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Country Music Association Celebrates Global Impact With 2025 ‘CMA International Awards’

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The Country Music Association has announced the winners of the 2025 CMA International Awards, recognizing individuals whose outstanding contributions have expanded the reach and influence of Country Music worldwide. Honorees will be celebrated at a special reception on Wednesday, Nov. 19, in downtown Nashville, in addition to being recognized on stage that same evening during the pre-telecast ceremony at the 2025 CMA Awards. 

As part of CMA’s ongoing commitment to honoring excellence, the International Awards are a key component of the association’s industry honors. These awards highlight the exceptional efforts of individuals and organizations driving the global growth of Country Music. The annual awards and reception reflect CMA’s mission to build a strong, inclusive global community of Country Music professionals while celebrating the wide-ranging contributions that have made the genre a global phenomenon. 

“This year’s honorees embody the extraordinary ways Country Music continues to transcend borders,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “Whether through radio, touring, media, or artist development, each has helped share the genre with audiences around the world. Their work not only broadens Country Music’s reach, it deepens its impact, reminding us that this community truly is global.” 

Lynette Garbonola, Vice President, International, BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, receives the CMA Jo Walker Meador International Award for her exceptional contributions to the global expansion of Country Music. This award recognizes outstanding achievement by an individual in advocating and supporting Country Music’s marketing development in territories outside the United States.   

Garbonola’s innovative leadership and strategic efforts have been pivotal in strengthening Country Music’s international presence, particularly in Europe, Australia, and Asia. Through her work, BBR Music Group’s roster has connected with new audiences, helping the genre reach new heights globally. Her dedication to expanding Country Music’s reach and fostering cross-cultural connections has played a key role in its growing international footprint. 

Shannon Saunders, Agent, Head of Nashville International, WME, takes home the Rob Potts International Live Music Advancement Award. This award recognizes outstanding achievements made by an individual who has significantly contributed to the live music industry by extending performance opportunities and building live audiences for Country Music outside of the United States.   

Saunders has been a driving force behind Country Music’s global expansion, transforming WME’s international touring operation and growing its reach and revenue exponentially. From leading record-breaking tours with Luke Combs, Zach Bryan, Lainey Wilson, and Jordan Davis to building lasting partnerships across markets worldwide, her strategic leadership and deep industry relationships have redefined what’s possible for Country artists on a global scale.  

Justin Thomson, National Content Director, iHeartCountry Australia, receives the Wesley Rose International Media Achievement Award. This award recognizes outstanding achievements in the media as they relate to Country Music outside of the United States. 
 
Thomson has become one of Country Music’s most influential global ambassadors. With more than two decades of experience in media, he produces extensive original programming and travels more than 100,000 miles annually to broadcast from major international events including the CMA Fest, Canadian Country Music Association Awards (CCMAs), C2C, and CMC Rocks. Passionate, prolific, and deeply connected to artists and audiences alike, Thomson continues to amplify Country Music’s reach across continents and platforms. 
 
Mattias Hansson, Radio Producer/Presenter at P4 Country, Sveriges Radio, picks up the International Country Broadcaster Award, which recognizes outstanding achievement by a radio broadcaster or syndicated radio reporter outside the United States who has made important contributions for the development of Country Music in their country. 

Hansson has been a driving force behind Country Music’s growing popularity in Scandinavia, showcasing the genre’s diversity and storytelling to a rapidly expanding audience. As host and producer of P4 Country on Sweden’s national radio station, the region’s largest weekly Country program reaching millions of listeners, Hansson has spent decades championing artists, stories and sounds from Nashville to the Nordics. Through his work in national media, live events and international collaborations, he continues to expand Country Music’s footprint and foster a deeper appreciation for the genre worldwide. 

Morgan Wallen receives the International Artist Achievement Award, which recognizes outstanding achievement by a U.S.-based artist who has demonstrated the most significant creative growth, development and promotion of the Country Music industry outside of the United States during the eligibility period. 

