LIZ KENNEDY RELEASES “COYOTE,” EMBRACING NEW MUSIC THAT SPEAKS TO THE HEART

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Crafting relatable lyrics comes naturally to Liz Kennedy, who has announced her latest release, “Coyote,” After experiencing a whirlwind of personal changes, the San Francisco-based singer-songwriter has come to see songwriting not as a choice but as something she must do. She recognizes that music is what sustains her and provides a way forward. A decade of critical success as a recording artist has allowed her to grow more confident in her ever-evolving persona—quirky, humorous, and deeply insightful—dedicated to truth and always striving to find something original to say. The single is the third from her upcoming album.

In support of the new music, Liz will release an official video produced by Eric Peltier to accompany her new song, which will be available on her official artist YouTube Channel on February 14.

Adding her thoughts to the song’s meaning, Liz shared, “It was the beginning of the Covid shutdown. The city was quiet. San Francisco. And at the top of my hill, Telegraph, I saw a coyote walking calmly across the intersection for the first time in 30 years. My boyfriend asked me to move to the country with him a few days later. I lived in Sonoma County for 7 months. The pandemic was a different reality for each different person. Being older, I was scared … but safe. Covid changed almost everything. Everything after that is, to me, the afterlife I refer to in the song. “Right here, in this afterlife…” It still feels like an afterlife. The “world spinning crazy.” But living in the country for the first time since childhood brought me hope. I hoped that if I made it through, I’d return and “try to set things right”. Or at least, bake a blackberry pie.”

“Kennedy’s writing makes excellent use of long-standing formulas and consistently finds ways to pour old wine into new bottles. It further aids her efforts that she’s a unique singer with supreme interpretative powers whose performances take already fine lyrics and transform them into mini-epics of the heart.”-Gashouse Radio.

Produced by Joel Jaffe and Liz Kennedy and engineered and mixed by J. Jaffe, “Coyote” was recorded at Studio on the Hill with Liz Kennedy (vocals/acoustic guitar), Jeff Campitelli (hand-drums/bodhran/djembe), Marc Levine (bass), J Jaffe (BGV/acoustic guitar), Hardy Hemphill (BGV/harmonica/keyboard), Eamonn Flynn (keyboard) and Pete Contino (accordion).

MORGAN WALLEN RELEASES TITLE TRACK TO UPCOMING 4TH STUDIO ALBUM: “I’M THE PROBLEM” AVAILABLE NOW

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With two No. 1 singles already hailing off his highly-anticipated upcoming fourth studio album, I’m The Problem, two-time 2025 GRAMMY nominee Morgan Wallen releases the title track.

“I’m The Problem” was written by Wallen, Ernest Keith Smith, Ryan Vojtesak, Grady Block and Jamie McLaughlin, and produced by Joey Moi and Charlie Handsome. The song seamlessly blends the metallic ring of keys, played by Dave Cohen, with the steady strum of the electric guitar, played by Tom Bukovac, and acoustic guitar, played by Bryan Sutton.

“I’m The Problem” follows Wallen’s latest, “Smile,” which reached No. 4 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart and was lauded by Good Morning America as “a moody heartbreak number.” Previous release “Love Somebody” recently became Wallen’s 17th No. 1 at Country radio. Upon its release in October, the song became Wallen’s first solo song to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It additionally debuted on 11 charts globally and led Wallen to become the first artist to have three singles each sit atop the Billboard Hot 100 and Hot Country Songs charts simultaneously.

The upcoming project sparked Wallen’s recently announced 2025 I’m The Problem Tour. Kicking off June 20 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, Wallen’s 20-show run will include stops in Seattle, Washington; Foxborough, Massachusetts; Toronto, Ontario and more. With a second stop recently added in Madison, Wisconsin, Wallen’s appearances will mark the first time an artist has played two consecutive nights at Camp Randall Stadium.

A rotating lineup of guests including Brooks & Dunn, Miranda Lambert, Thomas Rhett and Koe Wetzel join in direct support with Gavin Adcock, Corey Kent, Ella Langley and Anne Wilson as first-of-three across select dates. General on-sale for I’m The Problem Tour begins tomorrow, Jan. 31, at 10 a.m. local time at MorganWallen.com. Coupled with his much buzzed about inaugural Sand In My Boots Festival taking place in Gulf Shores, Alabama May 16-18, these 21 shows are the only place to see the superstar in 2025.

I’m The Problem comes as Wallen’s preceding projects, Dangerous: The Double Album and One Thing At A Time, landed No. 1 and No. 6 on Billboard’s Top 200 Albums of the 21st Century, respectively, following their blockbuster success. His third studio album, One Thing At A Time, sat atop the Billboard 200 Albums chart for 19 non-consecutive weeks – the most at No. 1 by a Country album – and yielded seven No. 1 singles at Country radio.

