MusicRow Weekly (InCharge, News, Charts, More…)

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This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly captures a moment of both momentum and reflection across the country and broader music industry, with major announcements, career milestones and the remembrance of influential figures shaping the headlines. Click here to see the full edition.

MusicRow Magazine has unveiled the 2026 edition of its flagship print directory, InCharge. Long regarded as an essential resource within Nashville’s music business ecosystem, the annual guide continues to spotlight the executives steering the industry forward. This year’s volume features 384 profiles, offering not only contact information but also in-depth career biographies and detailed affiliations across boards and organizations.

Award season is also beginning to take shape. The Country Music Association has confirmed that the 60th Annual CMA Awards will air live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday, Nov. 18, broadcasting on ABC with streaming availability on Hulu the following day. Alongside the date announcement, CMA released its full ballot schedule and key timelines for its Broadcast Awards, Touring Awards, International Awards and Industry Honors.

On the executive front, Big Machine Records/Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment has appointed Allison Jones as Executive Vice President of A&R. Elsewhere in media, Joseph Hudak has been promoted to Deputy Editor and Head of Country at Rolling Stone.

The artist community saw a mix of celebration and new beginnings this week. Avery Anna has been named ACM New Female Artist of the Year. Owen Riegling stepped into one of country music’s most revered circles with his Grand Ole Opry debut, while Naomi Carman and Sam Drysdale each marked new chapters by signing with Big Machine Records and ONErpm Nashville, respectively.

The industry also gathered to honor excellence at the Musicians Hall of Fame induction ceremony, held April 28 at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts. The sold-out event recognized a diverse and accomplished class, including Dann Huff, Dolly Parton—who received the Industry Icon Award—George Thorogood & The Destroyers, John Boylan (Producer Award), Keith Urban, Leland Sklar, Michael McDonald and the late Nicky Hopkins.

Amid these forward-looking moments, the week also brought somber news with the passing of two respected figures. Country music outlaw David Allan Coe died at age 86, leaving behind a legacy defined by his distinctive voice and songwriting. Known for hits such as “The Ride” and “You Never Even Called Me by My Name,” Coe also penned songs recorded by icons including Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson and Tammy Wynette. His songwriting contributions also include “Take This Job and Shove It” and “Would You Lay With Me (In a Field of Stone)”. Additionally, industry veteran Cliff Downs passed away at 72 following a battle with cancer. His multifaceted career as an artist, composer, producer and publisher earned him deep respect across the business.

This week’s edition also features a conversation with FlyteVu’s Laura Hutfless.

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