Wallen has propelled Country Music to unprecedented global heights, with his influence now extending far beyond genre boundaries. His fourth studio album, I’m The Problem, debuted at No. 1 across seven countries, reinforcing his position as one of the world’s most impactful artists. With sold-out stadiums, record-breaking chart success, and a growing international fanbase, Wallen continues to elevate Country Music on a worldwide stage. 
 
Cameron Whitcomb takes home the Jeff Walker Global Country Artist Award, which recognizes outstanding achievements by a Country Music artist who is originally based internationally. 

Fresh off his CMA Fest debut and recent wins for CCMA Breakthrough Artist of the Year and Fans’ Choice Award, the Canadian-bred artist has captivated audiences worldwide through his Hundred Mile High Tour, spanning Canada, Australia, and Europe. With a mix of honest songwriting and dynamic live performances, Whitcomb stands at the forefront of Country’s next generation, introducing new audiences to the heart and spirit of the genre across continents. 

“The 59th Annual CMA Awards” will broadcast internationally across six global territories, bringing Country Music’s Biggest Night™ to audiences around the world. Broadcast territories include:  

Canada – CTV2: Live at 8/7c (Nov. 19) 
Australia – STAN: Live at 12 p.m. AEDT (Nov. 20); NINE: Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. AEDT 
United Kingdom – BBC iPlayer: Live at 2 a.m. GMT (Nov. 20); BBC Four: Nov. 28 at 10:05 p.m. GMT 
Sweden – SVT Play: Nov. 29 at 2 a.m. CET; SVT2: Nov. 29 at 9:45 p.m. CET 
Mexico – Canal 6: Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. CST 
Norway – NRK: December 5 at 11:15 pm CET 

Jann Arden Earns Platinum Status For ‘A Jann Arden Christmas’ As Holiday Tour Begins

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ann Arden celebrates a major milestone as ‘A Jann Arden Christmas’ is officially certified Platinum ahead of her cross Ontario Christmas Tour beginning November 14. Released in 2015 via Universal Music Canada, the thirteen track album continues to resonate with listeners. “I always wanted to make a Christmas record, and I wanted to do something really, really special and timeless. There are Christmas albums that I listen to year after year: the Carpenters, Streisand, Dean Martin, Bing Crosby, Doris Day, Ella Fitzgerald – these records were the soundtracks to such wonderful memories and happy times,” Arden shared.

The Platinum certification arrives the same week Arden appears on CBC’s new documentary series The Assembly, airing tonight at 9 p.m. (9:30 NT). Arden also delivers a musical tribute at the memorial event honouring Dr. Jane Goodall titled A Celebration of a Life of Hope on November 22 at Convocation Hall in Toronto. This follows her MIXTAPE Tour earlier this year in support of her album MIXTAPE, the follow up to 2021’s Descendant.

A Jann Arden Christmas Tracklist:

  1. It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas
  2. The Christmas Song
  3. Happy X-Mas (War Is Over)
  4. O Holy Night
  5. Silver Bells
  6. I’ll Be Home For Christmas
  7. Medley (Jingle Bells / Santa Claus Is Coming To Town / White Christmas / Let It Snow / Here Comes Santa Claus)
  8. Blue Christmas
  9. Little Drummer Boy / Peace On Earth
  10. Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree
  11. Silent Night
  12. Please Come Home For Christmas
  13. It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year

JANN ARDEN CHRISTMAS TOUR DATES
November 14 – Markham, ON – Flato Markham Theatre
November 15 – Richmond Hill, ON – Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts
November 17/18 – Belleville, ON – Empire Theatre
November 19 – Brampton, ON – The Rose Brampton
November 21/22/23 – Oakville, ON – Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts
November 25 – Milton West, ON – First Ontario Arts Centre
December 08 – Chatham, ON – Chatham Capitol Theatre
December 09/10 – Brantford, ON – Sanderson Centre
December 12 – Ancaster, ON – Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
December 13 – Huntsville, ON – Legacy Hall at Deerhurst Resort
December 14 – Guelph, ON – River Run Centre
December 16 – Mississauga, ON – Living Arts Centre
December 17/18 – Saint Catharines, ON – Partridge Hall
December 20 – Kingston, ON – Grand Theatre
December 22 – Lindsay, ON – Flato Academy Theatre
December 23 – North Bay, ON – Capitol Centre

