Morgan Wallen Reveals Tracks From Upcoming Album ‘I’m The Problem’

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Morgan Wallen has unveiled the full track list for his brand new album I’m The Problem, set to release May 16.

The superstar rounds up plenty of friends for this latest project, including Post Malone, Tate McRae, Eric Church, Ernest and Hardy, and he co-wrote 22 of the whopping 37 cuts on the album, curating a collection that’s both personal and resonant, while viewing life through a different lens than he’s used in the past.

Following up last year’s monster hit with Post Malone, “I Had Some Help,” (which recently topped two billion streams) Wallen doubles down with a new collab with Malone “I Ain’t Comin’ Back,” due out tomorrow (April 18). Written by Wallen, Malone, Hardy, Ernest, Louis Bell and Ryan Vojtesak, “I Ain’t Comin’ Back” features a clever kiss-off, as a guy leaves his relationship, vowing never to return.

The album opens with the title track, “I’m The Problem,” a double-edged confession that reveals the complexities of a relationship at its lowest and concludes with “I’m A Little Crazy,” a quiet, contemplative song that looks inward while examining the world outside. 49 songwriters contributed to the expansive new project, including Ashley Gorley, Chase McGill, Josh Thompson, Jessie Jo Dillon,Chris Tompkins, Josh Miller and many more.

“A lot of the concepts and things we said were a little more difficult with this album,” Wallen says of the writing and refining process. “We were trying to dig deep on things and trying to find new angles. And I feel like we did that. I feel like there’s a lot of stuff that I haven’t said in this record, which I’m really, really proud of.”

Wallen has teased the new album tracks during appearances on NBC’s Saturday Night Live and Theo Von’s This Past Weekend podcast, and he recently became the first artist ever to have two albums spend over 100 weeks in the top 10 of the Billboard 200 chart. He’ll kick off his “I’m The Problem Tour” June 20 at NRG Stadium in Houston.

