Following the announcement of this year’s nominees for the 38th annual MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank, we take a closer look at the Discovery Artist of the Year category.
This category honors a Nashville developing artist who has demonstrated the most promise of future success during the eligibility period.
This year’s winners will be announced online on all MusicRow platforms on Wednesday, Sept. 2.
Click here to see the full list of MusicRow Awards nominees.
Winners are determined solely by MusicRow Magazine subscribers. Voting is now open and closes on Aug. 14 at 5:00 p.m. To receive a ballot to vote in the MusicRow Awards, become a MusicRow subscriber here.
Hailing from Livingston, Texas, Laci Kaye Booth, who recently signed to Lost Highway Records, grew up inspired by the sounds of Merle Haggard and Patsy Cline. After moving to Music City, she released her self-titled debut record in 2021, followed by 2024’s The Loneliest Girl In The World, which appeared on the Los Angeles Times’ list of the best albums of the year. Named as a MusicRow 2026 Next Big Thing, Spotify Artists to Watch for 2026 and CMT’s Next Women of Country, Booth will release her third album, Love Ain’t For The Faint Of Heart, on Sept. 18. Booth has previewed the Ben West-produced project with recent singles “Ethereal Redneck Shit” and “Pathetic.” She has spent time on the road with Ella Langley, Parker McCollum, Megan Moroney, Marcus King Band and more. Last year, she made her Grand Ole Opry debut, and recently she made an appearance during CMA Fest at Nissan Stadium’s Platform Stage. Later this year, she will join Langley and Brad Paisley for select dates.
Alabama-born artist-writer Kashus Culpepper grew up a student and reverent purveyor of Southern music, singing in church as young as five years old. In 2020, he picked up a guitar and began learning cover songs to play at barrack bonfires in Rota, Spain during his deployment with the Navy. Culpepper began making a name in dive bars up and down the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Since signing with Big Loud Records, he has joined Leon Bridges, Sierra Ferrell, Darius Rucker, Niall Horan, Eric Church, Shaboozey, Jelly Roll, Thomas Rhett and Wyatt Flores on tour along with his own headline dates. Kulpepper has been named to the GRAMMY.com’s 25 Artists to Watch in 2025, 2025 Variety Power of Young Hollywood Impact Report, Opry NextStage Class of 2025, 2025 Amazon Music Bonfire Artist to Watch, Apple Music’s February 2025 Country Riser of the Month, 2025 Pandora Country Artist to Watch, Martin Artist Showcase Class of 2025, MusicRow’s 2026 Next Big Thing list and more. He released his debut album, Act 1, on Jan. 23 and the addendum, Act I: Summer Nights, earlier this summer.
With more than 8.7 million social media followers, BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville recording artist Alexandra Kay first gained national attention as a cast member on Netflix’s Westside. Since then, she has earned recognition from People, American Songwriter and Billboard, among others. Her 2023 debut project, All I’ve Ever Known, reached No. 1 on the iTunes All Genre and Country charts globally and landed in the top 10 on Billboard’s Current Country Album, Emerging Artist and HeatSeeker charts. Last year, Kay released her sophomore album, Second Wind, which reached No. 1 on the iTunes Country Album chart, and embarked on three headlining tours with multiple sold-out dates. She has shared the stage with artists including Jelly Roll, Brad Paisley and Tim McGraw. Named a 2026 MusicRow Next Big Thing, her debut single, “Straight For The Heart,” ranked among country radio’s most-added songs upon impact, placing her alongside Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood in the top 5 for most first-week stations by a debut solo female artist. Last year, Kay opened her flagship coffee shop, The Coffee Girl, in her hometown of Waterloo, Illinois.
Texas native Braxton Keith started his musical journey early, learning to play piano in kindergarten. He decided to pursue music in college and launched his career touring his home state in support of artists including Randall King and Triston Marez while making trips to Music City. Earlier this year, Keith released his debut album, Real Damn Deal, via Warner Records Nashville, co-writing 10 of the project’s 15 tracks. The collection includes “Little Bit by Little Bit,” “I Ain’t Tryin’” and “I Own This Bar.” Named one of 2026’s Artists to Watch by Amazon Music, Rolling Stone, MusicRow and more, Keith is continuing a year of touring and new music releases. In 2025, he made his Grand Ole Opry debut and earned his first RIAA Gold certification for “Cozy.” He is set to perform more than 130 shows this year, including appearances at fairs and festivals across the country, before launching his headlining “Real Damn Deal Tour.” Keith will also join Tucker Wetmore and Gavin Adcock for select dates this fall.
Texas-born singer-songwriter and guitarist Ty Myers began writing and performing at a young age, developing a sound rooted in country, Southern rock, soul and blues. The 18-year-old released his debut album, The Select, in 2025, featuring the Platinum-certified singles “Ends of the Earth,” “Thought It Was Love” and “Drinkin’ Alone,” with “Ends of the Earth” reaching the top 10 at country radio. Myers followed the release with his 73-date “The Select Tour” before returning in 2026 with his sophomore album, Heavy On The Soul. Recorded at the historic FAME Recording Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, the project marked his first album at the renowned studio. Along the way, Myers has been featured by Variety, People, the Los Angeles Times and Rolling Stone, appeared on Billboard’s “21 Under 21” list, Spotify’s RADAR program, and was named a MusicRow 2026 Next Big Thing. He has amassed more than 1.4 billion global streams, made his Austin City Limits debut, supported Luke Combs on tour and recently launched his headlining “The Legal Tour.”
Knoxville, Tennessee, native Emily Ann Roberts began performing on local stages before gaining national attention as the runner-up on Blake Shelton’s team during The Voice in 2015. Since then, she has released her debut album, Can’t Hide Country, followed by the EP Memory Lane. Spotlighted by Billboard, MusicRow and People, Can’t Hide Country showcases Roberts’ blend of traditional country and bluegrass influences. She has since amassed more than 146 million global streams and has made numerous appearances on the Grand Ole Opry stage. Roberts has also toured with Blake Shelton, Cody Johnson, Megan Moroney, Jamey Johnson and more, and is on the road with Thomas Rhett throughout 2026. Along the way, she has been named an ACM New Female Artist of the Year nominee, the AIMP Nashville Rising Artist-Writer of the Year, a member of the Opry NextStage and MusicRow Next Big Thing Class of 2026, a CMT Next Woman of Country and a Nashville Briefing Artist to Watch. Roberts is also featured in Walt Disney World’s Country Bear Musical Jamboree.
