New music for lovers – country music lovers, that is!
By Preshias Harris
February is the month of love so we’ve got love songs, break-up songs, make-up songs and everything in between. New music from Dolly Parton, Eric Church, Frankie Ballard, ERNEST, Ashley McBryde, HARDY, Struggle Jennings, Megan Moroney, Jon Pardi and lots more for you and your Valentine, plus the Musicians Hall of Fame Class of 2026 inductees, a new IMAX movie, Bluegrass news and more. Scroll down for your Inside Track on Music Row!
QUOTE OF THE MONTH: “I was a different person before I started to write. When I realized I could be a songwriter and that people would listen – that was when I started feeling good in my life.” – Gwen Stafani
BIBLE VERSE OF THE MONTH: And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. – I Corinthians 13: 13
ALBUM & EP NEWS
ERIC CHURCH
ERIC CHURCH will release the album Evangeline vs. The Machine: Comes Alive (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) on February 13, 2026, via MCA Nashville. Pre-save / pre-order here. Recorded at The Pinnacle in Nashville in May 2025, this 19-track live album accompanies an exclusive IMAX concert film of the same name releasing on the same day, featuring performances of his 2025 studio album in its entirety, alongside live versions of some of his hits such as “Desperate Man,” “Give Me Back My Hometown,” “Sinners Like Me,” and “Springsteen”.
The release coincides with the second leg of his “Free the Machine” tour, which resumed in early 2026. Find tour and ticket info here.
Scroll down to MOVIE NEWS for information about the Eric Church IMAX movie of Evangeline vs. The Machine: Comes Alive and where/when you can see it.
LAKELIN LEMMINGS
LAKELIN LEMMINGS: Rising country artist Lakelin Lemmings releases her new EP, Get Around Boy, on February 6, 2026, via QHMG/Quartz Hill Records. Produced by Ash Bowers the five-track project captures the emotional push-and-pull of small-town roots, restless ambition, faith, and modern country storytelling.
Anchored by title track, “Get Around Boy,” a contemporary-tinged road anthem that explores the personal cost of chasing dreams. With vivid, coast-to-coast imagery and a soaring sing-along chorus, the song finds Lakelin reflecting on love left behind while life keeps moving forward.
The EP balances high-energy autobiographical moments with thoughtful, heart-led storytelling. From the playful uncertainty of modern romance to songs rooted in faith and hometown memory, Get Around Boy showcases Lakelin’s growth as both a writer and an artist who is grounded, authentic and emotionally significant.
Wise beyond her 19 years, Lemmings’ faith and her tenacity lead her confidence as she sets out to tackle the wild and often beautiful business of music with an arsenal of talent. She signed her first Nashville publishing deal at just 17 years old and has since amassed more than 120,000 followers on TikTok. Connection and communication with her audience is what drives her songwriting. She strives to let listeners—especially girls her own age—know that they’re seen and heard. More at lakelinlemmings.com and on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook.
BLUEGRASS NEWS
BEACHLEY and WINDBECK
BEACHLEY and WINDBECK: Huckleberry Records has released “My Delilah,” a new single from Darren Beachleyand Kyle Windbeck that blends heartfelt storytelling with traditional bluegrass power and harmony. The song is at country radio now and is available for streaming from all digital music platforms here.
Written by Paula Breedlove and Brad Davis, “My Delilah” uses the biblical story of Samson and Delilah as a metaphor for irresistible love. The lyric explores the idea that while some men fall to temptation through money, nightlife, or excess, the singer’s one true weakness is the woman who has captured his heart. The chorus delivers the emotional core of the song: “You’re my Delilah, my only weakness is you.”
Beachley and Windbeck are joined by Taylor Parks on tenor vocal and banjo, and Stephen Burwell on fiddle, creating a rich, traditional bluegrass sound.
“I always loved the chord progression and the minor feel to it. The message references Samson and Delilah (it’s not gospel) and how the seductive power of a woman can bring even the strongest of men to their knees and how it can become an addiction. It’s a story as old as the Bible,” says Beachley.
With its compelling lyrics, a strong melody, and top-tier musicianship, “My Delilah” is a standout addition to the Turnberry Records catalog and a powerful showcase of Darren Beachley and Kyle Windbeck’s artistry.
