American Idol Winner Iam Tongi Brings the 'Sunshine' with New Track

April 25, 2025

“American Idol” Season 21 winner and Hawaii native, Iam Tongi, releases new track, “Sunshine,” today via 19 Recordings ahead of Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Written by Tongi along with Tyler Cain and Johnny Reid, the song finds Tongi basking in positivity and feel-good warmth with a fusion of country and reggae sounds offering a dose of sonic Vitamin D to match his Hawaiian home. Listen to “Sunshine” HERE.

Recorded in Nashville at Soultrain Sound Studios, Tongi says of the song, “Even though I just turned 20, I’ve had to face some pretty difficult times in my life. When I lost my dad a few years ago, it made me realize how short life is. It also made me take stock of what really matters. My mom is my biggest hero and inspiration, and she has always pushed me to be kind, work hard and be a better version of myself, no matter what.”

Tongi continues, “I wrote ‘Sunshine’ because I wanted to spread love, light and positivity to the world. Even when times are tough, you can find goodness around you.”

At just 18-years old when he auditioned, the Hawaiian born singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist won hearts around the world and brought Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan, to tears with his emotional performance of James Blunt's "Monsters," dedicated to his father Rodney who had recently passed away - watch it HERE. The audition went on to become the most watched on the show’s YouTube with 36 million views. Tongi became the first Pacific Islander to win the series and went on to earn his first Billboard No. 1 on the Rock Digital Songs Sales Chart after releasing his debut single, "I'll Be Seeing You"

Tongi is set to make his CMA Fest debut June 5 on the Dr Pepper Amp Stage as well as his Grand Ole Opry debut on June 11. He is currently on the road with dates across the U.S. through the summer and fall with more to be announced soon. For the latest news including tour dates and new music visit  iamtongiofficial.com and follow along @wtongi on Instagram, TikTok, X and Facebook.

Upcoming Tour Dates
May 10        Nashville, TN Nashville Soccer Club Halftime, Geodis Park
June 5               Nashville, TN CMA Fest, Dr Pepper Amp Stage
June 11           Nashville, TN Grand Ole Opry House
June 21           Del Mar, CA Corona Grand Stage / Toyota Concert Series
Sept 1 Puyallup, WA Washington State Fair
Sept 5                Concord, CA   Toyota Pavilion at Concord
Sept 10         Phoenix, AZ   Arizona Financial Theatre

About 19 Entertainment
19 Entertainment, a part of Sony Pictures Television, is led by executive producers Eli Holzman and Aaron Saidman, with key programs including the global hit “American Idol” co-produced by Fremantle for ABC and “So You Think You Can Dance” co-produced by dcp for Fox. Additionally, 19 Recordings has launched the music careers of platinum artists, including Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, Daughtry, Phillip Phillips, Lauren Alaina, and more recently, Gabby Barrett, Chayce Beckham, Iam Tongi, and country artist Will Moseley.

COLIN STOUGH RETURNS TO THE SCENE OF THE CRIME IN “AMEN” MUSIC VIDEO

August 1, 2024

19 Recordings/BMG Nashville artist Colin Stough is paying for his crimes in the official music video for the salvation-seeking “Amen,” as featured on his recent Lookin’ For Home EP. Directed by Luke Lowder and West Webb, fans can watch the CMT Premiere today (8/1), as it makes its broadcast debut on CMT, CMT Music, CMT Equal Play (on Pluto TV), and the Paramount Times Square Billboard.

Narrated by a broken soul pining for the simple days of his past, the footage dramatizes the trapped tone of the Stough, Jacob Durrett (also the producer), and Jordan Dozzi-penned lyrics. Inspired by frustration and homesickness felt out on the road, the clip visually compares a hotel room to a jail cell, as it tells the tale of a robbery gone wrong. Following a wounded fugitive on the run, the foreboding storyline tracks a man who succumbs to the demons at his door, and as a result, is choosing to make a change for good.

Taking his Lookin’ For Home EP on the road, Stough continues his trek this summer with fair and music festival dates, including select shows with Parmalee, The Lacs, Midland, and more. This fall, he’ll co-headline a run with fellow American Idol finalist Will Moseley.

ABOUT COLIN STOUGH:
While Country Rock phenom and Gattman, Mississippi, native Colin Stough is only knocking on the door to his twenties, he has traversed a long journey in a few short years – starting with his debut EP Promiseland and following up with a new EP Lookin’ For Home. After learning to play guitar at 8 years old, Stough first pursued his artistic dreams at 10, boldly trading childhood possessions for his first guitar at a local pawn shop – an instrument he still plays to this day. After graduating high school, the naturally gifted singer and self-taught songwriter began working full-time as an HVAC technician, before his mother convinced him to audition for American Idol. Impressing judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie, Stough stunned viewers and soon built a thriving fan base, finishing third on Season 21 of the show in 2023. He spent the ensuing months writing and recording original music, while also touring nationwide to put his blowtorch vocal and guitar-slinging edge on full display.  After signing with 19 Recordings/BMG Nashville, his distinctive mix of Southern Rock distortion and pure-Country style has helped Stough’s music rack up more than 19.8 MILLION global on-demand streams. Stough has headlined across the country and opened for established artists like Chase Matthew, Kidd G, and Drake White.

HUNTERGIRL LIVES OUT HER WILDEST DREAMS IN “BAD BOY” VIDEO DEBUT ACROSS CMT

June 5, 2024

Fast-rising singer/songwriter HunterGirl brings her fantasies to life in her brand-new music video “Bad Boy,” premiering exclusively tomorrow (6/6) on CMT, CMT Music, and CMT Equal Play (Pluto TV). Officially airing every hour throughout the morning on CMT and eight times on CMT Music and CMT Equal Play, the wildly fun visual will also debut on Paramount’s billboard at 1515 Broadway in New York City at 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. EST. In addition, the “Bad Boy” video will be featured on CMT’s YouTube channel and on CMT’s Facebook, X, and Instagram accounts, with the rebellious but playful single now added to CMT’s Spotify and Apple Music curator playlists.

Directed by West Webb, the video for “Bad Boy” opens on HunterGirl walking down the street in red leather cowboy boots and stopping in her tracks at the sight of two men brawling in front of a tattoo parlor. As the song confesses to her particular taste in the opposite sex (“I like guys with issues/Score an extra point for every tattoo/Don’t even get me started if they have a cigarette in their hand”), HunterGirl joins the pack of tatted-up, cigarette-smoking, motorcycle-riding dudes on the front porch and immediately feels right in her element. Spliced with a series of frenetic fish-eye shots of HunterGirl and her band performing the Punk-Pop-Country anthem, the “Bad Boy” video later finds the artist herself leading a seminar on the art of being a bad boy — ultimately transforming a class full of self-professed nerds into the rough-and-tumble men of her dreams.

Written by HunterGirl with producer Lindsay Rimes and Greg Bates, “Bad Boy” will appear on the 19 Recordings/BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville artist’s label-debut EP, Tennessee Girl, due out this Friday (6/7). With her latest accolades including being named to CMT’s 2024 Next Women of Country, HunterGirl offers up a batch of songs built on her true-to-life storytelling and one-of-a-kind sound, including the critically acclaimed “Ain’t About You” — a gorgeously poignant ballad that made her the first female Country artist in over 30 years to write her debut radio single completely by herself. Pre-order/pre-save/pre-add the EP here.

Hailed as an “Artist to Watch” (Country Now) and “a major, major new talent” (MusicRow), HunterGirl will return to Nashville’s CMA Fest on June 7. Along with joining superstar Luke Bryan on the road later this month, she’ll make her debut at Faster Horses Festival on July 21. Go here for all touring info.

About HunterGirl:

America’s sweetheart, vocal powerhouse, and esteemed songwriter HunterGirl has been performing since she was three years old and writing songs since she was nine. In her teens, she honed her craft by performing at venues across the United States and working with veteran non-profits such as Operation Song, Freedom Sings and A Soldier’s Child, using music therapy to help numerous vets transform their stories into songs. After high school, she moved to Nashville and immediately started playing gigs at Lower Broadway’s most famous venues including Tootsie’s, Rippy’s, Jason Aldean’s Bar, The Listening Room, and HonkyTonk Central, winning songwriting contests such as “Nash Next” and the prestigious “Nashville Songwriter Association International” in her spare time. Recently, she competed and placed second on the star-making competition series American Idol, where she delivered standout performances and won the hearts of millions across the country including Idol judge and Country superstar Luke Bryan who proclaimed her the “new age Miranda Lambert” and his “favorite female Country voice.” After topping the iTunes All Genre and Country charts with her wistful “Red Bird,” HunterGirl has been a guest on Good Morning America, Live with Kelly & Ryan and The Kelly Clarkson Show as well as shared the stage with Country superstars Old Dominion, Florida Georgia Line, Kane Brown, Alan Jackson, Lainey Wilson, Trace Adkins, Charlie Daniels, Sara Evans and more. Named to CMT’s esteemed 2024 Next Women of Country, HunterGirl’s “Ain’t About You” made her the first female Country artist in over 30 years to write her debut radio single by herself. Now, after making her Grand Ole Opry debut that earned her a lively standing ovation, she releases the anthemic “Bad Boy,” ahead of her label-debut EP, Tennessee Girl, coming June 7. Praised by People for her “incredible voice” and CMT for her “soaring vocals and superstar potential,” HunterGirl will hit the road with Luke Bryan and Kimberly Perry this summer. Chronicling “her current moment of transcending from talented aspiring artist to make her first steps toward the big leagues” (Billboard), HunterGirl - “a major, major new talent” (MusicRow) - is poised to become Country’s next big female artist.