I’m The Problem Track List:
1. “I’m The Problem” (Morgan Wallen, Grady Block, Jamie McLaughlin, Ernest Keith Smith, Ryan Vojtesak)
2. “I Got Better” (Morgan Wallen, Blake Pendergrass, Chase McGill, Ryan Vojtesak, Ernest Keith Smith, Michael Hardy)
3. “Superman” (Morgan Wallen, Ryan Vojtesak, John Byron, Blake Pendergrass, James Maddocks)
4. “What I Want” (feat. Tate McRae) (Morgan Wallen, Tate McRae, John Byron, Jacob Kasher Hindlin, Ryan Vojtesak, Joe Reeves)
5. “Just In Case” (Morgan Wallen, Ernest Keith Smith, John Byron, Jacob Kasher Hindlin, Ryan Vojtesak, Josh Thompson, Blake Pendergrass, Alex Bak)
6. “Interlude” (Morgan Wallen, Ryan Vojtesak, John Byron, Blake Pendergrass, Rocky Block)
7. “Falling Apart” (Morgan Wallen, Blake Pendergrass, Josh Thompson, Ryan Vojtesak)
8. “Skoal, Chevy, and Browning” (Joe Fox, Chase McGill, Josh Miller)
9. “Eyes Are Closed” (Morgan Wallen, John Byron, Blake Pendergrass, Ryan Vojtesak)
10. “Kick Myself” (Morgan Wallen, Rocky Block, Ernest Keith Smith, Ryan Vojtesak, James Maddocks)
11. “20 Cigarettes” (Chris LaCorte, Chase McGill, Blake Pendergrass, Josh Miller)
12. “TN” (Morgan Wallen, John Byron, Ashley Gorley, Chase McGill, Taylor Phillips, Ryan Vojtesak, Geoff Warburton)
13. “Missing” (Morgan Wallen, Chase McGill, Josh Thompson, Blake Pendergrass, Ryan Vojtesak, Luis Witkiewitz)
14. “Where’d That Girl Go” (Morgan Wallen, Rocky Block, John Byron, Ryan Vojtesak, Blake Pendergrass, Joe Reeves, Geoff Warburton)
15. “Genesis” (Morgan Wallen, John Byron, Rocky Block, Jacob Durrett, Blake Pendergrass, Ryan Vojtesak, James Maddocks)
16. “Revelation” (Trannie Anderson, Rodney Clawson, Nicolle Galyon, Chris Tompkins)
17. “Number 3 and Number 7” (feat. Eric Church) (Rocky Block, Blake Pendergrass)
18. “Kiss Her In Front Of You” (John Byron, Jaxson Free, Taylor Phillips, Ashley Gorley, Ryan Vojtesak)
19. “If You Were Mine” (Chris Tompkins, Jessie Jo Dillon, David Garcia, Geoff Warburton)
20. Don’t We (Morgan Wallen, Ryan Vojtesak, Ashley Gorley, Rocky Block, Blake Pendergrass, John Byron)
21. “Come Back As A Redneck” (feat. HARDY) (Morgan Wallen, Ernest Keith Smith, Ryan Vojtesak, Michael Hardy, James Maddocks)
22. “Love Somebody” (Morgan Wallen, John Byron, Shaun Frank, Nicholas Gale, Ashley Gorley, Yaakov Gruzman, Jacob Kasher Hindlin, Elof Loelv, Steve Francis Richard Mastroianni, Martina Sorbara, Ryan Vojtesak)
23. “Dark Til Daylight” (Rocky Block, Chris Tompkins, Jimmy Robbins)
24. “The Dealer” (feat. ERNEST) (Blake Pendergrass)
25. “Leavin’s The Least I Could Do” (Morgan Wallen, Michael Hardy, Josh Miller, Ernest Keith Smith, Ryan Vojtesak)
26. “Jack and Jill” (Jacob Hackworth, Jared Mullins, Ned Cameron)
27. “I Ain’t Comin’ Back” (feat. Post Malone) (Morgan Wallen, Louis Bell, Michael Hardy, Austin Post, Ernest Keith Smith, Ryan Vojtesak)
28. “Nothin’ Left” (Josh Miller, Greylan James, Matt Jenkins)
29. “Drinking Til It Does” (Josh Thompson, Jimmy Robbins)
30. “Smile” (Morgan Wallen, Rocky Block, John Byron, Ernest Keith Smith, Ryan Vojtesak, Luis Witkiewitz)
31. “Working Man’s Song” (Morgan Wallen, Ryan Vojtesak, Josh Miller, Blake Pendergrass, Rocky Block)
32. “Whiskey In Reverse” (Morgan Wallen, Ernest Keith Smith, Ryan Vojtesak, Michael Hardy)
33. “Crazy Eyes” (Chris Tompkins, Josh Miller, Jessie Jo Dillon, Daniel Ross)
34. “LA Night” (Chris Tompkins, Travis Wood, Josh Miller)
35. “Miami” (Morgan Wallen, Ryan Vojtesak, Ernest Keith Smith, Blake Pendergrass, Chase McGill, Michael Hardy, Dean Dillon, Hank Cochran, Royce Porter)
36. “Lies Lies Lies” (Jessie Jo Dillon, Josh Miller, Daniel Ross, Chris Tompkins)
37. “I’m A Little Crazy” (Michael Hardy, Smith Ahnquist, Hunter Phelps, Jameson Rodgers)

JUST IN: Chris Koon Appointed EVP Of Finance For Big Machine Label Group/Hybe Music Services

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Chris Koon. Photo: Sean Sorensen

Big Machine Label Group, a HYBE America company, has hired Chris Koon as Executive Vice President of Finance. He brings more than 30 years of financial experience across recorded music, distribution and publishing operations to the role, with precious experience in significant financial leadership positions at Universal Music Group/Capitol CMG.

