CHARLY REYNOLDS ANNOUNCES ACOUSTIC VERSION OF HER DEBUT ALBUM OFF THE RECORD

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Rising country artist Charly Reynolds is reimagining her debut album Off the Record with a raw, stripped-down acoustic release, “Off the Record (Live Acoustic).” Beginning March 28, 2025, Reynolds unveiled one song every two weeks, culminating in the full album release in the fall of 2025.

The first release, the title track “Off the Record (Live Acoustic),” showcases Reynolds’ untouched vocals and organic instrumentation, featuring only acoustic guitar, cajón, and fiddle. Alongside the song, Reynolds has released a live performance video, capturing the intimate, storytelling essence that has resonated deeply with fans across all social media platforms.

“I wanted to do an acoustic version of the album because it brings it back closer to how a lot of these songs were written, with an acoustic guitar or bare tracks with a little bit of percussion. I love them acoustic just as much and thought it would be fun to share that with my fans!” Reynolds said of her upcoming release.

Produced by Zachary Manno, “Off the Record (Live Acoustic)” offers a fresh perspective on Reynolds’ debut project, allowing the emotion and depth of each song to shine through in its purest form.

Charly Reynolds is a rising star in country music, captivating audiences with her authentic storytelling and vibrant sound. At just 25 years old, the Florida native has quickly established herself as a formidable singer-songwriter, with her debut album Off the Record showcasing a blend of Nashville twang and Texas dance hall charm. Released on September 20, 2024, the album features four compelling singles: “Love You Long,” “Somebody In Love,” “People Think,” and “Visiting Hours,” each offering a glimpse into Charly’s relatable experiences and heartfelt lyrics.

Before her debut album, Charly made waves with her 2023 EP, Perfect Timing. The six-track collection featured standout songs like“She Ain’t Me,” whose music video has surpassed two million views, the introspective “One Day at a Time,” and the poignant ballad “Flowers.” The EP’s launch was celebrated with sold-out shows in both Nashville, TN, and Orlando, FL.

She has shared the stage and lineup with artists such as Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson, Parker McCollum, Sara Evans, Maddie and Tae, Walker Hayes, JoDee Messina, and more. Charly’s sound is enriched by influences from country legends like Shania Twain, Carrie Underwood, and Martina McBride. Her music resonates deeply with fans, offering a mix of lively anthems and heartfelt tracks that strike an emotional chord. Her rendition of “Neon Moon” made an impactful appearance in the Season 5 finale of FOX’s The Resident, further solidifying her presence in the industry. With plans for another headlining tour and more releases on the horizon, Charly Reynolds is an artist to watch, delivering a fresh sound and a genuine connection to her audience as she continues to carve out her niche in country music.

PETE’S DUELING PIANO BAR SET TO OPEN IN DOWNTOWN NASHVILLE,DELIVERING NON-STOP FUN AND ENTERTAINMENT

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Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening Celebration Friday, April 4th

Nashville’s nightlife just got a whole lot louder – and a lotmore fun. Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar, the ultimate live music experience, is set to officially open indowntown Nashville, just steps away from Broadway, on Friday, April 4th. Located at 152 2ndAveN. (Lower Level), this exciting new venue will bring an unforgettable blend of live music, high-energy performances, and crowd interaction to Music City.

Get ready for an unforgettable night at Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar, while two talented pianists battle itout on stage, playing crowd favorites from every genre and era. The audience is encouraged torequest songs, join in on the fun, and be a part of the show in an atmosphere that combines livemusic, humor, and non-stop excitement. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that promises to keep yousinging, dancing, and celebrating all night long.

“We are thrilled to finally bring Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar to Nashville and take part in therevitalization efforts of Second Avenue,” said Austin Walter, partner in Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar.“This city has a rich musical history, and we can’t wait to contribute our energy and passion to thedowntown scene. We’re looking forward to giving both locals and visitors a truly unique place tohave fun, celebrate, and experience live music in a way only Pete’s can offer.”

The highly anticipated grand opening of Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar will take place on Friday, April4th, promising an unforgettable night of live music, celebration, and excitement. Doors will open tothe general public at 7:00 p.m., with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony taking place earlier in theevening at 5:00 p.m.

Guests will enjoy a spacious 10,000 square-foot venue complete with state-of-the-art lighting,sound, and video. With three bars, a VIP section, and a high-energy music-driven party atmosphere,Pete’s will become Nashville’s newest go-to spot for birthday celebrations, bachelorette parties, andunforgettable nights out.

Pete’s is the ultimate spot for unforgettable drinks. Dive into their legendary 52-ounce schooners,perfect for sharing with up to five friends. The “Lucky Duck” schooner is a fan favorite, while their“Tasty Tub Drinks”—craft cocktails served in fun, souvenir bathtubs—are a must-try, each toppedwith a rubber ducky (Nashville’s sporting a cowboy hat!). Don’t miss the bold Bangarang, the zestySpicy Pineapple ‘Rita, or one-of-a-kind shots like “Mexican Candy” and “Wedding Cake” that youcan only find at Pete’s.

