Luke Bryan tops the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart this week with his song “Country Song Came On.”
The track is off of Bryan’s eighth studio album, Mind Of A Country Boy, and was written by Jimi Bell, Jon Sherwood and Tucker Beathard.
Bryan’s Crash My Playa will be returning for its 11th year from Jan. 15-18. Taking place at Cancún’s Moon Palace, Bryan will return to headline for two nights, with the full lineup announcement to come.
“Country Song Came On” currently sits at No. 10 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and No. 8 on the Mediabase chart.
Newcomers and old friends vie for our listening attention in today’s DISClaimer.
In the latter category are Brett Young, Dustin Lynch, Chris Young, Cam, Joy Oladokun and Disc of the Day winners Riley Green & Ella Langley.
Among the youngsters, Will Jones stands out as the DISCovery Award artist of the week.
HUDSON WESTBROOK / “Damn Good Taste in Whiskey” Writers: Hudson Westbrook/Randy Montana; Producer: none listed; Label: River House Artists/Warner Music Nashville
– He’s a loser in love in this honky-tonk lament. He has bad taste in women, but knows his liquor. Westbrook is donating 100% of his merch sales this weekend to Texas Hill Country flood relief. This sounds like an idea worth spreading to other acts.
DUSTIN LYNCH / “Easy To Love (MOONLGHT Remix)” Writers: Hunter Phelps/Ben Johnson/Dustin Lynch/Jon Hall/Zach Crowell; Producer: Zach Crowell; Label: Broken Bow Records
– It’s a country vocal. The track takes you on a rapid-beats disco trip. Electronic loops and chattering percussion stir the stew. His sampled vocal repeats the hooks. The artist does late-night “club sets” for dancers at his shows, hence this release.
WILL JONES / “Lonesome Dove” Writers: Will Jones/Davis Corley/Lee Starr/Dan Wilson; Producers: Cliff Audretch & Rob McNelly; Label: Empire
– Eloquent and extraordinary. A listening experience that stopped me in my tracks. The ballad is beautifully written, and his vocal performance is Country Heaven. Plucked guitar strings and sighing steel frame a lyric about man feeling sorry for a lonely lady sitting in the corner. Stop what you are doing and lend this your ears.
RILEY GREEN & ELLA LANGLEY / “Don’t Mind If I Do” Writer: Riley Green; Producer: Dann Huff, Scott Borchetta & Jimmy Harnen; Label: Nashville Harbor
– The “You Look Like You Love Me” team returns with a lovelorn ballad that aches with yearning. Green carries the song, then Langley floats in with her harmonies and a gentle, haunting finale. Sublime listening.
JOY OLADOKUN / “I’d Miss the Birds” Writer: Olubukola Oladokun; Producer: Joy Oladokun; Label: Amigo Records/Verve Forecast/Republic Records
– Her current album, Observations From a Crowded Room, contains this contemplative folk-country ode that sounds like she’s thinking about leaving town and finding peace in the countryside. “The Proud Boys and their women” have tainted the Nashville scene for Joy. Originally issued late last year, the track now has an updated post.
CAM / “Everblue” Writers: Cameron Ochs/Gregory Aldae Hein/Tyler Johnson; Producer: Tyler Johnson; Label: RCA
– “I never knew evergreen could turn to everblue,” she intones in this acoustic soprano ballad. She describes the heavy-hearted performance as “peak sad girl.” Yes, but very pretty sounding.
BIGG VINNY / “WalMart Drip” Writers: Vencent Hickerson/Ken Harrell/Jenny Goforth Hickerson; Producer: Marc Fortney (BUTTER); Label: Nashville Universe
– Remember this guy from The Trailer Choir? For starters, he’s not so “Bigg” anymore, having shed hundreds of pounds on NBC’s The Biggest Loser. This solo, hip-hoppy outing is a boatload of goofy fun in praise of being clothed by Walmart during a shopping spree. The video is a hoot. Find Vinny for the next three days (10th, 11th, 12th) as he entertains at Shiners in the old Woolworth store.
CHRIS YOUNG / “I Didn’t Come Here to Leave” Writers: Chris Young/Kyle Fishman/Dallas Davidson; Producers: Chris Young & Andy Sheridan; Label: Black River Entertainment
– The title tune of Young’s forthcoming (October) album is a breezy bopper. He vows that he’s not quitting when the bar says it’s 2 a.m. closing time. He’s gonna drink and sing and party on. This guy is always a dependable hit maker.
