CMHOFM Features Wendy Moten In Nashville Cats Program
Jon Freeman and Wendy Moten. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum recently featured vocalist Wendy Moten for its in-depth interview series, Nashville Cats. The series spotlights renowned musicians and session singers who have played important roles in support of artists in either the recording studio or on concert tours. The interview was moderated by museum writer-editor Jon Freeman and illustrated with rare photos, film and recordings.
The Memphis native grew up singing in church and attended Overton High School, where she sang in the school’s famed competition choir. A professional singer by 16, Moten signed with EMI to release her self-titled debut album in 1992. Her singles “Come in Out of the Rain” and “So Close to Love” charted in the United States and the United Kingdom. Moten continued work as a backup singer, working with Julio Iglesias, Faith Hill, Martina McBride and Tim McGraw. In recent years, she has served as a featured singer on Vince Gill’s tours and lent her voice in the studio to Garth Brooks, Buddy Guy, Thomas Rhett, Joss Stone, Carrie Underwood and many others.
Parker McCollum Partners With Under Armour
Parker McCollum. Photo: Under Armour
Parker McCollum has signed a multi-year partnership with Under Armour. McCollum’s first UA campaign focuses on The Bouncy Tee.
“I grew up wearing the brand as an athlete, so getting the chance to partner with them now honestly means a lot,” shares McCollum. “What I respect most is that they stand for strong American values of hard work, discipline, and staying true to who you are. That’s how I’ve always tried to approach my career and my life.”
Randy Rogers Family Foundation Presents $400,000 To Comal County Senior Citizens Foundation
Pictured (Holding The Check, L-R): Courtney Bukowski, Chris Smith, Randy Rogers and Chelsea Rogers. Photo: Courtesy of Randy Rogers Family Foundation
The Randy Rogers Family Foundation recently presented a $400,000 check to the Comal County Senior Citizens Foundation.
“New Braunfels showed up in a big way for our seniors,” says Randy Rogers, founder of the Randy Rogers Family Foundation. “To see this community rally together like this means a lot to me personally. These are the people who helped build this community, and we wanted to do something meaningful to give back to them.”
Sheryl Crow Appears On ‘The Bobbycast’
Sheryl Crow was this week’s guest on Netflix’s Bobby Bones Presents: The Bobbycast. Crow shared her top five songs, her experience with cancer and more.
Jo Dee Messina Performs On NBC’s ‘TODAY’
Jo Dee Messina performed her lead single “Some Bridges,” off her forthcoming album Bridges, due out on June 5, on NBC’s TODAY.
The album is her first new album in over 10 years. Messina is on the road through the summer with appearances at CMA Fest, Cheyenne Frontier Days and more.
John Ford Coley Performs On ‘Live! with Kelly and Mark’
John Ford Coley.
John Ford Coley was featured on Live! with Kelly & Mark last week, sharing “I’d Really Love To See You Tonight (50th Anniversary Edition).”
“Some songs seem to take on a life of their own,” says Coley. “The song ‘I’d Really Love to See You Tonight’ seems to be one of those iconic songs. Dan and I have not sung together since 1980, and it’s interesting that the song that appears to have brought us back together was the one that launched our career as a duo. It never occurred to me that this song would still be as big today as it was 50 years ago.”
Duck Club Bourbon Becomes Proud Partner Of Ducks Unlimited
Duck Club Bourbon has become a Proud Partner of Ducks Unlimited.
“We’re proud to welcome Duck Club Bourbon into the Ducks Unlimited family,” says Adam Putnam, Chief Executive Officer of Ducks Unlimited. “DU is all about leaving the world better for future generations, creating memories with family and friends, and the shared experiences in the field and on the water. Often, those experiences include time around a fire, sipping something special. This partnership illustrates all those moments we experience outside, together, and we’re excited to work together to support conservation and the DU lifestyle.”
