Revered BMI Exec Roger Sovine Passes

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Former BMI Nashville executive Roger Sovine has died at age 82.

The widely loved Music Row mainstay bolstered the careers of hundreds of Nashville songwriters and served as a volunteer leader for dozens of non-profits. In recognition of his years of service to the music community, he was given the Recording Academy’s Governors Award in 2000.

Born in West Virginia, he was the son of entertainer Woodrow Wilson “Red” Sovine (1917-1980). Roger’s father performed on radio in Wheeling and Charleston before relocating to Shreveport to perform on KWKH’s Louisiana Hayride, where he was mentored by Hank Williams. Red Sovine also rose to prominence on WSFA in Montgomery, Alabama.

The family moved to Nashville in 1955, when Roger was 12. His father joined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry and led Webb Pierce’s Wandering Boys band. Red recorded for MGM, Decca, RCA, Starday, Chart, and other country labels.

Red Sovine scored big hits via duets with Goldie Hill (1955’s “Are You Mine”) and Pierce (1956’s “Why Baby Why” and “Little Rosa”), and sang the solo successes “If Jesus Came to Your House” (1956), “Hold Everything” (1956) and “Dream House for Sale” (1964). He achieved his biggest hits with the trucker-themed recitations “Giddyup Go” (1965), “Phantom 309” (1967) and “Teddy Bear” (1976). Between 1955 and 1980, Red Sovine placed 31 singles on the country charts. In 1963, he became an early mentor to emerging artist Charley Pride.

Roger Sovine initially followed in his father’s footsteps. After graduating from Father Ryan High School and serving in the U.S. Marines, he recorded a string of singles for Imperial and Barnaby in the 1960s and early 1970s. He charted with his self-penned “Cullman, Alabama” and “Little Bitty Nitty Gritty Dirt Town” in 1968-69.

During this same era, Roger Sovine began working in music publishing. He was on staff at Cedarwood Music beginning in 1965. His Cedarwood songs were recorded by Mel Tillis, Carl Perkins, Brent Burns, and others. He also worked at Show-Biz Publishing and South Publishing Productions.

He joined BMI in 1972 as Assistant Vice President of Writer Relations, championing the works of Dolly Parton, Kris Kristofferson, Willie Nelson and other country songwriting greats. He returned to song publishing in 1979 as an executive at the Welk Music Group. He was named Vice President of Tree International in 1982.

Roger Sovine came back to BMI in 1985 and assumed the title of Vice President of Writer/Publisher Relations. During the 1980s and 1990s, he was one of the Music Row community’s most vibrant and influential personalities. Noted for his hail-fellow-well-met demeanor, a twinkle in his eye, unpretentious approach, and good-natured irreverence, he was a touchstone of sanity as the Nashville music industry expanded dramatically.

He championed such songwriters as Vince Gill, Marty Stuart, Brooks & Dunn, Waylon Jennings, and Dwight Yoakam. In the case of Keith Urban, as well as many of the others, he believed in talent long before fame arrived. Roger lent his guidance to unknowns as well as hit makers.

His impact extended beyond the boundaries of Music Row. He championed fairness for songwriters when political or economic forces threatened their livelihoods. He served as a mentor to many younger executives and professionals in the industry. Throughout his career, he was a gracious steward of Nashville’s culture as the city transitioned and expanded into becoming a world-renowned entertainment center.

Roger Sovine was the four-time president of the Nashville chapter of the Recording Academy. He served as the president and the chairman of the board of the Country Music Association. He was chairman of the Copyright Society of the South. He was a trustee of the Country Music Foundation/Hall of Fame and a national trustee of NARAS. He was a commissioner of the Tennessee Film, Entertainment and Music Commission. He was executive vice president of R.O.P.E. (the Reunion of Professional Entertainers) and an organizer of Leadership Music.

His public service also included becoming an executive committee member of of the T.J. Martel Foundation of Cancer, Leukemia and AIDS research. He held similar volunteer leadership roles at MusiCares and at the United Way of Middle Tennessee.

Roger Sovine retired from BMI in 2001 and moved to Gulf Shores, Alabama. In retirement, he enjoyed fishing, golf, travel and playing guitar with his grandchildren. Back in Music City, he became an advocate and supporter of the Nashville Classical West Charter School.

He passed away peacefully at Alive Hospice on Dec. 23, surrounded by his loving family. Roger Sovine is survived by Shirley Sovine, his wife of 62 years, as well as by son Jim Sovine and daughter Amy Sovine, plus eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, Jan. 5, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. at BMI (10 Music Square East) with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Alive Hospice (1718 Patterson Street, Nashville, TN 37203). Also, an arts endowment will be established in Roger’s honor at the Nashville Classical West Charter School (Sovine Endowment: 1015 Davidson Drive, Nashville, TN 37205).

