Johnson says that once Kid Rock explained why he wanted to record a version of the song, he was immediately sold. Continue reading…Country Music News – Taste of Country
Category: Music
Johnson says that once Kid Rock explained why he wanted to record a version of the song, he was immediately sold. Continue reading…The Boot – Country Music News, Music Videos and Songs
Julian Kalel brought a wave of emotion to the American Idol stage in Hawaii with a performance that left both the audience and judges visibly moved. The Texas native took on Zach Bryan’s “Tourniquet,” a song he deeply resonates with as it centers around the importance of lifting others up during their hardest moments.
As he explained to mentors Keke Palmer and Brad Paisley, “Tourniquet” carries a deeply personal meaning for him.
“’Tourniquet’ to me means picking someone else up when they’re hurting and always telling someone, ‘I have your back.’ What always heals my heart is thinking about the people that I have in my life and what motivates me even more is hoping that whoever’s listening gets that feeling that ‘I understand, I see you.’”
Paisley emphasized that Kalel taking on a song so personal to him makes the performance feel ‘very authentic’ and gives listeners a clear sense of who he is as an artist.
“That’s the magic of being this close. It’s really captivating…Your voice is perfect. You’re suited for that song,” Paisley shared.
Palmer added, “Sometimes when you’re in a competition, it’s like you’re thinking about what’s going to do my voice the best, but if you just sing what’s true to you, somehow it’s most perfect.”
Julian Kalel was clear in his mission to make his delivery feel like a hug or like a hand on someone’s back, letting them know they’re not alone.
“Whenever I listen to a song like this, I think of unconditional love, whether it be for a friend, for someone you love and it just means that you’re never going to leave their side, their worst days and their best days,” he reiterated as he stepped on stage in front of the live audience. “I wanted it to feel like a hand on your back, a hand that you can hold, a hug, just letting you know that you’re never alone, no matter how down you are.”
On the stage, located on the beach of Aulani’s Disney Resort and Spa, Kalel strummed his guitar with steady confidence, never showing a hint of nerves or uncertainty. Instead, he sang from the heart, and it paid off as members of the audience audibly responded, showing that they were moved by his tender, crisp vocals that radiated warmth. Midway through the performance, he turned things up a notch, effortlessly showcasing his impressive vocal range and proving he’s not just a singer, but a true performer who can command the stage.
By the end of his performance, Julian Kalel had achieved his exact goal of connecting with the audience as well as the judges.
Palmer spoke first, noting that even though she hasn’t seen the entirety of his Idol journey up to this point, it has already become abundantly apparent to her how much it means to him being up on stage and sharing his heartfelt messages.
“Your voice is beautiful. I mean, I could listen to you go on and on and on. And then when you look up, you’re talking about ‘Tourniquet.’ This is a deep and intense song, but you’re delivering that hope when you look up during the performance and you flash us that smile. It does feel hopeful. It’s beautiful. I loved it. Great job.”
Carrie Underwood called Kalel not only an artist, but also a poet as she gushed over his ability to make a story feel “believable.”
“It’s just so honest and it’s so you. And it’s a joy to get to listen to you. This is the best job in the world,” she shared.
Lionel Richie added, “To see you at this point in this competition, confident, stepping right on it. It is just really exciting as a judge to see you stand there in the light of your artistry. Strong and powerful. Forget everything else. If we can get you to this point right here, your future is right in front of you.”
Luke Bryan was last to comment, but his opinions were as strong and positive as the rest of his fellow judges. He even went as far as to label the hopeful contestant a “star.”
He proudly stated, “You make us happy to be doing this up here. That was like front runner of the competition kind of stuff. That was like star is born kind of moment. It’s so fun when somebody’s just got it and you just got it.”
Fans who want to help Julian Kalel advance in Season 24 can cast their votes in two ways. First, by commenting “Julian” on the official American Idol voting posts across Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Second, by texting “19” to 21523. Voting closes at 6am ET on March 24, 2026. There is a limit of 10 votes protestant per method and it is open to all wireless carriers.
The results of America’s votes will be shared next Monday night (3/30), revealing which singers have made it into the Top 12. Those remaining will take part in the Songs of Faith night.
