Tape Room Music Caps Landmark Year in 2025

s 2025 comes to a close, Tape Room Music celebrates a phenomenal year with 16 songs on Billboard’s Year-End Hot Country Songs chart, seven on their Year-End Country Airplay Songs and four songs on the all-genre Year-End Hot 100 Songs, in addition to landing eight tracks on the Country Aircheck/Mediabase Year-End Country Songs chart and three on the Big Picture Songs chart. Tape Room ends the year with three hits currently climbing in the top 5: Blake Shelton’s “Stay Country or Die Tryin’,” HARDY’s “Favorite Country Song,” and Megan Moroney’s “6 Months Later.”

Tape Room Music writers were also recognized throughout the year, as Ben Johnson, Hunter Phelps and Taylor Phillips received CMA Triple Play Awards; Casey Brown and Phillips were honored as GRAMMY nominees for Country Song of the Year; Johnson, Phillips and Andy Sheridan earned BMI Country Awards; Casey Brown earned a SESAC Country Award; and Johnson was celebrated as a Variety Hitmaker.

The independent publishing company garnered 8 No. 1 singles this year, including Johnson’s “All The Way,” performed by BigXThaPlug featuring Bailey Zimmerman, which topped both Billboard’s Hot Country Songs and Hot Rap Songs charts, as Phillips, Johnson and Phelps all commemorated 10+ No. 1 singles.

Additionally, Beau Bailey earned his first two Country Airplay Top 5 songs, both still climbing the charts; Johnson was featured on the Netflix series “Hitmakers”; Wyatt McCubbin joined Riley Green’s Damn Country Music Tour and was featured on Chase Rice’s “Two Tone Trippin’”; and Jordan Rowe joined Anne Wilson on The Stars Tour.

Tape Room also added Connor Hicks to the roster and added Katherine Godwin to the team as Manager, A&R, while Caroline Hodson, Director, A&R and writer Ben Williams were recognized by Nashville Briefing’s 30 Under 30.

Together, these achievements reflect a year defined by creative excellence, sustained chart performance and meaningful industry recognition for Tape Room Music and its roster.

L to R: Tape Room's Caroline Hodson, Director, A&R; Blain Rhodes, President/General Manager; Ashley Gorley, Founder; and Katherine Godwin, Manager, A&R. Photo is Courtesy of Tape Room Music.

TAPE ROOM YEAR-END CHARTING HITS OF 2025, FEATURED ON ALL-GENRE, COUNTRY, ROCK, RHYTHMIC & RAP CHARTS: 

• “Liar” - Taylor Phillips, Ben Johnson

• “Fix What You Didn’t Break” - Taylor Phillips

• “This Town’s Been Too Good To Us” - Taylor Phillips

• “I Am Not Okay” - Taylor Phillips, Casey Brown

• “Bar None” - Ben Johnson, Hunter Phelps

• “6 Months Later” - Ben Williams

• “Indigo” - Andy Sheridan

• “All The Way” - Ben Johnson

• “I’m A Little Crazy” - Hunter Phelps

• “Heart Of Stone” - Zach Crowell

• “Kiss Her In Front Of You” - Taylor Phillips 

• “Good Times & Tan Lines” - Wyatt McCubbin

• “Not At This Party” - Ben Johnson

About Tape Room Music

Tape Room Music is an independent music publishing company founded by hit songwriter Ashley Gorley, where writers have celebrated over 50 No. 1 songs. Recent No. 1 hits include Jordan Davis’ “Bar None,” Jelly Roll’s “Heart of Stone” and BigXThaPlug and Bailey Zimmerman’s “All The Way,” which topped both Billboard’s Hot Rap Songs and Hot Country Songs. Tape Room Music writers continue to stretch the bounds of their abilities, spreading their talents across writing, producing and performing. More at TapeRoom.com or follow along on Instagram @TapeRoomMusic.

JAMEY JOHNSON AND MEGAN MORONEY BRING THE MOJO TO BIRMINGHAM ON JAN. 15

Alabama’s MOJO will be in full force on Jan. 15 in Birmingham, when Jamey Johnson and Megan Moroney perform an unforgettable, one-night-only acoustic show at The Fennec to benefit their respective charities, Give It Away Foundation and The Megan Moroney Foundation.
 
Blending the two artists’ last names to create MOJO, Johnson and Moroney unite for a night of exceptional talent and a shared commitment to making a positive impact on their communities. Close friends Johnson and Moroney have previously shared stages, including Johnson’s birthday show at the Grand Ole Opry and most recently on The Hallmark Channel’s “A Grand Ole Opry Christmas Movie.” 
 
Johnson was an early and enthusiastic supporter of Moroney, inviting her to join his What A View Tour in 2022. Johnson and Deana Carter issued the official invitation for Moroney to make her Grand Ole Opry debut in 2023.
 
The event’s proceeds benefit Jamey and Brittney Johnson’s Give It Away Foundation, which supports charities close to their hearts and those that help communities during times of crisis, and The Megan Moroney Foundation, which is focused on supporting initiatives to combat bullying and promoting mental-health well-being. Together, we’re building a more supportive and inclusive environment. 
 
For more information, please visit www.giveitawayfoundation.org or contact GiveItAway@JameyJohnson.com for table pricing.

About Jamey Johnson:
Ten-time GRAMMY nominee Jamey Johnson has been called “one of the greatest country singers of our time,” by The Washington Post. Johnson’s music has garnered international acclaim and is embraced by fans of classic and contemporary country, as well as Americana and mainstream rock. He released his latest album, Midnight Gasoline, a collaboration between his label, Big Gassed Records, and Warner Music Nashville, in November 2024. Johnson also recently released “Never Gonna Be” with Ronnie Dunn and “Smoke” with Riley Green.
 
The Grand Ole Opry member is also widely regarded as one of the greatest country songwriters of his generation. He is one of only two people in the history of country music (along with Kris Kristofferson) to win two Song of the Year awards in the same year – for “Give It Away” and “In Color” – from the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association. 
 
A consummate storyteller, his songs have been recorded by George Strait, Trace Adkins, Willie Nelson, James Otto, Joe Nichols and others.
 
His recent prime-time television performances have been widely recognized as the best of the shows, from singing “Georgia on My Mind” in the CBS special Willie Nelson’s 90th Birthday Celebration” and “Angels Among Us” for the CMT Giants: Alabama to performing “Beer for My Horses” with Lainey Wilson for the top-rated NBC special Toby Keith: American Icon” (available to stream on Peacock).
 
The Recording Industry Association of America also honored Johnson for sales/streams of 9 million, including the 5X platinum-certified single “In Color,” the 2X platinum-certified album That Lonesome Song, the platinum-certified single “High Cost of Living,” the gold-certified song “Between Jennings and Jones” and the gold-certified single “That Lonesome Song.”
 
For more information and tour dates, please visit www.jameyjohnson.com. 
 
About Megan Moroney: 
MULTI-PLATINUM hitmaker, critically adored singer/songwriter, record-breaking headliner – just a few years after making her debut, Megan Moroney has ascended to a truly stratospheric level of stardom. Now entering a next-level era with her upcoming third studio album Cloud 9 (due out February 20), the Georgia-bred phenomenon cemented her status as a towering force in Country music with her GOLD-certified sophomore LP Am I Okay? – a 2024 release that marked the year’s third-biggest Billboard 200 debut from a female Country artist and earned raves from major publications like The New York Times and Rolling Stone (including gracing the cover of the iconic magazine’s Future of Music issue). Since the arrival of the blockbuster album (whose standouts include her 2X PLATINUM No. 1 hit “Am I Okay?” and PLATINUM-certified “No Caller ID”), the Emo Cowgirl has made history with her game-changing AM I OKAY? TOUR – a SOLD-OUT headline run that shattered attendance records at multiple venues throughout the U.S. With over 4 BILLION total global streams across all platforms (thanks in part to her 4X PLATINUM No. 1 hit “Tennessee Orange,” from her acclaimed 2023 debut Lucky), Moroney’s fast-growing list of accolades includes being honored as Storyteller of the Year at Variety’s 2025 Hitmakers celebration and receiving the Rulebreaker Award at the 2025 Billboard Women in Music event, in addition to winning the first-ever Best Country prize at the 2025 MTV VMAs, New Female Artist of the Year at the 2024 ACM Awards, and New Artist of the Year at the 2024 CMA Awards. With its tracklist including chart-climbing hits like “Beautiful Things” and “6 Months Later” (her highest Billboard Hot 100 debut to date), Cloud 9 will be followed by a massive international headline run featuring stops at some of the biggest arenas in North America, Europe and the UK.

Morgan Wallen Becomes RIAA’s Highest Certified Country Artist of All Time, 3rd Most-Certified All Genres

After recently becoming Billboard’s Top Artist of 2025 and entering Spotify’s coveted Billions Club with three singles – “Whiskey Glasses,” “I Had Some Help” with Post Malone and “Last Night” – surpassing one billion streams on the platform, Morgan Wallen’s consumption success is now landing him a new accolade as RIAA’s highest certified Country artist of all time.
 
With 239.5 million certified singles (solo + collaborations) and 26 million albums, Wallen simultaneously becomes the third most-certified artist, all-genre (succeeding only Drake and Taylor Swift for solo titles); and the No. 2 digital singles-certified solo artist, all-genre. The recognition comes just seven years after receiving his first Gold certifications for “The Way I Talk” and “Up Down” in 2018, followed by “Whiskey Glasses” in 2019 – which is officially 13x Platinum certified today.
 
“Morgan Wallen’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable. A trajectory powered through deep fan connection, multiple creative collaborations and partnerships with Big Loud and Republic Records. Less than a decade after earning his first Gold singles, he has officially become the highest RIAA certified Country artist with 265.5M units, including credits on five Diamond-certified or higher singles! The sheer volume of streams behind this achievement speaks to how actively audiences continue to show up and his sustained journey reshaping modern music. Congratulations on this new height as Morgan and his team set their sights on the next,” shares RIAA Chairman & CEO Mitch Glazier.
 
