Author

johnlaw

Browsing

In 2014, country music icons George Strait and Alan Jackson took the stage together for an unforgettable duet of “Murder on Music Row” during The Cowboy Rides Away: Live from AT&T Stadium. This wasn’t just another performance—it was a powerful statement, a heartfelt tribute to the soul of traditional country music, and a bold callout of the genre’s increasing commercialization.

A Song That Speaks the Truth
Originally written by Larry Cordle and Larry Shell in 1999, “Murder on Music Row” is a raw, unapologetic critique of how mainstream influences have reshaped country music. The lyrics lament the loss of the genre’s roots, symbolizing this shift with the haunting image of country music being “murdered” on Nashville’s famed Music Row.

When Strait and Jackson teamed up to record the song in 2000, it struck a deep chord with fans who felt traditional country was fading. Fast-forward to their live 2014 performance, and the song’s message still rang true—perhaps even louder than before.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Performance
When these two legends took the stage at AT&T Stadium, the energy in the crowd was electric. Strait’s smooth, commanding voice blended seamlessly with Jackson’s signature honky-tonk twang, creating a spine-tingling harmony that captivated the massive audience.

For fans, this wasn’t just a duet—it was an anthem. The performance felt like a rallying cry, a reminder of what makes country music special: its storytelling, authenticity, and raw emotion.

More Than Just a Farewell Tour Moment

This performance was especially poignant because it took place during Strait’s farewell tour, making it a historic moment in country music. As they sang together, it was clear that Strait and Jackson weren’t just singing a song—they were standing up for the heart and soul of country music.

Even today, “Murder on Music Row” remains just as relevant. Country music has continued evolving, with pop-country dominating the charts, but this duet serves as a timeless reminder of the genre’s deep roots and rich storytelling traditions.

Strait and Jackson’s performance of “Murder on Music Row” will forever be remembered as a defining moment in country music history. It wasn’t just about nostalgia—it was a powerful statement about the preservation of country’s true essence. Their duet continues to inspire both artists and fans, proving that traditional country music isn’t just a sound—it’s a legacy worth protecting.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122136194732471340&set=a.122119902284471340

Just six months after welcoming her daughter, River, Kelly Clarkson took the stage in Nashville to celebrate a country music legend—her stepmother-in-law, Reba McEntire. The American Country Countdown Awards honored Reba with the first-ever Nash Icon Award, and the tribute was nothing short of spectacular.

Joining forces with Miranda Lambert, Kelly helped kick off a powerful medley of Reba’s biggest hits, including “How Blue” and “Take It Back.” The energy in the room soared as Reba herself stepped in, closing the set with an electrifying performance of her signature anthem, “Fancy.”

Kelly’s connection with Reba goes beyond family ties. The two first bonded in 2007 when Kelly appeared on Reba’s sitcom and later co-headlined the 2 Worlds 2 Voices Tour in 2008. Their deep admiration for each other was on full display, making the tribute even more meaningful.

The night was filled with star power, as Lambert—who had just been crowned Female Vocalist of the Year—delivered a stunning vocal performance alongside Kelly. Backstage, Kelly shared a fun moment when her sister, Alyssa, ran into actor Vince Vaughn, adding to the excitement of the evening.

With powerhouse vocals, heartfelt moments, and an unforgettable celebration of Reba’s legacy, the Nash Icon Awards proved that country music’s greatest voices continue to inspire generations.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122136164204471340&set=a.122119902284471340

 

 

 

 

As the lights dimmed inside The Fillmore New Orleans, anticipation filled the air. The Fools for You—Post Malone’s band of top-tier Nashville musicians—took their places around a leather stool and a makeshift table crafted from a Bud Light keg and a wooden crate. It was the perfect setup for an intimate yet electrifying night, setting the tone for what fans might experience on Post’s upcoming Big Ass Stadium Tour, where he’ll be joined by Jelly Roll and Grammy winner Sierra Ferrell.

