Zach Kale Signs With Sea Gayle Music

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Zach Kale & Team.

Zach Kale has signed with Sea Gayle Music.

Kale has earned cuts with Ella Langley, Florida Georgia Line, Charlie Puth, Keith Urban, Cole Swindell, NELLY, Nate Smith, Parmalee, Lauren Alaina and many others. The CMA and ACM–nominated, Dove Award–winning songwriter and producer co-wrote Gabby Barrett’s 8x Platinum “I Hope” and 4x Platinum “The Good Ones.”

“We’re proud to welcome proven hitmaker Zach Kale to the Sea Gayle Music family,” says Chris DuBois, President of Sea Gayle Music. “Whether he’s in the writing room or behind the console, Zach brings a rare combination of creative instinct, commercial awareness, and an undeniable ability to make music that truly connects. It’s a privilege to partner with him on his journey and look forward to helping create new opportunities for him and his music.”

“I am truly fired up to be working with the Sea Gayle Music team and I look forward to the opportunities ahead,” adds Kale.

BREAKING: CMA CEO Sarah Trahern To Retire

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Sarah Trahern. Photo: John Russell/CMA

Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Country Music Association (CMA), will retire at the end of 2026.

After decades in television, media and the music industry, Trahern took the helm of CMA in 2014. She has strengthened the organization and advanced its mission to heighten the awareness of country music and support its ongoing growth, both domestically and internationally.

“Leading the Country Music Association has been the privilege of my career,” says Trahern. “I am incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together in service of this industry and its people, and deeply grateful for the community that makes country music what it is. After much reflection, I’ve made the decision to retire and embrace this next chapter of life—one that allows me to remain connected to this industry in ways that continue to inspire me, while also creating space for the people and moments that matter most to me, including time with my husband, Wayne, getting outdoors, and simple nights at home with our dog, Riley.”

Under Trahern’s leadership, CMA has continued to evolve its membership initiatives and industry programs to meet the changing needs of the country music community. Her tenure has included expanded investments and coordinated industry support in response to COVID-19, natural disasters and ongoing mental health challenges. At the same time, CMA has strengthened its global engagement, with Trahern guiding efforts to deepen connections in key international markets and elevate country music’s presence worldwide.

Trahern has also reinforced CMA’s commitment to music education through the organization’s nonprofit arm, the CMA Foundation, where she serves as President. The CMA Foundation transforms lives through the power of music education, investing more than $30 million to date in research-informed programs that expand access, empower music teachers and create meaningful opportunities for students.

Trahern’s influence has been widely recognized, including being named one of Nashville Business Journal’s Most Admired CEOs and receiving Billboard’s Country Power Players “Executive of the Year” honor in 2017. In 2024, she was honored with the Bob Kingsley Living Legend Award by the Grand Ole Opry, among many other accolades.

As Trahern prepares for this next chapter, CMA’s Board of Directors has formed a search committee and retained an independent executive search firm, Buffkin Baker, to facilitate a comprehensive process to identify her successor and ensure a thoughtful and seamless transition. Additional details regarding the search, including how and when potential candidates may be considered, will be announced in February.

“While we will deeply miss Sarah’s leadership, we are excited to carry forward the legacy she has established,” says Jay Williams, Co-Head and Partner, WME, and CMA Board Chairman. “Sarah leaves behind an indelible mark on both the Country Music Association and the broader industry. Her influence has shaped not only CMA but the future of Country Music itself.”

Trahern will remain fully engaged in her role as CEO until the end of 2026, working closely with the Board and senior leadership to guide the CMA into its next era.

