At the CMA Awards, Carrie Underwood delivered a deeply emotional performance of “Softly and Tenderly” that left the audience in awe. From the moment she stepped on stage, there was an electric sense of anticipation, but her rendition of the hymn far exceeded anyone’s expectations.

With every note, Carrie’s voice conveyed both power and vulnerability, perfectly capturing the song’s tender message. The raw emotion in her performance was undeniable, and it wasn’t long before she fought back tears, sharing a powerful moment of connection with both the song and the audience. Her heartfelt delivery seemed to reach into the hearts of everyone present, creating a sense of shared beauty and emotion.

The performance itself was a masterclass in vocal ability. Carrie’s voice, clear and pure, carried the delicate melody with ease, while the minimal instrumentation allowed her talent to shine through. The soft lighting added to the intimacy of the moment, amplifying the emotional weight of the song. As she reached the peak of the song, the entire room was captivated by the raw, emotional energy she exuded.

As the final notes faded, Carrie was visibly moved, with tears that reflected the deep emotion of the song. The crowd’s thunderous applause was a testament to the vulnerability and strength she displayed. Carrie Underwood’s performance of “Softly and Tenderly” wasn’t just another award show performance—it was an unforgettable moment of heartfelt artistry, solidifying her place as one of country music’s most powerful vocalists.

Lainey Wilson kicked off her much-anticipated tour with a moment fans will be talking about for a long time. On opening night, the crowd got the surprise of a lifetime when none other than country legend Wynonna Judd stepped out on stage to join Lainey for an unexpected duet of Tom Petty’s rock classic, “Refugee.”

The energy in the venue was already sky-high as Lainey launched into her set, but when Wynonna appeared, the excitement hit a whole new level. With her unmistakable voice and commanding stage presence, Wynonna received a roaring welcome from the stunned audience.

The two powerhouse vocalists dove into “Refugee” with a fiery performance that blended Lainey’s Southern grit and Wynonna’s rich, soulful tone. Their voices intertwined perfectly, creating a fresh spin on the beloved anthem. Fans didn’t miss a beat, singing along at the top of their lungs as the duo delivered a raw, electrifying rendition that felt both spontaneous and straight from the heart.

It wasn’t just about the vocals—it was the vibe. Lainey and Wynonna clearly had a blast performing together, exchanging playful glances, dancing across the stage, and soaking in the crowd’s enthusiasm. Their chemistry was undeniable, and it made the performance feel like a celebration rather than a concert.

The duet served as a powerful tribute to Tom Petty, proving that great music transcends genres. It also reminded everyone just how magical live music can be—especially when two generations of country stars come together for a shared moment on stage.

Afterward, Lainey beamed as she thanked Wynonna, calling it a true honor to sing beside one of her all-time heroes. She also teased that more surprises could be in store as the tour continues.

With an unforgettable opening night like this, fans are more excited than ever to see what Lainey Wilson has in store next. If this epic duet is any indication, they’re in for something special.

Morgan Wallen’s One Thing at a Time album took the country world by storm in 2023, and it didn’t take long before he turned that momentum into the massive One Night at a Time World Tour. Along the way, he’s brought some of country’s brightest stars along for the ride—names like HARDY, Bailey Zimmerman, Ernest, and Parker McCollum have all joined the fun. But it was his recent stop in Las Vegas that fans are still buzzing about, thanks to a surprise performance that brought the house down.

During one of his two sold-out shows at Allegiant Stadium, Wallen stunned the crowd by bringing out none other than Jelly Roll for a show-stopping duet. The two teamed up on “Cowgirls,” a track originally recorded with Ernest, but Jelly Roll made it his own—stepping in effortlessly and adding his signature grit and soul to the mix.

The energy in the arena skyrocketed as the duo danced and laughed their way down the catwalk, clearly having as much fun as the audience. Fans caught every moment on camera, capturing a performance that felt both spontaneous and electric.