2026 MusicRow Awards Nominees For Female Artist Of The Year
/by MusicRow StaffFollowing the announcement of this year’s nominees for the 38th annual MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank, we take a closer look at the Female Artist of the Year category.
This category honors the achievements of a Nashville female artist during the eligibility period.
This year’s winners will be announced online on all MusicRow platforms on Wednesday, Sept. 2.
Click here to see the full list of MusicRow Awards nominees.
Winners are determined solely by MusicRow Magazine subscribers. Voting is now open and closes on Aug. 14 at 5:00 p.m. To receive a ballot to vote in the MusicRow Awards, become a MusicRow subscriber here.
Warner Records Nashville artist Avery Anna first garnered attention by sharing videos online before releasing her debut EP, Mood Swings, in 2022. Since then, the Arizona native has developed a catalog that blends country, pop and singer-songwriter influences, earning more than 1.7 billion global streams. Her 2022 single “Narcissist” was certified Platinum. Last year, her sophomore album, let go letters, inspired by the real life stories of her fans, was named one of Billboard’s “50 Best Albums of 2025.” In 2026, she took home ACM New Female Artist of the Year and completed her “Girl of Constant Sorrow” headline run. In March, Anna released her EP forgive, forget., featuring “Fear In God,” a faith-inspired duet with Sam Barber. The pair previously reached the Top 10 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart with “Indigo” and later performed the song together on The Kelly Clarkson Show. Alongside her headlining dates, Anna has also toured with Megan Moroney, Luke Bryan, Cole Swindell and others. Anna is currently amidst a run of festival dates throughout the summer.
Black River Entertainment’s Kelsea Ballerini entered a new creative chapter in 2026 with the release of her EP Mount Pleasant, a project that continues the personal songwriting that has become a hallmark of her recent work through songs that explore personal identity, relationships and the changing priorities that come with adulthood. She followed the EP this summer with collaborations including “Another Drink” with Marshmello and “Math of Us” with Patrick Droney. Earlier in 2025, Ballerini wrapped her 35-date “KELSEA BALLERINI LIVE ON TOUR,” performing in arenas across the country. Those releases followed her 2024 album PATTERNS, which debuted atop Billboard’s Country Albums chart, and the acclaimed 2023 Rolling Up The Welcome Mat. Ballerini earned nominations for Female Vocalist of the Year at the 2025 CMA Awards, Female Artist of the Year at the 2026 ACM Awards and Best Contemporary Country Album at the 2026 GRAMMY Awards for Patterns, continuing a career that has included seven No. 1 singles, induction into the Grand Ole Opry and collaborations spanning country and pop.
Before moving to Nashville in 2019, Columbia Records’ Ella Langley cut her teeth playing bars and festivals throughout her home state of Alabama. After a few years in Music City, her 2023 debut EP Excuse the Mess introduced fan-favorite songs before she released her debut album, hungover, in 2024. She followed it with her 2026 sophomore album, Dandelion, which debuted at No. 1 and was executive produced by Langley alongside Miranda Lambert and Ben West. The album includes the four-times Platinum single “Choosin’ Texas” and the Platinum-certified “Be Her.” “Choosin’ Texas” spent 11 weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the longest-running No. 1 by a woman with a country hit on the chart. The song also recorded six separate runs at No. 1 during a single release cycle while spending 29 weeks atop Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart. Langley is currently on her headlining “Dandelion Tour” after earning seven ACM Awards in 2026, including Female Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Single of the Year and Musical Event of the Year alongside Riley Green for “Don’t Mind If I Do.”
Sony Music Nashville’s Megan Moroney entered 2026 with the February release of her third studio album, Cloud 9, which includes the chart-topping singles “Beautiful Things” and “6 Months Later,” her highest debut on the Billboard Hot 100 to date. The album follows her Gold-certified sophomore release, Am I Okay?, which debuted at No. 9 on the Billboard 200 in 2024 and became one of the year’s biggest releases by a female country artist. The project produced the double-Platinum No. 1 hit “Am I Okay?” and the Platinum-certified “No Caller ID,” which set the record for the largest U.S. streaming debut for a female country song. Moroney’s catalog has now surpassed 3.9 billion global streams, led by her four-times Platinum No. 1 hit “Tennessee Orange” from her 2023 debut album, Lucky. Following the sold-out 50-date “Am I Okay? tour,” Moroney returned to the road earlier this year with an international headline run featuring arena dates across North America, Europe and the United Kingdom in support of Cloud 9.
Lost Highway’s Kacey Musgraves returned in 2026 with her sixth studio album, Middle of Nowhere, a 13-song collection she cowrote and co-produced with longtime collaborators Daniel Tashian and Ian Fitchuk. Inspired by the sounds and stories of her Texas upbringing, the album features collaborations with Willie Nelson, Miranda Lambert, Billy Strings and Gregory Alan Isakov. Later this year, Musgraves will launch the “Middle of Nowhere Tour” in support of the new album. It follows 2024’s Deeper Well, which delivered the biggest debut sales week of Musgraves’ career, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Album Sales chart and became her fifth No. 1 on the Top Country Albums chart. The album’s single “The Architect” earned the Grammy Award for Best Country Song. In 2023, Musgraves scored her first Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 with “I Remember Everything,” her duet with Zach Bryan, becoming the first country duet in 40 years to top the chart. The song also won the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance. Across her career, Musgraves has earned eight Grammy Awards.
Lainey Wilson continued the Whirlwind era in 2025 with the release of the album’s deluxe edition, featuring five additional tracks, including her No. 1 single “Somewhere Over Laredo.” The Louisiana native carried that momentum into 2026 by headlining Stagecoach, launching a run of stadium shows with Chris Stapleton and becoming the subject of the Netflix documentary Lainey Wilson: Keepin’ Country Cool. At the 2025 CMA Awards, Wilson became the first solo female host since Reba McEntire in 1991 while winning Entertainer of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year and Album of the Year for Whirlwind. A member of the Grand Ole Opry, Wilson has earned nine No. 1 singles, including “Heart Like a Truck,” “Watermelon Moonshine,” “Wildflowers and Wild Horses,” “4x4xU” and “Somewhere Over Laredo,” and more. She also earned three nominations at the 2026 Grammy Awards for Best Country Song and Best Country Solo Performance for “Somewhere Over Laredo,” as well as Best Country Duo/Group Performance for “Trailblazer,” her collaboration with Reba McEntire and Miranda Lambert. Wilson recently released her latest single, “Phone Keys Wallet,” featuring John Mayer.
