On Wednesday night (November 29), Lainey Wilson lit up the Christmas at Graceland special on NBC with a bluesy, rock-infused take on “Santa Claus Is Back in Town.” Channeling the King of Rock and Roll himself, Wilson delivered a show-stopping performance that felt like a true tribute to Elvis Presley.

With the iconic Graceland Mansion in Memphis, Tennessee, as her backdrop—complete with classic cars parked out front—Wilson fully embraced the holiday spirit. As the newly crowned CMA Entertainer of the Year, she made sure this performance was one to remember.

A Festive, Elvis-Inspired Look
Dressed in a rhinestone-studded, bell-bottomed jumpsuit (complete with a cape, of course), Wilson put her own Bell Bottom Country twist on the Elvis classic. She was joined by her touring band and special guest Meg McRee, who added beautiful acoustic guitar and background vocals. With confidence and charisma, Wilson commanded the stage, delivering an electrifying holiday performance.

Giving fans a behind-the-scenes look, Wilson later posted a video on Instagram, capturing moments from her time at Graceland.

“Well y’all…I sure am in the Christmas spirit now! ❤️🎄What a way to officially ring in the holidays by honoring the rock n roll legend himself, @elvis, at the beautiful @visitgraceland,” she wrote.

The Story Behind “Santa Claus Is Back in Town”
Originally recorded by Elvis Presley in 1957 for his Elvis’ Christmas Album, “Santa Claus Is Back in Town” was penned by legendary songwriters Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. The album went on to become the best-selling Christmas album of all time in the U.S.

Over the years, many artists have covered the song, including Dwight Yoakam, who released his version in 1997. His take even charted on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs list.

A Star-Studded Night at Graceland
Wilson wasn’t the only big name to take the stage for Christmas at Graceland. The special featured performances from country stars like Kacey Musgraves, Kane Brown, and The War and Treaty, alongside music icons Alanis Morissette, John Legend, Lana Del Rey, and Post Malone. Each artist paid tribute to Elvis in their own unique way, making this a historic event.

Riley Keough, Elvis’ granddaughter and Emmy-nominated actress (Daisy Jones & The Six), also made appearances throughout the show. She even served as an executive producer for the special.

This Christmas at Graceland event was a first-of-its-kind broadcast, featuring never-before-seen footage of Elvis. It aired right after Christmas in Rockefeller Center, making for a night full of festive music and legendary performances.

What’s Next for Lainey?
After this magical Graceland performance, Wilson is heading back on the road. She’s set to wrap up the year with several shows, including a four-night run at The Theater at Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas.

With her powerhouse voice, undeniable stage presence, and ability to make every performance feel special, it’s clear why Lainey Wilson continues to captivate audiences. And if Elvis were watching? He’d definitely be proud.

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Few artists wear their hearts on their sleeves quite like Jelly Roll, and his emotional live performances prove why fans connect with him so deeply. One of his most unforgettable moments came at the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards when he teamed up with Lainey Wilson for a powerful duet of his hit “Save Me.”

From the very first note, it was clear this performance was something special. Jelly Roll’s raw, soul-baring delivery set the tone, and when Lainey Wilson joined in, her rich, heartfelt vocals took it to another level. Their voices blended seamlessly, creating a moment that left fans in awe.

A Performance That Resonated with Millions
Jelly Roll has never shied away from sharing his struggles, and “Save Me” is a testament to his willingness to be vulnerable. The song’s emotional weight resonated with viewers, racking up over 12 million views and countless heartfelt comments.

One fan wrote, “I listen to this song every day. I’m not religious or a country fan, but you have no soul if this song doesn’t move you.” Another shared, “I always get on the brink of weeping when Lainey sings in this performance. No other song does this to me.”

This kind of response isn’t unusual for Jelly Roll. His live performances consistently hit home, drawing audiences in with raw emotion and authenticity.

The Journey of “Save Me”
Originally released in 2020 as part of his Self Medicated album, “Save Me” quickly became a fan favorite. Three years later, he re-recorded it as a duet with Lainey Wilson, releasing it in 2023 on his Whitsitt Chapel album. The song, co-written with Grant Sims and David Ray, was inspired by a dark period in Jelly Roll’s life—one filled with grief and personal struggles.

