Dierks Bentley Establishes Broken Branches Fund to Provide Mental Health Resources Through Music Health Alliance

Today, award-winning songwriter and entertainer Dierks Bentley announces the establishment of the Broken Branches Fund with a multi-year financial commitment to provide mental health resources to the creative and touring communities. The Broken Branches Fund will be administered in partnership with Music Health Alliance (MHA)and will provide mental health grants for qualified candidates and their families to cover outpatient counseling, as well as a plan for follow-up care. More information and to apply for access to all resources that MHA’s groundbreaking Music Industry Mental Health Fund provides is available HERE. Additionally, fans will have an opportunity to donate to the fund themselves throughout the summer at tour stops and other activations and online at https://bit.ly/DonateToMHA25.
 
“Making this album and prepping for the tour, I’ve never been more aware of the sacrifice that the people in this town make every day to keep country music playing. Whether you’re sitting in a room all day trying to write the perfect hook or leaving home on a bus for weeks at a time, it can be isolating and exhausting. This just felt like the right opportunity to make a bigger commitment on my part to supporting those folks and their families in a more direct and intentional way,” said Bentley.
 
“Dierks was one of the first artists to believe in and support Music Health Alliance, and from day one, he’s led with both heart and action,” said Tatum Allsep, Founder & CEO of Music Health Alliance. “Creating the Broken Branches Fund at MHA to support music’s mental health shows his deep commitment to the people who power our industry both on stage and off, and to their well-being for many years to come.”
 
Bentley will kick off his 30-city Broken Branches Tour on Thursday, May 29, joined by Zach Top and The Band Loula, ahead of his forthcoming 11th studio album, Broken Branches, out June 13 (MCA). As he leans into this new chapter, Bentley embraces the knots and imperfections that have shaped his journey, proudly honoring the outliers of both country life and country music. The upcoming album’s lead single “She Hates Me,” which features his “trademark humor” (Billboard) while blending elements of Whitley and Weezer, scored Bentley his career highest charting debut with its playful edge to Bentley’s signature country sound. He counts eight Number One albums, 22 Number One songs, and over 9.5 billion global streams to his credit—plus 15 Grammy nominations and membership in the historic Grand Ole Opry. Continuing the path built from the ground up, as an entrepreneur, he has four locations of the gastropub and live music venue “Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row,” has a Flag & Anthem lifestyle collection "Desert Son” and recently released ROW 94 – a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey crafted with only “three ingredients and the truth” at Kentucky’s Green River Distilling Co. For more information on new music and upcoming tour dates, visit Dierks.com.

About Music Health Alliance: 
Music Health Alliance’s mission is to Heal the Music by providing advocacy and access to healthcare and mental health resources that Protect, Direct, and Connect music professionals with medical and financial solutions. Thanks to the direct efforts of MHA, over 32,000 members of the music community across the country have gained access to lifesaving transplants, medicine, health insurance, mental health resources, emergent dental care and end-of-life care, saving over $145 million in healthcare costs. MHA’s services are available at no cost to those who have made a living in the music industry for three or more years. Spouses, partners, and children of qualifying individuals may also receive access to the non-profit’s services from birth to end of life. For more information please visit MHA’s website or contact MHA directly at 615-200-6896 or email info@musichealthalliance.com.

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

“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.

The Neal Agency Adds Michelle Bower As President, Strategic Partnerships

With 15 years of experience leading brand development and brokering innovative partnerships for products and artists alike, Michelle Bower joins The Neal Agency (TNA) as President, Strategic Partnerships.
 
“The entire Neal Agency team exudes passion, energy and excellence when it comes to representing our roster of artists and building a company culture that fosters creativity and empowerment,” Bower shares. “It’s an honor to join such a well-respected group of individuals in the industry to usher in a new era of innovative partnerships and successes for our notable and emerging clients."
 
TNA co-head and founder Austin Neal adds, “We are excited to have Michelle join our team as the President of Strategic Partnerships. Her deep industry knowledge and proven ability to build meaningful relationships will be invaluable as we continue to expand our reach and create new opportunities for clients. We look forward to the impact she will make in shaping the future of the agency.”
 
Over the course of her career, Bower has been responsible for the creation and execution of integrated communications strategies for a diverse roster of brands, spanning Premium & Luxury Spirits, Fashion & Beauty, Jewelry, Consumer Packaged Goods, Tech and Corporate Communications verticals. 
 
With extensive leadership experience managing teams, ensuring revenue growth and maximum awareness, Bower most recently served as Associate Senior Vice President at LaForce, leading campaigns for Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, Madewell, YSL Beauty, Motorola and Tinder. Prior to joining LaForce, Bower held leadership roles at Jonesworks, Dittoe Public Relations and Fleishman-Hillard. 
 
After spending a decade in New York City, Bower now resides in Nashville, and proudly hails from Indiana.
 
TNA is a boutique entertainment and talent agency representing emerging artists to record-breaking talents. In this role, Bower will drive brand partnerships for the agency’s artist roster. Congratulate Bower at Michelle@TheNealAgency.com. 

Michelle Bower | Photo Credit: Kristina Moss

Singer/Songwriter Katie Kadan Releases New Track "I Do" + Debut EP set for May 9, 2025

With one of the boldest, brashest, turn-your-day-around vocals in music, soulful singer/songwriter Katie Kadan is back with another original track, “I Do.” The hopelessly romantic new song released for Valentine’s Day is giving fans a another taste of what to expect from her debut EP set for release on May 9, 2025.  Listen to “I Do” HERE. 
 
Written by Kadan with Thomas “Tawgs” Salter and Johnny Reid who also serves as producer, “I Do” captures the undying optimism of the heart for what is sure to be an instant classic wedding song.

For the forthcoming EP fans can expect Kadan to keep pulling big emotions from simple, self-penned songs and delivering them with a blowtorch of a vocal. Kadan set the tone for the EP last year with her first release, "Without You.” Pairing a rich swagger and almost-spiritual self-confidence with a propulsive rhythm and stadium-sized vocal, Kadan calls it her “women's anthem” – a much-needed message of freedom.
 
She followed that release with the sultry, “Unless I Fall In Love,” where she finds the self-worth we all need … waiting within. “Sometimes life can be like ‘If I'm not this certain way, do I have value? Am I ever going to have purpose?’” she says. “’Am I ever going to be worthy of love, or will I keep falling short?’”
 
A classically-inspired soul diva for a brand-new age, sharing her growth toward self-respect through the empowering joy of music has become Kadan’s calling – her sense of purpose. A born entertainer and the youngest of four in a church-centered, deeply-musical family, it took Kadan her whole life to find her purpose. But now that she has, it seems almost inevitable. 
 
Praising her “big, loud family,” the vocal phenom learned to harmonize as soon as she could talk and delivered her first performance in front of her church congregation at 3 years old. Homeschooled by a songwriting mother who loved the ‘60s folk revival, and with a father whose taste kept Otis Redding, James Brown and the giants of soul on repeat, music was embedded in Kadan’s daily life – so deep that when she couldn’t concentrate on her studies, the fix was to play some piano and quiet her mind. 
 
Obviously talented, her parents helped a teenaged Kadan join one of Chicago’s top choirs, and they even scraped enough money together to send her to conservatory. But feeling like she had no shot at a career, she dropped out, taking odd jobs and teaching vocal lessons instead. “I was unhappy,” she admits now. “That's not what I wanted to do, but I had no idea how to get into the music business. And honestly, I didn't think I would have a place … because I'm a fat lady.”
 
Needing some joy in her life, Kadan knew where to turn. She found her way to the female owned and operated Underground Wonder Bar and got herself a life-changing gig. Thrilling local crowds with her dynamic voice – an explosive, all-natural mix of raspy soul and gospel power – she made a point to go her own way, performing original songs right from her first night … and people took notice. A producer from NBC’s The Voice soon got in touch, but still feeling unworthy, Kadan turned them down.
 
“I didn't want to do it. I thought, it's kind of a sellout,” she says with a laugh. “I was going to go back to school actually, because I was tired of the hustle. I was going to go for psychology, and I'm like, ‘Music to me is the healer. And if I can't be a singer, I’ve got to help people in a different way.’”
 
Eventually, though, Kadan changed her mind. Determined to give herself just one chance – and feeling like she had nothing to lose – she showed up for The Voice and stood out immediately, taking third place on Season 17 in 2019. Impressing judges and fans alike with her big style, big voice, and ability to leave her heart on the stage each night, Kadan’s joyful personality and clear comfort in her own skin tore through countless stereotypes. She became an inspiration to millions. 
 
“I Do” follows Christmas release “Hey, Mr. Santa” as well as “Without You” and “Unless I Fall in Love,” which will both be featured on her forthcoming, debut EP to be released May 9, 2025. For more information and to stay updated on the latest news and tour dates, visit katiekadan.com and follow along on Instagram @KatieKadanOfficial and @KatieKadan on Facebook, Twitter and TikTok. 

Queer Latin Country Artist Angie K Releases New Self-Titled EP

2024 was a break out year for El Salvador-born, rising country singer/songwriter Angie K which found the powerhouse vocalist making her Grand Ole Opry debut and premiering her video for “Golden” in Times Square via CMT. Showing no signs of slowing down, she is kicking 2025 off with the release of a personal and reflective self-titled EP available today. Named a 2025 Artist to Watch by both Consequence and the Nashville Scene, Angie K is a co-writer on all six tracks of the independent release called, “fiery and fierce,” by Entertainment Focus. Produced by acclaimed writer/producer and BMI Songwriter of the Year, Stephony Smith, listen to Angie K HERE. 
 
“This is definitely one of the toughest projects I’ve ever made,” shared Angie K. “Not so much in the studio with the band but writing these songs and deciding on what made the cut. Purposely choosing the most vulnerable ones…that took a lot of emotional work.” 
 
She continues, “Putting something so personal out requires letting go of the way people might react to it, as an artist that’s hard to do. ‘Red Dirt’ and ‘Death of Me’ are songs about deep grief. While ‘Games’ and ‘I’m Going Under’ have repressed anger and frustration coursing through them. ‘Stay’ and ‘Golden’ are both about me finding my way out of those darker feelings. This EP is a snapshot of my life when I wrote these songs. I’m so proud of it and excited for folks to go on this emotional journey.”
 