Sugarland To Celebrate 20-Year Anniversary Of ‘Enjoy The Ride’ With New Tour
/by Lorie HollabaughSugarland. Photo: Joseph Llanes
Sugarland will embark on their new “The Ride or Die Tour” celebrating the 20th anniversary of Enjoy the Ride, the album that cemented Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush as one of country’s most beloved duos, beginning in October.
The 26-city trek kicks off Oct. 1 in St. Augustine and will visit markets across the country including Charleston, Green Bay, Atlantic City, Toledo, and more, wrapping Nov. 21 in Dallas. Details on fan pre-sales, local on-sale dates, and VIP upgrades more can be found here.
“Enjoy the Ride was such a turning point album,” says Nettles. “It literally catapulted us onto the ride of our lives with a carnival of hits and a life on The Road. We couldn’t let its anniversary pass without marking it as something special with our fans, live and on tour!”
“There is truly nothing more satisfying than the lights going up on the Sugarland stage and feeling our songs rumble out of the speakers,” adds Bush. “I’m excited just thinking about it and even more thrilled to be celebrating the anniversary of Enjoy The Ride.”
Since forming in 2002, Sugarland has sold nearly 10 million albums and racked up seven No. 1s and nearly 2 billion streams to date. Their hits include Platinum-certified “All I Want to Do” and “Stay,” double Platinum “Stuck Like Glue” as well as Gold-certified “Baby Girl,” “It Happens,” “Settlin’,”“Something More” and “Want To.” In addition to the global stardom with Sugarland, both Nettles and Bush have achieved success with their solo work.
Most recently, Nettles wrote the book, lyrics, and score for the new off-Broadway musical Giulia: The Poison Queen of Palermo, in which she starred as the title character. The show world premiered in Summer 2026 at the Perelman Performing Arts Center at the World Trade Center in New York.
As a producer, Bush has earned multiple CMA and ACM Award nominations and topped Billboard‘s Country Producers chart. He has produced chart-topping projects for Megan Moroney, including her most recent Billboard 200 No. 1 album Cloud 9, as well as work for Lanie Gardner, K. Michelle, and Runaway June. Through his work with Moroney, Bush has also produced recordings featuring Brooks & Dunn, Ed Sheeran, Kenny Chesney, Jamey Johnson, and Kacey Musgraves.
“The Ride or Die Tour” Dates:
10.1 – St. Augustine, FL – St. Augustine Amphitheatre
10.2 – Charleston, SC – North Charleston Coliseum
10.3 – Greensboro, NC – First Horizon Coliseum
10.8 – Champaign, IL – State Farm Center
10.9 – Green Bay, WI – Resch Center
10.10 – La Crosse, WI – La Crosse Center
10.13 – Sioux City, IA – Tyson Event Center
10.16 – Rapid City, SD – Summit Arena
10.17 – New Town, ND – 4 Bears Casino
10.18 – Grand Forks, ND – Alerus Center
10.20 – Duluth, MN – ASMOIL Arena
10.22 – Cedar Rapids, IA – Alliant Energy PowerHouse
10.23 – Rockford, IL – BMO Harris Bank Center
10.24 – Battle Creek, MI – Firekeepers Casino
11.3 – Clarksville, TN – F&M Bank Arena
11.5 – Youngstown, OH – The Covelli Center
11.6 – Pikeville, KY – Appalachian Wireless Arena
11.7 –Duluth, GA – Gas South Arena
11.11 – Bangor, ME – Cross Insurance Center
11.12 – Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena
11.13 – Atlantic City, NJ – The Borgata Casino
11.14 – Reading, PA – Santander Arena
11.17 – Toledo, OH – Huntington Center
11.19 – St. Charles, MO – The Family Arena
11.20 – Tulsa, OK – River Spirit Casino
11.21 – Grand Prairie, TX – Texas Trust CU Theater
Artist Action: Vince Gill, Miranda Lambert, Alan Jackson, Jason Aldean, Joy Oladokun, Russell Dickerson
/by Lauryn SinkVince Gill Wraps Ryman Residency
Vince Gill and Chrissy Hall. Photo: Catherine Powell
Vince Gill wrapped his six-night sold-out residency at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium Saturday night (Aug. 8).
Over the course of the residency, Gill delivered three-and-a-half-hour performances each night with no opening act and no intermission. The residency featured two special guest appearances. Gill’s daughter, Corrina, joined him to perform “Heroes,” a new song that has yet to be released and Maggie Rose joined Gill for “A Mother’s Prayer,” the title track of the eighth 50 Years From Home EP.
Miranda Lambert’s MuttNation Foundation & Tractor Supply Company Donate Over $250,000 In Surprise Grants To Animal Shelters
MuttNation Foundation Co-Founders Bev Lambert and Miranda Lambert. Photo: Tyler Conrad
Miranda Lambert’s MuttNation Foundation has once again teamed up with Tractor Supply Company to donate $255,000 to animal welfare organizations across the country. The Mutts Across America program donates $5,000 to one shelter or foster-based rescue in every state along with a “Wildcard” pick in honor of Lambert’s Grammy-winning album of the same name.
“Mutts Across America is one of my favorite MuttNation programs because it lets us show our appreciation to the people at the shelters who are doing the hard work every day,” says Lambert. “And to make it even more special, the grants are always a surprise – there’s no way to apply or be nominated. Tractor Supply has been such an amazing partner, and we’re so grateful for their commitment to MuttNation and to shelter pets across the country.”
“At Tractor Supply, caring for pets and animals isn’t just part of our business – it’s core to who we are,” shares Kimberley Gardiner, Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer at Tractor Supply. “While we’ve partnered with local and national shelters for decades, our work with MuttNation allows us to deepen that commitment in truly meaningful ways. Together, we’re expanding our reach to drive critical support for the vital work these shelters do every day.”
