Nate Towne
Nate Towne has dedicated over 19 years to the music industry. As a Partner at WME, he guides the daily touring, television, literary and sponsorship opportunities for several well-known artists including Brad Paisley, Brantley Gilbert, Brett Young, Casey Donahew, Chris Young, Colbie Caillat, Corey Kent, Dasha, Dylan Scott, Meghan Patrick and Scotty McCreery among others.
Towne’s exceptional expertise in the industry has earned him multiple accolades, including being recognized as a distinguished executive on both Billboard’s Country Power Players and MusicRow‘s InCharge lists, as well as being a two-time nominee for CMA’s prestigious Agent of the Year Award.
Photo: Courtesy of Towne
MusicRow: Where did you grow up? Where did you spend your childhood?
I grew up in a suburb of Minneapolis called Plymouth, Minnesota. Pretty normal suburban upbringing. Late eighties, early nineties—right when Billy Ray Cyrus broke—and that was really the start of my love of country music because of my parents.
Did you already want to work in that world, or were you just a fan?
I had no idea it could be a job. I always loved going to concerts, whether at the local arena or the state fair. But I didn’t realize there was a business behind it until high school. I got involved in the music department—choir, theater, the arts—and played a lot of music. I wound up managing or booking local bands or choir groups, whatever needed doing, and that gave me my first sense that maybe there was a real career there.
How did you actually start down that path?
Once I realized I loved music but wasn’t ever going to be good enough or interested enough to be on stage, I started looking at what came after high school. I found a few colleges that had actual music business programs—this was the early 2000s—and once I knew I could go to school for the business of music, I was sold. I researched every program I could find, visited as many as possible, and ended up at a small art school in central Illinois called Millikin University in Decatur. They had a music business program I dove into headfirst.
Photo: Courtesy of Towne
Tell me about college.
Those programs have come a long way since, but mine was a Bachelor of Music. I was learning copyright law, record labels and marketing, while also taking music theory, piano lessons, conducting. It was a mix of performance-related stuff with some business sprinkled in.
I stayed really active in extracurriculars. The big one was our student-run record label. I joined it and ended up running it my last couple years. We worked with student ensembles and bands: recording projects, releasing them, marketing them, selling them at events. That was my first real hands-on experience.
When it came time for an internship, I wanted to go back to Minneapolis. I found a small boutique booking agency that focused on acts for college campuses. That was my first look at the booking world. There were maybe four or five employees, and they threw me right in. I spent most of the summer cold-calling student activity boards to pitch our artists. Not my favorite part, but it was a crash course and a great learning experience.
Photo: Courtesy of Towne
Tell me about postgrad.
I set my sights on Nashville. Growing up in Minneapolis and then going to school in a small town, Nashville felt like an approachable city. It also lined up with my love of country music. Back then it was very much a country town, which appealed to me. I’d visited once while looking at schools and remembered falling in love with it.
I took my spring break and reached out to the Nashville Chamber of Commerce. They had a Music Row business directory with every company that was a member. It listed phone numbers and websites, so I started cold calling and submitting resumes, then came down for interviews.
William Morris was one of the places I connected with, along with a handful of others. A few companies even said that if I was interviewing at William Morris, they wanted to interview me too, which said a lot about the reputation of William Morris. When they offered me a job in the mailroom, that was enough. It got me to Nashville and gave me a place to start. I moved down the day after graduation.
What do you remember about your first day in the mailroom?
I had no idea what to expect. I showed up in a suit—I thought you dressed for the job you wanted—and then saw a guy in a Livestrong shirt, bracelets and jeans. I thought, “Alright, I like this place.” It was the music business.
Photo: Courtesy of Towne
The job was exactly what it sounded like: pushing a mail cart, setting up for meetings, stocking the fridge, doing dishes, getting coffee, whatever was needed. But you also got to know everyone. One of the best parts was meeting so many people from different places who were also brand new and didn’t know anyone. You instantly bonded. It was a great way to make friends and watch everyone grow from there.
What was next for you?
I stayed in the mailroom for a while, then moved into the contracts department. I think we were still issuing contracts by hand, even carbon copies at first.
From there I followed the typical agency path. I went to work for the agent Lane Wilson, who became an early mentor and is still a colleague and friend. After a year with him, I worked for another agent, Keith Miller, for a couple of years. He was booking the Northeast at the time. We book by sales territory, and an opening came up for the smaller venues in the Northeast. By then I’d been at the company about three and a half years. Between my experience with Keith and my understanding of the markets, I got the opportunity to take that on.
I started booking small theaters and clubs for the roster. The longer I was there, the more responsibility I was given—additional territories, larger venues, whatever came next. I eventually added Canada, booking much of our work there, and then moved over to the Midwest and Big Sky regions, handling arenas, amphitheaters, and larger festivals.
