UK singer-songwriter Vic Allen drops new track Pictures of Us

 UK Country Artist Vic Allen - Releases Her New Single 'Pictures Of Us'

Watch her recent performances at Song Suffragettes

Proving that beautiful things can come from the darkest of times, UK country artist Vic Allen released her heartfelt new self-penned track “Pictures of Us” (tagged Singer/Songwriter) on March 25th.

Published (25 March 2022) watch Vic Allen - Pictures of Us (Lyric Video) produced by Barnabas Shaw. I hope you love this song 💛

Inspired by a breakup back in the summer, Vic explained “To make moving on easier I wanted to erase anything that could remind me of him, so I went through my phone and deleted everything - our messages, his number, the pictures he’d sent me… thankfully, I realised that we’d never actually taken any pictures of the two of us together, so it made it that little bit easier to pretend we had never happened. That’s what the song is about.”

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Vic returned to Nashville this spring for the first time in two years. She last visited back in March 2020, just before the pandemic hit, to appear on Radio Disney Country and perform at the iconic Listening Room for The Song Suffragettes 6th anniversary show. She was due to embark on a UK tour with the Suffragettes in April 2020 but sadly it was inevitably cancelled due to the global situation. 

Another solo write from Vic, “Pictures of Us” was recorded with talented producer Barnabas Shaw (producer for Twinnie). The two are currently working on further new material, set to be released in upcoming months. Vic mentions that these tracks will be a combination of both older songs and more recent writes and is excited to add to her growing catalogue. Her latest original release was upbeat country-pop track “Drive-Thru” (>> YouTube Acoustic), which was accompanied by a music video featuring Vic’s loyal fans singing along to the song in their cars. 

Like many others, Vic turned to live-streaming during the pandemic to connect with her listeners, in particular on popular video-sharing platform TikTok where she has gained 25,000 followers over the past few months. 

She also began releasing short covers on her social media channels, several of which were reposted by the original artists, including Walker Hayes and Danny Jones from McFly. 

               

 

Watch her recent performances at Song Suffragettes

On Monday April 11 Vic joined Erin Grand, Julie Eddy, Nicole Miller and Willow Zhu to perform for Song Suffragettes at The Listening Room Cafe in Nashville, TN which was streamed on their YouTube livestream. Song Suffragettes is a female singer/songwriter round every Monday night. #LetTheGirlsPlay

Line-up left to right: Nicole Miller, Vic Allen, Erin Grand, Julie Eddy, Willow Zhu

Watch Vic perform here:

ABOUT VIC ALLEN

“One of the most exciting artists here in the UK. Phenomenal writer, amazing musician, awesome voice. She’s got the lot” - Matt Spracklen, Country Hits Radio (Absolute Country Radio) 

A rising name on the UK scene, Vic Allen blends an acoustic-driven sound with strong influences from modern country music. The past couple of years has seen several new releases from Vic, including “Healing” (Nov 20, 2020 Apple Music | Official Music Video) and the upbeat pop-country track “Drive-Thru” (Aug 13, 2021 Apple Music), both of which received airplay on Absolute Radio Country and BBC stations.

 After spending four months of 2017 in Nashville and most of the summer in the studio recording new music, singer-songwriter Vic Allen released her 4 track EP BETWEEN THE LINES on Feb 23, 2018. 

A follow up to her 2016 debut EP THE MISSING PIECE (Oct 17, 2016), which received strong praise from BBC Introducing and landed her slots at several UK festivals including Buckle and Boots, “Between The Lines” consisted of four original tracks with a definite Nashville influence. 

Her single “Enough” dropped Aug 2, 2019 (Amazon UK - iTunes Debut #15 UK Country iTunes Chart, then #18, then #28, then #36 | Sat Aug 3: #54).

In October 2019 Vic played her first headline show, performing to a packed audience at The Green Note in London to celebrate the launch of her 4 track EP ENOUGH (released Oct 18, 2019 | Amazon UK - iTunes Debut #8 UK Country iTunes Album Chart (#246 UK iTunes all-genres), then #7 | Sat Oct 19: off the Top 200) . It included her single “Ghost Town” and an acoustic cut of  “Give Up”. 

A regular visitor to Nashville, she headed back out to Music City in the spring of 2020 to appear on Radio Disney Country after being selected to join US-based Song Suffragettes on their UK tour. She was also invited to perform alongside Song Suffragettes as part of Country Music Week in October, as well as featuring in Maverick Magazine’s July/August issue as their 'One to Watch' artist. 

Although she grew up playing musical instruments, Vic first picked up the guitar as a teenager and, after a trip to America where she was inspired by the rich country music scene, she began songwriting. Travelling continues to be not only a passion, but a key influence in Vic’s music. In addition to multiple visits to Nashville, she has ventured to a range of other cities, states and countries, experiences which are reflected in songs such as “Bittersweet” and “Between The Lines”. 

As a solo act she has performed at FSA Fest 2018, Belles and Gals Showcases and CountryLine Presents and joined artistes Beth Keeping and Emily Faye on their WRITE LIKE A GIRL Tours (May 2018, Feb 2019, Nov 2019) 

"Vic is one of the most intriguing and interesting acts around at the moment." - Lyric Magazine 

CONNECT with Vic Allen:

Country News snippets March 21 – March 27, 2022

Country News snippets March 21 – March 27, 2022

UK News, UK Chart News, Album & Single Releases, US News, Music News, Press Releases, TV, Videos, Fashion, Birthdays, RIP

Country News – March 24, 2021 with Shannon McCombs

You’ll hear from Gabby Barrett, as well as Kim Moore about their latest singles. News from Thomas Rhett, Tracy Lawrence, Clay Walker and more!

