MusicRow Weekly (News, Charts, More…)

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This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly captures a surge of industry activity across Nashville, with major award nominations, executive appointments, management updates and much more. Click here to read the full edition.

The nominees for the 68th Annual Grammy Awards have been revealed, marking the beginning of another high-profile awards season. Artists and creators across genres will be celebrated when the ceremony returns to Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena on Feb. 1, 2026.

Cris Lacy has been named Chair & President of the newly-rebranded Warner Records Nashville, ushering in a new chapter for the label as it aligns more closely with the global Warner Records structure. Additionally, Warner Records Group has elevated longtime leader Gregg Nadel to President of A&R.

At Sony Music Publishing, Michael Young has been appointed Chief Information Officer and the company has elevated Dee Hale to SVP, Film & TV Administration.

MCA Nashville has announced key promotions, elevating Tatiana Angulo and Taylor Viegut as the label continues to strengthen its internal ranks.

On the management front, multi-Platinum duo Dan + Shay have signed a new management deal with Core Entertainment, marking an exciting new phase in their career and touring strategy.

A major honor has been announced for one of country music’s most respected figures as Vince Gill will receive the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his exceptional artistry, influence and enduring impact on the genre.

In publishing and creative news, BMI has promoted three members of its Nashville creative team, while Warner Chappell Music Nashville has renewed Tyler Hubbard’s global administration deal, further extending a long-standing partnership. By Design has revealed a new global publishing partnership with Sony Music Publishing.

ASCAP has unveiled the winners of the 2025 Christian Music Awards, honoring the genre’s top songwriters and publishers.

Several artists celebrated career milestones this week as well. Legendary singer-songwriter James Taylor made his Grand Ole Opry debut, while rising artist Hannah McFarland also stepped into the Opry circle for the first time, marking a pair of unforgettable nights at the historic venue.

Publishing signings continued with Brendan Walter, who has officially inked with Warner Chappell Music Nashville. EMPIRE has expanded its Nashville presence by adding two new team members. Meanwhile, Big Machine Label Group has confirmed a new round of hires and promotions across departments, reinforcing its growing footprint.

Rounding out the week’s moves, Cole Brown has joined Creative Nation as Publishing, Management & Records A&R, and Ashley Nite has joined Kobalt.

This week’s edition also features a conversation with G Major Mgmt’s Virginia Bunetta

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. HARDY takes the No. 1 spot with “Favorite Country Song.” Explore more chart data here.

The MusicRow Weekly is delivered every Friday, featuring Nashville’s top music industry news, exclusive interviews, song reviews, radio and songwriter charts and more. Sign up for free here.

Lauryn Sink
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