ABOUT PETE’S DUELING PIANO BAR
Since its debut in Texas in 1992, Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar has built a loyal following for itsinteractive, high-energy performances and unique party atmosphere. Pete’s Nashville joins agrowing list of locations across the country, including Frisco, Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, andChicago. From birthday celebrations to bachelorette parties, Pete’s offers something for everyonewith entertainment that never stops.

CHRISTIAN HAYES RELEASES “THROUGH IT ALL”

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Ever since Capitol Records recording artist Christian Hayes’ love for songwriting was born in a journal his grandpa gifted him at age seven, music has been an avenue for him to navigate complex emotions associated with growing up and the heartaches that come with it. The release of his latest song, “Through It All,” is no exception, as Hayes toggles with learning to move on from a relationship alone.

Hayes says, “I wrote ‘Through It All’ in celebration of all the times I made it through things without the people who promised they’d be there for me. It’s a song about realizing you’re strong enough – and you are enough… It’s something I hope you can find strength in as well.”

Written by Hayes and Jonah Kagen, and produced by Kagen, the emotional ballad conveys the anguish of a relationship ending with a person who was expected to be around to help weather life’s storms.

Prior to “Through It All,” Hayes released his debut EP, Last I Love You, in September 2024. Last I Love You casts a wide net, introducing Hayes’ genre-bending style by fusing Americana and folk, while bouncing between campfire ballads, cinematic soundscapes and raw, rowdy barn-burners. At the center of that sound is Hayes himself: a wise-beyond-his-years musician who knows he can’t move forward without taking a look at his past.

Genuine and articulate, Hayes comes from a long line of storytellers that includes his Grandpa Jack – a poet by profession. Born and raised in the foothills of Appalachia, Hayes began playing guitar at age eight. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy Reserve and attended the University of Alabama.

Hayes made his Grand Ole Opry debut on February 1, performing two songs: the unreleased “Home Sweet Home” and viral hit, “LILY.” This Summer, Hayes will make his CMA Fest debut with a performance on the Hard Rock Stage.

About Christian Hayes:

Raised in the Appalachian foothills of northern Georgia, Christian Hayes grew up surrounded by southern storytelling. His grandfather —a poet by profession —encouraged him to begin writing in a journal at 7 years old, sparking a habit that would eventually take Hayes to Nashville. A veteran of the US Navy Reserve, Hayes began applying the discipline of his military training to his work as a songwriter, amassing more than 900 original songs by his mid-twenties. Five of those songs appear on Last I Love You, his debut for Capitol Records available now. Produced by Lukas Bracewell and steeped in Hayes’ unique version of American roots music, Last I Love You features the viral hit “LILY” (which racked up more than 3 million streams before the EP’s official release), the anthemic “Black Gold,” and a mix of effortless melodies, cinematic folk and rowdy, barn-burning Americana. Earlier this year Hayes made his debuts on both the Grand Ole Opry and Bluebird stages.

ERIC CHURCH TO CELEBRATE NEW ALBUM WITH “EVANGELINE VS. THE MACHINE”, LIVE MAY 23 & 24 AT THE PINNACLE IN NASHVILLE

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Widely renowned for his singular concerts, with Forbes remarking that he “frequently looks to shake up just how fans experience live music,” Eric Church once again offers a unique live experience with an exclusive pair of shows set for May 23 and 24 at Nashville’s newest live music venue, The Pinnacle, in celebration of the release of his highly anticipated May 2 album, Evangeline vs. The Machine.

The one-off shows will see Church perform the new album in sequence for the first time, while also treating fans to a number of compelling performances of his most iconic hits. A self-proclaimed “album artist,” Church has always championed the power of cohesive storytelling, and Evangeline vs. The Machine is no exception. “An album is a snapshot in time that lasts for all time,” Church shares of the creative approach behind the highly-anticipated new project. “I believe in that time-tested tradition of making records that live and breathe as one piece of art – I think it’s important.”

“I’ve always let creativity be the muse. It’s been a compass for me,” he adds. “The people that I look up to in my career and the kind of musicians I gravitate to never did what I thought they were going to do next – and I love them for it. I never want our fans to get an album and go, ‘Oh, that’s like Chief or that’s like this.’ Painstakingly, I lose sleep at night to try to make sure that whatever we do creatively, they go, ‘Wow, that’s not what I thought.’ I think that’s my job as an artist.”

Lead single “Hands Of Time” is already impressing, having set a new personal record en route to becoming most added at Country radio this week with 135 first-week stations and earning immediate praise from fans and critics alike. Stereogum lauded the “juicy, fired-up Southern rocker about living in a world that increasingly makes no sense to you;” Rolling Stone celebrated the “nostalgic jukebox, full of allusions to songs and artists that were essential to Church’s career: Bob Seger and ‘Hollywood Nights,’ Tom Petty and ‘Even the Losers,’ AC/DC’s ‘Back in Black,’ and Willie and Waylon’s ‘Luckenbach, Texas,’ among them;” and Billboard honored the way “the song builds into a punchy, rock-fueled anthem as Church sings of turning to simple pleasures – particularly music – to fend off the impact of the passing decades.”

