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Kate Mossman Explores Her Fascination with Ageing Rock Stars in “Men of a Certain Age” Book

Eric Alper
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Kate Mossman Explores Her Fascination with Ageing Rock Stars in “Men of a Certain Age” Book

From Jeff Beck to Ray Davies, Jon Bon Jovi to Kevin Ayers, Kate Mossman has long fostered an interest in male musicians of a certain age.

Why is it that when I meet them, I feel something ignite inside me? What is this strange connection – to feel so excited, yet so at ease? And how is it that in the presence of a wrinkly rock star twice my age, I sometimes feel like I’m meeting . . . me?

Featuring nineteen long-form profiles lovingly constructed for The Word magazine and the New Statesman, Men of a Certain Age chronicles the lives of some of the biggest rock stars of our time, including Brian May, Gene Simmons, Terence Trent D’Arby, Johnny Rotten and Nick Cave.

The book is a meditation on the powerful archetype of the ageing rock star, but it is also a personal story – of music and obsession, and of the deep unconscious projections at play in our relationships with the famous people who most capture our hearts. As Kate travels 5,000 miles to try and find Glen Campbell, and to the depths of the Cornish countryside for a rendezvous with Roger Taylor, will she finally unravel the roots of her obsession with the elder statesmen of rock?

Gary Holt Tells His Wild Story In “A Fabulous Disaster: From the Garage to Madison Square Garden, the Hard Way”

Eric Alper
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Gary Holt Tells His Wild Story In “A Fabulous Disaster: From the Garage to Madison Square Garden, the Hard Way”

From prolific metal guitarist and songwriter for Exodus (and formerly Slayer) Gary Holt comes a deeply personal memoir of his “destruction-laden” life, along with a firsthand account of the genesis of the Thrash Metal scene, from its origins in the Bay Area to its world domination.

As the guitarist and primary songwriter of Exodus and one of the originators of heavy metal, Gary Holt watched as his peers—Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer, Anthrax—soared to superstardom. As his fellow artists amassed millions of fans and record sales, Exodus’ albums received critical recognition and inspired generations of listeners—but struggled to reach the same heights of success, as the band was plagued by years of bad management, bad luck, and bad decisions.

 A Fabulous Disaster follows our narrator through the highest of highs and lowest of lows as he and his bandmates juggle major label contracts, MTV-sponsored tours and festivals, growing addictions to alcohol and meth, and the loss of key founding members. Ultimately, after the tragic death of one of his closest friends and former bandmates—Holt decides to save himself. Newly sober and determined to resurrect his career, he commits himself to Exodus, pushing the band to new heights.

An “unadulterated odyssey through decades of insanity,” punctuated by Holt’s unique insight and knack for storytelling, A Fabulous Disaster is a thrill ride from start to finish. His story proves that redemption—even from the pits of rock ‘n’ roll excess—is always possible.

Take Me Out to the Playlist: 10 Great Songs About Baseball

Eric Alper
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Take Me Out to the Playlist: 10 Great Songs About Baseball

Baseball and music go together like peanuts and Cracker Jack. Whether it’s a tribute to a legendary player or a metaphor for life’s curveballs, these songs hit home for fans of the game and lovers of great storytelling. Here are ten standout tracks that bring the spirit of baseball to life through song.

“Centerfield” – John Fogerty
The ultimate anthem for eager players waiting for their moment to shine. Fogerty’s handclaps, guitar riffs, and “Put me in, Coach!” line are iconic. It’s the musical equivalent of spring training optimism.

“Glory Days” – Bruce Springsteen
The Boss reminisces about a high school baseball star whose best moments are behind him. It’s nostalgic, bittersweet, and catchy as hell—just like a long summer evening at the ballpark.

“A Dying Cub Fan’s Last Request” – Steve Goodman
This humorous, heartfelt tune captures the agony and devotion of a lifelong Chicago Cubs supporter. Goodman’s wit and warmth make it a cult classic for any baseball romantic.

“Joe DiMaggio Done It Again” – Billy Bragg and Wilco
Originally penned by Woody Guthrie, this tune gets a fresh Americana twist. It’s a simple, joyous celebration of DiMaggio’s magic on the field, with Bragg and Wilco’s charm sealing the deal.

“Talkin’ Baseball (Willie, Mickey, and The Duke)” – Terry Cashman
This soft, singalong tribute to the golden era of baseball name-drops legends like it’s second nature. It’s part history lesson, part lullaby, and entirely lovable.

“Night Game” – Paul Simon
One of Simon’s more haunting tracks, this ballad tells the eerie tale of a pitcher who dies mid-game. Quiet and poetic, it’s a curveball compared to the usual rah-rah sports songs.

“The Greatest” – Kenny Rogers
A kid swings and misses three times—then declares himself the best pitcher in the world. It’s a heartwarming twist that reminds us baseball is as much about attitude as ability.

