MusicRow Weekly (News, Charts, More…)

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This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly reflects another busy and eventful chapter for the country music industry, highlighted by the return of one of Nashville’s signature events, major executive moves, notable signings and the loss of a beloved broadcasting voice. Click here to see the full edition.

The Country Music Association welcomed fans from around the world to Nashville for the 53rd CMA Fest, held June 4-7. Each night, thousands packed Nissan Stadium to enjoy performances that showcased the genre’s broad appeal, from emerging artists making their mark to legendary acts that helped define country music. Throughout the daytime hours, Broadway and downtown Nashville buzzed with activity as multiple stages and venues hosted performances for fans eager to experience the festival atmosphere. As another successful CMA Fest comes to a close, organizers have already announced dates for next year’s event, with the 54th CMA Fest set for June 10-13, 2027.

The industry also paused this week to remember longtime WSM personality Bill Cody, who passed away on June 9 at the age of 67. Cody was a beloved broadcaster and a familiar voice to generations of country music fans, leaving behind a lasting legacy through his decades of service to WSM and the country music community.

Several major artist developments made headlines this week. Florida Georgia Line has signed with The Core Entertainment for management and has also joined the roster at CAA. Carly Pearce has entered a new chapter as well, signing with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville.

Among the week’s biggest honors, the RIAA presented Garth Brooks with its inaugural Artist of a Lifetime Award. The recognition further cements Brooks’ place in music history, as he remains the only artist to achieve 10 Diamond-certified albums.

The bluegrass community saw a significant leadership change as Ken White exited his role as Executive Director of the International Bluegrass Music Association. Meanwhile, HEY NOW Records expanded its executive team with the additions of Danny Bess as SVP of Finance & Operations, Rachel Brown as Manager of Operations and Troy Scott as Vice President of Commerce & Consumer Products.

Elsewhere across the industry, several organizations announced key promotions and appointments. Triple 8 Management promoted Allison Bostrom to Senior Vice President of Marketing, while TKO Artist Management elevated Cassie Petty to Vice President. At BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, Cheyana Weekley joined the company as Head of Marketing.

The publishing sector remained active with several new signings. Christian Stalnecker signed with Curb | Word Music Publishing, Kyle Fishman entered a publishing agreement with Ern’s Cadillac Music via Big Loud Publishing, and Austin Taylor Smith joined the roster at Peacock Publishing.

Girlilla Marketing also announced a series of staff advancements. Lindsey Feinstein and Conley Sweeney were both promoted from Account Director to Senior Account Director, while Gigi Morrison was elevated to Creative Director. The company additionally welcomed Esther Kuperus as Creative Coordinator.

On the artist and songwriter front, Blake Proehl signed with MCA, Emmy Moyen joined SMACKSongs, Hunter Flynn secured global representation with WME, and Luke Stevens signed with Warner Chappell Music (WCM) Nashville and Cornman Music.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Morgan Wallen remains in 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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