Eddie Rabbitt
Eddie Rabbitt, a key figure in country music during the 1970s and ’80s, brought a unique fusion of soul and soft rock to the genre, paving the way for the urban cowboy era. His innovative approach as a songwriter began with hits like “Kentucky Rain” performed by Elvis Presley and the chart-topping “Pure Love” by Ronnie Milsap in 1974, setting the stage for Rabbitt’s distinctive style of R&B-infused country with a pop sensibility. Throughout the early ’80s, Rabbitt delivered a string of number one country hits including “Drivin’ My Life Away,” “I Love a Rainy Night,” and “Someone Could Lose a Heart Tonight,” blending a light rockabilly sound with easy listening vibes.
Born in Brooklyn, New York in 1941, Eddie Rabbitt’s musical journey began under the guidance of his neighbor and mentor Tony Schwickrath, leading him to fall in love with country music at a young age. Despite facing challenges and dropping out of high school, Rabbitt’s passion for music persisted. His career took off as a songwriter when his compositions were recorded by prominent artists like Roy Drusky and Elvis Presley. Rabbitt’s transition to Nashville in 1968 marked a significant turning point, allowing him to establish himself as a professional songwriter and eventually a successful performer.
Significant milestones in Rabbitt’s career include the release of his self-titled debut album in 1975 and the chart-topping success of singles like “Drinkin’ My Baby (Off My Mind)” in 1976. His crossover appeal grew with hits such as “You Don’t Love Me Anymore” and
Conner Sweet
Tennessee native Conner Sweet grew up with a guitar in his hand. Born and raised on the outskirts of Nashville, Sweet comes from a long line of singers and musicians, so it was only natural that music would be a main passion in his life. The authenticity of Sweet’s traditional country style reflects early influences by country legends such as George Jones, Johnny Cash and George Strait as well as some of his current favorites Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan and Thomas Rhett. Writing songs since he was 16, Sweet scored his first radio single in 2020 with Times Like These. It hit home for many during the pandemic, reaching #37 on the Billboard Country Indicator Chart and #22 on the Music Row Break Out Chart. It finished 2020 as one of the most played country songs by an independent artist that year. His days are spent writing and performing for a solid fan base that he has built from Nashville’s live circuit. “I wake up every day grateful that I get to write songs and make music for a living. It’s what I have always dreamed of, and I know, regardless of the size of the stage, I will always be on one somewhere.”
Read MoreSteve Earle
One of the most celebrated singer/songwriters of his generation, Steve Earle has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Initially recognized as a country artist, Earle quickly transcended genre boundaries, exploring a diverse range of musical styles including country, bluegrass, rock, folk, and blues. His music reflects a populist lyrical stance that effortlessly navigates between personal anecdotes and political commentary, capturing the essence of everyday life and societal influences. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, Earle’s rebellious spirit and unmatched talent have garnered him a devoted fan base that appreciates his stylistic evolution over the years.
Born in Fort Monroe, Virginia, and raised in Texas, Earle’s musical journey began at a young age when he received his first guitar and showcased his talent in local talent contests. Despite his musical prowess, Earle’s rebellious nature and anti-establishment views often clashed with traditional country fans. Moving to Nashville in pursuit of his musical aspirations, Earle worked tirelessly during the day while honing his songwriting skills at night. His interactions with iconic figures like Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark laid the foundation for his future success as a songwriter and recording artist, ultimately leading to significant collaborations and accolades throughout his career.
William Michael Morgan
The New York Times declares ‘…in the emergent field of gentleman country — an antidote to the bros of the last few years — William Michael Morgan stands tall.’ The praise continues with his debut album VINYL, being hailed as a ‘sturdy, reflective debut album….a throwback to the temperate wisdom of midcareer George Strait.’ The record, which opened in the Top 5 on Billboard’s Country Albums Chart, has landed him on countless year-end best album lists, including Rolling Stone, iTunes and Saving Country Music. His breakout mega-hit ‘I Met A Girl’ has earned top song of the year nods from Billboard and NPR. The song topped charts and has garnered over a billion audience impressions, including over 25 million on-demand streams.
Read MoreAustin English
For well over a decade, Austin English has been on a journey towards stardom, showcasing his talent on numerous prominent stages across the Texas Midwest and Mountain West. Standing tall at 6’6”, this Texas-native is hard to miss, delivering electrifying performances that have captivated audiences at events like the Highway 30 Music Festival, Texas Hall of Fame, White Elephant Saloon in the Ft. Worth Stockyard, Rodeo Austin, and Gruene Hall. His impressive resume includes opening for renowned national artists such as the Charlie Daniels Band, Granger Smith, Daryle Singletary, Tracy Byrd, Reckless Kelly, Gary Allan, Cody Johnson, Will Hoge, and Radney Foster, earning him a massive following of dedicated fans who are drawn to his powerful vocals and authentic, engaging songs.
