CHASE RICE, LOCASH, KIP MOORE And More To Play Night In the Country

The 2016 Night in the Country music festival lineup is complete, with Leaving Austin, DJ DU and Battle for the Full Moon Saloon winner Daniel Bonte & the Bona Fide rounding out the roster of country music stars and new artists.

Hailing from central California, Leaving Austin is moving through the ranks of country music’s young rising stars. The five-man piece has shared the stage with acts such as Randy Houser and Wynonna Judd in addition to opening for Carrie Underwood, Thomas Rhett and Florida Georgia Line.

Leaving Austin’s most recent album release, “That Feel Good,” features seven tracks that carry the band’s established alchemy of pop and country music. Leaving Austin rounds out the Friday night lineup when it takes the stage at 1:30 a.m. July 23

DJ DU will warm up the crowd Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Spinning since he was 13 years old, DJ DU has been featured in Nashville Lifestyle’s “Best of Nashville DJ’s” and has performed for the Grammy Block Party, Country Thunder Festivals and toured with Jason Aldean on his Night Train and Burn it Down tours. DJ DU will take the stage 7 to 8 p.m. July 21 and 3:30 to 4:35 p.m. July 22 and 23. He also will close the Full Moon Saloon stage from 1:30 to 2:30 a.m. Saturday.

Daniel Bonte & the Bona Fide will be in Yerington to kick off Night in the Country after winning the Battle for the Full Moon Saloon in May. Since 2013, Daniel Bonte & the Bona Fide has been entertaining audiences across southern California with its brand of rock country.

The band’s newest EP, “Easy Kind of Livin’,” is due out June 10 and showcases its commitment to creating country music with a heavy rock and roll influence. Daniel Bonte & The Bona Fide takes over the Full Moon Saloon stage to close out the Night in the Country kickoff party at 12:45 a.m. July 22.

Credentials and campsites for Night in the Country are on sale. Campsites are available starting at $125. Two-day general admission credentials can be purchased for $95. Night in the Country offers $125 reserved seating, $170 Superfan, $400 VIP and $600 CLUB 149 credentials. Additional fees apply. For more information and to purchase festival credentials and campsites, visit www.nightinthecountry.org.

Night in the Country 2016 Full Lineup:

Thursday, July 21
Full Moon Saloon Stage
7 to 8 p.m.   DJ DU
8 to 9:30 p.m.   Chasin’ Crazy
9:45 to 11 p.m.   Blackjack Billy
11:15 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.   Josh Abbott Band
12:45 to 2 a.m.   Daniel Bonte & The Bona Fide

Friday, July 22
Main Stage
3:30 to 4:35 p.m.   DJ DU
4:45 to 5:45 p.m.   Sara Haze
6 to 7:15 p.m.   Phil Vassar
7:45 p.m. to 9 p.m.   Tyler Farr
9:30 to 11 p.m.   Chase Rice
Full Moon Saloon Stage
11 p.m. to 12 a.m.   Chasin’ Crazy
12:15 to 1:15 a.m.   Old Southern Moonshine Revival
1:30 to 2:30 a.m.   Leaving Austin
CLUB 149 Stage
7:15 to 7:45 p.m.   Sara Haze
9 to 9:30 p.m.   Sara Haze

Saturday, July 23
Main Stage
3:30 to 4:35 p.m.   DJ DU
4:45 to 5:45 p.m.   Olivia Lane
6:15 to 7:15 p.m.   LOCASH
7:45 to 9 p.m.   Craig Morgan
9:30 to 11 p.m.   Kip Moore
Full Moon Saloon Stage
11 p.m. to 12 a.m.   David Ray
12:15 to 1:15 a.m.   LOCASH
1:30 to 2:30 a.m.   DJ DU
CLUB 149 Stage
4:15 to 4:45 p.m.   David Ray
7:15 to 7:45 p.m.   Olivia Lane
9 to 9:30 p.m.   Olivia Lane

Two New Stages Added to CMA Music Festival

NASHVILLE – As Nashville grows, so does CMA Music Festival.

Since moving to downtown Nashville in 2001, the Festival has grown with the city – embracing opportunities to present new exciting venues for thousands of fans who travel from around the globe for the Ultimate Country Music Fan Experience™.

“Music is the foundation of CMA Music Festival, and we are always exploring new venues and settings for fans to enjoy everything from intimate acoustic performances to our full-tilt stadium shows,” said Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “With 11 stages this year – including our two new stages – we have numerous opportunities for music discovery.” 
New in 2016 are AT&T Skyview Stage and Budweiser Acoustic Stage – both located at Ascend Amphitheater, which opened in 2015.   

“Nashville’s popularity is booming and the city is growing at a tremendous pace, which provides more hotel rooms for our visitors and new options to help keep the Festival fresh for our attendees,” Trahern added. “A great example is our move into the Music City Center in 2013 with Fan Fair X, which has increased in attendance each year.”

