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At just six years old, Kellen has already faced challenges most could never imagine. Doctors once said he might never walk or talk, yet he defied the odds. Not only did he learn to walk and speak, but he also discovered a deep love for music—especially the songs of country superstar Keith Urban. ❤️

Monticello boy's dream comes true meeting Keith Urban | WCIA.com

During one of Urban’s concerts, Kellen held up a handmade sign in the front row: “I wasn’t supposed to walk. I wasn’t supposed to talk. Now I’m singing with Keith Urban.” The message captured Keith’s attention instantly. Pausing his performance, he read the sign aloud and invited Kellen onto the stage.

The crowd erupted as Kellen joined his idol, sharing a heartwarming moment filled with joy and admiration. Keith even signed Kellen’s guitar, creating a memory that will last a lifetime.

This magical encounter wasn’t just a concert moment—it was a celebration of resilience, determination, and the incredible power of dreams. Kellen’s story reminds us that music can inspire, heal, and connect people in ways we never expect.

It was the kind of moment fans only dream about—but this time, it was real. During a high-energy performance, Carrie Underwood took the stage to legendary heights by surprising everyone with Axl Rose, the iconic frontman of Guns N’ Roses, for a duet that had the crowd erupting.

As the opening notes of Sweet Child O’ Mine filled the venue, jaws dropped—not at a cover, but because Axl himself joined Carrie for a once-in-a-lifetime collaboration. The excitement was electric from the very first note.

The duo’s chemistry was instant. When they moved into Paradise City, the energy hit a fever pitch. Trading verses, harmonizing seamlessly, and blending rock grit with country flair, Carrie and Axl delivered a performance that defied genres and exceeded all expectations.

For Carrie, this wasn’t just a surprise—it was a dream come true. A lifelong Guns N’ Roses fan, she’s long paid tribute to their music, but sharing the stage with her rock hero was a milestone she’ll never forget.

Fans and performers alike agreed: this was more than a concert. It was a celebration of passion, talent, and the magic that happens when two musical worlds collide. For everyone in the audience, it was a night to remember—and one that will live in the memory for years to come.

Kelly Clarkson left fans speechless with her stunning cover of Jelly Roll’s hit song “Save Me” during a Kellyoke segment on The Kelly Clarkson Show. Her raw, emotional performance captured the heart of the song and gave it an unforgettable twist with her powerhouse vocals.

Originally released by Jelly Roll in 2020—and later reimagined with Lainey Wilson—the song explores themes of pain, addiction, and redemption. Clarkson’s version brought those emotions front and center, creating a moment that felt both intimate and powerful. Dressed in a casual band tee and wide-leg jeans, Kelly poured her soul into every lyric:
“Somebody save me, me from myself / I’ve spent so long living in Hell…”

The heartfelt rendition struck a chord with Jelly Roll himself. Overcome with emotion, he took to social media to express his gratitude:

“This may be the most honored I’ve ever felt. I love Kelly and her voice and soul and what she stands for so much. I cried listening the first time.”

He later added on X (formerly Twitter):

“I would’ve never believed you if you told me I’d write a song so impactful that Kelly Clarkson would cover it. I’m honored in a way I can’t even describe.”

Kelly’s take on “Save Me” wasn’t just a cover—it was a heartfelt tribute that breathed new life into the song’s message. Now, fans can’t stop dreaming about what a Jelly Roll and Kelly Clarkson duet might sound like. If this performance is any indication, it would be nothing short of spectacular!

 

Sunfest 2015 was supposed to be another unforgettable night for country fans waiting to see Keith Urban, but no one expected the biggest surprise to come from a young girl who hadn’t even started high school.

When 11-year-old Lauren Spencer-Smith walked on stage, the crowd of over 20,000 fell silent, curious about what was coming next. Then the first chords of “Make You Feel My Love” began to play — and everything changed.

Lauren Spencer-Smith and Keith Urban Perform Bob Dylan's “Make You Feel My Love”

The moment Lauren started singing, you could feel the magic. Her voice was powerful yet tender, filled with emotion far beyond her years. Every note carried honesty, making a song once immortalized by Bob Dylan and Adele feel brand new. It wasn’t just singing — it was storytelling from the heart.

Keith Urban, guitar in hand, couldn’t stop smiling. You could see the pride and admiration in his eyes as he backed this young star-in-the-making. By the time the last note faded, the crowd erupted in cheers and applause that could probably be heard miles away. Phones shot into the air, capturing a memory no one wanted to forget.

That video didn’t just stay in Sunfest. It exploded online, racking up millions of views and introducing Lauren Spencer-Smith to the world. What started as a surprise duet turned into a viral sensation — and for anyone lucky enough to be there, it was pure magic.