The post ‘American Idol’ Standout Julian Kalel Moves Judges and Audience With Emotional Performance of Zach Bryan’s ‘Tourniquet’ appeared first on Country Now.
Country Now
American Idol hopeful Lucas Leon has been performing songs made famous by his musical hero, Brad Paisley, at Nashville gigs for years and is admittedly one of the country star’s biggest fans. But the singer gained a new fan in Paisley himself after singing a heartfelt rendition of Tim McGraw’s “Just To See You Smile” at Disney’s Aulani.
In the midst of enjoying the exciting getaway in Hawaii with both of his parents by his side, Leon caught up with this season’s mentors Paisley and Keke Palmer. During their interaction, Leon explained that he has received tremendous support from his hometown, from his peers to his high school teachers and more, who all come out to see him perform around his hometown of Gallatin, TN.
He shared with Paisley that his rendition of the country star’s “I’m Gonna Miss Her” is a fan favorite at his shows and often brings in steady tips.
“I’m a massive Brad Paisley fan,” Leon acknowledged. “I’m a big fan of Brad just because his guitar playing, his singing, his songwriting, his stage presence, everything about him.”
Hearing how much support he receives from Leon, Paisley generously invited the singer to join him backstage at the Opry next time he plays the coveted venue.
“I’m sure I’ll be on the Opry in the next couple months. Maybe you can come to that and then we can walk around backstage,” he said with a smile.
Eventually, it was time for Leon to preview his next performance for the mentors and receive some helpful advice before he hits the stage in front of the judges. Paisley was first to praise the Tennessee native for his impressive ability to get “lost in the song” while offering his own “heartfelt interpretation” of McGraw’s hit.
“It doesn’t sound like Tim and it shouldn’t. It sounds like you and that’s hard to do. Differentiating yourself is the name of the game on a show like this,” Paisley added.
Reflecting on those words, Leon shared, “They say I don’t meet your heroes, but I’m really glad I met Brad. So hoping that I can take his advice with me on stage.”
The crowd clapped along as Lucas Leon launched into the song, looking completely at ease performing the beloved country tune. Strumming his guitar and fully leaning into the heartfelt lyrics, he proved that his age is no match for the depth of his talent. He hit every note with ease, leaving both the judges and his family beaming with pride.
Idol judge Lionel Richie echoed that statement when he emphasized how “comfortable” Lucas Leon looked up on that beachside stage.
“You made that so comfortable, I almost forgot that you were a contestant. That’s what you want. You want comfort. You want people to understand that this is what you do naturally. And what you just performed there was about as natural as you’re ever going to get. It was fantastic,” Richie gushed.
Although Keke Palmer had previously heard Leon deliver the tune, this was the first time she got to hear it live on stage with the full production behind him. It’s safe to say that she was more than happy with what she witnessed from him.
“I agree with everything that Lionel said because you literally transported us into your world. I felt like I was at a beach club. I was at a festival. I haven’t been in love in ages. I’m single as a pringle,” she joked, “And I felt romantic because you set the tone. You were making me smile. I mean, I just loved it. You are very much you and you did a fabulous job.”
Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood couldn’t have agreed with their fellow judges more. They each took a moment to share why they resonated so well with his delivery.
Underwood noted, “Your voice is so … It is powerful. It is beautiful. And there is something really special about the simplicity. You don’t try to over sing. You’re like laid back in the pockets and it’s just so easy to listen to you and to watch you. I loved it.”
Bryan encouraged him to “just keep delivering. Keep making us feel comfortable, but also keep adding the pressure and intensity and get songs that really pull you outside of your comfort zone, but you just keep knocking every performance out of the park.”
Fans who want to see Lucas Leon continue on in the Season 24 competition can vote for him two different ways. The first is by commenting “Lucas” on American Idol official voting posts on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. The second is by texting “13” to 21523.
Voting closes at 6am ET on March 24, 2026. There is a limit of 10 votes protestant per method and it is open to all wireless carriers.
The “game-changing” results that determine who has made it into the Top 12 will be revealed next Monday (3/30) during the Songs of Faith night.
The post Lucas Leon Channels Musical Hero Brad Paisley With Show-Stopping Tim McGraw Cover on ‘American Idol’ appeared first on Country Now.
