Country Music Rocks

CMA Fest 2026 Recap: Favorite Moments, ABC Special & Planning for 2027

CMA Fest 2026 may be over, but the excitement hasn't worn off! We're still riding the CMA Fest high, and trust us, you'll be able to tell from the moment you hit play! In this episode of the Country Music Rocks Podcast, we're sharing our complete CMA Fest 2026 recap, from our favorite performances and fan moments to the incredible atmosphere that makes CMA Fest one of the best country music festivals in the world. We discuss what stood out most during our time in Nashville, why the CMA continues to outdo itself year after year, and how the festival creates an unmatched experience for country music fans. We also dive into the CMA Fest television special on ABC, sharing our thoughts on the performances, memorable moments, and how it brought us right back to the excitement of Music City. Whether you attended CMA Fest or watched from home, this episode is your chance to relive the memories with us. The special is available to stream on HULU now. And if CMA Fest is on your bucket list, now is the time to start planning. CMA Fest 2027 returns to Nashville June 10 - 13. Start making your plans now, because this is an experience every country music fan should have at least once. Get your hotels and airfare booked as soon as you can, and then start counting down to the days to CMA Fest 2027. Tune in to this new podcast episode as we celebrate the music, the memories, and the community that make CMA Fest unlike anything else. Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

• Transcript

61st ACM Awards Preview: Our Top Picks & Predictions

A huge weekend is on deck with the 61st ACM Awards coming up on Sunday, May 17, and we’re diving into all of it on this week’s episode of the Country Music Rocks Podcast! We’re breaking down our top picks, who we think and who we hope will walk away with those coveted ACM trophies. The lineup, the surprises, the performances, we’re ready for all of it. Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

• Transcript

Stagecoach Recap, Jason Aldean & Luke Bryan Stadium Show, and Russell Dickerson’s “Happen To Me” #1 Celebration

This week's episode on the Country Music Podcast recaps our FOMO from this past weekend as some epic events took place that we were not at. We did, however, live vicariously through social media to keep up with all the excitement. From Stagecoach highlights lighting up social feeds to the Jason Aldean / Luke Bryan co-headlining show at Sanford Stadium in Georgia, we were right there scrolling along with everyone else. Julia also recaps her recent trip to Nashville to celebrate Russell Dickerson’s #1 hit, “Happen To Me.” It was a reminder of just how much goes on behind the scenes of a chart-topper. Seeing it up close, she got a firsthand look at the team effort, long hours, and nonstop work it takes to get a song to the top. Russell has a strong crew behind him and made a point to recognize their hard work during his speech at the celebration. It was genuine and heartfelt, making the moment even more special. Got a topic or suggestion for us? We’d love to hear it! Email us anytime at cmr@countrymusicrocks.net. Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

• Transcript

61st ACM Awards Breakdown: Biggest Snubs, Surprises & More

The nominations are in for the 61st ACM Awards, and we’re breaking it all down on this week’s episode of the Country Music Rocks Podcast. There’s a lot to unpack on this one, so we’re diving into all the categories, spotlighting the nominees, and sharing who we think got snubbed this year. Trust us, we’ve got thoughts. Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

• Transcript

Country Music & Golf: Masters Talk & Country Golfers + Raising Cane’s 1,000th Opening

Sun’s out, clubs out on this week’s Country Music Rocks Podcast! We’re teeing up a fun crossover between country music and golf just in time for the Masters Tournament. The timing couldn’t be better with the release of Thomas Rhett’s take on “Georgia On My Mind.” The classic song is already setting the tone for the tradition of the prestigious tournament and all the excitement that lies ahead. In this episode, we’re diving into country artists that can really hold their own on the course, who we’d pick for our dream golf partner, and Danny shares a great story about the time he hit the links with Vince Gill. We’re also sharing details from Julia’s recent trip to LA with Raising Cane’s to celebrate the opening of their 1,000th restaurant. It’s quite the story hearing about Raising Cane’s Owner Todd Graves’ journey on starting the popular restaurant chain and building an incredible brand. Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

• Transcript

Concert Etiquette 101: Riley Green Incident + Country Music News Roundup

Country Music Rocks is diving into the do’s and don’ts of concert etiquette. After Riley Green was hit by a phone thrown onstage this past weekend, which resulted in stitches, it’s safe to say don’t throw anything at the artist is at the top of the list. We’re also breaking down the latest country music headlines, including Morgan Wallen launching a new SiriusXM radio station, Jelly Roll’s Grand Ole Opry induction, and more. Have a suggestion or topic you’d like us to cover? Let us know! Email us at cmr@countrymusicrocks.net. Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

• Transcript

CMA Fest 2026 Dates & Lineup + Country Music News Roundup

This week on the Country Music Rocks Podcast, we’re talking all things CMA Fest! The iconic country music festival has officially announced its 2026 dates, and we’re already ready to start packing our bags. The 4 day music festival is set to take over Nashville June 4 – 7, and the first round of performers at Nissan Stadium has been announced. We’re also recapping some of the biggest country music headlines from the week, including the arrival of Thomas Rhett's baby boy, Bailey Zimmerman’s collaboration with American Eagle, Jelly Roll’s rollover, Carly Pearce’s next collab, and much more. Don’t miss this new episode! The latest episode is available now on all major podcast platforms and YouTube. Have a suggestion or topic you’d like us to cover? Let us know! Email us at cmr@countrymusicrocks.net. Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