MusicRow Elevates Industry Voices Across Print Issues

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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.

Robert K. Oermann Highlights Nashville’s Top Tunes Of 2025 In DISClaimer

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Shortly after MusicRow Magazine was established in 1981, respected music critic, author and historian Robert K. Oermann began reviewing the newest music to come out of Nashville with his weekly DISClaimer column.

Each week, Oermann shares his thoughts on a collection of new tunes. His reviews have become an iconic part of MusicRow.

In each week’s DISClaimer column, Oermann chooses a Disc of the Day as a highlight of the pack. Below are his 2025 Disc of the Day winners.

MORGAN WALLEN / “Smile”
Writers: Charlie Handsome/Ernest Keith Smith/John Byron/Luis Witkiewitz/Morgan Wallen/Rocky Block; Producers: Charlie Handsome, Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud Records/Mercury Records/Republic Records
– Bittersweet heartache, accompanied by hushed backup sighing and gently-plucked guitars. Beautifully done.

THE WAR AND TREATY / “Save Me”
Writers: Kendell Marvel/Michael Trotter Jr./Tanya Trotter; Producers: Andrew Capra, Michael Trotter Jr., Tanya Trotter; Label: UMG Nashville
– Can we all just agree that these two are in a completely different class than the rest of the singers in this town? On this vow of love, their thrilling voices are backed by a rock-star track that fills the speakers with electronic power and rhythm. The War and Treaty’s forthcoming album, Plus One, will drop on Valentine’s Day. Somebody say, “Amen.”

MAGGIE ROSE & VINCE GILL / “I Can’t Make You Love Me”
Writers: Allen Shamblin/Mike Reid; Producer: Davis Naish; Label: One Riot Records
– Maggie Rose is one of the finest singers in a city full of great vocalists. She isn’t a country artist, but collaborating with Country Hall of Famer Vince Gill gives her definite country-soul cred. Especially because it’s on this aching ballad of unrequited love originally immortalized by Bonnie Raitt in 1991. Melody. Emotion. Technique. Flawless artistry.

MIRANDA LAMBERT / “Run”
Writer: Miranda Lambert; Producers: Jon Randall, Miranda Lambert; Label: Big Loud Records/Republic Records
– The thrilling, pumping production sets your pulse racing. The lyric of regret, deception and escape grabs your ear. Her voice, as always, rules your heart. An artist at the top of her game with a mini masterpiece.

RASCAL FLATTS & THE JONAS BROTHERS / “I Dare You”
Writers: Dewain Whitmore/Nick Jonas/Shay Mooney/Tommy English; Producers: Dann Huff, Jay DeMarcus, Jeremy Hatcher, Tommy English; Label: Big Machine Records
– This snazzy little country rocker has a built-in spring breeze. Lyrics fly by like highway scenery as the band kicks up dust. Gary carries the lead with the Jonas boys adding vocal embellishments, holding back until the bridge. After that, everybody sings to the sky. A winner, even though one yearns for more Jonas.

RILEY GREEN / “Worst Way”
Writer: Riley Green; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment
– He has s-e-x on his mind, and he lets her know it. The feel-good, midtempo track keeps the sultry mood rolling right along. Green’s streak of chart-toppers ought to continue with this dandy outing.

SABRINA CARPENTER & DOLLY PARTON / “Please, Please, Please”
Writers: Amy Allen/Jack Antonoff/Sabrina Carpenter; Producer: Jack Antonoff; Label: Island Records
– What a delicious audio confection. Burbling, airy, twinkling and loaded with Carpenter’s signature wit. The two wafting sopranos lift this thing into a cotton-candy cloud of bliss. Sabrina keeps falling for losers and begs this one not to embarrass her like all the others. Best line: “Don’t bring me to tears, when I just did my makeup so nice.” Totally loving this.

TRACE ADKINS / “What Color’s Your Wild”
Writers: Casey Beathard/Monty Criswell; Producer: Bart Butler; Label: Verge
– The big man can still deliver the goods. And how. This stomper is loaded with charisma, and the color-coded lyric about pursuing passion is terrific. I hung on every note. Essential audio.

CARLY PEARCE / “No Rain”
Writers: Carly Pearce/Emily Weisband/Jordan Reynolds/Lauren Hungate; Producers: Carly Pearce, Dave Clauss; Label: Big Machine Records
– When you’re going through hardship, remember that without rain, there are no flowers. Pearce’s vocal is beautifully phrased, and the strings-and-guitar accompaniment is simply poetic. Country music eloquence.

