In case you missed it...
The hosts for the 57th Annual CMA Awards have been named - and both are well known in and of themselves and as previous CMA hosts. Announced yesterday: your returning hosts will be Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning! The pair co-hosted last year's awards, which earned the highest viewership in three years - more than enough reason to give the country star and the NFL legend another go-round as co-hosts. It was also announced that this year's ceremony will take place Wednesday, November 8, airing live on ABC from Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.
Willie Nelson's 90th birthday celebration took place over two days at the Hollywood Bowl - after all, he is Willie Nelson. Dozens of musician friends and plenty of family and fans showed up for the landmark event, so it's understandable if you're feeling a little regret for not being there. However, all is not lost! Announced yesterday: highlights of the two-day celebration of the musical legend will show in theaters for a limited time. Titled "Long Story Short: Willie Nelson 90," the presentation will premiere June 11th with follow-up showings June 13th and 14th. Included in the celebration are musical performances by Keith Richards, Chris Stapleton, Billy Strings, George Strait, Kris Kristofferson, Miranda Lambert and many more. Tickets are on-sale now, and you can check willienelson90experience.com to see which theaters the film will be playing in.
Two country legends - one passed on, one still with us - are coming out with new books. Loretta Lynn has a book set for posthumous release on May 23. Titled "A Song & A Prayer," the book was written by Lynn before her death in 2022, alongside co-author, songwriter and ordained minister Dr. Kim McLean. The book is a faith-based collection of prayers and song lyrics inspired by Lynn's songwriting sessions with McLean. And Willie Nelson has a book that delves deep into the songwriting portion of his career. Titled "Energy Follows Thought: The Stories Behind My Songs Written," the book will spotlight 160 songs from throughout his career, from trademark hits to deep cuts. Nelson will share intimate stories connected to each song, along with memories shared with friends and collaborators, including Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, Merle Haggard, Ray Charles and more. Willie's book hits stores on October 31st.