ALLIE COLLEEN CELEBRATES RELEASE OF HIGHLY ANTICIPATED EP, SINCERELY, ROLLING STONE

Rising country artist Allie Colleen marked a milestone in her career with a memorable EP release party at the iconic Cannery Ballroom. The celebration of her highly anticipated EP, Sincerely, Rolling Stone, was an evening filled with raw emotion, electrifying performances, and an intimate look into the artist’s heart. Colleen shared her five-song collection with an enthusiastic crowd of fans, industry insiders, and fellow artists.

With Sincerely, Rolling Stone, Allie Colleen has solidified her place as an unapologetically authentic artist, one who owns the stage, no matter the size.

The special event began with a songwriter’s round of some of the writers on the project. Megan Barker, Stephen Hunley, Matt Wynn, and Lockwood Barr, set the stage for an unforgettable experience. Allie Colleen, known for her engaging songwriting and storytelling, brought together the talented singer/songwriters who shared stories behind the songs, perfectly capturing the spirit of Nashville’s intimate songwriting scene.

When Allie Colleen took the stage with a full band, the energy in the room soared. The 10-song setlist included tracks from her new EP, fan favorites like “Grass on the Grave”, “Halos and Horns”, and “Stones” as well as songs that have solidified her place in the hearts of her growing fanbase.

Her authentic style was on full display throughout the evening as she rocked a custom leather jacket created by Lifeline Custom adorned with a custom skeleton arm sleeve, complementing her iconic skeleton hand tattoo. Lyrics from her songs graced the right sleeve, while the back of the jacket proudly displayed the name of her EP, Sincerely, Rolling Stone, in bold lettering. Allie’s signature look was completed with mismatched Converse sneakers, bright pink fishnet stockings, and chains, underscoring her unique edge and individuality. Allie Colleen remains a natural in every environment. Her motto, expressed in her song Stones (I Don’t Give A), resonates deeply with her approach to life and music, staying true to herself no matter the stage.

About Allie Colleen:
Allie Colleen is a Country music artist, singer, and songwriter who recently toured and performed in 2024 with Jelly Roll on the final leg of his Beautifully Broken Tour and also toured and performed with Lee Brice on his Me and My Guitar tour as well as headlined many shows of her own. Her music style defines how life shaped her, alongside her personal lyrics and transparency in her vocals and performance. Her passion for singing and songwriting since a young age has garnered her a reputation for being a notable songwriter with an iconic-sounding voice. Her impeccably strong voice with hints of timeless tradition falls between classic and emerging country sounds. The room never fails to silence as Allie Colleen begins to sing about the layers of love and heartbreak that have shaped her. Unlike most of today’s songs, some of her newest songs have witty lyrics and a connection to the song. With more than 351,000 followers on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok combined and organically won over nearly 300K Spotify listeners and an accumulated streaming total of four million streams, she is one of the most powerful and popular female independent label acts on a trajectory to stardom.

3X GRAMMY NOMINEE JOE NICHOLS PRESENTED WITH PANDORA BILLIONAIRE LAQUE FOR SURPASSING ONE BILLION STREAMS ON THE PLATFORM

Multi-platinum-selling Quartz Hill Records artist Joe Nichols was honored Friday evening (2/28) with a Pandora Billionaire Plaque after his performance at SiriusXM The Highway’s weekly Music Row Happy Hour at Margaritaville in the heart of downtown Nashville.

Nichols was surprised with the coveted plaque – which is presented to artists that have achieved OVER ONE BILLION song streams on Pandora – by SiriusXM The Highway host Buzz Brainard. Joining Nichols and Brainard onstage was Bekah Digby, Associate Director of Talent & Industry Relations – Country & Christian at SiriusXM and Pandora, who also represented Johnny Chiang, Vice President of Music Programming – Country at SiriusXM and Pandora.

“Joe Nichols’ music has been a staple for country fans for over two decades,” said Chiang. “Hitting a billion streams on Pandora is a testament to his staying power and the deep connection he has with his listeners. We’re thrilled to celebrate this incredible milestone with him.”