To celebrate the new venue, CMA is hosting a free Kick-Off Concert and Opening Ceremonies on Wednesday, June 8 (11:00 AM). The Opening Ceremonies will be hosted by Country star Chris Young and feature appearances by the Mayor of Nashville Megan Barry, the Fisk Jubilee Singers, and Metro Nashville Public Schools students who have benefited from CMA Foundation funds generated by the Festival.

Immediately following the Opening Ceremonies the party continues with the CMA Music Festival Kick Off Concert featuring SiriusXM Highway Finds, a full afternoon of performances showcasing live performances by artists played on SiriusXM’s The Highway as part of “Highway Finds” – the channel’s ongoing initiative to introduce new Country artists. The lineup includes Frankie Ballard, Clare Dunn, High Valley, Steve Moakler, William Michael Morgan, Old Dominion, Michael Ray, Aubrie Sellers, and Kalie Shorr. Artists and schedule subject to change. 

“I can’t tell you how excited we are to work with CMA again this year and kick off CMA Music Fest with our ‘Highway Finds’ stage! We’ve curated a tremendous artist lineup and are looking forward to another outstanding show!” said J.R. Schumann, SiriusXM Senior Director Country Music Programming.

Highlights from the CMA Music Festival Kick-Off Concert featuring SiriusXM Highway Finds will air on SiriusXM’s The Highway, via satellite on channel 56, and through the SiriusXM App on smartphones and other connected devices, as well as online at siriusxm.com. 
But that’s only the beginning! The newest stage at the Festival, AT&T Skyview Stage at Ascend Amphitheater, will feature back-to-back concerts, including several never-before-seen collaborations, Thursday through Sunday, June 9-12.

Appearing on the AT&T Skyview Stage are Bobby Bones and The Raging Idiots and “The Wonderful Women of Country”; Sara Evans; Tracy Lawrence and Friends; Marshall Tucker Band and Friends; Ashley Monroe; Music City Hit-Makers; Shenandoah; Sister Hazel; and The Oak Ridge Boys – “A Salute to America.”

Artists scheduled to appear with Bobby Bones and The Raging Idiots during “The Wonderful Women of Country” are Danielle Bradbery, Lindsay Ell, Jana Kramer, Maddie & Tae, Cassadee Pope, Hillary Scott, Lucie Silvas, and Natalie Stovall.
Lawrence will celebrate Country Music and artists from the ‘80s, ‘90s, and 2000s, including special appearances from John Berry, T. Graham Brown, John Michael Montgomery, Lorrie Morgan, and T.G. Sheppard. 

Performances will be hosted by WUCZ-Nashville’s Dennis Banka and RJ Mitte from AMC’s hit show “Breaking Bad.”

The Budweiser Acoustic Stage, also at Ascend Amphitheater, will offer intimate performances from Country’s hottest new talent. Artists scheduled to appear include Seth Alley, Carlton Anderson, Chris Bandi, Rylie Bourne, Jeston Cade, Hannah Dasher, Hannah Ellis, Lacy Green, Emily Hackett, Kree Harrison, Jillian Jacqueline, Like Strangers, Hunter Phelps, Post Monroe, Jameson Rodgers, Brent Rupard, Shelley Skidmore, CJ Solar, and Mitchell Tenpenny. The Budweiser Acoustic Stage will be hosted by iHeartRadio personalities. 

Gates for Ascend Amphitheater open 30 minutes early each day for four-day ticketholders. Four-day ticketholders also have access to first-come, first-served VIP seating. Visit CMAfest.com for the latest performance schedules.

Also new to the Festival this year, the Budweiser Country Club is a three-story structure located in Fan Alley that offers elevated views and activities brewed to be enjoyed while drinking America’s No. 1 full-flavored lager. The open-air space features two 20-foot bars with Budweiser Signature Draught towers, along with outdoor games, handcrafted goods produced by local Nashville craftsmen, and surprise guests throughout the weekend.

In addition to performances at the AT&T Skyview Stage, fans can cool off and connect at the AT&T l DIRECTV Lounge inside Fan Fair X. The lounge offers charging stations for fans to use while taking in all the entertainment options DIRECTV can provide. As the home of NFL Sunday Ticket, AT&T is bringing select Tennessee Titans players, as well as Country Music’s rising stars to the lounge during the Festival. The lounge will also feature a GIF photo booth to capture CMA Fest memories and a Chevrolet Connected Car. AT&T will be creating fan experiences throughout the Festival, including with the AT&T CMA Fest photo frames.

To help CMA Fest attendees upload their favorite moments to social media faster than ever before, AT&T has also improved the network services at the event. AT&T is deploying two Cell on Wheels (COWs) at key locations in Nashville and has installed Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) at Nissan Stadium, Bridgestone Arena, and the Music City Center. These two COWs and DAS will help provide attendees with increased network capacity to help them snap, tweet, post, and stream as much as they want during CMA Music Fest. 