Caroline Jones Announces New Album ‘Good Omen’ And 2026 Headline Tour

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Rising country singer songwriter and multi instrumentalist Caroline Jones announces her new album ‘Good Omen,’ arriving February 13 as her first release with Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment. The project presents some of her most open and lyrically honest writing, shaped by new perspectives as both an artist and a new mom. “I am thrilled to announce my next album, Good Omen. This project has my most raw and empathetic storylines yet, set to a backdrop of rich, dark, bluegrass infused tracks. This being my first album as a Mother, I’ve channeled the intense empathy that Motherhood affords you, which, it turns out, is a superpower as a songwriter and artist. I collaborated with some amazing new songwriters and musicians on this project, including co producer Julian Raymond, and cannot wait for folks to hear the stories and the sound that we crafted,” Jones shares.

‘Good Omen’ features collaborations with Nashville writers including Eric Paslay, Sarah Buxton, Emily Weisband and Liz Rose across a twelve song collection. The album explores the full range of life experiences from grounded and realistic viewpoints, reflected in previous releases such as the chart climbing single “No Tellin’,” the anthem “All The Things,” and “Divorce In A Small Town.” The title track arrives November 14 and introduces the renewed tone and energy of the record. Jones supports the release with her nearly twenty date 2026 ‘Good Omen Tour,’ launching February 17 in Nashville.

TRACK LISTING
No Tellin’
All The Things
You’re It For Me, Honey
The Bridge
Forever Love
Storm Chaser
Cutting It Close
Good Omen
Family
Divorce in a Small Town
Becca
All The Things (Acoustic)

CAROLINE JONES 2026 GOOD OMEN TOUR DATES
Feb 17 – Nashville, TN @ The Basement East
Feb 19 – Gainesville, FL @ Heartwood Soundstage
Feb 20 – Tampa, FL @ Crowbar
Feb 21 – Jacksonville, FL @ Jack Rabbits
Mar 5 – New York, NY @ The Mercury Lounge
Mar 6 – Wayne, PA @ 118 North
Mar 7 – Cambridge, MA @ The Middle East – Sonia
Mar 19 – Charlotte, NC @ The Evening Muse
Mar 20 – Atlanta, GA @ Smith’s Olde Bar
Mar 21 – Raleigh, NC @ The Pour House
Apr 3 – Denver, CO @ Lost Lake
Apr 4 – Salt Lake City, UT @ The State Room
Apr 8 – West Hollywood, CA @ Troubadour
Apr 9 – Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues Anaheim – The Parish
Apr 11 – San Francisco, CA @ Cafe Du Nord
Apr 30 – Minneapolis, MN @ 7th Street Entry
May 1 – Chicago, IL @ Joe’s on Weed Street

As December Falls Announce 2026 UK Headline Run With Their ‘Everything’s On Fire But I’m Fine’ Momentum

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As December Falls reveal a new UK headline tour for February and March 2026 following last month’s ‘Everything’s On Fire, But We’re On Tour’ album release run. The band celebrate a major milestone as their new album Everything’s On Fire But I’m Fine entered the UK’s Official Albums Chart at #8. The fourteen track release captures the intensity of pursuing a dream while handling day jobs and a full touring schedule, with songs shaped by exhaustion, gratitude and creative drive.

“We just came off the wildest tour of our careers, selling out some of our biggest venues to date, like London’s Electric Ballroom and Nottingham’s Rock City. We grew up as a DIY punk band and nothing beats being one foot away from the crowd, in a smaller room. Independent venues are closing around the country and we never want to forget our roots, so this tour is as much about supporting small venues, as it is remembering where we came from! We can’t wait to party with you!” the band shared. Their writing continues with the same openness found in tracks like Grim Reaper, Angry Cry, Ready Set Go, Bathroom Floor and For The Plot, reflecting the feelings and experiences that have fueled the group from the start.

