
Pictured (L-R): Paige Reese, Jason Lee, Heather Cook and Karissa “KT” Tramel.
Freedom Music Group has established its Nashville headquarters. After two years in business, the company represents a growing roster of over 100 producers, songwriters and artists.
“I am so proud of our first two years in business,” says Heather Cook, Founder & CEO of Freedom Music Group. “As a team, we’ve worked hard to build something really special for the creatives and companies we represent. We are excited about what we’ve accomplished so far and can’t wait to see what is next.”
Alongside Cook, Jason Lee serves as Director of Creative Sync. Laney d’Harambure based in Paris, works as Creative Sync Associate. Paige Reese of Leven Works oversees all sync licensing operations, and Karissa “KT” Tramel serves as Creative Coordinator.
Key artist talent includes Almost Heaven, Babe Club, Bongo Chico, Gracie Moses, Jackie Romeo, Local Nomad, Luna Aura, Lucy Camp, Michael McQuaid, Nate Amor, Ronnie Eriic, Spider Diablo, Su Chi, and Tabitha Meeks, the company’s sole artist management client and marquee artist.
Producers represented by the comapny include ELIA EX, Jade Josephine, Tiffany Williams, Femke Weidema, Kayla Pichichero, Austin Cannon, Chris Semelius, Harry Baymiller, Jackson Wise, Beatnick Dee, Andrew Brill, Steve Vito and Robi Theophilus Nanton, among others.
Freedom Music Group currently works with more than ten record labels and publishers, including Honua Music Group, Amour Fou Records, Wrensong Entertainment, Compass Records, Fr8 Train Music, Mind of a Genius, Music & Media, and more. Its growing sync footprint includes placements with Target, Sentec, Balenciaga, Grey’s Anatomy, 9-1-1, Found, School Spirits, NBC, UFC, NFL Super Bowl 2025, Pro Bowl 2025 and 2026, Love Island, NHL Stanley Cup, Help! I’m In A Secret Relationship, Orlando Pride Pro Women’s Soccer Team, Hutton Hotel and more. In addition to film and television, Freedom Music Group has also secured a notable placement within the global gaming platform Fortnite.
Official CRS 2026 Mobile App Now Available For Download
/by Lorie HollabaughThe official mobile app for Country Radio Seminar 2026 is available now for download, just in time for CRS 2026 set for March 18–20.
The app can be accessed through mobile app stores by searching “CRS 2026.” Powered by Backstage Country, the CRS 2026 mobile app provides attendees with an expanded and up-to-date agenda, detailed session descriptions, speaker bios, artist performance listings, integrated calendar features and real-time event updates. Users can build a customized CRS schedule, receive important notifications, and share updates and reviews directly to their social media channels.
As recently announced, Feb. 18 marks the final day to register online for CRS 2026 here. Beginning next week, all registration will be available exclusively on-site in Nashville, where the on-site rate will increase to $799. This week is also the final week to secure a hotel room at CRS’s host property, the Omni Nashville Hotel.
Freedom Music Group Establishes Nashville Headquarters
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (L-R): Paige Reese, Jason Lee, Heather Cook and Karissa “KT” Tramel.
Freedom Music Group has established its Nashville headquarters. After two years in business, the company represents a growing roster of over 100 producers, songwriters and artists.
“I am so proud of our first two years in business,” says Heather Cook, Founder & CEO of Freedom Music Group. “As a team, we’ve worked hard to build something really special for the creatives and companies we represent. We are excited about what we’ve accomplished so far and can’t wait to see what is next.”
Alongside Cook, Jason Lee serves as Director of Creative Sync. Laney d’Harambure based in Paris, works as Creative Sync Associate. Paige Reese of Leven Works oversees all sync licensing operations, and Karissa “KT” Tramel serves as Creative Coordinator.
Key artist talent includes Almost Heaven, Babe Club, Bongo Chico, Gracie Moses, Jackie Romeo, Local Nomad, Luna Aura, Lucy Camp, Michael McQuaid, Nate Amor, Ronnie Eriic, Spider Diablo, Su Chi, and Tabitha Meeks, the company’s sole artist management client and marquee artist.
Producers represented by the comapny include ELIA EX, Jade Josephine, Tiffany Williams, Femke Weidema, Kayla Pichichero, Austin Cannon, Chris Semelius, Harry Baymiller, Jackson Wise, Beatnick Dee, Andrew Brill, Steve Vito and Robi Theophilus Nanton, among others.
