TRACE ADKINS DEBUTS INSPIRING “SOMEWHERE IN AMERICA” MUSIC VIDEO

 

This Fourth of July holiday, MULTI-PLATINUM entertainer and TV/film actor Trace Adkins captures the spirit of the U.S.A., exclusively premiering the official video for his single “Somewhere In America” across CMT, CMT Music, and CMT.com today (7/7). Airing every hour during morning video hours and throughout the day on CMT Music, the inspiring clip will also broadcast directly into the heart of New York City, on Paramount’s Times Square billboard at 12pm and 5pm EST. Check out the music video here.

Directed by Mike Stryker and co-produced by Stryker and Andrew Rozario, the video was filmed on location at Adkins’ “SOMEWHERE IN AMERICA: A Concert For Mayfield” presented by KIOTI Tractor, which took place on May 20. Helping lift up this Western Kentucky region after a deadly 2021 tornado claimed more than 50 lives and displaced thousands from their homes, Adkins shines a light on the rebuilding of Mayfield and a resilient community that is getting back to living.

In the clip, Adkins leads a massive crowd at Mayfield High School’s CFSB War Memorial Stadium, as they celebrate the bonds no disaster can break. Featuring vignettes of the community coming together, strangers becoming neighbors and the true American spirit on full display, it was a concert that embodied the heart still found “Somewhere In America” – with Adkins providing the soundtrack. For a special behind-the-scenes look at the Mayfield concert and music video, check out the segment on CMT Hot 20 here.

“It seems like over the last couple years we could have picked a lot of places,” Adkins explains to CMT’s Cody Alan. “I think Mayfield is representative of all those communities that have had to come together in light of these terrible storms. We just wanted to come in here and give them a pat on the back and say, ‘There are people out there that haven’t forgotten about you.’ That’s what I was hoping to do.”

“Somewhere In America” was written by Jon Nite, Hunter Phelps, Michael Hardy, and Zach Crowell, and appears on Adkins’ widely acclaimed 25th anniversary, 25-song album, THE WAY I WANNA GO (Verge Records). Produced by Mickey Jack Cones and Derek George, its lyrics are dedicated to the strength of small-town America, celebrating the unshakeable hope of dreamers everywhere – which Adkins continues to champion.

Adkins’ ongoing nationwide SOMEWHERE IN AMERICA 2023 TOUR finds him headlining in cities all across the U.S. through the end of the year. With upcoming stops in Iowa, California, New York, and Wisconsin, more dates will be announced soon. For tour dates and ticket information, click here.

SCOTTY MCCREERY KICKS OFF THIRD SEASON OF '"CMT CAMPFIRE SESSIONS"

“CMT Campfire Sessions” returns for third season on CMT Digital with an all-new slate of performances under starlit skies

New season kicked off with Scotty McCreery on Tuesday, Oct. 18th via CMT’s Facebook & YouTube channels

Latest installment also features artists Charley Crockett, Elle King, Jessie James Decker, Lainey Wilson and Warren Zeiders

CMT Digital’s much-acclaimed original series “CMT Campfire Sessions” returned for its third season Tuesday, October 18th with new episodes premiering each week via CMT’s YouTube and Facebook channels (full schedule below). Kicking off Season 3 is multi-platinum country star Scotty McCreery who shares stripped-back versions of hits including his recent three-week No. 1 “Damn Strait,” “Five More Minutes,” “You Time,” and current single “It Matters To Her,” all performed fireside with two members of his band. Watch McCreery’s full episode here.

Artists Charley Crockett, Elle King, Jessie James Decker, Lainey Wilson and Warren Zeiders will appear in upcoming installments of the show, offering acoustic performances under starlit skies. Wilson’s episode marks her second “CMT Campfire” appearance and includes a special tie-in to her character on Paramount Network’s award-winning series, “Yellowstone.”

“We are thrilled to welcome this group of artists as part of our third season of CMT Campfire Sessions on digital,” said Melissa Goldberg, VP, Digital & Social Media, CMT. “Not only do they represent the breadth of the genre, but their talent of storytelling through song, especially in this fireside-format, creates a unique experience for the fans that is amazing to witness on screen.”

Goldberg continues: “And while the fire remains constant throughout this new season, we made some cool set changes to reflect each artist’s unique vibe, which translated to everything from pink muscle cars to bohemian backyards. These stylistic enhancements serve to further connect the audience with their favorite stars while evolving the overall look and feel of the series.”

Season 3 schedule is as follows:

Tuesday, Oct. 18 – Scotty McCreery

Tuesday, Oct. 25 – Charley Crockett

Tuesday, Nov. 1 – Jessie James Decker

Monday, Nov. 7 – Lainey Wilson

Tuesday, Nov. 15 – Elle King

Tuesday, Nov. 22 – Warren Zeiders


“CMT Campfire Sessions” is a reimagining of the traditional campfire sing-along, swapping songs and stories that nod to the nostalgia and intimacy of storytelling that is synonymous with country music. Fans can view past “CMT Campfire Sessions” episodes via CMT’s Facebook and YouTube channels. For more information, visit CMT.com, join the conversation using #CMTCampfireSessions and also follow @CMT on Instagram, Twitter and TikTok.

