As 2025 comes to a close, Nashville’s music industry finds itself reflecting on a year defined by momentum, movement and meaningful change. From blockbuster touring announcements and historic chart milestones to executive shakeups and brand evolutions, the year delivered a steady stream of headlines that reshaped how the business looks, sounds and operates. Country’s reach continued to expand on a global scale, while Music City remained firmly at the center of some of the industry’s most consequential conversations.

Much of the year was marked by transformation at the highest levels. UMG Nashville reintroduced itself to the market as Music Corporation of America (MCA), appointing Mike Harris and Dave Cobb to lead a newly restructured organization. Warner Music Nashville followed suit, rebranding as Warner Records Nashville and naming Cris Lacy as President, while Austen Adams stepped into the role of President at Warner Chappell Music Nashville. Together, these moves signaled a broader recalibration across major companies, underscoring how leadership and identity continue to evolve in a rapidly shifting business.

At the same time, 2025 brought moments that reminded the industry of its human core. The passing of Warner Chappell Nashville President & CEO Ben Vaughn sent a shockwave through the community. Elsewhere, continued layoffs at CMT raised questions about the future of the long-standing platform.

Below is a look back at some of the year’s biggest MusicRow stories: the moves, milestones and moments that defined 2025 on Music Row and beyond.

Morgan Wallen Announces New Album & Tour

[Jan. 14, 2025] Country megastar Morgan Wallen has announced details about his highly-anticipated fourth studio album and revealed a 10-city, 19-date stadium tour. The album, titled I’m The Problem, features the previously-released “Smile,” which reached No. 4 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart; “Lies Lies Lies,” Wallen’s 16th No. 1 at country radio and “Love Somebody,” Wallen’s first solo song to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart…

Warner Chappell Nashville President & CEO, Ben Vaughn, Passes Away

[Jan. 30, 2025] Ben Vaughn, President & CEO of Warner Chappell Music Nashville, passed away this morning (Jan. 30). He was 49. Vaughn spent over a decade at the helm of the company, overseeing all creative and commercial activities across A&R, administration, business development, finance and human resources…

Nashville’s Biggest Moments At The 2025 Grammy Awards

[Feb. 3, 2025] The 67th Annual Grammy Awards highlighted a mix of country, Americana, roots and Christian music alongside pop, hip-hop and R&B, with several Nashville artists making notable appearances throughout the night…

Shaboozey Breaks Record For Most Weeks At No. 1 On Radio Songs Chart

[Feb. 5, 2025] Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” extends its reign to a 27th week at No. 1 on Billboard’s Radio Songs chart, surpassing The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” to claim the record for the longest time spent at No. 1 in the chart’s history…

Cindy Mabe Exits Post At UMG Nashville

[Feb. 6, 2025] Cindy Mabe has exited her position as Chair & CEO of Universal Music Group Nashville after two years in the role and more than 18 with the company…

UMG Nashville Reorganizes, Appoints Mike Harris & Dave Cobb As Leaders

[Feb. 6, 2025] Universal Music Group has announced a reorganization of its Nashville-based operations, appointing Mike Harris to CEO and Grammy-winning producer Dave Cobb to Chief Creative Officer…

CRS Highlights Five Talented Artists At 2025 New Faces Of Country Music Showcase

[Feb. 24, 2025] To close out Country Radio Seminar (CRS) 2025, five breakout artists etched their names into the storied legacy of the New Faces of Country Music showcase. To close out Country Radio Seminar (CRS) 2025, five breakout artists etched their names into the storied legacy of the New Faces of Country Music showcase…

Ringo Starr Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut

[Feb. 25, 2025] Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Ringo Starr made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday night (Feb. 21) as part of the Opry’s ongoing 100th Anniversary celebration and in support of his new country album, Look Up…

IEBA Names Brian Wagner New Executive Director

[Feb. 26, 2025] Industry veteran Brian Wagner has been appointed Executive Director of IEBA, effective March 1, 2025. He succeeds Pam Matthews, who is retiring after helming the organization for more than a decade…

Kacey Musgraves Opens The Pinnacle With Sold-Out Show

[March 3, 2025] Kacey Musgraves officially christened new Nashville venue, The Pinnacle, last week on Feb. 27 with a two-hour, sold-out show…

CMA Touring Awards: Luke Combs’ Crew Celebrates Wins, Ben Farrell Honored

[March 5, 2025] On Monday (March 3), the Country Music Association hosted its annual CMA Touring Awards at Marathon Music Works in Nashville. The event, emceed by Keith Urban, honored the leading professionals in country music touring with awards in 20 different categories…