Freedom Music Group currently works with more than ten record labels and publishers, including Honua Music Group, Amour Fou Records, Wrensong Entertainment, Compass Records, Fr8 Train Music, Mind of a Genius, Music & Media, and more. Its growing sync footprint includes placements with Target, Sentec, Balenciaga, Grey’s Anatomy, 9-1-1, Found, School Spirits, NBC, UFC, NFL Super Bowl 2025, Pro Bowl 2025 and 2026, Love Island, NHL Stanley Cup, Help! I’m In A Secret Relationship, Orlando Pride Pro Women’s Soccer Team, Hutton Hotel and more. In addition to film and television, Freedom Music Group has also secured a notable placement within the global gaming platform Fortnite.
Recordings By Janet Jackson, Lucinda Williams, More Inducted Into Grammy Hall Of Fame
/by Lorie Hollabaugh14 recordings have been selected this year to be added to the Grammy Hall Of Fame catalog residing at the Grammy Museum.
The 2026 additions include nine albums and five songs that are at least 25 years old and range from The Rouse Brothers‘ “Orange Blossom Special” and 2Pac’s All Eyez On Me to Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814 and Radiohead’s OK Computer, as well as recordings by Alice Coltrane, Bertha “Chippie” Hill, Ella Jenkins, Eric B. & Rakim, Funkadelic, Heart, Lucinda Williams, Nick Drake, Selena and The Soul Stirrers. With the 14 new titles, the Grammy Hall Of Fame currently totals 1,179 inducted recordings, and the full list of past inducted recordings can be found here.
The inducted recordings will be honored at the Grammy Museum and Recording Academy’s Grammy Hall Of Fame Gala on May 8 at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills with performers to be announced at a later date.
“It’s a privilege to recognize these influential recordings as the 2026 Grammy Hall Of Fame inductees,” says Harvey Mason jr., CEO of the Recording Academy. “Each selection reflects the creativity, craft and cultural impact that recorded music can carry across decades. We’re honored to help preserve these works and celebrate the artists and communities behind them, so their legacies continue to inspire generations to come.”
“The Grammy Hall Of Fame is a vital bridge between music’s past and present—honoring recordings that changed the way we listen, create and connect,” adds Michael Sticka, President/CEO of the Grammy Museum. “We’re proud to celebrate this year’s class at the Grammy Hall Of Fame Gala this May.”
The inducted recordings will be honored at the Grammy Museum® and Recording Academy’s Grammy Hall Of Fame® Gala on May 8, 2026, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, CA, with performers to be announced at a later date
Jonas Group Publishing Taps Amanda Hruska As Global Head Of Administration
/by Lauryn SinkAmanda Hruska.
Jonas Group Publishing has tapped Amanda Hruska as Global Head of Administration.
In her new role, Hruska will oversee global administration for Jonas Group Publishing. She is an active member of industry organizations including AIMP and SOURCE, as well as Copyright Society of the South where she was elected to the organization’s Board of Directors in 2024.
“Amanda’s expertise in catalog administration and copyright makes her a tremendous asset to our publishing team,” says Kevin Jonas Sr., Founder and CEO of The Jonas Group. “We’re excited to have her lead global administration as Jonas Group Publishing continues to expand.”
Hruska brings more than 15 years of experience in music publishing and catalog administration, most recently serving as Vice President of Catalog Administration at Lyric Capital Group. Prior stops include Head of Copyright at Round Hill Music, and copyright roles at Warner Chappell Music and Bug Music in Los Angeles. Originally from Illinois, Hruska earned her degree in Music Business in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Kirby Mathews Joins Back Blocks Music
/by Madison HahnenKirby Mathews
Kirby Mathews has joined Back Blocks Music as VP of Publishing.
With over a decade of Nashville experience, Mathews will oversee the company’s publishing arm. She most recently worked at Riser House Entertainment where worked with Dallas Wilson, Mitchell Tenpenny, Michael Whitworth and Jake Mitchell. Previous stops also include Play It Again Music and WinSongs Music Publishing. She is a University of Georgia graduate, a member of the Recording Academy, and has been recognized on MusicRow‘s Next Big Thing list.