“This means the world to me,” said Nichols. “To the Pandora listeners, thank you for caring enough to engage with my music, which is what I’ve wanted most from the time I was a kid. And to Pandora, thank you for giving me a platform to play my music on and giving me the chance to go out there and meet the fans.”

The Music Row Happy Hour’s live audience enthusiastically sang along to Nichols’ three-song set, which included two of his No. 1 country classics, “Brokenheartsville” and “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off,” as well as a new fan favorite, “Helpless in a Honky Tonk,” from Nichols’ 11th studio album, Honky Tonks and Country Songs, released this past Fall.

The Pandora Billionaire honor came the same week that the album’s first radio single, “Better Than You,” a powerhouse duet with rising star Annie Bosko, broke into the Top 40 at U.S. Country Radio (Mediabase).

The steamy, emotionally charged “Better Than You” entered the airwaves as a Top 5 Most Added Song at U.S. Country Radio (Mediabase)for five consecutive weeks, including one week before the track’s official impact date. Additionally, the duet has been a Top 10 Most Added Song for nine non-consecutive weeks and has earned triple-digit radio adds to-date.

“Better Than You” has garnered critical praise, including from legendary MusicRow critic Robert K. Oermann, who described the vocal chemistry between Nichols and Bosko as “Goosebump-thrilling sounding” and awarded Bosko his DISCovery Award “for her sterling work alongside the mighty Joe Nichols.” New Music Weekly, meanwhile, gushed that Nichols and Bosko have delivered “what has to be one of the best duets in town.”

Penned by chart-topping songwriters Derek George (Darius Rucker’s No. 1 “For the First Time”) and John Pierce (Zac Brown’s No. 1 “Sweet Annie”), and produced by George with Mickey Jack Cones (Dustin Lynch, Trace Adkins), “Better Than You” is about love at first sight, your last first kiss, and realizing that nothing else could compare with the magic you’ve found in your lover’s arms.

Nichols returns to the road in March with shows in Belle Glade, FL (3/22), Orange Park, FL (3/27) and Tallahassee, FL (3/28) before heading to the Midwest in April.

RYAN AND RORY UNLEASH HIGH-OCTANE ANTHEM “TRUCK STOP” – OUT NOW!

“Set to make major waves on the country music scene” (MusicRow), Ryan and Rory find out that the best times in your truck can happen while you’re in park in this high-energy anthem “Truck Stop.” Swapping speed limits for tailgate-foolin’-around.

“’Truck Stop’ was so fun to write,” says Ryan. “But it’s even more fun to play out live. It’s got such a great groove.”

Adds Rory, “Lyrically, it’s a spicy twister…’cause if you think it’s about stopping for gas off the interstate, think again!”

Named a SiriusXM The Highway “Highway Find,” “Ryan and Rory are primed to become the next major male duo in country music” (Music Mayhem). Co-written by Ryan, Emily Reid, and producer Kevin Bard, this revved-up, pavement-pounding track is featured on their electrifying setlist as they hit the road with Brett Young this spring after just wrapping dates with Tyler Braden.

Wrapping up 2024 on a high note, the “2025 Artist to Watch” (Music Mayhem) made their Grand Ole Opry debut, released the poignantly nostalgic track “Heaven’s Got A Country Station,” and toured with Sam Hunt and Jamey Johnson, who declared, “if I were a gambler, I’d bet on these two.”

Between concert and recording dates, Ryan and Rory are prolific songwriters with a stockpile of new songs ready to be dropped in 2025.

