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

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This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly highlights a powerful moment for Nashville’s music community, as well as major industry developments across publishing, management, touring and artist signings. At the center of the week’s news is the continued celebration of the women helping shape Music City’s present and future. Click here to see the full edition.

The 13th annual Rising Women on the Row breakfast once again demonstrated the extraordinary spirit of Nashville’s music industry. Hosted by MusicRow Magazine, the event welcomed its largest crowd yet, more than 750 attendees, while maintaining the intimate, supportive atmosphere that has made it a hallmark gathering each year. The celebration took place at JW Marriott Nashville, where the industry gathered to honor six standout female executives: Courtney Allen, Jackie Augustus, Sara Knabe, Victoria Mason, Sophia Sansone and Elisa Vazzana. Keynote speaker Ebie McFarland delivered remarks reflecting on her two decades guiding some of country music’s most enduring careers, underscoring the impact of leadership, mentorship and resilience within the industry.

The celebration of female leadership continues in the pages of MusicRow Magazine’s newly released Women of Music Row Issue, the publication’s second edition dedicated entirely to the women influencing Nashville’s music ecosystem. This year’s cover star is BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville artist Alexandra Kay. Inside the issue, a number of artists and executives offer insight into the opportunities and challenges shaping the industry today. Kay joins Emily Ann Roberts, Kassi Ashton, Lauren Watkins and MacKenzie Carpenter for a candid roundtable discussion on navigating the modern music business. The issue also features industry veteran Lou Taylor discussing the recently appointed all-female C-suite at Tri Star Sports & Entertainment Group, while Sound Emporium’s Juanita Copeland reflects on her 30-year tenure leading one of Nashville’s most iconic recording facilities. Tucker Wetmore also shares perspective alongside his female-led team about the key role women have played in his rapid ascent. The issue additionally includes insights from McFarland and recognizes the Rising Women on the Row Class of 2026.

Elsewhere in industry leadership news, Academy of Country Music CEO Damon Whiteside has announced he will step down after six and a half years leading the organization. Whiteside will remain CEO through June 30, 2026, before transitioning into the role of CEO Emeritus for the remainder of the year.

The Country Music Association also revealed the recipients of its 2026 CMA Triple Play Awards, set for April 13 in Nashville. Hosted by songwriter Jim Beavers, the ceremony will recognize 16 songwriters who achieved the feat of writing three No. 1 songs within a 12-month period. This year’s honorees include Andy Albert, Louis Bell, John Byron, Jessie Jo Dillon, Ashley Gorley, Riley Green, Charlie Handsome, Jacob Kasher Hindlin, Ella Langley, Chase McGill, John Morgan, Blake Pendergrass, Taylor Phillips, Austin Post, Ernest Keith Smith and Morgan Wallen. In addition to the Triple Play honorees, CMA will celebrate more than 40 songwriters who have earned their first No. 1 country single since the last ceremony. Bart Herbison, Executive Director of the Nashville Songwriters Association International, will also be honored with the CMA Songwriter Advocate Award.

The week also brought several notable industry signings. Mary Kutter has joined WME for global representation. Rising country artist Walker Montgomery has signed a new label deal with Red Street Records. Nathan Wallace has signed with Concord Music Publishing, while Ella Gibson has joined G Major Management.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Dylan Scott takes the No. 1 spot with “What He’ll Never Have.” 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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