MICHELLE WRIGHT’S A WRIGHT CHRISTMAS & MORE NOW AVAILABLE

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Just in time for the holidays, Michelle Wright — one of Canada’s most successful and widely-recognized country artists — today releases A Wright Christmas & More (BFD / Audium Nashville), a remastered and renamed edition of her 2005 holiday album, A Wright Christmas.

The twelve-track compilation includes classic holiday hits such as “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Jingle Bell Rock,” “White Christmas,” Winter Wonderland,” and “Rudolph the Red-Rosed Reindeer,” among others. Though the album is a remaster, Wright couldn’t help but add a few new songs co-written with several of her songwriter pals.

“Recording A Wright Christmas is one of my favorite musical experiences,” explains Wright. “Instead of looking for a ‘hit,’ I got to record some of my favorite Christmas songs. We approached this project the same way. We added the classic ‘Silver Bells,’ but I also fulfilled a dream of mine by writing my own ‘new favorite’ Christmas songs with my friends Jeannie Seely, Victoria Shaw, Patricia Conroy, and Bob Funk, which has added more great memories for me. We had so much fun writing these songs, and getting back into the studio with my friend and producer Bob Funk is always something I look forward to.”

Wright’s holiday album is one of several remasters she has released over the past few years. In May of 1992, Arista/Nashville released Now and Then, the album that introduced Wright to the world. In August 2022, BFD/Audium Nashville celebrated the project’s 20th anniversary with the release of Milestone, the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame member’s first new music release in nine years. Due to an overwhelming response from her fans, the label began the process of putting Wright’s catalog of music into the hands of a new generation of listeners. The label released remastered versions of The Wright Songs: An Acoustic Evening with Michelle Wright, Do Right By Me, Everything and More and Strong. All are available now digitally as well as physical CD.

UNRELEASED GEORGE JONES RECORDINGS RESURFACE: ‘THE LOST NASHVILLE SESSIONS’ SET FOR NOVEMBER 15 RELEASE!

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George Jones fans are in for a treat with the announcement of the new album, George Jones: The Lost Nashville Sessions set to release on November 15 on Country Rewind Records. Originally recorded for radio airplay in the 1970s, these tracks have been enhanced, capturing Jones’ signature sound by bringing the audio quality up to twenty-first-century standards. This was achieved by subtly adding instrumentation and background vocals beneath Jones’ voice where needed.

The record features sixteen tracks, including both beloved hits and lesser-known recordings. Many will recognize iconic songs like “The Race Is On,” “The Grand Tour,” “White Lightnin’,” and “Tender Years.” This collection also brings to light rare recordings of tracks such as “Old Brush Arbors,” “She’s Mine,” “Four-O-Thirty-Three,” and “The Honky Tonk Downstairs,” which was premiered by American Songwriter.

“Music truly is the gift that keeps giving,” shares Nancy Jones. “Even after all these years, we’re still releasing new music from George. This collection features sixteen songs, and while some may be familiar hits, these versions are ones you’ve never heard before. I’m thrilled to share them with all of his devoted fans.”

These recordings were initially made exclusively for artist promotion, often completed in just one or two takes with an announcer’s voice between songs. Once aired, the tapes were often discarded or destroyed by the stations. Country Rewind Records President and Executive Producer Thomas Gramuglia discovered the original boxed master tapes and recognized that true fans would appreciate hearing these timeless recordings despite their poor condition after years of neglect. With the help of producer Paul Martin, George Jones: The Lost Nashville Sessions provides a unique collection of George Jones’ music that showcases his emotional depth and lasting influence on country music.

Nancy Jones recently released Playin’ Possum: My Memories of George Jones, offering an intimate look at her life with the legendary country singer. Married for over 30 years, Nancy stood by George through his battles with addiction, alcoholism, and self-destructive behaviors, becoming instrumental in saving both his life and career. Known as “The Possum,” George Jones is regarded as one of the greatest country music singers of all time, and Nancy’s account reveals the highs and lows of their tumultuous life together. Her unwavering love and determination shine throughout the memoir. To purchase Playin’ Possum: My Memories of George Jones.

