The 10th Annual Josie Music Awards were held in Nashville at the Grand Ole Opry on October 27, 2024. The Josie Music Awards are the largest, most respected, revered award and prestigious events and association in the independent music industry. Their theme is "Chase Your Dreams - Be a Part of Something Big."
Pictured from left to right: Top Row - Darrell Pittman, Andrew Moore, Haleigh Martin, Hailey Newman, Renee and Warren Cobb. 2nd Row- JD Shelburne, Brando Vanschoyck, Joe Clark and Taylor Hughes. 3rd Row - Melissa Deaton, Danny and Natalie Micoff, Kid Kentucky - Don Suiters, Will Goodwin and Jonathan Goodwin.
Kentucky's presence on the circle on the Grand Ole Opry stage was frequent, heartfelt and definitely "something big" for all who had the opportunity to stand on the sacred and highly revered space to accept their award. Let's break it all down to just how BIG that was for Kentucky last Sunday night.
FIVE KENTUCKIANS WIN VOCALIST OF THE YEAR HONORS
Jonathan Goodwin, Lexington, KY
Vocalist of the Year, Christian/ Gospel/ Inspirational
Although Jonathan is a guitarist and vocalist in the bluegrass band The Goodwin Brothers, he has a long storied history in the Christian/ Gospel/ Inspirational genre as both a producer and in a solo career.
Over the past 20 years, Jonathan Goodwin has proven to be a strategic business professional experienced in impacting business direction with successful leadership decisions. Beginning his studio work in 2004, Goodwin was privileged to learn from and be mentored by to learn some of the world’s greatest producers. As a multi-instrumentalist, (keys, guitars, bass, drums, banjo, mandolin, violin, dobro, harmonica-) it wasn’t long before he began getting calls to play on recordings for leading artists of every genre. In a short time, he became consistently hired as a session musician, to then soon engineering and producing master sessions.
By 2007, Goodwin was being hired as the producers of countless projects. While most of his work can be heard on the 200+ Christian recordings he has produced or appeared on, he continues to work fearlessly in other genres as well. in 2008 launched his own label and management company ‘C&C Music Group’ along with a CCM Division, ‘Redemption World Records.’ By 2010, Nashville TODAY said it to be “the fastest growing label in gospel music.”
Not long thereafter, Goodwin began traveling the world teaching business practices within the music industry and training others to become music professionals. Goodwin’s very first intern is now a teacher at one of Nashville’s leading recording schools and has now won a Grammy™ Award for engineering the artist KEB MO. Goodwin’s long association and close relationships with the elite in the industry has provided him access to the best musicians, singers, engineers, and studios in the world.
Outside of the recording studio, Goodwin proved his gift at providing key plan development and implementation within the companies he has started. He has quickly assembled a stellar team to help catapult artists careers. Today Goodwin is known amongst his peers as a veteran creator of successful music and video projects, chart topping songs, sell-out events, business plans and strategic development initiatives. He is a motivational speaker having led music-business classes and seminars around the world. His reputation as a gifted entrepreneur has made him a sought-after speaker and consultant for numerous businesses, ministries, and organizations. He has served as the keynote speaker for multiple leading Music, Business and Ministry education events at conference throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Bahamas, and the UK.
Don Suiters, Bowling Green, Kentucky
Vocalist of the Year, Rock
Kid Kentucky and the American Badass Band is the nation’s top Kid Rock tribute band, astounding Kid Rock fans nationwide. And by astounding, we do mean it’s quite an incredible Kid Rock experience when the band takes the stage. Each and every night, audiences spend the first few songs of the show trying to grasp the concept that they are not actually seeing the real Kid Rock there in front of them! The cameras come out, the jaws drop and the show kicks into high gear from the first note to the last, with an overall experience as close to the real thing as you can get!
Touring out of Nashville, TN, Kid K & TABB take their Kid Rock show north, south, east and west delivering the looks, the sounds and party throwdown that Kid Rock fans have come to know and love from the real guy himself! Adorning their Kid Rock concert shirts and all the shindig you can handle, the night covers the foray of Kid Rock hits weaving from rock, to country, to Kid Rock rap and everything in between, always keeping the Kid Rock fans coming back for more.
Kid Kentucky and the American Badass Band have traveled from Montana to Maryland, from Detroit to Tampa winning over Kid Rock fans, and building their own fans along the way. “I have been a Kid Rock fan from the old days, and never knew his music would be so popular that it could happen twice,” says Don Suiters (a.k.a. Kid Kentucky). “His music has been a great inspiration and after seeing his concerts almost a dozen times, his show has been too – thank you Kid Rock for making it all happen!”
Hailing originally from Indianapolis, and currently residing in Bowling Green, KY, Suiters began the journey of the Kid Rock-lookalike path from others asking if he ever hears that “he looks like Kid Rock!” After the pattern began to take hold, local KY residents started branding him as Kid Kentucky. Suiters was such a fit as Kid Kentucky that the Tropicana Riverboat asked him to perform, following a Kid Rock concert in Evansville, Indiana. A fan attending the concert took some pics with Suiters, and subsequently sent them in to the 92.5 WBKR doppelganger contest.
When he received the photos, in complete agreement that Suiters looked nearly identical to Kid Rock, the radio station jock then contacted Suiters, asking him to join their live broadcast as they interviewed him about his amazing likeness to Kid Rock. The radio host, as well as his associates, stunned by Don’s uncanny resemblance, thereafter, penned an article on Suiters titled Does Kid Rock Live in Kentucky. The Owensboro radio station piece caught the attention of many, including the Clarksville, TN Police department. No, he wasn’t in trouble – instead, they requested the newly sanctified Kid Rock impersonator to appear in their upcoming Police video challenge for YouTube. The video and article spawned more impersonation requests and the official transformation into Kid Kentucky was complete.
