Pam Tillis Celebrates 25th Anniversary as an Opry Member
Pictured (L-R): Brother-in-Law Kevin Shorey, Brother Mel “Sonny Boy” Tillis Jr., Sister Cindy Tillis-Shorey, Pam Tillis, Sister Carrie Tillis, Sister Connie Lynn Tillis, Nephew Marshall Howden, Niece Madison Howden, Cousin Gary Crosby. Photo: Courtesy of the Grand Ole Opry / Chris Hollo
Pam Tillis marked her 25th anniversary as a Grand Ole Opry member on Aug. 26. Vince Gill, Lorrie Morgan, Suzy Bogguss, Jamey Johnson, Russell Dickerson and Emily Ann Roberts were part of the lineup during the celebration.
“Tuesday night was more than I ever could’ve dreamed,” shares Tillis. “To have so many dear friends and special guests there to celebrate with me made it feel like one big family reunion. Marking 25 years as a member of the Grand Ole Opry is such a milestone, and it reminded me of just how much this stage has meant to me over the years. The Opry has given me some of the most meaningful moments of my career, and sharing that stage with people I love made the night unforgettable. My heart is full, and I’m still floating on cloud nine.”
Walker Hayes ‘Fancy Like’ Goes 7x Platinum
Walker Hayes and family. Photo: Patrick Sheehan
Walker Hayes’ 2021 viral hit “Fancy Like” has been certified 7x Platinum, signifying over 7 million units sold and streamed in the U.S.. On Aug. 29, Hayes was surprised with a commemorative 7x Platinum plaque by his daughters live on stage during his debut performance at the Grand Ole Opry.
The certification follows the release of Hayes’ new album, 17 Problems, and comes just ahead of the start of his 18-date acoustic “Walker Hayes: Unplugged Tour,” set to kick off next month.
ASCAP Hosts Belmont Student Showcase At The Bluebird Cafe
Pictured (L-R): ASCAP’s Mike Sistad, ASCAP’s Emilia James, Matthew Wilson, ASCAP’s Loretta Muñoz, Emily Diffey, Belmont University’s Pat Alger, Rachel Sinniger, Jack Zeiler and Belmont University’s Jodi Marr.
ASCAP hosted a songwriters round in partnership with Belmont University on Sept. 3. The round featured students Emily Diffey, Rachel Sinniger, Matthew Wilson and Jack Zeiler alongside ASCAP songwriter and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Pat Alger.
Society Of Leaders In Development Raises Over $39,000 For CMA Foundation
Pictured (L-R): Lindsey Morrison (Community Engagement Manager, CMA), Kim Ortiz (SOLID Treasurer), Brian Day (SOLID Music Market Co-Chair), Eunice Hernandez (SOLID Music Market Co-Chair), Brenden Macmanus (SOLID Music Market Chair), Leah Ducey (SOLID Vice-President), Zach Green (SOLID President), Michelle Kirk (Senior Director, CMA Foundation), Tiffany Kerns (Executive Director, CMA Foundation). Photo: Britney Buckwalter, CMA.
The Society of Leaders in Development (SOLID) raised over $77,000 total at its annual Backstage Auction inside Fan Fair X at CMA Fest 2025, and donated nearly $40,000 to the CMA Foundation.
“CMA Fest has always been about more than just the music, it’s about giving back and creating real, lasting impact,” says Tiffany Kerns, CMA Senior Vice President of Industry Relations & Philanthropy. “SOLID continues to be an incredible partner to the CMA Foundation, and initiatives like the Backstage Auction inside Fan Fair X are a powerful reminder of what makes this industry so special. Through these types of partnerships, we help ensure that every student has access to the life-changing power of music education. It’s moments like these that truly reflect the heart behind the music.”
“It’s incredibly inspiring to watch our Backstage Auction team leap into action each year, finding new ways to raise the bar on our merchandise and outreach,” adds SOLID President Zach Green. “Our Music Market chairs and their committee spent so much time outside of their demanding jobs to source items, coordinate complicated logistics, and man a booth full of volunteers in the chaos of Fan Fair – and they came through with nearly $80,000 raised to support SOLID and CMA Foundation. This tenacity is truly the lifeblood that keeps our operation running smoothly.”