“CMT Campfire Sessions” began as a CMT Digital-led production that gave fans an inside look into the backyards of some of their favorite artists during quarantine, including Cody Johnson, Granger Smith, Hailey Whitters, Jimmie Allen, Jordan Davis, Lainey Wilson, Lee Brice, Russell Dickerson and The War and Treaty. The success of the digital franchise went on to inspire the brand to launch a linear version of the series of the same name; with both series featuring appearances from a stellar list of artists including: Brandy Clark, Brett Eldredge, Brittney Spencer, Brothers Osborne, Clay Walker & Tracy Lawrence, Gary Allan, Kane Brown, Keb’ Mo’, Jason Aldean, Jon Pardi, Kelsea Ballerini, Lady A, Lauren Alaina, Little Big Town, Maddie & Tae, Miranda Lambert with Jack Ingram & Jon Randall, Old Crow Medicine Show, Old Dominion, Riley Green and Trisha Yearwood.

#TUNEIN - TONIGHT AT 10PM ET - COUNTRY MUSIC ICONS TRACY LAWRENCE AND CLAY WALKER - "CMT CAMPFIRE SESSIONS"

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW FOR FALL RUN OF TRACY AND CLAY’S WILDLY SUCCESSFUL CO-HEADLINING TOUR

Country music legends, Tracy Lawrence and Clay Walker, are sitting down together for a kicked-back episode of their fan-favorite series, “CMT Campfire Sessions,” airing Friday, July 29th at 10p/9c exclusively on CMT. Tune-in as these Country icons spend an evening reminiscing on stories from their years on the road together and watch as they perform a career-spanning set list of some of their biggest hits, including Tracy’s “Time Marches On” and “Find Out Who Your Friends Are,” and Clay’s tracks, “She Won’t Be Lonely Long” and “What’s It To You.”

The full fireside acoustic set list from the pair includes:

 “Catching Up With An Ol’ Memory” (Clay Walker)
“Don’t Drink Whiskey” (Tracy Lawrence)
“Find Out Who Your Friends Are”(Tracy Lawrence)
“If I Could Make A Living” (Clay Walker)
“Paint Me A Birmingham” (Tracy Lawrence)
“She Won’t Be Lonely Long” (Clay Walker)
“Sticks and Stones” (Tracy Lawrence)
“This Woman and This Man” (Clay Walker)
“Time Marches On” (Tracy Lawrence)
“What’s It To You” (Clay Walker)

Encores of this week’s episode will air Sunday, July 31st at 11a/10c (CMT), Friday, August 5th at 8p/7c (CMT Music) and Saturday, August 8th at 10a/9c and 6p/5c (CMT Music).

Earlier this year, the two Country icons hit the road together on their special co-headlining tour where the long-time friends and tourmates shared the same stage and performed together with a full band for a 12 date run. The highly acclaimed tour kicked-off with back-to-back sell out weekends, leaving fans wanting more! This November, the two will once again thrill Country music fans during a second run of their wildly successful co-headlining tour.

Tracy Lawrence & Clay Walker Fall Tour Dates:

11.3 - Chartway Arena - Norfolk, VA

11.4.- Crown Theatre - Fayetteville, NC**

11.5 - Township Auditorium - Columbia, SC

11.10 - Knoxville Auditorium - Knoxville, TN

11.11 - Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium - Spartanburg, SC

11.12 - Macon City Auditorium - Macon, GA

**Tickets for Fayetteville, NC go on-sale Friday, July 29th.

For tickets and more information, visit tracylawrence.com/events or claywalker.com/tour.

CMT TO AIR “NAOMI JUDD: A RIVER OF TIME CELEBRATION” LIVE FROM RYMAN AUDITORIUM COMMERCIAL-FREE ON SUNDAY, MAY 15TH AT 6P/5C

PUBLIC MEMORIAL CELEBRATION TO INCLUDE TRIBUTES FROM WYNONNA & ASHLEY JUDD WITH SOON-TO-BE ANNOUNCED PERFORMANCES AND SPECIAL APPEARANCES FROM SOME OF THE BIGGEST NAMES IN ENTERTAINMENT

CMT and Sandbox Live today announced “NAOMI JUDD: A RIVER OF TIME CELEBRATION,” a LIVE celebration from Ryman Auditorium, in partnership with The Judds' family, to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of country music icon Naomi Judd. CMT will exclusively televise the public memorial service as a commercial-free special on Sunday, May 15th at 6p/5c.

“We are sincerely privileged to work alongside Wynonna and Ashley to present this live celebration of life for their mother Naomi. While we all continue to deeply mourn the loss of such a legendary artist, we are honored to commemorate her legacy alongside the country community, her friends, family and legions of fans across the world at the perfect venue: The Mother Church of Country Music. This special will celebrate her timeless voice, unforgettable spirit and the immense impact she left on our genre through the best form of healing we have - music,” shared CMT Producers.