Included in the requests, came an opportunity when the real Robert Ritchie/Kid Rock had denied a casting for a movie roll in a remake of Smokey and the Bandit. Ritchie declined the lead part as Bandit. The Short-film movie Producer found out about Kid Kentucky after the Police department YouTube video. The Bandit Never Fades movie Producer Patrick Laughlin contacted Suiters (Kid Kentucky) for lead part in which he accepted. Unfortunately, the movie didn’t publish due to permits at the time of shooting the film.
Shortly thereafter, Suiters decided to put his Kid Rock-ness to use, pursuing his childhood dreams of being a singer in a band. Upon meeting a Nashville transplant newly arrived from Los Angeles, Don began working with Bruce Lawrence who had wrangled a few of his other musician friends together building the American Badass Band. Gathering a few more fellow L.A. transplants to create Kid Rock and the Twisted Brown Trucker Band’s music, Lawrence served as lead guitar and band leader, Richie Rivera on drums, Rob Welch on Guitar and Keyboards, Joel Friedman on bass. After some quickly devised rehearsals the band began performing in local Bowling Green and Nashville bars and corner stages around town.
The group singed with a regional management company who at the time had a couple tribute bands on their roster. The Nashville management company had booked Suiters in a mall as a Kid Rock impersonator for an in-store appearance, and then invited him to their dinner afterwards. Also invited to the dinner was the drummer from another Nashville tribute on the roster, seated next to Kid Kentucky for some Japanese hibachi. Suiters had met Brian Bayley and hit it off in conversation over the flaming volcano of onions, while the rest of the room was staring at Don from a distance, wondering if it was Kid Rock in their presence.
Suiters and Bayley began discussing old cars, Don’s racing past as a Late Model Dirt Track Champion, and Bayley’s work in the music industry. As common ground began to form, Suiters commissioned Bayley for the group’s website and some audio production needs as a business launching point for the startup Kid Rock tribute. As projects came together and more bars showed interest, the drummer was unable to meet the needs of the schedule and Bayley was asked to step in. It was an immediate connection with Suiters and the band had a new drummer. “Don and I started working together on a few projects, and he would tell me about these folks that would stop him on the street thinking he was Kid Rock,” says Bayley. “At first, I was like, no way are these people stopping and taking pics and VIP treatments thinking you are Bob!” After a few short months playing gigs with the band, Bayley quickly realized just how impactful the Kid Rock look alike was in his appearance and Suiters’ ability to perform a quality representation of Mr. Ritchie himself!
Bayley amazed with the profound audience reception, then began kicking into high gear music biz, realizing the opportunity to reach Kid Rock fans everywhere. With all of the marketing, representation, booking, management and off-stage needs of a successful band, Bayley began digging around the country for bookings, built the biker scene that continues building and teamed up with Suiters in working together outside of just the on-stage performances. “There’s five people on stage,” says Bayley, “two of us off stage, and a whole shit ton of Kid Rock fans in front of the stage, keeping this train rolling down the tracks!”
And rolling down the tracks, it is! The Kid Kentucky train keeps rolling after many years of touring the nation, performing to thousands of great music fans, working with tons of great promoters and venues, and seeing some amazing places! The band has been included on the bill with the likes of Saving Abel, Trace Adkins, 38 Special, Night Ranger and others, in addition to performing with a bevy of fellow tribute bands delivering even more great music from bands like Def Leppard, Tim McGraw, Jason Aldean, Limp Bizkit, Lynyrd Skynyrd and more!
Culminating their 2022 touring, Kid Kentucky and the American Badass Band were awarded Tribute Artist of the Year at the Josie Music Awards: an independent music industry awards show held at the Grand Ole Opry house in Nashville. With a nomination for the same in 2021, and the win in 2022, the band looks forward to many more accolades to come, on the backs of their hard work and professionalism in the industry of tributes!
Entering a new phase of the band’s progress, Kent Yamamuro has assumed the lead guitar role in the band bringing even more class and style to the ensemble. Kent’s mastery of guitar was immediately evident as he worked with the band late in 2022. Toni from Noblesville, Indiana for example, provides some great kudos, for the ‘new guy’: “I saw him at Hollywood Casino. It was a great show. You all were awesome. Loved it!!” Original American-Badass-Band bassman, Joey Vincent Friedman lands himself a laugh claiming, “He’s putting the Kent in Kentucky!”
Also included in the mastery on and off stage, is the stage right workstation with Rob Welch at the helm. Rob not only serves as guitar, vocals, keyboards and dancing harmonica man in the spotlight, but Welch is also the resident gear guru for the band operating his own Tesi Switch ‘kill switch’ company as an expert in guitar gadgetry and upgrades. Rob has played a vital role in providing gear for the band that helps prepare them for the show and greatly streamline some of the process for band and crew alike.
In a short collection of years, this band of Kid Rock-ers has come together by means of train, planes and automobile to grow from the neighborhood Bowling Green bar, to playing some of the nicest stages across America. Heading into year number six with this project, Kid Kentucky and the American Badass Band vow to stay the course delivering the best Kid Rock music for a variety of events, venues, cruises, and damned near any celebration of the man himself where an opportunity is granted. “It’s an honor to play his music, wear his clothes and study his performance,” states Kid Kentucky, “and we can’t wait til the next show when we all get to do it again! Thank you Kid Rock for the music and the concerts! And thank you to all the fans out there that love to see it!” Roll on, roller coaster, roll on.
