When Lee Ann Womack stormed the country and pop charts in 2000 with the inspirational ballad, “I Hope You Dance,” Cassadee Pope was still a young student growing up in Florida, a decade away from becoming the first female champion on the third season of the U.S. version on The …
Read More »
Kelleigh Bannen has never felt particularly precious about traditional release methods, and since her last EP, Cheap Sunglasses, she’s essentially made music as the muse has moved her. Today, Bannen’s back with three new songs: “John Who,” “Happy Birthday” and “The Joneses,” all of which showcase the Nashvillian’s soulful vocal …
Read More »
In continuing recognition of its wide range of influences, from country, folk and bluegrass to gospel, soul and blues, the Americana Music Association takes its latest recipient of a special honor from all three of the latter categories. New Orleans singer-songwriter Irma Thomas will be awarded a 2018 Lifetime Achievement …
Read More »
As far as country music award galas go, Chris Stapleton kept a low profile at Wednesday night’s CMT Awards in Nashville. The serial award winner was up for only two categories, but left his mark with a heartfelt performance of “Millionaire,” off his From A Room: Volume 2 album, outside …
Read More »
Fresh from his American Idol judging responsibilities, Luke Bryan revealed dates for the 2018 edition of his annual Farm Tour, set to visit a handful of agricultural communities beginning September 27th. Now in its 10th year, the Farm Tour currently has six dates scheduled in the first weeks of fall, …
Read More »
Throughout his more than 40 years as a songwriter, producer and recording artist, Rodney Crowell has explored an expansive musical landscape from intimate, heartbreaking ballads to spirited honky-tonk rockers. For his 19th album, the Grammy-winning musician, whose health issues forced the cancellation of several 2017 tour dates, finds himself unplugged …
Read More »
Roots-music singer and violinist Amanda Shires has revealed plans for her fifth studio album, To the Sunset, marking August 3rd as the “bold” new project’s release date. Featuring what’s described as an “edgier sound and attitude,” To the Sunset will find the celebrated songwriter exploring a new artistic direction – …
Read More »
Reba McEntire, born March 28th, 1955, is celebrating her birthday today while preparing to return as host of next month’s ACM Awards. While the Oklahoma-born singer reigns as country music royalty, her journey from rodeo barrel racer to global superstar wasn’t without its stumbling blocks. Her 1976 debut single barely …
Read More »
Blackberry Smoke‘s new LP, Find a Light, comes with a host of guest appearances, including Amanda Shires and the Wood Brothers. But only one cameo also collaborated on a co-write: Robert Randolph. The steel-guitar magician shows up on “I’ll Keep Ramblin’.” Randolph’s presence on the song is a bit like …
Read More »
Aerosmith singer Steven Tyler is heading out on a solo tour of the United States, Canada and Europe, backed once again by the Loving Mary Band. Upstart country duo the Sisterhood Band will support. Along with the rock vocalist’s signature hits, Tyler’s summer tour will be a showcase for songs …
Read More »