Photo: Courtesy of Towne
A number of years ago, Keith Miller retired from the Northeast, and I was able to step back in and take over that territory. All the while I was building my own roster of clients. The first one I started working with was Scotty McCreery around 2012, and I built from there.
Eventually I transitioned out of booking territories and moved into a more client-facing role, working with my roster and supporting the team that handles the Northeast. It’s more of a leadership position now, helping with challenges and guiding that group while still managing my clients.
How have you approached building your roster?
I’ve been lucky to partner with some incredible artists, some from the very beginning. Scotty McCreery was a couple of years post–American Idol. I started working with Dylan Scott right as he got his deal at Curb. I started with Corey Kent as “Wild as Her” was taking off. And then there are others I joined later, like Brad Paisley in 2018 or 2019 and Chris Young around that same time.
For me, I want to feel like I can bring real value to someone’s career. I love the music and the artistry, but I also want to add something that might be missing or bring a fresh perspective. If it’s a brand-new client, I ask myself: who are the first five or ten calls I can make to help move things forward? If it’s an established client, I look at what they’ve done before and think about how to approach things differently or refresh the strategy. If I feel I can be creative in that way, and they’re receptive, that’s when I’m excited to be involved.
Photo: Courtesy of Towne
What is your favorite part of what you do now?
In a world that moves fast and always wants the next new thing, there’s something powerful about the live experience. No matter how hard it is to get a show from an idea to actually happening—and there are plenty of challenges—nothing motivates me more than being at the venue. It can be a 100-cap club or a 20,000-seat arena. Seeing fans connect with an artist, hearing them sing along, watching that moment happen in real time… there’s nothing like it. It makes you want to work harder on their behalf.
You mentioned some earlier, but tell me about your mentors.
There have been a lot. Keith Miller, who I worked for a couple years, played a huge role. Those were formative years—learning what it’s like to be an agent in the trenches, what great deal-making looks like, what honesty and integrity look like. Many foundational lessons came from him.
I’ve also been fortunate to work with great leaders here. Greg Oswald for many years. Rob Beckham, who brought me onto the Brad Paisley and Chris Young teams. Lane, my first boss. And now our current leadership. I’m encouraged knowing that no matter how much experience I have, there’s always someone here who has been through something I haven’t. Being able to talk to people like Brian Jones, Becky Gardenhire, Jay Williams, Joey Lee—the list goes on. The people and the knowledge base here are a big part of why I’ve stayed so long.
What’s some of the best advice you’ve ever gotten?
One thing someone told me was that it isn’t just “who you know.” It’s also what you know. Doors can open, but if you can’t carry yourself with confidence or speak intelligently about what you’re doing, it won’t matter. That was a reminder to really understand the business—how to cut great deals and how to work with people.
Photo: Courtesy of Towne
Another piece of advice was that you’re responsible for your own growth. Whether you’re new or more seasoned, like I am now, growth is up to you. You have to put in the effort and the time.
When you look back over your career, what are you most proud of?
There are certainly artist milestones I’m proud to have been part of. Watching Brad Paisley headline the O2 in London at C2C. Seeing Dylan Scott play his first sold-out arena this past spring. Watching Scotty grow from theaters to small arenas and beyond. Those are memorable moments. They’re the artist’s success—maybe I had a small hand in it—but they’re still meaningful.
For me personally, I’m proud of leading and providing counsel with honesty and integrity. And I really treasure how long I’ve been able to work with many of my clients. That they continue to trust me year after year is something I never take for granted.
Jeremy Ivey Slates New Album ‘Its Shape Will Reveal Itself’
/by Lorie HollabaughJeremy Ivey. Photo: Luke Pelletier
Singer-songwriter Jeremy Ivey will release his new album, Its Shape Will Reveal Itself, on Feb. 13 via Soggy Anvil Records.
Alongside the album announcement, Ivey has released the album’s first single, “Edge of Darkness,” a tune recorded live to one mic with wife Margo Price. The track premiered this week exclusively on Back In The Garage, an intimate music-session project founded by Soggy Anvil Label Head Luke Pelletier and his brother Tristan. Not originally intended for public consumption, the new album was recorded at Ivey’s home on a Tascam 388 reel-to-reel tape, lending it a warmth and lived-in feel.
“I have recently refurbished an old Tascam 388 reel-to-reel tape machine, so last summer and fall, I recorded some basic demos of new songs at my house. I played all the instruments except for the drums. My good buddy Dom Billett took care of that for me,” says Ivey. “At first, I had no plans or real interest in releasing any of this. But since it didn’t cost me much, I figured I had nothing to lose. The good folks at Soggy Anvil Records approached me about maybe putting it out, and in a dynamite burst of absolute elation, I said, ‘Fine.’
“There’s no big narrative or story arc, no shocking diss tracks, no hot-button political statements here,” he continues. “There’s no clickbait, tell-all gossip, no stories of guru producers meditating with monks in the Andes. It’s just a few home recordings with unsightly blemishes, slightly out of tune sleeplessness and warbling, hissing with sometimes clumsy execution. It’s called Its Shape Will Reveal Itself, and if anything, it’s honest and vulnerable.”
