During his 64th anniversary as a Grand Ole Opry member, Country Music Hall of Famer Bill Anderson was surprised with two remarkable honors during his performance on Tuesday, July 15. Opry Vice President and Executive Producer Dan Rogers presented Anderson with a custom scarf designed by world-renowned designer Manuel Cuevas, given to each Opry member throughout the Opry 100 year. Rogers presented Anderson with his scarf last night to commemorate his historic influence.
Anderson was also recognized on stage by the South Carolina Entertainment and Music Committee with the Music and Entertainment Ambassador Award.

Bill Anderson said, “More than anything, it’s just a blessing to be up here for more than 64 years. Thank you to the fans and the Opry for supporting me all this time.”

Dan Rogers said, “Bill Anderson has made an indelible mark. We could take a full Opry show and talk about Bill and his impact. He has continued to be a bridge between new and legacy artists for 64 years now, and now we thank him.”

Known affectionately as “Whisperin’ Bill,” Anderson was inducted into the Opry family July 15, 1961 at the young age of 23. Since then, he has become a pillar of the Opry and a living link between generations of country music tradition.

From classic hits like “Still,” “Po’ Folks,” and “Mama Sang a Song” to chart toppers for artists like George Strait and Brad Paisley, Anderson’s influence reaches every corner of the genre. He remains one of the most awarded and respected songwriters in country music history.

A member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, Songwriters Hall of Fame, and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, Anderson continues to write, record, and appear regularly on the Grand Ole Opry, inspiring generations with his timeless contributions to country music.

ABOUT BILL ANDERSON:
Country Music Hall of Famer and Grand Ole Opry titan Bill Anderson is the rare songwriter whose first major label cut went to No. 1 on the charts, was named Song of The Year and sparked a writing career that is currently in its seventh decade. The song, “City Lights,” was written when Anderson was a 19-year old Georgia disc jockey and became a career-defining hit for Ray Price in 1958. The song opened doors for him in Nashville, leading him to signing with BMI and Tree Publishing. Anderson was far from a one-hit wonder. He followed “City Lights” with country standards like “Tips Of My Fingers,” the GRAMMY-nominated “Once A Day,” “Saginaw, Michigan,” “That’s What It’s Like To Be Lonesome,” “I Missed Me,” “Cold Hard Facts Of Life,” which earned him another GRAMMY nomination, “Mama Sang A Song,” the crossover smash, “Still,” and countless others. He was voted country Songwriter of the Year six times during his first decade in Music City. His success continued into the 1970’s with award-winning hits like “Slippin’ Away,” “The Lord Knows I’m Drinking,” “I May Never Get To Heaven,” and the disco-flavored, “I Can’t Wait Any Longer.” The 1980’s saw Anderson’s chart-topping career take a hiatus as he became a TV network game show host, spokesman for a national restaurant chain and a nonstop touring Grand Ole Opry performer. In the 1990’s he came roaring back with a vengeance, however, as he seriously turned to co-writing for the first time. Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2001, his collaborations with the newer generation of Nashville tunesmiths resulted in hits like “Wish You Were Here,” the GRAMMY-nominated “Two Teardrops,” “A Lot Of Things Different,” for Kenny Chesney, “Which Bridge To Cross (Which Bridge To Burn),” for Vince Gill and two CMA Song Of The Year trophies for “Whiskey Lullaby,” with Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss and George Strait’s “Give It Away,” in 2005 and 2007 respectfully. He continues to write today with songs like Brad Paisley’s “Dying To See Her.”

The country music community is once again demonstrating its deep roots and unwavering commitment to Texas, rallying swiftly to support the thousands impacted by the devastating floods that swept through the Texas Hill Country in July 2025. A host of prominent artists have organized and participated in significant benefit events, channeling crucial aid to those in dire need.

Country music icon George Strait, a proud Texan, spearheaded relief efforts with his exclusive “Strait to the Heart” benefit concert and donor dinner, held on July 27, 2025, in Boerne, Texas. The event featured an impressive lineup including William Beckmann, Ray Benson, Wade Bowen, Riley Green, Randy Houser, Jamey Johnson, and members of Strait’s Ace in the Hole Band. Proceeds from this high-impact event are directly benefiting the Vaqueros del Mar Texas Flood Relief Fund, providing immediate support to affected families and honoring first responders.

Further amplifying the response, Kerrville native Robert Earl Keen organized “REK and Friends: Applause for The Cause,” a major benefit concert scheduled for August 28, 2025, near New Braunfels. This festival-style event boasts an extensive roster of artists, including Tyler Childers, Miranda Lambert (performing with Jon Randall and Jack Ingram), Cross Canadian Ragweed, Aaron Watson, Cody Jinks, Hayes Carll, Randy Rogers, Ryan Bingham, and many more. All proceeds from this widely anticipated concert will go to the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country’s Kerr County Flood Relief Fund.

Complementing these large-scale efforts, Galleywinter hosted its long-running River Jam on Sunday, July 13, 2025, a free acoustic benefit featuring artists like Graycie York and Mason Lively, with all donations supporting flood relief. Miranda Lambert’s MuttNation Foundation also continued its vital work, focusing on animal rescue and support for pet owners in the affected areas. Additionally, Robert Earl Keen lent his support to Josh Weathers’ Flood Relief Auction, which successfully raised over $400,000.

