‘Inside Track on Music Row’ for March ’26: SO much new Country music!
By Preshias Harris
It’s all here: Spring tour news from Dierks Bentley, Russell Dickerson, Cody Johnson, Old Dominion; hot new music from Blake Shelton, Vince Gill, Craig Campbell and a swarm of rising country stars; the deets on Tin Pan South, the Country Radio Seminar and the Musicians Hall of Fame Concert; Riley Green’s No. 1 party, and music, music, music. Scroll down and catch up!
QUOTE OF THE MONTH: “I’m a songwriter; that’s where it starts. I love writing with someone that shares that same feeling of accomplishment. I’ll play music for my fans as long as they’ll listen, but I fancy myself as a writer first.” – Randy Houser
BIBLE VERSE OF THE MONTH: There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off. —Proverbs 23:18
ALBUM NEWS
JACKSON DEAN
JACKSON DEAN: Platinum-selling singer/songwriter Jackson Dean will release his third studio album, Magnolia Sage, on April 24. Pre-save/pre-order here. An eclectic collection of songs that move from sweeping to soothing, rocking to ruminative, the 11-track project creates a sound that is singularly Jackson Dean: alive, vital, frisky, sexy and rugged.
The story of Magnolia Sage is told through two distinct, rich narrative lenses, with each of the 11 tracks fitting into one of the two worlds: Magnolia or Sage. Songs and settings of the album intertwine to unveil the discoveries made on Dean’s exploration into new territory, both sonically and lyrically, that began with previously released tracks “Be Your Man,” “Make A Liar” and “Over And Over.”
Magnolia evokes vivid scenes of the Southeast and East Coast, sonically defined by heavy bass that booms and R&B influence that romances. The stories and sounds of Sage transport listeners to the inherent restlessness and vast landscapes of the West.
Whether Magnolia or Sage, east or west, soft or bold, the thread that holds the tapestry of Dean’s vision together is the steady influence of his longtime muse.
Dean cranks up the heat and sets hearts ablaze in his new track “Wildfire,” out now, an evocative depiction of the kind of love that can’t be contained once the match is struck. Watch the official music video here. Find tour dates at JacksonDeanMusic.com. #JacksonDeanMusic
LIL ED & THE BLUES IMPERIALS
LIL ED & THE BLUES IMPERIALS: Alligator Records has announced the release of Lil’ Ed & The Blues Imperials‘ new album, Slideways. Pre-add / listen here. For nearly 40 years together, Blues Hall Of Famers Lil’ Ed Williams and The Blues Imperials – bassist (and Ed’s half brother) James “Pookie” Young, guitarist Mike Garrettand drummer Kelly Littleton – have been delivering gloriously riotous, intensely emotional, wickedly playful Chicago blues to audiences around the world. Lil’ Ed and The Blues Imperials return with their 10th Alligator Records release, and perhaps the crowning achievement of their entire career Slideways. Mixing smoking slide guitar boogies and raw-boned shuffles with the deepest soul-burners and heart-wrenching slow blues, Lil’ Ed Williams and The Blues Imperials bring it all back home, playing each track with an impassioned sense of wild abandon.
Produced by Williams and Alligator Records founder and president Bruce Iglauer, Slideways is a dynamic, high-energy collection of 13 songs, including 12 written or co-written by Williams. With the band at the absolute height of their powers, Williams’ singing and playing is thrilling and at times hair-raising. The songs—eight featuring the deep blues keyboard playing of Ben Levin (“He’s got that old-time style,” says Williams)—are filled with simple, relatable truths. They feature colorful characters in humorous to harrowing situations, some sinning while grinning, others smiling while crying.
Lil Ed & The Blues Imperials will play the City Winery, Nashville, April 9, 2026. Tour/ticket info here.
VINCE GILL
VINCE GILL: The guitar on the cover of Down At The Borderline says everything about the fourth installment in Vince Gill‘s 50 Years From Home EP series on MCA. It’s a white 1953 Fender Telecaster that Gill bought for $450 in 1978 from Del City Music in his native Oklahoma, and it’s been Gill’s main guitar ever since. “It’s real special,” he remarks. “I’ve got several other old Fender Telecasters, but that one just suits my hands, suits my ears. Everything about it is kind of a huge part of my entire catalog of playing guitar over all these years.” Testifying to that status is the worn finish on the guitar’s body.
Listen to Down At The Borderline here.
It’s appropriate, then, that the six new songs on Down At The Borderline, as well as “Liza Jane” from his 1991 album Pocket Full Of Gold, feature plenty of six-string rockin’ and more of an uptempo demeanor than its three 50 Years From Home predecessors. “There’s a little more zip on this EP,” Gill agrees, “some more guitar playing. Some of the earlier EPs have been singer-songwriter songs, not a ton of whittling around on the guitar. These songs are fun to stretch out a little bit on and just play some guitar.”
Find more about the other EPs in the series in earlier editions of Inside Track on Music Row. Find Gill’s tour dates at VinceGill.com.
CAROLINE JONES
CAROLINE JONES: Country singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and band member of Grammy-Award winning Zac Brown Band, Caroline Jones, has officially released her highly anticipated studio album Good Omen, marking her first album release with Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment. Written alongside Eric Paslay, Joy Williams, and Sarah Buxton, the 12-track album puts the singer-songwriter’s lyrical depth and impressive musicianship on full display with a diverse collection of songs that reflect her growth and life perspectives as a new mom and rising musician. Stream / play / purchase Good Omen here.