Also recently at the 45th annual Telly Awards, country music was well-represented as Still Playin’ Possum: Music & Memories of George Jones emerged as a top winner. The program took home a Gold statue for Best Music Performance (Television), along with Bronze statues for Best Entertainment Program (Television) and Best Live Event & Experience (Television).

Artists included in Still Playin’ Possum: Music & Memories of George Jones were Brad Paisley, Dierks Bentley, Jelly Roll, Tanya Tucker, Wynonna, Jamey Johnson, Trace Adkins, Travis Tritt, Sam Moore, Sara Evans, Justin Moore, Joe Nichols, Lorrie Morgan, Uncle Kracker, Gretchen Wilson, Aaron Lewis, Tracy Lawrence, Michael Ray, Tracy Byrd, Blackberry Smoke’s Charlie Starr, Dillon Carmicheal, The Isaacs, T. Graham Brown, Janie Fricke, Tim Watson, and Lisa Matassa all performed songs that Jones made hits.

SINGER-SONGWRITER DEVON BECK RELEASES NEW SINGLE “BLAME IT”

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Singer-Songwriter Devon Beck is releasing her new single “Blame It” today. “Blame It” brings together Beck’s signature blend of country and pop elements and was co-written by Beck, Nathan Wilson, Cody Garrett, and Sam Johnson. Noted as an artist with a “songwriting ability beyond her years” (Bethany Bowman) “Blame It” is a driving up-tempo track about the challenges of a relationship overshadowed by blame and alcohol addiction. Guitar Girl Magazine premiered the track ahead of the single’s release lauding, “a raw and relatable narrative of accountability and heartbreak, wrapped in a catchy, powerful sound.”

As Beck’s most personal song to date she shared, “This song was the soundtrack to my life at one point and now that it’s over, I’m finally ready to share it. Thank you so much for listening.”

“Blame It’ follows Beck’s previously released and highly lauded singles “Homewrecker” and “Mirrors,” which was featured on Apple Music’s “The Ward Guenther Show”, “Cigarette Smoke,” “Say To You” and her debut EP One Sided Expectations.

As a rising independent artist, Beck has quickly built a loyal following with over 370,000 cumulative streams on Spotify, a captivating audience on TikTok and the attention of several artists, songwriters and insiders including a collaboration with Sam Grow.

Lauded as a “musical force” (CelebMix) the singer-songwriter moved from Pennsylvania to Nashville in 2019 to pursue her career in music. Her music has been featured in Wide Open Country, Country Swag, Cowgirl Magazine, The Honey Pop, Adobe & Teardrops, and more. Beck has performed over 600 shows including multiple shows at Whiskey Jam and the PA Farm, the nation’s largest indoor agricultural show attended by 500K people. She has previously opened for artists including Ernest, Joe Nichols, Maddie & Tae, Brett Young, Everclear, Nate Barnes, and more.

SCOTTY HASTING JOINS COUNTRY HITMAKER LEE BRICE AND ICON DOLLY PARTON ON “Til The Last Shot’s Fired,” Out Now

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What happens when you combine the artistry of a Purple Heart recipient, a Country music hitmaker, and a living legend? Magic, in the form of a haunting ballad honoring our fallen veterans while a “prayer for peace” emerges.

Artist, songwriter and Purple Heart recipient Scotty Hasting enlisted the help of country music hitmaker Lee Brice and the iconic Dolly Parton on the deeply personal and thought-provoking, “Til The Last Shot’s Fired,” available now (10/18).

The song, initially recorded by Trace Adkins (with the West Point Choir), was written by Doug Johnson and Rob Crosby and deeply affected Scotty Hasting while recovering from being wounded in action.

“The first time I heard ‘Til The Last Shot’s Fired,’ I was at Walter Reed,” shared Hasting, who spent six months at the National Military Medical Center in recovery after being shot ten times while serving in Afghanistan. “It was like something inside of me flipped. I started sobbing, and I couldn’t stop. At that moment, I knew that I had to live life to the fullest for my friends who would never have the opportunity to. I wasn’t going to let my injuries dictate how I lived my life or for their sacrifice to be in vain.”