Third Annual Indie Night Celebrates ACM Awards Weekend
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (Front Row, L-R): Grace Watson (Black River), Annie Ortmeier (Triple Tigers), Sally Allgeier (Red Street), Eliza Charette (Riser House), MC Demetriades (Black River) and Megan Stottlemyer (Riser House). (Back Row, L-R): Lance Houston (River House), Josh Easler (Records), John Clore (Curb), Heather Vassar (Orchard), Sarah Schumacher (Curb), Alex Heimerman (Riser House). Photo: Victoria Posh
Some of independent music’s biggest players gathered at the House of Blues Las Vegas on May 16 for the third annual Indie Night.
Presented with support from Riser House, The Orchard, Triple Tigers, Leo33, Curb Records Nashville, Red Street Records, Ignition, Back Blocks Music, River House Records and Black River Entertainment, artists and industry guests in attendance included Ian Munsick, Emily Ann Roberts, Trevor Snider, Austin Williams, Tyra Madison, Hudson Westbrook, Tyce Delk, Austin Snell, Walker Montgomery, Taylor Austin Dye, Trey Pendley, Jenna Paulette and Aubrie Sellers, among many others.
“What started as a grassroots idea has grown into a third-year tradition of creating a space for independent labels and artists to connect and celebrate with all members of the industry,” says Megan Stottlemyer, VP of Label Operations at Riser House Entertainment. “Indie Night continues to shine a spotlight on all the incredible work that independent labels and artists are creating. In today’s music industry, independent labels are no longer the underdogs — we are shaping the future of the industry.”
“Indie Night in Vegas was the perfect gathering for the labels and artists in town for the awards. Top-notch crowd, and a perfect, off-the-beaten-path venue,” shares Margaret Hart at YouTube.
Emily Ann Roberts & Ian Munsick. Photo: Victoria Posh
Photo: Victoria Posh
Photo: Victoria Posh
Photo: Victoria Posh
Industry Ink: SoundExchange, Bobby Rahal, Donna Fargo, Kyle Gates
/by Lorie HollabaughSoundExchange Execs & Artists Meet In Support Of American Music Fairness Act
Pictured (L-R, top row) Chad Warrix (Halfway 2 Hazard), Paulette Carlson (formerly of Highway 101), Stephen Barker Liles (Love and Theft), Peter Karafotas (SoundExchange SVP, Government Relations & Public Policy), Darryl Worley, T. Graham Brown, Marc Rucker (SoundExchange Assoc. Director of Artist & Industry Relations), Lee Greenwood, Emily Fulp (SoundExchange SVP/Executive Office & Communications), Josh Bleidt (Event Organizer), Richard Sterban (The Oak Ridge Boys), Lily Isaacs, Linda Davis and Becky Isaacs. (L-R, bottom row) Terri Gibbs, Rhonda Vincent, Danielle Peck, Nancy Jones, Deborah Allen and Sonya Isaacs. Photo: Jeremy Westby, 2911 Media
A group of artists gathered with SoundExchange executives on Wednesday (May 20) at the Palm in Nashville in support of the American Music Fairness Act. The fast-moving bill has bipartisan support in Washington and would unlock hundreds of millions of dollars each year in radio royalties for artists when passed.
Racing Stars Rally For Premiere Of ‘Bobby Rahal: True American Racer’
Bobby Rahal & Scott Borchetta. Photo: AJ Mast
Big Machine Racing Productions’ Scott Borchetta and Indianapolis 500-winning American driver Bobby Rahal premiered Bobby Rahal: True American Racer at an exclusive, star-studded event at the Tobias Theater at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. The event hosted by Big Machine Racing Productions, Fox Sports & Chassy Media was attended by racing greats and other notable guests, including 2x Indianapolis 500 winner Al Unser, Jr., Former Vice President Mike Pence, 2x Indianapolis 500 winner Takuma Sato, former IndyCar driver and Fox Sports broadcaster Danica Patrick, IndyCar and Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Doug Boles, 2x Indianapolis 500 winner Arie Luyendyk, and others.