As December Falls prepare for another run of intimate shows that highlight their connection to independent venues and the audiences that built their foundation. The tour spans England, Ireland and Northern Ireland, with performances across major small-room stages that reflect the band’s commitment to the spaces that shaped their identity.

FORTHCOMING LIVE DATES
FEBRUARY
26: SHEFFIELD Corporation
27: NEWCASTLE The Grove
28: BLACKPOOL Bootleg Social

MARCH
05: DOVER The Booking Hall
06: MILTON KEYNES The Craufurd Arms
07: SOUTHEND Chinnerys
08: NORWICH Waterfront
12: SOUTHAMPTON Joiners
13: PLYMOUTH Junction
14: BRIDGEWATER Cobblestones
19: CHESTER Live Rooms
20: DUBLIN Whelans
21: BELFAST Empire

Joey Valence & Brae Ignite 2026 With Their ‘HYPERYOUTH World Tour’ And ‘Monster Energy Outbreak Tour’

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Joey Valence & Brae start 2026 with their first headline shows of the year, launching the eighteen date ‘Monster Energy Outbreak Tour’ on February 12 in Fort Lauderdale with stops in Atlanta, Nashville, Washington DC, Boston, Brooklyn, Chicago and Los Angeles. They also expand the ‘HYPERYOUTH World Tour’ with international dates throughout Mexico, Europe and the UK, including a return to London after their sold out Shepherds Bush Empire performance. Artist pre sale begins November 12 at 10 a.m. local time, followed by the general on sale November 14 at 10 a.m. local time.

“The HOOLIGANG feels like the most inclusive place for people to come together and dance right now” said JVB. “We are so thankful for the energy and love at our shows and we cant wait to see you again as we join the Monster Energy Outbreak Tour. Prepare to dance, bounce, cry, sweat and make friends.” Their new album HYPERYOUTH is out now via RCA Records and showcases their full alt and hip hop spectrum.

The complete ‘HYPERYOUTH World Tour’ schedule features Monster Energy Outbreak dates marked with an asterisk and festival dates marked with a caret. The run spans February through June with performances across North America, Mexico and a full European and UK circuit.

HYPERYOUTH WORLD TOUR DATES
Feb 12 – Fort Lauderdale, FL – Revolution Live*
Feb 13 – St. Petersburg, FL – Jannus Live*
Feb 14 – Orlando, FL – The Beacham*
Feb 16 – Asheville, NC – The Orange Peel*
Feb 17 – Atlanta, GA – Heaven at The Masquerade*
Feb 19 – Nashville, TN – Brooklyn Bowl*
Feb 20 – Charlotte, NC – The Underground*
Feb 21 – Washington, DC – 9:30 Club*
Feb 23 – Boston, MA – Paradise Rock Club*
Feb 24 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Steel*
Feb 26 – Chicago, IL – Metro*
Feb 27 – Chicago, IL – Metro*
Feb 28 – St. Louis, MO – Delmar Hall*
Mar 3 – Albuquerque, NM – El Rey Theatre*
March 5 – Phoenix, AZ – The Van Buren*
Mar 6 – Los Angeles, CA – The Bellwether*
Mar 7 – Los Angeles, CA – The Bellwether*
Mar 10 – San Diego, CA – The Observatory North Park*
Mar 12 – Mexico City, Mexico – Foro Puebla 186
May 6 – Belfast, Ireland- The Limelight 1
May 7 – Dublin, Ireland – 3Olympia
May 9 – Liverpool, UK – O2 Academy
May 10 – Glasgow, UK – Barrowlands
May 12 – London, UK – Roundhouse
May 13 – Paris, France – Bataclan
May 15 – Antwerp, Belgium – Trix
May 17 – Cologne, Germany – Live Music Hall
May 19 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Paradiso
May 20 – Hamburg, Germany – Docks
May 22 – Oslo, Norway – Sentrum Scene
May 23 – Stockholm, Sweden – Fållan
May 24 – Copenhagen, Denmark – Store Vega
May 26 – Berlin, Germany – Huxleys
May 27 – Warsaw, Poland – Klub Stodola
May 29 – Budapest, Hungary – Durer Kert Main Hall
May 30 – Vienna, Austria – Flex
May 31 – Munich, Germany – Muffathalle
Jun 2 – Zurich, Switzerland – Komplex 457
Jun 3 – Milan, Italy – Magazzini Generali
Jun 6 – Barcelona, Spain – Primavera Barcelona^
Jun 10 – Prague, Czech Republic – Rock for People^
Jun 12 – Porto, Portugal – Primavera Porto^
Jun 14 – Hilvarenbeek, Netherlands – Best Kept Secret^
*Denotes Monster Energy Outbreak Tour Dates
^Denotes Festival Dates

