It was a hot and humid Thursday night in Cullman, Alabama—but that didn’t stop Ella Langley from turning up the heat even more. Taking the stage at the Rock the South festival on July 20, 2023, the rising country star didn’t just perform—she owned the moment, showing everyone exactly why she’s being called one of country music’s brightest new voices.

With her signature mix of Southern rock edge and heartfelt country lyrics, Ella kicked things off with the fiery crowd favorite “Damn You.” Dressed in a fringed jacket and well-worn boots, she instantly had thousands of fans hanging on every word. Her Alabama twang and powerful stage presence made it feel like more than a concert—it felt like a homecoming.

“This is home,” Ella told the cheering crowd. “And I can’t tell y’all what it means to play this stage tonight.”

Raised just down the road in Hope Hull, Langley brought genuine hometown pride to the stage. It wasn’t just where she was from—it was who she was. Her songs, like “Country Boy’s Dream Girl” and “You Look Like You Love Me,” captured the heart of small-town life—love, grit, and everything in between.

Halfway through her set, Ella took a moment to reflect on the journey that led her here.

“I played bars, honky-tonks, and anywhere that’d let me plug in a mic,” she said. “Now I’m here, and y’all are singing these songs back to me. That’s the dream.”

The crowd roared in response, and the energy only got higher as she launched into “Country Boy’s Dream Girl.” The song—equal parts bold and flirty—had fans singing along, raising their beers, and swaying in rhythm. You could feel that Ella wasn’t just up there for the crowd—she was one of them.

With a raw vocal power that calls to mind artists like Miranda Lambert, Ella still managed to carve out a sound all her own. Her set moved effortlessly between gritty rock moments and tender country ballads. Tracks like “Excuse the Mess” and “Hole in the Bottle” showed her range, switching between swagger and soul with ease.

As the sun set behind the Alabama hills and stage lights lit up the night, Ella closed her set with a surprise—an unreleased track that hinted at even more music to come. “It’s just the beginning,” she said with a smile, waving to a crowd that clearly didn’t want the night to end.

For Ella Langley, Rock the South wasn’t just another show—it was a celebration of how far she’s come and how far she’s going. With her roots planted deep in Alabama soil and her star rising fast, one thing is clear: country music’s next big dream isn’t just a girl—she’s Ella.

When it comes to music legends, few names shine as brightly as Dolly Parton and Queen. Now, these two iconic forces have come together in a unique and exciting way—Dolly Parton has taken Queen’s mega-hit and given it a fresh, heartfelt new life. Her stunning new video, created in collaboration with NBCUniversal, celebrates the one-year countdown to the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France. It’s a tribute that’s not only powerful but full of spirit, showcasing the magic that happens when legends honor legends.

@dollyparton

I’m so excited to team up with @NBC Olympics & Paralympics for the official music video of my new single “We Are The Champions/We Will Rock You.” Check it out and mark your calendars for Paris 2024! 🏅

♬ We Are The Champions/We Will Rock You – Dolly Parton

A Queen Classic Meets Dolly’s Magic Touch
Queen’s music has long been celebrated for its timelessness and emotional depth. Their mega-hit, beloved by millions worldwide, has inspired generations of fans and musicians alike. So when Dolly Parton decided to cover one of their most famous songs, it was bound to turn heads.

Dolly is known for her unique voice, warmth, and authenticity—qualities that shine through in every note she sings. By taking on this Queen classic, she’s not just covering a song; she’s transforming it. Dolly’s version brings a fresh perspective, blending her country roots with the rock energy of the original. The result is a beautiful fusion that honors the original’s spirit while making it distinctly hers.

The Olympic Connection: Celebrating Global Unity
What makes this project even more special is its connection to the 2024 Olympics. NBCUniversal, a major force behind the Olympic Games coverage, partnered with Dolly to mark the one-year countdown to the global event in Paris. The Olympics are a symbol of unity, competition, and international friendship—values that resonate deeply with Dolly’s own message of hope and togetherness.