Rachel Whitney Exits Post At Spotify

[March 5, 2025] Rachel Whitney has exited her position as Head of Editorial, Nashville at Spotify, MusicRow has confirmed. She is going on a sabbatical…

MusicRow Magazine Honors Six At 12th Annual Rising Women On The Row

[March 20, 2025] MusicRow Magazine, Nashville’s leading music industry publication, proudly recognized six Nashville music industry executives during its 12th annual Rising Women on the Row honors this morning (March 20) at the Omni Nashville Hotel. City National Bank served as Presenting Sponsor. This year’s honorees included Lydia Schultz Cahill, Rakiyah Marshall, Michelle Tigard Kammerer, Katie Kerkhover, Jessi Vaughn Stevenson and Julie Sturdivant, each recognized for their impact and leadership within the Nashville music business…

Billie Eilish & Finneas Join Sandbox Entertainment Roster

[March 31, 2025] Multiple Grammy winner Billie Eilish along with her brother and longtime collaborator Finneas, have joined the management roster at Jason Owen’s Sandbox Entertainment. They join a star-studded lineup that includes Kacey Musgraves, Kelsea Ballerini and more…

Major Changes Hit Monument Records, Affecting Majority Of Staff

[April 2, 2025] Major changes, including the exit of most of its staff, have impacted Monument Records, MusicRow has confirmed. Select aspects of the company will be overseen by Sony Music Nashville moving forward…

AIMP Honors Independent Songwriters & Publishers At 2025 Awards

[April 9, 2025] The Association for Independent Music Publishers (AIMP) hosted its 2025 AIMP Nashville Country Awards on Tuesday evening (April 8) at Marathon Music Works. Celebrating its tenth anniversary, the event spotlighted the independent songwriters and publishers who help make Nashville Music City…

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

[April 15, 2025]  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…

UMG Nashville Rebrands As Music Corporation Of America (MCA)

[April 24, 2025] Universal Music Group (UMG) has announced the evolution of its Nashville operations under a new identity: Music Corporation of America (MCA)…

Heather Vassar Exits EMPIRE

[May 2, 2025] EMPIRE Nashville SVP of Operations Heather Vassar has exited her role, her last day being today (May 2). Vassar first joined EMPIRE in 2019, and was behind the breakout career of Shaboozey…

Lainey Wilson, Ella Langley Dominate At The 60th ACM Awards

[May 9, 2025] The 60th Academy of Country Music Awards took place last night (May 8), streaming live from The Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas. Reba McEntire returned as host for the milestone event, which was broadcast internationally via Prime Video and the Amazon Music channel on Twitch…

Capitol Music Group Reorganizes, Taps Candice Watkins As President

[May 13, 2025]  Capitol Music Group is bringing Capitol Christian Music Group (CCMG) and its country division Capitol Records Nashville, under the Capitol Music Group Nashville banner. The move seeks to fortify its commitment to Music City as a key creative and commercial hub for the label group…

Alan Jackson Retires From Touring; Announces Final Show In Nashville

[May 20, 2025] Alan Jackson officially wrapped his “Last Call: One More for the Road Tour” on Saturday (May 17), marking the final touring show of his career…

Kenny Chesney Kicks Off Sphere Residency

[May 27, 2025] Kenny Chesney kicked off his Las Vegas residency over the weekend at The Sphere…

Taylor Swift Buys Back Her Masters, Reclaiming First Six Albums

[May 30, 2025] Taylor Swift has bought back her master recording catalog from Shamrock Capital, giving her ownership of her six original albums…

Lauren ‘LT’ Thomas Joins Big Loud Records As SVP, Radio Promotion

[June 2, 2025] Radio veteran Lauren “LT” Thomas has joined Big Loud Records as SVP, Radio Promotion. She will work alongside newly promoted SVP, Radio Promotion Tyler Waugh and report to EVP, Radio Promotion Stacy Blythe…

Leadership Music Reveals Class Of 2026

[June 4, 2025] Leadership Music has unveiled 46 new members for its class of 2026. The new members will embark on an eight month program beginning in October and gives a deep exploration into the music industry with cross-function understanding and networking…

MCA Names Rob Femia Chief Operating Officer

[June 5, 2025] Music Corporation of America (MCA) has promoted Rob Femia to Chief Operating Officer. Femia adds COO to his duties as Executive Vice President of Business & Legal Affairs for the label group consisting of EMI Records Nashville, Lucille Records, Mercury Nashville and MCA Nashville…