On Cloud 9 In NYC: Megan Moroney’s Listening Party At Raising Cane’s

This week on the Country Music Rocks Podcast, we’re talking country in NYC! 🎙️✨ Co-Host Julia jetted across the country to attend a surprise Cloud 9 listening party with Megan Moroney at Raising Cane's in Times Square to celebrate the release of her brand new album. It was more than just a listening party, Raising Cane’s truly treated fans to a full Cloud 9 experience. From custom pink hats handed out at the door to Megan posters and vinyl albums displayed throughout the restaurant, every detail was on point. As Cloud 9 played through the speakers in the restaurant, the tone was set for something exclusive and unforgettable, and even more so when Megan walked in to spend time with everyone. Julia shares behind-the-scenes moments from the press conference, fan reactions from inside the restaurant, and why the partnership between Megan and Raising Cane’s feels authentic, intentional, and completely on brand. If you love country music taking over big cities, and brands that show up for fans in a big way, this episode is for you. This new episode is available now on all major podcast platforms and YouTube. Have a suggestion or topic that you want us to discuss on the podcast? Let us know! Drop us an email at cmr@countrymusicrocks.net! Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

AI, Fake News & Real Country Music Headlines

On this week's episode of the Country Music Rocks Podcast, we dive into a deep conversation about AI and how it relates to and impacts country music. While this topic will likely become a reoccurring one as the technology continues to evolve, we honed in on the "fake news" aspect of it as well where / if it fits in with songwriting, as well as the useful aspects of the tool. We're also recapping several news stories that broke throughout the week, including Ella Langley's new fashion line with American Eagle, Chevrolet's imprint on America's 250th Anniversary, NASCAR, Eric Church's IMAX concert & More! This new episode is available now on all major podcast platforms. Have a suggestion or topic that you want us to discuss on the podcast? Let us know! Drop us an email at cmr@countrymusicrocks.net! Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

Super Bowl Week Country Music Recap & Valentine’s Day Country Couples

On this week’s episode of the Country Music Rocks Podcast, we’re diving into the country music scene that lit up the Bay Area ahead of Super Bowl LX. From Chris Stapleton’s sold-out show to Zach Bryan’s performance featuring 49ers star Christian McCaffery on the piano, country artists were front & center in the days leading up to the big game. Plus, since it is Valentine’s Day this week, we’re sharing some of our favorite country couples. From power duos like Tim McGraw & Faith Hill, to rising stars and their other halves such as Russell & Kailey Dickerson, we’re chatting all about their love stories. Tune is as we explore how country music has been in the spotlight across various sports over the past couple of weeks, and as we celebrate the love of some of our favorite country artists. Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

From GRAMMYs to Golf and Much More: Inside This Week’s Biggest Country Music Momentsde

This week on the Country Music Rocks Podcast, we’re talking all about the latest news in country music, plus so much more! We recap the GRAMMY award winners in country music, dive into the new massive collaboration released by HARDY featuring Morgan Wallen, Tim McGraw, and Eric Church, and break down the latest tour announcements and album releases that have been unveiled so far. We also switch gears and chat about golf and its crossover with country music this week during the WM Phoenix Open. Several country stars are stepping off the stage and onto the green this week in Arizona, including Zac Top, Dustin Lynch, Tucker Wetmore, Jordan Davis and many more. We love seeing the worlds of sports & country music collide, and the events in Arizona this week serves as a perfect example of that. We wrap things up with our Super Bowl picks to close out the episode, so make sure to check it out! Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

Julia Cole Gives an Inside Look at Building a Country Music Career

Artist on the rise Julia Cole is making her mark within the country music scene, carving out a space that feels both honest and refreshingly real. The singer/songwriter writes from the heart, and listeners have been gravitating toward her music because it’s raw, relatable, and rooted in real-life experiences. We took our Country Music Rocks Podcast on the road to catch one of Julia’s shows and chat with her about the mechanics of starting out in the music industry. Julia pulled back the curtain and gave us a rare, honest look at what it actually takes to start a career in music, the team required to sustain it, and how her own journey as a singer/songwriter continues to evolve. In addition to giving us a glimpse in the industry, Cole also chatted with us about her songwriting experience, hit single “Day Late and a Buck Short,” that has quickly become a fan favorite, and chatted about her newly released single “What Could Go Wrong” which is available now. Julia Cole is an absolute gem and we are excited for her journey ahead in country music. She is an artist to keep your eyes on and ears tuned in as she is one to watch throughout 2026! Keep up with all things Julia at her official website, juliacolemusic.com. Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

