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In a new interview with People, Megan Moroney revealed that she is currently working on new music, and expressed her desire to collaborate with Olivia Rodrigo. "I am definitely in the studio working on the next album," says the 27-year-old country star. "I'm giving myself a few more months to write some more songs, but it feels lighter and a little more carefree than my other albums." Moroney is also exploring different sounds on her new project. “I'm excited to be experimenting, even though I got the same producer and I'm working with a lot of the same songwriters," she says. "It's just been fun to be like, 'Okay, what have we not really done yet, and what's still on brand, but new and fresh?" But she insists that the new songs are “more me than ever." Moroney also admits that Olivia Rodrigo is at the top of her list of dream collaborators, adding, "I would imagine that [our song] would lean sad and angry. I think we would crush an idea like that." (People)

On Thursday (June 12), Tyler Childers announced the details of his new album, Snipe Hunter, which is produced by music legend Rick Rubin, and will be released on July 25th. The alt-country star also released the lead single from the project, “Nose on the Grindstone,” along with a James Mackel-directed music video. This marks Childers’ eighth studio album, and follows his successful 2023 release, Rustin’ in the Rain, which peaked at No. 10 on the all-genre Billboard 200, and featured the Grammy-nominated single, "In Your Love,” which was the singer's first Top 10 hit on the Hot Country Songs chart. The personal and reflective “Nose on the Grindstone” has been a fan-favorite since Childers first began performing it live in 2017. He will support Snipe Hunter with a series of festival appearances and headlining dates throughout the U.S. this summer and fall, including performances at the iconic Hollywood Bowl and a two-night stand at Nashville’s GEODIS Park on October 10-11. (Consequence of Sound)

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During her recent guest appearance on Taste of Country Nights, Ella Langley revealed a comprehensive list of her backstage must-have snacks and drinks. The country star said her preferences include, "Cheeze-Its, Heath Bars, Smart Water, Red Bull, tequila, whiskey, for sure — I drink tequila and my band drinks whiskey." Langley then admitted that she does dip into the whiskey on occasion, adding "Sometimes if I feel a little under the weather, I'll take a shot of whiskey." When host Evan Paul praised Langley on her Heath Bar selection, the singer enthused, “You ever had one out of the freezer? Oh my God, I can eat ten of them things, like the mini ones, they're the perfect size." Following her breakout success at the 2025 ACM Awards, where she took home five awards, Langley is currently on her Still Hungover Tour, and is set to join Riley Green on his Damn Country Music Tour, and play some high-profile opening dates on Morgan Wallen's upcoming I'm the Problem Tour. (Taste of Country)

Photo taken by DC (@theshowwithdc) at Riley's 2024 stop in Indy

Hudson Westbrook was pleasantly surprised during his Chevy Riverfront Stage performance at CMA Fest 2025 on Thursday (June 5), when his label-mate Austin Snell extended the rising country star an invitation to make his Grand Ole Opry debut. “I'm not trying to ruin your show or nothing, but I'm here to sing your praises a little bit right now,” Snell said as he briefly interrupted Westbrook’s set. “Have you ever heard of the Grand Ole Opry? So on behalf of the Grand Ole Opry and all these people out here today, we would like to invite you to make your debut on July 22nd. Let's go!” Westbrook will step inside the Opry’s circle alongside fellow performers Henry Cho and Tigirlily Gold. The momentous occasion will take place days before the release of Westbrook’s debut album, Texas Forever, on Friday (July 25). During his CMA Fest set, Westbrook delighted fans with a spirited cover of Taylor Swift's "You Belong with Me," alongside crowd favorites like "House Again," "Sober," and "Weatherman." (Holler)

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On Monday (June 9), Zach Top took to Instagram to finally announce the details of his long-teased upcoming album, Ain't In It For My Health, which is set to be released on August 29. “The subtle hints and cryptic announcements are over,” Top captioned his post, which also featured the cover art of his just-released new single. “Your new favorite summer banger, “Good Times & Tan Lines,” is out now! And if that’s not enough, my second record, ‘Ain’t In It For My Health,’ will be out 8/29.” Top surprise released his new single, “Good Times & Tan Lines,” after making his main-stage Nissan Stadium debut at CMA Fest 2025 over the weekend. Top also has been teasing another new single, “Flip Flop,” which continues the laid back, easygoing country vibes of his Jimmy Buffett-inspired 2023 single, “Busy Doin’ Nothin.’” Fans can pre-order and pre-save Ain’t In It For My Health starting on June 13. (Holler)

