Kelsea Ballerini To Return As Host For 2024 CMT Music Awards

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Kelsea Ballerini. Photo: John Shearer for CMT

Grammy-nominated country star Kelsea Ballerini will once again return as host for this year’s CMT Music Awards, marking her fourth consecutive year leading the fan-voted event.

Ballerini fronted the CMT Music Awards alongside Kane Brown in both 2021 and 2023, and hosted the show remotely in 2022.

“I couldn’t be more excited to be back for my fourth year with my CMT family to host this year’s CMT Music Awards in Austin, Texas,” she shares. “Hosting an awards show that celebrates the music that the fans love most has been an honor and I know this year will be another unforgettable night.”

Nominees, performers and presenters will be announced in the coming weeks.

The CMT Music Awards will air live on CBS from Moody Center in Austin, Texas on Sunday, April 7, starting at 7 p.m. CT. Paramount+ with Showtime subscribers will be available to stream the event live and on demand, and Paramount+ Essential subscribers will be able to watch it on demand the next day (April 8).

MusicRow’s 2024 CountryBreakout Award Winners [Full List]

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MusicRow virtually announced the winners of the 22nd annual CountryBreakout Awards throughout the day today (Feb. 27) across all of MusicRow’s online platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).

The MusicRow CountryBreakout Awards celebrate those who have dominated country radio’s secondary market. Winners in eight categories are determined by spins on the secondary market stations that report to the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart panel each week.

Each winner is featured in MusicRow’s Country Radio & Streaming Issue, also out today (Feb. 27).

The winners for the 2024 CountryBreakout Awards will be updated live below:
Reporter of the Year – Bryce Burtner (KRWQ)
Songwriter of the Year – Ashley Gorley
Label Group of the Year – UMG Nashville
Independent Artist of the Year – BoomTown Saints
Breakout Artist of the Year – Megan Moroney
Group/Duo of the Year – Dan + Shay
Female Artist of the Year – Lainey Wilson
Male Artist of the Year – Morgan Wallen

Chayce Beckham Cracks Top Two On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart

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Chayce Beckham. Photo: Matthew Simmons

Season 19 American Idol champion Chayce Beckham has moved into the top two on this week’s MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. With his solo-written track “23,” Beckham sits at No. 2 this week.

Ashley Gorley is No. 1 this week with his seven entries on the chart, including “Bulletproof,” “Last Night,” “Thinkin’ Bout Me,” “This Town’s Been Too Good For Us,” “Truck Bed,” “World On Fire” and “Young Love & Saturday Nights.” With “Different ‘Round Here,” “This Is My Dirt” and “Where The Wild Things Are,” Randy Montana claims the No. 3 spot this week.

Zach Bryan (No. 4) and Toby Keith (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.

JUST IN: Kelly Rich Exits Red Street Records

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Kelly Rich

Kelly Rich has exited her position as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Red Street Records, the label home to Chris Lane, Ryan Griffin, Neon Union, Ryan Larkins and more.

Rich joined Red Street Records as a consultant when Jay DeMarcus launched the label in January 2022, and was soon named COO. Prior to that, she was the Country Lead for Amazon Music based in Nashville. Her more than 35 years of industry experience also includes leadership roles at Big Machine Label Group (BMLG) and positions at UMG Nashville, DreamWorks, Arista Nashville, BMG and Western Merchandisers.

Rich has been honored as a Billboard Women in Music, a MusicRow Rising Women on the Row honoree and a Nashville Business Journal Women in Music recipient. She has been listed as a Billboard Country Power Player multiple times and named one of Variety’s Women Who Power Country Music.

“What originally was a consulting position turned into more but I knew once it was up and rolling the needs would change as the team was built out,” Rich shares. “All companies go through reorganization and this one allows me to refocus my attention on the next challenge.”

Rich can be reached at [email protected].

BREAKING: Warner Music Nashville Promotes Kristen Williams

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Kristen Williams

Warner Music Nashville has promoted Kristen Williams to SVP, Radio & Commercial Partnerships.

Having led the label’s Radio division since 2010, Williams will now also lead the Commercial Partnerships team which includes retail, streaming, catalog development and direct to consumer efforts. The Radio department will continue to operate under its two-pronged model of focusing on both individual stations and larger national accounts.

