The late singer-songwriter Dan Seals occupied a unique spot in music history, perhaps complicating how to properly tell his story. The Texas-native rose to fame with a series of pop rock hits as one half of the duo England Dan & John Ford Coley before settling in Nashville for a successful solo career yielding an astonishing nine consecutive and 11 total number one hits on the country music charts. He was one of the most successful artists to cross-over to country music, and that can likely be attributed to his ability to tell rural American stories through his songwriting while making them palatable to a wider audience.

On Friday, a new duets project from record label Melody Place will launch with country superstar Luke Bryan joining Seals on his 1986 chart-topper “Everything That Glitters (Is Not Gold),” co-written by Seals and Bob McDill. The song, produced by Seals’ longtime producer Kyle Lehning will pay homage to one of country music’s truest voices, 16 years after his untimely passing.

“When I think of all time iconic songs, this one definitely comes top of mind,” Luke Bryan said. “Dan was an artist I had on repeat and actually still do. I sang this song when I was back in Georgia and now to be here and paired with him on this new release is just unbelievable.”

Dan Seals’ music has been described as “building bridges that led to what it would ultimately become in the golden age to come.” – Country Universe. In 2024, this outlet also called this song “an astonishing feat of songwriting.”

The LA Times called his sound a “blend of honky-tonk traditionalism, mild country rock and pop slickness,” delivered with an “easygoing” style.

Stay tuned for more information on the new project, coming soon.

About Dan Seals
Dan Seals was never one to follow convention. Born and raised in Texas, he played a right-handed, 12-string guitar with his left hand and eight strings—”upside down and backwards,” as he liked to say. This unconventional approach carried through his entire career, as he seamlessly transitioned from pop stardom to country success. Seals first gained fame as “England Dan” in the soft rock duo England Dan & John Ford Coley. The pair’s 1976 hit “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight” cemented their place in pop history, followed by other classics including “Nights Are Forever (Without You) and “Love Is The Answer”.” But when the duo disbanded, Seals faced financial struggles, sleeping under a friend’s piano as he worked to rebuild his career. Determined to find a new path, he embraced his country roots. In 1984, “God Must Be a Cowboy” gave him his first country top 10 hit, paving the way for an astonishing run of eleven No. 1 Billboard country hits. Songs such as “Bop,” “Everything That Glitters (Is Not Gold),” and “Meet Me in Montana” with Marie Osmond showcased his ability to blend emotional depth with commercial appeal. His work earned him a CMA award and a loyal fanbase. Seals was known for his artistic integrity, only recording songs that stirred him emotionally. His producer, Kyle Lehning, recalled how he pursued excellence with “light-hearted seriousness” in the studio. When the radio hits slowed, Seals remained a beloved touring act, later performing with his brother Jim as Seals & Seals, bringing their respective catalogs to audiences worldwide. Diagnosed with mantle cell lymphoma in 2007, Seals faced his final days with the same grace he brought to his music. He passed away on March 25, 2009, at 8:30 p.m.—”Showtime,” as his manager put it. His legacy remains one of versatility, authenticity, and an enduring impact on both pop and country music.

About Luke Bryan
During his career, Luke has amassed a total of 26.6 Billion global streams, 11.9 Million global album sales and 47.7M track sales worldwide. He is the most digital single RIAA certified country artist of all time with 117.5M digital single units including 19M album certifications and 98M single certifications. Luke was honored with the SoundExchange Hall of Fame Award in recognition of his standing as one of the most streamed artists in their 20-year history. Luke has garnered 32 #1 singles, 17 of those Luke co-wrote, and he’s accumulated 58 total weeks spent at #1 during his career.