MICKEY GUYTON / “You Don’t Know Me at All”
Writer: Dave Jordan; Producer: Karen Kosowski; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– Guyton drew a standing ovation for her performance of this power ballad on Monday’s Ringo & Friends at the Ryman TV special. As a single, it’s a stunning listening experience, with goosebumps popping up all over when she rolls into that chorus. This lady can SING. Listen and believe.

DIERKS BENTLEY & STEPHEN WILSON JR. / “Cold Beer Can”
Writers: Dierks Bentley/Jon Randall/Luke Dick/Stephen Wilson Jr.; Producers: Mary Hilliard Harrington, Jon Randall, Ross Copperman; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– Wilson’s bluesy drawl and strong guitar work strongly color this duet performance. It salutes blue-collar friendship, family ties, romantic events, brotherhood and life’s best moments. “Money can’t buy what a cold beer can,” they sing. Amen, bro’s. Sing on.

MORGAN WALLEN / “I’m a Little Crazy”
Writers: Hunter Phelps/Jameson Rodgers/Michael Hardy/Smith Ahnquist; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud Records/ Mercury Records
– I got totally into this. Wallen unspools the thoughtful lyric in plain-spoken, unfussy fashion while acoustic guitar notes ripple around him. He sings, “I’m a little crazy, but the world’s insane.” I believe we can all relate to that. Wallen showcases tunes from his upcoming I’m the Problem album this weekend as the musical guest on Saturday Night Live on March 29.

CODY JOHNSON & CARÍN LEÓN / “She Hurts Like Tequila”
Writers: Cody Johnson/Johan Sotelo/Orlando Aispuro Meneses/Oscar Armando Diaz de Leon Huez/Trent Willmon; Producer: Trent Willmon; Label: CoJo Music/Warner Music Nashville
– Cojo embraces his Lone Star State’s Hispanic heritage with this sublimely country waltz that blends Mexicali guitar, accordion and steel guitar. Latin superstar Carín León alternates with Spanish verses. A bi-lingual triumph. In a word, gracias.

BROTHERS OSBORNE / “Finish This Drink”
Writers: Alysa Vanderheym/TJ Osborne; Producers: John Osborne/TJ Osborne; Label: EMI Music Nashville
– This RAWKS. Lightning-bolt lead guitar and flamethrower fiddle electrify the instrumental passages. TJ’s tongue-in-cheek drawl spits a potent, rollicking, frothing tune of a wayward honky tonker while John’s audio stew heats up to boiling.

CARTER FAITH / “Grudge”
Writers: Carter Faith/Steph Jones/Tofer Brown; Producer: Tofer Brown; Label: UMG Nashville
– Witty and delightfully bitchy toward a back-stabbing former friend. The uptempo romp has a cute phrase around every corner. She needs to somebody to hold her beer, but she sure can hold one hell of a grudge.

CODY JOHNSON / “The Fall”
Writers: Bobby Pinson/Jeremy Stover/Ray Fulcher; Producer: Trent Willmon; Label: CoJo Music/Warner Music Nashville
– Philosophical, moody and super compelling. “The ride was worth the fall/The fall was worth the smile/Smiles were worth the tears…Life is worth the fall.” A superb song in the throat of a master stylist. Essential.

KELSEA BALLERINI / “Baggage”
Writers: Alysa Vanderheym/Hillary Lindsey/Jessie Jo Dillon/Karen Fairchild/Kelsea Ballerini; Producers: Alysa Vanderheym, Kelsea Ballerini; Label: Black River Entertainment
– She’s feeling frisky and free, because she’s letting go of her emotional baggage. The country-rock track features a gal-pal sing-along finale, rapid guitar strums, bouncing rhythm and a searing electric guitar break. Sing and dance along.

TRISHA YEARWOOD / “The Wall or the Way Over”
Writers: Emma-Lee/Maia Sharp/Trisha Yearwood; Producers: Chad Carlson, Trisha Yearwood; Label: Virgin Music Group/Gwendolyn Records
– Produced with crystal clarity and dynamic tension, this exudes energy. As usual, this goddess has few peers as a supreme vocalist. The deliciously bluesy rocker is drawn from Yearwood’s upcoming The Mirror, her first self-penned collection. I love this. Can’t wait to hear the rest.

MEGAN MORONEY & KENNY CHESNEY / “You Had to Be There”
Writers: Ben Williams/Mackenzie Carpenter/Megan Moroney/Micah Carpenter; Producer: Kristian Bush; Label: Columbia Nashville/Columbia Records
– What a complete delight. This sounds like a party, if I’ve ever heard one. Moroney wrote it as a thank-you to Chesney for taking her out on tour when her career was launching last year. He jumps right into the spirit of things as she unspools this romping bopper. Here comes summer.