“Kirby is a songwriter’s advocate in every sense of the word. Her creative instincts, leadership and commitment to service make her an incredible addition to our team,” says Founder/CEO Rakiyah Marshall. “We’re proud to welcome her as VP of Publishing.”
“I’m thrilled to be joining Back Blocks at such an exciting moment of growth. The team has built a catalog and culture that truly puts songwriters first which is so important to me, as I’ve dedicated my career to elevating songwriters and protecting their craft,” adds Mathews. “At the end of the day, there is nothing more powerful than a song.”
Julia Keefe Named Partner Of Edgehill Music Publishing
/by Lauryn SinkJulia Keefe.
Julia Keefe has been added as Partner of Edgehill Music Publishing, part of Big Plan Holdings.
Keefe joined Edgehill Music Publishing in 2022 as Head of A&R, where she has shaped the company’s creative strategy and expanded its multi-genre roster. In her expanded role, she will continue to lead A&R initiatives while contributing to the company’s long-term creative and business strategy, working closely with writers including Colton Pack, Dave Villa, Willie Morrison, Spencer Rabin, Matt Willis and Jordan Harvey.
“Since joining Edgehill, Julia has consistently demonstrated not only a deep understanding of creative and publishing fundamentals, but also an ability to strategically grow our reach and roster,” shares Josh Joseph, President and Founder of Big Plan Holdings. “Her leadership has been instrumental in elevating our A&R vision and expanding Edgehill’s presence beyond traditional markets. We are thrilled to welcome her as Partner — a role she has earned through talent, dedication and impact.”
A Nashville native and Belmont University Music Business graduate, Keefe began her career at Altadena, the publishing and artist-development company founded by the late busbee. During her three years there she progressed from intern to Creative Director, working closely with a diverse roster of songwriters and artists and establishing relationships that span both creative and executive communities.
“One of the most rewarding parts of building a women-founded company is watching strong leaders grow into expanded roles,” says Tara Joseph, Co-Founder of Big Plan Holdings. “Julia’s elevation reflects that journey.”
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to grow with Edgehill and Big Plan Holdings,” adds Keefe. “Working alongside Josh and Tara over the past four years has been an honor, and I’m continually inspired by the writers and artists who define this company. Edgehill is built on collaboration, creative ambition, and long-term support for its roster, and I’m excited to help lead the next phase of growth as we continue expanding creatively and globally.”
TICKETS CLOSE FRIDAY: MusicRow’s 2026 Rising Women On The Row Breakfast
/by MusicRow StaffTickets for MusicRow‘s 13th annual Rising Women on the Row breakfast event will close on Friday (Feb. 13).
Tickets will not be sold at the door.
This year, honorees are Courtney Allen, Jackie Augustus, Sara Knabe, Victoria Mason, Sophia Sansone and Elisa Vazzana. Read more about them here.
City National Bank is Presenting Sponsor for the 2026 Rising Women on the Row, which will take place at Nashville’s JW Marriott at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 3.
Ebie McFarland will be this year’s featured speaker. Attendees will gain insights from her during an on-stage interview with MusicRow Publisher and Owner Sherod Robertson.
New this year: a very limited number of VIP Reserved Tables for 10, offering priority seating and additional perks (full details available at the purchase link below).
Standard Tables for 10 are also available and include recognition in event materials. Individual tickets may be purchased as well.
Tickets for Rising Women on the Row are now closed. They will not be sold at the door.
For any questions regarding the event, contact LB Cantrell at lbcantrell@musicrow.com. For advertising and sponsorship inquiries, reach out to Sherod Robertson at srobertson@musicrow.com.
All ticket sales are final and non-refundable.
Steel Guitar Great Pete Finney Passes
/by Robert K OermannPete Finney. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum
Steel guitarist Pete Finney, noted for his work in Americana, pop and country styles, has passed away at age 70.
Finney was also a music historian. He co-curated the Country Music Hall of Fame’s 2015–2018 exhibition “Dylan, Cash, and the Nashville Cats: A New Music City.” He wrote the lead essay in the exhibit’s catalog.
During his career, he backed the Chicks, Vince Gill, the Judds, Beck, Jon Byrd, Shemekia Copeland, Justin Townes Earle, Jon Langford, Jim Lauderdale, Allison Moorer, Ron Sexsmith and Candi Staton, among others.