Country Now
If there’s one thing Nashville knows how to do, it’s have a good time and Country Now Live delivered just that at 6th & Peabody on St. Patrick’s Day (March 17). The evening mixed great music with an even greater cause as each act on the lineup generously donated their time in support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Despite chilly conditions outside, the atmosphere inside was warm and lively, as fans and members of the industry packed out the venue to see headliner Dustin Lynch, as well as a lineup of rising acts including Cole Goodwin, Kayley Green, Kenny Whitmire, Jacob Hackworth, and Graham St. Clair.
Each artist took the stage for intimate sets, mixing fan favorites with new material and giving the crowd a closer look at the next wave of country talent. Country Now Live once again took place the night before CRS (March 18–20), setting the tone for the three-day event to come.
Graham St. Clair
Graham St. Clair kept things simple, taking the stage with just his guitar and letting the songs speak for themselves. His set featured several tracks, including his latest release, “Carry Me Home,” along with a brand-new, unreleased song titled “Bad Guy,” which he shared is set to be recorded in the coming months. Despite it being only his second time performing in Nashville, the Texas native made the moment count and likely walked away with a few new fans.
“It was incredible,” he admitted to us after getting off stage. “This is only my second time playing in Nashville, so it feels like a huge blessing to get to do this and to be in front of so many incredible talents that are coming up in the industry right now. It’s really cool.”
Jacob Hackworth
Up next, Jacob Hackworth brought a mix of fresh momentum and songwriting success to the stage during his Country Now Live set. The rising artist spotlighted his debut radio single, “What Took You So Long,” giving fans a first taste of this next chapter in his career as he makes his transition from songwriter to an artist in his own right. He also performed another recent release that’s heating up social media, “Bad As I Do.”
Toward the end of his set, Hackworth took a moment to reflect on his journey as a songwriter by delivering a cover of Corey Kent’s “This Heart,” which marked his second No. 1 hit as a writer. The full-circle moment added an extra layer of meaning to his time on stage.
“Well, the cause always makes it amazing and that’s something I always love to do and if I can do it, I’m there. But also Country Now always throws a good party and you can walk in the bar right now and see why…There’s people hanging out, best music in Nashville playing, so it comes together for a perfect night,” he shared about the event.
His appearance came just days before it was announced that he signed his first major label deal with MCA, in collaboration with Goat Island Sound.
Kenny Whitmire
Before Kenny Whitmire took the stage last week, he made one thing clear, his set was going to be “country,” because admittingly, that’s all he knows and it’s the kind of music that fuels him. He stayed true to that promise from the very first note, delivering a performance rooted in traditional storytelling and heartfelt lyrics.
While on stage, Whitmire showcased several of his recent releases, including “You’re Getting Colder,” and his life-changing track, “I Gave Her The Moon.” The latter of the two has taken on a life of its own online, becoming a viral moment on social media and even catching the attention of acclaimed pop singer-songwriter Charlie Puth, who helped bring it to a wider audience. It didn’t take long for him to connect with the crowd, proving that sometimes sticking to what you know is what resonates most.
Kayley Green
Kayley Green had the crowd on their feet and singing along, as she moved seamlessly between classic covers and her own powerful original songs. She was met with cheers while showcasing her vulnerable ballad, “A Little Bit Lonely,” and captured the hearts in the crowd with more originals like “Wedding Gown” and the storytelling-driven “Shadow of a Cowboy,” offering a deeper look at her songwriting.
She also delivered a show-stopping cover of Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel Like a Woman,” before bringing the house down with an epic rendition of Martina McBride’s “Independence Day,” that allowed her vocals to fill the room. By the end of her set, the South Carolina native had fully captivated the audience.
Cole Goodwin
Cole Goodwin admitted he was “tickled” to be part of Country Now Live and performing in support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. During his time on stage, he used every minute to the fullest while giving fans a taste of his traditional country sound. The Georgia native briefly slowed things down with “Call Me Colorado,” before closing his set with his latest release, “Howdy.” This clever track earned plenty of smiles from the crowd once they caught on to the twist that turns the classic southern greeting into “how’d he” in the chorus, tying it to into the question of how he ended up with a girl like her.