Austin English’s music reflects his roots in the rural Blackland-Prairie town of Elgin, embodying the rich tapestry of Texas landscapes that have influenced his sound. Initially performing with The Crop Dusters in his teenage years, English later focused on honing his songwriting craft, taking inspiration from local institutions like the historic Coupland Inn & Dancehall and the vibrant Austin music scene. These iconic venues served as a breeding ground for talent, shaping English’s musical direction and exposing him to the diverse sounds of outlaws and balladeers who have left an indelible mark on Texas music history.
Devin Dawson
Devin Dawson’s latest release, The Pink Slip EP, is a six-song-set that finds the Warner Music Nashville / Atlantic Records breakout building on the edgy confidence he pioneered with his critically acclaimed debut album, Dark Horse. With Dawson recently topping the charts as a featured artist alongside Lauren Alaina on HARDY’s “One Beer,” the EP marks the first new solo music from the singer/songwriter since the success of his GRAMMY-nominated, ACM and CMA Single of the Year, “God’s Country,” that he co-wrote for superstar Blake Shelton. The multi-week No. 1 also landed Dawson his first-ever ACM and CMA award nominations for Song of the Year, adding to his previously earned nods from the ACM, CMT Music, Radio Disney, BMI and MusicRow Awards. Called “one of country music’s most tender and articulate wordsmiths” by The Tennessean, he co-wrote every track on Dark Horse, which arrived Top 3 and Top 5 on Billboard’s Country Albums Charts upon release and features the Platinum-certified hit “All On Me.” The Nor-Cal native has performed on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Late Night with Seth Meyers, ELLEN and TODAY in addition to receiving overwhelming critical praise from outlets such as HUFFPO, Esquire, Rolling Stone, Billboard, Entertainment Weekly, People, ELLE, AXS, HITS and more.
Read MoreLorrie Morgan
The artist Lorrie Morgan, born Loretta Lynn Morgan, is a prominent figure in the country music scene, drawing inspiration from her Nashville roots and traditional country music. Following the footsteps of renowned artists like Reba McEntire and Tammy Wynette, Morgan has made a mark with her updated classic country style, infusing her emotional ballads with a touch of rebelliousness. From the late 1980s to the mid-1990s, Lorrie Morgan dominated the Billboard Country singles charts with hits like “Five Minutes,” “What Part of No,” and “I Didn’t Know My Own Strength.” As the hits slowed in the early 2000s, Morgan ventured into independent labels, collaborating with artists like Pam Tillis for duet albums and consistently returning to her solo career, releasing albums such as “Dead Girl Walking” in 2024.
Loretta Lynn Morgan’s musical journey began at a young age when she debuted at the Grand Ole Opry at 13, showcasing her talent with a rendition of “Paper Roses” that earned her a standing ovation. Following the passing of her father, country star George Morgan, in 1975, Lorrie took over his band and began performing at various clubs. She later transitioned to become a demo singer and songwriter at Acuff-Rose, where she had early success with minor hit singles. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Lorrie Morgan’s career soared with hits like “Dear Me,” “Five Minutes,” and “What Part of No,” solidifying her status as a country music powerhouse. Despite personal tragedies, including the sudden death of her husband Keith Whitley, Lorrie Morgan persevered and continued to deliver chart-topping singles and albums, earning accolades and establishing herself as a country music legend.
Restless Heart
Playing a pop-friendly brand of country-rock indebted to the Eagles, Restless Heart was one of the most popular country bands of the late ’80s and early ’90s, scoring numerous hits on the country charts and a few major successes on adult contemporary radio as well. The band first got together in 1984 at the behest of producer/songwriter Tim DuBois, who wanted some musicians to demo a batch of material that walked the line between country and pop. Drummer/vocalist John Dittrich, pianist Dave Innis, bassist/vocalist Paul Gregg, and guitarist Greg Jennings were initially joined by singer Verlon Thompson, and the demo sessions went so well that the group decided to stay together and pursue a record deal. They signed with RCA in 1983, at which point Thompson was replaced by lead singer Larry Stewart, a demo vocalist Innis knew from Belmont College in Nashville.
