KURT DEIMER Announces New Tour Dates with Texas Hippie Coalition!

Kurt Deimer announced that he will be touring alongside Texas Hippie Coalition on select dates this spring and summer, as well as, special appearances alongside the legendary band, Tesla.

Kurt's newest single, "Dance," released on March 1, 2024, is a testament to resilience and the ability to find inspiration in challenging circumstances. The single is a precursor to his highly anticipated debut album, And So It Begins.., slated for release later this year.

Kurt unveiled the eagerly awaited music video, a visual masterpiece captured against the stunning backdrop of a Los Angeles rooftop. Directed by the visionary Kurt Deimer himself, the video seamlessly weaves together captivating imagery and dynamic visuals.

WATCH Kurt Deimer - "Dance" (Official Video):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0s_guIeSuiQ

STREAM "DANCE" HERE

Stay tuned for further updates and announcements regarding ticket sales, additional tour dates, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content by following Kurt Deimer's official social media channels.

5/16 Spartanburg, SC - Ground Zero with Texas Hippie Coaliton
5/17 Bristol, TN - The Mountain with Texas Hippie Coaliton
5/18 Huntsville, AL - Shagnasty's with Texas Hippie Coaliton
5/20 Atlanta, GA - The Masquerade (Altar) with Texas Hippie Coaliton
5/21 Knoxville, TN - The Concourse with Texas Hippie Coaliton
5/24 Leesburg, VA - Tally Ho Theater with Texas Hippie Coaliton
5/25 Black Mountain, NC - Silverados with Texas Hippie Coaliton
5/26 Greensboro, NC - Hangar 1819 with Texas Hippie Coaliton
5/29 Colorado Springs, CO - Pikes Peak Center with Tesla
5/31 Dallas, TX - House of Blues with Tesla
6/01 Dallas, TX - House of Blues with Tesla
6/04 Austin, TX - ACL Live with Tesla
6/05 San Antonio, TX - Aztec Theatre with Tesla
6/07 Houston, TX - House of Blues with Tesla
6/08 New Orleans, LA - The Fillmore with Tesla
6/11 Denver, CO - Mission Ballroom with Tesla
7/17 Wyandotte, MI - District 142 with Texas Hippie Coaliton
7/19 Columbus, OH - The King of Clubs with Texas Hippie Coaliton
7/21 Bloomington, IL - The Castle Theatre with Texas Hippie Coaliton
7/26 Sioux Falls, SD - Bigs Bar with Texas Hippie Coaliton
7/27 Lincoln, NE - Cosmic Eye Brewing with Texas Hippie Coaliton
7/28 Kansas City, MO - Knuckleheads Saloon with Texas Hippie Coaliton

In a world that seems to be spiraling out of control, Kurt Deimer is a man with a very clear mission: Work Hard, Rock Hard, Play hard and Spread positivity. In fact, his mantra could be summed up: “Take the high road, do the right thing, encourage others.” It sounds like a tall order these days in a world full of warring factions. And it’s an unusual mission for a singer/songwriter vocalist whose music could be described as hard rock, even heavy metal – genres that are not always synonymous with positivity.

Deimer, for his part, describes his work as good old fashioned rock and roll. “And it’s as good a vehicle as any for spreading good vibes” he says. “I’m here to encourage others to treat people with respect, dignity and kindness,” he says. “I’ve been through a lot of things in my life and I try to share that with others and be a beacon of hope for my listeners.”

That positivity and perseverance has paid off for the native of Cincinnati, Ohio. He’s not only launched a movie franchise, Hellbilly Hollow, by filming and starring in a feature length horror film of the same name. He’s also recorded more than two dozen songs with legendary producer Chris Lord-Alge (Green Day, James Brown and the Rolling Stones), his management team includes Brian Wheat, manager of TESLA who discovered him while opening for TESLA.

Chris Lord-Alge says he was drawn to Kurt’s originality as an artist. “I saw something completely different in Kurt, and that was the lure for me. He isn’t a typical rock or country artist – I love hearing him talk and narrating a story, and I was drawn to taking those stories and helping turn them into music. He’s a personality, he’s someone you want to talk to.”

Things have not always been positive in Deimer’s world. At age 20, as a young rock vocalist, he found himself in the grips of drug addiction. He later discovered he was using substances to medicate an underlying anxiety condition. At that young age, he quit drugs, got help for his anxiety and never looked back.

He eventually started buying and selling rental properties and used that money to start the first of several successful companies he owns. Despite making his mark in the business world, Deimer didn’t feel ready to settle down and “join the country club and play golf all day” – so at an age when most people start thinking about slowing down, he started to speed up.

Inspired by the artists that helped shape him – Boston, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bob Marleyand AC/DC, to name just a few – he started writing song lyrics.

Inspired by his love of movies and acting roles in films including the 2018 ‘Halloween’remake – where his character was killed by Michael Myers – and John Travolta’s ‘Trading Paint,’ he started hashing out a movie concept that became his eventual Hellbilly Hollow feature film and franchise.

Deimer has supported Geoff Tate on an expansive cross-country tour that highlighted material from his debut EP, that came out on November 19, 2021, which includes a duet with Tate and a trilogy of music videos directed by Scottish filmmaker Paul Boyd [Sting, Deadmau5, The Cult] that spotlight Deimer’s cinematic vision and charismatic presence. Along with many other supporting shows including TESLA, Drowning Pooland Yngwie Malmsteen all this within the first two years of touring.

For Deimer, the inspiration is to make the world a better place one song at a time, singing about the ills of the 21st century and offering solutions instead of excuses. “When people listen to my music, I want to help them decompress and feel better after a brutal day. That’s what music always did for me, and that’s what we need more of today.”

For More Information Please Visit:

Official Website

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

TikTok

Twitter

IMDb

WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM to Participate in Live INTO THE NECROSPHERE Interview at FORTRESS FESTIVAL UK

FORTRESS FESTIVAL UK TICKETS

American black metal overlords WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM are pleased to reveal that they will be participating in Fortress Festival UK's inaugural Fortress Forum, an emerging metal conference that offers a unique, in-person opportunity for festival attendees to hear artists talk about their careers and experiences! During WitTR's appearance at the festival on June 2, they will not only be performing the entirety of ‘Two Hunters’ during an exclusive UK ritual, but founding member/multi-instrumentalist and vocalist CEDAR SERPENT will also now be taking the stage for a live interview with the imitable Jackie Smit of the Into the Necrosphere podcast.

The live talk will take place at 17:40 on June 2 in a 300-capacity theatre room at Scarborough Spa and is available only for Fortress Festival ticket holders. The final 100 tickets are available at THIS LOCATION.

WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM's Cedar Serpent joins an elite group of black metal artists and journalists; other forum interview participants include Tom G Warrior (Triptykon, Celtic Frost), Dayal Patterson (Cult Never Dies), Ralph Schmidt (Ultha), The Watcher (Fen, Fellwarden), Der Weg Einer Freiheit and Gaerea. More information on Fortress Festival, including the lineup and Fortress Forum, can be found HERE.

WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM will be embarking on The Crypt of Ancestral Knowledge EU/UK headlining tour starting on May 10 at Desertfest Oslo (NO) and will decimate the continent until it's final stop on June 7 in Berlin (DE). The full itinerary can be found below!

The band is supporting 2023's EP release, 'Crypt of Ancestral Knowledge,' which is available HERE.

U.S. black metal masters Wolves in the Throne Room create melancholic atmospheres that are an ode to rain storms, wood smoke and the wild energies of the Pacific Northwest. In October 2023, they unleashed 'CRYPT OF ANCESTRAL KNOWLEDGE'. This EP contains two epic metal tracks as well as two atmospheric industrial journeys that push the band’s sound into invigorating new directions. The Wolves will be assaulting European shores with support from GAEREA and MORTIFERUM in Spring 2024!

Links:

Official Website

Bandcamp

Instagram

Facebook

Spotify

Apple Music

GAEREA Release Explosive New Standalone Single

In a world where music often treads familiar territories, cathartic black metal visionaries GAEREA challenge the paradigms and invite listeners into an enigmatic journey with their latest standalone single, "World Ablaze".

Now available today, March 29th on all streaming platforms and on YouTube, "World Ablaze" is a narrative bursting with the desire for freedom, the beauty of hope, and the vividness of life's untamed wonders.

"'World Ablaze' tells the story of a man who has lived all his life inside a cage, knowing that one day, he'd be set free to experience the world with its true colors. Unfortunately, he also knows that day will be his last hours alive."

Through vivid imagery and piercing, emotive lyrics, the song explores a dance between life and death, hope and despair - capturing the essence of human longing for liberation and the fleeting beauty of existence.

Accompanied by a visually striking music video created by Grupa 13 (PL), the release of "World Ablaze" is a significant artistic statement. The video amplifies the song's narrative, turning it into an immersive visual echo of the themes that the track explores with such fervor.

As GAEREA continues to widen the black metal sphere to new grounds, their unique brand of cathartic black metal has garnered international acclaim, propelling them to new heights with each release. With "World Ablaze", the collective not only solidifies their reputation as purveyors of dark and intricate artistry but also invites listeners to reflect on the notions of freedom, the allure of the unknown, and the inevitable dance with destiny.

To embrace the world of GAEREA and dive into the abyss of "World Ablaze", follow them on their journey across social platforms and streaming services. The fire of their artistry burns brighter than ever, illuminating the shadows and setting the music world ablaze.

"In the heart of darkness, where silence meets the flame, GAEREA transcends, and 'World Ablaze' emerges as a beacon of longing and liberation."
 