“This set-up positions us to work in a more sophisticated way while continuing to super serve our artist community and partners in this ever-changing, dynamic business environment. There is nobody better equipped to lead our efforts than Kristen. She is one of the most respected executives in this industry, and her passion and knowledge will bring a fresh perspective to all of WMN’s commercial partnerships, in addition to her radio expertise,” says Ben Kline, Co-Chair & Co-President, Warner Music Nashville.

“I want to thank Ben and Cris [Lacy] for trusting me with this great opportunity,” says Williams. “Aligning the radio and commercial partnerships departments, which utilize so much of the same data, will allow us to be both more efficient and more effective with all of our radio and streaming partners, and will also create a more strategic approach for our artists. Warner Music Nashville continues to have the foresight to anticipate change and take the initiative to meet it head-on.”

Tune In: MusicRow 2024 CountryBreakout Award Winners Revealed Tomorrow

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MusicRow will announce the winners of the 22nd annual CountryBreakout Awards virtually starting at 9:00 a.m. tomorrow (Feb. 27).

The MusicRow CountryBreakout Awards celebrate those who have dominated country radio’s secondary market. Winners in eight categories are determined by spins on the secondary market stations that report to the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart panel each week.

Winners will be revealed on all MusicRow online platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) on Feb. 27.

MusicRow CountryBreakout Awards Announcement Schedule:
9:00 a.m.: Reporter of the Year
9:30 a.m.: Songwriter of the Year
10:00 a.m.: Label Group of the Year
10:30 a.m.: Independent Artist of the Year
11:00 a.m.: Breakout Artist of the Year
11:30 a.m.: Group/Duo of the Year
12:00 p.m.: Female Artist of the Year
12:30 p.m.: Male Artist of the Year

Each winner will be featured in MusicRow‘s Country Radio & Streaming Issue, out tomorrow (Feb. 27).

JUST IN: BMLG Records Rebrands As Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment​

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Big Machine Label Group imprint BMLG Records is rebranding as Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment. Initially founded as a joint venture in 2009 as Republic Nashville, Big Machine Label Group acquired full ownership of the imprint in 2015 and renamed it BMLG Records.

The imprint’s new namesake is meant to serve as a mark of a safe place for artists and executives to write, create, grow and flourish. Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment’s artist roster includes Riley Green, Brett Young, Chris Janson, Lady A, Greylan James and Shane Profitt. Jimmy Harnen remains the President/CEO, with operations continuing as normal.

“Under Jimmy’s leadership, this imprint has built an incredible reputation with the monstrous success of Florida Georgia Line and Lady A, more than 40 No. 1 hits, countless RIAA certifications/awards and impressive team of music executives that share in his passion,” shares Big Machine Label Group Chairman & CEO Scott Borchetta. “Since its inception, this label has been an exercise in experimentation and innovation and I have no doubt that the possibilities are endless for this team.”

“This label has always given artists the freedom to create music that is true to them and we want to double down on that and continue to create even more of a haven for creativity and an environment that fosters development,” says Harnen. “We want to take the time to nurture talent and provide a place they can call home.”

Janson’s forthcoming single “Whatcha See Is Whatcha Get,” will be the first release under Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment. It comes out March 8.

“This rebranding is EXCITING, and I’m very happy to be first out of the gate, with ‘Whatcha See Is Whatcha Get,'” Janson says. “The entire team has my upmost respect, confidence, and gratitude. They have shown me what a winning team is, and I’m more than proud to be here and to be recognized on Harbor’s amazing artist roster.”

“This team has been in my corner since the very beginning. They’ve been so supportive of my family and my dreams and truly have always been a safe harbor for me and my music—the new name feels fitting,” adds Young

Green says, “Scott and Jimmy have always created an artist-first culture and I’m glad to be part of this team as it expands further.”

“Jimmy and his team are some of the most passionate advocates for country music and we’re excited to see what we can do together next,” adds Lady A.

‘Mamaw’s House’ Tops The MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart

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Thomas Rhett and Morgan Wallen top the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart this week with their collaboration “Mamaw’s House.”

The two singers wrote the song with Matt Dragstrem and Chase McGill, and it is included on Rhett’s retrospective 20 Number Ones collection. “Mamaw’s House” features Rhett and Wallen reflecting on their shared experience of spending time at their grandmother’s homes.

