After a four-month-long competition that featured more than 800 artists from around the country, Jessie Ritter has been named the 2018 Nash Next champion. Jessie, a Fort Walton Beach, Fla., native, bested nine other finalists during the Nash Next finale at Nashville’s Wildhorse Saloon on Oct. 11. As winner of the fourth annual competition, Jessie…… MORE
Aspiring country stars have the opportunity to kick-start their careers via the 4th annual NASH Next competition. NASH Next 2018 officially launched on June 18, bringing together aspiring stars, a major record label (Big Machine Label Group) and the power of country radio (Cumulus Media). The winner of the four-month competition will receive a record…… MORE
The 2017 Nash Next challenge is down to 10 finalists, and in the lead-up to the announcement of the champion on Nov. 1, NCD will be profiling each of the 10 finalists. Today, we are getting to know the Morgan Leigh Band. In May, Cumulus Media and Big Machine Label Group invited aspiring country artists…… MORE
The 2017 Nash Next challenge is down to 10 finalists, and in the lead-up to the announcement of the champion on Nov. 1, NCD will be profiling each of the 10 finalists. Today, we are getting to know Katie Austin. In May, Cumulus Media and Big Machine Label Group invited aspiring country artists and bands…… MORE
After more than five months of competition, Nash Next 2017 has announced its 10 finalists. In May, Cumulus Media and Big Machine Label Group invited aspiring country artists and bands to participate in Nash Next 2017, a grassroots talent search and artist development program for country music. Sponsored nationally by Country Inns & Suites by…… MORE
Lisa talks with 2016 Nash Next Challenge winner Todd O’Neill about his experience competing in and being named the winner of Nash Next 2016, working with Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flatts, the song-selecting process, his debut single, “Love Again,” and more. Show Participants Todd O’Neill Lisa Konicki, NCD editor in chief Show Links & Notes Todd O’Neill’s…… MORE
After months of competition, Todd O’Neill was announced as the winner of Nash Next 2016 last night (Oct. 25) during the grand finale held at Mercy Lounge in Nashville. Big Machine Label Group and Cumulus Media joined forces in July 2016 to find America’s new country star. Aspiring artists from all over the country vied…… MORE
The Nash Next Challenge is down to its 10 finalists, and in the lead-up to the announcement of the champion on Oct. 25, NCD will be profiling each of the 10 finalists. Today, we are getting to know finalist Gregor Ross. In July, Cumulus Media and Big Machine Label Group invited aspiring country artists and…… MORE
Toby Keith left us 10 months ago. But his music keeps on keepin’ on in a big way. He just went GOLD and PLATINUM again. His whole catalog has seen a boost since he passed away from cancer in February at the age of 62. The RIAA honored him this week with four more certifications,…
While 2024 certainly had its moments of inspiration and incredible country music . . . we also lost more than a few country superstars. Here are some members of the country music family that passed away this year: 1. Toby Keith. July 8th, 1961 to February 5th, 2024 2. Kris Kristofferson. June 22nd, 1936 to…