The video reflects this spirit perfectly. Set against the backdrop of Paris’s iconic landmarks, it weaves together scenes of athletes, artists, and everyday people coming together in celebration of human potential. Dolly’s soulful performance underscores the power of music to inspire and unite across borders.

A Visual Tribute That Touches the Heart
The video itself is a feast for the senses. From the opening shots, it’s clear that this is more than just a music video—it’s a celebration of life, resilience, and joy. Dolly’s presence is magnetic, her performance heartfelt and sincere.

Fans will notice the careful nods to Queen’s legacy, with subtle visual cues and musical flourishes that pay homage to Freddie Mercury and his legendary stage presence. It’s clear this project was made with respect and admiration for Queen’s impact on music history.

What Would Freddie Mercury Think?
Freddie Mercury, Queen’s charismatic frontman, left a lasting impact on the music world with his powerful voice and unforgettable performances. His spirit of innovation and fearless creativity inspired artists around the globe.

Though he’s no longer with us, it’s easy to imagine Freddie watching Dolly’s rendition with a proud smile. Her ability to honor his legacy while bringing her own unique style speaks to the timeless power of great music. This video feels like a heartfelt conversation across generations—an artist paying tribute to another, connected through the universal language of song.

Fans React: A Celebration of Two Legends
The response from fans has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media has been buzzing with praise for Dolly’s rendition, with many expressing how the song gave them chills and brought back memories of Queen’s original.

Many appreciate how Dolly made the song her own while keeping the emotional core intact. Comments like “Dolly brought so much soul to this Queen classic!” and “This video is pure magic—can’t wait for the Olympics now!” have flooded Twitter and Instagram.

Dolly Parton: A Voice That Unites
This collaboration is just the latest example of Dolly’s ability to connect with diverse audiences. From country music stages to pop culture moments, Dolly has always been a bridge-builder, using her music and personality to spread joy and kindness.

Her work with NBCUniversal for the Olympics countdown highlights her role as not just a singer, but a global ambassador for hope and togetherness. It’s a reminder that great music transcends genres and borders, bringing people together in celebration.

Looking Ahead: The 2024 Paris Olympics
As excitement builds for the 2024 Olympics, Dolly’s tribute sets the perfect tone. The Games are about pushing boundaries, celebrating human achievement, and creating moments that inspire generations. Dolly’s soulful take on a Queen classic encapsulates that spirit beautifully.

Fans and viewers around the world will get to experience this unique fusion of music and sport, reminding us all that no matter where we come from, we share a common dream.

Final Thoughts
Dolly Parton’s rendition of Queen’s iconic hit is much more than a cover—it’s a heartfelt homage and a celebration of legacy, unity, and inspiration. Paired with NBCUniversal’s Olympic countdown, it’s a powerful reminder of music’s ability to connect us all, no matter the language or genre.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Dolly, a Queen devotee, or simply a lover of great music, this tribute is a must-watch. It’s a beautiful bridge between past and present, reminding us that great songs—and great artists—live forever.

As the countdown to Paris 2024 continues, Dolly’s tribute will surely be one of the most memorable musical moments leading up to the Games. It’s a gift to fans and a fitting tribute to two legends who have touched countless lives.

@lastinglooks

The Queen Dolly Parton just released a Queen cover for the Paris 2024 Olympics! 🥇🥈🥉#dollyparton #dollypartontiktok #dollypartonisqueen #dollypartonsong #dollypartonqueen #queenwearethechampions #queenwewillrockyou

♬ We Are The Champions/We Will Rock You – Dolly Parton

Jelly Roll might have wrapped up his Beautifully Broken tour and even joked about tossing his phone in the Cumberland River after his final Nashville show—but stepping away from the spotlight? Not so easy when you’re one of country music’s brightest stars.