2026 Artists to Watch | Country Music News to Start the Year

This week on the Country Music Rocks Podcast, we're talking 2026 Artists to Watch! Last year proved to be an incredible one in country music, and we have no doubt that the momentum is carrying straight into this year. We’re also diving into the latest country music news and headlines making waves to start the year. From the hike that took over the internet, to rumors of a global superstar possibly setting his sight on some tour dates later this year, we dive in to what has been happening in the country music world since the start of the new year. Stay in the know with all things country & more. Tune in each week for a brand-new episode. Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

Chase Matthew Talks Songwriting, His Incredible 2025 & What’s Ahead

The Country Music Rocks Podcast is back, and we're ready to embark on a new and exciting year in country music! To kick-off the new year, we took our studio on the road and sat down with Warner Music Nashville recording artist Chase Matthew. Coming off an incredible 2025, the singer/songwriter hit several major milestones. Chase scored his first #1 at country radio with "Darlin'," delivered unforgettable performances each time he set foot on stage, toured with Keith Urban - including tour stops in Australia, teamed up with longtime friend Lauren Alaina on their collaboration “All My Exes,” which became the most added song at country radio upon release, and so much more! With a year like that behind him, the momentum going into 2026 is strong. We caught up with Chase before his first show of 2026 and dove deep into his songwriting journey as well as the Nashville songwriting scene. From breaking down the creative process to sharing what it truly takes to turn words on a page into songs that resonate, Chase offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at life as a songwriter and artist. Listen to our first podcast episode of 2026 featuring Chase Matthew on your favorite podcast platform, and watch the full episode on YouTube. Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! Wrapping Up the Podcast for 2025, We'll Be Back in 2026!

What a year 2025 has been! In our final episode of the year, we reflect on some of our biggest highlights throughout 2025 and dive into the moments, music, and stories that shaped country music over the past year. One of the most exciting trends we saw was the rise of emerging artists taking over the radio airwaves. It has been incredible to watch & hear new voices make such a big impact. While this marks our final episode of 2025, we’re already looking ahead to an exciting 2026. We have plenty in the works, including special guests and fresh conversations, so be sure to stay tuned. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your continued support this year. We can’t wait to be back with you in January 2026. From both of, we are wishing you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year! Don’t miss us when we return!! Subscribe and watch on YouTube HERE, and listen on your favorite podcast platform HERE. Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

👉 Jelly Roll Invited to Join the Grand Ole Opry + More Country Music Headlines

As we wind down 2025, the news out of Nashville isn’t slowing down so of course we had to talk about it! This episode is packed with major announcements, including one of the biggest honors in country music, Jelly Roll being invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry. It’s one of the highest achievements in an artist’s career, and we couldn’t be more excited for him. We also dive into other news making headlines, including updates on the future of country duo Maddie & Tae, CBS series The Road, and more. Tune in every Wednesday for a brand new episode of the CMR Podcast. Subscribe and watch on YouTube HERE, or listen on your favorite podcast platform HERE. Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

The Quiet Giants of Country Music: Fan-Driven Artists Loved Loudly

This week on the Country Music Rocks Podcast, we’re diving into country artists who have huge fan bases, rack up streaming numbers, and sell out venues of all sizes. They do all this without the traditional promo pushes across social media, radio, email and beyond. These artists are more of the "quiet giants," if you will, of country music, letting the music speak for itself. We spotlight how these artists, and many others like them, continue to prove that country music is one of the most powerful fan-driven genres today. They may be quietly massive, but they’re loved loudly. Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

New Country Christmas Songs + Gift Guide for Country Music Fans

The holiday season is here, and we couldn’t be more excited! Decorations are up, Christmas songs are playing, and the holiday shopping has officially begun. This week on the Country Music Rocks Podcast, we’re sharing some of our all-time favorite Christmas tunes, highlighting new holiday releases that we are enjoying, and offering some gift ideas for the country music lovers on your holiday shopping list. Tune in and get into the Christmas spirit with us! Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

Thanksgiving 2025: Counting Blessings & Thankful Hearts

This week on the Country Music Rocks podcast, we want to take a moment to thank you for listening and watching our podcast. We’ve truly enjoyed this new venture, and we’re excited to take it even further in the year ahead. As we head into the Thanksgiving holiday, we’re sharing how we’ll be spending the day and reflecting on some of the things we’re most grateful for. We hope y'all enjoy the holiday and are able to reflect, relax and create some wonderful memories! Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!

2025 CMA Awards Predictions: Our Picks for the 59th Annual Country Music Awards

The 59th Annual CMA Awards take place tonight, live from Nashville at the Bridgestone Arena and hosted by Lainey Wilson. It's Country Music’s Biggest Night™, and we can't wait to see who walks away with a CMA Award. In anticipation of the CMA Awards, we're sharing our picks and predictions for this year's winners in our latest podcast episode. We'll find out later tonight just how many we got right, but until then, watch or listen to the new episode. Which artists are you hoping to see take home a CMA Award? Let us know in the comments below! Send us Fan Mail Be sure follow along as we'll have a new episode each week! Follow the Country Music Rocks Podcast on all streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and more. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our main Website so you can stay up to date with all the country music news!