DYLAN MARLOWE / “Sorryville” Writers: Dylan Marlowe/Jimi Bell/Joe Fox/Seth Ennis; Producer: Joe Fox; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– He’s in Sorryville because his gal has gone. The verses on this midtempo barroom weeper are cool, but the mood is ruined by the overproduced choruses.
BRETT YOUNG / “You Still Got It” Writers: Brett Young/Justin Wilson/Dave Pittenger; Producer: Jimmy Robbins; Label: Nashville Harbor
– She has his old clothes and other stuff. All he wants back is his heart. Well written and produced with propulsive panache. Wooshing electronics frame his expressive vocal. Arguably his finest performance yet.
LANCE COWAN / “Against the Grain” Writers: Lance Cowan/Sam Gay; Producers: Jason Stelluto & Scott Paschall; Label: Lantzapalooza Muzik/Orchard
– The captain builds his own boat and dreams of life on the water. Cowan’s skill as a storyteller is on full display on his current collection. This title tune ripples with folkie pleasure. The troubadour did a fine job during his WMOT appearance a few days ago to promote this worthy song set.
KETCH SECOR / “Catch Me If You Can” Writers: Jody Stevens/Ketch Secor; Producer: none listed; Label: Ketch Secor
– Secor’s debut solo album drops tomorrow. Titled Story the Crow Told Me, it finds the Old Crow Medicine Show leader and “Wagon Wheel” creator in a different audio zone than the string-band mode we are used to hearing by him. For instance, this emphasis track is a full contemporary-country production. Electric guitars and harmonica back him on the rambling-man ode. Refreshingly different.
https://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/RG_SINGLE_DontMindIfIDo_FtEllaLangley_COVER_2025.06.27_FNL-copy.jpeg20302070Robert K Oermannhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngRobert K Oermann2025-07-10 16:47:272025-07-11 13:59:14DISClaimer Single Reviews: Riley Green & Ella Langley Return With Some ‘Sublime Listening’
The Grand Ole Opry is many things: a stage, a show, a symbol. It’s the longest-running live broadcast in the world, a cornerstone of country music tradition and a dream for generations of artists. But behind the lights and legacy are the people who bring it all to life, night after night, show after show.
In its 100th year, the Opry continues to evolve while staying rooted in the values that built it: consistency, creativity and care. It’s easy to be dazzled by the artists who stand in the circle, but just beyond the spotlight is a small, dedicated team that makes those moments happen.
From the first sip of lemonade backstage to the final note of the night, every detail is intentional. Every role matters. These are the hands and feet of the Grand Ole Opry—the people who plan the shows, book the talent, welcome the fans and make sure the coffee is hot, the dressing rooms are stocked and the transitions feel seamless. Some are onstage. Most are not. But each one helps keep the circle unbroken.
Dan Rogers. Photo: Chris Hollo
Dan Rogers – Senior Vice President & Executive Producer, Grand Ole Opry
As Executive Producer of the Grand Ole Opry, Dan Rogers oversees more than 200 performances each year, guiding the programming of the world’s longest-running live music show. With a core team of just six people, Rogers manages everything from artist bookings and show themes to run-of-show details, VIP guests and backstage logistics. It’s demanding work—but for Rogers, it’s deeply fulfilling.
“I want to be here,” he says. “This is where the magic happens.”
That mindset has shaped everything from nightly shows to the Opry’s ambitious 100th anniversary celebrations. Rogers points to the upcoming Royal Albert Hall performance as a defining milestone, helping push country music and the Opry’s influence further across the globe. Closer to home, he’s proud of the relationships his team builds with artists, members and guests alike. They hold weekly meetings to reflect on what worked, what could improve and how to keep the Opry experience meaningful.
Even amid evolution, Rogers prioritizes legacy. Saturday shows still open with a fiddle tune, just like they did a century ago. “The Opry always changes—and it always stays the same,” he says. That delicate balance is what drives him, night after night, to keep the music playing.
Gina Keltner
Gina Keltner – Associate Producer, Talent, Grand Ole Opry
After 25 years and more than 2,000 artist bookings annually, Gina Keltner still approaches each Grand Ole Opry lineup with care. As Associate Producer, Talent, she’s part matchmaker, part air traffic controller—pairing legends, stars and newcomers across the Opry’s 200+ annual shows while juggling artist schedules, routing and last-minute curveballs.
Raised in Missouri on classic country and Elvis, Keltner moved to Nashville with no job, just a dream. She found her way to the Opry by chance—dropping off a resume in person after a TV production role ended. “I’ve always seen that time as a bridge to where I was really meant to be,” she says.
