Dasha – “Memo”
Featuring clever songwriting, “Memo” is emotionally grounded, showcasing Dasha’s continued evolution as an artist.
Country Pop
Ella Langley’s “Choosin’ Texas” climbs to #3
Ella Langley is breaking records in the States with the soaraway success of “Choosin’ Texas“. The track has now spent 15 weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. This run means it has now surpassed the iconic Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey for the most weeks at #1 among non-holiday (Christmas) titles by women with no co-billed acts. That phenomenal achievement is being matched by rapid progress in the UK too. “Choosin’ Texas” is now at #3 in the UK Official Singles Chart midweeks. This position which, if maintained on Friday’s final chart, will be a new peak for the track. It is already the UK’s biggest country smash hit of the year so far in 2026, with 5 weeks in the Top 10 and another 20 weeks in the Top 40. Last month, it was certified Gold in the UK in recognition of 400,000+ units. The track currently stands at 564 million global streams at Spotify alone. “Dandelion” continues to flourish The continued rise of “Choosin’ Texas” builds on the success of Ella’s “Dandelion” album, which entered the UK Official Albums Chart at #7 in April. Another three tracks from the record have charted in the UK: “Be Her”, “Bottom of Her Boots”, and the Morgan Wallencollab “I Can’t Love You Anymore”. 2026 has also seen last year’s single “Weren’t For The Wind” chart and reach Silver status. Her 2024 single “You Look Like You Love Me” (featuring Riley Green) recently landed Gold certification. Ella Langley’s ascent will continue throughout 2026 as she embarks upon the second leg of her North American “Dandelion” tour. Running from August to the end of October, it includes a mix of prestigious amphitheatres and major arenas. Released via SAWGOD / Columbia Records, and executive produced by Ella alongside Miranda Lambert and Ben West, the “Dandelion” album represents her most deeply personal body of work to date. Its title is a statement of identity and independence, reframing the often-overlooked flower into a symbol of resilience and freedom. “Dandelion” finds Ella operating with a new level of clarity and confidence. Her songwriting remains both intentional and unguarded, capturing moments that feel deeply personal yet instantly relatable. In short, with “Dandelion”, Ella further cements her place as one of the most compelling and undeniable voices at the forefront of country music’s next generation.
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Dolly Parton to recieve honour from the Academy of Country Music
The Academy of Country Music will pay special tribute to country music icon Dolly Parton, who will receive the ACM Poet’s Award in recognition of her extraordinary contribution to songwriting. The 19th ACM Honors will take place on 19 August, at The Pinnacle in Nashville. Although she will not attend in person, Parton will accept the award through a special video message. A 13-time ACM Award winner, Parton’s relationship with the Academy spans decades. She has also hosted the ACM Awards on three occasions, further cementing her status as one of country music’s most influential and beloved figures. Celebrating a legendary songwriter Parton is being recognised for a songwriting catalogue that has shaped generations of country music. Her work has received multiple ACM Song of the Year nominations, including for “You’re the Only One”, “9 to 5” and “When I Get Where I’m Going”. From timeless classics such as “Jolene”, “Coat of Many Colors” and “I Will Always Love You”, Parton’s storytelling has left an enduring mark on country music and continues to resonate with audiences around the world. ACM Honors returns to Nashville Artists set to perform during the event include Avery Anna, Big Kenny, Carly Pearce, Carter Faith, Dierks Bentley, Dylan Scott, Gabriella Rose, Gavin Adcock, Kaitlin Butts, Mark Collie, Margo Price, Megan Moroney, Parker McCollum and Trisha Yearwood. Brenda Lee will appear as a special guest, while Zach John King will present the ACM Studio Recording and Industry Awards segment of the evening. The ceremony will once again be co-hosted by four-time ACM Award winner Carly Pearce and three-time ACM Award winner Parker McCollum. Honouring country music’s biggest names Parton joins a previously announced list of honourees that includes Bill Anderson, Brett James, C2C: Country to Country, The Carter Family, Eric Church, Kacey Musgraves, the Paramount+ hit television series Landman, Leslie Fram, Mike Curb and Scott Zolke. Previously announced ACM Artist-Songwriter of the Year Ella Langley, ACM Songwriter of the Year Jessie Jo Dillon, along with this year’s ACM Studio Recording Award and Industry Award winners, will also be recognised during the ceremony, which is widely regarded as the country music industry’s favourite night. TennPop returns as presenting partner The evening’s presenting partner is TennPop, Seltzer of the South, a Tennessee-born ready-to-drink spirit-based seltzer crafted with Tennessee vodka, local honey and sparkling water. The brand celebrates the people, places and culture that define the American South.