LEAH BLEVINS
LEAH BLEVINS: On the heels of recent releases “Be Careful Throwing Stones” and “All Dressed Up,” the title track from her Dan Auerbach-produced album, singer/songwriter Leah Blevins releases another taste of her Easy Eye Sound debut with latest track, “Diggin’ in the Coal” available on all music platforms here.
Written with Auerbach and Pat McLaughlin, “Diggin’ in the Coal” continues to showcase Blevins’ piercing vocal clarity, storytelling and unflinching emotional honesty with a dash of ‘70s retro glamour and sheen.
The new track follows recent releases “Be Careful Throwing Stones,” which Whiskey Riff called a “song that needs to be on your radar” and “All Dressed Up,” named a “hot new track” by Barnburner. The track marks the latest glimpse into the sonic landscape of her upcoming album, a timeless blend of Southern rock earthiness and pop-country shimmer, anchored by a twangy Karen Carpenter-esque vocal purity.
Pre-save the album All Dressed Up, set for release March 20, 2026, here.
With “Diggin’ in the Coal,” Blevins explores finding good things in dark places while evoking great grandfather/miner Cole Grove and their East Kentucky roots, going out of her way to hold hope even as she recognizes her own short-comings. For the latest news and updates follow Leah Blevins on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook and online at leahblevinsmusic.com.
DOLLY NEWS
DOLLY NEWS: As everyone in the world must know by now, the amazing Dolly Parton celebrated her 80th birthday on January 19 and her fans will undoubtedly be celebrating along with Dolly throughout the year.
As one way to mark the music milestone, Dolly has released a unique new version of her 1977 classic “Light of a Clear Blue Morning.” As the 50th anniversary of that song is fast approaching, Dolly called on a few friends to celebrate along with her and who could say ‘No’? Dolly is joined by a ‘Who’s Who’ of stars: Reba McEntire, Lainey Wilson, Queen Latifah, and her goddaughter Miley Cyrus along with David Foster on piano and the Christ Church Choirproviding backing vocals.
Play/stream on all music services here. You can also join the 2+ million viewers who have already watched the official video here.
Dolly’s gift of music to the world is only matched by her bountiful generosity as a philanthropist, and this new release is no exception. Dolly is donating all net proceeds from the song and music video to the pediatric cancer research program at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. Streaming or downloading the special new version of the song is a fun and easy way to join Dolly in making a gift to a very worthy cause. More about everything Dolly at her website and on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok.
MOVIE NEWS
ERIC CHURCH
ERIC CHURCH is bringing his 2025 “Evangeline vs. The Machine” concert experience to cinemas in an exclusive IMAX film, Evangeline vs. The Machine Comes Alive, set for release on February 11 and February 14, 2026, with a live album dropping on February 13, 2026. The film captures two unforgettable sold-out nights at The Pinnacle in Nashville, featuring a 6-piece band, 4-piece horn section, 4-piece string section, an 8-piece choir, and powerhouse vocalist Joanna Cotton, highlighting an immersive 12-channel sound and visual experience. Watch the official movie trailer here.
The movie features the entire album played in full front to back, followed by hits like “Desperate Man,” “Springsteen” and “Sinners Like Me.” The project, directed by Reid Long, is a collaboration between IMAX, Church’s record label MCA, Mercury Studios and Q Prime South. Find ticket info at https://www.imax.com/movie/eric-church.
“This project was never about fitting into a box – it’s about breaking the damn thing wide open,” shares Church. “Seeing it in IMAX takes that to another level. The scale and sound experience is like nothing else.”
Meanwhile, Church’s acclaimed Free The Machine Tour continues across the country, with 24 newly announced 2026 dates on sale now via EricChurch.com.
MUSICIANS HALL of FAME NEWS
MUSICIANS HALL of FAME NEWS: Linda Chambers, Co-Founder and CEO of the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum has announced its 2026 Class of Inductees into the Musicians Hall of Fame. The class includes (in alphabetical order by first name) Dann Huff, Dolly Parton, George Thorogood & The Destroyers, John Boylan, Keith Urban, Leland Sklar, Michael McDonald, and Nicky Hopkins (posthumously).