RANDY TRAVIS RELEASES BRAND NEW SINGLE “HORSES IN HEAVEN”

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A year in the making, today brings the launch of Randy Travis’ brand new single, “Horses In Heaven” amidst a heavy week for many. The song, penned by Jon Randall and Matt Nolen, had quite the journey to Country Music Hall of Famer, Travis. It’s a perfect fit for the artist who has been horseback since he, quite literally, was a baby. Harold Traywick, Randy’s late father, was a renowned horse trainer in North Carolina and ensured that his children inherited his skills. Listen to the song here: ffm.to/horsesinheaven.OPR

Randy Travis addressed the heaviness of the moment in a statement on his social media, yesterday; “This has been an incredibly hard 24 hours. Last night, many souls were lost in the horrific plane crash in Washington, D.C. and this morning, we lost a dear member of our country music and Warner Music family, publishing giant Ben Vaughn. My prayers are with all of the people affected by these losses, including members of our team. Tomorrow’s song release, “Horses In Heaven” feels like a timely reminder of God’s love and mercy and I hope it brings some comfort to those of us hurting through these tragedies. We have decided to continue with this release and promotion of it, but felt remiss to not share what’s on my heart right now… God Bless Ben, the victims of last night’s crash and all who are feeling the heaviness of this moment.”

There are horses in Heaven,
So I bet that God’s a cowboy
Headin’ off into the sunset in a big white Stetson hat
Every time you hear the thunder, it’s just a posse full of angels
Ridin’ those horses up in Heaven, golden saddles on their backs.

Randy Travis is currently on the More Life Tour with special guest vocalist James Dupré along with his longtime touring band.

More Life Tour 2025 Dates:
Feb. 8 – Scottsdale, Ariz. – Virginia Piper Theatre
Feb. 10 – San Luis Obispo, Calif. – CAL Poly State PAC
Feb. 11 – Bakersfield, Calif. – Fox Theatre
Feb. 12– Santa Barbara, Calif. – Lobero Theatre
Feb. 14 – Monterey, Calif. – Golden State Theatre
Feb. 15 – Visalia, Calif. – Visalia Fox Theatre
Feb. 16 – Sacramento, Calif. – Crest Theatre
Feb. 23 – Mason City, Iowa – North Iowa Community College
March 20 – Cedartown, Ga. – Cedartown PAC
March 21 – Princeton, W.Va. – Chuck Mathena Center
March 22 – Ashland, Ky. – Paramount Theatre
April 10 – Joliet, Ill. – Rialto Square
April 11 – Effingham, Ill. – Effingham Performance Center
April 12 – Renfro Valley, Ky. – Renfro Valley Entertainment Center
April 25 – New Philadelphia, Ohio – Kent State PAC
April 26 – Clarksburg, W.Va. – Robinson Grand PAC
May 9 – The Woodlands, Texas – The High Horse
May 10 – Arlington, Texas – Arlington Music Hall
May 11 – Branson, Mo. – Clay Cooper Theater

About Randy Travis
With lifetime sales exceeding 23 million, Randy Travis is one of the most successful multi-genre artists of all time and a 2016 inductee into the Country Music Hall of Fame. He has been a member of the Grand Ole Opry since 1986. His accolades include seven Grammy Awards, 11 Academy of Country Music Awards, 10 American Music Awards, two People’s Choice Awards, seven Music City News Awards, eight Dove Awards from the Gospel Music Association and five Country Music Association Awards. Three of his performances earned CMA Song of the Year honors: “On the Other Hand” (1986), “Forever and Ever, Amen” (1987), and “Three Wooden Crosses” (2002). To date, he has 23 No. 1 singles, 31 Top 10 hits, and more than 40 appearances in feature films and television shows. His discography includes four Gold albums, four Platinum albums, one Double Platinum album, one Triple Platinum album, and one Quintuple Platinum album. In 1992, Travis was recognized by the USO for his support and dedication to US Troops, including five USO tours, and was named the recipient of the Bob Hope Entertainment Award. In 2004, Travis was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and is celebrated on Nashville’s Music City Walk of Fame. Since his near-fatal stroke in 2013, Travis, with the support of his wife Mary and rigorous physical therapy, has made significant strides in his recovery, including improvements in speaking, walking and singing. In 2019, he released his critically acclaimed memoir Forever and Ever, Amen, co-authored with Ken Abraham. In 2021, CMT named Travis the CMT Artist of a Lifetime. In 2022, he released his award-winning documentary More Life garnering six Telly Awards. In May 2024, With the assistance of AI, Travis and Warner Music Nashville released “Where That Came From,” marking his first new recording in over a decade, showcasing his signature vocals. The single debuted at No. 45 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart, receiving an enthusiastic reception from both fans and country radio and has led to Travis and his wife advocating for creators’ rights in Washington D.C and beyond.

