Traveling to Mexico was a dream come true for my family and me. But soon after we arrived, my husband Luke’s behavior raised doubts. He refused to take any pictures with me, and his repeated dismissals felt strange. One day, I found a message on his phone in a group chat with his friends where he mocked my appearance, saying I had changed since giving birth and wasn’t worth taking photos of.
Heartbroken, I posted a photo of myself online with a caption questioning if my appearance was so unattractive. I quickly received messages of support. When Luke saw the post, he pretended not to understand why I did it, but I reminded him of his cruel words. I also told him about the inheritance I had received from my late uncle and that I was leaving him.
He apologized, but I knew it was only because of the money. I packed my things, took my kids, and left. I deserve better than someone who would treat me that way.
The heartwarming hometown moment was a memorable one for Katelyn Brown.
Kane Brown, Katelyn Brown; Photo by Alex Alvga
Kane Brown recently shared an unforgettable moment with his wife, Katelyn Brown, onstage in her hometown of Philadelphia, PA.
The beloved country couple took to the stage at The Mann Center for the Performing Arts to sing their wildly successful chart-topping duet, “Thank God.” The response from the audience was completely overwhelming as they sang along to the sweet love song in perfect unison.
While the couple’s performance of “Thank God” has become a highlight of Brown’s live show, this moment, in particular, meant the world to Katelyn.
“Y’all this is so special, this is my hometown!” Katelyn exclaimed while on stage.
Several concertgoers captured the heartwarming moment on video and later shared clips to social media.
According to several social media posts, Katelyn also joined Kane Brown for a performance of “One Mississippi” alongside special guests Restless Road.
Following the concert, which was part of Kane Brown’s ongoing Drunk or Dreaming Tour, Katelyn reflected on the heartwarming homecoming moment on Instagram. She shared several photos on Instagram, including snapshots of the couple’s adorable daughters, Kingsley Rose, and Kodi Jane.
She also shared a family photo from backstage, and a final slide that included a video of Kane “breaking it down” with Katelyn’s “mom mom.”
\Earlier this year, Kane and Katelyn Brown were honored when “Thank God” took home the title of Video of the Year at the 2023 CMT Music Awards. It was an emotional moment for the beloved country couple.
“Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh. I am, first off I’m so nervous. This is all so new to me and when we recorded this song a year ago, I never in my life would ever think that this was ever gonna happen,” Katelyn shared from the stage. “But I just wanna say thank you so much to my amazing husband, I love you. This is so special that we get to share this together every night. I love you so much.”
The pair also had the opportunity to perform “Thank God” during the 2023 CMT Music Awards, marking the television debut of the song.
Their performance took place on an outdoor stage and had fans swooning. Re-live the moment below.
Directed by Brown’s longtime collaborator, Alex Alvga, the Video of the Year-winning music video follows the couple around Hawaii as they cruise down a picturesque road in a vintage Bronco with the top down, enjoy a walk through a luscious tropical rainforest, and escape the world together in a mountainside bungalow.
The video concludes with the couple embracing on a beach as the sun sets around them, making for a truly stunning scene.
“Thank God” was released in September as part of Brown’s latest album, Different Man. It was co-written by Josh Hoge, Jaxson Free, Kyle Fishman, Christian Davis, and Jared Mullins. Kane Brown and Katelyn Jae Brown, winners of Video of the Year for “Thank God,” speak onstage during the 2023 CMT Music Awards at Moody Center on April 02, 2023 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/Getty Images for CMT)
Kane Brown’s new single, “Bury Me In Georgia,” is at country radio now. He recently shared a live performance video for the song.
Fans will have plenty of other opportunities to see the couple perform together on Kane Brown’s Drunk Or Dreaming Tour. The trek has a slew of dates still on the books through September.
Under a cascade of glowing stage lights, Keith Urban and Lainey Wilson joined forces for an unforgettable performance of Go Home W U, a touching tribute to late-night adventures in small towns. Keith’s electrifying guitar skills paired effortlessly with Lainey’s emotive vocals.
The audience moved in unison, their energy rising with every chorus as they sang along. When the song hit its emotional high point, the cheers were deafening, and the atmosphere was alive with a shared sense of joy and nostalgia. It was a moment where music and memories came together perfectly.
When it comes to the song, Urban shared, I wrote ‘Go Home W U’ in 2020 with Breland, Sam [Sumser] and Sean [Small].” He added, “We had a blast writing it. It started out as a late-night drum loop, I grabbed a bass guitar and started playing a simple recurring bass line. Before we knew it, we were writing a chorus that could be sung by any drunk person in any bar anywhere in the world.”