Carly Ann Taylor Makes Label Debut With ‘Why Should I Worry (Remind Me Version)’
Curb Records artist Carly Ann Taylor made her label debut with “Why Should I Worry (Remind Me Version),” out today (Sept. 5). She penned the song alongside David Cook and Randy James Taylor.
“I’m so excited to share this new season of music that praises a God who never changes! He is faithful to remind us time and time again of who He is, and I pray His peace meets you exactly where you are,” shares Taylor. “If you’re someone who struggles with anxiety and fear of your future, this song is for you.”
Backstage Access Presents: Heartland Raises Over $100,000 for Iowa State University Foundation
Pictured (L to R): Allie Colleen, Adam Wainwright, Morgan Myles, and Drew Baldridge. Photo: Ryan Waneka
Wildflower Entertainment Group’s inaugural “Backstage Access Presents: Heartland” wrapped this past weekend with resounding success, raising more than $100,000 for the Iowa State University Foundation to support the Iowa Concern Hotline and expand mental wellness resources for farmers and ranchers.
The event feature performances from Drew Baldridge, Annie Bosko, Garrett Bradford, Allie Colleen, Erin Grand, Morgan Myles, Jenna Paulette, Kenya Reese, Cooper Riley and Adam Wainwright, and concluded on Saturday night with Tim McGraw’s performance at the first-ever concert at the Field of Dreams Movie Site.
The Trigger Code Wins Inaugural ‘Songs from the Countrypolitan’ Songwriter Competition
The Trigger Code has won the inaugural “Songs from the Countrypolitan,” a songwriting competition hosted by The Countrypolitan Hotel and Carter Vintage Guitars.
Judged by musicians Nikki Lane and Jonathan Terrell, aspiring artists had the opportunity to submit a song inspired by the hotel’s unique history. A Detroit native, Taylor Sorensen, performing as The Trigger Code, focused his song “Make Someday Tonight” on the people who have walked The Countrypolitan’s halls chasing towards a Nashville dream.
“With [The Countrypolitan’s] history of bootleggers, bankers, musicians and publishers comes a dynamic picture; one of all types. Although demographically different, they’re also wanderers, lovers and dreamers, and as such, very much like each other and very much like you and me,” The Trigger Code shares. “The idea was to write a song that has a conversation with the past – from a room at the place with the 13th floor on Printers Alley – in order to keep digging and running and hoping and pulling up dreams for the future.”
JUST IN: Messina Touring Group Promotes Rachel Powers To Vice President
/by Madison HahnenRachel Powers. Photo: Chris Zebo
Messina Touring Group has elevated Rachel Powers to Vice President.
“It’s an absolute honor to continue growing with a company known for its unwavering commitment to artists, always putting them and their best interests first,” shares Powers. “I’m fortunate to work alongside some of the most talented professionals in the business, many of whom have helped pave the way for me. It’s been a privilege to support some of the best artists and their incredible teams. I’m especially grateful to Louis for his mentorship and for believing in me – this opportunity means the world.”
In her new role, Powers will oversee and play a key role in high-level decision-making, cross-functional leadership and driving overall growth for the business. These new responsibilities are in addition to the aspects of her previous role as Vice President of Marketing, where she led tour marketing for Blake Shelton, Eric Church and Zac Brown Band.
Since joining the organization in 2017, Powers has led marketing for some of the most notable country music tours, including Shelton’s “Doing It to Country Songs Tour” and his upcoming 2026 “Live in Las Vegas” residency at The Colosseum. She also oversaw the marketing for Church’s “Free the Machine Tour” kicking off this weekend. This follows her work on Church’s “The Gather Again Tour,” which sold over 860,000 tickets, grossed $100 million, and earned Top Country Tour at the 2022 Billboard Music Awards. She also helmed his “Double Down Tour” in 2019, which sold over 770,000 tickets, grossed $72 million and pinned Church as the first solo headliner at Nashville’s Nissan Stadium.