KEEP UP WITH HUNTERGIRL

LOST LOVE HAS LEFT COLIN STOUGH “SOBER”

May 31, 2024

Hot off the announce of new EP Lookin’ For Home, 19 Recordings/BMG Nashville artist Colin Stough delivers the official music video for his latest release off the six-track collection, “Sober.”

“This video shows the push and pull of memories after a breakup. Thinking back to the good times, trying to forget the bad as it’s happening, and looking for solace in all the wrong places,” shares Stough.

Directed by David Dutton with DP Alan Fisher, Stough takes a solo ride on his real-life Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail bike in the clip, while being tormented by vivid memories of a love gone wrong. Built around the bitter sting of a breakup, the slow-burner was co-written by Stough with Mason Thornley and Sam Martinez. All about missing someone so bad you can’t even numb the pain – “I could hang out all night / I could drink this bottle dry / Trying to get me gone and I ain't getting any closer / Without your love I’m sober” – a woozy mix from producer Martinez creates a tone that stands on the edgy fringe of Stough’s peers. Pairing down-tuned acoustic twang and a lonesome slide guitar, the song’s building blocks make for a weary ballad of emotional desperation. But when Stough’s powerful, bluesy vocal ruptures into the chorus, the true toll of finding no relief takes center stage.

Featured as a writer on every track, fans can now pre-save/pre-add Lookin’ For Home (out July 12) and get a preview of the project with “Sober” Below. Next taking this new music on the road, Stough’s stacking music festival dates like CMA Fest 2024 on June 8 on the Hard Rock Stage in Nashville, TN. Doubling up, the Season 21 finalist on American Idol will also join a program at Fan Fair X inside Music City Center on the CMA Close Up Stage for “Idol Hour with Chayce Beckham, HunterGirl, Colin Stough and ‘American Idol’ Season 22 Runner Ups Jack Blocker and Will Moseley.” Earlier in the week, Stough is tapped for a FREE performance during the 19 Takeover at 6th & Peabody on June 6. Follow along for updates on his jam-packed week of appearances during CMA Fest 2024 here.

ABOUT COLIN STOUGH:
While Country Rock phenom and Gattman, Mississippi, native Colin Stough is only knocking on the door to his twenties, he has traversed a long journey in a few short years – starting with his debut EP Promiseland and follow-up EP Lookin’ For Home (expected July 12). After learning to play guitar at 8 years old, Stough first pursued his artistic dreams at 10, boldly trading childhood possessions for his first guitar at a local pawn shop – an instrument he still plays to this day. After graduating high school, the naturally gifted singer and self-taught songwriter began working full-time as an HVAC technician, before his mother convinced him to audition for American Idol. Impressing judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie, Stough stunned viewers and soon built a thriving fan base, finishing third on Season 21 of the show in 2023. He spent the ensuing months writing and recording original music, while also touring nationwide to put his blowtorch vocal and guitar-slinging edge on full display. After signing with 19 Recordings/BMG Nashville, his distinctive mix of Southern Rock distortion and pure-Country style has helped Stough’s music rack up more than 19.8 MILLION global on-demand streams. Stough has headlined across the country and opened for established artists like Chase Matthew, Kidd G, and Drake White.

PHOTO CREDIT: RYAN “SPIDEY” SMITH
EP ARTWORK: MICHAEL SAVOIE

COLIN STOUGH IS LOOKIN’ FOR HOME – OUT 7/12

May 27, 2024

With the buzz around 19 Recordings/BMG Nashville artist Colin Stough building, the singer-songwriter claims a place to make his creative stand with the new EP, Lookin’ For Home. Releasing July 12, fans can now pre-save/pre-add Lookin’ For Home and get a preview of the project with pensive track “Sober” Below.

“Each one of these songs is a piece of my heart, and they outline trials and tribulations that I’ve been through personally. They’ve made me into who I am today,” shares Stough. “The EP title Lookin’ For Home comes from that feeling that something is missing – that no matter where you are, who you’re with, or what you’re doing, you feel like you don’t belong, and there’s something just over the horizon that would make it better.”

Carving out a high-energy corner at the intersection of Country and Southern Rock, Lookin’ For Homefeatures six songs sharpening Stough’s hard-edged vision of musical honesty. The follow-up to his Promiseland EP debut, Lookin’ For Home burns with even more passion and raw vocal strength, presenting a full-spectrum view of a free spirit on the run, who’s painfully aware of life’s difficult contradictions. Dealing with everyday themes like work and weekends, and true love and the torment of heartbreak, the set never shies away from the messy truth – and with Stough featured as a writer on every track, that messy truth often grapples with the dividing line between right and wrong, tradition and ambition, the push and pull between small-town comfort, and the drive to leave his mark on the outside world.

Meanwhile, all throughout songs like the recently released “Makes Two of Us,” Stough wraps reflections on vulnerability, hope, belonging, and more, in an electrifying new sound, fusing the familiar crunch of Country Rock with a dark, gravelly take. Weaving it all together with a dynamic Mississippi rasp, he matches down-home tenderness with icy explosions of pure power in equal measure, as a burgeoning star rises firmly on his own.

Delivered today (5/24), he further captures the crippling torment of a bleeding heart in “Sober.” Built around the bitter sting of a breakup, the slow-burning ballad was co-written by Stough with Mason Thornley and Sam Martinez. All about missing someone so bad you can’t even numb the pain – “I could hang out all night / I could drink this bottle dry / Trying to get me gone and I ain't getting any closer / Without your love I’m sober” – a woozy mix from producer Martinez creates a tone that stands on the edgy fringe of Stough’s peers. Pairing down-tuned acoustic twang and a lonesome slide guitar, the track’s building blocks make for a weary ballad of emotional desperation. But when Stough’s powerful, bluesy vocal ruptures into the chorus, the true toll of finding no relief takes center stage.

Taking his new music on the road this summer, Stough’s stacking music festival dates like CMA Fest 2024 on June 8 on the Hard Rock Stage in Nashville, TN. Doubling up appearances, the Season 21 finalist on American Idol will also join a program at Fan Fair X inside Music City Center on the CMA Close Up Stage for “Idol Hour with Chayce Beckham, HunterGirl, Colin Stough and ‘American Idol’ Season 22 Runner Ups Jack Blocker and Will Moseley.” Find additional details here.

ABOUT COLIN STOUGH:
While Country Rock phenom and Gattman, Mississippi, native Colin Stough is only knocking on the door to his twenties, he has traversed a long journey in a few short years – starting with his debut EP Promiseland and follow-up EP Lookin’ For Home (expected July 12). After learning to play guitar at 8 years old, Stough first pursued his artistic dreams at 10, boldly trading childhood possessions for his first guitar at a local pawn shop – an instrument he still plays to this day. After graduating high school, the naturally gifted singer and self-taught songwriter began working full-time as an HVAC technician, before his mother convinced him to audition for American Idol. Impressing judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie, Stough stunned viewers and soon built a thriving fan base, finishing third on Season 21 of the show in 2023. He spent the ensuing months writing and recording original music, while also touring nationwide to put his blowtorch vocal and guitar-slinging edge on full display. After signing with 19 Recordings/BMG Nashville, his distinctive mix of Southern Rock distortion and pure-Country style has helped Stough’s music rack up more than 19.8 MILLION global on-demand streams. Stough has headlined across the country and opened for established artists like Chase Matthew, Kidd G, and Drake White.

AMERICAN IDOL’S TOP 5 RELEASE ORIGINAL SONGS AVAILABLE NOW VIA 19 RECORDINGS/BMG

May 19, 2024

Ahead of Sunday’s finale (5/21), American Idol’s Top 5 finalists today release their original songs via 19 Recordings/BMG Nashville. The iconic, star-maker competition series’ Season 22 finalists include fan-favorite standouts Jack Blocker, Abi Carter, Triston Harper, Will Moseley and Emmy Russell.