About Ryan and Rory:
BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville’s country music duo Ryan and Rory “are bursting onto the scene” (Country Swag). Named SiriusXM The Highway’s latest “Highway Find,” Ryan and Rory’s buzzy party starter “Pour Decisions” is a nod to the universal heartache band-aid, with the lively smash launching their highly anticipated self-titled debut EP, available now. Ryan Follesé is a Nashville native, 2X PLATINUM #1 hit singer-songwriter and American Music Award winner. Rory John Zak, from Raleigh, North Carolina, is a multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter who has played over 300 shows per year since he was 17. Having opened for Sam Hunt, Jamey Johnson and Tyler Braden and acclaimed by MusicRow “to make major waves on the country music scene,” Ryan co-wrote all six tracks on the project, with Rory adding his masterful instrumentals and expertly smooth harmonies to Ryan’s robust lead vocals. Featuring their vivacious anthem along with standout smash “This Town” that Billboard applauded as a “must-hear” new country song, the EP embodies that vibrant, wide-open spirit, while also showcasing their musical depth with bright imagery, buoyant lyricism, and soul-stirring ballads. Delivering “commercial polish and good-natured, honest storytelling” (Tennessean), “Ryan and Rory are the next heir apparent to the country duo throne” (Country Swag). Having just made their Grand Ole Opry debut on December 7, the duo is already back in the studio working on new music. They closed out 2024 with the nostalgic “Heaven’s Got A Country Station” and are revving up more than just engines in their latest release “Truck Stop.” See them on the road throughout the spring across the US and Canada with select dates opening for ACM Award winner Brett Young.

CMT REVEALS “NEXT WOMEN OF COUNTRY” CLASS OF 2025

CMT revealed the seven new artists named to its CMT Next Women of Country (NWOC) franchise, the brand’s celebrated effort to support and promote developing female talent.

The CMT Next Women of Country: Class of 2025 includes:

Alexandra Kay
Dasha
Kaitlin Butts
Kat Luna
Lanie Gardner
Meghan Patrick
MŌRIAH

The 2025 class was surprised by RIAA Diamond-certified singer-songwriter Lauren Alaina (NWOC class of 2014) at CMT Studios where she exclusively sat down with each of rising stars, surprising them with the exciting news and discussing the musical journeys that brought them to this moment. The interviews will air as part of the brand’s annual three-hour CMT Hot 20 Countdown special airing Saturday, March 8th and Sunday, March 9th at 9AM ET/8AM CT. Ahead of the episode, CMT will air an entire rotation of star-packed female videos and support the new class reveal on the Paramount NYC Times Square Billboard, with promos running throughout the entire week.

Over the next year, the 2025 CMT NWOC class will receive cross-brand support for their music and videos on CMT, CMT Music, PlutoTV’s ‘CMT Equal Play’ channel, flagship series CMT Hot 20 Countdown, CMT Digital franchises, @CMT social channels, curated Apple Music and Spotify playlists, the Paramount NYC Times Square Billboard and other cross-promotional opportunities and events within the Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios & Paramount Media Network brand portfolio.

Earlier this morning, both Billboard and Cody Alan on SiriusXM’s The Highway (channel 56) exclusively revealed the much-anticipated lists of artists. Cody also spoke with new inductee Alexandra Kay about becoming part of the storied franchise.

A staunch advocate for country music’s female artists, CMT launched its “Next Women of Country” campaign in 2013 as a substantial, meaningful effort to support and expose developing female talent, both signed and unsigned, in a male-dominated format. Since its inception, the franchise has expanded to include various digital series and nationwide tours anchored by superstar acts including Jennifer Nettles, Martina McBride, Sara Evans, Tanya Tucker and Maddie & Tae. The prestigious franchise recently marked its milestone 10th anniversary last year, solidifying its stature as one of the longest-running, leading female discovery platforms in country music.

The 2025 class marks a total of 132 female acts named as part of the program, including notable alumni of the franchise who have achieved both commercial and critical acclaim: Ashley McBryde, Brandy Clark, Brittney Spencer, Brooke Eden, Caitlyn Smith, Carly Pearce, Ella Langley, Gabby Barrett, Ingrid Andress, Kacey Musgraves, Kelsea Ballerini, Lainey Wilson, Lauren Alaina, Lindsay Ell, Maren Morris, Megan Moroney, Mickey Guyton, Morgan Wade, Miko Marks, Reyna Roberts, Tanner Adell and Tiera Kennedy, to name a few.

NEW RAY STEVENS ALBUM, SAY WHUT?, NOW AVAILABLE

Comedy music genius Ray Stevens is bringing back the laughs with his latest album, Say Whut?, available today via CabaRay Records and digitally distributed by Curb Records. It’s also available for radio programmers via Airplay Direct.

