LOCASH turned the BMI rooftop into a celebration on Tuesday, Aug. 5, honoring their multi-week radio No. 1 hit “Hometown Home.” Friends, family, and industry partners gathered to toast the achievement — the duo’s first single and first chart-topper on their own Galaxy Label Group.

Written by Preston Brust, Chris Lucas, Zach Abend, and Andy Albert, and produced by Jacob Rice, the track spent two weeks at the top earlier this year. The event, hosted by BMI and ASCAP, opened with Father Ryan High School’s drumline before speeches from key industry figures praised the duo’s hard work, family values, and leadership.

Studio Bank marked the occasion with a donation to LOCASH’s I Love This Life Fund, while Rice, Abend, and Albert reflected on the joy of creating the song and the lasting friendships it sparked.

Taking the mic, Lucas recalled the laughter-filled writing sessions, while Brust encouraged both newcomers and long-time Nashville veterans to keep chasing their dreams.

The night ended with LOCASH, Abend, Albert, and Rice leading the crowd in singalongs of “Hometown Home” and their fan favorite, “I Love This Life.”

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Atlanta-based Quality Control Music (QC), known for its impressive roster of rap and hip-hop stars, has taken a bold step into country music by signing The BoykinZ, a sister quartet that blends country, pop, rock, hip-hop, and soul. The BoykinZ have already captivated audiences, amassing over 80 million views on TikTok, and gaining national attention with appearances on The Kelly Clarkson Show and the 2023 CMT Music Awards. Although based in Atlanta, the group has spent the past two years immersed in the Nashville music scene, collaborating with top songwriters and producers.

Joining QC’s lineup, which includes artists like Migos, Lil Yachty, Lil Baby, City Girls, Lakeyah, Bankroll Freddie, Layton Green, Metro Mars, Kollision, and Duke Deuce, The BoykinZ bring a fresh and unique sound to the label.

“An act like The BoykinZ comes along once in a generation,” said QC co-founders Pierre “P” Thomas and Kevin “Coach K” Lee. “Their extraordinary talent, star quality, and dedication to their craft are truly special. They harmonize and perform with a bond only sisters can share, and we’re proud to introduce The BoykinZ as QC’s first country music act.”

The BoykinZ sisters expressed their excitement, saying, “This is a dream come true, and we’re incredibly humbled and honored to join the QC family. We owe so much to P, Coach K, the country music community, and everyone who has believed in us. Your support has fueled us to this moment, and we can’t wait to share our new music. Never give up on your dreams—LET’S GOOOO!”

The BoykinZ are managed by Craig King, CEO of The Gentle King Group, a full-service production and management company.

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Dolly Parton announced to fans at CMA Fest in Nashville this morning (June 6) that a new Broadway musical inspired by her life and career, titled Hello, I’m Dolly, is set for a 2026 debut.

Parton is collaborating with ATG Productions to bring the musical to life and will co-produce it with ATG’s Adam Speers and her longtime manager, Danny Nozell of CTK Enterprises. The musical, named after Parton’s debut studio album released in 1967, will feature a score composed by Parton, including some of her greatest hits and new songs written specifically for the production. The book will be co-written by Parton and Maria S. Schlatter. Further details about the creative team and casting will be revealed later.

“Hello, I’m Dolly, and I’ve lived my whole life to see this show on stage,” Parton shared. “I’ve written many original songs for the show and included all your favorites as well. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll clap, you’ll stomp—it truly is a Grand Ol’ Opera. Pun and fun intended. Don’t miss it!”

Adam Speers recalled, “I first had the pleasure of working with Dolly Parton in 2019 when she trusted us to develop a new version of her musical 9 to 5 for London’s West End. I always knew she wanted to create a musical based on her life, so when she asked if I’d be interested in producing it, I was thrilled. As everyone knows, Dolly is a magical blend of talent, hard work, intelligence, charm, wit, and a gigantically big heart. I’m excited to bring her inspiring story to Broadway.”

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Keith Urban is joining NBC’s The Voice as this season’s Mega Mentor. Beginning with next Monday’s (April 8th) episode, Keith will mentor the remaining artists who have made it through the battle rounds and get ready for the knockout rounds. Coaches Reba McEntire, John Legend, Chance the Rapper and Dan + Shay will choose the inner from their team to advance to the playoffs before the live shows start.

Keith spent a lot of his own time competiting in talent competitions on TV, even when he was just nine years old. While it was a bit of a brutal experience, it made him work even harder on his chosen craft.