Alan Jackson Earns New RIAA Certifications
Pictured (L-R): Morna Willens, RIAA Chief Policy Officer; Jackie Jones, RIAA SVP Artist & Industry Relations; Alan Jackson, Denise Jackson, Mike Harris, MCA President/CEO; Stephanie Wright, MCA EVP/Head of A&R
Alan Jackson’s career music sales have reached new heights as his recorded catalog has been certified by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for 85.5-million units sold in the U.S. alone. Jackson was surprised with a plaque commemorating the achievement at his Last Call: One More for the Road – The Finale concert in June.
“Alan Jackson has built a legacy through songs that have defined Country music for more than four decades, creating a lasting connection to generations of fans. We were honored to celebrate his impact on the music community, and his remarkable 85.5-million RIAA certifications,” says RIAA SVP Artist & Industry Relations Jackie Jones, who was joined at the event by RIAA Chief Policy Officer Morna Willens.
Jason Aldean Earns New RIAA Certifications
Jason Aldean. Photo: Spidey Smith
Jason Aldean is celebrating a new wave of RIAA certifications.The career milestone comes as Aldean continues his “Songs About Us” Headlining Tour and his co-headlining “Double Down Tour” with Luke Bryan.
New certifications include:
My Kinda Party (album)– 6X Platinum
My Kinda Party – 5X Platinum
Fly Over States – 4X Platinum
Any Ol’ Barstool – 3X Platinum
Amarillo Sky – 3X Platinum
Don’t You Wanna Stay (with Kelly Clarkson) – 2X Platinum
Tattoos On This Town – 2X Platinum
Hicktown – 2X Platinum
Why – 2X Platinum
Lights Come On – 2X Platinum
Little More Summertime – Platinum
They Don’t Know (album) – Platinum
Joy Oladokun Appears On Songs of U.S.
Joy Oladokun made an appearance on Songs of U.S., reflecting on growing up as a child of immigrants with a cover of Roy Hawkins and Rick Darnell’s “The Thrill Is Gone.”
The cover and accompanying interview are out now.
Russell Dickerson Celebrates Double-Platinum Certification For ‘Happen To Me’
Russell Dickerson.
Russell Dickerson recently celebrated a double-Platinum certification for his hit single, “Happen To Me.” He was surprised with the plaque following his performance at the Grand Ole Opry.
From his album FAMOUS BACK HOME, “Happen To Me” spent multiple weeks at No. 1 in the U.S., U.K. and Canada, and has amassed more than 400 million global streams to date. He has performed the track on The Kelly Clarkson Show, The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, ESPN’s College GameDay and CMA Fest presented by SoFi.
Industry Ink: John Jorgenson, BMI, Randy Owen, Concord, CRS360
/by Lorie HollabaughCountry Music Hall Of Fame & Museum Spotlights ‘Nashville Cat’ John Jorgenson
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum writer-editor Jon Freeman and John Jorgenson at the museum. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum featured musician John Jorgenson for its in-depth interview series, Nashville Cats over the weekend. The series spotlights renowned musicians and session singers who have played important roles in support of artists in either the studio or on concert tours. The interview was moderated by museum writer-editor Jon Freeman and illustrated with rare photos, film and recordings. Rodney Crowell accompanied Jorgenson during his performance.
BMI Stage At Lollapalooza Celebrates 20th Year Of Spotlighting Rising Talent
Elizabeth Nichols performs on the BMI Stage at Lollapalooza in Chicago, IL on July 30, 2026. Photo: Brandy Fik for BMI
Randy Owen’s ‘My Home’s In Alabama: The Randy Owen Story’ Now Available Online
My Home’s in Alabama: The Randy Owen Story is now available to watch online via YouTube, giving fans the opportunity to explore the life and career of Country Music Hall of Fame member and ALABAMA co-founder Randy Owen. The documentary made its broadcast premiere Saturday night on Alabama Public Television (APT). Produced by Jacksonville State University, the film follows Owen’s journey from his upbringing in Fort Payne, Alabama, to becoming the frontman of one of country music’s most successful and influential bands.
Featuring scenic footage of the Alabama landscapes that shaped Owen’s life, the documentary combines personal reflections, career highlights and conversations with family, friends and fellow artists. ALABAMA founding member Teddy Gentry, Jamey Johnson, Riley Green and others offer insight into Owen’s career and lasting impact on country music. Throughout the film, Owen reflects on the people, places and values that have guided him while highlighting his enduring connection to the Alabama community he has always called home.
Concord & Stax Music Academy Mark Five-Year Partnership Investing In Music Education
Concord Executive and Stax Artists and Family with the 2025 SMA Concord Stax Scholarship Recipients
Concord and Stax Music Academy have marked five years of their partnership, investing over 1.3 million in music education. In 2021, Concord made a five-year financial commitment to Stax Music Academy in Memphis and the broader music community. Concord, which owns Stax Records, pledged one million dollars over five years to provide scholarships and financial support to students in under-resourced communities.
As of January 2026, that pledge has been exceeded with contributions totaling more than $1.3 million, reflecting Concord’s investment in SMA, its students, and its mission. Over the course of the partnership, Concord has funded 100 scholarships for SMA students. A defining measure of the Academy’s success is its 100% college acceptance rate. The partnership has also connected students with industry professionals, as Concord staff, artists, and songwriters including Noah Goldstein and Varren Wade have regularly participated in online masterclasses and in-person workshops.
CRS360 Releases Webinar On ‘Perfectly Legal: How Air Talent Gains Leverage Before Sitting Down to Negotiate’
Country Radio Broadcasters has released the latest installment of its CRS360 webinar series, “Perfectly Legal: How Air Talent Gains Leverage Before Sitting Down to Negotiate,” available to stream on demand. The webinar features Denise Shackelford, founder of The Primacy Firm, CRB’s legal counsel, and Associate Professor in Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)’s Department of Recording Industry within the Scott Borchetta College of Media and Entertainment.
A respected entertainment attorney and educator, Shackelford has spent more than three decades in the Nashville music industry, including early-career roles with Arista Records and artist management executive Clarence Spalding, before launching her boutique entertainment law practice in 2010. Today, she represents creative professionals and businesses across the music industry while helping prepare the next generation of industry leaders in the classroom. In the session, Shackelford shares valuable insights to help on-air talent better understand employment agreements, recognize their negotiating leverage, identify key contract considerations, and protect one of their greatest professional assets – themselves.
2026 MusicRow Awards Nominees For Breakthrough Artist Of The Year
/by MusicRow StaffFollowing the announcement of this year’s nominees for the 38th annual MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank, we take a closer look at the Breakthrough Artist of the Year category.
