The Grand Ole Opry celebrated the 100th anniversary tonight of its November 28, 1925 inaugural broadcast with two shows and more than 25 Opry members. Photo: Grand Ole Opry, by Rachael Black
The Grand Ole Opry marked its 100th anniversary on Friday (Nov. 28) with a mammoth showcase of its past, present and future.
More than two-dozen acts, including seven members of the Country Music Hall of Fame, gathered to perform. The three-hour show drew laughter, tears, standing ovations and audience sing-alongs as video screens illustrated and punctuated performances with historic footage, vintage portraits and dynamic graphics.
Vince Gill introduced and played the new exclusive Opry 100 guitar that Martin Guitars designed for the centennial anniversary and in celebration of all the music to be made in the future on the Opry. Photo: Grand Ole Opry, by Rachael Black
Backstage, John Conlee, Dailey & Vincent, The Isaacs, Marty Stuart and others tuned up with their dressing room doors open for visiting well-wishers. Vince Gill, who occupied Roy Acuff’s old Dressing Room No. 1, recalled that Acuff always kept his door open to greet folks, and said that he feels honored to continue that tradition. At 6:55 p.m. the call went out to take places on stage.
At 7:00 p.m. retired Opry executive Bud Wendell, 98, raised the curtain to reveal an assembled group of cast members. Ricky Skaggs began the show by playing “Tennessee Wagoner” on the same fiddle that Uncle Jimmy Thompson played. The song was one of the tunes that Thompson played on the show’s inaugural broadcast on WSM on Nov. 28, 1925.
Bill Anderson, the Opry’s longest tenured cast member in history, joined with Kathy Mattea, the cast’s newest member, to lead the assembled stars in “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.” Scotty McCreery, Mandy Barnettt, T. Graham Brown and Mark Wills sang the nostalgic “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” as the screens filled with images of legendary cast members who have passed on.
Gill, Stuart and Dailey & Vincent treated the fans to a spirited version of Acuff’s “Wabash Cannonball.” Hall of Famer Charlie McCoy dazzled us with his dazzling harmonica performance of “Orange Blossom Special.” Country diva Barnett (“Crazy”), McCreery (“Five More Minutes”), Dustin Lynch (“Cowboys and Angels”) and a particularly moving Jamey Johnson (“In Color”) were next.
Other highlights included Riders in the Sky harmonizing on “Ghost Riders in the Sky” and “Happy Trails” and The Gatlins and Brown leading audience sing-alongs to “All the Gold in California” and “Mustang Sally,” respectively. Anderson reappeared to deliver his touching elegy “Thankful” and was bathed in a long, loving standing ovation from the crowd, which moved the 88-year-old legend deeply.
Bluegrass music took the spotlight as Skaggs and Del McCoury romped through Bill Monroe’s “Uncle Pen.” Then Skaggs joined The Whites on The Carter Family’s “Keep on the Sunny Side,” which The Whites re-popularized in the hit film O Brother Where Art Thou. They were followed by droll, witty Don Schlitz (“The Gambler) and torch stylists Pam Tillis (“Maybe It Was Memphis”) and Lorrie Morgan (“Something in Red”).
Country comedy took the spotlight via crowd-pleasing sets by Henry Cho and Gary Mule Deer.
Stuart reminded the crowd of the old-time string-band tradition that was the backbone of the Opry’s early years by bringing out The Tennessee Mafia Jug Band and Uncle Dave Macon disciple Leroy Troy. The group then backed The Opry Square Dancers who clogged to wild audience applause.
Ricky Skaggs opened the show with a performance of “Tennessee Wagoner,” while playing the very fiddle with which Uncle Jimmy Thompson started it all 100 years ago. Photo: Grand Ole Opry, by Rachael Black
The Isaacs performed a stunning, a cappella, harmony-drenched treatment of “It Is Well With My Soul” to kick off a gospel segment that also featured Conlee (“Amazing Grace”) and Wills (“I’ll Fly Away”), plus a group-sung rendition of the Hank Williams classic “I Saw the Light.” Mattea joined forces with her good friend Suzy Bogguss. The latter represented the Opry’s future, since she will be inducted into the cast on Jan. 16, 2026. The two pals treated the crowd to “18 Wheels and a Dozen Roses” and “Outbound Plane.”