The release of the EP comes on the heels of a major personal life moment for the out, country artist as well, her engagement to longtime love, Marissa Boucher. Angie shared the news exclusively yesterday with Us Weekly, “When I pulled out the ring and she saw it, I knew she was going to say yes. We both cried, it was the best moment of my life. Then she ran and got her bag and pulled out a ring too! It was an unreal moment. Then as if the night couldn’t get better, as we walked back to the restaurant, a violin player started playing some of our favorite songs — all pure chance. It really was the most perfect way to end the night.”

A 2024 CMT LISTEN UP artist, Angie K was born and raised in El Salvador until age 11 before moving to Georgia, with her love for country music was nurtured from a young age. Her mother’s dedication, saving up to bring her to Nashville to the Grand Ole Opry, came full circle with her making her Opry debut last Aug., fulfilling a lifelong dream. The Holler “Artist You Need to Know” is set to return to the Opry stage on Feb. 15 to celebrate the new EP. 

American Songwriter was on hand for her emotional Opry debut sharing, “Her voice rang strong and clear through the Grand Ole Opry House, compelling fans to raise their phones on the last song and fill the darkened theater with light—a moving display of acceptance and adoration for a woman who has dreamed of standing in the hallowed circle since before her feet touched North American soil.”

The EP release follows a recent collaboration with Jimencio for the Tejano and country music infused “Yo Quiero Todo.” Co-penned by Jimencio and Angie K, it is the first collaboration between the Nashville artists, with the duo lauding an unconditional love that withstands all circumstances. Listen to “Yo Quiero Todo” HERE. 

The queer country artist first made her mark on Music City with bilingual track, “Real Talk,” catapulting her onto the country scene as a “Highway Find” on SiriusXM’s The Highway. The EP features two unreleased tracks “Games” and “I’m Going Under as well as recent releases “Stay,” “Death of Me” and “Red Dirt on Mars,” which left Billboard praising her “disarming vulnerability.” 
 
A member of the 2023 CMT Next Women of Country class, Angie worked on the EP with legendary writer/producer Smith, who penned the smash hit “It’s Your Love” for Tim McGraw/Faith Hill and has received cuts from some of music’s biggest stars including The Chicks, Shania Twain, Barbara Streisand, Kenny Chesney, Terri Clark, Reba McEntire and more. She explained the influence Smith had on her when it came to releasing “Death of Me” in a “Holler Nashville Session” sharing, “It's a very vulnerable song, and I almost didn't put in on the record, but I'm glad I did - just because of the stories I've heard of people relating to it.” 

As an out and independent artist, she has accumulated over 20 million+ streams and 500k+ followers. Angie has also shared the stage with Tanya Tucker, Trace Adkins, Melissa Etheridge and more. She took the main stage at Nashville Pride and the Reverb Stage at CMA Fest last year. 
 
Fans can find Angie K this spring and summer performing at Tortuga Music Festival, Gulf Coast Jam and NEBRASKAland Days. For the latest stay tuned at officialangiek.com/ and follow along @officialangiek on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

Photo Credit: Marissa Boucher

Singer/Songwriter Katie Kadan Releases New Holiday Track "Hey, Mr. Santa"

With one of the boldest, brashest, turn-your-day-around vocals in music, singer/ songwriter Katie Kadan is back with another original track for the holiday season. The cheeky “Hey, Mr. Santa” is available today and follows the Windy City, soul-singer's recent release, “Unless I Fall In Love” which gave fans another taste of her debut EP to be released next year. Listen to “Hey Mr. Santa” HERE, “Unless I Fall In Love” HERE and watch the official video for “Unless I Fall In Love” below. 
 
“Instead of your typical Christmas song about decorating trees, cozying up with a loved one or listening for sleigh bells, we wanted to write a Christmas song with the cheeky fun my fans know and love,” shared Kadan. “This song is for all of my single folks out there. I hope you find a Santa to get wrapped up with this holiday season.”
 
Written by Kadan with Johnny Reid who also serves as producer, the song finds the powerhouse chanteuse, with her rich swagger and stadium-sized vocal, playfully asking the “man with the bag” if he’d be her Santa tonight.

Kadan’s second original holiday release in as many years follows her new song, the sultry “Unless I Fall In Love” released last month. On the track she finds the self-worth we all need … waiting within. “Sometimes life can be like ‘If I'm not this certain way, do I have value? Am I ever going to have purpose?’” she says. “Am I ever going to be worthy of love, or will I keep falling short?’”
 
Pulling big emotions from simple, self-penned songs and delivering them with a blowtorch of a vocal, Kadan has finally answered those questions for herself. It’s up to each of us to do the same, but a little inspiration never hurts.
 
A classically-inspired soul diva for a brand-new age, sharing her growth toward self-respect through the empowering joy of music has become Kadan’s calling – her sense of purpose. A born entertainer and the youngest of four in a church-centered, deeply-musical family, it took Kadan her whole life to find her purpose. But now that she has, it seems almost inevitable. 
 
Praising her “big, loud family,” the vocal phenom learned to harmonize as soon as she could talk and delivered her first performance in front of her church congregation at 3 years old. Homeschooled by a songwriting mother who loved the ‘60s folk revival, and with a father whose taste kept Otis Redding, James Brown and the giants of soul on repeat, music was embedded in Kadan’s daily life – so deep that when she couldn’t concentrate on her studies, the fix was to play some piano and quiet her mind. 
 
Obviously talented, her parents helped a teenaged Kadan join one of Chicago’s top choirs, and they even scraped enough money together to send her to conservatory. But feeling like she had no shot at a career, she dropped out, taking odd jobs and teaching vocal lessons instead. “I was unhappy,” she admits now. “That's not what I wanted to do, but I had no idea how to get into the music business. And honestly, I didn't think I would have a place … because I'm a fat lady.”
 
Needing some joy in her life, Kadan knew where to turn. She found her way to the female owned and operated Underground Wonder Bar and got herself a life-changing gig. Thrilling local crowds with her dynamic voice – an explosive, all-natural mix of raspy soul and gospel power – she made a point to go her own way, performing original songs right from her first night … and people took notice. A producer from NBC’s The Voice soon got in touch, but still feeling unworthy, Kadan turned them down.
 
“I didn't want to do it. I thought, it's kind of a sellout,” she says with a laugh. “I was going to go back to school actually, because I was tired of the hustle. I was going to go for psychology, and I'm like, ‘Music to me is the healer. And if I can't be a singer, I’ve got to help people in a different way.’”
 
Eventually, though, Kadan changed her mind. Determined to give herself just one chance – and feeling like she had nothing to lose – she showed up for The Voice and stood out immediately, taking third place on Season 17 in 2019. Impressing judges and fans alike with her big style, big voice, and ability to leave her heart on the stage each night, Kadan’s joyful personality and clear comfort in her own skin tore through countless stereotypes. She became an inspiration to millions. 
 
“Hey, Mr. Santa” and “Unless I Fall In Love” follow her summer release, “Without You,” the first taste of what fans can expect from Kadan’s debut EP set for release next year. For more information and to stay updated on the latest news and tour dates, visit katiekadan.com and follow along on Instagram @KatieKadanOfficial and @KatieKadan on Facebook, Twitter and TikTok. 

Singer/Songwriter Angie K Releases "Golden"; New EP Coming Early Next Year

Rising country singer/songwriter and Holler “Artist You Need to Know,” Angie K has had a breakout year which includes making her Grand Ole Opry debut. Today she releases the song that closed out that first-time performance and earned her a standing ovation on the hallowed stage, “Golden.” The thoughtful and reflective ballad is available now. Listen Below. 
 
“‘Golden’ is a song about the present,” shared Angie K, “and to remember that the greatest gift we can give each other is our time so slow down and savor every moment.”
 
"Golden" is the latest new music from Angie K and will be featured on her forthcoming self-titled EP, Angie K. Produced by acclaimed writer/producer and BMI Songwriter of the Year, Stephony Smith, the EP will be released independently early next year. 
  
Written by Angie K along with Mary Kutter, Brian Alexander and Noah Lubert, the independently released track finds her reflecting on our most precious commodity…time…and soaking in every second. 

This latest release follows the Latin country artist’s recent collaboration with Jimencio for the Tejano and country music infused “Yo Quiero Todo.” Co-penned by Jimencio and Angie K, it is the first collaboration between the Nashville artists, with the duo lauding an unconditional love that withstands all circumstances. Listen to “Yo Quiero Todo” HERE. 

The queer country artist first made her mark on Music City with bilingual track, “Real Talk,” catapulting her onto the country scene as a “Highway Find” on SiriusXM’s The Highway. The new music follows the powerhouse vocalist’s recent releases “Stay,” “Death of Me” and “Red Dirt on Mars,” which left Billboard praising her “disarming vulnerability.” She also recently explained the influence Smith had on her when it came to releasing “Death of Me” in a “Holler Nashville Session” sharing, “It's a very vulnerable song, and I almost didn't put in on the record, but I'm glad I did - just because of the stories I've heard of people relating to it.” Listen to “Stay” HERE, “Red Dirt on Mars” HERE and “Death of Me” HERE. 

The 2023 CMT Next Women of Country artist has been in the studio working on the forthcoming EP with Smith, who penned the smash hit “It’s Your Love” for Tim McGraw/Faith Hill and has received cuts from some of music’s biggest stars including The Chicks, Shania Twain, Barbara Streisand, Kenny Chesney, Terri Clark, Reba McEntire and more. 

Named a 2024 CMT LISTEN UP artist with CMT also calling her an “up-and-coming female artist to watch,” this year is certainly shaping up to be a breakout year for Angie K. Born and raised in El Salvador until age 11 and raised in Georgia, her love for country music was nurtured from a young age. Her mother’s dedication, saving up to bring her to Nashville to the Grand Ole Opry, came full circle with her making her Opry debut in Aug., fulfilling a lifelong dream.

American Songwriter was on hand for the emotional evening sharing, “Her voice rang strong and clear through the Grand Ole Opry House, compelling fans to raise their phones on the last song and fill the darkened theater with light—a moving display of acceptance and adoration for a woman who has dreamed of standing in the hallowed circle since before her feet touched North American soil.”

For the latest news and tour dates, visit officialangiek.com and follow @officialangiek on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.  