Moreover, the singer revealed “A friend of mine suggested the idea of making the song a duet and I immediately thought of Lainey. Besides the fact that I love her voice, she’s got the swagger and attitude that fit so well with the song.”
Wilson complimented Keith, “Keith has been someone in the industry I’ve taken notes from for a while now,… From watching him at CMA Fest every year growing up to hearing the way he treats people up and down Music Row, he has taught me a lot. He’s a genuine supporter of mine and I am honored I get to continue to learn from one of the best.”
Carrie Underwood Delivers a Soul-Stirring Performance of “Because He Lives” Live from the Ryman Auditorium
Carrie Underwood’s live performance of “Because He Lives” at the Ryman Auditorium in 2021 left a profound impact on the audience, showcasing her exceptional vocal talent and unwavering faith. The iconic country music star, known for her powerhouse vocals and emotional delivery, brought a fresh sense of reverence and passion to this timeless Christian anthem.
Recorded as part of her My Savior album, which features a collection of gospel classics, the live rendition of “Because He Lives” was a moment of pure connection between Underwood and her audience. With the Ryman Auditorium’s rich history and intimate setting, the performance felt both personal and grand, as the venue’s acoustics amplified the depth of her voice.
Underwood’s rendition of the hymn began softly, as she delivered the opening lyrics with a reverence that captured the song’s heartfelt message. As the song progressed, her vocal range was on full display, effortlessly transitioning from tender whispers to powerful, soaring notes that resonated with every listener in the room. The audience, clearly moved by the performance, responded with a heartfelt ovation, underscoring the emotional intensity of the moment.
The choice of the Ryman Auditorium, often referred to as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” added another layer of significance to the performance. The historic venue, where countless legendary artists have performed, provided the perfect backdrop for Underwood’s gospel-infused rendition of “Because He Lives.” The song’s themes of hope, faith, and redemption were beautifully conveyed through her voice, reminding fans of the power of music to inspire and uplift.
Underwood’s live performance of “Because He Lives” remains a standout moment in her career, capturing her ability to blend faith and artistry with grace and authenticity.
A video of singer Lauren Daigle’s performance of a classic song at the Super Bowl sparked mixed reactions—some praised it, while others debated its delivery.
Lauren Daigle took the stage at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, delivering a soulful rendition of “America the Beautiful” before the Kansas City Chiefs faced off against the Philadelphia Eagles, captivating the crowd. However, online reactions were far from unanimous.
An online user’s comment on Lauren Daigle’s Super Bowl LIX performance | Source: Facebook/DailyCaller
The contemporary Christian music singer wore a striking off-the-shoulder plaid dress with voluminous details, accessorized with elegant jewelry and bold red heels. Her expressive performance highlighted her passion and artistry.
Lauren Daigle’s Super Bowl LIX performance, posted on February 9, 2025 | Source: YouTube/NFLonFOX
Joining the 33-year-old singer on the field, musicians from Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, led by Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews, along with a guitarist, infused the performance with a lively New Orleans-inspired sound while positioned on circular platforms.
Lauren Daigle’s Super Bowl LIX performance with Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, posted on February 9, 2025 | Source: YouTube/NFLonFOX
The vibrant field provided a stunning backdrop, with bright white yard lines, the bold logo at midfield featuring vivid red, yellow, and green accents, and the iconic NFL shield nearby. The striking design stood out against the clean, green turf, enhancing the visual impact of the performance.
A wide view of the field at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana | Source: Getty Images
Featured in the video of Daigle’s performance, several players from the Chiefs and Eagles stood respectfully, adding to the moment’s significance.
Patrick Mahomes listens to Lauren Daigle’s “America the Beautiful” performance at Super Bowl LIX | Source: YouTube/NFLonFOX
Among them, Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes closed his eyes in quiet reflection, while Eagles running back Miles Sanders stood nearby with a solemn expression.
Miles Sanders watches Lauren Daigle’s “America the Beautiful” performance at Super Bowl LIX | Source: YouTube/NFLonFOX
In addition to Mahomes and Sanders, a sign language interpreter passionately signed during the performance, enhancing the inclusivity and accessibility of the event.
A sign language specialist interprets Lauren Daigle’s “America the Beautiful” song at Super Bowl LIX | Source: YouTube/NFLonFOX
The performance, however, ignited a wave of mixed reactions online. One viewer criticized it harshly, “The worst rendition I’ve ever heard,” while another gushed, “Loved it! Both are so talented, and I love the New Orleans spin.”