Goodwin’s set perfectly balanced humor, heart, and his signature traditional country sound, proving he’s already making waves as a well-rounded entertainer.
Dustin Lynch
Dustin Lynch closed out Country Now Live with an unforgettable high-energy set featuring crowd favorites like “Hell of a Night,” “Seein’ Red,” “Thinking ‘Bout You,” and “Where It’s At.” He later turned things down a notch with the heartfelt “Cowboys and Angels,” after which he admitted he had missed performing the song and giving fans a tender, emotional moment amidst the upbeat tracks. He then picked the energy back up with “Small Town Boy” to wrap up the show.
Before exiting the stage, Lynch took a moment to highlight the night’s purpose and thanked everyone who came out on a Tuesday night to sing along and give back to a good cause.
“Thank you, Country Now. Thank you, St. Jude for doing all that you do…It’s changed so many lives and I think we’ve all been touched by what they’re trying to cure and they’re doing a great job of it. On top of all the doctors and nurses, just the amount of researchers they have in Memphis is incredible,” he proudly shared. “I’m a science nerd, so I appreciate all that fun stuff and I love to visit and we always are honored to get to ask to be a part of anything they touch. So thank you guys for honor to asking us to be here tonight.”
It may have been a fun-filled Tuesday night, but the impact of Country Now Live went far beyond the music. All proceeds from the evening were donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, supporting its lifesaving mission to treat and defeat childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Thanks to fundraising efforts like this, families at St. Jude never receive a bill for treatment, housing, or food, allowing them to focus fully on what matters most.
Click HERE to learn more about St. Jude.
The post Dustin Lynch, Cole Goodwin, & More Shine at Country Now Live Benefiting St. Jude appeared first on Country Now.
Country Now
Country Radio Seminar (CRS) officially returned to Nashville this week, once again bringing together the voices that help shape country music, from radio programmers and label executives to artists, media, and beyond. Held March 18–20 at the Omni Nashville Hotel, the annual event served as the center of fresh conversations, new connections and a look at where the format is headed next with the artists who are leading the charge.
Keeping with a tradition more than 50 years in the making, the three-day event concluded with its most anticipated moment, the New Faces of Country Music Show. This annual showcase puts a mix of rising artists on stage in front of the those who have already played a role in their journey, and who can help push it even further.
If five decades of history has proven anything, it’s that this stage has a way of predicting country music’s next biggest stars. Last year welcomed a standout 2025 class, including Drew Baldridge, Ashley Cooke, Dasha, Zach Top, and Warren Zeiders. Before them came artists like Jelly Roll, Parker McCollum, Luke Bryan, Taylor Swift, Brad Paisley, Eric Church, Jason Aldean, Thomas Rhett, Luke Combs, Tim McGraw, Toby Keith, and Brooks & Dunn, all of whom were named New Faces of Country Music over the years.
Presented in partnership with the Academy of Country Music and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the 2026 showcase highlighted six artists, instead of the usual five acts, spotlighting Chase Matthew, Kelsey Hart, Meghan Patrick, John Morgan, Josh Ross, and Ella Langley. Each of these artists earned their spot through votes from the country music industry, reflecting their strong momentum, growing fanbases, and impactful songs released during the qualification period leading into CRS 2026.
This year’s performers certainly did the genre proud, showcasing exactly why they deserve this moment in the spotlight, and proving they’re only getting started.
Chase Matthew
The night kicked off on a high note as Chase Matthew took the stage with a palpable energy. Before the curtain rose, he leaned into the show’s long-standing tradition of playing an intro video, offering a more personal and heartfelt look at his journey. He featured kind messages from his parents, revisited his old place of work at a ATV mechanic shop and even shared clever marketing tactics from his early days. Plus, he highlighted some of his career milestones and gave a nod to Country Now for being there since the very start.
From the moment the Tennessee native made his entrance, it was clear that all the years of hard work and grinding is paying off. He opened with his major label debut single, “Love You Again,” which gained significant popularity after going viral on TikTok and later went on to hit the Billboard Hot 100 and reach the Top 20 on country charts in 2023. From there, he unleashed his signature grit and energy on his current single, “Holdin’ It Down,” before creating one of the night’s standout moments when he introduced surprise guest Lauren Alaina for their hit duet, “All My Exes.”