Among the other songs featured on the forthcoming Jay Joyce-produced album is “Darkest Hour,” released ahead of the project to support relief efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in September 2024, with all of Church’s publishing royalties donated to provide ongoing funds in support of a more resilient future for his home state of North Carolina. “That song had the chance to change things—it already has,” Church reflects. “The greatest concert I’ve ever played was the Concert for Carolina – that’s the greatest thing I’ve been involved with. This song played a big part of that night and is a rallying cry for the people there that still need a lot of help. As a person who writes and performs a song, seeing it truly impact people’s lives is the greatest thing you can hope to accomplish.”

Also included is “Johnny,” a soul-stirring reinterpretation inspired by “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” and the Covenant School tragedy, which Church has previewed in limited settings at both his Chief’s To Beat The Devil residency and the recent Country Radio Seminar, leaving audiences in awe. “About a year ago, we had a shooting here in Nashville at the Covenant School,” he explained when introducing the song during CRS. “Where my kids go to school, my two boys, is about a mile from that school. I will tell you something, the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life – parent or otherwise – is dropping them off at that school the day after the shooting and watching them walk inside. I sat in the parking lot for a long time, and as fate would have it, as I was pulling out, Charlie Daniels was playing, ‘The Devil Went Down to Georgia.’ I remember thinking, man, we could use Johnny right now, because the Devil’s not in Georgia, he’s everywhere. I went home and wrote ‘Johnny’.”

THE FIRST HALF OF the 33rd ANNUAL TIN PAN SOUTH SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL FILLED WITH CELEBRATION, SPECIAL GUESTS AND NEARLY 100 HOURS OF SONGS AND STORIES!

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On Tuesday, March 25, the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) celebrated the start of the 33rd annual Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival! They began taking over Music City alongside presenting partner Regions Bank to honor the art of songwriting, filling 11 venues throughout town with dozens of chart-topping songwriters who have penned the songs that soundtrack each and every moment of our lives.

While the first shows began Tuesday evening at 6:00pm, the celebration started early for festival performers, partners, and the industry over at NSAI Headquarters, The Music Mill. Presenting partner Regions Bank joined forces with NSAI to transform The Music Mill parking lot into a Tailgate party featuring BBQ from Peg Leg Porker, beverages and games from Jack Daniel’s, hydration from StageWater and live entertainment from several standout NSAI Members! Throughout the two hours, songwriters Mark Taylor, Axel Rasmussen, Brittany Moore, Jesse Felder, Grayson May, and Emily Ortega performed while festival performers, partner attendees and industry members united sharing their plans for the week.

The first three nights of the festival were filled with nearly 100 hours of stories and songs with every stage welcoming the songwriters as they shared their talents with attentive audiences. Thanks to Southwest Airlines®, three lucky winners were recipients of a Southwest Surprise and Delight, taking home a $150 gift certificate courtesy of Tin Pan South’s official airline partner.

From a taste of Texas at the Saxon Pub Exchange Show (The Bluebird Cafe) to the reunion of The Hitmen of Music Row, featuring Bob DiPiero, Tony Mullins, Jeffrey Steele, and Craig Wiseman (3rd and Lindsley Nashville | Visit Music City Stage) the entertainment has been non-stop.

Beyond the scheduled performers over the past three days, in true Tin Pan fashion, numerous surprise guests have appeared! On Wednesday night at the Jack Daniel’s Stage at The Listening Room Cafe, the round featuring Breland, David Fanning, and Travis Heidelman featured guest after guest, with Jeff Trott, Jon Decious, Abbey Anderson, and Rob Ragosta all hopping on to share a song each, and over at the Lounge at City Winery on Thursday, the audience was surprised with a special performance from songwriter-artist Morgan Evans on the Tennessee Association of Broadcasters Stage!

Tonight (Friday, March 28) the festival continues strong with a pop-centric round featuring Oak Felder, Sebastian Kole, Austin Nivarel (AB Hillsboro Village | Nashville Scene Stage), an alternative country show at the Tennessee Association of Broadcasters Stage at The Lounge At City Winery with Katie Boeck, Lance Cowan, Fred Koller, and Ryan Murphey, or a chance for NASHVILLE, the show, fans to relive moments at the Visit Music City Stage at 3rd and Lindsley where Charles Esten and songwriters from the show NASHVILLE will perform, with proceeds from that show benefitting this year’s official festival charity ALIVE (ALIVE Hospice).

About Tin Pan South
Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival, established in 1993 by NSAI, is the largest songwriter’s festival in the world. It offers audiences a platform to discover rising songwriters and watch songwriting legends in their element. Every genre is well represented; some of the artists who have graced the stage in the past include Art Garfunkel, Carole King, Donna Summer, Josh Osborne, Lamont Dozier, Lori McKenna, RaeLynn, and Thomas Rhett. More information can be found here.

About Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI)
Established in 1967, NSAI is the world’s largest not-for-profit songwriters trade association supporting 90+ chapters throughout the U.S. and beyond and a membership of nearly 5,000 professional and developing songwriters of all genres.

With the 57-year-strong mission to advocate, educate, elevate and celebrate the songwriter, NSAI has successfully led numerous legislative endeavors to protect the rights and profession of songwriting nationwide and acts as a unifying force within the music community at large. Nashville, Tennessee is home to its headquarters and NSAI shines the spotlight on the art of songwriting year-round as the proud owner of the legendary Bluebird Cafe, and through numerous songwriter-focused events including the Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival, The Nashville Songwriter Awards and various educational events throughout the year.

BILLY RAY CYRUS DROPS “ASK” WITH YUNG LAN, BRANDON MANLEY AND BEN BURGESS

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Two-time GRAMMY® winner Billy Ray Cyrus unleashed “Ask” today (March 21), an all-new collaboration produced by Yung Lan (Roddy Ricch, Lil Baby), Brandon Manley and Eric Hurt. The collaboration also features vocals by co-writers Ben Burgess (Morgan Wallen) and Manley on the track. The cinematic video for “Ask” by Director and Creative Lead Derrek Kupish, and cinematographer Chase Dunivant, captures Cyrus, Manley and Burgess on rural Tennessee train tracks journeying through life. “Ask” showcases Cyrus’s fresh sonic sound as a legendary music icon who’s transcended genres for more than 30 years:

It’s a long and winding road
It happens fast, so take it slow
You gon’ get there before you know
So, if you’re lost just ask

You know the future ain’t past
Buckle up and hit the gas
Won’t get there looking back
If you’re lost just ask

“Ask” follows Cyrus’s critically acclaimed alternative release “Lost” with Tommee Profitt and Sam Tinnesz earlier this year. This summer, Cyrus will unveil a new album of all new music produced by his son Braison Cyrus.

ABOUT BILLY RAY CYRUS:
Two-time GRAMMY® winner Billy Ray Cyrus is a critically and commercially acclaimed superstar who has established himself as a household name across all areas of the entertainment landscape, including music, movies, television, theater and more. A passionate philanthropist, he dedicates his time and talent giving back to U.S. service members, veterans and first responders. Billy Ray Cyrus holds the worldwide record for the longest Hot 100 No. 1 best-selling RIAA® 14x Diamond-certified song of all-time as an artist and songwriter for “Old Town Road” with Lil Nas X. He exploded onto the music scene when his first album, Some Gave All, debuted on the all-genre Billboard 200 album chart at No. 1 and stayed there for a record-breaking 17 weeks in 1992. The lead single, “Achy Breaky Heart,” became a phenomenon and went multi-platinum, also becoming the first ever song to achieve triple platinum status in Australia. After “Achy Breaky Heart,” he followed up with back-to-back hits “It Could’ve Been Me,” “She’s Not Crying Anymore,” “Some Gave All,” and many more. Billy Ray Cyrus knocked himself out of the top Billboard position with his second No. 1 album, It Won’t Be The Last, featuring smash hits “In the Heart of a Woman,” “Words By Heart” and “Somebody New.” In addition to his GRAMMY® Awards, his accolades include Billboard Music Awards, BET Hip Hop Awards, MTV VMA Moonmen, Country Music Association Awards, American Music Awards and Canadian Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences Juno Awards, among many more.

CHRIS YOUNG RETURNS TO HIS ROMANTIC ROOTS ON “TIL THE LAST ONE DIES”

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Chris Young showcases his staying power with “Til The Last One Dies,” the multi-platinum, global entertainer’s upcoming debut release on his new label home, Black River.

Set for release on April 4, Young announced the upcoming single last night (3/20) following his headlining concert in Beaver Creek, CO.

Written by Ben Hayslip, Seth Mosley, and Jordan Walker, “Til The Last One Dies” is a song the GRAMMY-nominated artist is thankful to have come across first.

“Songs like this don’t come along every day, and I haven’t released a ‘wedding love song’ in a while,” shares Young. “Those songs are a core part of who I am as an artist. I’ve been doing this for a long time, and yet this feels like a new chapter. It’s invigorating for me as a creator.”

Teaming up with producer Andy Sheridan for the first time, Young co-produced “Til The Last One Dies,” the follow-up to the Grand Ole Opry member’s 14th career No. 1 song.

Young joined Black River’s artist roster in late 2024, announced exclusively with Billboard, bringing more than nine billion global streams, 14 career No. 1 singles, and numerous ACM, AMA, CMA and GRAMMY nominations to the label. The Tennessee native kicked off his career with the romantic instant classic, “Gettin’ You Home (The Black Dress Song),” and has since evolved into a global arena headliner and creative force of nature – writing and co-producing much of the work behind his 54 RIAA certifications.

