John McBride, Martina McBride. Photo: Ed Rode for The T.J. Martell Foundation
The T.J. Martell hosted the 2026 Nashville’s Best Cellars Dinner on Tuesday (April 14).
The exclusive event, with Grand Cru Presenting Sponsor Secure Air, brought together influential and philanthropic leaders from Nashville’s music and wine industries for a celebratory charity auction and dinner dedicated to the fight against cancer. With $690,000 in total revenue, the evening set a new record for the event in Nashville.
The evening also recognized Martina and John McBride with the prestigious Billy Ray Hearn Award of Excellence. Established to carry forward the legacy of Billy Ray Hearn, the award honors industry leaders who exemplify outstanding professional achievement, extraordinary philanthropic contributions, and an unwavering commitment to Music’s Cure for Cancer.
Additionally, the event featured a spirited fundraising auction hosted by acclaimed radio personality and auctioneer Shawn Parr.
Michael Bublé, Randy Travis (seated), Lauren Alaina. Photo: Ed Rode for The T.J. Martell Foundation
Attendees included Randy Travis, Mary Travis, Michael Bublé, Dave Cobb, Frank Ski, Lauren Alaina, Jordan Davis, Karen Fairchild of Little Big Town, Brad Tursi of Old Dominion, and Kimberly Perry and Johnny Costello of The Band Perry. This year’s dinner, which was presented by Troy and Nicole Vollhoffer and Premier Global Production, was crafted by Executive Chef Freddy Money of Atlas in Atlanta.
Nashville’s Best Cellars Dinner was presided over by Steve Gawley, Executive Vice President of Business & Legal Affairs and Business Development at REPUBLIC Collective and Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the T.J. Martell Foundation, and co-hosted by Mike Harris, President and CEO Music Corporation of America (MCA) and John Esposito, Co-Founder of HEY NOW Records and 15-year veteran Chairman/CEO of Warner Music Nashville. A Dinner Committee featuring many of Nashville’s top executives included Stacy Blythe, Charlie Brusco, Dave Cobb, Derek C. Crownover, Seth England, Clint Higham, Jon Loba, Jordan Pettit, Patrick Sabatini, and John & Nataliia Sanzo. Event co-chairs in attendance also included entrepreneur, philanthropist and wine collector Tom Black, and philanthropist, wine connoisseur and active supporter of various charitable organizations Eliza Kraft Olander.
“Last year, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the T.J. Martell Foundation. Over that half century, we — together — have raised more than $280 million to fund bold, high-risk/ high reward cancer research that has led to real breakthroughs and lifesaving treatments. This reflects not only strong stewardship, but also the trust that all of you place in this organization,” says Gawley, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the T.J. Martell Foundation. “It also reminds us that there is still so much more to do. The work you support doesn’t happen someday — it is happening everyday in the finest cancer research institutions in the nation because of what we choose to do in rooms like this. And here in Nashville, that impact is real, not abstract — it’s right here in your own community. The marquee on the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center contains the words ‘Supported by the T.J. Martell Foundation.’ That’s not just recognition. It’s a reflection of decades of commitment from this community. And your commitment is driving real science.”
Pictured (L-R): Steve Gawley, Jordan Pettit, Stacy Blythe, Scott Borchetta, John Sanzo, John McBride, Martina McBride, John Esposito, Eliza Kraft Olander, Mike Harris, Frank Ski, Chef Freddy Money, Dave Cobb, Shawn Parr, Peter Marcum. Photo: Ed Rode for The T.J. Martell Foundation
“Now, as many of you know, I had the privilege of serving as the chair of the Nashville Board of Governors for years, and the T.J. Martell Foundation is deeply personal to me. But the story of this Foundation in Nashville did not start with me. It started with giants,” shares Esposito, Former Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the T.J. Martell Foundation. “It started with people like the legendary Frances Preston. Frances was a force of nature. She brought the T.J. Martell Foundation to Nashville because she saw the power of this community. She knew that the music industry did not just write songs; we take care of our own, and we fight for the people who need it most. Frances laid the groundwork that allowed us to build the Frances Williams Preston Labs at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, right here in our backyard.”