Additional details on the public memorial service, performers and special appearances to be announced in the coming days.

“NAOMI JUDD: A RIVER OF TIME CELEBRATION” is a co-production from CMT and Sandbox Live; Margaret Comeaux (CMT), Leslie Fram (CMT), Jason Owen (Sandbox Live) and Patrizia DiMaria (Ladypants Productions) are Executive Producers.

CMT previously aired The Judds’ final performance of international hit and chart-topping single, “Love Can Build A Bridge,” from the 2022 CMT MUSIC AWARDS. Watch the full performance here.

CMT TO HONOR THE LEGENDARY RANDY TRAVIS WITH "ARTIST OF A LIFETIME" AWARD AT THE 2021 "CMT ARTIST OF THE YEAR" CELEBRATION

2021 “CMT Artists of the Year” airing LIVE from Nashville on Wednesday, October 13th at 9p/8c

CMT today announced country music legend Randy Travis will be honored with the “Artist of a Lifetime” award presented by The Ram Truck Brand at this year’s “CMT Artists of the Year” event. Travis will join the illustrious ranks alongside previous “Lifetime” honorees including Reba McEntire (2019), Loretta Lynn (2018), Shania Twain (2016), Kenny Rogers (2015) and Merle Haggard (2014). The 2021 “CMT Artists of the Year” celebration will air LIVE from Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center on Wednesday, October 13 at 9p/8c on CMT. The award comes as Travis celebrates 35 years of his debut album, Storms of Life, with Friday's release of a deluxe edition offering three never-before-heard songs and remastered versions of the ten iconic original tracks.

"To think you receive a Lifetime Achievement award for sharing your heart with the world through music is really beyond words of gratitude. CMT has been so good to me throughout my career and I'm happy they believe I gave something in return. I'm blessed and most thankful," shared Randy Travis.

“It is a privilege to announce Randy Travis as the recipient of this year’s CMT Artist of a Lifetime award. His historic career encompassing multiple genres illuminates his extraordinary talent, determination, and lasting influence on country music and beyond,” said Leslie Fram, Senior Vice President, Music & Talent, CMT. “Randy’s unmistakable, traditional country sound has shaped multiple generations and we’re honored to celebrate this deserved lifetime honor with him.”

The 90-minute special returns to its original format after adapting last year to honor some of the most vital and inspirational Americans on the frontlines of the pandemic. Travis will join the live show alongside previously announced 2021 honorees Chris Stapleton, Gabby Barrett, Kane Brown, Kelsea Ballerini and Luke Combs alongside recently-announced “Breakthrough Artist of the Year” Mickey Guyton. The 2021 “CMT Artists of the Year” ceremony will feature never-before-seen performances and collaborations, with special guests, performers and presenters to be announced in the coming weeks.

Travis has had a storied history with CMT, including headlining an unforgettable episode of CMT’s critically acclaimed music series “CMT Crossroads” in 2012 with Avett Brothers, which was also nominated for a CMT Music Award that same year. He additionally appeared in “CMT Cross Country'' alongside Josh Turner and served as a mentor for CMT’s talent search “Music City Madness” in 2008.

The 2021 “CMT Artists of the Year” is executive produced by CMT’s Margaret Comeaux, Switched On Entertainment’s John Hamlin and Amy Lin Johnson. The Executives in Charge of Production are Jackie Barba and Heather D. Graffagnino. Leslie Fram is Executive in Charge of Talent; Shanna Strassberg is Talent Producer.

CMT MUSIC ADDS JENNY TOLMAN’S “THERE GOES THE NEIGHBORHOOD”

Welcome to Jennyville!

Today, America will be introduced to this outrageous fictional town at the heart of country newcomer Jenny Tolman’s debut album when “There Goes the Neighborhood” is added to CMT Music’s video rotation.

Tolman says, "I'm grateful to everyone at CMT for continuing to support females in country music by giving them equal play. The High Class White Trash Welcoming Committee is ready for their big screen debut!"

With a sassy yet savvy approach, director Christina Cooper brings to life a make-believe burg full of gossipy women who are at once lovable and neurotic, catty and competitive. The object of their affection is the new town hottie, though ultimately the joke is on the desperate women in this charming ditty written by Tolman, producer Dave Brainard and tunesmith Mary Haller.

As Nashville Scene writer Brittney McKenna notes, “Nashville can be a tough town for women making country music,” but Tolman counters that dose of reality, she says, by concocting her own playful dreamworld. “[By] offering glimpses at colorful characters who speak larger truths about small-town life,” McKenna adds, “Tolman is as compelling a vocalist and songwriter as she is world-builder.”

The video, which features personal friends of Tolman, will have great appeal to those who can relate to the foibles of southern life. “There’s a huge thread of self-perception and body image … and a whole take on all of society’s pressures,” Tolman says of this and other songs on Neighborhood.



For more information, visit Jenny Tolman.