CMA Fest Powers A More Than $2 Million Gift To The CMA Foundation

[June 9, 2025] The Country Music Association wrapped its 52nd Annual CMA Fest yesterday (June 8), bringing in an estimated 95,000 fans from all 50 states and 33 countries to the heart of Music City. The weekend featured over 300 performances across four days and over 100 CMA Fest debuts. The festival raised over $2 million dollars to support music education through the CMA Foundation…

Grammy Awards Add Best Traditional Country Album, Reveals 2026 Key Dates & Changes

[June 12, 2025] The 68th annual Grammy Awards will take place Feb. 1, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, streaming live on CBS and on demand on Paramount+. Nominations for the 2026 ceremony will be revealed on Nov. 7, 2025, with final round voting taking place Dec. 12- Jan. 5. The Grammy Awards have also added Best Traditional Country Album to its 2026 awards ballot, the only new music category being added for the 68th annual awards (Best Album Cover, which is awarded to Art Directors, was also added). The existing Best Country Album category will now be named Best Contemporary Country Album…

Ashley Gorley Inducted Into Songwriter’s Hall Of Fame

[June 13, 2025] Ashley Gorley was inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall Of Fame last night, alongside Tom Johnston, Michael McDonald and Patrick Simmons of The Doobie Brothers; George Clinton; Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins; Mike Love and Tony Macaulay. Honored with special awards were Stephen Schwartz with the Johnny Mercer Award and Gracie Abrams with the Hal David Starlight Award…

Luke Combs Headlines Bonnaroo Night One, Remainder Of Festival Canceled

[June 16, 2025] Luke Combs headlined Bonnaroo on Thursday (June 12), kicking off what should have been the four-day festival in Manchester, Tennessee. Combs brought out Miranda Lambert to perform “Outrunnin’ Your Memory,” their duet from his 2022 Growin’ Up album. On Friday (June 13), Bonnaroo released a statement canceling the remainder of the festival due to severe weather…

EMPIRE Nashville Appoints Jennifer Way To Executive Vice President

[July 21, 2025] EMPIRE, the leading independent record label, publisher and distributor founded by Ghazi in 2010, has appointed Jennifer Way to Executive Vice President – Nashville…

Thomas Rhett Sells Out Fenway Park For Headlining Stadium Debut

[July 22, 2025] Multi-Platinum star Thomas Rhett staged his sold-out, headlining stadium debut this weekend at Fenway Park, bringing more than 35,000 fans to Boston. As part of his “Better In Boots Tour,” the show marked Rhett’s return to the venue after being the first country act to ever set foot on the stage in 2013…

Beyoncé Notches Highest Grossing Country Tour In Boxscore History

[July 28, 2025] Beyoncé wrapped her “Cowboy Carter Tour” on Saturday night (July 26) in Las Vegas. After 32 shows, the tour grossed $407.6 million with 1.6 million tickets sold, marking the trek the highest-grossing country tour in Boxscore history, according to Billboard. Throughout the entire tour, she broke more than 40 Boxscore records…

Austen Adams Appointed President Of Warner Chappell Music Nashville

[Aug. 13, 2025] 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…

Michelle Tigard Kammerer & Emily Cohen Belote Upped At Amazon Music

[Aug. 15, 2025] Amazon Music has promoted Michelle Tigard Kammerer to Global Head of Country Music and Emily Cohen Belote has been promoted to Global Lead, Country Music Programming, expanding their reach worldwide…

Stephanie Wright Returns To MCA As EVP/Head Of A&R

[Aug. 20, 2025] Stephanie Wright has returned to MCA as Executive Vice President/Head of A&R. In her new role, she will helm the A&R team in talent scouting, in addition to the label’s creative direction and development. She will report to Mike Harris, MCA President & CEO…

ACM Honors Celebrates Legacy & Brings Powerful Performances

[Aug. 21, 2025] The 18th annual ACM Honors took place at The Pinnacle last night (Aug. 20), delivering an unforgettable evening of music, recognition and heartfelt moments. Hosted by returning host Carly Pearce and first time host Russell Dickerson, the ceremony honored some of the most influential figures in country music, blending emotional tributes with standout performances…

MCA & Jessie Jo Dillon Launch Gatsby Records

[Aug. 22, 2025] MCA and lauded songwriter Jessie Jo Dillon have partnered to launch Gatsby Records, a new imprint under MCA. Rising country artist Carter Faith is the imprint’s first signed act, with her debut album Cherry Valley set to be the first release on the imprint on Oct. 3…

BigXthaPlug Embraced By Country Community On Bold New Project

[Aug. 22, 2025] When Texas rapper BigXthaPlug released his breakout single “Texas,” he didn’t expect it to shift the trajectory of his career. What began as a playful nod to stereotypes about his home state quickly opened unexpected doors — including a new creative chapter rooted in country storytelling.