“Catfish” – Bob Dylan
Dylan’s tribute to pitcher Catfish Hunter is slinky, bluesy, and full of reverence. You don’t need to know stats to feel the admiration in every line.

“Say Hey (The Willie Mays Song)” – The Treniers
This 1950s bop, featuring Mays himself, is a joyful celebration of one of the greatest to ever play the game. With its big band swagger, it’s impossible not to smile.

“Did You See Jackie Robinson Hit That Ball?” – Count Basie
A swinging salute to Jackie Robinson’s trailblazing talent. This jazz tune celebrates the crack of the bat and the breaking of barriers in true Basie style.

Baseball has inspired generations of artists to swing for the fences with their songwriting. Whether you’re in the bleachers, behind home plate, or just driving with the windows down, these tracks are a grand slam for your playlist.

20 of the Best Disco Songs Ever That Prove the Genre Never Lost Its Groove

Eric Alper
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20 of the Best Disco Songs Ever That Prove the Genre Never Lost Its Groove

Disco isn’t dead. In fact, it never really left. It just slid onto the backbeat of pop, funk, house, and dance, waiting for its next invitation to the party. Born in the clubs but made for the world, disco gave us permission to feel fabulous, express ourselves, and stay on the floor a little longer. Whether it’s a pulsing bassline or a glittery string section, there’s something about disco that grabs your soul and spins it.

Here are 20 disco songs that still turn every room into a dance floor—and a few surprises from artists you wouldn’t expect to see under the mirrorball.

“I Feel Love” by Donna Summer
This is the song that launched a thousand synths. Donna Summer’s voice floats above Giorgio Moroder’s groundbreaking electronic production like a spaceship in platform boots. Still one of the coolest, most hypnotic grooves ever put on vinyl.

“Stayin’ Alive” by Bee Gees
Three falsettos, one undeniable beat. The Bee Gees gave disco its swagger and its strut. This song is Saturday night, and it still makes any sidewalk feel like a runway.

“Don’t Leave Me This Way” by Thelma Houston
A heartbreak anthem disguised as a dance floor banger. Thelma belts for her life over swirling strings and tight percussion. By the chorus, you’re sweating, crying, and staying another round.

“Got to Be Real” by Cheryl Lynn
Funky, fierce, and flawlessly fun. Cheryl Lynn doesn’t just sing the truth—she declares it with power. The breakdown alone should be in a museum.

“You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)” by Sylvester
Sylvester’s high-octane voice is pure liberation. This disco classic is more than a song—it’s a statement. And it still sets off fireworks in your chest.

“Rock With You” by Michael Jackson
Before Thriller moonwalked onto the scene, MJ slipped into a silkier groove. Smooth, sultry, and perfect for that slow dance with a disco ball spinning overhead.

“I’m Coming Out” by Diana Ross
Diana doesn’t ask for attention—she commands it. With Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards of Chic on production, this is a joyful anthem that became a cultural landmark. Still coming out, still shining.

“Love Come Down” by Evelyn “Champagne” King
Disco glows a little brighter with this silky, synth-laced groove. Evelyn’s voice glides over that sparkling bassline like it was born to do so. It’s late-night energy in a four-minute bottle.

“Dancing Queen” by ABBA
Pop? Disco? Who cares—it’s perfection. From that first piano glimmer to the soaring chorus, this is the soundtrack to your best life. Still impossible not to sing along.

“Supernature” by Cerrone
Disco goes sci-fi in this epic, dramatic, electro-funk freakout. It’s like Giorgio Moroder met a B-movie soundtrack and made it fabulous. Weird and wonderful.

“Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” by Michael Jackson
Yes, another MJ entry, because this one’s simply undeniable. Those opening chimes, that falsetto, the unstoppable rhythm—it’s joy, bottled and shaken over ice.

“Let’s Groove” by Earth, Wind & Fire
When the horns hit, the floor erupts. Funk and disco meet in glorious harmony, and no one does it like Earth, Wind & Fire. Just try to stay seated—we dare you.

“Born to Be Alive” by Patrick Hernandez
Disco’s answer to motivational speaking. This one bursts out of the gate with a galloping beat and doesn’t stop. You weren’t just born—you were born to dance.

“Good Times” by Chic
If disco had a spine, it would be this bassline. Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards didn’t just build a hit—they built the foundation of hip-hop, house, and pop. It’s disco history on a loop.

“Boogie Wonderland” by Earth, Wind & Fire with The Emotions
The horns. The harmonies. The title. This song is a disco utopia, and you’re already dancing just thinking about it.

“Funkytown” by Lipps Inc.
Quirky and irresistible, this synth-heavy bop took us all to Funkytown in 1980—and no one wanted to leave. Still sounds like the future in platform shoes.