CMT PREMIERES RIOTOUS CJ SOLAR VIDEO

“Coming My Way” First Single from Upcoming EP

CMT Music premiered CJ Solar’s hilarious music video for his upbeat new single, “Coming My Way,” this morning. The single will be the title track to Solar’s upcoming third EP. The video has also been added to CMT Music 12 Pack Countdown, and fans can vote HERE.

Produced and directed by Thomas Chi and shot near Huntington WV, the video opens with CJ and his band pulling in to a grocery store parking lot to grab snacks on the way to a gig. As each guy wanders through the store, they give each other a mischievous glance. The next scene sees all four wearing helmets and racing shopping carts up and down the aisles. Two cops come in, drop their donuts, arrest two guys and tackle a third, as CJ crosses the finish line in victory. The cashier rings CJ back to reality, he pays for his macaroni and cheese and realizes his bus driver has left the scene.

CJ wrote "Coming My Way" with Jake Mitchell and Hardy, and the single will be the title track to his third EP due out early next year. Check it out now on Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube and Amazon.

CJ opened for Chris Janson last weekend, and this weekend he heads home to Baton Rouge to perform outside Tiger Stadium prior to the LSU vs. Arkansas football game on Saturday.

Keep up with CJ Solar at www.CJSolar.com or on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/cjsolarband
https://twitter.com/CJSolar
https://www.instagram.com/cjsolar/

CMT NEXT UP NOW PREMIERES PAUL BOGART’S MUSIC VIDEO FOR “I’M JUST SAYIN’’’

Country crooner Paul Bogart brings us back to Summer with his new official music video for “I’m Just Sayin’.” CMT's Next Up Now debuted this feel-good, breezy video on Wednesday, taking viewers on to the water with Bogart, prolonging the warmer months as long as possible. Written and produced by Trent Willmon with Jenee Fleanor and Buddy Owens, Bogart sings a lighthearted love song about wooing a woman with a tropical getaway and it can be streamed here. The music video was directed by Nashville’s Quinton Cook.

“Quinton Cook did a fantastic job of capturing everything that this song is about; highlighting a perfect day on the water, in the sun, with your girl and loving life. The video fits the song to a T and I am extremely proud of it and excited for the world to see it,” said Paul Bogart.

The single premiered on Medium.com has already received support from playlists including Apple Music’s The Sand Bar, Spotify’s New Music Nashville and Pandora’s New Country Now and Spring Break. Paul's previous single, “Mothers and Sons,” gained support from Spotify on their New Music Nashville playlist and Taste of Country called his song “When the Cowboys are Gone,” “nothing but authentic.”

CMT NEXT UP NOW PREMIERES “SLINGSHOT” OFFICIAL VIDEO IN SUPPORT OF STEPHANIE OWENS CURRENT SINGLE

Watch "Slingshot" video here

CMT Next Up Now will feature the official music video for  “Slingshot”, the current single by Stephanie Owens today. Highlights of the artist will also be featured in a special way on CMT.com. CMT Next Up Now brings together a variety of country music videos each week to discover who listeners should be listening to. 

“Stephanie is an artist I love collaborating with because she knows what she wants to say with her art and how to connect with people through it,” stated Logen Christopher, Stormlight Pictures. “For the ‘Slingshot’ music video, we really found a story that’s very personal to Steph, but, also, we think lots of people can relate to and connect with it.  Excited to release it!”

“The concept for this music video was inspired by the song’s energetic vibe and by my love for distance running.  Just like playing competitive sports involves discipline and requires a comeback mentality, the lifelong battle of staying optimistic through trials reminds me of running a race.  I also wanted this to play off of my ‘Little Girl in the Mirror’ video by keeping ‘younger me’ a part of the storyline,” shared Stephanie Owens. “I am very thankful to CMT for supporting ‘Slingshot’ and am excited to premiere it just in time for football and basketball seasons!”

The uplifting and inspiring single, “Slingshot” encourages listeners to keep pushing through and bounce back when faced with hardships in life. Lynchburg, Virginia native, Stephanie Owens co-wrote the song with Evan Cline, and Melissa Sheridan with production by Brad Hill, Evan Cine, and Stephanie Owens. Download and stream the music on all digital platforms, including Apple Music, iTunes, Spotify, Google Play and Amazon here.

Stay current with everything Stephanie Owens on her website: stephowensmusic.com. Find links to her social media pages on her website and connect with her socially!

#TUNEIN ALERT - AARON TIPPIN, COLLIN RAYE AND SAMMY KERSHAW TALK 90'S COUNTRY ON THIS WEEKEND'S EDITION OF CMT HOT 20 COUNTDOWN

Tune-in to this weekend's edition of CMT Hot 20 Countdown for a special sit-down interview with country hitmakers Aaron Tippin,Collin Raye and Sammy Kershaw.

CMT recently caught up with the trio at a concert stop at Wild Bill Days in Deadwood, SD, where the three discussed the early years of their careers, the resurgence of 90's country and performing together on their wildly-popular "Roots & Boots" tour.

Catch Tippin, Raye and Kershaw on CMT Hot 20 Countdown this Saturday, August 3 at 9:00 am ET / 8:00 am CT. The show re-airs on Sunday, August 4 at 9 :00 am. ET / 8:00 am CT.

