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Terri Clark is going back to her roots—but she’s bringing some amazing friends along for the ride. With her new project Terri Clark: Take Two, the country music legend has reimagined eight of her career-defining songs as powerful duets with a lineup of today’s top artists. The album is set to drop on May 31 via Mercury Nashville/UMG.

A Country Dream Team
Each track on Take Two originally climbed into the Top 10 on the country charts—and now, they’re getting a fresh twist thanks to guest vocals from a star-studded list that includes Lauren Alaina, Paul Brandt, Kelly Clarkson, Cody Johnson, Ashley McBryde, Carly Pearce, Ben Rector, and Lainey Wilson.

“This project brought up so much nostalgia for me,” Clark said. “Getting to sing these songs with some of the most incredible artists in the business has been humbling and surreal.”

Beyond the studio magic, Clark says the real joy came from the moments in between takes—conversations, memories, and discovering just how many of these stars grew up listening to her music.

“Some of them even told me they had posters of me on their walls,” she shared. “They knew the lyrics better than I did! It was such a full-circle moment.”

A New Spin on a Classic
Fans already got a taste of the album when Clark and Ashley McBryde dropped a revamped version of “Better Things To Do” on March 29. The original track, which kickstarted Clark’s career back in 1995, still carries its sassy attitude, but this version kicks it up a notch with gritty vocals and modern production—without losing the heart of the original.

Clark is a big fan of McBryde, too. “Ashley really marches to the beat of her own drum,” she said. “She’s unapologetically herself, and she rocks every time she gets on stage. I really admire that.”

Nearly 30 Years of Country Greatness
Terri Clark has been a force in country music since her breakout in the mid-’90s. From her platinum-selling debut album to 13 Top 10 hits and over five million records sold, she’s paved the way for many of today’s artists. Take Two is more than a greatest hits collection—it’s a celebration of a legacy that keeps growing.

“These songs truly changed my life,” Clark said. “Now, to give them new life with some of the hottest voices in music today—it’s been one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done.”

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When Chris Stapleton steps onto a stage, you know you’re in for something unforgettable—and his recent appearance on Austin City Limits was no exception.

Celebrating its incredible 50th season, the iconic PBS series brought out some of the biggest names in music, and Stapleton absolutely delivered. Performing “South Dakota” and “It Takes a Woman” from his 2024 album Higher, he reminded everyone why he’s considered one of the most powerful voices in country—and honestly, in all of music.

“South Dakota” Hits Hard (In the Best Way)
Stapleton opened with “South Dakota,” pouring that signature gravel-and-gold voice into every line. And of course, Morgane Stapleton was right there beside him, adding those rich harmonies that feel like the emotional glue holding it all together. Their chemistry, both on and off the stage, is part of what makes his performances feel so real.

A Tender Tribute with “It Takes a Woman”
Switching gears, “It Takes a Woman” brought a softer, more heartfelt moment. The lyrics felt personal, the delivery raw and sincere—it was less of a song and more of a love letter, and the audience was right there with him for every word.

Austin City Limits: Where Legends Are Made
There’s something special about the Austin City Limits stage. Maybe it’s the history—after all, the show kicked off in 1974 with Willie Nelson as the very first guest. Or maybe it’s the way it strips everything down and lets the music speak for itself. Either way, performances like Stapleton’s remind us why this show has lasted five decades.

This season’s lineup is stacked, too. Alongside Stapleton, it features the likes of Kacey Musgraves, Gary Clark Jr., The War and Treaty, and The Avett Brothers. Fans can still look forward to upcoming appearances by Sturgill Simpson (under his Johnny Blue Skies moniker) and the legendary Willie Nelson & Family.

If you weren’t already convinced that Higher is one of the year’s standout albums, these Austin City Limits performances will absolutely seal the deal. Chris Stapleton didn’t just perform—he connected, he moved, and he showed, once again, why he’s at the top of his game.

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During a standout moment on SiriusXM’s The Highway during CMA Week, Scotty McCreery took on a country classic—and made it completely his own. His version of Garth Brooks’ “Papa Loved Mama” wasn’t just a tribute, it was a full-on performance that showed off his deep love for the genre and his knack for storytelling.

As part of a special series where artists tip their hats to their musical heroes, Scotty didn’t hold back. Before launching into the song, he shared his admiration for Garth Brooks, even joking that he’d jump at the chance to open for him one day. Then, in true showman style, he slid his barstool aside and dove into the high-energy track.

“Papa Loved Mama,” originally released in 1992 on Garth’s Ropin’ the Wind album, is known for its wild, vivid tale of a truck-driving husband and a tragic twist. It’s the kind of song that needs both grit and charisma—and Scotty delivered both. His deep, smooth vocals gave the story a fresh edge, while still honoring the raw energy of the original.

