TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR THE IF I’M BEING HONEST TOUR, WHICH INCLUDES FIRST-EVER HOMETOWN HEADLINE SHOW AT NASHVILLE’S EXIT/IN ON OCT. 8

NASHVILLE, TENN. – Big Loud Records / Songs & Daughters songbird Lauren Watkins releases “Daydreams,” out now. The solo-written track arrives as the final preview of her upcoming 12-track record, If I’m Being Honest, due Sept. 25.

With “Daydreams,” the Nashville native looks back on the life she once pictured and how that picture has changed along the way. Carried by a simple vocal and acoustic guitar, the song reflects on what she wanted, all she’s accomplished and what she finds herself dreaming about now. Rather than looking back with regret, Watkins captures a shift in perspective as her priorities continue to evolve.

“’Daydreams’ came from realizing that as exciting as it is to play sold-out shows and wake up every day in a new city, I still daydream about things like being at home on the back porch,” shares Watkins. “In a lot of ways, I’m living the dream I always had, but I’ve also seen behind the curtain enough to realize that the things that fulfill me most can look a little different these days. I wouldn’t say my dreams have changed, but they’ve evolved. And they’ll probably keep evolving forever.”

Listen: “Daydreams”

“Daydreams” continues a summer of new music from Watkins, following May’s “Heartbreakaholic,” June’s “Convenient,” and July’s “Better Love Next Time.” The four tracks begin to sketch the world of If I’m Being Honest, a project that finds Watkins sharpening the honest, detail-rich writing that has long set her apart.

Produced by Will Bundy with co-production on select tracks from Joey Moi, If I’m Being Honest finds Watkins stripping things back without losing any of her edge. Across the tracklist, Watkins pairs her earthy vocal and graceful nonchalance with sharp, detail-rich writing, finding something worth saying in the ordinary moments most people overlook.

Pre-Save/Pre-Add: If I’m Being Honest

The upcoming record follows Watkins’ 2024 debut, The Heartbroken Record, a 17-track introduction to her lyrical truth-telling and old-school instincts, and 2025’s In A Perfect World, a 10-song collection that saw the country storyteller evolving as the idea of home came into focus. Where her debut leaned into heartbreak with a rebel edge, In A Perfect World captured a season of growth and self-discovery. On If I’m Being Honest, Watkins carries both sides forward, pairing the bite of her earliest writing with the perspective that comes from a few more years of actually living it.

Tickets are on sale now for Watkins’ headlining If I’m Being Honest Tour, which includes her first-ever hometown headline show at Nashville’s Exit/In on Thursday, Oct. 8, as well as stops in Orlando, Chicago, Knoxville and more. The tour will follow recent dates with Dylan Scott and upcoming dates with Luke Bryan as Watkins continues bringing her old-school country grit and “direct-yet-poetic songwriting” (Billboard) to stages across the country. 

Last year, Watkins made her debut on some of music’s biggest stages, including the Grand Ole Opry, NBC’s TODAY and Madison Square Garden, as well as touring with Zach Top, Riley Green and Lainey Wilson. Following a breakout year of firsts, Watkins enters the second half of 2026 with If I’m Being Honest on the way and a few things still left to get off her chest. For tour dates and more information, keep up with Watkins at laurenwatkins.com and on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook.

If I’m Being Honest Tracklist:

1. “Pulling Weeds” (Lauren Watkins, Lauren Hungate, Luke Laird, Caroline Watkins)
2. “Heartbreakaholic” (Lauren Watkins, Will Bundy, Rodney Clawson, Nicolle Galyon)
3. “Convenient” (Lauren Watkins, Will Bundy, Emily Landis, Mark Trussell)
4. “Main Street” (Lauren Watkins, Will Bundy, Lauren Hungate, Josh Miller)
5. “Daydreams” (Lauren Watkins)
6. “Better Love Next Time” (Lauren Watkins, Will Bundy, Lauren Hungate, Mark Trussell)
7. “Sunshine & Daisies” (Lauren Watkins, Lauren Hungate, Luke Laird, Caroline Watkins)
8. “KOA” (Lauren Watkins, Will Bundy, Mark Trussell, Lydia Vaughan)
9. “How’s Your Mama ‘N Them” (Lauren Watkins, Nicolle Galyon, Jordan Minton, Mark Trussell)
10. “What I Think About You” (Lauren Watkins, Will Bundy, Lauren Hungate, Mark Trussell)
11. “Prayer List” (Lauren Watkins, Mia Mantia, Chase McGill)
12. “Curtains” (Lauren Watkins, Rodney Clawson, Nicolle Galyon, Kat Higgins)

ABOUT LAUREN WATKINS:

With an earthy, all-natural magnetism and razor sharp poetic instincts, Big Loud Records/Songs & Daughters country artist Lauren Watkins will never be accused of hiding her true feelings. Schooled on mavericks like Sheryl Crow, Eric Church, Kacey Musgraves, then nurtured by songwriting legend Nicolle Galyon, she’s grown from Nashville roots into a stadium performer with nearly 100 million global streams, wielding vintage, sun-dappled vocals and serene, sepia-toned bravado. Co-writing every track on her 2024 debut The Heartbroken Record, “Anybody But You” helped set the romantic rebel without a cause apart, before 2025’s In a Perfect World found Watkins evolving. Working with husband and award-winning songwriter/producer Will Bundy (Ella Langley, Riley Green), she’s now made her debut at the Grand Ole Opry, NBC’s TODAY and Madison Square Garden, while hitting the road with Morgan Wallen, Zach Top, Riley Green, and Lainey Wilson. On her third album, If I’m Being Honest, arriving Sept. 25, Watkins’ truth-telling ways collide with a soft-spoken-yet-confident blast of organic country. Chasing the bright lights of the stage while dreaming of a front porch sunset, 12 unguarded tracks came from her finely-tuned pen (including one captivating solo confession) as she took an almost-scientific interest in speaking plainly. Produced by Bundy (with co-production by Joey Moi on select tracks), Watkins brings a graceful nonchalance to the hard truths most people won’t say.

# # #

CONNECT WITH LAUREN WATKINS

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | X | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE

Media Contacts

Olivia Hanceri + Lexi Leatherwood | OH Creative

olivia@theohcreative.com, lexi@theohcreative.com

Corey Brewer + Rachel Heatherly | Big Loud

corey@bigloud.com, rachel@bigloud.com

The post LAUREN WATKINS OFFERS FINAL PREVIEW OF NEW ALBUM WITH SOLO-WRITTEN BALLAD “DAYDREAMS” appeared first on Big Loud.

SUPPORTING TRACY LAWRENCE ON HIS NO ALIBIS TOUR

RECENTLY APPEARED ON TL’S ROAD HOUSE PODCAST, WATCH HERE

NASHVILLE, TENN. – Today, GRAMMY®-nominated singer-songwriter Chandler Walters wears his heart on his sleeve in new song “Paper Tiger,” out now via Deville Records / Big Loud Records. The breezy track unveils a new layer of Walters’ growing catalog and lyrical range, without abandoning the integrity of traditional country sounds.

“When I started working with Austin Goodloe, we were searching for a sound that we’ve never heard before. ‘Paper Tiger’ is a title Brett Tyler brought in about a man who’s mistaken by the public due to the rumor mill,” shares Walters. “It encapsulates me as a human and how all of us can feel sometimes. I’m beyond thrilled that everyone can now enjoy this song as I have been doing for quite some time.”

Written by Walters, Austin Goodloe and Brett Tyler, “Paper Tiger” sways on a guitar-laced melody and highlights the rising artist’s softer side:

But what you’ve heard it ain’t right

Don’t you lose no sleep at night

And if they say I’ll tear your heart out they’re a liar

What you’ve built in your mind

It ain’t real no I don’t bite

‘Cause baby I’m a lover not a fighter

I’m a paper tiger

About his most recent “Under The Neon,” Raised Rowdy called the track “purely country” adding that it has “a classic sound and a vibe that will have you coming back for more.” On “Break Your Heart,” Country Central noted the song “carefully settles into familiar, honkytonkin’ territory with a steady, deliberate touch.”At the beginning of the year, Chandler released “Come On Whiskey” which was named one of Holler‘s “Best New Country Songs.”