Fast-forward ten years to 2023, and a chance encounter in Nashville led Hasting to Doug Johnson, one of the song’s writers and the VP of A&R at Black River Entertainment. That meeting quite literally changed the course of Hasting’s life and led to his recording and publishing deals.

Hasting’s release of his own version of “Til The Last Shot’s Fired,” produced by Doug Johnson, is an emotional, full-circle moment. Having Lee Brice and Dolly Parton on the track takes it to an unbelievable new level.

“This collaboration means the world to me,” confessed Hasting. “I’m honored that Lee and Ms. Dolly want to be a part of not only this song but also my story and my journey. My hope for ‘Til The Last Shot’s Fired,’ is that it brings peace to fellow Veterans, and their families, who are struggling.”

The solemn track opens with Hasting painting a lyrical scene just outside of Nashville in 1864 during the Civil War before leading into the chorus begging for a prayer for peace. Brice picks up the grave story in 1944, where the soldier “waded through the blood of Omaha Shore.”

“This song shook me to the core the first time I heard it,” shared Brice. “I am a huge supporter of our military community, and every word of ‘Til The Last Shot’s Fired’ makes me think of the surreal circumstances our brave service members endure to keep us safe. It was an honor to record this song with Scotty, who is a huge talent, and of course, the one and only Dolly being a part of this made it even more special.”

As the chilling story continues to unfold through the fields of Vietnam and the mountains of Afghanistan, the heartbroken and exhausted soldiers are met with an unexpected respite.

Like a ray of light straight out of Heaven, Dolly breaks the desperation with hope and a prayer for peace for every daughter and every son, even adlibbing a final “Pray for Peace” in a whisper as the song closes.

“I am proud to be a part of this wonderful song,” said Parton. “May we all lift up a prayer for peace.”

DOLLYWOOD CELEBRATES MILESTONE 40TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON IN 2025

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One of Dolly Parton’s greatest dreams—the little theme park named Dollywood that opened in her home county in 1986—has now become one of the world’s leading family destinations and is set to celebrate its 40th season in 2025. Dollywood Parks & Resorts looks a lot different than it did when it opened on May 3, 1986, but the mission at its heart remains the same—to create a welcoming environment where families can enjoy making memories together.

Dollywood has special events, new celebrations and several returning favorites planned to commemorate the milestone anniversary. The fun begins at Tripadvisor’s #1 US theme park with Season Passholder Preview Day set for Friday, March 14.

“I can’t believe that we’ve been making memories for folks here at my Dollywood for 40 years,” Dolly explained. “That’s a lot of laughter, hugs and smiles, and I’m glad that we’ve been able to be part of it for so many years. When we opened Dollywood, the main thing I wanted to do was to give families a fun place where they could enjoy time spent together. I’m so proud of all the people who have worked to make Dollywood what it is today, and I want to thank all the guests who have supported us and trusted us to help them create those days they’ll never forget.

“And just think, I spent opening day watching the parking lot because I was worried that people might not show up,” she added with a laugh. “But look at how far we’ve come since then—and we’re just getting started!”

A new 40th anniversary show, which debuts Memorial Day weekend and runs through the end of summer, highlights moments from guest-favorite shows during the park’s illustrious history of entertainment offerings. Additionally, a new drone and fireworks show honoring the 40th anniversary season takes place as part of Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration presented by Food City, and a new opening ceremony will occur at the beginning of each operating day during the 2025 season.

The Imagination Playhouse, which features plays based on books from Dolly’s Imagination Library, becomes a permanent fixture this season, offering its much-loved shows for younger guests from March through the end of September. The theater will offer a rotation of playhouse favorites guests have enjoyed through the years. During Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration, new story time and character meet & greets are part of the Imagination Playhouse experience.

Also in celebration of the 40th anniversary, “Heartsong: The Movie” will be remastered and moved—appropriately—to Dreamsong Theater as part of The Dolly Parton Experience. “Heartsong: The Movie” will run in conjunction with “Heidi Parton’s Kin & Friends.”