From the very start, the energy was infectious. Fans were treated to a surprise appearance by comedian Shane Gillis, Post Malone’s co-star in Bud Light’s Super Bowl LIX commercial. “Post is coming out soon,” he teased, standing against a stripped-down backdrop of blue-lit Bud Light kegs. “Thanks for letting me be up here for ten seconds.”

A Laid-Back Post Malone, A Night to Remember
Moments later, Post Malone—barefoot and clad in plaid—quietly strolled onto the stage. “Hello,” he greeted, waving his cowboy hat as the crowd erupted in cheers. He took his seat, signaling the start of a night filled with heartfelt performances and unexpected surprises.

2025 has already been a whirlwind for Post. From starring in a Bud Light Super Bowl commercial to partnering with Oreo on their first-ever swirled filling cookie, he’s been everywhere. And, after the recent Academy Awards, he now holds the unofficial title of most Grammy nominations without a win. But if he had any frustrations, they didn’t show—this night was all about the music.

Post Malone & Jelly Roll: A Collaboration Fans Can’t Get Enough Of
Kicking off the set with Circles, Post introduced a fresh, country-infused twist to the hit song, layering steel guitar and fiddle into the mix. As he transitioned into What Don’t Belong to Me from his debut country album F-1 Trillion, the crowd was already buzzing. But the real moment came when he teased his next track:

“I wrote this one with a buddy of mine,” he said, as the unmistakable opening chords of Losers rang out.

Jelly Roll emerged on stage, and the two artists shared a moment of genuine camaraderie—watching each other perform with admiration, trading verses, and wrapping it all up with a heartfelt hug and a toast to the audience. It was the kind of raw, authentic chemistry that makes live music unforgettable.

A Stripped-Down Celebration of Country Music
Unlike Post’s 2024 Bud Light show in Nashville—which featured an all-star lineup of guest appearances—this Super Bowl weekend performance took a more intimate approach. He leaned into country-inspired versions of his biggest hits, letting the music speak for itself.

Fan-favorites like White Iverson, Rockstar, Better Now, and I Fall Apart all made the setlist, but in a stripped-down, acoustic-driven style. Gone were the pyrotechnics and high-energy antics of his F-1 Trillion tour; instead, Post sat back, letting his voice and musicianship shine.

A Moment of Gratitude
Throughout the night, Post took multiple pauses to soak in the moment, scanning the crowd and locking eyes with fans. “Looking back at everything that’s happened in my life, I know I can always look to y’all for support,” he reflected.

He also acknowledged a major milestone—White Iverson turning ten years old this month. “I just want to say thank you so much for giving me a shot and giving me a chance,” he told the audience, his gratitude unmistakable.

No Signs of Slowing Down
If this weekend proved anything, it’s that Post Malone is showing no signs of slowing down. Between his first stadium tour, new music in the works, and a massive European festival run later this year, he’s continuing to push boundaries and explore new sounds.

As for what’s next? With Post’s ability to effortlessly blend hip-hop, rock, pop, and now country, the possibilities are endless. But one thing’s for sure—his love for the Dallas Cowboys isn’t going anywhere. “We’ll see them at the Super Bowl next year,” he joked. “Or maybe the year after that.”

With his undeniable passion, talent, and ever-evolving artistry, Post Malone continues to prove that no matter the genre, he’s here to stay.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122136470570471340&set=a.122119902284471340

When Lainey Wilson walked onto The Kelly Clarkson Show, you could feel the energy shift. This wasn’t just another interview—it was a celebration of two powerhouse women with stories to tell. Wilson, the reigning 2023 CMA Entertainer of the Year, exuded her signature warmth, rocking her iconic bell-bottoms and infectious smile. Sitting alongside the ever-charismatic Kelly Clarkson and the always-insightful Hoda Kotb, the conversation quickly turned into a heartfelt mix of laughter, wisdom, and raw honesty.