“Hot Stuff” by Donna Summer
Donna does it again, blending disco with a hint of rock edge. It’s sultry, bold, and full of fire. Proof that disco doesn’t just sparkle—it sizzles.

“Last Dance” by Donna Summer
Let’s be honest—there’s no disco list without Donna Summer. This one starts slow, then kicks into high gear like every great night out. The perfect closer, every time.

“Miss You” by The Rolling Stones
Wait, The Rolling Stones? Yes—and it’s glorious. Mick Jagger grooves like he was born in Studio 54, and the band leans into the beat with zero apologies. Disco gets a rock makeover, and somehow it works.

“Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen
You might think rock when you hear Queen, but this is pure, bass-driven disco-funk. John Deacon brought the groove, Freddie brought the flair, and the result? Dance-floor domination.

5 Surprising Facts About Supertramp’s ‘Breakfast in America’

Eric Alper
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5 Surprising Facts About Supertramp’s ‘Breakfast in America’

Imagine it’s 1979. You’re in Los Angeles. The air smells like coffee, cassette tape, and distant saxophone solos. Somewhere inside The Village Recorder studio, Supertramp is crafting an album that will go quadruple platinum, top the charts around the world, and leave millions of us humming “Take the Long Way Home” on the way to therapy. Welcome to Breakfast in America—a record that’s fun, philosophical, and full of things you probably didn’t know. Until now.

1. It Was Almost Called Hello Stranger
Forget bacon and eggs—this album was nearly named after an existential ping-pong match between Rick Davies and Roger Hodgson. Hello Stranger was going to be a back-and-forth concept record reflecting their conflicting worldviews. Picture “The Logical Song,” but with a reply track called “The Rational Response.” Eventually, they ditched the heavy themes and opted for fun. Good call. “Breakfast in America” just sounds tastier.

2. “Gone Hollywood” Was Too Dark at First
The album opens with a tale of fame-seeking disillusionment—but it was originally much darker. Rick Davies had written it as a bleak critique of the dream factory before the band said, “Mate, let’s not bum everyone out before track two.” He rewrote the ending so the narrator actually makes it. Still cynical, but now with a Hollywood ending. Literally.

3. The Cover Art Deserves Its Own Grammy—Oh Wait, It Got One
Designed by Mike Doud and Mick Haggerty, the iconic cover shows Manhattan made of breakfast items and waitress Kate Murtagh as the Statue of Liberty holding OJ instead of a torch. Look closely: those are pancake syrup bottles for skyscrapers and a cornflake box for a building. It won the Grammy for Best Album Package and probably made you crave diner food. Art you can almost eat.

4. “The Logical Song” Features a Toy Football Game
Among the keyboards and castanets, there’s a futuristic sound tucked into “The Logical Song” that isn’t a synth—it’s the bleep-bloop from Mattel’s handheld football game. Yes, Supertramp sampled your childhood before sampling was cool. Who knew existential dread could sound like fourth and long?

5. Hodgson and Davies Barely Spoke During Recording
You’d never guess it from how tight the music sounds, but Supertramp’s two frontmen were living in different emotional galaxies. According to engineer Peter Henderson, things were “fantastically friendly.” According to Roger Hodgson, not so much. According to Melody Maker, they barely spoke. So how did they record such a cohesive album? Easy. Passive-aggressive brilliance and a really good mixing board.

Breakfast in America was Supertramp’s biggest album—and it was a melodic Trojan horse smuggling in themes of identity, disillusionment, and the American dream. It had hits, heart, and more Wurlitzer than most bands use in a lifetime. All these years later, it still sounds as sharp as ever. And now you’ve got five new facts to drop next time “The Logical Song” comes on at brunch.

Lay Down Sally, Pick Up These Classics: 20 of the Best Eric Clapton Collaborations

Eric Alper
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Lay Down Sally, Pick Up These Classics: 20 of the Best Eric Clapton Collaborations

Eric Clapton has spent over half a century collaborating with some of the biggest names in music, because of course he has. When you’re one of the greatest guitarists of all time, people tend to want you in the room. And when you are Eric Clapton, you say yes—then casually lay down a solo that becomes the most memorable part of the song. These 20 collaborations are historical documents of what happens when musical legends collide.

Here are 20 of the best Eric Clapton collaborations that prove one thing: when Clapton shows up, the song levels up.

1. “I Had a Dream” – B.B. King and Eric Clapton
Two blues giants in one studio sounds like a fantasy, but this track from Riding with the King makes it real. Clapton holds back just enough to let B.B. King shine, then sneaks in with solos that feel like conversations. It’s blues with royalty written all over it.

2. “Runaway Train” – Elton John featuring Eric Clapton
Elton John brought the melodies, Eric Clapton brought the firepower. This early-’90s anthem proves that pop and blues can go full speed ahead on the same track. The result? A radio-ready ride with serious chops under the hood.

