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

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This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly is packed with major industry headlines, including the announcement of the nominees for the 2026 MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank. Voted on by MusicRow subscribers, this year’s winners will be revealed across all MusicRow online platforms on Wednesday, Sept. 2. Click here to see the full edition.

This edition also covers several notable executive and company updates. Caryl Atwood has exited her role as Senior Vice President of Commercial Partnerships at Sony Music Entertainment. Meanwhile, Andrew Kautz has launched Kautz & Associates, a new consulting firm, and Allen Mitchell has unveiled Reverie Ranch Music Group, a full-service entertainment company focused on artist management, development, strategic partnerships and select recording and publishing opportunities. The new venture launches with a roster that includes Michael Ray, Jenna Paulette, Tyler Booth, Adam Hood, The Davisson Brothers Band, Stone Senate and Cledus T. Judd.

Also making headlines, The Erv Woolsey Company has officially closed its doors after 40 years in business, marking the end of an era for one of Nashville’s most respected artist management firms.

This week’s newsletter also recaps the 2026 Country Radio Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, where Country Radio Broadcasters honored Chris Carr, Michael J., Rick Jackson, Marci Braun, Phil Hunt, Bruce Logan and John Marks for their lasting contributions to country radio. The evening also celebrated legendary broadcaster and industry leader Lon Helton, who received the 2026 CRB President’s Award.

Additional news includes the Country Music Association announcing the newest class of participants for its 12-week Women’s Leadership Academy, as well as Dave Turnbull signing an exclusive publishing deal with WinSongs Music.

The latest edition also spotlights a busy week of artist and songwriter signings across Music City. Shantaia has joined Walk Off Entertainment, Ava Hall has signed with Universal Music Publishing Nashville, Bottomland has inked with Sony Music Nashville, The Sways have signed with Rounder Records, Niklas Juritsch has joined Range Music, Josh Rouse has signed with New West Records and Rich Harris has entered an exclusive publishing agreement with Prescription Songs in partnership with Pray For My Haters.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. HARDY, Eric Church, Tim McGraw and Morgan Wallen take the No. 1 spot with “McArthur.” 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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