CAPITOL RECORDS’ CHRISTIAN HAYES MAKES GRAND OLE OPRY DEBUT

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Capitol Records recording artist Christian Hayes made his Grand Ole Opry debut on Saturday, Feb. 1. Donning a Schott leather jacket designed by Dixon and Jack, embroidered with artwork inspired by his debut EP, Last I Love You, released last September, and inscripted with his nickname “The Lullaby Kid,” Hayes performed two songs from the hallowed circle: “Home Sweet Home” and “LILY.”

While “Home Sweet Home” is unreleased, “LILY” (which is an acronym for “Last I Love You”) struck a chord with listeners, who turned it into a viral hit, quickly sending combined global streams past the six million mark.

Hayes’ debut EP, Last I Love You, is available everywhere now and casts a wide net, 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.

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.

TORI ROSE TOASTS TO AN EX WITH “IF DRINKING WAS A SPORT” SINGLE AND VIDEO AVAILABLE NOW

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Rising songstress Tori Rose toasts to an ex with her new single and video, “If Drinking Was a Sport,” available now via Brown Lee Entertainment.

Penned by Tori and produced by Jimmy Ritchey, “If Drinking Was a Sport” showcases the Pennsylvania native’s unique blend of traditional and contemporary country music complemented by sassy lyrics and a crisp twang.

“I wrote ‘If Drinking was a Sport’ for all the girls who’ve dated that one guy who puts partying as their first priority. I think they’ll relate to the song and get a good laugh from the lyrics,” shared Tori.

Celeb Secrets exclusively debuted the humorous video for “If Drinking Was a Sport,” shot in Nashville by director Justin Mayotte. “From the playful jabs at bar culture to the hilariously relatable characters, the visuals perfectly enhance the song’s sarcastic tone. With its infectious energy, sassy storytelling, and unforgettable melodies, this track solidifies Tori Rose as a rising artist with a knack for keeping it real,” praises Celeb Secrets’ Juliet Schroder.

Tori’s love affair with country music began at an early age while cruising the waters on her family boat, where she garnered an appreciation for legendary icons such as Dolly Parton and Hank Williams Jr., along with her childhood favorites Carrie Underwood and Little Big Town.

At just 6-years-old, Tori began piano, ukulele and guitar lessons, and later implemented vocal lessons at age 13. During her early grade school years, she performed in numerous choirs, musicals and talent shows where her natural abilities began to be recognized.

Tori’s music career blossomed at 12-years-old when she secured the opportunity to perform at Pittsburgh’s Hard Rock Cafe followed by a National Anthem performance at the Monster Truck Jam (PPG Paints Arena).

Since, Tori has received welcome to perform original sets at various music festivals and venues including Ole Red Orlando, where she won their Battle of the Bands contest in 2021. She has also opened for country legends Aaron Tippin and Trace Adkins.

The now 19-year-old is pursuing her dreams in Music City, continuing to share her authentic stories with a captivated audience, showcasing tenacity and determination.

JOHN MORGAN’S DEBUT ALBUM, CAROLINA BLUE, AVAILABLE APRIL 25

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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.

ANA CRISTINA CASH RELEASES HIGHLY ANTICIPATED SINGLE “LAST CALL”

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Ana Cristina Cash, the bilingual powerhouse known for her unique blend of Country, Pop, and Latin melodies, has released her latest single, “Last Call” (English) / “Tu Última Llamada” (Spanish). This captivating track marks the next chapter in her evolving musical journey, offering a poignant and empowering message that resonates across cultures.

Written by Ana Cristina Cash, Jodi Marr, and Willie Breeding, “Last Call” / “Tu Última Llamada” is a fiery anthem of liberation and self-discovery. With lyrics that confront betrayal and reclaim personal strength, the song weaves vivid storytelling with Ana Cristina’s rich vocals and dynamic musical arrangement. The track bridges genres, blending pop and country influences with a Latin flair in its Spanish version.

“’Last Call’ / ‘Tu Última Llamada’ is about taking back your power. For my first single release of 2025, I wanted to release something with a strong beat that was fun, captivating, and powerful while showcasing a fusion of the two genres I have worked with all of my life: Country music and Latin music,” says Ana Cristina Cash. “This fusion of genres has always felt natural to me and is very much a part of my authentic identity. I have always had a strong vision of Country music being a genre that can resonate with people globally, across various cultures. I love to be experimental in my work, and I feel that music knows no boundaries.”

