Bits & Pieces: Luke Combs now has the most RIAA-certified units (inclusive of albums and singles) for a country artist at 168 million, surpassing Garth Brooks' record. Says Combs, "I’m super humbled by the fans’ belief in me and support of my music today and over the years. I know this does not happen without them.”

The Tennessean music writer Marcus K. Dowling departed Oct. 3 after four years, saying in a social media post that he plans to pursue a "myriad of personal and professional opportunities that have unfolded." Among them: launching the weekly, 30-minute, pop culture-focused podcast Culture At Large on Oct. 13. The show will be recorded live at Nashville’s Anzie Blue. RSVP for the free first taping with songwriters Ben Johnson and Laura Veltz here. Reach Dowling here.