MusicRow Weekly (News, Charts, More…)

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This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly is brimming with notable career moves, strategic promotions and exciting milestones across the music industry. Click here to see the full edition.

A major leadership transition is on the horizon as industry executive Austen Adams has been named President of Warner Chappell Music Nashville. Adams, who officially begins his new role on Sept. 15, will report to WCM Co-Chairs and CEO Guy Moot and COO Carianne Marshall. He brings with him a deep well of experience, having spent the past six years as COO of Big Loud’s Publishing and Records divisions. His leadership at Big Loud helped shape the careers of standout artists like Morgan Wallen, HARDY, Miranda Lambert, Ernest and Stephen Wilson Jr.

In celebration of its 10th anniversary, The Kinkead Entertainment Agency has announced two promotions. Julie Devereux has been elevated to CEO, while Greg Scott has been named President. Devereux, whose background includes high-level advertising campaigns for brands like Pepsi and Taco Bell and management of artists like Tracy Nelson and Sammy Kershaw, will continue to oversee agency development, including its film and television ventures. Scott, who joined Kinkead at its founding in 2015, brings a dual degree in music business and production, and decades of experience as both a touring artist and label owner. He’ll now lead all live performance bookings and talent development efforts for the agency.

At Big Machine Label Group, Justin Ford has been promoted to Vice President, Creative Design & Branding. Ford, previously Senior Creative Director, has been an integral part of BMLG’s visual identity for a decade, contributing award-winning work for artists such as Thomas Rhett, Carly Pearce and Sheryl Crow. His efforts have been recognized with numerous honors including Davey, Communicator and PRINT Awards. Ford, a Murray State University alum, continues to lead design strategy across the label’s roster.

Meanwhile, the Grand Ole Opry stage was the site of a touching moment this week. On Saturday night (Aug. 9), country music icon Kathy Mattea received a surprise invitation from Opry member Charlie McCoy to become the newest member of the esteemed institution.

Rising artist Lanie Gardner made her Opry debut on Aug. 6, performing her songs “Hills Have Eyes” and “Faded Polaroids,” the title track of her forthcoming sophomore album.

In artist representation news, LOCASH, the duo of Preston Brust and Chris Lucas, has signed with CAA for exclusive representation in all areas. Sticks Management has expanded its roster with the addition of Gavin Adcock. At the same time, Adcock’s manager, Saxon Curry, has officially joined the company.

River House Artists continues to bolster its team with the addition of Helena Akhtar as Director of Digital Marketing & Artist Development.

Veteran music executive Benny Brown has made waves with the acquisition of Wide Open Music Publishing and the launch of a new venture: North Chapel Music. The new company inherits the full Wide Open catalog, including several country chart-toppers such as Brett Young’s Diamond-certified hit “In Case You Didn’t Know,” Matt Stell’s “Prayed For You,” and George Birge’s “Cowboy Songs” and “Mind On You.”

Lastly, Relative Music Group has announced a global publishing deal with Jeb Gipson, in partnership with Sony Music Publishing.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Scotty McCreery and Hootie & the Blowfish return to the No. 1 spot with “Bottle Rockets.” 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.

Scotty McCreery And Hootie & The Blowfish Return To No. 1 On MusicRow Radio Chart

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Scotty McCreery returns to the No. 1 position on the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart this week alongside Hootie & The Blowfish with their song, “Bottle Rockets.”

The track was released as the lead single from McCreery’s recent EP Scooter & Friends, and was written by McCreery, Brent Anderson, Bobby Hamrick, Darius Rucker, Dean Felber, Derek George, Frank Rogers, Jeremy Bussey, Jim Sonefeid, Mark Bryan and Monty Criswell.

McCreery was recently featured on the cover of the Summer 2025 issue of Cigars & Spirits, which includes an interview and photo gallery with the cover shot done by his longtime video director and photographer, Jeff Ray. His appearance places him alongside past stars such as Matthew McConaughey, Jeremy Renner, Mike Tyson and Francis Ford Coppola.

“Bottle Rockets” currently sits at No. 9 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and No. 6 on the Mediabase chart.

Click here to view the latest edition of the MusicRow Weekly containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Zach Bryan & Kings Of Leon Team For Disc Of The Day

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Country music is rocking out this week.

This edition of DISClaimer features roaring sounds from Morgan Wade, Jelly Roll & Marshmello and Kip Moore. The best sounding one is a collaboration, Zach Bryan performing with Music City’s finest rock band, Kings of Leon. It is our Disc of the Day. 