Country singer Conner Smith was involved in a fatal car accident on Sunday (June 8), allegedly hitting and killing 77-year-old Dorothy Dobbins as she crossed a marked crosswalk in Nashville. The tragedy occurred on the last day of the CMA Fest 2025. Police say that there were no signs of impairment by Smith, and attribute the crash to his failure to yield to the pedestrian. An investigation into the incident is ongoing, with no charges filed at present. Smith's attorney states he is fully cooperating with authorities, and that the 24-year-old singer expresses his condolences to the victim's family. Smith was born and raised in Nashville, and released his 2024 debut album, Smoky Mountains, on Big Machine Records’ Valory label. He has previously opened for Luke Bryan on tour, and was nominated for New Male Artist of the Year at the 2024 ACM Awards. (People)

Jelly Roll took to Instagram on Thursday (June 5) to express his deep gratitude to Post Malone for asking him to be a part of The Big Ass Stadium Tour. “Being on this tour with you has been unreal. I have never had more fun in my life,” Jelly wrote. “I am honored to be opening up for you every night, I’m honored to call you brother and blessed to watch you perform every night. Thank you for the opportunity, I don’t take it for granted so I laugh, dance and sing from the soul every night.” Jelly will continue to serve as the opening act on Post’s tour until July 1, when the jaunt finishes up at San Francisco’s Oracle Park, with Malone heading to Europe for a series of summer music festivals and Jelly playing fests throughout North America. The duo are set to reunite for the European leg of The Big Ass Stadium Tour which kicks off in Paris on September 3. (Rolling Stone)

At the Rock ‘N Jock Celebrity Softball Game at First Horizon Park in Nashville on Monday (June 2), country star Riley Green presented a $75,000 donation to Folds of Honor, which provides educational scholarships for the families of fallen or disabled military service members and first responders. Green is known for his generosity and philanthropy, and established his charitable initiative, Buford Bonds Fund, back in 2023 in honor of his veteran grandfathers. He has since expanded its reach to support various causes, including funding recovery efforts following natural disasters, and his first annual charity golf tournament which raised over $150,000 towards the fund’s mission. Through his charitable initiatives and musical success, Green continues to demonstrate the transformative power of country music in driving meaningful change and making a difference in the lives of those in need. (All Country News)

On Thursday morning (June 5), Megan Moroney officially kicked off CMA Fest 2025 with an electrifying performance on the Chevy Riverfront Stage in Nashville. The 27-year-old country star captivated fans with a dynamic set that showcased her stellar songs and vibrant personality. Moroney’s performance included the playful hit, “Man on the Moon,” as well as the soulful, “No Caller ID,” and her chart-topping single “Am I Okay?” With anticipation growing for her upcoming album –  as fans await an official release date for her just-teased new single, “Six Months Later” – fans still can't get enough of Moroney's infectious back catalog. A standout moment of the set was the rousing crowd sing-along to her breakout smash hit, “Tennessee Orange.” For those who didn’t get up early enough to catch Moroney’s 11 a.m. set, the 2024 CMA New Artist of the Year is also scheduled to perform at Nissan Stadium on Saturday (June 7) as part of CMA Fest 2025. (Holler)  

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Post Malone will soon have a significant presence in Nashville with the opening of his as-yet-unnamed bar, which will be the largest on Lower Broadway at 26,000 square feet. The crossover country superstar is partnering with TC Restaurant Group, known for opening restaurants and venues with country artists like Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson, and Luke Bryan. Post Malone's bar will be located at 305 Broadway next to Jason Aldean's Kitchen + Rooftop Bar, with the massive new entertainment space expected to feature six bars, three stages, a large dining room, and a rooftop. Posty’s new venue adds to the growing list of over a dozen country hitmakers who have established bars or entertainment spaces in downtown Nashville in recent years, including Florida Georgia Line, Dierks Bentley, Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, Luke Combs, Garth Brooks, Old Dominion, Jelly Roll, and Eric Church. (Taste of Country)

In a new interview with Taste of Country Nights, Ella Langley puts all those dating rumors to rest with a straightforward response to questions about her personal life. The five-time ACM winner was asked, “If she could be rumored to be romantically linked to any male celebrity — other than Riley Green — who would she choose?” Langley didn’t miss a beat, and quickly replied, "Not a one of 'em," swiftly dismissing potential romantic connections with any male stars other than Green, with whom she collaborated on the Country Airplay No. 1 hit, "You Look Like You Love Me." A video captured Green and Langley embracing – and perhaps sharing a quick kiss –  backstage at the American Rodeo in Arlington, Texas back on April 12, which fueled rumors of a possible romance between the two singers. Langley emphasized that she is focused on her career and mental health, making it clear that she is dedicated to her music over any personal relationships with celebrities. (Taste of Country)