With the May 2025 release of his fourth studio album, I’m The Problem, Wallen solidified his footing as “one of the biggest stars in the music world right now,” according to Billboard. The project was recently named Apple Music’s No. 1 album worldwide and Spotify’s No. 1 album in the U.S. all-genre for 2025. Now, just seven months after its release, I’m The Problem is 4x Platinum certified, while 22 of its 37 songs are Gold-certified or higher. Additionally, every song on previously released albums If I Know Me and Dangerous: The Double Album (including the bonus configuration) is now RIAA certified. 
 
Prior albums Dangerous: The Double Album and One Thing At A Time, which landed No. 1 and No. 6 on Billboard’s Top 200 Albums of the 21st Century, respectively, are now each 9x Platinum certified. Additionally, “Last Night,” which spent 16 weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100 chart; and three week Country radio No. 1 “Wasted On You” are each 12x Platinum. 
 
In total, Wallen now has five singles that are Diamond-certified or higher, including the newly Diamond certified “Heartless,” his 2019 collaboration with Diplo. For the full list of new and updated certifications, see HERE. 
 
Wallen recently announced his 2026 Still The Problem Tour. Promoted by AEG Presents – with the exception of the Tuscaloosa, Alabama show, which is produced by Live Nation – Wallen’s 12-city, 23-date Still The Problem stadium tour will kick off on April 10, 2026 with two consecutive nights at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. Wallen will play two nights in most locations, including stops at four major college football stadiums: Clemson’s Memorial Stadium, Florida’s Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, Michigan’s Michigan Stadium and one night only at Alabama’s Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
 
A rotating lineup of guests including Brooks & Dunn, HARDY,  Ella Langley and Thomas Rhett join as direct support, with Gavin Adcock, Flatland Cavalry and Hudson Westbrook as second-of-four and Jason Scott & The High Heat, Zach John King, Vincent Mason and Blake Whiten as first-of-four. Support assets are available HERE.
 
As with previous tours, a portion of every ticket sold will benefit his Morgan Wallen Foundation (MWF) — which supports programs for youth in the areas of sports and music. Those donations enabled MWF to contribute over $600,000 worth of instruments to schools in need across U.S. touring cities in 2025, in addition to a $30,000 donation to the Toronto Blue Jays’ Jays Cares RBI program, totaling over $5 million distributed to-date. For more information, visit MorganWallenFoundation.org.

About Morgan Wallen
Morgan Wallen sets the pace in, and beyond, country music – with Billboard calling him “one of the biggest stars in the music world right now” and The New Yorker adding “[he’s] popular on a scale that seems to circumvent genre entirely.” With 20 No. 1 singles at Country radio, 19 Billboard Music Awards to-date, 216 weeks spent atop Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart (the most in country music history), the highest selling country tour under his belt and more, Wallen has propelled country music to a global level in less than five years.
 
Wallen’s fourth studio album, I’m The Problem, available now via Big Loud / Mercury, debuted at No. 1 globally across seven countries; while his preceding albums – Dangerous: The Double Album and One Thing At A Time – have remained in the top 10 of the Billboard 200 chart for more than 100 weeks each, making him the first artist ever to achieve that feat. I’m The Problem – which Hits Daily Double observes is “a 37-song cycle of self-reckoning” – has already yielded five No. 1’s at Country radio, including the title track, which remained at No. 1 for eight weeks. Wallen also broke his own record for the most simultaneous entries in Billboard Hot 100 History, with 37 songs charting on release week.
 
After recently concluding his 20-stadium-show 2025 I’m the Problem Tour in September, Wallen is readying his 23-stadium show Still The Problem Tour for 2026. Kicking off April 10 with two consecutive nights at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, the run will include stops at four major college football stadiums: Clemson’s Memorial Stadium, Florida’s Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, Michigan’s Michigan Stadium and one night only at Alabama’s Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
 
Wallen donates a portion of every ticket sold to his Morgan Wallen Foundation — which supports programs for youth in the areas of sports and music. More at MorganWallenFoundation.org.
 
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Whiskey Myers Announce Eighth Annual Wiggy Thump Festival Set for April 25, 2026

Multi-Platinum band Whiskey Myers return to their roots with the eighth annual Wiggy Thump Festival set for April 25, 2026 in Palestine, Texas. Featuring performances by the hometown hosts themselves as well as Stoney LaRue, The Band Feel and 79 South, this year’s event continues the tradition of supporting the local Anderson County Youth Livestock Association and builds upon the more than $250,000 raised for the cause to date. Tickets are on sale now via WhiskeyMyers.com. 
 
The announcement follows Whiskey Myers’ seventh studio album release, Whomp Whack Thunder, hailed by Rolling Stone as “their most supercharged album yet” that “sounds on the whole like an invigorated, freewheeling rock band in its prime,” as the genre-defying independent band delivers the sweat and soul that have defined their career. 
 
Along with the 11-track album, 2025 comprised a year of live shows including the East Texas band’s What We Were Born To Do Tour, the Live in 25 Tour co-headlined with the Tedeschi Trucks Band, the band’s own personally-curated Moon Crush “Whiskey Moon” music vacation in Miramar Beach, Fla., acoustic shows via Whiskey Myers & Friends, along with appearances at Stagecoach Music Festival, Talladega Superspeedway and “The Kelly Clarkson Show.”
 
Fans catching Whiskey Myers in 2026 can expect to hear the six-man-band’s signature powerhouse sound elevated with their newest album, Whomp Whack Thunder. 
 
For more information and to purchase tickets to the eighth annual Wiggy Thump Festival, visit WhiskeyMyers.com and follow the band on social media @WhiskeyMyers.

About Whiskey Myers
Genre-bending band Whiskey Myers have played nearly 3,000 live shows to ever-increasing crowd sizes since their emergence in 2007. In addition to headlining their own sold-out shows from coast to coast at iconic venues such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Ryman Auditorium, plus performing at marquee festivals Bonnaroo, Stagecoach, Download and more, the six-piece was also personally selected to open The Rolling Stones’ Chicago stadium show. The band is poised to begin their next chapter with their highly-anticipated seventh studio album Whomp Whack Thunder, available now via the band’s own Wiggy Thump Records, with lead single “Time Bomb” climbing the Active Rock radio charts. Their previous project, Tornillo, featured the No. 17 most-played Americana song of 2022, “John Wayne,” and followed breakthrough album Whiskey Myers, which debuted at No. 1 on both the Country and Americana/Folk sales charts, at No. 2 on the Rock chart and No. 6 on the all-genre Billboard 200 chart (No. 3 among new releases). In total, Whiskey Myers have sold more than 2.7 million albums and amassed over 4.1 billion streams while earning nine RIAA Gold, Platinum and multi-Platinum certifications as an independent band. Known for their high-energy live show and unique sound, the band praised by Esquire as “the real damn deal” has also earned sync success with features in Paramount’s hit shows “Yellowstone” (including an on-screen performance) and “Landman,” plus Netflix series “What/If,” Angelina Jolie film “Those Who Wish Me Dead” and CBS series “SEAL Team,” among others. USA Today describes their sound as “a riff-heavy blend of Southern rock and gritty country that has earned comparisons to the Allman Brothers Band and Led Zeppelin,” with Rolling Stone noting “it’s the seminal combination of twang and crunchy rock & roll guitars that hits a perfect sweet spot.”

Singer/Songwriter Leah Blevins Warns "Be Careful Throwing Stones" on New Track

On the heels of releasing her first taste of new music with “All Dressed Up,” the title track from her Dan Auerbach-produced album, singer/songwriter Leah Blevins releases her powerful new single “Be Careful Throwing Stones” today. 

Written with Auerbach and Daniel Tashian (Kacey Musgraves, Leon Bridges), “Be Careful Throwing Stones” continues to showcase Blevins’ piercing vocal clarity, storytelling and unflinching emotional honesty with a dash of ‘70s retro glamour and sheen.

The new track follows the recent release of “All Dressed Up,” named a “hot new track” by Barnburner, and marks the latest glimpse into the sonic landscape of her upcoming album. A timeless blend of Southern rock earthiness and pop-country shimmer, anchored by a twangy Karen Carpenter-esque vocal purity, listen to “Be Careful Throwing Stones” HERE. 

Pre-save All Dressed Up, set for release March 20, 2026, HERE.  

In addition to the song’s release, the official music video for “Be Careful Throwing Stones” premiered today exclusively with Holler, offering fans a visual interpretation of the track. Watch the video below;

“This song is about protecting the softest parts of yourself,” says Blevins. “Dan, Daniel and I were writing from that place where hope meets caution. It’s a reminder to move gently through love – with others and with yourself.”

“Be Careful Throwing Stones” expands on the fresh yet nostalgic sound Blevins introduced with “All Dressed Up,”pairing emotional intelligence and heartache with quiet strength. Raised on the bluegrass-stained Kentucky country of Loretta Lynn, Patty Loveless, Dwight Yoakam and fellow Sandy Hook native Keith Whitley, Blevins continues a lineage of storytellers who understand the power of plainspoken truth.

“There are all kinds of emotions in this world,” Blevins says. “The best songs hold a few of them at once. Dan gets that. He knows how to let a feeling stretch out and take up space.”

“Be Careful Throwing Stones” also continues Blevins’ penchant for crafting songs and visuals that feel outside of time. Her work echoes the greats of the ‘60s and ‘90s while standing firmly in the present, resulting in a sound that will resonate just as deeply 30 years from now.

“Be Careful Throwing Stones” and the official video are available everywhere today. 

For the latest news and updates follow along on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook and online at leahblevinsmusic.com.

Kenny Takes HEART LIFE MUSIC to Springsteen Archives

When Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music Director of Curatorial Affairs and Director of Public History Melissa Ziobro posted a congratulatory note about Kenny Chesney’s Heart Life Music debuting at No. 1 on the New York Times’ Hardcover Nonfiction and Combined Print and E-Book Nonfiction best sellers lists, she shot her shot, closing her blog post with an invitation cast into the vast unknown for Chesney to be part of the Springsteen Center’s author-driven podcast.
 