The 100th-anniversary night was hosted by Opry announcers Charlie Mattos, Kelly Sutton and Mike Terry. Sutton related that Opry fans were polled to choose the 100 best country songs of all time. Twenty of these are on a commemorative new double LP, Opry 100: Country’s Greatest Songs Recorded Live on the Opry Stage. The fans’ all-time favorite is “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” which Gill performed, augmented with a recitation by Anderson. Gill then brought out Sonya Isaacs to harmonize with him on an angelic “When I Call Your Name.”
Gospel superstar Steven Curtis Chapman, an Opry member since 2024, sang his “The Grand Ole Opry Stage” composition at the piano. All the stars reassembled around him to perform “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” as the finale while the audience rose in a standing ovation.
A post-show, VIP reception found the cast mingling with dignitaries and family members backstage in Studio A. Opry chief Dan Rogers greeted everyone and offered slices of 100th-birthday cake. Bill Anderson asked us to raise our glasses high for his toast, “To 100 years ago and what has been. To 100 years from now and what will be. Long live the Grand Ole Opry.” Amen to that.
Sony Music Publishing Elevates Jeff Smarr
/by Madison HahnenJeff Smarr
Sony Music Publishing has promoted Jeff Smarr to Senior Vice President, Global Copyright. Smarr is based out of Sony Music Publishing Nashville’s office and reports to EVP, Worldwide Administration, Dale Esworthy.
In his new position, Smarr will work across strategic initiatives and high-profile deal and acquisition integrations, as well as spearhead Sony Music Publishing’s Global and North American Copyright Administration teams.
Smarr has spent 31 years at the company, and has played a key role in the organization and its songwriter’s growth by supporting the advancement of key catalog acquisitions including ATV, Acuff-Rose, Famous, and EMI.
“It’s been incredible to see the tremendous growth of the company, team and songwriters throughout my time at Sony Music Publishing,” says Smarr. “I’ve been privileged to contribute to SMP’s representation of such iconic songwriters and catalogs, and I am excited to drive further growth for them in this new role.”
“Jeff is our go-to expert for any copyright question or concern and is unwavering in his commitment to our songwriters and team,” shares Esworthy. “I am continually impressed by Jeff’s encyclopedic knowledge of our catalog, and I’m delighted to recognize his work with this well-deserved promotion.”
BREAKING: Capitol Christian Music Group Adds To Executive Leadership Team
/by Madison HahnenCarlos Monnaco, Garrett Davis, Elizabeth Brock & Michael Fogarty.
Capitol Christian Music Group has elevated three team members, in addition to adding one new team member, to its executive leadership team.
Carlos Monnaco has been promoted to EVP, Finance and Garrett Davis has risen to SVP, A&R, while CCMG radio promoter Elizabeth Brock has been elevated to VP, National Promotions. Additionally, Michael Fogarty has joined the company as VP, Digital Marketing.
“I’m very excited to announce these promotions and new hires. I’ve seen firsthand their expertise, passion and excellence,” shares CCMG President Brad O’Donnell. “Each of them is key to CCMG’s future success, and I’m excited for the impact I know they are going to make in 2026.
Carín León Inks With WME
/by Madison HahnenCarín León. Photo: Erick Quituizaca – Natalia Aguilera
Carín León has signed with WME’s Global Co-Head of Music Kirk M. Sommer for representation in all areas.
Hailing from Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, León started his musical journey at the age of 15. His 2018 debut album Desvelada con Banda y Mariachi took over the Regional Mexican music scene. In 2021, Inédito debuted on the top of multiple charts and was named one of Billboard’s “25 Best Latin Albums of the Year.” León has received an ASCAP Award, numerous Premios Lo Nuestro Awards, Latin GRAMMY and GRAMMY wins and more.
