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Cody Johnson To Headline Inaugural Braves Country Fest At Truist Park This June

Eric Alper
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Cody Johnson To Headline Inaugural Braves Country Fest At Truist Park This June

The Atlanta Braves have announced the first ever Braves Country Fest, set to take place on June 13, 2026, at Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta. Multi-platinum artist Cody Johnson will headline the main concert, supported by a lineup including Ella Langley, ERNEST, and MacKenzie Carpenter. Earlier in the day, the festival will highlight emerging talent through the Braves Country Hot Prospects showcase on the Georgia Power Pavilion stage. Braves president and CEO Derek Schiller noted that the event was designed to celebrate the country music culture that permeates the region while utilizing the unique environment of the stadium and its surrounding district.

This daylong festival is a partnership with Live Nation Georgia aimed at creating a destination event that supports the community through the Atlanta Braves Foundation. Peter Conlon, chairman of Live Nation Georgia, emphasized that the collaboration allows the festival to showcase the growth of the genre in one of the country’s premier venues. A portion of all ticket proceeds will be donated to the team’s charitable arm to fund local initiatives. Tickets go on sale to the general public on January 30, 2026, with the festival expected to offer an immersive experience for fans traveling from across the Southeast.

Umphrey’s McGee And Thievery Corporation To Headline SweetWater 420 Fest 2026

Eric Alper
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Umphrey’s McGee And Thievery Corporation To Headline SweetWater 420 Fest 2026

SweetWater 420 Fest returns to Atlanta on April 17 and 18, 2026, moving to a new home at the 280-acre Shirley Clarke Franklin Park. The 21st annual celebration features headlining performances from progressive rock fusion band Umphrey’s McGee, who will play two sets, and electronic duo Thievery Corporation. The initial lineup also highlights electro-funk act Chromeo and Americana duo Watchhouse alongside supporting artists like Little Stranger and The Heavy Heavy. This year’s festival marks a return to the event’s “roots” by emphasizing outdoor spaces and a diverse mix of jam, indie, and funk. Carrie Shafir, Vice President of Marketing for Tilray Beverages, noted that the festival aims to provide a memorable experience where fans can discover new acts in a vibrant green setting.

In a significant move toward accessibility, organizers have reduced ticket prices by nearly 50% compared to the previous year, with single-day general admission starting at $40. The weekend schedule is split between a Friday lineup headlined by Umphrey’s McGee and a Saturday slate led by Thievery Corporation and Chromeo. Other confirmed performers include Cimafunk, lespecial, The Moss, Bombargo, and Sneezy, with a Battle of the Bands winner to be added following a February 28 competition. The new venue’s direct connection to the BeltLine offers improved transit options for attendees. Beyond the music, the festival continues its long-standing partnership with the Waterkeeper Alliance to support healthy waterways and environmental conservation.

UB40 Announces “The Unstoppable Tour” Across North America For Fall 2026

Eric Alper
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UB40 Announces “The Unstoppable Tour” Across North America For Fall 2026

Four-time Grammy nominated UB40 announces their upcoming U.S. and Canadian “THE UNSTOPPABLE TOUR” – which will run this September 18 through November 15.  The legendary reggae-pop band — one of the most successful and influential British groups of all time with more than 100 million albums sold worldwide, with trademark global #1 hits “Red Red Wine” and “(I Can’t Help) Falling in Love With You”; and U.S. Top 10s “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” and “The Way You Do The Things You Do,” returns this fall to North America for a fifth consecutive year.  The group will perform in 40 markets at major amphitheaters and performing arts centers across America (including New York City and Los Angeles), and Canada.

The official UB40 band featuring original and founding members James Brown (drums), Robin Campbell (guitar/vocals), Earl Falconer (bass/vocals) and Norman Hassan (percussion/vocals); Martin Meredith (keyboards/WX7/saxophone), Jahred Gordon (keyboards), Laurence Parry (trumpet/flugel/trombone), Ian Thompson (saxophone), Gilly G (MC vocals), Matt Campbell (backing vocals) – and lead vocalist and guitarist Matt Doyle — will be bringing their worldwide hit singles to the stage with “Red Red Wine,” “Food For Thought,” “(I Can’t Help) Falling In Love With You,” and much more.

Says Robin Campbell, “We can’t wait to embark on ‘The Unstoppable Tour,’ as the tour title says that’s how we are feeling! New music, more shows than our last visit, and a more extensive tour of Canada. This will be our fifth consecutive year back in North America and we couldn’t be happier to be coming back. We are currently in the studio working on our new album which will be out before we arrive, and we can’t wait for the fans to hear what we have been cooking up!”