MTSU Renames Media College In Honor Of Scott Borchetta

[Aug. 26, 2025]  Middle Tennessee State University has renamed its world-renowned College of Media and Entertainment in honor of Founder, Chairman & CEO of Big Machine Label Group, Scott Borchetta. Effective today (Aug. 26), the college is now called the Scott Borchetta College of Media and Entertainment…

SOURCE Nashville Hall Of Fame Inducts Six More ‘Women Behind The Music’

[Aug. 27, 2025] SOURCE Nashville hosted its annual SOURCE Hall of Fame Awards last night at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum inside Nashville’s historic Municipal Auditorium, gathering industry insiders, songwriters, artists, producers, family and friends for the beloved event…

Katie Studley Joins Spotify As Head Of Nashville Editorial

[Aug. 28, 2025] Spotify has hired Katie Studley as its new Head of Nashville Editorial. Studley joins Spotify from her most recent role as Nashville VP at distribution leader The Orchard, where she led a team that delivered release campaigns for artists including Kelsea Ballerini, Max McNown and Russell Dickerson…

Taylor Wolf Promoted To Executive Director Of ACM Lifting Lives

[Aug. 28, 2025] The Academy of Country Music has promoted Taylor Wolf to Executive Director of ACM Lifting Lives, the Academy’s philanthropic arm. In her new role, Wolf will continue to expand ACM Lifting Lives’ fundraising initiatives, deepen partnerships across the country music industry and beyond, and oversee a diverse portfolio of programs that provide support for music therapy, disaster relief and community outreach…

2025 MusicRow Awards Winners Announced

[Sept. 3, 2025] MusicRow Magazine revealed the winners of the 37th annual MusicRow Awards today (Sept. 3) on its online platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and X. City National Bank is the Presenting Sponsor of the 2025 MusicRow Awards. The MusicRow Awards are Nashville’s longest-running music industry trade publication honors and celebrates the achievements of songwriters, artists, producers and more. Winners are voted on by MusicRow’s subscribers…

Shaboozey Launches American Dogwood Record Label

[Sept. 10, 2025] Shaboozey has established his own record label, American Dogwood, in collaboration with his label home EMPIRE. American Dogwood will spotlight genre-bending and boundary-pushing artists similar to Shaboozey himself. Shaboozey will lead the label by discovering and mentoring artists alongside longtime collaborators Jared Cotter and Abas Pauti. EMPIRE will support the label’s global infrastructure…

Winners Revealed At 24th Annual Americana Honors & Awards

[Sept. 11, 2025] The Americana Music Association revealed the winners of the 24th Annual Americana Honors & Awards at the Ryman Auditorium last night (Sept. 10). Sierra Ferrell continued her reign as the Americana Artist of the Year with her second consecutive win with the ceremony’s biggest award of the evening. Brandi Carlile presented Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats with the Album of the Year honor for their LP South of Here…

Donna Duncan Exits CMT

[Sept. 24, 2025] Donna Duncan, Vice President, CMT Music & Talent, has exited her role at the company, due to organizational changes. Her last day on the job will be this Friday (Sept. 26). Duncan joined CMT in 2006 as Executive Assistant for Program Enterprises & MTV, before being promoted to Coordinator, Series Production & Development where she worked with on-air talent and music programming including CMT on Tour, CMT Film and Rockband…

Nashville Songwriter Awards Shine At The Ryman With Tributes & Top Honors

[Sept. 24, 2025] The eighth annual Nashville Songwriter Awards lit up the Ryman Auditorium last night (Sept. 23) with an evening of celebration and reflection honoring the gift of songwriting. Presented by the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) and City National Bank, the event recognized 42 individuals for their exceptional contributions to the craft…

Kesha Signs With Mary Hilliard Harrington & Red Light Management

[Oct. 2, 2025] Pop sensation Kesha has signed with Mary Hilliard Harrington and Red Light management for representation, joining Harrington’s roster of Dierks Bentley and The Black Keys…

Luke Combs Becomes Highest RIAA Certified Country Artist Ever

[Oct. 6, 2025] Luke Combs has officially been named the highest RIAA certified country artist in history, with 168 million units sold…

Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inducts Seven

[Oct. 7, 2025] The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame (NaSHOF) celebrated its 55th Anniversary Gala last night (Oct. 6), officially inducting seven remarkable tunesmiths into the Class of 2025. The ceremony at Nashville’s Music City Center paid tribute to the new members with heartfelt speeches and star-studded performances of some of their biggest hits. This year’s class includes Steve Bogard and Tony Martin in the songwriter category; Jim Lauderdale and Brad Paisley in the songwriter/artist category; Don Cook in the veteran songwriter category; and Emmylou Harris in the veteran songwriter/artist category. The late JJ Cale was also recognized in the Legacy category, which honors NaSHOF-worthy candidates who are deceased…

Tony Brown, June Carter Cash & Kenny Chesney Inducted Into The Country Music Hall Of Fame

[Oct. 20, 2025] Last night (Oct. 19), another star-studded Medallion Ceremony took place at the Country Music Hall of Fame as Tony Brown, June Carter Cash and Kenny Chesney became the 156th, 157th and 158th members…

Michael Bryan Exits Apple Music

[Oct. 21, 2025] Michael Bryan has exited his position as Global Head/Country Music at Apple Music after five years with the company. Bryan joined as Head/Apple Music Country in 2020. At Apple, he was promoted to Dir./Editorial Operations & Audio Production in 2022 and Global Head/Country Music last year…

Live Nation Reveals New 4,400-Capacity Music Venue In Nashville

[Oct. 29, 2025] Live Nation has announced that they are opening a new music venue in Nashville called The Truth. The 4,400 capacity indoor music venue is set to open fall 2026 in the Wedgewood Houston neighborhood…

Carrie Underwood Becomes Highest RIAA Certified Female Country Artist

[Oct. 3o, 2025] Carrie Underwood has been named the highest RIAA certified female country artist of all time. She has sold 95 million units (22.5 million albums and 72.5 million singles) in the US alone across solo titles and collaborations…

Margaret Comeaux To Exit CMT

[Oct. 31, 2025] CMT Senior Vice President of Production, Music & Events, Margaret Comeaux, will leave the company at the end of the year after 25 years with the organization…

Belmont Center For Mental Health Taps Leadership, Receives Multi-Million Dollar Investment From CMA

[Nov. 3, 2025] Belmont University is launching a new Center for Mental Health in Entertainment with support from a $3 million grant from the Country Music Association. From the grant, $1 million will go toward programming and $2 million will create the CMA endowed chair & executive director position, which will be filled by local industry leader Debbie Carroll. The latter $2 million will be matched by the Johnson Academic Challenge at Belmont, an matching program funded by Belmont Board Chair Milton Johnson and his wife Denice, to create up to 20 endowed professorships…

BBR Music Group/BMG Elevates & Expands A&R Team

[Nov. 6, 2025] BBR Music Group/BMG has elevated three of its A&R team members, and has also welcomed two more to the company. All will report to SVP, A&R, Frontline Recordings, North America, Katie Kerkhover…

Cris Lacy Named Chair & President Of Newly-Rebranded Warner Records Nashville

[Nov. 11, 2025] Warner Music Nashville is rebranding to Warner Records Nashville, and Cris Lacy has been named Chair & President of the renamed label. She reports to Warner Records Group CEO & Co-Chairman Aaron Bay-Schuck and COO & Co-Chairman Tom Corson. Former Warner Music Nashville Co-Chair & Co-President Gregg Nadel will be taking on a new leadership role within Warner Music Group, with details to be revealed shortly…

Dan + Shay Sign New Management Deal

[Nov. 12, 2025] Three-time Grammy-winning, multi-Platinum duo Dan + Shay have signed with The Core Entertainment for management. The duo will be represented by The Core Entertainment co-founders and CEOs Simon Tikhman and Kevin “Chief” Zaruk…

Nate Lowery Appointed President Of Cornman Music

[Nov. 14, 2025] Longtime executive Nate Lowery has been appointed President of the late Brett James‘ Cornman Music. He will join James’ children—Preston, Sam, Clare and David Cornelius—to carry forward their father’s legacy, ushering in the next chapter of the company…

SESAC Celebrates Songwriters & Publishers At 2025 Nashville Music Awards

[Nov. 17, 2025] SESAC kicked off 2025 CMA Awards week in Nashville last night (Nov. 16) with its annual SESAC Nashville Awards. Held at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the star-studded event honored the songwriters and publishers behind this year’s most-performed country and Americana songs. More than 500 songwriters, publishers and industry professionals attended the celebration, which was sponsored in part by Hatef Aesthetics…

