Prolific #1 hit songwriter John Morgan’s highly anticipated debut album, Carolina Blue, will release Friday, April 25, as his debut radio single “Friends Like That (feat. Jason Aldean)” soars toward Top 10. Pre-order/pre-save/pre-add HERE and listen now to “Crickets.”

“With Carolina Blue, I hope there’s relatability in the songs we chose and that the lyrics within them strike a chord,” John shares of his excitement of the debut. “I’m a dad and married and in a different stage of life than I was when I first moved from North Carolina to Nashville. I don’t try to be anything I’m not. I’ve never been good at that and know folks can snuff that out pretty quick. I hope these songs give people a message that there’s value in whatever they are doing. Most of the people that hear this are working the blue collar jobs I’d be doing if this wasn’t working, and I want them to hear their stories and feel their worth in this album.”

Having “already established his bonafides in the songwriting realm” (Billboard), being lauded as an “accomplished songwriter” by People and “Music City Songwriting Star” by the Tennessean, the boldly gritty North Carolina native will deliver a tantalizing robust 12-track debut. A brilliantly curated collection of songs, the authentically humble and tenaciously driven powerhouse artist – who has “stadium-ready written all over him” (All Country News) – not only co-wrote every track on the project but also co-produced it alongside Brent Anderson.

Exploring the complex layers of relationships a man can have with women throughout his life – whether he’s yearning for momma’s cooking and a Smoky Mountain porch or going on-and-on about the one who caught his eye – the record includes the previously released “I Know Better,” the blue-collar, 18-wheeler anthem “Long Ride Home,” and today’s jaunty new track “Crickets” that boasts a tempo-ready groove proving that sometimes Mother Nature is the only soundtrack needed.

Heading out with Chase Matthew along with making his 2025 Stagecoach Festival debut, the tactful artist that Saving Country Music advised to “keep on your radar” just dropped the official music video for his rowdy party starter “Friends Like That.” Featuring Jason Aldean, the skillfully clever song is currently surging into the Top 10 at country radio and has received critical acclaim from Billboard, MusicRow, Tennessean and more.

Some people just know innately who they are and what they stand for. Within a few minutes of any interaction with Craig Morgan, it’s readily apparent God, family and country are his foundation. The Country Music hitmaker will continue to celebrate those pillars on his new EP, American Soundtrack, releasing February 28 on BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville.

Morgan has long represented the hard-working, God-fearing people who are the backbone of America. He co-wrote all but one of the EP’s six tracks, and each song on American Soundtrack is infused with the singer and soldier’s faith and patriotism.

“I try to celebrate God, family and country in my music and in everything I do,” the Tennessee native says. “That’s what I have always done and I’ve come to realize it’s my platform. I don’t stress about things as much as I used to. I just try to write, sing, produce and play the best music that we can and go where I think God wants me to be.”

The new record, produced by Phil O’Donnell and Craig Morgan, will be released the same weekend Morgan joins buddy Blake Shelton on his “Friends & Heroes” 2025 Tour, kicking off February 27 in Lexington and spanning twelve shows through late March.

About Craig Morgan: Singer, author, actor, and soldier Craig Morgan has made a name for himself as a country music hitmaker who has amassed nearly 2.5 billion career streams and charted over 25 songs on Billboard. With signature hits including “Redneck Yacht Club,” “Almost Home,” “International Harvester,” “Soldier,” “That’s What I Love About Sunday,” and his faith-filled tribute, “The Father, My Son and the Holy Ghost,” the multi-faceted entertainer’s music has formed the soundtrack to our lives for over two decades. His new music, American Soundtrack, releasing February 28 (BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville) is no exception, with each of the EP’s six songs infused with Craig’s faith and patriotism. The record will be released the same weekend Morgan sets out on Blake Shelton’s “Friends & Heroes” Tour, with twelve shows in February and March.

Craig received one of country music’s highest honors when he was inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry in 2008. Prior to becoming a country music star and TV sensation, Craig spent seventeen years serving our country in the Army and Army Reserve and in 2023 enlisted again in the Army Reserve, continuing his military career as a Warrant Officer. He remains an avid supporter of America’s military personnel and has made more than sixteen overseas trips to perform for our troops. Craig is a member of the U.S. Field Artillery Hall of Fame and recipient of the USO Merit Award. In 2018, he was awarded the Army’s Outstanding Civilian Service Medal, one of the highest awards the Department of the Army can bestow upon a civilian, in recognition of his significant dedication to our military men and women around the world. He remains committed to supporting active duty and veteran members of our military through work with Operation Finally Home, the USO and more.