Chandler recently appeared on Tracy Lawrence’s TL’s Road House Podcast to talk about his journey moving to Nashville, touring with ERNEST, Post Malone and much more. Watch the full podcast here. This summer, Walters has been direct support for Bailey Zimmerman at various fairs and festivals. Next month, he will continue supporting Tracy Lawrence on his No Alibis Tour with stops in Albany, Green Bay, Birmingham and more. For more information or tickets, please visit chandlerwalters.com.

Upcoming 2026 Tour Dates

September 24 – Akron Civic Theatre – Akron, OH *

September 25 – Palace Theatre – Albany, NY *

September 26 – Kodak Center – Rochester, NY *

October 2 – Merchant Logo The Monument – Rapid City, SD *

October 3 – Orpheum Theatre – Sioux City, IA *

October 15 – Warner Theater – Erie, PA *

October 16 – Dow Event Center – Saginaw, MI *

October 17 – I-15 Country & Rock Music Festival – Mesquite, NV =

October 22 – EPIC Event Center – Green Bay, WI *

October 23 – Stranahan Theater – Toledo, OH *

October 24 – Honeywell Center – Wabash, IN *

November 5 – Victory Theatre – Evansville, IN *

November 6 – Forum River Center – Rome, GA *

November 7 – BJCC Concert Hall – Birmingham, AL *

* Supporting Tracy Lawrence

= Festival

ABOUT CHANDLER WALTERS

Bringing energy back to the classic-country tradition, Chandler Walters is a multi-talented native of Marietta, Georgia, signed to ERN’s Cadillac Music / DeVille Records. Already a seasoned steel-guitar player and multi-Platinum, all-genre No. 1 songwriter, his burgeoning artistic career is now kicking off, schooled on a mix of rock and country influence. The guitar slinger moved to Nashville on a whim in 2021, picking up steel guitar and catching the attention of hitmaker ERNEST in the process, who promptly added Walters to his band. Traveling the world while learning song craft from the modern greats, he signed a publishing deal with ERN’s Cadillac Music in 2024, earning monster success as co-writer on Post Malone’s 5x Platinum, all-genre No. 1 single “I Had Some Help (feat. Morgan Wallen).” Walters posted six cuts on Post Malone’s F-1 Trillion in total, and has also co-penned tracks for ERNEST (including “I Went To College, I Went To Jail” (feat. Jelly Roll)), Bailey Zimmerman (“Is This Really Over?”), Charles Wesley Godwin (“Dead To Rights”) and more. Boasting organic, live-show inspired country sonics (with plenty of steel guitar) and a knack for modern language, Walters’ songs find a proven hitmaker turning “real shit” into catchy, singalong anthems.

CONNECT WITH CHANDLER WALTERS

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK |X | YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK

# # #

Media Contacts

Corey Brewer + Rachel Heatherly | Big Loud

corey@bigloud.com, rachel@bigloud.com

The post CHANDLER WALTERS UNVEILS A SOFTER SIDE IN NEW SONG “PAPER TIGER” appeared first on Big Loud.

KICKING OFF IN NASHVILLE TODAY (8/14)

MAJOR MEDIA MOMENTS STACKING UP WITH FEATURES FROM

AMERICAN SONGWRITER, THE TENNESSEAN, PEOPLE, SOUTHERN LIVING & MORE

NASHVILLE, TENN. – Today, Country hitmaker Ashley Cooke shares her much-anticipated self-titled sophomore album. One of the summer’s most talked-about releases, ashley cooke explores the beautiful mess of modern love across 15 fiercely self-aware songs — including her heart-racing new anthem “dance around it.” Go here to stream/download ashley cooke now.

Released via Big Loud Records/Back Blocks Music, ashley cooke was written in real time as the Nashville-based artist navigated the blossoming and eventual unraveling of a relationship — ultimately documenting every moment exactly as she lived it. Mainly produced by the legendary Dann Huff (Rascal Flatts, Taylor Swift), the album mirrors its emotional complexity with an eclectic sound spanning from her signature Coastal Country to moody piano balladry to the Motown-inspired soul of her current Country radio hit “baby blues.” In a recent in-depth feature in The Tennessean, Huff praised Cooke’s clarity of vision and noted that, despite her young age, she knows exactly who she is as an artist. “If I’m betting on someone, I’m betting on Ashley,” he declared.

Another glimpse into the gorgeously layered landscapeof ashley cooke, “dance around it” takes the form of a bittersweet but high-energy Country-Pop stunner shot through with shimmering guitar tones and hypnotic beats. As she tells the tale of two people delaying their inevitable farewell for one more night together, Cooke instantly channels a heady collision of desire and heartache and impending regret (the opening lines: “You smelled like California and Casamigos / When you walked in the door / Same one you taped a note on, saying goodbye / Just three weeks before”). Written by Cooke, Jacob Durrett, Trevor Rosen, and Emily Weisband, “dance around it” fully captures the irresistible thrill of denying reality and letting the truth wait until morning.

Along with “baby blues” (a chart-climbing smash that’s amassed over 55 MILLION global streams to date), ashley cooke features previously released fan favorites like her Country radio hit “the hell you are,” “high school sweetheart,” and “xs” (a no-regrets breakup song that inspired Country Swag to hail Cooke as “one of the most exciting rising artists in the genre today”). Last month, she further previewed the album with the dual release of the witty “famous to frances” and wistful “johnny ‘n june,” togetherpraised by Country Now as “perfect examples of Cooke’s ability to dive into complicated emotions that come with heartbreak.” See below for the full tracklist to ashley cooke.

A defining statement from one of Country’s most compelling young stars, ashley cooke arrives during an extraordinary two-year stretch that’s included racking up nominations for New Female Artist of the Year at the ACM Awards and Best New Country Artist at the iHeartRadio Music Awards, touring with superstars like Kane Brown and Parker McCollum, and earning a major pop-culture moment by making a cameo on CBS’ hit series Marshals.

Cooke’s latest chapter has also drawn a wave of high-profile media attention, with recent appearances on podcasts like Southern Living‘s Biscuits & Jam and American Songwriter‘s Off The Record(with the latter also featuring Cooke in its print and digital editions), along with coverage from leading publications like PEOPLE. The highly awaited successor to her 2023 debut album shot in the dark (featuring the GOLD-certified “never til now” and Country radio No. 1 hit “your place”), ashley cooke follows her soul-baring project ace (a 2025 release that “epitomises why Cooke has cemented herself as a key figure in the contemporary country music landscape,” according to Holler).

With the arrival of her second full-length, Cooke also kicks off the cities that made me tour — a run of special acoustic performances presented by Surfside. A celebration of the most personal music of her career, the weeklong pop-up experience will crisscross the country with performances of songs from ashley cooke, fan meet-and-greets, and exclusive merch in places that helped shape Cooke throughout her life. The festivities begin today (8/14) at 12:30 p.m. CT at Nashville’s PopUp Bagels (226 11th Ave S #6), where Cooke will treat fans to an intimate acoustic performance and unveil her very own “baby blues” schmear. At 4 p.m. CT, she’ll head to imogene + willie (2601 12th Ave S) for an exclusive vinyl signing and meet-and-greet, complete with a photo booth, Daddy’s Dogs, Blue Monkey Shaved Ice, and drinks provided by Surfside. From there, the tour heads to Milwaukee (her birthplace) and eventually wraps in West Lafayette, IN (where Cooke’s parents met). Go here to RSVP and check out the full list of tour dates.