KEB’ MO’ & TAJ MAHAL & RUBY AMANFU / “Room on the Porch”
Writers: Ahmen Mahal/Henry St Claire Fredericks, Jr./Kevin R. Moore/Ruby Amanfu; Producers: Keb’ Mo’, Taj Mahal; Label: Concord Records
– This is the title tune of the second TajMo collaborative album. The gifted Nashville diva Ruby Amanfu is their guest vocalist on the rolling, swaying, relaxing, welcoming, sweet-sounding, acoustic outing that celebrates friendship and community. This is absolutely essential listening. The Grammy winning blues masters are booked to appear on the Opry tomorrow (May 23), which is also their album-release day. I bet they’ll bring the house down.

SISTER SADIE / “Do What You Want”
Writers: Dani Flowers/Erin Enderlin/Sharon Richardson; Producer: Deanie Richardson; Label: Mountain Home Music Company
– The much honored and applauded all-female bluegrass sextet returns with a totally cool, waltz-time outing of feisty, independent-female sass. A delightful listen, from the tart lyric to the swaying fiddling, from the glorious harmonies to the rowdy-gang finale. The schoolhouse video is a blast. The tune is drawn from the band’s All Will Be Well album, which drops on June 27. Can’t wait.

OLD DOMINION / “Water My Flowers”
Writers: Jerry Flowers/Jordan Reynolds/Matthew Ramsey/Trevor Rosen; Producers: Old Dominion, Shane McAnally; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Ridiculously hooky and a complete audio addiction. But what else is new? This band seems to live and breathe hooks. The restless tempo and haunting melody pull you into the swirl of questing, loneliness and doubt in the lyric. Massively wonderful.

ZACH TOP / “Good Times & Tan Lines”
Writers: Carson Chamberlain/Wyatt McCubbin/Zach Top; Producer: Carson Chamberlain; Label: Leo33
– Stuttering twang guitar, happy fiddle, singing steel and a bopping breezy beat — what more could you ask for in a summer single? As always, Top sings his face off. The ACM New Male Vocalist winner strikes again.

MORGAN WALLEN / “I Got Better”
Writers: Blake Pendergrass/Chase McGill/Ernest Keith Smith/Joe Reeves/Michael Hardy/Morgan Wallen/Ryan Vojtesak; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud Records/Mercury Records/Republic Records
– Brilliantly produced. An understated, rippling track carries a softly voiced performance. The gently rolling sound frames a lyric of healing following a breakup. Essential listening.

TRISHA YEARWOOD / “The Mirror”
Writers: Trisha Yearwood/Leslie Satcher/Bridgette Tatum; Producer: Trisha Yearwood & Chad Carlson; Label: Virgin/Gwendolyn
– The title tune of Yearwood’s forthcoming (July 18) album is an awesome slab of sound. She gazes at the image in her mirror and is startled to see a strong, beautiful, brave woman instead of a wimp. The collection is the first one that the singer has co-written and co-produced. Watch for this superstar on the NBC telecast of the Macy’s 4th of July Firework show from New York City. She’ll introduce the album on the TODAY show on the 18th, then perform and do an album signing at the Opry the next day. If you haven’t already jumped on this, get tix now, because she’s also starring in the Hall of Fame’s tribute show to Linda Ronstadt with James Taylor, Rodney Crowell, Patti Scialfa and Emmylou Harris on July 22.

RILEY GREEN & ELLA LANGLEY / “Don’t Mind If I Do”
Writer: Riley Green; Producer: Dann Huff, Scott Borchetta & Jimmy Harnen; Label: Nashville Harbor
– The “You Look Like You Love Me” team returns with a lovelorn ballad that aches with yearning. Green carries the song, then Langley floats in with her harmonies and a gentle, haunting finale. Sublime listening.

MIRANDA LAMBERT & CHRIS STAPLETON / “A Song to Sing”
Writers: Chris Stapleton/Jenee Fleenor/Jesse Frasure/Miranda Lambert; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Republic Records
– Groove soaked and soulful. A stately, rump-shaking beat and some smokey, swirly guitar-organ-violin atmosphere back a masterpiece of duet singing. Stunning, beautiful and absolutely essential.

RODNEY CROWELL / “Twenty-One Song Salute (Owed to G.G. Shinn and Cléoma Falcon)”
Writer: Rodney Crowell; Producer: Tyler Bryant; Label: Rodney Crowell
– Hidden in the lyric are the titles of 21 songs that helped to forge his musical life. The track rocks splendidly and Crowell remains a master at delivering a Texas-accented country performance. Tyler Bryant provides the harmony vocal. Highly recommended. This singer-songwriter belongs in the Country Music Hall of Fame.