Wilson, known for her authentic storytelling, shared the highs and lows of her journey, her Southern roots shining through every word. Clarkson, a vocal powerhouse in her own right, matched her energy, while Kotb brought depth to the discussion with her signature empathy. The audience was captivated—not just by the stories, but by the mutual admiration and respect in the room.

It wasn’t just a TV segment; it was a moment. A celebration of resilience, talent, and the unstoppable force of women in music.

“What Would Dolly Do?”—Wilson’s Guiding Mantra
During the interview, Clarkson—who knows a thing or two about navigating the industry—asked Wilson about her inspirations. Wilson smiled and shared her daily mantra: WWDoubleD—“What Would Dolly Do?”

Both artists gushed over their love for Dolly Parton, praising her kindness, authenticity, and legendary talent. Wilson recalled receiving invaluable advice from the country icon, emphasizing how Parton’s generosity and wisdom have shaped her own journey.

A Show-Stopping Duet on Country’s Cool Again
Then came the moment that left fans speechless—the “Kellyoke” performance. Clarkson and Wilson teamed up for a powerful duet of Wilson’s latest hit, Country’s Cool Again. Their voices blended effortlessly, delivering a performance filled with raw emotion and undeniable chemistry.

Fans couldn’t get enough. One YouTube viewer raved, “Wow, they sound amazing together! I love how Kelly always lets whoever sings with her shine—she steps back and supports them. They need to sing together again!”

Another added, “This moment is bombastic! Two of the best voices of all time singing together—absolutely legendary!”

With their electric energy and seamless harmonies, Clarkson and Wilson proved one thing: country music isn’t just cool again—it’s thriving. And these two? They’re leading the charge.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122136460004471340&set=a.122119902284471340

 

 

Riley Green & Ella Langley Light Up the Stage With Playful Energy in a Tribute to Toby Keith
Fans at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena erupted in cheers as soon as the familiar opening chords of Who’s Your Daddy rang through the venue. On July 29, 2024, Riley Green and Ella Langley took to the stage, channeling the humor and swagger of Toby Keith’s classic hit.

Langley, stunning in a sheer blue dress and black heeled boots, and Green, rocking his signature cowboy hat and denim, embodied the song’s playful storyline of a young woman and her “sugar daddy.” Their chemistry was undeniable, trading flirtatious lines with effortless charm.

A Nod to a Country Classic
Originally released on Keith’s Unleashed album, Who’s Your Daddy became his sixth consecutive No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and even climbed to No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100.

With a knowing smile, Green strummed his guitar and delivered the song’s opening verse, his deep vocals sending waves of excitement through the crowd:

“Here you come knockin’ on my door
Baby, tell me what you got on your mind…”

Langley jumped in with her signature raspy voice and tambourine in hand, dancing around the stage as the duo belted out the playful, tongue-in-cheek chorus:

“Who’s your daddy? Who’s your baby?
Who’s your buddy? Who’s your friend?”

Their performance was electric, breathing fresh life into the song while staying true to Keith’s signature style.

A Night of Unforgettable Tributes
Green and Langley’s duet was just one of many standout moments from Toby Keith: American Icon, a two-hour tribute special celebrating the legendary artist’s career and impact. The event featured performances from some of country music’s biggest stars, including Jelly Roll, Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Carrie Underwood, Lainey Wilson, and more.

Beyond the music, the evening also highlighted Keith’s deep commitment to philanthropy, with proceeds supporting Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt and The Toby Keith Foundation’s OK Kids Korral. Families who benefited from these causes shared heartfelt stories, reminding everyone of the late singer’s generosity and compassion.

Honoring a True Country Legend
Toby Keith, a powerhouse in country music, passed away on February 5, 2024, after battling stomach cancer. With an incredible 32 No. 1 hits, 40 million albums sold, and a record of chart-topping singles spanning 20 consecutive years, his influence on country music is undeniable.

Hits like How Do You Like Me Now?!, Courtesy of the Red, White & Blue (The Angry American), and As Good As I Once Was cemented his legacy as one of the genre’s biggest hitmakers. His many accolades include the National Medal of Arts, induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the BMI Icon Award.