The Musicians Hall Of Fame Concert and Induction Ceremony will take place at The Fisher Center for Performing Arts, April 28, 7:30 PM. Tickets on sale Tuesday, February 10 at 10:00 AM CT., here.
Presenters and artists performing during the induction ceremony and concert will be announced soon. Of this class of inductees, Chambers says, “The Musicians Hall of Fame has inducted over 170 musicians, producers, engineers and industry icons. Each new class of inductees reminds us why we do what we do-preserving and celebrating the legacy of the musicians who bring songs to life. We couldn’t be more excited to welcome these legendary artists into the Musicians Hall of Fame.”
Find a full overview of the careers of all the 2026 inductees here and more about the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum here. As Keith Richards said, “Where else are you gonna get all the cats that are in this room?”
SINGLES NEWS
FRANKIE BALLARD
FRANKIE BALLARD: Country rocker Frankie Ballard is kicking off the new year with canny single “Money Runs Out,” available everywhere now. Listen to “Money Runs Out” here. Written by Ballard and Dave Barnes and produced by Grammy Award-winner Tyler Bryant, the song offers a clear-eyed look at loyalty and encourages listeners to take stock in those who stick around — no matter the circumstance — and those who don’t. Rooted in the gritty charm Ballard has made his signature, “Money Runs Out” places the entertainer’s lived-in perspective at center stage.
“Kicking off this new chapter with ‘Money Runs Out’ sets the tone for what’s ahead,” shares Ballard. “It’s honest, lived-in and truly where I’m at in life. This song reflects some of the lessons I’ve learned, paired with the country sounds I love to make.”
“Money Runs Out” finds Ballard stepping forward with clarity and intention, reconnecting with the sound fans know and love while reflecting where life has taken him as a husband, father and man of faith. His experiences as a seasoned country hitmaker influence today’s release, accompanied by an all-new music video that captures Ballard’s timeless charisma and classic high-energy performance.
Watch the “Money Runs Out” music video here. Keep up with Ballard at frankieballard.com and on Instagram, TikTok,Facebook and YouTube.
BANDANA CHEYENNA
BANDANA CHEYENNA: Rising Country/Americana artist Bandana Cheyenna has released a brand-new winter-themed love song, “Below Freezing.” The track is now available on all major digital streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, and more. Listen/save Cheyenna’s music here.
“Below Freezing” marks the first release in a four-song winter love series Cheyenna will unveil throughout the month. Dreamy and melodic, the song captures the fear and tenderness of letting new love melt a once-frozen heart, encouraging listeners to challenge themselves to open up again. Airy harmonies, chill guitar, and a soaring falsetto gives the track an easy-listening quality, channeling the emotional magic of Billie Eilish, Joni Mitchell, and Maggie Rogers.
Co-written by Cheyenna alongside Herbie Mortera, who also produced the track, “Below Freezing” was inspired by a real-life romance that pushed Cheyenna to confront vulnerability after years of emotional self-protection. “This might be cliché, but February is known as the month of love, so what better way to celebrate than with a love song,” says Cheyenna.
Embracing a nomadic lifestyle while continuing to build momentum as both an artist and songwriter, Cheyenna has already crafted a remarkable career. Follow along with Bandana Cheyenna on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube. You can also check out the playlist of Cheyenna’s songwriting cuts here.
ERNEST
ERNEST: Grammy-nominated triple threat ERNEST heads South bringing fans with him to the islands on new single, “Lorelei” – listen here. “Lorelei” is a breezy, two-and-a-half minute sailor’s tale about an elusive, evocative woman who can’t quite be pinned down. Produced by ERNEST and Jacob Durrett and written by Ernest Keith Smith, Rhett Akins, Ben Hayslip and Mark Holman, the earworm is beach-ready, layering elegant plucked guitar tones under an addictive hook.
“’Lorelei’ is the first song off my album Deep Blue,” ERNEST says. “It sets the tone for the deep blue world this album lives in. It might be cold where you are, but you can close your eyes and feel the sun and hear the waves like you’re right there looking for her with me.”
The song previews ERNEST’s third full-length studio album, Deep Blue, slated for release later this year. Deep Blueharkens back thematically to ERNEST’s first-ever project, Locals Only (2019 via Big Loud Records), but showcases seven years’ worth of growth against the backdrop of a tropical escape.