DRAIN Unleash North American Tour As Hardcore Album ‘…IS YOUR FRIEND’ Hits Full Power

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Santa Cruz hardcore band DRAIN announce a North American tour in support of their new album ‘…IS YOUR FRIEND.’ The run kicks off March 19 in Dallas and hits Atlanta, Philadelphia, NYC, Brooklyn, Chicago, Seattle and more, with a Coachella debut along the way. Tickets go on sale Friday, November 14 at 10 am local time. The album arrives as a record shaped by nonstop touring, informed by hundreds of nights onstage and built for maximum intensity. Its ten-song tracklist features heavy mosh parts, big choruses, thrash riffs and lyrics designed for full crowd release.

Tour Dates:
11/15 Orlando FL Warped Tour*
11/16 Orlando FL Warped Tour*
11/23 Pomona CA Viva Pomona
01/10 Orlando FL FYA Fest*
03/19 Dallas TX Ferris Wheelers
03/20 Austin TX Emos
03/21 Houston TX Bad Astronaut
03/23 Atlanta GA The Masquerade
03/24 Asheville NC The Orange Peel
03/25 Baltimore MD Nevermore
03/27 Philadelphia PA Union Transfer
03/28 Worcester MA The Palladium
03/29 New York NY Irving Plaza
04/01 Cleveland OH The Roxy
04/03 Detroit MI Russell
04/04 Chicago IL Concord
04/06 Denver CO Summit Music Hall
04/08 Tempe AZ The Marquee Theatre
04/09 Las Vegas NV House of Blues
04/12 Indio CA Coachella*
04/15 Portland OR Roseland Theater
04/16 Seattle WA Showbox
04/18 Santa Cruz CA Quarry Amphitheater
04/19 Indio CA Coachella*

  • Festival appearance

The SpongeBob Movie Makes A Mighty Splash With Ice Spice Leading “Search for SquarePants”

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Get ready for a giant-screen plunge as “The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants” arrives only in theatres on December 19, 2025. The new trailer showcases SpongeBob setting off on his biggest mission yet as he follows The Flying Dutchman across the deep sea in an adventure packed with bold visuals, comedy and the full Bikini Bottom crew. The trailer also features Ice Spice in her debut voice acting role along with her new original track “Big Guy,” which captures the movie’s larger-than-life spirit.

The film is directed by Derek Drymon and produced by Lisa Stewart, Pam Brady and Aaron Dem, with executive producers Marc Ceccarelli, Vincent Waller, Pete Chiappetta, Anthony Tittanegro and Andrew Lary. The cast includes Tom Kenny, Clancy Brown, Rodger Bumpass, Bill Fagerbakke, Carolyn Lawrence, Mr. Lawrence, George Lopez, Isis “Ice Spice” Gaston, Arturo Castro, Sherry Cola, Regina Hall and Mark Hamill. The single “Big Guy” becomes available everywhere tonight. The movie is rated PG for rude humor, some thematic elements and mild language.

The Proper Way Reimagines Phil Collins With A Stirring New Take On “In the Air Tonight”

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Ogden trio The Proper Way returns with an original and intimate take on Phil Collins’ “In the Air Tonight,” reshaping the classic into a stripped-back piece led by strings and character-rich vocals. The project began in 2016, when Scott Rogers and Carrie Myers tracked the first parts in a basement studio. Over the years they continued building on the idea until it formed the full version released today. “It’s a little different from our normal productions, we all love how, at its core, it’s just us.”