Next month, Cooke will take her latest triumph on the road by launching the baby blues world tour — a global headline run beginning on September 17 at Globe Iron in Cleveland, with dates currently scheduled through February 25 at the legendary Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. The 28-date trek includes stops in major cities throughout the US and UK, including 9:30 Club in Washington, DC (September 18), Irving Plaza in New York City (September 24), El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles (October 8), and Koko in London (January 29). For more info, visit ashleycooke.com.

ashley cooke TRACKLIST:

1. “if i’m being honest” (Ashley Cooke, Johnny Clawson, Kyle Sturrock) ^

2. “high school sweetheart” (Ashley Cooke, Boy Matthews, Cleo Tighe, Lauren Hungate, AFTERHRS) *

3. “baby blues” (Ashley Cooke, Johnny Clawson, Joe Fox, Kyle Sturrock, Seth Ennis) *

4. “famous to frances” (Ashley Cooke, Johnny Clawson, Kyle Sturrock) *

5. “johnny ‘n june” (Ashley Cooke, Lauren Hungate, Emily Weisband, Will Weatherly) *

6. “excuses” (Ashley Cooke, Johnny Clawson, Kyle Sturrock) *

7. “dance around it” (Ashley Cooke, Jacob Durrett, Trevor Rosen, Emily Weisband) #

8. “sleepless in seattle” (Ashley Cooke, Lauren Hungate, Matt Roy, Johnny Clawson) *

9. “man behind the glass (feat. JP Saxe)” (Ashley Cooke, JP Saxe, Emily Weisband, Scott Krueger) + ♡

10. “i’m up and i’m down” (Ashley Cooke, Jordan Minton, Jordan Reynolds, Mark Trussell) *

11. “the hell you are” (Ashley Cooke, Chase McGill, Emily Weisband, Seth Ennis, Joe Fox) *

12. “between the lines” (Ashley Cooke, Lori McKenna, Hillary Lindsey, Liz Rose) *

13. “xs” (Ashley Cooke, Ashley Gorley, Emily Weisband, Will Weatherly) *

14. “when we’re 30” (Ashley Cooke, Will Weatherly, Kyle Sturrock) *

15. “the girl who cried wolf” (Ashley Cooke, Emily Weisband, Lauren Hungate, Joe Fox) ~ ♡

Produced by Dann Huff *
Produced by Will Weatherly ^
Produced by Jacob Durrett #
Produced by Joe Fox ~
Produced by Spacecamp +
Produced by Ashley Cooke ♡

ABOUT ASHLEY COOKE

One of Country’s most magnetic young storytellers, Ashley Cooke made her unforgettable debut with 2023’s shot in the dark and soon scored her first Country radio No. 1 with “your place” — a GOLD-certified, Billboard Hot 100-charting hit that later won a 2024 CMT Music Award for Breakthrough Female Video of the Year. With a voice that carries both tenderness and quiet confidence, she’s since garnered nominations for New Female Artist of the Year at the ACM Awards and Best New Country Artist at the iHeartRadio Music Awards. While building up an acclaimed body of work including 2025’s ace — a nine-song project featuring her Country radio smash “the hell you are” and longtime fan favorite “baby blues” (a No. 1 hit on SiriusXM The Highway’s Hot 30 Countdown) — Cooke has collaborated with major artists ranging from Pop superstar Joe Jonas (“All I Forgot”) to Country hitmaker Brantley Gilbert (“Over When We’re Sober”). Known for her emotionally charged and high-energy live show, she’s also toured with heavy-hitters like Luke Bryan, Parker McCollum, Kane Brown, and recently hit the road as support for Jon Pardi’s HONKYTONK HOLLYWOOD TOUR. As her profile continues to rise, Cooke made a cameo appearance in March on CBS’ Marshals (the newly launched spinoff of the blockbuster Western saga Yellowstone), just before heading overseas for C2C: Country to Country 2026 (including a performance at the iconic O2 Arena in London). Following the release of her self-titled sophomore album, she’s now gearing up to embark on the baby blues world tour — a 28-date global headline run launching on September 17 and continuing through February 25 at the legendary Ryman Auditorium.

CONNECT WITH ASHLEY COOKE

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | X | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE

# # #

Media Contacts

Jensen Sussman | Sweet Talk Publicity

jensen@sweettalkpr.com 

Corey Brewer + Rachel Heatherly | Big Loud

corey@bigloud.com, rachel@bigloud.com

The post  ASHLEY COOKE ENTERS BOLD NEW CHAPTER WITH SELF-TITLED SOPHOMORE ALBUM, OUT NOW appeared first on Big Loud.

NASHVILLE, TENN. – Today, rising Nashville-based country artist Hailey Benedict delivers the shimmery new song “Party Without You,” available now via Big Loud Records/Local Hay Records. The new track kicks off a steady run of new music slated for release throughout the fall, anchored by a song that ignited a creative spark.

“Party Without You” was written by Benedict alongside Ava Suppelsa (Avery Anna, Max McNown) and Grammy® Award winner Josh Kerr, with Benedict and Kerr also serving as co-producers. Kerr is known for his work with Keith Urban, Kelsea Ballerini, Russell Dickerson and Maddie & Tae.

Blending infectious country-pop sounds with sharp, conversational lyricism, “Party Without You” captures the distinct ache of feeling alone in a crowded room. Hailey translates forced small talk, social anxiety and missing someone who isn’t there into a story that’s as catchy as it is relatable.

“I wanted to write something fun and upbeat that even the people who feel isolated at a party could dance to,” says Benedict. “The song is about realizing that a celebration doesn’t really feel like one unless the people you care about most are there with you.

“The last year has really been about finding my people, the collaborators who could help me best tell my stories. Being able to work with Josh, who has been a dream producer of mine, has helped me find my sound and my confidence. We demoed ‘Party Without You’ the same day we wrote it, and I immediately felt there was a sparkle behind it. I haven’t lost that feeling since,” she adds.

The release builds on a standout year for the rising star. Her debut Big Loud release, “Things My Mama Says,” claimed the distinction of most-played song by a female Canadian artist at country radio in 2025. Benedict heads into next month’s Canadian Country Music Association Awards with a nomination in the Innovative Campaign category, marking an impressive five consecutive years of CCMA Award nominations. Beyond her own artistry, she is quickly becoming an in-demand voice in Nashville writer’s rooms, recently co-writing Dylan Conrique’s song “Written in Stone.”

Benedict will perform at Spain’s Salardú Country Rock Festival on August 20 before returning to Canada for Valemount, BC’s vALEfest on September 12 and Niagara Falls, ON’s Misty City Music Festival on September 20, capping off a busy summer festival season. 

CONNECT WITH HAILEY BENEDICT

WEBSITE | TIKTOK | INSTAGRAM |YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK

#  #  #

Media Contacts

Corey Brewer + Rachel Heatherly | Big Loud

corey@bigloud.com, rachel@bigloud.com

For Canada

Adam Gonshor | Collabo PR

adam@collabopr.com

The post HAILEY BENEDICT KICKS OFF NEXT CHAPTER OF MUSIC WITH “PARTY WITHOUT YOU” appeared first on Big Loud.

STREAM “THESE ARMS OF MINE (AMAZON MUSIC ORIGINAL)” EXCLUSIVELY ON AMAZON MUSIC HERE

NASHVILLE, TENN. – Today, acclaimed artist-writer Kashus Culpepper releases “These Arms of Mine (Amazon Music Original),” a stunning cover of Otis Redding’s 1962 classic. The Alabama native, who is nominated for Americana Honors & Awards Emerging Act of the Year, delivers a stripped-back, soul-drenched rendition of the iconic track – recorded around a campfire in Nashville with only a guitar, dobro, backing vocalists and a choir of crickets.

When Culpepper was invited to record an Amazon Music Original, he had a clear vision for the session. A student and reverent purveyor of Southern music, he counts Otis Redding as a massive influence, and “These Arms of Mine” was his pick from the start.

The release follows a whirlwind season for Culpepper, who released his debut album Act I to widespread acclaim earlier this year. He has been touted by Elton John as “if Bill Withers made country music;” made appearances on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, CBS Saturday Sessions, The Kelly Clarkson Show, NPR World Cafe and The Tamron Hall Show; and landed covers of SPIN (February 2026) and Guitar.com (May 2026). Act I hit No. 4 on the Americana Album Chart and produced the No. 1 Americana and Top 10 Triple A single “Believe.”