Upon arrival, guests were greeted by Rahal’s 1986 Indy 500 winning car and had the opportunity to see the Borg-Warner Trophy on display, the same trophy Rahal captured with his unforgettable Indianapolis 500 victory. Country artist Danielle Bradbery, who performs the powerful end-credit composition, “Song For Trueman,” kicked off the event with the national anthem and after the screening, Borchetta led the audience in an intimate Q&A with Rahal, offering attendees a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the documentary and Rahal’s extraordinary career.
Donna Fargo Honored by U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn
Donna Fargo
U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn honored country legend Donna Fargo for her contributions to patriotism and American values through her music. The surprise ahead of Memorial Day embraces the heart of “The Happiest Girl in the Whole USA,” who, from her empowering 1974 recording, “U.S. of A” singing the praises of her home sweet home, to the motivating, “This Is America.”
Kyle Gates Inks With Deep Cuts Management
Kyle Gates
Texas-based country singer-songwriter Kyle Gates has signed with Deep Cuts Management. Gates counts George Strait, Keith Whitley, and Randy Travis as influences and has released tracks including “Learning To Love Again” and “Talk to Me Texas.”
Musicians On Call Honors Reba At ‘Music Heals Live!’
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (L-R): Vince Gill, Shane Tarleton, Martina McBride, Reba McEntire, Wynonna, Mitch Glazier, Pete Griffin and Charles Esten. Photo: Heather Durham
Musicians On Call held its “Music Heals Live!” event on Wednesday night at The Pinnacle in Nashville.
The record-breaking evening raised more than $700,000 to support Musicians On Call’s bedside, virtual, songwriting and streaming programs nationwide.
Reba McEntire received the Music Heals Golden Ukulele in recognition of her longstanding support of the organization.
Reba McEntire. Photo: Heather Durham
“Music brings light into dark times and gives hope when everything feels hopeless,” shared McEntire. “That’s the power of music. Tonight is about the caregivers who take care of all of us in our most challenging times. It’s about the patients. The ones who have gone on and the ones who have survived. It’s about the singers and musicians who go room-to-room putting smiles on people’s faces. This honor is something I’ll always cherish because I get to share it with you all. Time is very precious, and to give time is the most important thing of all right there with love and kindness. So what you all do, I applaud you and I thank you and we’ll continue coming to see the patients and the caregivers. And we’ll take it day-by-day, and note-by-note.”
Belle Frantz performed McEntire’s hit “The Last One to Know,” while Vince Gill honored McEntire with a few stories of their friendship over the years and sang “One More Last Chance,” “Go Rest High on that Mountain” and “Whenever You Come Around.” Wynonna shared “Why Not Me,” “Only Love,” a debut of her brand-new song “Girl Who Could Sing,” before closing out the night with “No One Else on Earth.”
Mitch Glazier, Chairman & CEO of the RIAA and Chairman Emeritus of the MOC Board of Directors, received the Leadership in Music Golden Ukulele, presented in a surprise moment by Martina McBride.
“Throughout my life and career, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing how music can heal, bring joy, and connect people who often can’t find commonality. It has been an honor to serve on the Musicians On Call Board, help launch their initiatives in DC and to partner through service and fundraising. To watch the smiles on the faces of patients and their families when a musician transports them to a happier place through song is a wonderful gift. I am humbled to accept the Leadership in Music Golden Ukulele. I hope the generosity of supporters and incredible talents of volunteer artists like Reba, Martina, Wynonna, and Vince here tonight will ensure that this important work is just getting started,” said Glazier.
Charles Esten then presented Jeff Scornavacca and Keenan Kamae with the Michael Solomon Volunteer Musician Golden Ukulele.
“We are deeply grateful to the over 500 supporters, volunteers, and caregivers who joined us to celebrate Musicians On Call’s national impact and help us raise over $700,000 to bring the healing power of music to healthcare facilities across the country,” said Musicians On Call President & CEO, Pete Griffin. “The absolute highlights of the night were honoring two true champions of our mission, Reba McEntire and Mitch Glazier, and five exceptional volunteers for their tireless advocacy and the incredible heart they bring to patients’ bedsides. Having them there, alongside spectacular, soul-stirring performances from Vince Gill, Wynonna, and Belle Frantz, made the energy in the room at The Pinnacle electric. It was truly an unforgettable and historic night for all of us.”