For upcoming talent announcements and all other info stay connected with CMA on CMAfest.com, Facebook.com/CMA, Twitter.com/CountryMusic, Instagram.com/CMA, “CMAsnaps” on Snapchat, and sign up for CMA Country Connection, CMA’s e-newsletter. This year’s app, presented by AT&T, is now available in the App store for iPhone and Android and includes features that allow fans to create individual concert schedules and be the first to know which of their favorite stars will be appearing on the free stages throughout the Festival.

BLAKE SHELTON Exhibit to Feature Chair From The Voice

NASHVILLE, Tenn., May 26, 2016 –The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum will feature the award-winning, country music megastar Blake Shelton in an exhibit opening tomorrow, May 27, 2016. Blake Shelton: Based on a True Story, supported by SunTrust, will feature Shelton’s red-cushioned chair from NBC’s The Voice, among other artifacts.
In this exclusive video, Shelton talks about one other piece of memorabilia that will be featured in the exhibit, and why it has special meaning.
This career-spanning exhibition will chronicle the Oklahoma native’s rise to fame using special memorabilia from his life and career. It will follow his childhood and his move to Nashville as a teen, to his multi-platinum recording breakthrough, to becoming a national celebrity on NBC’s The Voice. A range of artifacts will tell the story of the struggles and triumphs of one of country music’s most popular and multi-dimensional artists.
A few highlights of the exhibition include:  

• Very early Blake Shelton merchandise sold by Blake and his family at his 1994 concert in his hometown, Ada, Oklahoma
• A memo pad with the lyrics to the first song Shelton wrote.
• Shelton’s first royalty check, in the amount of $2.73
• Plaid shirt worn by Blake when he moved to Nashville
• Aria acoustic guitar used by Shelton on his first radio tour, to promote his 2001 single “Austin”
• Elf costume worn by Shelton on NBC-TV’s Blake Shelton’s Not So Family Christmas special in 2012
• Shelton’s 2011 CMA Male Vocalist of the Year award
• Shelton’s 2011 ACM Male Vocalist of the Year
• 2016 Kids’ Choice Awards slime suit worn by Shelton

In support of the exhibition, the museum will live stream an interview and performance with Shelton on Monday, June 6, at 3:00 p.m. Hosted by museum editor Michael McCall, Shelton will discuss his career and perform a short acoustic set. The museum will also live stream remarks from Shelton at his private exhibit opening celebration on June 6 at 6:00 p.m. Tune into both programs at www.countrymusichalloffame.org/streaming.  

For more information about Shelton’s exhibit, visit www.countrymusichalloffame.org.


Read more: Blake Shelton Exhibit to Feature Chair from NBC's The Voice at the Museum
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LUCAS HOGE Begins Wrangler National Patriot Tour

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (May 26, 2016) – Country singer Lucas Hoge will spend Memorial Day performing for troops overseas. This will be the eighth Wrangler® Patriot Tour that Hoge has participated in, traveling to undisclosed locations to perform for our servicemen and women.

Previous tours have taken Hoge to Iraq, Afghanistan, Pacific Command and Alaska. Hoge’s patriotic hit “Medal of Honor” is the official Wrangler National Patriot theme song.

“I’m extremely excited to spend my 8th year on the Wrangler National Patriot Tour. I’m so blessed and honored to be able to say “thank you” face to face and bring some love to our service men and women! “Said Hoge.

Prior to Wrangler National Patriot Tour Hoge was visiting radio promoting his current single, “Boom Boom.” Click here to download “Boom Boom.”

Founded in 2009 the Wrangler National Patriot tour is a year-round program developed to help raise funds to support American military veterans and their families and to serve as inspiration for all Americans to rally around each other in patriotism.

Hoge is currently in the Top 25 of Macy’s iHeartRadio Rising Star contest. To vote for Lucas Hoge fans can visit iHeartRadio.com/RisingStar or tweet using the hastags #RisingStar and #LucasHoge.

For more information on Lucas Hoge visit lucashoge.com and follow him on Facebook and Twitter.

Lucas Hoge on Tour
May 24 - June 03 - Wrangler National Patriot Tour
June 10 - Whiskey Bent - Nashville, Tenn.
June 11 - Durango Music Spot - Nashville, Tenn.
July 02 - Freedom Crossing at Fort Bliss - Fort Bliss, Texas
July 03 - Greeley Stampede - Greeley, Colo.
June 14 - June 21 - UK Military Tour
  

The CADILLAC THREE Announce August 5 Album Release

NASHVILLE, TN (May 26, 2016) – THE CADILLAC THREE gave their hometown an impromptu show last night at The Basement. Under the guise of a mid-tour pop-up, the Nashville natives took over the intimate local haunt to reveal their long-awaited album BURY ME IN MY BOOTS, slated for August 5 on Big Machine Records.WATCH HERE: http://smarturl.it/TC3AlbumReveal.

“When we confirmed the official release date of BURY ME IN MY BOOTS, we knew our hometown had to be involved in a big way! But, we wanted all of our fans across the world to join in too,” raved frontman Jaren Johnston. “Thank you all for coming out tonight to support us in person and online… and jam along!”