“Chris’ incredible knowledge of the financial now and what’s coming is extraordinary and mission critical. He’s a fantastic asset to our team,” shares BMLG Chairman & CEO, Scott Borchetta.

Koon will take on expanded responsibilities in a role formerly held by Rick Myers. As EVP of Finance, he will serve an active role with Big Machine Label Group, while reporting directly to BMLG President Andrew Kautz and HYBE America CFO Eric Holden, collaborating with them to enhance the group’s financial strategy and efficiency across the organization.

“In an effort to enhance our financial operations, Chris was our clear choice and has already leveled up our game,” Kautz adds, “Finding someone with his expertise with such a curious and kind approach is elusive in the market, and we are lucky to have him.”

“I am honored to join this company at such an exciting time in its growth,” shares Koon. “I look forward to collaborating with the incredible team to enhance financial strategies, drive operational efficiencies, and support the company’s mission of empowering artists and partners worldwide.”

Chris Janson Returns To Warner In Partnership With His Harpeth 60 Records [Exclusive]

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Pictured (L-R): Tom Lord (Manager, Red Light Management), Cris Lacy (Co-Chair & Co-President of Warner Music Nashville), Kelly Janson (manager), Chris Janson, Gregg Nadel (Co-Chair & Co-President of Warner Music Nashville) and Clay Hunnicutt (Honey Music). Not pictured: Ray Vaughn and Lauren (Longbine) Bartlett.

Chris Janson has returned to Warner Music Nashville, in partnership with his own Harpeth 60 Records.

Warner Music Nashville previously released Janson’s first three albums—Buy Me A Boat, Everybody and Real Friends—which helped launch the Grand Ole Opry member’s career. Since then, he’s amassed billions of global streams, earned multiple Gold and Platinum certifications, and surpassed 10 million in sales as an artist. He’s charted five No. 1 hits, including “Buy Me A Boat,” “Fix A Drink,” “Good Vibes,” “Done” and “All I Need Is You.” Janson has also written multiple hits for other artists.

Now, he brings Harpeth 60 Records into the fold, with radio promotion led by Clay Hunnicutt as National, alongside team members Ray Vaughn and Lauren (Longbine) Bartlett.

“This new chapter of my career is so exciting,” shares Janson. “I’m incredibly humbled and grateful for the new partnership with Warner. My Harpeth 60 imprint is second to none, with a great promotion staff—headed up by Clay Hunnicutt and flanked by Ray Vaughn and Lauren Bartlett. This is an awesome overall partnership, and I’m thankful to have them on my side.”

Janson is expected to release new music under the partnership this summer.

BREAKING: Lost Highway Records Teams With Interscope Geffen A&M To Launch New Chapter

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Jake Gear and Bobby Knotts. Photo: Matt Paskert

The iconic Lost Highway Records is entering a new chapter with the support of Interscope Geffen A&M. Robert Knotts and Jake Gear will lead the Nashville-based label as Executive Vice Presidents & Co-Heads.

Founded in 2000 by Luke Lewis, Lost Highway became home to culture-defining artists of the era such as Kacey Musgraves, Willie Nelson, Ryan Bingham, Hayes Carll, Lucinda Williams, Drive-By Truckers, Lyle Lovett, Tift Merritt, Robert Earl Keen, Shelby Lynne, Elvis Costello and Mary Gauthier. The label was absorbed into Mercury Nashville when Lewis retired in 2012.

Earlier this year, former UMG Nashville head Cindy Mabe announced the relaunch of the label in partnership with T Bone Burnett, who produced the new hit country album for Ringo Starr, Look Up, released on Lost Highway. In this new iteration with Interscope, Burnett will continue to collaborate with the label on a number of projects, including the 25th Anniversary edition of the O Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack.

