Pictured: MusicRow’s LB Cantrell, David Garcia, Tyler Hubbard, Jordan Schmidt, Geoff Warburton, MusicRow’s John Nix Arledge; Photo Credit Larry McCormack for BMI
BMI brought Tyler Hubbard and his team together on Thursday afternoon (Nov. 6) to celebrate two chart-toppers, “Back Then Right Now” and “Park,” the latter marking Hubbard’s fourth No. 1 as a solo artist.
Excited chatter and the smell of fresh pizza filled Moto Moda, a new Nashville pizza joint and motorcycle club, as industry members, friends and family gathered among motorcycles and face paint stations to celebrate the chart-toppers. BMI’s MaryAnn Keen took the mic to welcome the crowd and invite “Park” songwriters Hubbard, Jesse Frasure, Ashley Gorley, Canaan Smith, and producer Jordan Schmidt to the stage.
ASCAP’s Evyn Johnston kicked off the round of speeches, with Rhythm House’s Vanna Moua, Warner Chappell’s Spencer Nohe, HAYLO Music’s Josh Saxe, and Sony Music Publishing’s Kenley Flynn following suit to praise the song and its creators.
(Back Row L-R): Rhythm House’s Vanna Moua, Warner Chappell’s Spencer Nohe, Studio Bank’s Kari Barnhart, ASCAP’s Evyn Johnston, Sony Music Publishing’s Kenley Flynn, MCA’s Damon Moberly, HAYLO Music’s Josh Saxe; Front Row L-R: Jesse Frasure (BMI), Canaan Smith (ASCAP), Tyler Hubbard (BMI/Producer), Jordan Schmidt (Producer), Ashley Gorley (ASCAP); Photo Credit Larry McCormack for BMI
Frasure was the first of the songwriters to speak, reminiscing about writing the track at a beach writers’ retreat and reflecting on how he continues to learn from Gorley, saying, “He and I have 12 hits together now. It is kind of like being friends with Tiger Woods or Michael Jordan—no matter what you do it is triple the success.”
Smith thanked everyone for sticking with the song and giving it a shot, joking, “Jesse and I were texting after it had been out for a while and I was like ‘I think this thing is dead in the water’ and then, all of a sudden, it took on a whole new life and here we are.”
Gorley was up next, catching a playful “boo” from Schmidt and laughing as he stepped to the mic, joking, “When I produced this… No, but seriously, I am most thankful to God for all of this, my family and these friendships. I am proud to be a part of this, and thank you again to everyone for coming out.”
Saving Hubbard and Schmidt’s speeches for last, Keen invited “Back Then Right Now” songwriters Geoff Warburton and David Garcia to the stage, lamenting that Jessie Jo Dillon could not make it.
ASCAP’s Johnston again took the mic first, followed by Big Machine Music’s Alex Heddle, Spirit Music Nashville’s Kennedy Murphy, MCA’s Damon Moberly, and Studio Bank’s Kari Barnhart, who made a donation on behalf of the writers.
“In honor of your two number ones, we will be making a donation to For Others, and their mission is to raise awareness and empower best-in-class organizations to end the child welfare crisis in America,” Barnhart said.
(Back Row L-R): Studio Bank’s Kari Barnhart, BMI’s MaryAnn Keen, ASCAP’s Evyn Johnston, Big Machine Music’s Alex Heddle, Spirit Music’s Kennedy Murphy, MCA’s Damon Moberly; Front Row L-R: David Garcia (ASCAP), Tyler Hubbard (BMI/Producer), Jordan Schmidt (Producer), Geoff Warburton (BMI); Photo Credit Larry McCormack for BMI
Garcia was the first to speak, praising his fellow songwriters before singling out Hubbard, “Tyler, everyone has said everything about you and it is all great, but the one thing that has been amazing to me over the years is that you always take a chance on people. Seven years ago you invited me over—I had no business being there—but we wrote a song and the rest is history. Thank you.”
Warburton spoke briefly, thanking everyone and saying, “This is a wonderful opportunity and I am just grateful to be in this room. Thank you Tyler, and to everyone here tonight.”