3. “It’s Probably Me” – Sting featuring Eric Clapton
On this sultry soundtrack standout, Sting’s smoky delivery dances perfectly around Clapton’s silky guitar lines. It’s cool, understated, and endlessly replayable. The kind of collaboration where no one’s showing off—and it still sounds flawless.

4. “Good to Me as I Am to You” – Aretha Franklin featuring Eric Clapton
If the Queen of Soul invites you in, you don’t just play—you serve. Clapton drops into Aretha’s world of gospel-blues brilliance with total grace, adding subtle licks that lift the song without ever stepping on the vocals. Soul music with six-string class.

5. “Give Me Strength” – Eric Clapton and Yvonne Elliman
Yvonne Elliman’s harmonies add warmth and light to this slow-burning Clapton tune. The two voices blend like whiskey and honey, and the result is both heartbreaking and healing. A gem from his 461 Ocean Boulevard era that still cuts deep.

6. “Before You Accuse Me” – Eric Clapton and Robert Cray
Eric Clapton teams up with fellow blues master Robert Cray for a studio version that drips with style. It’s old-school in all the right ways—tight, tasteful, and irresistibly groovy. When bluesmen talk, we listen.

7. “My Father’s Eyes” – Eric Clapton and Babyface
Yes, Babyface. And yes, it works. The smoothest R&B producer in the game helped shape one of Clapton’s most emotional songs into a crossover classic. When soul meets blues, everybody wins.

8. “All Our Past Times” – Eric Clapton and Rick Danko
The Band’s Rick Danko brought the heart, and Clapton brought the heartbreak. Together, they created a tender, underrated duet that feels like a campfire confession. Quietly devastating and absolutely gorgeous.

9. “Badge” – Cream (co-written with George Harrison)
What do you get when a Beatle writes lyrics and Clapton writes riffs? A psych-rock classic with a bridge that still knocks you sideways. “Badge” is a song where even the silence sounds musical.

10. “Born Under a Bad Sign” – Eric Clapton and Albert King
Clapton knew better than to try to outplay Albert King—so he matched him in vibe and groove instead. Their version of this blues staple is electric in the way only two masters trading licks can be. A masterclass in restraint and respect.

11. “Holy Mother” – Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood
These two reunited old friends for a track that’s as spiritual as it is sonically rich. Winwood’s keys and Clapton’s guitar create something between prayer and power ballad. It’s the sound of healing, through and through.

12. “Tearing Us Apart” – Eric Clapton and Tina Turner
Tina brings the fire, Clapton brings the grit, and the combination is explosive. This ’80s stormer is a breakup song turned battlefield anthem. Nobody gets out clean—and that’s the point.

13. “Old Love” – Eric Clapton and Robert Cray
When heartbreak meets maturity, you get “Old Love.” Cray’s smooth guitar tone pairs beautifully with Clapton’s smoky sadness. It’s not just a song—it’s a sigh.

14. “Riding with the King” – B.B. King and Eric Clapton
Back to the blues with this album title track, where the duo sounds like they’ve been trading stories for centuries. Clapton lets B.B. take the wheel—and still manages to steer the whole thing straight into greatness.

15. “I’ve Got a Rock ‘n’ Roll Heart” – Eric Clapton and Ry Cooder
Ry Cooder’s slide guitar slips in alongside Clapton’s easy swagger, giving this tune extra soul. It’s laid-back rock ‘n’ roll that doesn’t need to shout to prove its point. Just cool vibes and cool hands.

16. “Little Wing” – Derek and the Dominos (tribute to Jimi Hendrix)
Clapton doesn’t just cover Hendrix—he paints in his spirit. This studio version with Duane Allman feels like both a salute and a reinvention. One of the best guitar homages ever put to tape.

17. “Beautiful Thing” – Eric Clapton and Simon Climie
Pop meets blues in this mid-’90s standout, with Clapton crafting silky solos under Climie’s clean vocals. It’s soft, sweet, and sneakily emotional. Proof that less can still be more.

18. “Bad Love” – Eric Clapton and Phil Collins
When Eric Clapton needed a drummer who could also deliver big, bold production, he turned to Phil Collins. The result? A Grammy-winning rocker with a riff that hits like a freight train and a chorus built to echo through arenas. Clapton shreds, Collins pounds, and “Bad Love” delivers exactly what it promises.

19. “Circus” – Eric Clapton and Simon Climie
Another Climie co-write, this deeply personal ballad finds Clapton at his most vulnerable. The delicate production gives the song room to breathe. It’s sad, stunning, and unforgettable.

20. “Let It Grow” – Eric Clapton and Yvonne Elliman
This soft-rock spiritual feels like the sunrise after a long night. Elliman’s harmonies give it lightness, while Clapton’s guitar grows quietly beneath. A reminder that even rock gods need to reflect.