Both versions of the single are available on all major streaming platforms, allowing Ana Cristina’s global audience to connect with her music in their preferred language.

In addition to her new single, Ana Cristina Cash and her husband, John Carter Cash, will take the stage at the Grand Ole Opry on February 14 for “It Takes Two: The Opry Celebrates Country Duos.” This special Valentine’s Day show will feature unforgettable performances from The War and Treaty, LOCASH, Neon Union, and more. For more information and tickets, visit https://www.opry.com/.

About Ana Cristina Cash: Ana Cristina Cash was raised in Miami, Florida. Ana, of Cuban descent, is bilingual and began a professional career in music at the tender age of six. She quickly became an accomplished champion of the singing competitions on the variety show, “Sabado Gigante.” Ana’s recordings showcase her broad vocal range, from a deep resonating contralto to an amazing soaring soprano, revealing what is known to some as a “whistle register.” Ana signed to Sony Music’s Latin division at the age of 15 and recorded her debut album, Ana Cristina, in the Spanish language. In 2004, she was nominated for the Premio Lo Nuestro Award. The next year, she went on to become the first Hispanic-American to perform the “Star-Spangled Banner” for a presidential inauguration for President Bush in 2005.

In 2016, Ana married music producer John Carter Cash and has been living and recording music in Nashville for a decade, primarily in their historical studio, The Cash Cabin Studio, in Hendersonville, Tennessee. Ana’s music beautifully blends her deep connection to Country music with Latin influences, creating a soulful sound that is uniquely her own. She made her Grand Ole Opry debut in 2019, performing her own original songs. Other notable appearances Ana has made include performing at The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Madison Square Garden, and various other major sporting events.

CRAIG MORGAN TO RELEASE AMERICAN SOUNDTRACK EP ON FEBRUARY 28

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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.

THE NEW DOLLY PARTON MUSICAL “DOLLY: AN ORIGINAL MUSICAL” ANNOUNCES WORLD PREMIERE PRODUCTION

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Global superstar Dolly Parton took to the stage of the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts on the campus of Belmont University in Nashville, TN to announce that Dolly: An Original Musical will have its world premiere this summer at the Fisher Center, Music City’s worldclass home for the performing arts, before the production comes to Broadway in 2026. Dolly: An Original Musical, will play a four-week limited engagement with preview performances beginning Friday, July 18 for a Friday, August 8 opening night with a final performance set for Sunday, August 17.

Parton said, “I am Tennessee born and raised, and Nashville has been my musical home for over 60 years. So, this is the right and perfect place to present the world premiere of my life story as a musical. Right here in Nashville, at the beautiful Belmont University’s Fisher Center.”

This will mark the first time the Fisher Center will host the world premiere of a new musical featuring a cast and creative team of professional artists.

Dolly: An Original Musical will feature a score by Parton that will include some of her biggest hits as well as new songs she has written especially for the musical, a book by Parton and Maria S. Schlatter, and will be directed by Tony Award® winner Bartlett Sher. The musical is produced by Parton, Danny Nozell, ATG Productions, and Gavin Kalin Productions. Jim Carnahan and Carrie Gardner serve as casting directors, and 101 Productions, Ltd. are general manager for the musical.

Casting, additional creative team members, and other details for the world premiere of Dolly: An Original Musical at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts will be announced in the coming weeks.

For news and updates on Dolly: An Original Musical, please sign up at www.dollymusical.com

Additionally, Parton, Dolly: An Original Musical, CTK Enterprises, and Belmont University announced the launch of the Dolly U, an immersive educational experience that will begin with a focus on the creation of the musical’s world premiere. The initial Dolly U allows students opportunities to participate in aspects of the production, working alongside the musical’s professional cast, creative, and producing teams, as it is developed and premieres at the Fisher Center this summer. In addition, new project-based courses are being offered during the spring semester in subjects such as marketing, brand partnerships, and merchandising, providing students with hands-on opportunities with the musical while receiving course credit.

The projects in this first year will serve as a pilot for additional courses and connections between Belmont, Dolly Parton, and CTK Enterprises in the future, as Dolly U expands in reach and impact.

As part of this initial program, Dolly U students have been working as production assistants and casting ambassadors helping facilitate the recently concluded “The Search for Dolly” national casting search which will give those chosen a chance to travel to New York to formally audition for a role in the new musical. The results of “The Search for Dolly” will be announced shortly.

SONGWRITERS HALL OF FAME RECOGNIZES ASHLEY GORLEY WITH CLASS OF 2025 HONOR

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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.