Matthew wrapped his set with his first No. 1 hit, the Gold-certified “Darlin’,” taking the energy into the crowd and dancing with CRS attendees before returning to the stage and ending with a sincere message of gratitude to country radio.
“I can tell y’all I’ve snuck in this building enough times for CRS to know that the Lord is real because he put me on the stage this time and I didn’t have to sneak in. So thank you, Warner Nashville. Thank you, Country Radio. Thank you, CRS for having us. And thank you to all my awesome team members. You know who you are. Thank you for this band…I believe this opportunity is just as important as my Opry debut, my Ryman debut,” he shared.
Kelsey Hart
Next up was Curb Records artist, Kelsey Hart, a Kentucky native that is making his mark on Music City one song at a time. He also took the sentimental, heartfelt route for his introduction video, making sure to highlight the leap of faith he took with moving away from his home, the people who have helped him get here, and the impact his music has made on his fans.
Hart is no stranger to CRS, as he explained on stage while recalling his first time at the seminar a few years back when he “didn’t know a soul.” Fast forward to 2026, he said attending this year’s event felt more like “a family reunion.” A big part of his dream has always been to play on the CRS stage and on Friday, March 20, he made sure to take full advantage of the opportunity with a setlist of songs that truly showcased the power of his artistry.
The rising star launched with “Put It on A Map”, followed by an powerful rendition of “Fireworks” before stirring up heartfelt emotions with his viral debut single, “Life With You.” Before performing the song, Hart took a moment to explain the deep sentiment behind it, noting it was his and his wife’s first dance at their wedding—and just a few months later, it opened more doors than he ever imagined. He also shared how much being on this stage meant to him.
“I just want to say, y’all, I moved to town in 2016 to chase this dream and I was extremely green, didn’t have a clue what I was doing or what I needed to do,” he admitted. “And here we are 10 years later and getting that chance. And I mean, it truly means the world to me, guys, for y’all taking the chance on my music, taking the chance on me as a person. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Meghan Patrick
The entire room lit up (literally) when Meghan Patrick took the stage. Making a bold entrance with a harmonica in hand, she took an unexpected route and opened her set with a medley of Led Zeppelin covers that immediately had the crowd leaning in. Paired with glowing wristbands throughout the audience, the moment matched the electricity radiating from the stage.
Once she shifted to her own music, the Canadian singer/songwriter paused to reflect on the long road that led her to this moment. An important step on that journey is her first Top 16 at country radio, “Golden Child.” She admitted it felt “crazy” to be named a member of the New Face class after years of hard work, and credited timing, perseverance, and the radio community for finally bringing her to this stage.
“I am just beyond honored and humbled to be here as one of the new faces of 2026, which seems kind of crazy to say because I don’t feel like a new face because I’ve been doing this a long time, but God’s timing is always right on time,” she shared. “And this next song I think is proof of that. I want to thank every radio person in this room right now for believing in me, for giving me a chance this year, change my life with this song and for giving me a chance to come play your shows and play for your listeners. It means the world to me, not just to get this song all the way up to 16, but for it to be a song that means so much to me and has a message that’s close to my heart.”
Dressed in a gold fringe ensemble, Patrick traded off showcasing her guitar skills and commanding the stage with a tambourine in hand. As her set came to a close, she turned the spotlight to her personal life, revealing she would be performing “Safe Place To Break,” a song inspired by her love for her husband, Mitchell Tenpenny.
John Morgan
The packed room got a dose of comic relief when John Morgan took his turn. He introduced himself with a hilarious video that showed him walking through his label’s office, where every employee had fully committed to replicating his signature look. The bit continued as he hopped into a car on the way to CRS, driven by none other than country music superstar, Jason Aldean.
Moments later, Morgan walked through the doors and straight onto the stage, seamlessly launching into his opening song, “Way Out Would,” off his latest album, Carolina Blue. From there, he kept the show engaging and brought even more heartfelt moments throughout his set. He followed up with his mom’s favorite track, “One More Sunset,” and then got the audience involved with a sing-along to his current radio hit, “Kid Myself.” His laid-back confidence and natural stage presence made it clear he was right at home in that moment.