You can learn more about Don Suiters aka Kid Kentucky at https://www.kidkentucky.com/
Taylor Hughes, Lexington, Kentucky
Vocalist of the Year, Southern Rock/ Country Rock
Country artist and songwriter, Taylor Hughes, is not your typical country artist. With southern rock and blues influences, she delivers a powerful, unique, and sassy sound that demands attention. Native of Lexington, Kentucky, she now resides in Nashville where she's made quite a name for herself. Award winning Gospel singer and vocal coach, Christy Sutherland, describes Hughes' voice as "rich chocolate cake with soul" along with being called "Country music's answer to Adele" in the Tennessee Star Magazine .
After releasing her debut single, “Good Taste,” in 2020, hitting iHeart Radio and
multiple other stations, here sophomore single,“Prayin’ to the Whiskey,” got her the attention she truly deserved. She was nominated for “Emerging International Artist of the Year” in the UK followed by “Prayin’ to the Whiskey” being nominated for “International Song of the Year” in Ireland, making the final top 10. She closed out the year being in the final top 5 artists for the Southern Fellow’s “Artist of the Year” for the second year in a row.
Her third single, “High On Something,” was released at the end of 2021 and it charted in the top 100 on the Texas Internet Radio Charts and continues to climb up daily. Along with this success, she was nominated in the 2022 Josie Music Awards for "Female Country Vocalist of the Year" and the "Fan's Choice" award. Hughes was making waves long before moving to music city though. She has been nominated in the Lexington Music Awards for best female vocalist, best country artist, best singer-songwriter, and song of the year; winning in 2016, 2018 and 2019. She has opened and shared the stage with artists such as Chase Rice, Riley Green, Uncle Kracker, Sam Riggs, Morgan Myles, Angaleena Presley (Pistol Annies), Striking Matches, Leah Turner, Alexandra Kay, Uncle Kracker, and more.
2023 was a huge year for Hughes. Bringing in multiple mini tours around the
country, festivals, releasing her fourth single, “Jesus and Jail,” new partnerships,
winning multiple awards and receiving several nominations. To top this off, she has 5 songs she wrote being cut by other independent artists. She entered 2023 with four nominations in the Appalachian Arts and Entertainment Awards including "Best Female Vocalist," "Best Country Artist," "Song of the Year," and "Social Media Influencer." She was nominated by fan vote in Country Evolution's "artist to watch in 2023.” She received five nominations in the 2023 Lexington Music Awards and was awarded "Country Artist of the Year." Along with this success, Hughes received multiple nominations in the 2023 Josie music Awards and was awarded “Multi Genre Vocalist of the year.”
2024 started off amazing for this incredible talent as well. Hughes was named the 2024 "Female Vocalist of the Year" along with her song "Jesus and Jail" winning "Song of the Year" in the 10th annual Lexi Music Awards in Kentucky. She received two nominations in the '24 Josie Music Awards which were held at the Grand Ole Opry and was awarded "Southern Rock/ Country Rock Female Vocalist of the Year." Along with these accolades, she received her first song cut of 2024 on the highly anticipated debut Whey Jennings’ album (grandson of Waylon Jennings) "Jekyll & Hyde." The song was released as a single from the project, is being played on Sirius XM radio, and was chosen to have a music video made for it. Hughes is making waves in Country and has no plans of stopping.
Taylor’s live shows bring the energy, passion, and true country music that fans have been dying to hear. Put rising star, Taylor Hughes, on your radar!
You can learn more about Taylor Hughes at https://www.taylorhughesmusic.com/
Will Goodwin, Lexington, Kentucky
Vocalist of the Year, Bluegrass
"I am so thankful to have been selected at the prestigious Josie Music Awards as the Bluegrass Vocalist of the Year, especially in a category not traditionally known as one that enjoys more conventional or "classical" singers. My brothers and I have been celebrated and recognized far more than we deserve in an unfathomably deep and divers talent pool, where our peers are constantly pushing the envelop to keep growing this incredible genre of music. We will keep doing our best to contribute to that vision and hope people will enjoy our music for years to come!" - Will Goodwin
As mentioned above, Will's brother, Jonathan won Vocalist of the Year Honors in the Gospel/ Christian/ Inspirational Category, we dig more into the history of The Goodwin Brothers and we find that this isn’t Will’s first rodeo either. Earlier in 2024, Will found his name in the very prestigous list of only four nominees for Vocalist of the Year (all genres) for the Hollywood Independent Music Awards and as a winner for Bluegrass Band of the Year as a member of The Goodwin Brothers.
Two years ago, in 2022, The Goodwin Brothers were selected as one of eight performers at The 8th Annual Josie Music Awards at The Grand Ole Opry and also won Bluegrass Band of the Year honors. This performance of their original song "Barefoot Girl" showcased the versatility and exceptional stage presence of Will Goodwin singing lead and playing mandolin.
After serving in the Kentucky National Guard out of high school, he then attended Morehead State University where he became a vocal-major and was an often featured soloist with the MSU Black-Gospel Ensemble (Talk about diversity and being able to adapt). He graduated in 2013 with a degree in Political Science and then began traveling as the lead singer of the, then popular, Christian music band (ASSEMBLED).
Their projects were produced by his older brother, Jonathan, and within that ensemble, they garnered multiple awards within the gospel music community. Not sure about their current live shows, but on this project, William is the featured lead singer on 80% of the songs and the shoe certainly fits. He also plays mandolin for the group.
You can learn more about Will and The Goodwin Brothers at www.thegoodwinbrothers.com
Enjoy a short sample of another great song featuring Will Goodwin on lead vocals with Sarah Beth Terry's "Bottom of the Holler" - nominated for Bluegrass Song of the Year.