Our DISCovery Award winner for today is Canadian country star Aaron Goodvin.

LACI KAYE BOOTH / “George F***king Strait”
Writers: Anderson East/Laci Kaye Booth/Melissa Fuller; Producers: Anderson East, Ben West; Label: Geffen Records
– Ultra modern sounding: Twangy, echoey track with a slow-burn vibe overlaid with her sly, drawling delivery. She yearns for a guy who gets better with age, like the country singer.

CHRIS YOUNG / “Jesus, Mama, Country Radio”
Writers: Chris Young/ChrisDeStefano/Josh Phillips/Taylor Phillips; Producers: Andy Sheridan, Chris Young; Label: Black River Entertainment
– Bright and upbeat. A toe tapper with jangling guitars and a thumpin’ beat.

AARON GOODVIN / “Said No Redneck Ever”
Writers: Aaron Goodvin/Brent Baxter/Trea Landon; Producers: Aaron Goodvin, Matthew Evan McClure; Label: Sakamoto Music
– “That beer’s too cold; that girl’s too hot; somebody turn Bocephus off.” You get the idea. No redneck says the words in the lyrics of this light-hearted ditty. A fun listen.

LAUREN ALAINA / “Little Things”
Writers: Emily Falvey/Lauren Alaina/Ross Copperman/Seth Ennis; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud Records
– The autobiographical power ballad reminisces about her late dad. Alaina’s singing sounds stronger than ever.

DUNCAN DANIELS / “Cowboys Wear Stetsons”
Writers: Darbi Shaun Lacagnina/Duncan Daniels/Ron Pope/Zach Berkman; Producer: Justine Blazer; Label: Dunkishrock Production
– He’s aiming for a traditional sound here. But his singing is quite weak.

JON PARDI / “Hey California”
Writers: Ben Johnson/Hunter Phelps/John Charles Reno Prentice/Jordan Minton; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– A breezy tempo track is married to a country heartbreak lyric in this catchy, listenable, easy-going outing.

ZACH BRYAN & KINGS OF LEON / “Bowery”
Writers: Caleb Followill/Jared Followill/Matthew Followill/Nathan Followill/Zach Bryan; Producer: Zach Bryan; Label: Warner Records
– This rocks splendidly. Bryan’s wailing lead vocal hits the mark, and the slammin’ Nashville band kicks serious butt. The whole thing sounds exactly like a great big hit record.

TY HERNDON & ASHLEY McBRYDE / “A Man Holdin’ On to a Woman Letting Go”
Writers: Bobby Taylor/Gene Dobbins/John Ramey; Producers: Jimmy Thow, John Osborne; Label: Club44 Records
– Herndon revisits his 1998 hit, this time as an electrifying duet with the peerless McBryde. Both artists absolutely nail their vocals, separately and harmonizing together. Magnificently done.

JELLY ROLL & MARSHMELLO / “Holy Water”
Writers: Danny Majic/Jason Deford/Justin Franks/Kameron Alexander/Marshmello/Ryan Vojtesak; Producers: Charlie Handsome, Danny Majic, Frank E, Marshmello; Label: Mercury Records
– It’s a slowly paced eulogy for those who have left us. The totally electronic track is pop all the way.

KIP MOORE / “American Heartbreak”
Writers: Jaren Johnston/Kip Moore; Producers: Jaren Johnston, Kip Moore; Label: Virgin Music Group
– Urgently rocking, with its blue-collar roots on full display. This talented guy never disappoints.

MORGAN WADE / “The Party Is Over”
Writer: Morgan Wade; Producer: Clint Wells; Label: Ladylike Records/RCA Nashville
– Bitter and weary. She knows the relationship is over, but she can’t stop wanting him. The midtempo track seethes with electric-guitar power. It’s the title track of her just-released fourth album.

JOSHUA HEDLEY / “Fresh Hot Biscuits”
Writer: Joshua Hedley; Producers: Joshua Hedley, Ray Benson; Label: New West Records
– Old-school country champion Hedley has been a fixture at Robert’s Western World on Lower Broadway for years. Prior releases have featured him in honky-tonk and Nashville Sound settings. His next project will be a western-swing collection, produced by Asleep at the Wheel’s Ray Benson. And, yes, those snappy fiddle breaks are Joshua’s own. This delightful ditty is an advance taste of what we can expect when Hedley’s All Hat collection drops in October.