Today, she builds each show like a recipe: something for everyone, whether it’s a grandmother or her grandchild. With a mental Rolodex of artists’ preferences and personal milestones, she tailors lineups and backstage moments alike. One artist might get champagne for a birthday. Another might receive a baby gift. “We want it to feel like home,” she says.
Personal highlights range from emergency fill-ins—like Martina McBride stepping in for Loretta Lynn one night when she was ill—to lifelong dreams, like booking Shaun Cassidy, her childhood idol. “That’s the beautiful part of my job,” she says. “Getting to make other people’s dreams come true while living mine.”
Nicole Judd
Nicole Judd – Associate Producer, Show Development, Grand Ole Opry
Nicole Judd didn’t just find her way into the Opry’s programming team—she helped build the role she now holds. After nearly two decades with the company in marketing, sponsorship, and brand strategy roles, she and Dan Rogers identified a growing need on the production side. As Associate Producer of Show Development, Judd now helps shape the structure and flow of nearly every Opry show, overseeing scripting, visual elements, tone and special moments from induction speeches to member gifts.
Judd also leads programming initiatives with partners like WSM Radio, SiriusXM or the Country Music Hall of Fame, and has played a key role in expanding the Opry’s footprint during its centennial year. Taking the show international for the first time—with a full production headed to London—is a particular point of pride for the lifelong Anglophile.
Working on up to seven shows a week with the team, Judd helps maintain the Opry’s tone across hundreds of artists and countless moving parts. “You have to understand what the Opry has been, and push it forward without ever letting it feel like an outdated relic,” she says. It’s a delicate balance—but one she’s committed to getting right.
“There’s just this FOMO,” she adds of the night-time commitments and long hours. “Like—what if something really cool happens tonight and I miss it?”
Jordan Pettit
Jordan Pettit – Vice President, Artist Relations, Grand Ole Opry
Before joining the Opry in 2018, Jordan Pettit spent more than a decade on the label side of the music industry, helping launch and support major artist careers. When the Opry came calling about a new artist relations role, Pettit saw an opportunity to bridge tradition with the future. Since then, he’s been focused on building deeper, earlier connections between the Opry and rising talent.
In his first year, he helped launch My Opry Intro, a Tuesday-night backstage experience that welcomes new artists and gives them a behind-the-scenes look before their official debut. Lainey Wilson was among the early guests—eventually becoming the first Opry NextStage artist to be inducted as a member. That initiative, which spotlights breakout acts through live shows and yearlong promotion, has become one of Pettit’s proudest accomplishments. Since its 2019 debut, Opry NextStage artists have earned nine ACM New Artist awards and notched more than 30 No. 1 hits.
For Pettit, engaging younger artists is about returning to the Opry’s roots. “We wanted to support artists as they were still building,” he says. “That’s what makes the Opry special, seeing legends and newcomers on the same show.”
And when those newcomers step into the circle for the first time, Pettit’s reminded why it matters. “Watching someone make their Opry debut—that’s still my favorite part of the job.”
Kelly Sutton
Kelly Sutton – Grand Ole Opry Announcer & Host
With more than two decades in Nashville television and radio, Kelly Sutton was already a well-known voice in country music media. But in 2022, she stepped into a new role as the Grand Ole Opry’s first full-time female announcer—a moment she describes as the highlight of her career.
Her path to the circle was paved with years of country coverage, from hosting morning TV alongside Ralph Emery to interviewing artists on radio and red carpets. When WSM invited her to join its morning team in 2021, the conversation soon turned to the Opry. She shadowed longtime announcer Charlie Mattos, and just a few months later, took the mic herself for the first time. “It felt like everything I’d done in my career led to that moment,” she says.
Now, Sutton brings a vibrant energy to the Opry’s nightly shows—prepping with artist research, coordinating backstage transitions and delivering shoutouts that connect directly with the crowd. “It’s such a meaningful way to connect with the audience,” she says. “Someone might go home and remember that forever.”
Anchored by a deep love for country music and its community, Sutton’s presence is both warm and electric. “The Opry’s been around 100 years,” she says, “but no two nights are the same. That’s magical.”
Stacy Thompson
Stacy Thompson – Senior Manager, Tours & VIP Services, Grand Ole Opry
Stacy Thompson started at the Opry as a part-time tour guide while finishing her music business degree at MTSU. 14 years later, she now oversees the ambassador and tour guide teams, ensuring thousands of guests each year feel not just informed, but deeply connected to the Grand Ole Opry.
“We’re not expecting guests to remember all the facts,” she says. “We want them to remember how they felt.”