What made Scotty’s version shine was how naturally he made the song his own. You could tell he wasn’t just singing—he was living the story, line by line. It was a performance that felt both familiar and brand new, pulling in longtime Garth fans and introducing the song to a new generation.

With this cover, McCreery reminded everyone why he’s one of today’s standout voices in country music—and just how strong the bridge is between the legends and the rising stars. If you’re a fan of either artist, this is one performance you don’t want to miss.

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Emmy Russell has quickly become a fan favorite on American Idol, and it’s easy to see why. With country music in her blood—she’s the granddaughter of the legendary Loretta Lynn—Emmy brings not only talent but also a deep-rooted connection to the genre. But long before her Idol debut, Emmy had already stepped onto a big stage and into the spotlight.

In October 2022, during CMT’s Coal Miner’s Daughter: A Celebration of the Life and Music of Loretta Lynn, Emmy joined Lukas Nelson, son of Willie Nelson, to perform the emotional ballad “Lay Me Down.” It was a touching tribute to her grandmother, made even more special by the connection both artists share to the original performers.

“Lay Me Down” is more than just a song—it’s a reflection on life, death, and finding peace when the journey ends. Loretta Lynn recorded it with Willie Nelson for her 2016 album Full Circle, marking their first-ever duet despite decades of friendship. The song was written by Lynn’s son-in-law, Mark Marchetti, and its tender message of mortality and grace resonates deeply, especially in a tribute setting.

Emmy and Lukas stepping in to perform this piece after Loretta’s passing felt like the perfect passing of the torch. Their version held the same soul-stirring emotion as the original, proving that while they may be younger, their hearts carry the wisdom of their family legacies.

Before singing, Emmy shared a sweet memory with the crowd at the Grand Ole Opry House. She recalled how Loretta used to stand in the wings, calling her up to the stage to perform. “She always stood in the corner and called me onstage,” Emmy said. “I’d sing one of my own songs and then one that everyone knew.”

This time, though, it was different. “It’s the first time that she’s not here to look at me with her proud eyes,” she shared, her voice full of emotion. “It’s just special. Thank you for listening.”

When Lukas Nelson opened the song with a soft guitar solo, his father’s unmistakable style came through. And when he sang, it was like hearing a younger Willie all over again. Emmy followed, channeling Loretta’s spirit with her gentle yet powerful voice. Their performance wasn’t just a tribute—it was a moment that bridged generations, honoring where they came from while showing the world where they’re headed.

Watching Emmy Russell and Lukas Nelson perform “Lay Me Down” was like getting a glimpse of the past and future of country music at the same time. It’s a reminder that legacy isn’t just about fame—it’s about heart, heritage, and keeping the music alive.

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On November 11, 2017, country music fans packed into the Texas Opry Theater for a night filled with heartfelt memories and timeless tunes. At the center of it all was Tre Twitty, the grandson of country legend Conway Twitty, taking the stage to pay tribute to his grandfather’s legacy. When Tre sang “Hello Darlin’,” one of Conway’s most iconic hits, the room was filled with emotion—his heartfelt performance reminded everyone why that song still tugs at the heartstrings.

Tre Twitty isn’t just performing his grandfather’s songs—he’s keeping a legacy alive. As the grandson of one of country music’s biggest icons, Tre has embraced the responsibility of honoring that legacy while making it his own. Instead of trying to copy Conway, Tre adds his own flavor, delivering each song with deep respect and a personal touch that fans truly appreciate.

In every show, Tre includes some of Conway’s biggest hits—from “It’s Only Make Believe” to “Linda on My Mind.” But “Hello Darlin’” holds a special place in both his heart and the hearts of the audience. It’s more than just a fan favorite—it’s a powerful moment that connects generations through music.

Released in 1970, “Hello Darlin’” quickly climbed to the top of the Billboard country charts and became Conway Twitty’s fourth No. 1 hit. It wasn’t just another chart-topper—it became his signature song, one he opened nearly every concert with. As Wide Open Country points out, the song was named the top country hit of the year and still stands as one of the most beloved tunes in country music history.

There’s something about those opening words—”Hello darlin’”—that still gives fans chills. With its heartfelt lyrics and Conway’s smooth, soulful delivery, the song captured a kind of emotional honesty that’s hard to find.

When Tre Twitty performed “Hello Darlin’” at the Texas Opry Theater, it wasn’t just a performance—it was a moment. His voice, naturally reminiscent of his grandfather’s, gave longtime fans a beautiful reminder of Conway’s golden years. But Tre also brought something new. His version had a softer, more contemporary touch while still honoring the song’s original soul.