John Janick, Chairman & CEO, Interscope Capitol and IGA, handpicked Knotts and Gear to take Lost Highway into the future. Each executive has deep roots in Nashville and embodies the spirit that has guided both Lost Highway and Interscope – an unwavering commitment to putting artists first. As Executive Vice Presidents and Co-Heads of Lost Highway, Knotts and Gear will lead the label into a new chapter, assembling a team of their own team in Nashville who will work closely with IGA.

“Lost Highway carved out a special place in the remarkable musical legacy of Nashville. It was a left-of-center label with one-of-a-kind artists who, at their core, were great songwriters and moved culture. Similarly, Interscope has always been a beacon to artists who don’t fit into a box yet are destined to inspire what comes next,” Janick shares. “With this new chapter in Lost Highway’s history, we are devoted to empowering the next generation of trailblazers, both artists and executives.”

Knotts joins Lost Highway from Nashville-based Thirty Tigers, where he rose through the ranks from intern to Senior Vice President, Artist and Label Services. Over the past 12 years, he has played an integral role in shaping the team, structure, and culture of Thirty Tigers while facilitating campaigns for artists such as Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Sturgill Simpson, Lucinda Williams, Turnpike Troubadours, Maggie Antone, Muscadine Bloodline and more. A native of Georgia, he graduated from UGA.

Knotts says, “Over the course of my career, my goal has always been to operate in service to the artist’s vision while understanding the emotional connection to their art. It is with this same spirit that Lost Highway left a lasting impact on the Nashville community—providing a home for artists who aren’t defined by genre and recognizing that the artist’s vision ultimately shapes culture itself. I am honored to carry that approach forward alongside one of my closest friends, Jake Gear. With John Janick’s guidance, and support from the entire Interscope team, we have an incredible opportunity to combine an artist-first mentality with Interscope’s remarkable ability to help build worlds around an artist’s vision.”

Gear comes to Lost Highway from UMG Nashville where, as Vice President A&R, he was instrumental in signing and developing breakthrough artist Tucker Wetmore, working closely with Vincent Mason (whom he previously signed for publishing), as well as A&Ring studio albums by Parker McCollum, Jordan Davis and Dierks Bentley and single releases on Sam Hunt, Josh Ross, Brothers Osborne and Brad Paisley.

An Iowa native and Belmont graduate, he spent 12 years in the publishing community on Music Row, helping to land hit records with Morgan Wallen, Jelly Roll, Kelsea Ballerini, Blake Shelton, Luke Bryan and Eric Church. In 2020, he partnered with Hillary Lindsey and Concord Music to launch Hang Your Hat Music, and has produced critically acclaimed albums for Hailey Whitters and Flatland Cavalry.

“Lost Highway has a rich history. Many of these releases and artists were formative in developing my own appreciation of the craft of songwriting,” Gear shares. “The label was a pioneer in taste, representing an ethos of artistry first, an openness to taking creative risks and shining a light on artists who drifted on the fringes of the major label defined ‘mainstream.’ Together with my friend, Robert, and with the backing of John Janick and Interscope, I look forward to curating the roster.”

Date Set For 2025 Music Row Ladies Golf Tournament

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MRLGT 2024 first place costume contest winners Team Regions Bank featuring Hannah Dasher and Elvie Shane.

The 38th annual Music Row Ladies Golf Tournament (MRLGT) will take place on Monday, Aug. 11 at Old Natchez Country Club in Nashville.

With all proceeds again going to United Cerebral Palsy of Middle Tennessee, the tournament is one of Music Row’s longest-running charity events and United Cerebral Palsy of Middle Tennessee’s largest annual fundraiser. Throughout its 38-year history, the MRLGT has raised $2.5 million for the organization, supporting people with disabilities across Middle Tennessee by providing wheelchair ramps, home modifications and medical equipment donations.

The longtime tournament tradition of teams collaborating on themed costumes will continue this year.