His emotional and inspiring memoir – God, Family, Country – is available now. In the book, Craig details all aspects from his inspiring life, revealing never-before-heard stories including the impetus behind his recent enlistment in the Army Reserve, how he worked alongside the CIA as a soldier in Panama, fought sex traffickers as an undercover agent in Thailand, forged his own path to country music stardom, and lives his life by the deepest values: God, family, country.

CBS News Senior Culture Correspondent Anthony Mason revealed the prestigious Songwriters Hall of Fame Class of 2025 honorees on CBS Mornings recognizing inductees The Doobie Brothers, George Clinton, Mike Love from the Beach Boys, Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins alongside Nashvillian Ashley Gorley. Gorley was at home starting his day as the news broke.

“I’m honestly shocked. I started out in the tape room listening to some of the greatest songwriters turn in demos,” Gorley shares, reflecting on his journey. “Being welcomed into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and this legendary group of music makers is a dream come true. I’ve always looked up to this organization, and I’m proud to join representing Nashville and the country music community.

“I’ve attended this event as a fan and it always leaves me inspired, so this moment is truly surreal for me and my family,” Gorley adds. “I’m incredibly grateful for the Hall of Fame and all the songwriting heroes who shaped music as we know it today, and I’m looking forward to celebrating everyone in June.”

Morgan Wallen congratulated his friend and “Love Somebody” and “Last Night” collaborator sharing, “Ashley, your talent and work ethic are unmatched. I’m glad you’re being celebrated for your craft and there is no one more deserving of this honor. After as many hits as you’ve had, you don’t have to show up like you do for me and other artists and writers, and yet, your passion and love of songwriting inspires us every day. Congratulations on being named to the Songwriters Hall of Fame Class of 2025!”

Sony Music Publishing Nashville CEO Rusty Gaston expressed admiration for Gorley’s journey and character, noting, “From dreams that began in Danville, KY to creating songs that have touched lives and hearts all over the world, Ashley Gorley is truly one of a kind. His drive, determination and perseverance are only eclipsed by his heart, genuine spirit and his faith. It’s astounding what he has achieved thus far, and he has no signs of slowing down, with hit songs on the chart today and many, many more to come. Every member of his family at Sony Music Publishing could not be more proud of him and congratulate him on this well deserved recognition.”

Tape Room Music President Blain Rhodes remarks, “This is a huge accomplishment! The Songwriters Hall of Fame celebrates the great songwriters from all genres who have enriched the world’s culture through their music. Ashley has been, and continues to be one of the most prolific songwriters of all time. His body of work is unmatched and his songs have helped shape Country Music. This is a very well deserved honor.”

Gorley grew up in Danville, Kentucky and attended Belmont University, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1999. Since, he has continued to give back to the University through leading seminars, mentoring students and serving as an adjunct instructor. Gorley has met with Senators and The Library of Congress to promote songwriters’ rights and bills such as the Music Modernization Act. In 2011, Gorley formed his own publishing and artist development company, Tape Room Music. Under his leadership and mentorship writers for Tape Room have celebrated 50 No. 1 songs, including 2018 ASCAP Country Song of the Year, “Body Like A Back Road,” 2021 ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC Country Song, “One Of Them Girls,” and 10-week Country Airplay number-one hit, “World On Fire.” An 8-time NSAI, 11-time ASCAP and 2023 Songwriter of the Year (all-genre) by Variety, the publication proclaimed “Gorley is widely considered contemporary country’s most successful writer.” In 2024 he supported the launch of a program designed for the creative community by The Onsite Foundation: Creatives Support Network, providing free mentorship, education, resources and mental wellness support specifically designed for members of the songwriting community gifting 80 grants for 80 individuals to commemorate his 80th chart-topper. Gorley’s recent collaborations with Jelly Roll and Post Malone/Morgan Wallen (“I Am Not Okay” and “I Had Some Help”) are being honored at the upcoming GRAMMY Awards with two nominations in the Best Country Song category.

3x GRAMMY Award-winners and current nominees, Dan + Shay already have reason to celebrate the New Year. Their Grammy nominated single, “Bigger Houses,” is at the top of the country radio chart this week, giving the duo their 11th career #1.

“BIGGER HOUSES IS OFFICIALLY #1 AT COUNTRY RADIO,” the band proclaimed on social media. “Anytime you get to ring the bell, it’s a career highlight and a huge win to celebrate with everyone involved, but this song is extra special for so many reasons. Not only is it the title track to the album that saved our band, but it is a message of gratitude and appreciation that has truly inspired the way we live. Knowing that this song has resonated with so many people, like it has with us, is the ultimate validation.