“Every year, I am reminded of just how extraordinary this community is, and this year’s Nashville Best Cellars Dinner was no exception,” says Lynn-Anne Huck, CEO of the T.J. Martell Foundation. “The artists, executives, and philanthropic leaders who came together that evening didn’t just attend an event; they reaffirmed a shared belief that we can and will make a difference. Their generosity moves me deeply, and I am endlessly grateful.”
Lauren Alaina, Karen Fairchild. Photo: Ed Rode for The T.J. Martell Foundation
Brad Tursi and Roxy King. Photo: Ed Rode for The T.J. Martell Foundation
Dave Cobb, Frank Ski, Steve Gawley. Photo: Ed Rode for The T.J. Martell Foundation
Riley Green Takes The Top Spot On The MusicRow Radio Chart
/by John Nix ArledgePictured: Riley Green; Photo credit: David Higgs
Riley Green takes the top spot on the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart this week with his song, “Change My Mind.”
The track, on his 2024 album Don’t Mind If I Do, was written by Green, Erik Dylan and Randy Montana.
Today (April 17), Green released “My Way,” a new solo-written track that will appear in CBS’ Marshals on April 26 via Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment.
“Change My Mind” currently sits at No. 10 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and No. 6 Mediabase chart.
Click here to view the latest edition of the MusicRow Weekly containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart.
CRS 2027 Agenda Committee Applications Open
/by Lorie HollabaughCountry Radio Broadcasters, Inc. is currently accepting applications for the CRS 2027 Agenda Committee.
The Agenda Committee plays a vital role in shaping and developing the educational programming for next year’s Country Radio Seminar, set to take place March 17–19, 2027. The CRS 2027 Agenda Committee will be led by Brittani Johnson as Chair, alongside Krista Hayes (BMG/Broken Bow Records) and Kevin Callahan (Pamal Broadcasting) as Vice Chairs.
The committee is comprised of volunteers from across all sectors of the country radio, streaming and music industry. Members collaborate to develop compelling panels, discussions and workshops that reflect the evolving landscape of country music and radio.
To be considered, applicants must be available to attend the mandatory in-person planning sessions in Nashville, scheduled for August 3–5, 2026, and must also be available to attend CRS 2027. Committee members will receive complimentary registration for CRS 2027. All travel and lodging expenses remain the individual’s responsibility.
Applications must be submitted by May 1 and can be completed here.
Jesse Stoll Named Executive VP/Global Touring For Icon Concerts & LiveCo
/by Lorie HollabaughJesse Stoll
Jesse Stoll has been named Executive Vice President, Global Touring for Icon Concerts and its parent company LiveCo.
Previously at Concerts West as vice president of touring, Stoll produced major tours for Sabrina Carpenter, Hans Zimmer, Theo Von, Tom Segura, Martin Lawrence and Ado. He began his career at Sony BMG leading national campaigns for priority projects from Matisyahu, The Fray, Flyleaf, Maroon 5 and Sara Bareilles, among others. Recognized as one of Billboard’s 30 under 30, he moved on to AEG Southeast as a talent buyer, creating and producing several original music and entertainment festivals from Dubfest to the Village of Horrors. In 2022, he joined Concerts West focusing on securing national and global tour opportunities.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jesse to the Icon team,” says Paul Meloche, CEO of Icon. “As a proven winner I’ve known for years, he brings a rare dual expertise: The high-level experience of touring with major acts and the strategic vision for developing talent from the ground up.”
“Jesse is a great hire for Icon, not only to help add to the stable of great touring comedians but to bring artists from multiple genres to Icon and LiveCo,” says Chuck Steedman, LiveCo president and CEO. “Our company is the leading independent promoter and producer of live entertainment in the world, and a talent like Jesse will help us keep that incredible trajectory. He is exactly the kind of innovative thinker and deal maker that this company thrives on.”
“Icon Concerts has built a premier reputation through a tenacious, hands-on approach to promotion and production,” says Stoll. “I’ve long respected what Paul created as an independent in a fiercely competitive space. We share the same mindset of fighting for every dollar for both promoter and artist. The artists I work with are family, and supporting their vision will always lead. I’m proud to join Icon and excited to build with the scale of LiveCo behind us.”
BREAKING: Hall Of Fame Songwriter Don Schlitz Passes At 73
/by LB CantrellDon Schlitz
Don Schlitz, the architect behind many of country music’s most enduring songs, passed away on April 16 at a Nashville hospital after a sudden illness. He was 73.