The Country Fair area of the park also receives a bright refresh during the 2025 season to celebrate the classic fun and family togetherness of this special area of the park. In addition, Country Fair transforms during the Harvest Festival to become Candy Corn Country, with decorations and theming to highlight the “corny” fun of this fall treat. The special festival fun doesn’t end there, however. A favorite of years past, Peppermint Valley returns during Smoky Mountain Christmas to provide a bright red and white lighting scheme in Country Fair.

“I’m excited to welcome guests to celebrate our 40th anniversary season with us in 2025,” said Dollywood Parks & Resorts President Eugene Naughton. “We are thrilled to have earned the Tripadvisor #1 US theme park designation last year along with being the highest ranked US park in Golden Ticket Award voting for Best Park last year. We’ve worked hard for 40 seasons to make the Dollywood experience the best theme park experience in the country, and our guests are telling us we’ve done just that through these awards. And remember what Dolly said, ‘We’re just getting started!’”

REBA McENTIRE RELEASES ORIGINALTHEME SONG IN SUPPORT OF NEWNBC COMEDY ‘HAPPY’S PLACE’ 

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Adding a new song to her Country Hall of Fame resume and for her millions of fans to enjoy, entertainment icon Reba McEntire has teamed up with renowned songwriter Carole King and written the show’s theme song for her upcoming new NBC comedy, “Happy’s Place.”

The song, released by MCA Nashville, is available across all music platforms and will also debut on the “Happy’s Place” series premiere, which is set for Friday Oct. 18 at 8 p.m. “Happy’s Place” will stream the next day on Peacock.

“I’m so happy for the opportunity to write the theme song for “Happy’s Place” with my good friend, Carole King,” said Reba McEntire. “It just doesn’t get much better than that! I hope my fans will love this song as much as they did the theme song for the “Reba” show,” added McEntire.

“Happy’s Place” stars Reba McEntire as her character, Bobbie, inherits her father’s tavern (Happy’s Place) and is surprised to discover that she has a new business partner, Isabella, played by Belissa Escobedo, a twentysomething half-sister she never knew she had. The series also stars Melissa Peterman, Pablo Castelblanco, Tokala Black Elk and Rex Linn.

“Happy’s Place” is produced by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group. The series is created by Kevin Abbott and Julie Abbott. Writer Kevin Abbott executive produces with Reba McEntire, Michael Hanel, Mindy Schultheis, Matt Berry and Pamela Fryman.

MULTI-PLATINUM #1 HIT SONGWRITER MADELINE MERLO IS ONE HOUSE DOWN (from the girl next door)

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Multi-PLATINUM, #1 hit songwriter Madeline Merlo today releases her latest project – ONE HOUSE DOWN (from the girl next door). Divulging her most authentic self, exposing her own vulnerabilities and imperfections, the project is a profound exploration of the brutal healing cycle after a breakup – moving on from a once-promising relationship, the poignant melancholy of adjusting to new realities to triumphantly keeping the past in the past and looking forward.

“ONE HOUSE DOWN (from the girl next door) is finally out today, and I am so excited that this little project I’ve held close to my chest for quite some time is finally yours too,” shares Merlo. “My hope is that you heal, relate and feel encouraged to find your voice in the pursuit of love. I am so proud of these songs and grateful to all the songwriters, musicians and my producer, Zach Crowell, for helping me create it. And to all my friends who also feel like they’re one house down from the girl next door – I hope it helps you embrace who you are.” 

Known for her discography packed with “powerful female stories” (E! News),  the “rising star” (People) co-wrote all six tracks on the project, which were produced by Zach Crowell. Teaming up with 10x #1 hitmaker Dustin Lynch, the powerhouse duet “Broken Heart Thing” brings to life both sides of a recent break-up. Revealing how each feels in the aftermath, the beautifully tender track is brought to life by Lynch’s deep, recognizable vocal and Merlo’s standout, soulful voice and brilliantly relatable lyrics. The captivating song has already made an impact, earning top placements on both Spotify and Apple Music Country playlists, quickly gaining even more traction and on-demand streams amongst fans each day. 