WE ARE GAEREA

Following the release of "World Ablaze", GAEREA invites fans and followers to experience their electrifying performances live on the much-anticipated CRYPT OF ANCESTRAL KNOWLEDGE 2024 European Tour, where they'll be playing the new single live. Alongside giants such as Wolves in the Throne Room and Mortiferum, the tour marks a new era for GAEREA as they bring their cathartic black metal to various corners of Europe. From the depths of the Dark Troll Fest in Bornstedt to the historic waves of the Wave Gothic Festival in Leipzig, this tour is a pilgrimage through the realms of darkness, liberation, and transcendent music.

Tickets are available now for what promises to be a monumental tour for GAEREA and their fans. Be part of the journey that sets the world ablaze with the collective's unparalleled energy and monumental performances across Europe.


Tour tickets here:https://www.gaerea.com/

VIP upgradesfor the tour are also available, offering an exclusive meet & greet withGAEREAas well as much more, which you can see here:

https://www.gaerea.com/product-page/gaerea-eu-tour-vip-upgrade

With talons dipped in the inky blood of black metal and scraped across the flesh of human suffering, GAEREA is leading a charge into the future of darkness, and all those who find beauty and power in the dark side of existence would do well to take heed. Today, Gaerea is bracing everyone for their next era. "World Ablaze" is a Newborn Anthem.

With the release of the new song, GAEREA is emerging from the underground scene, ascending towards a permanently lasting position at the head of the table.

An emotional gateway to a dark black metal scene, a guide to salvation, pain, despair and letting go. Moving up, into the blackness that is above.GAEREAis the answer, the only answer.

Recording Studio
Demigod Studios at Redbox Studios

Production Credits
Produced by GAEREA
Recorded by Miguel Tereso at Redbox Studios
Mixed and Mastered by Miguel Tereso at Demigod Studios
 
Biography
Gaerea

Stream & Order:https://orcd.co/gaereaworldablaze

Links/Follow Artist:
Official Website:https://www.gaerea.com/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/gaerea
Instagram:https://instagram.com/gaerea_
TikTok:https://tiktok.com/@gaereaofficial
Discord:https://discord.gg/CSyqFQZ6
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdQOfL4E3Z_SpHLL52tOIpQ
Twitter:https://x.com/gaerea_official

Booking & Management Contact: 
US Booking -nickstorch@artistgrp.com
EU Booking -alexander@doomstarbookings.com
Latin America Booking -rubenbarroscabrera@gmail.com

Available Formats:
Digital Download

Kings Of Thrash Announce "Anarchy in the UK" Tour Featuring David Ellefson and Jeff Young

Kings Of Thrash announce their long-awaited "Anarchy in the UK" tour with special guests Andry and Hellgrimm. The tour is set to kick off October 24, 2024 and run through November 02, 2024. This highly anticipated tour will feature none other than Grammy Award Winning Bassist David Ellefson and guitarist Jeff Young, drummer Fred Aching and vocalist/guitarist Chaz Leon.

The tour promises an electrifying experience for fans as Kings Of Thrash makes its debut in the United Kingdom, paying homage to the birthplace of heavy metal. This tour holds special significance as it coincides with the 30th anniversary of the groundbreaking album "Youthanasia," platinum (USA) and gold (UK) a milestone in Ellefson's illustrious career.

"We are super thrilled to finally bring Kings Of Thrash to the UK, in many ways the origins of heavy metal," said David Ellefson. "Even more so, celebrating some highlights of the 30th anniversary of the 'Youthanasia' album. The UK has been such a fantastic supporter for more than 40 years of our music, so it'll be great to bring to our fans rare tracks and highlights of some of the most monumental albums in thrash metal history."

Says Jeff Young, “I can’t wait to get back to the UK! The last time I played there was with Megadeth in 1988 at Castle Donington for the “Monsters of Rock” festival, so this return trip is long overdue!”

In addition to commemorating the "Youthanasia" anniversary, the tour will also showcase select cuts from "Killing Is My Business...And Business Is Good", "So Far...So Good... So What!", and "Peace Sells...But Who's Buying?" promising an unforgettable experience for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

The "Anarchy in the UK" tour will be a testament to Kings Of Thrash's enduring legacy and their unwavering commitment to delivering high-octane performances that captivate audiences worldwide. 

Limited edition VIP upgrades, Stage Used basses, Best of the West on CD DIGIPAK and LP will be available.

For ticket information and tour updates, visit KingsOfThrash.com

KINGS OF THRASH
"Best Of The West - Live At The Whisky A Go-Go" 3 DISC SET! Includes Two (2) Audio CDs and (1) DVD as an added bonus.
Features GRAMMY® Award Winning Bassist David Ellefson with guitarists Jeff Young and Chris Poland, reuniting to perform the early Thrash classics, "Killing is My Business ...and Business is Good!" and "So Far, So Good, So What!" albums in their entirety. Get it now at cleorecs.com

Kenny Chesney Maxes Charlotte at 53,460 + Surprises w/ Kelsea Ballerini

First, they moved the stage all the way back. Then they called the fire marshal. Finally, all of the front of house lighting and structures were adjusted to open greater sightlines. Like Tampa’s Raymond James Stadium, Kenny Chesney’s Sun Goes Down 2024 Tour sold out more than once at Charlotte, NC’s Bank of America Stadium; but because Chesney is so fan-forward, he kept asking his people to find more seats.
 
And the energy was palpable. From the moment Chesney came down the drum riser, charging into the lifestyle defining “Living in Fast Forward,” it was a night of massive energy, audience shout alongs that wrested the songs away from the man the Los Angeles Times called, “The People’s Superstar” and enough major songs to sustain three careers. Under a clear sky with myriad stars, the East Tennessee songwriter/superstar blazed through a 29-song set that included the high energy “Here And Now,” buoyantly percussive “Summertime,” erotically-charged “Somewhere with You” and femme empowering “Big Star.”
 
“Some nights, you can feel it before you ever start singing,” Chesney said. “Charlotte, North Carolina made their presence known from the moment they saw us. It was pandemonium, and they were not afraid to sing so loud we couldn’t hear ourselves at times.”
 
As crazed as fans were, nothing prepared No Shoes Nation for Kelsea Ballerini, clad in a backless brown leather jumpsuit. She cruised out of the wings for “She Thinks My Tractor’s Sexy,” laughing and working the T during the Chesney breakthrough smash like a couture model on the catwalk. But the yearning can’t leave/can’t stay “half of my hometown” melted the capacity-plus crowd, who sang along softly, before the pair revisited “You & Tequila,” the Grace Potter duet that’s one of Chesney’s most enduring hits.
 
“People love a surprise,” says the man deemed “country’s king of stadium concerts” by the Minneapolis Star Tribune. “But even more they love great songs sung by people who really love each other and are great friends. Last week with Uncle Kracker, we felt it. Tonight, it was the same with Kelsea. Both guests tonight really seemed to hit No Shoes Nation in the heart.”
 
Indeed, when Chesney and his white-hot band returned for the encore, even the hushed “Anything But Mine” couldn’t slow down the audience. Raising their cell phones aloft with the flashlight on, the bowl of the stadium looked like the night sky turned upside down; by song’s end, the gentle sing along had turned into a yearning performance by the crowd.
 
“You can tell how much people love these songs when you hear them sing, or feel the energy when they realize what they’re hearing,” Chesney explained. “Last week, we didn’t do ‘Tractor’ or ‘Anything But Mine,’ and it’s in trading songs that we’re going to keep this tour fresh. The more people hear what they don’t expect, the more engaged and excited they become.”
 
Once again, presented by Blue Chair Bay® Rum, Sun Goes Down 2024 brings all the high velocity energy and songs people know by heart back to America’s favorite football stadiums.

Photo Credit Jill Trunnell.

Kenny Chesney
SUN GOES DOWN 2024 Stadium Tour
with Zac Brown Band, Megan Moroney & Uncle Kracker

 

Saturday, April 20, 2024           Tampa, Fla.                       Raymond James Stadium
Saturday, April 27, 2024           Charlotte, N.C.                  Bank of America Stadium
Saturday, May 4, 2024              Minneapolis, Minn.          U.S. Bank Stadium
Saturday, May 11, 2024            Arlington, Texas               AT&T Stadium
Saturday, May 18, 2024            Atlanta, Ga.                       Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Saturday, May 25, 2024            Landover, Md.                  FedEx Field
Saturday, June 1, 2024              Pittsburgh, Pa.                   Acrisure Stadium
Saturday, June 8, 2024              Philadelphia, Pa.               Lincoln Financial Field
Saturday, June 15, 2024            Chicago, Ill.                      Soldier Field
Saturday, June 22, 2024            Milwaukee, Wisc.             American Family Field
Saturday, June 29, 2024            Cincinnati, Ohio               TQL Stadium
Saturday, July 6, 2024               Kansas City, Mo.              GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium
Saturday, July 13, 2024             Seattle, Wash.                   Lumen Field
Tuesday, July 16, 2024              Salt Lake City, Utah         America First Field
Saturday, July 20, 2024             Los Angeles, Calif.           SoFi Stadium
Saturday, July 27, 2024             Denver, Colo.                   Empower Field at Mile High
Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024              Nashville, Tenn.               Nissan Stadium
Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024             Columbus, Ohio                Historic Crew Stadium
Saturday, Aug. 10, 2024            Detroit, Mich.                   Ford Field
Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024            East Rutherford, N.J.        MetLife Stadium
Friday, Aug. 23, 2024                Foxborough, Mass.           Gillette Stadium 
Saturday, Aug. 24, 2024            Foxborough, Mass.           Gillette Stadium
Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024              Foxborough, Mass.           Gillette Stadium
 

“...because everything gets hotter when the sun goes down...”