Jack Blocker

“All of Yours (To Give All of Mine)” It may first read as lighthearted and breezy, but there’s an unadulterated heft to American Idol Season 22 finalist Jack Blocker’s new singalong-style single “All of Yours (To Give All of Mine).” A tribute to his wife Georgia, who stuck by his side through life’s trying times, the effortlessly tuneful, self-penned song is a folk-tinged love story of the highest order: a toast to that sort of deep, truthful love only time and tribulation reveals.

Hailing from Indio, California, 21-year-old Abi Carter has a haunting voice and knack for songwriting. A born performer, Carter has wowed America with her theatrical and emotional performances week after week. On the anthemic “This Isn’t Over,” Carter’s breakout song, she tells a story about personal growth and becoming a stronger person, one who wishes to reach back in time and tell her younger self “This Isn’t Over.”

Listen closely as he sings because there’s an unbridled depth and time-honored maturity ingrained in the voice of 15-year-old American Idol Season 22's Triston Harper. It’s on full display on The Top 5 finisher's self-penned new single “H.O.P.E,” a plaintive blues-soaked lament. “Hope stands for hold on, pain ends/where’s the joy when you need it?” Harper croons, and you can feel the equal-parts pain and deep-set understanding emanating from the depths of his soul.

A truth-telling, husky-voiced troubadour, American Idol Season 22 finalist Will Moseley offers up a reflective new single “Good Book Bad” - a spirited and heartfelt tale of redemption. “Boy you need the good book bad/All your running around gotta slow down a little/ You’re living just a little too fast/You gotta meet the man somewhere in the middle,” he sings with definitive urgency. Like the most memorably resonant country songs, this essential release is concocted with the perfect recipe: honesty, forthrightness and supreme melody.

Descending from the legendary country music icon, the one and only, Loretta Lynn, it has been a journey for Emmy Russell to find her own sound and begin her own, distinctive musical journey. Finding joy and release in songwriting, Emmy began making the songwriting rounds around Nashville, honing her craft and eventually landing a publishing deal with Liz Rose Music. This past year, her talent led her to the American Idol stage where she captured America's hearts with her authentic, raw and endearing performances. Now, the country artist is poised to release her anthemic, energetic, cathartic heartbreak song, "Redemption.” The song came out of a painful breakup leading to Emmy finally realizing her worth and learning how to not place all her value in someone else's hands.

ABOUT 19 ENTERTAINMENT:

19 Entertainment, a part of Sony Pictures Television, is led by executive producers Eli Holzman and Aaron Saidman with key programs including the global hit “American Idol” co-produced by Fremantle for ABC and “So You Think You Can Dance” co-produced by MRC Entertainment for Fox. Additionally, 19 Recordings has launched the music careers of platinum artists including Gabby Barrett, Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Daughtry, Phillip Phillips, Lauren Alaina; and more recently, contestants such as Chayce Beckham, Francisco Martin, Noah Thompson, HunterGirl and more.

ABOUT BMG:

BMG is an integrated music publishing and recordings business and the world’s fourth-largest international music company. BMG’s distinctive pitch is a relentless focus on global service to its artist and songwriter clients, combining creative insight and support with the best in technology and analytics. BMG’s 22 offices across 13 core music markets represent over three million songs and recordings, including many of the most renowned and successful catalogs in popular music history. BMG is owned by international media, services and education company Bertelsmann, whose other content businesses include the entertainment company RTL Group and the trade book publisher Penguin Random House. With its integrated technology platform, artist-friendly culture and commitment to help artists maximize their income, BMG aims to be the best company in music to do business with. See more at www.bmg.com.

ABOUT AMERICAN IDOL:

Television’s original singing competition, American Idol, from Fremantle and 19 Entertainment (a part of Sony Pictures Television), has been renewed for an eighth season on ABC and 23rd season overall. American Idol was ABC’s No. 1 series in Total Viewers and ranked as the network’s No. 1 series in Total Viewers for season six. “American Idol” was also ranked as the No. 1 most social primetime entertainment series of 2023, generating 18.43 million total social interactions (averaging over 1 million social interactions per episode.)

COLIN STOUGH CAN’T MOVE ON IN “MAKES TWO OF US” MUSIC VIDEO

May 10, 2024

19 Recordings/BMG Nashville artist Colin Stough can’t get an ex off his mind in the official music video for “Makes Two of Us.”

“The music video for ‘Makes Two of Us’ is about how your mind keeps wandering to your ex after a breakup. So, in the clip, you see these two characters living their daily lives while constant flashes of memories between them keep happening,” shares Stough. “It shows how often you’re just doing whatever, yet you find yourself completely lost in thought – thinking about the other person. It starts happening so often that you get to a point where you’re just kind of like, ‘Well, if I can’t get ‘em off my mind, what could it hurt to just go there again?’”

Directed by David Dutton with DP Alan Fisher, the Mississippi native stepped back into a real-life job he had during high school as a welder for the footage shot at Glenn Machine Works in Columbus, MS. The strong visuals add to the explosive temptation of the on-again-off-again romance as depicted in the roller-coaster lyrics penned by Stough with Alex Maxwell and Cole Taylor. Intrusive thoughts capture a conflicted heart caught in a feedback loop of heartbreak and loneliness, and about to give in just one more time.

Showcasing a complex artist-writer who continues to hone his lyrical craftsmanship, the pitch-black production from Maxwell further helps put the growing urge in sonic terms – while also eclipsing the power of Stough’s Promiseland EP debut. With a heavy-handed Rock foundation, distorted guitars thunder alongside pounding drums and streaks of steel guitar lightning, but Stough weaves in tender moments to explore the emotional conflict as well – all while his volcanic Southern vocal fights confusing signals. On the one hand, he should resist what’s surely the start of another toxic cycle. But on the other, the craving for connection is real, and, hopefully, coming from both sides.

With more new music promised soon, Stough’s stacking music festival appearances this summer like CMA Fest 2024 on June 8 on the Hard Rock Stage in Nashville, TN. The same day, the Season 21 finalist on American Idol will also join a program at Fan Fair X inside Music City Center on the CMA Close Up Stage for “Idol Hour with Chayce Beckham, HunterGirl, Colin Stough and ‘American Idol’ ‘24 Winner and Runner-Up.” Find additional details here. 

ABOUT COLIN STOUGH:
While Country Rock phenom and Gattman, Mississippi, native Colin Stough is only knocking on the door to his twenties, he has traversed a long journey in a few short years – starting with his debut EP Promiseland, released in the fall of 2023. After learning to play guitar at 8 years old, Stough first pursued his artistic dreams at 10, boldly trading childhood possessions for his first guitar at a local pawn shop – an instrument he still plays to this day. After graduating high school, the naturally gifted singer and self-taught songwriter began working full-time as an HVAC technician, before his mother convinced him to audition for American Idol. Impressing judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie, Stough stunned viewers and soon built a thriving fan base, finishing third on Season 21 of the show in 2022. He spent the ensuing months writing and recording original music, while also touring nationwide to put his blowtorch vocal and guitar-slinging edge on full display. After signing with 19 Recordings/BMG Nashville, his distinctive mix of Southern Rock distortion and pure-Country style has helped Stough’s music rack up more than 19.8 MILLION global on-demand streams. Stough has headlined across the country and opened for established artists like Chase Matthew, Kidd G, and Drake White.

ARTWORK CREDIT: ELISSA FELMAN & NICK SARPA

COLIN STOUGH FIGHTS MIDNIGHT TEMPTATION IN “MAKES TWO OF US

April 19, 2024

19 Recordings/BMG Nashville artist Colin Stough battles the midnight temptation of an on-again-off-again romance in “Makes Two of Us.” Available across all streaming platforms and digital retailers, listen here.

“‘Makes Two of Us’ is about that after a breakup thing where you keep thinking about your ex. It’s those lonely moments when your brain kicks in and you start thinking about them, then you start debating on whether or not you should reach out just in case they’re thinking of you too,” shares Stough. “You find yourself wondering if they’re thinking of doing the same, even though you know that reaching out never gets you anywhere and is pretty much a horrible idea.”

Co-written by Stough with Alex Maxwell and Cole Taylor, the late-night breakup anthem of intrusive thoughts captures a conflicted heart caught in a feedback loop of heartbreak and loneliness, and about to give in just one more time. Showcasing a complex artist-writer who continues to hone his lyrical craftsmanship, its lyrics pass no judgment on who was right and who was wrong, instead zeroing in on the raw relatability of a wounded soul desperate for relief – consequences be damned.

Feeling like a gathering storm, the pitch-black production from Alex Maxwell helps put the growing urge in sonic terms – while also eclipsing the power of Stough’s Promiseland EP debut. With a heavy-handed Rock foundation, distorted guitars thunder alongside pounding drums and streaks of steel guitar lightning, but Stough weaves in tender moments to explore the emotional conflict as well – all while his volcanic Southern vocal fights confusing signals. On the one hand, he should resist what’s surely the start of another toxic cycle. But on the other, the craving for connection is real, and, hopefully, coming from both sides.