JELLY ROLL DROPS SURPRISE DELUXE ALBUM EDITION FEATURING SIX ADDITIONAL SONGS

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Award-winning multi-genre phenomenon Jelly Roll surprised his fans after releasing his highly-anticipated new album, Beautifully Broken, at midnight with a deluxe edition that includes six additional songs titled: Beautifully Broken (Pickin’ Up The Pieces).

The album Beautifully Broken and Beautifully Broken (Pickin’ Up The Pieces) (Deluxe edition) follow Jelly Roll’s record-breaking Country debut, Whitsitt Chapel, which debuted #2 on the Billboard Country charts, Top 3 on the Billboard 200 and was the largest debut Country album of the year. Named Beautifully Broken after his current US headlining tour that continues to make headlines and earn critical acclaim, the new album features the reigning CMA New Artist of the Year and current 3X CMA nominee’s radio single “I Am Not Okay” that is Top 3 at Country, Top 15 at Hot AC, Top 25 at Top 40 and Top 20 (#18) on Billboard 100, as well as Top 10 rock radio track “Liar,” ESPN’s 2024 College Football Season anthem “Get By,” and recently debuted track, “Winning Streak,” which he first performed during his musical debut on the premiere episode of SNL’s 50th Anniversary Season (9/28).

As previously announced, net profits from every pre-order of Jelly Roll’s new album Beautifully Broken in his U.S. web store will benefit organizations helping individuals facing challenges with mental health and addiction as part of the album launch.

Earlier last week, Jelly shared the inspiration for naming the album Beautifully Broken during his Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon sit down (9/30) as well as during Sunday Today With Willie Geist, noting that “we are all a bit broken, and all worth saving.” After teasing initial details about the project earlier this Summer on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and with The New York Times Magazine, he officially revealed the album’s 22 track list this week via his socials (full list below.) Co-written by Jelly Roll, Taylor Phillips, Ashley Gorley and Casey Brown, “I Am Not Okay” is currently Top 3 and climbing on Country radio and follows the Nashville native’s fourth consecutive #1 at Country radio and 5th career #1, including his Grammy-nominated multi-week #1, “Save Me.”

BEGIN THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH 12TH ANNUAL LIGHT THE WAY 5K NOV. 8 AT DOLLYWOOD

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The magical spirit of Dollywood during the holiday season is unmatched. Returning for its 12th installment, the annual Light the Way 5K is the perfect way to get into a festive mood. This certified race takes participants through the grounds of Dollywood on a remarkable course illuminated by 6 million sensational Christmas lights. The race begins at 11 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 8; the Knoxville Track Club is facilitating the event again this year.

Incorporating feedback from previous racers, this year’s 5K offers a new and improved course. The race will start at the Dollywood toll booths, offering a flat surface in the parking lot for the first one-third of the race. Runners then will enter the park and run through many of the 6 million dazzling lights and festive scenery of the award-winning Smoky Mountain Christmas festival. The end of the race marks a breathtaking and picturesque finish, as runners will cross the finish line in the brand-new Dolly Parton Experience area.

Proceeds from the event benefit Keep Sevier Beautiful (KSB) and the Share it Forward (SIF) program. KSB, an affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, is a volunteer-based organization which focuses on waste reduction/recycling, litter prevention and beautifying public spaces through education and community-based programs. KSB’s intention is to protect the natural beauty of the area that millions of visitors come to see each year. SIF is a nonprofit organization that serves Dollywood Company employees and their families through a variety of assistance programs. SIF programming is funded primarily through fundraising activities and employee donations, which are matched dollar for dollar by The Dollywood Company.

“It’s so exciting to be hosting runners at the Light the Way 5K for a 12th year and for us to continue our partnership with the Knoxville Track Club to make this event even brighter. The beauty of Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas festival combined with the challenge of a course that only a theme park can provide makes Light the Way a one-of-a-kind event for runners and walkers,” said Kevin Kipfer, Executive Director for Share It Forward. “Just as importantly, this event helps provide our non-profit organizations with much-needed financial assistance just before the holidays,” added Lisa Bryant, Executive Director of Keep Sevier Beautiful.

This race will be certified and chip-timed by the Knoxville Track Club, who will work with the event team to provide racers with an unforgettable experience. Medals will be distributed at the finish line for every participant in Light the Way 5K. Awards will be presented to the top three finishers for both men and women and all age groups.

ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AND BMI NASHVILLE CELEBRATE HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH WITH ARTIST SHOWCASE

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In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Academy of Country Music and BMI Nashville partnered for a showcase on Thursday (10.10) at the Warner Chappell office in Nashville, spotlighting Hispanic/Latino artists. The intimate event featured moving performances from MŌRIAH, Alejandro Sierra, Ana Cristina Cash, and Matt Castillo, with BMI’s Shannon Sanders alongside Marushka Media and Hispanic Entertainment Alliance Founder Jackie Martinez Marushka hosting the evening.

“As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, BMI and the Academy of Country Music are proud to honor the rich contributions of Hispanic artists and songwriters to the fabric of American music,” says Sanders. “Their stories, rhythms, and voices bring unique perspectives that inspire and connect us all.”

Highlights from the event included:
MŌRIAH, a Mexican-American recording artist, actress, and producer, opened the show with several songs including her inaugural Latin Country track, “Hasta Mañana,” which was released on October 4.

Ecuador native and Belmont graduate, Alejandro Sierra’s moving performance included his latest single “Todo Lo Que Sube” / “What Goes Up.” Sierra, whose parents were in the audience, made a special trip from Quito for the event.

Miami native and daughter in-law of Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, Ana Cristina Cash, treated the crowd to a live performance of her critically acclaimed, all-Spanish version of the hit song, “Patria Y Vida.” Cash is currently applying the finishing touches on her new project, which is due in 2025 and melds Country Music with Pop and Latin influences.

Closing out the evening, South Texas native, Matt Castillo, shared acoustic versions of his Texas Country Radio No. 1 songs, “Corazon,” “Te Necesito,” and “Go Get Her,” ahead of his forthcoming project, which arrives in 2025.


“I can’t thank Shannon, BMI, and the ACM enough for opening doors for these artists to share their music, voice and culture,” Marushka said. “Thank you, Warner Chappell, for making your showcase space available for such a special event, as it’s so important to highlight Hispanic voices in Country Music, and there’s no better time for it than Hispanic Heritage Month.”

About the Academy of Country Music:
Founded in Southern California in 1964 as a regional trade organization, the ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC (ACM) has become a leading association for the Country Music industry over the last 60 years. Now headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., and boasting a record-high membership of more than 5,000+ worldwide, the Academy serves as a powerhouse advocate for Country fans, artists, and all facets of the business, as well as a supporter of philanthropic work through charitable partner ACM LIFTING LIVES, dedicated to improving lives through the power of music and providing aid in times of need, with a focus on health initiatives. 2024 has been another monumental year for the Academy, with the 59th ACM Awards, hosted by entertainment icon Reba McEntire, broadcast live from Texas for a second consecutive year on Prime Video. The Academy also remains relentlessly committed to creating a more inclusive environment for underrepresented groups in Country Music, from the boardroom to the stage, and proudly presents both ACM LEVel Up, a two-year professional development and enrichment curriculum for rising leaders, and OnRamp, a guaranteed income program for Black members of the Nashville music community, in partnership with the Black Music Action Coalition. For more information, visit ACMcountry.com or ACMLiftingLives.org.

About BMI:
Celebrating over 80 years of service to songwriters, composers, music publishers and businesses, BMI® is a global leader in music rights management, serving as an advocate for the value of music. BMI represents the public performance rights in over 22.4 million musical works created and owned by more than 1.4 million songwriters, composers, and music publishers. The Company negotiates music license agreements and distributes the fees it generates as royalties to its affiliated writers and publishers when their songs are performed in public. In 1939, BMI created a groundbreaking open-door policy becoming the only performing rights organization to welcome and represent the creators of blues, jazz, country, and American roots music. Today, the musical compositions in BMI’s repertoire, from chart toppers to perennial favorites, span all genres of music and are consistently among the most-performed hits of the year. For additional information and the latest BMI news, visit bmi.com, follow us on X and Instagram @BMI or stay connected through BMI‘s Facebook page. Sign up for BMI’s The Weekly™ and receive our e-newsletter every week to stay up to date on all things music.