Brantley Gilbert Extends Off The Rails Tour Through the Fall

Multi-Platinum country rocker Brantley Gilbert extends his Off The Rails Tour into the fall, announcing 15+ additional dates where he will be joined by special guests Adam Calhoun and Demun Jones. Pre-sales begin Tuesday, April 30 at 10am local time and general on sale will begin next Friday, May 3 at 10am local time. To purchase tickets and for additional information, visit BrantleyGilbert.com.
 
Since embarking on the Off The Rails Tour last month, Gilbert has delivered an unforgettable experience at each stop, packing as many songs as possible into the setlist and incorporating elevated production elements with pyrotechnics and CO2 cannons.
 
“We’ve had such an amazing time on the Off The Rails Tour, we couldn’t help but decide to keep the party rollin’,” shares Gilbert. “This is my favorite show that we’ve put together, thanks to a talented lineup both in the band and behind the scenes. It’s been incredible seeing BG Nation match that energy every single night, and it only makes us more excited to get to the next city.”
 
Over the last two years, Gilbert has been writing and recording for his seventh studio album and recently delivered a preview with the revelry inducing anthem “Off The Rails” via The Valory Music Co. Listen to “Off The Rails” HERE.
 
The Georgia native will appear on CMT Hot 20 this Saturday and Sunday at 9am ET/8am CT. Chatting with host Cody Alan at his recent tour stop in Clarksville, Tenn., Gilbert will discuss his forthcoming album and give fans a peek at what they should expect on this run of shows.

Brantley Gilbert’s Off The Rails Tour Dates
New dates in bold, tickets on sale Friday May 3
* Festival Date
 
April 26 // Scheels Arena // Fargo, ND
April 27 // Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center // Mankato, MN
May 4 // Firekeepers Casino // Battle Creek, MI
May 9 // River Spirit Casino Resort – The Cove // Tulsa, OK
May 10 // Riverwind Casino // Norman, OK
May 11 // Billy Bob’s Texas // Fort Worth, TX
May 16 // Yaamava’ Resort & Casino // Highland, CA
May 17 // KNCI Country in the Park // Sacramento, CA*
May 18 // Rio Vista Outdoor Amphitheater at Harrah’s Laughlin // Laughlin, NV
May 31 // Summer Stage at Tags // Big Flats, NY
June 1 // Finger Lakes Country Music Festival // Palmyra, NY*
June 2 // Cape Cod Melody Tent // Hyannis, MA
June 8 // Rock the Country // Reddick, FL*
June 14 // KIZN Country Stomp // Nampa, ID*
June 15 // Shoshone Bannock Casino Hotel // Fort Hall, ID
June 22 // Rock the Country // Mobile, AL*
June 28 // Buckeye Motorcycle & Music Rally // Columbus, OH*
June 29 // After Hours Concert Series at the SERVPRO Pavilion // Doswell, VA
June 30 // Elmwood Park Amphitheater // Roanoke, VA
July 11 // Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park // Des Moines, IA
July 12 // Delaware County Fair // Manchester, IA*
July 13 // Morgan County Fair // Jacksonville, IL*
July 18 // Bayfront Festival Park // Duluth, MN
July 19 // Harrah’s Stir Cove  // Council Bluffs, IA
July 20 // Dam Jam Music Festival // Goddard, KS*
July 22 // Elkhart County 4-H Fair // Goshen, IN*
July 24 // Delaware State Fair // Harrington, DE*
July 26 // Rock the Country // Anderson, SC*
July 27 // Carowinds Summer Festival Series // Charlotte, NC
Aug. 3 // Nugget Event Center // Sparks, NV
Aug. 30 // Fraze Pavilion // Kettering, OH
Aug. 31 // Walworth County Fair // Elkhorn, WI*
Sept. 1 // Canfield Fair // Canfield, OH*
Sept. 19 // Mountain Health Network Arena // Huntington, WV
Sept. 20 // Santander Arena // Reading, PA
Sept. 21 // DCU Center // Worcester, MA
Sept. 26 // LJVM Coliseum // Winston-Salem, NC
Sept. 27 // The Corbin Arena // Corbin, KY
Sept. 28 // Florence Center // Florence, SC

Oct. 3 // Knoxville Civic Coliseum // Knoxville, TN
Oct. 4 // First National Bank Arena // Jonesboro, AR
Oct. 5 // Ozarks Amphitheater // Camdenton, MO
Oct. 10 // Raising Cane’s River Center Arena // Baton Rouge, LA
Oct. 11 // Cadence Bank Arena // Tupelo, MS
Oct. 17 // Enmarket Arena // Savannah, GA
Oct. 18 // McKenzie Arena // Chattanooga, TN
Oct. 19 // Atrium Health Amphitheater // Macon, GA

About Brantley Gilbert
With a grassroots following millions strong, multi-Platinum country rocker Brantley Gilbert has mined a rich vein of conflict between the party and the pew on all his albums, with his music being adopted as the soundtrack to both Saturday night and Sunday morning by audiences around the world. Instead of toiling in limbo, unable to enjoy good times for fear of Judgment Day, Gilbert fully lives––rowdy friend, man of faith, devoted husband, smitten father––just as he is. Following his sixth studio album So Help Me God, Gilbert readies a forthcoming project, giving BG Nation the first taste with “Off The Rails,” a revelry inducing anthem that embodies the kind of high energy live show the Georgia native will bring to the Off The Rails Tour this year. Along with the new track, he’ll perform songs across his discography, which includes back-to-back Platinum albums and seven No. 1 hits: RIAA 7x Platinum-certified “Bottoms Up,” 2x Platinum “Country Must Be Country Wide,” 2x Platinum “You Don’t Know Her Like I Do,” 2x Platinum “One Hell of An Amen,” Platinum-certified collaboration with Lindsay Ell “What Happens In A Small Town,” and two chart-toppers as a songwriter with CMA Song of the Year nominee “Dirt Road Anthem” and “My Kinda Party.” For additional information, visit BrantleyGilbert.com  or follow him on Instagram, TikTok and Twitter/X @BrantleyGilbert and Facebook.com/BrantleyGilbertMusic.

Elle King Kicks Off "Baby Daddy's Weekend" w/ Stagecoach Performance

Elle King lit the fuse to the weekend by releasing her new song “Baby Daddy’s Weekend” and performing on day one of the Stagecoach Music Festival, both of which are getting high praise.
 
Landing atop the biggest playlists of the week across the streaming servies, King is getting high marks for her new song “Baby Daddy’s Weekend.” In their headline, Rolling Stone said, “Elle King Cuts Loose on Her ‘Baby Daddy’s Weekend’ in New Song.” 
 
iHeart Media proclaimed “Elle King unleashes Summer Drinking Anthem 'Baby Daddy’s Weekend,'" while Country Nowcall it…“Her Newest Summertime Anthem.” They went on to say, “The multi-genre chart-topping artist has made it clear that she’s not afraid to speak her mind or be her most authentic self and in this new track, she does just that with an extra dose of sass. Her reign of irresistible hooks continues as she focuses on the rowdy weekend that’s about to unfold when the child is left in the care of their father.”

King followed the release of the song with an encore performance at Stagecoach on Friday night. Of her show, The Desert Sun said, “Almost a year to the day after Elle King performed on the Mane Stage at Stagecoach 2023, she returned to the festival and delivered a tighter and more sophisticated set. King maintained a reserved demeanor and focused solely on the music."
 
In their headline, the Orange Country Register proclaimed, "Stagecoach 2024: Jelly Roll, Elle King wow during Day 1 of country music festival." They said, “Country rocker Elle King brought her signature sass and grooves to her sunset set, treating the audience to a mix of new music and covers."

Of her “Baby Daddy’s Weekend,” King said, “I’ve been lucky enough to have lived, loved, and partied with the best of them. I’ve written songs for every era of my good times. My new song is for the people who deserve a good summer. It’s for people who need a break from their kids but miss them when they aren’t around. It’s for the people working two jobs, the people who never get to put themselves first! It’s a song for all the people who make this world go round. Life isn’t always fun and games, but when it is, it’s my 'Baby Daddy’s Weekend.'”
 
She wrote the song with her friend Pillbox Patti, and co-produced the track with Dave Cohen. Listen to the song HERE.

Elle King performed on the Mane Stage at Stagecoach Friday, April 26 | Photo Credit: Corey Bost

Nikitaa Takes Fans to New Heights with Electrifying Single “Elevator” Queer Empowerment Takes Center Stage in Nikitaa's Latest Release

R&B Pop Singer-Songwriter, Nikitaa, is set to captivate audiences once again with the release of their latest single, "Elevator." Co-written by Nikitaa, this dynamic track showcases a seamless fusion of dance-pop and R&B that promises to ignite the senses and propel listeners to new heights.

With "Elevator," Nikitaa doesn't just deliver music; they craft a sonic journey designed to uplift and inspire. Drawing inspiration from powerhouses like Janelle Monáe and The Carters, Nikitaa's captivating vocals soar over a production

reminiscent of their breakout anthem "Throne." Bold, campy, and unapologetically queer, "Elevator" pulses with eclectic synth sounds and innovative samples, creating a wholly unique sonic landscape. But "Elevator" is more than just a catchy tune; it's a celebration of identity and empowerment. The bridge serves as an ode to Nikitaa's journey as a demi and genderfluid individual, with lyrics reflecting the vibrant colors of the demi and genderfluid flags. Nikitaa invites listeners to seize control of their destiny, embracing the freedom to ascend to greatness on their own terms.

"This song is a manifestation tool," says Nikitaa. "It's about harnessing your inner power and manifesting your dreams into reality. Whether you're chasing success, love, or self-discovery, 'Elevator' is your ticket to the top – because the power to build your dreams lies within you." "Elevator" marks Nikitaa's third release of 2024, following “Heaven” in February and "Godless” in March, which Rolling Stone included in their "Songs You Need To Know" roundup. With their infectious energy and boundary-pushing sound, Nikitaa continues to solidify their status as one of the most exciting voices in contemporary music.