About Angie K
A member of CMT’s 2023 Next Women of Country class, Angie K was named earlier this year to CMT’s 2024 LISTEN UP Class and named an “Artist You Need to Know” by Holler. With a nod to Angie K’s Latin roots, her first bilingual single “Real Talk” catapulted her onto the country scene as a “Highway Find” on SiriusXM’s The Highway. As an out and independent artist she has accumulated over 20 million+ streams, 500k+ followers and even played on the Nissan Stadium stage during the 2022 CMA Fest. Angie has also shared the stage with Tanya Tucker, Trace Adkins, Melissa Etheridge and more.
 
With CMT calling her an “up-and-coming female artist to watch" this year, 2024 is certainly shaping up to be a breakout year for Angie K. She made her Grand Ole Opry debut in August, and took the main stage at Nashville Pride and the Reverb Stage at CMA Fest this year. She will release her self-titled EP, Angie K, in early 2025. For upcoming tour dates and more information, visit officialangiek.com/ and follow along @officialangiek on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. 

Singer/Songwriter Julie Williams Releases 'Tennessee Moon' EP

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Billboard’s Country Rookie of the Month Julie Williams, known for her soulful lyrics and authentic storytelling, is continuing to draw in listeners with her deep connection to nature and emotion. The queer singer/songwriter’s latest EP, Tennessee Moon, is available today, perfectly timed with today’s Hunter’s Moon. It follows recent releases “reckless road,” released on the Full Corn Moon and “just friends?”, which dropped on the rare Sturgeon Blue Moon. The releases all align with the full moon phases, as outlined by the Farmers' Almanac. 
 
Billboard says her “keen artistic mission further evolves” on the EP noting the “intertwining elements of folk, ‘90s country, and pop with her soothing vocal.” Entertainment Focus calls the 2023 CMT Next Women of Country artist a “vital voice.” For Tennessee Moon Williams was inspired by some of her favorite singer/songwriters like Boy Genius, Kacey Musgraves, Allison Krauss, Emmylou Harris and Taylor Swift to create a story-driven sonic journey that was both dreamy and moody. Listen to Tennessee Moon HERE.  
 
“Tennessee Moon was inspired by a picture that I took of one of my exes as they kayaked at Percy Priest Lake under a stunning Tennessee sunset,” shares Williams. “I watched this person - and our relationship - float farther and farther away from me, just as the sky was fading from orange and red to blue and gray. With that picture, and with this EP, I wanted to capture that wistful feeling - of trying to hold onto a beautiful, golden moment that you know in your heart is not going to last. This EP is an ode to my mid-20s - all the golden days, the dark nights, the flowers, and the dirt.”

Her Tennessee Moon Tour in support of the indie folk project kicked off Oct. 5 and will take her across the Midwest and East Coast with stops in New York, Columbus, Chicago, Philadelphia, and more. The tour resumes Nov. 7 at Nashville’s Blue Room. Tickets for the tour are available now at thisisjuliewilliams.com. 
 
In addition to the new EP and tour, Williams and her song “Southern Curls” will be featured in the upcoming Hulu docuseries “It's All Country.” Hosted by Luke Bryan, Williams joins a cast of stars including Mickey Guyton, Kane Brown, Wynonna Judd, Sheryl Crow, Lady A and Luke Combs for the series. With never-before-seen performances Bryan and guests will uncover the secrets, hidden inspirations and personal moments that shaped country music. Release date will be announced soon. 
 
No stranger to the road, Williams has built her career there playing over 120 shows in 26 states in the past two years and captivated audiences at festivals such as Newport Folk Festival, CMA Fest, Tortuga Music Fest, High Water Festival, Cayamo, and AmericanaFest. She has also shared the stage with acts across genres, including Jason Isbell, Allison Russell, Mt. Joy, Devon Gilfillian, Brittney Spencer and Will Hoge.
 
Williams carries her mixed-race heritage and queerness as proudly as she carries her music. Raised in Florida, the singer/songwriter has been turning heads in Nashville’s country and Americana music scenes with her compelling mix of storytelling, soft-yet-powerful vocals, and indie folk production. That creative path is on full display with previously released “just friends?”.  The song, a blend of both classic country storytelling and queer reflection, was the first taste of new music from the EP. The video for the track, which just made its world premiere in Times Square via CMT, is a nostalgic, queer story that captures both the sadness and innocence of what romantic feelings for an old friend might have looked like. Watch the video for “just friends?” HERE.
 
Music has always been a part of Williams’ life - honing her singing talent in church and beach bars and belting national anthems before packed stadiums. She grew up listening to everyone and everything from The Chicks and James Taylor to Gladys Knight and Michael Jackson. Even though she was drawn to the storytelling of country music, she never quite found the sound that spoke to everything she was: Black, white, Southern, a woman, hopeful, truthful. So naturally, it was up to Williams to make this sound. “My music is mixed like me,” is how she describes it, “I want to tell the stories that need to be told.”
  
The Florida native started sharing those stories, and people listened. A student at Duke University, she was signed to Small Town Records whose alumni include Mike Posner and Delta Rae and sang as a vocalist for the Duke Jazz Ensemble. After graduating with a public policy degree in 2019, she moved to Nashville and found her musical home in the Black country and Americana scene. She was named in Rissi Palmer’s Color Me Country Class of 2021 and she was featured in a “PBS NewsHour” special on Black women in country music. In 2022, Julie joined the Black Opry, a collective of Black artists in country, blues, folk, and Americana music. Julie was named a CMT Equal Access artist in 2023, joining the mtheory backed program to support marginalized voices in country music.
 
“People want to hear black voices, black stories,” Williams says. “I was nervous about how my songs would be received by Nashville - but people want honesty. They want honest songs about real life, and for the artists they follow to take a stand.”
 
Tennessee Moon follows her self-titled EP, Julie Williams, with American Songwriter praising her “success through the power of her own voice” and the Tennessean noting she “discovers joy, maturation” on the project. 
 
An activist at heart, Williams launched Green Room Conversations in March 2023, a series of performances and speaking on college campuses to raise awareness of sexual harassment in the music industry and her own experience with sexual violence. Williams hopes to empower the next generation of artists and industry changemakers and has already visited MTSU, University of Texas-Austin, and Duke with more campus visits planned for later this year.
 
“I’m writing my songs for the girl who cries in the shower as she tries to detangle her hair and is afraid to look in the mirror because she hates what she sees; for the 17-year-old who is just now learning to love herself; for the 20-or 30-something who is just trying to figure it out," shares Williams. "That’s who my songs are for.”

Tennessee Moon Tour Dates
Nov. 7        Nashville, TN               Blue Room
Nov. 8        Columbus, OH             Natalie’s Grandview 
Nov. 9        Chicago, IL                  Judson & Moore 
Nov. 10      Cincinnati, OH             Live on Orchard Lane
Nov. 16      New York, NY             Cafe Wha?
Nov. 17      Boston, MA                 Club Passim
Nov. 21      Vienna, VA                  Jammin Java
Nov. 22      Charlottesville, VA      Front Porch
Nov. 23      Easton, MD                  Stoltz Listening Room
Nov. 24      Philadelphia, PA           Milkboy 
 
For the latest news and tour dates, visit thisisjuliewilliams.com and follow along on social media @juliewilliamsmusic on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook and @j_w_music on X.

Music Health Alliance Offers FREE Open Enrollment Health Insurance & Medicare Assistance for Music Community

Music Health Alliance (MHA) is offering FREE appointments for individuals, groups, and seniors across the country to ensure they get the healthcare coverage they need during this year’s open enrollment window. 
 

OPEN ENROLLMENT DATES FOR 2025
Medicare: October 15 - December 7
Marketplace: November 1 - January 15

Note: In order to have 2025 coverage beginning January 1, the enrollment process must be completed no later than Sunday, December 15

 
During open enrollment, MHA healthcare advocates will advise and enroll members of the music industry and their families in the best healthcare and/or Medicare plans that meet their needs and budget. This service is available to any person who has worked in the music industry for three years or more. Spouses, legal domestic partners, and dependent family members may also qualify. If there has been an income change, a change in coverage, or simply a need to help navigate the complicated health insurance landscape, MHA has you covered! 
 
To book an open enrollment appointment with an MHA healthcare advocate, please email:
· Leah for Individual/Family Health Insurance
· Erin for Group Health Insurance
· Shelia Medicare Annual Enrollment (65+)
 
Starting October 18, the music community can help Heal The Music and  ensure continuation of MHA’s year-round, FREE healthcare advocacy and resources during chronic and crisis health situations through a one-time or recurring donation to Music Health Alliance. With more than 25,000 members of the nationwide music community served over 10 years, MHA’s advocacy work has saved more than $127M in healthcare costs and provided critical life-saving resources for medical procedures, mental health care, senior care support, diagnostic tests, prescriptions, as well as helped countless families avoid bankruptcy due to mounting medical debt. MHA also serves as a second responder in times of crisis, including Route 91, the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastation of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, assisting with the long-term needs of those in our industry, including accessing mental health resources, negotiating medical bills, finding healthcare, and navigating the multitude of health issues that arise from catastrophe. 

DONATE TO HEAL THE MUSIC
 
Entirely funded through grants and individual and corporate donations, financial support from the music community is critical to continue MHA’s FREE programs and services. Every $1 donated equals $30 in life-saving healthcare and mental health care resources to help #HealTheMusic. If you are interested in supporting MHA, visit HealTheMusic.com to learn more.

Singer/Songwriter Julie Williams Releases "reckless road"; 'Tennessee Moon' EP Set for 10/17

CMT Next Women of Country artist Julie Williams, known for her soulful lyrics and authentic storytelling, is continuing to draw in listeners with her deep connection to nature and emotion. Her latest release, “reckless road,” perfectly timed with today’s Full Corn Moon, follows recent release ‘just friends?”, which dropped on the rare Sturgeon Blue Moon last month. Both songs align with the full moon phases, as outlined by the Farmers' Almanac. Fitting as she continues to build momentum to the release of her new EP, Tennessee Moon, available Oct. 17, 2024 on the Hunter's Moon.  
 
Produced by Jonathan Smalt and written by Williams with Melody Walker, the uptempo “reckless road” is the second release from her upcoming EP. Listen to “reckless road” Below and pre-save Tennessee Moon HERE.  
 