As a writer of such country standards as “The Gambler,” “On the Other Hand,” “Forever and Ever, Amen,” “He Thinks He’ll Keep Her,” “The Greatest” and “When You Say Nothing At All,” Schlitz was a member of the Nashville Songwriter Hall of Fame, Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Born and raised in Durham, North Carolina, Schlitz briefly attended Duke University before moving to Nashville at age 20. Arriving with $80 in his pocket, he set to Music Row, and his talent was recognized and fostered early on by greats, including Bob McDill and Bobby Bare.
Schlitz became one of the first performers at the now-iconic Bluebird Café in Nashville. He and friends Thom Schuyler, J. Fred Knobloch and Paul Overstreet originated the Café’s songwriter-in-the-round format in 1985. On Tuesday nights, Schlitz held court at the venue with his “Don For A Dollar” show, charging a cover of $1 each night.
Schlitz’s first-ever cut was Kenny Rogers’ “The Gambler,” setting a incredible standard he would meet for the rest of his career. The then-23-year-old songwriter celebrated a massive crossover hit that traveled far and wide, winning a Grammy for Best Country Song in 1978, and the Country Music Association’s Song of the Year in 1979.
Following his first big hit, Schlitz continued to have stunning success. His 50 top 10 singles have played major roles in the careers of Rogers, Randy Travis, The Judds, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Tanya Tucker, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Keith Whitley, Alison Krauss and many others.
Schlitz notched 25 No. 1s in his career. He was the ASCAP Country Songwriter of the Year from 1988 to 1991, and won three CMA Song of the Year Awards, two ACM Song of the Year awards and two Grammys across his five decades in music.
Schlitz was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Association Hall of Fame in 1993, and he went into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in New York in 2012. In 2017, Schlitz was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, joining only five other songwriters in the Hall at that time, including Bobby Braddock, Hank Cochran, Harlan Howard and Boudleaux and Felice Bryant.
In 2022, he became the only non-artist songwriter inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry in the show’s 100-year history. He commonly performed over the last few years, joking with the audience that they may not know who he was, but they knew his songs.
Don Schlitz is survived by his wife, Stacey; his daughter Cory Dixon and her husband Matt Dixon; his son Pete Schlitz and his wife Christian Webb Schlitz; his grandchildren Roman, Gia, Isla, and Lilah; his brother Brad Schlitz; and his sister Kathy Hinkley.
Saturday night’s Grand Ole Opry performance will be dedicated in Schlitz’ honor.
A Celebration of Life will be held on April 25 at 2:30 p.m. CT in the CMA Theater at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum (224 Rep. John Lewis Way South). A reception will follow the service.
Russell Dickerson & Crew Celebrate No. 1 Hit ‘Happen To Me’
/by John Nix ArledgePhoto (L-R, back row): Big Machine Music’s Mike Molinar, UMPG’s Cyndi Forman, Triple Tigers’ Kevin Herring and Annie Ortmeier, BMI’s Mason Hunter, Studio Bank’s Ron Cox, Concord’s Courtney Allen and Hang Your Hat’s Hillary Lindsey; (L-R, front row): Chase McGill, Josh Kerr, Russell Dickerson and Chris LaCorte; Photo: Larry McCormack for BMI
BMI’s lobby was packed Tuesday afternoon (April 15) as the industry gathered to celebrate Russell Dickerson and the songwriters behind his sixth career No. 1, “Happen To Me.”
BMI’s Mason Hunter kicked off by highlighting Dickerson’s reach, noting that the track has already surpassed 340 million streams and recently earned a nomination for Best Country Song at the upcoming American Music Awards. “This kind of success doesn’t happen by accident,” Hunter said. “It happens when a lot of talent gets in a room and creates a great song.”
Big Machine Music’s Mike Molinar and Concord’s Brad Kennard and Courtney Allen also stepped to the mic to offer congratulations. Studio Bank’s Ron Cox announced that in honor of the No. 1, Studio Bank made a donation to Cultivate, an organization that is, “doing very impactful work in our community by feeding the hungry not only physically but spiritually.”
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s John Nix Arledge, Chase McGill, Josh Kerr, Russell Dickerson, Chris LaCorte and MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson; Photo: Larry McCormack for BMI
Other industry leaders who spoke included Universal Music Publishing’s Cyndi Forman and Triple Tigers’ Kevin Herring, who noted the song’s global reach, including five weeks at No. 1 in Canada and four weeks in the UK.