MORE INFO:
Nikitaa
, an LA-based artist born and raised in India, infuses their music with ethereal Pop/R&B influences and their South Asian heritage, creating what they call Goddess Pop - music that emphasizes the fluidity of gender and emotional expression. As a genderfluid demisexual person, who predominantly uses they/them pronouns, Nikitaa is always emphasizing the importance of representation and inclusivity in the music industry. With almost 6 million YouTube views/Spotify streams combined, Nikitaa’s music has captured the attention of listeners instantly. Their third single “Majesty'' landed placement on NMF playlists across the world, and their singles through 2020 were released during lockdown with self-directed and produced videos that soared on Spotify and YouTube.

Throughout 2023, Nikitaa explored themes of vulnerability and strength in singles like “Scheming,” “On My Own,” “Peter Pan,” “Throne,” “Daddy Era,” and “Truman Show,” receiving recognition from Rolling Stone India, Radio One India, and Ones To Watch playlist Now Watching. Additionally, Nikitaa's keen ear and exceptional lyricism have led to brand placements with Splice’s Pride Month and South Asian Heritage Month campaigns.

Nikitaa’s work as a songwriter extends beyond their own projects, with credits on tracks for artists such as Trophy Boy (Nightmare, T.O.F.U, & Trophy Boy), Srushti Tawde (Breakfast Over Bae), RIKA (Grown Up), Aastha Gill, Munawar Faruqi, and Robica.

Looking ahead, 2024 promises to be a groundbreaking year for Nikitaa, with an EP on the horizon that is sure to captivate listeners. Inspired by artists like Beyonce for her knack for genre bending, fluidity in style and vocal prowess, and Jon Bellion for his overall songwriting; Nikitaa continues to push boundaries, blending genres and incorporating Indian and Middle Eastern instrumentation into their music.


NIKITAA
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THE DEAD DAISIES ANNOUNCE NEW SINGLE, NEW ALBUM AND GLOBAL TOUR

THE DEAD DAISIES are gearing up for a truly ambitious and global 2024!

The first single off the new album called “Light ‘Em Up” will be released on May 10th! You can pre-save the song here: https://orcd.co/thedeaddaisies_lightemup


“Hey Gang, we are releasing our first single “Light ‘Em Up” on May 10th, from our new record, aptly titled “Light ‘Em Up” as well! It’s a kick-ass, straight ahead rock and roll tune, just how we like it!!! Turn it up, and get ready to bang your head and break shit!!! Hope ya like it!!! Love you guys!!” – John Corabi
 

Here is a taste of the first single “Light ‘Em Up” off the upcoming album: https://thedeaddaisies.com/light-em-up-single-snippet/


The Album of the same name “Light ‘Em Up”, will be released on September 6th and distributed globally by SPV Germany & Ward Records in Japan.


Produced by Marti Frederiksen in Nashville, the album is in-your-face rock, packed with huge hooks, Doug’s giant intense guitar riffs and John’s distinctive vocals that will leave no audience in their seats when played live.


June 6th will see the band kick off their global touring for the year with a limited run of their favorite markets and venues in the US with tickets already on sale. Go to the band’s website for more info.
 

The Dead Daisies most ambitious and biggest UK Tour to date will launch on Friday September 6th, with Special Guests The Treatment and The Bites which will coincide with the release of the album “Light ‘Em Up”.

The band will then embark on a run of mainland Europe kicking off on Friday November 1st with the final show of the year in Frankfurt, Germany. Special Guests for these shows are Beasto Blanco and Mike Tramp (Performing the Songs Of White Lion).


“Our 2024 Tour has been locked and we’re gonna have some great nights of kick ass rock!!!! Can’t wait to play the new songs for you guys! See ya there!!”
– Doug Aldrich

 

UK Pre Sales will be available at Planet Rock from Friday, April 26th:

www.planetrocktickets.co.uk/article/the-dead-daisies/
 

Germany Pre Sales will be available through Eventim from Friday, April 26th:

https://www.lb-events.de/de/veranstaltungen/the-dead-daisies.html
 

The Dead Daisies have been doubling down on the fact that Rock Is Alive And Well - it truly feels like this is another year to cement that statement!
 

THE DEAD DAISIES:

Doug Aldrich, Tommy Clufetos, John Corabi, Michael Devin, David Lowy


LIGHT ‘EM UP - WORLD TOUR 2024

https://thedeaddaisies.com/light-em-up-world-tour-2024/


USA

JUNE

06 – Racket NYC                                               New York, NY

08 – The Landis Theater                                    Vineland, NJ

09 – Mickey’s Black Box                                    Lititz, PA

11 – The Machine Shop                                     Flint, MI

12 – The Arcada Theatre                                   St. Charles, IL

15 – Blue Note                                                   Harrison, OH

16 – The Basement East                                   Nashville, TN

19 – House Of Blues                                         San Diego, CA

20 – Whisky A Go Go                                        Los Angeles, CA

22 – Goldfield Trading Post                               Roseville, CA


 

www.thedeaddaisies.com

Capulet Fest 2024 Full Lineup Announced!

keep up to date at capuletfest.com

TIER 2 PRICING ENDS TUESDAY AT MIDNIGHT!
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BUY BEFORE 5/1/2024 FOR THE BEST PRICE!

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**BEST DEAL** with added Value!
save $$$, access to 24 meet & greets over the entire weekend,
plus access to the Royal Pass Lounge!
Limited available. Get them before they sell out!

  • 1 Weekend Entry Ticket & VIP Parking Pass

  • Early entry

  • Meet & Greet all 3 days

  • Royal Pass Lounge indoors with air conditioned bathrooms (complementary waters)

  • Ear Plugs and Festival Merch (Lanyard/badge, shirt, event poster, bag, bumper sticker, temp tattoo)

GET THE ROYAL PASS

Get Pumped! Our Headliners are Ready to Rock!

FULL LINEUP HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED!

Hold onto your seats! The final 4 in the lineup are here and they're all set for the meet & greet! Time for some fun!

Lacey Sturm of Flyleaf

Zero 9:36

Islander

Letter Kills

full album play of “The Bridge”

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Parking & Camping

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Hotel Information coming in the next couple of days!

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Darkest Hour To Join Fit For An Autopsy & Sylosis on EU & UK Tour This Fall

Darkest Hour continues to celebrate the release of their blistering new album, Perpetual | Terminal, and announce a new UK and EU tour, supporting Fit For An Autopsy and Sylosis on 25 dates this fall. The tour kicks off on November 22, 2024, in London at the Electric Brixton and wraps on December 21, 2024, in Köln, Germany, at Essigfabrik. See full dates below.

Darkest Hour’s Mike Schleibaum says, "We are so absolutely excited to announce that we will return to the EU and UK this year with new music and old friends! All in the spirit of celebrating the release of our new album, Perpetual | Terminal. This tour covers a lot of ground and we are honored to team up with good friends  FIT FOR AN AUTOPSY  and incredible bands SYLOSIS & HERIOT! Joining forces with them allows us to bring our special style of Melodic Death Metal to some places that we haven’t played in over a decade. Looking forward to closing out 2024 on this tour, if you live near or in any of these cities do not miss this massive metal party!” 

General on-sale tickets will be available beginning Monday, April 29th. For more information and ticket links, click here.

The band released their new album, Perpetual | Terminal, earlier this year. Kerrang gave the album 4 / 5, saying, “The mighty Darkest Hour deliver yet another slice of pure melodic death nirvana,” while Blabbermouth wrote, “As great as diehard fans will be expecting, and maybe even greater than that, Perpetual | Terminal adds yet more weight to DARKEST HOUR's unassailable reputation. Listen and learn, half-assed infidels: The experts are back.”

Darkest Hour tune into the cycle of death and rebirth, absorbing its intensity and spitting it back at the world in the form of a signature hybrid anchored by death metal exorcisms, thrash recklessness, hardcore punk attitude, and melodic catharsis at the speed of a circle pit. The Washington, D.C. quintet—Mike Schleibaum [guitar], John Henry [vocals], Aaron Deal [bass], Travis Orbin [drums], and Nico Santora [guitar]—have weathered time, trends, and tides of change and stand stronger nearly three decades since their formation.

The band, as a whole, have weathered time, trends, and tides of change and stand stronger nearly three decades since their formation. Their unique sonic style incorporates death metal exorcisms, thrash recklessness, hardcore punk attitude, and melodic catharsis at the speed of a circle pit.

Perpetual | Terminal is the band’s tenth full-length offering, available now on MNRK Heavy.

Stream/get Perpetual | Terminal here.

 

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My Epic Sign to Tooth & Nail + Announce "Loriella" Album + Share "Northstar" Video

Tooth & Nail Records is pleased to add My Epic to its global roster. The band — Aaron Stone [guitar, vocals], Tanner Morita [guitar], and Nate Washburn[guitar, bass] — was formerly signed to Facedown Records. They've shifted and grown, and their sound accounts for lots of lived experience.

The band will release its label debut (and fourth album overall) Loriella on June 28. Pre-order it here.

"Loriella is a record about progression, joy, and the confidence that can only grow after the loss of innocence," the band states. "It's the soundtrack to a hard-won optimism that comes from a commitment to living with 'open hearts and calloused hands.' Massive in dynamic, with intention in every detail, we've never worked harder and can't wait to share these songs."

The time to share these songs has arrived, as the band has dropped the video for the expansive, room-filling, and darkly atmospheric first single "Northstar." Watch it below

"We don't keep the peace, we make it,'" the band says, referencing a key lyric in the track. "'Northstar' is a future forward production of a classic My Epic formula: Powerful melodic hooks, interspersed with moody dynamic shifts, all culminating in a massive ending. It's a song about how making peace with the past is the most powerful way forward."