“I wrote this song about falling for someone who was always looking over their shoulder. Someone who could never stay still for too long and always had their mind on the highway. I wanted to join them on their journey, but they could never quite let me in,” shares Williams. “The more I tried, the farther they ran. Inspired by the 90s country songs I grew up listening to, I wanted a song that I could blast out the window driving down a two-lane mountain highway with my friends and scream so loud that I'd forget that ex who did me wrong.”
 
The 90s-country inspired tune finds Williams reflecting on a lover who is constantly running and chasing something they will never find. A dancing banjo, acoustic guitar, pedal steel and classic-country style drums combine for a song that could be found on either country, Americana, or indie folk playlists. 

Williams is also set to return to AmericanaFest this week with an Official AmericanaFest Showcase on Sept. 21, as well as participating in A Tribute to the Songs of 1974 on Sept. 20. For more information visit americanamusic.org. Her Tennessee Moon Tour in support of the upcoming indie folk project will trek across the Midwest and East Coast with stops in New York, Columbus, Chicago, Philadelphia, Nashville, and more. Tickets for the tour are available now at thisisjuliewilliams.com. 
 
No stranger to the road, Williams has built her career there playing over 120 shows in 26 states in the past two years and captivated audiences at festivals such as Newport Folk Festival, CMA Fest, Tortuga Music Fest, High Water Festival, Cayamo, and AmericanaFest. She has also shared the stage with acts across genres, including Jason Isbell, Allison Russell, Mt. Joy, Devon Gilfillian, Brittney Spencer and Will Hoge.
 
Williams carries her mixed-race heritage and queerness as proudly as she carries her music. Raised in Florida, the singer/songwriter has been turning heads in Nashville’s country and Americana music scenes with her compelling mix of storytelling, soft-yet-powerful vocals, and indie folk production. That creative path is on full display with “just friends?” available now.  The song, a blend of both classic country storytelling and queer reflection, was the first taste of new music from her new EP. The video for the track, which just made its world premiere in Times Square last week via CMT, is a nostalgic, queer story that captures both the sadness and innocence of what romantic feelings for an old friend might have looked like. Watch the video for “just friends?” HERE, listen to “just friends?” HERE. 
 
Music has always been a part of Williams’ life - honing her singing talent in church and beach bars and belting national anthems before packed stadiums. She grew up listening to everyone and everything from The Chicks and James Taylor to Gladys Knight and Michael Jackson. Even though she was drawn to the storytelling of country music, she never quite found the sound that spoke to everything she was: Black, white, Southern, a woman, hopeful, truthful. So naturally, it was up to Williams to make this sound. “My music is mixed like me,” is how she describes it, “I want to tell the stories that need to be told.”

Tennessee Moon Tour Dates
Oct. 5         Durham, NC                 Music on Main
Oct. 10       Oxford, MS                  SarahFest
Oct. 11       Alpharetta, GA             Wire & Wood Songwriters Festival 
Nov. 7        Nashville, TN               Blue Room
Nov. 8        Columbus, OH             Natalie’s Grandview 
Nov. 9        Chicago, IL                  Judson & Moore 
Nov. 10      Cincinnati, OH             Live on Orchard Lane
Nov. 16      New York, NY             Cafe Wha?
Nov. 21      Vienna, VA                  Jammin Java
Nov. 22      Charlottesville, VA      Front Porch
Nov. 23      Easton, MD                  Stoltz Listening Room
Nov. 24      Philadelphia, PA           Milkboy 
 
For the latest news and tour dates, visit thisisjuliewilliams.com and follow along on social media @juliewilliamsmusic on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook and @j_w_music on X.

For Tennessee Moon Williams was inspired by some of her favorite singer/songwriters like Boy Genius, Kacey Musgraves, Allison Krauss, Emmylou Harris and Taylor Swift to create a story-driven sonic journey that was both dreamy and moody while seamlessly blending country, 90s folk and indie production elements.
 
“Tennessee Moon was inspired by a picture that I took of one of my exes as they kayaked at Percy Priest Lake under a stunning Tennessee sunset,” shares Williams. “I watched this person - and our relationship - float farther and farther away from me, just as the sky was fading from orange and red to blue and gray. With that picture, and with this EP, I wanted to capture that wistful feeling - of trying to hold onto a beautiful, golden moment that you know in your heart is not going to last. This EP is an ode to my mid-20s - all the golden days, the dark nights, the flowers, and the dirt.”
 
The Florida native started sharing those stories, and people listened. A student at Duke University, she was signed to Small Town Records whose alumni include Mike Posner and Delta Rae and sang as a vocalist for the Duke Jazz Ensemble. After graduating with a public policy degree in 2019, she moved to Nashville and found her musical home in the Black country and Americana scene. She was named in Rissi Palmer’s Color Me Country Class of 2021 and she was featured in a “PBS NewsHour” special on Black women in country music. In 2022, Julie joined the Black Opry, a collective of Black artists in country, blues, folk, and Americana music. Julie was named a CMT Equal Access artist in 2023, joining the mTheory backed program to support marginalized voices in country music.
 
“People want to hear black voices, black stories,” Williams says. “I was nervous about how my songs would be received by Nashville - but people want honesty. They want honest songs about real life, and for the artists they follow to take a stand.”
 
Tennessee Moon follows her self-titled EP, Julie Williams, with American Songwriter praising her “success through the power of her own voice” and the Tennessean noting she “discovers joy, maturation” on the project. 
 
An activist at heart, Williams launched Green Room Conversations in March 2023, a series of performances and speaking on college campuses to raise awareness of sexual harassment in the music industry and her own experience with sexual violence. Williams hopes to empower the next generation of artists and industry changemakers and has already visited MTSU, University of Texas-Austin, and Duke with more campus visits planned for later this year.
 
“I’m writing my songs for the girl who cries in the shower as she tries to detangle her hair and is afraid to look in the mirror because she hates what she sees; for the 17-year-old who is just now learning to love herself; for the 20-or 30-something who is just trying to figure it out," shares Williams. "That’s who my songs are for.”

Singer/Songwriter Angie K Releases Bilingual "Stay" for Hispanic Heritage Month; Announces New EP Coming 10/25

Rising country singer/songwriter and Holler “Artist You Need to Know,” Angie K is bringing her penchant for authentic storytelling,  powerful vocals, and unwavering pride in her Latin heritage to latest release, “Stay.” Available today, the sultry and bilingual new track, released in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, effortlessly weaves together heartfelt lyrics with melodies that evoke both traditional country sounds and the rhythms of Latin music, showcasing her versatility as an artist. 
 
"Stay" is the latest new music from Angie K and will be featured on her forthcoming self-titled EP, Angie K. Produced by acclaimed writer/producer and BMI Songwriter of the Year, Stephony Smith, the EP is set for release independently on October 25, 2024. Listen to “Stay” Below.
 
“I wrote ‘Stay’ about my relationship of nine years. That may not seem long in the scope of things, but it’s long enough to have truly had to give each other the space to change and grow,” shares Angie K. “There’s such a depth that comes with that. We’ve seen so many sides of each other, both given each other reasons to give in when it gets tough, but every day we show up for each other. We learn to be better for each other. Over and over again. It’s beautiful.” 
 
Written by Angie K along with David Borys, Tom Pino and Jason Haag, the independently released track finds her pleading with a partner in both English and Spanish to stay and fight for their love. 

The queer country artist first made her mark on Music City with bilingual track, “Real Talk,” catapulting her onto the country scene as a “Highway Find” on SiriusXM’s The Highway. The new music follows the  powerhouse vocalist’s recent releases "Death of Me" and “Red Dirt on Mars," which left Billboard praising her "disarming vulnerability." She also recently explained the influence Smith had on her when it came to releasing "Death of Me" in a "Holler Nashville Session" sharing, "It's a very vulnerable song, and I almost didn't put in on the record, but I'm glad I did - just because of the stories I've heard of people relating to it." Listen to “Red Dirt on Mars” HERE and listen to "Death of Me" HERE. 

The 2023 CMT Next Women of Country artist has been in the studio working on the forthcoming EP with Smith, who penned the smash hit “It’s Your Love” for Tim McGraw/Faith Hill and has received cuts from some of music’s biggest stars including The Chicks, Shania Twain, Barbara Streisand, Kenny Chesney, Terri Clark, Reba McEntire and more. 

Named a 2024 CMT LISTEN UP artist with CMT also calling her an “up-and-coming female artist to watch," this year is certainly shaping up to be a breakout year for Angie K. Born and raised in El Salvador till age 11 and raised in Georgia, her love for country music was nurtured from a young age. Her mother’s dedication, saving up to bring her to Nashville to the Grand Ole Opry, came full circle with her making her Opry debut last month, fulfilling a lifelong dream.

American Songwriter was on hand for the emotional evening sharing, “Her voice rang strong and clear through the Grand Ole Opry House, compelling fans to raise their phones on the last song and fill the darkened theater with light—a moving display of acceptance and adoration for a woman who has dreamed of standing in the hallowed circle since before her feet touched North American soil.”

For the latest news and tour dates, visit officialangiek.com and follow @officialangiek on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.  

About Angie K
A member of CMT’s 2023 Next Women of Country class, Angie K was named earlier this year to CMT’s 2024 LISTEN UP Class and named an “Artist You Need to Know” by Holler. With a nod to Angie K’s Latin roots, her first bilingual single “Real Talk” catapulted her onto the country scene as a “Highway Find” on SiriusXM’s The Highway. And as an out and independent artist she has accumulated over 20 million+ streams, 500k+ followers and even played on the Nissan Stadium stage during the 2022 CMA Fest. Angie has also shared the stage with Tanya Tucker, Trace Adkins, Melissa Etheridge and more.
 
With CMT calling her an “up-and-coming female artist to watch"  this year, 2024 is certainly shaping up to be a break out year for Angie K. She made her Grand Ole Opry debut in August, and took the main stage  at Nashville Pride and the Reverb Stage at CMA Fest this year. She will release her self-titled EP, Angie K, on Oct. 25. For upcoming tour dates and more information, visit officialangiek.com/ and follow along @officialangiek on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. 