UK NEWS

On the BBC Radio 2 Playlist Saturday 26 March 2022

OUT

Maren Morris - Circles Around This Town removed from the “B” Playlist [C-B-B]

Luke Combs - Doin' This removed from the “C” Playlist [C-C-C] 

Luke Combs continues to defy the odds and break records as he celebrated a feat that saw his 2017 released US chart topping debut album, THIS ONE’S FOR YOU, reach Gold (100,000 units; since 2015 the programme has reflected consumption through audio streaming) in the UK. This milestone makes Luke one of only two solo country artists to have their debut album certified gold in the UK this century, and the only male solo country artist ever to have their first two albums certified.

The news hits exactly a week since Luke performed a series of” jaw-dropping headline sets” at the UK’s C2C Festival, where global megastar Ed Sheeran joined him onstage at London’s O2 Arena for a stunning duet of Ed's track 'Dive'.

Combs second studio album WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU GET made a debut at No.27 (3,810 total units) and charted for 2-weeks whilst his 2017 debut, This One’s For You, peaked at No.198.

Digital streaming numbers have shot up almost 50% in the past two years, according to new data from the Country Music Association – making country the fastest growing music genre in Britain.

It’s the “authenticity” of singers such as Dolly Parton and Johnny Cash – and more recently Taylor Swift and Kacey Musgraves – that country music DJ Baylen Leonard believes is at the heart of Britain’s newfound love for all things Nashville.

“People are looking for something that’s a little more grounded, that has a start, that has a finish, that takes you somewhere,” he said. It’s helped by a slew of new specialist radio stations such as Absolute Radio Country, Smooth Country, Downtown Country and Chris Country Radio, each churning out round-the-clock Nashville vibes. Weekly radio listeners are edging close to 1 million. 

Chloe Chadwick’s single “2 Peas In A Pod” is out now, stream on SPOTIFY  . She shared with her fans: "This song is a dedication to my wife & my soulmate. we tied the knott on 11th March 2022 in England with close family and friends, and I can honestly say it was the best day of my life :-) and so some great news to share with you all, and a happy song for a change”!! 

The Shires, the UK’s best-selling country act of all time, have been announced as guests for Tom Jones’ special outdoor show this summer at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, home of the Chelsea Pensioners.

The show on Wednesday 15th June will see the glorious courtyard of the Royal Hospital Chelsea transformed into one of the most stunning and unique concert venues in the country. Tickets available from myticket.co.uk/artists/tom-jones The Live At Chelsea Concert Series will return for its 6th year in 2022, having established itself firmly as a welcome fixture in the summer calendar for many. This is in no small part due to the eclectic range of artists who have been featured previously, including Rufus Wainwright, Toto, Jeff Beck, Ludovico Einaudi, Belle & Sebastian, Kaiser Chiefs, Tom Jones, amongst many more. As well as this, audiences can look forward to the warm welcome from the Chelsea Pensioners themselves. Every year a portion of the ticket sales from the event is donated towards the care of the Chelsea Pensioners, as well as the maintenance of the Grade I listed site which has provided care and comradeship to ex-military personnel since 1682 when it was founded by King Charles II.

 

(24 March 2022) The Long Road Festival is now on TikTok! And Baylen has an update on what's going on in world TLR, and what he's currently listening to. Check it out.

(29 March 2022) BCMA 2021 Female Vocalist Jade Helliwell posted a Live stream event on her Instagram “LIVE! from Holmfirth Tavern”. Held on April 7th all tips are going towards her Kickstarter crowd fund campaign to fund an EP. As it stands (Dated April 7 10:00), £4,455 has been pledged of a £10,000 goal by 121 backers with 14 days to go). The cost will cover recording, producing, mixing, mastering, artwork and packaging.

(29 March 2022)  Reigning CMA and ACM Female Vocalist of the Year, Carly Pearce announced her first headline tour of the UK and Ireland this autumn. The eagerly awaited shows are part of a European trip and will take place in September, as follows:

Thursday, September 15: LONDON Islington Assembly Hall

Friday, September 16: MANCHESTER Gorilla

Saturday, September 17: GLASGOW Oran Mor

Monday, September 19: DUBLIN Whelan’s 

UK CHART NEWS

Official UK Top 100 Albums Chart (Chart dated 25 March 2022)

25 March – 31 March 2020

Leadership of the album chart changed for the 11th week in a row, with a British act at the summit for the 10th time in succession, specifically Charli XCX, whose Crash cruised to a No.1 debut on consumption of 16,117 units (5,339 CDs, 5,351 vinyl albums, 1,106 cassette, 496 digital downloads and 3,825 sales-equivalent streams).

British country’s most successful act in chart history, The Shires with 10 Year Plan fell 5-48 (2,080 sales; 2-week total 9,026)

BILLBOARD/ MEDIABASE Charts

Billboard Country Charts (Chart issue week of March 26, 2022) 

Country Album Chart ** No.1 (50 weeks) ** Dangerous: The Double Album Morgan Wallen

Hot Country Songs ** No.1 (4 weeks/ Airplay & Sales Gainer) ** 'Til You Can't Cody Johnson

Country Airplay ** No.1 (1 week) ** 'Til You Can't Cody Johnson

Country Digital Songs ** No.1 (4 non-consecutive weeks) 'Til You Can't Cody Johnson

Country Streaming Songs “Tennessee Whiskey” Chris Stapleton (257 weeks on the chart)

Cody Johnson achieved his first No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart (dated March 26) with “’Til You Can’t” (CoJo/Warner Music Nashville/WMN). The song increased by 14% to 25.4 million audience impressions in the week (+3.183 million audience gain; 7597 plays +655) for week ending March 20. Matt Rogers and Ben Stennis penned the track, which Trent Willmon produced.

