Cumulus Media’s NASH Next 2016 Campaign Begins

Cumulus Media has launched its NASH Next 2016 contest, seeking undiscovered country artists. The winner will land a record deal with Big Machine Label Group and have the opportunity for significant radio airplay through Cumulus.

NASH/Cumulus stations in 60 markets, including Dallas, New York, Atlanta, Detroit and Nashville, will conduct local searches, with additional national participation made possible by Cumulus’ digital properties and syndicated country shows.

Big Machine Label Group’s Scott Borchetta, Kix Brooks, and Jay DeMarcus will serve as the competition’s final judges.

Reba McEntire helped announce the contest and noted, “Radio has been an essential — and joyous — part of my musical career for over four decades. Cumulus is synonymous with country, so it’s the pitch perfect vehicle for this search. I’m honored to add my voice to this great project that will help usher in the next generation of country stars.”

Mary G. Berner, president and CEO, Cumulus Media Inc., stated, “NASH Next 2016 is an ideal way to leverage Cumulus’ leadership position in country music. By launching this competition with record-breaking support from our stations and affiliates, we are further signaling to listeners, advertisers and business partners that Cumulus is #1 for country.”

She added, “With the continued explosion of country’s popularity, and with our programming now broadcast on 82 percent of all country radio stations nationwide, Cumulus has even more opportunities for growth, providing expanded exclusive content for fans, and an even bigger audience for America’s newest country star.”