Adds Jimmy Brown, “Really looking forward to this year’s USA tour. It’s always fun getting on the road. We could fly on the longer journeys, but we prefer to go by road. You get to see the changing landscape and meet ordinary people along the way. I think this is the fifth year in a row now that we have toured the states, and it just keeps getting better. More gigs, bigger venues, bigger production. American audiences are the loudest in the world, and the crowd has become more and more diverse over the years. Can’t wait to get there.”

As the world’s biggest-selling reggae group with more than 50 UK charting singles and 17 UK Top 10 albums, the group, formed in Birmingham, England, has been recording and touring since 1978.  Originating as group of young friends with working-class origins, UB40 has gone on to becoming four-time Grammy nominees (including for “Best Reggae Album”) while spending a combined 11 plus years on the charts.

In 2008, former lead singer Ali Campbell left the group to pursue a solo career, and was replaced by his brother, Duncan Campbell, who fronted the group until he retired due to illness in 2021.  Matt Doyle has since taken over as lead singer/guitarist, leading the last four major UB40 tours, and performing on their latest 2024 album, “UB45,” which features new songs and re-imagined classics, commemorating their historic 45th anniversary – reaching #5 on the UK official album chart.

UB40 “Unstoppable Tour” Dates:
September 18 – Ottawa, ON – Venue TBA
September 19 – Montreal, QC – MTelus
September 20 – Moncton, NB – The Molson Canadian Centre at Casino New Brunswick
September 22 – Portsmouth, NH – The Music Hall
September 23 – Boston, MA – The Wilbur 
September 25 – New York, NY – The Town Hall
September 26 – Morristown, NJ – Mayo Performing Arts Center
September 27 – Philadelphia, PA – Keswick Theatre
September 29 – Ridgefield, CT – Ridgefield Playhouse
September 30 – North Bethesda, MD – Strathmore
October 2 – Windsor, ON –The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor
October 3 – Niagara Falls, ON – Fallsview Casino Resort
October 4 – Fort Wayne, IN – Foellinger Theatre
October 7 – Milwaukee, WI – Pabst Theatre
October 8 – Chicago, IL – Auditorium Theatre
October 9 – St. Paul, MN– Palace Theatre
October 10 – Winnipeg, MB – Burton Cummings Theatre
October 13 – Edmonton, AB – Midway Music Hall
October 14 – Calgary, AB – Grey Eagle Casino
October 16 – Bremerton, WA – Admiral Theatre
October 17 – Vancouver, BC – Commodore Ballroom
October 18 – Vancouver, BC – Commodore Ballroom
October 20 – Modesto, CA – Gallo Center for the Arts
October 22 – Wheatland, CA – Hard Rock Live
October 23 – Saratoga, CA – Mountain Winery
October 24 – Cabazon, CA – Morongo Casino
October 25 – Thousand Oaks, CA – Kavil Theatre
October 28 – Anaheim, CA – House of Blues
October 30 – Fort McDowell, AZ – We-Ko-Pa Casino
October 31 – San Diego, CA – Open Air Theatre
November 1 – Las Vegas, NV – Brooklyn Bowl
November 3 – Tucson, AZ – Fox Tucson Theatre
November 4 – Albuquerque, NM – Revel
November 6 – Dallas, TX – House of Blues
November 7 – Pine Bluff, AR – Saracen Casino Resort
November 8 – Houston, TX – House of Blues
November 10 – Charleston, SC – Charleston Music Hall
November 12 – Atlanta, GA – Center Stage
November 13 – Orlando, FL – Hard Rock Live
November 14 – St. Petersburg, FL – Duke Center for the Arts – Mahaffey Theatre
November 15 – Hollywood, FL – Hard Rock Live

Busch Gardens Announces Massive 2026 Concert Series Across Dual Parks

Eric Alper
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Busch Gardens Announces Massive 2026 Concert Series Across Dual Parks

Busch Gardens returns in 2026 with an expanded, dual-park live music series featuring more than 25 full-length performances across both parks. With concerts included with all forms of park admission, an Annual Pass or Membership offers guests the most flexible way to access the full 2026 concert lineup all season long.