Restless Heart’s self-titled debut album was released in 1985 and contained three Top Ten hits: “I Want Everyone to Cry,” “(Back to The) Heartbreak Kid,” and “Til I Loved You.” The 1986 follow-up, Wheels, was their true breakthrough release, topping the country charts and producing four number one hits: “That Rock Won’t Roll,” the ballad “I’ll Still Be Loving You” (also a number three adult contemporary hit), “Why Does It Have to Be (Wrong or Right),” and “Wheels.” 1988’s Big Dreams in a Small Town was a successful follow-up, giving the band six consecutive chart-toppers thanks to its first two singles, “A Tender Lie” and “The Bluest Eyes in Texas”; its title track and “Say What’s in Your Heart” also went Top Five. The title of 1989’s Fast Movin’ Train was an apt metaphor for the band’s career, as it spawned two more Top Five hits in the title track and “Dancy’s Dream.”
Stewart left the group for a solo career in 1990; he later scored a big hit with “Alright Already,” but never quite matched it. Meanwhile, Gregg and Dittrich split lead vocal duties on 1992’s Big Iron Horses, which gave them another crossover smash with “When She Cries”; it went Top Ten country, hit number two adult contemporary, and just missed the pop Top Ten. Innis left the band in 1992, and the remaining trio watched “Tell Me What You Dream” become their first adult contemporary chart-topper in 1993. However, after 1994’s Matters of the Heart, they decided to disband. Jennings joined Vince Gill’s band, while Dittrich worked with the Buffalo Club. 1998 saw a Restless Heart reunion — minus Innis — that resulted in four new tracks for that year’s Greatest Hits compilation, as well as a tour with Gill. ~ Steve Huey, Rovi
Frankie Ballard
With a unique blend of gritty vocals, impressive guitar skills, and a natural knack for country-pop dynamics, Frankie Ballard has established himself as a standout in the world of country music. Hailing from Battle Creek, Michigan, Ballard’s musical journey began at a young age when he started singing Elvis Presley songs with his father at the tender age of five. Despite his early passion for music, Ballard also excelled in baseball during his teenage years. It wasn’t until he turned 18 that he received his first guitar, sparking a deep-rooted love for music that would eventually become his primary focus. Balancing gigs in blues bands with his baseball commitments, Ballard eventually made the decision to pursue music full-time, leading him to a career as a dedicated performer.
Frankie Ballard’s breakthrough moment came in 2008 when he emerged victorious in Kenny Chesney’s Next Big Star regional competition in Michigan. This success paved the way for him to open for Chesney during his Michigan tour dates, ultimately catching the attention of Sony ATV and Reprise Records. Relocating to Nashville in 2009, Ballard teamed up with producer Michael Knox to work on his debut album. Over the following years, he released singles like “Tell Me You Get Lonely” and “A Buncha Girls,” leading up to his self-titled album with Warner Nashville in 2011. Ballard’s rise continued with tours alongside industry giants such as Kenny Chesney, Taylor Swift, and Bob Seger, culminating in the release of his album Sunshine & Whiskey in 2014.
The album garnered success with tracks like “Helluva Life” and “Sunshine & Whiskey,” solidifying Ballard’s position on the country music scene. Subsequent hits such as “Young and Crazy” further showcased his musical prowess. In 2015, Ballard teased fans with “It All Started with a Beer,” a preview of his third album, El Rio, which hit the shelves in June 2016. With a string of chart-topping singles and a growing fan base, Frankie Ballard continues to captivate audiences with his heartfelt lyrics, soulful vocals, and electrifying performances, solidifying his status as an esteemed artist in the country genre.
Josh Abbott Band
A staple in the Texas music scene since forming in 2006 at Lubbock’s Texas Tech University, Josh Abbott Band have weathered many storms together including divorces, burying their fathers, the Route 91 Harvest shooting and a pandemic. Country fans have been singing JAB songs for more than a decade already. The seven-piece group’s relentless on-stage attitude quickly made it a successful touring act, building out from a Texas band to a regional act to a national crew with a devoted following from coast to coast.
The Highway Kind is the band’s follow-up to 2017’s string and horn-infused Until My Voice Goes Out, the uplifting 10-track album was recorded at Sonic Ranch in El Paso and produced by Marshall Altman. The new album finds lead singer Josh Abbott embracing life as a loving husband and doting father of two after 12 years as a road warrior and frontman of his country band. The music reflects Abbott’s newfound purpose as a father and a husband. While making the record, Abbott and his wife relocated from Austin to Nashville for three months where he embraced the collaborative songwriting scene. Abbott dubs the new album “the first real, true band album experience” that they have recorded.