Singer/Songwriter Julie Williams Releases "just friends?"; New EP 'Tennessee Moon' Set for Release 10/17

CMT Next Women of Country Julie Williams carries her mixed-race heritage and queerness as proudly as she carries her music. Raised in Florida, Williams has been turning heads in Nashville’s country and Americana music scenes with her compelling mix of storytelling, soft-yet-powerful vocals, and indie folk production. She continues down that creative path with the release of her new track “just friends?” available now. The video for the song will make its world premiere this Monday, Aug. 26 in Times Square via CMT. 
 
The latest from Williams, a blend of both classic country storytelling and queer reflection, is the first taste of new music from her upcoming indie folk project, Tennessee Moon, set for release Oct. 17, 2024. Listen to “just friends?” Below  and pre-save Tennessee Moon HERE.  
 
“I was inspired by my friend and fellow Black Opry artist, Denitia and her song ‘Old Friend’ to write this one,” shares Williams. “Hearing her sing it night after night on tour, I began reflecting on some friends that I am not in contact with anymore and questioned why the ending of those friendships felt like breakups.” 
 
Williams continues, “I am now a confidently-out bisexual woman, but at the time of those friendships, I did not know myself fully. Knowing who I am now, the song is a reflection about those relationships and would they have ended differently. I wanted to capture both the sadness of nostalgia and the beautiful confusion of young love that comes with discovering one’s identity.” 
 
Produced by Jonathan Smalt and written by Williams with Melody Walker, the track is a nostalgic queer story about realizing you once had romantic feelings for an old friend that gives the listener the feeling of traveling down a winding road at sunset reflecting on a lost love driven by a dancing pedal steel, banjo, acoustic guitar, and classic country percussion.

For Tennessee Moon Williams was inspired by some of her favorite singer/songwriters like Boy Genius, Kacey Musgraves, Allison Krauss, Emmylou Harris and Taylor Swift to create a story-driven sonic journey that was both dreamy and moody while seamlessly blending  country, 90s folk and indie production elements.
 
“Tennessee Moon was inspired by a picture that I took of one of my exes as they kayaked at Percy Priest lake under a stunning Tennessee sunset,” shares Williams. “I watched this person - and our relationship - float farther and farther away from me, just as the sky was fading from orange and red to blue and gray. With that picture, and with this EP, I wanted to capture that wistful feeling - of trying to hold onto a beautiful, golden moment that you know in your heart is not going to last. This EP is an ode to my mid-20s - all the golden days, the dark nights, the flowers, and the dirt.”
 
In support of the forthcoming EP, Williams will celebrate with a release show at Nashville’s Blue Room on Nov. 7. Tickets go on sale this Friday, Aug. 23 at 10 am local time. To purchase, visit thisisjuliewilliams.com. 
 
No stranger to performing, Williams has built her career on the road playing over 120 shows in 26 states in the past two years and captivated audiences at festivals such as Newport Folk Festival, CMA Fest, Tortuga Music Fest, High Water Festival, Cayamo, and AmericanaFest. She has also shared the stage with acts across genres, including Jason Isbell, Allison Russell, Mt. Joy, Devon Gilfillian, Brittney Spencer and Will Hoge.
 
Music has always been a part of Williams’ life - honing her singing talent in church and beach bars and belting national anthems before packed stadiums. She grew up listening to everyone and everything from The Chicks and James Taylor to Gladys Knight and Michael Jackson. Even though she was drawn to the storytelling of country music, she never quite found the sound that spoke to everything she was: Black, white, Southern, a woman, hopeful, truthful. So naturally, it was up to Williams to make this sound. “My music is mixed like me,” is how she describes it, “I want to tell the stories that need to be told.”
 
The Florida native started sharing those stories, and people listened. A student at Duke University, she was signed to Small Town Records whose alumni include Mike Posner and Delta Rae and sang as a vocalist for the Duke Jazz Ensemble. After graduating with a public policy degree in 2019, she moved to Nashville and found her musical home in the Black country and Americana scene. She was named in Rissi Palmer’s Color Me Country Class of 2021 and she was featured in a “PBS NewsHour” special on Black women in country music. In 2022, Julie joined the Black Opry, a collective of Black artists in country, blues, folk, and Americana music. Julie was named a CMT Equal Access artist in 2023, joining the mTheory backed program to support marginalized voices in country music.
 
“People want to hear black voices, black stories,” Williams says. “I was nervous about how my songs would be received by Nashville - but people want honesty. They want honest songs about real life, and for the artists they follow to take a stand.”
 
Tennessee Moon follows her self-titled EP, Julie Williams, with American Songwriter praising her “success through the power of her own voice” and the Tennessean noting she “discovers joy, maturation” on the project. 
 
An activist at heart, Williams launched Green Room Conversations in March 2023, a series of performances and speaking on college campuses to raise awareness of sexual harassment in the music industry and her own experience with sexual violence. Williams  hopes to empower the next generation of artists and industry changemakers and has already visited MTSU, University of Texas-Austin, and Duke with more campus visits planned for later this year.
 
“I’m writing my songs for the girl who cries in the shower as she tries to detangle her hair and is afraid to look in the mirror because she hates what she sees; for the 17-year old who is just now learning to love herself; for the 20-or 30-something who is just trying to figure it out," shares Williams. "That’s who my songs are for.”

Photo Credit: Jacquline Justice

"American Idol” Winner Iam Tongi is on the “Road to Hana”

“American Idol” Season 21 winner and Hawaii native, Iam Tongi releases new track, “Road to Hana”  via 19 Recordings. Co-written by Tongi, the song is a love letter to the islands where he grew up. Listen to “Road to Hana” Below .
 
Recorded in Nashville at Soultrain Sound Studios, Tongi says of the song, “I’ve always been proud of my heritage and where I was raised. Hawaii is such a big place with so many beautiful secret destinations. There’s a few however that are known around the world. The road to Hana is 64.4 miles of untouched beauty. This song is a celebration of that beauty and everything it has to offer.”

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 29 million views. 
 
Tongi became the first Pacific Islander to win the series, performing an emotional duet with James Blunt of his audition song "Monsters" – watch it HERE.  He 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 will appear in “MAUI RISING: The Fight for Hawai'i’s Future,” airing tonight, Friday, Aug. 9, at 8 p.m. EDT on ABC, streaming the next day on Hulu. The one-hour primetime special marks a year since the deadliest wildfire in modern U.S. history tore through the picturesque town of Lahaina, Maui, leaving a community reeling and inspiring a new generation of organizers ready to stand up for change. Narrated by actor and Hawai’i resident Jason Scott Lee, the program highlights the strength, determination and resilience of the people of Lahaina and follows Native Hawaiian community leaders who see the tragedy as an opportunity to re-envision a new town based on ecological restoration, cultural repair, and ultimately a chance to build a stronger, more equitable and more sustainable future for all of Hawai’i.  
 
“MAUI RISING: The Fight for Hawai'i’s Future” spotlights Lahaina leaders who see the catastrophic fire as a pivot point and opportunity to rectify long-standing issues around affordable housing, the tourism-based economy, water rights and resource exploitation. In addition to Tongi, interviews include legendary Hawaiian surfer Archie Kalepa; Hawaiian cultural practitioner Ke’eaumoku Kapu; key organizers of the grassroots community group Lahaina Strong, Pā’ele Kiakona, Courtney Lazo and Jordan Ruidas; and more.
 
Tongi is currently on the road with dates across the U.S. through the end of the year. For the latest news including tour dates and new music visit officialiamtongi.com and follow along @wtongi on Instagram, TikTok, X and Facebook. 

Upcoming Tour Dates
8/10            Tulsa, OK           Gathering Place
8/23            Salt Lake City, UT       Granary Live
9/11          Virginia Beach, VA      24th Street Stage 
9/12            Jacksonville, NC Hooligans Live
9/21            Sacramento, CA  Cal Expo State Fairgrounds
9/28            San Diego, CA    Mission Bayfest
10/10          York, PA             Appell Center for the Performing Arts
10/12          Orleans, MA                Outermost Roots and Blues Festival
10/17          Eau Claire, WI    Pablo Center at the Confluence
10/19          Madisonville, KY        Glema Mahr Center For The Arts
11/09          Tacoma, WA                 Tacoma Dome

Singer / Songwriter Chris Housman is 'Laid Back' with Pals Brooke Eden and Adam Mac in New Video

Earlier today queer country artist Chris Housman released his latest music video for “Laid Back.” The track, written by Housman along with Emily Kroll and Christian Wood and produced by Wood, is featured on his critically-acclaimed debut album, Blueneck, and offers his take on the classic Country summer song. 
 
Featured recently on “CBS Sunday Morning’s” digital platforms, Housman shares of the track, “I love Country music and feel-good beats, and ‘Laid Back’ encapsulates both of those to me. I wanted to write a song reminiscent of those quintessential drinkin’ and sunnin’ songs you’d have on repeat on the boat on a hot summer day.”
 
The new clip, directed by Ford Fairchild and produced by Rebecca Adler, premiered via YouTube with the out singer/songwriter hosting a live Q&A before sharing the video. Shot at Percy Priest Lake, the video finds Housman and friends, including fellow queer country artists Brooke Eden and Adam Mac, enjoying a day of fishing and fun in the sun. 
 
“Filming the video for ‘Laid Back’ was exactly that…spending the day on the water having a great time with great friends. One of my favorite things to do,” shares Housman. “We borrowed Adam and his fiancé Lee’s boat nicknamed ‘She Ain’t Fancy But She Floats’ - an appropriately named vessel for a song about making the perfect lake day out of a little. I grew up loving Country summer songs, and I hope the video shows that beer, boats and fishing are for queer people too!”
 
Watch “Laid Back” Below. 
 
Called “one of Nashville's most authentically soulful singer-songwriters “ by the Tennessean, the man USA Today declared a “gayme-changer” has brought together both a queer and country sensibility with his debut album that, to many, might seem at odds with one another. Yet backed by a rich six string sound, he delivers a classic twang infused with his Kansas baritone to gently, yet unapologetically, speak his truth at every turn. Listen to Blueneck HERE. 