“Good Omen is a celebration of life in all its colors. These songs chronicle the navigation of my new work-life balance in real time,” said Jones. “Motherhood has enriched and deepened my perspective and my courage to tackle more raw, vulnerable and even darker topics on this record, like on ‘Divorce in a Small Town,’ ‘No Tellin’,’ and ‘The Bridge.’ Musically, the acoustic and organic hooks that have been staples in my production are balanced on this record with some dark, Appalachian melodies and dramatized with live strings and big electric baritone guitars.”
Co-produced with Julian Raymond and Ric Wake, Good Omen features a range of melodies and harmonies that bring the listener on an unexpected musical journey, from Caroline’s signature light-hearted, upbeat country-pop singalongs to twangy, boot-stomping, guitar heavy anthems to stripped-down, sentimental serenades that will leave you teary-eyed. Tour updates and more here.
OWEN RIEGLING
OWEN RIEGLING: Fast-rising country artist Owen Riegling announces his highly anticipated sophomore album, In The Feeling, set for release April 17 via Universal Music Canada and Big Loud Records. The announce arrives alongside his new single, “Love Hate Love,” out now with an official visualizer here. Pre-save In The Feeling here.
Produced in Nashville by Oscar Charles (Chase Rice, Elvie Shane) mixed by Jordan Rigby, In The Feeling features Riegling co-writes with chart-topping Nashville hitmakers such as Luke Laird (Eric Church, Carrie Underwood), Jonathan Singleton (Lainey Wilson, Tim McGraw, Luke Combs), Jimi Bell (Brantley Gilbert, Jon Pardi, Luke Combs, Bailey Zimmerman), Kyle Sturrock (Blake Shelton, Dierks Bentley) and others. In The Feeling, the 12-song labor of love reflects the numerous major life changes experienced by a man hurtling through a tornado of travel and transition, including last summer’s marriage to a bold new chapter in his career. Physical editions of the album will include 12 tracks as well as a handful of special interludes.
“The day we wrote ‘Love Hate Love’ back in May of 2025, we knew it felt special, I still feel that way,” shares Riegling of the single. “It has an infectious energy that sticks with you. It’s definitely an animated version of my relationship but there is a lot of truth to it.”
Tour ticket info at https://www.owenriegling.com; follow Owen at Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube.
ALT COUNTRY NEWS
ALT COUNTRY NEWS: Zachary Baker has announced the release of his debut solo album, Dark Horse. The guitarist and founding member of the multi-platinum rock band Avenged Sevenfold, better known around the world to fans as Zacky Vengeance, shares the album’s second single, “Lighthouse,” which follows the release of the title track, “Dark Horse.” Listen to both singles and/or pre-save the album here.
With Dark Horse, Baker trades distortion for dust and grit, while simultaneously carving out his own lane in the alt-country/outlaw landscape. “The beauty is in the imperfections,” solemnly proclaims Baker, the unlikely storyteller. Driven by his restless spirit and the outlaw heroes that inspired him, listeners will find a raw sermon of honesty. Dark Horse blends poignant storytelling with Americana influences, signaling a striking evolution from his hard rock background into a songwriter stepping fully into his own.
A limited edition Dark Horse vinyl is available for pre-order in gold, pink or black. An exclusive, limited edition handwritten and signed lyric sheet for “Lighthouse” is also available for purchase here on his webstore. For all news and up to date information, visit zacharybaker.net.
AMERICANA NEWS
AMERICANA NEWS: “Me and You,” (Northwind Records) is the powerful new single from acclaimed Americana duo Mike & Amy Aiken. The song is available now on all major streaming platforms here.
A stirring call for unity, courage, and collective action, “Me and You” draws inspiration from the protest‑song tradition of the 1960s — echoing the socially conscious spirit of Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, and Joan Baez. With its stripped‑down acoustic arrangement, timeless melody, and harmony‑rich delivery, the song invites listeners to stand together, speak up, and fight for change.
“‘Me and You’ was written out of a need to support the resistance movement in this Country,” states Mike Aiken. “The goal was to write a tune that every guitar player could play and everyone could sing, lending strength to each other and the movement for change.”
“Me And You” began with Mike Aiken, who invited longtime friend and collaborator Jackie Merritt to help shape the song. Coming from different backgrounds but sharing a deep commitment to justice and community, the two writers brought their lived experiences and aligned values into the creative process. As they worked, the song evolved into something broader and more urgent than Mike initially envisioned — a testament to the power of collaboration and shared conviction.
See their “Tall Tales & Troubadours” full-band show on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at the American Theatre, Hampton, Virginia. Music, tour info and more here. #Mike&AmyAiken
COUNTRY RADIO SEMINAR NEWS
COUNTRY RADIO SEMINAR NEWS: Country Radio Broadcasters have named Jelly Roll as the recipient of the 2026 Artist Humanitarian Award, to be presented during Country Radio Seminar 2026, set for March 18 to 20 in Nashville. The award recognizes the triple Grammy-winning artist for his commitment to addiction recovery, mental health awareness and community outreach efforts that extend beyond his music career.
Established in 1990, the Artist Humanitarian Award honors country artists whose philanthropic work has significantly enhanced the causes they support. Previous recipients include Eric Church, Luke Combs, Kane Brown, Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney and Carrie Underwood.
General registration for CRS 2026 is $799 per person. Limited single-day passes are available for $349 and include access to panels, speakers, luncheons and networking events for the selected day, excluding Friday’s New Faces of Country Music Showcase. Tickets for the New Faces of Country Music event are sold separately for $110 and are limited.