Chock full of Stevens’ trademark humor, the eleven-track album includes songs such as “The Boom-Boom Gentlemen’s Club,” a story of a waitress in Oklahoma who has ambitions of stripping and “Since Bubba Changed His Name To Charlene,” which addresses a certain controversial current event. Other tracks include “If It Walks Like A Duck,” “I Dropped My Wallet In The Toilet,” “Everybody’s On The Telephone” and “The More You Cry,” among others.

Though Stevens has wrapped up live performances at his Nashville-based CabaRay Showroom, the Country Music Hall of Famer has no plans to stop recording. The two-time GRAMMY® winner is proud of his latest work.

“I just finished this album of eleven original songs,” he explains. “It’s called Say Whut? and I think you’re gonna like it!”

Aside from recording in the studio, Stevens still plans tour perform occasionally “in some old familiar places,” as he puts it.

About Ray Stevens
Twelve-time nominated and two-time GRAMMY® Award winner Ray Stevens has spanned the generations with over 60 years of comedic musical talent, including songs such as his multi-million selling hit “The Streak” and his classic pop standard “Everything Is Beautiful.” Throughout his career, Stevens has sold more than 40 million albums, amassing millions upon millions of fans worldwide. He is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Musicians Hall of Fame, the Georgia Music Hall of Fame and has a star on the Music City Walk of Fame.

RUSSELL DICKERSON’S “FULL-THROTTLE, FEEL-GOOD SONG” “HAPPEN TO ME” SHIPS TO COUNTRY RADIO

Multi-platinum artist Russell Dickerson is set to impact country radio next Monday (3/10) with the release of his high-energy anthem, “Happen To Me.” Hailed as his “best song to date” (Country Swag), “Happen to Me” has achieved the biggest streaming debut week of Dickerson’s career and in Triple Tigers label history. The track has been generating major buzz, with over 5 million global streams since its release on 2/21, additionally, it has racked up over 14.78 million views across social media.

Written by Dickerson, Chase McGill, Jessie Jo Dillon and Chris LaCorte, the song blends catchy rhythms with infectious lyrics to capture the excitement and carefree vibe of a spontaneous night out—“the kind of song that will have fans singing at the top of their lungs… losing themselves in its unstoppable energy” (All Country News). The story follows a connection between two people where the past doesn’t matter; it’s all about enjoying the moment. With its sing-along chorus and playful tone, the song captures the spirit of the iconic Cyndi Lauper hit ‘Girls Just Want to Have Fun.’ Mixing country and pop elements with a bouncy beat, witty lyrics, and just the right amount of mischief, “Happen to Me” is the ultimate anthem for anyone ready to lose themselves in the fun of the night. Available to stream HERE.

Catch Dickerson on the road this year on his highly anticipated, high-energy RUSSELLMANIA TOUR 2025. The party is hitting the road this spring and summer, with Jake Scott and Niko Moon joining the fun on select dates.

About Russell Dickerson:
Russell Dickerson is known for his electrifying performances and “unstoppable energy fans can’t get enough of” (E! News). After bursting onto the scene, the Tennessee native quickly stood out from the pack as he released four consecutive career-starting singles that reached No. One on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. Since then, Dickerson has earned platinum or better status on singles including “Yours” (3X Platinum), “Blue Tacoma” (2X Platinum), “Every Little Thing” (Platinum), “Love You Like I Used To” (Platinum), and “She Likes It” ft. Jake Scott (2X Platinum). In 2023, he scored his fifth No. 1 hit with “God Gave Me A Girl,” and in the following year, he released “Good Day to Have a Great Day,” followed by his latest single, “Bones,” which marked the biggest radio debut of his career. Catch Dickerson on the road this year on the RUSSELLMANIA TOUR 2025 extending into amphitheaters this summer, with direct support from Jake Scott and Niko Moon on select dates.