Her teams welcome guests at the door, give backstage tours and manage VIP experiences, often turning casual visits into lifelong memories. Whether it’s coordinating a birthday shoutout or encouraging someone to sing in the circle, Thompson believes the personal touches make the difference. She recalls a recent 91-year-old guest whose family surprised her with a visit. “She cried all the way to the stage,” Thompson says. “That had been her dream for decades.”
Over the years, she’s witnessed unforgettable backstage moments too—like Loretta Lynn slipping quietly into the wings in a ballgown, or Dolly Parton stepping into the hallway to greet fans. But for Thompson, it’s never just about celebrity. It’s about helping every guest feel like they belong.
Diana McBride, a.k.a. “Lemonade”
Lemonade – Backstage Hospitality, Grand Ole Opry
Officially, her name is Diana McBride, but at the Grand Ole Opry, everyone knows her as Lemonade—a nickname gifted by Opry member Mike Snider and cemented when her boss overheard it and ordered a name tag to match. The name stuck, and so did she.
What began as a part-time gig to fill time after the loss of her father has turned into more than a decade of backstage service. “I thought I’d stay six months,” she says, laughing. “It’s been 11 years.”
Lemonade handles all the little things that make the Opry feel like home: prepping dressing rooms, setting up the green room, making fresh tea and lemonade and getting the popcorn just right. She knows who likes what and when—and jumps into action when an artist forgets a shoe, needs a baby held during rehearsal or just needs a calm place to land.
“My job is to make everyone feel welcome,” she says. “To treat them like family.”
For artists, that warmth is unforgettable. Some joke they come for the lemonade as much as the music. And for Lemonade, those connections run deep.
The Opry has always been a show—but it’s also a living, breathing community. It’s built on talent and tradition, but sustained by the people who show up early, stay late and care deeply about the experience unfolding night after night.
From the backstage green room to the announcer’s mic, from artist invitations to birthday shoutouts in the pews, it’s these quiet contributions that make the Opry feel personal and even sacred.
As the Grand Ole Opry celebrates 100 years, the legacy continues to grow. But what remains unchanged is the heartbeat behind the curtain—the hands and feet that carry its stories forward.
They’re not just supporting cast. They’re the reason the show goes on.
https://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/HEADER-OPTION-2-Photo-by-Chris-Hollo-scaled.jpg17082560LB Cantrellhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngLB Cantrell2025-07-10 11:11:462025-07-10 13:50:11The Hands & Feet Of The Grand Ole Opry: Meet The People Behind The Unbroken Circle
The Academy of Country Music has revealed the recipients of the Special Awards for the 60th Academy Of Country Music Awards, who will celebrated during the upcoming Academy Of Country Music Honors on Aug. 20 at The Pinnacle at Nashville Yards.
Eric Church, Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, Cody Johnson, Mac McAnally, Rissi Palmer, Randy Travis, Twisters, the late Ben Vaughn and Lori Badgett will be honored during the 18th annual celebration during an unforgettable evening of live music and tributes. Performers will be announced in the coming weeks.
Eric Church and Ben Vaughn have both been chosen to each receive the ACM Icon Award, honoring the contributions of Cliffie Stone, who was known for his producing work along with his country music career. The award is presented to an artist, duo/group or industry leader who has advanced the popularity of the genre through their contributions in multiple facets of the industry, such as songwriting, recording, production, touring, film, television, literary works, philanthropic contributions, and other goodwill efforts.
Luke Combs has been named the recipient of this year’s ACM International Award, inspired by Jim Reeves. The award is presented to a country music artist, duo/group or industry leader for outstanding contributions to the growth of Country Music throughout the world.
Jelly Roll has been chosen to receive the ACM Lifting Lives Award, honoring the contributions of Gary Haber, a business manager and past president of ACM Lifting Lives. This award is presented to a country artist, duo/group, or industry professional who is devoted to improving lives through the power of music, has a generosity of spirit, and is committed to serving others.
Cody Johnson will receive this year’s ACM Spirit Award. The award is inspired by Merle Haggard and is presented to a singer-songwriter who is continuing the legacy of country legend and 20-time ACM Award recipient Haggard by following his/her own path, crafting great songs and epitomizing Merle’s spirit through genuine performances and great storytelling.
Randy Travis has been chosen as the recipient of the ACM Milestone Award, honoring the contributions of Gene Weed, who directed and produced the ACM Awards for more than 30 years. This award is presented to a country artist, duo/group or industry leader for a specific, unprecedented or outstanding achievement in the field of country music during the preceding calendar year.