Be careful what you wish for – or Santa might come a little early. Word of the post made it back to the East Tennessee songwriter/superstar, who was scheduled to be in New York for his first appearance on Howard Stern’s wildly popular SiriusXM show. Chesney reasoned, “With as much as Bruce Springsteen runs throughout the story of my life – something I didn’t actually realize until I sat down and began work on Heart Life Music – this request from out of nowhere seemed like something I needed to do.”
 
And so, the morning after two hours on Howard Stern and a New York City book event at the Kaufman Music Center, Chesney and his book tour team headed to Monmouth University, minutes from the Jersey Shore, to tape a special edition of their “Conversations with Our Curator” series. With the actual Center in the final stages of construction for their late spring 2026 opening, the recent Country Music Hall of Fame inductee combined the book talk with touring the facility even before it was ready for installations. 
 
Chesney’s interview was filmed in a residence on the West Long Branch campus. His interview with Ziobro was far-reaching: considering his life’s path, unlikely influences, the passion of rock, the overlap beyond genres and, yes, interactions with Springsteen. As he said, “Talking to someone who comes at it from her perspective – Melissa’s a history professor and someone who thinks in curatorial terms – it’s a very different way to approach all this. But her energy is so present, she really draws you into the conversation. She cares about these stories, but she cares for several kinds of reasons, making it an interesting process that made me really think about what I was saying in bigger ways.
 
“But it also proves, once again, business people like labels, actual people just love music.”
 
Already named one of Barnes & Noble’s Best Biographies & Memoirs of 2025, Chesney has spent four weeks on both New York Times Best Sellers lists – and seen social media support from far-flung readers including Ziggy Marley, surfer Kelly Slater, Cindy Crawford, Carrot Top, tennis legend Bjorn Borg and fellow New York Times best seller author Cameron Crowe.
 
“Talking to Melissa about Bruce brought home his generosity in my life in an even deeper way. That’s part of why I wanted to do this interview: to honor the wisdom, friendship and especially inspiration he’s given me as a young man playing for tips, showing me what it means to give away every cell of yourself on that stage, and providing great advice when it was most needed along the way.”
 
The wild, the innocent and the curious can watch the interview in its entirety and read Ziobro’s blog at https://springsteenarchives.org/. Opening in 2026, the curatorial team is already compiling an outstanding collection of work to reflect how American music documents so much of the moments across time.
 
The Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music preserves the legacy of Bruce Springsteen and celebrates the history of American music and its diversity of artists and genres. Our mission is two-fold. The Springsteen Archives serves as the official repository for materials related to Springsteen and the E Street Band, including photographs, historic memorabilia, oral histories, and more. The Center for American Music explores American music more broadly. We accomplish this by producing exhibitions, concerts, and educational programming that explores and honors the cultural impact of American music past, present, and future. For further information, please visit www.springsteenarchives.org.

Young Guns Publishing Signs Jake Puliti

Young Guns Publishing signs a world-wide exclusive publishing deal with singer, songwriter and producer Jake Puliti.
 
“I’m so amped to be a part of Young Guns Publishing. This partnership represents years of dedication, growth, faith, and a true belief in the power of songwriting,” shares Puliti. “I’m so blessed for the opportunity to evolve alongside such an incredible team.”
 
“Jake has a sense of musicianship that stuns me, and I just know his faith is driving him to really want to grow as a human and songwriter,” Young Guns Publishing’s Head of Creative, Laura Alexander shares. “After a two hour initial meeting with him, I immediately knew his personality and work ethic were going to fit in with our family at Young Guns. We are so excited to have Jake join Young Guns Publishing!”
 
Puliti co-wrote “Comin’ In Cold,” found on multi-Platinum artist Bailey Zimmerman’s latest album Different Night Same Rodeo, with both the album title and Zimmerman’s 2026 tour earning their namesake from its lyrics.
 
With a growing presence in both country and pop and a rising presence in the songwriting community, Puliti has worked as a producer to various artists and songwriters, while simultaneously continuing to build a strong digital footprint including songwriting credits and performances generating millions of views across TikTok and other social platforms. Puliti also shares his experiences on Season 17 of  “American Idol” in 2019 and playing bass in Graham Barham’s band, informing and aiding in the evolution of his unique path.  
 
Young Guns Publishing, an independent music publishing powerhouse based in Nashville, is home to staff songwriters including GRAMMY Country Song of the Year winner Ben Stennis, SESAC Songwriter of the Year winner Josh Jenkins and SESAC Songwriter of the Year winner Michael Tyler. Recent credits for YGP staff songwriters include Michael Tyler’s co-write on Corey Kent’s “Rocky Mountain Low (feat. Koe Wetzel),” Ben Stennis and Tyler’s co-write on Bailey Zimmerman’s “Holy Smokes” and five co-writes for Josh Jenkins found on Jordan Davis’ Learn The Hard Way album. The Young Guns team continues to play a predominant role in the songwriting community, spanning more than 14 years. 
 
For more information, visit YoungGunsPublishing.com or follow on Instagram @YoungGunsPub.

L-R ID: Matthew Jafari (Keller Turner Andrews & Ghanem PLLC), Laura Alexander (SVP Creative, Young Guns Publishing), Jake Puliti, Will Hamrick (CEO, Young Guns Publishing), Laurie Gore (Creative/Admin Assistant) and Jason Turner (Keller Turner Andrews & Ghanem PLLC) | Photo Credit: Mary Craven Dawkins

Kenny Chesney ONLY Country Act in POLLSTAR's Top 10 of the Millennium

When POLLSTAR, the bible of the touring industry, published its quarter century Most Popular Touring Artists of the 21st Century, East Tennessee songwriter/superstar Kenny Chesney found himself as the only country artist in a very competitive Top 10. Landing at No. 7 – sandwiched between Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band and Metallica, in spite of an extra year of shutdown and two years of playing more intimate tours – the man who’s built a career trying to create a space where people come together for the love of life, music and each other shared the list with Coldplay, U2, Ed Sheeran, good friend Dave Matthews and Taylor Swift.
 
“When I got the news, I was shocked,” Chesney confessed. “I only really think about all those faces smiling, laughing, singing – it’s the most beautiful sea of love and joy imaginable. I have never really considered how many; just how much fun everyone’s having. But when you look at this list, see names of people who set the bar in so many ways, it takes your breath away.
 
“And a list like this? The numbers don’t lie. To think we played to over 18 million people since 2001 – even with the time we had to take off – is mind-blowing for a kid from East Tennessee. But it says everything about the passion No Shoes Nation brings to this music.”
 
According to POLLSTAR, Chesney has played to 18,198,369 fans. But even more, the man named Billboard’s Top Country Artist of the 21st Century earlier this year is already gearing up for his second Sphere residency in Vegas, where he took the genre into a whole new dimension. With June dates already on sale via KennyChesney.com, fans can expect several new songs, refreshed visuals and some songs he can’t bring into his massive high energy stadium concerts.
 
“Sphere pulled me into so many songs the fans know and love in new ways,” Chesney says. “And it deepened how I see them. That production consumes you, so we’re going back even harder and fuller. Sphere’s intimacy lets me do songs I can’t play in a stadium, things we love or something I haven’t played in forever – so that freedom to bring things down lets us take the show a lot of places, which makes it fun and even surprising to me and the band many nights.”
 
What lies ahead for the hardest working man in country music remains to be seen. Having closed the book tour for Heart Life Music, his No. 1 New York Times Hardcover Nonfiction and Combined Print and E-Book Nonfiction debut that’s spent the last month on those charts, Chesney crossed the country sharing stories of not just his life and creative journey, but so many moments shared with No Shoes Nation over the years. The unlikely dreamer raised on bluegrass, Steve Miller and George Jones brought people into how he got here, but also where he’s going.
 
“After news like this,” the man Wall Street Journal called “King of the Road” reflects, “it makes me want to get out there right now and play. There’s no feeling like that moment when we hit the stage, the people’s energy drives straight into us and we turn around and give it right back. To share that transfer of passion back and forth? It takes you to new levels of how good you can feel, takes away what bothers you and sends you out in the night ready for a brand-new day.”

Photo Credit: Allister Ann

Kenny Chesney Live at Sphere Las Vegas
June 19, 2026
June 20, 2026
June 24, 2026
June 26, 2026
June 27, 2026

RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY® COLLABORATE WITH COUNTRY TEEN SENSATION MADDOX BATSON

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® is kicking the party into high gear with a brand-new collaboration featuring breakout country music star Maddox Batson, delivering a feel-good, high-energy music moment that will fire up crowds on The Greatest Party On Earth tour.

In an unprecedented moment for Ringling’s 150-year legacy, the show will feature its first-ever artist collaboration, complete with a custom remix of Batson’s music, an exclusive song launch and a custom music video showcased inside the live performance. 

The collaboration with Batson, the youngest male artist to appear on Billboard’s 21 Under 21, is designed exclusively for Ringling, in which the custom mashup blends Batson’s modern country sound with the adrenaline of live circus performance, creating a dance-worthy moment guaranteed to get audiences on their feet. 

“Music fuels everything in this new era of Ringling, where high-energy sound meets nonstop circus action,” said Juliette Feld Grossman, CEO of Feld Entertainment and Producer of The Greatest Show On Earth®. “When we learned Maddox grew up going to the circus with his family, integrating his music into The Greatest Party On Earth felt like the perfect remix of his country roots reimagined in a bold, modern way for both Ringling fans and Maddox’s audience.”

The in-show moment features exclusive video footage of Batson performing his upcoming track, “If I See Her Again,” debuting for the first time on January 2 in Tampa. Fans will also hear hit songs “Girl In Green” and “No More,” all reworked into a custom Ringling-style mix created to elevate the show’s already supercharged energy.