ABOUT KASHUS CULPEPPER

Alabama-born artist-writer Kashus Culpepper encompasses the sound of the South. A student and reverent purveyor of Southern music – country, soul, blues, folk and rock – Culpepper found his voice in church as young as five years old. It wasn’t until 2020 that Culpepper went from listener to performer, picking up a guitar and learning cover songs to play at barrack bonfires in Rota, Spain during his deployment with the Navy. Covers soon became originals, and once he landed home on U.S. shores, Kash played dive bars up and down the Mississippi Gulf Coast, making a name for himself with the fresh-yet-reminiscent sound that oozes from his very being. Crashing into prominence, Culpepper sold out headline club shows throughout the South before formally releasing a single song. With Nashville taking notice, Culpepper found a musical home at Big Loud Records. Culpepper has joined Leon Bridges, Sierra Ferrell and Darius Rucker on tour – embarking this year on a headlining run as well as dates with Niall Horan, Eric Church, Shaboozey, Jelly Roll, Thomas Rhett and Wyatt Flores. Named one of the 2026 Shazam Fast Forward Class, WXPN’s Artist to Watch for January 2026, 2026 Nashville Scene Artist to Watch, GRAMMY.com‘s 25 Artists to Watch in 2025, Apple Music Zane Lowe’s 25 Artists for ’25, 2025 Variety Power of Young Hollywood Impact Report, Opry NextStage Class of 2025, Billboard‘s February 2025 Country Rookie of the Month, 2025 Amazon Music Bonfire Artist to Watch, Apple Music’s February 2025 Country Riser of the Month, 2025 Pandora Country Artist to Watch and Martin Artist Showcase Class of 2025, Culpepper’s debut album Act I, and seasonal addendum Act I: Summer Nights, are out now. 

ABOUT AMAZON MUSIC

Amazon Music is an immersive audio entertainment service that connects fans, artists, and creators through music, podcasts, and culture. Amazon Music brings fans closer to what they love, with curated and personalized playlists, artist livestreams, artist merch, and Amazon Exclusive podcasts. Prime members get access to over 100 million songs in shuffle mode, All-Access playlists, plus the largest catalog of top ad-free podcasts, included with their membership. Customers can subscribe to Amazon Music Unlimited for full, on-demand access to 100 million songs in HD, a growing catalog of Ultra HD and Spatial audio, and one audiobook a month from the world’s largest selection of audiobooks from Audible. Anyone can listen to Amazon Music by downloading the free Amazon Music app, or wherever they listen to music including Alexa-enabled devices. Learn more at amazon.com/music.

CONNECT WITH KASHUS CULPEPPER

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK |YOUTUBE

Media Contacts

Corey Brewer + Rachel Heatherly | Big Loud

corey@bigloud.com, rachel@bigloud.com

The post KASHUS CULPEPPER RELEASES NEW AMAZON ORIGINAL COVER OF “THESE ARMS OF MINE” appeared first on Big Loud.

SET FOR SEPTEMBER 15, 4-6:30 P.M.

NASHVILLE, TENN. – Today, Big Loud announces its second annual AMERICANAFEST Showcase, in partnership with Aviator Nation Dreamland. The curated special event will highlight the genre’s remarkable talent with performances by Kashus Culpepper, Thelma & James, Coleman Jennings, Alex Lambert, Nathan Bess and Waylon Payne. Set for Tuesday, September 15, the event will begin at 4 p.m. and is open to all ages. Admission is free on a first-come first-served basis, RSVP here.

Kashus Culpepper: In just two years since his first release, Alabama-born artist-writer Kashus Culpepper has emerged as one of music’s most exciting new voices. Nominated for Americana Honors & Awards Emerging Act of the Year, Culpepper’s distinct sound and lauded debut album Act I have earned him critical acclaim from NPR, Rolling Stone, Billboard, SPIN and more. He has landed on numerous prestigious artist-to-watch lists and shared the stage with the likes of Leon Bridges, Sierra Ferrell and more.

Thelma & James: Thelma & James have quickly turned an unexpected musical partnership into one of country music’s most talked-about new acts. Formed by married Nashville-based singer-songwriters MacKenzie Porter and Jake Etheridge, the duo recently earned their first ACM Award nomination and wrapped their first stadium tour with Luke Combs. Their breakout song “Happy Ever After You” has surpassed 30 million global streams and set the scene for resonating new songs like “Home In Your Broken Heart” and “Alternate Ending.”

Alex Lambert: Singer-songwriter Alex Lambert is carving out a distinct place in music with his soulful sound and affinity for country, R&B and timeless groove. The Texas native announced his signing with Big Loud Texas in January, joining the buzzed-about imprint founded by Miranda Lambert and Jon Randall. Drawing influence from artists like John Legend, Amos Lee, Kacey Musgraves and Leon Bridges, Lambert’s fan-favorite songs like “Think I’m In Love” and “You Make Sense To Me” serve as statements of artistic intent. Recently touring with Paul Cauthen, Lambert will join Billy Currington and Kip Moore on the road this month and next, with headline dates in September as well.

Coleman Jennings: With a hypnotic vibrato made to cut through the haze of modern life, and an old-school dedication to Western twang, Big Loud Texas singer-songwriter Coleman Jennings can seem like a conduit to a different time – or even, a different spiritual plane. Earlier this year the country provocateur raised his distinctive voice for all to hear on his debut record Lead You Home, working with lauded GRAMMY® Award-winning producer Dave Cobb to bring the 10 riveting songs to life. Never afraid to call out dull conventionality, the Texas native is a student of music with inspirations like Townes Van Zandt, The Eagles, Blaze Foley, John Hartford and Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Waylon Payne: A poetic outlaw, Waylon Payne made an indelible mark with his timeless debut album The Drifter. Building on the legacy of that album and the widespread acclaim of Blue Eyes, The Harlot, The Queer, The Pusher & Me, Payne’s Big Loud Texas debut, Wayward, is out now. The son of GRAMMY® Award-winning country singer Sammi Smith and Jody Payne of Willie Nelson’s band, he dons the name of his godfather Waylon Jennings. Multi-talented with the charm of a seasoned entertainer, Waylon appeared in the award-winning Johnny Cash biopic Walk the Line and biopic Crazy.

Nathan Bess: Hailing from the hills of Charleston, West Virginia, Nathan Bess writes songs that cut to the bone of Appalachian life. A full-time firefighter, his music explores the struggles, stories and resilience of his home state – following in the footsteps of Appalachian country music stalwarts like Tyler Childers and Sturgill Simpson. Focused on the next chapter in his career, Bess looks to continue the tradition of American storytelling as one of the most promising new artists in the space.

ABOUT BIG LOUD RECORDS

Recently celebrating its 10-year anniversary, Big Loud Records’ head-turning success story began in 2015. Counting over 102 billion global on-demand streams, 38 No. 1 U.S. country airplay hits, 60 No. 1 country hits across international territories, three history-making Billboard Hot 100 all-genre No. 1s, over 150 RIAA certified titles, and more, the Big Loud Records roster is home to genre standouts Alex Lambert, Ashley Cooke, Brock Phillips, Chandler Walters, Charles Wesley Godwin, Cody Lohden, Coleman Jennings, Dallas Smith, Dylan Gossett, ERNEST, Hailey Benedict, HARDY, HIXTAPE, Jake Worthington, Julianna Rankin, Kashus Culpepper, Lauren Alaina, Lauren Watkins, MacKenzie Porter, Morgan Wallen, Owen Riegling, Stephen Wilson Jr., The 502’s, The Droptines, Thelma & James, Timmy McKeever and Waylon Payne. Big Loud Records was honored as the No. 1 Billboard Hot Country Songs Label in 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 + 2025, the 2022, 2023, 2024 + 2025 MusicRow Label Group of the Year and was named Platinum Labelat the 2021, 2023 + 2025 CRS / Country Aircheck Awards. Big Loud was also the Country Aircheck/Mediabase Label of the Year in 2023, 2024 and 2025, and CCMA Record Company of the Year in 2023 and 2024.

ABOUT AVIATOR NATION DREAMLAND

Aviator Nation Dreamland is an event space, music venue, bar and restaurant established in 2020 by Aviator Nation founder, Paige Mycoskie. Originally launched in Malibu, California, Dreamland was created as a home for music and entertainment, offering the highest quality sound for an intimate venue on the west side of Los Angeles. The Malibu location carries a deep musical legacy. When the building was known as the Malibu Inn, it hosted legendary performances by artists like The Doors, Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles, and The Beach Boys. Even earlier, in the 1970s, Neil Young owned the property and dubbed it the Crazy Horse Saloon. Inspired by this rich history, Mycoskie transformed the space into a vibrant tribute to music and artistic expression. With immersive sound, a creative build-out, and sweeping views of one of the world’s best surf spots, Dreamland Malibu offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Now, that experience expands to Nashville. This new venue blends Malibu’s laid-back luxury with Nashville’s deep-rooted musical culture, offering an unforgettable destination for both locals and visitors. With world-class sound, an artistic atmosphere, and a passion for music at its core, Dreamland continues to be an experience like no other—no matter which city you’re in. With two iconic venues and 20 Aviator Nation retail stores, we offer endless opportunities to collaborate with like-minded partners. We’re building a culture driven movement that extends far beyond the stage.