This category honors a Nashville artist who achieved significant career progress for the first time.
This year’s winners will be announced online on all MusicRow platforms on Wednesday, Sept. 2.
Click here to see the full list of MusicRow Awards nominees.
Winners are determined solely by MusicRow Magazine subscribers. Voting is now open and closes on Aug. 14 at 5:00 p.m. To receive a ballot to vote in the MusicRow Awards, become a MusicRow subscriber here.
Georgia native Gavin Adcock has continued his rapid rise in country music, amassing more than two billion global streams alongside a growing list of RIAA certifications. His 2024 album, Actin’ Up Again, was the largest major-label country debut from a solo male artist released that year and was 2024’s top-streaming major-label debut across the genre. His latest project, Own Worst Enemy, was released in August 2025, earning more than 25 million first-week U.S. streams and debuting at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 Country Chart. This year, Adcock added Executive Producer to his achievements with the release of Country Never Dies, a collaborative project featuring Adcock and nine fellow artists. The MusicRow Awards Discovery Artist of the Year nominee was also nominated for New Artist of the Year at both the 60th and 61st ACM Awards. Adcock is currently on his fourth extensive headlining run since 2024 with “The Day I Hang It Up Tour 2026.” He also joined Morgan Wallen for the second time on 16 dates of Wallen’s “Still The Problem Tour 2026.”
Kaitlin Butts has continued her whirlwind year with new music, touring and several creative projects. In October 2025, Butts signed with Republic Records before releasing The Yeehaw Sessions, featuring her takes on songs from Chappell Roan, Jimmy Eat World, The Chicks and Don Williams. The project also included “You Ain’t Gotta Die (To Be Dead To Me),” which has garnered over 67 million global streams and 157 million TikTok views. Butts recently released her new single “Never Really Mine,” which marked her first new music since the project. She also joined Willow Avalon on her track “Hypothetically Speaking,” starred in Ella Langley’s “Choosin’ Texas” music video and co-directed and wrote the treatment for Flatland Cavalry’s “Unglued” video. Butts wrapped her soldout headlining “European Cowgirl Experience,” which included stops across the UK and an appearance at Highway Festival at London’s Royal Albert Hall. She was also featured in the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s American Currents exhibition for the second consecutive year and was named to both the 2025 Opry NextStage and CMT Next Women of Country classes.
Carter Faith reached a career milestone this year with an ACM Album of the Year nomination for her debut album Cherry Valley and a performance during the awards show. The nomination made the project the first debut album to earn a nomination in the category since Chris Stapleton’s album Traveller in 2016. Alongside acclaim from Billboard, Stereogum, NPR Music, The Hollywood Reporter and more, Cherry Valley was also named Rolling Stone’s best country album of the year and landed at No. 17 on the outlet’s Best 100 Albums of 2025 list. Faith recently expanded the project with Cherry Valley Forever, featuring five new songs released during the eligibility period. She is currently on the road with Post Malone on his “Big Ass Stadium Tour” and will also perform select dates with Chris Stapleton, Kacey Musgraves and Shaboozey this year. Her breakout year has quickly established Faith among the genre’s rising artists.
Vincent Mason further established himself as one of country music’s fastest-rising new artists. His 14-track debut album, There I Go, was released in November 2025 and features the Platinum-certified “Hell Is A Dance Floor” and Gold-certified “Damned If I Do.” The tracks have helped Mason surpass 500 million career streams, while “Damned If I Do” also reached the Billboard Hot 100 and Hot Country Songs chart. Mason made his national television debut on The Kelly Clarkson Show and Today before making his late-night debut on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. He was also named one of four country artists in Spotify’s 2026 Artists to Watch program and earned his first ACM New Male Artist of the Year nomination. Mason kicked off 2026 with his sold-out “There I Go Tour,” performed at CMC Rocks in Australia, toured internationally with Jordan Davis and joined Morgan Wallen for select stadium dates. He also expanded his reach with chart success in Canada, the UK and Australia.
Max McNown emerged as one of music’s fastest-growing crossover artists over the past year. His Platinum-certified “A Lot More Free” has garnered more than 400 million streams and earned McNown his Billboard Hot 100 debut and a spot atop Billboard’s Emerging Artists chart. McNown’s follow-up track, “Better Me For You (Brown Eyes),” a single from his 2025 sophomore album, Night Diving (The Cost of Growing Up), has achieved double Platinum certification, gained more than 500 million streams and spent 36 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 26. The single also reached No. 6 at country radio, Top 30 at Pop and No. 8 at Hot AC Radio, further showcasing McNown’s multi-format appeal. He also made his television debut on The Kelly Clarkson Show. McNown continues to build his audience online, where he currently has more than 2.6 million TikTok followers.
Hudson Westbrook has quickly made his mark in country music since releasing his debut single “Take It Slow” in 2024. The Texas native followed the release with a string of hits, including Texas radio chart-topper “Two Way Drive” and his first country radio No. 1, “House Again.” Westbrook released his 17-track debut album Texas Forever, which landed in the Top 10, before following the project with his Exclusive EP. In less than two years of releasing original music, Westbrook has amassed nearly 1.5 billion global streams and earned his first ACM New Male Artist of the Year nomination. He was also named to the 2026 Opry NextStage class and earned recognition from Billboard, Spotify, Country Now, Holler, The Country Wire and SiriusXM. On the road, Westbrook has sold out headline shows across the country and performed alongside George Strait, Parker McCollum, Morgan Wallen, Bailey Zimmerman, Midland and Ian Munsick.
AMERICANAFEST Slates Keynote Conversation & Dualtone Records Showcase
/by Lorie HollabaughBrandi Carlile & Houndmouth
Legendary songwriter Bernie Taupin and Grammy-winning artist Brandi Carlile have been announced for the 2026 AMERICANAFEST Keynote Conversation on Sept. 16 during the AMERICANAFEST Business Conference in Nashville.
Without a moderator, Taupin and Carlile will explore the creative process, songwriting, artistic longevity, collaboration and the enduring power of authentic storytelling . The pairing reflects a unique artistic connection, as Carlile and Taupin have collaborated through their work with Elton John, most recently co-writing the Grammy-nominated song “Never Too Late.” Together they represent two generations of master songwriters whose shared respect for craft, vulnerability and musical exploration will make for an extraordinary conversation.