Haleigh Martin, Benton, Kentucky
Vocalist of the Year, Country / JMA Alumni
"This was my first Josie Music Awards, and I couldn't be more honored to have been selected as the JMA Alumni Country Female Vocalist of the Year amongst so many incredibly talents. The whole experience was inspiring and invigorating" - Haleigh Martin
Haleigh Martin is an up-and-coming progressive country/blues artist and songwriter. Born and raised in Kentucky, she has been engulfed by country radio waves and a fiery passion for music all her life. Her sound is described as soulful and stompy, with vigor and a dash of edge. Her personal style is very strong, warm, ethereal and inviting. Embracing her unique qualities, image and passions definitely presented some challenges, but started to spark and feed a harmonious combustion early in her teens.
She has been singing since entering this world, began cultivating guitar skills at age 7, and started formulating songs around 12 years old. Now, at the age of 26, Haleigh has independently released all of her music, and craves involvement in each step of the creation of her sound.
She loves every moment of the melodic process and is always working to improve and evolve her performance, vocals, songwriting, recording, and production. Haleigh moved to Nashville in 2021, and regularly performs in Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, and Missouri. She is now working on new music with Jesse Grisham at Arcsea Studio.
You can learn more about Haleigh Martin at www.haleighmartin.com
Andrew Moore and Hooch, London, Kentucky
Group of the Year - Multi-Genre
"For it to be a first time visit to ever seeing the Grand Ole Opry, I couldn't have thought of a cooler experience for us to go through. Getting to stand in the "sacred circle", where we all know the greats that have stood in the same spot before, and accept an award is mind-blowing. I wish I wasn't so nervouse when it happened because all I knew to do was quote Forest Gump and talk about Dr. Pepper and having to pee! The fellas of Andrew Moore and Hooch earned this one as it was a group award. I'm blessed to be surrounded with great musicians, a supportive family and a generous network of music industury folks who
offer constant opportunity and advice that I always learn from.
Jeff Ruby's restaurant has to be thanked as they have booked us up to December 2025. Matthew Florez is a brother and should be thanked for always making us sound our best at our live shows. Jason Groves should also be thanked for his incredible talent in the studio on our music that we have released so far. Overtones LIVE and Renee and Warren Cobb have really been an awersome help in pushing us forward as well and should not go unnoticed or unthanked.
God has provided us with nothing but blessings and I owe everything to HIM! I am so thankful I am able to perform music and write music. The biggest thanks goes to the big man for all of this being possible. We have won two major awards this year at what I consider two awesome and major independent music awards shows. We are incredibly thankful and humbled by this experience. It is now time to hit the recording studio and start going to work on more music!" - Andrew Moore of Andrew Moore and Hooch
What a BIG year for London, KY's Andrew Moore and Hooch starting out 2024 as a multi-nominee for the 10th annual Lexington Music Awards, the finding their presence on The Avalon Theater in Los Angeles for the Hollywood Independent Music Awards as WINNER of Blues Song of the Year for "Tyrant" AND as WINNER on The Grand Ole Opry Stage at The 10th annual Josie Music Awards in the category of Multi-Genre Group of the Year!
As regular weekly performers as the house band at Lexington, KY's Jeff Ruby's Restaurant - a venue that most graciously hosted Andrew Moore and Hooch's new album release in October 2024- they have delighted pre and post UK ballgame and Keeneland patrons who flock to the
restaurant for the experience of what we have called "the culinary entertainment amusement park". Andrew Moore and Hooch has also been performers at Jeff Ruby's Cincinnati, OH location as well.
"It’s been a while since we’ve heard some stylish blues music, blending soft country and rock sounds. I want to tell you about the amazing band Andrew Moore and Hooch and their new album ‘Artists of the Moon,’ but first, let me share a bit more about Andrew Moore and Hooch because their story is simply incredible. The music of Andrew Moore and Hooch represents a fresh mix of genres, seemingly drawing inspiration from all corners of American music history, and their latest album, a product of 14 months of intense work, proves how much soul they put into what they do. Combining new-wave blues, country, and soulful rock, this five-piece ensemble creates a heartfelt and unique sound that balances rich instrumental sections with deeply personal lyrics" - soundville writer
"Formed in 2022, Andrew Moore and Hooch is a dynamic bluesy band with an americana kind of twist that has been captivating audiences with their high-energy performances and soulful, gritty sound. Led by singer and pianist Andrew Moore, the band has been making waves in the music scene with their infectious blend of blues, country, rock, soul and songwriting. Andrew Moore’s impassioned vocals and electrifying piano work, combined with the tight rhythms and soulful grooves laid down by the rest of the band, create a musical experience that is both powerful and deeply engaging. Their music draws from the rich tradition of writing their own music and lyrics in the style of country and blues while infusing it with a modern edge, resulting in a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. With the single release of “Tyrant” (Moore Music) the music world is about to experience something very special." - New Music Weekly
To learn more about Andrew Moore and Hooch, visit https://andrewmoorehooch.com/
THREE KENTUCKIANS WIN ARTIST OF THE YEAR HONORS AT THE JMA'S
JD Shelburne, Taylorsville, Kentucky
Artist of the Year Modern Country/Male
"I am really honored to receive the Modern Country Artists Award of the year at the recent Josie Music Awards. As an independent artist since day 1 of moving to Nashville, it is always humbling to be recognized for hard work. One of the highlights of my night was getting to perform on the Grand Ole Opry Stage during the show. One of eight artists selected to perform! Huge honor and I can't thank Tinamarie Passantino and Josie Passantino enough for the recognition and opportunity." - JD Shelburne
JD Shelburne is that rare artist for whom the dream, the life, and the music have all come together.