LIVE IN THE VINEYARD GOES COUNTRY HOSTS ARTISTS, MUSIC PROGRAMMERS, SUPERVISORS, RADIO CONTEST WINNERS AND MORE IN NAPA, CALIFORNIA IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CMT

 LITVGC Delivers Many Musical Moments Throughout The 3-Day Event, Held May 14-16 

Across Breathtaking Wineries and Vineyards

Featuring Headline Performances by Brad Paisley and Little Big Town; Acoustic Performances by Brothers Osborne, Caylee Hammack, Chris Lane, Cody Johnson, Gone West, HARDY, Ingrid Andress, LANCO, Michael Ray, Morgan Evans, Scott McCreery, Walker Hayes and More

Live In The Vineyard Goes Country (LITVGC), presented by CMT, took place May 14-16 amidst the lush scenery of Napa, California, offered attendees exclusive access to recording artists, top tier wine makers and world-renowned chefs during a “once-in-a-lifetime” three-day event.

Each year, LITVGC serves as host to industry insiders representing radio programming, music supervision, label executives, as well as grand prize winners from radio station promotions across the country and special sweeps winners through sponsors. Attendees were treated to intimate performances by some of Country music’s biggest names and fastest rising stars in a beautiful countryside setting all while enjoying specially made, locally-driven cuisines and award-winning wines from partner wineries including Regusci Winery and Round Pond Estates as well as hosting wineries Whetstone Wine Cellars, Hall Winery, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Peju, One Hope, Caymus Vineyards, JaM Cellars, MadoroM Vineyards, Far Niente, Italics Winegrowers, etc. Concerts were also hosted at Uptown Theatre and Blue Note (JaM Cellars Ballroom).

This year’s LITVGC featured headline performances by Brad Paisley and Little Big Town along with acoustic performances by Brandon Ratcliff, Brothers Osborne, Brown & Gray, Caylee Hammack, Chris Lane, Cody Johnson, Dillon Carmichael, Erin Enderlin, Gone West, Haley & Michaels, HARDY, Ingrid Andress, Jon Pardi, Kylie Morgan, LANCO, Michael Ray, Mickey Guyton, Morgan Evans, Rayne Johnson, Runaway June, Scotty McCreery, Seaforth, Teddy Robb, Tenille Townes, Travis Denning, and Walker Hayes.

Event Highlights from across the three-days include:

Live In The Vineyard Goes Country 2019 kicked off with performances by Brad Paisley, LANCO and Walker Hayes during an Opening Reception on Tuesday, May 14. Held at Regusci Winery, an array of Regusci wines and delectable hors d’oeuvres prepared by their renowned winery chef were made for attendees to enjoy as they took in the vineyard’s breathtaking view.

Brad Paisley poses with Charlie Cook, VP of Country Formats for Cumulus Radio Group, Operations Manager Cumulus Nashville and Program Director 95.5 NASH ICON WSM-FM 

Brad Paisley poses with LANCO at Regusci Winery during  Live In The Vineyard Goes Country (2019), presented by CMT 

Brad Paisley at REGUSCI Winery during Live In The Vineyard Goes Country (2019), presented by CMT 

LANCO at REGUSCI Winery during Live In The Vineyard Goes Country (2019), presented by CMT

Held in the intimate, rustic quarters of JaM Cellars York House, UMG Nashville’s Travis Denning played to a packed room of music programmers and industry influencers during Live In The Vineyard Goes Country (2019), presented by CMT.

Ingrid Andress, Chris Lane, Marley Sherwood (CMT), Caylee Hammack and HARDY during Live In The Vineyard Goes Country (2019), presented by CMT  

Big Loud President Clay Hunnicutt, Chris Lane, HARDY and Big Loud’s VP of Marketing Candice Watkins at Round Pound Estate Winery during Live In The Vineyard Goes Country (2019), presented by CMT 

Warner Music Nashville’s Ingrid Andress performing at Round Pound Estate Winery during Live In The Vineyard Goes Country (2019), presented by CMT 

Universal Music Group’s Caylee Hammack performing at Round Pound Estate Winery during Live In The Vineyard Goes Country (2019), presented by CMT

Little Big Town performs during Live In The Vineyard Goes Country (2019), presented by CMT at Uptown Theatre

KASEY TYNDALL PREMIERES VIDEO FOR SINGLE "BAR THAT'S OPEN" ON CMT.COM

If you've been missing some genuine attitude and twang with your country lately,  CMT.com is the place to find it today with the premiere of Kasey Tyndall's brand new video for her single, "Bar That's Open." This song is heading big places and can be her first hit with your support! Get behind Kasey and a song with serious potential and request "Bar That's Open" on your local stations, download and share the song, share the video and let's create a buzz!

Thanks to the stations who have already started giving this song attention and to CMT for giving Kasey a platform!