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Tristan Roberson
At just 18 years old, Tristan Roberson has already established himself as one of modern country music’s brightest young talents. The Texas-born singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and award-winning performer is due to release his sophomore album, “Down For The Ride” on July 31. “Down For The Ride” a 14-track collection that highlights both his musical growth and his commitment to authentic country storytelling. The album blends traditional country influences with contemporary production, exploring themes of young love, ambition, heartbreak, humour and self-discovery. Title track captures youthful optimism Produced by acclaimed producer Tre Nagella, “Down For The Ride” features 14 songs that were all written or co-written by Roberson, demonstrating a level of songwriting maturity that belies his age. The title track combines lively fiddle, driving acoustic and electric guitars, energetic drums and memorable hooks to tell the story of falling for someone despite knowing it may not be the wisest decision. Roberson said: “Down For The Ride” is the title track to my sophomore album. I wrote or co-wrote every song on the record, and this one is about falling in love with a girl even though it might be a bad idea.” Traditional influences meet modern country That blend of classic storytelling and modern production has become one of Roberson’s defining characteristics. Drawing inspiration from George Strait, Alan Jackson, George Jones, Hank Williams Jr., Parker McCollum, Zach Top and Cody Johnson, he has developed a sound equally suited to Texas dancehalls, country radio and streaming playlists. Streaming success continues to grow The album follows an extraordinary two-year rise that has seen Roberson amass more than 20 million Spotify streams, over 500,000 followers across Instagram and Facebook, and more than 100,000 YouTube subscribers. His music has also been featured on major Spotify Editorial playlists including New Music Friday, All New Country, Fresh Finds Country, Next From Nashville and Texas Country Now, helping introduce his music to listeners around the world. Chart success and industry recognition Roberson has also enjoyed significant success on country radio, earning four No. 1 singles on the Texas Regional Radio Report, while also achieving national chart success on MusicRow CountryBreakout and Mediabase Country Indie. His music continues to receive regular airplay across Texas and throughout the United States. His achievements have been recognised with numerous awards, including Texas Country Music Awards Emerging Artist of the Year, Texas Regional Radio Awards New Male Vocalist of the Year, Josie Music Awards Young Artist of the Year, Global Music Awards Country Emerging Artist, and induction into the Texas State Songwriters Championship Hall of Fame. Most recently, he was named a finalist at the 2026 Texas Country Music Awards in the categories of Male Artist of the Year, Country Album of the Year and Country Single of the Year. Building a reputation on stage Away from the studio, Roberson has become one of country’s most exciting young live performers. He has headlined iconic Texas dancehalls, appeared at major festivals, performed the National Anthem at professional sporting events, and shared stages with Aaron Watson, Braxton Keith and William Beckmann. His energetic performances and veteran stage presence have helped establish him as one of independent country’s fastest-rising artists.
Karissa Ella – “The Country”
Rather than relying on nostalgia alone, the song delivers an optimistic message about the vital role these communities play in everyday America.