With more new music promised soon, Stough’s stacking music festival appearances this summer after headlining the past year while also supporting artists like Chase Matthew, Kidd G, and Drake White. Find upcoming show dates here. 

ABOUT COLIN STOUGH:
While Country Rock phenom and Gattman, Mississippi, native Colin Stough is only knocking on the door to his twenties, he has traversed a long journey in a few short years – starting with his debut EP Promiseland, released in the fall of 2023. After learning to play guitar at 8 years old, Stough first pursued his artistic dreams at 10, boldly trading childhood possessions for his first guitar at a local pawn shop – an instrument he still plays to this day. After graduating high school, the naturally gifted singer and self-taught songwriter began working full-time as an HVAC technician, before his mother convinced him to audition for American Idol. Impressing judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie, Stough stunned viewers and soon built a thriving fan base, finishing third on Season 21 of the show in 2022. He spent the ensuing months writing and recording original music, while also touring nationwide to put his blowtorch vocal and guitar-slinging edge on full display. After signing with 19 Recordings/BMG Nashville, his distinctive mix of Southern Rock distortion and pure-Country style has helped Stough’s music rack up more than 19.8 MILLION global on-demand streams. Stough has headlined across the country and opened for established artists like Chase Matthew, Kidd G, and Drake White.

CHAYCE BECKHAM SCORES FIRST #1 AT COUNTRY RADIO WITH SOLO-WRITTEN, PLATINUM HIT SINGLE “23”

April 1, 2024

Highly Anticipated Debut Album - Bad For Me -

Arrives This Friday, April 5

Pre-Order/Pre-Save/Pre-Add HERE

“Next Big Thing”
– MusicRow

“a full-fledged country star”

- CMT

“Chayce Beckham’s debut single is thought-provoking and personal.

Frankly, it’s the kind of songwriting country music needs more of.”

- Taste of Country

“One of the most buzzed-about newcomers in country music today”

- Parade

“This is a real bonafide musical artist and I see you all over Grammys, everywhere, wherever you want to go” - Katy Perry, ABC’s American Idol

“Beckham translates television, viral success to the stage…a former American Idol winner and a polished entertainer and vocalist further bolstered his career surge thanks to his viral hit ’23.’”

- Billboard

“That ‘way’ he sings could be described in a multitude of ways, from gritty to powerful to achingly relatable. And when words don't do his talent justice, the music does.”

- People

“He’s well on his way to finding a permanent spot in the ranks of Nashville’s best and brightest.”

- American Songwriter

“Beckham is a powerful, soulful singer, and his gritty style gives his songs a real authenticity.”

- Songwriter Universe

“…Chayce Beckham is a full-blown country music phenom that you need to have on your radar.”

- All Country News

Currently on his own headlining “Bad For Me” Tour, Beckham will join Luke Bryan on his “Mind Of A Country Boy” Tour this summer. For tickets and all touring updates, visit www.ChayceBeckham.com.

Upcoming Tour Dates:

4/4 - Catoosa, OK - Track 5

4/5 - Pocola, OK - Choctaw Casino

4/6 - Manhattan, KS - The Hat

4/11 - Ft Worth, TX -Tannahill's Tavern and Music Hall

4/12 - Grant, OK - Choctaw Casino

4/13 - Stillwater, OK - Tumbleweed Dance Hall

4/17 - Calgary, AB - Scotiabank Saddledome*

4/18 - Edmonton, AB - Rogers Place*

4/19 - Vancouver, BC - Coastal City Country Fest

4/24 - Saskatoon, SK - SaskTel Centre*

4/25 - Winnipeg, MB - Canada Life Centre*

5/2 - Columbus, OH - The Bluestone

5/3 - Warrendale, PA - Jergels

5/4 - Winchester, VA - Shenandoah Valley Apple Blossom Festival (Discovery Museum)

5/9 - Schenectady, NY - Frog Alley

5/10 - Binghamton, NY - Touch of Texas

5/11 - Jordan,NY - Kegs Canalside

5/16 - Asheville, NC - Salvage Station

5/17 - Barco, NC - Morris Farm

5/18 - Charlotte, NC - Coyote Joe's

5/23 - Bishop, CA - Mule Days

5/24 - Apple Valley, CA - HillTop Tavern and Inn

6/6 - Fargo, ND - Happy Harry's Ribfest @ Fargo Dome

6/9 - Greenwood Village, CO - Fiddlers Green Amphitheatre/KYGO

6/14 - Orange Beach, AL - The Wharf Amphitheater*

6/15 - Orange Beach, Al - The Wharf Amphitheater*

6/18 - Alexandria, VA - The Birchmere

6/21 - Buffalo, NY - Taste of Country (Sahlen Field)

6/27 - Cadott, WI - Country Fest 2024

6/29 - Brainerd, MN - Lakes Jam

7/12 - Rhinelander, WI - Hodag Country Festival

7/18 - Ankeny, IA - The District at Prairie Trail

7/19 - New Berlin, IL - Danenberger Family Vineyards

8/9 - Oro Station, Ontario - Boots and Hearts

8/15 - Kansas City, MO - T-Mobile Center*

8/16 - Montréal, Québec - Parc Jean-Drapeau/ Lasso Fest

8/17 - Atlanta, GA - Truist Park*

8/22 - Oklahoma City, OK - Paycom Center*

8/24 - Des Moines, IA - Wells Fargo Arena*

8/25 - Chicago, IL - Wrigley Field*

10/20 - Sacramento, CA - Discovery Park

*with Luke Bryan

Nominated at this year’s CMT Music Awards for Breakthrough Male Video of the Year, Chayce Beckham scores career-first #1 on both Billboard Country Airplay and Mediabase Country charts with his solo-written, PLATINUM single “23.” Streaming over 5.8 MILLION per week with over 391 MILLION total global on-demand streams and more than 10 MILLION YouTube views, the iTunes All Genre #1 song is featured on Beckham’s highly anticipated debut album, Bad For Me, arriving this Friday, April 5 via 19 Recordings/Wheelhouse Records/BMG. Pre-order/pre-save/pre-add the album HERE.

“I still can’t believe or process ’23’ is #1 at country radio,” says Beckham. “I wrote this song when I had nothing to my name. Fast forwarding to now, to living out my dream, I just feel so blessed. I want to shake every single person’s hand that made this possible - thank you.”

As reported by Billboard: “23” is the first Country Airplay #1 written by a single person since Luke Combs’ cover of Tracy Chapman’s self-authored “Fast Car” last July. However, prior to “23,” the last Country Airplay #1 solely written by the soloist who also recorded it was Taylor Swift’s “Ours” in 2012.

Additionally, the Amazon Music “Breakthrough Artist to Watch” and CMT Listen Up artist has solidified himself alongside superstars Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson, as the fourth winner of American Idol to hit the Billboard Country Airplay Top 10. Earning critical acclaim since his history-making Idol win, “Beckham is no doubt a force to be reckoned with, while proving he will leave a scorching mark on the country music genre for years to come” (PopCulture).

About Chayce Beckham:

Three years after becoming the only artist to win American Idol singing his own songs, 19 Recordings/Wheelhouse Records/BMG country artist Chayce Beckham is living proof of his belief that “You can’t tell someone how to write a song.” Currently nominated at this year’s CMT Music Awards for Breakthrough Male Video of the Year for his #1, PLATINUM hit single “23,” the fiery singer-songwriter laid out a course only he could follow, and today remains even more dedicated to his unique creative compass. A California native schooled on tough times and a mix of country, rock, hip hop and beyond, Beckham started a habit of heart-on-his-sleeve songwriting after some hard times when he felt he had nothing left – and when combined with his warm vocal rasp on “23,” that drive helped him charm the nation on Idol's 19th season in 2021. With more than 391 million streams and counting, the bluesy and brutally honest anthem debuted at #1 on both iTunes’ Country and All Genre singles charts, and now leads Beckham’s first album, Bad for Me, as the emerging star finds his stride. Co-writing nine of 13 songs (three solo), the project shows Beckham opening his soul like most would never dare and embracing a timeless country-rock sound defined by fiddles, steel guitar, and plenty of against-the-grain attitude. With dusky shades of heroes like Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson, the set aims to reinforce next-big-thing predictions from CMT, Amazon Music, MusicRow and more, while Beckham hits the road this summer on Luke Bryan’s "Mind Of A Country Boy" Tour and his own headlining 2024 “Bad for Me” Tour.

WATCH HUNTERGIRL’S GRAND OLE OPRY DEBUT SHINE ON NBC’s THE KELLY CLARKSON SHOW

March 19, 2024

19 Recordings/Wheelhouse Records/BMG vocal powerhouse HunterGirl delivered a raw, emotional and star-making performance of her debut radio single “Ain’t About You” on NBC’s The Kelly Clarkson Show yesterday.