“The MRLGT is a cherished Music Row tradition that we are honored to present year after year,” shares former Nashville music industry executive and MRLGT Founder Herky Williams. “Last year, the tournament generated roughly $84,000 for United Cerebral Palsy of Middle Tennessee. The funds placed over 1,800 pieces of durable medical equipment, built 232 wheelchair ramps and financed eight home modifications.”

Registration opens in June, with more details to be announced soon. For information about becoming a sponsor or contributor, reach out to MRLGTnash@gmail.com.

Kane Brown Cements Superstar Status At Bridgestone Arena Weekend Run

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Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert

Kane Brown took the stage at Bridgestone Arena on Friday (April 11) and Saturday (April 12) as part of “The High Road Tour.” Both nights, the arena was packed with eager fans, sporting tour t-shirts and “KB” hats, ready for the entertainer to deliver his high-energy set.

Ashley Cooke kicked off Saturday night with fan favorites such as “I Almost Do,” “Never Til Now,” “It’s Been A Year,” her Joe Jonas collaboration “All I Forgot” and more. She surprised the crowd with the announcement of her newest single “The F Word,” releasing this Friday (April 18), before previewing the tune. She also got the crowd rocking to a medley of cover songs including Kelly Clarkson’s “Since U Been Gone,” Avril Lavigne’s “Complicated” and Rascal Flatts’ “Life Is A Highway,” before closing her set with her first No. 1 at country radio, “Your Place.”

Next up was Nashville native Mitchell Tenpenny, who was making his Bridgestone debut. Tenpenny soaked in every moment, playing hits including “We Got History,” “Bucket List,” “Alcohol You Later,” “Truth About You” and “Drunk Me,” among others. Tenpenny also showcased his newest radio single “Same Moon” off his The 3rd album. Energizing the crowd, he also delivered electric covers of 2Pac’s “California Love,” where his brother joined him for the rap portion, and ended his set with Goo Goo Dolls’ “Iris.”

Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert

As the lights went dim, the arena was ready for Brown’s genre-blending, emotionally-charged and energetic show. From the moment smoke filled the air and Brown emerged dramatically at the end of the circle stage outstretched to the center of the venue, it was clear the crowd was in for a fun night.

The explosive kickoff came with “I Am,” accompanied by a burst of fireworks that set the tone for a night where spectacle and soul collided. He kept the energy high with “Start a Fire” and “I Can Feel It,” making the massive arena feel like a packed-out party.

When “Fiddle In The Band” hit, the spotlight turned to the fiddle player for a jaw-dropping solo that had the crowd roaring, but it was “Like I Love Country Music” that turned Bridgestone into a giant singalong, with fans shouting every word right back at him.

Kane Brown & Lauren Alaina. Photo: Matthew Paskert

One of the night’s best surprises came during “What Ifs,” when Lauren Alaina joined Brown on stage, bringing the house down for their chart-topping duet. He kept the good vibes rolling with the dance-filled “Lose It,” with Brown utilizing every inch of the giant stage, and a moody, blue-lit “Be Like That,” which saw him striding up a ramp at the back of the stage, captivating the audience with every step. After the band briefly exited, Brown took a moment alone sitting at the top of the ramp, diving into a heartfelt “Homesick.”

“People sometimes forget that celebrities are humans, too, and we go through things. This song is about some of my own personal struggles, and a reminder to everyone that you are not alone,” Brown said before transitioning into the beautifully emotional “Haunted,” made even more intense by a red fog and the illusion of the video screen burning away behind him, creating a highlight of the night.

Photo: Matthew Paskert

Brown and his band then walked to the edge of the stage, creating a setup in the middle of the arena for their stripped-back acoustic section, which Brown wanted to have imitate his high school days of playing at bonfires. The band shared intimate takes on “Backseat Driver,” “Worship You” and “For My Daughter.” Then Brown remained there by himself for a powerful solo performance of “Heaven,” where he asked the crowd to get as loud as possible. The crowd roared and shined their cell phone lights, illuminating the venue.