“Bernie Taupin’s contribution to songwriting is immeasurable,” says Jed Hilly, Executive Director of the Americana Music Association. “His words have become part of our collective musical vocabulary, inspiring generations of artists. Pairing Bernie with Brandi Carlile – one of today’s most fearless and celebrated songwriters – creates an extraordinary opportunity to witness two remarkable creative minds discussing the art of songwriting, the responsibility of storytelling, and the evolution of American music.”
Dualtone Records will also kick off its 25th anniversary celebration during AMERICANAFEST with two special events: the panel discussion Dualtone at 25: Keep Pressing On on Sept. 16 and Dualtone’s official 25th Anniversary Bash showcase on Sept. 17.
On September 16, AMERICANAFEST will host the panel discussion Dualtone at 25: Keep Pressing On, a forward-looking conversation about the evolution of independent music through artist development. Moderated by World Cafe host Raina Douris, the panel will reflect on the label’s journey over the past quarter century while exploring how independent labels continue to build meaningful, sustainable careers in an ever-changing music landscape. Joining Douris will be Dualtone Records Co-Founder Scott Robinson, Dualtone General Manager and SVP of Artist Development Whitaker Elledge, SVP of Promotion and Strategy Julie Muncy, The Team’s Keith Levy and Dualtone recording artist Aubory Bugg discussing the label’s artist-first philosophy, the importance of long-term creative partnerships, and what the future holds for independent music.
On Sept. 17, Dualtone’s 25th Anniversary Bash will take over The Basement East beginning at 7 p.m. as the label’s official AmericanaFest showcase. The evening will feature performances by Houndmouth, Shakey Graves, The Brook & The Bluff, Langhorne Slim, Futurebirds, Abraham Alexander, Aubory Bugg and special guests.
Revered Musician & Producer Tommy Detamore Passes At 70
/by Lorie HollabaughRenowned pedal steel player, engineer and producer Tommy Detamore passed away on Aug. 5. He was 70.
The Charlottesville, Virginia native played guitar in local bands through high school and college and in 1981 moved to Texas to play steel guitar with Darrell McCall. A year later he joined Moe Bandy‘s band, playing steel guitar and touring across the U.S and internationally for nearly a decade, and making numerous radio and TV appearances including The Grand Ole Opry, Hee Haw, Nashville Now and New Country, among others.
As a producer, Detamore had a number of hits on the Americana and Texas Music charts, including the No. 1 singles “Lucky Arms” and “Your Heart Turned Left (& I Was on the Right)” for Jason Allen. He produced, mixed and mastered over 150 albums, and played on over 300 projects. Throughout his over 30-year career, he worked with dozens of artists including Ray Price, Micky Dolenz, Ronnie Milsap, Johnny Bush, Jim Lauderdale, Doug Sahm, The Texas Tornados, Gary P. Nunn, Augie Meyers, Robert Earl Keen, Sunny Sweeney, Rick Trevino, Raul Malo, Kevin Fowler, The Derailers, Gary Nicholson, and many more.
He was also a featured performer in the classic country show San Antonio Rose Live which ran from 2009-2012 at the Aztec Theatre on the Riverwalk in San Antonio. Detamore owned and operated Cherry Ridge Studio in Floresville, Texas since 1991. He was a member of the Steel Guitar Hall of Fame, and was honored at the Cowtown Society of Western Music ceremony in Wichita Falls, Texas on July 25 with the Hero of Western Swing award.
He is survived by his wife Sandra and son Thomas.
BREAKING: Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Announces 2026 Inductees
/by Lauryn SinkThe Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame (NaSHOF) revealed its Class of 2026 inductees this morning (Aug. 11) at a press conference on Music Row. It was announced that Taylor Swift, Lyle Lovett, Bruce Channel, Shawn Camp and Lee Thomas Miller will become members of the esteemed Hall.
The five electees will join the 254 previously inducted members of the organization when they are formally inducted during the invitation-only 56th Anniversary Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Gala later this year.
The news was shared today by Mark Ford, the organization’s executive director at Belmont University’s R. Milton and Denice Johnson Center.
“This is always one of the most anticipated days on our calendar – the annual reveal of our incoming class,” says Ford. “We’re excited to once again add new names to a legendary list that began more than a half century ago.”
Ford introduced each member of the new class during a press conference. Camp and Miller were elected in the contemporary songwriter category; Swift in the contemporary songwriter/artist category; Channel as the veteran songwriter, and Lovett as the veteran songwriter/artist.
Below is bio information for each inductee, provided by the NaSHOF:
SHAWN CAMP [electee – contemporary songwriter category]
Arkansas native Shawn Camp grew up on a farm outside of Perryville. He picked up a guitar at age five and by age 20 had moved to Nashville, where he found work in the late ’80s as a fiddle player for The Osborne Brothers, Jerry Reed, Shelby Lynne, Alan Jackson, and Trisha Yearwood. After charting with a pair of self-penned singles in 1993 as a Warner Bros. artist, Shawn earned his first #1 hits as a songwriter in 1998 with “Two Piña Coladas” by Garth Brooks and “How Long Gone” by Brooks & Dunn. Other Country hits soon followed, including “Would You Go With Me” by Josh Turner, “Nobody But Me” by Blake Shelton, and “River Of Love” by George Strait. In addition to writing “A Beautiful Time,” the title track of Willie Nelson’s 2023 Grammy-winning album, Shawn has penned numerous Bluegrass hits, including “Travelin’ Teardrop Blues” and “My Love Will Not Change” by The Del McCoury Band, “Don’t Be Calling Me (At 4AM)” by Billy Strings, and “Sis Draper,” which was a #1 hit for Ricky Skaggs in 2005 and #1 again in 2026 for Shawn himself. He is a 2025 inductee into the Arkansas Country Music Hall of Fame.