ABOUT MY EPIC:
My Epic tune into this moment of reawakening on their fourth full-length offering and Tooth & Nail Records debut Loriella. Balancing waves of warm distorted fuzz with lush melodies and cinematic production, the group make the kind of music that rouses the senses and might just encourage you to open your eyes, mind, and heart a little wider.
 
"The record is about having lived long enough to lose your innocence and still being able to find joy, hope, peace, and faith," explains Aaron. "I can be a critical person, but there's a difference between being critical and cynical. I understand why people end up choosing cynicism, because sometimes it can seem like the best way to make sense of all the data in the world–but I think cynicism is death. It's part of my aim to fight cynicism at every turn. The album is about discovery and re-engaging life with purpose on new terms of your own."
 
Throughout the past two decades, the band have quietly, yet consistently engaged a devout fanbase with a simultaneously anthemic and intricate approach to alternative rock. They've progressed across the likes of I Am Undone [2008], Yet [2010], and Behold [2013]. The latter notably catapulted onto the Billboard Heatseekers Albums Chart. Generating millions of streams, their catalog expanded with fan favorite EPs such as Viscera [2016], Ultraviolet [2018], and Violence [2019]—which HM Magazine hailed as "a blend of indie-alternative enchantments.Meanwhile, Cory Brandan of Norma Jean lent his voice to "White Noises.” During 2020, the band signed to Tooth & Nail, turning the page on another chapter as they set their sights on their first full-length since 2013. In between, life happened as band members became dads and moved around personally and professionally. 
 
For the first time, Nate assumed the role of primary producer, and Loriella materialized over the course of two years in three different studios. Along the way, they nodded to early inspirations such as The Smashing Pumpkins, Foo Fighters, and Third Eye Blind. 

PHOTO: Grant A. Nicholls

Black Veil Brides Sign With Spinefarm, Announce "Bleeders" EP + Share Video

BLACK VEIL BRIDES kick off a new season of redemption and revenge with "Bleeders," a cinematic music video, battle cry, and tour conceived by band leader Andy Biersack. The "Bleeders" single and enchanting music video (directed by Jensen Noen) coincide with a forthcoming EP of the same name. 

Watch the video below.
 
The Bleeders EP is both a soundtrack and a signpost of everything BVB past, present, and future. The band's inaugural release in a new partnership with Spinefarm boasts the title track, a loving rendition of Sweeney Todd’s "My Friends," and a faithful cover of U2's "Sunday Bloody Sunday."
 
The Bleeders Tour transforms the band's theatrical and allegorical tales of vengeance into real-world philanthropy, incorporating a virtual blood drive with the American Red Cross. "As Bleeders, it's our mission to effect positive change. Help us to help others in this time of need," reads a statement from the band, comprised of Biersack, Jake Pitts, Jinxx, Christian "C.C." Coma, and Lonny Eagleton
 
One pint of blood can save as many as three lives. As of April 22, fans have pledged 1577 pints. 

Before the birth of the BVB Army, the thousands of lyric tattoos, and the gold and platinum records that followed, Black Veil Brides was simply a dark vision dreamt up by an only child in Ohio. 
 
He already loved Batman and KISS. Then, the striking visage of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, on the cover of his dad's dusty CD (released a dozen years before he was born) kicked open the door for Biersack. Sweeney Todd cleared the way for The Phantom of the Opera, Misfits, and all that followed, culminating in the birth of Andy Black and the ascension of Black Veil Brides.  
 
The group's cinematic scope and unwavering commitment to self-expression strikes a familiar chord with their fellow "bleeders" who seek refuge (and revenge) in the power of the dark and imagination. 
 
There are over 160 million views of "Knives and Pens," an early demo committed to music video before Andy (who moved to Hollywood at 18 and lived in his car) met his band of brothers. The RIAA-certified platinum single "In the End," itself close to 170 million views, proved the group whose merch dominated Hot Topic before they’d even made their debut album was built to last. In 2021, "Scarlet Cross" became their highest-charting, Top 10 single. "Fallen Angels" went gold in 2023.  
 
They combine a unique identity with an unquenchable creative thirst. They're an object of devotion for those who sing their anthems in unison, a diverse BVB Army who never surrenders. Bleeders offers a taste of what will become Black Veil Brides' most visceral, cinematic, and unrelenting era yet.
 
Black Veil Brides and their audience slash away at the darkness together, bleeders one and all. 

PHOTO CREDIT: Joshua Shultz

BLACK VEIL BRIDES ON TOUR:
WITH DARK DIVINE, CREEPER + GHOSTKID:

4/25 — San Francisco, CA — Fillmore
4/27 — Las Vegas, NV — Sick New World*
4/28 — Salt Lake City, UT — The Depot
4/29 — Denver, CO — Ogden Theater
4/30 — Kansas City, MO — The Truman
5/2 — Minneapolis, MN — Fillmore
5/3 — Chicago, IL — Concord Music Hall
5/4 — Green Bay, WI — Epic
5/5 — Detroit, MI — Royal Oak Theater
5/7 — Albany, NY — Empire Live
5/8 — Boston, MA — House of Blues Boston
5/9 — Richmond, VA — The National
5/10 — Raleigh, NC — The Ritz
5/12 — Daytona Beach, FL — Welcome to Rockville*
5/13 — Atlanta, GA — Buckhead Theater
5/15 — New York, NY — Palladium Times Square
5/16 — Philadelphia, PA — Fillmore
5/17 — Columbus, OH — Sonic Temple*
5/18 — Nashville, TN — Marathon Music Works
5/20 — San Antonio, TX — The Aztec Theatre
5/21 — Houston, TX — RISE
5/22 — Dallas, TX — The Factory
5/24 — Tempe, AZ — The Marquee
5/25 — Los Angeles, CA — The Belasco
*Festival Date

ABOUT SPINEFARM:
Spinefarm represents some of the biggest and most important rock acts in the world. Founded in Finland in 1990, the label established itself as an independent powerhouse for successful European metal acts from Nightwish to Children Of Bodom. Acquired by UMG in 2002, Spinefarm Music Group is now home to a host of artists that reach millions of fans across the globe and showcases the very best in rock, punk and metal. From massive metal names such as Bullet For My Valentine (with over 3 billion streams to their name) to alt-rock legends Killing Joke and genre-benders Sleep Token, Spinefarm's artists are — and always have been —true leaders in their chosen field. The roster also includes renowned names like Atreyu, Airbourne, Saint Asonia, and While She Sleeps, as well as fast-rising young artists like Dayseeker, Dead Poet Society, Kid Kapichi, BRKN LOVE, and Creeper. Spinefarm, now flanked by associated SMG labels Candlelight (Emperor, Ihsahn, Urne) and Snakefarm (Marty Stuart, Austin Meade, The White Buffalo), has grown from its independent origins into a true global rock powerhouse.

Annie Bosko Releases “Neon Baby (Last Call)” - Acoustic Version

When Annie Bosko released her sultry “Neon Baby” to country radio in November 2023, it arrived as the third-most-added single. The song’s contagiously flirty lyrics and budding popularity led to Bosko making her late night debut on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” Now, Bosko is providing an acoustic twist to the single currently at Country radio with the release of “Neon Baby (Last Call),” available now. 
 
“This version really allows the vocal and romantic sentiment to shine through,” shares Bosko. “The warmth of the track matches the turn of the season and warmer weather. I envisioned myself on a stool serenading late-night lovers dancing in a divebar.”
 
Written by Bosko with Jeffrey Steele (Rascal Flatts’ “What Hurts The Most,” Tim McGraw’s “The Cowboy In Me”) and Bridgette Tatum (Jason Aldean’s “She’s Country”), and working with producers Derek George and Mickey Jack Cones, “Neon Baby” entices listeners with the California native’s flare for neo-traditional twang, a fitting conduit for its playful lyrics.
 
“Neon Baby (Last Call)” comes on the heels of Bosko’s recently released duet with Vince Gill, “Higher Ground” – and follows the release of her self-titled EP earlier this year, featuring five songs including the original rendition of “Neon Baby.”
 
Bosko is set to take the stage at Stagecoach tomorrow, Saturday, April 27 at the Toyota Music Den following a performance at Ryman Auditorium earlier this week for the Walkin’ After Midnight: The Music of Patsy Cline tribute show, with ABC News/“Good Morning America” praising, “Annie Bosko wowed with ‘You’re Stronger Than Me.’”
 
Having recently made her international debut at C2C: Country to Country in Glasgow with a solo acoustic set to a sold-out arena, Bosko will perform on additional festival stages across the U.S. this spring and summer, including CMA Fest, Country Jam, Faster Horses and Watershed Festival.
 
For a full list of tour dates, visit AnnieBosko.com or follow on InstagramTikTok Twitter/X @AnnieBosko and Facebook.com/AnnieBoskoMusic.