ASCAP Reveals Songwriters Selected For GPS Project Class Of 2026

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Picture (L-R, front row): ASCAP’s Emilia James, Eleanor Bryan, Bailey Taylor, Abigail Mae, ASCAP’S Duane Hobson; (L-R, second row): Anna Kline, Remy Garrison; (L-R, third row): Wes Harris, Jay Speight, Maddie Lenhart, Faith Schueler; (L-R, fourth row): Grace + Max, ASCAP’s Ryan O’Grady, Maggie Youngs; (L-R, fifth row): Phoebe Scott, Jake Arthur, Kevin Monahan; (L-R, back row): Josh David, Cade Walker

ASCAP has revealed the songwriters selected for its 13th annual ASCAP GPS (Guidance from Publishers for Songwriters) Project. New this year is the addition of a Christian music cohort joining the country music participants.

The ASCAP GPS Project Class of 2026 includes Abigail Mae, Anna Kline, Bailey Taylor, Cade Walker, Eleanor Bryan, Faith Schueler, Grace + Max, Jake Arthur, Jay Speight, Josh David, Kevin Monahan, Maddie Lenhart, Maggie Youngs, Phoebe Scott, Remy Garrison and Wes Harris. The class was curated by ASCAP Associate Director of Nashville Membership Duane Hobson and ASCAP Manager of Nashville Membership Emilia James.

The program is led by ASCAP Vice President Mike Sistad and aims to help develop unsigned songwriters. Throughout the year, the songwriters will be paired with publishers who will listen and give feedback on their songs and host development sessions. Participating 2026 publishers include Big Machine Music, Capitol CMG Publishing, Centricity Publishing, Curb | Word Music Publishing, Eclipse Music Group, Empire Publishing, Essential Music Publishing, Integrity Music Publishing, King Pen Music, Kobalt Music Publishing, Liz Rose Music, Reservoir Media, Sony Music Publishing, Spirit Music Nashville, TIM Publishing and Warner Chappell Music Nashville.

ASCAP GPS alumni include Jacob Davis, Hannah Dasher, Caylee Hammack, Joe Ragosta and more.

Industry Ink: ASCAP, Randy Rogers, Blessing Offor, Rose Parade, More

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ASCAP Hosts Songwriters Round At The Bluebird Cafe

Pictured (L-R): ASCAP’s Mike Sistad, Kyle Sturrock, ASCAP’s Emilia James, Brianna Nelson, Andrea Vasquez and Joe Clemmons.

ASCAP hosted a songwriters round on Jan. 7 as part of its monthly showcase series at Nashville’s The Bluebird Cafe to support the local songwriting community. ASCAP members Joe Clemmons, Brianna Nelson, Kyle Sturrock and Andrea Vasquez took the stage at the Bluebird Cafe for the recent show to kick off the New Year.

Randy Rogers Family Foundation’s Golf Jam 2026 To Benefit Comal County Senior Citizens Foundation

Pictured (L-R): Kathy Ziebell (CCSCF Staff), Julie Lewin (CCSCF Staff), Clarissa Platt (CCSCF Staff), Phyllis Kyle (CCSCF Board Member), Kris Mira (CCSCF Donor), Daniel Dornier (CCSCF Board Member), Rachel Schaffner (CCSCF Board Member), Chris Smith (CCSCF Executive Director), Jim Collier (CCSCF Board Member), Randy Rogers, Chelsea Rogers (Randy’s wife), Drew Farr (RRFF Board Member), Courtney Bukowski (RRFF Executive Director) and Dr. Taylor Cook (RRFF Board Member)

The Randy Rogers Family Foundation officially announced the Comal County Senior Citizens Foundation as the beneficiary of Golf Jam 2026 during a special reveal event held at Spass Haus on the Wurstfest Grounds. Golf Jam 2026 will take place on April 26 bringing together golf, music, and community support for senior-focused programs in Comal County. The Comal County Senior Citizens Foundation plays a vital role in supporting seniors throughout the region, including helping fund programs that provide nutrition, social connection, and essential services for older adults.

“Golf Jam has grown over the years, and it felt right to bring it home,” says Rogers. “New Braunfels is where my family has planted roots, and it’s a community that means a great deal to us. Partnering with the Comal County Senior Citizens Foundation allows us to support the people who helped build this community.”