ABOUT AMERICANAFEST

AMERICANAFEST brings together hundreds of showcasing artists, industry leaders and music fans throughout the most notable venues in Nashville, Tennessee. To complement the nightly official showcases curated by a festival committee, multiple special events during the day allow agencies, labels and other industry entities to highlight their roster. The destination event also offers a three-day educational conference with networking opportunities, numerous panels, and premium industry interaction. The annual Americana Honors & Awards ceremony at Ryman Auditorium recognizes the groundbreaking figures of Americana music and celebrates the music achievements of the past year. AMERICANAFEST serves as a fundraiser supporting the initiatives of the Americana Music Association and its Foundation and will take place in Nashville from September 15-19, 2026.

# # #

Media Contacts

Corey Brewer + Rachel Heatherly | Big Loud

corey@bigloud.com, rachel@bigloud.com

The post BIG LOUD TO HOST 2026 AMERICANAFEST SHOWCASE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH AVIATOR NATION DREAMLAND appeared first on Big Loud.

JOINING THE RED CLAY STRAYS ON TOUR LATER THIS MONTH AHEAD OF A CO-HEADLINING U.S. RUN WITH CHARLES WESLEY GODWIN AND HEADLINE DATES IN AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND THIS FALL

PRE-ORDER / PRE-SAVE RAMBLIN’ HERE

WATCH RAMBLIN’ ALBUM TRAILER HERE

LISTEN TO “LOVING YOU LIKE THAT” HERE

NASHVILLE, TENN. / AUSTIN, TEXAS – Multi-Platinum singer, songwriter, and producer Dylan Gossett reveals his highly anticipated sophomore album, Ramblin’, will be released September 25th via Big Loud Texas / Mercury Records. Alongside the announcement, Gossett unveils the album’s newest single, “Loving You Like That” today. 

Pre-order / pre-save Ramblin’ here, and listen to “Loving You Like That” here.

Ramblin’ marks the next chapter for one of country music’s fastest-rising artists. Building on the foundation of his critically acclaimed 2025 debut album, Westward, the new record expands the deeply personal songwriting that has become his signature. Written after years of relentless touring around the world, Ramblin’ finds Gossett returning home to Austin, Texas, with a renewed perspective on love, relationships, and the place that shaped him. See the full album tracklist below. 

On the album, Dylan shares, “Where Westward is all about this change of life I went through and the craziness of traveling out West and life flipping upside down, Ramblin’ is about coming back home and having real relationships when I was off the road. Relationships with friends, with significant others, with family, with faith. I’m grounding myself in this music.”

“Loving You Like That” offers another glimpse into Ramblin’, pairing Gossett’s unmistakable Texas-rooted storytelling with a heartfelt portrait of enduring love. The track follows his recent deeply personal releases “My Boy,” written to celebrate the birth of his first child, and “Honeysuckle,” another single from the album, reflecting on home, love, and the people who keep him grounded.

Fresh off select North American stadium dates supporting Mumford & Sons, Gossett will join The Red Clay Strays on the road later this month before co-headlining a U.S. tour with Charles Wesley Godwin this fall. Continuing his rapid global ascent, he’ll also launch a headline tour across Australia and New Zealand later this fall. See the full list of upcoming tour dates below.

Over the past three years, Dylan Gossett has emerged as one of country music’s most exciting new voices. Hailing from Austin, Texas, the 27-year-old singer, songwriter, and producer has amassed nearly 1.5 billion career streams, led by his breakthrough anthem “Coal,” now certified 2x Platinum by the RIAA in the U.S. and Multi-Platinum internationally. Gossett has earned acclaim for his authentic songwriting while sharing music with collaborators including Noeline Hofmann and Ole 60. His meteoric rise has also seen him tour alongside some of today’s biggest artists, including George Strait, Zach Top, Mumford & Sons, The Lumineers, Noah Kahan, Morgan Wallen, and HARDY, while appearing at marquee festivals including Stagecoach and Austin City Limits Music Festival. Recognized by Spotify and Amazon as an Artist to Watch and named to MusicRow‘s Next Big Thing list, Gossett continues to cement himself as one of the defining new voices in modern country and Americana.

RAMBLIN’ TRACKLIST

1. “Loving You Like That”
2. “Clothesline”
3. “Headed Back To Austin”
4. “Love and Such”
5. “The Old Me”
6. “Ramblin’”
7. “Honeysuckle”
8. “Head In The Clouds”
9. “Running From The Sun”
10. “Snow Melt”
11. “Just Fine”
12. “All Mine”

UPCOMING TOUR DATES

Aug 16 – Sioux Falls, SD – Denny Sanford Premier Center ~

Aug 18 – Grand Forks, ND – Alerus Center ~

Aug 19 – Bismarck, ND – Bismarck Event Center ~

Aug 21 – Bozeman, MT – Brick Breeden Fieldhouse ~

Aug 22 – Missoula, MT – Adams Center ~

Aug 28 – Lubbock, TX – Cook’s Garage ^

Aug 29 – New Braunfels, TX – Whitewater Amphitheater ^

Sept 2 – West Valley City, UT – Maverik Center ~

Sept 4 – Stateline, NV – Lake Tahoe Outdoor Amphitheater ~

Sept 11 – Sacramento, CA – Golden 1 Center ~

Sept 12 – Ontario, CA – Toyota Arena ~

Sept 16 – San Diego, CA – Pechanga Arena ~

Sept 17 – Phoenix, AZ – Mortgage Matchup Arena ~

Sept 23 – Baton Rouge, LA – Texas Club *RESCHEDULED DATE

Sept 26 – Nashville, TN – The Pinnacle ^

Sept 29 – New York, NY – The Rooftop at Pier 17 ^

Oct 1 – Raleigh, NC – Red Hat Amphitheater ^

Oct 2 – Asheville, NC – Hellbender ^

Oct 3 – Louisville, KY – Old Forester’s Paristown Hall *RESCHEDULED DATE

Oct 16 – College Station, TX – Farmer’s Fest

Oct 24 – Waco, TX – Silobration

Oct 27 – Chicago, IL – The Salt Shed

Oct 30 – Pittsburgh, PA – Citizens Live at The Wylie ^

Nov 6 – Robinsonville, MS – Bluesville @ Horseshoe Tunica

Nov 20-22 – St. Petersburg, FL – St. Pete Country Fest

Nov 21 – Apopka, FL – Apopka Amphitheater –

Dec 3 – Perth, AUS – ICF Outdoor

Dec 5 – Brisbane, AUS – Fortitude Music Hall

Dec 6 – Sydney, AUS – Sydney Opera House Forecourt

Dec 8 – Melbourne, AUS – Festival Hall

Dec 11 – Auckland, NZ – Town Hall

Dec 12 – North Canterbury, NZ – Waipara Winehouse

~ Supporting The Red Clay Strays

^ Co-Headline Tour with Charles Wesley Godwin

ABOUT DYLAN GOSSETT

Hailing from Austin, Texas, 27-year-old singer, songwriter, and producer Dylan Gossett has quickly become one of the leading new voices in Texas Country with his signature blend of Americana and Red Dirt influences and lyricism rooted in his Southern upbringing. The multi-platinum certified artist has amassed nearly 1.5 billion streams across his catalog to date. He first broke through in 2023 with his breakout single “Coal,” now certified 2x Platinum in the U.S., Canada and Ireland, Platinum in Australia, and Gold in the U.K. Praised by The New York Times as “one of the year’s best country songs,” “Coal” established Gossett as one of Texas Country’s leading new voices.