Some expressed strong disapproval, “It sucked ruined the song,” while others praised Daigle’s stage presence, “This was, by any measure, outstanding.”
More netizens reacted to Daigle’s Super Bowl performance. One viewer called it a “horrible performance” while another felt the jazz influence didn’t suit the song. Another expressed discomfort, “Hurting my ears ngl 🙃.”
Some found it disappointing, with one commenter noting it “sounded much better” as it progressed.
A netizen’s comment on Lauren Daigle’s Super Bowl performance | Source: Facebook/WBNS10TV
However, others enjoyed the singer’s performance, with one fan calling it “Top Notch [sic]” and another praising the jazz twist.
A netizen’s remark on Lauren Daigle’s ‘America the Beautiful’ performance | Source: Facebook/WBNS10TV
Ahead of her performance, Daigle shared her excitement about the opportunity in a recent interview with Billboard. “It is an incredible honor, I’m overzealous, and I love getting to do it with friends. The best thing,” Daigle said.
She recalled that Andrews personally invited her to be part of the Super Bowl performance, emphasizing the significance of the opportunity and calling it one of the biggest stages for a singer.
Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews and Lauren Daigle on February 9, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
As a Louisiana native, Daigle felt a deep connection to the performance. She grew up in Lafayette and later moved to New Orleans, drawn by the city’s rich musical culture.
She recalled how she would stand on street corners, captivated by local musicians performing on the streets. “There’s so much soul, there’s so much power of jazz here, it’s just incredible,” she said.
Bringing that musical influence into her performance, Daigle and Shorty worked closely to create a unique arrangement of “America the Beautiful.”
In a separate interview with Entertainment Tonight on February 6, Daigle detailed their creative process. The two artists spent about two hours discussing how to rework the song before constructing the final version.
“Well, they came up with a beautiful arrangement. So you know, you have the Zydeco that exists in Lafayette. You’ve got incredible brass bands that exist in the birthplace of jazz, which is New Orleans, and there’s a rhythm that kind of marries those two spaces, and it’ll get you stepping, you know, it’ll get you moving,” she explained.
She credited Shorty for ensuring the performance honored their Louisiana roots. “Troy was like ‘I really wanted to bring the representation of the state into this performance and the representation of our heritage, and where we came from, how do we do we do that,’ and he was very mindful to pay homage to the places that we came from,” Daigle added.
Wanting to share the experience with loved ones, she brought friends and family to the game to support her. When asked whether she supported the Kansas City Chiefs or the Philadelphia Eagles, she made her loyalty clear, “I got the [New Orleans] Saints. That’s what I got, yay!”
By blending these influences, Daigle and her team crafted a rendition that honored their musical heritage—one that would ultimately spark passionate reactions from viewers.
Whether praised or criticized by social media users, Daigle’s performance definitely left a strong impression.
Lainey Wilson will be honored as the “Breakout Artist of the Year” at the upcoming 2022 CMT Artists Of The Year celebration.
Wilson is the fifth recipient of the award, following Mickey Guyton (2021), Ashley McBryde (2019), Kelsea Ballerini (2016), and Chris Stapleton (2015).
“This past year has been a wild ride,” Wilson said. “To be considered for this award reinforces that the years of hard work my team and I have put in was all worth it. The team at CMT feels like family, and the way they genuinely support artists on their platform is so special and important for dreamers like me.”
“When it came to naming ‘Breakout Artist,’ Lainey Wilson was unquestionably our only choice this year,” said Leslie Fram, SVP, Music & Talent, CMT. “Not only is she a powerhouse performer and tremendously gifted songwriter with contagious energy and drive, she is just starting to show the world her range and versatility, as evident by her upcoming role on hit series ‘Yellowstone.’ From naming her as part of the ‘Next Women of Country’ franchise in 2019 to watching her shine on our CMT Music Awards stage with one of the most memorable performances this year, we couldn’t be more thrilled to celebrate Lainey’s much-deserved successes and cheer her on for all that’s next!”
The news comes on the heels of Lainey Wilson’s back-to-back No.1 singles, “Things A Man Oughta Know” and “Never Say Never” with Cole Swindell.
Wilson’s two latest singles, “Heart Like A Truck,” and “wait in the truck” with HARDY, continue to climb the charts at country radio.
Wilson is also gearing up to release her highly anticipated new album, Bell Bottom Country. The 14-track project will include her latest single “Heart Like A Truck” and the just-released tune, “Watermelon Moonshine.”