Schmidt followed suit, giving a quick word and teasing, “Geoff stole my speech, so I am going to be even quicker!” He continued, thanking the writers for the song and Hubbard for taking a chance on him.
Finally, Hubbard stepped up to close the night out. “I just want to say I love this town. Thank you for everything you have done for me and allowing me to be a part of the songwriting community and the community as a whole. Y’all have taken a chance on me as well and I am so grateful for that. Thank you for everyone that helped make this happen.”
Stephen Wilson Jr. Announces 2026 ‘Gary The Torch Tour’
/by Lauryn SinkStephen Wilson Jr. Photo: Jace Kartye
Stephen Wilson Jr. will hit the road next year on the “Gary The Torch Tour.” Tickets will go on sale to the general public this Friday (Nov. 14).
The tour begins on March 6 in Columbus, Ohio and includes stops in Toronto, Boston, Brooklyn, Philadelphia, Chicago and many more.
Ahead of the upcoming tour, Wilson Jr. will perform on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Nov. 18, before his performances at the 59th Annual CMA Awards on Nov. 19, where he is also nominated for New Artist of the Year. Also this month, he will make his headline debut at the Ryman Auditorium with two sold-out shows on Nov. 23 and 24.
In addition to his headline dates, Wilson Jr. will kick off next year with a performance at Mile 0 Festival before joining Eric Church for a trio of shows in February and performing at Railbird Music Festival and Under The Big Sky Festival next summer.
More information about tour dates and tickets can be found here.
2026 Tour Dates:
1/27-1/31: Key West, FL – Mile 0 Festival *
2/17: Houston, TX – White Oak Music Hall
2/26: Tulsa, OK – BOK Center ^
2/27: Fort Worth, TX – Dickies Arena ^
2/28: Austin, TX – Moody Center ^
3/6: Columbus, OH – KEMBA Live! #
3/7: Grand Rapids, MI – GLC Live at 20 Monroe #
3/10: Cleveland, OH – The Agora #
3/11: Detroit, MI – The Fillmore #
3/14: Toronto, ON – HISTORY #
3/18: Boston, MA – Citizens House of Blues #
3/21: Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Paramount #
3/22: Port Chester, NY – The Capitol Theatre #
3/25: Philadelphia, PA – The Fillmore #
3/28: Silver Spring, MD – The Fillmore #
4/11: Bossier City, LA – The Paradise Theater at Margaritaville Bossier City #
4/15: St. Louis, MO – The Pageant #
4/17: Kansas City, MO – The Midland Theatre #
4/18: Denver, CO – Mission Ballroom #
4/22: Omaha, NE – Steelhouse Omaha #
4/24: Madison, WI – The Sylvee #
4/25: Chicago, IL – The Salt Shed #
6/6: Lexington, KY – Railbird Music Festival *
7/18: Whitefish, MT – Under the Big Sky Festival *
* – Festival
# – Gary The Torch tour
^ – Supporting Eric Church
Ryan Kinder Releases ‘The Beginning Of Things’
/by Lauryn SinkRyan Kinder has released a new 12-track acoustic album titled The Beginning of Things on Friday (Nov. 7). The project revisits some of the earliest songs Kinder wrote after moving to Nashville.
Produced by Luke Sheets, the projects explores the creative spirit that fueled his beginnings in music. Among the songs is “Kiss Me When I’m Down,” the track that led to his first record deal, nearly 10 years ago. Kinder recorded the project in Montreal where he wrote some of the songs originally.
The Beginning of Things Track List:
1. Leaving The Lights On
2. Green Light
3. Why Should We Be Lonely
4. Sweeter
5. Kiss Me When I’m Down
6. Freedom
7. Brand New Heart
8. Ordinary Life
9. Mine
10. You Just Watch Me
11. Using
12. We Were Here
Vince Gill To Receive Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award
/by Lorie HollabaughVince Gill. Photo: David McClister
Vince Gill will receive the 2025 CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award during The 59th Annual CMA Awards on Nov. 19.
The CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award is awarded to an artist who has attained the highest degree of recognition in country music, and recognizes those who have achieved both national and international stature through concert performances, humanitarian efforts, philanthropy, streaming numbers, record sales, and public representation. The award recipient has positively impacted and contributed to the growth of the genre over the course of many years, and has proven to have an unprecedented historical impact on fans and industry alike.
“Vince embodies the very best of what Country Music stands for,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “He’s a true trailblazer, one who gives back to the community, honors the roots of our genre, and even now, continues to share his talent with fans across the globe. As a Country Music Hall of Fame member, 18-time CMA Award winner, and former 12-time CMA Awards host, he remains a vibrant force in our industry, and we’re honored to celebrate an artist whose influence is so deeply woven into the fabric of our format.”
An Oklahoma native, Gill has released 20 albums, sold more than 30 million records, and charted 45 singles. Known for his heartfelt songwriting, masterful guitar playing, and unmistakable tenor, he is equally admired for the warmth, humility, and humor that have endeared him to fans and artists alike. His musicianship and versatility have also led him to be a key member of several iconic bands, including Pure Prairie League, The Cherry Bombs, and The Time Jumpers. In 2017, Gill was also invited to join the Eagles on tour, and continues to contribute his talents to the historic group.
As a performer for 50 years, Gill is honoring the major career milestone by curating a series of EPs to be released on MCA Records, 50 Years from Home. The first EP of the series, I Gave You Everything I Had, released on Oct. 17.
The 59th Annual CMA Awards airs live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Nov. 19 on ABC and next day on Hulu.
Tyler Hubbard & Crew Celebrate Two No. 1 Hits
/by John Nix ArledgePictured: MusicRow’s LB Cantrell, David Garcia, Tyler Hubbard, Jordan Schmidt, Geoff Warburton, MusicRow’s John Nix Arledge; Photo Credit Larry McCormack for BMI
BMI brought Tyler Hubbard and his team together on Thursday afternoon (Nov. 6) to celebrate two chart-toppers, “Back Then Right Now” and “Park,” the latter marking Hubbard’s fourth No. 1 as a solo artist.
Excited chatter and the smell of fresh pizza filled Moto Moda, a new Nashville pizza joint and motorcycle club, as industry members, friends and family gathered among motorcycles and face paint stations to celebrate the chart-toppers. BMI’s MaryAnn Keen took the mic to welcome the crowd and invite “Park” songwriters Hubbard, Jesse Frasure, Ashley Gorley, Canaan Smith, and producer Jordan Schmidt to the stage.
ASCAP’s Evyn Johnston kicked off the round of speeches, with Rhythm House’s Vanna Moua, Warner Chappell’s Spencer Nohe, HAYLO Music’s Josh Saxe, and Sony Music Publishing’s Kenley Flynn following suit to praise the song and its creators.
(Back Row L-R): Rhythm House’s Vanna Moua, Warner Chappell’s Spencer Nohe, Studio Bank’s Kari Barnhart, ASCAP’s Evyn Johnston, Sony Music Publishing’s Kenley Flynn, MCA’s Damon Moberly, HAYLO Music’s Josh Saxe; Front Row L-R: Jesse Frasure (BMI), Canaan Smith (ASCAP), Tyler Hubbard (BMI/Producer), Jordan Schmidt (Producer), Ashley Gorley (ASCAP); Photo Credit Larry McCormack for BMI
Frasure was the first of the songwriters to speak, reminiscing about writing the track at a beach writers’ retreat and reflecting on how he continues to learn from Gorley, saying, “He and I have 12 hits together now. It is kind of like being friends with Tiger Woods or Michael Jordan—no matter what you do it is triple the success.”
Smith thanked everyone for sticking with the song and giving it a shot, joking, “Jesse and I were texting after it had been out for a while and I was like ‘I think this thing is dead in the water’ and then, all of a sudden, it took on a whole new life and here we are.”