The connection between Tre and the crowd was undeniable. As he sang, it was clear he wasn’t just covering a classic—he was telling a story, sharing a memory, and keeping a family legacy alive.

Through performances like this, Tre Twitty makes sure that Conway’s music continues to live on—not just in records or old footage, but in the hearts of fans, old and new.

Take a moment to watch Tre’s moving performance of “Hello Darlin’” and see for yourself why some songs—and some legacies—never fade.

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Ella Langley and Riley Green are quickly becoming one of country music’s favorite duos. Their hit single, You Look Like You Love Me, is still climbing the charts, but during a recent concert, they gave fans a little something extra—a brand-new duet that no one saw coming.

In the middle of their set, Green surprised the crowd by introducing a brand-new song titled Don’t Mind If I Do, which he wrote himself. It was the very first time the two had ever performed it live.

“We’ve got a big song together. Some of y’all may have heard that one,” Green said with a smile, nodding to their current hit. “But we also have another song that we haven’t played in front of anybody before. We’re thinking about playing it in front of y’all tonight, if y’all don’t mind.”

Then, with a grin, he added, “So wish us luck here—and if we mess it up, don’t post it,” earning a laugh from the crowd.

Much like their first duet, Don’t Mind If I Do leans into a traditional country sound, but this one takes a more emotional turn. While You Look Like You Love Me is playful and flirtatious, Don’t Mind If I Do explores the raw feelings of heartache and lingering love after a breakup.

The song opens with Green’s character, lost in thought and nursing a drink, wishing he could just show up at his ex’s doorstep and tell her how he feels. As the story unfolds and Langley’s voice joins in, it becomes clear that the feelings are mutual—leaving just enough hope that the relationship might not be over after all.

The chemistry between the two artists is undeniable, both in the studio and on stage. Their latest music video for You Look Like You Love Me, which features a Wild West vibe and a cameo from Jamey Johnson, proves just that.

To top it all off, Green just announced his upcoming album—Don’t Mind If I Do—set to drop on October 18, which also happens to be his birthday. Fans can likely expect even more heartfelt country storytelling on the new project.

@lmpratte02

Unreleased song by @Riley Green & @Ella Langley #rileyduckman #rileygreen #ellalangley #countrymusic #festivalcountrydelotbinière

♬ original sound – Léa 🃏⚡️

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During a recent stop on his tour, Tim McGraw delivered a powerful and emotional tribute to the late Toby Keith, dedicating his hit song “Live Like You Were Dying” to his longtime friend. The moment took place on February 8 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida—just days after Toby’s passing.

“Bear with me if I don’t get through it—you guys help me out,” McGraw told the crowd, visibly moved. “I want to dedicate this song to Toby and his family.”

Before launching into the heartfelt performance, McGraw shared fond memories of their early days in country music.
“Toby and I got to know each other pretty well early in our careers. We spent a lot of time on the road, hung out on the bus, even played basketball together—though that usually meant getting beat up by him,” McGraw said with a smile. “He was a great artist and someone who always did things his own way. I’ve always respected that.”

The performance struck a chord with fans, many of whom sang along through tears, creating a moving tribute not just from McGraw, but from the entire audience.

A Tribute Beyond the Stage
McGraw also took to social media to honor Toby with a personal message, posting a photo of Keith’s debut album cover and writing:

“Our self-titled debuts came out on the same day—April 20, 1993. Toby and I shared a lot of time together early on. He was a maverick who stayed true to his vision. I’ll always respect his artistry, his dedication, and the fearless way he did things. We’ll miss you, brother.”

Remembering Toby Keith
Toby Keith passed away peacefully on February 5, surrounded by family, after a more than two-year battle with stomach cancer. He was 62.

His death came just weeks after his final Las Vegas shows, which celebrated his legendary career. Known for hits like “Should’ve Been A Cowboy,” “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” “Beer for My Horses,” and “Red Solo Cup,” Toby was a fixture in country music for decades.

Over his career, Toby racked up 32 No. 1 singles, sold 40 million albums, and earned countless accolades—including the National Medal of Arts, induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Academy of Country Music’s Merle Haggard Spirit Award.

More Than Music
Beyond his chart-topping success, Toby was passionate about giving back. His Toby Keith Foundation and OK Kids Korral have provided support to families of children battling critical illnesses. He also supported the military through 11 USO tours, reaching over 250,000 service members and their families. In 2014, he received the Spirit of the USO Award for his efforts.

In the wake of his passing, Toby Keith is remembered not just as a country music icon, but as a man who made a lasting impact on and off the stage.