Lainey Wilson can’t stop praising her friend and mentor, Reba McEntire. Long before Lainey made her mark on the country music scene, Reba was a source of inspiration. Now that they know each other personally, Lainey leans on Reba for guidance and wisdom.

“I can text Reba and ask, ‘What do you do when this happens? Or when you’re feeling this way?’” Lainey shared. “She willingly sends pages of advice, and it shows why she’s where she is today. People poured into her, and now she does the same. She’s a good woman.”

What impresses Lainey most is how genuine Reba has remained through decades of fame and success. “Even watching old interviews, she’s the same person I had supper with in Los Angeles a few months ago. What you see is what you get. Awards, money, or stardom won’t ever change that, and it’s inspiring to me,” Lainey said.

Lainey also admires Reba’s open-mindedness. “Even though we’re in completely different times, a lot of her struggles back then are the same as mine now. She never makes your questions feel silly. She’s a beautiful person inside and out,” Lainey added.

A Powerful Collaboration: “Trailblazer”

Earlier this year, Lainey teamed up with Reba and Miranda Lambert to release the empowering track “Trailblazer.” Co-written by Lainey, Miranda, and Brandy Clark, the song celebrates the influential women of country music, honoring legends like Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, and Loretta Lynn, while highlighting the personal histories of these iconic artists.

“I remember thinking this could be a song that a grandmother, daughter, and granddaughter could all relate to,” Lainey said. The song’s emotional impact was clear—both the writers and Reba were moved to tears. “It was perfect. I couldn’t find a flaw,” Reba told Billboard.

Through their friendship and collaboration, Lainey Wilson and Reba McEntire show that inspiration, mentorship, and genuine connection are as important as ever in country music today.

At the ACM Honors on August 20 in Nashville, country superstar Cody Johnson received the prestigious Spirit Award, a tribute inspired by the legendary Merle Haggard. This award celebrates singer-songwriters who stay true to traditional country values while crafting unforgettable songs and storytelling, keeping Merle’s spirit alive in modern country music. Past winners include heavyweights like Toby Keith, Miranda Lambert, Chris Stapleton, Dierks Bentley, and Eric Church.

According to the ACM, Johnson earned this recognition for his dedication to traditional country and his Texas roots. “With nearly 10 billion global streams, Johnson’s music connects deeply with heartland America, honoring Merle Haggard’s timeless storytelling. Staying true to his traditional country sound, Johnson is not just a success story—he is a true torchbearer,” the organization shared.

Luke Bryan Pays Tribute

Each honoree at the ACM Honors receives a tribute performance from another artist, and for Johnson, his longtime friend Luke Bryan took the stage. Bryan delivered a heartfelt performance of Johnson’s hit “‘Til You Can’t,” a song that debuted in 2021, hit #1 in 2022, and has since been certified 5x Platinum by the RIAA. Songwriters Ben Stennis and Matt Rogers even won the Grammy for Best Country Song in 2023 for this track.

Bryan gave the song everything he had, pouring energy and emotion into every note. Fans sharing clips online praised the performance, calling it a soaring tribute that perfectly captured Johnson’s impact on country music. While the ACM Honors weren’t broadcast live, fans can catch parts of the event during CMT’s Hot 20 Countdown on September 27, which will feature backstage moments, exclusive performances, and intimate conversations with honorees and performers.

Backstage Bromance

The night wasn’t just about music—there were some heartwarming moments too. Videos show Bryan and Johnson sharing a lighthearted “bromance” backstage, highlighting their friendship offstage as well as their mutual respect as artists.

With the Spirit Award and Bryan’s unforgettable tribute, Cody Johnson’s night at the ACM Honors was a true celebration of country music, tradition, and camaraderie. Fans can’t wait to see the full performance aired later this month.

This fall, The Voice returns for its 28th season, and the lineup is packed with star power. Coaches Michael Bublé, Niall Horan, Snoop Dogg, and Reba McEntire will take their places in the iconic red chairs once again. Fans are already buzzing, expecting fierce competition and plenty of laughs.

What We Know About the Coaches

Three of the four coaches are no strangers to victory. Michael Bublé is the reigning champion after back-to-back wins in Seasons 26 and 27. Reba McEntire secured her win in Season 25, while Niall Horan claimed the crown in Seasons 23 and 24. Snoop Dogg, who joined as a full-time coach in Season 26, is still chasing his first win—could this season be his moment?

Sneak Peek at Season 28

NBC recently dropped a teaser that has fans excited for what’s to come. In the clip, Michael Bublé shows off a quirky good-luck charm: socks covered with Reba’s face. We also see Snoop joking, “Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all?” and Reba quipping back, “Who, me?” There’s even a funny moment with a Niall Horan superfan and a scene where Niall ends up in a “penalty box” because he was “looking too good,” according to Bublé. If this teaser is any sign, Season 28 will be filled with fun banter and memorable performances.