About Annie Bosko
With a voice that beams like a ray of California sunshine, Stone Country Records/Brown Sellers Brown Management singer-songwriter Annie Bosko pairs a sound anchored deep in the organic twang of ‘90s country with simple songs told from the heart, preaching equal parts healing and honky-tonk hope. A student of legendary crooners like Patsy Cline with added inspiration from Shania Twain, George Strait, Dwight Yoakam, The Beatles and more, the Golden State native broke out in 2014 with the SiriusXM/CMT hit “Crooked Halo,” bucking the bro-country trend for a traditionally flavored anthem that has now amassed more than 3 million streams. She went on to write songs recorded by Willie Nelson and Jessica Simpson, tour alongside Tim McGraw, Dierks Bentley and Blake Shelton, sell out the famed Troubadour and perform on the Grand Ole Opry and at Ryman Auditorium–the fabled Mother Church of Country Music–while also becoming an in-demand studio vocalist and earning the title Artist to Watch from rolling Stone Country. After a series of standout collaborations with country icons Vince Gill, Dwight Yoakam and Raul Malo, she is now embracing her true nature for creative rejuvenation. Working with producers Derek George and Mickey Jack Cones, a new batch of music pairs unapologetic twang, clever wordplay, and deep compassion with her long standing downhome-diva vocal, capturing the full range of timeless American art in its purest form. In 2023, Bosko released the powerful-yet-tender ballad “Dandelions” in memory of the victims of Nashville’s Covenant School shooting–a track written alongside Danny Myrick which has now become a beacon of community remembrance and faith. Lost in grief and capturing the reverberating shock of that day’s unfathomable loss, the track has been embraced by the Covenant School families themselves, with all proceeds being donated for their benefit through ACM Lifting Lives. Her five-song EP Annie Bosko is available now, featuring sharp-yet-simple, pure-country songs written or co-written with hitmakers like Jeffrey Steele, Bridgette Tatum and more, all aimed at uplifting, inspiring or just singing along with women and country-music lovers everywhere.

Eric Church’s Soulful Set at Stagecoach

In what he calls “the most ambitious set of his career,” Eric Church surprised Stagecoach’s Friday night crowd with a disruptive, unexpected performance.

His seventh time playing the festival – and fifth time headlining – he took the sold-out crowd back to the foundation of where it all started for him musically. With an acoustic guitar and a 16-person choir that included longtime collaborator Joanna Cotten, the 75-minute non-stop Gospel-influenced set opened with "Hallelujah” and included covers “Take Me To The River,” “Stand By Me,” “Danny’s Song” and “Gin and Juice” threaded with tones of Mr. Misunderstood’s “Mistress Named Music” and Heart & Soul’s “Heart On Fire” throughout creating a full-fledged Outsiders revival, only to be concluded by his band rising from beneath the stage to join on the final few songs.

“This was the most difficult set I have ever attempted,” Church admits. “I've always found that taking it back to where it started, back to chasing who Bob Seger loves, who Springsteen loves, who Willie Nelson loves, you chase it back to the origin. The origin of all that is still the purest form of it. And we don't do that as much anymore. It felt good at this moment to go back, take a choir and do that.”

On the boundary-pushing set, Church adds, “For me, it's always been something with records, with performances, I've always been the one that's like, ‘let's do something really, really strange and weird and take a chance.’ Sometimes it doesn't work, but it's okay if you're living on that edge, because that edge, that cutting edge, is where all the new guys are going to gravitate to anyway. So if you can always challenge yourself that way, it always cuts sharper than any other edge.”

Eric Church performs at Stagecoach in Indio, California on Friday, April 26, 2024. ⎸ Photo Credit: Getty Images for Stagecoach 

About Eric Church
A seven-time ACM Award winner, four-time CMA Award winner (including the 2020 award for Entertainer of the Year) and 10-time GRAMMY nominee, Church has amassed a passionate fan base around the globe known as the Church Choir, plus a critically acclaimed catalog of music. Church is currently working on new music as the follow up to his most recent chart-topping project, the Heart & Soul triple album, which featured the results of a marathon session during which he spent nearly a month writing and recording a song per day while sequestered in rural North Carolina. This followed his Gold-certified Desperate Man, which earned a GRAMMY nomination for Best Country Album (his third nod in the category) and prior releases including the Platinum-certified Sinners Like Me (“How ’Bout You,” “Guys Like Me”), Carolina (“Smoke a Little Smoke,” “Love Your Love the Most”) and Mr. Misunderstood (“Record Year,” “Round Here Buzz”), the Double-Platinum certified The Outsiders (“Like a Wrecking Ball,” “Talladega”) and the 3x Platinum-certified Chief (“Springsteen,” “Drink In My Hand”), as well as 30 Gold, Platinum and multi-Platinum certified songs. Church is also a minority owner of the Charlotte Hornets, a co-owner of the iconic Field & Stream brand, has his own SiriusXM music channel, “Eric Church Outsiders Radio,” his own liquor offering, Whiskey JYPSI, and Chief’s, a six-story venue on Nashville’s famed lower Broadway.

For more information, visit www.ericchurch.com and follow on Facebook and Twitter/X @ericchurch and Instagram @ericchurchmusic.

Scotty McCreery Releases "Lonely" from 'Rise and Fall' Arriving May 10

Triple Tigers recording artist Scotty McCreery may be a happily married father, but that is not stopping him from tapping into a bit of sorrow for his latest release out today, “Lonely,” from his upcoming album Rise and Fall. This will be the final song released from Rise and Fall before the album comes out on May 10. Listen to “Lonely” Below.
 
“I love a good heartbreak, honky-tonk country song, and ‘Lonely’ is definitely that,” said McCreery. “Brent, Derek, Frank, Bobby, Jeremy, Monty and I had such a good time writing this song on my back porch in the mountains of North Carolina. This song is so much fun to perform live and have the audience sing along with us. I’ve had a lot of requests from fans who’ve heard this song on the road to put it out on streaming. Here you go!” 
 
Written by McCreery with Brent Anderson, Derek George, Frank Rogers, Bobby Hamrick, Jeremy Bussey and Monty Criswell, “Lonely” is a dark-and-dusky two-stepper drenched in heartbreak. Set in a late-night local hole-in-the-wall and narrated by a guy looking to forget why he came in the bar to begin with, friends join him in his effort to drown out the pain turning the barroom into a sing along.
 
      Friends on the jukebox and friends wall to wall 
      Dimes on the dance floor and cheap alcohol 
      Round after round, we're all having a ball 
      I guess lonely ain't lonely after all 
      No lonely ain't lonely after all
  
The newest member of the legendary Grand Ole Opry will also return to the stage where he won hearts across the nation over 13 years ago. McCreery is set to perform his chart-topping hit “Cab in a Solo” on “American Idol” this Sunday, April 28. Catch his guest performance live coast-to-coast on ABC at 8 pm ET / 5 pm PT and stream on Hulu.
 
McCreery is also set to return to “The Kelly Clarkson Show” on Wednesday, May 1 with a special performance from the Grand Ole Opry stage. Check local listings for time.
 
McCreery will return to the Grand Ole Opry stage on May 11, just one day after he releases his new album Rise and Fall. The first 400 ticketholders who also purchase the album onsite in the Opry Shop that evening will gain access to an exclusive album release celebration and acoustic performance with Scotty directly following the show in the Opry House’s Studio A. For Opry tickets and information, visit Opry.com.
 
Rise and Fall will feature 13 tracks that find him exploring not only heartbreak but rowdy nights, nostalgia, faith, newfound joy, fatherhood and enduring love, resulting in a project full of insightful storytelling. The album was produced by McCreery’s longtime production team of Frank Rogers, Derek Wells and Aaron Eshuis.
 
McCreery co-wrote 12 of the 13 songs on the album, which will be released digitally as well as on CD and vinyl. In addition, Amazon will release a limited edition, forest green vinyl version of the album.

  • Pre-order/pre-save Rise and Fall HERE

  • Pre-order autographed vinyl and CDs of Rise and Fall HERE

“I know every artist says it, but this is truly my favorite album I’ve made so far,” shares McCreery. “I wanted to create an album that reflected the music I grew up on and wasn’t chasing trends. So, I brought several of my songwriting buddies to the mountains of North Carolina to sit down and write a full-on country album that told a story, start to finish, and spoke to my soul. We’ve been performing most of the album live on the road and the response from the audiences has been overwhelming. I can’t wait for everyone to hear Rise and Fall when it comes out May 10th.”
 
The North Carolina native knows all too well there’s a rhythm to life and a cycle of ups and downs. And right now, he’s on the upswing.

Now 30 years old and a seasoned country music veteran selling out concerts across the globe with five consecutive No. 1 hits under his belt, McCreery is also a dedicated husband and father, welcoming a son named Avery in 2022, whose impact on the singer is highlighted in several songs on the album. Recently, he even celebrated the milestone of all milestones for a guy who grew up on Randy Travis, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton and Ronnie Milsap; he was invited by his musical hero Garth Brooks to become the newest member of the iconic Grand Ole Opry. McCreery was just welcomed into the Opry family on April 20 by two more of his heroes, Josh Turner and Randy Travis.
 
But folks like McCreery know it means more when you’ve seen the other side. For him, each highlight has come in contrast to a challenge – things like the loss of his first record deal and the year of naysaying uncertainty that followed before he built himself up again, brick by brick. As a result, Rise and Fall comes from an artist who knows to appreciate the ride – no matter where it leads.
 
“I feel like we’re on the rise now, but I’ve fallen pretty low as well,” McCreery admits. “I learned from every little part of that, and it helped me to know who I was as a person – let alone an artist. The rises and the falls helped craft these songs. They made this album what it is.”
 
“Lonely” is the sixth song released from the album, following lead single “Cab in a Solo” and tracks “Red Letter Blueprint,” “Slow Dance,” “Can’t Pass the Bar” and “Love Like This.” A full listing of the album’s songs follows.

Photo Credit: Jeff Ray

Tickets for upcoming tour dates are on sale now at ScottyMcCreery.com.
   