CRS 2026 will include the 6th Annual Digital Music Summit, daily programming sessions focused on challenges and opportunities in country radio, morning networking events, label luncheons with live performances, Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley songwriter sessions, surprise pop-up performances, CRS Honors and the BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville Late Night Event.
Founded in 1969, Country Radio Broadcasters is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that connects radio broadcasters with the country music industry to support growth and innovation. Registration info here and on Facebook.
LIVE TV NEWS
LIVE TV NEWS: Multi-award-winning producer and songwriter Brent Maher brings selections from his acclaimed audiobook, Night of the Orphan Train: A Musical Novel, to the nationally syndicated WoodSongs Old-Time Radio Hour on Monday, March 2 at 7 p.m. ET. Watch the broadcast live here or on RFD TV.
Maher will be joined by an all-star lineup including Grammy award-winning Bluegrass artist Trey Hensley, vocalist Brooke Spencer, Meagan Taylor and the Kiddos, and acclaimed multi-instrumentalist Fats Kaplin. The evening promises an intimate and powerful showcase of the music that drives Night of the Orphan Train, a story inspired by the true Orphan Train Movement that relocated more than 250,000 children across America between 1854 and 1929.
In addition to the live performance, the moving new music video for “I Will Hold You In My Heart,” (Listen / watch the video here) a tender duet featuring Brooke Spencer and Sarah Holbrook, has just been released. “I Will Hold You In My Heart” is one of the standout tracks from the 20-song soundtrack accompanying the musical novel. It captures the emotional core of the story – devotion, separation, and the enduring promise of love in uncertain times.
Night of the Orphan Train – A Musical Novel continues to build momentum across radio and digital platforms, and is available on Amazon, Audible, Barnes & Noble and other digital retailers.
MUSICIANS HALL OF FAME NEWS
CONCERT & INDUCTION CEREMONY
CONCERT & INDUCTION CEREMONY: Tickets are on sale now for the 9th Musicians Hall of Fame Concert and Induction Ceremony, happening April 28, 2026, at the Fisher Center for Performing Arts at Belmont University.
Celebrate the musicians behind some of the most iconic recordings in history with an evening of live performances, tributes, and special guests.
The 2026 Inductees: Dolly Parton (Industry Icon); John Boylan (Producer); Dann Huff; George Thorogood & The Destroyers; Keith Urban; Leland Sklar; Michael McDonald and Nicky Hopkins (posthumously). Purchase tickets here. Limited VIP Sponsorship Box Seating is available. Contact tyler@musicianshalloffame.com for more details.
GEORGE THOROGOOD EXHIBIT
GEORGE THOROGOOD EXHIBIT: George Thorogood & The Destroyers are being honored with a new exhibit in the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum. Titled, “Baddest Show on Earth,” the exhibit features seven artefacts all of which come from the personal collections of Thorogood and band members. Watch WKRN-TV News coverage of the exhibit opening here.
“The Destroyers and I are truly honored by this exhibit. This is the gear that’s made our music rock for the past 50+ years, and we’re excited to share it all with our fans,” says Thorogood. “Come See What You’ve Heard!”
“Fifty three years of musicians making music together is a rare and remarkable legacy. That longevity, rooted in deep musicianship and mutual respect, is exactly what the museum is about, and we’re excited to share this exhibit with the public,” says Linda Chambers, Co-Founder and CEO of the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum.
The exhibit opening precedes the band’s upcoming induction into the Musicians Hall of Fame on April 28 at The Fisher Center for Performing Arts. Tickets are available here. Find more about the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum here.
MUSIC HEALTH NEWS
MUSIC HEALTH NEWS: Music Health Alliance (MHA), the nonprofit dedicated to providing advocacy and access to healthcare and mental health for the music industry, has appointed Lindsay Hayes as Vice President of Development and announced several staff promotions across its advocacy and healthcare navigation team. In this role, Hayes will lead the growth of MHA’s fundraising and strategic partnerships to ensure long-term financial sustainability so the organization can continue its mission to Heal The Music for generations to come.
Hayes brings more than 15 years of experience supporting artists and creative organizations through growth, transition, and large-scale productions. Her work has spanned artist management, marketing strategy, and live events across the US and abroad with a focus on turning ambitious creative ideas into well-run, sustainable projects.
“For the past ten years, producing Music Health Alliance’s annual benefit as a volunteer has been a source of great pride for me,” said Hayes. “I’m thrilled to now make things official and join MHA at a time when their work has never been more vital.” More about Music Health Alliance, music’s #1 resource for healthcare athttps://www.musichealthalliance.com.
NON-PROFIT NEWS
DARIUS RUCKER BIG BAND GALA
DARIUS RUCKER BIG BAND GALA: Darius Rucker has announced a Big Band Gala, supporting local non-profit initiatives, to be held on April 7 at the Gaillard Center in Rucker’s hometown of Charleston, SC.
Darius Rucker shared on Facebook, “Charleston! I am so excited for the Big Band Gala on April 7th at the Gaillard Center. These shows are some of my favorite nights as it’s the only time I get to perform so many of the standards we all grew up listening to with the backing of an incredible orchestra!”
The gala performance will feature Rucker, backed up by the Robert Lewis Orchestra and conductor Peter Graves, in an event tailored for the Gaillard Center stage. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the CMA Foundation’s music education initiatives across Charleston County Schools, as well as the Carolyn G. Rucker Nursing Scholarship at the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital.