The soundtrack pairs with Ringling’s street-style unicycle act, where performers shred, flip and defy gravity on unicycles — all choreographed to the beats of Batson’s mashup. With the teen star appearing on a massive LED screen, the moment becomes a pulse-pounding fusion of music, circus and all-out fun.

“I grew up going to the circus, so this collab with Ringling is like a dream coming full circle,” said Batson. “Seeing my music become part of The Greatest Show On Earth is just awesome. Getting to go behind the scenes, bounce on the trampoline, climb on the rocket that shoots a performer 110 feet in the air and even try the unicycle — it was one of the coolest days of my life. Now I get why they call it The Greatest Show On Earth!”

Audiences can snag limited-edition Ringling x Maddox Batson merch at Ringling tour stops nationwide. Fans can also catch Maddox’s behind-the-scenes circus-skills adventure during Ringling’s high-energy pre-show celebration, included with every ticket and starting one hour before showtime. Special Ringling x Maddox Batson digital content is also available across Ringling’s YouTube and social platforms.

This collaboration joins Ringling’s refreshed soundtrack, featuring beat drops, live drumming, dance battles, DJ-led moments and chart-topping hits. The mashup infuses Batson’s signature country-pop style into the modern Ringling soundscape, enhancing the show’s party atmosphere from start to finish.

Tickets for The Greatest Show On Earth® are available at Ringling.com/Maddox. Performances begin January 2 and will travel to more than 60 U.S. cities during the 16-month tour. Maddox fans can use the offer code MADDOX for $10 off each ticket. This offer is valid for select seats and performances, with a maximum of 8 tickets per order. The code is only valid online. 

Batson’s collaboration with Ringling arrives on the heels of his 40+ city Live Worldwide Tour 2026 announcement, spanning North American and European dates. Hailed as “A young star, new on the country charts already striking a chord and hitting all the right notes” by NBC Nightly News, the announcement follows a breakout year that included his Grand Ole Opry debut, a high-profile appearance at Stagecoach, the 29-city I Need A Truck Tour and support dates for Lainey Wilson’s Whirlwind Tour. Batson continues to raise the bar for his young professional career.

For more updates and behind-the-scenes fun on Batson’s collaboration with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey®, follow @Ringling on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

About Maddox Batson
With his Stagecoach Music Festival debut in April and the arrival of his deluxe EP First Dance (The After Party) in May, Maddox Batson has shown the world you’re never too young to be the face of music. Batson most recently wrapped his 29-city I Need A Truck Tour and released his new track “Coincidence.” The 15-year-old, hailed as “A young star, new on the country charts already striking a chord and hitting all the right notes” by NBC Nightly News, is set to hit the road in 2026 for the Maddox Batson Live Worldwide Tour with North American and European dates.

Life is moving fast for the multi-instrumentalist (piano, guitar & mandolin), and he’s trying his best to remain a kid while becoming next up in country-pop music. “It can be overwhelming, this life, but I’ve got a lot of good people surrounding me,” he explains. “I’m still just a kid, though, and I’m happy about that.” Visit MaddoxBatson.com for more information. 

About Ringling®
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® is an iconic entertainment brand that has inspired play, imagination, and awe across generations. The Greatest Show On Earth® was relaunched in 2023, reimagining circus arts for today's audiences through live productions, licensed products and immersive content that bring the spirit of the circus to life year-round.
 
About Feld Entertainment®
Feld Entertainment®, family-owned and operated, is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live touring family entertainment experiences that bring people together and uplift the human spirit. Properties include Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey®, Monster Jam®, Disney On Ice, Monster Energy AMA Supercross and the SuperMotocross World Championship. Across the brand portfolio, Feld Entertainment has entertained millions of families in more than 80 countries and on six continents. Visit feldentertainment.com for more information.

COREY KENT AND KOE WETZEL REACH ROCK BOTTOM IN NEW COLLAB, “ROCKY MOUNTAIN LOW”

Multi-platinum country star Corey Kent reaches rock bottom in a devastating new collaboration, “Rocky Mountain Low” (feat. Koe Wetzel). Featuring a swampy groove and the agony of barely hanging on, the track is out (12/5).
 
A desolate Western rocker co-written by Kent alongside Austin Goodloe, Michael Tyler and Thomas Archer, “Rocky Mountain Low” finds Kent and Wetzel careening down a heartbreak spiral, falling from the high of a woman’s love. And before landing in a canyon of despair, they hit every emotional boulder on the way.
 
"'Rocky Mountain Low’ is one of my favorite songs I’ve ever recorded,” Kent reflects. “It has all the rock and roll elements I grew up on and all the country influences I love. I asked my buddy Koe to jump on the second verse, and he was the person I pictured when writing that part, so having him on the track just makes it feel even more authentic.” 
 
With production by Goodloe, low-down country grit meets the golden shimmer of ‘70s rock, to create an avalanche of soul-chilling angst. A weary vocal blend and the muted thump of a damaged heart join the lonely howl of electric guitars, with no strength left to fight off the pain. 
 
“Corey and I have talked about working together for a while now, and this song finally gave us the chance,” shared Wetzel. “I heard it once and knew it was the one. I’m really proud of how it came together.”      

The first taste of new music since Kent’s 2025 EP Poster Child, “Rocky Mountain Low” (feat. Koe Wetzel) will impact Country Radio on Monday (12/8). Despite the single’s wounded theme, the independently-minded artist continues scaling a steep trail to superstardom. 
 
Surpassing 1 billion career streams earlier in the year, Kent’s second No. 1 single “This Heart” was certified GOLD by the RIAA this week, and his hard-driving hit “Something’s Gonna Kill Me” is approaching PLATINUM status. Both join Kent’s TRIPLE-PLATINUM No. 1 breakout “Wild As Her.”
 
Looking ahead, the Oklahoma native will join Jason Aldean’s Full Throttle World Tour in February 2026 for a series of dates in Australia and New Zealand. Next April, Kent will return to the massive Stagecoach festival in Indio, California (4/25). And in May, he’ll be back overseas for the Highways Festival in London, U.K. (5/16), plus a handful of headline dates in Germany and The Netherlands.
 
Recognized by Rolling Stone as an artist that is “poised to be country’s latest red dirt star,” Kent has become a decorated artist on the rise, growing from humble heartland roots into a Triple-Platinum certified No. 1 hit maker with one billion career streams.
 
Rising from the vibrant Red Dirt country scene as the embodiment of authenticity, Kent set his sights on Nashville as a teen, bringing his self-penned catalog of country-rock anthems with him. But after the pandemic coincided with the loss of his first publishing deal, Kent was forced to move to Texas and get a job on a paving crew to pay the bills, yet he stubbornly refused to call music quits, with honky-tonks and dancehalls on both sides of the Red River becoming his stomping ground. 
 
Fast forward a few years and the hit single “Wild As Her” proved he was right all along. An untamed tribute to a free-spirited stunner, the track re-invigorated Kent’s career as a now Triple-Platinum-certified No. 1 at country radio, and the lead single off his 2023 major label album debut, Blacktop. Since then, Kent’s track “Something’s Gonna Kill Me” went Gold and he also earned his second No. 1 at country radio with track “This Heart,” as the song reached the top of both the Country Aircheck/Mediabase chart and the Billboard Country Airplay chart this summer. 
 
Kent released his sophomore major-label album, Black Bandana, to critical acclaim in 2024, with Music Row Magazine describing the title track as “gently but unrelentingly uplifting.” He’s also earned next-big thing accolades along the way, including recognition from CMT and the Opry Next Stage program and toured with the likes of Morgan Wallen, Jon Pardi, Jason Aldean, Ashley McBryde, Parker McCollum and more.
 
Defined by the tenacity and trailblazing spirit he developed from years of cutting his teeth on the road, Kent is now kickstarting a new chapter, taking his creativity to new heights. For the latest news and information about Corey Kent, visit coreykentofficial.com.

JODY WILLIAMS TO LEAD VINCE GILL’S MANAGEMENT TEAM

Jody Williams, Founder and CEO of independent music publishing company Jody Williams Songs (JWS), has taken on management duties for singer, songwriter and musician, Vince Gill. 
 
After working with Gill for four years as his publisher, Williams will now oversee all aspects of Gill’s career going forward.
 
Larry Fitzgerald, Gill’s legendary manager for over forty years, remains as consultant to Williams. Long-time colleague to Fitzgerald, Jennifer Templeton (jennifer@heybuddyent.com), an invaluable member of Vince Gill’s management team, remains as Gill’s day-to-day manager.
 
Williams will continue as CEO of JWS in addition to managing Gill. VP and General Manager of JWS, Nina Jenkins Fisher (nina@jodywilliamssongs.co), will continue to oversee all day-to-day aspects of the publishing company, a joint venture with Warner Chappell Music.
 
“Taking on this new role with Vince feels like a calling and a natural evolution,” shares Williams. “My motivation is to ensure that Vince’s career aspirations for the near future are realized and his long term legacy includes milestones he has not yet reached. Nobody does Vince Gill like Vince Gill. His unique musical aesthetic has served him well his whole career. I’m honored to work alongside Vince, and very grateful for Larry and Jennifer’s support.”

“Throughout my career I’ve put great care into putting teams together around our artists, yet it was only recently that I used those skills one final time for my buddy Vince,” Fitzgerald reflects. “I’ve always admired Jody’s vision, organizational, and decision-making skills, and he has an ability to engage with talent in meaningful ways. Already a member of Vince’s team as his publisher, we know his passion is unparalleled.”