Gorley was up next, catching a playful “boo” from Schmidt and laughing as he stepped to the mic, joking, “When I produced this… No, but seriously, I am most thankful to God for all of this, my family and these friendships. I am proud to be a part of this, and thank you again to everyone for coming out.”
Saving Hubbard and Schmidt’s speeches for last, Keen invited “Back Then Right Now” songwriters Geoff Warburton and David Garcia to the stage, lamenting that Jessie Jo Dillon could not make it.
ASCAP’s Johnston again took the mic first, followed by Big Machine Music’s Alex Heddle, Spirit Music Nashville’s Kennedy Murphy, MCA’s Damon Moberly, and Studio Bank’s Kari Barnhart, who made a donation on behalf of the writers.
“In honor of your two number ones, we will be making a donation to For Others, and their mission is to raise awareness and empower best-in-class organizations to end the child welfare crisis in America,” Barnhart said.
(Back Row L-R): Studio Bank’s Kari Barnhart, BMI’s MaryAnn Keen, ASCAP’s Evyn Johnston, Big Machine Music’s Alex Heddle, Spirit Music’s Kennedy Murphy, MCA’s Damon Moberly; Front Row L-R: David Garcia (ASCAP), Tyler Hubbard (BMI/Producer), Jordan Schmidt (Producer), Geoff Warburton (BMI); Photo Credit Larry McCormack for BMI
Garcia was the first to speak, praising his fellow songwriters before singling out Hubbard, “Tyler, everyone has said everything about you and it is all great, but the one thing that has been amazing to me over the years is that you always take a chance on people. Seven years ago you invited me over—I had no business being there—but we wrote a song and the rest is history. Thank you.”
Warburton spoke briefly, thanking everyone and saying, “This is a wonderful opportunity and I am just grateful to be in this room. Thank you Tyler, and to everyone here tonight.”
Schmidt followed suit, giving a quick word and teasing, “Geoff stole my speech, so I am going to be even quicker!” He continued, thanking the writers for the song and Hubbard for taking a chance on him.
Finally, Hubbard stepped up to close the night out. “I just want to say I love this town. Thank you for everything you have done for me and allowing me to be a part of the songwriting community and the community as a whole. Y’all have taken a chance on me as well and I am so grateful for that. Thank you for everyone that helped make this happen.”
JUST IN: Michael Young Appointed Sony Music Publishing Chief Information Officer
/by Madison HahnenMichael Young
Michael Young has joined Sony Music Publishing as Chief Information Officer. Young is based in Nashville and will report to Sony Music Publishing’s Chief Financial Officer Tom Kelly.
In his role, Young will spearhead the company’s technology strategy and its transformation initiatives to provide growth, scalability and efficiency on behalf of songwriters and catalogs globally. He will also collaborate across departments to manage workflows, expand data-driven insights, and refine and implement best practices across software development, security, compliance and data governance.
Young most recently serves as Chief Product and Technology Officer at Chatham Financial. Over his 25 year’s of experience, he has held roles as Reuters, Paycase Financial and Afilias.
“I am extremely excited to join Sony Music Publishing,” says Young. “As a career technologist and a lifelong amateur musician, it’s thrilling to be a part of SMP’s mission-driven culture. I look forward to working with the team to advance support for SMP songwriters throughout their creative journeys.”
“Michael is an experienced leader who understands how to innovate,” shares Kelly. “We look forward to advancing our capabilities and delivering further growth on behalf of our songwriters around the world.”
“We are committed to investing in technology that grows with our business and adapts to the evolving needs of songwriters,” adds Jon Platt, Chairman and CEO of Sony Music Publishing. “With Michael on board, we are well-positioned to bring greater value to Sony Music Publishing songwriters and catalogs today and in the future.”
Cole Brown Joins Creative Nation As Publishing, Management & Records A&R
/by Lorie HollabaughCole Brown
Cole Brown has joined Creative Nation as Publishing, Management & Records A&R.