The 34-year-old Johnson, from Sebastopol, Texas, earned his first No.1 in his sixth appearance on Country Airplay.

The track tops Hot Country Songs for a fourth frame, also up by 48% to 8,400 downloads sold, as it ruled Country Digital Song Sales for a fourth week. (It was discounted to 69 cents in the iTunes Store March 4-17.) It additionally corralled 7.8 million U.S. streams in the tracking week. 

Morgan Wallen’s second LP, Dangerous: The Double Album (Big Loud/Republic), ruled Top Country Albums for a record-matching 50th week. The set — which won album of the year at the 2022 Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards on March7 — earned 46,000 equivalent units. Dating to the launch of Top Country Albums in January 1964, Dangerous ties with the reigns of Luke Combs’ This One’s for You and Shania Twain’s Come On Over, starting in June 2017 and November 1997, respectively.

Dolly Parton’s Run, Rose, Run fell 2-4 in its second week on Top Album Sales with 8,000 sold (down 49%). It fell 4-11 on Billboard Top Country Albums 

ERNEST - FLOWER SHOPS (THE ALBUM) (Big Loud Records) made a debut at No.12 on Billboard Top Country Albums

Total 2022 Country Album Sales to date is 1,437,000 down -15.3% (1,696,000) on 2021. 

Country Aircheck MEDIABASE Chart

21 March 2022 (for the chart week ending March 26, 2022 according to Mediabase 24/7.

Congratulations to Cody Johnson, Kristen Williams, Tom Martens, Anna Cage and the Warner/WMN promotion team on landing Johnson’s first No. 1 with “’Til You Can’t.”

“Til You Can’t"” (Warner/WMN) moved 2-1 logging 8,222 radio spins (+663), 38.398 million audience impressions (+4.077 million) with 29428 Total Points from 157 tracking stations (157 ADDS) for the tracking week March 12 to March 19, 2022 and published chart dated March 21, 2022.

Carrie Underwood Is Most Added With ‘Ghost Story’

Kudos to Bobby Young and the Capitol crew notching 79 adds for Carrie Underwood’s “Ghost Story.” The first release from her forthcoming project leapt on to the chart at No. 31, matching her second highest entry ever – both “If I Didn’t Love You” with Jason Aldean and 2015’s “Smoke Break” 

COUNTRY ALBUM & SINGLES RELEASES

(25 March 2022) Abby Anderson - Be That Girl (Fat Cheeks) 5 songs, 16:49 

(18 March 2022) Adam Sanders - ‎I Wanna Be Somebody (EP; Spend a Buck Music) 6 Tracks, 21mins

(25 March 2022) Alma Russ - Fool's Gold (Alma Russ) 9 songs, 35:54

(25 March 2022) Anna Howie - The Friday Night Club (Anna Howie Music) UK Country/Americana 11 Tracks | Debut #27 UK iTunes Country Album Chart 

(25 March 2022) Anslee Davidson - Letters Home  (EP;  Bloom Music LLC) 4 songs, 13:26

(25 March 2022) Austin Burke - Changed Everything (EP; Bolo Records) 5 Songs | Debut #25 US iTunes Country Album Chart

(25 March 2022) Bailey Bigger - Coyote Red (Madjack Records) 10 songs, 41 min 31 secTouted as the next big thing from Memphis (though she’s now back living in smalltown Marion, Arkansas), Bigger’s debut album, Coyote Red, is a hugely infectious, melodically catchy collection of country Americana sung in an appealing reedy voice occasionally reminiscent of Judy Collins with an ear for that old time sound. She’s joined by, among others,  Will Sexton on electric and slide guitars, bassist Mark Edgar Stuart and Eric Lewis on dobro, the album opening in instantly catchy style with  the summery chug and cascading notes of ‘You, Somehow'

(25 March 2022) Casey Donahew - Built Different (Almost Country Records) 10 songs, 35:42 Amazon UK | Debut #12 UK iTunes Country Album Chart | Debut #8, then #10 US iTunes all-genres

(25 March 2022) Celine Ellis - Unravelled (WKM Records) UK  5 songs, 19:11 Amazon UK | Debut #17 UK iTunes Country Album Chart.

Celine is now taking her stories on the road, and has been performing at intimate venues including a headline show back in her home town in North Wales. Not one to shy away from a big stage, festivals such as MCN Motorcycle festival, Ilfracombe Country Festival, Northampton Music Festival and Great Barn Festival have been treated to the full ‘Acoustic Music with Attitude’ experience this summer. WEBSITE - FACEBOOK

(25 March 2022) Charissa - Love and Be Loved (EP; Coalition Music (Records)) 5 songs, 17:19

(25 March 2022) Cowboy Junkies - Songs of the Recollection (9 songs, 42:53) 9 songs, 42:53 | Debut #5 UK iTunes Country Album Chart | Debut #46 US iTunes all-genres

(25 March 2022) Erin Kinsey - 40 East (EP; RECORDS Label) 6 songs, 16:23 Amazon UK | Debut #3 UK iTunes Country Album Chart | Debut #79 US iTunes all-genres, then #96 US iTunes all-genres