CLAY WALKER REFLECTS ON THE WESTERN LIFESTYLE AND THOSE PASSED IN “COWBOYS IN HEAVEN”

Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame member and country music hitmaker Clay Walker released his highly-anticipated new single today titled “Cowboys In Heaven.” This heartfelt track beautifully captures the essence of country music, evoking both nostalgia and reflection.

The release of “Cowboys In Heaven” comes as Walker celebrates over 30 years of success in country music, with a string of eleven Number 1 hits, including “What’s It to You,” “Live Until I Die,” and “She Won’t Be Lonely Long.” His powerful voice and captivating storytelling continue to connect deeply with audiences around the world, boasting over 3.5 million social media followers. Clay blends his signature traditional country sound with a fresh, contemporary twist, captivating fans with every release. The song was written by Walker with Jaren Boyer, Matt Gorman, and John Stephens

“I only write songs that I feel like I’ve lived or have some kind of experience with. ‘Cowboys In Heaven’ was written by a bunch of guys who really love cowboy, western lifestyle. I had my good friend, Charlie Rizzo, in mind when we were writing it. Charlie was a champion bareback rider and a true cowboy. The day we finished the song was the day he passed away. So it has a really sentimental place in my heart.” said Walker.

Fans will also be able to hear “Cowboys In Heaven” live during Clay Walker’s upcoming “Drive Me Smooth Tour”, kicking off in February and continuing through the spring and summer of 2025. The tour promises to deliver the electrifying live performances that Clay is known for, featuring both his classic hits and new music, including “Cowboys in Heaven.”

EMERGING COUNTRY MUSIC SINGER KARISSA ELLA RELEASES BRAND NEW SINGLE “LAST CALL COWBOY” OUT NOW

Country singer Karissa Ella is carving out her space in the country music scene with her brand new single “Last Call Cowboy” – out today! Karissa blends her authentic country twang with dynamic vocals that creates a track that will leave listeners wanting more.

Along with the single, Karissa is also releasing the music video for “Last Call Cowboy”. The video brings the song’s emotional depth to life, capturing the bittersweet essence of the lyrics. Set against stunning visuals, it’s a perfect complement to the track’s narrative, taking viewers on a journey through love and heartbreak.

“Last Call Cowboy” is a song that resonates with the complexities of love, heartbreak, and the bittersweet moments of saying goodbye. Karissa Ella’s heartfelt vocals shine through on this track, delivering a relatable and catchy narrative about a night spent with a cowboy who might not stay until the morning light. With its captivating melody and powerful storytelling, “Last Call Cowboy” is poised to capture the hearts of country music fans everywhere.

Karissa Ella continues to solidify her place in the country music scene with her unique sound, which blends classic country with modern influences. Her authentic approach to songwriting and her enchanting stage presence, is transforming her into a rising country star. With every new release, Karissa showcases a maturity in her artistry, and “Last Call Cowboy” is no exception.

About Karissa Ella
Karissa Ella is quickly becoming one of the most exciting voices in country music, capturing hearts with her soulful sound and magnetic energy. Recognized by CMT, Taste of Country, PEOPLE Magazine, and more, Karissa’s music effortlessly bridges the gap between nostalgic country roots and today’s fresh, dynamic vibe. Think of her as a mix of Dolly’s timeless charm, Miranda’s fiery spirit, and Shania’s trailblazing confidence, all rolled into one Ohio-raised powerhouse. A proud Belmont University graduate, Karissa’s journey from small-town dreamer to a rising force in country music is nothing short of inspiring. Her self-titled debut EP and her sophomore release, Blossom, each showcased her gift for storytelling and authenticity. In 2023, she unveiled her third EP, It’s Personal, a deeply heartfelt project that struck a chord with fans and critics alike. Now, she’s back in the studio working on her highly anticipated fourth EP, set to drop this summer. Karissa’s live performances are a must-see. Whether she’s headlining at iconic venues like the ACM-nominated Dusty Armadillo or sharing the stage with country favorites like Martina McBride, Tyler Hubbard, and David Nail, she brings an energy that’s impossible to resist. With sing-along-worthy anthems like “Well Tequila” and “I Hope Heaven’s Like,” she turns every show into an unforgettable experience. And let’s not forget her magical performance of “He Walked on Water” for Randy Travis at the Country Rebel Ranch, talk about a pinch-me moment! With big dreams and even bigger talent, Karissa is poised to keep climbing and taking fans along for the ride. Keep up with her latest music and tour dates at her official website.