ASCAP Honors Top Songwriters & Publishers At 2025 Nashville Celebration

[Nov. 18, 2025] ASCAP celebrated the songwriters and publishers behind country and Christian music’s most-performed songs of the past year at the 2025 ASCAP Nashville Songwriters Celebration last night (Nov. 17). Held once again at The Twelve Thirty Club, invited guests mingled under warm, ambient lighting while sipping cocktails and enjoying an abundant spread that included a sushi bar, chicken cutlets, prime rib, hummus and crudité, onion dip, house-made kettle chips and more…

2025 BMI Country Awards Honors Clint Black, Top Songwriters & Publishers

[Nov. 19, 2025] The 2025 BMI Country Awards took over Music Row last night (Nov. 18), honoring the prolific career of BMI Icon Award recipient Clint Black, as well as the Country Songwriter, Song and Publisher of the Year. Taking place once again at BMI’s Nashville headquarters, the 73rd annual event also celebrated the top songwriters and music publishers behind this past year’s 50 most-performed songs in country music. BMI’s President & CEO Mike O’Neill hosted the evening alongside Chief Revenue & Creative Officer Mike Steinberg, and Nashville’s VP, Creative, Clay Bradley…

New Voices, Big Moments Define The 59th CMA Awards

[Nov. 20, 2025] The 59th Annual CMA Awards aired live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena last night (Nov. 19), celebrating a standout year in country music with a mix of new winners, heartfelt tributes and dynamic performances. Energy in the room was high from the start as host Lainey Wilson kicked things off with a high-voltage medley that paid homage to several of the night’s nominees. She surprised artists around the arena with nods to their hits—including Chris Stapleton, Brooks & Dunn, Ella Langley, Gretchen Wilson, Lady A, Miranda Lambert and Shaboozey—before teaming up with Little Big Town and Keith Urban for spirited collaborations…

Jody Williams To Lead Vince Gill’s Management Team

[Dec. 4, 2025] Jody Williams, Founder and CEO of independent music publishing company Jody Williams Songs (JWS), has taken on management duties for Vince Gill under his new management company, Little Guitar Management. Williams has served as Gill’s publisher for four years. Larry Fitzgerald, Gill’s manager for over forty years, remains as consultant to Williams. Long-time colleague to Fitzgerald, Jennifer Templeton remains as Gill’s day-to-day manager…

Maddie & Tae Announce Split

[Dec. 8, 2025] Maddie & Tae, the duo comprised of Maddie Font and Tae Dye Kerr, are going their separate ways. Font plans to continue as a solo artist. Kerr is stepping away from music to take time at home with her two children…

Jelly Roll Invited To Be Grand Ole Opry Member

[Dec. 10, 2025] During an interview on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Jelly Roll was given the surprise of a lifetime when Craig Morgan invited him to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry via video message…

Morgan Wallen Becomes RIAA Highest Certified Country Artist Of All Time

[Dec. 16, 2025] Morgan Wallen has been named RIAA’s highest certified country artist of all time, as well as the third most-certified artist, all-genre (behind Drake and Taylor Swift for solo titles). Wallen has amassed 239.5 million certified singles (solo + collaborations) and 26 million album certifications across his catalog…

With its six annual print issues, MusicRow Magazine derives insight from Nashville’s industry leaders with exclusive editorial content and print directories.

Across the 2025 issues, MusicRow spoke with Jennie Smythe (Girlilla Marketing), Sara Knabe (Big Loud), Kenny Chesney, Cyndi Forman (UMPG Nashville), Mike Molinar (Big Machine Music), Kevin “Chief” Zaruk and Simon Tikhman (The Core Entertainment), Joybeth Taylor, Scott Safford (Safford Motley PLC), Gina Miller and Chelsae Partosan, among many others.

Follow along below as MusicRow revisits its print editions of 2025. All six MusicRow print issues detailed below are available for purchase at MusicRow.com, and are included with yearly MusicRow subscriptions.

Women of Music Row Issue (February/March 2025)

Warner Records Nashville’s rising star Avery Anna graces the cover of MusicRow’s inaugural Women of Music Row Issue. Attracting attention from esteemed media outlets like Rolling Stone, Billboard, American Songwriter and more, exciting newcomer Anna released her sophomore album, let go letters, earlier this year. Avery is still celebrating the success of her 2024 full-length debut, Breakup Over Breakfast, where she “further displays promise and prowess” (GRAMMY.com). The album’s 17 tracks, all written or co-written by the “towering, soul-baring tunesmith” (Billboard), showcase her ability to harness raw emotion and infuse it into a nuanced lyricism well beyond her years.

