Windy City Smokeout Unveils 2026 Headliners

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Windy City Smokeout will return to Chicago’s United Center for the 13th year from July 8-12.

This year’s headliners will include Hootie & the Blowfish on Thursday, Lainey Wilson on Friday, Jordan Davis on Saturday, and Blake Shelton closing out the festival on Sunday.

For the first time in festival history, the event will kick off with a Wednesday night concert headlined by Treaty Oak Revival, with opening sets from Braxton Keith and Sterling Elza on July 8.

In addition to the music, guests can also enjoy the “Biggest Happy Hour of the Summer,” a bottomless BBQ, beverage options and more.

4-Day and Single Day General Admission, VIP, Platinum and Wednesday wristbands on sale now.

The complete lineup of artists will be announced soon.

Scott Borchetta Receives 2025 CMA Irving Waugh Award Of Excellence

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Riley Green, Big Machine Label Group Founder, Chairman and CEO Scott Borchetta and CMA CEO Sarah Trahern after surprising Borchetta with the 2025 CMA Irving Waugh Award of Excellence on the red carpet of The 59th Annual CMA Awards. Photo: John Russell/CMA

Big Machine Label Group Founder, Chairman, and CEO Scott Borchetta was honored with the 2025 CMA Irving Waugh Award of Excellence ahead of the CMA Awards earlier this week.

The Irving Waugh Award of Excellence is presented to an individual who is the originator and caretaker of ideas and actions that have dramatically broadened and improved country music’s influence on a national or international level for the benefit of the industry. Borchetta was surprised with the award on the red carpet by three-time 2025 CMA Award winner and Big Machine Label Group artist Riley Green. Borchetta is a 2025 CMA Awards nominee in the Musical Event of the Year category for his production work on Green’s “Don’t Mind If I Do,” which features Ella Langley.

“Scott has played a pivotal role in shaping country music’s modern era,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “I’ve watched him navigate this industry with remarkable clarity and conviction—championing emerging talent, supporting legacy artists and investing in ideas that move our genre forward. His influence stretches across decades, and honoring him with the Irving Waugh Award of Excellence feels both meaningful and well-deserved.”

“I truly did not see this coming,” says Borchetta. “A sincere thank you to our extraordinary CEO, Sarah Trahern, and all on the CMA Board for this incredible recognition. Irving Waugh was a true visionary who did so much for country music and its culture, and I’m humbled to stand on his shoulders alongside so many who continue to shape and inspire the world of country music.”

Industry Ink: Keith Urban, Zach Top, Grand Ole Opry, Shannon Saunders, More

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Keith Urban Headlines St. Jude Benefit Show

Terry Duffy, Keith Urban, and St. Jude patients, Maelin-Kate and Brinley.

Keith Urban recently headlined a benefit concert at the CME Group Tour Championship in Naples, Florida, helping to raise a record $2M for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Tuesday marked Urban’s third consecutive appearance at the event, and was held on the Tiburon golf course of the Ritz Carlton. Over 2,000 people attended with 100% of the proceeds going towards the cause.

 

Zach Top Celebrates CMA Win

Pictured (L-R): Daniel Lee, Joseph Manzo, Chris Fabiani, Meg Goggins, Natalie
Osborne, Zach Top, Katie Dean, Tracy Gibson, Dusty Cantrell and Ana Shabeer.

Zach Top celebrated his CMA Award for New Artist of the Year with the Leo33 team at the WME after party.

 

Grand Ole Opry Hosts International Partners

Opry gathers with International Media & Partners Before Opry Show.

The Grand Ole Opry hosted international partners in town for the 59th Annual CMA Awards on Wednesday at WSM Studios on the Opry Plaza. The event preceded the partners visit to the Opry next door and was held to celebrate international support of the Opry100 celebration this year.

Justin Thomson, a 2025 CMA international broadcast winner, was the Opry100 special guest announcer on Wednesday. Baylon Leonard, 2019 and 2021 CMA international broadcast winner, guest announced during Tuesday’s show.

