MusicRow Weekly (MusicRow Touring & Next Big Thing Issue, News, Charts, More…)

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This week brought a surge of developments across Nashville’s music industry, ranging from major business moves and leadership shifts to headline-making artist news and the unveiling of the talent shaping the year ahead. The latest edition of The MusicRow Weekly captures the momentum across Music City as artists, executives and companies continue to drive the industry forward. Click here to see the full edition.

A key highlight is the release of MusicRow Magazine’s 2026 Touring & Next Big Thing Issue, which features Gavin Adcock of Thrivin’ Here Records/Warner Records Nashville on the cover. Inside, the publication introduces its 12th annual Next Big Thing class, spotlighting a group of artists positioned for major growth: Graham Barham, Kaitlin Butts, Laci Kaye Booth, The Castellows, Kashus Culpepper, Lanie Gardner, Alexandra Kay, Braxton Keith, Zach John King, Chase McDaniel, Ty Myers, Emily Ann Roberts, Hudson Westbrook and Stephen Wilson Jr. The issue also presents the N.B.T. Industry Directory Class of 2026, recognizing emerging Nashville business leaders whose work is already influencing the city’s creative and commercial landscape.

The magazine digs into the evolving live music sector with a roundtable featuring WME’s Barrett Sellers, Wasserman’s Lenore Kinder, The Neal Agency’s Brian Carothers, UTA’s Brian Hill, CAA’s Lindsey Myers and Kinkead Entertainment’s Greg Scott. Coverage extends to mental health visibility through Hollywood & Mind’s first Nashville event, discussions on genre and equity with Gina Miller and Jeanette Porcello, insights from Ryman Auditorium/Grand Ole Opry House/Ascend Amphitheater Director of Concerts Chrissy Hall, and a closer look at life on the road from tour managers Chelsae Partosan and Matt Morgan.

In artist news, Maddie & Tae announced that they are moving forward with separate paths. Font will continue releasing music as a solo artist, while Kerr is stepping away from the business to focus on her family. Another notable moment occurred during Jelly Roll’s appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience, where Craig Morgan surprised him with an invitation to join the Grand Ole Opry via video message.

The industry also noted the passing of Raul Malo, frontman of the Grammy-winning band The Mavericks, who died at age 60 after a battle with cancer.

Conway Entertainment Group Live (CEG Live) announced the launch of its new Nashville-based consulting division, offering venue booking, strategic planning and operational support for entertainment spaces. Tony Conway will lead the initiative, working alongside Blake McDaniel, Scott Welch, Sherry May and Brandon Mauldin.

Capitol CMG Publishing revealed multiple promotions; David Gutekunst to Executive Vice President; Kent Draughon to Senior Vice President of Administration & Operations; Katie Barolak and Terryl Padilla to Senior Director, Creative; and Jessica Marion to Vice President of Marketing & Song Promotion. Sony Music Publishing also expanded its lineup with a global publishing deal for BigXthaPlug and a new partnership with Tooth & Nail Publishing for Max McNown.

Additional personnel updates included Caroline Fields taking the helm of 2PM Sharp Publicity’s Nashville office, Brad Moist joining Integrity Music as Vice President of A&R & Development, and Ella Fernandez being elevated to Executive within CAA’s Global Touring Marketing division. New publishing agreements were inked by Ricky Manning with Electric Feel Publishing/Plush–Push Play Publishing, Jake Puliti with Young Guns Publishing, and Matt McKinney with Position Music.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Jason Aldean takes the No. 1 spot with “How Far Does A Goodbye Go.” 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.

Madison Hahnen
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