He was also the first Latin artist ever to play Coachella and Stagecoach in the same year, and is the first Latin artist to play The Sphere, with a run of seven appearances set for next year. Earlier this year, he set a record at RODEOHOUSTON with over 70,000 fans in attendance.
“We are thrilled to join the WME team led by Kirk Sommer,” says León’s manager Jorge Juarez. “Carín has tremendous potential to expand into other global territories. We are looking to WME to lead the way in all areas of their expertise.”
“Carín is a generational artist,” adds Sommer. “In his incredible career, he has consistently broken barriers and transcended genres. We are determined to bring the full weight of WME to bear to expand Carín’s fanbase around the world and we are honored to work with both Carín and Jorge.”
Sammy Arriaga Signs With The Kirby Organization
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Sydney Hannon, Soar Entertainment; Michael Kelley, The Kirby Organization;
Carrie Lelwica, Soar Entertainment and Sammy Arriaga. Photo: Ike Everard
Sammy Arriaga has signed with the Nashville-based boutique booking agency The Kirby Organization for exclusive representation.
The partnership comes on the heels of a milestone year for Arriaga, who was recently named Male Country Latin Artist of the Year during the 2025 Origins Impact Awards. Arriaga’s 14-track Heart in Texas LP dropped on October 31, and along with his latest album track, “On Purpose,” he also recently released a children’s holiday song, “Small Town Santa,” from the EP Growin’ Up Holiday Vol. 2.
“From the moment I heard Sammy’s latest album, I knew I had to be involved in some way in the development of such an amazing talent,” says Michael Kelley, Arriaga’s agent at The Kirby Organization. “I knew that if we could create the right strategy and the right opportunities to grow his profile as an artist, that the possibilities were endless. We are absolutely looking forward to what the future holds for Sammy.”
“Teaming up with TKO just feels right. I’m excited to take this album on the road in 2026, play a ton of shows, and finally bring these songs to life the way they’re meant to be heard. Couldn’t have come at a better time,” says Arriaga.
Bonnaroo Unveils 2026 Lineup
/by Lauryn SinkBonnaroo Music & Arts Festival has unveiled the lineup for its 2026 festival, returning to Manchester, Tennessee on June 11-14, 2026. With more than 10 stages over the four-day festival, the festival will feature over 90 performers.
Thursday’s opening night features headliner Skrillex, and will also see performances by Four Tet, Vince Staples and Spiritual Cramp. The Strokes will headline Friday night, which also includes Griz, Turnstile, Jessie Murph, Mt. Joy, Yungblud and many more. Saturday will feature Teddy Swims, The Neighbourhood, Wyatt Flores, Waylon Wyatt, The Runarounds and more before headliner RÜFÜS DU SOL. Noah Kahan will close out Sunday night after performances from Role Model, Kesha, Audrey Hobert, Aly & AJ and Japanese Breakfast, among others.
In addition, to her main set Kesha will lead the 2026 Superjam, titled “KESHA PRESENTS: SUPERJÂM ESOTERÍCA: THE ALCHEMY OF POP,” and “Weird Al” Yankovic will be performing a special late-night Saturday set called “Bigger & Weirder Saturday Late Night Roovue.”
This year will also see the return of Bonnaroo Radio, providing exclusive programming including throwback Bonnaroo performances, interviews, traffic and weather updates and more. Upgrades to the Farm include improved drainage, miles of new roadways and 135 acres of new turf.
Tickets go on sale Friday (Dec. 5) at 10:00 a.m. CT. 2026 ticket options include 4-Day General Admission, 4-Day GA+, 4-Day VIP, 4-Day Platinum, and 4-Day Roo Insider, along with a variety of camping and parking options. A full lineup and ticket information can be found here.
Weekly Register: Ella Langley Tops Singles Chart
/by Lauryn SinkElla Langley.
Ella Langley has taken the top spot on the singles chart this week with “Choosin’ Texas” earning 12 million streams, according to Luminate data. On the albums chart, Morgan Wallen has held onto the top spot with I’m The Problem gaining 75K in total consumption.