Blessing Offor Is New Voice For ‘TODAY With Jenna & Sheinelle,’ Pens New Theme Song

Blessing Offor

Blessing Offor is kicking off 2026 as the new voice for TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle. The new theme song penned by Offor, “We’re Shining,” captures the lively positive energy both Jenna and Sheinelle bring to weekday mornings. “I remember when I got the text from Jenna asking if I’d consider writing and recording the theme song for Jenna & Sheinelle; I was so excited and honored,” recalls Offor. “The joy they embody is easy to capture because it’s so real and genuine. I’m still pinching myself that this is happening!”

On Feb. 14, Offor will embark on his first headline tour in support of his sophomore album Real, The “Heart So Real Tour.” The tour kicks off in Raleigh and includes stops including Washington DC, Philadelphia, New York, and Columbus before wrapping in Indianapolis on Feb. 25.

2026 Rose Parade Has Nashville Connections

Teri Nelson Carpenter, Founder & CEO of Reel Muzik Werks, has been the Music Supervisor for the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California for the past four years, and this year she worked with some fellow local musicians – the Franklin High School Band – who were invited to perform at this year’s annual event. This year’s parade theme was “The Magic In Teamwork” and the Franklin High School Band performed a rendition of Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5” for the crowds.

Kacee Clanton Brings Decades Of Experience To Vocal Coaching Business VPC

Artist, producer, and Broadway singer Kacee Clanton is accepting new clients for her vocal performance coaching business, VPC. Clanton has starred on Broadway, toured extensively as a backing vocalist with top artists, released multiple albums, and written and performed for films, TV, commercials, and video games. She has been teaching for almost two decades at local, collegiate, and professional levels. Previously based out of LA and NYC, she has relocated to the Nashville area and continues work as a private coach and mentor for all ages and levels. She coaches artists and touring singers/musicians to enhance their performance skills and endurance, singers and actors doing stage, film and TV, and prepares students for all types of auditions. More information can be found at VocalPerformanceCoach.com or by emailing kacee@kaceeclanton.com.

Samantha DePrez Rises To Sr. Director/Promotion At Curb Records

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Samantha DePrez.

Samantha DePrez has been promoted to Senior Director of Promotion at Curb Records.

DePrez began her career at Curb Records 17 years ago as an intern, later joining the promotion team full-time as a coordinator after graduating from Ball State University. In 2017, she was promoted to Director of Promotion for the Midwest, immediately playing a key role in the push for Dylan Scott’s first No. 1 single. During her time with the company, DePrez has been responsible for regional artist airplay and for overseeing streaming and social metrics related to fan engagement across the label’s roster.

“Sam has been a constant force at Curb—thoughtful, driven, and always focused on how to best serve the artists and the team. We’re proud of her and excited for what’s ahead,” says RJ Meacham, Curb Senior Vice President of Promotion.

TICKETS OPEN NOW: MusicRow’s 2026 Rising Women On The Row Event

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Tickets for MusicRow‘s 13th annual Rising Women on the Row breakfast event are on sale now.

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.

Tickets 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.

Nashville’s 615 Indie Live Reveals Complete Artist Lineup & Schedule

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615 Indie Live has revealed its complete roster of performers for the 2026 showcases, set to take place across 15 independent Nashville venues on Feb. 7.

The complete event schedule is available on the event app, available for iPhone and Android. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit MVAN, and the festival will donate $2 per ticket to WNXP.