Anchored by the revamped Food, Wine & Garden Festival in Tampa Bay, and the fan-favorite Food & Wine Festival in Williamsburg, the 2026 lineup is the strongest in series history and features high-energy genres, including pop, hip-hop, rock and country. The acts include Flo Rida, Taking Back Sunday, Walker Hayes, Kansas, Chris Tomlin, Skillet, Dylan Scott, Nick Carter, and the Pop 2000 Tour featuring Chris Kirkpatrick of *NSYNC, O-Town, Ryan Cabrera, and LFO.

Guests can expect:

  • Full-length live concerts, included with all forms of park admission
  • Live music paired with a full-day park experience including seasonal food festivals, attractions, and animal encounters
  • Premium seating upgrade options
  • The flexibility to attend multiple concerts throughout the season with an Annual Pass or Membership
  • Limited-time ticket and pass offers available by location

“Our concert series has evolved into something our guests look forward to year after year,” said Marc Swanson, Chief Executive Officer of United Parks & Resorts. “The 2026 lineup spans across multiple genres and decades, giving visitors yet another reason to experience one of our Busch Gardens parks this spring.”

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
The concert lineup spans two signature spring events at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay:

The revamped Food, Wine & Garden Festival pairs culinary offerings with live entertainment. Country singer Walker Hayes kicks off the festival on March 7, with concerts continuing every weekend of the event. The full lineup includes:

  • Food, Wine & Garden Festival
    March 7 | Walker Hayes
    March 8 | Puddle of Mudd
    March 14 | P.O.D.
    March 15 | Grupo Mania
    March 21 | Skillet
    March 22 | Robin Thicke
    March 27 | Warren G
    March 28 | Dylan Scott
    March 29 | Kansas
    April 4 | Nick Carter
    April 10 | The Band Perry
    April 11 | El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico
    April 12 | Smash Mouth
    April 18 | Flo Rida
    April 19 | Air Supply
    April 24 | Bowling for Soup
    April 25 | Surprise Artist to Be Announced Soon
    May 2 | Bow Wow & Ying Yang Twins
    May 3 | Taking Back Sunday
    May 9 | Pop 2000 featuring Chris Kirkpatrick (*NSYNC), and O-Town, Ryan Cabrera, and LFO
  • Glory in the Gardens
    May 16 | Chris Tomlin + Brandon Heath
    May 17 | Danny Gokey + Surprise Artist to Be Announced Soon

Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Busch Gardens Williamsburg heats up in 2026 with the start of its live concert series during the fan-favorite Food & Wine Festival. Beginning in May, the park will feature chart-topping musicians across multiple genres, including pop, hip-hop, and rock. The full concert lineup includes:

  • Flo Rida – Saturday, May 2
  • Pop 2000 featuring Chris Kirkpatrick (*NSYNC), and O-Town, Ryan Cabrera, and LFO – Saturday, May 16
  • Hoobastank – Saturday, May 30
  • Skillet – Saturday, June 13

Education Through Music-Los Angeles Raises Over Half A Million Dollars At 20th Anniversary Gala

Eric Alper
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0
Education Through Music-Los Angeles Raises Over Half A Million Dollars At 20th Anniversary Gala

Education Through Music-Los Angeles (ETM-LA) celebrated its 20th anniversary on January 27, 2026, with a benefit gala at the Skirball Cultural Center. The evening honored legendary songwriter Diane Warren, Sonic Fuel Studios founders Christopher Lennertz and Tim Wynn, and music educator Ryan Gonzales. A surprise Champion Award was also presented to Carlos Santana and the Milagro Foundation. The event raised over $500,000 to support the non-profit’s mission of providing comprehensive music education to under-resourced schools. Since its founding in 2006, the organization has reached over 190,000 students and provided more than 155,000 music classes to enhance academic and creative development.

The gala featured a moving performance by the ETM-LA Student Choir Ensemble, who sang Warren’s Oscar-nominated song “Dear Me.” Visibly moved, Warren noted that having access to music teachers like those at ETM-LA might have changed her own experience as a student. The night also included memorial tributes to past honorees Gordon Goodwin and Arthur Hamilton, featuring a student performance of the classic “Cry Me a River.” Salvador Santana, who accepted the award for his father, emphasized that investing in youth through music is essential for a brighter future. The funds raised will continue to support the “Rhythm of the Night” by funding professional development and direct music instruction across Los Angeles.