The trio has been teasing the full-length project with a staggered release of new tracks like “Graffiti,” “Soundtrack To A Six Pack” and “Drunk Like You.” Highlighting the fresh material, TC3 also peppered in fan-favorites such as “The South, “White Lightning” and “Peace, Love & Dixie” into the set. The musical comrades performed for the capacity-filled room and gave fans online a taste of the title track through their Facebook Live.

Comprised of Jaren (lead vocals), Neil Mason (percussion) and Kelby Ray (lap steel), TC3 is known for their electric intensity and songwriting proclivity. Jaren, whose sensibilities have garnered ACM and Grammy-nominations, has penned chart-topping hits for Jake Owen (“Beachin’”), Frankie Ballard (“Sunshine & Whiskey”) and Keith Urban featuring Eric Church (“Raise ‘Em Up”), in addition to credits on the majority of TC3’s catalogue and singles for Tim McGraw and Dierks Bentley, among other Songs Jaren Wrote: https://open.spotify.com/user/thecadillacthree/playlist/5afsy9KOYGS1FiIeiEAq4i. Neil’s talents are also acknowledged on cuts for Rascal Flatts and Miranda Lambert, to name a few.

Their raw and gritty sound has long since defined TC3’s rocking vivacity and universal appeal with Chicago Sun-Times surmising, “…the majority of today’s so called country rockers are simply trying to emulate what The Cadillac Three has been from their very beginning.” They are currently bringing their “unrefined live show you won’t want to miss” (PASTE) to Florida Georgia Line’s DIG YOUR ROOTS TOUR this summer.

Pals since high school, the bandmates’ musical fusion has transcended global boundaries as they’ve built a loyal following in the UK with multiple sold-out headline dates, 2014 UK Classic Rock Roll of Honour: Best New Band accolade and became the most played new band on Planet Rock in 2015. Rolling Stone boasts, “Like Kings of Leon before them, they’re poised for their first big break in the U.K. — where they’ve sold out every headlining show for nearly two years — before conquering their U.S. home turf.”

DIERKS BENTLEY Has A "Somewhere On A Beach" Bash Set For Memorial Day

Dierks Bentley is throwing a Memorial Day beach bash, and he’s invited several thousand of his closest friends and fans. The Somewhere On A Beach Bash will take place Monday (May 30th) at Panama City Beach’s famed Spinnaker Beach Club and Paradise Grill.

Not only is Dierks going to be there to celebrate the two-week No. 1 single, “Somewhere On A Beach,” but also the release of his new album, Black, on Friday (May 27th).

“The album’s coming out Memorial Day Weekend, and so we’re gonna throw a big party on the beach down in Florida. It’s gonna be crazy. It’s gonna be absolutely crazy.  I’m so excited,” says Dierks. “I can’t imagine this beach party that we’re throwing is not going to be just off the charts. It’s gonna be fun.”

Catch Dierks tomorrow night on NBC’s Tonight Show Featuring Jimmy Fallon and on the Today Show on Friday (May 27th).

BLAKE SHELTON To Headline 12th Annual "Stars For 2nd Harvest" Benefit 6/7

Blake Shelton will be this year’s headliner at the 12th annual Stars For Second Harvest benefit, slated for Tuesday, June 7 at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.

The event is presented by O’Charley’s and hosted by songwriter Craig Wiseman, also founder of Big Loud Records and Big Loud Shirt. Wiseman and Shelton most recently collaborated on Shelton’s single “Came Here to Forget.” Wiseman also wrote Shelton’s hit singles “Boys 'Round Here ,” “Hillbilly Bone,” “Green” (with George Teren) and “100 Miles” (with Chris Stapleton).

“Blake has always been a true friend and I’m ecstatic that he’s agreed to collaborate on making a difference in the lives of those struggling with hunger in Middle Tennessee by headlining this event and making it a party that our guests will never forget,” says Wiseman.

Shelton will headline after acoustic performances from previously announced special guests Chris Lane, Kane Brown and songwriters Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne.

Stars For Second Harvest has raised nearly $900,000 in 11 years, providing more than 3.5 million meals to the one in seven Middle Tennesseans at risk of hunger and benefiting Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee.

Tickets are on-sale now for $35 and $55 plus applicable service charges and are available at Ticketmaster outlets, ticketmaster.com, Ryman box office, Ryman.com, or by calling 800-745-3000.

CHRIS YOUNG Hosts Opening Ceremonies at Skyview Stage at Ascend Amphitheater on Wednesday, June 8

NASHVILLE – Country star Chris Young will kick off the 2016 CMA Music Festival Wednesday, June 8 (11:00 AM/CT) at the Festival’s new, state-of-the-art venue – Skyview Stage at Ascend Amphitheater.

“We are always looking at ways to grow the Festival and enhance the experience for our fans,” said CMA Chief Executive Officer Sarah Trahern. “Adding this fantastic venue to our numerous free stages downtown is a great addition and having Chris Young on hand to make it ‘official’ is icing on the cake.”