Angie K, A Tribe Of Horsemen, Castle, JJ Niceley, Kanude, Knyghts, Lewis Stubbs Junior, McKinley James, Ron Gallo, Suadi, The Prickly Pair, The Whooligan, Total Wife and Turquoise Gate will join the previously announced lineup of Amelia Day, Anastasia Elliot, Bones Owens, Boy Orbison, Brian Wright, Bryant Taylorr, The Brummies, Campanula, Charles Wigg Walker, Claire Ernst, Christina Vane with Joshua Hedley, Crystal Rose, Daphne, David Cook Quintet feat. Jeff Coffin with Miguel Alvarado, DeeOhGee, DJ Nat Ward, Eddie Angel’s Guitar Party, Family Dog, Genevieve Heyward, Hayden Pattengale, Heavy Quitters, Hector Tellez Jr, Henri Herbert and The Fury, Hogslop String Band, Hussy Fit, Jacob Jezioro & Jordan Perlson, JT Loux, Justin Webb & The Noise, Kenny Sharp, Laney Jones and The Spirits, Lilly Hiatt, Lilly Winwood, Lombardy, Marc Payne Quintet w/ Don Aliquo, Massie 99, The Minks, New Translations, Plainview Vibes’ Bob Marley Birthday Bash, Rob Linton & Josh Cook, Rolling Stone Nashville Now with Noeline Hofmann, Rougarou, The Sewing Club, Simon Mogul, SWEETTALKER, TEN, Texas Chain Store Managers, Thunder and Rain, Venus & the Flytraps and Zandi Hollup.

Participating venues include 3rd and Lindsley, Acme Feed & Seed, Anzie Blue, Cannery Hall, Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge, DRKMTTR Collective, Eastside Bowl, Mirror Mirror, Music Makers Stage at Delgado Guitars, Night We Met, Rudy’s Jazz Room, The 5 Spot, The Basement, The East Room and The End.

“Independent venues are the backbone of our scene in the 615 and crucial incubators of our creative community,” says artist Lewis Stubbs Junior. “A festival dedicated to lifting up the stages that lift us up every day isn’t just an honor to be a part of, it’s what Nashville is all about.”

“615 Indie Live is a perfect example of how Nashville’s music culture is woven throughout our city,” shares Deana Ivey, President and CEO, Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. “It supports local artists and independent venues while offering visitors and locals the chance to discover great music in unique neighborhoods and intimate venues that are the heart of our city’s live music legacy.”

“This event goes beyond showcasing the depth of our local talent, it’s a moment to honor the community that keeps our music ecosystem thriving,” adds Chris Cobb, President of the Music Venue Alliance Nashville. “Whether you’re discovering your next favorite artist, stepping into a neighborhood venue for the first time, or just wanting to support the scene you love, Nashville belongs here on February 7th.”

‘Bluegrass Nights At The Ryman’ Unveils 2026 Lineup

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Springer Mountain Farms “Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman” will return to Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium this summer, beginning June 16 and continuing every Tuesday night through July 21.

Season passes for all six shows are available now, with single-show tickets going on sale Feb. 20.

Among this year’s guests are Dailey & Vincent, Watkins Family Hour, Mason Via, Sam Bush, Sister Sadie, Sierra Hull, The Infamous Stringdusters, and Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder.

All shows are preceded by WSM Radio’s free “Pickin’ on the Plaza” pre-show, featuring live performances from regional bluegrass artists on the Ryman’s PNC Plaza.

2026 Springer Mountain Farms “Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman” Lineup:
June 16 – Dailey & Vincent
June 23 – Watkins Family Hour with Mason Via
June 30 – Sam Bush with Sister Sadie
July 7 – Sierra Hull
July 14 – The Infamous Stringdusters
July 21 – Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder

Rock The Country Returns To Eight U.S. Cities In Celebration Of America’s 250th Anniversary

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Rock The Country will visit eight U.S. cities on the new “Rock The Country Tour,” a multi-city festival experience taking place from May through September.

The two-day events are built around lineups with artists including Kid Rock, Jelly Roll, Jason Aldean, Blake Shelton, Creed, Brooks & Dunn, Riley Green, Miranda Lambert, Hank Williams Jr., Shinedown, Jon Pardi, Ella Langley, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Brantley Gilbert, Treaty Oak Revival, Gavin Adcock, Ludacris, Nelly and more. Each stop will also feature daily throwback happy hour DJ sets and a special host appearance by Chelcie Lynn in select markets.

