MusicRow Weekly (Rising Women On The Row, News, Charts, More…)

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This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly reflects a moment of both celebration and transition within Nashville’s music industry, spotlighting rising talent, executive leadership changes, landmark certifications and major publishing moves. Click here to read the full edition.

MusicRow has revealed its 2026 Rising Women on the Row honorees, recognizing a new class of industry leaders whose impact continues to shape Nashville across publishing, management, labels and beyond. This year’s class includes Courtney Allen, Jackie Augustus, Sara Knabe, Victoria Mason, Sophia Sansone and Elisa Vazzana.

The Country Music Association announced that CEO Sarah Trahern will retire from her role, concluding a transformative tenure that began in 2014. During her leadership, Trahern expanded the CMA’s global reach, strengthened its organizational structure and helped guide the genre through a period of historic growth and cultural influence.

Big Loud Records has named Stacy Blythe and Jordan Pettit as Co-Presidents, elevating both executives into expanded leadership roles as the label continues to grow its roster and creative footprint. The appointments reflect Big Loud’s commitment to long-term artist development and internal leadership progression.

In a major publishing acquisition, Sony Music Publishing has acquired Big Yellow Dog Music, bringing its catalog, creative team and writers into the Sony ecosystem.

BMI has named hit songwriter Lee Thomas Miller as its 2026 Songwriter Ambassador, honoring his influential career and continued commitment to advocacy and mentorship within the songwriting community.

Chris Stapleton’s hit “Tennessee Whiskey” has achieved RIAA Double-Diamond certification, marking more than 20 million units and underscoring the song’s lasting impact across country, soul and mainstream audiences.

In signing news, Allison Veltz Cruz has signed with Reservoir Media. Emerging artist Zach Kale has inked a deal with Sea Gayle Music. Singer-songwriter Adam Doleac has signed with peermusic Nashville. Larry Fleet has partnered with EMPIRE, marking a new chapter in his recording career. Rising artist Will Terry has signed a management deal with TRACK mgmt. Julianna Rankin has signed with Big Loud Texas and singer-songwriter Meels has inked a deal with Lost Highway Records.

At Curb Records, Samantha DePrez has been promoted to Senior Director of Promotion, marking a milestone in her 17-year journey with the label.

Producer and songwriter Rob Williford has launched Wildcard Productions alongside Spencer Coats of FAME Studios and executive Dan Massey. Based in Nashville and working across genres, the new venture will debut its first release with Aniston Pate’s “Kickin’ It,” followed by releases from Julia Kate Snow and Austin Bohannon later this month.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Ella Langley remains in the No. 1 spot with “Choosin’ Texas.” 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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