(18 March 2022) Graycie York - Sad Bird (EP; Graycie York) 4 songs, 17min

(25 March 2022) Hannah Bethel - Until The Sun Comes Back Around (EP; Wildflower Moonshine Records) 6 songs, 25:31

(25 March 2022) Ian Noe - River Fools & Mountain Saints (Lock13 Records/ Thirty Tigers) 12 songs, 42:18 Amazon UK | Debut #6 UK iTunes Country Album Chart | Debut #26 US iTunes all-genres

(25 March 2022) JJ Lawhorn - O.G.O.B. II (JJ Lawhorn) 10 Songs 34mins | Debut #26 US iTunes Country Album Chart

(25 March 2022) John Berry - Find My Joy (JB Music/ Gaither Music Group, LLC) 10 songs, 40:54

GRAMMY Award-winning country singer/songwriter, John Berry, has recorded and released an inspiring, faith-based album, Find My Joy, featuring heartfelt renditions of Gospel classics that have inspired him offstage and grounded his lauded musical journey. The album is available to purchase on Johnberry.com, Gaither.com and Amazon.com, as well as independent Christian retailers and is available for download and streaming on all digital music platforms at https://smarturl.it/findmyjoyjb 

(25 March 2022) Justin Larkin - Nowhere Is A Place ( Justin Larkin) 12 Tracks Amazon UK | Debut #18 UK iTunes Country Album Chart

(21 March 2022) Kid Rock - Bad Reputation (Top Dog Records) 18 Tracks ROCK

(25 March 2022) Kristian Bush 52ATL x BNA (Songs of the Architect/ Big Machine Label Group) 10 songs, 33:21 Amazon UK - | Debut #28 UK iTunes Country Album Chart| Debut #23 US iTunes Country Album Chart  

(25 March 2022) Maren Morris - Humble Quest (Sony Music Entertainment) 11 songs, 37:32 Amazon UK | Debut #1 UK iTunes Country Album Chart (#14 UK iTunes all-genres) | Debut #1 US iTunes Country Album Chart (#3 US iTunes all-genres)

(25 March 2022) Reba McEntire - My Chains Are Gone (Rockin' R Records/ UMG Recordings) 12 songs, 43:37 | Debut #7 UK iTunes Country Album Chart | Debut #2 US iTunes Country Album Chart (#11 US iTunes all-genres)

(25 March 2022) Riley Green - We Out Here: Live (Big Machine Label Group, LLC) 11 songs, 46:31 | Debut #8 US iTunes Country Album Chart

RILEY GREEN fans nationwide can now take the experience of his headline tour home with the release of WE OUT HERE: LIVE  via BMLG Records. “We’ve seen our biggest and loudest crowds so far on this tour, and to thank all the fans who have come out, we recorded one of the nights for them,” said Riley.  “Can’t wait for y’all to hear it.”As more dates are added in the US to his WE OUT HERE TOUR, including a stop at Nashville’s Ascend Amphitheater on July 3 to kick off one of the largest Independence Day weekends in the country, the Alabama-raised singer/songwriter is set to deliver those same concert vibes to playlists. The stripped-down version fittingly opens with “Different ‘Round Here” before diving into fan favorites like “If It Wasn’t For Trucks” and “Georgia Time,” plus his PLATINUM-certified No. 1 “There Was This Girl.”

(25 March 2022) The Hanging Stars - Hollow Heart (Loose Music/ The Hanging Stars) 10 songs, 39:08 | Debut #30 UK iTunes Country Album Chart

(25 March 2022) The Po' Ramblin' Boys - Never Slow Down FOLK 

(25 March 2022) William Clark Green - Baker Hotel (Bill Grease Records) 13 songs, 46:22 | Debut #29 UK iTunes Country Album Chart | Debut #14; #10 US iTunes all-genres 

NEWS

(21 March 2022) Jamey Johnson was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry Saturday (March 18) by member Bill Anderson. "I really don’t know what to say except the obvious," said Johnson. "I love country music. I would have never moved here if it wasn’t for that; for the Opry keeping it alive and for the fans. I love you. Thank you.” 

(21 March 2022) Dolly Parton will star in Hello Sunshine’s film adaptation of Run, Rose, Run, with Parton and James Patterson producing alongside Reese Witherspoon. 

(21 March 2022) Amazon Music hosted 'Maren Morris: Live From New York' Global Livestream

COLUMBIA NASHVILLE's Maren Morris and AMAZON MUSIC partnered to present the global livestream “MAREN MORRIS: Live From NEW YORK,” an intimate, one-night-only live performance to celebrate the launch of her new album, “Humble Quest,”. The event took place on Saturday, March 26th at SONY HALL in NEW YORK CITY. 

(21 March 2022) Friends And Family Gather To Remember Kenny Rogers

A small group of friends and family gathered in ATLANTA's OAKLAND CEMETERY (March 20) to pay their respects to Kenny Rogers, who passed away two years ago at the age of 81 (March 20, 2020). The event was hosted by Country artists and longtime ROGERS touring partners Linda Davis and Billy Dean. 

Wedding Belle: Singer/songwriter Jenny Tolman wed producer Dave Brainard March 19 in Jackson, WY. “Living life on cloud [nine] right now,” shared Tolman via Instagram. “We are so grateful to all of our friends and family who came out to Wyoming to celebrate with us!” Brainard also proposed in Wyoming in 2020. The couple’s wedding details and photos were made available exclusively to People here.