Vince Gill. Photo: Heather Durham
Pete Griffin. Photo: Heather Durham
Ella Langley Claims Fifth Week Atop The MusicRow Radio Chart
/by John Nix ArledgeElla Lagley; Photo: Caylee Robillard
Ella Langley claims her fifth consecutive week atop the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart with her track, “Be Her.”
The song comes from her sophomore album Dandelion and was written by Langley, Jordan Schmidt, Smith Ahnquist and HARDY.
Langley made history on Sunday (May 17) at the 2026 ACM Awards after winning every category she was nominated for, and taking home a record-setting seven trophies. The categories included Female Artist of the Year, Single of the Year, Song of the Year, Artist-Songwriter of the Year and Music Event of the Year.
“Be Her” currently sits at No. 4 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and No. 3 on the Mediabase chart.
Click here to view the latest edition of the MusicRow Weekly containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart.
Anna Kolander Named Partner At Activist Artists Management
/by Lorie HollabaughAnna Kolander. Photo: Jessica Amerson
Anna Kolander has been promoted to Partner at Activist Artists Management.
Kolander has spent 13 years at the company, and is known for her artist-first approach, strategic thinking, and integrity. She previously served as Senior Manager/Head of A&R, and currently serves as day-to-day manager for The Lumineers, where she supports all aspects of the band’s global touring and recording. She will continue to operate out of Nashville while taking on an expanded leadership role across the broader Activist business as part of her promotion.
“Anna is a thoughtful and strategic leader,” says Activist founding Partner Bernie Cahill. “She brings a rare combination of creative instinct, operational rigor, and deep care for the people she works with. We’re proud to welcome her into the Activist partnership.”
“To step into this role after beginning my career alongside the leadership of Activist is incredibly meaningful. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have learned from such an incredible team and proud of all we’ve accomplished together. I look forward to continuing to support our artists and partners in impactful and innovative ways in the years ahead,” adds Kolander.
The Activist music roster is comprised of The Lumineers, Orville Peck, The Pretty Reckless, Leif Vollebekk, Young the Giant, the Grateful Dead, Dead & Company, and Dwight Yoakam, among others.
Ole 60 Plot ‘Off The Grid Tour’
/by Lorie HollabaughOle 60. Photo: John Park
Ole 60 will head into summer on their new headlining “Off The Grid Tour,” kicking off July 7 in Milwaukee.
The 38-date trek will include a rotating group of openers including The Stews, Kolton Moore & The Clever Few, The Jack Wharff Band, 80 Acres, Arcy Drive, Phil Kane, Rob Langdon, Cigarettes @ Sunset, and Garret Elias. Coming off a six-month run supporting the band’s debut album, Smokestack Town, Ole 60 will perform across the globe, visiting markets including Louisville, Corpus Christi, Detroit, Little Rock, and more, with a Nashville stop set for Oct. 15 at The Pinnacle.
The band will also play some shows across the pond in Manchester, London, Glasgow, Dublin, and more at the end of the run in November. Tickets are on sale now.
The six-piece from Hawesville, Kentucky shot to notoriety in 2024 with “smoke & a light,” topping Spotify’s U.S. Viral Top 50 chart with the single and the Apple Music Country Albums chart with their debut EP, three twenty four. Their breakout hit, “Thoughts of You,” topped TikTok’s all-genre Viral 50 Music chart.