“Thank you to our longtime friends and co-writers [Andy Albert], [Jordan Reynolds], and [Jordan Minton] for bringing this one into the world with us. This was the final song written for the album, and defined the era in such an important way. Thank you to our [Warner Music Nashville] team for championing this one all the way to the top of the chart. It’s not lost on us that working a song like this (no drums or shiny production) is a challenge, but you faced it head-on and delivered, like you always do. Thank you to our country radio family for taking a chance on this song, and helping us share it with millions and millions of listeners, week after week. Your support means more to us than we could ever put into words.

“And last but not least, thank you to our fans. You have always stood by us, through every high and every low, and we are forever grateful. You believed in this song since the day we released it, and gave us the confidence to make it a single. Sitting on top of that house and hearing you sing these words back to us every night on tour was something we will never forget.

“Lots more to say about Bigger Houses, but for now, thank you. Simply, thank you. We could not think of a better way to start the year than by celebrating a song that means so much to us with the people who mean so much to us. Cheers to 2025, and cheers to our 11th #1!”

The ‘big’ news is fueled by several incredible year-end milestones with the release of their first-ever holiday album, It’s Officially Christmas: The Double Album. Featuring 21 festive tracks, including ten timeless Christmas classics and 11 originals co-written by Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney, the project skyrocketed to #1 on the iTunes Holiday Albums Chart and debuted at #2 on the Billboard 200 Holiday/Seasonal Chart upon release.

The album quickly became a seasonal favorite, with fans worldwide incorporating it into their holiday celebrations. The original tracks “Officially Christmas” and “Happy New Year” helped fuel the album’s 550 million streams worldwide, incorporating 340 million streams in the U.S. alone. In addition, both “Happy New Year” and “Pick Out A Christmas Tree” reached #1 on the iTunes Holiday Songs Chart. The latter also made it to #3 on the AC chart and ended the year as the #1 most played song of 2024 on the Country current Holiday Airplay Chart and the #2 most played song of 2024 on the all genre current Holiday Airplay Chart. Impressively, 13 total tracks from the album enjoyed significant airplay across multiple formats throughout the season.

Throughout the holiday season, the duo also made special appearances on major TV events, including The Today Show (with 2.2 million viewers), the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Ceremony, which drew 5.96 million viewers during NBC’s 89th Annual Christmas in Rockefeller Center, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which saw over 31 million viewers across NBC and Peacock.

Following a successful 2024 tour, IMG Artists is pleased to announce that “Trailblazing Women of Country: A Tribute to Patsy, Loretta, and Dolly,” produced by Eli Wolf, will tour North America for a second time in early 2025.

Kicking-off at the Newberry Opera House in Newberry, South Carolina, on February 20, the concert tour features 2022 Grammy® nominee Rissi Palmer and Kristina Train joined by a five-member all-female band. Additional tour and ticket information can be found at www.womenofcountrytour.com.

Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, and Dolly Parton revolutionized country music and blazed a trail for future generations of female artists. With their chart-topping hits and record-breaking sales, the legends wove threads of contemporary womanhood throughout the tapestry of country music, resulting in unprecedented commercial success and earning each a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Rissi Palmer (“Country Girl,” “Hold On to Me,” “Still Here”) and Kristina Train (“Spilt Milk,” “Dark Black”) will celebrate the legacy of these legends performing their groundbreaking hits “Crazy,” “Walkin’ After Midnight,” “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’,” “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” “Jolene,” “9 to 5” and many more.

Rissi Palmer states, “From a young age, I was deeply influenced by these incredible women, learning the art of performance, songwriting, and singing through their music.” Rissi continues, “It’s an honor to now bring their songs to life on this tour, and I couldn’t be more excited to share this experience with the audience!”

“This program and lineup are truly what dreams are made of, says Kristina Train. “I am thrilled to be performing these beloved songs alongside Rissi Palmer. Her voice is stunning and I’m prepared to have the chills each night!” Kristina adds, “When we think of the mainspring of country music, we’re immediately referencing a Holy Trinity with Dolly, Loretta, and Patsy. With each concert on this tour, our group of fantastic women and musicians, along with everyone present in the room, will experience a joyful celebration honoring what these legends have given us.”

The concerts will highlight how Cline, Lynn, and Parton harnessed country music’s rich storytelling tradition to offer their uniquely empowered—and unmistakably female—perspective on issues faced by women of their day. Their shared legacy of musical excellence, earthy glamour, and unapologetic authenticity continues to resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds in the 21st century.

Musicians joining Palmer and Train are Music Director Megan Coleman (drums, background vocals), Amy Frederick (piano, keyboards, background vocals), Leandria Lott (acoustic guitar, background vocals), Lindsey Miller (electric guitar, background vocals) and Sissy Dinkle (bass, background vocals).