Spotlighting her Grand Ole Opry debut earlier this month, the teary-eyed but fiercely beautiful performance invoked an impassioned, lively standing ovation from the packed-out Opry house - a bucket list wish she’s been dreaming of her whole life. For a glimpse into her emotional debut, watch her “My Opry Debut” episode Below.

Just named to CMT’s esteemed Next Women of Country, the “Artist to Watch” (Country Now, Wide Open Country) and American Idol runner-up is “...transcending from talented aspiring artist, to make her first steps toward the big leagues” (Billboard), proving she’s a “major, major new talent” (MusicRow).

Up next, the talented songstress will join Luke Bryan on his 2024 “Mind Of A Country Boy" Tour this summer, make her return to Nashville’s CMA Fest on June 7 as well as debut at Tortuga Music Festival on April 5 and Faster Horses Festival on July 21.

**HunterGirl making her Grand Ole Opry debut on Saturday, March 2, 2024**
Photo credit: (c) Grand Ole Opry, photos by Chris Hollo

About HunterGirl:

America’s sweetheart, vocal powerhouse, and esteemed songwriter HunterGirl has been performing since she was three years old and writing songs since she was nine. In her teens, she honed her craft by performing at venues across the United States and working with veteran non-profits such as Operation Song, Freedom Sings and A Soldier’s Child, using music therapy to help numerous vets transform their stories into songs. After high school, she moved to Nashville and immediately started playing gigs at Lower Broadway’s most famous venues including Tootsie’s, Rippy’s, Jason Aldean’s Bar, The Listening Room, and HonkyTonk Central, winning songwriting contests such as “Nash Next” and the prestigious “Nashville Songwriter Association International” in her spare time. Recently, she competed and placed second on the star-making competition series American Idol, where she delivered standout performances and won the hearts of millions across the country including Idol judge and Country superstar Luke Bryan who proclaimed her the “new age Miranda Lambert” and his “favorite female Country voice.” After topping the iTunes All Genre and Country charts with her wistful “Red Bird,” HunterGirl has been a guest on Good Morning America and Live with Kelly & Ryan as well as shared the stage with Country superstars Old Dominion, Florida Georgia Line, Kane Brown, Alan Jackson, Lainey Wilson, Trace Adkins, Charlie Daniels, Sara Evans and more. Now, with the release of “Ain’t About You” that’s currently climbing the country radio charts, HunterGirl - who was just named to CMT’s esteemed Next Women of Country, made her Grand Ole Opry debut that earned her a lively standing ovation and will hit the road on Luke Bryan’s “Mind Of A Country Boy" Tour this summer - becomes the first female country artist in over 30 years to write her debut radio single by herself. Praised by People for her “incredible voice” and CMT for her “soaring vocals and superstar potential,” “Ain’t About You” “rises above toxic comparison and insecurity” (Taste of Country) “with universal relevance” (Billboard). Chronicling “her current moment of transcending from talented aspiring artist to make her first steps toward the big leagues” (Billboard), HunterGirl - “a major, major new talent” (MusicRow) - is poised to become Country’s next big female artist.

KEEP UP WITH HUNTERGIRL

CHAYCE BECKHAM SETS DEBUT ALBUM, BAD FOR ME, FOR FRIDAY, APRIL 5

March 14, 2024

Nominated at this year’s CMT Music Awards for Breakthrough Male Video of the Year for his PLATINUM hit single “23” that's surging toward #1 on country radio, Amazon Music’s “Breakthrough Artist to Watch” Chayce Beckham tonight releases the first track from his highly anticipated debut album - Bad For Me - coming Friday, April 5, with the rowdy anthem “Waylon in ‘75.” Tonight, listen to the new song HERE and pre-order/pre-save/pre-add the album HERE.

“Once I finished recording this album and had time to live with it, I felt the title Bad For Me fit perfectly. It sums up a lot of my own faults,” says Beckham. “I like a lot of stuff that’s bad for me, even though it ends up being kryptonite but that’s all a part of being human. I am so proud of this record. I just hope there’s a song on this album that makes somebody feel something.”

Produced by Bart Butler (Jon Pardi, Midland, Warren Zeiders), apart from “23” (Ross Copperman), Bad for Me puts Beckham’s wild card under a microscope as his soul-searching songwriting takes centerstage. Carefully crafting a series of deeply personal stories, his true-to-Beckham mix of dusky Western sonics and smoldering rock energy come to the forefront, as fiddle, steel and loping rhythms stand beside a rebellious, untamed spirit and his rustic vocal.

Continuing to open his soul like most would never dare, Bad For Me’s themes like substance abuse, guilt and romantic remorse are in plain view, joined by the inner struggle of a man wishing he was more. Battling the bottomless pit of wondering how things got the way they are, this album also shows an appreciation for life itself, and a promise to keep up the fight.

Featuring the 19 Recordings/Wheelhouse Records/BMG artist’s solo-written, PLATINUM hit song “23” that’s streaming over 4.6M per week and surging toward #1 at country radio, the former fork-lift driver’s debut features 13 tracks, including several he wrote entirely by himself before he won American Idol, including the poignant fan-favorite “Mama” that he actually performed on the show, along with the propulsive barroom rocker “Drink You Off My Mind.”

Upcoming Tour Dates:

3/16 - Bendigo, Australia - Meatstock Festival (Bendigo City Centre)

3/23 - Alpine, CA - Country Fest

3/28 - Rootstown, OH - Dusty Armadillo

4/4 - Catoosa, OK - Track 5

4/5 - Pocola, OK - Choctaw Casino

4/6 - Manhattan, KS - The Hat

4/11 - Ft Worth, TX -Tannahill's Tavern and Music Hall

4/12 - Grant, OK - Choctaw Casino

4/13 - Stillwater, OK - Tumbleweed Dance Hall

4/17 - Calgary, AB - Scotiabank Saddledome*

4/18 - Edmonton, AB - Rogers Place*

4/19 - Vancouver, BC - Coastal City Country Fest

4/24 - Saskatoon, SK - SaskTel Centre*

4/25 - Winnipeg, MB - Canada Life Centre*

5/2 - Columbus, OH - The Bluestone

5/3 - Warrendale, PA - Jergels

5/4 - Winchester, VA - Shenandoah Valley Apple Blossom Festival (Discovery Museum)

5/9 - Schenectady, NY - Frog Alley

5/10 - Binghamton, NY - Touch of Texas

5/11 - Jordan,NY - Kegs Canalside

5/16 - Asheville, NC - Salvage Station

5/17 - Barco, NC - Morris Farm

5/18 - Charlotte, NC - Coyote Joe's

5/23 - Bishop, CA - Mule Days

5/24 - Apple Valley, CA - HillTop Tavern and Inn

6/6 - Fargo, ND - Happy Harry's Ribfest @ Fargo Dome

6/9 - Greenwood Village, CO - Fiddlers Green Amphitheatre/KYGO

6/14 - Orange Beach, AL - The Wharf Amphitheater*

6/15 - Orange Beach, Al - The Wharf Amphitheater*

6/18 - Alexandria, VA - The Birchmere

6/21 - Buffalo, NY - Taste of Country (Sahlen Field)

6/27 - Cadott, WI - Country Fest 2024

6/29 - Brainerd, MN - Lakes Jam

7/12 - Rhinelander, WI - Hodag Country Festival

7/18 - Ankeny, IA - The District at Prairie Trail

7/19 - New Berlin, IL - Danenberger Family Vineyards

8/9 - Oro Station, Ontario - Boots and Hearts

8/15 - Kansas City, MO - T-Mobile Center*

8/16 - Montréal, Québec - Parc Jean-Drapeau/ Lasso Fest

8/17 - Atlanta, GA - Truist Park*

8/22 - Oklahoma City, OK - Paycom Center*

8/24 - Des Moines, IA - Wells Fargo Arena*

8/25 - Chicago, IL - Wrigley Field*

10/20 - Sacramento, CA - Discovery Park

*with Luke Bryan

About Chayce Beckham:

Three years after becoming the only artist to win American Idol singing his own songs, 19 Recordings/Wheelhouse Records/BMG country artist Chayce Beckham is living proof of his belief that “You can’t tell someone how to write a song.” Currently nominated at this year’s CMT Music Awards for Breakthrough Male Video of the Year for his PLATINUM hit single “23” surging toward #1 on country raadio, the fiery singer-songwriter laid out a course only he could follow, and today remains even more dedicated to his unique creative compass. A California native schooled on tough times and a mix of country, rock, hip hop and beyond, Beckham started a habit of heart-on-his-sleeve songwriting after some hard times when he felt he had nothing left – and when combined with his warm vocal rasp on “23,” that drive helped him charm the nation on Idol's 19th season in 2021. With more than 358 million streams and counting, the bluesy and brutally honest anthem debuted at #1 on both iTunes’ Country and All Genre singles charts, and now leads Beckham’s first album, Bad for Me, as the emerging star finds his stride. Co-writing nine of 13 songs (three solo), the project shows Beckham opening his soul like most would never dare and embracing a timeless country-rock sound defined by fiddles, steel guitar, and plenty of against-the-grain attitude. With dusky shades of heroes like Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson, the set aims to reinforce next-big-thing predictions from CMT, Amazon Music, MusicRow and more, while Beckham hits the road this summer on Luke Bryan’s "Mind Of A Country Boy" Tour and his own headlining 2024 “Bad for Me” Tour.