Its Shape Will Reveal Itself Track List:
1. “Edge of Darkess”
2. “Don’t Sleep On Your Dreams”
3. “For Someday”
4. “Modern World”
5. “Walk With Me”
6. “Just Enough”
7. “Love Is A Traveler”
8. “Pieces of Days”
9. “Little Bird”
My Music Row Story: WME’s Nate Towne
/by LB CantrellNate Towne
Nate Towne has dedicated over 19 years to the music industry. As a Partner at WME, he guides the daily touring, television, literary and sponsorship opportunities for several well-known artists including Brad Paisley, Brantley Gilbert, Brett Young, Casey Donahew, Chris Young, Colbie Caillat, Corey Kent, Dasha, Dylan Scott, Meghan Patrick and Scotty McCreery among others.
Towne’s exceptional expertise in the industry has earned him multiple accolades, including being recognized as a distinguished executive on both Billboard’s Country Power Players and MusicRow‘s InCharge lists, as well as being a two-time nominee for CMA’s prestigious Agent of the Year Award.
Photo: Courtesy of Towne
MusicRow: Where did you grow up? Where did you spend your childhood?
I grew up in a suburb of Minneapolis called Plymouth, Minnesota. Pretty normal suburban upbringing. Late eighties, early nineties—right when Billy Ray Cyrus broke—and that was really the start of my love of country music because of my parents.
Did you already want to work in that world, or were you just a fan?
I had no idea it could be a job. I always loved going to concerts, whether at the local arena or the state fair. But I didn’t realize there was a business behind it until high school. I got involved in the music department—choir, theater, the arts—and played a lot of music. I wound up managing or booking local bands or choir groups, whatever needed doing, and that gave me my first sense that maybe there was a real career there.
How did you actually start down that path?
Once I realized I loved music but wasn’t ever going to be good enough or interested enough to be on stage, I started looking at what came after high school. I found a few colleges that had actual music business programs—this was the early 2000s—and once I knew I could go to school for the business of music, I was sold. I researched every program I could find, visited as many as possible, and ended up at a small art school in central Illinois called Millikin University in Decatur. They had a music business program I dove into headfirst.
Photo: Courtesy of Towne
Tell me about college.
Those programs have come a long way since, but mine was a Bachelor of Music. I was learning copyright law, record labels and marketing, while also taking music theory, piano lessons, conducting. It was a mix of performance-related stuff with some business sprinkled in.
I stayed really active in extracurriculars. The big one was our student-run record label. I joined it and ended up running it my last couple years. We worked with student ensembles and bands: recording projects, releasing them, marketing them, selling them at events. That was my first real hands-on experience.
When it came time for an internship, I wanted to go back to Minneapolis. I found a small boutique booking agency that focused on acts for college campuses. That was my first look at the booking world. There were maybe four or five employees, and they threw me right in. I spent most of the summer cold-calling student activity boards to pitch our artists. Not my favorite part, but it was a crash course and a great learning experience.
Photo: Courtesy of Towne
Tell me about postgrad.
I set my sights on Nashville. Growing up in Minneapolis and then going to school in a small town, Nashville felt like an approachable city. It also lined up with my love of country music. Back then it was very much a country town, which appealed to me. I’d visited once while looking at schools and remembered falling in love with it.
I took my spring break and reached out to the Nashville Chamber of Commerce. They had a Music Row business directory with every company that was a member. It listed phone numbers and websites, so I started cold calling and submitting resumes, then came down for interviews.
William Morris was one of the places I connected with, along with a handful of others. A few companies even said that if I was interviewing at William Morris, they wanted to interview me too, which said a lot about the reputation of William Morris. When they offered me a job in the mailroom, that was enough. It got me to Nashville and gave me a place to start. I moved down the day after graduation.
What do you remember about your first day in the mailroom?
I had no idea what to expect. I showed up in a suit—I thought you dressed for the job you wanted—and then saw a guy in a Livestrong shirt, bracelets and jeans. I thought, “Alright, I like this place.” It was the music business.
Photo: Courtesy of Towne
The job was exactly what it sounded like: pushing a mail cart, setting up for meetings, stocking the fridge, doing dishes, getting coffee, whatever was needed. But you also got to know everyone. One of the best parts was meeting so many people from different places who were also brand new and didn’t know anyone. You instantly bonded. It was a great way to make friends and watch everyone grow from there.
What was next for you?
I stayed in the mailroom for a while, then moved into the contracts department. I think we were still issuing contracts by hand, even carbon copies at first.