JORDAN DAVIS / “Turn This Truck Around”
Writers: Devin Dawson/Jake Mitchell/Jordan Davis/Josh Thompson; Producer: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: MCA Nashville
– I am such a huge fan of this guy. His furry, throaty vocals are so emotionally compelling, and his songwriting is just terrific. On this outing, an insistent rhythm track beats like his broken heart while he heads for a destination unknown—unless her memory becomes so powerful that he heads back home. I hung on every line.

DIERKS BENTLEY, RILEY GREEN & JOHN ANDERSON / “Broken Branches”
Writers: Beau Bailey/Graham Barham/Zach Abend; Producers: Jon Randall, Mary Hilliard Harrington, Ross Copperman; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– A rollicking drinkin’ party with lotsa rhythm and plenty of smiles. The trailer-trash music video is creating a viral sensation.

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

OLD DOMINION / “Late Great Heartbreak”
Writers: Josh Osborne/Matthew Ramsey/Shane McAnally/Trevor Rosen; Producers: Old Dominion, Shane McAnally; Label: Columbia Nashville
– The much-awarded band’s much-anticipated new album, Barbara, drops tomorrow (Aug. 22). I expect it will be filled with wall-to-wall great songs, as usual. That’s certainly the case of its ridiculously hooky new single. It’s tuneful and bopping and utterly charming.

BILLY CURRINGTON / “One Thing I Ain’t Been”
Writers: Chase McDaniel, Johnny Clawson, Steve Moakler; Producer: Carson Chamberlain; Label: MCA
– The groove is enchanting, a rolling ride on a calm sea of sound. Amid the swaying atmosphere is Currington’s softly yearning invitation to romance. Very listenable.

DIERKS BENTLEY & THE BAND LOULA / “Get Down on Your Knees and Pray”
Writer: Bill Monroe; Producer: Ben Helson; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– Swampy and moody and totally cool. Deep twang guitar, multi-part harmonies, searing fiddle and bluesy mandolin cut through a swirling cloud of haunting atmosphere. Fabulous listening. It’s recorded live, and it drives the audience absolutely wild. Me, too.

CARIN LEÓN & KACEY MUSGRAVES / “Lost in Translation”
Writers: Amy Allen/Kacey Musgraves/Oscar Armando Diaz de Leon/Shane McAnally; Producers: Julian Bunetta, Matt Zara; Label: Socios Music
– Mexican-style instrumental flourishes embellish this lilting, lively duet that describes a romance that’s trying to navigate a language barrier. León’s rapid-fire Spanish delivery contrasts with Musgraves’ languid style beautifully, and he harmonizes with her with immense verve. Wonderfully refreshing…and sexy, too.

ZAC BROWN BAND & DOLLY PARTON / “Butterfly”
Writers: Dan Auerbach/Sasha Sirota/Zac Brown; Producer: Zac Brown; Label: Master of None
– In a word, thrilling. Brown and Parton both sing their faces off on this inspirational duet that soars on wings of harmony. By the time they finish, you feel like you’re flying on the wind. Essential listening.

CHARLEY PRIDE / “Endlessly”
Writers: Brook Benton/Clyde Otis; Producers: Bob Pickering, Charley Pride; Label: Music City Records
– Tomorrow (Sept. 19) would have been Brook Benton’s 94th birthday. I have long believed that he was an unheralded country hero. The pop-soul baritone recorded two country albums, immortalized Tony Joe White’s “Rainy Night in Georgia” and wrote great songs that were covered by country stars. Benton and/or his co-writer Clyde Otis were responsible for “It’s Just a Matter of Time” (Randy Travis), “The Ties That Bind” (Don Williams). “Endlessly” (Sonny James) and more. The last named is the title tune of a long overdue Brook Benton tribute album. After Charley Pride’s death in 2020, these tapes were found, revealing that the superstar was definitely appreciative of Benton’s talent. His vocal performances on these classics are arguably the finest of his career. Backed by the Dallas Symphony, Pride glides through the lushly melodic “Endlessly” and dips into its bass notes with delight. Every track on this collection is a mini masterpiece. Also check out his stunning version of “The Ties That Bind.” The collection drops tomorrow (Sept. 19).

COLBIE CAILLAT & MAREN MORRIS / “Fallin’ For You”
Writers: Colbie Caillat/Rick Nowels; Producers: Eric Arjes, Jimmy Robbins; Label: Blue Jean Baby Records
– A rolling, rumbling, country-rock delight. The two women’s voices blend so seamlessly that it sounds like they’ve been singing together all their lives. It’s drawn from Caillat’s This Time Around, an all-duets collection that drops tomorrow (Sept. 26). The wildly catchy, rhythm-happy tune was a double-Platinum pop hit for her in 2009.