Bonus Entry – “Layla” – Derek and the Dominos
When heartbreak hits hard, you form a band with Duane Allman and pour your soul into a six-minute masterpiece. “Layla” is Clapton at his most raw—obsessed, unfiltered, and unforgettable. That piano coda? Still breaking hearts, decades later.

Why Roger Moore Was A Class Act

Eric Alper
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Why Roger Moore Was A Class Act
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Via Imgur

Welcome to the Jungle: Martin Popoff’s “Guns N’ Roses At 40” Book Blows the Roof Off Rock History

Eric Alper
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Welcome to the Jungle: Martin Popoff’s “Guns N’ Roses At 40” Book Blows the Roof Off Rock History

Four decades ago, a little band out of Los Angeles lit a match under the glam-metal scene and burned their way into rock ‘n’ roll immortality. Guns N’ Roses at 40, the new retrospective by rock historian Martin Popoff, dives deep into the chaos, creativity, and cultural impact of GN’R. From the sweaty Sunset Strip clubs of 1985 to the world’s biggest stadiums, Popoff curates 40 pivotal moments in the band’s history – and, in true GN’R fashion, there’s no shortage of triumph, tragedy, or tabloid-worthy tales.

This stunning hardcover book doesn’t just list dates and discography – it tells a wild, loud, and unapologetic story. Readers will find biographies of original members Axl Rose, Slash, Duff McKagan, Izzy Stradlin, and Steven Adler, details of studio sessions and infamous incidents, plus insights into lineup changes and long-awaited reunions. With first-person interviews from Duff McKagan and Tommy Stinson, plus a gatefold timeline and stunning photography, this is the ultimate coffee-table tribute to the most dangerous band in the world.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan who lived through the Appetite for Destruction era or a newcomer discovering “November Rain” on vinyl, Guns N’ Roses at 40 is a must-have. As Martin Popoff has proven time and time again with his rock lit resume, no one charts the course of a legendary band quite like he does. This book is loud, proud, and absolutely essential.

Conan O’Brien Gets the Last Laugh — And the Mark Twain Prize

Eric Alper
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Conan O’Brien Gets the Last Laugh — And the Mark Twain Prize

Conan O’Brien, the towering, flame-haired king of late night absurdity, has officially joined comedy royalty. The 26th Mark Twain Prize for American Humor now belongs to the man who gave us Triumph the Insult Comic Dog, the “Walker, Texas Ranger Lever,” and the most delightfully awkward remotes in TV history. On March 25, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts was filled with the sound of applause, laughter, and probably a few well-placed string dance moves.

And if you missed it? Don’t worry — the celebration streams exclusively on Netflix starting Sunday, May 4, 2025. So grab your legally distinct bear costumes, your Harvard diploma, and a healthy disdain for corporate synergy, and prepare to laugh, cry, and wonder how someone this funny also managed to be one of the kindest people in the business. Mark Twain would be proud. Probably confused, but proud

60th ACM Awards Nominations Announced: Ella Langley Leads The Way With 8 Nods

Eric Alper
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60th ACM Awards Nominations Announced: Ella Langley Leads The Way With 8 Nods

The Academy of Country Music (ACM) and Dick Clark Productions (DCP) today announced nominations for the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards on TODAY, with Ella Langley, Cody Johnson, Morgan Wallen, and Lainey Wilson receiving the most nominations. Hosted by 16-time ACM Award-winning entertainment icon Reba McEntire, the 60th ACM Awards will stream live exclusively for a global audience across 240+ countries and territories on Prime Video on Thursday, May 8 at 8 p.m. EDT/7 p.m. CDT/5 p.m. PDT from Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas. The monumental anniversary show will celebrate six decades of Country Music and feature unforgettable performances by the genre’s most legendary and multi-award-winning stars, including Blake Shelton, Eric Church, and Lainey Wilson.

A limited number of tickets to the 60th ACM Awards are available now at SeatGeek, offering fans exclusive entry into a night packed with their favorite Country stars performing the biggest hits.

Fans can also stream the Official ACM Awards playlist available now on Amazon Music in celebration of this year’s nominees. Fans can listen to country music’s biggest stars, such as Kane Brown, Lainey Wilson, and Jelly Roll, directly on the Amazon Music app HERE.