Producer Josh Kerr was the first of the creators to speak, commenting on the energy in the room that day. “I’m a big believer that when someone listens to a song on the radio, they can feel the way that it was made, and I think that directly translated into how the listeners heard it,” said Kerr.
Chase McGill, who had a billion-stream year across his catalog, spoke next. “I was like, honestly, I want to be a small part of elevating that guy’s platform. Russell’s so easy to pull for,” McGill explained.
Co-writer and co-producer Chris LaCorte shared the song’s “origin story,” mentioning a guitar preset called “Spandex and Hairspray” that inspired the track’s 80’s sound. “The coolest thing is seeing the absolute just fun and joy we had writing that song come across and give that to the listener and seeing people just having the time of their lives,” LaCorte said.
Jessie Jo Dillon was unable to attend, but speakers made sure to tout her big year and multiple Songwriter of the Year honors.
Dickerson closed the afternoon by expressing his gratitude for the community that raised him and for the team that supports him. “I love this freaking life so much. I love being an artist. I love being exhausted. I love playing in front of people,” Dickerson said. “This song has absolutely changed my life. I get to do everything that I’ve dreamed of because of these guys and everybody in this room.”
DISClaimer Single Reviews: Melissa Etheridge & Chris Stapleton Team For Disc Of The Day
/by Robert K OermannMelissa Etheridge & Chris Stapleton.
Whether in romantic ballads or rollicking tempo tunes, there’s a definite summertime feel in this week’s country tracks.
The session was dominated by two outstanding duet performances. One unites Jamie Floyd and Jake Hoot, who sing their faces off in “The Blade.” The other pairs rock superstar Melissa Etheridge with country titan Chris Stapleton. Their electrifying combination as both writers and singers earns them the Disc of the Day award.
Texas strikes again as The Droptines earn a DISCovery Award.
BRETT YOUNG & COLBIE CAILLAT / “If the World Was Ending”
Writers: Jonathan Percy Saxe/Julia Michaels; Producer: Noah Needleman; Label: BMX
– Young and Caillat put their spin on this pop tune, and the result is elegantly listenable. It ain’t country, but it is quite lovely.
LAUREN ALAINA / “Raining Whiskey”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: Big Loud Records
– There’s a little too much that’s computer generated in the production, but her performance is solid. The heartbreak lyric is clever.
TY MYERS / “Me Neither”
Writer: Ty Myers; Producer: Brandon Hood; Label: RECORDS Nashville/Columbia/Outlier Recordings
– Gently persuasive. The pop groove swirls around his softly caressing vocal delivery. The airy track frames a romantic message. This teenage singer-songwriter has a definite heartthrob vibe going on.
MELISSA ETHERIDGE & CHRIS STAPLETON / “The Other Side of Blue”
Writers: Chris Stapleton/Melissa Etheridge; Producers: Melissa Etheridge, Shooter Jennings; Label: Sun Records
– Ultra dramatic, brilliant work. Both vocalists have off-the-charts vocal charisma, and together they are simply awesome. The song eloquently addresses the agony of grief and its ultimately spirit cleansing aftermath. You’ll find it on her essential new album, Rise.
GRAHAM BARHAM / “BREAKUP (DOWN)”
Writers: Cole Miracle/Graham Barham/Jared Cotter/Jay Sean/Jeremy Skaller/Lydia Vaughan/Robert Larow/Sam Bergeson; Producer: Sam Bergeson; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Welcome to “Club Country,” where dance beats meet honky-tonk heartache.
LUKE GRIMES / “Drink Drink Drink”
Writers: Dave Cobb/Jessie Jo Dillon/Luke Grimes; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: MCA
– A rousing barroom anthem, propelled by banjo and fiddle. Grimes hearty baritone is joined by a gang sing-along on the choruses. Pour me a double. The singer’s Marshals neo-western TV series airs on CBS on Sunday nights.
EMILY ANN ROBERTS / “My Future”
Writers: Emily Ann Roberts/Micah Wilshire/Shane Minor; Producer: Brandon Hood; Label: RECORDS Nashville/Sony Music Nashville
– Sunny, jaunty, bopping and charmingly nutty. She takes one look and goes into a giddy fantasy of plunging into lasting love. Her saucy delivery has one built-in smile after another.