SOURCE: jdsheburne.com
JD’s journey has taken him from Taylorsville, Kentucky, to the iTunes Country Top Ten, landed him on CMT and the Circle Network, found him opening for ZZ Top, Miranda Lambert, and Marty Stuart, put him on the cover of Kentucky’s Official Visitor’s Guide, a recording session with the Legendary Oak Ridge Boys and made national news for the sheer size and exuberance of a crowd numbering in the tens of thousands at one of his hometown concerts.
Now, with his latest album, Neon Hallelujah, JD takes another major leap forward, one that locks down his position as one of modern country’s most exciting and accomplished singers.
The follow-up to his breakthrough Straight From Kentucky album, Neon Hallelujah finds JD at the top of his game as a singer and writer, with 14 new songs destined to join the ranks of fan favorites as they offer further peeks inside his heart and soul.
JD’s voice, honed through more than a decade of relentless touring, has never been stronger or more nuanced, and his writing has matured along with it.
The album is yet another crowning achievement in a life that began on a Taylorsville tobacco farm with his principal father and schoolteacher mother, as he learned “a strong work ethic, a love for family, and having a passion for what you do.”
At 19, when he returned from college for his grandmother’s funeral, he found a guitar in her closet and took it back to school. He began playing every day between classes, and when he came home for the summer, he practiced in his local church.
“That’s where it all started for me,” he says, “and it just all came naturally.” Friends urged him to play clubs, and it wasn’t long before he had a loyal following and sellout dates on his hands. He began playing in Louisville and then moved to Nashville after graduation.
Along the way, he has been featured in Country Weekly Magazine, debuted as the #1 trending artist on CMT.com, and performed at over a hundred fairs and festivals spanning the eastern U.S. He has been part of the CMA Music Festival, the NCAA Women’s Final Four, and the Quaker State 400 NASCAR Race, and has performed at SunTrust Park, Guaranteed Rate Field, Great American Ballpark, Freedom Hall, and Rupp Arena, to name just a few, sharing the stage with over fifty national acts.
He was featured as the Texas Roadhouse Artist of the Month nationwide in May 2020 in 580 restaurants, a feat shared with the likes of Kenny Chesney, George Strait, and Rodney Atkins. He has made numerous appearances at the Kentucky Derby and his outfits have been featured on display in the museum at historic Churchill Downs. He performed the Kentucky state song at the capital by request of the state’s Senate and House of Representatives, and he was part of Hometown Rising in Louisville, headlined by Tim McGraw, playing for a crowd of tens of thousands. He has been featured in Kentucky Monthly and Kentucky Alumni magazines and was named Most Outstanding Alumnus of the University of Kentucky’s College of Communication and Information in 2016. In 2019, The Kentucky Music Hall of Fame in his native state of Kentucky, unveiled an exhibit for Shelburne dedicated to his journey in music. One of Shelburne’s highest honors.
In addition, JD has raised thousands of dollars for charities including St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Blessings In a Backpack, and Susan G. Komen for the Cure to name a few.
A dedicated family man, JD loves giving his fans a taste of his home life with wife Amy and son Jax. That too is part of the sweet spot as his social media connects him to that growing fan base.
“I couldn’t ask for a better life,” he says, “and I try with every song I put out to share the blessings and offer encouragement along with the fun. I wouldn’t trade it.”
To learn more about JD Shelburne, visit https://jdshelburne.com/
Brando Vanschoyck, Hindman, Kentucky
Artist of the Year, Multi-genre
Photography by David G Baker - Josie Music Awards - Grand Ole Opry
“Winning The Josie Music Award for Artist of the Year, Male, Multi-Genre, on my first visit to the Grand Ole Opry was surreal and incredibly humbling. Standing in that legendary circle, where so many icons have stood, and being acknowledged in this way brought a profound sense of connection and being seen, heard, and validated in a world where I’ve often felt invisible and unaccepted. I am deeply grateful to the Josie Music Awards and to everyone who has believed in me, supported me, encouraged me, and helped me get to this point. Thank you to The Josie Music Awards for making me feel that I belong” - Brando Vanschoyck
Brando Vanschoyck is what we call a "multipotentialite". Being great and highly skilled in a variety of disciplines - he is a singer-songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist, a traditional blacksmith former and a competitive strength athlete. This Eastern Kentucky University alumni majored in the field of Kinesiology, a discipline that examines the physiological, anatomical, bio-mechanical, pathological, and neuropsychological aspects of movement.
Born and raised in the hills of Eastern Kentucky, Brando Vanshocyck's life has been anything but an easy ride. Lyrics from real-life experiences of pain, struggle, suicide, heartbreak, loss and the darker side of life make Brando music style raw, emotional, heart-felt and real. He is primarily an acoustic singer/songwriter with a heavy southern gothic rock edge who writes music that has something to say.
Earlier this year, he found himself on the stage of The Mountain Arts Center in Prestonsburg, Kentucky, accepting an Appalachian Arts and Entertainment Award, known as the APPY Award, for the second year in a row! On October 27th of 2024, he found himself standing in the "sacred circle" at The Grand Ole Opry as winner of Multi-Genre Artist of the Year.
He also won the 2024 Busker Award by The Somerset Foodsotck Festival where he was acclaimed for his raw, thought-provoking lyrics that harmonize with his distinctive fusion of genres and instruments, creating a captivating musical experience.
Brando has been a frequent and most beloved guest on Overtones LIVE and we are grateful for his presence and his support.
Perhaps one of the biggest supporters of other musicians as well, we are looking so much forward to all the future holds for this amazing musician.