“Off The Grid Tour” Dates:
7/9: Milwaukee, WI – Eagles Ballroom * %
8/6: Tempe, AZ – Mullet Arena * #
8/7: Los Angeles, CA – The Novo * #
8/8: Paso Robles, CA – Vino Robles Amphitheatre * #
8/13: Idaho Falls, ID – Mountain America Center # =
8/14: Rexford, MT – Abayance Bay # =
8/15: Forest Grove, OR – McMenamins Grand Lodge # =
8/20: Louisville, KY – Iroquois Amphitheater ! &
8/21: Lexington, KY – Gatton Park ! &
8/22: Pikeville, KY – Appalachian Wireless Arena ! &
8/27: Columbia, SC – The Township Auditorium * ^
8/28: Dothan, AL – Dothan Civic Center * ^
9/10: Waco, TX – The Backyard # %
9/11: Corpus Christi, TX – Concrete Street Amphitheater # %
9/12: Hidalgo, TX – Payne Arena # %
9/24: Columbus, OH – KEMBA Live! # ~
9/25: Newport, KY – MegaCorp Pavillion – Outdoor # ~
9/26: Fishers, IN – Fishers Event Center # ~
10/1: Cleveland, OH – Jacobs Pavillion # ~
10/2: Reading, PA – Santander Arena # ~
10/3: Buffalo, NY – Outer Harbor Live at Terminal B # ~
10/8: Cedar Rapids, IA – McGrath Amphitheatre ! &
10/9: Andover, KS – Capitol Fed Amphitheater ! &
10/10: La Vista, NE – The Astro Amphitheater ! &
10/15: Nashville, TN – The Pinnacle ^ %
10/16: St. Louis, MO – The Factory ^ %
10/17: Detroit, MI – Masonic Temple Theatre ^ %
10/22: Oklahoma City, OK – Zoo Amphitheatre + ~
10/23: Little Rock, AR – First Security Amphitheater + ~
10/24: Memphis, TN – Grind City Amp + ~
11/3: Amsterdam, NE – Melkweg Max &
11/5: Manchester, UK – New Century &
11/6: Birmingham, UK – XOYO &
11/8: London, UK – Koko &
11/10: Bristol, UK – Electric Bristol &
11/11: Glasgow, UK – TV Studio SWG3 &
11/13: Dublin, IE – Vicar Street &
11/15: Belfast, NI – Limelight 1 &
* Support from The Stews
# Support from Kolton Moore & The Clever Few
! Support from The Jack Wharff Band
^ Support from 80 Acres
+ Support from Arcy Drive
& Support from Phil Kane
% Support from Rob Langdon
= Support from Cigarettes @ Sunset
~ Support from Garret Elias
Spotify & UMG Reach New Licensing Agreements
/by Madison HahnenThe tool will be powered by generative AI technology that will allow additional revenue streams and new ways for discovery. Artists and songwriters can directly share in the value generated through AI-driven licensed covers and remixes on the Spotify platform.
The tool will be offered as a paid add-on for Spotify Premium users and create an additional source of income for artists and songwriters.
“Solving hard problems for music is what Spotify does, and fan-made covers and remixes are next,” says Alex Norström, Co-CEO, Spotify. “What we’re building is grounded in consent, credit, and compensation for the artists and songwriters that take part. Through each technological transformation, we have worked together with Sir Lucian and his team to evolve the music ecosystem into a richer, more beneficial experience for fans and a more rewarding outcome for artists and songwriters.”
“The most valuable innovations in the music business always bring artists and fans closer together,” adds Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman and CEO, Universal Music Group. “That principle is at the heart of this pioneering AI-enabled superfan initiative, which is designed to support human artistry, deepen fan relationships, and create additional revenue opportunities for artists and songwriters. Building on our long track record of leading the industry through technology changes, and collaborating with Alex, Gustav, Daniel and the team at Spotify, this initiative is firmly artist-centric, rooted in responsible AI, and will drive growth for the entire ecosystem.”
Industry Ink: CMHOFM, Parker McCollum, Randy Rogers Family Foundation, Sheryl Crow, More
/by Lauryn SinkCMHOFM Features Wendy Moten In Nashville Cats Program
Jon Freeman and Wendy Moten. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum recently featured vocalist Wendy Moten for its in-depth interview series, Nashville Cats. The series spotlights renowned musicians and session singers who have played important roles in support of artists in either the recording studio or on concert tours. The interview was moderated by museum writer-editor Jon Freeman and illustrated with rare photos, film and recordings.