Premiere Details

The new season kicks off with a two-hour premiere on NBC, followed by regular episodes airing on Mondays and Tuesdays at 8/9c. Fans can expect all the classic Voice excitement, from blind auditions to battles, knockout rounds, and epic live performances.

Big Changes Coming in Season 29

Even before Season 28 begins, NBC is planning a major shake-up for Season 29, titled The Voice: Battle of Champions. The format will feature a Triple Turn Competition, an In-Season All-Star Competition, and a revamped voting system involving super fans and past contestants. Coaches for that season will include John Legend, Adam Levine, and Kelly Clarkson, with CeeLo Green making a special return to announce the winner.

The 2015 Grammy Awards delivered plenty of unforgettable moments, but one of the most tender highlights came from Adam Levine and Gwen Stefani. Dressed to impress in elegant evening wear, the two Voice coaches took the stage for a heartfelt rendition of “My Heart Is Open,” a beautiful ballad from Maroon 5’s 2014 album V.

With a stripped-down piano arrangement layered over soft orchestral strings, the performance created an intimate, almost cinematic atmosphere. Adam and Gwen’s voices blended seamlessly, each bringing their own unique tone—his smooth and understated, hers rich and emotive—making for a duet that felt both powerful and deeply personal.

This wasn’t your typical Maroon 5 funk-pop or No Doubt rock anthem. Instead, it was a grown-up, soulful collaboration that left the audience captivated. Fans couldn’t help but wonder: Who stole the show—Adam or Gwen? Or was it the magical harmony they created together?

Earlier today, Riley Green and Ella Langley gave fans a blast from the past with the release of their music video for the hit duet “You Look Like You Love Me.” Set in a classic Wild West saloon, the video takes us straight back to cowboy country. Ella plays a confident saloon performer who sets her sights on a rugged cowboy—played by none other than Riley Green—when he walks through the swinging doors.

What makes this video stand out is the twist: Ella flips the script by taking the lead, reversing the traditional “boy-chases-girl” trope. Add in the authentic costumes, a rustic setting, and that undeniable Western vibe, and you’ve got one of the best music videos to hit the scene in a while.

Of course, the internet has opinions—lots of them. While some fans can’t stop raving about Ella’s corset-and-red-lip glam, Riley is stealing just as much attention. In fact, his rugged cowboy look has the comment sections absolutely buzzing. From his tousled hair peeking out beneath a black felt hat to the dusty clothes and those on-horseback shots, Riley is serving major Yellowstone energy. Fans are even tagging Taylor Sheridan, suggesting the country star should land a role on the hit series. Honestly, we can see it.

Riley, however, might not catch all these thirsty comments himself—he admitted on the Whiskey Riff Raff Podcast that someone else runs his socials. Still, that didn’t stop his latest behind-the-scenes photos from lighting up Instagram.

The 2022 CMA Awards opened with a moment that touched every heart in the room—a beautiful tribute to the legendary Loretta Lynn, who passed away on October 4 at the age of 90.

Country icons Miranda Lambert, Reba McEntire, and Carrie Underwood stood side by side on the Nashville stage, delivering a powerful medley of Loretta’s greatest hits. Their voices blended in harmony, honoring a woman who broke barriers and paved the way for countless female artists in country music.

The love for Loretta didn’t stop with the music. Fellow stars shared personal memories that showed just how much she meant to them. One touching reflection compared Loretta to a strong, loving mother figure—loyal, determined, and always true to herself. Carrie Underwood recalled the first time they met at the Grand Ole Opry, laughing as she told the story of Loretta giving her a playful smack on the backside. “She was a cantankerous little pistol,” Carrie said with a smile, “friendly, sweet, and never afraid to be herself.”

Carly Pearce, who dedicated her song “Dear Miss Loretta” to the icon, called her “one of the greatest there ever will be,” while Miranda Lambert praised her for blazing trails for all women in country music.

As the performance ended, the audience—filled with country’s biggest stars—rose to their feet, many with tears in their eyes. It was more than applause; it was a collective thank-you to a woman who reshaped the sound and soul of country music.

CMA Awards 2022: Watch Miranda Lambert, Carrie Underwood, Reba McEntire pay tribute to Loretta Lynn - ABC News

Loretta Lynn may no longer be with us, but her legacy lives on through her songs, her spirit, and the artists she inspired. The tribute at the CMAs was not just a farewell—it was a reminder that Loretta will forever be part of the heartbeat of country music.