Special guests for the CMA Music Festival Opening Ceremonies include the Honorable Mayor of Nashville Megan Barry, the Fisk Jubilee Singers, and students from Metro Nashville Public Schools, a beneficiary of the Festival and the CMA Foundation’s support of quality, sustainable music education programs.

“As a Middle Tennessee native and someone who grew up going to Fan Fair, it’s pretty cool to get to kick off CMA Music Festival and shine a spotlight on the CMA Foundation and the music education students the Festival benefits,” said Young, who is a member of the CMA Board of Directors.

2016 CMA Music Festival Opening Ceremonies are free and open to the public at the Skyview Stage at Ascend Amphitheater at the foot of Korean Veterans Boulevard and First Avenue (south of Riverfront Park). Gates open at 10:00 AM/CT.

With five albums to his credit, Young has amassed eight No. 1 singles, 14 Gold/Platinum certifications and performed for audiences ranging from “Good Morning America” and “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” to shows in Australia and Japan. The RCA Records artist is a dynamic live performer who plays sold-out shows packed with hits, including chart toppers “Gettin' You Home” “Voices” “Tomorrow,” and “I'm Comin' Over” “Think of You ,” a duet with Cassadee Pope, is Young’s latest No. 1 and fastest rising single of his career. He’s an international ambassador for the genre, a talented songwriter, and a southern gentleman who is frequently declared one of Country Music’s sexiest men by PEOPLE Magazine and Nash Country Weekly magazine. Young is just as well known for his classic baritone as he is for melt-your-heart ballads and is winning audiences across the globe. Released in November of 2015 and debuting at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart, Young’s first co-produced album, I'm Comin' Over also features the three-week No. 1 smash title track. This fall he’ll embark on the second leg of his headlining “I'm Comin' OverTour,” with 25 shows from coast-to-coast. Special guests include Pope, Dan + Shay, and Dustin Lynch. For information, visit chrisyoungcountry.com and follow @ChrisYoungMusic on Twitter and Instagram.

JERROD NIEMANN Returns From Traveling To 4 Countries In 6 Days On USO Tour

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Tuesday, May 24, 2016) - On Sunday, May 22 country star Jerrod Niemann returned to the states from his first-ever USO Tour with the National Guard. Other celebrities that joined him on the six-day, four-country tour through Europe and the Middle East include actors Robert Patrick and Matthew Lillard, former NBA player Sam Perkins and Top 10 in the world UFC middleweight, Special Forces Sniper, Ranger qualified and Green Beret assigned to the SOD(A) Tim Kennedy. Led by the Chief of National Guard General Frank J. Grass, the tour visited five bases in Kosovo, Kuwait, Afghanistan and Romania.

“I'm so grateful to have traveled overseas on the USO tour with four-star General Frank Grass, his amazing wife, his staff and the other entertainers that wanted to go visit our brave men and women defending our freedom,” shared Niemann. “Playing music and visiting with our troops half a world away is the most amazing thing I've ever been able to experience, and hopefully the songs brought them back home for a few minutes. It takes a very special person to be willing to selflessly spend so much time away from their families, and lay everything on the line for their country and fellow Americans. Thank you for all you do for us!"

Shortly before heading overseas, Niemann released new single, “A Little More Love” with close friend and labelmate Lee Brice. Written by Shane McAnally, Ross Copperman, Natalie Hemby and Kristi Neumann, the song will also serve as the lead single on Niemann’s forthcoming album on Curb Records, produced by Niemann with Jimmie Lee Sloas.

LADY ANTEBELLUM To Host Televised ACM Honors Show

Grammy-winning country group Lady Antebellum will host the 10th annual ACM Honors show, which will be televised for the first time.

The show will honor Glen Campbell, Tanya Tucker, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban and Little Big Town. It will be held Aug. 30 at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee.

The show presents special awards and off-camera category winners from the 51st Academy of Country Music Awards, held in April in Las Vegas.

Other award recipients include Crystal Gayle, Jimmy Webb and The Statler Brothers, and posthumous awards for Eddie Rabbitt and Jeff Walker.

The show will be produced by dick clark productions and will be aired at a later date on CBS.

DUSTIN LYNCH Notches 3rd #1 With "Mind Reader"

Dustin Lynch’s star continues to rise as the Broken Bow recording artist notches his third consecutive #1 single with “Mind Reader” landing in the top spot on both the Mediabase and Billboard Country Radio Airplay Charts this week. The sultry, R&B influenced song (co-written by Rhett Akins and Ben Hayslip) follows his previous two #1 smashes: GOLD-certified “Hell Of A Night” and PLATINUM-certified “Where It's At” All three chart-toppers are featured on his latest album Where It's At, which has quickly vaulted Lynch to stardom.

“I can't thank everyone at country radio enough for believing in me and ‘Mind Reader’,” exclaims Dustin Lynch. “Next time we roll through town we WILL celebrate, so wear your party pants!”

To celebrate, Lynch will hit the Big Apple to perform on FOX & Friends All-American Summer Concert Series this Friday (5/27) starting at 6:00a ET on the FOX News Channel. Continuing the Memorial Day Weekend festivities, he will take the stage later that afternoon at the Country 500 Festival in Daytona Beach, FL.