NITTY GRITTY DIRT BAND / “Night After Night”
Writers: Daniel Tashian/Paul Kennerley; Producer: Jerry Douglas; Label: Many Hats Distribution
– OMG what a delightful track. The band zips through this catchy country rocker with joyous abandon. The song has more hooks than a tuna boat, and Jeff Hanna’s lead vocal is beyond cool. Put this on endless repeat. The Dirt Band is currently on its farewell tour. Go see these legends while you still can.

BRAXTON KEITH / “The Chair”
Writers: Dean Dillon/Hank Cochran; Producers: Alex Torrez, David Dorn; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– Keith takes this fabulous George Strait oldie out for a welcome revival. The song is a country-music masterpiece. It takes guts to go up against Strait’s iconic performance, but this man is up to the task, and then some. Hear for yourself why it has streamed two million times in a single week. A tip of the cowboy hat to a sublime performance of an undeniable classic.

RUSSELL DICKERSON / “Worth Your Wild”
Writers: Anthony Kiedis/Bret Mazur/Casey Brown/Chad Smith/John Frusciante/Michael Balzary/Parker Welling/Russell Dickerson/Seth Binzer; Producers: Casey Brown, Josh Kerr, Russell Dickerson; Label: Triple Tigers
– Joyously rocking. This lights a fire under Friday night and points to a night of tearin’ up the roads and makin’ whoopie. Dickerson always heats up a playlist, and he’s hotter than ever here.

MEGAN MORONEY / “Beautiful Things”
Writers: Connie Harrington/Jessi Alexander/Jessie Jo DillonMegan Moroney; Producer: Kristian Bush; Label: Columbia Records
– From a broken-hearted place come words of comfort and hope. She reassures the hurting one that, “You’re pretty and you’re smart….The world is hard on beautiful things.” A tender ballad with a healing balm.

KIP MOORE / “The Crown”
Writers: Andrew DeRoberts/Kip Moore/Luke Preston; Producers: Andrew DeRoberts, Kip Moore; Label: KM
– In a career that’s been built on barn-burning performances, this one truly scorches. Moore’s gripping rasp advises us to live life to the fullest, but be wary of crashes. His most fiery and fearsome single to date. This deserves massive exposure. Turn it up.

JASON SCOTT & HIGH HEAT / “Too Good, Too Bad”
Writers: Jason Scott/Taylor Johnson; Producers: Jason Scott, Taylor Johnson; Label: Leo33
– Rollicking and rootsy. As we bop along, we’re doing all kinda stuff that really isn’t good for us. But ain’t it fun? A good-time, feel-good single.

JAMIE O’NEAL / “Ole Heartache”
Writers: Ed Hill/Jamie O’Neal/Shaye Smith; Producer: Jamie O’Neal, Rodney Good; Label: BFD
– Languidly paced, to underscore the lonesome blues in the soaring tune. Deep twang guitar and aching harmonica work back her terrific vocal performance. Country music eloquence.

ELLA LANGLEY / “Choosin’ Texas”
Writers: Ella Langley/Joybeth Taylor/Luke Dick/Miranda Lambert; Producers: Ben West, Ella Langley, Miranda Lambert; Label: SAWGOD/Columbia
– She loses her Tennessee lover to a temptress from the Lone Star State. Langley’s singing has never sounded better than it does on this delightful two stepper. Park this on your playlist right next to Strait.

KELSEA BALLERINI / “I Sit in Parks”
Writer: Kelsea Ballerini; Producers: Kelsea Ballerini, Alysa Vanderheym; Label: Black River
– Airy and pretty. In a lilting soprano, Ballerini muses on her life’s direction, wistfully thinking about where she is and where she wants to be. Sophisticated and elegant sounding.

CARLY PEARCE / “Dream Come True”
Writers: Carly Pearce/Emily Weisband/Lauren Hungate/Tofer Brown; Producers: Ben West, Carly Pearce; Label: Big Machine Records
– She has it all, except for love. Pearce delivers the aching lyric with throaty, emotional force. This is country music royalty at work.

VINCE GILL / “Secondhand Smoke”
Writers: Derrick Southerland/Vince Gill; Producer: Vince Gill; Label: MCA Nashville
– This legend is in the midst of a monthly series of autobiographical EPs that chronicle his journey from Oklahoma. The series is titled 50 Years From Home. The title tune of the second EP recalls his late father with enormous heart and deep love. There is no finer living country-music artist. Nor one more beloved.

CODY JOHNSON / “Travelin’ Soldier”
Writer: Bruce Robison; Producer: Trent Willmon; Label: CoJo Music/Warner Records Nashville
– This masterpiece country song was a No. 1 hit for the Chicks in 2002. Johnson’s revival is packed with feeling and delivered with heart. His take on the tale of the lonely soldier who goes to die in Vietnam is a ringing reminder of what a great artist he is.