Connect with Kasey online:

Website - www.kaseytyndall.com
Twitter - @kaseytyndall
Facebook - www.facebook.com/kaseytyndallmusic
Instagram - @kaseytyndall

JACOB DAVIS CELEBRATES GRAND OLE OPRY DEBUT + NEW MUSIC VIDEO

Opry introduction included debut single “What I Wanna Be” + “James Brown”

Shot on location in Louisiana, “What I Wanna Be” Music Video

Premieres with CMT 

Jacob Davis Makes his Grand Ole Opry Debut on Friday, June 23

Photo Credit: Chris Hollo

Black River Entertainment’s Jacob Davis achieved a career dream Friday night as he made his debut on the most revered stage in country music, The Grand Ole Opry. With a live show that has led Country Living to dub him "a bona fide star," and Taste of Country raving "a showman, appropriate for someone raised where the Louisiana Hayride broadcasts still echo," Davis stood confidently in “the circle” surrounded by friends and family who made the drive up from his hometown of Shreveport for this once-in-a-lifetime music moment performing “What I Wanna Be,” a song he wrote with Forest Glen Whitehead and Adam Hambrick that Whitehead produced (Kelsea Ballerini), as well as “James Brown,” lending to the "funk and soul" monikers that permeate his songs (Taste of Country).

Jacob Davis Makes his Grand Ole Opry Debut on Friday, June 23

L to R ID: Black River Entertainment's CEO Gordon Kerr and Executive Vice President of Black River Records Rick Froio; Jacob Davis; and Senior Vice President of Programming and Artist Relations for Opry Entertainment and General Manager of the Grand Ole Opry Sally Williams

Photo Credit: Chris Hollo

"This floor is literally cracking underneath my feet, and you have no clue how incredible this feels," he said standing in the Opry circle in his weathered Tony Llama boots. Stumbling over words from anticipation of that first note, the Shreveport-native introduced the audience to "What I Wanna Be" simply saying, "I think... this is what a guy oughta say to a girl..."

Written with Scott Stepakoff and Jason Gantt, Davis had some surprise accompaniment join him for his second song, "James Brown." "I was raised on 90's country, and a little soul, a little funk, just a great mixed bag of music... I figured Elvis brought a little funk when he played here, so...," and with that he brought out two horn players to accompany him.

Jacob Davis on the set of his "What I Wanna Be" music video in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Credit: Black River Entertainment

“What I Wanna Be” is the first taste of what’s to come from Jacob Davis’ full-length album on Black River Entertainment, and the Louisiana-native recently returned to the Bayou state to film its music video. Directed by Josh Kranich, the backdrop for the performance driven music video is set in popular New Orleans’ live music venue Bamboula’s. With CMT’s “Summer of Music” underway and Jacob Davis as one of their 17 in 2017, he joined Cody Alan to talk about family, songwriting and life on the road. Check out the video for "What I Wanna Be" HERE.

DENNY STRICKLAND'S "WE DON'T SLEEP" VIDEO HAS EXCLUSIVE WORLD PREMIERE ON CMT

Hot country newcomer Denny Strickland’s video for his latest single, “We Don’t Sleep,” exclusively premiered on CMT. Fans of Strickland can now vote for his video in CMT’s 12-Pack Countdown. Click HERE to vote for “We Don’t Sleep.”

The video, shot and directed by Brian Harstine (Dolly Parton, Ke$ha), perfectly brings to life the emotional and steamy track, which is the first released song from his upcoming album, CALIFORNIA DREAMIN. The video was shot locally in various locations in Nashville, including the popular Urban Cowboy Bed & Breakfast in East Nashville.

“The video for “We Don’t Sleep” came out even better than I ever imagined. I’m really proud of this single and knew the video had to really capture the emotion behind it. Brian and I talked a lot about what we needed to get the right mood and I think he nailed it! I’m really excited to share this project with the fans,” Strickland said.

The expressive single was co-produced by Sean Giovanni and written by the successful Tommy Cecil, Jaida Dreyer, Jody Stevens and Cole Tyler. The sultry song displays Strickland’s widespread influences that provide listeners with a “structured depth of a Pop/Country record along with the emotional impact of a live band feel,” according to Giovanni.

CMT Music 12-Pack Countdown allows fans to vote weekly for their favorite 12 music videos. Voting opens 1 p.m. ET every Friday and closes at 1 a.m. the following Friday. To show your support of “We Don’t Sleep,” click here to vote for his new video.

“We Don’t Sleep” is available now on Spotify, Apple Music and Google Play.

For more information visit dennystrickland.com or follow him on social media!

MAREN MORRIS TEAMS UP WITH ALICIA KEYS FOR CMT CROSSROADS TOMORROW NIGHT FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2

Singer/songwriter Maren Morris as previously announced has teamed up with GRAMMY Award-winning singer/songwriter and producer Alicia Keys for the next installment of CMT Cross Roads, airing Friday, December 2nd at 10pm ET/PT.

The episode was filmed in Nashville, TN this past August.