Fresh off his heavily pre-sold out, headlining Hell Of A NightTour, Lynch is currently on the road with Luke Bryan’s 2016 Kill The LightsTour, marking his second run as the superstar’s opener. Named by FOX NEWS as country music’s “next big thing,” he is the only artist Bryan handpicked as an opener for a subsequent tour. Fans can also catch Lynch at the upcoming 2016 CMA Music Festival in Nashville, TN when he headlines the “Music City Gives Back” concert on Tuesday, June 7 to benefit the W.O. Smith Music School.

LITTLE BIG TOWN Partners With Pharrell Williams On New Music

Little Big Town will perform the new song, “One Of Those Days,” tonight on the season finale of NBC’s “The Voice,” with the song available on iTunes, Spotify and all digital service providers now.

Written by Little Big Town and Pharrell Williams, “One Of Those Days” will be the first song from the group’s new album, Wanderlust, produced by Pharrell, available Friday, June 10th. From Capitol Records Nashville, Wanderlust will feature eight brand new songs from the group and the mega producer.

“Wanderlust is the result of an incredible friendship and chemistry we have with Pharrell Williams,” said Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild. ”What started out as one writing session a few months ago turned into multiple writing sessions, as well as back and forth trips from Nashville to Los Angeles. When the songs started coming together, we realized it was too special to not share with our fans. Pharrell loves country music and is a huge fan of harmony. That shared passion and appreciation took us on a creative journey we had no idea would happen. The music feels like our worlds have collided in the best possible way – his infectious grooves paired with our layered vocals and harmonies. This music is meant to be danced to, sung along with and turned up loud. It’s uplifting and hopeful. We’ve been a band for a long time and have had the pleasure of collaborating with so many people, and it’s been a complete joy to make music with Pharrell!”“We had a great time working together because we all love harmonies and that’s a really fun way to make a record,” Pharrell added. “A lot of the songs were based on what the group were going through at the time and creating good feelings around those experiences.”
Grammy Award-winning country group, Little Big Town — consisting of members Karen Fairchild, Phillip Sweet, Kimberly Schlapman, and Jimi Westbrook — first entered the music scene more than 18 years ago with hits such as “Boondocks,” “Bring It On Home,” “Good As Gone” and Grammy-nominated single “Little White Church.” With albums Tornado and Painkiller, they have seen massive success with #1 singles “Pontoon,” “Tornado,” “Day Drinking,” and most recently the history-making, best-selling country single of 2015, with “Girl Crush.” In October of 2014, the group fulfilled a career milestone and lifelong dream when Reba McIntire asked them to become the newest members of the Grand Ole Opry; two weeks later, they were inducted. Little Big Town has earned over 35 award show nominations and in the past five years has taken home nearly 20 awards, including multiple Grammy, CMA and ACM awards, and an Emmy award. This past November, they received honors from the CMA for Vocal Group of the Year and Single of the Year for “Girl Crush,” and the song was also honored as CMA’s Song of the Year. At the 2016 Grammy Awards Little Big Town won “Best Country Group/Duo Performance,” and “Girl Crush” received the honor for “Best Country Song.” Most recently, Little Big Town received honors from the Academy of Country Music for Vocal Group of the Year and Vocal Event of the Year with Miranda Lambert, and the group was also recognized with the Crystal Milestone Award. At the recent Billboard Awards Little Big Town and “Girl Crush” were nominated for Top Country Song as well as Chart Achievement Award, and the group was also honored as the 2016 Music Business Association Artist of the Year. Little Big Town is currently on the road with Luke Bryan for the Kill The Lights Tour. For more information, visit LittleBigTown.com or follow them @littlebigtown.

GARY ALLAN To Launch New Single "Do You Wish It Was Me?"

This morning, EMI Nashville Recording artist Gary Allan announces the release of his latest single “Do You Wish It Was Me?”  The song ships to radio this morning, and will go for adds on June 13, with a digital on-sale date of June 10.  Co-written by Allan, Jonathan Singleton and Andrew Dorff, the sexy new song was co-produced by Allan along with Greg Droman.  Allan’s longtime touring band can be heard on the single helping to capture the firey energy of Allan’s live performances in the studio.
Gary played the song for his label team last week at a private gathering, where he was presented with a GOLD plaque for his most recent studio album SET YOU FREE.  Allan was surprised when UMG Nashville President & CEO Mike Dungan presented him with a plaque studded with platinum after platinum album, celebrating his incredible 20 year career.  With sales of over 7 Million albums, 8 Million tracks, 250 Million Streams, 5 #1 chart topping singles and 14 top ten hits, the team has much to celebrate.
Allan was appreciative of the obvious enthusiasm the label has for the single and collection of songs on the new album.  “Looking at this plaque and thinking back on the past twenty years makes me grateful for the great team of people I have around me.  There have been people who have come and gone from Universal, but this is still my home and they are all my label family,” said Allan.  “I am excited about getting ‘Do You Wish It Was Me?’ out to radio, playing it for the fans and continuing to work with Mike, Cindy and the entire EMI/UMG Nashville staff.”
Allan and his team took a moment to commemorate the night posing for a quick photo.
Photo ID (L-R): Lytle Management Group President John Lytle, UMG Nashville Senior Vice President Promotion Royce Risser, UMG Nashville President Cindy Mabe, UMG Nashville Chairman & CEO Mike Dungan, Gary Allan, UMG Nashville Senior Vice President A&R Brian Wright, Milom Horsnell Crow Rose Kelley PLC’s David Crow, UMG Nashville Senior Vice President and COO Mike Harris
Photo Credit: Alain Poizner
For more information and upcoming tour dates on Gary Allan, log onto:  www.garyallan.com