ERNEST is currently headlining his Live From The South Tour, playing originals from his just-released EP of the same name. Tour & ticket info and more at ErnestOfficial.com; follow him on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.
HARDY
HARDY: In a feat of superstar storytelling, HARDY is joined by fellow country heavyweights Tim McGraw, Eric Church and Morgan Wallen on “McArthur,” out now. Listen/play here.
“’McArthur’ is a very special one,” HARDY shares. “It came together pretty fast. I know I wrote the song, but I also feel like how did I end up on this song? It’s a lineup of absolute legends.” Written by HARDY alongside Jameson Rogers, Josh Thompson and Chase McGill, with production by Jay Joyce, the new song traces the changes of time and lineage across generations:
My bloodline they bled on this ground / Soon we all find that’s where we’re all bound / And Father Time, don’t leave anyone out / When you pass on, what you gonna pass down
The country hitmaker is fresh off the release of his lauded album Country! Country! with single “Favorite Country Song” recently taking the top spot at Country radio. Additionally, HARDY rounded out last year with an unforgettable performance of fan-favorite “Bottomland” on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and co-hosted CBS New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash alongside comedian Bert Kreischer. HARDY kicks off The Country! Country! Tour in February. Fond tour and ticket info at hardyofficial.com; Follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X and YouTube.
STRUGGLE JENNINGS
STRUGGLE JENNINGS has released “Last Name”, the title track from the outlaw country-rap star’s full-length country album releasing March 2026. Listen/play here. Watch the brand new official video for “Last Name” here.
“Last Name” is a hard-earned outlaw country song about looking back on your life, and the weight that your last name can put on your back. Sung with raw, unfiltered honesty, it digs into murder, bloodlines, and lineage.
Jennings says, “I wrote this song looking back on my life. My father was killed when I was 10, and growing up in West Nashville, all I knew about him were the stories and the myth he left behind. I spent years trying to be who I was told I was supposed to be, filling the boots he left behind and carrying my last name in the streets and in music. Being Waylon Jennings’ grandson came with expectations about who I should be and what I should create. But people only know the stories they’ve heard about Waylon, and about my dad, Fat Pete. They didn’t know the man who supported my rap, the outlaw in me, or the softer side of my father. This song is me saying they don’t know the first thing about my last name or what it truly means to come from my lineage.” Follow Jennings on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube.
BELLA LAM
BELLA LAM: With over 55,000 followers on TikTok and a non-stop touring schedule of 100+ shows a year, Asian-American singer-songwriter Bella Lam is gearing up to release her new single, “Take It Out On My Guitar,” on February 13th. Listen to “Take It Out On My Guitar” here, Pre-save here.
With “Take It Out On My Guitar,” Bella channels heartache into fire, turning raw emotion into a powerful anthem that hits just as hard as the feelings behind it. The song was co-written by Lam alongside Lauren McLamb ( Dierks Bentley, Josh Ross, Dylan Marlowe) and Chris Rafetto (Eddie Montgomery, Emmy Russell, Kelsey Lamb), and produced by Matthew Morrisey. It follows her previously released single, “Tears In My Tequila,” co-written with Jason Blaine and Benji Cowart, and has 20K+ streams on Spotify.
Tying in with her upcoming release (and Vantine’s Day) Bella has launched a social media campaign called “Write It, Don’t Text It,” an interactive breakup hotline where fans can call in and text what they wish they could send to their exes. Select anonymous messages will be featured on Bella’s socials, turning moments of heartbreak into shared, cathartic experiences online. Bella says she has been getting some great traction from fans sending in their messages.
Music and more at BellaLamMusic.com and on Instagram and TikTok.
ASHLEY McBRYDE
ASHLEY McBRYDE: Grammy, CMA, and ACM award-winning singer-songwriter Ashley McBryde has released her highly anticipated new single, “What If We Don’t,” available now on all streaming platforms via Warner Records Nashville. Written by McBryde alongside Terri Jo Box and Randall Clay, and produced by John Osborne, the track serves as the first glimpse into her upcoming fifth studio album.
“What If We Don’t” is a powerful, heart-on-fire anthem that dives into the terrifying beauty of choice—the leaps of faith taken, the roads not traveled, and the consequences that echo either way. Co-written around a fire pit on a back porch, the song captures the essence of wondering “what if” regarding life-changing decisions.