LEE THOMAS MILLER [electee – contemporary songwriter category]
Kentucky native Lee Thomas Miller was raised on a tobacco farm in Nicholasville. Though his parents didn’t play music, his uncle did, and by age 11, Lee had absorbed that love of music – learning to play guitar, piano, and violin. Graduating from Eastern Kentucky University in 1990 with a degree in Music Theory and Composition, Lee moved to Nashville in June 1991. Five years later, he signed with Hamstein Music, and after early cuts from Ken Mellons and Mindy McCready, it was Joe Nichols who provided Lee with his first chart-topping success – 2002’s Grammy-nominated “The Impossible.” Following the singles “I Just Wanna Be Mad” by Terri Clark and “The World” by Brad Paisley (one of more than 20 Paisley cuts), Lee enjoyed a banner year in 2009 as “You’re Gonna Miss This” by Trace Adkins earned the ACM Single of the Year and “In Color” by Jamey Johnson earned the ACM Song of the Year. Though both were Grammy nominated, “You’re Gonna Miss This” was also 2009 ASCAP Country Song of the Year and 2008 NSAI Song of the Year while “In Color” was the 2009 CMA Song of the Year. Other hits from Lee’s resume include “Nothin’ To Die For” and “Southern Girl” by Tim McGraw, “Whiskey And You” by Chris Stapleton, “It Ain’t My Fault” by Brothers Osborne, and “It Matters To Her” by Scotty McCreery.
BRUCE CHANNEL [electee – veteran songwriter category]
Texas native Bruce Channel was born in Jacksonville but spent much of his youth in nearby Grapevine. As a teenager in the late 1950s, he began singing for local dances. In 1959 he co-wrote his future smash “Hey! Baby!,” which he re-recorded for a Fort Worth indie label. When the label sold the master to Mercury Records, its reissue on the label’s Smash Records imprint made the song a million-selling hit (#1 Pop / #2 R&B) in 1962. Also recorded by José Feliciano, Ringo Starr, and Conway Twitty, the song later became a Country hit for Anne Murray, a U.K. hit for DJ Ötzi, and was featured prominently in the 1987 film Dirty Dancing. Since moving to Nashville in 1978, Bruce’s credits as a songwriter include “Stand Up” by Mel McDaniel (also a Gospel hit for The Kingsmen), as well as the #1 songs “Party Time” by T.G. Sheppard, “Don’t Worry ’Bout Me Baby” by Janie Fricke and “As Long As I’m Rockin’ With You” by John Conlee. His collaborations with Kieran Kane yielded Kane’s artist singles “You’re The Best,” “It’s You,” and “Gonna Have A Party” (notably covered by Alabama). Additionally, “Rockin’ Little Christmas” has been cut by co-writer Deborah Allen and also Brooks & Dunn. In 2011, Bruce was inducted into the Texas Heritage Songwriters Hall of Fame.
TAYLOR SWIFT [electee – contemporary songwriter/artist category]
Born in Pennsylvania, Taylor Swift began writing songs and playing guitar as a pre-teen. Relocating with her family to Hendersonville, TN, in 2004, she signed with Sony/ATV Tree Music Publishing, making her – at age 14 – the youngest writer in that company’s history. She soon signed with Big Machine Records, which in 2006 released her self-titled debut album that included “Teardrops On My Guitar” (2008 BMI Country Song of the Year). Her follow-up project, Fearless, became the most-awarded Country album of all time and featured the singles “White Horse” (2010 Grammy for Best Country Song), “Love Story” (2009 BMI Country Song of the Year; 2010 BMI Pop Song of the Year), and “You Belong With Me” (2010 BMI Country Song of the Year). More hits followed on Taylor’s path to superstardom, including “Mean” (2012 Grammy for Best Country Song), “Blank Space,” “All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (The Short Film)” (2023 Grammy for Best Music Video), “Anti-Hero,” and “Cruel Summer.” In 2017, her solo-written “Better Man” by Little Big Town, was Grammy-nominated and earned the CMA Song of the Year. Writing or co-writing every song across her 12 studio projects, Taylor is the only artist in Grammy Award history to win Album of the Year four times (2010, 2016, 2021, 2024). Other honors include BMI Country Songwriter of the Year (2010), BMI Pop Songwriter of the Year (2015, 2016, 2019, 2024, 2025, 2026), NSAI Songwriter/Artist of the Year (2007, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015), and NSAI Songwriter/Artist Of The Decade 2010-2020. In 2026, she became the youngest female inductee into the Songwriters Hall of Fame (NY), and now becomes NaSHOF’s youngest inductee ever.
LYLE LOVETT [electee – veteran songwriter/artist category]
Houston-born Lyle Lovett was raised in nearby Klein, TX, a small town named for his great-grandfather. Lyle earned degrees in journalism and German from Texas A&M University, then spent the next few years playing clubs and establishing himself in the area’s Folk scene. Traveling abroad in Luxembourg, he met the players who would become the nucleus of his Large Band. In 1984, he and the band recorded a demo, and by 1986, he was signed to MCA Records. Lyle’s witty lyrics and eclectic musical style soon earned critical acclaim, as well as the Top 20 singles “Cowboy Man,” “Give Back My Heart,” “Why I Don’t Know,” “God Will,” and the Grammy-nominated “She’s No Lady.” Other songs from his pen include the Rock hit “You’ve Been So Good Up To Now,” the Bluegrass hit “L.A. County” (by New Vintage), and the Alternative hits “Private Conversation,” “You Can’t Resist It” and “My Baby Don’t Tolerate.” He was honored as the inaugural recipient of the AMA’s Trailblazer Award in 2007. In 2011, he was named Texas State Musician. In 2012, he was inducted into the Texas Heritage Songwriters Hall of Fame. In 2019, he was inducted into the Austin City Limits Hall of Fame.
2026 MusicRow Awards Nominees For Discovery Artist Of The Year
/by MusicRow StaffFollowing the announcement of this year’s nominees for the 38th annual MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank, we take a closer look at the Discovery Artist of the Year category.
This category honors a Nashville developing artist who has demonstrated the most promise of future success during the eligibility period.
This year’s winners will be announced online on all MusicRow platforms on Wednesday, Sept. 2.
Click here to see the full list of MusicRow Awards nominees.
Winners are determined solely by MusicRow Magazine subscribers. Voting is now open and closes on Aug. 14 at 5:00 p.m. To receive a ballot to vote in the MusicRow Awards, become a MusicRow subscriber here.
