MusicRow Weekly (News, Charts, More…)

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This week’s edition of the MusicRow Weekly recaps several notable developments across the country music and live entertainment industries, including a major loss for the country music community, Country Music Hall of Fame inductions, publishing signings, leadership changes and career milestones. Click here to see the full edition.

The country music community is mourning the loss of John Anderson, the Country Music Hall of Fame member who passed away at 71. Known for his unmistakable drawl and blend of traditional country and rock, Anderson scored hits including “Wild and Blue,” “Swingin’” and “Money in the Bank.” His 1991 single “Straight Tequila Night” sparked a career resurgence, followed by “Seminole Wind,” which became one of his signature songs. Anderson was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2024.

The Country Music Hall of Fame also welcomed three new members during its annual Medallion Ceremony on Sunday (Oct. 18). Tim McGraw, Paul Overstreet and The Stanley Brothers were inducted as the 159th, 160th and 161st members of the institution. The evening featured performances honoring each inductee, with artists including Parker McCollum, Lady A, Lainey Wilson, Blake Shelton, Jamey Johnson, Billy Strings and Vince Gill celebrating their contributions to country music.

The Country Music Association has also celebrated the legacy of Dolly Parton with the ABC special CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton. The tribute featured performances from Ella Langley, Kelsea Ballerini, Carly Pearce, Kristin Chenoweth, Reba, Ashley McBryde, Zac Brown, Brad Paisley and Sierra Hull, among others. Following the special, CMA announced a combined $1 million donation to Dolly’s Imagination Library in partnership with Belmont University, The Walt Disney Company and the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp.

Several notable moves are taking place across the publishing and executive landscape. Pete Robinson has been named General Manager, Creative Nashville at Position Music, bringing more than three decades of music industry experience to the role. Meanwhile, Warner Chappell Music Nashville has signed a global publishing deal with singer-songwriter Elizabeth Nichols, whose breakout single “I Got a New One” has amassed more than 60 million global streams. Jared Conrad has also signed with Sony Music Publishing and TAYCAN Entertainment, while Brent Rupard has inked a deal with Creative Nation in partnership with EMPIRE.

On the artist front, Lauren Alaina has earned her fourth No. 1 at country radio with “All My Exes,” featuring Chase Matthew. Franklin Jonas and The Byzantines, also recently made their Grand Ole Opry debut.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Lauren Alaina takes the No. 1 spot with “All My Exes,” featuring Chase Matthew. 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.

Lauryn Sink
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