THE DROPTINES / “Snowed In”
Writer: Kenneth C Arthur; Producer: Taylor Tatsch; Label: Big Loud Texas
– Rootsy. The raspy vocal, haunting lyric and atmospheric production mark this Americana band as a force of the future. The hard-working Texas quintet has been doing things the old-fashioned way, grinding out gig after gig and winning fans one by one.
ASHLEY MONROE / “I Hate Nashville”
Writers: Ashley Monroe/Luke Laird; Producers: Ashley Monroe, Luke Laird; Label: Mountainrose Sparrow
– What’s there to say when you love country music, but it doesn’t love you back? Say it in this lovely, lilting song that’s both a love letter and an unrequited lament. As always, her voice is a beacon of honesty and her writing is three chords and the truth. Loving this.
JAMIE FLOYD & JAKE HOOT / “The Blade”
Writers: Allen Shamblin/Jamie Floyd/Marc Beeson; Producer: Jimmy Thow; Label: Jamie Floyd Music
– Originally popularized by Ashley Monroe, “The Blade” retains its haunting power in this duet between Floyd and The Voice competitor Hoot. They harmonize beautifully in their full-throated, chill-bump inducing arrangement. Echoey electric guitar and steel add the icing on this delicious masterwork.
JACKSON DEAN / “Hey Mississippi”
Writers: Jackson Dean/Jessie Jo Dillon/Luke Dick; Producer: Luke Dick; Label: Blue Highway Records
– He’s smitten with a Delta darlin’ in this magnolia-scented ditty. The understated production frames his relaxed vocal perfectly with its pristine guitar riffs. The softly swaying vibe sounds like languid Southern summer.
JO DEE MESSINA / “Don’t Let Them Hide Your Beautiful”
Writers: Blessing Offor/David Spencer/Jo Dee Messina; Producer: David Spencer; Label: Dreambound Records
– Sparkling and twinkling with upbeat positivity. Messina sings with immense verve here, and the track bops along smartly. A sweetly delivered feminist anthem.
WARREN ZEIDERS / “Drinking Game”
Writers: Elof Loelv/Evan Blair/J Kash/Jesse Fink/Michael Pollack/Warren Zeiders; Producer: Evan Blair; Label: Warner Records
– This takes off with a woosh and a rush as Zeiders tackles a tempo tune that barrels down the track with monster energy. A breezy carnival ride.
Industry Ink: CMHOFM, Dierks Bentley, Jamie MacDonald
/by Lorie HollabaughCountry Music Hall of Fame & Museum Commemorates 20 Millionth Visitor
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum CEO Kyle Young, Museum Board Member Sara Finley, Trisha Yearwood, Museum Board Member David Conrad and the Sagi Family (Assaf, Yuli, Liat and Tom). Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum celebrated the nonprofit’s 20 millionth visitor since moving downtown in 2001 this week with a commemoration in the museum’s Mike Curb Conservatory. Trisha Yearwood and museum CEO Kyle Young were on hand to mark the milestone, greeting visitors including the Sagi family from Santa Clara, California.
One of Yearwood’s early jobs when she moved to Nashville in the 1980s included being a tour guide at the museum, and her employment application is currently on display in the museum galleries. Attendees to the celebration printed their own keepsake poster from Hatch Show Print, the nearly 150-year-old letterpress print shop owned and operated by the museum. The museum is among the most-visited history museums in the U.S., welcoming nearly 1.4 million visitors in 2025. Next month will mark the museum’s 25th anniversary downtown.
Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum Hosts Panel On Opry’s Comedy Tradition With Henry Cho & Gary Mule Deer
Gary Mule Deer, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Senior Director of Editorial Paul Kingsbury and Henry Cho at the museum. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Henry Cho and Gary Mule Deer participated in a discussion April 15 about the Grand Ole Opry’s practice of blending humor with musical performances. The comedians shared their own career paths that led them to the world-famous country radio show during a panel at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and the conversation was led by the museum’s Senior Director of Editorial Paul Kingsbury.