Find more about the show and ticket info here. More about Darius Rucker’s music and tour dates here. #DariusRucker
NUMBER ONE NEWS
RILEY GREEN: BMI celebrated Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment artist Riley Green Feb 11 in its Nashville lobby for the milestone success behind his most recent back-to-back No. One hits, “Worst Way” and “Don’t Mind If I Do.” Both chart toppers serve as two of the five solely written standouts off his latest album, Don’t Mind If I Do (Deluxe) – listen/play here. The 3x-Platinum hit “Worst Way” is Green’s sixth career No. One and made him the first Country artist since Taylor Swift to land back-to-back solo-written No. One singles on the Billboard Country Airplay chart.
The afternoon was hosted by BMI’s Clay Bradley, as Green received commemorative plaques from Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment. BMLG’s Scott Borchetta and NHRE’s Jimmy Harnen and Ryan Dokke presented Green with No. One plaques for “Don’t Mind If I Do” and “Worst Way,” along with a Gold plaque for “Change My Mind,” his current single and fastest-rising track at country radio to date. They also announced that “Worst Way” is now certified 3X-Platinum by the RIAA.
Sponsored by Studio Bank, the evening included a donation presentation made by Kari Barnhart on behalf of Green in support of The Buford Bonds Charitable Fund. Find Riley Green’s tour dates and more at rileygreenmusic.com.
PHOTO BOOK NEWS
PHOTO BOOK NEWS: Country and Gospel Music Hall of Fame, Grand Ole Opry, and Oak Ridge Boys memberWilliam Lee Golden releases his latest picture book, Golden Memories, — a personal collection of photographs he has captured while traveling across the United States and around the world. The book features scenic moments from coast to coast, including Red Rock Canyon, the Grand Canyon, sunsets along Old Hickory Lake just outside Nashville, as well as international stops in London, Paris, and beyond. Spanning images Golden has taken since he first began shooting digital photography in 2008, the collection offers fans a unique, behind-the-scenes look at the places and moments that have inspired him on and off the road.
“I’ve been blessed to travel all across the country both with The Oak Ridge Boys and on my own,” shares William Lee Golden. “Along the way, I began taking photos on each journey as a way to remember the places I’ve been and the roads that led me there. I’m grateful to Scot England for helping me be able to share these moments with you, and I thank you for being part of my journey.”
To purchase or for more information, visit williamleegolden.com or williamleegoldenbook.com. William Lee Golden & The Goldens recently released their music video for “Old Country Church” which premiered digitally via GodTube.
SINGLE NEWS
CRAIG CAMPBELL
CRAIG CAMPBELL: Craig Campbell wrapped up 2025 with his nationally-charted “Missing You” single, and he’s hitting 2026 with a string of new releases beginning with “Drink For That” available now. The introspective song was written by Anthony Smith and Lilly Nelsen, produced by Craig, and is available on Grindstone Recordings via Vydia. Save/add it here.
“I’d open another bottle of forgive me / but all of the whiskey in Tennessee won’t bring her back / Lord I wish they had a drink for that.”
“Anthony and Lilly wrote an amazing song, and I knew I had to record it,” said Craig. “You can pour a shot or a drink for your 21st birthday, New Year’s Eve, your honeymoon, or anything else but there’s no drink to bring her back. Wow!”
More about Campbell at https://www.craigcampbell.tv/; Follow him on YouTube, X, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
KEN DOMASH
KEN DOMASH: Contemporary country recording artist Ken Domash (Thunder Mountain Records) celebrates the release of his ninth single, “This Beer’s Broken.”
While fan favorite “tears in my beer” or “cheers with a beer” songs have long been signature honky-tonk go-to’s, Domash puts a new spin on a jukebox tune that can be slotted alongside popular broken-heart standards like “Whiskey Ain’t Working” (Travis Tritt/Marty Stuart), “Ain’t Worth The Whiskey” (Cole Swindell) and “You And Tequila” (Kenny Chesney). The jovial tune doused with a splash of real heartbreak is available now here via all digital retail and streaming platforms. Watch the video here.
Written by the St. Louis native and recorded in his hometown alongside Juan Ibanez, the barstool ditty portrays a witty, grumbling conversation with a barkeep where the drowning mechanism to chase the sorrow away is broke.
“The storyline came from a funny idea that the beer just isn’t working to drown the memories and heartache, so it must be broken,” said Domash. “When you’re not over the pain and you can’t seem to drink your problems away, it must be the beer! The song has a driving beat full of energy. I’m hoping listeners relate to it in a fun way, tap their toes and maybe even let the song take their mind off their troubles — because, sometimes, the beer just doesn’t do the trick.”
More at KenDomash.com and on Instagram, Facebook & TikTok.
GARETH
GARETH: has released his latest single “1000 Lifetimes” via Walk Off Entertainment, delivering an emotionally charged country love song that speaks to commitment, resilience and the power of standing by someone through life’s uncertainties. Framed as both a love letter and a promise, the track resonates with anyone who has loved deeply after heartbreak, offering reassurance that lasting connection can grow even from past pain. Watch the official video here.
Built around themes of loyalty and emotional honesty, ‘1000 Lifetimes’ centers on choosing love every day despite doubts, scars and life’s inevitable storms. The soaring chorus captures that enduring sentiment, imagining a devotion strong enough to last beyond time itself and declaring a willingness to love someone for “a thousand lifetimes” until the very last breath. The result is a hopeful, empowering anthem that blends vulnerability with quiet strength.