Interestingly, he revealed to Howard Stern that “Save Me” was influenced by Bette Midler’s classic “The Rose.” In an interview with Apple Music, he also shared that he wrote the song while grieving his father’s passing during the pandemic.

More Unforgettable Jelly Roll Moments
Jelly Roll continues to deliver deeply personal performances that leave a lasting impact. His powerful moment on The Voice finale in 2024, where he performed “I Am Not OK,” is just another example of why fans keep coming back.

With his signature blend of country, rock, and raw emotion, Jelly Roll isn’t just making music—he’s telling stories that connect with people on a deeply personal level. And when he shares the stage with Lainey Wilson? Magic happens.

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One of the standout moments on Lainey Wilson’s brand-new album, Whirlwind, is the deeply moving track “Whiskey Colored Crayon.”

Wilson, known for her powerful storytelling, poured her heart into this 14-track project, co-writing every song. True to her signature style, Whirlwind blends themes of perseverance, heartbreak, and love—with a little humor sprinkled in for good measure. But “Whiskey Colored Crayon” immediately sets itself apart.

A Story That Hits Home
Though Wilson hasn’t personally lived the story in “Whiskey Colored Crayon,” her upbringing—raised by a teacher and steeped in country music’s storytelling traditions—gave her the tools to bring this heartbreaking yet hopeful tale to life. Co-written with Josh Kear and Wyatt McCubbin, the song paints a vivid picture of a young boy in Kindergarten, asked to draw his home.

But his drawing reveals more than just walls and windows—it tells the truth about his family’s struggles. His sketch includes his mother, siblings, and a father absent due to alcoholism.

🎶 “A little red house with a little green tree / A little blue car parked out on the street / Brother with a football, sister with a puppy dog / Mama with a smile and a church dress on / Then he raised his hand / Said teacher I can’t draw daddy / Do you have a whiskey colored crayon?” 🎶

The moment is a gut punch—raw and unfiltered. When the teacher shares the drawing with the boy’s mother, emotions spill over.

🎶 “She didn’t know what to say, but her mascara rained.” 🎶

Then, the story takes an unexpected turn. The child’s innocent yet painful artwork becomes a wake-up call. In the final verse, listeners learn that it inspired his father to change his life:

🎶 “He stood up in that circle / Said I’m sober seven years / And all because our little boy drew this picture here.” 🎶

The Power of Storytelling
Producer Jay Joyce keeps the production intimate, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. The song doesn’t just tell a story—it makes you feel it.

Wilson, the reigning ACM and CMA Entertainer of the Year, opened up about her deep love for storytelling in an interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1:

“I got bit by the storytelling bug from my parents, sitting around the kitchen table and telling stories from their childhood… Every single time we’d hear them, I’d catch something new. I’d laugh in a place I didn’t the time before. I just loved storytelling.”

That passion shines through in “Whiskey Colored Crayon.” It’s more than a song—it’s a moment, a message, and a testament to the power of country music.

With Whirlwind, Lainey Wilson reminds us why she’s one of country’s most compelling voices today.

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Downtown Nashville was buzzing with energy as Cole Swindell and Lainey Wilson took the stage at CMA Fest for a powerhouse performance of their hit duet, Never Say Never. Their undeniable chemistry and soaring vocals had the crowd completely captivated, proving once again why they are two of country music’s biggest stars.

The song, featured on Swindell’s fourth studio album Stereotype, has been a fan favorite since its release in November 2021. It became the most-added song on country radio upon debut, marking a major milestone for both artists. And judging by the reaction at CMA Fest, its impact is still going strong.

Co-written by Swindell, Jessi Alexander, and Chase McGill, Never Say Never tells the story of a couple struggling to let go, even when they know they should. The emotional tug-of-war plays out through heart-wrenching lyrics and dynamic harmonies, making it a standout duet.

🎶 “I never say never with you / I end up together with you / It’s hell and it’s heaven with you, baby…” 🎶

The passion in their voices brought the lyrics to life, leaving fans cheering long after the final note.

CMA Fest 2024, marking its 49th year, was hosted by Dierks Bentley and Elle King, who brought their signature humor and charm to the event. “Elle is a riot on stage and so talented,” Bentley shared. King added, “Not only do I get to do it with my buddy Dierks, but I also get to see these incredible performances and be part of a big party!”