The BBR Music Group/BMG artist ended on a high note, celebrating his first-ever No. 1 as an artist with “Friends Like That.” Over the years, Morgan has written plenty of songs for other artists, but this night was his chance to have all the focus on him and the talent he brings to the genre. Taking a second to soak it all in, he thanked country radio for changing his life and helping the song rise to the top.
He told the room, “So honored to be here tonight. Thank you guys for having us. I can’t wait to play you this next one….I got to say a big thank you to all my country radio fan for taking this song all the way to number one. This is my very first number one as an artist, so thank you so much for all your support, every one of you guys. I love you. Thank you for changing my life with us.”
Josh Ross
After John Morgan, it was time for the night’s second Canadian singer/songwriter, Josh Ross, to take the stage…and it’s safe to say he made every moment count. Ross instantly commanded the room with a quiet confidence, moving effortlessly across the stage and letting his voice do most of the talking.
Each song felt intentional, showcasing both his grit and vulnerability, while proving he more than earned his place among this year’s New Faces class. His set pulled completely from his debut album Later Tonight, including his current U.S. chart-climbing single, “Hate How You Look” and “Namin’ Names,” giving the crowd a full picture of the stories that have been resonating with fans.
The crowd then got a vulnerable look into Ross’ story and struggles he’s faced through “Scared of Getting Sober.” Upon introducing the track, he opened up about the personal battles behind it, admitting it was one he almost didn’t play, but ultimately chose because it best represents who he is as both an artist and a person.
“I think if there’s something that shows off me as a character and the battles that I go through, it’s this next song. I have the greatest job in the world sometimes. It gets super hard. This song has spoken to a lot of people so far on the road,” he noted.
Ross couldn’t leave the stage before performing “Single Again,” which made the Waterdown, Ontario-native the first Canadian male in nearly 30 years to top the U.S. Country Airplay chart and added to his string of multiple No. 1s in Canada. By the end of his set, Ross had delivered a performance that left no doubt that his momentum is only continuing to build.
He concluded, “Thank you for giving a kid from Ontario, Canada the opportunity to have a number one as a male in almost 30 years from Canada…And the one thing I promise you is I’m here to stay. I’m freaking grateful and I won’t let you down. I want to be here in 20, 30 years still standing on this stage playing for you guys, hanging out and representing the market that brought me to life. So thank you so much.”
Ella Langley
The show came to a close with Ella Langley, who brought a final surge of excitement to an already standout lineup. It was hard to ignore the shift in the room the moment she stepped out from behind the curtain, dressed in a red and black fringe ensemble and carrying a confidence and joy that felt contagious. The industry-only audience pushed their way closer to the stage, feeding off her energy as she moved through her set with a smile that never faded.
In a unique twist, she saved her intro video for the end of the performance, reworking her previously released “Be Her” music video to include the voices behind country radio, a thoughtful nod to the people who have had a hand in her rise. Instead, she got right to the music, starting with the title track to her upcoming album, Dandelion.
Throughout the set, she showcased both powerhouse deliveries and vulnerable storytelling with songs like “Dandelion” and her current fan-favorite that naturally evoked a sing-along, “Be Her.” Langley then paused to open up about the personal story behind the “Loving Life Again” and encouraged listeners to give themselves grace and take a step back when needed, explaining that the track came from a moment when she needed that most.
“I’m a very happy girl these days…I have had a big dream my whole entire life. I have literally wanted to do exactly what I’m doing in front of you here tonight since I’ve ever wanted to do anything. This job gets crazy, this world gets crazy. No matter what you’re doing, I think life sometimes can get really heavy and we put out some fun songs to this record, some heartbreak songs, but this song was really important to me and the last one before the whole record comes out,” she explained honestly. “If it wasn’t for this song or this moment in my life, I don’t think I would have gotten the rest of this record finished.”
Ella Langley left the audience on a high with one of her biggest and most talked-about songs, the historic “Choosin’ Texas,” marking the perfect ending to not only her set but the night as a whole.
After seeing the 2025 New Faces of Country Music Show, it’s impossible not to feel excited for what’s ahead. These artists are not just the next wave of the genre, they’re the ones who will continue to define the sound for years to come.
Before the curtain closed on the end of the three-day event, an announcement was made that all the excitement will be back at Nashville’s Omni Hotel from March 17-19, 2026.