On the songs chart, Wallen holds the next three positions. “I Got Better” comes in at No. 2 with 11 million streams. His duet with Tate McRae, “What I Want,” takes the No. 3 spot with 9.6 million streams this week. At No. 4 is “I’m The Problem,” which garnered 8.5 million streams this week. Rounding out the chart is Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” with 6.9 million streams.
On the albums chart, Wallen also holds the No. 2 spot with One Thing At A Time gaining 29K in total consumption and the No. 3 spot with Dangerous: The Double Album garnering 23K in total consumption. At No. 4 is Jason Aldean’s 30 Number One Hits with 22K in total consumption. BigXThaPlug holds the No. 5 spot with I Hope You’re Happy earning 22K in total consumption.
Lainey Wilson’s ‘Somewhere Over Laredo’ Becomes Her Ninth Chart-Topper
/by Lorie HollabaughLainey Wilson has racked up her ninth No. 1 at country radio with “Somewhere Over Laredo,” the lead single from her Whirlwind (Deluxe) album. The tune was written by Wilson, Andy Albert, Dallas Wilson and Trannie Anderson. Harold Arlen and Yip Harburg also received writing credits as the song interpolates the melody of the classic “Over the Rainbow.”
She just performed the song at the 99th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade last week, and the chart topper anchors two of Wilson’s three nominations at the upcoming Grammy awards for Best Country Song (“Somewhere Over Laredo”), Best Country Solo Performance (“Somewhere Over Laredo”) and Best Country Duo/Group Performance (“Trailblazer” with Reba McEntire and Miranda Lambert). “Somewhere Over Laredo” is also the 50th single to peak at No. 1 on the country charts for Wilson’s label, Broken Bow Records.
Wilson recently released a holiday EP, Peace, Love, & Cowboys (Holiday Edition), and also hosted the 59th CMA Awards, (the first solo female host since Reba McEntire in 1991), where she also won three awards for Entertainer of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year and Album of the Year (Whirlwind).
The ACM, CMA and Grammy-winner and Grand Ole Opry member is a sought-after songwriter whose nine No. 1s also include “4x4xU,” “Wildflowers And Wild Horses,” “Watermelon Moonshine” and the double Platinum “Heart Like A Truck,” in addition to award-winning collaborations with Cole Swindell (“Never Say Never”), Jelly Roll (“Save Me”) and Hardy (“wait in the truck”). Wilson also penned and performed “Out of Oklahoma” for the movie Twisters, and has collaborated with Reba, Miranda Lambert, Dolly Parton, Post Malone and more.
Lisa Hresko Named COO Of A2IM & President Of Foundation Of Independent Music
/by Lauryn SinkLisa Hresko, A2IM, COO + President, Foundation of Independent Music.
Lisa Hresko has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer of A2IM. In addition, Hresko has been announced as the first President of the Foundation of Independent Music by its board.
Hresko joined the company in 2017. She has since contributed to the development of A2IM’s Star Certification, worked on international trade strategy that earned A2IM the 2024 President’s “E” Star Award for Export Services, and supervised A2IM’s annual Indie Week, which has grown into the largest independent record label conference in the world. She played an important role in launching the Foundation of Independent Music, which since this year has become the presenting entity of Indie Week and the Libera Awards. Billboard recognized Hresko on its Women in Music list in 2023, 2024, and 2025, and on its Indie Power Players list in 2025.
“I am thrilled to be continuing the important work we are doing here at A2IM, representing some of the most vibrant, passionate and creative artists and labels in the music industry, and building out the work of the Foundation of Independent Music,” says Hresko. “It has been a great pleasure to work alongside Richard and the rest of the A2IM team these past 8 years, and I look forward to building value for the independent community with Ian in the years ahead.”
“I’m absolutely delighted to see Lisa Hresko step into the roles of COO of A2IM and President of the Foundation for Independent Music,” shares Dr. Richard James Burgess MBE, President and CEO, A2IM. “Having worked closely with Lisa since 2017, I’ve seen firsthand her intelligence, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the independent music community. This promotion is richly deserved, and I couldn’t be happier for her—or more confident in the impact she’ll continue to make.”