Tyler Farr
Tyler Farr is an acclaimed male vocalist in Country music today, praised by Taste of Country. He holds the distinction of being the first artist signed to Jason Aldean’s Night Train Records/BBR Music Group. Farr is renowned for his deep appreciation for the military and his profound love for the outdoors. His talent was acknowledged with nominations such as the 2014 CRS New Faces of Country Radio and the 2014 Music Row “Breakthrough Artist of the Year.” Being trained in opera, Farr has swiftly risen in the music industry, securing valuable touring opportunities alongside top artists like Jason Aldean, Florida Georgia Line, Luke Combs, Brantley Gilbert, and Lee Brice.
Hailing from Missouri, Tyler Farr is not just a remarkable vocalist but also a charismatic individual known for his dry wit and playful antics. Described as a down-to-earth musician who puts his heart and soul into his music, Farr has garnered a loyal fan base captivated by his authentic style. His recent release, “Country As Shit,” featuring Jelly Roll, has been well-received as a genuine country anthem that embodies the essence of carefree country living, celebrated by fans and critics alike. With his latest EP, “Rednecks Like Me,” produced by Jason Aldean, Tyler Farr continues to embrace his rough and rowdy persona, captivating audiences with his raw musical talent and spirited performances.
BlackHawk
BlackHawk were reliable country music hitmakers in the 1990s, reaching the Billboard Country Top Ten six times between 1994 and 1999 with such singles as ‘Every Once in a While,’ ‘I’m Not Strong Enough to Say No,’ and ‘Like There Ain’t No Yesterday.’ Such steady success reflects how the trio of Henry Paul, Van Stephenson, and David Robbins were seasoned pros by the time they joined forces in 1992. Prior to the formation of BlackHawk, all three original members had experience in various parts of the music business. Lead singer Henry Paul spent some time in the Outlaws during the mid-’70s, leading his own Henry Paul Band after he left that Southern rock group. Van Stephenson had a brief glimpse at album rock success in 1984 when ‘Modern Day Delilah’ peaked at 22 on the Billboard charts, while its successor ‘What the Big Girls Do’ went to 45. Once his subsequent records didn’t replicate these heights, Stephenson teamed with keyboardist David Robbins and the pair penned several singles for Restless Heart. Paul became friendly with the duo. First, the trio were writing partners, but they quickly decided to form their own band, taking the name BlackHawk from the Stutz Blackhawk, an American prewar sports car.
As a band, BlackHawk merged this sense of songcraft and outlaw swagger in an arena-sized melodic sound that suited the rockin’ country of the ’90s. BlackHawk signed to Arista Nashville in 1993, and the label quickly released their debut single, ‘Goodbye Says It All,’ which went to 11. ‘Every Once in a While,’ the next single pulled from their eponymous 1994 debut, went all the way to number two, opening the door for ‘I Sure Can Smell the Rain,’ ‘Down in Flames,’ and ‘That’s Just About Right’ to all crack Billboard’s Country Top Ten. Strong Enough, the group’s second album, kept BlackHawk in the charts through 1996, with ‘I’m Not Strong Enough to Say No’ reaching two and ‘Like There Ain’t No Yesterday’ reaching three; ‘Almost a Memory Now’ peaked at 11. After stumbling with 1997’s Love & Gravity — a record whose two singles just barely cracked the Top 40 — BlackHawk bounced back with The Sky’s the Limit, which produced the number four Billboard Country hit ‘There You Have It’ and ‘Your Own Little Corner of My Heart,’ which peaked at 27.
Arista Nashville released Greatest Hits in May 2000, around the same time Van Stephenson left the group due to complications from melanoma; he would die on April 8, 2001. The group hired Randy Threet, another veteran from the Outlaws, as a replacement, but he stayed with them for just one album: Spirit Dancer, a 2002 set that was their only record for Columbia. Shortly after its release, Threet was replaced by Anthony Crawford. BlackHawk signed with Rust Records in 2006, releasing a pair of singles — ‘Better at Hello’ and ‘Who’s Gonna Rock Ya’ — before the label folded. Michael Randall replaced Crawford in 2006, but the big departure was founding member Robbins leaving in 2008. Jon Coleman took his spot that year, and Randy Threet returned, with guitarist Chris Anderson and drummer Monte Yoho filling out the lineup that supported Paul on Greatest Hits Live, an album knocked out for Airline in 2008. By 2010, Robbins returned, leaving the group a duo of him and Paul. This reunited BlackHawk delivered Down from the Mountain in 2011. Brothers of the Southland followed three years later.