Brown kicked the party back into gear with “One Mississippi” before inviting Tenpenny and Cooke back out for a stellar rendition of “Says I Can.” He followed that with fan-favorite “Good As You.”

Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert

Then came a tender moment when he was joined on stage by his wife Katelyn, who also impressed the crowd vocally, on “Body Talk,” with laser beams lighting up the entire stage, before launching into their duet “Thank God,” with the fans swaying and singing along to every word.

The finale was figuratively and literally pure fire with “Bury Me In Georgia” and “One Thing Right” featuring pyrotechnics and red lasers lighting up the arena. To cap it all off, “Miles On It” turned into a full-circle moment as Brown brought out the team who helped bring the music video to life, and one final singalong rippled through the arena.

Brown will continue “The High Road Tour” on April 24 in Columbia, South Carolina, before heading to Grand Rapids, Albany, Atlantic City and more.

Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert

Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert

Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert

Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert

Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert

Ben Johnson Jumps Into Top 10 On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart

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Ben Johnson. Photo: Dusty Barker

Ben Johnson has entered the top 10 on this week’s MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. Jordan Davis’ “Bar None,” Jelly Roll’s “Liar,” Nate Smith’s “Nobody Likes Your Girlfriend” and Dasha’s “Not At This Party” all push the songwriter to No. 7 this week.

Ashley Gorley stays at No. 1 with “Fix What You Didn’t Break,” “I Had Some Help,” “Liar,” “Love Somebody,” “Not At This Party,” “Park,” “She Hates Me” and “This Town’s Been Too Good To Us.” Riley Green remains at No. 2 with solo-penned “Worst Way.”

Charlie Handsome (No. 3), Taylor Phillips (No. 4) and Jordan Walker (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.

Tucker Wetmore Reveals Track List For Upcoming Debut Album ‘What Not To’

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Tucker Wetmore has unveiled the full track list for his debut album What Not To, set for release April 25 via EMI Records Nashville/Back Blocks Music.

Produced by Chris LaCorte, the expansive 19-song collection captures the highs, lows and lessons learned in Wetmore’s 25 years. He co-wrote 11 of the album’s tracks, including the long-requested fan-favorite “Drinkin’ Boots” and the current viral sensation “Brunette.” The record weaves together interconnected themes, and at its core is the title track, “What Not To,” a song about struggle, compassion and salvation. Writers contributing to the new album include Chris Tompkins, Chase McGill, Jameson Rodgers, Josh Miller, Tucker Beathard and many more.

Wetmore has spent the spring playing for international audiences across Europe at Country 2 Country, including a sold-out headlining stop at London’s Electric Ballroom, and continues that momentum with his extended “Waves On A Sunset Tour 2025” through May before hitting the road as direct support for Thomas Rhett’s “Better In Boots T0ur 2025,” which visits 33 markets this summer.