Rissi Palmer will receive the ACM Lift Every Voice Award. This award is presented to a country artist, duo/group, industry leader or affiliate/partner who plays a pivotal role in elevating underrepresented voices throughout the country genre, transcending demographics and geography. The nominee for this category is proposed by the rising leaders in the Academy’s LEVel UP: Lift Every Voice program, a two-year curriculum designed to empower participants to play a pivotal role in expanding the horizons of country into new audiences that transcend demographics and geography.
Mac McAnally is the recipient of this year’s ACM Poet’s Award. This award is presented to a country songwriter for outstanding and longstanding musical and/or lyrical contributions throughout their career, with special consideration given to a song or songs’ impact on the culture of country music.
Twisters is this year’s winner of the ACM Film Award, inspired by Tex Ritter, which recognizes an outstanding TV movie, series or feature film released during the preceding calendar year which prominently features country music. The 2024 summer blockbuster from Universal Pictures, Warner Bros., and Amblin Entertainment was directed by Oscar nominee Lee Isaac Chung and stars Daisy Edgar Jones, Glen Powell, and Anthony Ramos.
City National Bank executive Lori Badgett has been chosen to receive the ACM Service Award, which honors the contributions of Mae Boren Axton. This award is presented to an outstanding country artist, duo/group or industry leader in recognition of years of dedication and service to the Academy of Country Music.
Previously announced ACM Artist-Songwriter of the Year winner Lainey Wilson, ACM Songwriter of the Year winner Jessie Jo Dillon, and ACM Studio Recording Award and Industry Award winners, will also be feted at ACM Honors.
“This year’s ACM Special Awards honorees each have played an essential role in country music’s success,” says Kerri Edwards, Chair of the ACM Special Awards committee. “From some of country music’s legendary artists to the incredible songwriters and powerhouse executives, we are so excited to celebrate these well-deserved recipients next month at The Pinnacle in Nashville. Congratulations to all the honorees,” she continued.
Tickets for ACM Honors will be available to ACM A-List email newsletter subscribers and Academy members through an exclusive pre-sale beginning tomorrow (July 10), with general on-sale beginning July 11 through AXS. Fans can subscribe now to the A-List here to gain access to Thursday’s pre-sale.
https://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/ACM_Honors_2025Honorees_1080X1350.png13501080Lorie Hollabaughhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngLorie Hollabaugh2025-07-09 11:01:442025-07-09 11:01:44ACM Special Award Honorees Announced
Brown Sellers Brown, home to Quartz Hill Records, Stone Country Records and BSB Management, has rebranded to Quartz Hill Music Group. Additionally, the company has elevated Ash Bowers to Executive Vice President for Quartz Hill Music Group. In his new role, Bowers will oversee all daily operations for Quartz Hill Records and Stone Country Records as well as continue to direct management strategy and operations for multiple acts on the BSB Management roster.
Bowers began his career as a songwriter signed to Stoney Creek records where he secured cuts with Keith Urban, Brad Paisley and Dustin Lynch. He co-founded co-founded a publishing and management company in 2013 before joining Brown Sellers Brown in January 2025 as Director of Artist Management and A&R Support.
“I’m incredibly excited to step into the role of Executive Vice President at Quartz Hill Music Group. This new season of rebranding and restructuring marks a new chapter for the company, and I’m honored to help lead the charge. We have some of the most talented and inspiring artists in the industry, and it’s a privilege to support their creative journeys. Above all, I see this role as a chance to serve Jesus through leadership—using every connection and opportunity as a way to reflect His purpose for me in the music industry,” says Bowers.
“Since I first signed Ash to Stoney Creek Records back in the early 2000’s, I knew that he was going to have a big impact on the Nashville music community. All these years later, Ash has been proving me right all along! Jason, Paul and I are very excited to have Ash join our family. I always knew Ash was a person of strong faith. I’ve always had a lot of trust in Ash and in his ability to lead our team in the right direction as we continue to grow and expand our reach,” says Quartz Hill Music Group Founder/President Benny Brown.
https://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Ash-Bowers-Headshot-WEB-scaled.jpg23502560Lauryn Sinkhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngLauryn Sink2025-07-09 11:00:152025-07-09 11:56:46JUST IN: Brown Sellers Brown Rebrands To Quartz Hill Music Group, Taps Ash Bowers As EVP
Lost Highway and Capitol Nashville have added Luke Jensen and Megan McCaffrey to its combined radio team.