“I am extremely pleased to have the opportunity to work alongside Lisa as I begin my tenure as CEO of A2IM,” adds Ian Harrison, CEO, A2IM. “Her incredible knowledge accrued over the past 8 years and her passion for the independent music industry is unparalleled, and I know together we can continue to expand upon the important work that lies ahead for A2IM and our members.”
“Over the past eight years, I’ve watched Lisa’s work strengthen not just A2IM, but the independent community as a whole,” shares Nabil Ayers (Beggars Group), A2IM Executive Committee, Chair. “She leads with clarity, consistency, and a deep understanding of what our members need. This promotion reflects the trust she’s earned across the organization, and I’m excited to see her continue shaping the future of independent music.”
Madison Kozak Signs With Warner Chappell Music Nashville & The Core Entertainment
/by Madison HahnenPictured (L-R): Matt Cottingham (Lewis Brisbois), Chief Zaruk (The Core Entertainment), Madison Kozak, Simon Tikhman (The Core Entertainment), Jamie Sudhalter (The Core Entertainment), Austen Adams (WCM) and Bethany Mako (WCM). Photo: Courtesy of WCM and The Core Entertainment
Singer-songwriter Madison Kozak has inked a co-publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music Nashville, in partnership with The Core Entertainment.
A native of Ontario, Canada, Kozak now lives in Nashville and credits her musical influence to Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, Bonnie Raitt, and Shania Twain. Her traditional country influences blends with vivid storytelling and infectious melodies to create her sound.
Kozak has earned cuts with Tucker Wetmore, Hannah McFarland, Abbey Cone, Griffen Palmer and more. She also hosts The Pony Show, a monthly writers’ round at The Late Great in Nashville to showcase emerging talent. Kozak has earned recognition from CMT, Pandora and Sounds Like Nashville.
“Madison is a rare talent with a gift for storytelling,” says Austen Adams, President, WCM Nashville. “I’ve worked with her in multiple capacities throughout her journey so I’m thrilled to bring that full-circle in this new partnership. Warner Chappell is excited to be on her team alongside The Core and we’re looking forward to the future.”
“Madison brings a builder’s mindset to everything she touches, writing with clarity, conviction and a feel for songs that last,” share Simon Tikhman and Chief Zaruk, CEOs and Co-Founders of The Core Entertainment. “We could not be more excited to champion her artistry and help bring her songs to an even wider audience alongside our partners at Warner Chappell Music.”
“As a songwriter, it means the world to partner with companies that shape the sound and culture of music,” adds Kozak. “Pairing The Core’s innovative, development-forward energy with Warner Chappell’s legacy for championing songwriters whose work defines generations – it’s a dream team I’m so proud and humbled to work with.”
Grand Ole Opry Stages A Show For The Century
/by Robert K OermannThe Grand Ole Opry celebrated the 100th anniversary tonight of its November 28, 1925 inaugural broadcast with two shows and more than 25 Opry members. Photo: Grand Ole Opry, by Rachael Black
The Grand Ole Opry marked its 100th anniversary on Friday (Nov. 28) with a mammoth showcase of its past, present and future.
More than two-dozen acts, including seven members of the Country Music Hall of Fame, gathered to perform. The three-hour show drew laughter, tears, standing ovations and audience sing-alongs as video screens illustrated and punctuated performances with historic footage, vintage portraits and dynamic graphics.
Vince Gill introduced and played the new exclusive Opry 100 guitar that Martin Guitars designed for the centennial anniversary and in celebration of all the music to be made in the future on the Opry. Photo: Grand Ole Opry, by Rachael Black
Backstage, John Conlee, Dailey & Vincent, The Isaacs, Marty Stuart and others tuned up with their dressing room doors open for visiting well-wishers. Vince Gill, who occupied Roy Acuff’s old Dressing Room No. 1, recalled that Acuff always kept his door open to greet folks, and said that he feels honored to continue that tradition. At 6:55 p.m. the call went out to take places on stage.
