Here's Why Cody Johnson Won ACM Entertainer of the Year In 2026
Cody Johnson captured the Academy of Country Music’s Entertainer of the Year award on May 17, 2026, marking his first win after previous CMA nominations. The honor reflects his disciplined touring schedule, punctual media presence, and a partnership with Warner that safeguards his masters and creative control. Johnson’s traditional country sound and authentic collaborations resonated with voters amid a market dominated by viral influencers. He will resume a U.S. tour starting May 29 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
15 Country Stars Who Went to War Against Their Record Labels
A wave of lawsuits has seen country music’s biggest names clash with their record labels over unpaid royalties, master‑recording rights, and contract terms. Cases range from Kenny Rogers’ $400,000 claim against Capitol Records to the Dixie Chicks’ $20 million settlement with Sony,...
![What It’s Like Backstage on Luke Combs’ Tour [Exclusive]](/cdn-cgi/image/width=1200,quality=75,format=auto,fit=cover/https://townsquare.media/site/204/files/2026/05/attachment-untitled-design-2026-05-12t063947-575.jpg?format=natural)
What It’s Like Backstage on Luke Combs’ Tour [Exclusive]
Country star Luke Combs’ My Kinda Saturday Night Tour is being lauded for its exceptional backstage environment, with opener Ty Myers praising the crew’s hospitality and five‑course meals that even include daily hot‑dog livestreams. The tour’s emphasis on fan‑friendly service...
Thomas Rhett Knows the True Meaning of 'Live Like You Were Dying'
Country star Thomas Rhett appeared on the Human School podcast to unpack Tim McGraw’s “Live Like You Were Dying.” He argued that if every day felt like a final one, concerns such as a 401(k) or career milestones fade, while relationships and...
Kelly Clarkson Returning for Season 30 of 'The Voice' - Who Else?
Kelly Clarkson will return as a judge for the 30th season of NBC’s "The Voice" in fall 2026, marking her 11th season on the show. The upcoming season will feature Adam Levine and two yet‑to‑be‑named coaches, restoring the traditional four‑chair...
Eagles Live Albums Ranked Worst to Best
Ultimate Classic Rock’s Nick DeRiso ranks every Eagles live album, placing the 1980 double‑disc “Eagles Live” at the top and the 1982 Randy Meisner “Dallas” release at the bottom. The list spans early solo projects, the landmark 1994 “Hell Freezes Over,” and recent archival releases...
Another Vulgar Zach Bryan Fan Experience, Or Was It Just a Joke?
Country‑rock singer Zach Bryan sparked controversy on May 2 in Starkville, Mississippi, when he called a fan a “c‑‑shot” during a meet‑and‑greet. Bryan later claimed the profanity was a joke lifted from the Netflix sketch‑comedy series ‘I Think You Should Leave.’ The remark ignited a...
3 Reasons Kellie Pickler's 'American Idol' Return Was So Special
Kellie Pickler, 39, returned to the national stage on May 4, 2024, performing “A Broken Wing” with Hannah Harper on American Idol. The duet was part of a 20‑year class‑reunion episode that culminated in a Top 3 reveal. It marks Pickler’s first...
The Bond That Riley Green + Ella Langley Share Can't Be Broken
Riley Green and rising star Ella Langley have cemented a hitmaking partnership, scoring two No. 1 duets and earning Artist‑Songwriter of the Year nominations at the 2026 ACM Awards. Their friendship was highlighted in an exclusive interview where Green praised Langley's...
Hulk Hogan Documentary: 5 Revelations From His Life
Netflix’s new docuseries *Hulk Hogan: Real American* offers an unprecedented look at the wrestling legend’s career, personal turmoil, and health battles, featuring interviews recorded just months before his death in July 2025. The series reveals Hogan’s risky decision to appear in...
Eagles' Band Member Suffers Medical Episode - NOLA Show Cut Short
The Eagles were forced to cut their New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival set about 20 minutes early after the touring piano player experienced a medical episode, preventing the band from performing the piano‑heavy classic “Desperado.” The incident occurred during the...
LISTEN: Miranda Lambert's New Country-Disco Mashup Crisco Is Here
Miranda Lambert is set to release “Crisco,” a country‑disco mashup, on May 15, marking her first new material since the 2025 duet “A Song To Sing” with Chris Stapleton. Co‑written with Aaron Raitiere, Jesse Frasure and Chill Fellacheck, the track references classics...
Tucker Wetmore on Overseas Concerts: 'They're Super Respectful'
Country newcomer Tucker Wetmore closed the first leg of his Brunette World Tour on April 28 at London’s O₂ Forum Kentish Town, noting that overseas audiences tend to be more respectful and focused on the performance. He contrasted this with the...
25 Quirky 'World's Largest' Roadside Attractions You Have to See
America’s highways are dotted with quirky “world’s largest” roadside attractions that draw travelers seeking novelty and photo‑ops. Small towns like Casey, Illinois, host dozens of oversized items—from a mailbox to a rocking chair—turning modest populations into tourist magnets. These landmarks...
![Jason Aldean Breaks Down Luke Bryan’s Mass Appeal [EXCLUSIVE]](/cdn-cgi/image/width=1200,quality=75,format=auto,fit=cover/https://townsquare.media/site/204/files/2026/04/attachment-untitled-design-2026-04-30t072325-621.jpg?format=natural)
Jason Aldean Breaks Down Luke Bryan’s Mass Appeal [EXCLUSIVE]
Country star Jason Aldean told Taste of Country Nights that Luke Bryan’s universal appeal stems from his unapologetically unfiltered personality. Aldean highlighted how Bryan’s candidness triggers dopamine responses, making listeners crave his next comment. The interview also promoted Bryan’s upcoming performance...