Luke has hosted the ACM Awards five times and the CMA Awards four times and has won 50+ major music awards including five wins as Entertainer of the Year. Additional awards include six recognitions as a CMT Artist of the Year, NSAI Artist/Songwriter of the Year, the first-ever recipient of the ACM Album of the Decade Award for Crash My Party, seven CMT Music Awards, five Billboard Music Awards, and four American Music Awards—as well as being named Billboard’s Top Country Artist of the 2010s, the Most Heard Artist of the Decade by Country Aircheck, Artist Humanitarian Recipient by the Country Radio Broadcasters and the ACM Lifting Lives Award honor because of his devotion to improving lives through the power of music. Luke was recently inducted into the Star Trail of Fame by The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to honor his profound impact over the years. The Rodeo promotes agriculture by hosting an annual, family-friendly experience that educates and entertains the public, supports Texas youth, showcases Western heritage, and provides year-round educational support within the community.

Patriot Mobile, America’s only Christian conservative wireless provider, proudly announced today its partnership with country music superstar Jason Aldean and the Houston Astros to donate over $200,000 to Heroes for Children, a Texas-based non-profit dedicated to supporting families battling pediatric cancer. The donation was inspired by the unwavering spirit of 13-year-old Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel, a young cancer warrior whose social media plea caught the attention of Aldean.

The collaboration culminated in a special event in Houston, where Aldean, members of the Houston Astros, and executives from Patriot Mobile spent the day with DJ and families from Heroes for Children. The day included a private mini-golf outing and a trip to batting practice where Astros players met with the kids. The festivities concluded that evening when Aldean presented the check to Heroes for Children on stage during his sold-out “Full Throttle” concert.

“The real beauty of it is the folks that listen to this music love America—red, white and blue. We get to share what Patriot Mobile is and participate in things like this,” said Patriot Mobile CEO Glenn Story. “We were honored to stand with Jason and the Houston Astros to support DJ’s mission and help ensure no family has to face the fight against childhood cancer alone.”
Jason Aldean, a long-time supporter of cancer-related charities, was deeply moved by DJ’s story. His quick response to DJ’s video created a movement that brought together major organizations to make a significant impact.

Heroes for Children co-founder Jenny Lawson expressed her gratitude, stating, “This incredible gift from Jason, Patriot Mobile, and the Astros will provide critical financial and social assistance to families who desperately need it. We are so grateful for their generosity and for DJ’s advocacy.” The donation will help the non-profit continue its mission of providing emotional and financial support, from paying monthly bills to creating social experiences for families.

About Patriot Mobile
Patriot Mobile is America’s only Christian conservative wireless provider, giving a portion of every dollar earned to support causes that align with their core values of faith, family, and freedom.

About Heroes for Children
Heroes for Children is a Texas-based non-profit that provides financial and social assistance to families with children battling cancer. Their mission is to ensure no family fights alone.

Rising singer/songwriter Annie Bosko is stepping into a new chapter with her debut album, California Cowgirl, arriving October 3 via QHMG/Stone Country Records. Growing up a farmer’s daughter, the collection reflects her West Coast roots that run deep in the heart of California’s agricultural country while blending her love of timeless storytelling with a sound that’s equal parts confident and catchy.

“California Cowgirl is a colorful tapestry woven from the threads of my life — with a fabric for everyone,” shares Bosko. “From the grit of growing up a farmer’s daughter to the faith that’s kept me chasing my dreams, this album reveals both the tender and the tough sides of who I am. It carries the pioneer spirit of the West, the heartbeat of the American dream and a Golden State glow with country soul.”

To accompany today’s announcement, Bosko also releases a new studio version of “Honky Tonk Heartbeat,” a track fans may recognize from Ariat’s buzzed-about “Line-Men Dancing” campaign, featuring fellow Ariat ambassador and San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy.

Working with producers Trent Willmon and David “Messy” Mescon, and writing alongside the likes of Mescon, Jeffrey Steele, Bridgette Tatum, Danny Myrick, Terri Jo Box and more, Bosko co-wrote over half the songs found on California Cowgirl, including the already released title track, “God Winks, “Tequila Time,” “Country Girls! (Who Run the World)” and “Heartburn” featuring Dwight Yoakam. The project also features tracks penned by Lainey Wilson, Garth Brooks and Hannah Dasher.