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(23 March 2022) Maren Morris has called for "more diversity" in country music. The 31-year-old singer suggested the genre is at a "mediocre" level because women, people of colour and members of the LGBTQ community are not given enough exposure and she believes all artists would benefit if a varied range of voices were given a platform. She told The Daily Beast: "I definitely want to see more balance when I listen to the radio or when I listen to the playlists that have country artists on it. I would love to see more diversity, more people of colour, more LGBTQ perspectives, and more women, because the percentage is very off right now.

(24 March 2022) Hank Williams Jr. sets Rich White Honky Blues for June 17. “.44 Special Blues” Out Now; Pre-Order the Album on Easy Eye Sound HERE

With the 12-song set – the second-generation Country Music Hall of Famer makes good on his legacy with a turpentine and rough wood take on the hill country blues that informed his father’s raw-boned style of putting his pain out there. 

(25 March 2022) Country hit-maker Lacy J. Dalton continues to celebrate the 40th anniversary of her million air-play song, “Everybody Makes Mistakes,” with a new acoustic version of the 1981 hit single. From her album Takin’ It Easy, the song reached number 5 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. The emotional tune was co-written by Dalton and Mark Sherrill and has remained a fan favorite over the years. Taking an inward focus, Dalton channeled the heartfelt sentiments that we all face throughout life when it comes to all decisions, good or bad. Ultimately, we have to learn from all mistakes to grow and by doing so, become a better person. The acoustic version of “Everybody Makes Mistakes” was premiered by Country Rebel.

(25 March 2022) Curb Records recording artist Dylan Scott officially launched the pre-order/pre-add/pre-save for his upcoming album, LIVIN’ MY BEST LIFE, giving fans a taste of new music with the release of the title track, written by Thomas Rhett, Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, and Corey Crowder – listen HERE. Fans can now pre-order/pre-add/pre-save the highly-anticipated full-length project, which arrives 5 August, 2022, HERE, while autographed CD and double vinyl pre-orders are available at www.dylanscottcountry.com. As he’s on the road headlining the 'Livin’ My Best Life Tour,' the CMT Music Award winner celebrated the RIAA Platinum certification of #1 single, 'Nobody,' and the RIAA Gold certification of 'Crazy Over Me.'

(25 March 2022) Spotify launched the Humble Quest Digital Experience in celebration of Maren Morris’ album; play here. The experience is an interactive game utilizing a series of "Quest Cards" written by Morris and designed in partnership with illustrator and frequent Maren collaborator Danielle Noel. Each card challenges the singer-songwriter's fans to do one "humble quest" each day. 

AMERICANA NEWS

Gretchen Peters gave notice of a very special livestreamed concert coming up. A couple of weeks ago, with fans help,  $11,000 was raised for Ukraine's Voices of Children foundation during our livestream featuring Mary Gauthier and Jaimee Harris. Gretchen announced the next virtual "tip jar" livestream will be the incomparable Rosanne Cash. Fans can join Rosanne and Getechen, along with husbands John Leventhal and Barry Walsh, on April 1st at 3pm Central/4pm Eastern (9pm UK time/10pm Central Europe) on her Facebook page or her YouTube channel. 

(25 March 2022) Michaela Anne opens up with the triumphant celebration of imperfection on "I'm Only Human," the newest single from her new album OH TO BE THAT FREE (out June 10). Listen here

(25 March 2022) Special Consensus, re-tooled with new members and refreshed sound, have put out their first new music in two years with their single "Blackbird," a tale of an aching heart yearning for a lost love. Listen here

(25 March 2022) You can stream the "Americana 20th Annual Honors" at PBS here beginning Sunday, April 3 at 9am CT. 

AWARDS

(21 March 2022) Para-mount Up: Co-host Kelsea Ballerini, Kane Brown, Luke Combs, Cody Johnson, Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Maren Morris and Ryan Hurd, Carly Pearce, Cole Swindell and Lainey Wilson and Keith Urban will perform live from Nashville during the 2022 CMT Music Awards, airing April 11 on CBS and streaming live and on demand on Paramount+. Additional performers and presenters will be announced in the coming weeks.

Beer Never Broke My iHeart: Luke Combs was named Country Artist of the Year at the iHeartRadio Music Awards on Fox. Additional country winners included Jason Aldean and Carrie Underwood's "If I Didn't Love You" (Country Song); Lainey Wilson (Best New Country Artist); and Morgan Wallen's Dangerous: The Double Album (Country Album). 

(24 March 2022) Luke Combs has pulled out of a performance spot on the upcoming CMT MUSIC AWARDS after testing positive for COVID-19. THE TENNESSEAN reported, "COMBS was scheduled to record a performance alongside leading 2022 CMT MUSIC AWARDS nominee Kane Brown at an undisclosed location on MARCH 24th. However, Old Dominion will now replace the artist nominated for Video of the Year for 'Forever After All' in a performance." Combs is also nominated in the Male Video of the Year category for the same song. 

(24 March 2022) Chris Stapleton was added to the lineup for the 64th Annual Grammy Awards, airing live from Las Vegas April 3 on CBS.

 

(24 March 2022) The Recording Academy announced that HOMEWARD BOUND: A Grammy Salute To The Songs Of Paul Simon will take place on Weds, APRIL 6th at 7:30p (PT) at The Hollywood Pantages Theatre. The event will later air on CBS with added performances. A diverse group of GRAMMY-winning artists and past and current GRAMMY nominees include Brandi Carlile, Little Big Town and Brad Paisley will perform at the special tribute concert honoring 16-time GRAMMY winner Paul Simon, who will make a special appearance at the tribute. 