Photo Credit: Jessica Amerson

Fitzgerald began his career, as did many legendary players in the business, in the mailroom of the William Morris Agency in Beverly Hills beginning in 1962. The next four years were spent working with Andy Griffith as part of Griffith’s management team. His career ascended rapidly over time and in 1967 Fitzgerald was approached by Jim Guercio to create a management company which became the iconic Caribou Management and Caribou Ranch Studio. Right out of the box they found success breaking the band Chicago. Under the Caribou management umbrella, he worked with such notables as The Beach Boys and Billy Joel, and in 1976, while still with Caribou, Fitzgerald co-promoted, alongside Concerts West, Wings Over America, the first U.S. tour for Paul McCartney & Wings. Fitzgerald continued his working relationship with McCartney for the next 12 years and within that time, in 1977, he partnered with Mark Hartley to establish Fitzgerald Hartley Management. Over the course of the next 42 years, he managed the careers of Glenn Frey, Toto, Rufus and Chaka Khan, Patty Loveless, Brad Paisley, The Brothers Johnson, of course Vince Gill, and countless others. In 2019, he dissolved Fitzgerald Hartley and opened Hey Buddy Management, with Gill as its sole client. After six decades in the entertainment business, Fitzgerald has accrued great respect and loyalty among his peers. He looks forward to spending retirement with his family, and as much time as possible on his beloved Bacon Creek Ranch in the mountains of Idaho.

Williams, a long-time publishing figurehead in Nashville, previously held posts as VP, Creative for BMI, President of MCA Music Nashville, and his previous independent publishing company Jody Williams Music. He is former Chairman of the Board of the Country Music Association. Currently, he is Board Chairman of The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, as well as a trustee. 

The new management entity is called Little Guitar Management. Reach Williams at jody@littleguitarmgmt.com. Williams retains jody@jodywilliamssongs.co for publishing business.

Miranda Lambert’s MuttNation Foundation Honors Horse Haven of Tennessee With 2025 Idyllwind Award

Country music icon and passionate animal advocate Miranda Lambert announces her MuttNation Foundation’s 2025 Idyllwind Award, honoring Horse Haven of Tennessee in Seymour, Tenn. with a $25,000 donation. The Idyllwind Award, named in honor of Lambert’s first horse, Idyllwind Ellund, annually recognizes an outstanding U.S. equine rescue or sanctuary that rehabilitates and/or rehomes horses that have been neglected, abused or abandoned, while also educating the public about the difficult conditions these horses face. 

“One thing that really stood out about Horse Haven of Tennessee is that they’re available for emergency equine rescue to all 95 counties in the state – that’s huge,” shares Lambert of this year’s recipient. “And, of course, the amazing work they do to help rehabilitate and rehome the animals that come into their care.”

“At Horse Haven of Tennessee, every rescue begins with hope, and the Idyllwind Award helps turn that hope into healing,” notes Ashley Ford, Executive Director. “This support strengthens our ability to rehabilitate neglected and abused horses, giving them the care, safety, and second chances they deserve. We are incredibly grateful for this partnership and the impact it will have on the equines who rely on us.”

Lambert introduced the Idyllwind Award last year at the Boot Barn x Wonderwest 2024 Fashion Show. This year, Boot Barn – which serves as the exclusive retailer of her lifestyle brand, Idyllwind – held a donation-at-checkout campaign in September with 100% of funds raised supporting the Idyllwind Award horse rescues. 

“At Boot Barn, we believe upholding the traditions of the West means caring for everything that makes that life possible—especially the horses that define so much of the Western spirit,” says Stephen Loscko, VP of Marketing and Media at Boot Barn. “Miranda Lambert’s commitment to equine welfare echoes our dedication to supporting all those who live and breathe the Western lifestyle. We’re proud to join her in recognizing organizations like Horse Haven of Tennessee and the life-changing work they do for equine rescue and rehabilitation."

Lambert, one of the most passionate and celebrated animal advocates, has championed shelter pets her entire life. Her deep affinity for horses grew more serious when she began showing in 2014. In 2024, she won a Blue Ribbon at the 2024 Oklahoma State Fair for her Gypsy Vanner horses.
 
“The bond is unlike any other,” she shares of what makes horses so special. “It’s a complete and mutual trust – there’s no other word for it – just love.” She currently owns six horses and two dogs, plus several cats, goats and chickens. 

The Idyllwind Award is administered by the MuttNation Foundation, a donation-supported 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

Photo Credit: Madeleine Rosenthal 

About MuttNation Foundation 
Founded by Miranda Lambert and her mom, Bev, in 2009, MuttNation Foundation is a donation-supported 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that has raised over $11 million in support of its mission to promote the adoption of shelter pets, advance spay & neuter and educate the public about the benefits of these actions. MuttNation provides support through the MuttNation-Tractor Supply Relief For Rescues Fund to shelters and supporting organizations in times of natural and man-made disaster and supports spay & neuter through the MuttNation “It Takes Balls” program. MuttNation Fueled by Miranda Lambert, a pet line of toys and supplies that benefits the Foundation, is available exclusively at Tractor Supply Company stores throughout the U.S. The Idyllwind Award annually honors a horse rescue that helps rehabilitate and rehome horses that have been abused or abandoned. 
 
About Miranda Lambert
Critically acclaimed groundbreaker/songwriter/superstar Miranda Lambert has defined her multifaceted career as an artist, entertainer, entrepreneur, advocate and businesswoman with an unflinching quest for excellence, honesty and conviction. Current GRAMMY-nominated single “A Song To Sing” with Chris Stapleton arrived as the biggest streaming debut of her career, with Rolling Stone praising its “dreamy disco groove and lovestruck devotion.” Her 10th solo studio album, the GRAMMY-nominated Postcards from Texas, available everywhere now via Republic Records, continued her unbroken streak of 10 consecutive Top 10s on the Top Country Albums chart. The most-awarded artist in Academy of Country Music history, including their top honor for Entertainer of the Year, she has also won three GRAMMYs and 14 Country Music Association Awards. A TIME100 honoree and perennial best-of-the-year list maker at the New York Times, TIME, Rolling Stone, Billboard, Stereogum, People and more, NPR has called her “the most riveting country star of her generation.”
 
A multi-dimensional superstar, she’s earned seven No. 1 solo albums, 10 No. 1 hit radio singles, more than 80 prestigious awards and countless RIAA certifications; conquered Las Vegas with her twice-extended Velvet Rodeo residency; blurred genres with Leon Bridges, the B-52s, Loretta Lynn, Enrique Iglesias, Sheryl Crow and Elle King; and delivered her LGBTQ+ inclusive anthem “Y’All Means All” for Netflix’s “Queer Eye.” Lambert has taken those standards to become a label co-founder, teaming with longtime collaborator Jon Randall to launch their own imprint, Big Loud Texas, in partnership with Big Loud Records. She is also a New York Times bestselling author and the first female restaurateur on Lower Broadway with her Tex-Mex cantina Casa Rosa, while also expanding her creative reach with her Wanda June Home collection as well as Idyllwind, her western clothing, accessories and footwear brand at Boot Barn. Her passion for rescue animals inspired the creation of her MuttNation Foundation, which has raised over $11 million since inception to promote adoption, support shelters across the country, advance spay & neuter and assist with the transport of animals during times of natural disaster.
 
MirandaLambert.com | Facebook | Twitter/X | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube
 
About Boot Barn
Founded in 1978, Boot Barn is the largest and fastest-growing lifestyle retail chain devoted to western and work-related footwear, apparel and accessories in the U.S., with more than 465 stores in 49 states and an e-commerce channel consisting primarily of BootBarn.com, Sheplers.com, Idyllwind.com, and CountryOutfitter.com.

Kenny Chesney's HEART LIFE MUSIC Gets Stern + Springsteen Archived

It was all heart, life, music when Kenny Chesney joined iconic radio host Howard Stern to discuss his No. 1 New York Times best seller on Stern’s SiriusXM morning show. For two hours, the pair engaged in a far-flung conversation that ranged from inspiration to alienation, unthinkable moments and notions, mutual friends, the creative process – and even Stern’s query about whether the East Tennessee songwriter/superstar would like to be in the Rock & Roll Fame.
 
With Heart Life Music spending three weeks and counting on both the New York Times Hardcover Nonfiction Best Sellers list and Combined Print and E-Book Nonfiction Best Sellers list, Stern had clearly done his reading. Whether exploring the reality of persuasion class and music business rejection, the skill and practice required to even attempt Doc Watson-style picking, hitting the wall and landing on absolute empty, Stern returned to the themes of resilience and hard work behind making dreams a reality. But he also found the joy in discovering purpose, the feeling of being onstage in front of 60,000 (“It’s like an avalanche,” Chesney explained) and the power of how music makes you feel.
 
“It was absolutely my most favorite two hours of radio I’ve ever done,” Chesney enthused. “It was so fast and so engaged with what we’d written, it made me rethink in a wonderful way so much of what went into the book. To hear someone love your life and journey like that, it makes you realize how much we all inspire each other – and I can’t think of a better gift after the last month of incredible media, book events and the love I’ve received on social media than spending two hours with Howard Stern talking about music, songs and life.”
 
With Barnes & Noble naming Heart Life Music to their Best Biographies & Memoirs of 2025 list, Wall Street Journal has called it “an emphatic success,” while Garden & Gun proffered “at the heart, the book is a meditation on the power of music and creativity” and Publishers Weekly proclaimed it “one for the road.” In addition, American Songwriter cited its “sense of immense respect, admiration and awe,” Newsweek declared it “grounded, grateful and faithful, in pursuit of the simple joys in life, living largely by the mantra of his memoir, Heart Life Music” and Salvation South raved, “it comes from the joy of living Kenny Chesney embodies, his bone-deep conviction that it ain’t no sin to be glad you’re alive.”
 
“I’ve always said unthinkable things can happen to pretty normal people if you work hard, make friends, love people and try to find the lessons or the fun in everything,” Chesney says. “With Howard Stern, who is so smart it’s scary, hearing him talk about all of it reminds me how blessed we’ve been – and it brought out things, stories we didn’t get in the book. But it felt good to sing a little ‘One Step Up’ when we talked about Bruce, to just open up like that and play a bit with someone who understands how it feels.”
 
After a book event this evening at Kaufman Music Center in partnership with the Strand on Manhattan’s Upper West Side (with very limited tickets remaining HERE), Chesney will head to New Jersey to tape a very special episode of “Conversations with Our Curator” at the Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music. Initiated by the Center’s post about Heart Life Music’s No. 1 New York Times debut and the presence of Springsteen throughout Chesney’s book, this once in a lifetime conversation seemed inevitable in the rearview, but unthinkable even 10 days ago.