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Morgan Wallen releases new single “Been By Now”
Morgan Wallen has officially released his latest single, “Been By Now”, marking his first solo release of 2026. The song was first unveiled during Wallen’s sold-out performance at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore last week, where fans were given an exclusive preview before its official release. “Been By Now” was written by Morgan Wallen, Charlie Handsome, John Byron, Blake Pendergrass, Rocky Block and Taylor Phillips, and was produced by Joy Moi. “I’m the Problem” continues chart success The new single arrives as Wallen’s latest album, “I’m the Problem”, continues its impressive run on the charts. According to Luminate, the album was recently named the most popular album in the United States across all genres during the first six months of 2026. The achievement follows the album’s remarkable success after its release in May 2025, when it debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and spent 13 non-consecutive weeks at the top of the chart. It has remained firmly inside the Billboard 200 Top 10 ever since. Still The Problem Tour nears its finale The release of “Been By Now” comes as Wallen prepares to conclude his blockbuster Still The Problem Tour, a 23-stadium run that has played to sold-out audiences across North America. Produced by AEG Presents, with the exception of the Tuscaloosa show, which is produced by Live Nation, the tour has featured a rotating line-up of special guests including Brooks & Dunn, HARDY, Ella Langley and Thomas Rhett. Support across selected dates has come from Gavin Adcock, Hudson Westbrook, Flatland Cavalry, Jason Scott & The High Heat, Zach John King, Vincent Masonand Blake Whiten. Morgan Wallen Foundation continues to give back As with Wallen’s previous tours, a portion of every ticket sold supports the Morgan Wallen Foundation, which funds youth programmes focused on sports and music. Through the foundation’s Tour Give Back initiative, more than $1 million worth of musical instruments has been donated to schools in need across cities visited during the tour, continuing Wallen’s commitment to supporting young musicians and communities.
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Dust and Grace release remix and video for “Love Doesn’t Live Here”
Pittsburgh-based country music project Dust and Grace has released the radio remix of its heartfelt ballad “Love Doesn’t Live Here”, alongside an official music video. The remix is available on all major streaming platforms, with the accompanying video premiering on YouTube and social media. “Love Doesn’t Live Here” explores heartbreak and healing Written by Michael Stover, “Love Doesn’t Live Here” is an emotional country ballad that reflects on the quiet aftermath of a relationship coming to an end. Rather than focusing on conflict, the song explores acceptance, healing and the realisation that sometimes love simply fades, leaving memories behind. New radio remix adds contemporary country sound The newly released radio remix builds on the original recording with richer keyboard arrangements, fuller contemporary country production and a soaring harmony guitar solo. While introducing a more polished sound aimed at country radio audiences, the remix retains the intimate storytelling that sits at the heart of the song. Official music video brings the story to life The accompanying music video uses cinematic imagery to reinforce the song’s emotional message. Centred around an empty family home, the video portrays a place that once witnessed love and happiness before becoming a symbol of loss, remembrance and moving forward. The visual storytelling mirrors the themes explored throughout the song, adding another layer of emotional depth. Dust and Grace continues to build momentum The release follows a series of achievements for Dust and Grace within the independent country music scene. The project has previously earned a No. 1 Independent Music Network Country single, two Top 10 Amazon Music Country Gospel hits, two Top 15 CDX Nashville chart singles and two UK iTunes Country Chart hits. Dust and Grace also received the Independent Music Network Award for Best Inspirational Song for its uplifting single “Hallelujah”.
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Hudson Ingram – “Don’t Get Me Started (feat. Sydney Rose)”
Together, their voices blend effortlessly, creating the kind of natural harmony that makes a duet feel genuinely meaningful rather than manufactured.