Continuing the excitement this weekend, Young is set to take the stage for a headlining set at Albuquerque, NM’s Route 66 Casino tonight. For more information and to catch a Chris Young show on the road, visit chrisyoungcountry.com and join @ChrisYoungMusic and his more than six million fans on socials.

ABOUT CHRIS YOUNG:
Multi-platinum global entertainer Chris Young has accumulated an impressive list of accomplishments, including membership in the iconic Grand Ole Opry, more than nine billion global streams, 14 career No. 1 singles, 54 RIAA certifications and numerous ACM, AMA, CMA and GRAMMY nominations, as well as wins for “Performance of the Year” and “Collaborative Video of the Year” at the CMT Music Awards. These milestones and more landed him among Billboard’s top country artists of the decade.  

Young is starting the new year with a new label, joining the artist roster of Black River Entertainment. Just announced, his debut single on Black River, “Til The Last One Dies,” is set for an April 4 release. The big news comes on the heels of Young’s ninth studio album, Young Love & Saturday Nights, released in 2024. The album’s title track and chart-topping single leans into David Bowie’s “Rebel Rebel” signature guitar lick, making the legendary rocker a writer on the song.

Named “one of his era’s finest traditionalists” by the Associated Press, Young is an international ambassador for country music, performing to capacity crowds around the world. With a hit-packed set that highlights his fourteen chart-toppers, the GRAMMY and ACM nominated vocalist’s most recent headlining tour played to over 400,000 fans in three countries.

NOMINATIONS ANNOUNCED FOR THE 60th ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS

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The Academy of Country Music (ACM) and Dick Clark Productions (DCP) today announced nominations for the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards on TODAY, with Ella Langley, Cody Johnson, Morgan Wallen, and Lainey Wilson receiving the most nominations. Hosted by 16-time ACM Award-winning entertainment icon Reba McEntire, the 60th ACM Awards will stream live exclusively for a global audience across 240+ countries and territories on Prime Video on Thursday, May 8 at 8 p.m. EDT/7 p.m. CDT/5 p.m. PDT from Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas. The monumental anniversary show will celebrate six decades of Country Music and feature unforgettable performances by the genre’s most legendary and multi-award-winning stars, including Blake Shelton, Eric Church, and Lainey Wilson.

A limited number of tickets to the 60th ACM Awards are available now at SeatGeek, offering fans exclusive entry into a night packed with their favorite Country stars performing the biggest hits.

Fans can also stream the Official ACM Awards playlist available now on Amazon Music in celebration of this year’s nominees. Fans can listen to country music’s biggest stars, such as Kane Brown, Lainey Wilson, and Jelly Roll, directly on the Amazon Music app HERE.

Nominee Highlights for the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards

  • First time ACM Award nominee, Ella Langley, leads with eight nominations including Female Artist of the Year, New Female Artist of the Year, and six nominations for her song with Riley Green, “you look like you love me,” which include Single of the Year, Song of the Year as an artist and songwriter, Music Event of the Year, and Visual Media of the Year as an artist and director.
  • Cody Johnson ties for the most nominations for a male artist with seven nominations, including his second nomination for Entertainer of the Year, and his third year in a row being nominated for Song of the Year, with “Dirt Cheap” being nominated in the category, as well as Single of the Year and Visual Media of the Year. Johnson is competing with himself in Visual Media of the Year, as his collaboration with Carrie Underwood, “I’m Gonna Love You,” is also up for the award. Johnson’s seven nominations this year mark the most ACM Award nominations he has ever received in one year and make him the most-nominated Texas-born artist this year.
  • Morgan Wallen ties for the most nominations for a male artist with seven nominations, including his third consecutive nomination for Entertainer of the Year. Wallen received four nominations for his collaboration with Post Malone on “I Had Some Help,” which includes three artist nominations and one songwriter nomination for Wallen.
  • Lainey Wilson ties for the most nominations in different categories, earning nods in six separate categories, including her first nomination for Artist-Songwriter of the Year. Wilson’s nominations for Song of the Year mark her fourth consecutive year being nominated and her seventh total nomination (including artist and songwriter credits) in the category.  
  • Luke Combs is a nominee for Entertainer of the Year. A win for Combs in this category will also clinch the coveted Triple Crown Award, which consists of an Entertainer of the Year win, plus wins in an act’s respective New Artist (Male, Female, Duo or Group) and Artist (Male, Female, Duo or Group) categories. Past ACM Triple Crown Award recipients include Lainey Wilson, Chris Stapleton, Miranda Lambert, Jason Aldean, Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, and others.  This is the sixth year in a row that Luke Combs has been nominated for both Male Artist of the Year and Entertainer of the Year.
  • Chris Stapleton receives six nominations, including his tenth consecutive nomination for Male Artist of the Year, an award he’s won four times in the past, including at the 59th ACM Awards.
  • Old Dominion receives a nomination for Group of the Year, making this the tenth consecutive year they have been nominated in the category. The group has taken home the title every year for the last seven years. 
  • Brothers Osborne’s nomination for Duo of the Year marks their 18th ACM nomination and their eleventh year in a row being nominated for ACM Duo of the Year, an award the pair has brought home four times.
  • Kacey Musgraves’ three nominations this year brings her total nominations count to 30, including nine nominations for Female Artist of the Year. She won the award in 2018, the same year she won Album of the Year for Golden Hour. 
  • Kelsea Ballerini receives her first ever Entertainer of the Year nomination in addition to nominations for Female Artist of the Year and Music Event of the Year as an artist and producer. This is her eighth time being nominated for Female Artist of the Year.
  • Little Big Town earns their 19th nomination for Group of the Year, which is one nomination shy of tying the record for the most nominations in the category, a record held by Alabama. Little Big Town has been nominated in the category every year since 2005, with the exception of 2011.
  • Rascal Flatts receives their first nomination for Group of the Year since 2017, having most recently won the award in 2009 for the seventh time.
  • Shaboozey receives his first ACM Award nominations, including a nomination for Best New Male Artist and Single of the Year for his record-breaking hit song “A Bar Song (Tipsy).”
  • First-time artist nominees include Gavin Adcock, Dasha, Noah Kahan, Ella Langley, Jessie Murph, Muscadine Bloodline, Shaboozey, Zach Top, The Red Clay Strays, Treaty Oak Revival, and Tucker Wetmore.