“I was on a few singing talent TV shows when I was a kid, a bunch of them actually,” Keith recalls. “The first one I did I was nine-years-old and my Mom and Dad got me on to a TV show called Pot of Gold. It was a singing competition show with three judges, one of whom was just a really unfiltered, unapologetic, vicious, scathing kind of judge. (laughs) This was a long time before Simon Cowell’s template. This guy had it nailed, and at nine-years-old I was subjected to this, and I got kind of crucified by this judge. It didn’t faze me, you know? And then I went on other shows after that, but my experience with all of those was really loving good feedback, constructive feedback, even if it was something I needed to work on. I remember the judge telling me to kindly learn how to sing in tune. (laughs) I’m like, ‘Okay?!’”

Keith has been a coach on The Voice in Australia, a mentor on NBC’s The Voice here in the States and now a Mega Mentor. He also spent several years at the judges table for “American Idol.”  The best part of this kind of job for Keith is the mentoring — helping contestants figure out what they need to work on to get better…in a nice way.

“Just getting good advice and honest advice was something I really loved and needed, so it was a no-brainer when I got asked to do it,” he says. “The first one I got asked to do was be a coach on The Voice in Australia on their first season, and I did it. I loved it. Then I did quite a few seasons of American Idol as a judge on American Idol and loved it. So, when The Voice here in the States asked me to come and be a mentor and now a Mega Mentor, whatever that means – I feel like a Transformer – I jumped at the opportunity, because the mentoring part I particularly love. I love that the most. I love being able to try and help an artist navigate some things they’ve got to work on and try and be constructive and helpful but also do it in a supportive way. Nobody wants to get humiliated in front of people, but you do need honest advice as well, so I love that opportunity.”

Keith previously appeared on The Voice as an advisor to Blake Shelton during Season 15 and also served as a coach in the Australian version of the competition show for Seasons 1, 10 and 11.

Keith recently released his new single, “Messed Up As Me,” and it’s currently closing in on Top 35 on the country charts.

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Locked Up EP Track List:

1. Locked Up (Sam Hunt, Zach Crowell, Jerry Flowers, Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne)
2. Country House (Sam Hunt, Ross Copperman, Michael Lotten, Josh Osborne)
3. Last Hurrah (Luke Laird, Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne)
4. Outskirts (Sam Hunt, Zach Crowell, Jerry Flowers, Josh Osborne)

Hunt makes his performance debut of new song “Locked Up” at the 2024 CMT Music Awards on April 7 airing Live on CBS from the Moody Center in Austin, Texas.

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Brian Kelley has recently teased a forthcoming track titled ‘Kiss My Boots’ on his social media platforms. Which is now available to stream by clicking here. The song is hinted to be directed at someone who has been tarnishing his reputation in the town. Speculation is rife among fans that the target of the song might be Brian’s former partner in Florida Georgia Line, Tyler Hubbard.

In a subsequent post, Brian Kelley delves into the inspiration behind the song, alluding to mental struggles he faced a couple of years ago, possibly in the aftermath of the duo’s split. Reflecting on advice from his mental health coach during a challenging period, he shared, “the person with the highest emotional intelligence has the highest responsibility.” Despite the difficulty, he chose to take the high road, processing his emotions inwardly, which ultimately found expression in the form of this song.

In various social media snippets, Brian Kelley introduces a clip of the new music, emphasizing his decision to take the high road and the deep emotional wound he carries. Fans deduced that the track in question is ‘Kiss My Boots,’ a fiery song where Brian draws courage from Hank Williams Jr. and Jack Daniels, delivering a defiant message to someone who has been disparaging him.

Reports of an unamicable split between FGL members emerged during the band’s hiatus in 2022, with rumors suggesting political clashes between BK and Tyler during the 2020 election. In an exclusive conversation, Brian Kelley revealed his initial intention to continue both Florida Georgia Line and his solo career. Despite efforts, this proved unattainable, and any frustrations arising from the situation have now found an outlet in his music, particularly in the upcoming song ‘Kiss My Boots.’ Fans hope that Brian’s decision to address grievances publicly might pave the way for reconciliation with Tyler, fostering a renewed friendship between the two chart-toppers.

The post Is Brian Kelley’s Latest Single “Kiss My Boots” Directed Towards Anyone? appeared first on Stars and Guitars.