The release also arrives alongside the announcement of Gareth’s upcoming The Uncut Tour, a series of intimate UK and Ireland shows scheduled for May, plus select festival appearances. The stripped-back performances promise fans a closer connection to the songs and storytelling that define his rising reputation on the country scene. Tickets on sale here. More about Northern Ireland born and based Gareth at www.GarethOfficial.com and on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.
LIZ KENNEDY
LIZ KENNEDY: San Francisco-based Americana singer-songwriter Liz Kennedy has posted an official video in support of her first release of 2026, “Scoot Over Darling.” The official support video is available now on her official artist YouTube channel. Watch the video here. The song, a gentle meditation on love, closeness, and rare mornings of stillness, was produced by J. Jaffe and Liz Kennedy at Studio on the Hill and Studio D Sausalito. Listen to “Scoot Over Darling,” here.
Liz Kennedy reflects, “I hope this song hits home. It’s about a rare occasion. Deciding not to get up and face the day but, instead, plunging back into bed … in the morning (oh, the idea!). When you surprisingly don’t have the kids (glory be!) Books and newspapers are scattered everywhere (I wrote much of this song years ago, when paper was still the medium). And your Other Person is there, too, miraculously. There’s light streaming in through the window and a still-warm bed.”
Pairing reflective songwriting with understated, expressive musicianship. Kennedy leads the track on vocals and piano, joined by Billy Johnson on drums, Marc Levine on bass, J. Jaffe on guitar, Eamonn Flynn on keyboards, and Rich Armstrong on flugelhorn. The song was engineered, mixed, and mastered by Jaffe, with assistance from Matt Wilenchik. More at LizKennedyMusic and on Facebook, Instagram and X.
ALEX LAMBERT
ALEX LAMBERT: Big Loud Texas singer-songwriter Alex Lambert, a soul-country force, has released his new song “Rules of Attraction” (play/listen here). Discovered by way of Big Loud Texas co-founder and country superstar Miranda Lambert, Alex is currently on the road touring his irresistible, growing catalog with Ty Myers.
“The stars align and your whole world gets flipped upside down,” shares Lambert. “You try and fight it, but they won’t stop running through your curious mind. Like lightning, you fall madly and deeply in love and then it happens. You can’t live another day without them. It can’t be explained and goes against all reason. That’s just the way it is. I don’t make the rules.”
Lambert recently announced his signing with Big Loud Texas and dropped his label debut “Shoot Me Down,” Alex grew up outside of Fort Worth, Texas and started playing guitar as young as eight – learning from his grandfather who was a singer, songwriter and producer himself. Alex was raised on the records his family played at home. From Journey and Michael Jackson to Willie Nelson, their sounds built a foundational musical landscape that grew into a love for soul music in his late teens when he discovered the records of Sam Cooke, Bill Withers and D’Angelo.
More information on Lambert and tour/ticket updates at alex-lambert.com; follow him on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.
ADDIS LUV
ADDIS LUV: With his current single “Born To Roam” climbing the MusicRow Country Charts, country-soul artist Addis Luv delivers a heartfelt, reflective new chapter with his latest digital release, “When We Danced.” More than a traditional love story, it captures the journey of love, the lessons, the growth, and the moments that shape who we become. “When We Danced” is now available on all digital streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, and more.
Written by Kris Heaton and produced by Ray Hamilton, the song first came to Addis several months ago, and from the first listen, the concept struck a deeper chord. “When We Danced” isn’t just about romance, it’s a reminder of every relationship, every high and low, and every experience helps prepare you for the kind of love that truly lasts.
“This song celebrates a love that grows deeper with time – the kind that survives seasons, values consistency, and makes you grateful for every step that came before it,” says Addis.
Signed to Angel Eyes Music, Addis plans to release additional singles, followed by a full album later this year. For more information and updates, visit www.AddisLuv.com and follow Addis Luv on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.
PRESLEY & TAYLOR
PRESLEY & TAYLOR: Country newcomers Presley & Taylor sharpen their blades with the release of their new single, “Sting.” Remaining loyal to the sister’s penchant for honest and emotional lyrics, the track boldly voices the questions many have silently rehearsed in their heads after an ex *seemingly* moves on. Written from a place of unapologetic confidence with an antagonistic, almost smirking perspective, the narrator looks down from the breakup’s higher ground, twists the knife and channels the snarling, early-2000s energy of Avril Lavigne. “Sting” is defiant, biting, and fearless—proving this duo isn’t afraid to turn up the volume or the attitude.
“You know when your best friend gets their heartbroken and your initial reaction is ‘WHAT?!?!! THEY broke up with YOU?!!?!!’ That part disbelief, part angry feeling was the inspiration for this song– we wanted to harness that spice in the sound of the song and make it a windows down, scream-it-in-your-car, therapeutic type vibe and really bring the drama,” shared Presley & Taylor. “Sometimes all the therapy you need is to know that when an ex closes their eyes and all they sees is you…and it really does Sting.”
The track written by Presley & Taylor, Andrew Beason and Emma Place, was produced by Andrew Baylis. More at PresleyAndTaylor.com; follow along on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook.
BLAKE SHELTON
BLAKE SHELTON: Globally renowned superstar Blake Shelton has followed up his thirty-first number one at Country Radio with his powerful and impactful new single “Let Him In Anyway” from his latest album, For Recreational Use Only ( Listen / play here). “Let Him In Anyway” was penned by Michael Hardy, Zach Abend, Kyle Clark and Carson Wallace and is impacting Country radio now.