“It’s about the leaps of faith that you do or don’t take, and having to learn to live with those consequences either way,” says McBryde.
The release is accompanied by a poignant music video directed by Brandon Campbell, which highlights the raw, emotional storytelling characteristic of McBryde’s acclaimed career. Watch the video here.
“What If We Don’t” follows a string of successes for McBryde, including her recent 2026 Redemption Residency at Chief’s Neon Steeple. The new single is set to make a major impact at country radio on February 23. More about Ashley McBryde on her website and at Facebook, TikTok and Instagram.
JOHN R. MILLER
JOHN R. MILLER: Acclaimed singer and songwriter John R. Miller has released his first new single in three years, “A World Away,” a gritty guitar-forward sound that signals a bold new chapter in his sound, available to listen here on all streaming platforms. Known for his deeply-rooted Americana storytelling, Miller pushes into heavier, more atmospheric territory on the track, embracing distortion, density, and a raw wall-of-sound approach. Watch the official music video created by animator and musician Hayden Miles here. Embracing a minimalist, kinetic style, the video mirrors the song’s restless energy. “This version of the song sounds like pure energy, like electricity,” Miles says. “I wanted the video to feel like it’s buzzing – objects shifting, lines squiggling, little doodles appearing – everything in motion.”
“A World Away” is a reimagining of a song by fellow Whizzbang Management artist and longtime collaborator Darrin Hacquard, whose work Miller cites as a major source of songwriting inspiration and mentorship. Miller also played bass on the original recording, making the song a natural jumping-off point for experimentation. “I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and try a new approach,” says Miller. “I had an idea to take it in more of a guitar-heavy, wall-of-sound direction—I didn’t know if it was going to work, but I really enjoyed doing that.”
More information on John R. Miller and to catch him live, visit jrmillermusic.com; follow on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
MEGAN MORONEY
MEGAN MORONEY: Sony Music Nashville/Columbia Records singer/songwriter Megan Moroney has scored her latest No. 1 hit at Country radio with “6 Months Later” — a GOLD-certified smash that just vaulted to the Top spot on the Country Aircheck/Mediabase Airplay chart. Listen/play “6 Months Later” here. The multi-Platinum phenomenon’s third Country radio No. 1 to date, “6 Months Later” will appear on her third studio album Cloud 9 due out on February 20 and available for pre-order/pre-save here). Listen/play the title track “Cloud 9” here.
“Thank you so much to my Country radio friends! It feels surreal to have another number one and I’m thankful Country radio embraced this song as much as my fans and I,” shares Moroney.
Written by Moroney, Ben Williams, David “Messy” Mescon, and Rob Hatch, “6 Months Later” premiered in June and marked her highest debut on the Billboard Hot 100 (where it reached the Top 30 on the all-genre tally). After impacting Country radio in July, the breezy post-breakup bop began making its way up the charts, cracking the Top 10 by fall. The self-assured yet soul-baring track has also earned plenty of critical praise — most recently, The New York Times critic Lindsay Zoladz.
Along with “6 Months Later,” Moroney’s Country radio No. 1 hits include “Am I Okay?” and her breakout hit “Tennessee Orange,” a now 4X Platinum smash on her debut album Lucky. More at MeganMoroney.com, Instagram,Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube.
ELIZABETH NICHOLS
ELIZABETH NICHOLS: Fast-rising Country newcomer Elizabeth Nichols leans into bad decisions with the release of her new single “Sweet Cigarette,” available now via Pulse Records (listen / play here). Produced by Mike Robinson, the reflective ballad is a rare solo write that finds Nichols running back to bad habits, even when the right choice is looking her straight in the eye. As the saying goes, “admitting you have a problem is the first step to recovery,” with that in mind, the accompanying music video ( watch here) sees her attempting to correct the problem at a support group…or so it may seem. Stay tuned to the end to find out.
“I feel like your twenties is the time to figure out who you are, what you like and don’t like and have a little fun while you’re at it. Be dramatic. Make questionable decisions. Ride the rollercoaster. Stay out late. Do it for the plot. Run from the boy that is good and safe. Chase the spark. How else are you going to get the reckless out of your system?” laughed Elizabeth Nichols. “It can be thrilling to ignore your gut and walk that thin line between love and hate…especially when your ex is just the right amount of toxic.”
