MusicRow Weekly (Dolly Parton, News, Charts, More…)

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This week’s edition of the MusicRow Weekly covers a week of major news across Nashville’s music industry, from the passing of global icon Dolly Parton and legendary manager Dale Morris to the release of the 2026 MusicRow Awards print issue, new industry leadership moves, publishing deals and several Grand Ole Opry debuts. Click here to see the full edition.

Dolly Parton died peacefully in Nashville on Tuesday (Aug. 25) at age 80 following a brief battle with cancer. Her death marked the loss of one of the most influential figures in country music history, whose career spanned music, film, television, business and philanthropy.

Nashville gathered for the annual SOURCE Hall of Fame Awards at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum inside the city’s historic Municipal Auditorium. The ceremony honored six more “women behind the music,” Debbie Cheek Carroll, Paige Conners, Cris Lacy, Sherry Oakley, Margie McGahey and Carla Wallace. Hosted by Grand Ole Opry star Mandy Barnett and radio and television personality Kelly Sutton, the evening celebrated the contributions of women who have helped shape Nashville’s music industry.

Nashville also mourned the loss of legendary entertainment executive and artist manager Dale Morris, who died peacefully on Aug. 21 at age 89. Morris spent nearly seven decades in the music business and guided the careers of artists including Country Music Hall of Fame members Alabama and Kenny Chesney.

Amid the week’s news, MusicRow also marked an important milestone with the release of its 2026 MusicRow Awards print issue, featuring Warner Records Nashville’s Dan + Shay on the cover. The issue spotlights the nominees for the 2026 MusicRow Awards, with winners set to be revealed on MusicRow platforms on Sept. 2. The special issue also honors the winners of the Top 10 Album All-Star Musicians Award and examines the way independent labels approach awards season through a conversation with Leo33. Additional industry insights come from acclaimed producers and music makers Frank Liddell, Tofer Brown and Joey Moi, who share their perspectives on creating records that make an impact.

Elsewhere across the business, Ryan Beuschel has been promoted to Co-Head of The Neal Agency. WME has also elevated Sara Williams to Head of Music Marketing, while Riser House Entertainment has added Anna Widmer as Vice President of Promotion. On the publishing side, songwriter Phil Barton has signed a deal with BMG in partnership with Liz Rose Music, while Nashville-based songwriter Conner Moye has signed a global publishing deal with Concord Music Publishing.

Scott Borchetta is expanding his business ventures with the launch of Borchetta Spirits & Beverage Co. (BSBC), a Nashville-owned and operated parent company bringing together five Tennessee spirit brands and three destinations. As part of the launch, the downtown Nashville property formerly known as Big Machine Brewery & Distillery has been renamed The Borchetta Bourbon Experience.

The Grand Ole Opry also welcomed several debuts. Kenny Whitmire made his Opry debut on Aug. 18, followed by Troy Cartwright. Brandon Wisham made his Grand Ole Opry debut on Wednesday (Aug. 26).

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Kenny Chesney takes the No. 1 spot with “Carry On.” 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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