Every independent country artist starts with a song and a dream. So here’s a running timeline of the big moments so far, from the first records out of The Clam Shack Studio to my first time on a chart. Of course, I’ll keep adding to these Forest Raynes milestones as the story grows. Most of all, thanks for being part of every one of them!
2026 Forest Raynes Milestones
November 3, 2026
🤠 “Ella’s Fella” Is Released
My new single “Ella’s Fella” came out, along with the official music video on YouTube. In addition, J.K. Coltrain and Nashville Radio Promotions are taking it to independent country radio stations.
In fact, the whole song started at the Back Bay Ale House in Atlantic City. Read the story behind it.
Week of October 31, 2026
📈 “Truck Bed Summer” Climbs to #47
Then, one week after its debut, “Truck Bed Summer” moved up two spots to #47 on the Indie Chart Top 50. Better yet, it showed that listeners kept coming back for more.
Week of October 24, 2026
⭐ First Time on a Chart: “Truck Bed Summer” Hits #49
After months of hard work, “Truck Bed Summer” finally landed at #49 on the Indie Chart Top 50. It was a huge milestone: the first time a Forest Raynes song ever appeared on a chart.
Above all, a big thank-you goes to J.K. Coltrain and Nashville Radio Promotions for sending the song to more than 6,000 independent country stations.
August 21, 2026
🎄 Two Christmas Title Tracks Come Out
Then the title tracks from Christmas at the Clam Shack and Christmas on the Airwaves came out on the same day. Best of all, 100% of the proceeds from Christmas on the Airwaves go to the ARRL Teachers Institute.
August 3, 2026
🎶 Two Christmas Albums Finished
After two years of dreaming, I finished recording two brand-new Christmas albums at The Clam Shack Studio. Together, they hold 22 original Christmas songs. As a result, Christmas at the Clam Shack got a whole lot busier!
July 17, 2026
📻 Bands Are Hummin’ Today Is Released
Next came this 10-track album, which takes you on a country music journey through the world of amateur radio. In particular, it covers everything from Parks on the Air to Field Day weekends and the mentors behind every callsign.
July 13, 2026
🎙️ Forest Raynes Radio Goes Live
The “On Air” light came on at The Clam Shack Studio, and Forest Raynes Radio started streaming 24/7 on Live365. Since then, it has played my music alongside independent artists, country classics, and today’s hits. Without a doubt, it’s still one of my proudest milestones.
January 19, 2026
📡 Signals Home Is Released
Signals Home brought together 10 original country songs. In short, they’re about finding your way back to family, friends, faith, and home. Most importantly, it was the first big milestone on this journey.
More Milestones on the Way
Still, this is just the beginning. So keep an eye on this page, the News & Stories blog, and the Music page for what comes next. Finally, if you’ve helped along the way by streaming, sharing, or requesting a song, thank you. Every one of these milestones belongs to you, too.