He was touring with Reba McEntire when eight members of her band and two crew members lost their lives in a plane crash in 1991. Finney survived because he and another band member flew on a second plane with the tour’s other crew members.
He was particularly associated with 2023 Country Music Hall of Fame inductee Patty Loveless. He toured with Loveless for more than 20 years.
Pete Finney was also an associate of The Monkees. Group member Michael Nesmith’s solo work was with his much-applauded country ensemble The First National Band. This made the steel guitar an essential part of his solo sound. Michael Nesmith (1942-2021) recruited Pete Finney as his accompanist on tour. This led to the steel guitarist joining The Monkees on their 2017 final tour. Following Nesmith’s death, Finney joined Monkee Mickey Dolenz on a 2021 tribute album titled Dolenz Sings Nesmith.
Pete Finney frequently performed in Music City’s nightclubs. He collaborated with such top Nashville players as Mac Gayden, Chris Scruggs, Jen Gunderman, Jimmy Lester and Kenny Vaughan. For several years, Finney led the house band at The Stone Fox in the Nations neighborhood of West Nashville.
“He exemplified how top instrumentalists can adapt to a range of styles and settings, whether in a recording studio, a concert stage, or the corner of a small nightclub,” eulogized the Hall of Fame’s Michael McCall.
“He was one of a kind,” commented Dave Pomeroy of the AFM. “Heaven is a cooler, smarter place today.”
Pete Finney died on Saturday, Feb. 7. Funeral arrangements have not been announced.
Vince Gill Plots New EP & Summer Tour Dates
/by Lorie HollabaughVince Gill. Photo: David McClister
Vince Gill is set to release Down At The Borderline, the fourth installment of his year-long EP series 50 Years From Home, this Friday, (Feb. 13) via MCA.
The title track of the new collection is a collaboration with Lainey Wilson. Down At The Borderline follows the previous 50 Years From Home volumes I Gave You Everything I Had, Secondhand Smoke, and Brown’s Diner Bar.
Gill has also added 13 new dates to his previously announced tour schedule in July and August, with stops in St. Louis, Cincinnati, Roanoke, Pensacola, Memphis and more. Tickets for the new dates go on sale this Friday (Feb. 13).
The Oklahoma native and Musicians Hall of Fame member has spent the last nine years as a touring member of the Eagles. The band is currently amid a lengthy run of performances at Sphere in Las Vegas, and Gill will continue to perform with them as well.
Vince Gill Newly Announced Dates:
July 16 / St. Louis, MO / Stifel Theatre
July 17 / Cincinnati, OH / Taft Theatre
July 24 / Roanoke, VA / Berglund Performing Arts Theatre
July 25 / Greenville, SC / Peace Center
Aug 13 / Greensboro, NC / Tanger Center
Aug 14 / Columbia, SC / Township Auditorium
Aug 15 / Hiawassee, GA / Anderson Music Hall
Aug 20 / Tulsa, OK / The Cove
Aug 21 / Shreveport, LA / Shreveport Municipal Auditorium
Aug 22 / Pensacola, FL / Saenger Theatre
Aug 27 / Kansas City, MO / The Midland Theatre
Aug 28 / Springfield, MO / Juanita K. Hammons Hall
Aug 29 / Memphis, TN / Orpheum Theatre
Craig Morgan To Headline Ryman In November
/by Lorie HollabaughCraig Morgan. Photo: Nate Griffin
Craig Morgan is returning to Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium on Nov. 7 for a headlining show at the historic Nashville venue.
Morgan first played a show at the Ryman in 2022 which featured special surprise appearances by Jelly Roll and Trace Adkins. His headlining concert stop will take place shortly before Veterans Day, significant because Morgan is currently serving as a Warrant Officer 2 in the Army Reserve, and is nearing two decades of service to our nation. He previously served 17 years in the Army and Army Reserve with the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions.
Tickets for the Ryman show will go on sale at CraigMorgan.com beginning this Friday (Feb. 13).
The country hitmaker has amassed more than 2.5 billion career streams and charted over 25 songs on the Billboard charts with signature hits including “Redneck Yacht Club,” “Almost Home,” “International Harvester,” “Soldier” and “That’s What I Love About Sunday.” His latest album American Soundtrack features six songs infused with Morgan’s faith and patriotism.