About Scotty McCreery
Scotty McCreery has been a household name for nearly half his life, ever since making history in 2011 as both the first country artist and the youngest male artist of any genre to debut his first studio album, the Platinum-certified Clear as Day, at No. 1 on the all-genre Billboard Top 200 Albums chart. With his forthcoming album Rise and Fall set for release May 10, featuring current single “Cab in a Solo” along with 12 additional tracks, McCreery explores classic themes of heartbreak, rowdy nights, nostalgia, faith, newfound joy, fatherhood, and enduring love, and through it all, felt comfortable being himself, resulting in a project full of electrified twang, rich baritone vocals and insightful storytelling. The 30-year-old has sold more than 4 million albums and achieved 5 consecutive No.1 hits: the RIAA Platinum-certified “Damn Strait,” the RIAA Gold certified “You Time,” the RIAA Gold certified “In Between,” the RIAA Platinum certified “This is It,” and the RIAA Triple Platinum certified ‘Five More Minutes.” The North Carolina native has earned one Triple Platinum, five Platinum and four Gold singles; one Platinum and two Gold albums; won the 10th season of “American Idol” in 2011 at age 17; was named the ACM New Artist of the Year in 2011; won two CMT Music Awards for Breakthrough Video of the Year (“The Trouble with Girls”) in 2012 and Digital-First Performance of the Year (“It Matters to Her” on “CMT Stages”) in 2024; and BMI Awards for writing One of the Top 50 Country Songs of the Year five times (in 2015 for “See You Tonight,” in 2018 for “Five More Minutes,” in 2019 for “This is It,” in 2021 for “In Between,” and in 2022 for “You Time”). He was awarded Pandora Billionaire status in 2021 in recognition of his music achieving more than one billion streams on Pandora. His song “Five More Minutes” inspired two popular holiday movies which aired on the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Network: “Five More Minutes” in 2021 and “Five More Minutes: Moments Like These” in 2022. He released his first book Go Big or Go Home: The Journey Toward the Dream in 2016. His most recent album is Same Truck: The Deluxe Album. This fall McCreery was inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame and last year was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry by Garth Brooks. McCreery was just welcomed into the Opry family on April 20 by his heroes, Josh Turner and Randy Travis. The singer/songwriter married his high school sweetheart Gabi in 2018, and the couple had their first son Avery in October 2022. For more information, visit ScottyMcCreery.com.

Darius Rucker Reimagines "Never Been Over" with Jennifer Nettles, Out Now

Already an emotional cornerstone of recent album Carolyn’s Boy from three-time GRAMMY Award-winner Darius Rucker, standout song “Never Been Over” now arrives as a duet with the captivating vocals of GRAMMY Award-winning entertainment powerhouse Jennifer Nettles adding a new dimension to the emotional ballad. Listen HERE.
 
Penned by Rucker alongside Lee Thomas Miller and Brothers Osborne’s John Osborne, the original release of “Never Been Over” was celebrated by Billboard as a flipped perspective to Rucker’s chart-topping “It Won’t Be Like This For Long,” with the reflective song “looking back on a couple’s love nearly two decades later, chronicling years of emotional zeniths and low points, a duration spent raising kids and building a life together one day at a time”:
 
        We’ve been good and bad, hot and cold
        And fightin’ mad, solid gold
        Been sunny days, straight-line winds
        Been drivin’ slow and guilty as sin
        Been back roads lost and blue lights found
        Dead of quiet, rockstar loud
        Been up and down like we’re built on springs
        We’ve been a lot of things 
 
        But we’ve never been 
        Splittin’ up friends, splittin’ up records
        Puttin’ up walls, burnin’ down letters
        Grass is greener ‘cause there’s something better
        Waitin’ down the line
        We’ve never been a headlights weaving, taillights fadin’
        So long, move on, goodbye waitin’
        Never been one last long look across your shoulder
        We’ve been a lot of things, but we’ve never been over
 
“Writing that was very cathartic,” Rucker shared with Garden & Gun of the song. “It was almost like therapy for me. It’s so honest and one of my favorite songs I’ve ever written.”
 
“Now, to have Jennifer add her incredible voice to such an emotional song, you feel even more of what this couple is facing; unravelling the life they’ve built together,” reflects Rucker. “I’m so grateful she agreed to sing on it with me.”
 
“I’ve wanted to collaborate with Darius for such a long time! And when I heard the song, I loved its story,” adds Nettles. “But in addition to its theme of lifelong love, it feels so perfect for Darius and I to sing it together. Both of our careers have grown and changed so dramatically since we each started out. And, as the hook sings, ‘We’ve been a lot of things, but we’ve never been over.’ This song is a beautiful example and extension of that constant evolution.” 

Currently on the road in Europe for a run of solo shows ahead of this summer’s Hootie & the Blowfish Summer Camp with Trucks Tour, Rucker is also preparing to share his first book with fans, a memoir titled “Life’s Too Short.” Set for release May 28, the memoir sees Rucker share the story of his life through the music that has defined it, offering readers an intimate glimpse into his journey from music enthusiast to music icon. Pre-order HERE.
 
For more information, visit DariusRucker.com and follow on social media @DariusRucker.

Courtesy of Capitol Records Nashville

About Darius Rucker
Rucker first achieved multi-Platinum status in the music industry as lead singer and rhythm guitarist of the GRAMMY Award-winning band Hootie & the Blowfish, who have sold more than 25 million albums worldwide including their Double Diamond-certified (21x Platinum) debut Cracked Rear View, which remains among the top 10 best-selling studio albums of all time. Since releasing his first Country album in 2008, Rucker has earned a whole new legion of fans with four No. 1 albums on the Billboard Country chart plus 10 No. 1 singles at Country radio and 11 Gold, Platinum or multi-Platinum certified hits. Rucker was inducted as a Grand Ole Opry member in 2012 and in 2014 he won his third career GRAMMY Award for Best Solo Country Performance with his Diamond-certified (11x Platinum) version of “Wagon Wheel,” one of the top five best-selling Country songs of all time. His brand-new album Carolyn’s Boy is available everywhere now and his first book, a memoir titled “Learn to Live” is set for release via Dey Street Books on May 28.
 
As a lifelong philanthropist, Rucker co-chaired the capital campaign that generated $150 million to help build the new MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital in his hometown of Charleston, S.C. and has raised over $3.6 million for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital through his annual Darius & Friends benefit concert and golf tournament. In addition, Rucker has advocated for over 200 charitable causes supporting public education and junior golf programs in South Carolina through the Hootie & the Blowfish Foundation and serves as a National Chair for the National Museum of African American Music in Nashville, Tenn. Rucker is also an avid sports fan, with his Darius Rucker Collection by Fanatics line of NFL, MLB and NCAA apparel available at Fanatics.com, and he is part of the Music City Baseball investment group working to bring an MLB team to Tennessee in addition to serving as a partner at the MGC Sports & Entertainment agency.  

About Jennifer Nettles
Jennifer Nettles is a GRAMMY-winning, Emmy-winning superstar entertainer on multiple platforms. She most recently appeared in Blumhouse’s new take of “The Exorcist” and returns seasonally in the HBO hit series “The Righteous Gemstones” as series favorite Aimee-Leigh. She also delivered a powerful and provocative performance in Focus Features’ Harriet Tubman biopic. Musically she recently earned an Emmy for Best Original Song for “Life is Sweet" featured in PBS’s “American Anthems.” Her latest solo album release was a genre-defying collection of American songbook classics entitled Always Like New

As half of the multi-Platinum Country duo Sugarland, she most recently announced a new tour upcoming this fall together with the band Little Big Town, along with the release of a new single cover of Phil Collins’ hit “Take Me Home.” Sugarland’s song “Stay,” written solely by Jennifer, was a Platinum No. 1 hit which earned her two GRAMMY Awards for Best Country Song as writer and Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group. Nettles also earned a third GRAMMY for her collaboration with Bon Jovi on “Who Says You Can't Go Home.” Her other achievements in music include five ASCAP awards, six ACM Awards, five CMA Awards, the Human Rights Campaign’s Ally for Equality Award and the Artist Impact Award from Lincoln Center. Nettles made her Broadway debut in 2015 as Roxy Hart in the Tony Award-winning, record-breaking musical “Chicago,” and starred as Donna in the Hollywood Bowl’s summer production of “Mamma Mia!” as well as most recently starring as Jenna in the smash hit musical “Waitress.” She is also the host of Fox’s unscripted series “Farmer Wants a Wife.” She is currently developing a Broadway musical about 17th century crusading poisoner Giulia Tofana.

DYLAN SCHNEIDER IS GOOD AT MAKING BAD DECISIONS WITH NEW EP AVAILABLE NOW

“Country Music’s Next Rising Star” (Billboard), Dylan Schneider “is proving to be all gas, no brakes in 2024” (Taste of Country) today releasing his latest EP, Bad Decisions, ahead of his Stagecoach Festival debut performance this Sunday, April 28. Finding “storylines that make country music listeners go wild is his superpower,” and the BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville singer-songwriter “not only lives up to his hitmaker status, but he exceeds it” (All Country News). Listen now Below.

“This is my favorite batch of songs that I have ever released,” says Schneider. “Bad Decisions shares my vision of where I’m heading creatively and sonically. I have a lot of different influences ranging from hip-hop to R&B to country, and with this EP, I’m able to explore all of that. This is also my first project where I co-wrote every single song, so I’m excited to play these out on the road for y’all and see what you think!

Featuring his viral songs “Ain’t Missin’ You” and title track “Bad Decisions” that PopCulture demanded to “PLAY IT LOUD,” the six-track project includes new songs “Carhartt,” “Ruin This Town” and “Buy That Girl A Beer” that are sure to catapult his already viral resume. 

After posting a snippet of a sharp-witted chorus on TikTok, the sound went viral, racking up over 156M TikTok views, 182k user-generated TikTok videos, 55M on-demand streams and 1M YouTube views, climbing to #3 on TikTok’s Country playlist and securing placement on viral-song charts. Seeing the incredible response, Schneider immediately went back to the writing room to finish the spit-fire track – “Ain’t Missin’ You.” Boasting wily lyrics and an electric hook, the feisty song finds the “Artist to Watch” (Amazon Music, Pandora, Taste of Country) continuing to “expand the bounds of his artistry” (American Songwriter) and lean into MusicRow’s “Next Big Thing” prediction.