This week, instead of a huge stadium, Jelly Roll found himself back on stage at a cozy honky tonk—Kid Rock’s very own bar in downtown Nashville.

What started as a low-key night quickly turned into something unforgettable when Jelly Roll showed up with some famous friends: comedians Tony Hinchcliffe and Bert Kreischer, plus Kid Rock himself. Even if the plan was to keep it chill, when music’s in your veins, the stage calls you back.

Jelly surprised everyone by joining the house band, Hippies & Cowboys, for a powerful performance of his hit “Save Me.” The crowd was already buzzing from the celebrity sightings, but that was just the start.

Soon enough, Jelly called up his crew for an impromptu southern rock jam session. Tony Hinchcliffe jumped behind the drums again—fans might remember his amazing “Simple Man” performance in Austin. Bert Kreischer, true to his wild style, tore off his shirt. And Kid Rock stepped up to complete the all-star lineup.

Together, they rocked out to Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Simple Man” and Marshall Tucker Band’s “Can’t You See,” turning an ordinary Wednesday into a night no one in the crowd will forget.

That’s the magic of Broadway in Nashville—you never know what kind of show you’ll stumble upon. Kid Rock is a regular at his bar and loves jumping on stage whenever inspiration hits. Just across the street, Eric Church has been known to hang out after his shows at Chief’s, playing piano and sharing laid-back moments with fans during his To Beat the Devil residency.

Sure, Nashville has its ups and downs, but nights like this remind us why it’s one of the most exciting music cities out there. Whether it’s catching Jelly Roll jamming with comedians or seeing Alan Jackson on a quiet night at AJ’s Good Time Bar, the city keeps serving up those once-in-a-lifetime musical surprises you just can’t find anywhere else.

If this week is any sign, Broadway’s got plenty more magic in store.

Kelly Clarkson has a way of turning every cover into something special with her beloved “Kellyoke” segment on The Kelly Clarkson Show. But on June 24, 2021, she took things to a whole new level with a performance that blended music, legacy, and family in the most touching way.

Joining her were Carnie and Wendy Wilson—daughters of Beach Boys legend Brian Wilson—and Carnie’s then-16-year-old daughter, Lola Bonfiglio. Together, the three generations of Wilson women teamed up with Clarkson to perform the Beach Boys’ timeless 1966 hit, “God Only Knows.”

The song, from the iconic Pet Sounds album, is often called one of the greatest songs ever written—and this performance gave it new life.

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A post shared by Lola Bonfiglio (@lola.bonfiglio)

A Beautiful Surprise from Brian Wilson Himself
Just when fans thought the performance couldn’t get any more special, something magical happened. As Kelly, Carnie, Wendy, and Lola reached the third verse, a familiar voice joined in—Brian Wilson himself, appearing live via video to finish the song alongside his family.

It was the first time three generations of Wilsons had performed together publicly, and it was a moment filled with love and harmony—literally and figuratively.

Lola later shared her excitement on social media, calling the experience a childhood dream come true:

“Not only did I get to sing with the absolutely incredible @kellyclarkson, but I was also able to share a really beautiful moment with my mom, aunt, and grandpa singing one of his most special songs, ‘God Only Knows.’ I am so grateful to have had this opportunity.”

Honoring Brian Wilson’s Legacy
That beautiful performance has taken on even deeper meaning following the sad news of Brian Wilson’s passing on June 11, 2025, at the age of 82.

His family announced his passing with a heartfelt message:

“We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away. We are at a loss for words right now. Please respect our privacy at this time as our family is grieving. We realize that we are sharing our grief with the world.”

Brian Wilson was more than a founding member of The Beach Boys—he was a visionary. His songwriting shaped the sound of American music, with classics like “Surfin’ U.S.A.,” “Help Me Rhonda,” “I Get Around,” and “Don’t Worry, Baby” becoming cultural touchstones.