Gossett continued his rise with his EPs No Better Time [2023] and Songs In The Gravel [2024] before releasing his critically acclaimed 2025 debut album, Westward, via Big Loud Texas / Mercury Records. Self-written and self-produced, the album chronicled his whirlwind rise and was led by singles “Like I Do,” “American Trail,” and “Sweet Lady.” As his audience continued to grow, Gossett sold more than 200,000 headline tickets worldwide and performed at marquee festivals including Stagecoach and Austin City Limits Music Festival. Recognized as one of country music’s fastest-rising artists, Spotify and Amazon named him an “Artist to Watch,” while MusicRow included him on its “Next Big Thing” list.

Earlier this spring, Gossett released the deeply personal single “My Boy,” celebrating the birth of his first child and dedicating the song to his growing family, before returning with “Honeysuckle,” a heartfelt reflection on home, love, and the relationships that matter most. Most recently, he announced the release of his upcoming new single, “Loving You Like That.” He recently joined Mumford & Sons on select stadium dates of their North American tour before he’s set to hit the road with The Red Clay Strays later this summer. This fall, he’ll co-headline a U.S. tour with Charles Wesley Godwin and headline shows across Australia and New Zealand.

CONNECT WITH DYLAN GOSSETT

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE

# # #

Media Contacts

Corey Brewer + Rachel Heatherly | Big Loud

corey@bigloud.com, rachel@bigloud.com 

Marisa Bianco + Nicole Hajjar | Mercury Records

marisa.bianco@umusic.com, nicole.hajjar@umusic.com

The post MULTI-PLATINUM TEXAS SINGER & SONGWRITER DYLAN GOSSETT ANNOUNCES SOPHOMORE ALBUM RAMBLIN’ ARRIVING SEPTEMBER 25TH appeared first on Big Loud.

PREVIOUSLY RELEASED “RICH MAN,” IS OUT NOW

NASHVILLE, TENN. – Today, dynamic singer-songwriter Brock Phillips and global artist Dallas Smith release “Leave Me Like A Backroad” via Big Loud Records and Local Hay Records. From signing with Big Loud Records and Local Hay Records earlier this summer to receiving his first CCMA nomination for Breakthrough Artist of the Year, Phillips has a promising journey ahead.

“Leave Me Like A Backroad” was written by Phillips, Chase McDaniel and Matt Mulhare. A country-rock anthem about leaving the bar with a girl who looks like “90’s Shania,” they sing:

I’ll let you turn the key

Go F to E

Don’t let off the throttle

Kick the dust

Tear me up

Like you’re my Silverado

It’s green lights in that driver’s seat

Drive me wild at two lane speed

Baby put your love on me

Then go ahead and leave me like a backroad

Adding to his catalog, Phillips recently released “Rich Man,” which cleverly describes the weight of heartbreak with monetary value. His debut song, “Something Else,” released last fall was named one of Holler‘s “Best New Country Songs,” which explores a familiar, temporary relationship becoming more permanent.

Fresh off opening for Liam St. John yesterday (8/6) in Vancouver, Phillips will play the 2026 CCMA Songwriters Unplugged Series on September 16 in Saskatoon, SK. To stay up to date with Brock Phillips, please visit https://brockphillipsmusic.com/.

ABOUT BROCK PHILLIPS

Singer-songwriter / producer Brock Phillips has been immersed in music all his life. Wearing many musical hats out of both passion and necessity, Phillips began his journey studying music in high school at Langley Fine Arts before continuing to Berklee College of Music, where he began creating his own personal style and sound influenced by Chris Stapleton, John Mayer, Kings of Leon and Ariel Posen. Prior to moving to Music City in 2024, he was booking weekly residencies at clubs and bars, which morphed into opening gigs for multi-platinum artists like Dallas Smith, Josh Ross and MacKenzie Porter. Earlier this year, he announced his signing with Big Loud Records and Local Hay Records. With more new music on the horizon, his songwriting prowess is on display with recent “Rich Man” and latest “Leave Me Like A Backroad.”

CONNECT WITH BROCK PHILLIPS

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE

ABOUT DALLAS SMITH

Big Loud/Local Hay Records recording artist Dallas Smith continues to build on a legacy of genre-defying success as one of the most celebrated voices in country music. A multi-Platinum entertainer, Smith first rose to prominence as frontman of the multi-Platinum rock band Default before making a landmark transition into country music, where he has since become a defining force in the genre.

His career highlights include 14 No. 1 singles at Canadian country radio, 21 Gold-certified singles, nine Platinum-certified singles, four Gold-certified albums and two Platinum-certified albums alongside more than 748 million global streams to date. Smith is a 3x consecutive CCMA Entertainer of the Year and a two-time JUNO Award winner, further cementing his status among the most awarded Canadian country artists of his generation.

In 2023, Smith made his debut on the legendary Grand Ole Opry stage, marking a significant milestone in his career and international recognition within country music’s most iconic institution. Known for his commanding live performances and connection with audiences, Smith has also earned a reputation as one of the genre’s premier touring artists. Following a 52-date tour in 2025, he stepped back from the road to focus on family life, building his dream home and returning to the studio with renewed creative energy. Now in 2026, Smith returns with “Good Time Goes,” the first release of a new chapter in his career.

CONNECT WITH DALLAS SMITH

WEBSITE|X|FACEBOOK|INSTAGRAM|TIKTOK|YOUTUBE

#  #  #

Media Contacts

Corey Brewer + Rachel Heatherly | Big Loud

corey@bigloud.com, rachel@bigloud.com

The post SINGER-SONGWRITER BROCK PHILLIPS AND GLOBAL ARTIST DALLAS SMITH COLLAB ON NEW SONG “LEAVE ME LIKE A BACKROAD”  appeared first on Big Loud.

5 YEARS OF “JUST A LITTLE WHILE” & COULD IT GET BETTER THAN THIS 

FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF LABEL DEBUT ALBUM EASY STREET

PLAYFUL SMASH “YOUR NONSENSE MAKES SENSE” CONTINUES TO MAKE A SPLASH WITH NEARLY 25 MILLION STREAMS

PRE-SALE BEGINS TUESDAY (8/11) AT 10 A.M. LOCAL

PUBLIC ON-SALE BEGINS FRIDAY (8/14) AT 10 A.M. LOCAL 

NASHVILLE, TENN. – Today, The 502s announce their upcoming Just A Little Run beginning this fall with stops in Atlanta, Charleston, Nashville and more. The name takes inspiration from their 2021 viral hit “Just A Little While,” which has logged over 170Mstreams to date from their album Could It Get Better Than This.

“Five years ago, Could It Get Better Than This changed everything for us – it took us from tiny rooms to stages around the world,” shares The 502s. “To celebrate that journey, we’re hitting rewind with the Just a Little Run: a run of intimate, sweaty venues. We can’t wait to be back shoulder to shoulder with the fans who have been with us from the beginning.”

Pre-sale for Just A Little Run begins on Tuesday (8/11) at 10 a.m. local followed by public on-sale on Friday (8/14) at 10 a.m. local.

The run celebrates several milestones including five years of “Just A Little While” from their album Could It Get Better Than This and one year since the release of their Big Loud Records’ label debut album Easy Street. Their fourth studio album Easy Street includes playful smash “Your Nonsense Makes Sense” as well as “Summer Fling” that the band debuted on Good Morning America.

Affectionately dubbed “the happiest band on Earth,” The 502s embarked on their The Up, Up, Up The Coast and Across The Pond Tour last weekend,with remaining stops in Nantucket, Queens, United Kingdom, Ireland and more through early September. On their Nonsense All Night Tour earlier this year, “The 502s brought their blend of indie folk and feel-good energy…turning a weeknight into a celebration of music and positivity” (NYS Music).

For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit https://www.the502s.com/.