Even beyond his music, Toby Keith’s impact lives on. His songs, his stories, and his spirit continue to inspire—proving that legends never fade.

Missed the show? Toby Keith: American Icon aired on August 28 on NBC and is now available for streaming on Peacock.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122138220914471340&set=a.122119902284471340

Lainey Wilson had a night to remember at the 2024 People’s Choice Awards, delivering a powerhouse performance before taking home the Female Country Artist of the Year award.

Taking the stage against a bold Western-inspired backdrop, Wilson wowed the audience with a medley of her biggest hits. She kicked things off with her brand-new single, “Country’s Cool Again,” then flowed seamlessly into fan favorites like “Things a Man Oughta Know,” “Heart Like a Truck,” and “Watermelon Moonshine.”

Her performance wasn’t just about the music—it was a full-on country fashion moment. Dressed in a studded leather jacket, black bellbottoms with brown fringe, a crop top, and her signature cowboy hat, Wilson embodied the grit and glam of modern country music.

A Well-Deserved Win
After setting the stage on fire, Wilson was named Female Country Artist of the Year, presented by Glen Powell, Natasha Bedingfield, and Sydney Sweeney. The moment was made even sweeter by the presence of her boyfriend, Devlin “Duck” Hodges, who beamed with pride as she gave him a celebratory high five on her way to the stage.

Grinning from ear to ear, Wilson reflected on her whirlwind year.

“These last couple of weeks have been crazy—really, really crazy!” she admitted, fresh off her recent GRAMMY win.

She also took a moment to celebrate the diversity in today’s country music scene.

“I love how country music brings people together. We all come from different places, with different stories, but at the heart of it, it’s about storytelling. And that’s what keeps drawing people in.”

A Heartfelt Thank You
Before leaving the stage, Wilson made sure to show love to those who have supported her along the way.

“Thank you to my mama, my daddy, my family, my hometown, my team—Mandelyn, I love you so much. Duck, I love you back there!” she gushed, giving a sweet shoutout to Hodges.

She also made it clear that her faith is a driving force in her journey.

“My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ—I could not do this without Him guiding me every step of the way.”

And of course, she saved the biggest thank you for her fans.

“To my wild horses out there, y’all keep showing up, and I’ll keep showing up too!”

With another unforgettable performance and a well-earned award under her belt, Lainey Wilson is proving that country’s not just cool again—it’s unstoppable.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122138470238471340&set=a.122119902284471340

When Jelly Roll joined country music legends Brooks & Dunn at the Country Music Awards, no one could have anticipated just how powerful the moment would be. Their soul-stirring rendition of “Believe” had the entire audience captivated, with many moved to tears. Within days, the performance amassed nearly two million views on YouTube, proving its lasting impact.

From the moment the trio stepped onto the stage, it was clear something special was about to unfold. Backed by a full orchestra, Jelly Roll and Kix Brooks set the stage with a heartfelt introduction before Ronnie Dunn’s signature vocals soared through the arena. As the song reached its emotional peak, Jelly Roll’s raw passion was undeniable—his voice carrying the weight of the song’s powerful message.

Fans were quick to express their emotions, with many calling the performance one of the most moving moments in CMA history. One YouTube viewer shared, “I cannot get enough of this! Y’all had everyone praising God along with you. This is one for the record books!” Another wrote, “I saw this on Facebook and immediately came to YouTube to save it. It brought me to my knees and filled my heart with joy.”

More than just a collaboration, this performance was a testament to the power of music—uniting artists from different generations to create something truly unforgettable.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122135328134471340&set=a.122119902284471340

Jelly Roll and his daughter shared an incredibly emotional moment on stage as they performed the touching song “If These Tears Could Talk.” Their duet was a beautiful showcase of the deep bond between father and daughter, with both pouring their hearts into every note. Jelly Roll, known for his honest and raw storytelling, blended his unique mix of country, rock, and hip-hop influences, while his daughter brought a sweet, gentle touch to the song.