More on Nichols on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube.
JON PARDI
JON PARDI: Multi-Platinum MCA hitmaker Jon Pardi notches most added at country radio with his rousing line-dancing love song, “Boots Off” (listen/play “Boots Off” here) a standout from his latest album Honkytonk Hollywoodvia MCA (listen/play the album here). Co-written by Pardi, Luke Laird and Wyatt McCubbin, the track bursts from the speakers with a bold guitar riff, roadhouse “gritty stomp” (Fandom Daily) and playful honkytonk energy. Blending flirtatious romance with classic country swagger, “Boots Off” kicks off with “strutting strings…vowing a two-stepping good time” (Holler) before charging ahead with a “rollicking, rump-shaking rhythm, snappy rock-leaning production, and sly, sexy lyric” (MusicRow).
Pardi’s Honkytonk Hollywood Tour this spring includes a run of dates across the U.S. and the U.K, as well as some of country’s biggest festivals. Pardi will reinforce his reputation as one of country music’s most electric and reliable live performers, delivering his signature blend of high-energy country with just enough rock and roll in a set packed with fiddle, twang, steel guitar, and undeniable charisma.
Pardi’s reputation for punchy, against-the-wind bravado has only grown, proven with his most recent fifth studio album Honkytonk Hollywood. The 17-track album is the spiritual successor to his fearless breakout hits, once again showcasing his commitment to staying true to himself, yet giving his signature sound a new spark. Info and tour/ticket updates at JonPardi.com; follow on Facebook, X and YouTube.
GREG PRATT
GREG PRATT: Rising Country Artist Greg Pratt was born and raised in Memphis Tennessee, the son of two doctors, expected to follow in the family footsteps in medical school after graduating from the University of Alabama. But with only one credit left to graduate, Greg chose a very different path. With only $3 in his bank account, his Dad’s old Guild guitar and a dream, he headed for Nashville to become a singer-songwriter and touring Country Music entertainer.
Greg releases his 3rd Radio Single “Waste of Time” following “If You Remember the 1990s” and “One More Time,” both of which charted on Music Row’s Breakout Chart, released on independent Nashville label PGMG Nashville. Find the track on major music services including here on Spotify.
Greg is a proud member of the Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music and has been making his living performing full-time in clubs, private events and main stages for years now. As a songwriter, Greg has developed his craft to a point of cutting his own songs and getting outside cuts on other artists. Greg and his team are committed to writing, recording and releasing original music for the rest of his life, and working tirelessly to beat the odds. Music and more at GregPrattCountry.com and on Instagram and YouTube.
RHYS RUTHERFORD
RHYS RUTHERFORD: DeVille Records’ singer-songwriter Rhys Rutherford delivers a brand-new song, “Long Way.” Listen/play “The Long Way” here. The new tune about “living too fast and loving too slow” proves he’s only scratching the surface of his potential. He’ll take his growing catalog on the road this spring opening for close friend and mentor ERNEST on his Live From The South Tour.
“Been in the studio working on so many great songs this year and this is one of my favorites,” Rutherford shares. “I hope y’all love ‘Long Way’ as much as I do. Plenty more to come.”
Written by Chris Lane, Daniel Ross and Ernest Keith Smith, “Long Way” reflects the highs of young love:
What happens after midnight / Stays between us and the moonlight / Low on time, but that’s okay / Cause we can make a little bit go a long way
The new song follows previously released debut “Southern Belle” written by Rutherford alongside Clara Park and John Pierce. The Nashville native, learned at the foot of his father – Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member Rivers Rutherford – soaking up the wisdom and sound of chart-topping contemporary country. Years of under-the-radar work led to a publishing deal with ERN’s Cadillac Music in 2023, Upcoming shows and more at RhysRutherford.comand on Instagram, X, TikTok and YouTube.
WYNN WILLIAMS
WYNN WILLIAMS: Texas-born traditionalist Wynn Williams (Good Company Entertainment) is set to release the re-imagined recording of his most popular song, “Tornado (Re-Ride.)” The sweeping Red Dirt–rooted track spotlights a rodeo champion and a well-worn tale about legacy, endurance and the quiet reckoning that follows a notorious whirlwind career. Produced by Brandon Hood and written by Williams, Thomas Conners and Roger Brown, the song drops Friday, March 20, 2026 via all digital and streaming platforms.