Jensen has been appointed Vice President, Promotion and McCaffrey has been named Regional Director, Promotion.
“As the cultural landscape continues to evolve, radio promotion serves as an integral piece to the overall development and advancement of an artist’s career,” says Robert Knotts, Co-Head of Lost Highway alongside Jake Gear. “Luke and Megan are widely respected across the radio community and will make a real difference for our collective artists.”
“It was a no-brainer for us to invest in a best-in-class radio promotion team from the outset given radio’s powerful audience reach,” shares Candice Watkins, President of Capitol Records Nashville. “We’re proud to welcome Luke and Megan and we’re confident in the value they’ll bring to our artists.”
Jensen comes to Lost Highway/CapitolRecords Nashville from Monument Records where he was Vice President of Promotion. Prior to Monument, he served in the radio promotion department of Arista Nashville.
McCaffrey has more than eight years of music industry experience in radio promotion, marketing and brand partnerships with time at Monument Records, Universal Music Group and Live In The Vineyard.
Jensen and McCaffrey will be based in Nashville. Additional radio staff for Lost Highway and Capitol Nashville’s combined team will be announced in the coming months.
https://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Untitled-1-1.png10801080Lauryn Sinkhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngLauryn Sink2025-07-09 09:08:122025-07-09 09:08:12Luke Jensen & Megan McCaffrey Join Lost Highway & Capitol Records Nashville
Charlie Handsome remains atop the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart for the sixth consecutive week. His current cuts include “Don’t We,” “Eyes Are Closed,” “Falling Apart,” “Genesis,” “I Ain’t Comin’ Back,” “I Got Better,” “I’m The Problem,” “Just In Case,” “Kick Myself,” “Kiss Her In Front Of You,” “Love Somebody,” “Miami,” “Missing,” “Smile,” “Superman,” “TN,” “What I Want” and “Where’d That Girl Go.”
Morgan Wallen stays at No. 2 with “Don’t We,” “Eyes Are Closed,” “Falling Apart,” “Genesis,” “I Ain’t Comin’ Back,” “I Got Better,” “I’m The Problem,” “Just In Case,” “Kick Myself,” “Love Somebody,” “Miami,” “Missing,” “Smile,” “Superman,” “TN,” “What I Want” and “Where’d That Girl Go.”
Riley Green remains at No. 3 with his solo-penned “Worst Way.”
John Byron (No. 4) and Blake Pendergrass (No. 5) finish out this week’s top five.
The weekly MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart uses algorithms based upon song activity according to airplay, digital download track sales and streams. This unique and exclusive addition to the MusicRow portfolio is the only songwriter chart of its kind.
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/06204747/image0-e1671480261461.jpeg13861512Lauryn Sinkhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngLauryn Sink2025-07-07 16:24:292025-07-08 14:46:18Charlie Handsome Stays On Top Of MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart
Voting for the 59th annual CMA Awards officially opens today (July 7) with the start of the Nomination Ballot. The first of three rounds, this ballot allows CMA Professional Voting Members to write in any artist or project they believe deserves recognition.
CMA leadership is encouraging members to participate early, especially in this critical first phase.
“This is a democratic process that reflects the industry itself—and with that comes responsibility,” says CMA CEO Sarah Trahern. “Being honored by your peers is at the heart of what makes the CMA Awards special.”
All eligible write-in votes count, as long as they fit the criteria for their category. The Nomination Ballot remains open through Wednesday, July 16. After that, the top 20 vote-getters in each category (and the top 15 for Entertainer of the Year) will appear on the Second Ballot, which opens Aug. 5. The Final Ballot—sent Oct. 1—will determine the winners.
This year, CMA is also introducing a change to the Song of the Year category. For the Nomination and Second Ballots, only members in the Composer, Artist, Musician, Producer/Engineer/Studio, and Publisher/PRO categories are eligible to vote. All voting members will still be eligible to vote in the Final Ballot.
Trahern says the goal is to bring more clarity to the difference between Song and Single of the Year. “We wanted to clarify that distinction for voters,” she explains. “By limiting early-round voting to those closest to the song creation process, we’re giving those with specific expertise the opportunity to weigh in on the artistic value of a song.”
She adds that Single of the Year focuses more on commercial success and consumption, noting that CMA’s addition of a dropdown menu in that category has helped remind voters of eligible releases during the July-to-June eligibility window.
The CMA has placed a strong focus this year on education and outreach to ensure members understand the process and feel empowered to participate. Tiffany Kerns, CMA’s Senior Vice President, Industry Relations & Philanthropy, and her team conducted member outreach at CMA Fest and other key industry events leading up to the voting cutoff in early June.