Powers has been named to Billboard’s Country Power Players list in 2025 and 2025, as well as the Women in Music Executive list in 2023 and 2025. She was also apart of the second cohort for CMA’s Women’s Leadership Academy, and was in the inaugural class of honorees for Pollstar’s Impact: NextGen list in 2019. American Express also invited Powers to join their first ever Women in Music Leadership Academy.
Annie Bosko Readies Debut LP ‘California Cowgirl’ For October Release
/by Lorie HollabaughAnnie Bosko is revealing her tough and tender sides on her upcoming new debut album, California Cowgirl, due out on Oct. 3 via QHMG/Stone Country Records.
To accompany the announcement, Bosko is also releasing a new studio version of “Honky Tonk Heartbeat,” a song fans may recognize from Ariat’s “Line-Men Dancing” campaign, featuring fellow Ariat ambassador and San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy.
California Cowgirl was produced by Trent Willmon and David “Messy” Mescon, and features tracks written or co-written by Mescon, Jeffrey Steele, Bridgette Tatum, Danny Myrick, Wynn Varble and more. The project includes the already-released title track, “God Winks, “Tequila Time,” “Country Girls! (Who Run the World)” and “Heartburn” featuring Dwight Yoakam and also features tracks penned by Lainey Wilson, Garth Brooks and Hannah Dasher.
“California Cowgirl is a colorful tapestry woven from the threads of my life—with a fabric for everyone,” shares Bosko. “From the grit of growing up a farmer’s daughter to the faith that’s kept me chasing my dreams, this album reveals both the tender and the tough sides of who I am. It carries the pioneer spirit of the West, the heartbeat of the American dream and a Golden State glow with country soul.”
Bosko will celebrate the new project at her album release party on Oct. 3 at Desert 5 Spot in Los Angeles.
California Cowgirl Track List:
1. “Watch Me” (Annie Bosko, Jet Harvey, Rachel Thibodeau, Michael Wayne Wilkes)
2. “California Cowgirl” (Annie Bosko, Jason Sellers, Terri Jo Box, Lance Miller)
3. “Rolling Stone” (Annie Bosko, Chuck Cannon)
4. “God Winks” (Annie Bokso, Rachel Thibodeau, Jet Harvey, Michael Wayne Wilkes)
5. “Bright & Blue Sky” (Annie Bosko, Bridgette Tatum, David Mescon)
6. “Old Friends” (feat. Darius Rucker) (Annie Bosko, Rob Hatch, David Mescon)
7. “Tequila Time” (Annie Bosko, David Mescon, Bridgette Tatum)
8. “Cowboy Up” (Intro)
9. “Cowboy Up” (Annie Bosko, Danny Myrick)
10. “Better Than You” (with Joe Nichols) (Derek George, John Pierce)
11. “Maliblue” (Annie Bosko, Bridgette Tatum, David Mescon)
12. “Fighter” (Annie Bosko, Monica Madrid, Danny Myrick)
13. “Country Girls! (Who Run the World)” (Annie Bosko, Bridgette Tatum, David Mescon)
14. “Honky Tonk Heartbeat” (Jet Harvey, David Mescon, Annie Bosko, Monica Madrid)
15. “New Way to Fly” (Kim Williams, Garth Brooks)
16. “Hate the Way You Love Me” (Lainey Wilson, Matt Rogers, Bobby Hamrick)
17. “Sometimes I Forget” (Wynn Varble, Hannah Dasher)
18. “Help Me Make It Through the Night” (Kris Kristofferson, Bergen White)
19. “Heart Burn” (feat. Dwight Yoakam) (Annie Bosko, Chuck Cannon)
Cameron Whitcomb Readies Debut Record Due This Month
/by Lauryn SinkCameron Whitcomb is set to release his debut record The Hard Way on Sept. 26 via Atlantic Records. The title track is available today (Sept. 5).
The project explores Whitcomb’ struggles with addiction at a young age through to his recovery and adulthood. The album includes emotionally raw singles including the fan-favorite, “Quitter,” the self-aware “Hundred Mile High,” and recently released “Fragile”.