Nominee Highlights for the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards

  • First time ACM Award nominee, Ella Langley, leads with eight nominations including Female Artist of the Year, New Female Artist of the Year, and six nominations for her song with Riley Green, “you look like you love me,” which include Single of the Year, Song of the Year as an artist and songwriter, Music Event of the Year, and Visual Media of the Year as an artist and director.
  • Cody Johnson ties for the most nominations for a male artist with seven nominations, including his second nomination for Entertainer of the Year, and his third year in a row being nominated for Song of the Year, with “Dirt Cheap” being nominated in the category, as well as Single of the Year and Visual Media of the Year. Johnson is competing with himself in Visual Media of the Year, as his collaboration with Carrie Underwood, “I’m Gonna Love You,” is also up for the award. Johnson’s seven nominations this year mark the most ACM Award nominations he has ever received in one year and make him the most-nominated Texas-born artist this year.
  • Morgan Wallen ties for the most nominations for a male artist with seven nominations, including his third consecutive nomination for Entertainer of the Year. Wallen received four nominations for his collaboration with Post Malone on “I Had Some Help,” which includes three artist nominations and one songwriter nomination for Wallen.
  • Lainey Wilson ties for the most nominations in different categories, earning nods in six separate categories, including her first nomination for Artist-Songwriter of the Year. Wilson’s nominations for Song of the Year mark her fourth consecutive year being nominated and her seventh total nomination (including artist and songwriter credits) in the category.
  • Luke Combs is a nominee for Entertainer of the Year. A win for Combs in this category will also clinch the coveted Triple Crown Award, which consists of an Entertainer of the Year win, plus wins in an act’s respective New Artist (Male, Female, Duo or Group) and Artist (Male, Female, Duo or Group) categories. Past ACM Triple Crown Award recipients include Lainey Wilson, Chris Stapleton, Miranda Lambert, Jason Aldean, Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, and others.  This is the sixth year in a row that Luke Combs has been nominated for both Male Artist of the Year and Entertainer of the Year.
  • Chris Stapleton receives six nominations, including his tenth consecutive nomination for Male Artist of the Year, an award he’s won four times in the past, including at the 59th ACM Awards.
  • Old Dominion receives a nomination for Group of the Year, making this the tenth consecutive year they have been nominated in the category. The group has taken home the title every year for the last seven years.
  • Brothers Osborne’s nomination for Duo of the Year marks their 18th ACM nomination and their eleventh year in a row being nominated for ACM Duo of the Year, an award the pair has brought home four times.
  • Kacey Musgraves’ three nominations this year brings her total nominations count to 30, including nine nominations for Female Artist of the Year. She won the award in 2018, the same year she won Album of the Year for Golden Hour.
  • Kelsea Ballerini receives her first ever Entertainer of the Year nomination in addition to nominations for Female Artist of the Year and Music Event of the Year as an artist and producer. This is her eighth time being nominated for Female Artist of the Year.
  • Little Big Town earns their 19th nomination for Group of the Year, which is one nomination shy of tying the record for the most nominations in the category, a record held by Alabama. Little Big Town has been nominated in the category every year since 2005, with the exception of 2011.
  • Rascal Flatts receives their first nomination for Group of the Year since 2017, having most recently won the award in 2009 for the seventh time.
  • Shaboozey receives his first ACM Award nominations, including a nomination for Best New Male Artist and Single of the Year for his record-breaking hit song “A Bar Song (Tipsy).”
  • First-time artist nominees include Gavin Adcock, Dasha, Noah Kahan, Ella Langley, Jessie Murph, Muscadine Bloodline, Shaboozey, Zach Top, The Red Clay Strays, Treaty Oak Revival, and Tucker Wetmore.

The following is the full list of nominees for the ACM Main Awards, Studio Recording Awards, and Industry Awards categories:

MAIN AWARDS:

ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR

  • Kelsea Ballerini
  • Luke Combs
  • Cody Johnson
  • Jelly Roll
  • Chris Stapleton
  • Morgan Wallen
  • Lainey Wilson

FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR

  • Kelsea Ballerini
  • Ella Langley
  • Megan Moroney
  • Kacey Musgraves
  • Lainey Wilson

MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR

  • Luke Combs
  • Cody Johnson
  • Jelly Roll
  • Chris Stapleton
  • Morgan Wallen

DUO OF THE YEAR

  • Brooks & Dunn
  • Brothers Osborne
  • Dan + Shay
  • Muscadine Bloodline
  • The War And Treaty

GROUP OF THE YEAR

  • Flatland Cavalry
  • Little Big Town
  • Old Dominion
  • Rascal Flatts
  • The Red Clay Strays

NEW FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR

  • Kassi Ashton
  • Ashley Cooke
  • Dasha
  • Ella Langley
  • Jessie Murph

NEW MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR

  • Gavin Adcock
  • Shaboozey
  • Zach Top
  • Tucker Wetmore
  • Bailey Zimmerman

NEW DUO OR GROUP OF THE YEAR

  • Restless Road
  • The Red Clay Strays
  • Treaty Oak Revival

ALBUM OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record Company–Label(s)]

  • Am I Okay? (I’ll Be Fine) – Megan Moroney

Producer: Kristian Bush

Record Company-Label: Columbia Records / Sony Music Nashville

 