Inspired by Williams’ rodeo background, “Tornado” is the story of a bucking horse. The song frames its narrator as a once-unstoppable force looking back on an award-winning career defined by sheer strength, endurance and glory as a gladiator of the arena. Tornado’s fame mirrors that of rodeo athletes who pursue glorious victory fueled by adrenaline, and the touring musicians who spend years on the road and at the center of attention building a name that eventually weighs as much as it carries. Just as the names George Jones, George Strait, Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn have become “legendary,” the names of bulls Bodacious, Bushwacker and broncs Virgil and Smith & Velvet have also become world renowned stars of the show.
The re-recording of the fan-favorite reinforces Williams’ place within a lineage of artists carrying Texas and traditional sensibilities into musical conversation. Listen to Williams’ album Country Therapy (Deluxe Edition) at his website here; follow Williams on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.
WAYLON WYATT
WAYLON WYATT: Singer-songwriter and rising country artist Waylon Wyatt released his new track, “In Loving Melody,” via Music Soup/Darkroom Records, Feb 6. It marks his second collaboration with acclaimed producer Ian Fitchuk (Kacey Musgraves, Maggie Rogers, Jelly Roll) and showcases Waylon’s most compelling storytelling to date. Anchored by heartfelt lyrics and an acoustic-driven arrangement, the song delivers his signature upbeat, folk-country sound and serves as the first release from his forthcoming debut album. Listen here.
“In Loving Melody” reveals a new side of Waylon, delivering his most affecting lyrics to date. Set against acoustic guitars, drums, and a rattling tambourine, he sings, “I’ll water these flowers with the tears I cry” a line that cuts deeply. A poignant song of love and loss, the track balances intimacy with uplift and has already generated over 1M TikTok views in the week leading up to its release.
Waylon says of the track: “I wrote ‘In Loving Melody’ a long time ago, but it stuck with me so I decided to record it. I wanted a song that makes you want to bop your head to it, but when you look deeper into the lyrics it makes you want to tear up a lil.”
Wyatt supports Sam Barber on select North American dates before heading overseas for the C2C Festival in Europe then hit the road on his “Everywhere Under the Sun” tour. More on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
WRAP-UP NEWS
CRASH MY PLAYA
CRASH MY PLAYA: This year’s Crash My Playa experience, hosted by superstar and five-time Entertainer of the Year Luke Bryan, once again transformed a long weekend (January 15-18 2026) in Riviera Maya, Mexico into a fully immersive country music escape.
“I cannot thank these fans enough for their support because they have helped us build this event over the last 11 years,” said Bryan. “It could not happen without them and it could not happen without my artist friends who keep showing up year after year to make Crash My Playa what it is. This event is a place to bring sun, fun and country music to life. I believe 2026 is going to be a great year if this is any indication on how we kick it off. Here we go!”
Riley Green and Dierks Bentley each hosted memorable headlining nights. Bryan hosted two nights of headlining performances, including the iconic final-night “Luke Bryan & Friends” set featuring Bryan performing with friends and special guests Shenandoah and Parker McCollum as well as Dierks Bentley, Dustin Lynch, Priscilla Block, George Birge and Kameron Marlowe who joined them onstage. For highlights from the four-day Crash My Playa including performance highlights, Dustin’s Pool Party, interview clips with Bryan, memorable fan moments click here. Stay tuned for 2027 Crash My Playa details at www.crashmyplaya.com.
My thanks to the recording artists, songwriters, music industry professionals and publicists who keep me updated on new releases, number one celebrations, upcoming tours and everything happening in and around Nashville… helping to make Inside Track on Music Row the longest continuously published country music column in the USA! Send me stuff, I love to get it. You can reach me at preshiaswriter@hotmail.com
Preshias Harris is an advocate for songwriters and a music career development consultant with the emphasis on new and aspiring artists and songwriters. Her book, ‘The College of Songology 101: The Singer/Songwriter’s Need to Know Reference Handbook’ is available at www.collegeofsongology.com Follow her blog at www.nashvillemusicline.com @PreshiasHarris