“Mamaw’s House” currently sits at No. 8 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: Beyoncé ‘Summons You To The Country Dance Floor’

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Beyoncé

The single that is on everyone’s tongue this week is also DISClaimer’s Disc of the Day. That would be Beyonce’s bopper.

Black country women are in the spotlight in general this week, as the column also notes efforts by Autumn Nichols, the esteemed Joy Oladokun and our DISCovery Award winner, Camille Parker.

But be sure and save some listening time for Priscilla Block, Tracy Lawrence, Allie Colleen and Bailey Zimmerman. They’re bringing their “A” game, too.

MATT STELL/ “Born Lonely”
Writers: Benjy Davis/Jake Mitchell/Matt Stell; Producer: Joe Fox; Label: Records Nashville/Columbia
– To join his radio favorite “Breakin’ in Boots” in welcoming 2024, this former chart topper has issued this track and its new music video. The lyric traces the inability to fall in love, the persistence of heartbreak and psychic wounds that won’t heal. The only comfort is that she has those same feelings and that maybe they belong together. As always, he is a solid vocal communicator.

BEYONCÉ/ “Texas Hold ‘Em”
Writers: Beyoncé/Brian Bates/Elizabeth Lowell Boland/Megan Bülow/Nate Ferraro/Raphael Saadiq; Producers: Beyoncé/Raphael Saadiq/Nate Ferraro/Killah B/Hit-Boy/Stuart White.Mariel Gomerez; Label: Parkwood Entertainment/Columbia
– Queen Bey summons you to the country dancefloor, and you dare not refuse. The beats are irresistible, the tune is catchy and the vibe is fun, fun, fun. A much deserved smash.

REDFERRIN/ “Lose Her For Nothin’”
Writers: Blake Redferrin/Cooper Bascom/Rose Falcon; Producers: Cooper Bascom/Redferrin; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– This downbeat, moody jam puts a loser’s life on repeat. This guy has previously perked up ears with “Doin’ Life” and “Jack and Diet Coke,” so he’s on a roll.

TRACY LAWRENCE/ “Out Here In It”
Writers: Chris Utley/Lee Miller/Trey Lewis; Producers: Tracy Lawrence/Julian King; Label: Lawrence Music Group
– It’s kinda philosophical, kinda thoughtful, kinda mellow and all the way listenable. He remains a superb country vocalist and the strings-and-steel embellished production perfectly underscores his meditation. Lend this your ears.

JOY OLADOKUN/ “If You Got A Problem”
Writers: Peter Groenwald/Ian Fitchuk/Olubukola Oladokun; Producers: Peter Groenwald/Ian Fitchuk; Label: Verve Forecast/Republic Records
–  This Nashvillian scored a big career coup this week when she performed this ballad on the CBS special Dolly Parton’s Pet Gala on Wednesday evening (Feb. 21). The folk-pop production ripples with audio pleasure, while her silken vocal conveys hope, inspiration and fidelity. If you’re not already into this artist, start here and then explore both of her exquisite albums, In Defense of My Own Happiness (2021) and Proof of Life (2023).

PAT BOONE/ “My Stupid Tattoo”
Writers: Damon Leigh/David John Siebels; Producer: David Siebels; Label: The Gold Label
– Boone turns 90 this year, but he’s still in there swingin.’ On the heels of his 2023 Country Jubilee album, the former pop balladeer has issued this goofy, comedic bopper that cautions us not to put a girlfriend’s name in ink, ‘cause you might regret it later. Tap your toes and smile.

ALLIE COLLEEN (FT. LEE BRICE)/ “While We’re Still Friends”
Writers: Allie Colleen/Lee Brice/Sara Brice; Producers: Lee Brice/Jerrod Niemann/Allie Colleen; Label: Evangeline Records
– Colleen issues her finest vocal performance to date on this luscious, gorgeously produced power ballad. Her gleaming, shining-crystal delivery beams from an echoey, swirling-smoke soundscape to convey a goodbye-song lyric that looks back with fondness. I wish Brice had a verse of his own, but nevertheless his harmony vocal is a gem. Excellent work.

BAILEY ZIMMERMAN/ “Holy Smokes”
Writers: Bailey Zimmerman/Austin Shawn/Ben Stennis/Michael Tyler/Lauren Hungate; Producer: Austin Shawn; Label: Elektra
– Romancing the preacher’s daughter in the church parking lot. Cigarette embers glow and smoke twirls around them, hence the title. Zimmerman’s story telling skill and assured vocal are both in full sail here. Captivating.