“A lot of people think all your problems are solved as soon as you get clean,” Whitcomb says, “but in my case the ups and downs of my mental health got more extreme. That instability has been hard to deal with while trying to navigate a career as a musician, especially as a kid who used to dig holes for a living. At the same time, I’m really grateful, and I know I just need to keep moving forward.”
Hailing from British Columbia’s Vancouver Island, Whitcomb left home at age 17 and got a job working on a pipeline, later spending his downtime singing karaoke and posting covers on Reddit. When an American Idol executive took note of his vocal talent, he landed a spot on the show’s 20th season and emerged as a top 20 finalist. Whitcomb then immersed himself in learning to write songs while deep in the process of getting sober. He made his label debut with 2024’s “Rocking Chair,” which amassed over 40M combined views across socials prior to its premiere.
Whitcomb is currently on a run of international shows and will return to the U.S. later this month to launch his “I’ve Got Options Tour,” kicking off Sept. 26 in Portland, Oregon and running through mid-November.
The Hard Way Track List:
1. “The Hard Way” (Cameron Whitcomb, Jack Riley, Cal Shapiro, Nolan Winfield Sipe)
2. “Options” (Cameron Whitcomb, Jack Riley, Cal Shapiro, Nolan Winfield Sipe)
3. “Lose Me” (Cameron Whitcomb, Jack Riley, Cal Shapiro)
4. “Fragile Ego” (Interlude) (Cameron Whitcomb)
5. “Fragile” (Cameron Whitcomb, Jack Riley, Cal Shapiro, Nolan Winfield Sipe)
6. “Call For You” (Cameron Whitcomb, Jack Riley, Cal Shapiro, Nolan Winfield Sipe)
7. “Quitter” (Cameron Whitcomb, Ben Cottrill, Nolan Winfield Sipe, David Schaeman)
8. “Holiday” (Cameron Whitcomb, Jack Riley, Cal Shapiro, Nolan Winfield Sipe)
9. “Pretty Little” (Cameron Whitcomb, Jack Riley, Cal Shapiro, Nolan Winfield Sipe)
10. “Hundred Mile High” (Cameron Whitcomb, Jack Riley, Cal Shapiro)
11. “Missed Calls” (Interlude)
12. “As I Stand Before The Coffin” (Cameron Whitcomb, Beau Bedford)
13. “Digging Holes” (Cameron Whitcomb, Nolan Winfield Sipe, Dan Fernandez)
14. “Medusa” (Cameron Whitcomb, Jack Riley, Cal Shapiro)
15. “Polly” (Interlude) (Cameron Whitcomb)
Industry Ink: Pam Tillis, Walker Hayes, ASCAP, SOLID, More
/by Lauryn SinkPam Tillis Celebrates 25th Anniversary as an Opry Member
Pictured (L-R): Brother-in-Law Kevin Shorey, Brother Mel “Sonny Boy” Tillis Jr., Sister Cindy Tillis-Shorey, Pam Tillis, Sister Carrie Tillis, Sister Connie Lynn Tillis, Nephew Marshall Howden, Niece Madison Howden, Cousin Gary Crosby. Photo: Courtesy of the Grand Ole Opry / Chris Hollo
Pam Tillis marked her 25th anniversary as a Grand Ole Opry member on Aug. 26. Vince Gill, Lorrie Morgan, Suzy Bogguss, Jamey Johnson, Russell Dickerson and Emily Ann Roberts were part of the lineup during the celebration.
“Tuesday night was more than I ever could’ve dreamed,” shares Tillis. “To have so many dear friends and special guests there to celebrate with me made it feel like one big family reunion. Marking 25 years as a member of the Grand Ole Opry is such a milestone, and it reminded me of just how much this stage has meant to me over the years. The Opry has given me some of the most meaningful moments of my career, and sharing that stage with people I love made the night unforgettable. My heart is full, and I’m still floating on cloud nine.”
Walker Hayes ‘Fancy Like’ Goes 7x Platinum
Walker Hayes and family. Photo: Patrick Sheehan
Walker Hayes’ 2021 viral hit “Fancy Like” has been certified 7x Platinum, signifying over 7 million units sold and streamed in the U.S.. On Aug. 29, Hayes was surprised with a commemorative 7x Platinum plaque by his daughters live on stage during his debut performance at the Grand Ole Opry.