KEEP UP WITH CHAYCE BECKHAM

HAVEN MADISON DROPS “MONSTER” FROM HIGHLY ANTICIPATED DEBUT EP

March 8, 2024

Haven Madison, American Idol Season 21 finalist and 19 Recordings/BMG rising pop vocalist, performer, multi-instrumentalist and songwriter, drops her brand-new track, “Monster.” Available today along with an official music video, the song serves as the second track to release in anticipation of Madison’s forthcoming studio EP TURN OFF ALL THE LIGHTS that will drop worldwide on April 26. Listen to “Monster” here, watch the official music video below, and pre-order/pre-save/pre-add the EP here.

With “Monster,” Madison takes a deep dive into the depths of emotion. The dark, edgy anthem is an unapologetic look at the complexities of relationships, breakups, and empowerment. Madison draws from personal inspiration told through her powerful storytelling and delivers a sonically rich and emotionally charged song that showcases her evolving range as an artist and songwriter.

“‘Monster’ was the song that opened the floodgates for me,” says Madison. “I was, as no surprise, very ticked off by a boy and just went wide open with this pop banger. I love the dark elements it has, and the sentiment is one I haven’t heard in a song yet, so I’m pumped for the world to get their hands on it.” “Monster” is co-writtenwith GRAMMY-nominated songwriter/producer andVarietyHitmaker Dave Pittenger, who also serves as producer onTURN OFF ALL THE LIGHTS.Set to ignite the hearts of listeners everywhere, the sophomore track is a compelling preview of what's to come from Madison’s highly anticipated EP and follows the success of her debut song "Sky Up."

About Haven Madison:

Hailed “the next big pop star” by Katy Perry, 19 Recordings/BMG rising pop vocalist, performer, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter Haven Madison's emerging journey through the music industry has been nothing short of remarkable. Her upcoming debut EP TURN OFF ALL THE LIGHTS displays her immense talent as a singer/songwriter and powerful vocalist and follows on the heels of her successful run as a Top 8 Season 21 finalist on ABC’s American Idol where she captured the hearts of millions performing her own originals like the wistful “Fifteen” and heartfelt “Still Need You.” Earning instant praise from judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan, as well as guest judge Ed Sheeran, Madison’s viral duet performance of “Still Need You” with Perry catapulted her into the spotlight, garnering the admiration of millions of viewers and fans. Her debut EP drops worldwide on April 26, 2024.

About 19 Recordings:

19 Recordings is an LA–based record label owned by Sony Pictures’ 19 Entertainment. Founded in London in 1999 as the music division of 19 Entertainment, the label was one of the top record imprints compiled by Billboard in 2012. 19 Recordings has been a part of the successful music careers of platinum artists Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Daughtry, Phillip Phillips, Lauren Alaina, Gabby Barrett, and Chayce Beckham, among many others.

About BMG:

AMERICAN IDOL SEASON 21 FINALIST AND 19 RECORDINGS/BMG POP VOCALIST, PERFORMER, AND SONGWRITER HAVEN MADISON RELEASES “SKY UP” FROM FORTHCOMING EP

January 20, 2024

American Idol Season 21 finalist and 19 Recordings/BMG pop vocalist, performer, and songwriter Haven Madison, announces her brand-new track, “Sky Up.” Available today along with an official animation video, the song serves as the premiere release in anticipation of Madison’s five-track studio EP TURN OFF ALL THE LIGHTS that will drop worldwide on April 26. Listen to “Sky Up” and pre-order/pre-save/pre-add the EP here and watch the official animation video below.

A rare, young artist with a vision and a message for the world, Madison delivers a powerfully haunting ballad with “Sky Up” - a song about feeling like the depths of your emotions are a weight, bringing down someone you love. The official animated video for “Sky Up” features the Oscar Shortlisted, Annie Nominated, AACTA winning Australian short film “Lost & Found.” The stop motion animated short, paired with Madison’s song, tells a moving and powerful story about connection and tug at the heart strings as a clumsy crochet dinosaur must unravel itself to save the love of its life.

“‘Sky Up’ came together like it was in my bones just waiting to be found,” says Madison. “From the moment I listened to the demo to now, it has continued to move me in a way that no other song of mine has. It’s so vulnerable, raw, and dives into a feeling I’m sure everyone has felt but has not been able to describe. I cannot wait for people to listen and find their own truth to its music and art.”

The piano-driven “Sky Up” was written by Madison and songwriter/producer Dave Pittenger. Named a Hitmaker by Variety magazine and nominated for a GRAMMY in 2023 for Song of the Year, Pittenger also serves as producer on Madison’s upcoming debut EP. Pittenger had a multi-week global smash hit with “abcdefu” (GAYLE), which spent several weeks at No. 1 on Billboard’s Global 200, as well as the Billboard Top 40 airplay chart.

“Sky Up” showcases Madison’s immense talent as a singer/songwriter and powerful vocalist and follows on the heels of her successful run as a Top 8 finalist on ABC’s American Idol where she performed her own originals like the wistful “Fifteen” and heartfelt “Still Need You” that she wrote about her brother’s fight against depression and suicide. Earning instant praise from judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan, as well as guest judge Ed Sheeran, Madison’s viral duet performance of “Still Need You” with Perry catapulted her into the spotlight, garnering the admiration of millions of viewers and fans.

Hailed as “the next big pop star” by Perry, Madison is no stranger to the music business. Having grown up in a music family touring the world, she discovered her passion for performing and songwriting at an early age. Her run on American Idol only fueled her hunger, leading Madison to immediately return to Nashville, post-show, and get to work in the studio. Turning to her passion for songwriting, she journaled her way into crafting an honest, coming of age collection of songs that comprise her upcoming EP, Turn Off All The Lights.

Look for Madison’s official music video for “Sky Up” that will also premiere worldwide on Thursday, Jan. 25.

About 19 Recordings:

19 Recordings is an LA–based record label owned by Sony Pictures’ 19 Entertainment. Founded in London in 1999 as the music division of 19 Entertainment, the label was one of the top record imprints as compiled by Billboard in 2012. 19 Recordings has been a part of the successful music careers of platinum artists Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Daughtry, Phillip Phillips, Lauren Alaina, Gabby Barrett, and Chayce Beckham, among many others.

About BMG:

BMG is the world’s fourth-biggest music company, the first new global player in the music business of the streaming age, and a record label and music publisher in one. Named in 2020 one of the world’s Most Innovative Companies by Fast Company, BMG’s pitch is unique – a relentless focus on fairness and transparency and service to its artist and songwriter clients. BMG’s 20 offices across 12 core music markets now represent over three million songs and recordings, including many of the most renowned and successful catalogs in popular music history. BMG’s fresh approach includes production music, films, books, artist management, merchandise, neighboring rights, and live as well as music publishing and recordings off the same service platform. BMG is owned by international media, services and education company Bertelsmann, whose other content businesses include the broadcaster RTL Group, the trade book publisher Penguin Random House and the magazine publisher Gruner + Jahr. With its multi-platform perspective, integrated technology platform and commitment to help artists maximize their income, BMG aims to be the best company in music to do business with. For more information, visit www.bmg.com.

KEEP UP WITH HAVEN MADISON

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK

Wé Ani Releases New Single “The Standard” Following American Idol Success

January 13, 2024

Wé Ani is thrilled to announce the release of her new single, “The Standard.” This is her first official single since her remarkable Top 5 finish on the latest season of American Idol. Listen Below.

“The Standard” is hard-hitting, forward thinking, hypnotizing record epitomizing the very essence that is female confidence. The rhythmic, R&B/Pop record reveals Wé Ani’s remarkable versatility, fusing Latin influences with a signature street sound and an added bonus of bilingual lyrics.The expressive record showcases Wé Ani’s self-confidence and a casual disregard for critics and any other such hater that may be out there. The captivating song, with a hard-hitting beat, was written by Wé Ani, Dani Stacy, TJ and Kadie Jacobs. It was produced by Tony Chetta and is sure to have you on your feet with a hand on your hip, and a smirk on your face feeling every bit of self-confidence each and every one of us should carry around daily.

“This song was everything I wanted to say to people that have had preconceived ideas about me, giving myself the space to say what I want to say,” says Wé Ani. “But even more, giving other people the freedom to brag about how they feel about themselves. Their own standard.”