What Not To Track List:
1. “Whatcha Think Is Gonna Happen?” (Matt Jenkins, Ben Stennis, Michael Tyler)
2. “3,2,1” (Josh Miller, Summer Overstreet, Jordan Reynolds)
3. “Bad Luck Looks Good On Me” (Tucker Wetmore, Julian Bunetta, Jackson Foote, Jaxson Free, Steph Jones)
4. “Casino” (Josh Jenkins, Alex Palmer, John Pierce and Michael Tyler)
5. “Takes One To Break One” (Matt Jenkins, Josh Miller, Ben Stennis)
6. “Brunette” (Chris LaCorte, Chase McGill, Josh Miller, Blake Pendergrass)
7. “Wind Up Missin’ You” (Tucker Wetmore, Thomas Archer, Chris LaCorte)
8. “Give Her The World” (Tucker Wetmore, Madison Kozak, Chase McDaniel)
9. “Goodbye Whiskey” (Tucker Wetmore, Thomas Archer, Ross Copperman, Jacob Hackworth)
10. “When I Ain’t Lookin’” (Austin Goodloe, Thomas Archer, Michael Tyler, Tucker Beathard)
11. “Drink Alone” (Tucker Wetmore, Jacob Hackworth, Chris LaCorte, Chase McGill, Jameson Rodgers)
12. “Bad Habit” (Tucker Wetmore, Corey Crowder, Chris LaCorte, Jameson Rodgers)
13. “What Not To” (Tucker Wetmore, Jacob Hackworth, Chris LaCorte, Chase McGill, Jameson Rodgers)
14. “Break First” (Michael Tyler, Matt Roy, Lauren Hungate, Matt Dragstrem)
15. “Drinkin’ Boots (Demo)” (Tucker Wetmore, Jared Keim, Michael Lotten)
16. “Drunk On Her” (Jaxson Free, Gabe Foust, Jacob Hackworth, Chris Tompkins)
17. “Silverado Blue” (Tucker Wetmore, Brett Sheroky, Dan Wilson)
18. “Wine Into Whiskey” (Tucker Wetmore, Jacob Hackworth, Justin Ebach)
19. “Whiskey Again” (Tucker Wetmore, Jacob Hackworth, Chris LaCorte, Chase McGill, Jameson Rodgers)

MusicRow Weekly (News, Charts, More…)

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This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly dives deep into the heart of Nashville’s music industry, spotlighting major milestones, new leadership moves and exciting partnerships that continue to shape Music City’s ever-evolving landscape. Click here to see the full edition.

A highlight of the week was the 2025 AIMP Nashville Country Awards, held Tuesday night (April 8) at Marathon Music Works. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the event honored the independent voices behind many of country music’s biggest moments. Among this year’s standout honorees were Jon Decious, named Rising Songwriter of the Year, and breakout artist Zach Top, who received Rising Artist-Writer of the Year. Courtney Allen of Concord was recognized as Song Champion of the Year, while the Publisher Pick of the Year went to “Hell Is A Dance Floor,” penned by Vincent Mason and Chase McDaniel.

The prestigious Songwriter of the Year honor was awarded to Jessie Jo Dillon, while Jordan Davis was named Artist-Writer of the Year. Big Machine Music took home the title of Independent Publishing Company of the Year, and “The Painter,” written by Benjy Davis, Kat Higgins and Ryan Larkins, earned Song of the Year.

The community bid farewell to a longtime industry leader, Amy Smartt, Senior Vice President of Finance and Administration at CMA. She announced her retirement after nearly 20 years of service. Her last day was Wednesday (April 9).

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is preparing to unveil a landmark exhibition: Dolly Parton: Journey of a Seeker. Opening May 20, this immersive celebration of the icon’s life and legacy will run through September 2026.

Belmont University also recognized one of the industry’s top marketers, presenting the 2025 Robert E. Mulloy Award of Excellence to Results Global’s Chief Marketing Officer John Zarling. The honor was bestowed during the university’s annual Best of the Best Showcase, hosted by the Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business.

On the business front, Big Machine Music announced the addition of Preston Berger as Senior Manager of Publishing. Meanwhile, Ernest made headlines with the launch of his own label, DeVille Records, in collaboration with Big Loud Records. The label’s first signings include Chandler Walters, Rhys Rutherford and Cody Lohden. Anotherland Agency has named Megan Wise as Vice President of New Business.

The Neal Agency brought on Michelle Bower as President of Strategic Partnerships. Electric Feel Entertainment also expanded its leadership, appointing Chandler Nicole Sherrill as Senior Director of Creative.

Warner Chappell Music Nashville and Warrior Poet Music formed a new alliance to sign rising singer-songwriter Chandler Brown to a global publishing deal. In agency news, Lanco has signed with UTA for representation in all areas.