A Nashville native, Brown graduated from Lipscomb University with a degree in Law, Justice, and Society, and is currently pursuing his Juris Doctor degree at Nashville School of Law. Before graduation Brown interned with Creative Nation, and also interened for KP Entertainment. In his new role, he will act as a liaison between the Publishing, Management & Records teams scouting new talent, pitching songs, and helping with day-to-day management duties and artist development.
“While working with Cole as an intern and getting to know his great ear, confident drive, and strong pulse on upcoming songwriters and artists, it became obvious to us that we needed to make things more permanent,” says Emily Furman, VP, Creative. “His perspective is a welcomed asset to our creative team!”
“From day one as an intern, Cole demonstrated exceptional work ethic, strong instincts, and a true passion for artists and great songs,” shares Brandon Gill, SVP, Management & Records. “His drive and values align perfectly with our culture, and we’re confident he’ll make a meaningful impact across both our Management & Records divisions.”
“I am so thankful for the continued support and opportunities that Beth [Laird] and Luke [Laird] and the entire Creative Nation team have given me,” adds Brown. “I’m excited to continue working with the incredible roster of writers here at Creative Nation, and getting to have a small role in their careers.”
Cassidy Daniels Extends Deal With Liz Rose Music, Signs With Laguna Madre Management
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (L-R): Dave Pacula, Gracie Glass, Cassidy Daniels, Liz Rose, Jonathan Motley, Kate Shirley, Scott Ponce. Photo: Courtesy of LRM.
Cassidy Daniels has extended her publishing deal with Liz Rose Music. Additionally, she has signed with Laguna Madre Management, the artist management company founded by Liz Rose Music.
“Liz and the entire Liz Rose Music team have believed in me from the very early stages of my career,” shares Daniels. “I’m sticking with the people who have stuck with me — and by God, they are stuck with me now. I’m grateful and honored to be a part of their journey as much as they are mine.”
“Working with Cassidy Daniels has been one of the great joys of my career,” adds Rose, GRAMMY-winning songwriter and founder of Liz Rose Music. “Cassidy is a hard worker who pours herself into her craft, a natural storyteller with a voice that stops you in your tracks, and the type of person who keeps everyone around her laughing and inspired. We’re so proud to stand behind her and can’t wait to watch the world catch up to the star we already know she is.”
The Marion, North Carolina, native recently competed on the CBS/Paramount TV series The Road, produced by Taylor Sheridan and Blake Shelton.
The Woodlands Resort To Host Inaugural Songwriters Festival In December
/by Lorie HollabaughScreenshot
The Woodlands Resort’s inaugural Songwriters Festival, a three-day celebration of music, cuisine and creativity, is set to take place in the Houston area over New Year’s Eve Dec. 29-Jan. 1.
The new festival will feature a lineup that includes Neal McCoy, Darryl Worley and The Frontmen. The festival opens in true Texas style with a night of music, storytelling, and Southern hospitality with an exclusive VIP reception featuring seasonal small bites followed by an intimate performance from Darryl Worley.
Dec. 30 is filled with songwriter sessions and live showcases from a celebrated roster of artists like Carolyn Dawn Johnson, Jamie O’Neal, Bridgette Tatum, Casey Beathard, Brice Long, Bobby Tomberlin and Wynn Varble, sharing the stories behind their most iconic hits. VIP guests enjoy private receptions with bourbon and tequila pairings, featuring elevated plates and the evening performance is led by The Frontmen.
On Dec. 31 guests will enjoy electric performances, intimate storytelling sets, and festive dining experiences culminating in the Boots & Bubbles New Year’s Eve Celebration. Neal McCoy will take the stage for a performance and lead the countdown to 2026 with music, laughter, and a spectacular aerial display.
Jan. 1 kicks off with a New Year’s Day Jazz Brunch in the Grand Ballroom—a soulful finale featuring a 14-piece live jazz band and a spread of seasonal favorites. Single event tickets start at $160, and packages include full-day and all-weekend options. The hotel is offering special rates for those coming to town for the festival as well, and tickets are available at events.woodlandsresort.com/songwriters-festival.
George Strait To Return To Texas For One Night Only In April
/by Lauryn SinkGeorge Strait.