“The Standard” has been finding its own moment on social media as fans and stars have been embracing the audio including this instagram reel from Grammy, Emmy and BET Award winning actress and comedian Tiffany Haddish. The new single follows the release of two original songs featured on the “Good Burger 2” soundtrack. “The original movie was so pivotal to my childhood, so being a part of the sequel was such an honor!”

With an impressive social media following of over 1.5 million and earning praise as a “star” from American Idol judge Lionel Richie, Wé Ani’s trajectory continues to soar. Catch her performing at the World Famous Apollo Theater on February 3. Get your tickets HERE.

About Wé Ani:

Wé Ani is a gifted singer-songwriter that has been wowing audiences since the young age of 12. The innovative vocalist is influenced by Aretha and Whitney, bringing her audience back to an era of Hollywood movie glamour but her style and presentation could be compared to Billie Eilish, a cool, confident, edgy tomboy. The Harlem native has traveled all around the world performing, including traveling to Rwanda with the Christian humanitarian agency World Vision. With successful runs on American Idol and The Voice, the now 24 year old isn’t stopping anytime soon.

KEEP UP WITH WÉ ANI

INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER

COLIN STOUGH KEEPS THE FAITH WITH “I STILL TALK TO JESUS (ACOUSTIC)”

January 7, 2024

19 Recordings/BMG artist Colin Stough starts the new year off with a powerful message of resilience, as he offers up a fresh rendition of one of his biggest hits with “I Still Talk To Jesus (Acoustic).” Available across all streaming platforms and digital retailers, listen here.

A Country-Rock ballad of unshakable hope, “I Still Talk To Jesus” was originally part of Stough’s standout time on ABC’s American Idol in 2022. Eventually finishing third on Season 21, Stough released the aching anthem alongside his fellow Top 5 finalists, showing fans a moving example of inner toughness – and one heart’s weary-yet-determined refusal to give up on love.

Produced by Sean Rogers, Stough’s new acoustic take of the track further highlights that message. Using only guitar to back his dynamic Mississippi vocal, the rising star dials down his million-watt intensity for a captivating blend of wounded soul and falsetto grit, cutting straight to heart of one of his most popular songs. Meanwhile, a raw performance of the all-natural track – penned by Stough, Sean Thomas Rogers, and Francisco Martin – was captured and edited by Mike Rodway.

“I wanted to share this track to start the new year off right!” Stough says. “This was one of my biggest songs last year and a fan-favorite, so I hope everyone enjoys this acoustic take. It’s just one of them records where the words cut deep, and I think this version really lets ‘em shine.”

“I Still Talk To Jesus (Acoustic)” follows the recent release of “Sleep Tonight (Acoustic)” – another reimagined favorite revealing Stough’s heartfelt lyricism – and a gravelly rendition of the Elvis Presley holiday classic, “Blue Christmas.”

In October 2023, the emerging artist released his six-track debut EP, Promiseland, and has since captured the attention of both critics and fans alike. Country Now praises, “Promiseland showcases a deep level of honesty and authenticity,” as they further named him among their Country Next: Artists To Watch In 2024 list. Likewise, Stough made Holler’s New and Upcoming Country and Americana Artists You Need to Know roundup, hailing that he’s a “singer who was born to do this,” with a voice that’s “equally at home singing grungy Southern rock as it is twangy old school country.”

Spending last year headlining while also supporting artists like Kidd G and Drake White, he’s next on deck with Chase Matthew starting in February. Find upcoming show dates here.

About Colin Stough:

A 19-year-old Country Rock phenom and native of Gattman, Mississippi, Colin Stough has come a long way in a few short years – and with his debut EP Promiseland, the 19 Recordings/BMG artist is still just getting started. After learning to play guitar at 8 years old, Stough first pursued artistic dreams at 10, boldly trading childhood possessions for his first guitar at a local pawn shop – an instrument he still plays to this day. After graduating high school, the naturally gifted singer and self-taught songwriter began working full-time as an HVAC technician, before his mother convinced him to audition for American Idol. Impressing judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie, Stough stunned viewers and soon built a thriving fan base, finishing third on Season 21 of the show in 2022. He spent the ensuing months writing and recording original music, while also touring nationwide to put his blowtorch vocal and guitar-slinging edge on full display. After signing with 19 Recordings/BMG, his distinctive mix of Southern Rock distortion and pure-Country style have helped tracks like “I Still Talk To Jesus” and “Bad Day” rack up more than 9.4 MILLION global on-demand streams, and in September 2023, Stough released the single “Promiseland,” along with an official music video. The hard-hitting anthem is the title track to Stough’s debut EP, which is out now and puts the emerging artist on track to reach even more dreams in the future. Stough has headlined across the country and opened for established artists like Kidd G and Drake White. Next supporting Chase Matthew, stay tuned for much more to come.

KEEP UP WITH COLIN STOUGH

19 RECORDINGS / BMG ANNOUNCES THE SIGNING OF AMERICAN IDOL TOP 10 FINALIST HAVEN MADISON

December 14, 2023

19 Recordings and BMG are thrilled to announce the signing of pop vocalist, performer and songwriter Haven Madison.

“I had the privilege of working at companies where Faith Hill and Taylor Swift began their careers. While Haven Madison is not a Country artist, she has the same spirit and clarity Faith and Taylor had about what their vision was for their careers, along with a razor sharpness about who they were and what they wanted to say to the world. We can’t wait for everyone to hear Haven’s music and see her evolution over the last year,” says BMG Nashville President Jon Loba.

“I’ve been dreaming of this day since I was a kid, and I couldn’t be more excited to have 19 Recordings / BMG beside me as I continue to share my art and passion with the world," says Haven.

“Haven Madison is an artist with not only an immense amount of raw talent as a songwriter and a vocalist; but, she is also an artist with true artistic vision. Watching her grow from the young singer who auditioned for Idol into such a powerful artist ready for her big moment has been so exciting. I can’t wait for her fans to hear what she's been creating since the show,” says 19 Recordings’ Senior Vice President of Music Elissa Felman.

Competing on Season 21 of ABC’s American Idol last year and making it to the final Top 8, Haven proved her incomparable vocal and songwriting chops early on in the competition. Performing her own original songs like the wistful “Fifteen” and heartfelt “Still Need You” that she wrote about her brother’s fight against depression and suicide, Haven earned instant and ample praise from all the judges - Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie - and even guest judge Ed Sheeran throughout her run on the show.

Growing up on the road, touring the country with her father, Jason Roy, the lead singer of the GRAMMY-nominated Christian band Building429, Haven has always had a passion for music, which was evident from the first time she performed in her church choir. Writing and recording in her spare time, Haven, as as high schooler, even wrote and sang on Building429’s song “Different.”

Having released music independently since 2020, her already impressive discography as a talented up-and-coming singer-songwriter includes tracks “Already Gone” and “Therapy” as well as an EP titled All The Things I Didn’t Say.

Managed by Third Wave Music Group, headed by veteran music manager Gabe Vasquez, Haven Madison will release her label debut tracks very soon.

*Photo Credit: Terry Wyatt for Getty*
***Photo ID (L-R)***: Joe Gillen (BMG), Katie Kerkhover (BMG), Jon Loba (BMG), Haven Madison,
Thomas Coesfeld (BMG), JoJamie Hahr (BMG), Elissa Felman (19 Recordings), Peter Strickland (BMG)

KEEP UP WITH HAVEN MADISON

HUNTERGIRL’S FIRST-EVER HOLIDAY TRACKS TO BE FEATURED IN HALLMARK CHANNEL’S ORIGINAL MOVIES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

November 14, 2023

America’s sweetheart, vocal powerhouse, and esteemed songwriterHunterGirl has released her first-ever original holiday tracks with the spirited “Hurry Up Christmas" and the dreamy “Christmas Again.” Both of the songs are co-written by the 19 Recordings/Wheelhouse Records’ artist, get in the holiday spirit HERE.

"When I found out that two songs I wrote were going to be featured in the Hallmark Channel’s Christmas movies, I was so excited for my whole family, especially my Nana," she explains. "I’ve been watching Hallmark Christmas movies with my family since I was a little girl, so hearing my song, 'Hurry Up Christmas,' in Christmas Island over the weekend was a moment I will never forget.”

The song behind Hallmark Channel’s “Countdown to Christmas” and new movie Christmas Island, which premiered over the weekend (11/11), the joyful and jolly “Hurry Up Christmas” highlights the American Idol runner-up’s powerful, dynamic voice. While “Christmas Again,” to be featured in the network’s upcoming sequel, Haul Out The Holly: Lit Up, premiering November 25, demonstrates the colossal versatility of her vocal range, bringing an entrancing and delicate delivery to the track.

Delightfully festive with rousing lyrics and an up-tempo “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”-type beat, “Hurry Up Christmas” is sure to be a new Christmas classic. For those looking for a romantically enchanting track to add to their holiday playlist comes “Christmas Again;” fusing nostalgic, fairy-tale romance and the wishful spirit of Christmas, the dreamy song reminds you that the holiday magic you felt as a kid never fades.