 

Shannon Saunders Receives Rob Potts International Live Music Advancement Award

Pictured (L-R): Jay Williams (Co-Head, WME Nashville Office), Shannon Saunders (WME Agent), Becky Gardenhire (Co-Head, WME Nashville Office) and Jordan Davis at the CMA Awards. Photo: Jamie Schramm.

WME’s Shannon Saunders received the Rob Potts International Live Music Advancement Award this week during the CMA Awards. Jordan Davis presented the award during an early ceremony on Wednesday.

 

Jon Reddick Earns His First Two RIAA Gold Certifications

Pictured (L-R): Joey Elwood, TobyMac, Tyrus Morgan, Jon Reddick, Dan Pitts, Andrea Hirth, Jess Loper.

Jon Reddick earned his first two RIAA Gold certifications for “God, Turn It Around” and “I Believe It (The Life of Jesus).” He was surprised by the certifications at his No. 1 Radio celebration for “No Fear” at his label Gotee Records.

“Every song is an important one, but the ones that connect and create engagement are always memorable and fun to be a part of,” says Joey Elwood, co-founder of Gotee Records and CEO of Bell Partners Christian Music. “When we first started Gotee, I’m not sure we truly knew how hard it was to achieve ‘Gold’ status on songs or albums, but I do not take these moments for granted these days. Having two go ‘Gold’ simultaneously is something I don’t think I’ve ever celebrated, and it speaks to how deeply the songs Jon writes and performs are connecting with listeners and congregations everywhere. Love that people are hearing Jon’s ‘voice’ and they’re saying yes.”

 

Noise New Media Adds Four

Pictured (L-R): Bruna Balduino, Heather Giddens, Quentin Beverly, Gina Rivera. Photo: Noah Clark.

Noise New Media has added four people to its Nashville based team. Heather Giddens joins as Director of Marketing & Client Services, Quentin Beverly is Digital Marketing Coordinator – Comedy, Gina Rivera enters as Digital Marketing and Advertising Manager, and Bruna Balduino takes on Paid Media Manager.

MusicRow Weekly (2025 CMA Awards, News, Charts, More…)

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This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly captures one of the busiest and most celebratory stretches of Nashville’s year, as country music creators, executives and industry supporters gathered across the city for awards shows, career milestones and major business moves. Click here to see the full edition.

Country music’s biggest night unfolded at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena during the 59th annual CMA Awards on Nov. 19. Lainey Wilson continued her remarkable ascent, securing the evening’s top honor—Entertainer of the Year—alongside a repeat win for Female Vocalist of the Year. Cody Johnson took home Male Vocalist of the Year, while emerging favorites The Red Clay Strays earned Vocal Group of the Year and Brooks & Dunn extended their storied legacy with another Vocal Duo of the Year win. Ella Langley and Riley Green shared the spotlight with Single and Song of the Year honors for their hit “you look like you love me,” and Wilson’s Whirlwind claimed Album of the Year.

The 2025 BMI Country Awards took place on Nov. 18, where Clint Black was honored with the prestigious BMI Icon Award for his prolific influence on the genre. BMI recognized the writers and publishers of the 50 most-performed country songs of the year, with Charlie Handsome earning BMI Country Songwriter of the Year. “I Had Some Help,” recorded by Post Malone featuring Morgan Wallen, was named BMI Country Song of the Year. Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp. earned BMI Publisher of the Year after contributing to an impressive 32 of the year’s top 50 songs.

One night earlier, the 2025 ASCAP Nashville Songwriters Celebration recognized the most-performed country and Christian songs of the year. Shaboozey captured ASCAP Country Music Songwriter/Artist of the Year, while Sony Music Publishing earned Publisher of the Year. Ashley Gorley extended his historic run with his 12th ASCAP Country Music Songwriter of the Year win—more than any writer across any genre in ASCAP history. The smash hit “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” was named ASCAP Country Song of the Year, commemorating a remarkable run that included 19 weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100, tying the record for the longest-running No. 1 of all time.

