her Food Network TV show, Trisha’s Southern Kitchen, her involvement in the project is a possibility. The Garth honky-tonk will join other venues such as Blake Shelton’s Ole Red, Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop Bar, Dirks Bentley’s Whiskey Row, Luke Bryan’s 32 Bridge Food + Bar, Florida Georgia Line’s FGL House, Kid Rock’s Big A** Honky Tonk Rock n’ Roll Steakhouse and more. News about Garth, including stadium tour updates (such as newly added shows May 13 & 14 in Cincinnati) at https://garthbrooks.com @garthbrooks.
Girl Power News:
Fiercely truthful in her approach, Carly Pearce was looking to inject even more into 29: Written in Stone and knew her friend Ashley McBryde could deliver. Both women know their way around the disappointments in love one can fall prey to so it didn’t take them long to land on “Never Wanted To Be That Girl.” (Find it at https://carlypearce.lnk.to/NWTBTGPR.) That cheating song from the two women’s perspective is resonating well beyond their writing session as it became the No. 1 song on Country radio across both Billboard and Mediabase/Country Aircheck charts in May. Initially they just talked about life, had a few laughs and wrote something they were proud of without much thought to what would happen next. The reigning ACM and CMA Female Artist/Vocalist of the Year then called her co-writer up to come sing on the record with a new way of looking at an age-old problem as the two world-class singers played the part. Still, there was no master plan until Big Machine President and CEO Scott Borchetta heard the song. Suddenly “Never Wanted To Be That Girl” was officially her new single.
GRAMMY News:
Four-time Grammy-winning singer, composer and actor Lyle Lovett has debuted a new single, “Pants Is Overrated,” alongside a video featuring footage from the studio recording sessions. “Pants Is Overrated” is on Lovett’s album, 12th of June, available now on Verve Records—his first new album in ten years. Produced by Chuck Ainlay and Lovett, 12th of June features a mix of new originals, standards by Nat King Cole and Dave Frishberg, and a Horace Silver instrumental, representing Lovett’s dynamic live performances with his Large Band. Coupled with his gift for storytelling, the new album continues to highlight Lovett’s ability to fuse elements of jazz, country, western swing, folk, gospel and blues in a convention-defying manner that breaks down barriers. Moreover, Lovett will continue his extensive 2022 tour with his Large Band in addition to new dates co-headlining with Chris Isaak. Lyle Lovett has broadened the definition of American music in a career that spans 14 albums. See the “Pants Is Overrated” music video and tour updates at https://www.lylelovett.com.
Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician Billy Strings performed three sold-out shows at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium over a weekend in May with special surprise guests Bryan Sutton (Friday), Bob Weir (Saturday and Sunday) and Les Claypool, Marty Stuart and Ronnie McCoury (Sunday). The Nashville performances add to yet another unstoppable year for Strings, who will continue his massive headline tour through this fall with many stops already sold out. Check tours and tickets at https://www.billystrings.com. The tour celebrates Strings’ widely acclaimed new album, Renewal, which was produced by Jonathan Wilson and is out now via Rounder Records (stream/purchase via https://found.ee/StringsRenewal). Released to widespread attention, the album also landed on several “Best of 2021” lists including The Bitter Southerner, No Depression, Glide, The Boot, Folk Alley and was one of the Top 50 Most Played Albums at Americana Radio. Strings recently performed the album track “Hide And Seek” on the 64th Annual Grammy Awards. Raised in Michigan and now based in Nashville, Strings is known as one of music’s most compelling artists.
Hall of Fame News:
The Country Music Hall of Fame has announced the members-elect of the Class of 2022. Joe Galante, one of country music’s most successful record executives, helped steer the careers of Alabama, Clint Black, Kenny Chesney, the Judds, Martina McBride, Carrie Underwood, and many other artists during his four decades in the record business. Jerry Lee Lewis, who began as an explosive rock & roll performer, later became a major country star, with a distinctive and dynamic style as a singer and pianist. Between 1968 and 1981, he had thirty-four Top Twenty country hits. Influential singer Keith Whitley helped define country music’s new traditionalist resurgence of the 1980s. In five years, he recorded a dozen Top Twenty solo country singles, including five consecutive #1 hits. His career was cut tragically short at age thirty-four. The Country Music Hall of Fame’s newest members-elect will be honored during a private, invitation-only Medallion Ceremony at the Museum in October 2022, with heartfelt testimonials and once-in-a-lifetime musical tributes. More information at https://countrymusichalloffame.org/.