“I love that Bruce is using his archives to create a space to honor American music, open up conversations about how it’s all interconnected,” Chesney says. “When I recorded ‘One Step Up,’ I didn’t think about genre, just heart and how human the experience in the song was. To me, it had a country soul and the heart of a person in conflict over, well, temptation. As it says in the book, when Bruce responded to my version of it, I realized all that passion, all that church revival energy Bruce brings onstage is the same thing as me singing what was a rock song: good music really is all tangled up together, but united by its honesty and willingness to get real.”
 
Having gone from East Tennessee State to Boston, Philadelphia, New Jersey, New York City, Chicago, Nashville, Los Angeles, Key West and Tampa, the recent Country Music Hall of Fame inductee has taken Heart Life Music to the people – and seen lines starting hours before the doors opened to his book events. With the holidays coming on strong, Chesney’s wrapping up his book tour on high note: singing “You & Tequila” solo acoustic on Stern as part of two hours of conversation and exploring the soon-to-open Springsteen Archives in Long Branch, New Jersey for a deep dive into the meaning of what creatives genuinely give to others, as well as offer up of themselves.

About The Authors
One of contemporary American music’s biggest names, Kenny Chesney was voted into the Country Music Hall of Fame this year and was named Billboard’s No.1 Country Artist of the 21st Century. Selling out America’s major stadiums for two decades and playing to over a million fans every summer since 2002, Variety pronounced him “country music’s only true long-term stadium act.” The East Tennessee songwriter/superstar has over 105 Platinum certifications, won the prestigious Entertainer of the Year eight times, as well as holding Billboard’s record for the most Country Airplay No. 1s with 36 chart-topping songs that define coming of age in the flyover in the 21st Century. This year, the game-changing superstar became the first country artist to perform at the groundbreaking Sphere, taking No Shoes Nation into a whole new dimension, creating a space to work hard, play hard, love hard and come together in the spirit of celebrating all the moment offers. Heart Life Music is his first book.
 
Holly Gleason’s work has appeared in Rolling Stone, Los Angeles Times, New York Times, the Library of Congress’ National Registry of Sound Recordings, among other outlets. She was the LA Press Club’s Entertainment Journalist of the Year and the National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Association’s Independent Journalist of the Year. A former Rock & Roll Hall of Fame/Case Western Reserve Fellow, she’s the creator of Belmont Book Award-winning Woman Walk The Line, and co-authored Miranda Lambert’s New York Times best-seller Y’All Eat Yet as well as Prine on Prine: Interviews & Encounters.

Morgan Wallen to Release Limited-Edition ‘I’m The Problem’ CD Zine

After teasing a book containing a letter from his dad during an interview with Apple Music’s Kelleigh Bannen earlier this year, Morgan Wallen announced the limited-edition I’m The Problem CD zine in reference will be available to fans beginning December 19. Pre-order now HERE. 
 
The limited edition, 100-page, glossy-cover zine includes interviews with Wallen – as well as producer Joey Moi, producer/songwriter Charlie Handsome, songwriter Blake Pendergrass and the heartfelt opening letter from Tommy Wallen – along with never-before-seen photos, lyrics from all 37 tracks and I’m The Problem on 2-Disc CD. Together, the perspectives offer an inside look at the making of Wallen’s 12-week Billboard No. 1 album, I’m The Problem, directly from those who created it.
 
As Wallen reflected on working with his collaborators in the book, he shared, “I don't really write songs unless Charlie [Handsome] is involved at this point in my career. Blake Pendergrass is another guy who's been added into the fold over the last couple years, and I think he's one the best songwriters in Nashville. I feel fortunate to have those types of guys helping me with the process. Once you figure out what you're shooting for, you get in a rhythm of writing with those guys, and it really is fun.” 
 
I’m The Problem arrived May 16, 2025 via Big Loud/Mercury Records and spent 12 non-consecutive weeks atop the Billboard 200 albums chart and 13 non-consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Canadian Albums chart. It became Wallen’s third consecutive album to spend at least 10 weeks atop the Billboard 200 – making Wallen the first artist in history to achieve that feat.
 
Internationally, the album debuted at No. 1 in seven countries upon release and became Wallen’s first album to debut at No. 1 on the UK Official Charts, making him one of only five artists to debut at summit with a country album. In Australia, I’m The Problem became the longest-running No. 1 album by a country artist in 10 years, with three consecutive weeks atop the ARIA albums chart, while “What I Want (feat. Tate McRae)” spent five weeks at No. 1 on Australia’s Country Airplay chart.

About Morgan Wallen:
Morgan Wallen sets the pace in, and beyond, country music – with Billboard calling him “one of the biggest stars in the music world right now” and The New Yorker adding “[he’s] popular on a scale that seems to circumvent genre entirely.” With 20 No. 1 singles at Country radio, 19 Billboard Music Awards to-date, 198 weeks spent atop Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart (the most in country music history), the highest selling country tour under his belt and more, Wallen has propelled country music to a global level in less than five years.
 
Wallen’s fourth studio album, I’m The Problem, available now via Big Loud / Mercury, debuted at No. 1 globally across seven countries; while his preceding albums – Dangerous: The Double Album and One Thing At A Time – have remained in the top 10 of the Billboard 200 chart for more than 100 weeks each, making him the first artist ever to achieve that feat. I’m The Problem – which Hits Daily Double observes is “a 37-song cycle of self-reckoning” – has already yielded five No. 1’s at Country radio, including the title track, which remained at No. 1 for eight weeks. Wallen also broke his own record for the most simultaneous entries in Billboard Hot 100 History, with 37 songs charting on release week.
 
After recently concluding his 20-stadium-show 2025 I’m the Problem Tour in September, Wallen is readying his 23-stadium show Still The Problem Tour for 2026. Kicking off April 10 with two consecutive nights at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, the run will include stops at four major college football stadiums: Clemson’s Memorial Stadium, Florida’s Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, Michigan’s Michigan Stadium and one night only at Alabama’s Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
 
Wallen donates a portion of every ticket sold to his Morgan Wallen Foundation — which supports programs for youth in the areas of sports and music. More at MorganWallenFoundation.org.
 
MorganWallen.com | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Twitter/X | YouTube

Chase Rice Partners With Boot Barn to Showcase Cody James Black 1978® Collection

11x Platinum-certified singer-songwriter Chase Rice has teamed up with Boot Barn and Cody James for an exclusive collaboration to showcase the new curated collection from Cody James Black 1978®, an elevated line of men’s western wear within the Cody James brand. 
 
Cody James is an industry-leading label in men’s western, country, and work wear, and its Cody James Black 1978® collection features an upscale assortment of handmade boots, handcrafted hats, and high-quality western pieces that blend the grit of the West with sleek Nashville style. 

Chase Rice stars in the brand’s new winter campaign, shot in early November on Rice’s 153-acre farm and bison ranch in Franklin, Tennessee, known as Twin Eagles Creek Farm. In the campaign, Rice models a range of Cody James Black 1978® pieces, including classic cowboy boots, hats, denim, and outerwear.
 
“Cody James Black 1978® is an elevated collection of western-inspired country pieces that embody the spirit of the American West,” says Isha Nicole, SVP of Marketing and Creative at Boot Barn. “Chase Rice is the perfect partner for our collaboration, because he embodies that spirit of country pride. As well as being an incredibly talented country music artist, Chase Rice is an avid farmer, huntsman, and outdoorsman. He doesn’t just write and sing about a lifestyle rooted in the heartland—he truly lives it.”
 
Florida-born Chase Rice was raised on a farm in Asheville, North Carolina, where his love for hunting and deep-rooted country values first took shape. Rice has forged a lifelong admiration for the American West that defines who he is and the rugged storytelling in his music. Now fifteen years into a celebrated country music career, Rice’s enduring affinity for the West shines proudly through on his latest album, ELDORA, released in September. When he’s not on stage, Rice can be found working his land and raising bison on his Tennessee ranch, a passion he’s pursued since 2021.
 
“Partnering with Boot Barn and Cody James was a natural fit,” says Rice. “They want to share a piece of the American spirit with everyone, whether that’s through a pair of cowboy boots or supporting country music, so our values are a good match. Having the team shoot everything here on my farm was a great experience. This is the place where I draw so much inspiration for my music—it’s part of who I am— so getting to share that side of my life and that pride in country living was something special.”
 
The Cody James Black 1978® curated collection featuring Chase Rice is available online at codyjames.com and bootbarn.com, as well as in over 500 Boot Barn retail stores across the country.

About Chase Rice
Few artists have had the enduring impact on country music Chase Rice can claim—and fewer still possess the courage to leave it in the past and blaze a new trail. A true singer- songwriter with success in both disciplines, Rice’s 15-year career has taken the Florida-born North Carolina native to chart peaks and global stages, but with his eighth studio album, ELDORA, his only destination is the American West. A 10x Platinum artist who burst onto the country scene as a Diamond certified songwriter (“Cruise”), while hits like “Drinkin’ Beer. Talkin’ God. Amen.” and “Eyes On You” helped Rice post two No. 1’s at Country Radio, igniting a movement through chest-thumping euphoria and bold romantic passion. He sold out international tours and shared stadium billing with Garth Brooks and Kenny Chesney, before leaving the major label system for good. Now, with full independence and over 3 billion streams to his credit, ELDORA signals Rice’s dedication to the storytelling craft. Written in Colorado and inspired by a hidden mountainside town, the 12-song set is easily the most raw, unguarded expression of Rice’s talent to date – born in the afterglow of an epic show at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Working hand-in-hand with co-writer/producer Oscar Charles, Rice adopts the unfiltered, rough-hewn approach of an off-the-grid maverick, both embodying the Western mystique, and boldly going where few of his stature would dare.
 