Kicking off CMA Awards week, the SESAC Nashville Awards returned on Nov. 16 at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. More than 500 creators and industry leaders gathered as Jessie Jo Dillon surprised Megan Moroney with Song of the Year honors for her chart-topping hit “Am I Okay?” Warner Chappell Music claimed Publisher of the Year, while Michael Tyler was named SESAC’s Songwriter of the Year.

This week also brought notable business updates across Music Row. Citrin Cooperman expanded into Nashville with its new partnership with local firm KBFM, establishing its first Music City office. Nate Lowery has been appointed President of the late Brett James’ Cornman Music, joining James’ children in ushering the company into its next chapter. Harris, Huelsman, Barnes & Company elevated John Huelsman to President and Founder Becky Harris to CEO. Meanwhile, FBMM announced the year-end retirement of its first-ever employee and current Chief People Officer, Betty Sanders. Longtime ASCAP executive Kele Currier is also retiring after 33 years in the industry, including 13 years supporting Nashville songwriters.

International achievements were in the spotlight as well, with the Country Music Association unveiling this year’s CMA International Award recipients. Honorees included BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville’s Lynette Garbonola, WME’s Shannon Saunders, iHeartCountry Australia’s Justin Thomson and Sveriges Radio’s Mattias Hansson. Morgan Wallen earned the International Artist Achievement Award, and Cameron Whitcomb was presented the Jeff Walker Global Country Artist Award. Variety’s Chris Willman was recognized with the 2025 CMA Media Achievement Award.

In artist and publishing news, Dasha joined Spotify’s prestigious Billions Club exactly two years after releasing her viral hit “Austin (Boots Stop Workin’).” Jeff Garrison signed with Electric Feel Publishing and TurnTable Music, while Hayden Blount inked a new publishing deal with Eclipse Music Group.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. HARDY maintains the No. 1 spot with “Favorite Country Song.” 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.

Wyatt Flores Slates ‘Drive All Night Tour’ For Spring

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Wyatt Flores. Photo: Natalie Rhea

Wyatt Flores will embark on his “Drive All Night Tour” next spring.

The new tour includes newly confirmed stops at Fort Worth’s Billy Bob’s, St. Paul’s Palace Theatre, Grand Rapids’ GLC Live at 20 Monroe, Charleston’s The Refinery and Phoenix’s The Van Buren, among others. The Droptines, Lil Pepe Burro, Kashus Culpepper and Noah Rinker will join as support.

Tickets for the new dates are on sale starting today (Nov. 21) here.

Flores has once again partnered with PLUS1 for the tour, with $1 per ticket goes to supporting Music Health Alliance and their work providing access to healthcare and mental health support for music industry professionals nationwide. Flores also recently received PLUS1’s Rising Star Award, given to an emerging artist who has made outstanding contributions to social impact in 2025.

The upcoming dates add to a breakout year for Flores, who has garnered over 325 million career streams to date, and released his first live album, Live At Cain’s Ballroom, this past spring.

“Drive All Night Tour” Dates:
March 26—Fort Worth, TX—Billy Bob’s Texas
March 29—Little Rock, AR—The Hall*
March 31—Sioux Falls, SD—The District†
April 1—St. Paul, MN—Palace Theatre‡
April 3—Grand Rapids, MI—GLC Live at 20 Monroe‡
April 4—Columbus, OH—KEMBA Live! – Indoor Music Hall‡
April 14—Greensboro, NC—Piedmont Hall‡
April 15—Charleston, SC—The Refinery‡
April 16—Statesboro, GA—The Blue Room‡
April 22—El Paso, TX—Lowbrow Palace+
April 23—Phoenix, AZ—The Van Buren+

*with special guest The Droptines
†with special guest Lil Pepe Burro
‡with special guest Kashus Culpepper
+with special guest Noah Rinker

Anne Wilson Extends ‘The Stars Tour’ Into Spring

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Anne Wilson. Photo: Sophia Mantinazad

Anne Wilson is extending her “The Stars Tour” into 2026, with 21 additional dates across the U.S. and Canada.