“It’s this simple. Rock The Country isn’t just a music festival; it’s a movement,” says Kid Rock. “In 2026, as America celebrates its 250th anniversary, this is a place for hard-working, God-fearing patriots to gather as one and celebrate freedom, music, and the party of the year”.

“Rock The Country was built to honor the communities that don’t always get the spotlight, but show up with heart every single time,” says Nathan Baugh, CEO and Partner of Peachtree Entertainment.

“As we look ahead to 2026 and America’s 250th anniversary, we are raising the bar across the entire tour with bigger lineups, more intentional fan experiences, and meaningful investments in comfort and production,” adds Shane Quick, President of Live Events. “This is not just a tour. It is a celebration of the people, places, and music that define this country.”

New for 2026, Rock The Country is introducing Front Porch festival passes, designed for fans looking for the ultimate all-inclusive weekend. Each Front Porch pass includes seating with elevated sightlines, complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and dinner curated by Chef David Bancroft, a dedicated entrance, a weekend parking pass, and additional premium amenities. In addition to Front Porch and VIP offerings, Rock The Country will offer single-day and weekend General Admission tickets, GA+ passes providing closest access to the stage, hotel packages, and camping options. Presale tickets begin Jan. 16 and fans can register for presale access at rockthecountry.com. Public on-sale begins Jan. 16 at 2 p.m. local time, with single day ticket prices starting at $89.99 plus fees or $149.99 plus fees for both days.

Rock The Country Tour 2026 (lineups vary per city):
Bellville, TX – Austin County Fairgrounds – May 1-2
Bloomingdale, GA – Ottawa Farms – May 29-30
Sioux Falls, SD – W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds – June 27-28
Ashland, KY – Boyd County Fairgrounds – July 10-11
Anderson, SC – Anderson Sports & Ent Center – July 25-26
Hastings, MI – Barry Expo Center – August 8-9
Ocala, FL – Florida Horse Park – August 28-29
Hamburg, NY – Erie County Fairgrounds – September 11-12

Julianna Rankin Inks With Big Loud Texas

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Pictured (L-R): Jon Randall, Miranda Lambert, Julianna Rankin, Allie Sisoian (Manager, Red Light Management), Brendon Anthony (VP, Big Loud Texas). Photo: Brayln Kelly Smith

Julianna Rankin has signed with Big Loud Texas.

“I keep saying I wish I owned stock in the word ‘excited’ – it was, without a doubt, my most used word this past year,” shares Rankin. “I can confidently say the road that led me to signing with Big Loud Texas has been nothing short of cosmic. Having the opportunity to work with Miranda [Lambert] and Jon [Randall] is the kind of blessing any artist could ever hope for. They know the ropes and the road, and they prioritize the music – everything starts with a song. I couldn’t feel more grateful and ready to chase this dream with the entire Big Loud family at my side.”

“We are so proud to have Julianna join Big Loud Texas,” adds Lambert. “She is country, she is soul and has one of those voices that you’ve heard your whole life yet never heard quite like hers before… fresh and familiar. I can’t wait for the world to get to know her through her songs because her spirit shines through with every lyric she writes.”

Rankin was first discovered by the label at Aryln Studios’ 40th anniversary party. After the party concluded, Rankin, Lambert, Randall and Jack Ingram stayed up passing guitars and songs around the room.

Hailing from Texas, Rankin grew up listening to classic country and blues. Her influences include Keith Whitley, Bobbie Gentry, Waylon Jennings, Bonnie Raitt, Carole King and James Taylor. After attending Texas A&M, she set out on her musical journey.

To celebrate the signing, Rankin released her new tune “Bad Habits and Good Horses” today (Jan. 14). Written with Garrett Bradford and Jon Decious, the track will be featured on the season finale of Landman.

“Having this song land in Landman is something I’m really proud of,” adds Rankin. “I’m excited that this piece of music found a home that helps tell a story, it’s a sweet reminder of why I write songs in the first place.”