With four No. 1 hits and over 30 Top 40 songs to his name, his influence is immeasurable. But perhaps his greatest legacy lives on in the voices of his children and grandchildren—and in moving moments like this one with Kelly Clarkson.

What started as a night of glitz, glamour, and country hits turned into one of the most unforgettable—and emotional—moments in ACM Awards history.

Miranda Lambert, glowing in a soft, shimmering gown, stepped into a lone spotlight. The crowd quieted. And then, with just her voice and a whole lot of heart, she delivered more than a performance—it felt like a love letter set to music.

A Classic Song with a Personal Twist
The song? “I Will Always Love You.” But this wasn’t the big, soaring version we know from Whitney, or even Dolly’s sweet original. This was something entirely Miranda—stripped down, soulful, and deeply personal. And it was clearly directed at someone special in the audience: her ex-husband, Blake Shelton.

From the very first line, the room went still. All eyes were on Miranda. And then, the camera panned to Blake—seated beside Gwen Stefani. His expression was calm, until it wasn’t.

As Miranda sang:

“I hope life treats you kind… and I hope you have all you’ve dreamed of…”

Blake’s eyes filled with tears. And when she reached the iconic line:

“And I… will always love you…”

He gently wiped his cheek. The moment hit everyone hard.

More Than Just a Song
Miranda and Blake haven’t said much publicly since their divorce in 2015, but this moment spoke volumes. With a hand over her heart, Miranda wasn’t just singing about the past—she was honoring it. And the thunderous applause that followed said everything the audience was feeling.

Even more touching? The brief smile the two shared across the room. It was small, but powerful. No drama, no bitterness—just respect.

Fans and Critics React
Social media lit up seconds after the performance:

“That wasn’t just a song—that was real healing.”
“Miranda just reminded us what true love really means.”
“You could feel the history in every note.”

Music critics were equally moved. Rolling Stone Country called it “the emotional high point of the night,” while Country Weekly praised it as “Lambert’s most powerful performance to date.”

Why That Song?
Backstage, when asked why she chose that song, Miranda kept it simple:

“Because sometimes the past deserves a song. And Blake—he was a big part of mine.”

As for Blake, he didn’t say much—just placed a hand over his chest, gave a small nod, and quietly walked away. No words needed.

A Final Note on Love and Letting Go
In a world where breakups often turn bitter, Miranda’s performance reminded us that not all love stories end badly. Some just change shape. From passion to peace. From holding on to letting go—with grace.

This wasn’t about getting back together. It wasn’t about regret. It was about honoring the past and recognizing that some people never stop mattering.

And maybe that’s what made this performance so unforgettable. Not just the music—but the message:

“You mattered. And I still sing for you.”

It’s a moment country fans—and anyone who’s ever loved and lost—won’t soon forget.

Blake Shelton’s brand-new album, For Recreational Use Only, dropped on May 9—and fans are calling it one of his most honest and personal projects yet. Full of stories about love, loss, and life’s twists and turns, one song in particular is stealing the spotlight: “Hangin’ On”, a beautiful duet with his wife, Gwen Stefani.

A Love Song with a Twist
Written by Greylan James, Sam Ellis, and Charles Kelley of Lady A, “Hangin’ On” tells the emotional story of a love that never quite let go. It opens with Blake’s signature raw, gravelly voice setting the scene—just when you think you’ve moved on, the past finds its way back in.

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A post shared by Blake Shelton (@blakeshelton)

Then Gwen’s voice joins in, soft and haunting, like a memory you can’t shake. The two sing about holding on to words and moments long after a relationship has ended. Their voices blend with such natural chemistry, you can feel the weight of every word they share.

“I hear you’re hangin’ on the other side of this town…
I shoulda let go by now / But I keep hangin’ on to every word you said.”

Though they come from very different musical backgrounds—Blake’s country roots and Gwen’s pop-rock edge—they meet in the middle with a sound that feels deeply authentic.