“Voting is one of the greatest benefits our members have,” says Kerns. “It’s not our awards—it’s yours. Every change you see is because we’re listening to our members.”
One common barrier to participation, she says, is the assumption that certain industry professionals aren’t eligible or that their vote doesn’t matter. “We don’t want to assume people know they’re welcome—we want to clearly say it: we want you to be involved.”
According to Trahern, some CMA Awards have been decided by fewer than 20 or 30 votes. “One vote can make history,” she says. “We want to remind every member: your vote counts.”
As the industry evolves, so does CMA’s approach to membership. Trahern notes that CMA’s internal teams and board-led committees are actively reviewing how to ensure current and future members—regardless of geography or job function—have a path to participation.
“It shouldn’t be the case that someone actively working in the industry doesn’t have a way to vote,” she says. “I’ve been really proud of the work the team has done over the past few years to broaden the tent.”
Kerns adds that CMA continues to engage new sectors and expand participation. “Yes, it’s on TV and matters to fans, but we want the industry to be proud of it and feel like they were part of honoring someone through this process.”
The 59th annual CMA Awards will take place Nov. 19 at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena and will air live on ABC at 7 p.m. CT.
https://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Sarah-Tiffany-FT.png10801080LB Cantrellhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngLB Cantrell2025-07-07 11:41:232025-07-07 11:41:23Voting Season Begins: CMA Spotlights Member Input In Awards Process [Interview]
Pictured: Bailey Zimmerman & Luke Combs; Photo: masonn1k
Bailey Zimmerman claims the No. 1 position on the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart this week alongside Luke Combs with their song, “Backup Plan.”
The track was released as the second single from Zimmerman’s upcoming, second studio album Different Night Same Rodeo, and was written by Jimi Bell, Jon Sherwood and Tucker Beathard.
Last week, Zimmmerman joined forces with grammy-winning artist and producer Diplo to release a new song, “Ashes.” The track blends Zimmerman’s raspy vocals with Diplo’s well-known summertime production.
“Backup Plan” currently sits at No. 13 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and No. 12 on the Mediabase chart.
https://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Untitled-4.png10801080John Nix Arledgehttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngJohn Nix Arledge2025-07-03 14:56:332025-07-03 14:56:33Bailey Zimmerman & Luke Combs Top MusicRow Radio Chart
Among the listening session’s highlights were Colbie Caillat, Mon Rovia, Ricochet, Bizz Bigsby and DisCovery Award winners Eric Lee and Casey Chestnutt (who tied for the prize). All of them are on independent labels. So bravo for that.
The Disc of the Day honor belongs to the enduringly divine Trisha Yearwood.
ERIN ENDERLIN & RANDY HOUSER / “When You Look at Me” Writers: Tanja Struyck-Fogleman/Brent Fogleman/Erin Enderlin; Producer: Jay Clementi; Label: SWS
– This stirring ballad captures the complex emotions of a soldier experiencing PTSD. Enderlin’s excellent performance is shadowed by softly weeping steel guitar and Houser’s aching vocal harmony. The ear-catching song is a product of an organization called “SongwritingWith:Soldiers” that pairs Music Row tunesmiths with veterans. Recommended.
TRISHA YEARWOOD / “The Mirror” Writers: Trisha Yearwood/Leslie Satcher/Bridgette Tatum; Producer: Trisha Yearwood & Chad Carlson; Label: Virgin/Gwendolyn
– The title tune of Yearwood’s forthcoming (July 18) album is an awesome slab of sound. She gazes at the image in her mirror and is startled to see a strong, beautiful, brave woman instead of a wimp. The collection is the first one that the singer has co-written and co-produced. Watch for this superstar on the NBC telecast of the Macy’s 4th of July Firework show from New York City. She’ll introduce the album on the TODAY show on the 18th, then perform and do an album signing at the Opry the next day. If you haven’t already jumped on this, get tix now, because she’s also starring in the Hall of Fame’s tribute show to Linda Ronstadt with James Taylor, Rodney Crowell, Patti Scialfa and Emmylou Harris on July 22.
CONOR CLEMMONS / “Double Standard” Writers: Alysa Vanderheym/Griffin Palmer/Devin Dawson; Producer: Parker Mathews & Derek Drye; Label: CC
– It’s an uptempo roadhouse rouser with lotsa instrumental twang. The “double” in the title of course refers to the strength of the booze in the bar.