The festival’s ABC special, filmed at Nissan Stadium, showcased over 30 performances and surprise collaborations from country’s biggest names, including Jason Aldean, Kelsea Ballerini, Kane Brown, Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and many more.

Swindell also treated fans to a performance of his current single, She Had Me at Heads Carolina, proving that his streak of chart-topping hits is far from over.

Swindell and Wilson’s performance of Never Say Never wasn’t just a highlight of the night—it was a defining moment of CMA Fest 2024. With their effortless vocal blend and commanding stage presence, they reminded everyone why country music is all about storytelling, passion, and connection.

For fans who couldn’t be there in person, clips of the performance are already making waves online. But one thing is clear: Cole Swindell and Lainey Wilson have a musical magic that can’t be denied.

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CMA Fest 2024 got a major dose of Southern rock energy when Lynyrd Skynyrd took the stage for a show-stopping performance of Sweet Home Alabama. The legendary band delivered a high-energy set, proving once again why their music continues to stand the test of time.

As soon as the unmistakable opening guitar riff rang out, the crowd erupted in cheers, singing along to every word. The band’s signature blend of gritty vocals, electrifying solos, and pure Southern charm had fans on their feet, lost in the nostalgia of one of rock’s most beloved anthems.

A Timeless Classic That Still Rocks
For over five decades, Sweet Home Alabama has been more than just a song—it’s an anthem. Released in 1974, the track quickly became a defining piece of American rock history. Written as a response to Neil Young’s Southern Man, the song reflects pride, identity, and the complexities of Southern culture, all wrapped up in a melody that’s impossible to resist.

With Ed King’s iconic guitar riff and Ronnie Van Zant’s unforgettable vocals, Sweet Home Alabama continues to resonate across generations. Whether you’re a lifelong Skynyrd fan or discovering their music for the first time, the song’s impact is undeniable.

A Performance to Remember
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s set at CMA Fest 2024 was a reminder of their lasting influence on rock and country music alike. Fans young and old came together to celebrate the spirit of Southern rock, proving that some songs—and some bands—never fade.

For those who missed the electrifying moment, videos of the performance are already making the rounds online, capturing the energy and excitement that only Lynyrd Skynyrd can bring. As they continue to tour and share their legendary music, one thing is clear—Southern rock is alive and well!

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Vince Gill and Amy Grant’s annual Christmas residency at the Ryman Auditorium is always special, but this year, it reached an unforgettable high when their daughter, Corinna Grant Gill, stepped onto the stage for a heartfelt performance. At just 23, Corinna—who performs professionally as Corrina—proved she’s got star power running through her veins.

Before her performance, Grant beamed with pride, telling the audience how much she and Gill cherish sharing the stage with their daughter. Dressed in a dazzling black gown adorned with crystals, Corinna looked every bit the star. But it was her voice—clear, powerful, and full of emotion—that truly stole the show.

A Song Straight from the Heart
Taking her place next to her father, Corinna delivered a deeply personal rendition of When My Amy Prays, a song Gill originally wrote for Grant. With a touching change to the lyrics, she transformed it into When My Mama Prays, making the moment even more intimate and meaningful.

As Gill played a soft, melodic backdrop on his guitar, Corinna’s voice soared, carrying every ounce of love and emotion in the lyrics. Sitting quietly off to the side, Grant watched with tear-filled eyes, visibly moved by the tribute.

A Star in the Making
Corinna’s performance left the audience in awe. Her voice, a perfect blend of her parents’ signature styles, was filled with warmth, control, and an effortless emotional depth. As she finished the song, the Ryman erupted into cheers and applause, a testament to the impact of her performance.

One fan summed it up best, saying, “The tone and control of this stunning young lady’s voice was simply inspiring. She made the song uniquely her own, which is quite a feat considering the incredible talent of her parents.”

With a performance like that, it’s clear Corinna isn’t just following in her parents’ footsteps—she’s paving her own path.

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When Reba McEntire and Dolly Parton team up, you know something magical is about to happen. These two country music legends, whose careers have defined the genre for decades, have finally come together to reimagine Reba’s 1993 hit Does He Love You. The result? A powerhouse duet that blends heartbreak, humor, and pure country charm.