The following is the full list of nominees for the ACM Main Awards, Studio Recording Awards, and Industry Awards categories:

MAIN AWARDS:

ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR
Kelsea Ballerini
Luke Combs
Cody Johnson
Jelly Roll
Chris Stapleton
Morgan Wallen
Lainey Wilson

FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Kelsea Ballerini
Ella Langley
Megan Moroney
Kacey Musgraves
Lainey Wilson

MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Luke Combs
Cody Johnson
Jelly Roll
Chris Stapleton
Morgan Wallen

DUO OF THE YEAR
Brooks & Dunn
Brothers Osborne
Dan + Shay
Muscadine Bloodline
The War And Treaty

GROUP OF THE YEAR
Flatland Cavalry
Little Big Town
Old Dominion
Rascal Flatts
The Red Clay Strays

NEW FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Kassi Ashton
Ashley Cooke
Dasha
Ella Langley
Jessie Murph

NEW MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Gavin Adcock
Shaboozey
Zach Top
Tucker Wetmore
Bailey Zimmerman

NEW DUO OR GROUP OF THE YEAR
Restless Road
The Red Clay Strays
Treaty Oak Revival

ALBUM OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record Company–Label(s)]
Am I Okay? (I’ll Be Fine) – Megan Moroney
Producer: Kristian Bush
Record Company-Label: Columbia Records / Sony Music Nashville

Beautifully Broken – Jelly Roll
Producers: BazeXX, Brock Berryhill, Zach Crowell, Devin Dawson, Charlie Handsome, Ben Johnson, mgk, The Monsters & Strangerz, Austin Nivarel, SlimXX, Ryan Tedder, Isaiah Tejada, Alysa Vanderheym
Record Company-Label: BBR Music Group / BMG Nashville / Republic Records

Cold Beer & Country Music – Zach Top
Producer: Carson Chamberlain
Record Company-Label: Leo33

F-1 Trillion – Post Malone
Producers: Louis Bell, Charlie Handsome, Hoskins
Record Company-Label: Mercury Records / Republic Records

Whirlwind – Lainey Wilson
Producer: Jay Joyce
Record Company-Label: BBR Music Group / BMG Nashville

SINGLE OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record Company–Label(s)]
A Bar Song (Tipsy) – Shaboozey
Producers: Sean Cook, Nevin Sastry
Record Company-Label: American Dogwood / EMPIRE

Dirt Cheap – Cody Johnson
Producer: Trent Willmon
Record Company-Label: CoJo Music LLC / Warner Music Nashville

I Had Some Help – Post Malone, Morgan Wallen
Producers: Louis Bell, Charlie Handsome, Hoskins
Record Company-Label: Mercury Records / Republic Records

White Horse – Chris Stapleton
Producers: Dave Cobb, Chris Stapleton, Morgane Stapleton
Record Company-Label: Mercury Nashville

you look like you love me – Ella Langley, Riley Green
Producer: Will Bundy
Record Company-Label: SAWGOD / Columbia Records

SONG OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Songwriter(s)/Publisher(s)/Artist(s)]
4x4xU – Lainey Wilson
Songwriters: Jon Decious, Aaron Raitiere, Lainey Wilson
Publishers: Louisiana Lady; One Tooth Productions; Reservoir 416; Songs of One Riot Music; Sony/ATV Accent

The Architect – Kacey Musgraves
Songwriters: Shane McAnally, Kacey Musgraves, Josh Osborne
Publishers: Songs for Indy and Owl; Sony/ATV Cross Keys Publishing

Dirt Cheap – Cody Johnson
Songwriter: Josh Phillips
Publishers: Warner-Tamerlane Publishing; Write or Die Music; Write the Lightning Publishing