Over the weekend, Wheelhouse Records/19 Recordings’ vocal powerhouse HunterGirl made her debut at the Grand Ole Opry, invoking an impassioned, lively standing ovation from the packed-out Opry house – a bucket list wish she’s been dreaming of her whole life. For a glimpse into her debut, WATCH HERE. Delivering a raw, emotional and star-making performance of her debut radio single “Ain’t About You” and the heart-stirring unreleased track “Clockworks,” the American Idol runner-up is “…transcending from talented aspiring artist, to make her first steps toward the big leagues” (Billboard). Just named to CMT’s esteemed Next Women of Country, the “Artist to Watch” (Country Now, Wide Open Country) is proving she’s a “major, major new talent” (MusicRow).

“I have dreamed of playing at the Grand Ole Opry since I was a little girl,” says HunterGirl. “It was a full circle moment getting to step into the circle that night. Singing on that stage felt like becoming a part of something greater than myself.”

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Triple Tigers recording artist Scotty McCreery announces his fifth studio album Rise and Fall, featuring 13 tracks that find him exploring themes of heartbreak, rowdy nights, nostalgia, faith, newfound joy, fatherhood, and enduring love, resulting in a project full of insightful storytelling that includes last night’s surprise release, “Slow Dance.” McCreery co-wrote 12 of the 13 songs on the album, which will be released digitally as well as on CD and vinyl. In addition, Amazon will release a limited edition, forest green vinyl version of the album.

• Pre-order/pre-save Rise and Fall HERE
• Pre-order autographed vinyl and CDs of Rise and Fall HERE
• Listen to “Slow Dance” HERE

“I know every artist says it, but this is truly my favorite album I’ve made so far,” shares McCreery. “I wanted to create an album that reflected the music I grew up on and wasn’t chasing trends. So, I brought several of my songwriting buddies to the mountains of North Carolina to sit down and write a full-on country album that told a story, start to finish, and spoke to my soul. We’ve been performing most of the album live on the road and the response from the audiences has been overwhelming. I can’t wait for everyone to hear Rise and Fall when it comes out May 10th.”

The North Carolina native knows all too well there’s a rhythm to life and a cycle of ups and downs. And right now, he’s on the upswing.

Now 30 years old and a seasoned country music veteran selling out concerts across the globe with five consecutive No. 1 hits under his belt, McCreery is also a dedicated husband and father, welcoming a son named Avery in 2022 whose impact on the singer is highlighted in several songs on the album. Recently, he even celebrated the milestone of all milestones for a guy who grew up on Randy Travis, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Ronnie Milsap; he was invited by his musical hero Garth Brooks to become the newest member of the iconic Grand Ole Opry. McCreery’s induction will take place on April 20 with another of his heroes, Josh Turner, officially welcoming him into the Opry family.

But folks like McCreery know it means more when you’ve seen the other side. For him, each highlight has come in contrast to a challenge – things like the loss of his first record deal and the year of naysaying uncertainty that followed before he built himself up again, brick by brick. As a result, Rise and Fall, produced by longtime collaborators Frank Rogers, Aaron Eshuis and Derek Wells, comes from an artist who knows to appreciate the ride – no matter where it leads.

“I feel like we’re on the rise now, but I’ve fallen pretty low as well,” McCreery admits. “I learned from every little part of that, and it helped me to know who I was as a person – let alone an artist. The rises and the falls helped craft these songs. They made this album what it is.”

With last night’s release of “Slow Dance,” written by McCreery with Brent Anderson, Derek George and Monty Criswell, McCreery looks for an exit to life in the fast lane, dropping everything to focus on what matters most. After teasing the song on social media a few months back, fans have consistently urged him to drop the track, as the romantic ballad can turn a kitchen floor into a ballroom with its ‘90s-country sway and deep, heart-melting vocal:

 Baby, you’re my slow dance
     To Whitley in the kitchen
     Taking my hand, and all of my attention
     Cheek to cheek across the floor
     When I need to shut the door
     On a world that’s always moving so fast
     Baby, you’re my slow dance

“I am not the greatest at doing social media, but my team encourages me to do it,” explains McCreery. “A few months back, I was waiting on some hibachi takeout and listening to the new tracks in my truck. I filmed a quick video of me singing along with ‘Slow Dance’ and posted it on my socials, picked up my takeout food, and went home to eat dinner with Gabi. I looked at my phone that evening and the song had blown up; it’s now my most watched TikTok video to date. Over the last few weeks, anytime I post a photo on social media, the response I get back is ‘that’s great…so when are you putting ‘Slow Dance’ out?’ I’m excited to finally put it out!!”