Bosko will join Dolly Parton for Dolly: Live in Las Vegas at The Colosseum at Caesar’s Palace on December 10, following her album release party on October 3 at Desert 5 Spot in Los Angeles. She is also set for a headlining performance at Nashville Dance Fest this Sunday, September 7 and a date supporting Jessica Simpson at Genesee Theatre on Saturday, September 20.

About Annie Bosko
With a voice that beams like a ray of California sunshine, singer-songwriter Annie Bosko is channeling fresh inspiration into a new chapter of music with her debut album California Cowgirl via QHMG/Stone Country Records on October 3. Writing alongside David ‘Messy’ Mescon, Jeffrey Steele, Bridgette Tatum, and more, and collaborating with producer Trent Willmon, Bosko is crafting songs that reflect her upbringing as a farmer’s daughter. With fresh releases such as “Tequila Time,” “Country Girls! (Who Runs the World),” “God Winks” and “California Cowgirl,” the project showcases a sound shaped by ‘90s country twang and raw, heartfelt storytelling. Her self-titled EP saw the Golden State native making her late-night debut on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” with a performance of “Neon Baby” – a track that also marked her first charting single at Country radio. Bosko followed her acclaimed EP with stunning collaborations featuring country icons including Vince Gill on the reflective ballad “Higher Ground” and Dwight Yoakam on the Bakersfield-rooted “Heart Burn.” Her heartfelt rendition of “Help Me Make It Through The Night,” honoring Kris Kristofferson, has garnered 1 million streams on Pandora. Top 40 duet “Better Than You” with Joe Nichols hit the Country radio airwaves as a top five most-added song for five consecutive weeks, including one week before impact. Bosko broke out in 2014 with the SiriusXM/CMT hit “Crooked Halo,” which has amassed more than 3 million streams, earning her a title as an Artist to Watch from Rolling Stone Country. She went on to write songs recorded by Willie Nelson and Jessica Simpson, tour alongside Tim McGraw, Dierks Bentley and Blake Shelton, sell out the famed Troubadour and perform on the Grand Ole Opry and at Ryman Auditorium while also becoming an in-demand studio vocalist. Bosko will join Dolly Parton for Dolly: Live in Las Vegas at The Colosseum at Caesar’s Palace on December 10, following her album release party on October 3 at Desert 5 Spot in Los Angeles. She is also set for a headlining performance at Nashville Dance Fest and a date supporting Jessica Simpson at Genesee Theatre, among additional shows throughout 2025.

Two-time CMA Female Vocalist of the Year and ACM Female Vocalist of the Year, Janie Fricke, makes three rare albums available for streaming for the first time ever through StarVista Music: ‘Bouncin’ Back’ (2000), ‘Tributes to My Heroes’ (2003) and ‘Roses & Lace’ (2008). Fricke originally recorded these albums as limited pressings to take on tour, and is now releasing them digitally to adapt to the way music is shared. For the first time, fans can stream these songs that were never previously available digitally.

“I hand-picked all of these songs, and each of them has a special meaning,” explains Fricke. “I wanted to create something really special for the fans who came to my concerts, something they could take home with them. Over time, they occasionally were available in CD format on my website but have never been on any of the streaming services. I’m so grateful that they’re out there for anyone who wants to listen to them now!”

Originally released in 2000, ‘Bouncin’ Back’ marks the first album that was exclusively available at her concerts, with Fricke explaining, “Sharing this project with you is my way of saying ‘Thanks!’”

‘Tributes to My Heroes’ followed in 2003.

“As I listened to my collection of LP’s, I decided to re-create these gems with my interpretation. I had a reason in mind for selecting each song, especially ‘At This Moment’ by Billy Vera. It’s on this album because my mother loved that song so much and she’s one of my heroes.”

‘Roses & Lace’ was recorded in Janie’s studio in 2008 and includes her version of “Try A Little Kindness,” which was made famous by Glen Campbell.

“I perform that song in my show a lot because I just love its concept of kindness.”