The certification follows the release of Hayes’ new album, 17 Problems, and comes just ahead of the start of his 18-date acoustic “Walker Hayes: Unplugged Tour,” set to kick off next month.
ASCAP Hosts Belmont Student Showcase At The Bluebird Cafe
Pictured (L-R): ASCAP’s Mike Sistad, ASCAP’s Emilia James, Matthew Wilson, ASCAP’s Loretta Muñoz, Emily Diffey, Belmont University’s Pat Alger, Rachel Sinniger, Jack Zeiler and Belmont University’s Jodi Marr.
ASCAP hosted a songwriters round in partnership with Belmont University on Sept. 3. The round featured students Emily Diffey, Rachel Sinniger, Matthew Wilson and Jack Zeiler alongside ASCAP songwriter and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Pat Alger.
Society Of Leaders In Development Raises Over $39,000 For CMA Foundation
Pictured (L-R): Lindsey Morrison (Community Engagement Manager, CMA), Kim Ortiz (SOLID Treasurer), Brian Day (SOLID Music Market Co-Chair), Eunice Hernandez (SOLID Music Market Co-Chair), Brenden Macmanus (SOLID Music Market Chair), Leah Ducey (SOLID Vice-President), Zach Green (SOLID President), Michelle Kirk (Senior Director, CMA Foundation), Tiffany Kerns (Executive Director, CMA Foundation). Photo: Britney Buckwalter, CMA.
The Society of Leaders in Development (SOLID) raised over $77,000 total at its annual Backstage Auction inside Fan Fair X at CMA Fest 2025, and donated nearly $40,000 to the CMA Foundation.
“CMA Fest has always been about more than just the music, it’s about giving back and creating real, lasting impact,” says Tiffany Kerns, CMA Senior Vice President of Industry Relations & Philanthropy. “SOLID continues to be an incredible partner to the CMA Foundation, and initiatives like the Backstage Auction inside Fan Fair X are a powerful reminder of what makes this industry so special. Through these types of partnerships, we help ensure that every student has access to the life-changing power of music education. It’s moments like these that truly reflect the heart behind the music.”
“It’s incredibly inspiring to watch our Backstage Auction team leap into action each year, finding new ways to raise the bar on our merchandise and outreach,” adds SOLID President Zach Green. “Our Music Market chairs and their committee spent so much time outside of their demanding jobs to source items, coordinate complicated logistics, and man a booth full of volunteers in the chaos of Fan Fair – and they came through with nearly $80,000 raised to support SOLID and CMA Foundation. This tenacity is truly the lifeblood that keeps our operation running smoothly.”
Carly Ann Taylor Makes Label Debut With ‘Why Should I Worry (Remind Me Version)’
Curb Records artist Carly Ann Taylor made her label debut with “Why Should I Worry (Remind Me Version),” out today (Sept. 5). She penned the song alongside David Cook and Randy James Taylor.
“I’m so excited to share this new season of music that praises a God who never changes! He is faithful to remind us time and time again of who He is, and I pray His peace meets you exactly where you are,” shares Taylor. “If you’re someone who struggles with anxiety and fear of your future, this song is for you.”
Backstage Access Presents: Heartland Raises Over $100,000 for Iowa State University Foundation
Pictured (L to R): Allie Colleen, Adam Wainwright, Morgan Myles, and Drew Baldridge. Photo: Ryan Waneka
Wildflower Entertainment Group’s inaugural “Backstage Access Presents: Heartland” wrapped this past weekend with resounding success, raising more than $100,000 for the Iowa State University Foundation to support the Iowa Concern Hotline and expand mental wellness resources for farmers and ranchers.
The event feature performances from Drew Baldridge, Annie Bosko, Garrett Bradford, Allie Colleen, Erin Grand, Morgan Myles, Jenna Paulette, Kenya Reese, Cooper Riley and Adam Wainwright, and concluded on Saturday night with Tim McGraw’s performance at the first-ever concert at the Field of Dreams Movie Site.