Continuing to strongly connect, having already amassed over 3.8M TikTok views, 26,000 filter creates, 5,000 user-generated TikTok videos and 7.3M streams, Schneider gave into fan-demand again with the sultry track “Bad Decisions.” Seduced by a magnetic connection with an ex, the seductive song follows a couple who just can’t help but give into temptation.

Filling out the rest of the project, Schneider delivers his most-vulnerable song to date with the autobiographical “Daddy Drinks Whiskey” that “takes one of country music’s drinks of choice and turns it into a personal story he’s finally ready to share” (American Songwriter). While the stadium-ready, supercharged anthem "Ruin This Town” showcases his “rapid-fire singing style” (Billboard), the  live-in-the-moment reminder of ballad “Buy That Girl A Beer” puts his eclectic vocals and lyrical growth on full display. Finally, the insanely catchy, witty and vibrant groove of “Carhartt” flows with an unforgettable, anthemic beat about a girl who got away that's sure to be his next viral song of summer.

At only 24-years-old, Schneider has amassed a social-media following of 1.8M + fans, banked over 350M on-demand streams, and has toured alongside superstars like Florida Georgia Line, Morgan Wallen, Scotty McCreery, Nate Smith and more. Next up, Schneider joins Kane Brown on his “In The Air” Tour.

UPCOMING TOUR DATES:

April 28 - Indio, CA - Stagecoach

May 18 - Albuquerque, NM - Boots In The Park

May 19 - Tempe, AZ - Boots In The Park

June 1 - Danville, VA - Carrington Pavilion

June 8 - Nashville, TN - CMA Fest - Chevy Vibes Stage

June 9 - Myrtle Beach, SC - Carolina Country Music Fest

June 14 - Clearlake, CA - Austin Park

June 15 - Santa Rosa, CA - Country Summer Music Festival

June 20 - Mack, CO - Country Jam

June 27 - Cadott, WI - Country Fest

June 28 - Arnolds Park, IA - Arnolds Park Amusement Park

July 10 - Fort Loramie, OH - Country Concert 

July 12 - Knoxville, IA - Marion County Fair

July 13 - Beaver Dam, KY - Beaver Dam Amphitheater

July 19 - York, PA - York State Fair*

August 2 - Orange Beach, AL - The Wharf Amphitheater*

August 4 - Hollywood, FL - Hard Rock Live*

August 21 - Fort Hall, ID - Shoshone-Bannock Hotel Casino*

*with Kane Brown

About Dylan Schneider:

Drawn to the storytelling aspects of country music, Dylan Schneider started performing and writing songs at the age of 14, after meeting Brett Eldredge and singing with him on-stage during a concert. After that, he began posting videos to his Facebook page, where he’d cover popular Country songs, gaining a devoted online following. Since then, Schneider has made a name for himself in the Country music community, forging a sound that merges modern pop sensibilities with a down-home feel. He’s been named a “Breakthrough Artist to Watch” by Amazon Music, an “Artist to Watch” by Pandora, Taste of Country and Sounds Like Nashville and declared “Country Music’s Next Rising Star” by Billboard. He’s toured with Florida Georgia Line, Morgan Wallen, Kane Brown, Scotty McCreery, Dan + Shay and more, co-wrote Dustin Lynch’s Top 5 hit song “Momma’s House,” scored two RIAA-certified Gold records, accumulated over 1.8M social media followers and banked an upwards of 350M on-demand streams (and counting). Signed to BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, the MusicRow-praised “Next Big Thing” just released his latest EP, Bad Decisions, April 26, before making his Stagecoach Festival debut performance. Embracing his irresistible rock-n-roll edge and unrestrained pop-country swagger that gained him over 500,000 social media followers in just a few months, the upcoming six-track EP features his viral hits “Ain’t Missin’ You” and “Bad Decisions.” Kicking off 2024 on Nate Smith’s “World On Fire” Tour, next up, Schneider will join Kane Brown on his “In The Air” Tour this fall. 


KEEP UP WITH DYLAN SCHNEIDER

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK | X 

Extortionist Release New Single + Music Video "When It All Goes Dark" via Unique Leader Records

Extortionist have today released their latest single "When It All Goes Dark" and the official video (via Unique Leader Records). The track can be found on the band's upcoming new album 'Devoid of Love & Light' set for release on Friday, May 17. Speaking about the inspiration behind today's release, the band shared:

'When It All Goes Dark' is the conclusion of the upcoming full-length “Devoid of Love & Light”. 

The track is a middle finger pointed towards crooked practices, cliques, and individuals within the music industry and a metaphorical presentation of enduring & navigating a “hive-mind” mentality.

Prior to today, Extortionist dropped the album title track "Devoid of Love & Light" along with the visual accompaniment. Stream "When It All Goes Dark" here and watch the music video below.

Band names go a long way in helping paint a figurative picture in the listener's mind of what to expect before one ever hits “play.” When it comes to Extortionist, you think crime—you think gritty, raw, merciless and unsavory and maybe, just maybe, a little sprinkling of suaveness. When it comes to the Pacific Northwest’s resident moshslingers, those premonitions from their name are exactly what you get. As a band who have proven themselves exemplary at styles of heavy music ranging from downtempo deathcore to grunge-tinted metal, Extortionist are more than just a jack-of-all-trades; they’re masters. Utilizing bold, roaring guitars overtop crushing, steamrolling percussion and vocals that run the gamut from guttural to grating, pitched singing and topped off with—you guessed it—a now-infamous dodgeball-smack snare, Extortionist have proven that not only are they incredible at what they do, they’re a band that the heavy scene just can’t go without.

Emerging from the relatively understated pastures and prairies of Coeur d’Alene in early 2013, to say Extortionist have been on a journey since their inception would be an understatement. With "The Black Sheep" instantly earning them notoriety with its combination of feral grooves and eviscerating breakdowns, Extortionist proved themselves early on as prodigal masters of all things punishingly heavy. As the band grew and gained more experience on the road in light of the success of their debut EP, their style and dynamic grew as well. After nearly four years of touring and writing, Extortionist would unleash 'The Decline' in 2017, a band that saw their breed of brutalizing deathcore hybridized with riff-heavy metalcore and more introspective lyrics that tackled suicidal ideation and substance abuse. 'The Decline' was met with immense critical praise and continued to open up larger opportunities for the Northwestern act, ultimately earning them multiple co-headlining tours from coast to coast, and a spot on Stay Sick Records, alongside other up-and-coming heavyweights like SPITE and Bodysnatcher. Barely a year and a half after their signing, the band announced their sophomore full-length release, 'Sever the Cord', which saw them experimenting with the inclusion of grunge and alternative influences, adding even more depth and grit to their dynamic. Their sophomore album earned them not only critical acclaim, but nationwide tours alongside The Browning, Betraying the Martyrs, Lorna Shore and First Blood. 'Sever the Cord' was followed shortly thereafter by an eponymous EP which saw them diving deeper into a more exploratory realm of metalcore, colliding ferocious riffs into moments of warm, nostalgic melody. While their self-titled release was widely heralded as the band’s strongest work to date, was declared their Swan Song, as in the weeks that followed towards the back-end of Summer 2019, Extortionist announced their dissolution.

That isn’t the end of Extortionist’s story, however. As 2019 gave way into 2020 and the chaotic months that followed, the heavy music community felt the band’s absence all too strongly. In the early months of 2021, Extortionist announced their return with a series of shows in Spokane, Washington alongside AVOID and Seconds Ago as well as a new single, “Once More in Torment”. Once more highlighting the seamless blend of raunchy aggression and groove-heavy catchiness that only Extortionist can provide, the band’s comeback track is a strong reminder of just how missed they were throughout their nearly two-year absence. Frontman and founding member Benjamin Hoagland states “This is the best place we’ve ever been in as a band...Extortionist lives, and we’re here to stay.” Indeed, with a full-length record in the works and a ferocious return to live performance already underway, it would seem that Exortionist’s relative break was only a brief moment with which to collect themselves before reasserting their dominance over the contemporary metalcore scene. - Connor Welsh

See the band across North America on the Angels & Villains Tour with Born of Osiris, Attila, Traitors, and Not Enough Space. For ticket information, please click here.

The Angels & Villains Tour USA 2024:

4/25 - Nashville, TN @ Brooklyn Bowl

4/26 - Atlanta, GA @ Variety Playhouse

4/27 - Tampa, FL @ The Ritz

4/29 - Baton Rouge, LA @ Varsity Theater

5/01 - Corpus Christi, TX @ House of Rock

5/03 - Oklahoma City, OK @ 89th St. Collective

5/04 - Austin, TX @ Come and Take It Live

5/05 - San Antonio, TX @ Paper Tiger

5/07 - Albuquerque, NM @ El Rey Theater

5/08 - Mesa, AZ @ Nile Theater

5/09 - San Diego, CA @ House of Blues

5/10 - Pomona, CA @ The Glass House

5/11 - Los Angeles, CA @ 1720

5/12 - San Francisco, CA @ Regency Ballroom

5/14 - Portland, OR @ Bossanova Ballroom

5/15 - Seattle, WA @ The Showbox

5/17 - Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot

5/18 - Englewood, CO @ Gothic Theatre

5/20 - St. Lous, MO @ Red Flag

5/21 - Lincoln, NE @ Bourbon Theatre

5/22 - Minneapolis, MN @ Varsity Theater

5/23 - Davenport, IA @ Capitol Theater

5/24 - Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave II

5/25 - Chicago, IL @ Bottom Lounge

5/26 - Pontiac, MI @ Crofoot Ballroom