Christmas Island – Show Times:

Thursday, November 16 8/7c

Monday, November 20 10/9c

Wednesday, November 29 2a/1c

Friday, December 8 4/3c

Wednesday, December 13 6a/5c

Saturday, December 23 8/7c

Sunday, December 31 10a/9c

Haul Out The Holly: Lit Up – Show Times:

Saturday, November 25 8/7c (PREMIERE)

Sunday, November 26 10/9c

Thursday, November 30 8/7c

Saturday, December 9 6/5c

Thursday, December 14 6a/5c

Sunday, December 17 2/1c

Wednesday, December 20 8/7c

Monday, December 25 4/3c

Sunday, December 31 10/9c

For more information and local listings, visit: www.hallmarkchanel.com.

Next up, HunterGirl will perform at the Christmas Parade in Raleigh, North Carolina on November 18, the Christmas 4 Kids Benefit Concert at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium on Monday, November 20 – a nonprofit that brings the joy of Christmas to thousands of underprivileged Middle Tennessee children –along with Phil Vasser, Chapel Hart, Shenandoah and more (purchase tickets HERE) – and the Christmas Tree Lighting in her hometown of Winchester, Tenn. on November 24.

Recently, HunterGirl partnered with Musicians On Call and visited Nashville’s Veteran Affair’s (VA) Hospital in honor of Veterans Day and in gratitude of their heroic service, performing for patients, their families and staff, which livestreamed to all VA hospitals across the country. Watch a recap HERE. Having worked with veteran organizations since her teens such as Operation Song, Freedom Sings and A Soldier’s Child, HunterGirl has helped numerous vets transform their stories into songs.

About HunterGirl:

A Tennessee native, singer/songwriter HunterGirl has been performing since she was three years old and writing songs since she was nine. In her early teens, she performed at venues across the United States, competed in singing competitions and won the 2014 Texaco Country Showdown. After graduating high school, she moved to Nashville and immediately started playing gigs at Nashville’s most famous venues including Tootsie’s, Rippy’s, Jason Aldean’s Bar, The Listening Room, and HonkyTonk Central, winning songwriting contests such as “Nash Next” and the prestigious “Nashville Songwriter Association International” in her spare time. Due to having family members who served in the military, HunterGirl holds a deep admiration for our Country’s armed forces and tenaciously works with many veteran organizations, where she uses music therapy to transform veterans’ stories into songs. She’s shared the stage with Country superstars Old Dominion, Florida Georgia Line, Kane Brown, Alan Jackson, Lainey Wilson, Trace Adkins, Charlie Daniels, Sara Evans and more. Last year, she competed on American Idol, where the “country singer with a bright future” (Hollywood Life) delivered standout performances that Taste of Country called “impressive,” “shining,” “chill-worthy,” and “glowing,” winning the hearts of millions across the country. Praised by Idol judge and Country superstar Luke Bryan as the “new age Miranda Lambert” and his “favorite female Country voice,” “HunterGirl has wowed the Country music community since she stepped foot onto the American Idol stage” (Billboard). “Despite missing out on the win, her crooning vocals and intimate original song, ‘Red Bird,’ has made her one to watch in the Country scene” (American Songwriter). Skyrocketing to No. 1 on iTunes All-Genre and Country charts, “the budding Country star” (Taste of Country) performed her heartfelt and deeply personal original track “Red Bird” on Live with Kelly & Ryan and has appeared on Good Morning America. Now, with the release of her label debut tracks “Hometown Out Of Me,” “Lonely Outta You” and her hauntingly powerful debut radio single “Ain’t About You,” driven by her distinct and genuine vocals, unwavering tenacity, and heart of gold, HunterGirl is on the fast track to becoming Country’s next big female artist.

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HUNTERGIRL RELEASES THE OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO FOR “AIN’T ABOUT YOU”

November 5, 2023

America’s sweetheart, vocal powerhouse, and esteemed songwriter HunterGirl today releases the official music video for her debut radio single “Ain’t About You.” Premiered yesterday (11/2) via CMT, the 19 Recordings/Wheelhouse Records artist is the first female country artist in over 30 years to write her debut radio single by herself.

“Ain’t About You” was produced by the award-winning Lindsay Rimes (Kane Brown, Kelsea Ballerini), with the video being directed by Ford Fairchild and produced by Rebecca Adler.

Speaking exclusively with CMT about the making of the video, HunterGirl shared: “I knew that I wanted it to focus on other people more than myself. I wanted to include a little girl chasing after dreams, a girl that was comparing herself to other people on social media, and a little boy who was worried about his mom. It was really important to me to include my work with veterans as well, so the Air Force veteran in the music video is a tie back to my grandfather who was in the Air Force and passed away a few years ago."

“What I hope people take away from this music video is that if you’re thinking about giving up on something, please give it a second chance because there are a ton of people who need you here,” she continued. “I think we forget sometimes how our story aligns with so many other people’s stories, because we are worried about things going on in our own lives. There are so many people who have touched my life, and if they would’ve given up on their dream, I don’t think I would be the same person I am today.”

Yesterday (11/2), HunterGirl partnered with Musicians On Call and visited Nashville’s Veteran Affair’s (VA) Hospital in honor of Veterans Day next week and in gratitude of their heroic service, performing for patients, their families and staff, which will be shared with VA hospitals across the country. Having worked with veteran organizations since her teens such as A Soldier’s Child, Operation Song and Freedom Sings, HunterGirl has helped numerous vets transform their stories into songs. "Music heals every single day," she explains. "Watching a veteran write a song for the first time, it's tough for someone to talk about things that they've experienced, but by sharing their story, music truly does heal. I feel blessed I’m able to be a part of that and give the gift of music to someone else."

Next up, HunterGirl’s original holiday track “Hurry Up Christmas” will be featured in Hallmark Channel’sChristmas Island, premiering November 11, and “Christmas Again” will be featured in Haul Out the Holly: Lit Up, premiering November 25. She will also perform at the Christmas Parade in Raleigh, North Carolina on November 18, the Christmas 4 Kids Benefit Concert at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium on Monday, November 20 – a nonprofit that brings the joy of Christmas to thousands of underprivileged Middle Tennessee children - along with Phil Vasser, Chapel Hart, Shenandoah and more (purchase tickets HERE) – and the Christmas Tree Lighting in her hometown of Winchester, Tenn. on November 24.

About HunterGirl:

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COLIN STOUGH ANNOUNCES DEBUT EP PROMISELAND

September 29, 2023

Colin Stough today announces Promiseland, his debut EP after his successful run on American Idol earlier this year. The six-song project will be released on all DSPs on October 20. Pre-save/pre-add HERE.

The announcement accompanies the launch of the second single from the project, “Lonely Hour.” Stough describes the song as melancholic saying, “There are these moments after a breakup where everything kind of settles and the loneliness kicks in. It’s those moments after the day winds down before the night sets in and you can fall asleep. The moments where you can’t stop thinking about everything and you finally start feeling all of the pain and loss that comes after a relationship has run its course. It’s the lonely hour.” Listen now below.

Colin Stough is one of the most buzzed about newcomers in country music today, after taking top honors on Season 21 of American Idol. Stough, the “Brad Pitt of country music”, as dubbed by Katy Perry, “was born to be a star” and has “the taste” and the “vocal ability."

Stough has also released the pensive official music video for “Lonely Hour.” Shot in a single hotel room, the video is powerful in its simplicity. Stough says, “This song is a melancholic one and what’s more melancholy than sitting in an old motel with everything you own packed in a suitcase as the sun is setting. It’s loneliness at its deepest. That’s the feeling we wanted to capture in this video. It’s meant to be kind of simple but vulnerable, and honestly, just kind of sad.”

“Lonely Hour” and “Promiseland” follow the release of Stough’s debut song “Bad Day,” a testament to the working man’s plight to get through a particularly mundane day, and “I Still Talk To Jesus,” a deeply personal depiction of Stough’s struggle to find meaning in a lifetime of disappointments and letdowns, which ended up reaching the #5 slot on Billboard’s Country Digital Song Sales Charts and #18 on Billboard’s Digital Song Sales Charts.

Currently out on the road with headlining tour dates including a hometown show that sold out in one hour, Stough is ready for all of his fans to hear his debut project next month.

About Colin Stough:

Colin Stough, a horse-loving, motorcycle-riding 19-year-old from Gattman, Mississippi, has lived through a lot in his relatively short life. And, every ounce of heartbreak can be heard in his gravelly yet commanding rock-leaning vocal. Dubbed “the Brad Pitt of country music” by Katy Perry — the southern-rock, country artist is an artist to watch as he continues to build his fanbase, following his run to become a finalist on the 2023 season of American Idol. Now, Stough readies his debut EP Promiseland for October 20, which will feature the previously released title track and “Lonely Hour.”

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