The Trigger Code Wins Inaugural ‘Songs from the Countrypolitan’ Songwriter Competition
The Trigger Code has won the inaugural “Songs from the Countrypolitan,” a songwriting competition hosted by The Countrypolitan Hotel and Carter Vintage Guitars.
Judged by musicians Nikki Lane and Jonathan Terrell, aspiring artists had the opportunity to submit a song inspired by the hotel’s unique history. A Detroit native, Taylor Sorensen, performing as The Trigger Code, focused his song “Make Someday Tonight” on the people who have walked The Countrypolitan’s halls chasing towards a Nashville dream.
“With [The Countrypolitan’s] history of bootleggers, bankers, musicians and publishers comes a dynamic picture; one of all types. Although demographically different, they’re also wanderers, lovers and dreamers, and as such, very much like each other and very much like you and me,” The Trigger Code shares. “The idea was to write a song that has a conversation with the past – from a room at the place with the 13th floor on Printers Alley – in order to keep digging and running and hoping and pulling up dreams for the future.”
MusicRow Weekly (MusicRow Awards WINNERS, News, Charts, More…)
/by Madison HahnenThe Sept. 5 edition of The MusicRow Weekly brings readers all the biggest headlines shaping Nashville’s country music industry, including major wins at the 37th annual MusicRow Awards, key executive appointments, and publishing and representation deals. Click here to see the full edition.
MusicRow Magazine proudly unveiled the winners of the 2025 MusicRow Awards on Sept. 3 across its online platforms. Country superstar Morgan Wallen emerged as one of the top honorees, taking home both Male Artist of the Year and Entertainer of the Year. Meanwhile, powerhouse Lainey Wilson continued her stronghold on the Female Artist of the Year category, earning the accolade for a third consecutive year. Fan-favorite band Old Dominion also extended their winning streak, claiming Group/Duo Artist of the Year for the third year running. Click here to see the full list of winners.
In executive news, Big Machine Label Group announced multiple promotions and one new hire within its international division. The label’s all-female global team will continue spearheading efforts across key international markets such as the UK and Australia. Alex Hannaby has been promoted to VP, International Marketing & Operations while continuing to serve as Head of UK. Iren Coutiel joins the team as Senior International Digital & Commercial Manager, while Roxanne Gwillam-Kelly and Flo Myerscough-Harris have both been upped to International Marketing & Promotions Manager. Additionally, Cary Dal-Lago has joined as International Label Intern.
Anne Rohosy has been appointed Chief Commercial Officer at Gibson, Inc. On the publishing front, Grammy-winning artist Kacey Musgraves has renewed her publishing agreement with Warner Chappell Music, reaffirming her longstanding creative partnership with the company. Emerging talent Peytan Porter has signed a global publishing deal with Jody Williams Songs in partnership with Sony Music Publishing Nashville, while Avery Roberson has entered a global publishing agreement with Sea Gayle Music.
In representation news, Chandler Walters has signed with The Neal Agency for booking representation, joining a roster of dynamic and fast-rising talent.
This week also features a conversation with Sun Label Group’s Paul Sizelove on balancing legacy and innovation.
In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Morgan Wallen takes the No. 1 spot with “I Got Better.” 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.
Shaboozey Partners With Prime Sports For New ‘Thursday Night Football’ Open
/by Madison HahnenShaboozey has teamed up with Prime Sports for a new song and show open for Thursday Night Football. The new track, “Let ‘Em Know” will kick off TNF Tonight and Thursday Night Kickoff every week beginning with the Green Bay Packers vs. Washington Commanders on Sept. 11.
The campaign was created by Prime Sports in collaboration with 77 Ventures, Boomshot, and DLP Media Group.
“Our collaboration with Shaboozey has produced an incredible campaign that showcases TNF as the ultimate fan experience,” says Stacey Rosenson, Head of U.S. Sports Marketing, Prime Video. “Shaboozey is the perfect artist to kick off TNF each week and reflects our commitment to capturing the energy of starting the weekend on Thursday nights.”