Indie Artist News:
Quirky Cowgirl Records has introduced a new studio recording from its flagship artist, Karly C. Karly celebrates the release of “I Was Gonna Love You” available now via all digital retail outlets and streaming platforms. (Distributed by DistroKid.) Listen/stream via https://www.karlycmusic.com. Her sixteenth studio recording, the track makes evident Karly’s versatility and talents to cater to multiple genres and attract music enthusiasts from across the globe, making for the ultimate radio experience. The original tune, produced by Dylan Maloney (Colt Ford Guitarist) and co-penned alongside Haley Ganis, is a romantic romp a tad left-of-center from the musical flavor of her previous recordings. “I just sat down in the studio one day and starting singing the words; it was just that easy. That’s been my process from day one; I just write whatever comes to mind. I think it’s a process that comes from my experiences writing for television,” said the New Jersey native, Karly C. “The song is about two people who have an instant connection at first sight and the only caveat being…he’s taken. Or is he?”
Singer-songwriter Gavin Lee has released his latest song and eighth studio recording titled “All You Gotta Do Is Dance” available now via all digital retail and streaming platforms. (Distribution by CMdShft.) Written alongside Will Rambeax and Sherrie’ Austin, the track is impacting country radio now. Following the country music hit-makers that made waves in the 80s, the self-taught guitarist and traditional country recording artist is dedicated to follow the same footprint of authentic trendsetters before him. The track (produced by Bill McDermott) is a throwback to signature 90s country tunes that brought folks to their feet on the dance floor to step into the most popular line dances. “My music has just kind of evolved naturally in the direction and vein that it’s in, and ‘All You Gotta Do Is Dance’ is right down the pipeline,“ said Florida-based Lee. “I wanted to write a tune to move people to get on their feet. The storyline is about a girl that’s had a crappy week and heads to the club to dance away her problems and stress. It’s a perfect dance tune for the honky tonks and bars.” Info, music and more at https://gavinleemusic.com.
Industry News:
The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) Board of Directors is welcoming newly elected member Jamie Moore to begin his two-year term. Current board members who were re-elected to an additional two-year term include: Steve Bogard, Jeff Cohen, Chris DeStefano, J.T. Harding, Byron Hill, Josh Kear, Jon Nite, Liz Rose, Jenn Schott and Emily Shackelton. Roger Brown and Lee Thomas Miller were re-elected to one-year terms as “Legislative Co-Chairs,” Rhett Akins and Caitlyn Smith were re-elected to one-year terms to the “Artist Writer” board positions and Brett James was re-elected to a one-year term to the “Industry Liaison” position. They are joined by existing board members Kelly Archer, Sarah Buxton, Corey Crowder, Jessie Jo Dillon, Tim Nichols, Josh Osborne, Rivers Rutherford, Anthony Smith, Sharon Vaughn, Laura Veltz and Troy Verges who all have one year remaining on their term. Jamie Moore is a four-time Grammy nominated songwriter and producer from Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Jamie honed his craft as a multi-instrumentalist and soon after he arrived in Nashville, began rising to the top of Nashville’s songwriting community with a catalog of multi-genre hits. More about NSAI at http://www.nashvillesongwriters.com.