From there I followed the typical agency path. I went to work for the agent Lane Wilson, who became an early mentor and is still a colleague and friend. After a year with him, I worked for another agent, Keith Miller, for a couple of years. He was booking the Northeast at the time. We book by sales territory, and an opening came up for the smaller venues in the Northeast. By then I’d been at the company about three and a half years. Between my experience with Keith and my understanding of the markets, I got the opportunity to take that on.
I started booking small theaters and clubs for the roster. The longer I was there, the more responsibility I was given—additional territories, larger venues, whatever came next. I eventually added Canada, booking much of our work there, and then moved over to the Midwest and Big Sky regions, handling arenas, amphitheaters, and larger festivals.
Photo: Courtesy of Towne
A number of years ago, Keith Miller retired from the Northeast, and I was able to step back in and take over that territory. All the while I was building my own roster of clients. The first one I started working with was Scotty McCreery around 2012, and I built from there.
Eventually I transitioned out of booking territories and moved into a more client-facing role, working with my roster and supporting the team that handles the Northeast. It’s more of a leadership position now, helping with challenges and guiding that group while still managing my clients.
How have you approached building your roster?
I’ve been lucky to partner with some incredible artists, some from the very beginning. Scotty McCreery was a couple of years post–American Idol. I started working with Dylan Scott right as he got his deal at Curb. I started with Corey Kent as “Wild as Her” was taking off. And then there are others I joined later, like Brad Paisley in 2018 or 2019 and Chris Young around that same time.
For me, I want to feel like I can bring real value to someone’s career. I love the music and the artistry, but I also want to add something that might be missing or bring a fresh perspective. If it’s a brand-new client, I ask myself: who are the first five or ten calls I can make to help move things forward? If it’s an established client, I look at what they’ve done before and think about how to approach things differently or refresh the strategy. If I feel I can be creative in that way, and they’re receptive, that’s when I’m excited to be involved.
Photo: Courtesy of Towne
What is your favorite part of what you do now?
In a world that moves fast and always wants the next new thing, there’s something powerful about the live experience. No matter how hard it is to get a show from an idea to actually happening—and there are plenty of challenges—nothing motivates me more than being at the venue. It can be a 100-cap club or a 20,000-seat arena. Seeing fans connect with an artist, hearing them sing along, watching that moment happen in real time… there’s nothing like it. It makes you want to work harder on their behalf.
You mentioned some earlier, but tell me about your mentors.
There have been a lot. Keith Miller, who I worked for a couple years, played a huge role. Those were formative years—learning what it’s like to be an agent in the trenches, what great deal-making looks like, what honesty and integrity look like. Many foundational lessons came from him.
I’ve also been fortunate to work with great leaders here. Greg Oswald for many years. Rob Beckham, who brought me onto the Brad Paisley and Chris Young teams. Lane, my first boss. And now our current leadership. I’m encouraged knowing that no matter how much experience I have, there’s always someone here who has been through something I haven’t. Being able to talk to people like Brian Jones, Becky Gardenhire, Jay Williams, Joey Lee—the list goes on. The people and the knowledge base here are a big part of why I’ve stayed so long.
What’s some of the best advice you’ve ever gotten?
One thing someone told me was that it isn’t just “who you know.” It’s also what you know. Doors can open, but if you can’t carry yourself with confidence or speak intelligently about what you’re doing, it won’t matter. That was a reminder to really understand the business—how to cut great deals and how to work with people.
Photo: Courtesy of Towne
Another piece of advice was that you’re responsible for your own growth. Whether you’re new or more seasoned, like I am now, growth is up to you. You have to put in the effort and the time.
When you look back over your career, what are you most proud of?
There are certainly artist milestones I’m proud to have been part of. Watching Brad Paisley headline the O2 in London at C2C. Seeing Dylan Scott play his first sold-out arena this past spring. Watching Scotty grow from theaters to small arenas and beyond. Those are memorable moments. They’re the artist’s success—maybe I had a small hand in it—but they’re still meaningful.
For me personally, I’m proud of leading and providing counsel with honesty and integrity. And I really treasure how long I’ve been able to work with many of my clients. That they continue to trust me year after year is something I never take for granted.
3rd & Lindsley To Celebrate 35th Anniversary With Special Show
/by Lorie HollabaughNashville mainstay 3rd and Lindsley is celebrating its 35th anniversary as an integral part of the Nashville club scene with a special show on Jan. 3 featuring performances from Jack Pearson, Gary Nicholson, Jonell Mosser and Ashley Cleveland.
3rd & Lindsley opened its doors in 1991, when there was no internet, no cell phones, and they booked acts over the phone in the afternoons. The club’s first weekend featured the Bobby Bradford Blues Band and Deford Bailey Jr., both of whom sold out the 220-capacity corner side-door stage. Jonell Mosser & Enough Rope, Gary Nicholson & The Change, Pearson, and Cleveland were among the first to take the stage and lend the venue credibility with their artistry and musicianship.
More information on the special anniversary show including tickets, can be found here.