The post CRS 2026 New Faces Show Delivers Breakout Moments From Ella Langley, Chase Matthew & More appeared first on Country Now.
Country Now
We’re just weeks away from learning who the next American Idol is. Continue reading…The Boot – Country Music News, Music Videos and Songs
We’re just weeks away from learning who the next American Idol is. Continue reading…Country Music News – Taste of Country
Jason Aldean’s record label and team pulled off an epic surprise for the country superstar during Country Radio Seminar (CRS) on Thursday when he was honored with a 31 No. 1 party.
The star-studded event was hosted by BMG Americas’ President, Frontline Recordings Jon Loba and BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville’s EVP, Recorded Music JoJamie Hahr, and brought together Aldean’s friends and heroes to celebrate the Georgia native’s career, which includes 13 Top 10 country albums and 31 No. 1 hits at country radio.
Blake Shelton kicked off the night with a performance of Aldean’s No. 1 hit “When She Says Baby” and later recited a self-written poem that had the entire room laughing. Later, Aldean’s all-time favorite band, Alabama, took the stage to perform one of his favorite songs, “The Closer You Get,” marking a full-circle moment as Aldean often performed the track during his early sets as a rising artist.
Travis Tritt, Aldean’s longtime friend and musical hero, also surprised the crowd with a performance of Aldean’s chart-topping hit “Night Train.” The celebration continued with a major moment when Brian Kelley and Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line reunited to perform Aldean’s No. 1 hit that they co-wrote with Morgan Wallen and Jordan Schmidt, “You Make It Easy.”
In total, 54 songwriters were celebrated for Aldean’s 31 No. 1 hits including Rhett Akins, Kurt Allison, Dylan Altman, Brent Anderson, Thomas Archer, Brett Beavers, Jaron Boyer, Will Bundy, Rodney Clawson, Jim Collins, Dallas Davidson, Chris DeStefano, Michael Dulaney, John Edwards, Jerry Flowers, Colt Ford, Andy Gibson, Brantley Gilbert, Ashley Gorley, Ben Hayslip, Tyler Hubbard, Brett James, Paul Jenkins, Brian Kelley, Tully Kennedy, Brandon Kinney, Kelley Lovelace, Tony Martin, Jim McCormick, Vicky McGehee, Jeff Middleton, Josh Mirenda, Wendell Mobley, Ashley Monroe, John Morgan, David Lee Murphy, Danny Myrick, Alex Palmer, Bobby Pinson, John Rich, Jimmy Robbins, Deric Ruttan, Jordan Schmidt, Jason Sellers, Bridgette Tatum, Josh Thompson, Neil Thrasher, Chris Tompkins, Michael Tyler, Lydia Vaughan, Morgan Wallen, Brad Warren, Brent Warren and Brian White.
Additionally, Lauren Alaina, Brooks & Dunn, Luke Bryan, HARDY, Chipper Jones, Miranda Lambert, Chase Matthew, Rascal Flatts, Thomas Rhett, Willie Robertson, Darius Rucker, Bridgette Tatum, Lainey Wilson, Carrie Underwood and Trisha Yearwood shared video tributes for Aldean, who watched alongside his wife, Brittany, and other members of his family.
A visibly stunned Jason Aldean closed out the eventful evening with a performance of his 31st chart-topping single, “How Far Does A Goodbye Go.”
“This is crazy…this is wild. I feel like this is every songwriter that’s ever written on my records. I had no idea about tonight – I thought I was coming to play one song and hang out for a minute and go home,” he admitted from the stage. “Thank you so much for being here. All the writers here tonight are why I have a career so thank you so much. Between these guys and you all at country radio, Jon Loba, and everyone at BBR, thank you for tonight and for the last twenty years. I’m blown away.”
This surprise 31 No. 1 party leads into another big moment for Aldean: the release of his new album, Songs About Us, which is set to drop on April 24.
The post Inside Jason Aldean’s Surprise 31 No. 1 Party With Performances From His Friends and Heroes appeared first on Country Now.
Country Now
Paramount just announced the series’ plot, premiere date, Season 1 schedule and more. Continue reading…The Boot – Country Music News, Music Videos and Songs