  • Beautifully Broken – Jelly Roll

Producers: BazeXX, Brock Berryhill, Zach Crowell, Devin Dawson, Charlie Handsome, Ben Johnson, mgk, The Monsters & Strangerz, Austin Nivarel, SlimXX, Ryan Tedder,  Isaiah Tejada, Alysa Vanderheym

Record Company-Label: BBR Music Group / BMG Nashville / Republic Records

 

  • Cold Beer & Country Music – Zach Top

Producer: Carson Chamberlain

Record Company-Label: Leo33

 

  • F-1 Trillion – Post Malone

Producers: Louis Bell, Charlie Handsome, Hoskins

Record Company-Label: Mercury Records / Republic Records

 

  • Whirlwind – Lainey Wilson

Producer: Jay Joyce

Record Company-Label: BBR Music Group / BMG Nashville

 

SINGLE OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record Company–Label(s)]

  • A Bar Song (Tipsy) – Shaboozey

Producers: Sean Cook, Nevin Sastry

Record Company-Label: American Dogwood / EMPIRE

 

  • Dirt Cheap – Cody Johnson

Producer: Trent Willmon

Record Company-Label: CoJo Music LLC / Warner Music Nashville

 

  • I Had Some Help – Post Malone, Morgan Wallen

Producers: Louis Bell, Charlie Handsome, Hoskins

Record Company-Label: Mercury Records / Republic Records

 

  • White Horse – Chris Stapleton

Producers: Dave Cobb, Chris Stapleton, Morgane Stapleton

Record Company-Label: Mercury Nashville

 

  • you look like you love me – Ella Langley, Riley Green

Producer: Will Bundy

Record Company-Label: SAWGOD / Columbia Records

 

SONG OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Songwriter(s)/Publisher(s)/Artist(s)]

  • 4x4xU – Lainey Wilson

Songwriters: Jon Decious, Aaron Raitiere, Lainey Wilson

Publishers: Louisiana Lady; One Tooth Productions; Reservoir 416; Songs of One Riot Music; Sony/ATV Accent

 

  • The Architect – Kacey Musgraves

Songwriters: Shane McAnally, Kacey Musgraves, Josh Osborne

Publishers: Songs for Indy and Owl; Sony/ATV Cross Keys Publishing

 

  • Dirt Cheap – Cody Johnson

Songwriter: Josh Phillips

Publishers: Warner-Tamerlane Publishing; Write or Die Music; Write the Lightning Publishing

 

  • I Had Some Help – Post Malone, Morgan Wallen

Songwriters: Louis Bell, Ashley Gorley, Hoskins, Austin Post, Ernest Keith Smith, Morgan Wallen, Chandler Paul Walters, Ryan Vojtesak

Publishers: Bell Ear Publishing; Master of my Domain Music; Poppy’s Picks; Sony/ATV Cross Keys Publishing; Universal Music Corporation

 

  • you look like you love me – Ella Langley, Riley Green

Songwriters: Riley Green, Ella Langley, Aaron Raitiere

Publishers: Back 40 Publishing International; Langley Publishing; One Tooth Productions; Sony/ATV Tree; Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp

 

MUSIC EVENT OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record Company–Label(s)]

  • Cowboys Cry Too – Kelsea Ballerini, Noah Kahan

Producers: Kelsea Ballerini, Noah Kahan, Alysa Vanderheym

Record Company-Label: Black River Entertainment

 

  • I Had Some Help – Post Malone, Morgan Wallen

Producers: Louis Bell, Charlie Handsome, Hoskins

Record Company-Label: Mercury Records / Republic Records

 

  • I’m Gonna Love You – Cody Johnson, Carrie Underwood

Producer: Trent Willmon

Record Company-Label: CoJo Music LLC / Warner Music Nashville

 

  • we don’t fight anymore – Carly Pearce, Chris Stapleton

Producers: Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne, Carly Pearce

Record Company-Label: Big Machine Records

 

  • you look like you love me – Ella Langley, Riley Green

Producer: Will Bundy

Record Company-Label: SAWGOD / Columbia Records

 

VISUAL MEDIA OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Producer(s)/Director(s)/Artist(s)]

  • 4x4xU – Lainey Wilson

Producer: Jennifer Ansell

Director: Dano Cerny

 

  • Dirt Cheap – Cody Johnson

Producer: Dustin Haney

Director: Dustin Haney

 

  • I’m Gonna Love You – Cody Johnson, Carrie Underwood

Producers: Christen Pinkston, Wesley Stebbins-Perry

Director: Dustin Haney

 

  • Think I’m In Love With You – Chris Stapleton

Producers: Wes Edwards, Angie Lorenz, Jamie Stratakis

Director: Running Bear (Stephen Kinigopoulos, Alexa Stone)

 