BLAKE SHELTON’S “FRIENDS & HEROES” TOUR KICKS OFF WITH SOLD-OUT SHOWS, ELECTRIC PERFORMANCES, AND UNFORGETTABLE COUNTRY MUSIC MOMENTS

Blake Shelton and his “Friends & Heroes” Tour launched to roaring crowds this past weekend, delivering a powerhouse celebration of country music, friendship, and unforgettable performances. The sold-out run kicked off Thursday night at Rupp Arena in Lexington, KY, before rolling into Knoxville, TN, and Greensboro, NC, where fans were treated to a one-of-a-kind experience blending classic hits, new favorites, and legendary collaborations.

From the moment Shelton hit the stage, the energy was electric. “Blake Shelton Pours Out The Love To Country Heroes,” raved the Lexington Herald-Leader, while the Knoxville News described it as an “epic country party.” Fans sang along, raised their glasses, and reveled in a night that honored country music’s past and present.

Opening act Emily Ann Roberts set the tone with a high-energy 25-minute set before Shelton stormed the stage with his latest No. 1 hit, “Pour Me A Drink.” Welcoming the crowd with his signature humor, he joked, “My doctor’s got me on medication, and now I only care about three things: drinking, having fun, and country music!”

The night was filled with special moments as Shelton shared the spotlight with some of his biggest influences and longtime friends. Craig Morgan took the stage next, performing fan favorites “Redneck Yacht Club,” “That’s What I Love About Sunday,” and “International Harvester.” Later, Deana Carter captivated the crowd with a three-song set, wrapping up with her timeless CMA Award-winning No. 1 hit, “Strawberry Wine,” which had the audience swaying and singing along.

Shelton kept the momentum going, delivering a mix of classics and new hits, including “Honey Bee,” “Austin,” and his fast-rising Top 10 single, “Texas.” Then came a show-stopping moment as Trace Adkins took the stage performing his hits, “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk,” “You’re Gonna Miss This,” and “Ladies Love Country Boys.” Shelton then joined Adkins for their duets “Hell Right” and “Hillbilly Bone.”

As the night neared its end, Shelton, Adkins, Morgan, and Carter took center stage for an intimate acoustic set, creating a moment of camaraderie that underscored the heart of the “Friends & Heroes” tour. Shelton then brought it all home with a five-song finale, closing out the night with his smash hit, “God Gave Me You.”

The Herald-Leader summed it up best: “The heroes were obviously his guests, but Shelton made sure he was the one pouring the drinks.”

With the opening weekend behind him, Shelton and his “Friends & Heroes” are just getting started. Fans can expect more unforgettable nights as the tour continues throughout the month.

AVERY ANNA RECENTLY RELEASED BRAND-NEW TRACK “MR. PREDICTABLE”

Standout vocalist and savvy songwriter Avery Anna has new solo music to share with the release of her brand-new track “Mr. Predictable”. Featuring her signature wistful vocals paired with driving guitars and hard charging drums, “Mr. Predictable” is the first new music from Avery since her celebrated 2024 debut album, Breakup Over Breakfast.

“‘Mr. Predictable’ is inspired by the gut wrenching feeling of being right about the doubts that crept into your relationship,” Avery explained. “Being cheated on is one of the worst feelings ever and I know from playing shows and getting to know people that so many of you have gone through this as well. I hope you love this song.”

Recently announced as a member of the Opry NextStage class of 2025, Avery is also currently climbing the radio charts with Sam Barber on their viral duet, “Indigo.” The pair shared a performance of the track on The Kelly Clarkson Show last week.

With more than 500 million global streams to date, the Arizona native has quickly become an in-demand touring artist. She’ll make her return to Stagecoach this spring before joining Luke Bryan’s Country Song Came On Tour this summer.