I Had Some Help – Post Malone, Morgan Wallen
Songwriters: Louis Bell, Ashley Gorley, Hoskins, Austin Post, Ernest Keith Smith, Morgan Wallen, Chandler Paul Walters, Ryan Vojtesak
Publishers: Bell Ear Publishing; Master of my Domain Music; Poppy’s Picks; Sony/ATV Cross Keys Publishing; Universal Music Corporation

you look like you love me – Ella Langley, Riley Green
Songwriters: Riley Green, Ella Langley, Aaron Raitiere
Publishers: Back 40 Publishing International; Langley Publishing; One Tooth Productions; Sony/ATV Tree; Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp

MUSIC EVENT OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record Company–Label(s)]
Cowboys Cry Too – Kelsea Ballerini, Noah Kahan
Producers: Kelsea Ballerini, Noah Kahan, Alysa Vanderheym
Record Company-Label: Black River Entertainment

I Had Some Help – Post Malone, Morgan Wallen
Producers: Louis Bell, Charlie Handsome, Hoskins
Record Company-Label: Mercury Records / Republic Records

I’m Gonna Love You – Cody Johnson, Carrie Underwood
Producer: Trent Willmon
Record Company-Label: CoJo Music LLC / Warner Music Nashville

we don’t fight anymore – Carly Pearce, Chris Stapleton
Producers: Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne, Carly Pearce
Record Company-Label: Big Machine Records

you look like you love me – Ella Langley, Riley Green
Producer: Will Bundy
Record Company-Label: SAWGOD / Columbia Records

VISUAL MEDIA OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Producer(s)/Director(s)/Artist(s)]
4x4xU – Lainey Wilson
Producer: Jennifer Ansell
Director: Dano Cerny

Dirt Cheap – Cody Johnson
Producer: Dustin Haney
Director: Dustin Haney

I’m Gonna Love You – Cody Johnson, Carrie Underwood
Producers: Christen Pinkston, Wesley Stebbins-Perry
Director: Dustin Haney

Think I’m In Love With You – Chris Stapleton
Producers: Wes Edwards, Angie Lorenz, Jamie Stratakis
Director: Running Bear (Stephen Kinigopoulos, Alexa Stone)

you look like you love me – Ella Langley, Riley Green
Producer: Whale Tale Music
Directors: Ella Langley, John Park, Wales Toney

ARTIST-SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
Luke Combs
ERNEST
HARDY
Morgan Wallen
Lainey Wilson

SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
Jessi Alexander
Jessie Jo Dillon
Ashley Gorley
Chase McGill
Josh Osborne

JOHN MORGAN DROPS REMINISCENT “KID MYSELF” AHEAD OF DEBUT ALBUM, CAROLINA BLUE, OUT APRIL 25

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Billboard’s “Country Rookie of the Month” and MULTI #1 hit songwriter John Morgan today drops the final preview of his debut album, Carolina Blue, out April 25, with the stunning “Kid Myself.” As his party starter smash “Friends Like That (feat. Jason Aldean)” surges into the Top 5 at country radio, the rising star’s breathtaking track travels back to a regretful decision that cut a relationship short.

The final preview of Carolina Blue examines the tough but mature truth behind the past, pairing the tactful artist’s distinctly bold, emotive vocal delivery and striking, unexpected lyricism. With a delicately thoughtful spin on words, “Kid Myself” was written by John, Tyler Hubbard (of Florida Georgia Line) and Jordan Schmidt (Morgan Wallen, HARDY, ERNEST).

“‘Kid Myself’ was the first time I ever wrote with Tyler Hubbard,” John shares. “I was so nervous the night before because I knew I had to come into the writing room with a good idea, or he might never write with me again. Luckily, I threw out ‘Kid Myself,’ and Tyler and Jordan both loved it. This song is about my life before I moved to Nashville and a past relationship that might have been the one – had I been ready for it. Ultimately though, it’s about forgiving yourself.”

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 not only co-wrote every track and played every guitar, but he also co-produced it alongside Brent Anderson.

“Whether he’s crafting a country ballad or riding a ’90s-rock pulse, Morgan’s work is consistently melodic, designed to hook a listener in a heartbeat” – Billboard

With “stadium-ready written all over him” (All Country News), the captivating entertainer will open for Chase Matthew, bring the heat to Tortuga Music Festival and Stagecoach, and hit the road with Kane Brown this year.