Her sophomore album will also feature a tribute to her “Deddy” and a cover of 4 Non Blondes classic hit “What’s Up (What’s Going On).” Wilson co-wrote every song on the album except for the 4 Non Blondes cover.
“I’ve lived quite a bit of life the past few years, and I have a lot more to say,” Wilson shared of the new album. “Sure, I love a good pair of bell-bottoms, but Bell Bottom Country to me has always been about the flare and what makes someone unique — I have really embraced mine, and I hope y’all can hear that across this project.”
Bell Bottom Country is derived from the moniker folks use to describe Wilson’s unique sound, style and aesthetic — it’s Country, but with a flare. The project will allow Wilson’s authenticity to vibrantly shine through the vulnerable and empowering lyrics. The album, which will blend the elements of ‘70s Rock, Funk and Soul while remaining true to her Country roots, will also display her growth as an artist and songwriter.
Lainey Wilson – Bell Bottom Country
Additionally, Wilson will soon join the cast of Paramount’s Yellowstone for its fifth season. The Louisiana native will take on the role of Abby, a character co-creator Taylor Sheridan crafted specifically for the “Things A Man Oughta Know” singer. On the show, Wilson will perform new original music, written and recorded by the hitmaker herself.
For more information about Lainey Wilson and her upcoming album, visit www.laineywilson.com.
2022 CMT Artists of the Year: Carly Pearce, Cody Johnson, Kane Brown, Luke Combs, Walker Hayes; Photos Provided
Premiering on Friday, October 14 at 9p/8c on CMT, 2022 CMT Artists of the Year will celebrate previously announced honorees Carly Pearce, Cody Johnson, Kane Brown, Luke Combs, and Walker Hayes with special never-before-seen performances, special guests, and congratulatory moments.
The star-studded event will also salute Alan Jackson, who is set to receive the “Artist of a Lifetime” honor.
Additional honorees, performers and presenters for the 90-minute special to be announced soon.
The world lost a country music legend in 2024 with the passing of Toby Keith, who bravely battled stomach cancer since his diagnosis in 2021. Despite undergoing six months of treatment, his love for music never faded. In September 2023, Keith took the stage at the People’s Choice Country Awards at the Grand Ole Opry and gave us a deeply emotional performance of Don’t Let the Old Man In.
The strength and determination he showed during that moment resonated with fans, who recognized the effort behind every note. One viewer captured the sentiment perfectly, commenting, “Yall see him shaking? He fought hell to sing that song. And he nailed it.”
As Keith took the stage to accept the Country Icon Award, his wife, Tricia, sat in the audience, clearly emotional as she watched the moment unfold. The honor was a testament to his decades-long impact on country music, and he accepted it with his signature charm. In a lighthearted moment, he brought laughter to the crowd with a playful remark about his outfit. He said, “I bet you never thought y’all’d see me in skinny jeans.”
Toby Keith’s courageous battle with stomach cancer came to a heartbreaking end on February 5, 2024. Despite his unwavering determination and the outpouring of support from fans worldwide, the country music legend passed away, leaving a profound void in the industry.
Keith first shared his diagnosis in June 2022, revealing that he had been undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery while stepping back from his career to focus on his health and family. His passing sent shockwaves through the music world, with countless fans and fellow artists mourning the loss of a man whose songs left an undeniable mark on country music.
“I’ve spent the last 6 months receiving chemo, radiation, and surgery,” he wrote in a tweet. “So far, so good. I need time to breathe, recover and relax.”
“I am looking forward to spending time with my family,” Keith added. “But I will see the fans sooner than later. I can’t wait.” He may be gone but his legacy on the music industry will live on forever.
On Wednesday night (November 29), Lainey Wilson performed a bluesy rendition of “Santa Claus Is Back in Town” on NBC’s Christmas At Graceland special, channeling Elvis Presley.
With her outstanding performance in front of the Graceland Mansion in Memphis, Tennessee, the recently named CMA Entertainer of the Year pulled fans into the spirit of Christmas. With old cars and trucks parked in front of the colonial-style house acting as a backdrop, the concert took place in a gorgeous and classic environment.
Performed In Front Of The Graceland Mansion
Lainey Wilson; Photo by: Katherine Bomboy/NBC
Donning a festive bell-bottomed jumpsuit adorned with rhinestones, sequins, and a cape, Wilson added her own Bell Bottom Country flavor to the Elvis Presley Christmas hit. For her performance, she was joined by her touring band and special guest Meg McRee, who joined in on acoustic guitar and provided background vocals. In true Lainey Wilson fashion, she confidently navigated the set, delivering a highly entertaining performance for the audience.
