MusicRow Weekly (News, Charts, More…)

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This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly brought another busy stretch of milestones, promotions, signings and industry celebrations across Music City, highlighted by the Country Music Association’s annual CMA Touring Awards. Click here to see the full edition.

On Tuesday evening (June 2), CMA gathered the touring community at The Pinnacle in Nashville to recognize the professionals who keep country music’s biggest tours running smoothly. Hosted by Keith Urban for the fourth consecutive year, the ceremony honored excellence across 20 categories and celebrated the behind-the-scenes talent that powers the live music industry.

Lainey Wilson‘s “Whirlwind World Tour” team emerged as the evening’s biggest winner, earning six individual awards, including honors for Backline Technician, Stage Manager, Front of House Engineer, Tour Video Director, Monitor Engineer and Tour Manager of the Year. Wilson’s touring team also claimed the night’s top distinction, Crew of the Year.

Several notable industry leaders were also recognized, including Kerri Edwards of KP Entertainment, who was named Manager of the Year; Becky Gardenhire of WME, who received Talent Agent of the Year; and Olivia Hanceri of OH Creative, who earned Publicist of the Year honors. Luke Combs band member Kurt Ozan was recognized as Touring Musician of the Year. The CMA additionally presented legendary agent and manager Jim Halsey with the Lifetime Touring Achievement Award, while CMA CEO Sarah Trahern closed the evening by surprising Urban with the prestigious CMA Founding President’s Award.

Elsewhere across the industry, Black River Entertainment announced the promotion of Grace Watson to Vice President, Commercial Partnerships & Digital. Stem elevated both Alison Junker and Chris Allen to Vice President, Artist & Label Relations, while The Ryan Seacrest Foundation expanded and strengthened its leadership team. Katie Klochany was promoted to Director of Engagement and Creative, Laura Crawford advanced to Director of Entertainment Relations, and Daniel Skirpan joined as Director of Engineering and Innovation. The organization also welcomed Megan Wordsworth as Talent Coordinator and Charlotte Torquato as Program Coordinator.

Industry news included IEBA naming Lauren Tingle as its new Director of Marketing & Communications.

On the representation front, Belles signed with WME for worldwide representation, while Josh Weathers joined the roster at UTA. Carson Peters secured a global publishing deal with Sony Music Publishing Nashville, and Caleb King signed with RECORDS Nashville and Provident Entertainment. Meanwhile, Kinsley inked a deal with MCA.

Several artists also celebrated major career moments on iconic stages. Travis Bolt made his Grand Ole Opry debut on May 29. The same evening, DEK of Hearts also made its Grand Ole Opry debut.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Morgan Wallen takes the No. 1 spot with “Don’t We.” 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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