OLD DOMINION / “Man Or the Song” Writers: Brad Tursi, Trevor Rosen, Matthew Ramsey, Ross Copperman, Shane McAnally; Producer: Old Dominion & Shane McAnally; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– It’s a gentle meditation on the nature of fame, the life of a professional picker and the passage of time. The mood is light and tuneful, but there’s a seriousness of intent here that makes it deeply personal. These talented guys just don’t know how to make a bad record.
BIZZ BIGSBY / “Here In This Town” Writers: Bizz Bigsby/Phil Hughley; Producer: Gtar Phil; Label: BB
– Bigsby is the son of Nashville R&B icon Jimmy Church, and he sang lead in his dad’s band in his youth. The singer-songwriter describes his sound as “Urban Americana.” His debut single is a moody, bluesy ballad that decries the destruction of North Nashville by interstate highway construction, but vows that “a rose in the concrete” will rise, survive and thrive. Because the human spirit cannot be conquered.
RICOCHET / “Daddy’s Money” Writers: Bob DiPiero/Mark D. Sanders/Steve Seskin; Producer: Eric Kupper; Label: Encore
– The ‘90s hit-making group returns with a thumping, jet-fueled disco remix of its 1996 smash. The song is still as clever as the dickens, so clear the dance floor.
TANNER ADELL / “Snakeskin” Writers: Tanner Adell/Akil King/Michael Lotten/Stephen McGregor/Josh Miller/Will Weatherly/Anthony Germaine White; Producers: Di Genius, Will Weatherly & Tanner Adell; Label: TA
– She offers this sing-song-y ditty in a high soprano while a jaunty band strums along. Adell performs on July 15 at BMI’s rooftop concert series.
LUKAS NELSON / “American Romance” Writer: Lukas Nelson; Producer: Shooter Jennings; Label: Sony
– The title tune of Nelson’s album is a plaintive ode to his troubled homeland and soul. Very poetic and very beautiful. Don’t stop here. The rest of his collection’s tracks are equally sublime. This fellow is a major songsmith.
MON ROVIA / “Running Boy” Writers: Andrew Lowe/Cooper Holzman/Eric Cromartie/Jonathon Lindo/Scott McCannell/Tyler Martelli; Producer: Cooper Holzman, Tyler Martelli, Scott McCannell & Junia-T; Label: MR
– This Liberia-born Tennessee troubadour is touring internationally and has become a favorite at the Newport Folk Festival. His new single is a rippling acoustic outing that finds him caught between his wanderlust and his quest for peace. Gently persuasive.
COLBIE CAILLAT & MITCHELL TENPENNY / “Realize” Writers: Colbie Caillat/Jason Reeves/Mikal Blue; Producer: Jimmy Robbins & Eric Arjes; Label: Blue Jean Baby
– Caillat reimagines her Platinum 2008 pop hit as a country duet with gritty “blue-eyed soul” stylist Tenpenny. The result is audio heaven. Their vocals are magic, and so is the echoey steel backing.
ERIC LEE & RISSI PALMER / “For Who You Are” Writer: Eric Lee; Producer: Eric Lee; Label: EL
– Palmer has long established herself as a solo country artist, but it turns out that she is just as ear-opening and revelatory as a duet partner. Hearty country troubadour Eric Lee pens a hooky tune and sings in a resonant baritone that she compliments beautifully throughout the track. Lee has previously charted in MusicRow and is the writer behind successful ad campaigns. This is an advance track for an album by him due later this year.
CASEY CHESTNUTT / “Uninvited Guest” Writers: Jeff Stevens/Marv Green; Producer: Josh Leo; Label: Clearwater/ONErpm
– Casey is the son of that pluperfect honky-tonk stylist Mark Chestnutt. His debut single reveals a classic-country vocal stylist on a barroom weeper that sounds exactly like a last-call jukebox lament. Highly recommended.
COLT GRAVES / “We Both Lie” Writers: Colt Graves/Jeff Calvert/Deacon Crisman/Mitchel Douglas/Jake Parshall/David Tarter; Producer: Jake Parshall; Label: MCA Nashville
– The relationship is kaput, but they’re trapped together emotionally in the bed “We Both Lie” in. The sound is hip-hop influenced country-pop with a minimum melody. Kentuckian Graves is the grandson of Bluegrass Music Hall of Famer Josh Graves.
https://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Trisha-Yearwood-the-mirror.jpg12712031Robert K Oermannhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngRobert K Oermann2025-07-03 11:38:212025-07-07 10:14:28DISClaimer Single Reviews: Trisha Yearwood Wins Disc Of The Day