LaMonte McLemore, 5th Dimension Co-Founder And Photography Pioneer, Dies At 90

Eric Alper
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LaMonte McLemore, 5th Dimension Co-Founder And Photography Pioneer, Dies At 90

LaMonte McLemore, a founding member of the legendary vocal group The 5th Dimension and a trailblazing photographer, passed away on February 3, 2026, at his home in Las Vegas. He was 90 years old. Known for his smooth bass vocals, McLemore helped anchor the sophisticated harmonies that defined the group’s “champagne soul” sound, leading to massive hits like “Up, Up and Away” and the era-defining “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In.” His death follows a stroke suffered several years ago, though he remained a cherished figure in both the music and visual arts communities. McLemore’s multifaceted career spanned professional baseball, where he was the first Black athlete to try out for the St. Louis Cardinals, and a prolific tenure behind the lens that documented decades of Black cultural excellence.

Beyond the stage, McLemore was a pioneer in American media as the first Black photographer hired by Harper’s Bazaar and the eye behind Stevie Wonder’s debut album cover. For over 40 years, his photography was a staple of Jet and Ebony magazines, most notably through the “Beauty of the Week” feature. It was during a 1960s photo shoot for the Miss Black Beauty Pageant that he met future group members Marilyn McCoo and Florence LaRue, a meeting that would eventually lead to the formation of The 5th Dimension. His 2014 autobiography, From Hobo Flats to The 5th Dimension, chronicled his unique journey from St. Louis to international stardom and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He is survived by his wife, Mieko, and his children.

Sony Unveils 16 New BRAVIA BZ-P Series Professional Displays With Focus On Efficiency And Visibility

Eric Alper
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0
Sony Unveils 16 New BRAVIA BZ-P Series Professional Displays With Focus On Efficiency And Visibility

 Sony Electronics Inc. will debut 16 improved BRAVIA Professional Displays – the BZ-P Series – comprised of the BZ40P flagship models, BZ35P enhanced options, and BZ30P core offerings. Ranging in size from 43-inches to 85-inches and featuring a Deep Black Non-Glare technology, the 4K HDR portfolio is suited for a range of uses in corporate, higher education, retail, and transportation spaces. The thinner options offer crisp imagery and exceptional visibility – even in bright environments. With a newly updated design, improved installation flexibility, enhanced operability, mindful sustainability, and lower power consumption, the new lineup incorporates a combination of powerful hardware and software capabilities.

The BRAVIA Professional Displays BZ-P Series is expected to be available in summer 2026. Collectively, Sony’s expanded and enhanced professional display lineup – including the new Crystal LED S Series – provides end users with various tailored options for their diverse needs and use cases.

“The encouraging feedback to our BRAVIA Professional Displays featuring Sony’s unique Deep Black Non-Glare technology inspired us to innovate further to expand our customers’ creative vision and potential,” said Rich Ventura, Vice President, Professional Display Solutions, Sony Electronics. “We’re proud to provide the pro A/V industry with a choice between 16 revamped displays that strengthen our overall portfolio and combine the most valuable traits inherent to Sony integrated display technology – including pristine image quality, strong visibility, robust integration abilities, and longevity – with an added focus on incorporating the benefits of both hardware and software.”

Picture Quality & Visibility
The BZ40P, BZ35P, and BZ30P BRAVIA Professional Displays all feature Sony’s impressive AI-powered XR signal processing for accurately depicting images, text, and details with realism and vibrancy and offer brightness between 400-700 cd/m2. The full BZ-P Series lineup features a standout Deep Black Non-Glare technology, offering a premium 47%1 or standard 25% anti-glare, which combined with a wide viewing angle, mitigates glare and reflection, and provides high contrast for a true-to-life picture, even in bright, direct light-filled spaces.

Installation Flexibility
The BZ-P Series of displays are thoughtfully redesigned with installation and integration in mind. The lightweight new lineup’s decreased 1.8-inch depth can support Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance (only BZ-P series models sized from 43 to 65-inches) and features a universal chassis and even, narrow, and uniform bezels with an imbued logo for flawless portrait orientation and videowall setup options. Additionally, new to the BZ-P Series are center Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) mounting holes that allow for easy installation. The lineup’s 75 and 85-inch models also include in-chassis handles for assistance in transport. Furthermore, when used with Sony’s Device Management Platform (DMP), display provisioning can be done quickly and at scale.

Convenient Usability
Sony’s latest displays have been enhanced to ensure more operational efficiency and compatibility optimized for professional users. The lineup uses a System on a Chip (SoC) architecture that removes the need for an additional set-top box for digital signage and features a new user interface and setup program. Additionally, native integration between the new BZ Series and Sony’s powerful and intuitive Remote Management System (RMS) solutions2 gives users total control over cloud-based provisioning, control, monitoring and maintenance. Sony also collaborates and conducts compatibility testing with major CMS solution providers worldwide, making it easier than ever to integrate preferred solutions.