The music video, which premiered on October 9, 2021, has already captured fans’ hearts. It opens with Reba and Dolly sitting across from each other, wine glasses in hand, trading verses about love and betrayal. The emotion is palpable, but in true Reba and Dolly fashion, they add a playful twist. Reba quips, “You can just have that old boy, I don’t want him,” to which Dolly fires back, “I don’t want him either. Let’s find us a new man.” It’s a moment that feels as genuine as their friendship—proof that even heartbreak can have a little humor.

A Timeless Classic, Reimagined
The original Does He Love You, written by Sandy Knox and Billy Stritch, became an instant hit in 1993. Featuring Linda Davis (who happens to be Lady A’s Hillary Scott’s mom), the song topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, won Reba a Grammy, and became one of country music’s most beloved duets. Nearly three decades later, this new version offers a fresh yet nostalgic take.

Under the guidance of producer Dave Cobb, the updated rendition takes a more intimate, stripped-down approach. Gone are the dramatic flourishes of the original, replaced by a raw, emotional arrangement that allows Reba and Dolly’s voices to take center stage. Their performance turns every lyric into a heartfelt conversation, making the song feel just as powerful today as it did in the ’90s.

A Collaboration Worth the Wait
Reba has called this duet “a long time coming,” and fans couldn’t agree more. Despite their legendary careers, this marks the first time Reba and Dolly have officially recorded a song together. Seeing them bring their unmatched chemistry, humor, and vocal power to this iconic hit makes it clear—it was worth every second of the wait.

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Keith Urban first made waves in the U.S. country music scene in 1999 with his self-titled debut album, following early success in his native Australia. Fast forward 25 years, and the New Zealand-born star has racked up an impressive list of accolades, including four Grammys, 13 CMA Awards, and 15 ACM Awards. In September 2024, at 57 years young, Urban released his 12th studio album, High, proving that his passion for music is as strong as ever.

On December 31, Urban helped country fans bid farewell to 2024 and welcome 2025 in style. Alongside Entertainment Tonight’s Rachel Smith, he co-hosted New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash. But Urban wasn’t just hosting—he was also one of the night’s biggest headliners, sharing the spotlight with Kane Brown and Jelly Roll.

A Performance to Remember
Urban kicked off the night with an electrifying performance of Straight Line at Nashville’s Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. Fans quickly took to social media to rave about his energy, with one commenting, “Damn, Keith Urban does not age,” while another cheered, “Watching the Big Bash in Nashville on New Year’s Eve. Go, Keith Urban!”

But he wasn’t the only star lighting up the night. The event featured an all-star lineup, including Jelly Roll, Kane Brown, Luke Bryan, Chris Stapleton, Lainey Wilson, Luke Combs, Eric Church, Miranda Lambert, Post Malone, Parker McCollum, and Tyler Hubbard. With a massive crowd of 200,000 in attendance, New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash was yet another unforgettable celebration.

Keith Urban’s High and Alive Tour
The excitement doesn’t stop there—Urban is hitting the road in 2025! His HIGH AND ALIVE WORLD TOUR kicks off on May 22 in Alabama, marking his first tour in three years. Rising country star Alana Springsteen, known for her hit Taylor Did, will be joining him as a special guest.

Urban has promised fans an incredible experience, saying, “I live for performing live. It’s about watching people sing, forget their worries, have fun, and feel alive. Lots of guitar, new songs, hits, and surprises—we won’t even know what’s happening until we’re on stage!”

With his unstoppable energy and deep connection to fans, Keith Urban is set to make 2025 another unforgettable year in country music.

This version keeps things fresh, engaging, and easy to read while keeping all the key details intact. Let me know if you’d like any tweaks! 🎸✨

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@Alana Springsteen joined @Keith Urban for a performance of “GO HOME W U” during New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash in Music City! #NashvilleNYE #AlanaSpringsteen #Nashville #KeithUrban #GoHomeWU #MusicCity #NashvilleTN #NashvilleTennessee #CountryMusic #CountryConcert #LiveMusic #VisitMusicCity #NewYearsEve #NewYearsEveLive #NashvillesBigBash #NewYearsEve2025 #2025 #Nash #LaineyWilson

♬ original sound – Music Mayhem

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Kelly Clarkson is more than just a powerhouse vocalist—she’s also the heart and soul of The Kelly Clarkson Show, where she blends heartfelt conversations with unforgettable musical moments. Whether she’s chatting with A-list celebrities or everyday heroes, her genuine charm keeps audiences coming back for more. But every now and then, a musical surprise steals the spotlight, and that’s exactly what happened in a recent episode.