Wilson gave fans a behind-the-scenes look at her performance on Instagram with a video that showcased her getting ready and walking around the iconic mansion.
“Well y’all…I sure am in the Christmas spirit now! ❤️🎄What a way to officially ring in the holidays by honoring the rock n roll legend himself, @elvis, at the beautiful @visitgraceland,” she captioned the post.
History Of The Song
“Santa Claus Is Back in Town” is a Christmas classic and was recorded by “The King of Rock and Roll” in 1957 for Elvis’ Christmas Album. The song was written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller and was the first track on the project. According to Billboard, Elvis’ Christmas Album is the biggest-selling Christmas album of all time in the United States.
This song has been covered by a variety of artists, including Dwight Yoakam, who released his cover as part of his 1997 Christmas album, Come On Christmas. It was released as a single and hit No.1 60 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
Who Else Performed?
Wilson was one of several country artists who appeared on the Christmas at Graceland special. The show also included performances by Kacey Musgraves, Kane Brown, and The War and Treaty as well as Alanis Morissette, John Legend, Lana Del Rey, and Post Malone. Each artist paid tribute to Elvis through one-of-a-kind performances that took place at the late music icon’s home – the Graceland estate.
Lainey Wilson; Photo by: Katherine Bomboy/NBC
Riley Keough, who is Elvis Presley’s granddaughter and an Emmy Award nominee (Daisy Jones & the Six) made special appearances throughout the show and also served as an executive producer under her Felix Culpa banner with partner Gina Gammell.
The inaugural Christmas at Graceland concert marks the first-ever televised performance from the estate, showcasing never-before-broadcast footage of Elvis. It aired on NBC immediately following Christmas in Rockefeller Center.
Following her performance at the Graceland estate, Wilson will return to the road. She has several shows planned through the end of the year, including a four-night run at The Theater at Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas.
When three legends walked the stage to sing together, the 2019 Country Music Association Awards got off to a fantastic start. The evening began with a performance of “Those Memories Of You” by country icon Dolly Parton, Sunday Night Football vocalist Carrie Underwood, and Voice Coach Reba McEntire. They were then joined by other “women of country” for a medley of songs, featuring Martina McBride, Jennifer Nettles and Tanya Tucke
Before they sang, the three of them kicked things off with a monologue, shouting out the Performer of the Year nominees including Keith Urban, who looked so sweet sitting with his wife, actress Nicole Kidman. From 2008 to 2018, Underwood had hosted the awards with Brad Paisley every year, which is why McEntire and Parton are joking about taking his place.History was made in 1987 when Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris recorded and released a collaborative album called Trio, titled after their nickname as the “Queenston Trio.”
That album included “Those Memories Of You,” which has since been covered by other artists, and is itself a cover; the song was written by Alan O’Bryant and first recorded by Bill Monroe, according to American Songwriter. It’s a straightforward song about being haunted by memories of a past lover.
The segment began with Dierks Bentley introducing the tribute, calling Jackson “a true architect of modern country music” and praising his ability to bridge traditional country sounds with contemporary storytelling. As the audience roared with excitement, the stage lights dimmed, and the first notes of the iconic hit “Chattahoochee” filled the arena.
Bentley led the song with his signature energy, igniting the crowd and setting the tone for the powerful medley that followed. Jon Pardi joined him to deliver a rousing rendition of “Don’t Rock the Jukebox,” captivating the audience with his deep, booming vocals.
Carrie Underwood, donning a stunning sequined gown, delivered a soulful version of “Remember When.” Her emotional rendition brought tears to many in the audience, including Alan Jackson himself, who was visibly moved as he watched from his seat. Underwood’s heartfelt delivery captured the poignant essence of the timeless ballad, leaving the audience in awe.
Lainey Wilson brought her distinct Southern charm to the stage with a lively performance of “Good Time.” Her powerful vocals and infectious stage presence had the audience clapping and singing along, creating a festive atmosphere that perfectly honored Jackson’s spirit and love for life.
The tribute culminated with all four performers coming together to sing “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning).” The arena was filled with a sea of lights as fans waved their phones in unison. The performers’ harmonies were flawless, and the emotional weight of the song resonated deeply with everyone present.
As the final notes faded, the audience erupted into a standing ovation. Alan Jackson, clearly touched by the tribute, joined the performers on stage, hugging each of them and thanking the crowd for their support throughout his career.
Kane Brown and Katelyn Jae Brown, winners of Video of the Year for “Thank God,” speak onstage during the 2023 CMT Music Awards at Moody Center on April 02, 2023 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/Getty Images for CMT)