TOUR

(March 21, 2022)- Muscadine Bloodline is kicking the summer off strong with their Country Band Contraband Tour! The 22-date tour begins in Phenix City, Ala. on June 3. The duo will be all over the eastern United States with dates in Texas, Michigan, North Carolina and more through the end of July. "It’s been a long time off the road resting and preparing for the album release. We are more excited and motivated than we've ever been to get back on the road and see our fans face to face," said Muscadine Bloodline. 

Tour Support: The summer leg of Dierks Bentley's Beers On Me Tour will visit more than 31 cities starting June 3 in Wilmington, NC with support from Ashley McBryde and Travis Denning.

 

Willie Nelson & Family, Chris Stapleton, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, ZZ Top, Brothers Osborne and Brittney Spencer are among the artists performing during Nelson's 20+ stop Outlaw Music Festival. 

(22 March 2022) Vince Gill will resume touring this summer with 18 dates confirmed and more TBA. The Voice's Wendy Moten joins as support. More here.

(21 March 2022) Drake White's The Optimystic Tour heads to the U.K. for five dates in Aug. Tickets went on sale Friday (March 25) here. 

(24 March 2022) One of Country music's biggest breakout stars of the year, Priscilla Block, kicked off her Welcome To The Block Party Tour in Birmingham, AL with upcoming dates this weekend in Huntsville, AL and Rome, GA. Her first-ever headlining tour hits 15 markets across the Southeast and Midwest including Knoxville, TN; Charlotte, NC; Houston, TX; and Dallas. The Mercury Nashville recording artist has been on a whirlwind ride since her viral hit "Just About Over You" captured a devoted fanbase, garnered Block her first RIAA Certified Gold single, and led to her debut album, Welcome To The Block Party. Her latest song “My Bar,” written by Block with Stone Aielli and Lexie Hayden, is playing on country radio now. Watch Block’s interview on “The Kelly Clarkson Show” and performance of “My Bar” HERE.

 

(24 March 2022) Wade Bowen Performs to Sold-Out Exit/In with Special Guests Miranda Lambert, Charlie Worsham. Following opening sets by his friends (and renowned singer/songwriters) Rhett Akins and Lee Roy Parnell, Bowen took the stage at the storied club with “Sun Shines on a Dreamer” before performing a new song from his latest EP, “Where We Call Home.” Over the next hour-plus, Bowen treated fans to his most popular songs as well as beloved album cuts, including “Who I Am,” “Mood Ring,” “West Texas Rain,” current single “Phones Don’t Work” and more. Not only did Bowen bring Charlie Worsham to the stage; after seemingly closing out the set with his ever-popular “Saturday Night,” Bowen also invited his Texas compatriot and reigning ACM Entertainer of the Year Miranda Lambert out, thrilling the crowd with a rendition of Keith Whitley’s classic “Miami My Amy.”

 

(28 March 2022) Kenny Chesney Here And Now Tour Kick-Off 2022, starts April 23 in Tampa at Raymond James Stadium
For Kenny Chesney, taking his music on the road is his way of making the promise of his songs come to life. It is how No Shoes Nation was built, and it’s the way friendships have been forged summer after summer since kicking off his true headlining life at the Coral Sky Amphitheater in West Palm Beach in 2002.  
Having been put on sale 932 days from when he will finally raise the pirate flag at Tampa’s Raymond James Stadium, Kenny Chesney’s Here And Now 2022 Tour will finally hit the road! With reigning Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music Female Vocalist of the Year Carly Pearce on all dates, plus five-time Academy of Country Music and four-time Country Music Association Group of the Year Old Dominion and three-time GRAMMY-winning Vocal Duo/Group Dan + Shay on the stadium dates, it promises to be quite a summer.

TV

In Case You Missed It: Brothers Osborne played "Headstone" on NBC's The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon (March /22) here. 

Chris Janson performed "Bye Mom" on The Kelly Clarkson Show (March 22) here. 

Caroline Bryan pranked Luke Bryan on the set of ABC's American Idol here. 

(25 March 2022) 19 Recordings/Wheelhouse Records artist Chayce Beckham returned to ABC’s “American Idol” as a mentor on Monday, March 28th at 7p (CT). The reigning "Idol" winner will mentor the remaining contestants throughout Hollywood week. 

BABY NEWS

Crib Notes: The Voice Season 17 winner Jake Hoot and wife Brittney are expecting their second child. Jake posted an original song which also featured his wife and daughter Macy announcing, "Baby Hoot, coming soon." See the Facebook video here. 

Texas Hill lead singer Adam Wakefield and wife and fellow artist Jenny Leigh announced onstage at the Grand Ole Opry Friday (March 18) that they are expecting their first child. "I’m ready for the last great adventure: fatherhood,” Wakefield told People.

MUSIC NEWS

Miley Cyrus has assured fans she's safe after her plane was struck by lightning. The Wrecking Ball singer was flying to Asunción in Paraguay so she could perform at the Asunciónico music festival when her plane got caught up in a storm. Due to the emergency, Miley was forced to cancel her forthcoming performance on Wednesday as she couldn't get into the country.

The 29-year-old shared video footage on social media showing a flash of lightning outside of her plane window, causing people in the cabin to gasp in shock.

"To my fans and everyone worried after hearing about my flight to Asunción," she wrote. "Our plane was caught in a major unexpected storm and struck by lighting. My crew , band , friends and family who were all traveling with me are safe after an emergency landing. We were unfortunately unable to fly into Paraguay. (Heartbroken emoji) I LOVE YOU."