“Slow Dance” is the fourth song released from the album, following lead single “Cab in a Solo” and tracks “Can’t Pass the Bar” and “Love Like This.” A full listing of the album’s songs follows.

Rise and Fall track listing
(Songwriters in parentheses)

1. Little More Gone (Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Derek George, Frank Rogers, Bobby Hamrick, Jeremy Bussey, Monty Criswell)
2. Cab in a Solo (Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Frank Rogers)
3. Lonely (Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Derek George, Frank Rogers, Bobby Hamrick, Jeremy Bussey, Monty Criswell)
4. Can’t Pass the Bar (Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Cale Dodds, Frank Rogers)
5. Hey Rose (Jay Brunswick, Jeremy Bussey, Bobby Hamrick)
6. Fall of Summer (Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Derek George, Frank Rogers, Monty Criswell)
7. Love Like This (Scotty McCreery, Frank Rogers, Aaron Eshuis)
8. Slow Dance (Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Derek George, Monty Criswell)
9. No Country for Old Men (Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Derek George, Frank Rogers, Monty Criswell)
10. And Countin’ (Scotty McCreery, Frank Rogers, Bobby Hamrick, Jeremy Bussey)
11. Stuck Behind a Tractor (Scotty McCreery, Chase McGill, Rhett Akins)
12. Red Letter Blueprint (Scotty McCreery, Derek George, Brent Anderson, Jeremy Bussey, Monty Criswell)
13. Porch (Scotty McCreery, Greylan James, Heather Morgan)

Lyrics and credits available for download HERE.

As the album’s lead single “Cab in a Solo” steadily climbs the charts (currently Top 12 on both Mediabase and Billboard), McCreery’s 2024 Cab in a Solo Tour continues tonight in Boston, MA at MGM Music Hall at Fenway with an additional stop in Syracuse, NY at the Landmark Theatre tomorrow, March 2. He will be joined by Anne Wilson as direct support along with Noah Hicks. The tour, produced by Live Nation, kicked off with three consecutive sold out shows and will continue to trek across the U.S. through mid-March.

Tickets for the Cab in a Solo Tour are on sale now at ScottyMcCreery.com.

Cab in a Solo Tour Dates:
3/1/2024          Boston             MA                  MGM Music Hall at Fenway
3/2/2024          Syracuse          NY                  Landmark Theatre
3/14/2024        Johnstown       PA                   1st Summit Arena
3/15/2024        Wallingford     CT                   Toyota Oakdale Theatre
3/16/2024        Schenectady    NY                  Proctors Theatre

McCreery recently launched a campaign with Tunespeak where fans can earn points to gain chances to win a variety of prizes. The ultimate prize winner will receive two tickets and airfare to this year’s ACM Awards in May. Other winners will receive merch packs, signed vinyl, and more. No purchase is necessary. Interested fans can enter the campaign and learn more information at http://tnspk.co/nqwrra.

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Multi-platinum artist and “ace songwriter” (Billboard), Russell Dickerson (BMI), along with BMI, SESAC, and ASCAP, hosted a triple No. One celebration yesterday to honor three of his chart-topping songs, dubbed “Russell Dickerson’s Hat Trick” No. One party. The No. One tracks recognized include “Every Little Thing,” “Love You Like I Used To,” and “God Gave Me A Girl,” his most recent and fifth career No. One. The celebratory event took place at the Electric Jane where Dickerson was surrounded by friends, family, press, collaborators, and members of the industry. The hitmaker was recognized for these achievements alongside his co-writers on the tracks including Casey Brown (SESAC), Zach Crowell (ASCAP), Ashley Gorley (ASCAP), Chase McGill (BMI), and Parker Welling (BMI). Sponsored by Studio Bank, highlights included a donation presentation made by Kari Barnart on behalf of Dickerson and the songwriters in support of Cul2vate, which help seniors connect—as recipients and contributors—with their surrounding communities.

“I always get so pumped with what’s ahead that I have to remind myself to take a minute and reflect on all the exciting things that have already happened,” Dickerson said. “Earning my fifth No. One with “God Gave Me A Girl” was a very surreal milestone – especially with a song so close to my heart. I’m so happy we could celebrate three No. Ones yesterday. It was so special to recognize everybody that played a role in getting these songs to the top of the charts – I can’t thank everyone enough for their support. And we’re just getting started!”

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Friday Feb 24th, global Mexican superstar Carín León achieved a career milestone with his debut performance on country music’s most biggest stage, the world-famous Grand Ole Opry, representing a landmark event for Latin music in the U.S.

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