The Opry has a longstanding tradition of making comedy part of its entertainment mix, and Jerry Clower, Lonzo & Oscar, Mike Snider, Stringbean and Country Music Hall of Fame members Minnie Pearl and Rod Brasfield are just a few of the many comic talents who have been Opry cast members. In 2023, the Grand Ole Opry brought acclaimed comedians Cho and Mule Deer into the fold. The interview was offered in support of the museum’s Country’s Grandest Stage: The Opry at 100 exhibit.
Dierks Bentley’s ROW 94 Expands Nationwide With Broken Branches Release
Dierks Bentley‘s ROW 94 recently received a 94 rating from Wine Enthusiast magazine. The brand is expanding with the second release of its popular limited edition Broken Branches. Broken Branches, like all ROW 94 releases, is made in partnership with Lofted Custom Spirits at the Green River Distilling Co. in Owensboro, Kentucky. Bottled at 100 proof and aged five years, the bourbon also underwent “Branch Aging,” where time-worn, fire-toasted Oak staves seasoned for up to 24 months rested in the barrels to deepen the whiskey’s complexity. In its second release, Broken Branches is expanding to Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, New York, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas in the coming months.
Jamie MacDonald Makes National TV Debut On ‘Kelly Clarkson Show’
Jamie MacDonald made her national TV debut on The Kelly Clarkson Show this week, singing “Won’t Let Go” from her self-titled debut album, which was released earlier this year via Capitol CMG. McDonald is set to make her Grand Ole Opry debut on May 1.
T.J. Martell Hosts 2026 Nashville’s Best Cellars Dinner
/by Lauryn SinkJohn McBride, Martina McBride. Photo: Ed Rode for The T.J. Martell Foundation
The T.J. Martell hosted the 2026 Nashville’s Best Cellars Dinner on Tuesday (April 14).
The exclusive event, with Grand Cru Presenting Sponsor Secure Air, brought together influential and philanthropic leaders from Nashville’s music and wine industries for a celebratory charity auction and dinner dedicated to the fight against cancer. With $690,000 in total revenue, the evening set a new record for the event in Nashville.
The evening also recognized Martina and John McBride with the prestigious Billy Ray Hearn Award of Excellence. Established to carry forward the legacy of Billy Ray Hearn, the award honors industry leaders who exemplify outstanding professional achievement, extraordinary philanthropic contributions, and an unwavering commitment to Music’s Cure for Cancer.
Additionally, the event featured a spirited fundraising auction hosted by acclaimed radio personality and auctioneer Shawn Parr.
Michael Bublé, Randy Travis (seated), Lauren Alaina. Photo: Ed Rode for The T.J. Martell Foundation
Attendees included Randy Travis, Mary Travis, Michael Bublé, Dave Cobb, Frank Ski, Lauren Alaina, Jordan Davis, Karen Fairchild of Little Big Town, Brad Tursi of Old Dominion, and Kimberly Perry and Johnny Costello of The Band Perry. This year’s dinner, which was presented by Troy and Nicole Vollhoffer and Premier Global Production, was crafted by Executive Chef Freddy Money of Atlas in Atlanta.
Nashville’s Best Cellars Dinner was presided over by Steve Gawley, Executive Vice President of Business & Legal Affairs and Business Development at REPUBLIC Collective and Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the T.J. Martell Foundation, and co-hosted by Mike Harris, President and CEO Music Corporation of America (MCA) and John Esposito, Co-Founder of HEY NOW Records and 15-year veteran Chairman/CEO of Warner Music Nashville. A Dinner Committee featuring many of Nashville’s top executives included Stacy Blythe, Charlie Brusco, Dave Cobb, Derek C. Crownover, Seth England, Clint Higham, Jon Loba, Jordan Pettit, Patrick Sabatini, and John & Nataliia Sanzo. Event co-chairs in attendance also included entrepreneur, philanthropist and wine collector Tom Black, and philanthropist, wine connoisseur and active supporter of various charitable organizations Eliza Kraft Olander.
“Last year, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the T.J. Martell Foundation. Over that half century, we — together — have raised more than $280 million to fund bold, high-risk/ high reward cancer research that has led to real breakthroughs and lifesaving treatments. This reflects not only strong stewardship, but also the trust that all of you place in this organization,” says Gawley, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the T.J. Martell Foundation. “It also reminds us that there is still so much more to do. The work you support doesn’t happen someday — it is happening everyday in the finest cancer research institutions in the nation because of what we choose to do in rooms like this. And here in Nashville, that impact is real, not abstract — it’s right here in your own community. The marquee on the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center contains the words ‘Supported by the T.J. Martell Foundation.’ That’s not just recognition. It’s a reflection of decades of commitment from this community. And your commitment is driving real science.”