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Kenny Chesney
The life and career of Kenny Chesney is set to be celebrated in a special exhibition at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Kenny Chesney: Living in Fast Forward, presented by Blue Chair Bay Rum, will explore Chesney’s path to stardom, from his early years playing in his university’s bluegrass band to becoming one of the top touring acts of this century. The exhibit will be unveiled on July 23 and run until June 2027. It comes ahead of the release of Kenny Chesney’s new album, Silver Sands Marina which will be released on September 25. Record breaker Kyle Young, Chief Executive Officer of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, said: “Kenny Chesney’s creative vision and intense drive to continue raising the bar has helped him reach staggering commercial and artistic highs. “He has broken almost as many records as he has made, and his work is far from done. “Through his distinctive sound and dynamic live show, he continues to expand country music’s audience, its perception and its sound.” Kenny Chesney said: “When you’re so busy living life – literally in fast forward – you rarely pause to think about all the miles traveled, the faces you’ve met along the way. “Trying to decide what things to send to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum that represent a whole lot of dreams, living, songs, the work and things you don’t dare imagine was as hard as anything I’ve ever done. “But in the end, I feel like every piece of who I am is represented – and I hope that for someone who’s thinking about chasing their own crazy dreams, this may be the spark to get them on their way.” Ahead of the exhibition opening, Maverick Country takes a look at the life and career of the highest grossing live country music artist of all time. Few artists have enjoyed the longevity, commercial success and fan loyalty of Kenny Chesney. For more than three decades, the Tennessee native has remained one of country music’s biggest stars, blending heartfelt storytelling with sun-soaked escapism to create a sound that has become uniquely his own. Born Kenneth Arnold Chesney on 26 March 1968 in Knoxville, Tennessee, and raised in nearby Luttrell, Chesney developed a passion for country music from an early age. After receiving a guitar as a Christmas gift while studying advertising at East Tennessee State University, he began writing songs and performing in local venues before moving to Nashville after graduation to pursue a career in music. His breakthrough came in the mid-1990s following the release of his second album, “All I Need to Know”, but it was 1997’s “I Will Stand” and the chart-topping single “She’s Got It All” that firmly established him as one of country music’s rising stars. Over the following decade, Chesney became a dominant force on country radio, releasing a string of multi-Platinum albums packed with enduring hits including “How Forever Feels”, “The Good Stuff”, “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems”, “When the Sun Goes Down”, “Summertime”, “Anything But Mine” and “American Kids”. Although firmly rooted in contemporary country, Chesney’s music has always embraced influences from country rock, Gulf and island sounds, and the carefree lifestyle associated with coastal living. That distinctive blend has earned him a devoted fanbase known as the No Shoes Nation, inspired by one of his most successful albums and tours. More than simply a slogan, No Shoes Nation has become a community that celebrates friendship, freedom, travel and live music. Away from the recording studio, Chesney has built a reputation as one of country music’s greatest live performers. His stadium tours consistently rank among the highest-grossing in North America, attracting millions of fans through energetic performances and carefully crafted productions. His ability to connect with audiences has earned him multiple Entertainer of the Year honours from both the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music. Throughout his career, Chesney has received numerous industry accolades, including multiple CMA Awards, ACM Awards and Billboard Music Awards, while selling more than 35 million albums worldwide and achieving dozens of number one singles. His influence extends beyond music through charitable work supporting disaster relief efforts and causes close to his heart.
REDWEST Country Festival
REDWEST Country Festival is one of Utah’s premier country music events, bringing thousands of fans together at the Utah State Fairpark in Salt Lake City for a weekend of live entertainment, great food and an unforgettable festival atmosphere. Taking place on 16 and 17 October 2026, the festival features more than 20 country artists performing across two stages, alongside an exclusive VIP+ stage experience. In addition to a diverse lineup of established stars and rising talent, REDWEST offers food trucks, bars, local vendors and a range of VIP hospitality options designed to enhance the fan experience. The festival also places a strong emphasis on community, working with festival ambassadors and partnering with local and national charities to support worthwhile causes. Set against the backdrop of Salt Lake City, REDWEST combines live country music with a welcoming festival environment, making it one of the region’s standout celebrations of country music and culture.
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