Powerhouse vocal duo The War And Treaty have signed their first major record deal with Universal Music Group Nashville. The husband-and-wife team of Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter are recording now with new music expected later this year. The news follows The War and Treaty’s recent Americana Honors nomination for “Duo/Group of the Year” and their new summer headlining tour dates are on sale now at www.thewarandtreaty.com. “We are excited to join the ranks of so many artist who we adore and admire both past and present,” said Michael and Tanya. “To be a part of a historical company such as UMG Nashville and to further tell the storyline that we all can follow and achieve our dreams brings tears to our eyes. This is our story and we are grateful UMG wants to be a part of it.” “When I was introduced to The War And Treaty I was absolutely blown away,” said UMGN Chairman & CEO Mike Dungan. “Their talent and passion are extraordinary and I’m so excited to welcome Tanya and Michael to the UMG family.”
International Music News:
A global historic project is being launched, linking Nashville & Liverpool together to support musicians & songwriters by advancing mental health awareness while promoting diversity and understanding. The mission is to advocate for mental health while also championing the search for the best songwriters worldwide. The Road to Nashville – Liverpool International Song Contest 2022 is a seven-month project, which highlights original material by global songwriters & musicians with a unique infrastructure to support them with mental health services and counseling, as well as submitting their songs throughout the process of the international song contest. See submission link: https://liverpoolsongcontest.typeform.com/roadtonashville. The project kicked off in May with a live stream launch between Liverpool (hosted at the British Music Experience) and Nashville (anchored at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum). Songwriters can submit their songs before the July 31, 2022 deadline. The top ten finalists will perform live before judges in Nashville at the Legendary EXIT/IN on John Lennon’s birthday Oct. 9, 2022.
Kentucky Concert News:
The Amp at Dant Crossing has added 21-time nominated, multiple Grammy Award winner Dwight Yoakam to the venue’s 2022 concert series lineup. Yoakam will perform with special guest Dillon Carmichael on July 1. For the full list of performances and to purchase tickets, visit https://dantcrossing.com/amp/. The Amp at Dant Crossing kicked off their 2022 lineup with Cole Swindell, Sara Evans, Blues Traveler, The Marshall Tucker Band and Lee Brice in May, with additional star-studded performances to follow throughout summer and fall. Located in the scenic enclave of Gethsemane, just south of Lexington and Louisville, KY, the 2,000-seat amphitheater kicked off its grand opening in Summer 2021 with a sold-out show by Little Big Town. Additional performances from chart-topping acts included Better Than Ezra, Phil Vassar, Mark Wills and more. The Amp is a part of Dant Crossing, which is a 350-acre campus featuring the Log Still Distillery offering a unique Kentucky bourbon experience. It also includes three bed-and-breakfasts, a 20,000-square-foot wedding and event venue opening this spring and more amenities opening throughout 2022.
Label News:
BIG MACHINE LABEL GROUP
Powerhouse vocalist Danielle Bradbery and Big Machine Label Group, a subsidiary of HYBE America, have extended their long-time partnership with a new multi-year agreement. First teaming up in 2013 following Bradbery’s win on Season 4 of NBC’s The Voice when she was just 16 years-old, the Texas native has spent the past decade growing into her artistry, defining her sound and finding her voice with hits like “Worth It,” “Potential” and Gold-certified “Sway.” “Danielle’s talent has been unmatched since day one,” said BMLG Chairman and CEO Scott Borchetta. “The Big Machine team and I have had the privilege of watching Danielle blossom into who she is today, growing from a teenager with a dream to an artist with a great sense of self and musical vision. We are incredibly proud to continue supporting her and her music.” Bradbery recently celebrated her musical journey with the release of In Between: The Collection. More at https://daniellebradbery.com, Instagram (@daniellebradbery) and twitter (@DBradbery)
BFD/AUDIUM NASHVILLE
Tommy Townsend’s last recording session with producers Waylon Jennings and Jerry “Jigger” Bridges was over 25 years ago, and on April 29 his Southern Man album was released in its entirety. Written by some of the best songwriters of the era, the ten timeless traditional country cuts are available at all DSPs and online retailers on BFD/Audium Nashville. Stream, download or purchase the album via https://www.tommytownsendmusic.com. “I can’t believe this day is finally here after all these years,” said Townsend. “There are so many people to thank, starting with Waylon and Jigger, Jessi, Shooter, my wife and daughters and especially Chuck Rhodes at BFD Audium for believing people still want to hear traditional country music. Dreams still do come true!” “If You Can’t Stand The Heat,” the third single from the album, was also released April 29. Written by Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Roger Murrah and John Schweers, the song remains one of Tommy’s favorites.