Industry Ink: Kenny Chesney, Scotty McCreery & Dustin Lynch, Randy Rogers, More
/by Lorie HollabaughKenny Chesney Tapes Conversations with Our Curator Podcast At Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music
Kenny Chesney. Photo: Danny Clinch
Kenny Chesney recently headed to Monmouth University in New Jersey to tape a special edition of their Conversations with Our Curator series with the Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music Director of Curatorial Affairs and Director of Public History Melissa Ziobro. With the actual Center in the final stages of construction for their late spring 2026 opening, the recent Country Music Hall of Fame inductee combined the book talk with touring the facility before it was ready for installations.
Scotty McCreery & Dustin Lynch Receive Fargo Force Jerseys During ‘Two for the Road Tour’
Scotty McCreery and Dustin Lynch with Scheels Arena staffers. Photo: Lily Voges/Scheels Arena
Triple Tigers Records artist Scotty McCreery and Broken Bow Records artist Dustin Lynch were presented with Fargo Force hockey jerseys by staffers at Scheels Arena in Fargo, North Dakota prior to their recent show there. The show was part of McCreery and Lynch’s co-headlining “Two for the Road Tour,” which took place over November and December and wrapped last Saturday in Duluth, Minnesota.
Randy Rogers Family Foundation Makes Donation To New Braunfels Christian Ministries’ Kids Club
Pictured (L-R, back row): Chelsea Rogers, Randy Rogers, Jim Wesson (CEO, New Braunfels Christian Ministries), Courtney Bukowski (RRFF Staff) and Slate Angel (RRFF Supporter). (L-R, front row): Kids from Kids Club, a program of New Braunfels Christian Ministries.
Randy Rogers, his wife Chelsea, and the Randy Rogers Family Foundation Staff personally delivered hundreds of hygiene items to the New Braunfels Christian Ministries’ Kids Club for local children on Dec. 9. Donations were gathered from fans who attended Rogers’ acoustic show at the historic Freiheit Country Store on Dec. 7. The generosity of concert goers led to the collection of nearly 1,600 much-needed items to Kids Club, including toothbrushes, pairs of socks, toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, and various other hygiene items.
Isabella Kaufman Joins Christian Barker & Co. As Associate Attorney
Isabella Kaufman and Christian Barker
Isabella Kaufman has joined Christian Barker & Co. as Associate Attorney. Kaufman previously served as a law clerk with the firm, and earned her J.D. from the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law in 2025. Her achievements include advancing to the semi-finals in Moot Court, competing nationally on the ABA National Moot Court Team, and induction into the Order of the Barristers. She also completed more than 100 pro bono hours, received the GOOD Pro-Bono Award, and gained hands-on litigation experience while clerking for a judge in Tennessee’s 16th Judicial District.
Makenzie Phipps Returns To Hometown Of Bluefield, VA For Special Honors
Photo: Bluefield Daily Telegraph / Tara Wyatt
Makenzie Phipps was recently honored by her hometown of Bluefield, Virginia, together with Southwest Virginia Community College and Graham High School in a special recognition ceremony honoring her musical talent and her unwavering community spirit. Bluefield proudly presented Phipps with the Key to the Town, the Outstanding Citizen Award, and a formal proclamation formally declaring December 6, 2025 as “Makenzie Phipps Day.”
Brad Moist Joins Integrity Music As Vice President Of A&R & Development
/by Lauryn SinkBrad Moist.
Brad Moist has joined Integrity Music as Vice President of A&R & Development. In this role, Moist will scout and develop new talent, continue to grow existing relationships with Integrity Music’s artist roster, and shape the label’s creative direction.
“I am honored to join Integrity Music and bring my background and experience to the label,” Moist says. “Blaine Barcus is an industry colleague I have admired for a long time, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to join his team. The label’s heart for helping people encounter the power of music that points to the King is paramount. With a rich history that speaks for itself and a top‑notch team, Integrity has been rebuilding its artist roster, which I am privileged to serve. I am equally excited about the future of the label and the bold steps they are willing to take to get there.”
Moist brings more than 24 years of experience in the music business. Most recently, he served as senior A&R, brand, and marketing manager for Gotee Records. He created and ran the Mono Vs Stereo imprint label at Gotee, developing The Showdown, Chasing Victory, Maylene & the Sons of Disaster and others.
“As Integrity Music continues to expand its footprint, our ability to attract talent and develop artist relationships are more important than ever,” shares Barcus, president of Integrity Music. “Brad has the broad experience in A&R, development and promotion that will make a positive impact immediately. His heart is aligned with our mission of impacting the world with excellent music that points listeners to Jesus.”
Moist will report to Barcus and lead the A&R team, consisting of Gilbert Nanlohy, Senior A&R and Global Partnerships Director, and Taylor Brady, A&R Director.
Matt McKinney Signs With Position Music
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (L-R): Mark Chipello (President, Position Music), Chandler Thurston (Position Music, A&R), Matt McKinney and Tyler Bacon (Founder & CEO, Position Music).