You can learn more about Brando Vanschoyck and listen to his music on his You Tube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIkdpxtLUXsinzxqFS4uYeg
Joe Clark, Lockport, Kentucky
Artist of the Year, Southern Rock/ Country Rock
"As a poor boy from the river in Kentucky, I was honored to even be nominated for a Josie Music Award, but winning Artist of the Year, Southern Rock/ Country Rock opened new doors for me. It was a humbling experience to stand on The Grand Ole Opry stage in that circle that so many legends have stood in before me. The Josie Music Awards are giving opportunity and recognition to fully independent artists like me, and that's exactly what we need more of to continue what we do....the OPPORTUNITY. I am truly thankful for this award and to now be a part of the Josie Family." - Joe Clark
Joe Clark has been bringing his country/rock music to wide variety of audiences for the past 15 years. Born and raised on the banks of the Kentucky River, Joe's lyrics and enchanting melodies reflect on his roots and life experiences.His distinctive voice accompanied by catchy melodies and heavy grooves will take you on an emotional journey that is never far from home.
Joe Clark pens nostalgic ruminations on life's ups and downs that are homespun enough for backroad driving yet captivating enough for a packed venue. Clark spent his early years refining his picking on guitar, while shaping his voice into the raw Kentucky baritone that was captured on his debut hit, "It Is What It Is".
Recorded while playing venues across the Midwest, Clark's first two full-lengths, "Storyteller" and "10 Years Too Late", showcase an artist homing in on his acoustic instincts. Joe gained a rabid local following through word of mouth enthusiasm, earning himself the 2024 Album of the Year Appalachian Arts and Entertainment Award, with both albums brimming with relatable songwriting that addresses timeless struggles amid modern-day, often dark realities.
After releasing Storyteller in 2022, he performed in venues, private events and festivals across Kentucky. After a shift in his personal life, Clark transformed his music into a gritty, riff-heavy sound, resulting in 2024's highly anticipated release of HillBilly Voodoo. He went on to reimagine several cuts, including a version of "It Is What It Is", that reflects a gift for shaping acoustic country into a novel expression of rock music. The full band album "HILLBILLY VOODOO" dropped on May 31 2024 . It is by far the most complex album Clark released to this date.It is a mix of country, southern rock and rock'n'roll.
You can learn more about Joe Clark at https://officialjoeclarkmusic.com/
KENTUCKIANS WIN TWO SONGWRITER JOSIE MUSIC AWARDS
Haleigh Newman, Hi Hat, Kentucky
Song of the Year Country/ JMA Alumni (Multiple Songwriters) "Out There Somewhere"
Written by Hailey Newman and Kim McLean
"Winning Song of the Year at the Josie Music Awards is an incredible honor. It validates my passion for songwriting and motivates me to keep creating music that connects with others. - Hailey Newman
The story of pop-rock country singer-songwriter Hailey Newman begins in a small and quaint mountain town in Eastern Kentucky. Born in Pikeville, and living just outside of Prestonsburg, Hailey calls the heart of Appalachia home, which makes her a true bluegrass girl at heart. She possesses a strong sense of family, music, culture and a small town, tight-knit sense of community. Life philosophies which have been at the core of her upbringing.
This was her second Josie Music Award win, however, Hailey is no stranger to the awards scene, she was named The Appy's - Appalachian Arts and Entertainment Songwriter of the Year in 2022 and 2023 brought her the Best Pop Award.
She has also impressively won Mountain Top Media's "Best in the Mountains" Recognition for 2022 and 2023.
"Winning the Songwriter of the Year and Song of the Year at The Josie Music Awards has been a very exciting experience for me! I couldn’t be more honored to have received these awards. Songwriting has been always been a part of my life since I was young. I even still have small journals of songs I wrote when I was younger. It’s great to know that it all finally paid off in the end. I’m so proud about being able come this far in my music career and plan to keep going!"
Hailey first realized she wanted to be a singer after she performed for her 8th grade talent show at South Floyd Middle School in 2015. After belting out her very best version of Miranda Lambert’s “Mama’s Broken Heart,” she received a cheerful and energetic response from her audience which she interpreted as a life-calling.
“My parents always encouraged me to just go for what I want in life, and were always very supportive of me and my pursuit to becoming a singer-songwriter,” Hailey explains. “My cousin is a comedian who also plays guitar, but other than that, I’m basically starting my own little musical revolution on my side of the family” she says smiling.
We are looking forward to hearing more from this young artist in the years to come and for future generations to enjoy!P
You can learn more about Hailey Newman at https://haileynewman.net/
Darrell Pittman, Lawrenceburg, Kentucky
Songwriter of the Year, Personal Portfolio
It was a great night of celebration and entertainment! I couldn't be more grateful for the recognition in this crazy, saturated industry. It's thinks like this that keep us making music and give us the drive to press on! - Darrell Pittman
In a category that awards songwriters who have also recorded their own work of musical art, it is no wonder why this amazing singer/songwriter was recognized for Songwriter of the Year, Personal Portfolio at The 2024 Josie Music Awards at The Grand Ole Opry on October 27, 2024.
Darrell Pittman, lead singer of D Boone Pittman and the Fugitives, has had a stellar year winning an Appalachian Arts and Entertainment Award for Best Original Song and was nominated in TWO categories at The Hollywood Independent Music Awards for Album of the Year and Folk/ Americana. All of these songs, including awards favorites "East of Ravenna and Love, Floods and Other Natural Disasters" originating from the monumental album "Resurrection Noise" with songs written and performed by Darrell Pittman himself and proceeds going to KSR Flood Relief.
D Boone Pittman, the country/americana songwriter, performer, and multiple Josie Award and Hollywood Independent Awards nominee, was thrilled to announce the official launch of his third studio album, Resurrection Noise in 2024. Pittman’s music has always been tethered to his roots. A product of Appalachia, Pittman’s songwriting captures the depths and majesty of his homeland while giving the listener a front row vantage point to the culture and history. Pittman writes and sings about this culture and history with an authority given only to those who have lived in the area. From the historical ballads like “Casey Jones” (from the Emerge, LP) and “Furnace Mountain” (from Bluegrass American Dream) to the relational angst expressed in songs like “She Likes the Beach” or “Bardstown Train”, Pittman consistently represents his heritage in song. It’s a formula that works, and his new project is no different. In the same way he approached the hardships of the pandemic with Emerge, Pittman tackles two new topics with his upcoming album Resurrection Noise.