At 7:00 p.m. retired Opry executive Bud Wendell, 98, raised the curtain to reveal an assembled group of cast members. Ricky Skaggs began the show by playing “Tennessee Wagoner” on the same fiddle that Uncle Jimmy Thompson played. The song was one of the tunes that Thompson played on the show’s inaugural broadcast on WSM on Nov. 28, 1925.
Bill Anderson, the Opry’s longest tenured cast member in history, joined with Kathy Mattea, the cast’s newest member, to lead the assembled stars in “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.” Scotty McCreery, Mandy Barnettt, T. Graham Brown and Mark Wills sang the nostalgic “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” as the screens filled with images of legendary cast members who have passed on.
Gill, Stuart and Dailey & Vincent treated the fans to a spirited version of Acuff’s “Wabash Cannonball.” Hall of Famer Charlie McCoy dazzled us with his dazzling harmonica performance of “Orange Blossom Special.” Country diva Barnett (“Crazy”), McCreery (“Five More Minutes”), Dustin Lynch (“Cowboys and Angels”) and a particularly moving Jamey Johnson (“In Color”) were next.
Other highlights included Riders in the Sky harmonizing on “Ghost Riders in the Sky” and “Happy Trails” and The Gatlins and Brown leading audience sing-alongs to “All the Gold in California” and “Mustang Sally,” respectively. Anderson reappeared to deliver his touching elegy “Thankful” and was bathed in a long, loving standing ovation from the crowd, which moved the 88-year-old legend deeply.
Bluegrass music took the spotlight as Skaggs and Del McCoury romped through Bill Monroe’s “Uncle Pen.” Then Skaggs joined The Whites on The Carter Family’s “Keep on the Sunny Side,” which The Whites re-popularized in the hit film O Brother Where Art Thou. They were followed by droll, witty Don Schlitz (“The Gambler) and torch stylists Pam Tillis (“Maybe It Was Memphis”) and Lorrie Morgan (“Something in Red”).
Country comedy took the spotlight via crowd-pleasing sets by Henry Cho and Gary Mule Deer.
Stuart reminded the crowd of the old-time string-band tradition that was the backbone of the Opry’s early years by bringing out The Tennessee Mafia Jug Band and Uncle Dave Macon disciple Leroy Troy. The group then backed The Opry Square Dancers who clogged to wild audience applause.
Ricky Skaggs opened the show with a performance of “Tennessee Wagoner,” while playing the very fiddle with which Uncle Jimmy Thompson started it all 100 years ago. Photo: Grand Ole Opry, by Rachael Black
The Isaacs performed a stunning, a cappella, harmony-drenched treatment of “It Is Well With My Soul” to kick off a gospel segment that also featured Conlee (“Amazing Grace”) and Wills (“I’ll Fly Away”), plus a group-sung rendition of the Hank Williams classic “I Saw the Light.” Mattea joined forces with her good friend Suzy Bogguss. The latter represented the Opry’s future, since she will be inducted into the cast on Jan. 16, 2026. The two pals treated the crowd to “18 Wheels and a Dozen Roses” and “Outbound Plane.”
The 100th-anniversary night was hosted by Opry announcers Charlie Mattos, Kelly Sutton and Mike Terry. Sutton related that Opry fans were polled to choose the 100 best country songs of all time. Twenty of these are on a commemorative new double LP, Opry 100: Country’s Greatest Songs Recorded Live on the Opry Stage. The fans’ all-time favorite is “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” which Gill performed, augmented with a recitation by Anderson. Gill then brought out Sonya Isaacs to harmonize with him on an angelic “When I Call Your Name.”
Gospel superstar Steven Curtis Chapman, an Opry member since 2024, sang his “The Grand Ole Opry Stage” composition at the piano. All the stars reassembled around him to perform “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” as the finale while the audience rose in a standing ovation.
A post-show, VIP reception found the cast mingling with dignitaries and family members backstage in Studio A. Opry chief Dan Rogers greeted everyone and offered slices of 100th-birthday cake. Bill Anderson asked us to raise our glasses high for his toast, “To 100 years ago and what has been. To 100 years from now and what will be. Long live the Grand Ole Opry.” Amen to that.