Each musician added a defining element along the way. Drummer Mike Lomax shaped his parts with inspiration from Stewart Copeland’s work on Peter Gabriel’s “Red Rain,” and Myers re-recorded her vocals in 2025 after years of live performances and studio sessions. When Shane Osguthorpe added keys, the track carried the sound that felt true to the group’s name. Their new version highlights the band’s musical range and the collaborative process that shaped it.

Mirvish Brings Toronto A Holiday Thrill With The Other Christmas Ghost Story In “The Woman in Black”

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“The Woman in Black” arrives at the CAA Theatre from December 4, 2025 to January 4, 2026 as the Canadian premiere of the original London production. The show is presented by Mirvish Productions and plays throughout the holiday season.

The story follows a lawyer who believes a curse has been cast over him and his family. He works with a young actor to present the events he experienced. Their work brings forward his memories, settings and encounters connected to the Woman in Black.

The production features David Acton as Arthur Kipps, Ben Porter as Arthur Kipps and The Actor, and James Byng as The Actor. Each brings extensive stage experience from major theatres, international tours and long-running productions.

The creative team is led by director Robin Herford with designer Michael Holt, lighting designer Anshuman Bhatia, sound designer Sebastian Frost and original sound designer Rob Mead. The play is adapted by Stephen Mallatratt from the novel by Susan Hill.

Performances run Tuesday through Saturday at 7:30PM, with additional shows on Wednesday at 1:30PM and Saturday and Sunday at 2PM. Tickets are available at Mirvish.com or by calling 1.800.461.3333.

The 10 Greatest Songs Ever Written For Daughters

There’s a moment every parent remembers — that first time your baby girl wraps her whole hand around exactly one of your fingers, and suddenly every song in the universe feels like it was written just for her. Luckily, some of music’s greatest artists actually did write songs for their daughters, leaving behind a catalog of lullabies, love letters, tear-jerkers, and full-on father-daughter-dance classics. Here are ten of the most beautiful, powerful, and heart-squeezing songs ever written for daughters.

“Daughter” – Loudon Wainwright III
A witty, warm, and wonderfully honest ode to raising a daughter, filled with the classic Loudon charm. It’s tender, real, and funny enough to sneak up on your emotions.

“Daughters” – John Mayer
A melodic plea to treat daughters with care so they grow into whole adults who can love without fear. One of Mayer’s most heartfelt and enduring songs.

“Father and Daughter” – Paul Simon
A pure, shimmering promise from father to child, wrapped in Simon’s unmistakable songwriting magic. If a hug could be a song, it would sound like this.

“Gracie” – Ben Folds
A personal and emotional tribute to Folds’ daughter, filled with the tiny details only a parent would notice. Sweet, funny, and guaranteed to mist up your glasses.

“I Hope You Dance” – Lee Ann Womack
More a universal blessing than a letter, it wishes every daughter courage, wonder, and a life lived with open arms. A modern-day anthem for growing up.

“Isn’t She Lovely” – Stevie Wonder
Written to celebrate the birth of his daughter Aisha, it’s pure joy from the first note. Few songs have ever captured new-parent happiness quite this perfectly.

“Little Miss Magic” – Jimmy Buffett
A soft and sun-soaked tribute to watching your daughter grow up. Buffett folds all the big feelings into three minutes of warmth.

“Lullaby (Goodnight My Angel)” – Billy Joel
A gentle, glowing promise of comfort from a father to his child. Quiet, intimate, and one of Joel’s most touching compositions.

“My Little Girl” – Tim McGraw
A heartfelt country ballad about wanting to protect your daughter while knowing she’ll eventually fly on her own. Wedding-dance certified.

“You’ll Be in My Heart” – Phil Collins
Originally written for his own daughter, it became an emotional centerpiece of Tarzan and an anthem of unconditional love. Timeless, tender, unshakeable.