Inside MusicRow’s Women of Music Row Issue, label executives Cris Lacy and Taylor Lindsey discuss their approach to leadership. The partners of Farris, Self & Moore reflect on 10 years in business with a roundtable discussion on their journey. Veteran entertainment marketer Jennie Smythe opens up about her inspiring new memoir. Acclaimed songwriters Jessie Jo Dillon, Jessi Alexander, Allison Veltz Cruz and Trannie Anderson share their perspectives on navigating the industry as female hitmakers. Todd Cassetty explores his dedication to spotlighting women in country music through his groundbreaking Song Suffragettes platform.

This issue also recognizes the Rising Women on the Row Class of 2025: Lydia Schultz Cahill, Rakiyah Marshall, Michelle Tigard Kammerer, Katie Kerkhover, Jessi Vaughn Stevenson and Julie Sturdivant. The magazine made its official debut at MusicRow’s 12th annual Rising Women on the Row breakfast event on March 20.

InCharge Issue (April/May 2025)

MusicRow’s annual InCharge issue highlights some of the most influential industry executives in the Nashville music business. This year’s edition includes 370 profiles which are accompanied by contact information, career biographies and detailed board and organizational membership affiliations. The guide also includes a record label staff index, a company appendix and a professional categories appendix, which lists executives by their areas of expertise, including label, talent agency, management, music publishing, legal, finance, performing rights organizations and more.

Award-winning singer-songwriter Riley Green graces the cover of the 2025 InCharge issue. CMA and ACM award winner Green has been capturing the hearts of country music fans since his 2018 self-titled EP debut with Big Machine Label Group. With hits like the double-Platinum “There Was This Girl,” the triple-Platinum “I Wish Grandpas Never Died” (performed at the 55th ACM Awards), and the No. 1 duet “Half of Me” with Thomas Rhett, Green has become known for his authentic, relatable songwriting and classic country sound.

Artist Roster Issue (June/July 2025)

Sony Music Nashville’s Old Dominion is featured on the cover of MusicRow’s 2025 Artist Roster Issue. Since breaking onto the music scene, the band has notched nine No. 1 singles at country radio, surpassed five billion on-demand streams, earned a dozen RIAA Platinum and Gold single certifications and headlined arenas and amphitheaters around the globe. Old Dominion has earned eight Academy of Country Music and seven Country Music Association Group of the Year awards. The band earned their seventh successive win for Vocal Group of the Year at the 2024 CMA Awards, breaking the record for most consecutive Vocal Group Award wins in CMA history.

This year’s Artist Roster edition includes a range of exclusive editorial features, including a behind-the-scenes look at the first-ever country residency at The Sphere in Las Vegas, featuring Kenny Chesney and his longtime production manager Ed Wannebo. Other highlights include Big Loud’s Sr. VP of A&R Sara Knabe discussing the label’s expanding roster, and day-to-day managers Sophia Sansone and Emily Crews sharing insights into the intricacies of their roles. The issue also goes backstage at the Grand Ole Opry to highlight the team that brings the iconic show to life every night. Additionally, distribution leaders Ryan Cunningham (ONErpm), Morgan Mills (CMDshft), Katie Studley (The Orchard) and Alison Junker (Stem) discuss how both signed and independent artists are strategically utilizing their platforms. As always, the Artist Roster issue includes a six-part company directory, listing client rosters across categories including Label, Label Services/Distribution, Management, Talent Agents, Publicity and Artist Services (spanning Banking, Business Management, Digital Music, Legal, Marketing and Radio Promotion).

MusicRow Awards Issue (August/September 2025)

Leo33 breakout star Zach Top graces the cover of the 2025 MusicRow Awards Issue. Top, who released his sophomore album earlier this year, recently earned his first No. 1 at country radio with “I Never Lie” and was named New Male Artist of the Year at the 2025 ACM Awards. These accomplishments follow the release of Top’s breakthrough 2024 debut album, Cold Beer & Country Music, which garnered over 3.5 million streams in just its first week.

The MusicRow Awards print issue highlights the 2025 MusicRow Awards nominees in a range of categories, including Producer of the Year, Studio of the Year, Label Group of the Year, Talent Agency of the Year, Publishing Company of the Year, Breakthrough Songwriter of the Year, Breakthrough Artist-Writer of the Year, Male Songwriter of the Year, Female Songwriter of the Year, Song of the Year, Discovery Artist of the Year, Breakthrough Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Group/Duo Artist of the Year and Entertainer of the Year. Winners were announced online in a virtual event on September 3.