(23 March 2022) Leona Lewis is pregnant. After rumours began to swirl online, the Bleeding Love singer took to Instagram on Wednesday to share a photo of her showcasing her growing baby bump in a figure-hugging black dress. Leona, 36, wed her long-term fiancé, professional dancer and choreographer Dennis Jauch, in July 2019. 

PRESS RELEASES

As current single “Love Talking” continues to impress program directors, playlist managers and fans alike, multi-Platinum hitmakers Eli Young Band revealed plans for a full-length album of the same name. LOVE TALKING (The Valory Music Co.) is set for release Friday, June 3 and is available for pre-order along with brand-new song “Break Up In A Bar.” 

(22 March 2022) Seven-time GRAMMY Award-winner Charles Kelley has been tapped by ESPN for his rendition of the iconic track "Georgia On My Mind" to be used in the official nationwide commercial leading into the Masters at Augusta National Golf Club. The Augusta, GA, native and member of the Multi-Platinum trio Lady A brings an authentic tie to the Masters anthem tradition as he captures the warmth and southern charm that highlights the prestige of one of the world’s most notorious and loved tournaments. Listen to Kelley's version of "Georgia On My Mind" here. 

(March 22, 2022) Grammy-nominated songwriter Rick Lang exclusively premiered his latest music video with The Bluegrass Situation. They Sawed Up A Storm, featuring Becky Buller, is the third track from his highly anticipated album, released earlier this year. Buller, a multi IBMA award-winning artist and chart-topper celebrated her Opry debut just last year.
The song and music video are the perfect tie-in to Women’s History Month. 
Lang shared with TBG: “The song itself is based on a true-to-life story about the heroism of 13 women who operated a sawmill at Turkey Pond, New Hampshire. They led a salvage operation to save millions of feet of timber knocked down by the devastating Hurricane of 1938. A colleague of mine, Sarah Shea Smith, wrote a book about the story, which became the basis of this song. ‘They Sawed Up a Storm’ is a celebration of the heroism of these 13 women. The song track and video feature Becky Buller on banjo and lead vocals, with guitarist Jana Mougin and fiddler Laura Orshaw on supporting vocals. So glad to be able to share this inspiring story song with folks.”

(28 March 2022) One of Country music’s biggest names and Grammy nominated artist, Lee Brice announced he will be headlining his highly awaited Label Me Proud Tour produced by Live Nation. Kicking off this June, Brice will bring his "Soul" to 23 markets, performing for all the fans who have been clamouring for live music again the way only Brice can do it - by throwing one hell of a party!

“Man, it feels good to announce this tour! It’s been a while since we’ve all been back out on the road and to have my good buddies, Michael Ray and Jackson Dean, join me is a blessing," said Brice. "Can’t wait to be back in all these places I’ve grown to love over the years with fans that are bar none the best ones out there! See y’all this summer!” 

(28 March 2022) James Robert Webb's follow up to his first #1 Texas Hit 

Following up his Texas (TRRR) #1 hit “Stealing Home,” James Robert Webb's brand new single, “Lovesick Drifting Cowboy” (radio impact date March 25, 2022) is a Hank Willliams-inspired country standout with grit. The song benchmarks the first of a series of self-produced singles for the 2022 Music Row Independent Artist of the Year, who accepted the honor at the Music Row Magazine’s 20th Annual Country Breakout Awards in February. Co-written with Shelby Lee Lowe and Victoria Powell, the inspiration for the single’s title came from Hank Williams’ band The Drifting Cowboys and his song “Love Sick Blues.” With dynamic vocals and textured instrumentation, “Lovesick Drifting Cowboy” is destined to echo the success of Webb’s prior releases.

About the song, Webb says: “We wrote this song pre-pandemic, back in 2017. It was inspired by country icon and legendary songwriter, Hank Williams, Sr. The title of the song itself is a nod to both Hank's band and his famous cover of Love Sick Blues.  It was one of his most enduring songs even though his team didn’t want him to record it. 

BOOKS

The full story of Taylor Swift’s stratospheric rise to fame; all any dedicated Swifty needs to know about the pop superstar who’s taking over the world. A small-town girl with an incredible talent, and the strength to realise her dream, Taylor has grown into an award-winning, chart-topping artist and worldwide star, as well as a strong and stylish woman. But how did she get there? And what lies in store for her in the future?.....This compelling book is packed full of fascinating details revealing the true Taylor – what drives, motivates and moves her, how she overcame the challenges that loomed on the road to fame and looks at how authentic her wholesome image is, plus the truth about her relationships with Harry Styles, Jake Gyllenhaal and Conor Kennedy and who she’s really talking about on her tracks.

MAGAZINES

Maverick Magazine: Spotlight: Laci Kaye Booth click HERE

(25 March 2022) Brittney Spencer is on the cover of Garden & Gun’s 15th anniversary issue here. 

LISTEN

(March 30, 2022) Tennessee Fields Tales of Tennessee S2 | E8 RUTHIE COLLINS

Ruthie Collins was the guest on the podcast this week and Georgie caught up with her after C2C2022, before she set off on her UK tour with Sam Outlaw.

With her beautiful vocals and gracious nature, Ruthie is an absolute gem, and her story is intrinsically one of following your heart and believing that if you are passionate about something you should do it.
Ruthie's album Cold Comfort + was released in January and has amassed millions of streams and views so far!