The 10 track LP deals mostly with the subject matter of the tragic eastern Kentucky flooding from 2022, with some light hints to the passing of his father “Jackie” Pittman in 2021. “East of Ravenna”, the advanced single from the project, is meant to project hope to those still dealing with being displaced and/or grieving the loss of loved ones affected by the floods. “There is still so much left to be done and many still need our help, whether physically or financially.” He says “I wanted to do something to try to keep the focus on the region. As it stands, many are still without homes, and will be, for at least 2 more years. Natural disasters happen every day and our attention span chases the next new thing. I wanted to do something to redirect or focus to the area while also honoring the victims.”
Pittman’s musical story begins in the early 1970s at the grand opening of the local town drug store. His late father, from whom Pittman would later inherit his trademark Martin D-28 acoustic guitar, basically forced him to sing a Johnny Cash song, much to the delight of the crowd that had gathered there. Pittman, though he immediately received enthusiastic accolades and even tips, wasn’t havin’ it. “I hated it,” he recalls, “but I In my room, I’m playing air guitar and pretending to be Elvis, but to do it in public as a kid was really tough. It wasn’t that I struggled doing it, it was just more the fact that I was being made to do something. That ended up driving me into a phase where I refused to sing out in public at all.” Even going to a Johnny Cash concert at the age of 5 with his mother wasn’t enough to lure Pittman back into the spotlight, and transcribing the lyrics to hit songs off 45s for his father didn’t quite do the trick either—but it did lay the groundwork for the lyrical depth and flair that Pittman showed so effortlessly right off the bat with his 2019 debut Bluegrass American Dream.
As a tribute to his father, Pittman adopted The Fugitives band name, but he sees his work as carrying-on an even broader legacy. “I grew up in an environment where it was a common thing for people to bring their instruments over on the weekends—banjos, fiddles and guitars where everybody was singing and just having a good time. That was a really crucial aspect of my childhood. I really miss that. You don’t have that front-porch picking kind of spirit anymore, at least not where I’m at. So whatever I can do to bring it back with my music, I feel like I have to at least try.” In other words, Pittman is inviting you back home—back home to a world that still has room for community, back home to the most cherished aspects of your past and back home to yourself. You don’t have to be from Kentucky for his music to take you there, but D Boone Pittman sure does make it seem like a wonderful place to explore on the way. “East of Ravenna” can be downloaded from a non profit website that specializes in music sold for a good cause, Play It Forward. All the proceeds go towards the KSR Flood Relief fund and details are listed on the site.
To learn more about Darrell Pittman and D Boone Pittman and The Fugitives, you can go to
Melissa Deaton, Georgetown, Kentucky
EP of the Year, The Show
"Winning a Josie Music Awards for EP of the Year - Folk Category for my EP "The Show" is the ultimate honor. I'm still in awe because it is a dream come true for me. I am so thankful to Josie Passantino-Boone and Tinamarie Passantino for their loyal support of independent artists." - Melissa Deaton
Musical artist, songwriter, painter, jewelry and crafts designer, I have shared the stage with some of the worlds most renowned performers over the years in this business. Her voice has been heard on radio shows broadcast all over the globe.
Overcoming countless personal and professional obstacles on the way up, I continue to work hard each and every day to keep my musical journey moving forward.
Melissa Deaton won EP of the Year for "The Show" at the Josie Music Awards
2022 brought the release of her newest EP "In The Sea" and the two nominations for the coveted Josie Music Award in the categories of "Country Female Vocalist of the Year" and "EP of the year" for "In The Sea".
My greatest joy is being a proud Mom raising my two children, and I continue to write, create, and perform in public as often as possible.
If you would like a copy of my latest Josie Music Award winning EP please email her or or find her on Facebook. To learn more about Melissa Deaton Music, you can go to https://melissadeatonmusic.wixsite.com/melissadeaton
KENTUCKIANS WIN TWO JOSIE MUSIC AWARDS IN MUSIC COMPANY CATEGORIES
Mill Springs Studio, Nancy, Kentucky
Danny Micoff and Natalie Micoff, Owners
Recording Studio of the Year
"We are extremely grateful to even be nominated for such a prestigious award. To win our category among the 4 other nominees is a tremendous honor. Being able to accept the award on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry, within the sacred circle, was surreal. This acknowledgment means the world to us as we continue to highlight & bring focus to Kentucky artists and their music." Danny and Natalie Micoff
Mill Springs Studio believes in proudly promoting local music and it's artists by offering affordable recording studio services, resources & community. Described as the "Muscle Shoals Sound" of Kentucky, MSS is an intimate recording space where your talent will be distilled into the high-quality product Kentucky is known for. You can come and see for your self what is possible at Mill Springs Studio!
Dan and Natalie Micoff opened a recording studio way out in rural Mill Springs. An odd choice of place to build a studio, sure, but they found themselves falling in love with the music of Lake Cumberland.
Hailing from Michigan, the Micoffs wanted to find a home in Kentucky near Lake Cumberland to mimic the feel they got from living on the Great Lakes. They rented an AirBnB in Columbia after finding what they thought was their dream home in Russell Springs. They went to their “dream home” only to find themselves feeling misled by the pictures online. When they returned to their AirBnB, they looked for more housing options.