Music and Marriage, Hand in Hand
In a recent interview with TODAY, Blake opened up about what it means to record music with Gwen. He didn’t hesitate to say she’ll always have a place in his future work:

“I don’t feel like I want to make a record without a duet with Gwen on it anymore. She’s my favorite person to sing with.”

Even though “Hangin’ On” is about heartbreak, Blake said it was still “so fun” to sing with her. Their musical journey started back in 2014 on The Voice, and now—years later—they’re married, raising Stefani’s three sons, and dreaming of performing as a family at the Grand Ole Opry.

“That would be Gwen’s dream come true — to have a family band or something like that.”

A New Chapter for Blake
For Recreational Use Only is Shelton’s first full-length studio album in nearly four years, released via BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. With 12 tracks that blend humor, heartache, and a touch of nostalgia, it feels like a return to the kind of storytelling that made fans fall in love with Blake in the first place.

The album also features collaborations with country icon John Anderson and Blake’s longtime tour buddy Craig Morgan, giving it that classic “friends and family” feel.

Fresh off his sold-out Friends & Heroes Tour, this album proves Blake Shelton is still one of country music’s most down-to-earth and beloved voices—and with Gwen by his side, he’s creating something truly special.

Country music fans—both longtime listeners and new arrivals—can’t stop talking about John Foster’s heartfelt rendition of Johnny Lee’s classic hit, “Lookin’ for Love.” With over 1.2 million views and climbing, his performance is striking a real chord with people everywhere.

John doesn’t just sing the song—he lives it. Known for his smooth voice and soulful style, he takes this iconic tune and turns it into something deeply personal. Every word feels like it’s coming straight from his heart, with a quiet confidence that draws you in and holds you there.

The performance is simple in the best way—no flashy extras, just Foster’s warm vocals and a raw connection to the lyrics. He breathes new life into the song without losing what made it special in the first place.

Fans are flooding the comments with love, calling it one of the best covers they’ve heard in years. Many are praising the way Foster honors the original while still putting his own unique stamp on it—soulful, sincere, and full of heart.

If you haven’t watched John Foster’s take on “Lookin’ for Love” yet, don’t miss out. It’s more than a cover—it’s a beautiful reminder of how music can feel fresh again when it’s sung from the soul.

American singer-songwriter Riley Green is making waves again, this time teaming up with rising star Ella Langley on the duet “You Look Like You Love Me.” The song is quickly climbing the charts and racking up impressive streaming numbers.

But Riley’s not stopping there—his solo track “Worst Way” is also catching on, making 2024 look like it could be his best year yet.

Right now, Riley is in the UK, gearing up to open for Morgan Wallen at the huge BST Hyde Park show on July 4. He recently sat down with Smooth Country’s Eamonn Kelly to talk about the concert and his new music.

On working with Ella, Riley shared, “Ella’s from Alabama, just like me, and I’d heard her name for a while. A promoter I’ve worked with would often bring her out to open for me. She’s got a fantastic, very country voice—exactly what I enjoy.”

He went on, “She joined me on tour this year with Tracy Lawrence and me. Being on the road together like that is one of the most natural ways songs and ideas come about. A buddy of mine played me this song, and I ended up writing the second verse. Honestly, nobody expected it to take off the way it has.”

Riley also gave a little sneak peek about collaborating with Luke Bryan, hinting that their work might show up on his next album.

“Usually, collaborations happen through managers or agents, but I just text Luke directly,” Riley said. “I’ll send him a song I’m proud of and see if he wants to jump on it.”

In the interview, Riley also opened up about his unexpected start on the reality show Redneck Island.

“I’m not really into reality shows,” he said. “I never thought I’d go that route, but I was doing construction work when someone came to a show and asked if I wanted to be on a CMT show. I figured, maybe it could help my music career.”