JUST IN: BMLG Elevates Justin Ford To VP Creative Design & Branding

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Justin Ford

Big Machine Label Group has promoted Justin Ford to VP Creative Design & Branding. He rises from his previous role of Senior Creative Director, and will continue to head the label’s design initiatives across its artist roster.

“Justin is the ultimate creative executive,” says BMLG Founder, Chairman & CEO Scott Borchetta. “He always over delivers, with extraordinary speed and a smile, which also makes him one of the company’s most popular execs.”

Ford has been at the label group for 10 years, where he has earned multiple Davey Awards (Best In Show, Gold and Silver), Communicator Awards and PRINT Awards. His work with Thomas Rhett, Carly Pearce, Sheryl Crow and others are among those recognized. Ford graduated from Murray State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts and built a background in product development and graphic design before joining BMLG.

“Justin Ford is a true leader,” adds BMLG EVP, Creative, Sandi Spika Borchetta. “His exceptional dedication, consistent performance, and positive impact on our team over the past 10 years has had no boundaries. His work ethic, reliability, and ability to consistently go above and beyond expectations makes him an ideal fit for this promotion to VP Creative Design & Branding. Justin has not only met every challenge with professionalism and skill, but he’s also served as a role model and a source of support for others. This promotion is a well-deserved recognition of his contributions. Thank you, Justin, for your unlimited talent and huge heart.”

“I am grateful for this opportunity and excited to continue my contribution within this new role,” shares Ford. “It truly is an honor to do what we do, alongside so many talented individuals with such passion for music and artists. To Sandi, Scott and Big Machine: thank you for your continued confidence and recognizing hard work and dedication.”

BREAKING: Austen Adams Appointed President Of Warner Chappell Music Nashville

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Austen Adams. Photo: Amy Allmand

Industry leader Austen Adams has been appointed President of Warner Chappell Music (WCM) Nashville. He will begin the role on Sept. 15, reporting to WCM Co-Chairs, CEO Guy Moot and COO Carianne Marshall.

Adams joins WCM from Big Loud, where he served as Chief Operating Officer of its Publishing and Records divisions for six years, working with a wide array of talent, including Morgan Wallen, HARDY, Miranda Lambert, Ernest and Stephen Wilson Jr., among many others. His two decades of experience also includes time in artist management and entertainment law.

Adam’s appointment at WCM fills the role left behind by Ben Vaughn, who passed away in January.

“Austen is a class act, with trusted relationships across the industry, and a holistic understanding of both the creative and the commercial,” share Moot and Marshall. “Given our longstanding, successful partnership with Austen, Seth, and the Big Loud team, this is a very natural move for both him and us. We’re excited about what he’ll contribute to Warner Chappell and the songwriting community, nurturing the culture in Nashville, while finding fresh ways to bring its talent global opportunities. With Austen and our amazing team on Music Row, we know the commitment, integrity and humanity of Ben Vaughn’s legacy will be carried into the future.”

Adams says, “I’ve always believed that songs and songwriters are the soul of our business. Which is why I’ve been a longtime admirer of what Ben Vaughn and the Warner Chappell team have built. I’m deeply honored to be entrusted with leading the next chapter. Together, we’ll champion storytelling, protect creativity, and help songwriters share their visions in bold and impactful ways. Thank you to Guy and Carianne for their trust in me, and to everyone at Big Loud – especially Seth, Craig and Joey – for their faith and support these last six years.”

Adams has been honored on Billboard’s Country and Indie Power Players lists and named to Leadership Music (Class of 2019).

BREAKING: Kinkead Entertainment Agency Elevates Julie Devereux & Greg Scott

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Photo: Courtesy of The Kinkead Entertainment Agency

For the celebration of their 10th anniversary as a full-service booking agency, The Kinkead Entertainment Agency has promoted Julie Devereux to CEO and Greg Scott to President of the agency.

Devereux utilizes her advertising and management expertise at the agency, having lead campaigns for mega brands Pepsi and Taco Bell, as well as management clients Tracy Nelson and Sammy Kershaw. At Kinkead, she helms overall development of the agency including film and television opportunities for the roster. Her previous career stops include companies in Dallas, Los Angeles and Nashville.

Scott holds a dual degree in music business and production, and has over 20 years of live touring experience as an artist, as well as is Co-Owner of his own record label under the Sony umbrella. Scott has been with Kinkead since its 2015 inception, and has spearheaded the company’s growth. In his new role, he will lead all live performance bookings for the agency and oversee key signings and development.