The Memphis native grew up singing in church and attended Overton High School, where she sang in the school’s famed competition choir. A professional singer by 16, Moten signed with EMI to release her self-titled debut album in 1992. Her singles “Come in Out of the Rain” and “So Close to Love” charted in the United States and the United Kingdom. Moten continued work as a backup singer, working with Julio Iglesias, Faith Hill, Martina McBride and Tim McGraw. In recent years, she has served as a featured singer on Vince Gill’s tours and lent her voice in the studio to Garth Brooks, Buddy Guy, Thomas Rhett, Joss Stone, Carrie Underwood and many others.
Parker McCollum Partners With Under Armour
Parker McCollum. Photo: Under Armour
Parker McCollum has signed a multi-year partnership with Under Armour. McCollum’s first UA campaign focuses on The Bouncy Tee.
“I grew up wearing the brand as an athlete, so getting the chance to partner with them now honestly means a lot,” shares McCollum. “What I respect most is that they stand for strong American values of hard work, discipline, and staying true to who you are. That’s how I’ve always tried to approach my career and my life.”
Randy Rogers Family Foundation Presents $400,000 To Comal County Senior Citizens Foundation
Pictured (Holding The Check, L-R): Courtney Bukowski, Chris Smith, Randy Rogers and Chelsea Rogers. Photo: Courtesy of Randy Rogers Family Foundation
The Randy Rogers Family Foundation recently presented a $400,000 check to the Comal County Senior Citizens Foundation.
“New Braunfels showed up in a big way for our seniors,” says Randy Rogers, founder of the Randy Rogers Family Foundation. “To see this community rally together like this means a lot to me personally. These are the people who helped build this community, and we wanted to do something meaningful to give back to them.”
Sheryl Crow Appears On ‘The Bobbycast’
Sheryl Crow was this week’s guest on Netflix’s Bobby Bones Presents: The Bobbycast. Crow shared her top five songs, her experience with cancer and more.
Jo Dee Messina Performs On NBC’s ‘TODAY’
Jo Dee Messina performed her lead single “Some Bridges,” off her forthcoming album Bridges, due out on June 5, on NBC’s TODAY.
The album is her first new album in over 10 years. Messina is on the road through the summer with appearances at CMA Fest, Cheyenne Frontier Days and more.
John Ford Coley Performs On ‘Live! with Kelly and Mark’
John Ford Coley.
John Ford Coley was featured on Live! with Kelly & Mark last week, sharing “I’d Really Love To See You Tonight (50th Anniversary Edition).”
“Some songs seem to take on a life of their own,” says Coley. “The song ‘I’d Really Love to See You Tonight’ seems to be one of those iconic songs. Dan and I have not sung together since 1980, and it’s interesting that the song that appears to have brought us back together was the one that launched our career as a duo. It never occurred to me that this song would still be as big today as it was 50 years ago.”
Duck Club Bourbon Becomes Proud Partner Of Ducks Unlimited
Duck Club Bourbon has become a Proud Partner of Ducks Unlimited.
“We’re proud to welcome Duck Club Bourbon into the Ducks Unlimited family,” says Adam Putnam, Chief Executive Officer of Ducks Unlimited. “DU is all about leaving the world better for future generations, creating memories with family and friends, and the shared experiences in the field and on the water. Often, those experiences include time around a fire, sipping something special. This partnership illustrates all those moments we experience outside, together, and we’re excited to work together to support conservation and the DU lifestyle.”
Country Radio Seminar Reveals 2026–2027 Agenda Committee
/by Lauryn SinkCountry Radio Broadcasters has revealed its Agenda Committee leaders and members for the 2026-2027 Country Radio Seminar year.
Leading this year’s Agenda Committee are Chair Brittani Johnson (The Core Entertainment) and Vice Chairs Krista Hayes (BMG) and Kevin Callahan (Pamal Broadcasting). Ed Rivadavia (mtheory) will lead the Digital Music Summit (DMS).