WHEELHOUSE RECORDS
Singer/songwriter Elvie Shane wrapped his first-ever headlining run with a sold-out show at Nashville’s Basement East. Shane brought his My Kinda Trouble Tour with Frank Ray to a close, playing songs from his critically acclaimed debut album Backslider, as well as surprised the capacity crowd with guest appearances by Lainey Wilson who joined Shane for a rendition of her ACM Song of the Year winning “Things A Man Outta Know” and Tenille Townes as she and Shane sang their duet “Nothin’ Lasts Forever.” Shane’s new single “County Roads” was one of the Most Added songs at Country radio upon its debut and continues to climb. Co-written by Shane with Dan Couch and Oscar Charles, his second single is full of untamed energy, flying like an unguided missile of passion down “County Roads” and paints a picture of Shane’s early days in Grayson County, KY. Shane initially captured attention with a viral social media moment with “My Boy,” that has since become his signature smash and debut No. 1 single. Shane will be appearing at both the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum and the Opry, Saturday, May 7. Info and tickets: https://www.elvieshane.com.
EMI RECORDS
Nashville recording artist Tyler Hubbard has been working on his solo project for over a year with much speculation and anticipation. “5 Foot 9” is now available everywhere you listen to music, including: https://strm.to/FiveFootNine. Watch the ‘unofficial’ video at http://umgn.us/5Foot9UnofficialVideo. With 19 No. 1 singles on country radio, countless awards, and sold-out tours, Tyler Hubbard has already had a remarkable career as a songwriter and as one half of multi-platinum duo Florida Georgia Line. Now ready for the next chapter, the Georgia-native and prolific songwriter has written well over 100 songs as he works towards his debut solo album release on EMI Nashville. The first song, “5 Foot 9,” is out now with more music expected throughout the year.
Live Music News:
Brickshore Media’s, annual 615LIVE Concert Series returned during the CMA Music Festival, and featured intimate acoustic sets from some of Brickshore Media’s talented roster of artists. The show was free and open to the public and held at Nashville’s most popular music venue – the TRUE Music Room and Bar in The Cambria Hotel. Hosted by Tommy Lemon and Missy Wolf of Center Stage Magazine, https://centerstagemag.com, this event was also live-streamed on multiple social platforms. Sponsored by Nashville Used & New Music, door prizes were given away from some of Nashville’s favorites. The all-star lineup featured performances from Andrea Vasquez, Chris Moreno, Emily Blackbird, Hemp & Denim, Jordan Rainer, Molly Lovette, Mark Taylor, Tera Lynne Fister, and Jersey Shore’s first ever country duo Williams Honor. Closing out the night was headliner Grammy-winning country artist Bryan White (Rebecca Lynn, So Much For Pretending, Someone Else’s Star, I’m Not Supposed To Love You Anymore, Sittin’ On Go, etc), which was followed by a meet and greet. See @centerstagemagazine and @brickshoremedia
Legends News:
Arrowhead Events announced that George Strait, the “King of Country Music” and three-time CMA Entertainer of the Year, will visit Kansas City’s GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium for a one-night-only concert event on Saturday, July 30. Making his first return to the venue since 2001, Strait will be joined by special guests Chris Stapleton and Little Big Town, each gracing the stadium stage for the first time. Tickets for the event are now on sale. With an unmatched 60 singles hitting the top of the charts—more than any other artist in any genre—during the span of his 30+ year career, Strait has collected 33 Platinum or multi-Platinum-selling albums, more than any other Country artist and ranking third across all genres behind The Beatles and Elvis Presley. “George Strait has a history of great performances at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome him back for the first time since 2001 this summer,” Chiefs President Mark Donovan said. Ticket info and more at http://www.georgestrait.com, and https://www.stapletonfanclub.com.
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