Founded by Bob Kinkead in 2015, Kinkead Entertainment has booked more than 7500 concerts nationwide since its inception. The agency’s current roster includes Lorrie Morgan, T Graham Brown, Exile, Canaan Smith, Chevel Shepherd, Cowboy Troy, Craig Campbell, Emerson Drive, Jamie O’Neal, Jerrod Niemann, Josh Gracin, Love and Theft, Skip Ewing, Taylor Hicks, Ty Herndon, Bill Engvall, Cliff Cash, Frankie Moreno, Lance Burton, Broadways Rock of Ages Band, Ranch Hands Cowboylesque, Alli Walker, Bay Simpson, BoomTown Saints, Britnee Kellogg, Casey Chesnutt, CJ Solar, Flat River Band, Hannah Ellis, Jacquie Roar, Kaylee Rose, Levi Hummon, Lewis Brice, MAYCE, Presley & Taylor, William Michael Morgan, The Band Light, New Hollow and more.

“We are proud to represent country music icons, as well as brand new emerging talent who have joined our exclusive roster here at The Kinkead Entertainment Agency,” shares Bob Kinkead, Co-CEO of The Kinkead Entertainment Agency.

Chase McGill Moves Into Top Five On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart

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Chase McGill

Chase McGill has entered the top five on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. His current cuts on the chart include Morgan Wallen‘s “20 Cigarettes,” “I Got Better,” “Miami” and “TN,” Tucker Wetmore’s “Brunette,” Russell Dickerson’s “Happen To Me,” George Birge’s “It Won’t Be Long,” Dierks Bentley’s “She Hates Me” and Keith Urban’s “Straight Line,” all placing him at the No. 3 spot this week.

Charlie Handsome remains in the No. 1 spot for the 11th consecutive week with “Don’t We,” “Eyes Are Closed,” “I Ain’t Comin’ Back,” “I Got Better,” “I’m The Problem,” “Just In Case,” “Kick Myself,” “Kiss Her In Front Of You,” “Miami,” “Superman,” “TN,” “What I Want” and “Where’d That Girl Go.” Wallen himself stays at No. 2 with “Don’t We,” “Eyes Are Closed,” “I Ain’t Comin’ Back,” “I Got Better,” “I’m The Problem,” “Just In Case,” “Kick Myself,” “Miami,” “Superman,” “TN,” “What I Want” and “Where’d That Girl Go.”

Blake Pendergrass (No. 4) and Ashley Gorley (No. 5) round 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.

Click here to view the full MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart.

Become A Subscriber To Vote In 2025 MusicRow Awards

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If you are not a MusicRow subscriber, now is a great time to join.

Only MusicRow subscribers are able to vote in the 2025 MusicRow Awards and the ballot period ends this Friday (Aug. 15). New subscribers will be sent a ballot shortly after joining.

The nominees for the 2025 MusicRow Awards can be viewed in the MusicRow Nominator.

A subscription can be purchased here and includes the following:
– Six Annual Print Issues (including the coveted annual InCharge print issue, as well as the annual Publisher, Artist Roster, MusicRow Awards, Women of Music Row and Touring/Next Big Thing issues.)
– News Emails (twice daily)
– Breaking News Alerts
– The MusicRow Weekly (containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart)
– Top Songwriter Chart (weekly)
– Voting Eligibility in the annual MusicRow Awards

Kathy Mattea Surprised During Set With Opry Member Invite

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Kathy Mattea is invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Photo: © Grand Ole Opry, by Chris Hollo

Kathy Mattea was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday night (Aug. 9) by Opry member Charlie McCoy.

McCoy surprised his long-time friend and fellow West Virginian Mattea onstage by turning off her speaker during her performance of her award-winning hit “18 Wheels and A Dozen Roses.” “I’m so sorry to interrupt,” McCoy said as he presented her with a dozen roses.  “I want to ask you a question. How would you like to be the next member of the Grand Ole Opry?”

Pictured (L-R): Opry’s Gina Keltner, Nicole Judd, Opry member Charlie McCoy, Kathy Mattea and Opry’s Dan Rogers. Photo: © Grand Ole Opry, by Chris Hollo

The four-time CMA Award winner, longtime Opry favorite and host of the Mountain Stage radio show gave an emotional and emphatic yes to the invitation, saying, “I just want to take this in and just remember this moment.”

