Ella Langley & Riley Green Surprised With Early ACM Award

Ella Langley and Riley Green celebrate their ACM win

Two of the top nominees at the 60th ACM Awards, Ella Langley and Riley Green, were surprised with the ACM Award for Visual Media of the Year for “You Look Like You Love Me” on Friday night (May 2) while on stage during Green’s set at Country Thunder Florida. The wins come ahead of the ceremony on Thursday (May 8).

The news was revealed by entertainment icon and host of the 60th ACM Awards, Reba McEntire, through a special video congratulating Langley and Green for their win.

“Sorry to interrupt, but I have some big news,” McEntire said on the video screens. “‘You Look Like You Love Me’ has won the ACM for Visual Media of the Year. Congratulations to Ella and Riley!”

Langley’s win comes after already being named the ACM New Female Artist of the Year a week earlier thanks in part to the success of her debut album, Hungover. Her massive hit single from the album, “You Look Like You Love Me,” featuring Green, marked her Billboard Hot 100 debut (Top 30), earned Langley her first No. 1 single on country radio, and made her the first and one of only two female artists to lead the Billboard Country Airplay Chart in 2024. Langley received the most nominations at the ACM Awards this year with eight nominations, including New Female Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year and six nominations for “You Look Like You Love Me” including Single of the Year, Song of the Year (as an artist and songwriter), Music Event of the Year and Visual Media of the Year (as an artist and director). Friday night’s win brings Langley’s ACM Awards count for the 60th ACM Awards to three, two as an artist and one as a director.

Friday’s win marks Green’s second ACM Award win after winning ACM New Male Artist of the Year in 2020. In the past year, Green has seen another level of success after releasing his third studio album, Don’t Mind If I Do. He is currently on his “Damn Country Music Tour” with Langley and other special guests with dates extending through November. Green received five nominations at the ACM Awards this year for his collaboration with Langley, including Single of the Year, Song of the Year (as an artist and songwriter), Music Event of the Year and Visual Media of the Year.

Alexis Rosenberg Joins WME Nashville As Head Of External Relations

Alexis Rosenberg. Photo: Nick Bastoky

Alexis Rosenberg has been appointed to the newly-created role of Sr. Director, External Relations in WME’s Nashville office.

In the new position, Rosenberg will work closely with the agency’s Corporate Communications and Marketing teams and serve as a key ambassador between the Nashville office and the broader Nashville business community, the music industry, sports ventures and WME’s additional offices worldwide. She will focus on corporate partnerships and sponsorship opportunities, industry relations and initiatives, and cultivating key strategic relationships to champion the Nashville team and its clients across all platforms. Rosenberg will report to WME Senior Partners and Nashville Co-Heads Becky Gardenhire, Joey Lee and Jay Williams.

A graduate of James Madison University, Rosenberg spent 13 years in professional sports prior to joining WME, including a decade with the NBA’s Orlando Magic where she oversaw premium client relations. Most recently, she served in a leadership role with Major League Soccer’s Nashville Soccer Club, playing an instrumental role in the opening of Geodis Park, the largest soccer-specific stadium in the U.S.

“Alexis brings to WME a unique blend of experience, strong relationships and a deep background in the sports world and large-scale events,” says Williams. “Her expertise and passion will help us strengthen our artists’ ties across industries and further elevate our presence in Nashville and beyond. We’re thrilled to welcome her into this role and excited for the impact she will make.”

“It is an honor to join WME and work with this powerhouse team and organization,” Rosenberg shares. “I’m excited to build on WME’s strong foundation—supporting our clients with intention, deepening community and industry relationships, and helping the agency grow in thoughtful, impactful ways.”

BREAKING: Lori Christian Exits UMG Nashville

Lori Christian

Lori Christian has exited her role of Exec. VP of Marketing at UMG Nashville (now MCA), after 13 years with the label group.