This performance was more than just a musical collaboration—it was a heartfelt expression of love, loss, and redemption. The lyrics, full of emotion and reflection, took on even greater meaning as their voices intertwined. Jelly Roll’s powerful, gravelly tone paired perfectly with his daughter’s soft, innocent vocals, creating a stunning contrast that left the audience speechless.

It wasn’t just about the music—it was about family and the incredible way music can convey emotions that words alone can’t capture. “If These Tears Could Talk” became a moment fans will remember for a long time, cementing Jelly Roll’s ability to connect with his audience on a deeply personal level.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122135093918471340&set=a.122119902284471340

Riley Green took the stage on Jimmy Kimmel Live! for a memorable performance of his hit song “Worst Way,” marking a big milestone in his career. The song, known for its bold and flirtatious lyrics, took a different turn from Green’s usual style, sparking plenty of buzz online. Fans quickly dubbed it a “baby-making song,” and many even likened Green to a “country Marvin Gaye.”

In interviews, Green opened up about the song’s daring nature, admitting it was “a little direct” for his typical country sound. At first, he wasn’t sure how fans would react but decided to take the plunge after receiving an overwhelmingly positive response on social media. The song made it onto his album Don’t Mind If I Do, and the live performance on Kimmel definitely didn’t disappoint.

On stage, Green showed off his smooth vocals and undeniable charisma, dressed in his signature laid-back style. The intimate setting, complete with moody lighting, added to the sensual vibe of the track. Fans who missed the live broadcast can catch the performance on Green’s official YouTube channel.

After the show, Green shared his gratitude on Instagram, posting a behind-the-scenes photo with a heartfelt thank-you to the Kimmel team. This performance proved how confident Green is in “Worst Way” and solidified the song as a standout in his career. As he gears up for his ‘Damn Country Music Tour’ in March, fans can expect even more electrifying performances and a deeper dive into his growing catalog.

In short, Riley Green’s performance of “Worst Way” on Jimmy Kimmel Live! showcased his versatility as an artist while reaffirming the song’s place as a bold, standout track in modern country music. It’s clear Green is pushing boundaries and staying true to his roots, and fans can’t wait to see what he does next!

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122134951898471340&set=a.122119902284471340

 

In 2014, a 20-year-old Morgan Wallen took the stage on The Voice Season 6, delivering a standout performance of “Stay” by Florida Georgia Line. This performance was a key turning point in his early career, showcasing his distinct blend of country and rock influences.

Originally from Knoxville, Tennessee, Wallen had dreams of becoming a professional baseball player, but an injury led him down the path to music instead. Choosing “Stay” for his audition was both a strategic move and a personal choice. The song, filled with emotion about longing and regret, gave Wallen a chance to show off his vocal range and depth. His decision to perform a track that balanced country and rock also highlighted his versatility as an artist.

Wallen’s raspy yet smooth voice brought the song’s emotional lyrics to life, grabbing the attention of both the audience and the coaches. His stage presence, which balanced vulnerability with confidence, hinted at the star power he would soon develop.

The coaches—Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, Shakira, and Usher—were clearly impressed by Wallen’s performance. Adam Levine, recognizing his raw talent, chose Wallen to be on his team for the rest of the competition. Though Wallen’s journey on The Voice ended during the playoffs after his performance of “Stay,” the exposure he gained was invaluable and served as a stepping stone for his music career.

After the show, Wallen signed with Big Loud Records and released his debut album If I Know Me in 2018. The album featured hits like “Whiskey Glasses” and “Up Down,” which helped solidify his place in country music. His success continued with multiple chart-topping singles and awards.

Looking back, Morgan Wallen’s performance of “Stay” on The Voice remains a defining moment in his journey to stardom, showing just how much potential he had even early on in his career. Fans still refer to it as the beginning of what would become a remarkable musical journey.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122134955288471340&set=a.122119902284471340