Russell Dickerson, Ashley Cooke, Tucker Wetmore Added To Lucky Classic Celebrity Softball Game Lineup
/by Lorie HollabaughRussell Dickerson, Ashley Cooke and Tucker Wetmore have been added to the lineup for the upcoming Lucky Classic, a star-studded celebrity softball game set to take the field in Nashville on November 16 at First Horizon Park.
The artists will join over 20 MLB All-Stars including Corey Seager, Brandon Lowe, Brent Rooker, and Bryan Reynolds for a one-of-a-kind night of music, baseball, and community celebration, with more celebs announced soon.
The event benefits The Burger Family Foundation, which was founded by Texas Rangers infielder Jake Burger and his wife Ashlyn and inspired by their daughter, Penelope, who was diagnosed with Down Syndrome. The Burger Family Foundation has turned into a mission to champion inclusion, celebrate abilities, and support families like the Burger’s in meaningful ways.
“Ashlyn and I couldn’t be more excited to bring The Lucky Classic to Nashville this off-season,” shares Jake. “This city is home for us, and we wanted to create something that blends our two worlds, music and baseball, while giving back to a community we love. The outpouring of support for The Burger Family Foundation and the Down syndrome community has already been incredible, and we can’t wait to see everyone at the ballpark for a day of fun, connection, and unforgettable memories.”
SiriusXM & Pandora Add Jordan Hatton To Nashville Team
/by LB CantrellJordan Hatton
SiriusXM and Pandora have hired Jordan Hatton as Associate Director, Country Artist and Industry Relations. She starts on the Nashville team on Monday (Sept. 8).
Hatton joins SiriusXM and Pandora after nearly a decade of experience in the country music industry, most notably at CMT, where she served as Manager of Music & Talent overseeing music video programming for the network. In her new role, she will lead talent booking and artist relations across SiriusXM and Pandora’s country music programming.
Hatton is passionate about championing female voices in the genre and has been deeply involved in projects like CMT’s Next Women of Country. She has led efforts in new artist discovery to spotlight emerging talent.
Academy Of Country Music Adds Three To Team
/by Madison HahnenLauren Burchett, Kylie Goudreau and Helena Capps
ACM has added three new team members across two departments. Lauren Burchett has joined as Head of Partnerships & Revenue, while Kylie Goudreau joins as Manager on the Industry Relations & Awards team, alongside Helena Capps as Project Manager.
“Strategic partnerships play a vital role in bringing value to our members, artists, and fans through unique programs that engage our audiences and provide valuable revenue to support the on-going mission of ACM and ACM Lifting Lives,” says Academy of Country Music CEO Damon Whiteside. “Lauren’s extensive background in media and sales is perfectly suited to effectively position the ACM as an innovative partner within the fast-moving brand marketing landscape.”
In her new role, Burchett will oversee sponsorship and partnership strategy, including Fortune 500 brand relationships, multi-million-dollar negotiations, and activations across award shows, live events and digital platforms. She will work closely with ACM Board members, C-suite leaders, and agency partners including Legends, Amazon Prime Video and Dick Clark Productions.
Burchett’s previous roles include senior leadership positions at The Walt Disney Company, Google and ESPN. She is also on the Board of The Fondle Project, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering women beyond breast cancer through advocacy, education and community.
“The ACM is ecstatic to grow its Industry Relations & Awards team to better serve the industry as a whole, with an emphasis on our ACM Membership,” shares Haley Montgomery, ACM Head of Industry Relations & Awards. “Our membership and our industry partners are the heartbeat of our organization, and this expanded team will be vital to continuing to grow our 5,000+ membership base and overall strengthen ACM’s presence and involvement in the music industry.”
Goudreau’s new role will include overseeing variety of industry engagement efforts to drive programming, growth, and execution of the Academy’s membership. She most recently served as Project Manager at ONErpm, after being in the role of Manager of Strategic Planning at BMLG Records where she worked with Riley Green, Brett Young, Florida Georgia Line and more.