EVERYBODY LOVES KELLIE PICKLER AND SO DOES STEVE HARVEY

Country Music and Television Star Talks Favorite App, New Tattoo

L to R: Steve Harvey, Kellie Pickler and Kyle Jacobs

Courtesy of Steve Harvey

Steve Harvey had fiery country artist and star of CMT’s I Love Kellie Pickler, return Tuesday, Oct. 11 to recap having “one of his favorite contestants” on Family Feud and discuss a favorite app and most recent tattoo celebrating her and her husband, Kyle Jacobs’ marriage.

During the interview, Harvey played the viral clip of Pickler’s appearance on Family Feud, where the country-music charmer was so excited she scared the chatty host speechless, before sitting down with her. After watching the clip from CMT’s I Love Kellie Pickler showing the Platinum-certified “Best Days of Your Life” singer getting a meaningful tattoo —  her wedding date in Roman numerals on her forearm in Jacobs’ handwriting — the bubbly Dancing With The Stars winner explained how she likes the feeling of getting tattoos.

After purposefully calling her Kellie “Pichler” to poke fun at his recent name-announcement mishap, Harvey hilariously segued into discussing the Dictionary.com app that helps Kellie and Steve with the pronunciation and definition of new vocabulary. The two larger-than-life personalities took turns taking a stab at different words while the live audience erupted with laughter. The comical talk show host wrapped the interview by calling the southern personality his “favorite guest.”

Don’t miss the Steve Harvey digital extra, Random Questions with Kellie Pickler  where she answers fun questions such as, “Do vegetarians eat animal crackers?”

Catch I Love Kellie Pickler Thursdays at 10:00 / 9:00 p.m. CT on CMT.

CMT WORLD PREMIERES DYNAMIC RISING ARTIST KAREN WALDRUP'S MUSIC VIDEO FOR "I GOT THAT KIND OF TIME" TODAY

VIDEO LANDS AT THE #1 TRENDING SPOT ON CMT.COM

www.karenwaldrup.com

International media power player CMT world premiered the music video for rising star Karen Waldrup’s music video for “I Got That Kind of Time” today across all platforms. Since the video for the independent artist was released this morning, it’s landed on the top trending spot on CMT.com. “I Got That Kind Of Time” is an upbeat, energy-filled tune devoted to the special people in everyone’s life, whether its a spouse, family member or friend, that warrant spending time with regardless of the situation.

“I’m ecstatic that CMT is exclusively world premiering the music video for “I Got That Kind Of Time” today and even more blown away that it’s trending,” says Waldrup. “The video and song are both so relatable and fun. It’s a good Monday y’all.”

The music video, directed by Billy Brown of Evidential Productions and starring well known fishing model Brooke Thomas, really focuses on the heart of this song with the polar bear character that represents those special people in everyone’s life. Check out the polar bear in the “I Got That Kind of Time music video here.

“The Polar Bear is symbolic of every single person in your life that you care about. He appears in random, unexpected places, just as it often happens when you’re making time for people you care about in your own life,” explains Waldrup. “We had such a blast filming this video and had a great team of people that came together to make it happen."

GigTown is also a fan of the song and named "I Got That Kind of Time" the "Song of the Week." They praise the song saying, "there's an immediate lightness to this decidely carefree track of Waldrup's ... she makes being pressed for time sound like the last thing on her mind.

Waldrup is an indepedent artist that tours extensively throughout the world and is continuing to cross the country this year connecting with and entertaining fans, new and old alike. Catch her on the road in the cities below this fall or on Facebook live, as Waldrup prides herself on broadcasting every show live on her Facebook fan page.

Sept. 2 - The Roundup Beer Garden - Boerne, TX

Sept. 3 - Private Event - Fair Oaks Ranch, TX

Sept. 17 - The Grouse Room - Lafayette, LA

Sept. 18 - Private Event - Houston, TX

Sept. 20 - Private Event - Napa, CA

Sept. 27 - A Golden Evening - Nashville, TN

Oct. 21 - Blast on the Bay - Port St Joe, FL

Oct. 22 - Blast on the Bay - Post St. Joe, FL

Oct. 23 - Blast on the Bay - Port St Joe, FL

Nov. 4 - Coyotes - Augusta, GA

Nov. 5 - Coyotes - Augusta, GA

Nov. 7 - Private Event - Atlanta, GA

RACHEL LIPSKY PARTNERS WITH CMT.COM FOR "READY SET WHISKEY" WORLD PREMIERE

2016 is proving to be an exciting year for country newcomer Rachel Lipsky!  Rachel’s new video, “Ready Set Whiskey,” directed by Dan McMellen & Julie Berke, debuts today exclusively on CMT.com illustrating her powerful vocals and alluring personality.

The punchy new single, produced by Shane Barrett, showcases Lipsky’s unique blend of traditional southern rock and brass knuckles country, inviting listeners to the much anticipated after work week party. “Ready Set Whiskey” is also available for download on iTunes HERE.