The couple took the leap of faith and moved to their home in Mill Springs then opened their rebranded recording studio out of it — the aptly named “Mill Springs Studio.” The location could easily be described as being “in the middle of nowhere” down two-lane gravel roads and by rolling farmland.
“People kind of made fun of us,” said Natalie Micoff. “But the more we met musicians and started seeing the local music and art scene, we kind of went, ‘Oh, we know why we were brought here now. This is it.’ Josie Music Awards - Grand Ole Opry
“It’s a peaceful, creative space,” she continued. “We’ve heard that over and over again: ‘If you can’t be creative here, it’s never happening!’”
Dan Micoff is the engineer for the studio and has been in the music industry for decades. His instrument that he was trained with was the guitar, but his favorite instrument is drums. He was in a group in the ’90’s before it “fizzled out.” He transitioned instead to recording and production, and he said he became a “nerd” for studio recording.
The pair called the Lake Cumberland area a “melting pot” of local artists, pointing to style ranging Appalachian country to worship and even stage musicals. “Our mantra is ‘Kentucky Proud,’” said Dan Micoff. “With all that’s going on in Somerset, the sky’s the limit.”
SOURCE: COMMONWEALTH JOURNAL
You can learn more about Mill Springs Studio at https://www.millspringsstudio.com/
Overtones LIVE, Lexington, KY
Warren and Renee Cobb
Media Company of the Year - Radio / Podcast
Congratulations to all of the nominees for The 2024 Josie Music Awards and we really love the commemorative announcement envelope and the award we received this year celebrating The 10th Anniversary of The Josie Music Awards. We were SO honored and blessed this year to win the radio show/ podcast award for the first time!
In previous years Overtones LIVE- Listen Locally has won honors for Audio/ Visual Excellence (2022) and Live Performance Video Production (2023) Thanks to The Josie Music Awards for this honor and to Tinamarie Passantino and Josie Passantino-Boone for creating such a memorable experience that all musicians will NEVER forget and for their commitment, love and passion for the independent music arena and the musicians who make it so incredibly special. Your hard work is always appreciated and honored, not only on one evening, but throughout the year. What a legacy you are building and what a memorable space and place you have created for all aspects of the music and music business to be placed front and center in the wonderful times in which we live.
We forever thank Radiolex 93.9 FM ENG The Voice of the People - Mark Royse, Kiah A, Diego Espinoza Masías, and Jacobo Aragon and the late Patrick Mitchell for their platform, the studio, their love and support for local Kentucky music, the stories they tell and the music they write and sing.
And special thanks and eternal gratitude to my co-host and mentor - Adam Banks of Off The Cuff with Adam Banks and Kate Smith of The Set List for showing me the way with LIVE radio and collaborating with us on some really cool projects and special edition shows on Radiolex 93.9 FM ENG this past year!
We also thank ALL of our fellow broadcast partner stations and the mentors at those stations including:
WGOH & WUGO GO Radio - Mike Nelson
WMMT FM - Appalshop - Teddy Wimer, Scarlett Gilley and Jared Hamilton
Forward Radio Louisville - Michael Logsdon and Justin Mog
WCYN Broadcasting - Ed Schwartz, Trent Harris Doug Miller and Reed Masterson - Illusionist Pickup Country 104.9 FM WSKV - Angela Oldfield The Set List and Somerset 106, WYKY FM Kate Smith
And to the incredible venue partner NashHouse Southern Spoon & Saloon - Samantha Funderlich, Jaxson Deno and Tracie Moore who have most graciously supported our efforts to bring Kentucky and Tennessee music to a LIVE stage and to the Airwaves- their hospitality and support and an amazing staff make this show possible!
To our sound engineers - Jaxson Deno and Nathan Pendleton for making all of the artists SOUND so good each and every episode.
We thank our media and music journalism friends who have so graciously told our story over the past year - JMA Winners Kathryn Washington-Shipley and Lazie Indie Music Magazine
Mick Jeffries of WRFL, Camisha Boyd Powell and Sharon Delphin Price of Unapologetically Women - Community Action Council, Kate Smith of The Set LIst, Doug Miller of WCYN - Jordyne Carmack - Women of the Bluegrass Podcast, Teddy Wimer of WMMT Mountain Talk, Scrilltown MO - Women in Broadcasting and MANY more!
To Whitney Slone Adams and Rachel Crowe for being most collaborative and original co-hosts who worked in concert with us in getting Overtones LIVE launched and thriving over the course of many years now!
To the venues who have hosted a season of Overtones LIVE in their musical home including Austin City Saloon, Bluegrass Barrel House, Kentucky Music Hall of Fame, Tipsy Cow Bar, and NashHouse Southern Spoon and Saloon - we thank you for your hospitality.
And of course to ALL of the artists from Kentucky and Tennessee who have "worked in concert" with all of us in the most collaborative of ways in showcasing the work being done to preserve, promote and present music of the Appalachian Region.
Congratulations to ALL nominees - your hard work has been honored and commemorated in a powerful and most inspirational way!
To my husband, Warren Cobb, I love you!
Thank you for working in concert with me for 10 years now!
To God Be The Glory for the things HE has done! We are grateful for all of you who have been placed in our lives and musical path for great purpose and meaning. We love you!
Janet Reynolds Photography - Josie Music Awards -
Grand Ole Opry
You can learn more about Overtones LIVE and see our "Working in Concert" performances on our You Tube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@overtoneslive8084/videos
Renee Collins Cobb, M.Ed. and Warren Cobb. B.A. are Executive Producers of Overtones LIVE and Co-Owners of Listen Locally, LLC, as well as Executive Directors and Founders of Room 17 Productions, a non-profit 501c3 organization. We are also partners in Dreamland Entertainment Group and The Scribe TV Network.
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