Christian oversaw UMG Nashville’s Project Management, Brands & Sponsorship, Creative Services, International Marketing and Media Marketing departments for the label group including Capitol Records Nashville, Capitol Comedy Nashville, EMI Records Nashville, MCA Nashville, Mercury Nashville, Silver Wings Records and Sing Me Back Home Productions.

She rose to Exec. VP of Marketing in 2023 after serving as Sr. VP of Marketing since 2020 and leading the publicity department at UMG Nashville since the 2012 merger of EMI and Universal Music Group.

Prior to joining UMG, Christian spent time at Capitol, Sony, NBC and Rogers & Cowan.

She can be reached at lgeneschristian@gmail.com.

Dynamic Talent Opens Nashville Doors [Exclusive]

Robert Baugh

Talent management firm Dynamic Talent International has expanded into Nashville with the opening of its 401 Commerce office. The Nashville-based team will include Agent Robert Baugh, as well as Jamie Leslie, Jordan Cocklin, Jake Hawkins, Adam Easterling and Jordyn Rothman. 

The team will represent Nashville-based artists Danielle Bradbery, Drew Green, Erin Kinsey, Chase Wright and Tyler Nance, as well as top Australian county artist Kaylee Bell. They will also collaborate with the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, and will hold an upcoming fundraising event for Music Health Alliance.

“I am thrilled to start to continue my journey at Dynamic Talent as we look to expand the brand and overall footprint of DTI in the country space and beyond,” says Baugh. “Getting the opportunity to develop up and coming and established artists under an already successfully Dynamic namesake is what drew me to continue my career at such an exciting and quickly growing company. I am looking forward to bringing my expertise in touring, production and artist development to an organization that has proven to be an innovator over the last 15 years.”

The company will offer services in booking, tour marketing and brand and sponsorship deals. Dynamic Talent also has offices in Sacramento, Los Angeles, New York and Poland, building a global footprint across genres. The organization booked P1Harmony at the Grand Ole Opry, marking them as the first K-pop act to play there. They have also built success and earned Live Nation awards with Mamamoo, IU, Will Wood, Autoheart and more, who have all played fast sell-out tours under Dynamic Talent.

“Extremely excited we are expanding in Nashville, perfect place to grow looking forward to putting down deeper roots in music city, adding more country and clients to the company and being closer to our current partners.” shares CEO Trevor Swenson. “Expanding has been a really big goal of ours for the last 5 years, having Robert on board and this office sets us up for success in this business community.”

Endurance Music Group Expands Raven Music Partners Deal, Promotes Two

EMG’s Mark Ahlberg and Michael Martin

Endurance Music Group has expanded its partnership with Raven Music Partners through a comprehensive music services agreement that includes administration, creative services and distribution oversight for RMP’s catalog, while continuing to support its active roster of hit songwriters. EMG President Michael Martin has been named Chief Creative Officer, and Vice President Mark Ahlberg has been elevated to Co-President and General Manager.

Martin says, “Over the past decade, the Endurance team has played a vital role in laying the foundation for Raven in the Nashville music community, and we’re energized to build on the value this relationship has created. As Raven continues to expand its footprint through its partnerships and financial resources, we expect to create amazing opportunities for the songs and songwriters of Endurance. We’re excited to deepen our strategic partnership and continue spotlighting this incredible catalog.”

“Endurance Music Group’s experience, attention to detail, and operational edge make them the perfect partner to manage our growing catalog,” shares Jeremy Tucker, Raven Music Partners Founder and Managing Member. “We look forward to continuing to work and grow together.”

Ahlberg, adds, “Since joining Endurance, our team has provided rightsholders and our partners repeated results that underscore how best-in-class administration can unlock and create long-term value. I’m excited to step into this expanded role and continue driving excellence across our services and systems while providing thoughtful stewardship for our clients.”

MusicRow Weekly (News, Charts, More…)

The latest edition of The MusicRow Weekly brings with it a wave of significant developments across Nashville’s music industry, from high-profile signings and business launches to heartfelt milestones and charitable efforts. Click here to see the full edition.