The Up, Up, Up The Coast and Across The Pond Tour Dates

August 7 – Rocking The Docks Music Series – Lewes, DE

August 8 – The United Theatre – Westerly, RI

August 9 – The Chicken Box – Nantucket, MA

August 11 – Levitate Backyard – Marshfield, MA

August 13 – The Stone Pony – Asbury Park, NJ

August 14 – Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center – Simsbury, CT

August 15 – Archer Music Hall – Allentown, PA

August 16 – Rockaway Hotel – Queens, NY

August 28 – The Long Road Festival – Leicestershire, UK $

August 30 – Set Theatre – Kilkenny, IE

August 31 – Cyprus Avenue – Cork, IE

September 1 – Dolan’s – Limerick, IE

September 2 – Róisín Dubh – Galway, IE

September 4 – De Oosterpoort – Groningen, NL

September 5 – Once in A Blue Moon Festival – The Hague, NL $

September 6 – Sound of Nashville – Cologne, DE $

$ Festival

Just A Little Run Dates

October 7 – Vinyl Center Stage – Atlanta, GA

October 8 – Radio Room – Greenville, SC

October 9 – Charleston Pour House – Charleston, SC

October 10 – Lincoln Theatre – Raleigh, NC *

October 11 – Neighborhood Theatre – Charlotte, NC

October 12 – The Basement – Nashville, TN

*Supporting JJ Grey and MOFRO

ABOUT THE 502s

The 502s are a beach folk band from Florida, often called “the happiest band on Earth.” With breezy banjos, shout-along choruses and an energy that bursts like a cannonball into a swimming pool, their music feels like sunshine you can dance to. Their song “Just A Little While” made a viral splash with over 170M streams to date. Pouring their unbridled energy and eclectic musicality into their most adventurous offering to date, The 502s’ album Easy Street is out now. The 13-song collection features playful smash “Your Nonsense Makes Sense” and will have you barefoot in the sand, laughing with friends and singing at the top of your lungs—even if it’s just in your kitchen. Currently on their The Up, Up, Up The Coast and Across The Pond Tour which wraps in September, they will embark on their Just A Little Run dates for the month of October.

CONNECT WITH THE 502s

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | FACEBOOK | YOUTUBE

#    #    #

Media Contacts

Corey Brewer + Rachel Heatherly | Big Loud

corey@bigloud.com, rachel@bigloud.com

The post THE 502S ANNOUNCE UPCOMING JUST A LITTLE RUN, BEGINNING THIS OCTOBER appeared first on Big Loud.

         HIGHLY ANTICIPATED ASHLEY COOKE DUE OUT 8/14 

NASHVILLE, TENN. – Today, country hitmaker Ashley Cooke has announced the cities that made me tour, a run of special acoustic performances celebrating the release of her new self-titled album, presented by Surfside. For a week in August, Cooke will criss-cross the country with a series of pop-up appearances featuring intimate performances of songs from ashley cooke, fan meet-and-greets and exclusive merch, all taking place in towns that were formative to Cooke’s upbringing and adulthood alike — a perfect backdrop for the most personal music of her career. Go here to RSVP and check out the whole routing below. Pre-order/pre-save ashley cookehere.

First shared on socials (see here), Cooke reflects, “this album was built on the memories and moments that shaped me into who I am, and I couldn’t think of a better way to spend release week than taking a trip down memory lane with you. each of these cities have impacted my life growing up in different eras and are truly the fabric of my tapestry so far – I want you guys to become part of it ”

Everything kicks off at home in Nashville, TN on August 14, marking ashley cooke‘s release day with a tour of local haunts (stay tuned). From there, the cities that made me run will continue on to Milwaukee, WI, Cooke’s birthplace, before visiting towns she lived in through the years: Pleasanton and Studio City representing Cooke’s youth in California, then Sarasota and Parkland from later stints in Florida. The shows wrap by going all the way back to West Lafayette, IN, where Cooke’s parents met.

Together, the cities that made me tour dates gesture at the multi-faceted origin stories we all carry with us, paralleling the chaotic period of self-discovery depicted with complexity and confidence across ashley cooke‘s 15 tracks. Pulling from all the ups and downs of the years in which Cooke broke through as a definitive new country star, ashley cooke opens up about falling in love, the seesaw of spirals and clarity, and coming to terms with her own self-sabotaging tendencies, all sung with unflinching honesty shot through with sensitivity, sharp wit and breezy irreverence.

Last month, Cooke offered the latest preview of her sophomore album with “famous to frances” and “johnny ‘n june,” two singles produced by the legendary Dann Huff (Dolly Parton, Taylor Swift). Each wrestling with brief loves and the often-baffling landscape of modern romance, Cooke’s latest tracks are one facet of an assured, ambitious album stacked with standouts like her current country radio hit “baby blues” — a longtime fan favorite that climbed to the No. 1 spot on SiriusXM The Highway’s Hot 30 Countdown earlier this year — and co-writes with luminaries including Liz Rose, Lori McKenna, Ashley Gorley, and Hillary Lindsey and GRAMMY-nominated singer/songwriter JP Saxe. The album also features recent smashes “the hell you are,” “high school sweetheart” and “xs,” a March release that inspired Country Swag to hail Cooke as “one of the most exciting rising artists in the genre today.” Collectively, the album marks a bold evolution of her acclaimed 2023 debut shot in the dark, which featured the GOLD-certified “never til now” and country radio No. 1 hit “your place.”

After the cities that made me mini-tour concludes, Cooke will embark on the baby blues world tour — a global headline run launching September 17 at Globe Iron in Cleveland. The 28-date trek includes stops in major cities throughout the US and UK and concludes at Nashville’s legendary Ryman Auditorium. For more info on Cooke’s upcoming tour dates, visit ashleycooke.com.

the cities that made me tour:

AUGUST
14 | Nashville, TN – Stay tuned!  
15 | Milwaukee, WI – Rave Penthouse
16 | Pleasanton, CA  – Mavericks
17 | Studio City, CA – Desert 5 Spot
19 | Parkland, FL  – Sharkey’s
20 |  Sarasota, FL  – Big Top Brewing
22 | West Lafayette, IN – Neon Cactus

ABOUT ASHLEY COOKE

One of country’s most magnetic young storytellers, Ashley Cooke made her unforgettable debut with 2023’s shot in the dark and soon scored her first country radio No. 1 with “your place” — a GOLD-certified, Billboard Hot 100-charting hit that later won a 2024 CMT Music Award for Breakthrough Female Video of the Year. With a voice that carries both tenderness and quiet confidence, she’s since garnered nominations for New Female Artist of the Year at the ACM Awards and Best New Country Artist at the iHeartRadio Music Awards. While building up an acclaimed body of work including 2025’s ace — a nine-song project featuring her country radio smash “the hell you are” and longtime fan favorite “baby blues” (a No. 1 hit on SiriusXM The Highway’s Hot 30 Countdown) — Cooke has collaborated with major artists ranging from pop superstar Joe Jonas (“All I Forgot”) to country hitmaker Brantley Gilbert (“Over When We’re Sober”). Known for her emotionally charged and high-energy live show, she’s also toured with heavy-hitters like Luke Bryan, Parker McCollum, Kane Brown, and recently hit the road as support for Jon Pardi’s HONKYTONK HOLLYWOOD TOUR. As her profile continues to rise, Cooke made a cameo appearance in March on CBS’ Marshals (the newly launched spinoff of the blockbuster Western saga Yellowstone), just before heading overseas for C2C: Country to Country 2026 (including a performance at the iconic O2 Arena in London). With her self-titled sophomore album due out August 14, she’s now gearing up to take the stage at leading festivals like Boots and Hearts (8/9 in Ontario, Canada). Later this year, Cooke will embark on the baby blues world tour — a 28-date global headline run launching on September 17 and continuing through February 25 at the legendary Ryman Auditorium.

CONNECT WITH ASHLEY COOKE

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | X | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE

# # #

Media Contacts

Jensen Sussman | Sweet Talk Publicity

jensen@sweettalkpr.com 

Corey Brewer + Rachel Heatherly | Big Loud

corey@bigloud.com, rachel@bigloud.com

The post ASHLEY COOKE ANNOUNCES THE CITIES THAT MADE ME TOUR appeared first on Big Loud.

OVER $1 MILLION WORTH OF INSTRUMENTS DONATED TO 26 SCHOOLS ACROSS TOURING CITIES BY MORGAN WALLEN FOUNDATION

NASHVILLE, TENN. –  Following the release of his highly-anticipated track “Been By Now”and Saturday’s sold-out tour finale at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field, Morgan Wallen has officially concluded the Still The Problem Tour. Across 23 sold-out stops at 12 North American stadiums, the tour saw shows at iconic venues including Bryant-Denny Stadium, Soldier Field, U.S. Bank Stadium, Allegiant Stadium, Michigan Stadium, University of Clemson’s Memorial Stadium and Lincoln Financial Field.