The new leg will kick off March 12 in Huntsville and include stops in Atlanta, Charlotte, Richmond, Tampa, Boston, St. Louis, Baltimore and more. General on-sale for the shows begins today (Nov. 21).

“’The Stars Tour’ is continuing this spring! My heart is overflowing thinking about all the moments we’ve shared so far — the worship, the stories and everything God has already done on this journey,” shares Wilson. “And the best part?! We’re just getting started! I’ve loved getting to share these new songs with y’all, and I can’t wait to bring them to even more cities. Bring your family and friends and let’s gather together to remember that the same God who made the stars made YOU and knows you by name.”

The new tour comes on the heels of Wilson’s third studio album, Stars, released Oct. 17, which has already made an impact across multiple Billboard charts, debuting at No. 4 on Top Christian Albums, No. 12 on Top Current Album Sales, No. 14 on Top Album Sales and No. 39 on Top Country Albums. Highlights from the album include her soaring single, “God Story,” currently in the Top 10 at Christian radio and climbing.

“The Stars Tour” 2026 dates:
March 12, 2026 in Huntsville, Ala. at VBC Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
March 13, 2026 in Fayetteville, N.C. at Crown Theatre
March 14, 2026 in Richmond, Va. at Altria Theater
March 20, 2026 in Orlando, Fla. at Dr. Phillips Center
March 21, 2026 in Jacksonville, Fla. at Moran Theater
March 22, 2026 in Tampa, Fla. at Straz Center
March 26, 2026 in Atlanta, Ga. at Fox Theatre
March 27, 2026 in Charlotte, N.C. at Ovens Auditorium
March 28, 2026 in Columbia, S.C. at The Township Auditorium
April 9, 2026 in Bloomington, Ind. at Indiana University Auditorium
April 10, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pa. at Benedum Center for the Performing Arts
April 11, 2026 in Rosemont, Ill. at Rosemont Theatre
April 23, 2026 in Knoxville, Tenn. at Knoxville Civic Auditorium
April 25, 2026 in St. Louis, Mo. at Stifel Theatre
April 30, 2026 in Hershey, Pa. at Hershey Theatre
May 1, 2026 in Erie, Pa. at Warner Theatre
May 2, 2026 in Boston, Mass. at Boch Center Shubert Theatre
May 7, 2026 in Syracuse, N.Y. at Landmark Theatre
May 8, 2026 in Albany, N.Y. at Palace Theatre
May 9, 2026 in Baltimore, Md. at Lyric Baltimore
May 11, 2026 in Whitby, Ont. at Canada Event Centre

“The Stars Tour” 2025 remaining dates:
Nov. 21, 2025 in Akron, Ohio at Akron Civic Theatre *
Nov. 22, 2025 in Charleston, W.Va. at Maier Foundation Performance Hall *
Nov. 23, 2025 in Greensboro, N.C. at Steven Tanger Center *
*with special guest Jordan Rowe

Ernest Tubb Record Shop Returns After Renovation, Expansion

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Photo: Andrea Behrends/Ernest Tubb Record Shop

Nashville’s legendary Ernest Tubb Record Shop made its historic return to Lower Broadway last week with a grand opening celebration on Nov. 13.

A treasured country landmark where icons including Loretta Lynn, Hank Williams, Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley once performed, the shop has been restored to preserve its original charm and also expanded with new additions, including a four-story bar, rooftop honky-tonk and an exclusive lounge, The Forty Seven.

Photo: Andrea Behrends/Ernest Tubb Record Shop

The original Ernest Tubb Record Shop was established in 1947, and was not only a bustling spot for vinyl, 8-tracks and songbooks but also came alive at night with impromptu performances during Tubb’s famed Midnight Jamboree. After playing the Grand Ole Opry at the Ryman, artists would head over for late-night sets broadcast live on WSM radio across the Midwest and Southeast.