Follow Ruthie on her social channels (@ruthiecollinsmusic) or check out her website www.ruthiecollinsmusic.com
Get in touch with the podcast on talesoftennessee@yahoo.com as usual.

WATCH

(24 March 2022) Morgan Wade releases 'Take Me Away' video. With Reckless (Deluxe Edition) offering her scalding take on Elvis Presley’s ‘Suspicious Minds’, a revamped version of the white-knuckle single that presaged Reckless, ‘The Night’, and the churning ‘Run’, Morgan Wade has spent 2022 expanding her musical footprint. Now she releases the semi-minimalist video 'Take Me Away’.

“Making videos, especially ones that aren’t so literal, gives people other tastes and flavours – and room for their own story,” says the Floyd, Virginia songwriter. “It pulls them into the music, both the song and what this whole album is, because the pieces together show you all the ways someone can be broken down, can desire, can engage... that’s a bigger truth than any one song.”

(25 March 2022) Singer-songwriter Lewis Brice, known just as much for his rockin' country songs as he is for romantic tunes, releases video for his new single "Call Me Yours." To watch the video, click HERE.  

(28 March 2022) MusicRow’s “perennially popular” Wade Bowen revealed three and a half minutes of striking visuals to accompany the latest single off his recent six-song EP Where Phones Don’t Work with the official music video for “Phones Don’t Work”. To watch the video, click HERE.  

(28 March 2022) WATCH: Carrie Underwood Duets With Her Mom Onstage Vegas 

(28 March 2022) Song Suffragettes 8th Anniversary Show - LIVE on 03-28-2022
Song Suffragettes is a female singer/songwriter round every Monday night at The Listening Room Cafe in Nashville, TN.
Lineup left to right: 

Round 1: Mia Morris, Ava Paige, Kalie Shorr, Ava Suppelsa, Lanie Gardner
Yellow Rose of Inspiration Award: Honoree: Kelsea Ballerini; Moderator: Nicolle Galyon.   Black River Entertainment's Kelsea Ballerini was honored by NASHVILLE’s all-female, singer-songwriter collective, Song Suffragettes presented with the SONG SUFFRAGETTES' “Yellow Rose of Inspiration Award” for her contributions to the songwriting community during the group's eighth anniversary show. Songwriter and SONGS AND DAUGHTERS label head Nicolle Galyon interviewed Ballerini at the event.
Round 2: Mia Morris, Emily Brooke, Caroline Watkins,  Lauren Hungate, Madeline Merlo, Peytan Porter.

Follow Song Suffragettes: TWITTER - INSTAGRAM https://instagram.com/songsuffragettes

COUNTRY FASHION

(24 March 2022) BCMA & UK Country Awards Female Vocalist of the Year Kezia Gill launched her boho_buffalo jewellery collection!!! 😃🎉🧡🧡

Designed as a precious collection that encapsulates Kezia's unique spirit and story, but also represents values and hopes we can all connect to. They shared: “There’ s much spiritual significance in these opulent pieces and we hope you love the collection”! See BLOG - BLOG

Watch the story of the unique collection of handmade jewellery designed in collaboration with Kezia Gill. No1 UK Country Artist!

(23 March 2022) Kelsea Ballerini was pictured wearing a 2-piece Alice + Olivia outfit donning a matching Breann Fitted Blazer ($495 Product) and OLIVIA Bootcut Pant ($330 Product). Kelsea shared “dibs paw symbolizes the proximity of new music and the suit symbolizes that i still wanna be Serena Vanderwoodsen, Happy Tuesday”. 

The signature bootcut pant, now in a houndstooth print feels perfectly tailored for anything (office or after hours). The polyester blend fabric feels absurdly comfortable, and the wide waistband is incredibly flattering.

(24 March 2022) Maren Morris was snapped wearing a Mirror Palais Underwire Polo Chocolat Long sleeve underwire polo (Cover button details $325 Product) and holding a Botte Gaveneta Intrecciato leather shoulder bag (£1800 Product) 

BIRTHDAYS

Birthdays in the week ahead
March 28: Ward Thomas (twin sisters Catherine and Lizzy), Charlie McCoy (1941), Reba McEntire (1955), John Morris Rankin (Rankins) (1959), Rodney Atkins (1969)
March 29: Brady Seals (1969)
March 30: Thomas Rhett (1990), Justin Moore (1984), Jordan Carl Wheeler Davis (1988)
April 1: the late Jim Ed Brown (April 1, 1934 died June 11, 2015 (aged 81), Hillary Scott (Lady Antebellum), Gina Jeffreys (1968), Kip Moore (1980), Jennifer Wayne (Runaway June; 1982), Alyssa Bonagura (1988; The Sisterhood Band)
April 2: Emmylou Harris (1947), Billy Dean (1962), Buddy Jewell, Jill King (1975)
April 3: the late Don Gibson - (April 3, 1928 died Nov 17, 2003 (aged 75)

R.I.P
Hank Williams Jr.'s wife, Mary Jane, has died, according to a report. TMZ reported that Mary Jane Thomas died on Tuesday (March 22) in Jupiter, Fla., at the age of 58. According to a family source who spoke to the celebrity news outlet, she may have suffered a possible blood clot following an undisclosed medical procedure.
Thomas and Williams wed in 1990 and had two children together; son Sam Williams is an artist signed to UMG/Nashville, and daughter Katherine “Katie” Williams-Dunning passed away in a car accident at the age of 27 in 2020 

(27 March 2022) Country Music Community and Friends Mourn the Loss of Jeff Carson - BLOG