Rachel Lipsky exploded onto the country music scene when she won the Pepsi Southern Original competition in 2014. Since then, Rachel has opened for names like Blake Shelton, Keith Urban, Lady Antebellum, Hank Williams, Jr. and more. She has been invited by Armed Forces Entertainment to perform for American troops overseas multiple times and newly confirmed to return this summer. Lipsky recenty won IMEA's Country Female Vocalist Award, was a top 10 finalist for the CMT NSAI Song Contest and was a finalist in UnSigned Only's International Songwriting Competition for "Ready Set Whiskey."

For more information, visit www.rachellipsky.com and engage with her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

JUSTIN MOORE PREMIERES "YOU LOOK LIKE I NEED A DRINK" MUSIC VIDEO EXCLUSIVELY ON CMT

Comedy-Laden Clip Goes Live This Saturday (2/13)

With a storyline reminiscent of Groundhog Day, Justin Moore goes back in time for a wild Western showdown in the new music video for his latest release “You Look Like I Need a Drink.” The clip premieres exclusively on JustinMoore.CMT.com beginning at 12:01am ET on Saturday, February 13 in addition to the on-air debut during CMT Hot 20 Countdown at 9am ET. The video will be available to all partners on Monday, February 15.

Directed by Shane Drake and shot in Los Angeles, Moore is able to live out all of his Western fantasies. Between riding a horse, tumbleweeds, bandits and bar fights, there is no shortage of classic Wild West flavor on screen.

“This may be my favorite video I’ve ever shot,” shared Moore. “I am a huge Western fan, and we shot one with a dose of comedy.”

“He keeps repeating the day only in different ways and different forms and shapes,” continued Drake of the plot. “We had to keep redressing the same set and have Justin do a lot of the same actions…”

Moore is on the hunt for a wanted lady and must repeat the same day – walking in the same bar – but in different circumstances each time until he finds the woman on the poster.

Moore will perform “You Look Like I Need A Drink,” along with his five chart-topping hits, on the road this summer with Brantley Gilbert’s TAKE IT OUTSIDE TOUR. For more information and tour dates, please visit www.justinmooremusic.com.

CRAIG CAMPBELL BRINGS "TOMORROW TONIGHT" TO LIFE IN NEW VIDEO PREMIERING WORLDWIDE TODAY (7/30) ON CMT

Entertainment Tonight Gives Fans an Exclusive Sneak Peek Behind the Scenes at ETOnline.com

Craig Campbell on the “Tomorrow Tonight” video shoot set in Nashville, TN. 

Photo Credit: Glenn Sweitzer  

CMT is unveiling the music video for Craig Campbell’s sexy RED BOW Records’ debut single “Tomorrow Tonight” exclusively on CMT Pure today (7/30). Fans can also view the video on-demand at CraigCampbell.cmt.com and on the CMT Artists App.

Filmed in Nashville, TN and directed by Chris Hickey, the accompanying music video brings the flirtatious lyrics to life. Playful texting shown on split screens precedes a romantic rendezvous between Campbell and actress, Sulivan Mellencamp.

“I had to break out my acting skills for this one,” said Campbell. “It definitely shows a side of me that has not been on camera yet. I’m excited for everyone to finally see it!”

Media is already abuzz about this steamy, envelope-pushing hit. Artist Direct lauds “Country crooner Craig Campbell has a hit on his hands.” All Access adds, “Take my advice and don’t wait till tomorrow to add this song, it’s a hit, add it now.” Meanwhile Music Row suggests “Play this...He soars vocally on this one. Supporting harmony singing and screaming guitars adds to the undeniable excitement.” Taste of Country concurs, “It’s a strong vocal performance for a man who slips under the radar all too often…songs like this are built for radio success.”

“Tomorrow Tonight” is currently climbing the Country radio charts and marked the singer’s biggest first-week add date ever (6/8). Produced by Jeremy Stover (Justin Moore) and co-written by Campbell, Justin Wilson and Vicky McGehee, “Tomorrow Tonight” is the lead track for his third studio album — and forthcoming debut project on RED BOW Records.

Campbell launched on to the Country music scene with the release of his self-titled debut album (2011) delivering the hits “Family Man,” “Fish,” and “When I Get It.” To date, he has logged four consecutive charted hits with over a billion radio airplay audience impressions and over a half million downloads. Acclaimed as one of the genre's most neo-traditionalist singers, his Top 15 breakout debut “Family Man” was featured on HBO’s True Blood and the top-selling fan-favorite “Fish” has tallied nearly 400,000 digital copies sold. Campbell earned his first Top 10 smash with the infectious “Keep Them Kisses Comin’” from his sophomore album NEVER REGRET (2013) produced by Keith Stegall (Alan Jackson, Zac Brown Band) and Matt Rovey (CCMA Album Of The Year Producer). The gifted songwriter penned Garth Brooks "All American Kid" on MAN AGAINST THE MACHINE. Prior to landing his first record deal, the Lyons, GA native spent time on the road playing keyboard for both Tracy Byrd and Luke Bryan - shows that inspired him nightly. He was soon discovered while playing a regular gig at the downtown Nashville honky-tonk, The Stage.

For tour dates and more information on Craig Campbell, visit www.craigcampbell.tv.

“Tomorrow Tonight” is now available here.