CRS 2026 Day One: ‘Y’all Means All,’ Cycle of A Song, CRS Honors, More

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Country Radio Seminar kicked off Wednesday (March 19) at the Omni Nashville Hotel. Below are some of the highlights from yesterday’s programming.

‘Y’all Means All: Expanding The Audience’ Kicks Off CRS Week

Photo: Courtesy of CRS

CRS 2026 kicked off yesterday with the “Y’all Means All: Expanding The Audience” breakfast. Moderated by Amber Anderson, the event featured Al Farb, Ty Herndon, James Marsh and MŌRIAH.

 

Streaming Experts Share Findings On Teen Music Listeners

Photo: Courtesy of CRS

CMA presented findings from its recently completed teen-focused research study, a custom project designed to better understand the next generation of country music listeners. Following the data presentation, a panel composed of radio and streaming programmers, as well as Conner Smith, discussed the future audience pipeline for the genre.

 

‘Cycle of A Song’ Highlights ‘Single Again’

Photo: Courtesy of CRS

As part of the “Cycle of A Song” series, Wednesday’s session focused on Josh Ross‘ chart-topper “Single Again.” Panelists Damon Moberly, Julia Robert, Jackie Augustus, Tracy Martin, Julie Adam and Justin Cole joined Ross to explain the journey the song took to become a hit, showcasing the vital roles social media, streaming platforms, radio play and touring can play in building an artist’s audience.

 

Warner Music Nashville Luncheon

Photo: Courtesy of CRS

CRS attendees enjoyed lunch and good music at the Warner Music Nashville Luncheon. This year’s edition featured performances from Ashley McBryde, Blake Whiten, Gabby Barrett, The Band Loula and The Creekers.

 

CRS Honors Recognizes Industry Professionals

Photo: Courtesy of CRS

The Country Radio Hall of Fame Class of 2026 were announced during CRS Honors. This year’s honorees include Chris Carr, Michael J, Rick Jackson, Marci Braun, Phil Hunt, Bruce Logan and John Marks. CRS also presented four prestigious scholarships during the event, including the Rusty Walker Scholarship, the Lisa McKay Women in Radio Scholarship and the Whitney Allen “Hot Mic” Scholarship.

The event featured performances from Frank Ray and HARDY, and Parker McCollum joined to help unveil the honorees.

 

Amazon Music Presents ‘Country Heat’ at CRS 2026

Photo: Courtesy of CRS

To end the Digital Music Summit on day one of CRS, Amazon Music brought the party of their “Country Heat” show. Attendees were treated to music from headliner Parker McCollum along with Max McNown, Carter Faith and Zach John King.

Lauryn Sink
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