An NPR All Songs Considered Best Album pick noting, “…he is making beautifully crafted music that any classic country fan would love,” Housman co-wrote all 13 tracks on the album, offering a musical bridge for a divided time. Called “irresistible” by Rolling Stone, with “Good Morning America” praising him for “making waves,” and Billboard hailing him as a beacon for “outcasts in the genre,” Housman’s message is a simple one: “Country music is for everyone.” Given the over 6 million streams and 279,000 online followers for an independent artist, it's clearly a message that the world wants to hear.
 
The native mid-westerner’s country credentials go beyond his music though. He was born and raised in Hanston, Kansas, the epitome of small-town America with a population of just 200. His childhood was rooted in the rural and the conservative, growing up on a farm and living for Country music. “At 7 years old, I loved going to Country jam sessions with my family. I would get mesmerized by this guy Tom, who played fiddle,” recounts Housman, “At Christmas, I got a fiddle from Santa, and I picked it up and ran from there.” 
 
His talent was quickly apparent, and by the age of 8, he was performing with the family band, playing in venues across the state. Over time he would add other strings to his bow, learning to sing, play guitar, upright bass, piano, saxophone, spoons, banjo, and even whistle at a competitive level. 
 
“I played a ton of shows as a kid,” he recalls, “but my relationship with Country changed when I turned 18 and I came out as gay.” He moved to Nashville to attend Belmont on an academic scholarship and stopped playing for some time. “I thought, ‘I can continue to be comfortable and out and gay, or I can do country music, but I definitely can’t do both.’" For a while, that was that. 
 
However, the world of country music never quite let Housman go. After years working behind the scenes doing copyright and licensing for other artists, Housman couldn’t ignore the call of the stage anymore. It was a freak accident that brought him back into the fold. In 2014, Housman broke his neck, a shock to the system that made him realize he hadn’t moved to Nashville to just work on other peoples' music. After a brief stint in a duo, he began writing and performing at colleges across the country solo. 
 
In fact, a number of tracks on his debut album have already been resonating with fans. Title track “Blueneck,” a welcoming homespun manifesto that proudly declares “Y’all means all,” went viral on TikTok taking the burgeoning singer from 72 followers to hundreds of thousands overnight and hit No. 1 on the iTunes country chart, No. 4 on iTunes all-music chart, and peaked at No. 16 on the Billboard Digital Country chart.
 
Other previously released tracks like “Bible Belt,” an examination of religious trauma, and the fable-like “Drag Queen,” which celebrates a teacher of the year who goes from Michael to Michelle after hours, continued the dialogue between his genre and his lived experience. The clever wordplay and radio-friendly pop-country sounds made these songs instant hits with his rapidly expanding fanbase and expedited the release of his debut album.  
 
“It feels like my life’s work. The thing I’ve been making since I picked up the fiddle at 7,” Housman effuses “It’s pretty upbeat and positive but it’s also my soul, my truth.” 
 
The album’s recent release for “High Hopes” left Pride.com declaring Housman was “absolutely feeding us this summer” while the video for   “Guilty as Sin” saw its music video premiere in Times Square through CMT with Queerty calling it "defiantly gay." A special moment to be sure for an independent artist. However, for Housman, the greatest gift has been the response from fans. 
 
“I see a lot of people out there who grew up loving country music, but gravitated away from it because they didn’t feel welcome there anymore,” shares the tattooed troubadour. “When those people tell me I helped them finally feel seen in the genre…that’s already living the dream as far as I’m concerned.” 

Housman is one of six participants in this year’s Equal Access Development Program, an intensive artist and management training initiative created by CMT and management company mtheory to support underrepresented voices in country music.
 
For more information, visit ChrisHousman.com and follow along on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook@ChrisHousmanMusic and on X @ChrisHousman.

Singer/Songwriter Katie Kadan Releases New Empowerment Anthem "Without You"

With one of the boldest, brashest, turn-your-day-around vocals in music, you might think singer/songwriter Katie Kadan has always had the self-confident strut her tunes inspire. In fact, her truth is the opposite – but things have turned around.
 
After enduring the pandemic and moving to Nashville, careful creative growth has led to a brand-new chapter for the emerging star. Her just released new track, “Without You,” is giving fans a first taste of what to expect from her debut EP set for release later this year. Listen to “Without You” HERE. Watch the video below. 
 
Written by Kadan with Thomas “Tawgs” Salter and Johnny Reid who also serves as producer, the song of empowerment asks listeners to let go of the hang ups holding many women back. Pairing a rich swagger and almost-spiritual self-confidence with a propulsive rhythm and stadium-sized vocal, the Chicago-native calls it her “women's anthem” – a much needed message of freedom.

“For women, sometimes our relationships hold us back,” Kadan explains. “You feel like you have to be that sweet little lovely lady in the background. And with this song, it's like, ‘Hey, I'm going to move forward. You can come along with me on this journey, or not, but I'm going to keep on going.’”
 
A classically-inspired soul diva for a brand-new age, sharing her growth toward self-respect through the empowering joy of music has become Kadan’s calling – her sense of purpose. A born entertainer and the youngest of four in a church-centered, deeply-musical family, it took Kadan her whole life to find her purpose. But now that she has, it seems almost inevitable. 
 
Praising her “big, loud family,” the vocal phenom learned to harmonize as soon as she could talk and delivered her first performance in front of her church congregation at 3 years old. Homeschooled by a songwriting mother who loved the ‘60s folk revival, and with a father who’s taste kept Otis Redding, James Brown and the giants of soul on repeat, music was embedded in Kadan’s daily life – so deep that when she couldn’t concentrate on her studies, the fix was to play some piano and quiet her mind. 
 
Obviously talented, her parents helped a teenaged Kadan join one of Chicago’s top choirs, and they even scraped enough money together to send her to conservatory. But feeling like she had no shot at a career, she dropped out, taking odd jobs and teaching vocal lessons instead. “I was unhappy,” she admits now. “That's not what I wanted to do, but I had no idea how to get into the music business. And honestly, I didn't think I would have a place … because I'm a fat lady.”
 
Needing some joy in her life, Kadan knew where to turn. She found her way to the female owned and operated Underground Wonder Bar and got herself a life-changing gig. Thrilling local crowds with her dynamic voice – an explosive, all-natural mix of raspy soul and gospel power – she made a point to go her own way, performing original songs right from her first night … and people took notice. A producer from NBC’s The Voice soon got in touch, but still feeling unworthy, Kadan turned them down.
 
“I didn't want to do it. I thought, it's kind of a sellout,” she says with a laugh. “I was going to go back to school actually, because I was tired of the hustle. I was going to go for psychology, and I'm like, ‘Music to me is the healer. And if I can't be a singer, I’ve got to help people in a different way.’”
 
Eventually, though, Kadan changed her mind. Determined to give herself just one chance – and feeling like she had nothing to lose – she showed up for The Voice and stood out immediately, taking third place on Season 17 in 2019. Impressing judges and fans alike with her big style, big voice, and ability to leave her heart on the stage each night, Kadan’s joyful personality and clear comfort in her own skin tore through countless stereotypes. She became an inspiration to millions. 
 
“Without You” is the first of new music Kadan has planned for release this year. For more information and to stay updated on the latest news and tour dates, visit katiekadan.com and follow along on Instagram @KatieKadanOfficial and @KatieKadan on Facebook, Twitter and TikTok. 

Out Country Artist Chris Housman Has "High Hopes" with New Video

Praise for Blueneck:
“…absolutely great straight ahead country in the classic 1990s
Randy Travis, Garth, Dwight Yokam vein.” - NPR All Songs Considered Best Album Pick

“He might be the ‘gayme-changer’ the country music field needed.” - USA Today

“Must Hear…melds a ’90s country sound with songs that reflect Housman’s own truths and journey” -  Billboard 

“songwriting that honors the genre's classic era” and “folds progressive notions like honoring drag queens into the mix” - Tennessean

“solidly country music from a queer perspective” - The DISCovery Award by Music Row 

"an affecting and arresting debut album” - Instinct Magazine

As Pride Month comes to a close, queer country artist Chris Housman is ending the celebration on a high with the release of his music video for “High Hopes.” The playful track, written by Housman and Jerry Fuentes, opens his critically-acclaimed debut album, Blueneck, released May 31, and offers a refreshing take on the heaviness of the world with his banjo-driven instrumentation.
 
Featured this week on “CBS Sunday Morning’s” digital platforms, Housman shares of the song, “In a world where there seems to be a new catastrophic event every day, I had the idea for this song from a level of peace I strive for in life - a place where no amount of bad news today can take away my ‘High Hopes’ for a better tomorrow.” 
 
The new clip, directed by Ford Fairchild, premiered with Popculture yesterday and finds the out singer/songwriter scouring The Troubling Times before finding his “High Hopes.” Shot in downtown Chattanooga on one of only four operational carousels in the state of Tennessee, the 100-year old amusement park ride offered the perfect aesthetic for the recreational video.
 
Housman shared exclusively with Popculture, “(my) co-writer, and I had the idea. We were just talking about how, ‘oh I wish I could just be on a horse, just walking.’ The horse doesn't need to be running, just sitting, (me) in Western attire or something.... like, ‘Dang, that'd be awesome.’ Then he threw out the idea of, ‘Oh, what if you were on a carousel?’ They were like, ‘Yeah, let's find a carousel.’”
 
Watch “High Hopes” below. 
 
Called “one of Nashville's most authentically soulful singer-songwriters “ by the Tennessean, the man USA Today declared a “gayme-changer” has brought together both a queer and country sensibility with this project that, to many, might seem at odds with one another. Yet backed by a rich six string sound, he delivers a classic twang infused with his Kansas baritone to gently, yet unapologetically, speak his truth at every turn. Listen to Blueneck HERE. 

An NPR All Songs Considered Best Album pick noting, “…he is making beautifully crafted music that any classic country fan would love,” Housman co-wrote all 13 tracks on the album, offering a musical bridge for a divided time. Called “irresistible” by Rolling Stone, with “Good Morning America” praising him for “making waves,” and Billboard hailing him as a beacon for “outcasts in the genre,” Housman’s message is a simple one: “Country music is for everyone.” Given the over 5 million streams and 275,000 online followers for an independent artist, it's clearly a message that the world wants to hear.
 