The Grand Ole Opry member and former Voice coach delivers an earnest plea with this striking, heart-cutting ballad where he prays for God to forgive his friend’s sorted past, as he recalls that the friend was so close to redemption. Fans can hear the song performed live at his Vegas residency at The Colosseum at Caesar’s Palace where Blake has added eight new dates (May 6-24, 2026). Find ticket information here.
STEPHEN STYLES
STEPHEN STYLES: With his current radio single “Bar By Now” climbing the Music Row Country Charts, California country rocker Stephen Styles takes a more vulnerable turn with his latest digital release, “Whiskey And Vinyl.” This song is now available on all digital streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, and more. Listen here.
Solely written by Stephen, the track pulls back the curtain on the kind of late-night moments that don’t make it into highlight reels – when the room is quiet, the weight of the world feels heavy, and the only thing that truly understands you is music.
“There’s something different about vinyl — it’s raw, imperfect, and real — and that’s how emotions are too,” says Stephen. “For me, this song represents using music as a way to survive hard moments. It’s about heartbreak, reflection, and finding some peace in the pain. The song pays tribute to the artists who helped me through my own difficult times and I’m now hoping to be that voice for someone else.”
Built on his signature blend of classic country grit and Southern rock edge known as “Zero to Hillbilly,” “Whiskey And Vinyl” leans into emotional honesty while maintaining the authenticity fans have come to expect. Released by Plow House Records, the track highlights a different side of Styles, one with more therapeutic confession. Visit Styles’ website, and follow along with him on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
ANDREA VASQUEZ
ANDREA VASQUEZ: Rising Latin-infused country artist Andrea Vasquez opens a powerful new chapter with her latest single, “The Wind.” Blending heartfelt storytelling and an open-road Americana spirit, the song captures the beauty of letting go and trusting the journey ahead. The Wind is available on all digital streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, and more.
With vivid imagery and emotional depth, “The Wind” uses the metaphor of movement to explore independence, courage, and self-discovery. Her warm, expressive vocals glide over a laid-back country production, inviting listeners to release expectations and follow where life leads. “This song is about giving yourself permission to move forward without fear,” says Andrea. “Sometimes you don’t need a plan — you just need the courage to listen to what’s pulling you next.”
“The Wind” is featured on Andrea’s latest EP El Camino. Produced by Jason Bobo and co-written by Andrea and Lexie Hayden, the track highlights her continued evolution as both a songwriter and performer, offering a soundtrack for anyone ready to chase freedom and new beginnings.
Known for her signature blend of country roots and Latin influence, Andrea continues to carve out her own lane in Nashville. This year has already marked a major momentum shift, including her debut performance at the legendary Bluebird Café and a full-page feature in Nashville Scene’s country almanac issue. Find links to Andrea Vasquez’s music and social media here.
CHANDLER WALTERS
CHANDLER WALTERS: Grammy nominated singer-songwriter Chandler Walters has released “Come On Whiskey,” the newest installment showcasing his sonic commitment as a country traditionalist. Walters burst onto the scene in 2024 with his colossal co-write on Post Malone’s 5x Platinum, all-genre No. 1 single “I Had Some Help (feat. Morgan Wallen).”
“I wrote this song with Monty Holmes and Roger Springer, and we believe we’ve held magic ever since,” shares Walters.
A part of the rising new wave of traditional country artists, Walters tapped into the source writing “Come On Whiskey” alongside Monty Holmes and Roger Springer. Holmes known for cuts recorded by George Strait and Lee Ann Womack, and Springer for Mark Chesnutt, Sammy Kershaw and recently with rising torchbearers like Jake Worthington.
Walters earned his stripes on the road touring with Post Malone on The BIG ASS Stadium Tour as an opener, member of Post’s band playing pedal steel and host of official after parties dubbed Walters Western Road Show in select cities. After opening for Josh Ross on the Later Tonight Tour throughout Canada he joins ERNEST’s Live From The South Tour and Tracy Lawrence’s No Alibis Tour. Rounding out a packed touring season, Walters will hit a variety of festivals through the end of the summer. Tour/ticket info at chandlerwalters.com; follow him on Instagram, TikTok, X, Facebook& YouTube.
BLAKE WHITEN
BLAKE WHITEN: 21-year-old South Carolina native Blake Whiten returns with an anthem for anyone who’s answered that late-night call from an ex with “Break Me,” out now via Enchntmnt / Warner Records. Listen here and watch here. The slow-burning single embraces the messy truth of, as Whiten puts it, trying “to put an old flame out with gasoline,” and arrived just before he made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry stage on Valentine’s Day.
“At the time, I really wanted to write the hardest, saddest breakup song,” shares Whiten. “Something that feels like knowing better, but still asking that person to come back and wreck your life just one more time. I think that feeling got across with this one. You can feel the sadness in this song, and if Valentine’s Day isn’t exactly your holiday this year, this one’s for you.”
Whiten is hitting the road on Bailey Zimmerman‘s Different Night Same Rodeo arena tour. After hitting some of North America’s largest fairs and festivals this summer, he’ll embark on Morgan Wallen‘s Still The Problem stadium tour, with stops at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, Mich. and Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pa. Tickets and additional information here. Follow Whiten on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
SONG PUBLISHING NEWS
SONG PUBLISHING NEWS: Riley Green’s Lady Luck Publishing joint venture has signed hit songwriter Bobby Pinson for a global publishing deal.