Preserving the spot’s rich history was key, and in late 2023, the Kenney Brothers, co-founders of Tusk Brothers and creators of Never Never and Reunion Bar & Hotel, teamed up with musician Ilya Toshinskiy for the project. Working closely with Ernest Tubb’s grandson Dale Tubb, they worked tirelessly for two years to honor the shop’s legacy while giving it a fresh, modern revival. Carefully curated memorabilia from Dale Tubb and original architectural details from the building are paired with new and state-of-the-art sound and lighting.

The main level will feature a Broadway-style honky tonk featuring an atmosphere that honors the past, complete with Ernest Tubb memorabilia from the private Ernest Tubb Collection. With two full stages featuring live bands every night, the spirit of Tubb’s Midnite Jamboree will live on loud and proud.

Photo: Andrea Behrends/Ernest Tubb Record Shop

On the second floor guests will step into a carefully restored version of the original Ernest Tubb Record Shop, complete with rows of vinyl displayed on wooden shelves. The space will also host live acoustic performances in an intimate setting that echoes the shop’s legendary roots. The third floor private event venue is tailored for intimate industry showcases, album release parties, and label events.

An open-air rooftop bar will feature views of Lower Broadway where guests can soak in the Nashville skyline, and the basement features the Forty Seven, an exclusive lounge with velvet seating, wood-paneled walls and vintage accents. The lounge offers a stylish space for guests while paying homage to 1947 – the year the Ernest Tubb Record Shop was founded.

“We’re beyond honored to bring back Ernest Tubb’s legacy to Broadway,” says Jamie Kenney, co-founder of Tusk Brothers. “This space was more than a record store: it was a gathering place, a stage, and a symbol of what makes country music special. We’ve worked closely with Dale Tubb to make sure every inch of the space honors that tradition while creating something new and exciting for today’s Nashville.”

The Band Perry’s ‘If I Die Young’ Reaches Diamond Status

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Pictured (L-R): RIAA’s Mitch Glazier, BMLG’s Scott Borchetta, The Band Perry’s Kimberly Perry, NHRE’s Jimmy Harnen and RIAA’s Erin Burr. Photo: Getty Images for Big Machine Label Group

The Band Perry’s breakout hit “If I Die Young” has achieved RIAA Diamond status, and TBP was honored with a special plaque commemorating the achievement on Wednesday night (Nov. 19) on stage following their performance at the Big Machine CMA after party at the Bell Tower in Nashville.

Big Machine Label Group executives Scott Borchetta and Jimmy Harnen joined RIAA’s Mitch Glazier and Erin Burr on stage to surprise Kimberly Perry with the official presentation of the prestigious Diamond Award, which marks 10 million in sales.

“From the very beginning, ‘If I Die Young’ was destined to make a mark: topping radio charts, earning countless accolades and enchanting fans with Kimberly Perry’s poignant lyrics and rich vocals,” says Glazier. “RIAA is now proud to celebrate a new milestone for The Band Perry—their first Diamond single—and congratulations to the Big Machine Label Group team on helping bring this one to 10 million new audiences.”

“Hearing ‘If I Die Young’ for the first time was one of those moments in my career that truly stopped me in my tracks,” shares Borchetta. “When Kimberly and the boys came into our conference room and dropped the song on us, immediately it was ‘we have to have them.’ To see the song reach #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in 2010, become CMA’s Song of the Year in 2011, turning evergreen, and now attain RIAA Diamond certification is a tribute to the enduring impact of the song and Kimberly’s razor-sharp creativity. Huge congratulations are in order for this historic milestone! We look forward to sharing the next chapter of incredible music from The Band Perry soon.”

“I wrote ‘If I Die Young’ from a place of innocence, curiosity, and faith in the poetry of everyday life. Its journey to Diamond is a gift I’ll never take for granted,” Kimberly adds. “To everyone who has sung it at weddings, funerals, festivals, or alone in their car—you’ve made this song larger than me. Thank you for growing with us. The next era starts now.”