George Strait will return to Lubbock, Texas for one night only, in-the-round on April 25 at Jones AT&T Stadium. Miranda Lambert and Hudson Westbrook will join as support.
Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. CT on Friday, November 21.
Strait recently announced a show at Clemson, South Carolina’s Memorial Stadium for one night only on May 2. Strait will be joined for this show by Cody Johnson and Wyatt Flores.
In 2024, Strait played a few one-off stadium shows including A&M’s Kyle Field. He followed that with five live shows in 2025 with stops in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Buffalo, Foxborough and Inglewood’s SoFi Stadium.
In addition to these shows, Strait will be celebrated at the 47th Annual Kennedy Center Honors this December. Early next year, he will also be inducted into the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame.
MusicRow Weekly (News, Charts, More…)
/by Madison HahnenAfter 17 years as host of CMT’s Hot 20 Countdown, Cody Alan will sign off for the final time at the end of December. His departure also the conclusion of the show itself, which first premiered in 2013. The change comes amid broader shifts at Paramount Global, following its merger with Skydance Media. As part of the restructuring, three additional employees—Ali Marszalkowski (Sr. Director, Communications), Justin Permenter (Manager, Communications), and Mark Thomas (Sr. Director, Marketing and Creative Production)—are also exiting the company. Longtime CMT Senior Vice President of Production, Music & Events, Margaret Comeaux, will depart at the end of the year, closing out a 25-year tenure with the organization.
In other industry news, BBR Music Group/BMG announced several key moves within its A&R department. Camille Kenny has been promoted to VP, A&R, while Tahsin Rakib Himi steps up to Director, A&R Research. Kennedy Nickerson has been elevated to Manager, A&R, with two new additions to the team: Jacee Badeaux joins as Sr. Director, A&R, and Talia Heimanson comes aboard as A&R Coordinator.
Belmont University is taking major steps toward supporting wellness in the entertainment community with the creation of its new Center for Mental Health in Entertainment. The initiative is funded by a $3 million grant from the Country Music Association, which allocates $1 million toward programming and $2 million to endow the CMA Chair & Executive Director position, to be held by longtime industry leader Debbie Carroll. That endowment will be matched by the Johnson Academic Challenge—a program established by Belmont Board Chair Milton Johnson and his wife Denice—as part of a university effort to create up to 20 endowed professorships.
CTK Enterprises has expanded its leadership team with the appointment of three new department heads, forming new divisions to better serve its growing client roster. Patrick Kells has been named Head of Retail Merchandising, Robert Kelley takes on the role of GM, Dolly Parton’s Life Of Many Colors Museum, and Adam Davis joins as Director, Content Development & Archiving.
Sam Williams has parted ways with Mercury Nashville after four years, while 49 Winchester has inked a new deal with MCA, releasing future projects through their Lucille Records imprint. Danny Gokey has joined the Red Street Records roster, Kaitlin Butts has signed with Republic Records, and Kellie Besch has entered into a publishing agreement with Integrity Music. Meanwhile, Meg McRee and Ben Chapman have joined the publishing roster at Blue Harbor Music, and Natalie Hemby has renewed her publishing partnership with CTM Outlander.
Veteran business manager Mallory Mason Pascal has launched her own firm, Oak Haus Business Management, bringing more than 15 years of experience to the new venture. Elsewhere, acclaimed banjoist Alison Brown has debuted her new weekly radio show, Pick Like A Girl, airing on SiriusXM’s Bluegrass Junction (ch. 77). And in media, respected country music journalist Cindy Watts has been named Editor of Nashville Lifestyles magazine.
Rounding out the week’s milestones, rising artist Elizabeth Nichols celebrated her Grand Ole Opry debut on Saturday night (Nov. 1), marking a defining moment in her blossoming career.
In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. HARDY takes the No. 1 spot with “Favorite Country Song.” Explore more chart data here.
The MusicRow Weekly is delivered every Friday, featuring Nashville’s top music industry news, exclusive interviews, song reviews, radio and songwriter charts and more. Sign up for free here.