The swift and diverse response from these country music artists underscores their profound connection to Texas and their commitment to community. Their collective efforts are providing essential resources and hope as the region begins the long process of recovery.

Nearing 20 years in the country music spotlight, global entertainer Chris Young has grown into the definition of a long-haul superstar. But with a love for the craft which never wavers—and a booming baritone that won’t quit—the multi-platinum singer-songwriter is forever looking forward with his newest album—I Didn’t Come Here To Leave—releasing October 17, 2025. The album’s fall release date also coincides with another special milestone—the GRAMMY-nominated vocalist’s 8th anniversary of his induction into the exclusive membership of the Grand Ole Opry.

The product of a two-year journey, I Didn’t Come Here to Leave marks the start of a new chapter as Young hits a new stride. His tenth album, and first with Black River Entertainment, is a landmark project featuring 14 fresh songs over eleven co-writes. Young first teased this new chapter with the 2025 single “Til The Last One Dies.” As the lead single from Young’s forthcoming album, “Til The Last One Dies” is rising on the country radio and streaming charts while the title track—“I Didn’t Come Here To Leave”—is available now!

“At this point in my career, I hope someone listens to this album and says ‘Wow, he dug deep,’” Young explains. “The funny thing is, I’m here saying ‘Yeah, it’s one of the best things I’ve ever made,’ and I believe it wholeheartedly. It’s wild to step back and see a really long list of things I’ve gotten to do already … But I didn’t come here to leave.”

Breaking out with 2009’s romantic classic “Gettin’ You Home (The Black Dress Song),” Young’s early success had him charting alongside contemporaries like Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Zac Brown Band, Darius Rucker, Lady A, Dierks Bentley and more. From there, he soon hit the road with icons like Martina McBride, Brad Paisley, Rascal Flatts and Alan Jackson – yet his 2025 summer tour mixes headlining shows with festivals alongside Lainey Wilson, Brooks & Dunn, Luke Bryan, and more. Along the way, he’s mined the depths of loneliness with Vince Gill (“Sober Saturday Night”) and scored chart-topping sing-alongs with Kane Brown (“Famous Friends”). But in joining Black River Entertainment as his new label home, the seasoned entertainer, named “one of his era’s finest traditionalists” by the Associated Press, feels refreshed and primed to bring his much-loved style into the next decade.

After a million miles of highway and countless milestones, his bold tenth album proves he isn’t going anywhere, and is still going all in. I Didn’t Come Here to Leave marks the start of a new chapter as Young hits a new stride.

ABOUT CHRIS YOUNG:

Nearing 20 years in the country music spotlight, Chris Young has grown into the definition of a long-haul superstar – but the road remains open ahead. One of Billboard’s top country artists of the decade, the prolific hitmaker boasts 14 No. 1 singles and 9 Billion+ streams; an unbroken streak of success built on songs that balance country roots with a modern edge—and connect through real feeling. A member of the historic Grand Ole Opry, global arena headliner, and creative force of nature, the CMT Award winner and ACM, AMA, CMA and GRAMMY nominee has written and co-produced much of the work behind his 54 RIAA certifications, boasting a career which bridges multiple phases of country expression. But in joining Black River Entertainment as his new label home, the seasoned entertainer named “one of his era’s finest traditionalists” by the Associated Press feels refreshed, bringing his much-loved style into the future. His bold tenth album I Didn’t Come Here to Leave marks the start of a new chapter, as Young hits a new stride. The product of a two-year journey, 14 fresh songs including eleven co-writes kick off the Tennessee native’s next act. Re-centering his foundation of timeless romance, while embracing the energy of his legendary live shows (and bringing his deep vocal rumble “back to my baritone roots”), the set represents the most complete cross-section of his creative vision – maybe ever – and the highest level of craftsmanship in Young’s remarkable career. Also co-producing alongside Andy Sheridan, the star’s keen country instincts take center stage as he ticks off multiple bucket-list boxes. Passionate attention to detail was poured over every syllable of every lyric, and with the old-school recording dynamic found only in a live studio band, the vivid result acts like Young’s career itself – a connecting point between the glory days of country’s past, and the exhilarating ecstasy of a new dawn. “It’s wild to step back and see a really long list of things I’ve gotten to do already. … But I didn’t come here to leave.”

Nashville Insider, the fast-paced syndicated country music entertainment news series, is thrilled to announce it has been honored with two prestigious Bronze Telly Awards in the 46th Annual Telly Awards. The wins come as the acclaimed program prepares to launch its milestone 10th Anniversary season in 2025-2026, marking a decade of bringing Music City’s most exciting stories to fans worldwide.

Nashville Insider received a Bronze Telly Award in the highly competitive “Entertainment” category, recognizing its compelling and comprehensive coverage of the country music landscape. Additionally, the show earned a second Bronze Telly in the “Interview & Talk Show” category, a testament to its insightful and engaging conversations with country music’s biggest stars and emerging talents.