The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) revealed its 2025 Board of Directors this week. Newly elected members include Deric Ruttan, Lydia Vaughan and Dan Wilson, with Jimmy Yeary returning to the board. Re-elected for two-year terms are Kelly Archer, Jessie Jo Dillon, David Hodges, Lee Thomas Miller, Tim Nichols, Josh Osborne, Troy Verges and Parker Welling.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. John Morgan makes his debut in the No. 1 spot this week with “Friends Like That,” featuring Jason Aldean. Explore more chart data here.

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.

Megan Moroney Brings Emo Cowgirl Energy To Two Sold-Out Nashville Shows

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Megan Moroney performs at The Pinnacle in Nashville. Photo: John Shearer/Getty Images

Megan Moroney brought her “Am I Okay? Tour” to Nashville this week, playing two back-to-back sold-out shows at the city’s newest venue, The Pinnacle, on Wednesday (April 9) and Thursday (April 10).

Fans packed the venue dressed in Moroney-inspired looks—blue fits, white cowgirl boots and tour merch in tow—ready to sing along to every lyric. The audience was filled with young women and girls, though plenty of guys were spotted joining in the fun.

Megan Moroney performs at The Pinnacle in Nashville. Photo: John Shearer/Getty Images

Opening both nights was Nashville native Chase Matthew, who delivered a high-energy set featuring Platinum-certified hit “County Line,” Gold-certified “Darlin’” and his top 5 debut single “Love You Again,” along with a few well-received covers. He was clearly at home, telling the crowd how excited he was to play in his hometown.

After the crowd warmed up by singing along to Hannah Montana’s “Best of Both Worlds,” Moroney made her entrance with the fiery “Man on the Moon,” followed by fan-favorite “Indifferent.” She then leaned into her self-described “emo cowgirl” persona with the vulnerable “I Know You,” a moment that set the emotional tone for the rest of the evening.

“This is the most fun I’ve ever had playing shows,” she told the crowd. “It’s so cool to play Nashville because I wrote a lot of these songs right down the road.”

Megan Moroney performs at The Pinnacle in Nashville. Photo: John Shearer/Getty Images

Moroney’s set pulled heavily from her sophomore LP Am I Okay?, including “Noah,” “Third Time’s the Charm” and her viral ballad “No Caller ID.” She wove in emotional fan-favorites like “Hair Salon” and “Girl in the Mirror,” the latter made even more poignant as the audience lit up the venue with phone flashlights covered in slips of blue paper handed out at the door.

She balanced that emotional intensity with her signature cheeky charm on “Sleep on My Side” and “Lucky.” From breakup anthems to love songs, the crowd stayed in lockstep, belting out every line.

For a slower, moody section, Moroney took a seat on a glowing heart-shaped riser for “28th of June,” a sultry Brooks & Dunn cover of “Ain’t Nothing ’Bout You” and the tender “Hope You’re Happy.” She closed the segment with “Mama I Lied,” sending love to her mom, who was in the crowd.

Megan Moroney, Chase Matthew and team gather before the show at The Pinnacle in Nashville. Photo: John Shearer/Getty Images

The set’s most heartwarming moment came during “Miss Universe,” when Moroney invited a young girl on stage and presented her with flowers. Wearing a pageant sash that read “Miss ‘Am I Okay?’ Tour Nashville,” she continued a new tradition she’s bringing to each stop on the tour.

Moroney powered through the final stretch with “Break It Right Back,” “Bless Your Heart” and “The Girls,” and treated fans to a surprise performance of early track “Wonder,” chosen by audience vote.

Naturally, the crowd erupted during her three-times Platinum breakthrough “Tennessee Orange.” After “I’ll Be Fine,” she briefly left the stage before returning for an encore of the title track “Am I Okay?”—this time bringing Matthew back out to close the night.

Moroney continues her 50-date headlining tour tonight and tomorrow in Knoxville, Tennessee, with upcoming stops including Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the Greek Theatre and more iconic venues through October.