About John Morgan:
With a style that’s defined by melodic grit and a craftsman’s approach to songwriting, John Morgan brings a blue-collar toughness to country that’s pulled straight from the only life he knows. Hailing from a tiny town called Sylva, deep in the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina, John grew up immersed in bluegrass tradition and even toured the festival circuit each summer in a family band, before diving into songwriting, inspired by six-string legends from Tony Rice to John Mayer. Now, “a Music City songwriting star” (Tennessean), he has earned cuts with Jon Pardi, Dustin Lynch, Thomas Rhett and an outstanding 16 for Jason Aldean, including the superstar’s #1 songs – “Trouble With A Heartbreak” and the GRAMMY® nominated, ACM Single of the Year “If I Didn’t Love You” with Carrie Underwood, along with Aldean’s latest single at country radio “Whiskey Drink” currently climbing the charts. Praised by People as an “accomplished songwriter,” Aldean signed the sought-after, powerhouse artist “with guitar skills that will knock your cowboy boots off” (Nash News) to Night Train Records, his imprint with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. Having made his Grand Ole Opry debut and logging hours on the road opening for Aldean, ERNEST, Riley Green, Nate Smith and Jameson Rodgers, his party starter smash “Friends Like That” – featuring Jason Aldean – is currently surging into the Top 10 at country radio. With the Tennessean praising the “live concert favorite whose banjo and steel underpinnings still allow room for a hard-rocking core,” John’s breakout radio single has Billboard applauding, “Broken hearts aren’t typically pleasurable, although the breezy melody and pulsing guitars on ‘Friends Like That’ make loneliness sound attractive.” Giving fans a taste of new music with the striking “Kid Myself,” jaunty “Crickets,” confident “I Know Better” and heartrendingly smooth “Long Ride Home,” John Morgan’s highly anticipated debut album, Carolina Blue, drops April 25.

THE COUNTRY MUSIC ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES TONY BROWN, JUNE CARTER CASH AND KENNY CHESNEY AS THE COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2025

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The Country Music Association gathered at the prestigious Rotunda at the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum, today, to reveal the 2025 inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame – Tony Brown, June Carter Cash and Kenny Chesney.

Brown will be inducted in the Non-Performer category, which is awarded every third year in rotation with the Songwriter and Recording and/or Touring Musician categories. Cash will be inducted into the Veterans Era Artist category and Chesney will be inducted in the Modern Era Artist category.

Country Music Hall of Fame member Vince Gill hosted the press conference to announce the news, which was also streamed live on CMA’s YouTube channel. 

“This year’s inductees embody the relentless drive and dedication that defines Country Music,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “Kenny, June and Tony have each left a lasting imprint on the genre, shaping its history with their contributions. From a young age, each of them was immersed in music, and their lifelong commitment has led to this very moment. Their achievements speak to the passion and dedication that have defined their extraordinary careers, and the impact of their work will continue to inspire future generations. There’s something incredibly special about being able to surprise each inductee or their family with this recognition – it’s one of the most rewarding aspects of my job, knowing how deeply their careers have touched the lives of so many, including myself. It is with great pride that we honor these three remarkable individuals and celebrate the lasting legacy they have created within our format.”

“All three of the new inductees have left indelible impacts on the genre and firmly established themselves as unforgettable contributors to Country Music,” says Kyle Young, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Chief Executive Officer. “North Carolina native Tony Brown is a trailblazing record producer and executive who has helped shape the sound of modern Country since the 1980s, supervising many best-selling records while also ushering in outsider talents to the genre. Virginia-born June Carter Cash was a vibrant torchbearer of her family’s enduring Country Music legacy who forged her own distinctive path during her more than 60-year career as a beloved singer, comedienne and songwriter. And Kenny Chesney, from Tennessee, has maintained one of the biggest hitmaking careers in Country Music since 2000, with more than 50 Top 10 hits, 16 Platinum albums, and is a regular top touring act who continues to delight audiences. Fittingly, they will now forever be enshrined in the Country Music Hall of Fame with their illustrious peers who shaped our art form.”

“When you’re producing No.1 records, you feel like you know what you’re doing,” says Brown. “But being inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame — especially for someone as idealistic as me —makes it feel like you’ve truly made an impact. And that has always been my goal.”

“June Carter Cash represents the whole cloth of Country Music, it’s breadth and heritage,” says the Cash family. “And June’s place in Country Music is undeniable. From the 1940s, across the decades and into the current century, her voice has been heard across the country and throughout much of the world, both with Mother Maybelle Carter, sisters Helen and Anita, and on her own, as well as with her duet partners, including her beloved Johnny Cash, with whom she told stories and inspired musicians both past, present, and future. She was a loving wife and mother, an actress, singer, songwriter, comedienne and a truly gifted performer whose persona was never exactly what was expected but was always and totally June. She profoundly respected, and was respected for, her craft, and that endures to this day. We, the Carter and Cash families, are most grateful and proud that the County Music Association has given June this well-deserved honor for her undeniable contribution to the fabric of Country Music and American culture.”

“You don’t dare dream of being in the Country Music Hall of Fame, alongside legends including George Jones, Willie Nelson, Alabama, even Dean Dillon,” says Chesney. “I’ve been lucky enough to get to call them my friends, and that was plenty. But hearing the news I’d been voted into the Hall, I can honestly say beyond my wildest dreams, it’s an honor that defies words. I am humbled, grateful, honored…as much for all the songwriters, musicians, artists and people who’ve helped me build my career; they have truly inspired me every single day.”