CHRIS YOUNG Ships "Sober Saturday Night" To Country Radio Today

Chris Young ships his new single, “Sober Saturday Night,” to Country radio today. The song, penned by Young as well as Brad Warren and Brett Warren, features Country Music superstar Vince Gill adding background vocals and his ever-precise guitar talent.

“Sober Saturday Night ” is the third single released off Young’s I'm Comin' Over, an album that zipped the title track to a THREE week No. 1 at Country Radio followed by the second single “Think of You” featuring Cassadee Pope reaching No. 1 earlier this month marking Young’s EIGHTH No. 1 hit at Country Radio.

Young will take all of his Country Radio hits to the fans this summer and as previously announced, this fall with his I'm Comin' Over, which includes special guests Dan + Shay, Dustin Lynch and Cassadee Pope.

FRANKIE BALLARD Teams Up With Allstate For Guardian of the Ride Initiative

NORTHBROOK, Ill. – Allstate Insurance Company, a longtime advocate of the motorcycle community, announced today that it is teaming up with country music star and avid rider, Frankie Ballard, for its first-ever Guardians of the Ride initiative. Coinciding with May’s Motorcycle Safety and Awareness month, Guardians of the Ride will recognize safety advocates who have dedicated their lives to improving motorcycle safety through the education of riders and drivers alike.
From educating future generations on the importance of safe riding to working with lawmakers to implement motorcycle safety legislation, the 2016 Guardians of the Ride recipients have demonstrated an unwavering pledge to protect riders and promote safety in the motorcycle community. To help recognize their efforts, Allstate is shining a national spotlight on their inspiring stories and contributions in hopes of encouraging other riders to be Guardians in their own communities and make safety a priority.
“Allstate has been an active force in the motorcycle community for many years, always with the same goal in mind, to keep riders riding,” said Jennifer Egeland, director of marketing for Allstate Insurance Company. “We are dedicated to helping make riders feel more secure on the road and are thrilled to honor riders who share similar passions to Allstate.”
Five riders from across the country are being recognized as the 2016 Guardians of the Ride. They will be honored during a recognition ceremony in their hometown markets, where they will be presented with the special award by a local Allstate agency owner. In August, the Guardians will join Ballard at the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota where they will be acknowledged for their efforts.
Ballard, an accomplished country music singer-songwriter and guitarist, enjoys hitting the open road on his Triumph Bonneville when he isn’t in the studio or performing shows across the country. His breakthrough album Sunshine & Whiskey contained three consecutive No. 1 hits – “Young & Crazy,” the platinum-certified “Sunshine & Whiskey” and the gold-certified “Helluva Life” – and helped take the singer-songwriter to a new level of popularity. His latest project, El Rio, is due out June 10 and features the Top 20 single “It All Started With A Beer.”
“I’ve been a rider for 15 years, and motorcycle safety has always been something I take very seriously. When Allstate approached me with the opportunity to help spread the word about the ‘Guardians of the Ride’ program, I couldn’t wait to get started,” said Ballard. “Each of these riders is more than deserving of this honor, and I hope their passion for safety and improving conditions for riders inspires others to get involved like it has me.”
The 2016 Allstate Guardians of the Ride are as follows:
Catherine Bochat-Duross – San Antonio, Tex.Bochat-Duross is the founder of The Motorcycle School in San Antonio that teaches more than 1,500 motorcycle trainees each year. She is the Texas legislative liaison for the Texas Motorcycle Roadriders Association and Safety and Awareness Committee Chair for the Texas Motorcycle Safety Coalition. She has also been a member of, and worked in conjunction with the American Motorcycle Association for the last 10 years.
Ken Higginbotham – Anderson, S.C.Higginbotham is the Head Road Captain & Safety Officer of the Electric City H.O.G. and regularly works to educate the chapter members and public about motorcycle safety and the proper operation of a motorcycle. He is also the coordinator for the 2016 South Carolina H.O.G. rally.
Lisa Cook-Gordon – Melvin, Mich.Cook Gordon originally suggested the Nathan Bower Act, which is in honor of her son’s friend Nathan Bower who died on his motorcycle after being struck by a vehicle, to the state of Michigan. The law requires that driver education courses include lessons on bicycle and motorcycle awareness and safety. She and the Bower family helped to get the law passed Michigan, and have since traveled to other states to work with government officials in an attempt to pass similar laws throughout the country.
Mark Howie Sr. – Omaha, Neb.After serving with the Omaha Police Department as a motorcycle officer for more than 20 years, Howie retired to continue his work in rider education. He currently manages and teaches the Learn-to-Ride program and is seen as an expert in his community on motorcycle safety information, frequently assisting local media with the sharing of important safety tips.
Tom Wright – Roebling, N.J.As president of the Central Jersey Rider Training, Wright oversees the operation of state-approved motorcycle riding safety courses and advocates for legislation in support of rider safety. In his previous employment role, he dedicated a lengthy career to vehicle safety, motorcycle safety advocacy and program implementation for the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission.
For 50 years, Allstate has been providing motorcycle insurance to riders and instituting safety and awareness initiatives as part of the Allstate Rider Protection Project, including the installation of 175 “Watch for Motorcycles” warning signs at dangerous intersections across the country as part of its Once is Never Enough program. Guardians of the Ride serves as the next chapter in Allstate’s mission to keep riders on the road and in good hands.