About Cody James and Cody James Black 1978®
Cody James is a leading label in men’s western, country, and work wear. Cody James was created in 2010, and what started as a men’s denim line quickly grew to include western wear, everyday staples, work wear, and their upscale country-western line, Cody James Black 1978®. The Cody James Black 1978® collection features pieces of exceptional craftsmanship, including handcrafted hats, handmade boots, and more high-quality western pieces. For more information, visit codyjames.com.
 
About Boot Barn
Boot Barn is the largest western and work wear retailer in the nation. Founded in 1978, Boot Barn operates 500 stores across 49 states, in addition to several e-commerce sites, including bootbarn.com.
 
Boot Barn says that their customers feed America, build America, and protect America. With an uncompromising desire to support the local communities they serve, Boot Barn proudly offers the broadest selection of cowboy boots, work boots, western wear, workwear, western-inspired fashion pieces, and outdoor gear to support the varying lifestyles of the people who make our country so great. For more information, visit bootbarn.com.

Randall King Releases Bombastic “Big Deal”

Hailing from a small town in West Texas, Randall King understands that living in a place where everyone knows each other means small-town-fame can find itself in unlikely ways. In his bombastic new song, “Big Deal,” King toggles with this concept with his signature sense of wit and humor. Listen Below.
 
Written by Erik Dylan, Wyatt McCubbin and Nick Walsh, and co-produced by King and Jared Conrad, “Big Deal” plays on how people can be known for an assortment of things in small towns – from their ability to close down a bar, to their karaoke skills, even the people they date. “Big Deal” is the latest taste of King’s upcoming 2026 project as he returns to the studio. 
 
“Big big deal incoming! And it ain’t no Black Friday sale!” King quips. “If you’re a small towner with a big ole attitude like me, then you know how it is round here. This one’s for you!”
 
King most recently released Billboard-dubbed “career standout” and “mournful ballad,” “I Keep Your Memory Around.” 
 
King’s sophomore album, Into The Neon, was released Jan. 26, 2024 to critical acclaim, leaving Texas Monthlyobserving “his Texas bona fides are unimpeachable.” Into The Neon was also named among the top country albums of 2024 by Entertainment Focus and Whiskey Riff. The album yielded King’s first Country radio single, “I Could Be That Rain.” 
 
For more information and to follow along with updates, visit RandallKingMusic.com.

ABOUT RANDALL KING:
A West Texas native and self-described “old soul," Warner Music Nashville's Randall King has never wavered in his honky-tonk allegiance – in fact, he’s worn it like a badge of honor, growing with pride into a leading voice for today’s traditional country. Amassing nearly 500 Million streams with singles like “You In A Honky Tonk,” “Hey Cowgirl” and “Mirror, Mirror,” he’s kept the twang alive in country’s mainstream while also earning acclaim through deeply personal EPs like 2020’s Leanna, and his 2022 major label album debut, Shot Glass – which landed on both Whiskey Riff’s Top 40 Country Albums of 2022 and Billboard’s All Genre 50 Best Albums of 2022 (So Far). Schooled on icons like Keith Whitley, George Strait, Alan Jackson and John Anderson, but inspired by modern masters like Dierks Bentley and Gary Allan, King first built an independent, grass-roots following on the strength of his electrifying live shows – each one a harrowing mix of rowdy roughnecking, romantic tenderness and breathtaking emotion – never asking for permission to explore his creative vision. He has since gone on to headline all across the U.S., the U.K. and Europe, where he continues to play nearly 150 shows a year and hone his craft where it matters most. Named a Country Artist to Watch by everyone from Pandora and Country Now to Music Mayhem Magazine, his sophomore major label album Into the Neon, available now, takes that craft to the next level, as King’s neo-traditional roots meet the blood-pumping rhythms and sharp, arena-sized grooves of Y2K-era country and beyond. Co-produced by King and Jared Conrad, and featuring 18 tracks, punchy sounds exist side-by-side with timeless swagger, further blurring the line between yesteryear and today–even as King renews his forever-country vows. Into The Neon was named among the best country albums of the year by Whiskey Riff, Country Now & Entertainment Focus, and yielded King’s debut single, “I Could Be That Rain.”

Randy Houser Releases Regret-Proof "Back In The Bottle"

Multi-Platinum hitmaker and powerhouse vocalist Randy Houser releases “Back In The Bottle,” tapping into the reckless, unforgettable nights that linger long after last call. Listen to the new track, available now via Magnolia Music Group, Below.
 
Leading up to the song’s release, Houser shared the inspiration for the song on socials: “When I had the idea for ‘Back In The Bottle,’ not to name drop, but I was hanging out with Post Malone, and we went to the studio. Didn’t even leave to get started ‘til probably midnight. We did two nights like that, and we were having a great time, writing and drinking.
 
“So that gave me the idea: ‘If I could put last night back in the bottle, I’d pull last night back down and drink it again,’” he shared with a laugh. “And we’ve all had those nights. How many times have we hair-of-the-dogged it? Sometimes you just gotta keep rocking and keep having fun.”
 
Written solely by Houser and co-produced by Blake Chancey, “Back In The Bottle” opens with the familiar wreckage of a rowdy night out, leading to a chorus that embraces the kind of night you’d gladly repeat, consequences be damned:

The release ignites a new chapter for Houser, and fans can expect a steady stream of new music throughout 2026. “Back In The Bottle” follows Note To Self (Deluxe), which saw the Mississippi native trading powerhouse moments with Cody Johnson, Justin Moore, Miranda Lambert and Riley Green.

Beyond the studio and stage, Houser has been building his presence in film, with roles in Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon” and starring alongside Dennis Quaid in “The Hill,” demonstrating the range and depth of his artistry.
 
For tour dates and more information, visit RandyHouser.com or follow along on Instagram @RandyHouser, Facebook.com/RandyHouser and Twitter/X @RandyHouser.

Kenny Chesney Celebrates HEART LIFE MUSIC's #1 NY TIMES Bow w NYC Book Event 12/2

When Kenny Chesney’s Heart Life Music debuted at No. 1 on the New York Times Hardcover Nonfiction and Combined Print and E-Book Nonfiction lists, the East Tennessee songwriter/superstar who became the 2025 Country Music Hall of Fame Contemporary inductee and first country artist to take his music into another dimension at Las Vegas’ Sphere knew there was only one way to celebrate: a book event in New York City. After closing the opening weekend of the prestigious Miami Book Fair with a sold-out conversation with co-author and friend Holly Gleason, the pair will do one more book event in partnership with the Strand at Kaufman Music Center on the Upper West Side.
 
“It’s amazing how much people love listening to us talk about the process, the stories, why I finally did it,” marvels the man called “the People’s Superstar” by the Los Angeles Times. “After three completely sold-out events in Florida, it felt like we weren’t truly done. After all, you don’t get a New York Times Number One every day, and it seemed like we needed to do one of these talks in New York.”
 
With a 7 p.m. start time – and doors opening at 5:30 – Chesney’s next book talk is perhaps the most intimate. Less than 450 tickets are available, but with such quick notice, it seemed like the right place and time to do one more conversation about Heart Life Music, which has not only topped both the New York Times Hardcover Nonfiction and Combined Print and E-Book Nonfiction lists, but has struck a chord with taste-making critics.
 
“Kenny Chesney Pulls Back the Curtain with Heart Life Music,” Garden & Gun titled a multiple page story, while Tennessean offered, “this book digs deeper than surface-level conversations…. (it) offers answers and honesty regarding career-long inspirations and passion” and Publishers Weekly raved “One for the Road.” In addition, People wrote the book “gives fans an inside and in-depth look at his life and career, and ultimately drives home one overarching theme: Chesney's truest love is creating music,” Wall Street Journal opined, “an emphatic success” and Travel + Leisure wrote “Heart Life Music emerges as perhaps more than a memoir. For Chesney, it’s a genuine meditation on connection and purpose.”

At a time when so much in the world is polarizing, Chesney’s postcards from a life that saw a college kid go to Moscow, spend time playing a dissolute Lower Broadway only to be signed by a label originally from Macon, Georgia through touring and learning from icons Alabama and George Jones, a whirlwind of friendships with heroes including Jimmy Buffett, Eddie Van Halen, Bruce Springsteen, Sammy Hagar, the Wailers, as well as collaborating with Dave Matthews, Uncle Kracker, Willie Nelson and Grace Potter, put people in the moment and offer a map to create unthinkable things through consistent, if small steps. Offering plenty of wisdom shared, frustrations and failures along the way, Heart Life Music exults the triumphs and the fun that emerged over time.
 
Known for commanding the largest stages nationwide, Kenny Chesney’s first book takes the reader – or audio book listener – to places long gone, creates unexpected music in Jamaica, the Kremlin, New England and Cabo San Lucas, drifts across the waters of the Caribbean, Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Beyond meeting and collaborating with heroes, forging transcendent friendships in the islands and beyond, Chesney’s introspective look at the songs and sound that defined No Shoes Nation offers the intimacy of sharing a slow afternoon on the water.
 
Tickets for the December 2 event at Kaufman Music Center are available HERE. Seating is limited; each ticket holder will receive an autographed copy of Heart Life Music as well.

About The Authors
One of contemporary American music’s biggest names, Kenny Chesney was voted into the Country Music Hall of Fame this year and was named Billboard’s No.1 Country Artist of the 21st Century. Selling out America’s major stadiums for two decades and playing to over a million fans every summer since 2002, Variety pronounced him “country music’s only true long-term stadium act.” The East Tennessee songwriter/superstar has over 105 Platinum certifications, won the prestigious Entertainer of the Year eight times, as well as holding Billboard’s record for the most Country Airplay No. 1s with 36 chart-topping songs that define coming of age in the flyover in the 21st Century. This year, the game-changing superstar became the first country artist to perform at the groundbreaking Sphere, taking No Shoes Nation into a whole new dimension, creating a space to work hard, play hard, love hard and come together in the spirit of celebrating all the moment offers. Heart Life Music is his first book.
 