Hailing from Livingston, Texas, Laci Kaye Booth, who recently signed to Lost Highway Records, grew up inspired by the sounds of Merle Haggard and Patsy Cline. After moving to Music City, she released her self-titled debut record in 2021, followed by 2024’s The Loneliest Girl In The World, which appeared on the Los Angeles Times’ list of the best albums of the year. Named as a MusicRow 2026 Next Big Thing, Spotify Artists to Watch for 2026 and CMT’s Next Women of Country, Booth will release her third album, Love Ain’t For The Faint Of Heart, on Sept. 18. Booth has previewed the Ben West-produced project with recent singles “Ethereal Redneck Shit” and “Pathetic.” She has spent time on the road with Ella Langley, Parker McCollum, Megan Moroney, Marcus King Band and more. Last year, she made her Grand Ole Opry debut, and recently she made an appearance during CMA Fest at Nissan Stadium’s Platform Stage. Later this year, she will join Langley and Brad Paisley for select dates.
Alabama-born artist-writer Kashus Culpepper grew up a student and reverent purveyor of Southern music, singing in church as young as five years old. In 2020, he picked up a guitar and began learning cover songs to play at barrack bonfires in Rota, Spain during his deployment with the Navy. Culpepper began making a name in dive bars up and down the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Since signing with Big Loud Records, he has joined Leon Bridges, Sierra Ferrell, Darius Rucker, Niall Horan, Eric Church, Shaboozey, Jelly Roll, Thomas Rhett and Wyatt Flores on tour along with his own headline dates. Kulpepper has been named to the GRAMMY.com’s 25 Artists to Watch in 2025, 2025 Variety Power of Young Hollywood Impact Report, Opry NextStage Class of 2025, 2025 Amazon Music Bonfire Artist to Watch, Apple Music’s February 2025 Country Riser of the Month, 2025 Pandora Country Artist to Watch, Martin Artist Showcase Class of 2025, MusicRow’s 2026 Next Big Thing list and more. He released his debut album, Act 1, on Jan. 23 and the addendum, Act I: Summer Nights, earlier this summer.
With more than 8.7 million social media followers, BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville recording artist Alexandra Kay first gained national attention as a cast member on Netflix’s Westside. Since then, she has earned recognition from People, American Songwriter and Billboard, among others. Her 2023 debut project, All I’ve Ever Known, reached No. 1 on the iTunes All Genre and Country charts globally and landed in the top 10 on Billboard’s Current Country Album, Emerging Artist and HeatSeeker charts. Last year, Kay released her sophomore album, Second Wind, which reached No. 1 on the iTunes Country Album chart, and embarked on three headlining tours with multiple sold-out dates. She has shared the stage with artists including Jelly Roll, Brad Paisley and Tim McGraw. Named a 2026 MusicRow Next Big Thing, her debut single, “Straight For The Heart,” ranked among country radio’s most-added songs upon impact, placing her alongside Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood in the top 5 for most first-week stations by a debut solo female artist. Last year, Kay opened her flagship coffee shop, The Coffee Girl, in her hometown of Waterloo, Illinois.
Texas native Braxton Keith started his musical journey early, learning to play piano in kindergarten. He decided to pursue music in college and launched his career touring his home state in support of artists including Randall King and Triston Marez while making trips to Music City. Earlier this year, Keith released his debut album, Real Damn Deal, via Warner Records Nashville, co-writing 10 of the project’s 15 tracks. The collection includes “Little Bit by Little Bit,” “I Ain’t Tryin’” and “I Own This Bar.” Named one of 2026’s Artists to Watch by Amazon Music, Rolling Stone, MusicRow and more, Keith is continuing a year of touring and new music releases. In 2025, he made his Grand Ole Opry debut and earned his first RIAA Gold certification for “Cozy.” He is set to perform more than 130 shows this year, including appearances at fairs and festivals across the country, before launching his headlining “Real Damn Deal Tour.” Keith will also join Tucker Wetmore and Gavin Adcock for select dates this fall.
Texas-born singer-songwriter and guitarist Ty Myers began writing and performing at a young age, developing a sound rooted in country, Southern rock, soul and blues. The 18-year-old released his debut album, The Select, in 2025, featuring the Platinum-certified singles “Ends of the Earth,” “Thought It Was Love” and “Drinkin’ Alone,” with “Ends of the Earth” reaching the top 10 at country radio. Myers followed the release with his 73-date “The Select Tour” before returning in 2026 with his sophomore album, Heavy On The Soul. Recorded at the historic FAME Recording Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, the project marked his first album at the renowned studio. Along the way, Myers has been featured by Variety, People, the Los Angeles Times and Rolling Stone, appeared on Billboard’s “21 Under 21” list, Spotify’s RADAR program, and was named a MusicRow 2026 Next Big Thing. He has amassed more than 1.4 billion global streams, made his Austin City Limits debut, supported Luke Combs on tour and recently launched his headlining “The Legal Tour.”
Knoxville, Tennessee, native Emily Ann Roberts began performing on local stages before gaining national attention as the runner-up on Blake Shelton’s team during The Voice in 2015. Since then, she has released her debut album, Can’t Hide Country, followed by the EP Memory Lane. Spotlighted by Billboard, MusicRow and People, Can’t Hide Country showcases Roberts’ blend of traditional country and bluegrass influences. She has since amassed more than 146 million global streams and has made numerous appearances on the Grand Ole Opry stage. Roberts has also toured with Blake Shelton, Cody Johnson, Megan Moroney, Jamey Johnson and more, and is on the road with Thomas Rhett throughout 2026. Along the way, she has been named an ACM New Female Artist of the Year nominee, the AIMP Nashville Rising Artist-Writer of the Year, a member of the Opry NextStage and MusicRow Next Big Thing Class of 2026, a CMT Next Woman of Country and a Nashville Briefing Artist to Watch. Roberts is also featured in Walt Disney World’s Country Bear Musical Jamboree.
Spotify To Add Label For AI-Generated Artist Identities
/by Lauryn SinkSpotify will begin to label AI-generated artists with an “AI Persona” badge in mid-September.
Starting today, artists can indicate via Spotify for Artists if their profile represents an AI persona. The company will also independently review profiles and identify those that present themselves through their name and visual imagery as photorealistic, AI-generated individuals, starting with profiles that have reached specific reach thresholds.
Listeners will see the AI persona badge on artist profiles, in search results and alongside tracks in playlists. By tapping the badge, listeners can see whether artists have self-disclosed their AI persona status or if it was labeled by Spotify. By default, music from AI personas is not included in Spotify’s editorial or personalized recommendations. It only appears if users actively follow an AI persona.
Spotify has already introduced additional features to help users determine if AI was used in the creative process including “AI Song Info,” “SongDNA” and more.