Additional Agenda Committee members will include Cody Alan (SiriusXM), Tony Bannon (DMR/Interactive), Meagan Bennington (Spotify), Andrea Burtscher (Audacy), Tim Clarke (TC Projects Media + Entertainment), Gideon Dean (Local Daily Media/WBQK), Al Farb (KSCS/Cumulus), Shelley Hargis (BMG), Bridget Herrmann (Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment), Tahsin Rakib Himi (BMG), Michael J (iHeartMedia), Stella Prado Kuipers (Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment), Charlie Maxx (Draper Media), John Mayer (Virgin Music), Jared Meyer (Q Prime South), Jennipher Miller (Cumulus), Morgan Mills (CMND SHFT), Blake Nixon (Triple Tigers), Sean Ross (Ross On Radio/Advantage Music Research), Lauren “Lo” Sessions (KKBQ/Radio One), Jennifer Shaffer (Wheelhouse Records), Lexi Sidders (SiriusXM), Michael Sloane (Dream Big Music), Jimmy Steal (Collective Heads Consulting), Neil Wilson (Neil Wilson Voiceovers) and Tim Wipperman (Humanable).
“CRS continues to evolve alongside our industry, and I’m incredibly honored to help lead this year’s Agenda Committee,” says Johnson. “We have an outstanding group of professionals representing radio, streaming, artist management, labels, media, technology, and beyond. The passion, perspective, and creativity this team brings to the table will help us continue building a CRS experience that is educational, forward-thinking, and impactful for everyone who attends.”
CRS 2027 is slated for March 17–19. Additional details surrounding CRS 2027 programming and committee initiatives will be announced in the coming months.
Nominees Unveiled For 2026 Americana Music Honors & Awards
/by Madison HahnenThe nominees have been revealed for the 25th Annual Americana Honors & Awards, taking place Sept. 16 at the Ryman Auditorium.
Up for Album of the Year is Tyler Childers (Snipe Hunter), Kathleen Edwards (Billionaire), S.G. Goodman (Planting by the Signs), Ken Pomeroy (Cruel Joke) and Margo Price (Hard Headed Woman). Competing for Artist of the Year are Brandi Carlile, Charley Crockett, Price, Molly Tuttle and Jesse Welles.
Those scoring multiple nominations this year are Carlile, Goodman, I’m With Her, Mon Rovîa, Pomeroy and Price.
Tickets for the 25th annual Americana Honors & Awards will go on sale soon.
2026 Americana Honors & Awards Full Nominees:
ALBUM OF THE YEAR:
Snipe Hunter, Tyler Childers; Produced by Tyler Childers, Rick Rubin & Nick Sanborn
Billionaire, Kathleen Edwards; Produced by Jason Isbell & Gena Johnson
Planting by the Signs, S.G. Goodman; Produced by S.G. Goodman, Matthew Rowan & Drew Vandenberg
Cruel Joke, Ken Pomeroy; Produced by Colton Jean, Dakota McDaniel & Gary Paczosa
Hard Headed Woman, Margo Price; Produced by Matt Ross-Spang
ARTIST OF THE YEAR:
Brandi Carlile
Charley Crockett
Margo Price
Molly Tuttle
Jesse Welles
DUO/GROUP OF THE YEAR:
Flatland Cavalry
I’m With Her
Mumford & Sons
Turnpike Troubadours
Gillian Welch & David Rawlings
EMERGING ACT OF THE YEAR:
Boy Golden
Crowe Boys
Kashus Culpepper
Ken Pomeroy
Mon Rovîa
SONG OF THE YEAR:
“Returning to Myself,” Brandi Carlile; Written by Brandi Carlile
“Snapping Turtle,” S.G. Goodman; Written by S.G. Goodman
“Wild and Clear and Blue,” I’m With Her; Written by Sarah Jarosz, Josh Kaufman, Aoife O’Donovan & Sara Watkins
“Heavy Foot,” Mon Rovîa; Written by Grant Averill, Eric Cromartie, Cooper Holzman & Andrew Lowe
“The World’s Gone Wrong,” Lucinda Williams (feat. Brittney Spencer); Written by Tom Overby, Doug Pettibone & Lucinda Williams