In her new role, Capps will assist with artist and industry initiatives, the ACM Awards process and various other functions of the department. Capps brings over 15 years of experience to ACM in artist development, management, booking, and digital marketing. In 2020, she founded Wildrose Projects, alongside serving as Head of Programming for Song Suffragettes. Through her work, she has discovered, developed and managed artists, booked over 230 female singer-songwriters, and produced and edited content for artists including Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Taylor Swift.
Americana Music Association Reveals 2025 Lifetime Achievement Honorees
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R, top row): Darrell Scott, Jesse Welles and Joe Henry; (L-R, bottom row): McCrary Sisters and Old 97’s
The Lifetime Achievement Honorees for the Americana Music Association’s 24th annual Americana Honors & Awards set for Sept. 10 have been announced.
This year’s group of recipients will be celebrated during the upcoming ceremony at the Ryman Auditorium and includes Joe Henry, McCrary Sisters, Old 97’s, Darrell Scott, and Jesse Welles.
Joe Henry‘s career has spanned nearly four decades, and albums like Trampoline, Scar, and Civilians are touchstones of Americana music, marked by their subtle arrangements and his warm voice that carries a gentle authority. Over the years, he has worked with producer T Bone Burnett, jazzman Ornette Coleman, New Orleans legend Allen Toussaint, and longtime collaborators David Piltch, Patrick Warren, and his son, Levon Henry. He embraces imperfection as a source of beauty, reminding us that the most profound truths often emerge from the quietest moments.
The McCrary Sisters embody the soul-deep power of gospel by blending righteous harmonies, lived experience, and unstoppable energy into their sound. Daughters of the late Reverend Samuel H. McCrary, a founding member of the Fairfield Four, the sisters were born into gospel royalty and raised in Nashville’s rich spiritual and musical traditions. Their sound is equally fluent in soul, blues, and funk, reflecting the sisters’ deep individual and collective histories. Their music is praise, but it is also protest, comfort, connection, and call to action. The McCrary Sisters will receive the Legacy award, co-presented with the National Museum of African American Music.
Old 97’s crashed onto the scene in the early ’90s with a wild blend of Texas twang, garage-band swagger, and heart-on-sleeve songwriting that helped define the alt-country sound. Formed in Dallas in 1993, the band built a reputation for their explosive live shows, razor-sharp lyrics, and a sound that honored country roots while refusing to be confined by them. Alongside peers like Uncle Tupelo and Whiskeytown, they laid the groundwork for the Americana movement. With more than three decades on the road and no signs of slowing down, Old 97’s prove that Americana music can be rowdy, literate, rebellious, and completely their own.
Darrell Scott has become one of the most admired songwriters and musicians in roots music. His nuanced guitar playing attracted the likes of Guy Clark, and his lyrics have appealed to country, folk, bluegrass and Americana listeners for decades. Scott’s rich baritone enchanted folk festival audiences as well as mainstream country artists who revered his storytelling, and Patty Loveless, Brad Paisley and Chris Stapleton have all put their personal touch on Scott’s classic, “You’ll Never Leave Harlan Alive.” His catalog also includes radio hits such as Sara Evans’ “Born to Fly” and Travis Tritt’s “It’s a Great Day to Be Alive,” and The Chicks recorded versions of “Heartbreak Town” and “Long Time Gone” for their albums.
Jesse Welles channels the grit and poetry of rock’s golden age through a lens all his own. With a voice that balances intensity and weary soul, Welles crafts songs that echo the voice of Woody Guthrie: honest, jagged, and prescient. He weaves humor into serious themes and his songwriting often cuts into the heart of present-day social issues, touching on themes like isolation, inequality, injustice, and the emotional toll of modern life. Rather than shying away from uncomfortable truths, he leans into them, using his platform to reflect the world as it is – messy, beautiful, and worth questioning. Welles will receive the Spirit of Americana Award, co-presented by the First Amendment Center.
“This year’s Lifetime Achievement honorees represent the heart and soul of the Americana Community. From the legendary to the next generation of stars. It’s a privilege to recognize and celebrate these incredible artists whose expertise in their craft has left an indelible mark,” says Jed Hilly, Executive Director of the Americana Music Association and Foundation.