Proven Reliability
Sony’s display lineup remains a durable and reliable choice tested to meet exacting demands. Featuring IP5X-compliant dust resistance (BZ40P and BZ35P models only), the BZ-P Series accommodates the demands of use in transportation, retail, and industrial environments, as well as warehouses. Paired with Sony’s standard advanced replacement limited warranty and option for White Glove Service, the company provides comprehensive assistance and maintenance support.

Energy Efficient and Environmentally Conscious
The BZ-P Series offers a substantial reduction in power consumption. The displays’ new high efficiency optical system and XR processor–based AI backlight control deliver up to about 31% lower power consumption than the BZ‑L series (when comparing the FW‑55BZ40L and FW‑55BZ40P). Another important distinction to support energy efficiency on a global scale are the models’ Energy Star and pending EPEAT certifications. The new models also increase the use of SORPLAS™, Sony’s unique recycled plastic material, to a maximum of 43%3 to reduce environmental impact and further align with the company’s long-term sustainability goals. Additionally, the display’s usage can be tracked and managed through its internal ECO Dashboard to provide visibility into the impact of using certain settings and help contribute to a reduced total cost of ownership.

Model Overview
BZ40P – Flagship: Four models ranging in size from 55 to 85-inches, featuring Deep Black Non-Glare Premium technology that accommodates 47% anti-glare and supports 700 nits of brightness, along with an IP5X-compliant dust resistance.

BZ35P – Enhanced: Six models sized from 43 to 85-inches, featuring Deep Black Non-Glare Standard technology and offering 500 nits, as well as IP5X dust resistance.

BZ30P – Core: Six models in 43 to 85-inch sizes, incorporating Deep Black Non-Glare Standard technology and providing 400 nits of brightness.

The new BZ-P Series complements Sony’s existing lineup of BRAVIA Professional Displays, highlighted by the 98-inch BZ53L Series, 32-inch BZ30J Series, and EZ20L Series.

Pepsi National Battle Of The Bands Premieres New Film Honoring HBCU Marching Band Excellence

Eric Alper
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Pepsi National Battle Of The Bands Premieres New Film Honoring HBCU Marching Band Excellence

The Pepsi National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB) announces the airing of The Best of the Battles, the sixth installment of its nationally televised film series celebrating the legacy, excellence, and cultural impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) marching bands. Airing January 31 through March 1, 2026, the film honors Black History Month by spotlighting the sound, discipline, and pageantry that define HBCU band culture.

Spanning 15 years and spotlighting more than 30 HBCU marching bands, The Best of the Battles chronicles the evolution of the National Battle of the Bands, capturing unforgettable performances, defining moments, and the lasting cultural influence of HBCU band culture from Charlotte to Houston, and culminating in the 2026 showcase in The Palm Beaches. Narrated by Milan Davis, a Southern University alumna and member of the Famous Dancing Dolls, the film features exclusive interviews while revisiting standout moments that have shaped NBOTB into one of the most impactful HBCU cultural platforms in the country.

The six HBCU marching bands that took the field during the 2026 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands in The Palm Beaches over Martin Luther King, Jr. Weekend a few weeks ago include:

  • Bethune-Cookman University — Marching Wildcats
  • Florida Memorial University — The ROAR
  • Florida A&M University — The Marching “100”
  • North Carolina A&T State University — Blue & Gold Marching Machine
  • South Carolina State University — Marching 101
  • Southern University — Human Jukebox

“This film is a celebration of where we’ve been and where we’re going,” said Derek Webber, Executive Producer and Creator of the National Battle of the Bands. “The Best of the Battles honors more than a decade of HBCU excellence; the students, the institutions, the culture, and the communities that continue to fuel this movement year after year.”

As part of Black History Month programming, The Best of the Battles serves as both a retrospective and a forward-looking tribute, reinforcing the role of HBCU marching bands as cultural ambassadors whose influence extends far beyond the field, from national stages to global audiences.

Airing in select markets nationwide, viewers can find a complete schedule of dates and times at NationalBattleoftheBands.com/films, where trailers and participating broadcast stations are also listed.

Lainey Wilson And Whataburger Proclaim Today As ‘National Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit’ Day

Eric Alper
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Lainey Wilson And Whataburger Proclaim Today As ‘National Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit’ Day

Some things are so nice, you’ve got to do it twice. And that means free Honey Butter Chicken Biscuits again! Grammy Award-winning music artist Lainey Wilson and the beloved burger chain are proclaiming Wednesday, Feb. 4 National Whataburger Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit Day, cementing the iconic menu item’s place in history with its very own holiday. The announcement honors the crave-worthy classic that’s earned its place at breakfast tables, on road trips and in the moments that turn routine into traditions.