Pinson has been writing songs for his own projects and several other artists including Blake Shelton, Toby Keith, Brooks & Dunn, Aaron Lewis, Brantley Gilbert and most notably on No. 1 hits for Sugarland (“Want To”), and Cody Johnson (“The Fall”). He also co-wrote with Riley Green on some of his recent releases including “That’s What I’ve Been Told” and “Ain’t Like I Can Hide It”.
Follow Bobby Pinson on Facebook and Instagram.
SONGS GONE BY NEWS
“THE AUCTIONEER”
“THE AUCTIONEER”: Celebrating his 96 years around the sun and during his overall 70 year-plus career, Leroy Van Dyke has recorded more than 500 songs, dozens of them making the charts. A mere 70 years ago, in 1956, Leroy’s first single was released – a song he wrote while stationed in Korea during the Korean War, and first performed it to troops on the same bill as Marilyn Monroe – “The Auctioneer.” The song was entered into a Chicago talent contest after Van Dyke finished his time in the military and garnered him a record contract with Dot Records. “The Auctioneer” subsequently reached the top 10 on the country charts and the top 20 on the pop chart, selling 2.5 million copies. Listen to “The Auctioneer” here. Now, 70 years later, the trio of brothers known as the AJR Brothers Band have sampled the song in their new recording “The Big Goodbye” drawing new attention to an old favorite.
“The Auctioneer” talks of a young Arkansas boy who would skip school and visit a local auction barn. Becoming mesmerized by the auction chant, he decides he wants to be an auctioneer, regularly practicing the chant behind the family barn.
“The only artistic license I took with writing the song was changing my cousin’s home state from Missouri to Arkansas for scansion purposes,” says Van Dyke. “Nothing rhymed with Missouri.” Find more about Leroy at LeroyVanDyke.com.
SONGWRITER NEWS
SONGWRITER NEWS: Celebrated songwriter Laura Veltz, has kicked off 2026 with an exciting slate of new music, soundtrack placements, and fresh podcast episodes, continuing the momentum following her Songwriter of the Year honors from the National Music Publishers Association and Billboard Grammy Week Songwriter Awards. Known for her genre-spanning catalog and emotionally resonant storytelling, Veltz enters the year with multiple new releases already making waves across the industry, reinforcing her reputation as one of Nashville’s most sought-after and versatile songwriters.
Adding to the early-year surge, two songs co-written by Veltz appear on the official soundtrack for Scream 7, out now. The placements include “Criminal,” recorded by Jessie Murph, and “The Kill,” recorded by Stella Lefty, marking another notable sync moment in Veltz’s growing list of film and television credits. The inclusion of “Criminal” also highlights Veltz’s ongoing creative partnership with Murph, with Veltz contributing to many of the artist’s releases over the past two years and helping shape the raw, emotionally driven storytelling that has become a hallmark of Murph’s sound including the Top 10 hit “Blue Strips.”
Beyond her songwriting output including the recently released “Dry Country” by Tyler Braden, Veltz continues to champion the craft through her podcast, Songwriter Soup, where new episodes arrive every other Monday and features candid conversations with fellow writers, artists, and creatives, offering listeners an intimate look into the stories and processes behind their work.
SONGWRITINGWITH:SOLDIERS NEWS
SONGWRITINGWITH:SOLDIERS NEWS: Non-profit SongwritingWith:Soldiers (SW:S) released “The One They Call” February 13, as part of the organization’s mission-driven music program. Listen to the song and watch the video here. The unconventional and powerful love song from Army Sergeant First Class (Retired) Matthew Chapman and his wife Debbi, was written with acclaimed singer/songwriter Radney Foster during a SongwritingWith:Soldiers retreat at Boulder Crest.
“The One They Call” is a heartfelt, true love story about choosing love, committing without conditions, and wanting to be the one there when everything is on the line. Music Row proclaims the track “stately and strong…two outstanding country singers emoting on a powerful lyric of lovers who marry so that if anything bad happens, ‘I want to be the one they call’.”
And it’s Matthew and Debbi’s love story… Matthew, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal technician, had asked Debbi to marry him…twice. And, as Matthew’s unit was about to be deployed after 9/11, she finally said yes. She knew she wanted and needed to be the one called if anything were to happen, so they wed at the courthouse in Fayetteville, NC before he left.
“The One They Call,” performed by Radney Foster and Kelly Willis, will also be included on an SW:S album of other, deeply personal songs from our veterans coming out later this year. The first seven compelling tracks are available NOW on all streaming platforms. More about SW:S here.
TIN PAN SOUTH NEWS
TIN PAN SOUTH NEWS: As preparations continue for the upcoming Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival, The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) has announced additional key details for the 34th annual event presented by Regions Bank. Ten local hotspots have been secured as official Tin Pan South venues, all of which are eager to welcome hundreds of songwriters to the stage, and thousands of fans through their doors during the five day event, scheduled for March 24-28, 2026.
Participating venues include: 3rd and Lindsley Nashville (stage presented by Jack Daniel’s), 1865 Club, Anzie Blue, Analog at Hutton Hotel (stage presented by Tennessee Entertainment Commission), The Bluebird Cafe (stage presented by Southbound Tequila), The Commodore Grille (stage presented by beyerdynamic), The Cowan at Topgolf (stage presented by Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp), Cross-Eyed Critters Watering Hole (stage presented by Musicnotes), Love and Exile (stage presented by Nashville Scene), and Station Inn (stage presented by Custom House at Guitar Center).
Ticket on-sale at tinpansouth.com according to the below schedule:
Tuesday, March 3 at 8:00 a.m. CT – Onsale begins for Tuesday, March 24 Shows
Wednesday, March 4 at 8:00 a.m. CT – Onsale begins for Wednesday, March 25 Shows.