But the surprises didn’t stop there. Earlier in the night, Jelly Roll—who opened for Wallen’s first Vegas show—had a few tricks up his sleeve too. Mid-set, he welcomed Machine Gun Kelly to the stage, and the crowd went wild. The two performed “Need a Favor,” as well as their powerful collab “Lonely Road,” which dropped last July. That song’s music video even features their wives, Bunnie Xo and Megan Fox, making it a true family affair.

While Jelly Roll opened the first show, Bailey Zimmerman took over for night two, giving fans another taste of the rising talent that’s shaping modern country music. With Las Vegas now in the rearview, Wallen is setting his sights overseas, where he’s scheduled to perform in Sweden, Denmark, and Norway.

@955thebull

Who knew @Jelly Roll and @morganwallen perfoming “Cowgirls” together in Las Vegas was a collab we needed!?

♬ original sound – 95.5 The Bull

The ACM Honors took place on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at the iconic Ryman Auditorium, with the ceremony airing on September 24 on Merit Street, a channel owned by Dr. Phil.

What’s the ACM Honors? The ACM Honors is a special awards event that recognizes outstanding contributions within the country music industry. It celebrates a variety of honors, including the ACM Special Awards, Songwriter & Artist-Songwriter of the Year Awards, and the Industry and Studio Recording Awards. This event is a favorite among industry insiders and music fans alike.

Hosted by Carly Pearce, a four-time host, and reigning ACM Song of the Year winner Jordan Davis, this year’s event honored country legends such as Luke Bryan, Alan Jackson, Lainey Wilson, and Trisha Yearwood, among others.

The night was filled with incredible performances, with artists like Eric Church, Vince Gill, and Emmylou Harris leading the lineup. Later, a second round of performers joined the stage, including Lauren Alaina, Terri Clark, Jordan Davis, and 15-time ACM Award winner Jason Aldean.

The ACM Lifting Lives Award, which is given to an artist or industry professional who uses music to make a positive impact and serves others, was a key highlight of the evening. The award was inspired by Gary Haber and honors those who give back generously to others.

Ahead of the event, Aldean shared his thoughts on his close friend Luke Bryan, and in a heartfelt tribute, performed Bryan’s 2009 hit “Someone Else Calling You Baby,” which was a chart-topping success from Bryan’s second album, Doin’ My Thing.

Lainey Wilson lit up the Jimmy Kimmel Live stage with a soulful performance of her latest single, “Wildflowers and Wild Horses”, and reminded everyone why she’s one of the most powerful voices in country music today.

“It always feels good to be back,” Lainey said with a smile, clearly feeling right at home on the late-night stage.

With warm lighting and a desert-inspired backdrop, the scene was perfectly set for the heartfelt track that reflects on Lainey’s small-town roots in Baskin, Louisiana. Dressed in her signature style—a fringe jacket with feathered sleeves, gold bell bottoms, and her trusty cowboy hat—she captivated the audience with raw emotion and down-home charm.

Lainey’s vocals were as fierce and free as the song’s title suggests, drawing listeners into a story of grit, resilience, and connection to the land. “Wildflowers and Wild Horses,” co-written with Trannie Anderson and Paul Sikes, is the third single from her Bell Bottom Country album, following hits like Heart Like a Truck and Watermelon Moonshine.

The song also made a splash when it hit country radio, becoming one of the most added tracks during its debut week.

Fans first heard it live during her big night at the 57th Annual CMA Awards, where she took home five trophies—including the prestigious Entertainer of the Year. During that emotional performance, she paid tribute to her family’s legacy—five generations of Louisiana farmers—and the strength that’s been passed down to her.

“This one definitely shows that western side,” Lainey explained. “It takes me back to my childhood. It takes me back to my roots.”

You may have also spotted the song in Lainey’s recent Wrangler commercial, where she not only lent her voice but also starred as the face of the brand’s fall/winter campaign—bringing her love for the Western lifestyle full circle.

From the farm fields of Louisiana to national television, Lainey Wilson is blazing her own trail—and we’re lucky to be along for the ride.