STEVE MARTIN, ALISON BROWN, JACKSON BROWNE, JEFF HANNA / “Dear Time”
Writers: Alison Brown/Steve Martin; Producer: Alison Brown, Garry West; Label: Compass Records
– Steve and Alison’s twin-banjo duet and droll banter during their appearance as presenters on last month’s CMA Awards were a breath of fresh air. They’ve also been promoting their new album on Jimmy Kimmel, The View, NPR, Jimmy Fallon and the IBMA Awards, which they co-hosted. The album’s track with vocalist Browne and Hannah on harmony vocals is a standout moment on the Safe, Sensible and Sane collection. Wistful, thoughtful, nostalgic, melodic and utterly enchanting. Vince Gill, The Indigo Girls, Della Mae, Tim O’brien and other guests also celebrate the album.

Holly Gleason Receives National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Awards

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Rita Cossette, Holly Gleason and Jensen Sussman

NY Times No. 1 best-selling author Holly Gleason recently celebrated six awards from the National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Awards, including top honors for Diversity in the Music/Performing Arts/Arts Industry for Print for “Shaboozey’s Evolution,” as well as second place for Independent Journalist of the Year.

Gleason also earned Second Places for Obituary/Appreciation, Film Personalities (Print/Online), Commentary Analysis/Trend (Print), and Music/Performing Arts Feature Under 1000 Words (Print), in addition to Third Place for Best Arts or Entertainment Limited Series Podcast for “The Boar’s Nest: Sue Brewer & the Birth of Outlaw Country.” Gleason’s stories were placed in a myriad of outlets including the New York Times, PASTE, POLLSTAR, HITS and her own website.

The honors come as the book HEART LIFE MUSIC, co-authored with Kenny Chesney, spends its fifth week on The New York Times best seller lists. Returning to the top five after a No. 1 debut, it is No. 4 Nonfiction, Hardcover and No. 5 Nonfiction, Hardcover and E-Book.

“I am both amazed and proud of my partner in this book,” Chesney says of her journalism awards. “She works to tell stories she believes are important; she digs in to make sure she gets what matters and not just what’s obvious. How much she cares about getting to the story’s heart is clear in the work.”

“Of all the awards, being recognized for diversity coming from country in what is a very fast, all the biggest magazines and newspapers across the nation, makes me very proud,” adds Gleason. “Shaboozey’s story is powerful, and country music is better for what he creates. Here’s to Nashville being recognized like this in a year with really powerful, political, cultural and sociological entries.”

Mtheory’s Equal Access Unveils Changes To Its Signature Equity Initiative

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mtheory’s Equal Access program will undergo changes to its programming by focusing on previous members instead of naming a new cohort. Staring in 2026, Equal Access will give one additional year of their artist services to two previous members that will be announced soon. In addition, mtheory will also offer an ongoing training curriculum for all former managers.

“We’re extremely proud of the remarkable progress we’ve made over the past four years with Equal Access,” says Tiffany Provenzano, Executive Director, Equal Access. “We’ve helped so many individuals achieve career milestones during our program, and look forward to expanding our support to serve our existing members in an even greater capacity. We will also actively fundraise throughout the next year with plans to return in 2027 with a full funding structure back in place.”

First introduced in 2022, Equal Access was created to address inequities in country music. Through the program, artists and managers have received funding, support, and monthly partner meetings with industry leaders to help build their careers. Equal Access collaborations include CMT, CMA, ACM, Opry Entertainment, RIAA, Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, Sirius + Pandora, BMI, CRS, Music Business Association, The MLC, Warner Music Nashville, River House Artists, Americana Association and more.

To explore sponsorship opportunities, contact Provenzano at tiffany@mtheory.com.

Chandler Walters’ Hosts First Annual ‘Walters Western Christmas’ Benefit

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Chandler Walters and SSG Adam Peacock. Photo: Devin Flanagan

Singer-songwriter Chandler Walters hosted the first annual “Walters Western Christmas” in partnership with Barstool Nashville on Dec. 11.

Through the event and its donations, Walters Western Christmas gifted a track chair (an all-terrain motorized wheelchair) to SSG Adam Peacock so he can enjoy the outdoors with the chair’s all-terrain capability. Proceeds from the special show went to The USO and The Independence Fund, while a simultaneous toy drive collected gifts for military families via the USO’s Holly Jolly Holiday Program. Donations are open now through the end of December here.

“It means a lot to me to have the opportunity to give back as part of something bigger than myself,” shares Walters. “My grandpa is a veteran, and I love the outdoors and think it’s something every person deserves the chance to enjoy. I hope the veteran donation and toy drive is a tradition we can keep going for years to come.”