Fricke began her career singing in a “little church up the road” where her mother played piano. She sang at local coffeehouses, high school events, as well as her way through college where she obtained her degree from Indiana University in elementary education. Fricke then chose a musical career, working in Memphis, Dallas and Los Angeles. There, as one of the marketing industry’s most successful jingle singers, her voice became known to millions as the voice for such advertising giants as United Airlines, Coca-Cola, 7-Up, and Red Lobster.

Her voice led her to singing sessions for country artists such as Loretta Lynn, Eddie Rabbitt, Crystal Gayle, Ronnie Milsap, Barbara Mandrell, Mel Tillis, Johnny Duncan and others. She has also been given the privilege to sing on albums for Charlie Rich and Elvis Presley after their deaths. It was a line in Johnny Duncan’s single, “Stranger,” that ultimately gained the most attention for Fricke. When it hit the top of the charts in 1977, fans wanted to know who sang the line, “Shut out the light and lead me…” The music industry took notice as her voice was also heard on duets with Merle Haggard, Moe Bandy and others, leading her to her first major recording contract.

Fricke soon began to dominate the country charts with smash hits such as “Don’t Worry ‘ Bout Me Baby,” “He’s a Heartache” and “Your Heart’s Not In It.” It was only a matter of time before she started winning awards, including the Country Music Association’s Female Vocalist of the Year (twice), the Music City News Female Vocalist of the Year, Billboard magazine’s Top Country Female Vocalist, Cash Box magazine’s’ Top Country Female Vocalist, Academy of Country Music Female Vocalist of the Year, British-based Country Music Round Up’s Most Popular International Female Solo Act and she was chosen to the Country Music Hall of Fame Walkway of Stars. Fricke was nominated four times for the coveted Grammy Award, once for each of her singles “She’s Single Again,” “You Heart’s Not In It,” “On My Knees” and “What’re You Doing Tonight.” Throughout her recording career, Janie has released 23 albums and 36 singles, with 18 becoming #1 hits.

Big Machine Label Group is toasting two decades of hits this year, marking the 20th anniversary of the company’s founding. The landmark celebration culminates in a star-studded free concert in Nashville on August 29, serving as a testament to the label’s impact on the music industry.

The company’s success is a direct result of the vision of its founder, Scott Borchetta, whose career in music began at a young age. Born in California, Borchetta’s father worked in record promotions, exposing him to the industry early on. After moving to Nashville, Borchetta started as a bass player in a country band and later worked in promotions for his father’s company. He went on to hold executive positions at notable labels like DreamWorks Records and MCA Records, where he honed his skills in artist development and A&R.

In 2005, Borchetta took a leap of faith, departing from a major label to create his own independent company, Big Machine Records. He founded the label with a distinct philosophy, aiming to operate more efficiently and provide a different kind of support to artists than he had seen at larger corporations. The gamble paid off almost immediately when he signed his first artist, a promising young singer-songwriter named Taylor Swift. Swift’s meteoric rise propelled the label into the national spotlight and laid the foundation for its future success.

Over the past two decades, Big Machine Label Group has grown into a powerhouse with four imprints: Big Machine Records, The Valory Music Co., Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment, and Nash Icon Records. The label has sold over 226 million albums and secured 186 No. 1 songs, a remarkable achievement for an independent company. Its artists have garnered numerous accolades, including dozens of GRAMMY, ACM, and CMA awards.

The label’s current and past roster is a who’s who of country and pop music. In addition to Taylor Swift, the Big Machine family has been home to superstar acts like Tim McGraw, Thomas Rhett, Sheryl Crow, Rascal Flatts, and Lady A. Other prominent artists who have been part of the journey include The Band Perry, Reba McEntire, Justin Moore, Carly Pearce, Brett Young, and Brantley Gilbert. The upcoming “Big Machine 20” concert will feature many of these artists, providing a fitting tribute to the company’s storied history. As Big Machine Label Group celebrates this milestone, it stands as a testament to Borchetta’s vision and the enduring power of Nashville’s music scene.