Pictured (L-R): Steve Gawley, Jordan Pettit, Stacy Blythe, Scott Borchetta, John Sanzo, John McBride, Martina McBride, John Esposito, Eliza Kraft Olander, Mike Harris, Frank Ski, Chef Freddy Money, Dave Cobb, Shawn Parr, Peter Marcum. Photo: Ed Rode for The T.J. Martell Foundation
“Now, as many of you know, I had the privilege of serving as the chair of the Nashville Board of Governors for years, and the T.J. Martell Foundation is deeply personal to me. But the story of this Foundation in Nashville did not start with me. It started with giants,” shares Esposito, Former Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the T.J. Martell Foundation. “It started with people like the legendary Frances Preston. Frances was a force of nature. She brought the T.J. Martell Foundation to Nashville because she saw the power of this community. She knew that the music industry did not just write songs; we take care of our own, and we fight for the people who need it most. Frances laid the groundwork that allowed us to build the Frances Williams Preston Labs at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, right here in our backyard.”
“Every year, I am reminded of just how extraordinary this community is, and this year’s Nashville Best Cellars Dinner was no exception,” says Lynn-Anne Huck, CEO of the T.J. Martell Foundation. “The artists, executives, and philanthropic leaders who came together that evening didn’t just attend an event; they reaffirmed a shared belief that we can and will make a difference. Their generosity moves me deeply, and I am endlessly grateful.”
Lauren Alaina, Karen Fairchild. Photo: Ed Rode for The T.J. Martell Foundation
Brad Tursi and Roxy King. Photo: Ed Rode for The T.J. Martell Foundation
Dave Cobb, Frank Ski, Steve Gawley. Photo: Ed Rode for The T.J. Martell Foundation
Independent Songwriters & Publishers Celebrated At 2026 AIMP Awards [Recap]
/by LB CantrellBig Loud Publishing Accepts Their Award for Top Independent Music Publisher of the Year. Photo: Peyton Hoge
The Association for Independent Music Publishers (AIMP) held its 2026 AIMP Nashville Country Awards earlier this week at Analog at the Hutton Hotel. Bringing together members of Nashville’s music business in celebration, the annual event celebrated the successes of independent songwriters and publishers.
Guests snacked on sliders, mini chicken sandwiches, caprese skewers, fried pimento cheese bites, specialty popcorn and a bevy of sweet treats while visiting with each other before the program began. Radio veteran Storme Warren served as emcee for the evening.
Alex Heddle and Jessie Jo Dillon. Photo: Katie Kauss
Country newcomer Emily Ann Roberts won her first-ever industry award with the Rising Artist-Writer of the Year. She thanked her team for their support, and shared that she would work hard to “live up to who [you] believe [I] am.”
Lauren Hungate took home the 2026 Rising Songwriter of the Year award, and shared her surprise and gratitude when accepting the honor. SMACKSongs’ Lee Krabel received the 2026 AIMP Song Champion Award, bringing his signature wit and heart to his speech.
Jessie Jo Dillon was named Songwriter of the Year for the second consecutive year. She dedicated the win to her mother, who she lost a few months back. Zach Top, who was not in attendance, was recognized as Artist-Writer of the Year.
Big Loud Publishing took home Top Independent Music Publisher of the Year, with the recently-promoted Mike Giangreco shouting out Big Loud songwriters and “the best team in Nashville.”
Two of the night’s highlights came with the performances of award-winning songs. Tigirlily Gold did an excellent job covering the AIMP Publisher’s Pick of the Year winner, “Come Home To You,” written by Jim McCormick, Makayla Lynn and Michael Wayne Wilkes, and performed by Emily Ann Roberts. Carly Pearce brought her classic country vocals to the night’s Song of the Year, “Weren’t For The Wind” written by Johnny Clawson, Ella Langley and Joybeth Taylor, and performed by Langley.
HARDY poses with Independent Spirit Award. Photo: Katie Kauss
Another highlight came when HARDY was presented with the Independent Spirit Award. A video montage with messages of admiration for the singer-songwriter played before his wife, Caleigh Hardy, gave a speech about HARDY’s steadfastness to being himself, and how that has impacted his career, the Music Row community and their family.