  • you look like you love me – Ella Langley, Riley Green

Producer: Whale Tale Music

Directors: Ella Langley, John Park, Wales Toney

ARTIST-SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR

  • Luke Combs
  • ERNEST
  • HARDY
  • Morgan Wallen
  • Lainey Wilson

SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR

  • Jessi Alexander
  • Jessie Jo Dillon
  • Ashley Gorley
  • Chase McGill
  • Josh Osborne

STUDIO RECORDING AWARDS:

BASS PLAYER OF THE YEAR

  • T. Cure
  • Mark Hill
  • Rachel Loy
  • Tony Lucido
  • Craig Young

DRUMMER OF THE YEAR

  • Fred Eltringham
  • Tommy Harden
  • Evan Hutchings
  • Aaron Sterling
  • Nir Z

ACOUSTIC GUITAR PLAYER OF THE YEAR

  • Tim Galloway
  • Todd Lombardo
  • Mac McAnally
  • Bryan Sutton
  • Ilya Toshinskiy

PIANO/KEYBOARDS PLAYER OF THE YEAR

  • Dave Cohen
  • Ian Fitchuk
  • Billy Justineau
  • Gordon Mote
  • Alex Wright

SPECIALTY INSTRUMENT PLAYER OF THE YEAR

  • Dan Dugmore
  • Jenee Fleenor
  • Josh Matheny
  • Justin Schipper
  • Kristin Wilkinson

ELECTRIC GUITAR PLAYER OF THE YEAR

  • Kris Donegan
  • Jedd Hughes
  • Brent Mason
  • Sol Philcox-Littlefield
  • Derek Wells

AUDIO ENGINEER OF THE YEAR

  • Brandon Bell
  • Drew Bollman
  • Josh Ditty
  • Buckley Miller
  • Reid Shippen

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR

  • Dave Cobb
  • Ian Fitchuk
  • Charlie Handsome
  • Jon Randall
  • Alysa Vanderheym

INDUSTRY AWARDS:

CASINO OF THE YEAR – THEATER

  • Deadwood Mountain Grand – Deadwood, SD
  • Foxwoods Resort Casino – Mashantucket, CT
  • Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort – Cherokee, NC
  • The Theater at Virgin Hotels – Las Vegas, NV
  • Yaamava’ Theater – Highland, CA

CASINO OF THE YEAR – ARENA

  • Golden Nugget Lake Charles – Lake Charles, LA
  • Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena – Atlantic City, NJ
  • Harveys Lake Tahoe – Stateline, NV
  • Mystic Lake Casino Showroom – Prior Lake, MN
  • Turning Stone Resort Casino – Verona, NY

FESTIVAL OF THE YEAR

  • C2C Country to Country – London, England
  • CMC Rocks – Ipswich, Queensland
  • Stagecoach Festival – Indio, CA
  • Two Step Inn – Georgetown, TX
  • Windy City Smokeout – Chicago, IL

FAIR/RODEO OF THE YEAR

  • Calgary Stampede – Calgary, AB
  • California Mid-State Fair – Paso Robles, CA
  • Cheyenne Frontier Days – Cheyenne, WY
  • Minnesota State Fair – Falcon Heights, MN
  • Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo – Houston, TX

CLUB OF THE YEAR

  • Billy Bob’s Texas – Fort Worth, TX
  • Brooklyn Bowl – Nashville, TN
  • Cain’s Ballroom – Tulsa, OK
  • Georgia Theatre – Athens, GA
  • Joe’s on Weed St. – Chicago, IL

THEATER OF THE YEAR

  • The Caverns – Pelham, TN
  • MGM Music Hall at Fenway – Boston, MA
  • The Met Philadelphia – Philadelphia, PA
  • The Rave/Eagles Club – Milwaukee, WI
  • Tennessee Theatre – Knoxville, TN

OUTDOOR VENUE OF THE YEAR

  • BankNH Pavilion – Gilford, NH
  • CMAC – Constellation Brands Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center – Canandaigua, NY
  • Saint Augustine Amphitheatre – St. Augustine, FL
  • The Wharf Amphitheater – Orange Beach, AL
  • Whitewater Amphitheater – New Braunfels, TX

ARENA OF THE YEAR

  • Dickies Arena – Fort Worth, TX
  • Moody Center – Austin, TX
  • TD Garden – Boston, MA
  • Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center – Knoxville, TN
  • Van Andel Arena – Grand Rapids, MI

DON ROMEO TALENT BUYER OF THE YEAR

  • Deana Baker
  • Bobby Clay
  • Gil Cunningham
  • Weston Hebert
  • Stacy Vee
  • Taylor Williamson

PROMOTER OF THE YEAR

  • Brent Fedrizzi
  • Alex Maxwell
  • Patrick McDill
  • Anna-Sophie Mertens
  • Rich Schaefer
  • Aaron Spalding
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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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