Matt McKinney has signed a worldwide publishing deal with Position Music, joining the Nashville based roster of Dave Cohen, Matt Geroux, Khal Yassein, Steve Solomon and Zach Skelton.
“I’m incredibly excited to be a part of this roster and team at Position moving forward in my career, and thankful to have a champion like Chandler [Thurston] in my corner as we turn a page to this exciting chapter,” shares McKinney.
Hailing from Augusta, Georgia, McKinney moved to Nashville after graduating from the University of Georgia and signed his first publishing deal with Sony Music Publishing. He has earned cuts with Jordan Davis, Elle King, Jon Pardi, Ella Langley, Tim McGraw, Ernest and more.
“I’m very excited to welcome Matt to the Position roster,” adds Thurston, A&R at Position Music. “His songwriting is honest, authentic, and genuine. He has all the qualities of a great storyteller. Can’t wait to help shape this next chapter of his career.”
“We are proud to welcome Matt McKinney to Position Music and our team is excited and ready to lean in to help unlock new opportunities for him,” says Mark Chipello, President of Position Music.
Pandora Unveils 2026 Country Artists To Watch [Exclusive]
/by Madison HahnenPandora has named its 2026 Artists To Watch-Country list.
For 11 years, Pandora has annually recognized rising country artists, continuing to change the way new music is consumed. The 10 artists that Pandora expect to have a major impact in 2026 include Atlus, Blake Whiten, Brandon Wisham, Elizabeth Nichols, Gavin Adcock, Greylan James, Jackson Wendell, Kevin Powers, Thelma & James and Zach John King.
Atlus began writing songs while working as a commercial truck driver, crafting lyrics on the road to support his family and pay for studio time. That grind helped him build a devoted underground following, now boasting millions of streams, millions of followers, and a Platinum single. His label debut EP with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, Secondhand Smoke, arrived in October, with breakout track “Devil Ain’t Done” already gaining traction.
Whiten pairs gritty authenticity with a modern edge. His breakout single “Rollin’ Stone” has topped 27 million streams on Pandora, earning him a devoted fan base and spins on Pandora’s The 615: Today’s Country. Featured on his debut EP Six Mile, the track showcases Whiten’s gift for transforming personal stories into universally resonant songs. His newest release, “Hard to Break,” continues that momentum.
At just 22, Wisham is armed with raw talent and a natural storyteller’s instinct. He wrote his very first song, “Pain Won’t Last,” at 19, a track that caught the attention of Bailey Zimmerman, who recorded it for his multi-platinum Religiously. The Album. and brought Wisham on his 2024 U.S. tour. Wisham kicked off 2025 with a string of new singles that helped earn him the title of SiriusXM Highway Find and strong support across Pandora. His latest release, “Growin’ Up,” is climbing The Highway’s Hot 30 Countdown as he continues a packed touring schedule, joining major acts like Tyler Hubbard, Lakeview, Chase Matthews, Nate Smith, Austin Snell, and landing coveted festival slots at Stagecoach and Tortuga in 2026.
Within months of moving to Nashville, Nichols racked up over a million Pandora streams across stations like Blue Sky: Country Pop. Known for her sharp wit and candid take on modern life, she first captured attention with the viral hit “I Got a New One.” Her debut EP, Tough Love, arrived in June, followed by new standouts like the emotional “Daughter” and “Little Birds.” In less than a year, Nichols has played her first live show, toured with top country artists, made her Grand Ole Opry debut, and performed at iconic venues and events such as the Bluebird Café, CMA Fest, and even the Kentucky Derby.
With more than 135 million Pandora streams and major support from The 615: Today’s Country and Country Grit, Adcock is quickly becoming the face of country rock’s resurgence. SiriusXM’s The Highway has championed five of his releases, and his explosive 2025 momentum has made him one of the genre’s fastest-rising, most talked-about newcomers. Personally selected by Morgan Wallen as direct support on his 2025 and 2026 tours, Adcock brings a high-octane blend of Southern rock grit, bold lyricism, and rowdy energy. Known for his viral breakout and electric live shows, Adcock channels the raw spirit of the South into every performance.
Since moving to Nashville eight years ago, James has become a sought-out songwriter, earning cuts from Kenny Chesney, Morgan Wallen, Cole Swindell, Darius Rucker, Blake Shelton, Bailey Zimmerman, and BRELAND, among others. His catalog includes three No. 1 hits and an ACM Song of the Year win for co-writing Jordan Davis’ smash “Next Thing You Know.” Pandora has driven more than 24 million streams across The 615 Today’s Country and Backroads, while SiriusXM’s The Highway has played seven of his songs in the past two years.