“I’ve personally watched for nearly 30 years now as Kathy Mattea has brought such great songs, so much artistic integrity, and sheer joy to the Opry stage,” says Dan Rogers, Opry executive producer. “We all look forward to many more such performances in that circle she’ll call home.”

Mattea will officially join the Opry family on Oct. 11, and tickets are on sale now for the two-show Saturday night.

The Opry will celebrate two of its longtime members later this month on their milestone Opry anniversaries. On Aug. 20, the Opry will celebrate Connie Smith’s 60th Opry anniversary with performances by Smith, Marty Stuart, Dailey & Vincent, Sierra Ferrell, Vince Gill, Chris Janson, Old Crow Medicine Show and more. On Aug. 26, Pam Tillis will celebrate her 25th Opry anniversary alongside Suzy Bogguss, Russell Dickerson, Vince Gill, Jamey Johnson, Lorrie Morgan, Emily Ann Roberts and more.

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

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This week, Nashville remains as vibrant as ever, with major announcements, heartfelt tributes and industry shifts making headlines this week in the MusicRow Weekly. Click here to see the full edition.

MusicRow Magazine unveiled the nominees for the 2025 MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank. The annual honors, which celebrate excellence across all facets of Nashville’s music industry, are voted on by MusicRow subscribers. Voting opened on Wednesday (Aug. 6) with ballots sent to all active subscribers. The voting period remains open through Friday, Aug. 15 at 5 p.m. CT. Winners will be announced on Wednesday, Sept. 3 across all MusicRow online platforms. Readers who wish to participate in the voting process can still sign up for a subscription to become eligible.

This week also brought a profound loss to the country music community with the passing of Jeannie Seely. Known as “Miss Country Soul,” Seely died on last Friday (Aug. 1) at the age of 85, following complications from an intestinal infection. A revered member of the Grand Ole Opry, Seely’s legacy spans seven decades of trailblazing work as an artist, songwriter, host, and producer. She made history as the first woman to regularly host segments of the Opry and broke cultural ground by being the first artist to wear a miniskirt on its stage. At the time of her death, Seely had performed on the Opry stage more than any other artist—5,397 times—cementing her place in country music history.

In celebratory news, the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame announced its Class of 2025 inductees during a press conference on Music Row. The upcoming inductees include a mix of legendary performers and behind-the-scenes hitmakers: Emmylou Harris, Brad Paisley, Jim Lauderdale, Don Cook, Steve Bogard and Tony Martin. The formal induction ceremony is set for October.

Sad news also came with the passing of Brandon Blackstock, a longtime talent manager and industry figure. He died at the age of 48 after a battle with cancer. Blackstock, the son of veteran manager Narvel Blackstock and former husband of Kelly Clarkson, was known for his deep ties to the music and entertainment world.

Several executive moves made headlines this week. At MCA, Sarah D’Hilly has been named Senior Vice President of Digital Marketing and Strategy, while Brad Krause joins as Senior Director of Digital Strategy. Hannah Galluzzi steps into the role of Vice President, A&R. Over at Big Machine Label Group, Nicole Flammia has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Creative Photo-Video Production.

Artist development also saw notable action this week. Parker McCollum has extended his exclusive recording deal with MCA, with the label acquiring his full catalog, including The Limestone Kid and Probably Wrong. Meanwhile, Capitol Music Group and The Core Records have signed rising artist Brandon Wisham, and Big Loud Records has inked a deal with Timmy McKeever. Songwriter-producer Jake Mitchell has also entered into an exclusive songwriting agreement with Riser House.

In more publishing news, songwriter Ben Goldsmith has extended his deal with Kobalt Music, and rising singer-songwriter RYMAN has signed a worldwide co-publishing agreement with Concord Music Publishing.

Leadership changes at The Neal Agency included the promotion of Kelly Littlefield to President of Operations for both TNA and Sticks Management. Clark Wilson has been promoted to Agent, Fairs & Festivals, Simone Chretien has been named Agent for the Southeast Territory, and Juliette Edwards is now Agent for the West Coast Territory.

The CMA has announced its newest class of participants for the Women’s Leadership Academy, a 12-week program designed to empower and support women across the music industry.

And finally, a true icon will be celebrated this year: John Fogerty, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member and legendary songwriter, will receive the 2025 BMI Troubadour Award. The award honors songwriters who have profoundly impacted the creative community and continue to influence generations of music makers.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Jordan Davis takes the No. 1 spot with “Bar None.” 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.