Signed to ERN’s Cadillac Music/DeVille Records, Walters is a seasoned steel-guitar player and multi-Platinum, No. 1 songwriter who co-penned Post Malone’s 5x Platinum No. 1 “I Had Some Help (feat. Morgan Wallen).” He earned six cuts on Post Malone’s F-1 Trillion, and has penned tracks for Ernest (“I Went To College, I Went To Jail” (feat. Jelly Roll)), Bailey Zimmerman (“Is This Really Over?”), Charles Wesley Godwin (“Dead To Rights”) and more.

Anzie Blue To Host First New Year’s Eve Event Headlined By Chris Isaak

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Anzie Blue will wrap the year with its first-ever New Year’s Eve event, “Anzie Blue New Year’s Eve Live” presented by Honda Powersports, featuring a genre-spanning lineup headlined by Platinum singer and actor Chris Isaak.

Sponsored by Visit Music City and Dreamliner, the event will also feature performances from Maggie Rose, John Carter Cash and his wife Ana Cristina Cash, Pynk Beard, (who will also serve as host of the livestream), Taylor Acorn, Julia Cole, Alyssa Flaherty, Stella Prince, and more.

“Get ready for an ‘only in Nashville’ NYE party with a diverse lineup of artists representing the very best of Music City,” says Marcie Allen, Co-Owner Anzie Blue. “We’re thrilled to team up with Honda Powersports, Visit Music City and Dreamliner to showcase Nashville’s finest right here on the Anzie Blue stage to music fans worldwide.”

The celebration will stream live on Dec. 31 from 2-8 p.m. CT exclusively on CNN’s new streaming subscription platform, available to subscribers, with select performances, including Isaak’s, airing live on CNN as part of its planned daytime coverage of New Year’s Eve from cities around the world.

Jeremy Stover Lands In Top 10 On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart

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Jeremy Stover

Jeremy Stover has jumped into the top 10 on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. Cody Johnson’s “The Fall” and Justin Moore’s “Time’s Ticking” place the songwriter at No. 10 this week.

Riley Green remains at No. 1 for the 11th consecutive week with “Change My Mind” and “Don’t Mind If I Do.” Chase McGill stays at No. 2 with “20 Cigarettes,” “Happen To Me,” “I Got Better,” “It Won’t Be Long” and “the hell you are.”

Ty Myers (No. 3), Blake Pendergrass (No. 4) and Charlie Handsome (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.

Phil Wickham Breaks Mediabase Record With ‘What An Awesome God’

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Fair Trade Services artist Phil Wickham‘s single “What An Awesome God” has officially become the longest-running No. 1 song in history on Mediabase’s Christian Audience chart, holding the top spot for 21 consecutive weeks.

“What An Awesome God” breathes new life into a beloved worship anthem, resonating with both longtime fans and a new generation of listeners. Co-writers Wickham and Jonathan Smith created the song with fresh verses to the chorus of the world-renowned Rich Mullins song, “Awesome God.”

“Singles like this are rare and special,” says Kai Elmer, VP of National Promotions at Fair Trade Services. “This achievement is a testament to the entire team involved. Ultimately, it was the radio that sought this song out – even before it was an official single. The listener response was instant, and we’re incredibly thankful for that partnership.”

“We knew this song was special the moment we heard the demo and were excited to share it with radio,” says Jeff Moseley, Founder & Principal of Fair Trade Services. “Phil and Jonathan did an incredible job of creating something that honors an iconic song while giving it renewed meaning and relevance for today.”

The record-breaking song was featured on Wickham’s latest album, Song Of The Saints, which debuted as the largest release of his career. He’ll close out the year with the debut of Hallelujah! It’s Christmas! With Phil Wickham & Friends, a holiday worship and music special on Dec. 24 at 7 p.m. CST exclusively on Samsung TV Plus, and runs through Christmas Day.

Chantrel Reynolds Launches Chantrel & Co

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Chantrel Reynolds. Photo: K.Renee

Chantrel Reynolds has launched Chantrel & Co, offering creative strategy, design and video production services.

Born in Augusta, Georgia, raised in Goldsboro, North Carolina and now based in Nashville, Reynolds holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master of Science in Communications with a concentration in Advertising from Syracuse University.

She most recently served as Manager of the Equal Access Development Program at mtheory, where she designed curriculum, produced industry-facing events, and worked closely with artists, managers, and partners, aiming to create sustainable pathways for underrepresented talent in country music. She previously spent several years at Sony Music Entertainment’s RCA Inspiration, managing budgets and operations while contributing creatively through visual development, pitch design, and artist content.

Reynolds can be reached here.