The native mid-westerner’s country credentials go beyond his music though. He was born and raised in Hanston, Kansas, the epitome of small-town America with a population of just 200. His childhood was rooted in the rural and the conservative, growing up on a farm and living for Country music. “At 7 years old, I loved going to Country jam sessions with my family. I would get mesmerized by this guy Tom, who played fiddle,” recounts Housman, “At Christmas, I got a fiddle from Santa, and I picked it up and ran from there.” 
 
His talent was quickly apparent, and by the age of 8, he was performing with the family band, playing in venues across the state. Over time he would add other strings to his bow, learning to sing, play guitar, upright bass, piano, saxophone, spoons, banjo, and even whistle at a competitive level. 
 
“I played a ton of shows as a kid,” he recalls, “but my relationship with Country changed when I turned 18 and I came out as gay.” He moved to Nashville to attend Belmont on an academic scholarship and stopped playing for some time. “I thought, ‘I can continue to be comfortable and out and gay, or I can do country music, but I definitely can’t do both.’" For a while, that was that. 
 
However, the world of country music never quite let Housman go. After years working behind the scenes doing copyright and licensing for other artists, Housman couldn’t ignore the call of the stage anymore. It was a freak accident that brought him back into the fold. In 2014, Housman broke his neck, a shock to the system that made him realize he hadn’t moved to Nashville to just work on other peoples' music. After a brief stint in a duo, he began writing and performing at colleges across the country solo. 
 
In fact, a number of tracks on his debut album have already been resonating with fans. Title track “Blueneck,” a welcoming homespun manifesto that proudly declares “Y’all means all,” went viral on TikTok taking the burgeoning singer from 72 followers to hundreds of thousands overnight and hit No. 1 on the iTunes country chart, No. 4 on iTunes all-music chart, and peaked at No. 16 on the Billboard Digital Country chart.
 
Other previously released tracks like “Bible Belt,” an examination of religious trauma, and the fable-like “Drag Queen,” which celebrates a teacher of the year who goes from Michael to Michelle after hours, continued the dialogue between his genre and his lived experience. The clever wordplay and radio-friendly pop-country sounds made these songs instant hits with his rapidly expanding fanbase and expedited the release of his debut album.  
 
“It feels like my life’s work. The thing I’ve been making since I picked up the fiddle at 7,” Housman effuses “It’s pretty upbeat and positive but it’s also my soul, my truth.” 
 
The album’s recent release “Guilty as Sin” saw its music video premiere in Times Square through CMT with Queerty calling it "defiantly gay" and generating 350,000 views in just three weeks. A special moment to be sure for an independent artist. However, for Housman, the greatest gift has been the response from fans. 
 
“I see a lot of people out there who grew up loving country music, but gravitated away from it because they didn’t feel welcome there anymore,” shares the tattooed troubadour. “When those people tell me I helped them finally feel seen in the genre…that’s already living the dream as far as I’m concerned.”

Housman is one of six participants in this year’s Equal Access Development Program, an intensive artist and management training initiative created by CMT and management company mtheory to support underrepresented voices in country music.
 
For more information, visit ChrisHousman.com and follow along on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @ChrisHousmanMusic and on X @ChrisHousman.

Photo Credit: Ford Fairchild

About Chris Housman:
If Harlan Howard was right when he said “country music is three chords and the truth,” then Chris Housman is one of the best qualified artists working in Country today. Beyond the classic twang, rich six string backed sound, and disarming Kansas baritone, his offerings in the genre gently, yet unapologetically, speak his truth at every turn. As an openly gay country artist and songwriter, he meticulously brings together two worlds that, to many, are at odds with one another. Whether it’s the metaphoric “Drag Queen” which celebrates a small-town teacher who goes from Michael to Michelle after hours, or the viral sensation “Blueneck,” a welcoming homespun manifesto that proudly declares “y’all means all,” Housman’s music offers a musical bridge in a divided time. Called “irresistible” by Rolling Stone, with “Good Morning America” praising him for “making waves,” and Billboard staunchly affirming him as a saving grace for “outcasts in the genre,” Housman’s message is a simple one: “Country is for everyone.” Given his over 5 million streams and 275,000 online followers, it's clearly a message that the world wants to hear.

Singer/Songwriter Angie K Releases New Track 'Red Dirt on Mars'

Named a CMT Next Women of Country last year, singer/songwriter Angie K first made her mark on Music City with a nod to her Latin roots when her first single, the bilingual “Real Talk,” catapulted her onto the country scene as a “Highway Find” on SiriusXM’s The Highway. Now the powerhouse vocalist is back with her first taste of new music, “Red Dirt on Mars,” available today. Listen to “Red Dirt on Mars” Below. 
 
Set to be featured during “On The Horizon” on SiriusXM’s The Highway this weekend, the new track was produced by acclaimed writer/producer and BMI Songwriter of the Year, Stephony Smith and co-written by Angie K along with Hayden Cain, Joey Ebach and Mary Kutter, the new track takes listeners on a heartfelt journey through grief, exploring the profound sense of loss and disorientation that comes with losing someone special. 

That bottle turned empty and so did my mind 
Gravity left me, and blurred all the lines 
There’s nobody like her down here on earth 
Oh so fly me away to a place it don't hurt 

This small town in Georgia’s all I’ve ever known
The dust and the mud and the blood and the bones 
Where’s a cowgirl to go to burn a brand off her heart? 
The man on the moon says there’s red dirt on Mars 

The 2024 CMT LISTEN UP artist has been in the studio working on new music with Smith, who penned the smash hit “It’s Your Love” for Tim McGraw/Faith Hill and has received cuts from some of music’s biggest stars including The Chicks, Shania Twain, Barbara Streisand, Kenny Chesney, Terri Clark, Reba McEntire and more. 
 
Of the past year working on new music Angie K shares, “This song was a big turning point for me as a writer. I returned to writing as sort of therapy for me and it brought me so much healing.” She continues, “The songs that followed kept me on that path. This new music is for anyone looking for a place to belong and a soft place to land. My hope is this record is a safe place for anyone to fall into.”

With CMT calling her an “up-and-coming female artist to watch"  this year is certainly shaping up to be a break out year for Angie K. Born in El Salvador and raised in Georgia, her love for country music was nurtured from a young age. Her mother’s dedication, saving up to take her to the Grand Ole Opry, has come full circle as she prepares to make her Grand Ole Opry debut on August 16, fulfilling a lifelong dream. Tickets for her debut are available now at Opry.com. 

Fans can also catch appearances from Angie K this weekend at CMA Fest on June 7 at 12:45 PM on the CMA Close Up Stage (Fan Fair X in Music City Center) and June 8 at 10:15 AM on the Reverb Stage (Bridgestone Plaza at the Corner of 5th Ave and Broadway). She is also set to take the main stage at Nashville Pride on June 23. 

Stay tuned for more new music throughout the year. For the latest news and tour dates, visit officialangiek.com and follow @officialangiek on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. 

About Angie K
A member of CMT’s 2023 Next Women of Country class, Angie K was named earlier this year to CMT’s 2024 LISTEN UP Class. With a nod to Angie K’s Latin roots, her first bilingual single “Real Talk” catapulted her onto the country scene as a “Highway Find” on SiriusXM’s The Highway.  And as an out and independent artist she has accumulated over 20 million+ streams, 500k+ followers and even played on the Nissan Stadium stage during the 2022 CMA Fest. Angie has also shared the stage with Tanya Tucker, Trace Adkins, Melissa Etheridge and more.
 
With CMT calling her an “up-and-coming female artist to watch"  this year, 2024 is certainly shaping up to be a break out year for Angie K. She is also set to make her Grand Ole Opry debut later this year on August 16, and will take the main stage next month at Nashville Pride on June 23, and the Reverb Stage at CMA Fest on June 8. Stay tuned for more new music from Angie K all year. For upcoming tour dates and more information, visit officialangiek.com/ and follow along @officialangiek on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. 

Photo Credit: Marissa Boucher 

Country Artist Chris Housman Releases Debut Album 'Blueneck'

Just in time for Pride Month, Chris Housman has released his highly anticipated debut album, Blueneck. As an openly gay country artist and songwriter, Housman has brought together both a queer and country sensibility with this project that, to many, might seem at odds with one another. Yet backed by a rich six string sound, he delivers a classic twang infused with his Kansas baritone to gently, yet unapologetically, speak his truth at every turn. Listen to Blueneck HERE. 
 
An NPR All Songs Considered Best Album pick noting, “…he is making beautifully crafted music that any classic country fan would love,” Housman co-wrote all 13 tracks on the album, offering a musical bridge for a divided time. Called “irresistible” by Rolling Stone, with “Good Morning America” praising him for “making waves,” and Billboard hailing him as a beacon for “outcasts in the genre,” Housman’s message is a simple one: “Country music is for everyone.” Given the 4.5 million streams and 250,000 online followers for an independent artist, it's clearly a message that the world wants to hear.
 
The native mid-westerner’s country credentials go beyond his music though. He was born and raised in Hanston, Kansas, the epitome of small-town America with a population of just 200. His childhood was rooted in the rural and the conservative, growing up on a farm and living for Country music. “At 7 years old, I loved going to Country jam sessions with my family. I would get mesmerized by this guy Tom, who played fiddle,” recounts Housman, “At Christmas, I got a fiddle from Santa, and I picked it up and ran from there.” 
 
His talent was quickly apparent, and by the age of 8, he was performing with the family band, playing in venues across the state. Over time he would add other strings to his bow, learning to sing, play guitar, upright bass, piano, saxophone, spoons, banjo, and even whistle at a competitive level. 
 
“I played a ton of shows as a kid,” he recalls, “but my relationship with Country changed when I turned 18 and I came out as gay.” He moved to Nashville to attend Belmont on an academic scholarship and stopped playing for some time. “I thought, ‘I can continue to be comfortable and out and gay, or I can do country music, but I definitely can’t do both.’" For a while, that was that. 
 
However, the world of country music never quite let Housman go. After years working behind the scenes doing copyright and licensing for other artists, Housman couldn’t ignore the call of the stage anymore. It was a freak accident that brought him back into the fold. In 2014, Housman broke his neck, a shock to the system that made him realize he hadn’t moved to Nashville to just work on other peoples' music. After a brief stint in a duo, he began writing and performing at colleges across the country solo. 
 