“We are incredibly honored to be recognized by the Telly Awards, especially as we approach our 10th Anniversary season,” said Jeff Moseley, Executive Producer. “These awards reflect the dedication and passion of our entire team, who consistently strive to deliver the most innovative and captivating stories from the heart of Music City. We are thrilled to celebrate this achievement as we look forward to another decade of sharing Nashville Insider with our viewers.”

Since its inception, Nashville Insider has been the go-to source for country music news and information, providing viewers with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to artists, red carpet events, and award shows. The program’s energetic hosts and reporters delve into the stories behind the hit songs, profiling both established icons and rising stars, and offering a unique glimpse into their world. Airing 52 weeks a year, Nashville Insider reaches over 200 million households, establishing itself as the premier destination for country music fans across all screens.

The 46th Annual Telly Awards received over 13,000 exceptional entries from around the globe, making Nashville Insider’s double win a significant achievement and a true standard bearer of excellence in the industry.

Multi-Platinum-selling superstar and multi–ACM Award-winner Cole Swindell, who Rolling Stone has called a “proven hit-maker,” released his highly-anticipated new album, Spanish Moss, tomorrow Friday, June 27. The Georgia native celebrated the release of his fifth studio album for Warner Music Nashville with a performance of his new single “We Can Always Move On” on the 3rd hour of NBC’s TODAY on Tuesday, July 1; and an appearance on ABC News Live Prime with Linsey Davis (Tues, July 1).

Additionally, Swindell celebrated the new album with fans at a special Spanish Moss album release show at New York City’s Webster Hall on Tuesday, July 1.

The multi-Platinum-selling singer/songwriter, whose 12 of his 13 No. 1 singles have gone Platinum or more and has 8+ billion global streams under his belt, has features coming in FORBES, Billboard, Tennessean, iHeart’s Country Insider, Country Now, Everything Nash, Music Mayhem Magazine and more.

In honor of Father’s Day, Swindell released the massive emotional song “Dale, Jr.” which American Songwriter calls a “vulnerable, heart-wrenching ballad” and fans have had a strong reaction to. Swindell went live with MLB Network’s “Intentional Talk” to talk about Spanish Moss and “Dale, Jr.” as well as his Atlanta Braves fandom. He also stopped by ESPN’s “Marty & McGhee” to talk about the new album and “Dale, Jr.” ESPN’s Marty Smith said after hearing the song, “I will tell you, man to man, absolutely puddles. It just stopped time for me because it is so beautifully done.”

Spanish Moss includes his 13th No. 1 single “Forever To Me” where Country Now says “Cole Swindell pours his heart out,” and for which Today’s Country calls Swindell a “sophisticatedly talented songwriter” and “and in moments like this, we realize just how much he still has to offer with his penmanship and musicianship” and The Music Universe calls it an “emotion-filled song.”

Swindell has been releasing new music from his 21-song album, Spanish Moss, including his new radio single “We Can Always Move On,” the album’s debut No. 1 single “Forever To Me,” as well as the digital-only releases of “Dale, Jr.,” “Bottom Of It,” “Dirty Dancing,” “Spanish Moss,” “Kill A Prayer,” and “One Day.”

Swindell will hit the road in support of Spanish Moss when he launches his 2025 headlining Happy Hour Sad Tour in September with special guests Priscilla Block, Logan Crosby and Greylan James.

About Cole Swindell:
Country music superstar Cole Swindell, who Rolling Stone has called “a proven hit-maker,” has solidified himself as a hit songwriter, recording artist and headlining performer over the past eleven years. With his latest single “Forever To Me” from his upcoming fifth studio album, Spanish Moss, just hitting No. 1, the multi-Platinum award winner has now racked up 13 No. 1 singles as an artist – 14 as a songwriter. Twelve of Swindell’s 13 No. 1 singles have been certified Platinum by the RIAA with three being 3X Platinum (“Chillin’ It,” “You Should Be Here,” and “She Had Me At Heads Carolina”) and two being 2X Platinum (“Ain’t Worth The Whiskey” and “Break Up In The End”).

Swindell, who The Tennessean called a “hard charging competitor armed with a mastery of the art of the craft, tirelessly looking for ways to improve his work” charted three back-to-back, Platinum-certified, multi-week No. 1 hits off his fourth studio album, Stereotype: “Single Saturday Night,” “Never Say Never” (with Lainey Wilson) and the five-week 3x Platinum chart-topper “She Had Me At Heads Carolina” that garnered three ACM Awards for Single of the Year and Song of the Year (as songwriter and artist), an iHeart Music Award for Country Song of the Year and received a nomination for Musical Event of the Year for “She Had Me At Heads Carolina” with Jo Dee Messina for the 57th CMA Awards. He released a special duet remix of his smash “She Had Me At Heads Carolina” featuring Messina that produced multiple award nominations and is included on his deluxe album Stereotype Broken, which also includes his 2023 Top 10 single “Drinkaby.”

The Georgia native returned from his first international tour dates in March opening for Cody Johnson’s Leather Deluxe Tour in Australia and New Zealand. Swindell will launch his 2025 headlining Happy Hour Sad Tour in September.