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Let’s be honest—when it comes to powerhouse voices in country music, Chris Stapleton is in a league of his own. Whether he’s belting out “Tennessee Whiskey” or pouring raw emotion into “Parachute,” his soulful sound, bluesy grit, and unmistakable rasp are enough to give any listener chills. The man doesn’t just sing—he feels every note, and so do we.

And look, if you don’t agree that he’s one of the greatest to ever do it, that’s totally fair—we’re all allowed our opinions. But just so you know, Parker McCollum agrees with me, and that’s the kind of backup I’ll gladly take!

Most recently, Chris delivered yet another unforgettable performance during the first weekend of the Austin City Limits Festival in (yep, you guessed it) Austin, Texas. His hour-and-a-half set was packed with crowd favorites like “You Should Probably Leave” and “Traveller,” but there was one song that truly stole the show—and maybe even healed a few broken hearts in the crowd.

That song? A soul-stirring, mind-blowing cover of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s classic, “Free Bird.”

Now, we all know “Free Bird” is sacred ground—it’s been rocking our world for over five decades. Ronnie Van Zant and the Skynyrd crew made it legendary. But leave it to Chris Stapleton to take that iconic anthem and pour every ounce of soul into it, putting his own unforgettable spin on a timeless track.

It wasn’t just a performance—it was a moment. The kind that makes you forget everything else and just feel. That’s the magic of Chris Stapleton, and once again, he reminded us all why he’s one of the most respected voices not just in country, but in all of music.

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It’s hard to forget the moment a 16-year-old Scotty McCreery stepped onto the American Idol stage and wowed the judges with his deep, rich voice. Singing Josh Turner’s “Your Man” and Travis Tritt’s “Put Some Drive in Your Country,” he immediately captured hearts across the country. His genuine charm, strong faith, and love for classic country made him a standout—and fans were hooked from day one.

After winning the competition, Scotty’s rise in the country music scene was quick and well-deserved. But even with his success, he’s never forgotten the legends who inspired him.

In 2017, during a special appearance at the Grand Ole Opry, Scotty took a moment to honor his musical heroes with a heartfelt medley of country classics. With his signature confidence and easy stage presence, he kicked things off with Conway Twitty’s smooth “Hello Darlin’,” then rolled into Randy Travis’ playful “Forever and Ever, Amen.” He had the crowd smiling as he moved around the stage, fully owning each moment.

Scotty kept the energy going with Johnny Cash’s iconic “Folsom Prison Blues,” then brought some ‘90s nostalgia with Alan Jackson’s “Chattahoochee.” Finally, he wrapped up the tribute with a lively performance of John Michael Montgomery’s “Sold.”

The entire medley was a reminder of why fans love Scotty—his deep respect for country music’s roots, and the natural way he brings those classics to life. It felt like he was born to sing these songs, a perfect bridge between the past and the future of country music.

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On Saturday night (May 9), Gwen Stefani had a milestone moment as she made her debut at the Grand Ole Opry—alongside her partner, Blake Shelton. The two performed their chart-topping duet, “Nobody But You,” live from Ole Red in Tishomingo, Oklahoma.

Although the performance wasn’t held at the Opry House in Nashville due to ongoing restrictions, the couple joined the Opry’s 4,923rd consecutive Saturday night show remotely. Trace Adkins and Dustin Lynch performed live from the empty Opry stage in Nashville, while Blake and Gwen tuned in from Oklahoma.

Before the performance, Trace Adkins congratulated Blake, saying, “Big doings this week, that duet you did with Gwen went No. 1!”

Blake lit up with pride, sharing that “Nobody But You” was Gwen’s first-ever country single—and her first No. 1 on the country charts. “She’s on cloud nine,” Blake said. “She couldn’t be more excited. You know how she is—just happy to be part of it all.”

Even though Gwen couldn’t be at the Opry House in person, she still received a few iconic keepsakes to mark the moment: her official Opry parking sign and a signature microphone stand. “She was blown away by the gesture,” Blake said. “I told her it’s an honor for us to have her.”

When it came time for her performance, Blake introduced her with a smile: “Okay everybody, this is the moment we’ve all been waiting for. This is Gwen Stefani, everybody!”

Beaming with excitement, Gwen stepped up and said, “Is this really happening? Am I really on the Grand Ole Opry?”

As an Opry member, Blake promised her a proper performance at the Opry House in Nashville someday. Gwen was all in: “This is already insane—doing it there too would be next-level!”

The special night was hosted by Bobby Bones and livestreamed for fans everywhere to enjoy—marking not just a big night for Gwen and Blake, but a sweet celebration of music, milestones, and love.

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