In fact, a number of tracks on his debut album have already been resonating with fans. Title track “Blueneck,” a welcoming homespun manifesto that proudly declares “Y’all means all,” went viral on TikTok taking the burgeoning singer from 72 followers to hundreds of thousands overnight and hit No. 1 on the iTunes country chart, No. 4 on iTunes all-music chart, and peaked at No. 16 on the Billboard Digital Country chart.
 
Other previously released tracks like “Bible Belt,” an examination of religious trauma, and the fable-like “Drag Queen,” which celebrates a teacher of the year who goes from Michael to Michelle after hours, continued the dialogue between his genre and his lived experience. The clever wordplay and radio-friendly pop-country sounds made these songs instant hits with his rapidly expanding fanbase and expedited the release of his debut album.  
 
“It feels like my life’s work. The thing I’ve been making since I picked up the fiddle at 7,” Housman effuses “It’s pretty upbeat and positive but it’s also my soul, my truth.” 
 
The album’s most recent release “Guilty as Sin” saw its music video premiere last month in Times Square through CMT with Queerty calling it "defiantly gay" and generating 350,000 views in just three weeks. A special moment to be sure for an independent artist. However, for Housman, the greatest gift has been the response from fans. 
 
“I see a lot of people out there who grew up loving country music, but gravitated away from it because they didn’t feel welcome there anymore,” shares the tattooed troubadour. “When those people tell me I helped them finally feel seen in the genre…that’s already living the dream as far as I’m concerned.”

Fans in Music City can catch Housman next week as part of the line-up for GLAAD and Ty Herndon’s annual Concert for Love & Acceptance on Wednesday, June 5, at 7 pm at Margaritaville (322 Broadway). He will also return to CMA Fest for the second year on Friday, June 7 at 10:15 am performing on the Good Molecules Reverb Stage (Bridgestone Plaza at Corner of 5th Ave and Broadway). 
 
Housman is one of six participants in this year’s Equal Access Development Program, an intensive artist and management training initiative created by CMT and management company mtheory to support underrepresented voices in country music.
 
For more information, visit ChrisHousman.com and follow along on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @ChrisHousmanMusic and on X @ChrisHousman.

Photo Credit: Ford Fairchild

About Chris Housman:
If Harlan Howard was right when he said “country music is three chords and the truth,” then Chris Housman is one of the best qualified artists working in Country today. Beyond the classic twang, rich six string backed sound, and disarming Kansas baritone, his offerings in the genre gently, yet unapologetically, speak his truth at every turn. As an openly gay country artist and songwriter, he meticulously brings together two worlds that, to many, are at odds with one another. Whether it’s the metaphoric “Drag Queen” which celebrates a small-town teacher who goes from Michael to Michelle after hours, or the viral sensation “Blueneck,” a welcoming homespun manifesto that proudly declares “y’all means all,” Housman’s music offers a musical bridge in a divided time. Called “irresistible” by Rolling Stone, with “Good Morning America” praising him for “making waves,” and Billboard staunchly affirming him as a saving grace for “outcasts in the genre,” Housman’s message is a simple one: “Country is for everyone.” Given his 4.5 million streams and 250,000 online followers, it's clearly a message that the world wants to hear.

Music Health Alliance Kicks Off 6th Annual #HealTheMusic Day to Support Music Community

The 6th annual #HealTheMusic Day is October 20 and music makers across all genres are invited to join Dave Matthews Band, Spotify, Keith Urban, Dan Aykroyd, The Alabama Shakes, Phish, Vince Gill, Lauren Daigle, the Grand Ole Opry, and more to raise awareness and funding in support of Music Health Alliance (MHA), the music industry’s resource for healthcare. Funded entirely through individual and corporate donations, grants, and fundraising, MHA has provided FREE healthcare advocacy and resources and mental health support to more than 20,000 working music professionals nationwide for more than 10 years.
 
Launched in 2017, #HealTheMusic Day is the brainchild of Grammy award-winning artist and songwriter, Rodney Crowell. Crowell is championing this year’s campaign to raise awareness and support for the emergent and ongoing medical, dental, and mental health care needs of the music community — 76% of whom are self-employed or part of a small business — many with limited resources, and often uninsured or underinsured for healthcare. In just six years, #HealTheMusic Day has raised over $1M to provide a lifeline for those struggling with health or mental health issues in the music industry.
 
To become a partner in healing, members of the music industry, businesses dependent on the music industry, and fans of the music industry — including artists, songwriters, producers, publishers, publicists, promoters, managers, record label executives, booking agents, attorneys, makeup artists, live music venues, stylists, hospitality venues, and more — can pledge a percentage of a single day’s earnings or event to support MHA’s critical life-saving resources and help fellow music makers in need. Scan the QR code or visit HealTheMusic.com to learn more!
 
Through personal healthcare advocates, MHA’s free services range from providing access to mental health care, doctors, specialists, diagnostic testing, hospitals, medicine, health insurance, senior care support (including Medicare), dental and vision resources, end of life care, and financial assistance during times of illness. For every $1 donated, MHA provides $30 in life-saving healthcare resources. Each dollar carries the potential to rewrite the script of the most vulnerable music makers. 
 
“Calling everyone who makes a living in the music industry and those who are passionate fans! We’re at a critical juncture and reaching out to you for your invaluable support. In the past year, our requests for assistance have skyrocketed by a staggering 50%, encompassing vital needs such as mental health support, medical bill negotiations, emergent dental care, and end of life planning,” says Tatum Allsep, Founder & CEO of Music Health Alliance. “It’s a heartbreaking reality that many in the music industry are forced to make the agonizing decision between putting food on the table and accessing essential medical care. MHA refuses to let this continue, and your commitment to #HealTheMusic Day is KEY to ensuring that no one in our music community faces such dire choices. Please let the music play and donate to #HealTheMusic Day!”
 
Music Health Alliance fights so those in the music community never have to feel alone in a health crisis. Thanks to the direct efforts of MHA, clients have gained access to life-saving cancer treatments, transplants, medications to treat Parkinson’s, and more. Its services are FREE to any person who has worked in the music industry for three or more years. Spouses, legal domestic partners, and dependent family members may also qualify. Contact MHA at 615-200-6896 or info@musichealthalliance.com to learn more.

ABOUT MUSIC HEALTH ALLIANCE
Music Health Alliance’s mission is to #HealTheMusic by providing safe and confidential guidance to gain access to healthcare — including mental health — through programs and services that protect, direct, and connect the music community with medical and financial solutions. In its first 10 years, MHA has provided free healthcare advocacy and support to more than 20,000 clients, saving more than $120M in healthcare costs for the music community nationwide. If you would like to help support our mission, learn five ways you can help at HealTheMusic.com.

Blake Shelton Rocks Ole Red Orlando

Blake Shelton returned to Ole Red Orlando to perform in front of a packed house last night. The boss man’s one-hour set included hits like “God’s Country” and “Happy Anywhere,” ending with fan favorite, “Boys ‘Round Here.”

On stage, Shelton remarked, “We wanted to come here and have fun with you guys and say thank you for supporting Ole Red Orlando. This is such a fun place!”

NBC’S “The Voice” season 22 winner, Bryce Leatherwood, opened the evening. Leatherwood started the night off with country classics like “The Fireman” by George Straight and “Whenever You Come Around” by Vince Gill. Leatherwood also performed unreleased original songs “Made Me, Me” and “The Finger” to the pumped-up crowd. The “Team Blake” alum has been a regular guest at Shelton’s Ole Red venues, recently selling out his four-show residency at Ole Red Tishomingo in Oklahoma as well as his shows at Ole Red Gatlinburg and Ole Red Orlando. 

Of his experience on working with Blake, Leatherwood says, “Working with Blake has been an incredible experience. We share a love for pure country music and his Ole Red bars have treated me so well and reflect his love for a great drink or two.”

The official Blake Shelton Icon Park Pre-Party, held in partnership with local country radio station K92.3, surprised a handful of ultimate Blake Shelton fans with last minute tickets to the show. The station began a live broadcast from Ole Red Orlando at 4:00 p.m. while other vendors on-site also hosted giveaways and free samples to fans. 

Shelton’s Ole Red Orlando performance followed the Opry member’s honor of presenting Toby Keith with the “Country Icon” award at the first-ever People’s Country Choice Awards live from the Grand Ole Opry House. During the show, Shelton also received the award for “The Social Country Star of 2023.” Earlier this week, Shelton and Carson Daly celebrated the announcement of the return of their beloved game show, “Barmageddon,” where celebrity friends compete in the ultimate bar game show down set at Shelton’s Ole Red Nashville.

Photo Credit: Matt Jylha 

About Ole Red  
Ole Red is a lifestyle and entertainment brand inspired by Blake Shelton’s clever, irreverent third-chart hit, “Ol’ Red.” Its bar, restaurant and live music venues showcase hand-selected country music talent alongside concert-quality production and a Shelton-inspired menu for a unique experience that is “served all day and night.” You can currently find Ole Red entertainment venues and products in four cities in the United States: Nashville, Tennessee, home to the brand’s flagship multi-story bar and restaurant on the famed Lower Broadway and a new location at Nashville International Airport; Tishomingo, Oklahoma, Blake’s hometown; Gatlinburg, Tennessee, in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains; and Orlando, Florida’s Icon Park. A sixth location is scheduled to open in Las Vegas, Nevada, in January 2024. Ole Red is owned and operated by Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc. as part of its Opry Entertainment division. For more information on Ole Red, please visit www.olered.com. 
 
About Opry Entertainment Group
Rooted in the unparalleled country music history of the Grand Ole Opry, Opry Entertainment Group produces multi-platform entertainment experiences through its growing portfolio of entertainment venues. This includes the world-famous Grand Ole Opry, the iconic Ryman Auditorium, ACL Live at the Moody Theater, Blake Shelton-inspired Ole Red brand and the Wildhorse Saloon, just announced to be reimagined as a Luke Combs-inspired entertainment experience coming 2024. Through concerts, tours, music-inspired restaurants, digital content, and WSM Radio, Opry Entertainment Group connects millions of music fans to the artists they love through experiences they’ll never forget. Opry Entertainment Group is a subsidiary of Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc. (NYSE: RHP) and part of a strategic investment with Atairos and NBCUniversal.

Photo Credit: Matt Jylha