Rayna learns that her record label wants her to tour as the opening act for newcomer Juliette Barnes, and when she refuses, the stage is set for the ultimate power struggle for popularity. Complicating matters, Lamar’s drive for power results in backing Teddy in a run for Mayor of Nashville, against Rayna’s wishes.

Teddy’s mayoral campaign is moving ahead and Rayna reluctantly endures an investigation that reveals some explosive family secrets. Coleman Carlisle is starting to lay down the groundwork for his campaign when he discovers Lamar is poised to go head to head with him, even if it means exposing his longtime friend. Juliette will stop at nothing when it comes to getting her hands on Deacon. After seeing him perform with Rayna at the Bluebird, it’s clear that not all feelings fade with time. Scarlett is torn between pursuing her dream of songwriting with Gunnar, and her commitment to Avery.

Rayna immerses herself in her kids’ lives and her husband’s campaign, and is sobered to learn that she and Teddy are facing financial ruin; Juliette offers Deacon an exclusive contract to write and tour with her; and Juliette’s troubled mother, Jolene, re-enters her daughter’s life in dramatic fashion. Meanwhile, Scarlett and Gunnar’s big break with Watty is threatened.

The arrival of a woman from Teddy's past tests his marriage, Rayna and Deacon perform at Teddy's fundraiser, Juliette appears on "Good Morning America," and Gunnar connects with his publisher's assistant.

Rayna considers moving on after Deacon starts to set boundaries in their relationship; Juliette struggles with her mom’s addictions and Deacon offers a helping hand, which leads to difficult memories from his past; Teddy is worried that his mayoral campaign will be derailed when his past with Peggy and his financial troubles border on being exposed; and tension with Avery and Gunnar is at a boiling point, as Scarlet feels the pressure to pick her path.

Rayna seeks the help of a music producer to change her sound, Juliette goes on a date with an NFL player in an attempt to repair her image, and Lamar's plan to delay Coleman's arrival at a photo op works too well.