CRAIG CAMPBELL To Host Celebrity Cornhole Challenge

NASHVILLE, TN (May 17, 2016)– RED BOW Records’ artist Craig Campbell will host the “4th Annual Craig Campbell Celebrity Cornhole Challenge” in honor of his late father who lost his battle with the disease at age 36. Fellow country stars Michael Ray, Canaan Smith and more to be announced will appear at this year’s event on Tuesday, June 7th from 1-3pm near 5th Avenue and Demonbreun Street in downtown Nashville, TN. As a national spokesperson for the cause, Campbell strives to raise awareness and funds for colorectal cancer education, research and prevention.

“We’ve been so blessed over the past three years with the success of my celebrity cornhole tournaments, that we’re gonna do another!” shared Campbell.  “The event gets bigger and better every year. It makes me smile to know that we are raising so much money for research and awareness of this terrible disease.”

During the “4th Annual Craig Campbell Celebrity Cornhole Challenge,” artists will be paired with fans that bid online for the chance to play with them. The game is conducted in a bracket style with the non-celebrity winner receiving a commemorative cornhole board at the end. The “4th Annual Craig Campbell Celebrity Cornhole Challenge” is open to the public with all proceeds benefitting Fight CRC. Visit smarturl.it/Cornhole2016 for a chance to play in the competition and to participate in the online auction featuring items donated by artists and sponsors. Additional information regarding tickets and VIP opportunities will be announced soon. Following the tournament, Campbell will take the stage to perform for the annual “Music City Gives Back” concert.

Campbell is currently climbing the country radio charts with new single “Outskirts of Heaven” that he co-wrote with Dave Turnbull (Kenny Chesney, Blake Shelton) and Rolling Stone Country describes as “a ballad with a sweeping, Nineties-style twang.” Following 2015’s “Tomorrow Tonight,” he has been in the studio with producer Mickey Jack Cones working on his RED BOW Records debut album. Having shared the stage with Randy Houser, Alan Jackson, The Band Perry, Jerrod Niemann and Justin Moore, he is currently touring across the U.S. and will be playing major fairs and festivals throughout the summer.

RODNEY ATKINS To Host "Music City Gives Back" 6/7

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (May 17, 2016) – “Consistently entertaining” (People) and six-time chart-topping country artist Rodney Atkins will host his sixth annual “Music City Gives Back” concert on Tuesday, June 7, unofficially kicking off a week of country music festivities in Nashville ahead of the CMT Music Awards and CMA Music Festival. The star-studded event, which benefits W.O. Smith Music School, will be take place near 5^th Avenue and Demonbreun Street in downtown Nashville and will feature performances by Atkins, Craig Campbell,LANco, Canaan Smith and headliner Dustin Lynch.

“This is hands-down one of my favorite events to do every year,” said Atkins. “We started it as a way to help our friends and neighbors in the community who were affected by the huge flood in 2010, and it just keeps growing every year and has become a fun way for us to support some of the great organizations we have in Nashville like the W.O. Smith Music School. I’m grateful to all the artists who are coming out to play with us this year – we’re going to have a good time!”

The concert is free to the public and performances will kick off at 6:00 p.m. Select artists will also be available to sign autographs in the free, no-ticket-required sponsor activation area from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.where guests can have a drink, play cornhole and more.

Carl Black Chevrolet, Wrangler and Ally are returning for the sixth year as presenting sponsors for Music City Gives Back. Carl Black Chevrolet will stream the show live on CarlBlackRadio.com and Wrangler will cover the show on WranglerNetwork.com, a first-of-its-kind mobile and online destination for all Western lifestyle content. Fans can also access unique behind-the-scenes footage captured during the Music City Gives Back concert by visiting WranglerNetwork.com/mcgb.

“America’s Morning Show” hosts Blair Garner, Kelly Ford and Chuck Wicks will also host along with media partners NASH FM 103.3 and 95.5 NASH ICON.