At the 2016 CMA Music Festival, fans at Nashville’s Nissan Stadium were in for a treat when country superstars Luke Bryan and Keith Urban teamed up for a surprise performance of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s classic hit, “Fishin’ in the Dark.”

The crowd lit up as Luke kicked things off with his signature charm, while Keith added his magic on guitar—creating a perfect blend of vocals, rhythm, and energy. Their on-stage chemistry was undeniable, and the whole stadium could feel the fun and friendship between the two artists.

Originally released in 1987, “Fishin’ in the Dark” is one of those songs that brings back memories of summer nights and carefree adventures under the stars. Its nostalgic vibe has made it a long-time favorite for country fans of all ages.

Luke Bryan’s known for his high-energy shows and crowd-pleasing hits, while Keith Urban brings his world-class guitar skills and heartfelt lyrics to every performance. Put them together, and you’ve got a duet that celebrates everything great about country music.

Their performance wasn’t just about honoring a classic—it was also a celebration of the genre’s deep roots and the friendships that keep it thriving. Moments like this are what make the CMA Fest so special—where the past, present, and future of country music come together on one unforgettable stage.

Ricky Van Shelton has long been loved for his smooth baritone voice and timeless country style. Born on January 12, 1952, in the quiet town of Danville, Virginia, he burst onto the country music scene in the late ’80s and quickly became one of the era’s brightest stars. Of all his standout songs, one that continues to leave a lasting impression is his touching version of “Life Turned Her That Way.”

Originally penned by the legendary Harlan Howard in 1967, the song has been recorded by several country greats over the years, including Mel Tillis and George Jones. Its lyrics speak to the pain and struggles that shape a person, especially in matters of the heart.

When Ricky Van Shelton recorded the song for his second album, Loving Proof, in 1988, he brought a fresh yet faithful touch to this classic. His heartfelt delivery and warm vocal tone struck a chord with listeners, earning the track a well-deserved spot at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country chart. It also helped Loving Proof go platinum, cementing Shelton’s place as a key voice in traditional country music.

What made his version special? Ricky didn’t just sing the words—he lived them. His performance carried a quiet strength and emotional honesty that made the song feel personal and relatable. It was more than a cover; it became a new chapter in the song’s legacy.

Fans and critics alike praised his version for capturing the heartache and humanity behind the lyrics. It’s a song about understanding someone who’s been through a lot—and Ricky’s voice wrapped that message in warmth and compassion.

Even today, his version of “Life Turned Her That Way” remains one of the most powerful in country music history. It’s a reminder of how music can connect us through shared feelings of love, loss, and healing.

If you haven’t heard it in a while—or ever—take a moment to listen.
You just might find yourself feeling every word.

Long before she became a country music icon, Reba McEntire got her big break at a rodeo back in 1974. Just a year later, she signed her first record deal with Mercury Records, and by 1977, her debut album hit the shelves. She went on to release several albums with Mercury, but it was her 1982 release Unlimited that really turned heads.

That album featured a career-defining moment: her first #1 hit, “Can’t Even Get the Blues.” The song soared to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and marked the beginning of what would become a legendary run in country music.

When Reba performed the hit on Country Standard Time, she had the crowd eating out of the palm of her hand. With a cheeky grin and her signature charm, she told the audience:

“When we first got into the music business, there were a few things we were looking for, but number one was a number one record. Now that was seven years ago…and last December we found out we were gonna get one. We were thrilled to death thanks to y’all. But you know what?”

The crowd leaned in.

“We can’t even get the blues a-no more!” she shouted, full of sass and sparkle.

With that, the band kicked in, and Reba launched into the upbeat break-up tune that had taken her straight to the top. Watching her light up the stage with joy and confidence was a true treat—her energy was infectious, and fans couldn’t help but smile along.

“Can’t Even Get the Blues” wasn’t just a hit—it was a turning point. It helped launch Reba into superstardom, and since then, she’s only soared higher. With over 75 million records sold, more than 100 songs on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, and 25 #1 hits, it’s no wonder she’s lovingly known as the Queen of Country Music.