Ashley McBryde and Cody Johnson will host the CMA Fest Television Special, which will air on June 26 on ABC and stream on Hulu the following day. This marks McBryde’s second year hosting the special, while Johnson is making his debut as a host. The three-hour special will feature performances from artists participating in the four-day festival in downtown Nashville from June 5-8. While the lineup for the TV broadcast hasn’t been officially announced, the performers at CMA Fest include both McBryde and Johnson, as well as Brooks & Dunn, Riley Green, Ella Langley, Keith Urban, Blake Shelton, Dierks Bentley, Zach Top, the Red Clay Strays , and many more. The special aims to showcase the highlights of the CMA Fest, which last year drew around 90,000 daily attendees from all 50 states and 46 countries, while featuring over 300 performers across multiple stages around the city. This year marks the 22nd consecutive year of the Country Music Association's summer concert television special. (Billboard)

(Photo from 2024 CMA Fest)

Old Dominion took to Instagram to announce their upcoming sixth studio album, Barbara, will be released on August 22. “But when we write for Old Dominion, especially this time, we’re bringing more of ourselves into the room,” the band captioned their post. “These are our songs, so they should be pulled from our lives. When we listened to these 13 songs, we all realized: it’s our most personal record ever.” Through introspective songs like “Making Good Time,” “Man or the Song,” and “Goodnight Music City,” the band showcases a blend of heartfelt reflection and catchy melodies, exploring themes of love, mortality, and growth. “We didn’t want to get all heavy,” frontman Matthew Ramsey reveals in the press release, “but I think the feeling good means more when you’re looking life straight in the eye.” Old Dominion just launched their How Good Is That World Tour, which heads to Charleston, South Carolina on Thursday (June 5). (All Country News)

Tyler Childers is collaborating with legendary producer Rick Rubin on his highly anticipated new album. In a new interview with Hits Daily Double, Peter Edge, the Chairman and CEO of RCA Records, revealed some exciting details about Childers’ follow-up to his 2023 Top 5 country album, Rustin’ in the Rain’. Edge was asked, “What else do you have coming out in the next few months?,” and he replied: “I’m really excited about Tyler Childers' new album, which is produced by Rick Rubin. He defies expectations, and this new album goes even further.” Edge added, “The great thing about Tyler is that he does it the way he wants to do it. He's playing giant venues, and he's making the music he wants to make.” Rubin not only worked with Johnny Cash on his Grammy-winning American Recordings series, but he’s also worked with music superstars like Adele, Lady Gaga, Metallica, the Avett Brothers, and the Chicks. Childers is currently busy with his On The Road Tour with Hayes Carll, and is set to play Woodlands, Texas on Tuesday (June 3). (Holler)

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Country powerhouse Jacquie Roar invites listeners to kick back and soak up the sun with her new single, “Boots in the Sand,” now available on all streaming platforms. This breezy, feel-good anthem showcases a more relaxed side of the dynamic performer, delivering a refreshing twist on Jacquie’s signature sound.Known for her electrifying vocals and high-energy performances, Jacquie trades her signature rock-infused firepower for a coastal calm, serving up a smooth country-pop groove built for beach days, bonfire nights, and spontaneous road trips. With its laid-back rhythm and irresistibly catchy lyrics like “All you gotta do is pop that top / Let the beat drop / Ain’t gonna stop,” the track perfectly captures the carefree spirit of summer in full swing.“Boots in the Sand” was co-written at the iconic Curb Word Publishing in Nashville alongside acclaimed songwriters Chris “Dirty Rice” Mackey, David Tolliver (Tim McGraw, Lee Brice, Brantley Gilbert), Daniel Ethridge, and Eli Wheeler.“Listen, I love my heavy killer rock songs and my high-energy country music,” Jacquie shares. “But, sometimes it’s nice to chill back and vibe. The beach is my favorite place to relax...I’m even a sucker for the West Coast beaches on a snowy winter day. I love this song because it’s a different side of me, so I hope you love it on a sunny day, with a pina colada in hand too!”“Boots in the Sand” follows a string of explosive releases from Jacquie, including 2024 fan favorites “Bad Habit,” “Learn About Love,” “High Heel High,” and “Pass the Pain,” as well as 2025 standouts “Big Mood” and her latest hit, “That’s the Spirit.” Collectively, her growing catalog has amassed nearly 500,000 streams and continues to resonate with fans across the country. 