Thursday, March 5 at 8:00 a.m. CT – Onsale begins for Thursday, March 26 Shows.
Monday, March 9 at 8:00 a.m. CT – Onsale begins for Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28 Shows.
Find schedule, lineup and tickets at www.tinpansouth.com and on the official Tin Pan South mobile app.
TOUR & SHOW NEWS
DIERKS BENTLEY
DIERKS BENTLEY: Multi-platinum entertainer Dierks Bentley has announced his Off The Map Tour, with a limited run of amphitheaters through June and July. Following stadium dates with Luke Combs this spring, Bentley will continue on the road this summer with the legendary Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder and Kaitlin Butts, along with up-and-comers Cole Goodwin, Owen Riegling and the Mountain Grass Unit on select dates. Tickets available now at Dierks.com.
“‘Off The Map’ is a song about going to that place where you take a break from it for a little bit, whether it’s a bar stool sipping something cold, or a back porch down a back road. I like to think that our shows are a place where our fans can go off the map for a few hours, and recharge the batteries,” Bentley says. “The band and I are so excited about sharing the road with the one and only Ricky Skaggs, as well as with the other guys and girls on the shows with us this summer. They were all hand picked, as I am big fans of theirs. Can’t wait to get out there and watch their shows before we get to go out and do our thing. Going to be some great on-stage collaborations this summer.”
Watch a new video of Bentley and Skaggs jamming to “Free and Easy (Down the Road I Go)” here. More at Dierks.com, Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok.
RUSSELL DICKERSON
RUSSELL DICKERSON: Multi-Platinum powerhouse Russell Dickerson is bringing the party home. On May 8, the “hotter than ever” star will unleash his “high-octane live show” (Billboard) at Nashville’s Ascend Amphitheater for a hometown blowout timed perfectly around his birthday.
Dubbed the “Nash-Birthday Bash,” the celebration promises “cakes, candles, and carnage,” with Dickerson delivering an all-out performance alongside a stacked lineup featuring Tyler Hubbard, Adrien Nunez, and Kevin Powers. Expect big hits, big moments, and the kind of crowd-igniting energy only a hometown Russell Dickerson show can deliver. Tickets on sale now. Find all tour & ticket info here.
Dickerson is taking his live show to the next level, hitting the road at full throttle with a run of marquee festival appearances, including C2C’s Three-Day Festival with stops in Glasgow, London, and Belfast, as well as RodeoHouston, Tortuga Music Festival, The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and more.
That momentum carries straight into his Russellmania Tour 2026, launching April 23 in Raleigh, NC. The tour will roll through amphitheaters and the biggest venues he’s headlined to date—cementing this as his most ambitious live chapter yet. Music and more about Dickerson at RussellDickerson.com and on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
CODY JOHNSON
CODY JOHNSON: Reigning 2025 CMA Male Vocalist of the Year Cody Johnson launched his Cody Johnson Live 26 Tour February 6 & 7 with back-to-back shows in Birmingham’s Legacy Arena at The BJCC. Openers on the tour this year include Clint Black, Randy Houser, Scotty McCreery, Kip Moore, Ian Munsick, Jon Pardi, Drew Baldridge, Chayce Beckham, Carter Faith, Alexandra Kay, Walker Montgomery, and Emily Ann Roberts. Tickets available at CodyJohnsonMusic.com.
The 2026 tour schedule also features a full-length headline concert by Cody on Sunday, March 22, at the Houston Rodeo, where Cody will become only the second artist to hold a concert-only event. Additionally, on April 24, Cody will return to Stagecoach for his first headline performance.
In 2025, Cody sold an impressive 400,000 concert tickets and landed on Billboard’s Top 100 Tours list. Last year’s tour took him to exciting places like Australia, New Zealand, and Europe, and across the U.S., including two back-to-back sold-out shows at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. The Tennessean called ‘the evening’s biggest superstar’ Johnson’s voice and said, ‘As a crooner, Johnson may have one of the underrated best vocal styles in music overall. When he grounds his feet and sets his mind to it, he unleashes a stunning instrument that leaves his crowd in awe.’ More at Cody’s website and on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
OLD DOMINION
OLD DOMINION: If you’ve had enough winter and looking for some getaway time on a beautiful beach plus some great music, Old Dominion will again present their Moon Crush Oldies Beach Vacation, set for October 1-3, 2026, at Miramar Beach, Florida. There will be three nights of live music, including two headlining sets by Old Dominion, along with Darius Rucker, Jake Owen Uncle Kracker, Phil Vassar, Fitz & the Tantrums and more.
The lineup features a group of artists with feel good music, mega-hits and amazing live shows. Everyone has access to Vendor village, shaded guest courtyard, Merch Shop, full-service bars, guest village, local vendors, yard games, air-conditioned restrooms, and the inaugural Odies Grove Stage.
The venue hours are approximately 4pm-10pm daily and the event is “curated for comfort, built for fun,” according to Old Dominion. In addition to the evenings of music, guests can spend their days enjoying the soft white sands and emerald waters of Miramar Beach. Signup for the presale here.
“We can’t wait to throw this party on the beach again! Last year was great and this year, with this group of artists, is going to be nothing but positive energy!” said Old Dominion. “We’re already counting the days until October.”
My thanks to the artists, songwriters, record labels, managers and publicists who keep me in the know about new releases, No. 1 parties, tour updates and everything that is new and exciting in the world of music! Send me stuff – I love to get it! 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