This time, Teddy Swims stopped by to celebrate the release of his debut album, I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 1). What started as a casual chat quickly turned into pure magic when he and Kelly joined forces for a stunning duet of Lose Control. The performance wasn’t just a showcase of vocal talent—it was a moment of raw emotion and flawless harmony. Swims’ signature soulful voice took center stage, while Clarkson effortlessly complemented him, making for a performance that gave everyone chills.

Teddy Swims has been making waves with his blend of R&B, country, and soul, and this duet proved exactly why he’s one of today’s most exciting new artists. Clarkson, ever the gracious host, let him shine, but when their voices intertwined in the song’s powerful finale, it was nothing short of breathtaking.

It’s easy to forget that before she became a beloved talk show host, Kelly Clarkson was dominating the music charts. After winning American Idol in 2002, she skyrocketed to fame with hits like Because of You and Stronger. Though she’s now thriving in television, moments like this duet remind us that her vocal talent is still as incredible as ever.

The Kelly Clarkson Show has become a go-to place for incredible live performances. From Teddy Swims to icons like Michael Bublé and Grammy-winning artist VICTORY, Kelly continues to bring a mix of legendary and rising stars to her stage. She’s even welcomed personalities outside of music, like British chef Jamie Oliver and motivational speaker Jay Shetty, making her show a true celebration of talent in all forms.

Teddy Swims, whose real name is Jaten Colin Dimsdale, has quickly gained recognition for his genre-blending sound. Even with just one studio album under his belt, he’s already making a big impact on charts in Australia and New Zealand. And if this duet with Kelly Clarkson is any indication, he’s just getting started.

One thing’s for sure—when two powerhouse voices like these come together, it’s a performance we won’t forget anytime soon!

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One of the most unforgettable moments from the 2022 CMA Awards came when Chris Stapleton and Patty Loveless took the stage for a breathtaking rendition of You’ll Never Leave Harlan Alive. Their duet wasn’t just a performance—it was a deeply emotional tribute to the struggles of coal mining families in Harlan, Kentucky. Originally written by Darrell Scott, the song has been covered by many artists, but this particular collaboration struck a chord that left the entire audience in awe.

With both artists having strong Kentucky roots, their voices carried a personal and heartfelt connection to the song’s story. Stapleton’s raw, bluesy vocals and Loveless’s signature Appalachian soul blended in perfect harmony, creating an ethereal, spine-tingling experience. Their delivery wasn’t just about hitting notes—it was about honoring the pain, resilience, and history woven into the lyrics.

For longtime country fans, seeing Patty Loveless back on stage was a special treat. Though she’s mostly stepped away from the spotlight in recent years, her voice remains as hauntingly beautiful as ever. Meanwhile, Stapleton, with his powerful and gritty sound, added a fresh intensity to the performance. Together, they created something truly magical—both a tribute to tradition and a reminder of country music’s deep storytelling roots.

You’ll Never Leave Harlan Alive paints a somber yet poignant picture of life in the Appalachian coal-mining region, where generations of families have faced hardship and struggle. With its themes of resilience, loss, and an almost inescapable fate, the song resonates deeply with anyone who understands the weight of that history. Stapleton and Loveless approached it with a level of authenticity and reverence that made it feel less like a performance and more like a powerful musical moment frozen in time.

As they sang, the audience at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena was visibly moved. Fans quickly took to social media, calling it one of the best performances of the night—and even one of the greatest duets in recent country music history. It was a reminder of what makes country music so special: its ability to tell real, meaningful stories in a way that lingers long after the final note.

While the CMA Awards are always packed with incredible performances, this duet stood out for its raw emotion and depth. It was a rare and treasured moment, one that reminded us all why country music continues to have such a lasting impact.

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