Along the historic run, Wallen became the first artist in history to perform two consecutive nights at Michigan Stadium as well as University of Clemson’s Memorial Stadium. Additionally, Wallen played the first concert at Alabama’s Bryant-Denny Stadium in 43 years, following Hank Williams Jr’s 1983 show.

As a testament to the impact of the latest tour, Wallen’s latest album I’m The Problem has returned to the top spot on the Billboard 200 chart. The album, which debuted more than a year ago and has never left the Top 10, spends its 14th non-consecutive week at No.1.

After debuting the track at hissold-out show at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Wallen recently released his newest track and first solo release of the year – “Been By Now.” Upon release, the track debuted No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 – his 20th Top 10 track. The track also debuted No. 1 on the Streaming Songs and Digital Songs Sales charts. Wallen currently has two songs in the Top 5 including his duet with Ella Langley, “I Can’t Love You Anymore.”

In addition, “You Proof” has officially been certified Diamond by the RIAA. This becomes Wallen’s sixth Diamond-certification, maintaining the record for the most Diamond-certified singles by any country artist.

During the Still The Problem Tour run, Wallen donated a portion of every ticket sold to his Morgan Wallen Foundation (MWF) — which supports youth music and athletic programs and gives communities access to essentials in times of crisis. Those donations enabled MWF to donate over $1 million worth of instruments to 26 schools in need across U.S. touring cities.

One of the schools, Sto-Rox Junior/Senior High School in Pittsburgh, PA – received $40,000 worth of instruments. “We are truly honored and excited to receive this generous donation of musical instruments from the Morgan Wallen Foundation. This gift will have a lasting impact on our students and our music program by providing access to high-quality instruments that will inspire creativity, enhance learning opportunities, and help our young musicians continue to grow both artistically and personally,” Sonya Coleman, Sto-Rox School District Superintendentstates, “Partnerships like this demonstrate the power of giving back to communities and creating opportunities that will positively influence students for years to come.”

Throughout the run, Wallen transformed each tour stop into a one-of-a-kind hometown event, welcoming athletes and local legends for his now-iconic walkouts. Joined by an all-star lineup of special guests including Nick Saban, Caitlin Clark, Tim Tebow, John Elway, Ray Lewis, Aidan Hutchinson, Cooper Dejean, The Hughes Brothers and a special evening at night one in Baltimore where he was joined by members of the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps. Special guests for the tour, which varied by show, included Brooks & Dunn, HARDY, Thomas Rhett, Ella Langley, Gavin Adcock, Vincent Mason, Zach John King, Jason Scott & The High Heat, Blake Whiten, Hudson Westbrook and Flatland Cavalry.

ABOUT MORGAN WALLEN
Morgan Wallen sets the pace in, and beyond, country music – with Billboard calling him “one of the biggest stars in the music world right now.” With 22 No. 1 singles at country radio, 19 Billboard Music Awards to-date, more than 225 weeks spent atop Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart (the most in country music history), the highest selling country tour under his belt and more, Wallen has propelled country music to a global level in less than five years. Wallen’s fourth studio album, I’m The Problem, available now via Big Loud / Mercury, debuted at No. 1 globally across seven countries and has spent 14 non-consecutive weeks atop the Billboard  200 albums chart. His preceding albums – Dangerous: The Double Album and One Thing At A Time – have remained in the top 10 of the Billboard  200 chart for more than 100 weeks each, making him the first artist ever to achieve that feat. I’m The Problem has already yielded seven No. 1s at country radio, including the title track, which remained at No. 1 for eight weeks. Wallen recently wrapped his sold-out 23-stadium show Still The Problem Tour . With stops at 12 North American stadiums, the tour saw shows at iconic venues including Bryant-Denny Stadium, Soldier Field, U.S. Bank Stadium, Allegiant Stadium, Michigan Stadium, Memorial Stadium at Clemson and Lincoln Financial Field. Wallen donates a portion of every ticket sold to his Morgan Wallen Foundation — which supports programs for youth in the areas of sports and music. More at MorganWallenFoundation.org. 

MorganWallen.com | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Twitter/X | YouTube

###

Media Contacts for Morgan Wallen

Corey Brewer + Rachel Heatherly | Big Loud

corey@bigloud.com, rachel@bigloud.com

Beau Benton | Mercury Records / REPUBLIC Collective

Beau.Benton@umusic.com

The post MORGAN WALLEN CLOSES OUT 2026 STILL THE PROBLEM TOUR, SELLING OUT ALL 23 STADIUM SHOWS ACROSS 12 CITIES appeared first on Big Loud.

“THE LONE STAR RISING STAR” – COWBOYS & INDIANS 

NASHVILLE, TENN. / AUSTIN, TEXAS – Today, Big Loud Texas artist Julianna Rankin drops unforgettably clever “Double Knot,” out now. Described as “highly promising” by MusicRow, Rankin’s new song was produced by GRAMMY® Award-winning tastemakers Miranda Lambert and Jon Randall.

Teasing the new song on social media, Rankin playfully dedicated the track to, “all the boys and girls with a case of the seven-year itch.”

Putting a new spin on the familiar story of a fizzled-out marriage, “Double Knot” was written Oscar Charles, Bryan Simpson and Meg McRee. Swaggering steel guitar winds around Rankin’s smooth vocals on the track:

Baby when we tied the knot

We might’ve shoulda tied it in a double knot

Like the cans on the bumper that were hanging off

The caddy whipping out of the parking lot

For a minute we were in it, we were meant to be

Now we’re two single people, one diamond ring

Up for sale in an ole pawn shop

Rankin’s most recent steel-soaked honky-tonk song “Dusty Boots” was named one of Holler‘s new music discoveries. In addition to the winking “XYZ71s,” the Texas native dropped “Little Miss Behavin’” with an official music video starring Gretchen Wilson. Her label debut with Big Loud Texas, “Bad Habits and Good Horses,” was featured in the season finale of Landman via Paramount+.

Next month, Rankin will support Easton Corbin and Stoney LaRue before playing Everybody’s Somebody Festival with headliners Hayes Carll & The Band of Heathens in September. This fall, Rankin will support Mark Chesnutt and Casey Donahew on select dates. For more information or tickets, please visit juliannarankin.com. 

Julianna Rankin Tour Dates

August 14 – Rowdy’s Spring – Spring, TX = 

August 15 –  Bay City Civic Center – Bay City, TX / 

August 16 – The Redbird Listening Room – New Braunfels, TX

September 5 – Everybody’s Somebody Fest – Luckenbach, TX #

September 18 – Blackhawk Grill – Whitehouse, TX ^

September 19 – Cheatham Street Warehouse – San Marcos, TX

October 2 – Gruene Hall – New Braunfels, TX +

October 11 – Gruene Music & Wine Festival – New Braunfels, TX

October 23 – PigFest – Hendersonville, TN #

= Supporting Stoney LaRue

/ Supporting Easton Corbin 

^ Supporting Mark Chesnutt

+ Supporting Casey Donahew

# Festival

ABOUT JULIANNA RANKIN

Big Loud Texas singer-songwriter Julianna Rankin is an undeniable rising talent hailing from The Lone Star State. Raised on classic country and the blues with influences ranging from Keith Whitley, Bobbie Gentry and Waylon Jennings to Bonnie Raitt, Carole King and James Taylor, Rankin was emboldened to pursue a career in music after her family and peers alike discovered her talent while attending college at Texas A&M. After being discovered and signed by Big Loud Texas, her label debut “Bad Habits and Good Horses” was featured in the season finale of Landman via Paramount+. The “highly promising” (MusicRow) talent signed to Big Loud Texas Publishing and Sony Music Publishing earlier this year. 

CONNECT WITH JULIANNA RANKIN

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | FACEBOOK | YOUTUBE

#    #    #

Media Contacts

Corey Brewer + Rachel Heatherly | Big Loud

corey@bigloud.com, rachel@bigloud.com

The post BIG LOUD TEXAS SINGER-SONGWRITER JULIANNA RANKIN RELEASES UNFORGETTABLY CLEVER “DOUBLE KNOT” appeared first on Big Loud.