HARDY spoke about how honored he was, and thanked his team and the community for celebrating his commitment to authenticity.
“Congratulations to all of this year’s AIMP award winners. Our event truly highlights just how special and supportive the Nashville independent community is,” shared Ree Guyer and Courtney Crist, this year’s AIMP co-chairs. “Presenting the Independent Spirit Award to Michael Hardy—who genuinely embodies its meaning—was a magical moment. We’re also deeply grateful to our sponsors, our dedicated awards committee—Megan Pekar, Alex Heddle, Shannan Hatch, Janine Ebach, and Tim Fink—and our incredible coordinator, Haily Harris, for making this event possible.”
Emily Ann Roberts, this year’s Rising Artist Writer of the Year, along with her publishing team from Jody Williams Songs. Photo Credit: Katie Kauss
Carly Pearce performs the Song of the Year, “Weren’t For The Wind.” Photo: Peyton Hoge
The SMACKSongs publishing team poses with winners Lee Krabel and Johnny Clawson (co-writer of “Weren’t For The Wind.” Photo: Katie Kauss
KMM Sports Joins Forces With Borchetta Entertainment Group
/by Lorie HollabaughKelli Masters‘ boutique agency KMM Sports has formed a strategic partnership with Borchetta Entertainment Group, the multi-platform company founded by industry titan Scott Borchetta, and veteran media executive Erik Logan, former President of the Oprah Winfrey Network and current CEO of Tony Robbins’ conglomerate, Robbins Research International.
The new partnership gives KMM Sports the brand-building infrastructure, media relationships, and business management capabilities of a world-class entertainment organization while preserving the personal, relationship-driven representation that has defined KMM for two decades. KMM Sports has represented players in every NFL Draft since 2006, and the move positions KMM Sports as one of the only agencies in professional sports to combine NFLPA-certified contract negotiation with entertainment-grade brand management, strategic financial planning, and full-service legal counsel under one roof — from the first college offer through professional career, retirement and into life after the game.
In 2010, Masters became the first woman in history to represent a Top 5 pick in the NFL Draft when Gerald McCoy was selected No. 3 overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and in the 16 years since, she has represented more athletes than any woman in the industry, negotiated hundreds of millions of dollars in NFL contracts, and built KMM Sports into one of the most respected boutique agencies in professional sports. Masters, a member of the Cherokee Nation and former Miss Oklahoma, earned her Juris Doctorate with honors from the University of Oklahoma and was named one of Bleacher Report’s 25 Most Influential Women in Sports.
“For twenty years, I’ve built KMM on a simple belief: represent the whole person, not just the player,” says Masters. “We’ve done that with heart, with hustle, and with relationships that last longer than any contract. This partnership doesn’t change who we are — it amplifies what we can do. Our athletes now walk into any room with the credibility and infrastructure of an organization that has built some of the biggest names in entertainment. We’re ready to go up against anybody.”
“I built Big Machine Records from nothing — thirteen people, three artists, and a belief that the independents could outwork the majors. We proved that. The same playbook applies here,” says Borchetta. “Kelli has something that no mega-agency can replicate: twenty years of trust, built one athlete at a time. What Erik and I bring is scale — the brand-building infrastructure, the media relationships, and the business management capabilities that turn a great agent into an industry-defining platform. When the world sees the full picture of what we’re building, they’re going to understand why every athlete should be paying attention.”
“Our job is to build the infrastructure around the agency so athletes get the same caliber of brand management, financial guidance, and career strategy that the biggest names in entertainment and music have relied on for decades. This is about giving the athletes a partner for every chapter of their life — not just the seasons they play,” adds Logan.
KMM Sports will now offer athletes a fully integrated platform that spans every stage of their career, including Contract Negotiation & Legal Representation; End-to-End Brand Management; Financial Advisory & Wealth Strategy; Media, Content & Digital Strategy; NIL & College-to-Pro Transition; and Post-Career Transition & Life Planning. The announcement comes as Borchetta Entertainment Group rapidly expands its management division, which now includes artists Carly Pearce, The Band Perry, and a roster of developing artists across country, Americana, and the broader music landscape, giving KMM Sports clients access to an entertainment ecosystem that spans music, media, content creation, and brand partnerships.