He added, “It was a tough experience—no phones, stuck in a house for a month. I don’t think it made a huge difference for me, but it gave me insight into how those shows work. I was careful not to do anything stupid because they tend to make people look crazy.”

Riley joked, “I think I was pretty boring—I slept most of the time!”

Fans at Soldier Field got more than they bargained for during the Rolling Stones’ Hackney Diamonds Tour stop in Chicago—thanks to a surprise appearance from country superstar Lainey Wilson that had the entire stadium buzzing.

The night began with Wilson warming up the crowd in classic fashion, performing fan favorites like “Hang Tight Honey” and “Heart Like a Truck.” Known for her gritty vocals and Southern charm, Wilson brought undeniable energy to the stage—even while juggling her own headlining tour and opening slots for acts like Morgan Wallen.

But the real magic happened after the Stones kicked off their set with “Start Me Up.” Just as the crowd settled into rock-and-roll mode, frontman Mick Jagger turned to the audience with a grin and gave Wilson a major shoutout for her electrifying opening performance. Then, to everyone’s surprise, he invited her back on stage for a duet.

The crowd erupted.

The two launched into a soulful, stripped-down version of the Stones’ country-tinged classic “Dead Flowers.” Jagger, ever the showman, even slipped on a black cowboy hat to match Wilson’s signature look—a playful nod that drew cheers from the audience.

The duet was raw, honest, and unforgettable. Wilson’s smoky drawl blended effortlessly with Jagger’s legendary vocals, creating a moment that felt both spontaneous and deeply special. It was one of those rare live collaborations that fans will be talking about for years.

Social media lit up almost instantly, with fans sharing videos, photos, and plenty of fire emojis. One fan wrote, “This is the kind of crossover magic we live for. Lainey and the Stones? Didn’t see it coming—but wow, it worked.”

While the Hackney Diamonds Tour continues to roll on, it’s safe to say this Chicago stop has already become one of the most talked-about moments yet. And for Lainey Wilson, it’s another epic chapter in a career that just keeps climbing higher.

At the 2024 Country Jam Festival in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, rising country star Ella Langley truly stole the show. Known for highlighting some of the best talents in country music, the festival became the perfect stage for Langley to shine with her powerful voice and magnetic stage presence.

She kicked off her set with the lively “Paint The Town Blue,” instantly getting the crowd moving and singing along. The upbeat energy filled the air, setting an exciting vibe for the night ahead. She followed it up with “Better Be Tough,” blending classic country storytelling with a fresh, modern twist that kept fans hooked.

One of the most touching moments came during her performance of “Excuse The Mess,” where Ella’s heartfelt delivery struck a chord with many in the crowd—some even wiped away tears. Songs like “Make Me Wanna Smoke” and “Nicotine” further showcased her honest, raw approach to themes of love and struggle, making her connection with the audience feel even more genuine.

Ella also paid tribute to country icon Gretchen Wilson by covering “Here for the Party.” The crowd loved this nod to country’s roots, and it highlighted Ella’s respect for the legends who paved the way, while still proving her own unique style.

She introduced some fresh songs too, like “Damn You” and her tour’s title track, “Hungover.” These tracks, filled with relatable lyrics and catchy hooks, revealed her growth as a songwriter and her knack for telling stories that resonate deeply with fans.

Later in the set, Ella delivered fan favorites like “You Look Like You Love Me” and “Country Boy’s Dream Girl,” songs that blend traditional country sounds with modern vibes, showcasing her versatility and dedication to evolving her music without losing her country roots.

Closing with the powerful “That’s Why We Fight,” Ella left the stage to thunderous applause, having firmly established herself as a rising force in country music. Her performance was a perfect mix of strong vocals, heartfelt storytelling, and real connection—a sign of great things to come.

Ella Langley’s show at Country Jam 2024 proved she’s an artist who honors country traditions while boldly making her own path. Fans and newcomers alike left with a lasting impression of her talent, passion, and promising future.