Nearly 50 years later, Reba is still going strong. Whether she’s starring in her new sitcom Happy’s Place, wrapping up a season on The Voice, or hitting the stage for another unforgettable performance—Reba proves time and time again that she’s not slowing down anytime soon.

And as for the blues? Yeah, she’s still too busy making hits to feel ’em.

Released in 2004 as the third single from Brad Paisley’s Mud On The Tires album, “Whiskey Lullaby” quickly became a country classic. A heart-wrenching duet with Alison Krauss, the song won the 2005 CMA Song of the Year Award and was certified 2× Platinum by the RIAA, cementing its legacy in country music.

The song was written by Bill Anderson and Jon Randall, inspired by a tough period in Randall’s life, which included personal struggles like a divorce and career setbacks. A comment from his manager about his drinking habits sparked the haunting line, “he put that bottle to his head and pulled the trigger.”

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A post shared by Brad Paisley (@bradpaisley)

Initially, The Chicks had considered recording the track, but the song’s fate changed when Brad Paisley discovered it and decided to turn it into a duet. He ultimately chose Alison Krauss for the female vocals, a decision that helped the song reach its full emotional impact.

Recently, Brad Paisley took the stage at the Grand Ole Opry for a special performance of “Whiskey Lullaby,” this time with the rising star Lainey Wilson. With her latest album Whirlwind making waves, Wilson brought her own magic to the classic, and fans were thrilled by the new rendition. One fan even commented, “Over 20 years later, and I still get chills every time I hear this song.”

Paisley shared the powerful performance on his social media, letting fans relive the unforgettable moment.

@musicmayhemmagazine.com

@Lainey Wilson joined @Brad Paisley for a surprise performance of “Whiskey Lullaby” at the Opry! #LaineyWilson #BradPaisley #GrandOleOpry #Opry #Nashville #CountryMusic #MusicCity #WhiskeyLullaby #Concert #LiveMusic

♬ original sound – Music Mayhem

Cody Johnson’s journey to country stardom is anything but ordinary—and that’s exactly what makes his story so inspiring.

Before he was selling out arenas and topping charts, Cody was juggling life as a prison guard by day and a country musician by night. Yep, you read that right. Back in the mid-2000s, he worked at the John Wynne maximum-security prison in Huntsville, Texas—alongside his dad. But deep down, he knew music was his calling.

With six self-released albums under his belt and a growing fanbase, his big moment came in 2016 with the release of Gotta Be Me, which soared to No. 1 on the indie charts. That same year, his heartfelt single “With You I Am” made waves, proving that Cody—known lovingly to fans as CoJo—was the real deal.

In 2018, he officially signed with Warner Music Nashville and hasn’t looked back since. His rise has been powered by gritty vocals, honest storytelling, and a work ethic built from years of doing things the hard way.

So, who is Cody Johnson?
Born May 21, 1987, in Sebastopol, Texas, Cody is now 37 years old and still proudly wears his Texas roots on his sleeve. Music was always in the background growing up—his parents, Sheila and Carl, played instruments and sang in church. But Cody says he really started to take music seriously in high school, joking that “everybody starts playing—for girls and beer!”

Was Cody in the military?
Nope, not the military—but Cody did serve as a correctional officer before making the leap to music full-time. It was a warden at the prison who gave him the encouragement he needed, telling him, “You can always come back if it doesn’t work out.” Luckily, Cody never had to take him up on that offer.

What are his biggest hits?
Cody’s debut album, Black and White Label, came out in 2006, and he’s been climbing ever since. His most recent album, Leather, released in 2023, took home Album of the Year at the CMA Awards in 2024—a major milestone for the former independent artist.

With fan-favorite songs like “’Til You Can’t,” “Human,” and “Wild as You,” Cody Johnson continues to prove that real, heartfelt country music is alive and well.

And guess what? He’s headed across the pond for C2C 2025, ready to bring that signature Texas sound to fans overseas.