The 2025 MusicRow Awards print issue also looks into the new country category at the Grammy Awards, as well as the success and ethos of The Core Entertainment, helmed by Kevin “Chief” Zaruk and Simon Tikhman. The issue also contains an informative roundup of all the awards applicable to the Nashville music industry.

Publisher Issue (October/November 2025)

The 2025 Publisher Issue features Sony Music Nashville/Columbia Records’ Megan Moroney on the cover. Multi-Platinum hitmaker, critically adored singer-songwriter, record-breaking headliner—just a few years after making her debut, Moroney has ascended to a truly stratospheric level of stardom. Her smash-hit sophomore album, Am I Okay?, delivered standouts like its Platinum title track (her second No. 1 at country radio) and Platinum-certified “No Caller ID,” helping to boost her streaming numbers to over 3.6 billion total global streams across platforms.

The 2025 Publisher Issue is a highly-anticipated annual resource that includes the updated Publisher Directory, a listing Nashville’s top publishing companies, as well as organizations available for songwriters. Back again in the 2025 Publisher Issue is the State of the Union roundtable, this time featuring UMPG Nashville’s Cyndi Forman, Warner Chappell Music Nashville’s BJ Hill, Sony Music Publishing Nashville’s Anna Weisband, Big Loud Publishing’s Mike Giangreco and Tape Room Music’s Caroline Hodson. Also in this issue is a tribute to the late Ben Vaughn, Warner Chappell Music Nashville President and CEO, who passed away earlier this year.

Elsewhere, publishing leaders at Concord, Jody Williams Songs, River House Artists, CTM Outlander and ASCAP share insights into what makes a writer “deal-ready.” Big Machine Music’s Mike Molinar talks about the impact of artificial intelligence and Safford Motley PLC’s Scott Safford discusses common publishing deal contract clauses, and how writers can protect their art. MusicRow’s 2025 Publisher Issue also highlights the work and careers of some of Nashville’s most in-demand songwriters, including Spirit Music Group’s David Garcia, Verse 2 and Sony Music Publishing’s Joybeth Taylor, UMPG Nashville’s Allison Veltz-Cruz, Warner Chappell’s Summer Overstreet and Curb’s Bobby Tomberlin.

Touring & Next Big Thing Issue (December 2025/January 2026)

Thrivin’ Here Records/Warner Records Nashville’s Gavin Adcock is featured on the cover of the 2025 Touring & Next Big Thing Issue. The MusicRow Awards Discovery Artist of the Year’s album, Actin’ Up Again, was crowned the largest major-label country debut from a solo male artist released in 2024 and was the year’s top streaming major-label debut across the genre. Own Worst Enemy debuted as the top new country album on the Billboard 200 Country Chart (No. 4) and top streaming new album on the Billboard 200 All-Genre Chart (No. 14) week of release.

Inside MusicRow‘s Touring & Next Big Thing Issue is the 12th annual Next Big Thing class of artists, consisting of Graham Barham (Sony Music Nashville/Disruptor Records), Kaitlin Butts (Republic Records), Laci Kaye Booth (Geffen Records), The Castellows (Warner Records Nashville), Kashus Culpepper (Big Loud Records), Lanie Gardner (BBR Music Group/Stoney Creek Records), Alexandra Kay (BBR Music Group/Wheelhouse Records), Braxton Keith (Warner Records Nashville), Zach John King (Sony Music Nashville), Chase McDaniel (Big Machine Records/Big Machine Label Group), Ty Myers (RECORDS Nashville/Columbia), Emily Ann Roberts (RECORDS/Sony Music Nashville), Hudson Westbrook (River House Artists/Warner Records Nashville) and Stephen Wilson Jr. (Big Loud Records). This issue also features the N.B.T. Industry Directory Class of 2026, which highlights rising Nashville music business professionals who are having a major impact on the industry. MusicRow’s N.B.T. Industry Directory is the first and only list of its kind.

The 2026 Touring & Next Big Thing Issue features a roundtable conversation with top agents including WME’s Barrett Sellers, Wasserman’s Lenore Kinder, The Neal Agency’s Brian Carothers, UTA’s Brian Hill, CAA’s Lindsey Myers and Kinkead Entertainment’s Greg Scott about the current issues and opportunities facing the live music business. MusicRow highlights mental health visibility within the industry with a look at Hollywood & Mind’s first On Location event in Nashville. Industry executives Gina Miller and Jeanette Porcello discuss genre and equity in Music City. Chrissy Hall, Director of Concerts for the Ryman Auditorium, the Grand Ole Opry House and Ascend Amphitheater, shares insights into the role of venue bookers, and Chelsae Partosan and Matt Morgan talk about life on the road as tour managers.