Penned by Kimberly and originally released on the Grammy winners’ self-titled debut album in 2010, the CMA Song and Single of the Year-winning smash was re-issued earlier this year via Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment in honor of its 15th anniversary. The feat makes Kimberly the only female artist to solo-write a Diamond-certified country song.

“If I Die Young” was named one of the “200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time” last year by Rolling Stone, and its memorable, CMT Award-winning video has been viewed over 265 million times on YouTube alone.

CMA Hosts Official After Party

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Cody Johnson. Photo: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for CMA

The Country Music Association hosted the official after party for its CMA Awards on Wednesday (Nov. 19), welcoming more than 1,400 CMA members, artists and industry professionals.

Emceed by Whiskey Jam founder Ward Guenther, the evening began with guests stepping onto the Official CMA Awards Red Carpet for photo moments. Inside, attendees enjoyed sets from DJ KO and Rosie & The Revival, featuring members of Kenny Chesney’s touring band.

The CMA Trophy Engraving Lounge presented by Glenfiddich Single Malt Scotch Whiskey offered an up-close look as newly crowned winners received their personalized trophies. Cody Johnson, The Red Clay Strays, John Park and Wales Toney were among the winners who stopped by to pick up their engraved trophies, celebrating their wins alongside fellow industry members. The Artist Lounge presented by Dreamliner Luxury Coaches provided space for artists and their teams.

Additional activities included a permanent tattoo station curated by EqualizeHer, a speakeasy and portrait studio presented by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and a concrete mixer transformed into the World’s Largest Cocktail Shaker serving Monkey Shoulder drinks. Guests also enjoyed a dedicated Mingle Mocktails Bar offering festive non-alcoholic cocktails, a Dutch Bros Coffee cornhole challenge and drink station with cold brew and energy drinks, classic arcade games courtesy of Dave & Buster’s, gifts from Teleties, and a full golf simulator paired with a 360-degree photo experience from GolfNow.

The 59th Annual CMA Awards is streaming now on Hulu.

The Red Clay Strays. Photo: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for CMA

Photo: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for CMA

Photo: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for CMA

Photo: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for CMA

The Mavericks To Honor Raul Malo With ‘Dance The Night Away’ Tribute Shows At The Ryman

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Raul Malo. Photo: Michael Weintrob

The Mavericks frontman Raul Malo will be honored during two special “Dance The Night Away” shows at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville Dec. 5-6.

A celebration of the band’s decades-long history and contribution to American and Latin music, “Dance The Night Away” will feature a lineup of the band’s friends and fellow artists backed by the Mavericks performing songs from the band’s 35-year catalog. Over two dozen artists will pay tribute to Malo during the shows, including Chuck Mead, Hector Tellez Jr., Jaime Hanna, James Otto, Jamey Johnson, JD McPherson, Jeff Hanna, Jesse Dayton, Jim Lauderdale, Jimmie Vaughan, Joshua Ray Walker, Maggie Rose, Mandy Barnett, Marty Stuart, Nikki Lane, Patty Griffin, Ray Benson, Steve Earle, Wade Hayes, Waylon Payne, Wendy Moten, and more. While Malo is not able to perform, he will be present and honored throughout both nights.

“I’m really looking forward to these two nights at the Ryman,” says Malo. “The overwhelming support and love from my musician friends, fans, friends and family will prove these shows to be something special.”

The Mavericks continued to tour this last year in support of their 2024 album Moon & Stars after Malo announced he was diagnosed with colon cancer. Following an update in September that he had developed LMD (leptomeningeal disease), the band cancelled their tour dates for the remainder of the year.

This special two-night-only celebration will honor the group’s legacy and celebrate the lasting impact of their fearless leader. A portion of proceeds will benefit Stand Up To Cancer. Tickets originally purchased for The Mavericks’ headlining Ryman Auditorium shows will be honored, and more information can be found here.