PHOTO CREDIT: JUSTIN HARPER 

Hear DC's Exclusive Chat With Karen on The CMA Fest Recap Show June 14 & 15

Bebe Rexha and Florida Georgia Line's crossover hit collaboration, "Meant To Be," comes in at No. 1 on Billboard's Top Hot Country Songs of the 21st Century chart. The accolade is due to the track’s record-setting 50-week reign at No. 1 that started in December 2017, the longest chart-topping run in Hot Country Songs history. The track was co-written by Rexha and FGL's Tyler Hubbard, along with David Garcia and Josh Miller. The song not only dominated the country charts, but it also achieved success on the pop and adult radio formats, reaching a Top 5 peak and yearlong stay on the all-genre Billboard Hot 100. “Crazy to see how this song has taken on a life of its own and hear that it’s making chart history,” Florida Georgia Line’s Brian Kelley told Billboard back in 2018. “Bebe is part of our tribe now, and it’s been magic to see fans from all over the globe react to such a special song.” The rest of the Top 10 on Billboard's Top Hot Country Songs of the 21st Century chart is rounded out by (in order from 2-10): “Body Like a Back Road,” Sam Hunt; “Cruise,” Florida Georgia Line; “I Hope,” Gabby Barrett; “Tequila,” Dan + Shay; “Fancy Like,” Walker Hayes; “You Proof,” Morgan Wallen; “Wasted on You,” Morgan Wallen; “Last Night,” Morgan Wallen; and “The Bones,” Maren Morris. (Billboard)

Chris Stapleton's 2015 album, Traveller, is No. 1 on Billboard's Top Country Albums of the 21st Century chart. Since making its debut in May 2015, Traveller has spent an impressive 525 consecutive weeks on Top Country Albums chart, along with a 29-week reign at the summit. The album produced the No. 1 hit, "Tennessee Whiskey," along with "Nobody to Blame," which became Stapleton’s first of seven Top 10s on Country Airplay. At the 2015 CMA Awards, Stapleton took home Album of the Year for Traveller, along with Male Vocalist of the Year and New Artist of the Year.

Hit songwriter and Red Street Records Country inaugural artist Ryan Griffin released his brand-new track, "God Willin'," available everywhere today. Griffin's latest anthem celebrates real life and is sure to hit families right where they're at.

With just days to go before the curtain rises, groundbreaking country artist Ty Herndon, in partnership with GLAAD,  today revealed the full lineup of artists set to take the stage for the historic 10th and final Concert for Love & Acceptance, set for Monday, June 2 at 7:30 PM at Category 10 in downtown Nashville.

Kendra Scott and Zac Brown made their red carpet debut as a couple at the 2025 American Music Awards on Monday (May 26). The couple have been in a relationship for several months, and they share a passion for philanthropy. Scott founded the Kendra Scott Foundation, while Brown was awarded the AMAs first-ever Veterans' Voice Awards, which recognizes artists who have made a lasting impact on the lives of veterans. According to a source, "They were set up by a mutual friend, and are totally in love. They are head over heels and have become inseparable." The couple also attended country artist Jamey Johnson's wedding earlier this month, where they were photographed together. Brown, 46, is the lead singer of the Zac Brown Band, while Scott, 51, is a celebrated jewelry designer. Each of them are parents, and between them they have eight children ranging in age from 11-23. (People)

Kenny Chesney has come in at No. 1 on Billboard's Top Country Artists of the 21st Century chart. Chesney made his debut on Billboard’s charts in December 1993, and became a prominent fixture on the tally by 1995. His 21st Century success includes an impressive record of 17 No. 1s on the Top Country Albums chart, and 20 No. 1 hits on the Hot Country Songs chart. Those totals are the highest among all artists this century, cementing Chesney’s status as the dominant force in country music from the turn of the millennium to the present day. Billboard’s Top Country Artists of the 21st Century chart ranking is based on performance on the weekly Top Country Albums and Hot Country Songs charts from the start of 2000 through the end of 2024. The rest of the Top 10 is rounded out by (in order from 2-10): Tim McGraw, Taylor Swift, Toby Keith, Keith Urban, Rascal Flatts, Luke Combs, Jason Aldean, Blake Shelton, and Carrie Underwood. (Billboard)

Morgan Wallen breaks his own record this week by charting a historic 37 songs on the Billboard Hot 100 simultaneously, propelled by his new album, I'm the Problem. Wallen previously set the all-time record for most titles on the Hot 100 in a single week with 36, which was set on March 18, 2023, and powered by his album One Thing at a Time. The 37-song record includes 36 tracks – including 29 chart debuts – from Wallen’s new album, which also premiered at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. The lone entry on the chart not from the country superstar’s new project is Post Malone’s “I Had Some Help,” which features Wallen, and ranks at No. 19 in its 54th week on the chart, which includes six weeks spent at No. 1. With this achievement, Wallen pushes his career total to 105 Hot 100 chart hits, becoming only the 21st artist – and first country music musician –   to have 100 of their songs chart on the Hot 100. (Billboard)