AUTUMN NICHOLS/ “Slow Down”
Writers: Autumn Nicole Nicholas/Bonnie J. Baker/Tori Tullier; Producers: Bonnie J. Baker; Label: A+N Records
– She sings wonderfully. The ballad starts too slowly, but gradually picks up potency.

PRISCILLA BLOCK/ “Good On You”
Writers: David Garcia/Jessie Jo Dillon/Laura Veltz/Priscilla Block; Producers: David Garcia/Dave Cohen; Label: UMGN InDent Records
– Loved her on “My Bar,” “Thick Thighs,” “Heels in Hand,” “Peaked in High School” and the rest of her outstanding Welcome to the Block Party collection in 2022-23. Now Block returns with a dandy ode that addresses her ex with sass. She knows she’s trashy and honky-tonk loud compared to his goody-two-shoes new girlfriend. But she’s cool with it. So am I. And how. “Vanilla ain’t me/It ain’t ever gonna be,” she warbles.

CAMILLE PARKER/ “Spinning Out”
Writers: Camille Parker/Sara Bares/Reid Sorel; Producers: Reid Sorel; Label: CP
– Breezy, danceable and very, very pop. This hasn’t stopped her from being a CMT Next Women of Country alumnus and CMA Fest performer who staged her Opry debut last weekend. The latter event was noteworthy in that her appearance on the iconic stage was cheered backstage by her country sisters in song Rissi Palmer, Madeline Edwards, Sacha, Tiera Kennedy, Denitia and Miko Marks.

JAIME WYATT/ “Back To The Country”
Writers: Jaime Wyatt/Ryan Hartman; Producer: Adrian Quesada; Label: New West Records
– She has a somewhat raw, garage-y, country-rocking sound with plenty of personality and an unstoppable vocal wail. During the past year, Wyatt has gigged at Austin City Limits, the Opry, the Newport Folk Festival and Stagecoach, plus toured with Sierra Ferrell, Nikki Lane, Margo Price, Grace Potter and The Avett Brothers. This week, she sang this on Kelly Clarkson’s TV show.

Beyoncé Debuts At No. 1 On Billboard Hot Country Songs Chart

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Beyoncé

Global superstar Beyoncé has made her first appearance on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, and in the No. 1 spot. The feat makes her the first Black woman to top the list.

“Texas Hold ‘Em” earned the singer the top spot this week for her chart debut. Her other debut country track, “16 Carriages,” debuted at No. 9 this week. The songs also debuted at No. 2 and No. 38 respectively on the all-genre Billboard 100.

Both tracks were released following the singer’s Verizon commercial during Super Bowl LVIII on Feb. 11. They are the lead singles off her upcoming country album Act II, which is set to release on March 29.

“Texas Hold ‘Em,” which was written by Beyoncé, Brian Bates, Elizabeth Lowell Boland, Megan Bülow, Nate Ferraro and Raphael Saadiq, and produced by Beyoncé, Saadiq, Ferraro, Killah B, Hit-Boy, Stuart White and Mariel Gomerez. Since its release, the song has garnered over 19.2 million streams, 4.8 million in radio reach and sold 39,000 units in the U.S., according to Luminate.

“16 Carriages,” written by Atia Boggs, Beyoncé, Dave Hamelin and Saadiq, and produced by Beyoncé, Hamelin, Ink, Saadiq and White, has over 10.3 million streams, 90,000 in radio streams and 14,000 units sold.

With “Texas Hold ‘Em” earning the top spot on the Hot Country chart, Beyoncé now has No. 1 slots on seven on Billboard’s multri-metric song chart as a solo artist. Her chart entries include the Hot 100, Hot Country Songs, Hot Dance/Electronic Songs, Hot Gospel Songs, Hot Latin Songs, Hot R&B Songs and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs.

She also has made history as the first woman to have topped both Hot Country Songs and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs. She joins Morgan Wallen, Justin Bieber, Billy Ray Cyrus and Ray Charles as the only acts to have led both charts.

“Texas Hold ‘Em” is already being promoted at country radio, and debuted at N0. 54 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart with a 1.1 million audience impression.