Wendell is a rising Texas singer-songwriter known for pairing heartfelt storytelling with a fresh, youthful edge. Raised in Lufkin, Texas, he wrote his first song at just 14 and has been refining his craft ever since. His music blends traditional country instrumentation with honest reflections on love, loss, and growing up—creating a sound that resonates far beyond his years. Wendell’s songs continue to find a welcoming home on Pandora, where “Devil’s Hardwoods” has received dedicated platform support.
Powers is redefining modern country as the first artist signed to Shaboozey’s American Dogwood Records, blending genre-bending production with heartfelt storytelling. Both a standout songwriter and a dynamic artist, Powers co-wrote the hit “Amen” by Shaboozey and Jelly Roll before releasing his own rising single “Move On,” which has already surpassed 8 million global streams since its September debut and is gaining momentum on Pandora. With new music coming, an EP slated for April 2026, and a spot on “The Great American Road Show Tour”, Powers is solidifying himself as one of country music’s most exciting new breakout acts.
Thelma & James, married Nashville singer-songwriters MacKenzie Porter and Jake Etheridge, are emerging leaders in country and Americana’s modern renaissance, blending rootsy instrumentation with polished, genre-stretching songwriting. The duo formed organically after an impromptu writing session and performance video that drew praise from John Mayer, Luke Combs, Brandi Carlile, and more. Their breakout song “Happy Ever After You” has earned over 17 million streams and strong Pandora support across stations like The Nashville Dive and This Year in Americana. In 2025, the pair signed with Big Loud Records and released their debut EP Starting Over.
Fusing the introspection of a roots poet with the raw edge of alt-rock, Sony Music Nashville artist King is pushing country music into bold new territory, unfiltered, emotional, and unmistakably his own. The past 18 months have been transformative for King. He released his latest EP Slow Down, toured as an opener on Morgan Wallen’s “I’m The Problem Tour,” joined Luke Bryan’s “2025 Farm Tour,” and hit the road with Dylan Scott and Gavin Adcock. In 2026, he’ll reunite with Morgan Wallen for the “Still The Problem Tour,” perform at Stagecoach, and tour with Riley Green.
Jelly Roll Invited To Be Grand Ole Opry Member
/by LB CantrellJelly Roll. Photo: Jacob Distasio
During an interview on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Jelly Roll was given the surprise of a lifetime when Craig Morgan invited him to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry via video message.
Jelly was overcome with emotion, sharing in a social media post, “I’m honored beyond words and I can’t stop pinching myself. To everyone at the Opry, y’all are like family to me.
“To Craig Morgan, no matter how many times I say it i’ll never be able to tell you enough how much this has all meant to me. I love you Joe Rogan.”
Jelly Roll made his Opry debut on November 9, 2021 and has become an Opry fan favorite and beloved by not only the fans, but many of its members over the years. Jelly Roll has dedicated his time to playing the show numerous times, mentoring many artists through the Opry NextStage program, and serving as host of Opry NextStage Live shows in Texas.
A four-time Grammy-nominated, award-winning Nashville native, Jelly Roll continues to redefine the word entertainer. With the release of his 2024 album, Beautifully Broken, he topped the Billboard 200 all-genre chart and earned his second No. 1 Billboard Country Album chart debut. Beautifully Broken features his No. 1 songs like the Grammy-nominated “I Am Not Okay,” “Liar” that dominated the country radio chart for six-straight weeks and latest chart-topper “Heart of Stone.”
With numerous nominations and award wins, eight consecutive No. 1s at country radio as well as hits on the rock and Christian charts, and a landmark appearance as the musical guest on SNL’s 50th Anniversary Season Premiere episode, Jelly Roll has solidified his place as one of music’s most authentic and powerful voices.
CAA Elevates Ella Fernandez
/by Lauryn SinkElla Fernandez.
CAA has elevated Ella Fernandez to Executive in the Global Touring department’s Marketing division.
Based in Nashville, Fernandez joined CAA in 2022 as a Tour Marketing Assistant before being promoted to Professional in 2023. She previously worked as a Social Media Assistant at iHeartMedia and graduated from Belmont University.
CAA has also promoted Jack Belkin, Carly Damelio, Rhys France, Todd Matsumoto and Sydney Weltman, all within the Global Touring department and based in various offices around the world.
Industry Ink: CMHOFM, Gabby Barrett, Lily Rose, Hope In The Hills, More
/by Lauryn SinkCMHOFM Hosts Songwriter Session With HARDY
Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum recently held a songwriter session with HARDY in the museum’s CMA Theater.
An ACM, CMA and CMA Triple Play winner, HARDY has written songs for Dierks Bentley, Florida Georgia Line, LoCash, Carrie Underwood, Morgan Wallen and more. He has earned Top 10 singles as an artist with “Truck Bed,” “One Beer” featuring Lauren Alaina and Devin Dawson, and “Wait in the Truck,” a collaboration with Lainey Wilson.
This program is presented in support of the exhibition American Currents: State of the Music, which currently features HARDY.