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Josh Ross, a singer-songwriter from Waterdown, Ontario, achieves his first Top 10 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart with his track, “Single Again.” The song moves up from 11 to 10 in its 60th week on the chart, marking the third-longest trip to the top tier since the tally launched back in January 1990. Ross has notched six Top 10s on the Canada Country chart to open his career. Meanwhile, Morgan Wallen’s “I’m the Problem” maintains its No. 1 spot on the Country Airplay chart for a sixth consecutive week. The song is the title track to Wallen’s newly released fourth studio album, which debuts at No. 1 on the all-genre Billboard 200 this week. Wallen’s latest single, “Just in Case,” rises to No. 13 on Country Airplay, joined by “I Ain’t Coming Back” featuring Post Malone at No. 32, alongside the chart debuts of “What I Want” featuring Tate McRae at No. 55, and “Superman” at No. 58. (Billboard)

Critically-acclaimed Country music singer-songwriter Adam Doleac has returned with his poignant new single, “Playin’ Catch”- available now. Written by Doleac alongside Andy Skib (Keith Urban, Hunter Hayes, Mickey Guyton) and Derrick Southerland (Alana Springsteen, Ingrid Andress, Breland), the track is a tender reflection on the simple, yet profound moments shared between a father and son. Through heartfelt storytelling and relatable imagery, Doleac's "Playin' Catch" evokes a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the everyday memories with family. 

Multi-platinum, award-winning artist Lainey Wilson delivers her highly anticipated new single, “Somewhere Over Laredo." Written by Wilson, Trannie Anderson, Dallas Wilson and Andy Albert, the track celebrates the timeless classic “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” through a fresh country lens, delivering an innovative new take on the song while honoring its enduring depth.

During a new interview on Tracy Lawrence's Road House podcast, Tim McGraw credits marrying Faith Hill with transforming  his personal and professional life. "I’ve been lucky. I’ve been very fortunate. First off, meeting my wife saved my life," said the 58-year-old McGraw of Hill, 57. "I was a wild man. I was having fun." The couple met in 1994, eventually falling in love while on tour, before getting married in 1996. "She turned my life around. I couldn’t have found a better woman,” he admits. “Not only beautiful and talented, but just a good, good person. And then having our daughters,” said McGraw, who shares Gracie, 27, Maggie, 26, and Audrey, 23, with Hill. "It’s life-changing. They make you a better person, and they certainly calm the demons in you." The pair of country superstars have toured together multiple times during their celebrated careers, with their most recent run of Soul2Soul shows finishing back in 2018. (People)

On Wednesday (May 21), Martina McBride testified in front of Congress, urging them to pass the NO FAKES Act. The country star expressed the urgent need to protect artists and their reputations from unauthorized AI and deepfakes. “I’m pleading with you to give me the tools to stop that kind of betrayal,” McBride said at a Senate Judiciary subcommittee hearing. “[The NO FAKES Act could] set America on the right course to develop the world’s best AI while preserving the sacred qualities that make our country so special: authenticity, integrity, humanity, and our endlessly inspiring spirit … I urge you to pass this bill now.” The NO FAKES Act aims to establish a federal right of publicity that extends beyond an individual's death, implement a notice-and-takedown system for unauthorized deepfakes, and hold platforms accountable for removing and preventing their dissemination. The bill has garnered bipartisan support and is seen as vital in preserving the integrity of artists' work in the face of evolving AI technology. (Rolling Stone)

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Luke Combs is collaborating with Jon Bellion on their tender new duet, "Why," with both the country music star and the pop singer-songwriter sharing teasers of their new track on their respective social media channels on Monday (May 19). The song features a departure from Combs' traditional sound with poppier production, but aligns with his recent focus on more mature and introspective lyrical themes. While Combs plans to take a break from touring in 2025 to spend time with his young family, the two-time CMA Entertainer of the Year has also recently hinted that he is working on new music and preparing for a major tour in 2026. No official release date for "Why" has been announced at this point, with no word yet about whose project will eventually feature the emotional collaboration. Though Bellion’s teaser post lists the track as “Why” (featuring Luke Combs), which suggests that the song will eventually be included on the pop star’s future release. (Taste of Country)

NASHVILLE – CMA Fest presented by SoFi has added even more exciting performances! The Country Music Association and Whiskey Jam have announced the lineup for its Thursday night takeover at Ascend Amphitheater to deliver a night of high-energy performances in the heart of Music City on the first night of CMA Fest, June 5.