Holly Gleason’s work has appeared in Rolling Stone, Los Angeles Times, New York Times, the Library of Congress’ National Registry of Sound Recordings, among other outlets. She was the LA Press Club’s Entertainment Journalist of the Year and the National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Association’s Independent Journalist of the Year. A former Rock & Roll Hall of Fame/Case Western Reserve Fellow, she’s the creator of Belmont Book Award-winning Woman Walk The Line, and co-authored Miranda Lambert’s New York Times best-seller Y’All Eat Yet as well as Prine on Prine: Interviews & Encounters.

Eric Church Performed "Bleed On Paper" on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" Ahead of Friday's Live Track Release

Eric Church closed out the 2025 leg of his critically acclaimed Free The Machine Tour this past weekend in Los Angeles, delivering the kind of boundary-pushing live spectacle fans have come to expect from the 11-time GRAMMY nominee – including a nod this year for Best Contemporary Country Album with his latest, Evangeline vs. The Machine. The finale, packed with deep cuts, fan favorites, and the tour’s signature immersive production, brought an exclamation point to a year of sold-out arena stops that drew raves from critics and fans alike.
 
The Inglewood show capped a run that saw Church redefine what a modern arena tour can be – from unpredictable audibles, like bringing longtime vocal partner Joanna Cotten out for a surprise “Drowning Man” setlist addition late in the show or adding a trombone solo from Roy Agee before “Knives of New Orleans,” to the cinematic production that tells the visual story of Evangeline vs. The Machine from start to finish as Church brings the songs to life. Whether backed by 24 orchestral musicians, the original Eric Church Band, or standing alone with just his guitar, Free The Machine spotlights Church at his most daring. And with 24 newly added-dates on sale now via EricChurch.com, fans won’t have to wait long for more: Free The Machine resumes in January.
 
The new year also brings a unique offering from the man Rolling Stone celebrates for creating “a record that is both dazzling and challenging, and creates a listening experience that upends the idea of what country music is,” as Evangeline vs. The Machine: Comes Alive releases exclusively in IMAX theaters across the U.S. and Canada for limited showings on Wednesday, Feb. 11 & Saturday, Feb. 14. A full list of locations is available via IMAX.com/EricChurch along with tickets to the limited engagement on sale now.
 
Filmed across two nights at The Pinnacle in Nashville, Tenn., the concert film is also complimented by a 19-track live album, Evangeline vs. The Machine: Comes Alive (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) arriving Friday, Feb. 13 and available for pre-order / pre-save HERE. In addition to preview tracks “Desperate Man (Live At The Pinnacle, Nashville, TN / May 24, 2025)” available HERE and “Knives Of New Orleans (Live At The Pinnacle, Nashville, TN / May 24, 2025)” available HERE, “Bleed On Paper (Live At The Pinnacle, Nashville, TN / May 24, 2025)” arrives this Friday, Nov. 21. Pre-order / pre-save HERE.
 
Church joined ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” last night (Nov. 17) to preview the track, joined onstage by all 24 musicians from both the Free The Machine Tour and the live recording. Watch Below.
 
For more information on all to come, visit EricChurch.com and follow on Facebook and Twitter/X @ericchurch and on Instagram @ericchurchmusic.

2026 Free the Machine Tour Markets, Venues and Special Guests:
Jan. 22  ||  Washington, D.C.  ||  The Anthem  ||  Caylee Hammack
Jan. 23  ||  Washington, D.C.  ||  The Anthem  ||  Caylee Hammack
Feb. 5  ||  Omaha, Neb.  ||  CHI Health Center  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 6  ||  Sioux Falls, S.D.  ||  Denny Sanford PREMIER Center  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 7  ||  St. Paul, Minn.  ||  Grand Casino Arena  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 12  ||  Toronto, Ont.  ||  Scotiabank Arena  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 13  ||  Buffalo, N.Y.  ||  KeyBank Center  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 14  ||  Albany, N.Y.  ||  MVP Arena  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 19  ||  North Little Rock, Ark.  ||  Simmons Bank Arena  ||  49 Winchester
Feb. 20  ||  Kansas City, Mo.  ||  T-Mobile Center  ||  49 Winchester
Feb. 21  ||  St. Louis, Mo.  ||  Enterprise Center  ||  49 Winchester
Feb. 26  ||  Tulsa, Okla.  ||  BOK Center  ||  Stephen Wilson Jr.
Feb. 27  ||  Fort Worth, Texas  ||  Dickies Arena  ||  Stephen Wilson Jr.
Feb. 28  ||  Austin, Texas  ||  Moody Center  ||  Stephen Wilson Jr.
Mar. 5  ||  Knoxville, Tenn.  ||  Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center  ||  49 Winchester
Mar. 6  ||  Greensboro, N.C.  ||  First Horizon Coliseum  ||  49 Winchester
Mar. 7  ||  North Charleston, S.C.  ||  North Charleston Coliseum  ||  49 Winchester
Mar. 19  ||  Birmingham, Ala.  ||  Legacy Arena at the BJCC  ||  49 Winchester
Mar. 20  ||  Atlanta, Ga.  ||  State Farm Arena  ||  49 Winchester
Mar. 27  ||  Hollywood, Fla.  ||  Hard Rock Live  ||  Kashus Culpepper
Apr. 3  ||  Greenville, S.C.  ||  Bon Secours Wellness Arena  ||  Ashley McBryde
Apr. 4  ||  Charlotte, N.C.  ||  Spectrum Center  ||  Ashley McBryde
Apr. 10  ||  Jacksonville, Fla.  ||  VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena  ||  Ashley McBryde
Apr. 11  ||  Tampa, Fla.  ||  Benchmark International Arena  ||  Ashley McBryde

About Eric Church
A seven-time ACM Award winner, four-time CMA Award winner (including 2020’s Entertainer of the Year, TIME100 Philanthropy 2025 honoree and 11-time GRAMMY nominee – including four nods for Best Country Album, Eric Church has built a passionate fan base through his critically acclaimed catalog of music. Church’s October 2024 release, “Darkest Hour,” saw the superstar signing over all of his publishing royalties to the people of North Carolina to provide immediate relief following the devastation of Hurricane Helene while also providing ongoing funds to support a more resilient future for his home state. The song is featured alongside current single “Hands Of Time” on his latest album, Evangeline vs. The Machine, marking his first new music since 2021’s Heart & Soul triple album (“Stick That In Your Country Song,” “Hell Of A View”). That project followed prior releases including RIAA Gold-certified Desperate Man (“Some Of It,” “Desperate Man”), 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”), Double-Platinum certified The Outsiders (“Like a Wrecking Ball,” “Talladega”) and 4x Platinum-certified Chief (“Springsteen,” “Drink In My Hand”), as well as 32 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, and has his own SiriusXM music channel, “Eric Church Outsiders Radio,” his own liquor offering, Whiskey JYPSI, and his six-story venue on Nashville’s famed lower Broadway, Chief’s. For more information, visit EricChurch.com and follow on Facebook and Twitter/X @ericchurch and on Instagram @ericchurchmusic.

Maddox Batson Shares the Spirit of the Season with 'Home For The Holidays' Bundle

On the heels of announcing his worldwide tour for early 2026, Maddox Batson releases his Home For The Holidays bundle with two renditions of Christmas staples: “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” and “Last Christmas.” Listen to the tracks via Prosper Entertainment / Warner Records here.
 
Batson is also set to take the stage at the Opry Country Christmas show on Sunday, Nov. 30; the 15-year-old singer/songwriter made his Grand Ole Opry debut on March 26, 2025. Tickets are available for purchase for the Opry Country Christmas show here. 
 
“Christmas is HUGE at my house. We’re the family that puts the tree up early, watches Elf and Home Alone on repeat and blasts Christmas music like it’s our job! It’s always been my favorite holiday – the one that takes me back to going over to my Nana and Papa’s house and spending quality time with my family,” says Batson. “This year, I wanted to put my own spin on two of my all-time favorites – ‘I’ll Be Home For Christmas’ and ‘Last Christmas.’ Hope y’all love ’em as much as I loved making ’em. Happy Holidays and see you out there on the road in 2026!”
 
In the midst of offering fans new tracks for the holiday season, Batson also announced his 2026 worldwide tour. The tour kicks off in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida on Feb. 17, 2026 and includes coast-to-coast U.S. shows along with Canadian and European dates. Baylee Lynn, Jenna Davis, Just Jayne and Timmy McKeever support Batson for various dates. Public on-sale occurs on Nov. 14 at 12 p.m. local time via MaddoxBatson.com.
 
Batson is hailed as  “A young star, new on the country charts already striking a chord and hitting all the right notes” by NBC Nightly News, while Forbes praises Batson’s stage presence, sharing “It’s not only his lyrics and relatable subject matter that’s captured the hearts of young fans, it’s his engaging, high-energy personality that shines through every live performance, music video, and interaction with everyone he meets.” 
 
With so much momentum and a 2026 40+ headlining tour announcement, expect more music soon to follow upbeat, sentimental track “Coincidence” via Prosper Entertainment / Warner Records and “No More,” a powerful track that taps into heartbreak and healing with a combination of grit, vulnerability and raw emotional delivery. 
 
STAY TUNED WITH MADDOX BATSON
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About Maddox Batson:
With his Stagecoach Music Festival debut in April and the arrival of his deluxe EP First Dance (The After Party) in May, Maddox Batson was ready to show the world you’re never too young to be the face of music. Batson most recently wrapped his 29-city I Need A Truck Tour and released his new track “Coincidence.” The 15-year-old, hailed as “A young star, new on the country charts already striking a chord and hitting all the right notes” by NBC Nightly News, is set to hit the road in 2026 for the Maddox Batson Live Worldwide Tour with North American and European dates.
 
Life is moving fast for the multi-instrumentalist (piano, guitar & mandolin), and he’s trying his best to remain a kid while becoming next up in country-pop music. “It can be overwhelming, this life, but I’ve got a lot of good people surrounding me,” he explains. “I’m still just a kid, though, and I’m happy about that.”