To mark the occasion, Lainey and Whataburger will treat fans to a FREE Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit, on Wednesday, Feb. 4, from 6 a.m. (or 7 a.m. dependent on store hours) to 11 a.m., at participating locations only. This offer can be redeemed on orders placed at the counter, the drive-thru and online orders via the Whataburger app and website. No purchase necessary, limit one per person.

A longtime fan favorite, the Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit delivers an irresistible balance of sweet and savory, featuring a crispy, all-white meat chicken strip tucked inside a warm, fluffy buttermilk biscuit and finished with a generous drizzle of Whataburger’s signature Honey Butter sauce. What began as a humble breakfast staple grew into a legend with a feverishly loyal following who run to Whataburger to satisfy late night cravings or find some early morning comfort. 

“If you know me, you know I don’t need much of an excuse to celebrate a Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit,” said Lainey Wilson. “It’s about time it got a moment of its own! Whataburger has been part of so many moments in my life, and this biscuit has seen me through early mornings and long nights more times than I can count.”

In 2025, Whataburger and Lainey Wilson teamed up to celebrate their partnership by surprising fans with free Honey Butter Chicken Biscuits — and fans showed up hungry, flooding breakfast hours in droves and turning the morning rush into a full-blown phenomenon. Building on that standout response, the celebration returns in an even bigger way for 2026, with Lainey renewing her partnership with Whataburger and the free-biscuit offer expanding to include online orders as well, making it easier than ever for fans to join in on a moment that blends shared values, authentic storytelling and craveable comfort.

“National Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit Day goes beyond the biscuit – it celebrates the traditions that keep guests coming back,” said Debbie Stroud, president and CEO of Whataburger. “For generations, Whataburger has delivered signature flavors and heartfelt hospitality, cementing its role in Texas culture and beyond. Lainey embodies those same qualities which made continuing our relationship an easy and authentic choice.”

Throughout the year, Lainey’s ongoing collaboration with Whataburger will highlight even more craveable food and a few special surprises, amplifying what the two legends do best: showing up for their fans and creating moments that never lose their magic.

Robert Earl Keen Named 2026 Texan Of The Year For Historic Flood Relief Efforts

Eric Alper
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0
Robert Earl Keen Named 2026 Texan Of The Year For Historic Flood Relief Efforts

 Robert Earl Keen has been named the 2026 Texan of the Year by the Texas Legislative Conference, the renowned annual statewide policy and business forum celebrating its 60th year on March 26-27, 2026.

The Texas Legislative Conference, a nonpartisan assembly of Texas business and political leaders, convenes annually in New Braunfels to discuss key public policy issues impacting the state. The 2026 conference will feature panel discussions and conversations focused on timely and relevant topics shaping Texas’ future.

Keen will join a distinguished list of past honorees, including presidents, U.S. senators, entertainers, governors, and business icons. He will be celebrated as the 52nd recipient of the Texan of the Year award on March 26 at the New Braunfels Civic/Convention Center.

“Robert Earl Keen embodies the heart and spirit of Texas,” said Conference Chair AJ Rodriguez. “When devastating floods struck our state on the Fourth of July, he stepped forward not only as a beloved Texas musician, but as a leader who mobilized compassion, resources, and action. His commitment to helping communities recover reflects the very best of what it means to be a Texan.”

In the aftermath of the July 2025 flooding, Keen organized REK and Friends: Applause for the Cause, a powerful fundraising event that united more than 40 artists in support of Texas communities impacted by the disaster. The concert was live streamed globally on Amazon, YouTube, DirecTV, Veeps, and Roku, extending its reach to audiences around the world and amplifying awareness of the urgent need for relief. The effort raised more than $3.2 million to support flood recovery, relief, and rebuilding efforts across Texas.

Long celebrated as a Texas cultural icon, Keen’s career spans decades as a singer, songwriter, and storyteller whose music captures the soul of the state. His selection as Texan of the Year recognizes not only his artistic legacy, but also his deep sense of responsibility to serve Texans in times of need.

“I can safely say being named Texan of the Year is an honor I never imagined! Humbly, I accept this prestigious title, on behalf of not only myself, but the family and friends, the educators and counselors, and Texans past and present who continue to strengthen the Community of caring and friendship across our Lone Star State.”

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That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

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