Gabby Barrett Co-Hosts & Performs At The 2025 National Christmas Tree Lighting
Gabby Barrett & Matthew West. Photo: Great American Media
Gabby Barrett co-hosted alongside Matthew West and performed at the 103rd National Christmas Tree Lighting. The full lineup included Alana Springsteen, The Beach Boys, Brett Young, Jon Pardi, Jillian Cardarelli and Warren Zeiders.
Barrett performed a rendition of “Mary, Did You Know?,” accompanied by the U.S. Navy Band Commodores Jazz Ensemble.
Lily Rose Earns Platinum Certification For ‘Villian’
Pictured (L-R): Claire Karliak, Nicolette McCann, Daniel Miller, Stacy Blythe, Rakiyah Marshall-England, Daira Williamson, Lily Rose, Matt Morrissey, Matt Cottingham, Austin Wells, Hunter Reynolds, Phil Day. Photo: Justice Lowe
Lily Rose was presented with a plaque commemorating the RIAA Platinum certification of her breakthrough single “Villain” last week at the Grand Ole Opry.
Written by Rose alongside Mackenzie Carpenter and Kyle Clark, produced by Matt Morrissey, and tallying more than 160 million global streams to date, “Villain” charted on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs, Country Digital Song Sales, and Emerging Artist charts.
Hope In The Hills Distributes Over Half A Million Dollars To Recovery Initiatives Across Appalachia, Welcomes Logan Terry As Executive Director
Pictured (L-R): Logan Terry (Hope in the Hills), Charlie Hatcher (Hope in the Hills), Casey Michalovic (AppalRed Legal Aid), Justin Apperson (AppalRed Legal Aid).
Hope In The Hills has presented grants to recovery organizations across Kentucky, distributing checks funded by a portion of proceeds from this year’s Healing Appalachia Music Festival. The grants totaled over $650,000, supporting recovery housing, peer services, legal aid, harm reduction, youth programming, and linkage-to-care initiatives across Kentucky, Tennessee, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, and the greater Appalachian region.
Additionally, Logan Terry has been named Executive Director of Hope In The Hills. A White House, Tennessee native, Terry began his recovery journey in 2018.
“Saturday was a really special day for us,” says Terry, Executive Director. “Presenting grants to multiple amazing Kentucky-based organizations showed exactly why Healing Appalachia exists.” He added, “This year, we distributed more than $630,000 in support of recovery programs, increasing linkages to care, music therapy, and workforce development across the region, thanks to the more than 25,000 people who showed up and believed in this work. Moments like this prove that everything we pour into the festival, all year long and on festival weekend, is worth it. We are incredibly grateful to the artists, sponsors, and volunteers who make this possible, and the next chapter for Healing Appalachia is about building on that momentum and making sure these resources continue to reach the communities that need them most.”
ECCHO Live Adds Two
Pictured (L-R): Lizzie Maranto and Anastasia Zivic Demirci.
ECCHO Live has added two members to its team. Lizzie Maranto will join as Program Manager and Anastasia Zivic Demirci is joining Marketing Manager.
“Lizzie and Anastasia bring experience that strengthens every part of our mission,” says ECCHO Live Founder Chris Lisle. “Their leadership will help us better support and advocate for the people who make live events possible.”
Gaither Music & The National Museum of African Music Host ‘Chris Blue & Friends’
Pictured (L-R): Chris Blue, Paul Sizelove (Sun Label Group & Gaither Music), Bill Jeffries (NMAAM) and Dr. Pierce (NMAAM).
Gaither Music and The National Museum of African Music recently hosted “Chris Blue & Friends,” an evening of stories and songs from Blue, Byron Chambers (Mr. TalkBox), Tamara Bodie, and members of the Gaither Vocal Band including Reggie Smith, Adam Crabb and Todd Suttles. Blue is the Season 12 winner of NBC’s The Voice and the first African American artist to win since Season 2.
The night kicked off with a VIP Q&A with Blue, followed by the unveiling of a new museum case with artifacts from the TV show, a reception and the live performances.
Sharayah Daves Signs With Anotherland
Sharayah Daves and team.
Sharayah Daves has signed an exclusive publishing deal with Anotherland.
A Teneessee native. Daves is a recent graduate of Belmont University where she studied songwriting.
“I’m beyond grateful to have found my champion in Karrie Dawley and get to partner with the Anotherland team” says Daves. “These past four years in Nashville have taught me that doors open when you stay authentic to who you are, work tirelessly on your craft, and walk in bold obedience to the Lord. There are some things only God can do, and this is one of those markers in my life.”
“From the day we met with Sharayah, we knew she carried something truly special” shares Head of Creative, Karrie Dawley. “She’s the perfect blend of talent, ambition, and a genuine willingness to learn- a combination that makes for a beautiful partnership. We can’t wait to see all the songs Sharayah creates and all the hearts she’s destined to touch.”