Grammy-winning artist Kacey Musgraves signed with the relaunched Lost Highway Records. This move marks a return for Musgraves, who was the final artist to join the label before it was folded into Mercury Nashville in 2012.

The new business venture FEMco (Fram Entertainment & Music) was launched from music industry powerhouse Leslie Fram. FEMco is set to serve as a consulting collective focused on artist development, talent booking and production, and B2B connectivity within Nashville’s entertainment world.

In publishing news, country superstar Morgan Wallen has introduced his own publishing company, Wilder Music. The venture kicked off with the signing of hit songwriter Jared Mullins in partnership with Warner Chappell Music Nashville.

Steve Earle was invited to join the Grand Ole Opry over the weekend by none other than his longtime friend and fellow Opry member Vince Gill.

Trisha Yearwood is beginning a new era in her musical journey by partnering with Virgin Music Group. The deal covers both new music and her more recent catalog via her own Gwendolyn Records imprint. It also reconnects Yearwood with MCA Nashville, her longtime label home from 1990 to 2006.

Dualtone is moving forward under new leadership. Whitaker Elledge, previously GM and SVP, has officially stepped into the top role following the passing of beloved President Paul Roper. Elledge joined the label in 2018 and has played a pivotal role in A&R and Artist Development.

RaeLynn has returned familiar ground, signing again with The Valory Music Co., the label that helped launch her career. Her debut release under the new deal, “Heaven Is A Honky Tonk,” drops May 9 and comes via a partnership with Red Van Records and Jonas Group Entertainment.

Other notable signings this week include Grammy-nominated artist Ink joining the rosters of Big Loud Records and Electric Feel Records. Meanwhile, singer-songwriters Ian Harrison and Evan Bartels have both signed with WME for global representation, further expanding their reach and opportunities in the live and media spaces.

In philanthropic news, the T.J. Martell Foundation’s annual Nashville’s Best Cellars Dinner brought together prominent figures from the music and wine industries on April 22 at the Loews Nashville Hotel. The evening honored veteran executive Joe Galante with the 2025 Billy Ray Hearn Award of Excellence and raised funds in support of cancer research.

Finally, the country music world turned its attention westward for the 2025 edition of the Stagecoach Festival, held April 25–27. As always, the event drew massive crowds and top-tier performances, cementing its status as a cornerstone of the live country music calendar.

This week’s My Music Row Story features an insightful conversation with Leo33 label head Katie Dean.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Riley Green sits at No. 1 this week with “Worst Way.” Explore more chart data here.

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.

CMHOFM Announces CMA Fest Special Programming Lineups

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum will offer three special programs to visitors in June during CMA Fest 2025. Programs include a conversation and performance with some of CMT’s Next Women of Country on Friday (June 6), a songwriter session on Saturday (June 7) and a musician spotlight on Sunday (June 8).

The Friday event will take place at 12:30 p.m. in the museum’s CMA Theater and features artists involved in CMT’s Next Women of Country franchise, which launched in 2013 and highlights up-and-coming country artists. This year’s performers include Dasha, Lanie Gardner, Alexandra Kay, Kat Luna and Mōriah. Following the 2024 release of her debut country album, What Happens Now?, which includes the viral hit “Austin (Boots Stop Workin’),” Dasha released her single “Not at This Party” in early 2025. Last year, Gardner released her self-written debut album, A Songwriter’s Diary, and is featured on Thomas Rhett’s recent single, “What Could Go Right.” Kay, who released her debut album, All I’ve Ever Known, in 2023, has plans to release a follow-up record in 2025 and has opened shows for Jelly Roll and Tim McGraw. Luna, formerly of the duo Kat & Alex, released her first solo EP, That Girl, earlier this year. Mexican-American musician and actress Mōriah wrote and produced her 2022 EP, Curtain Call, and released English and Spanish versions of her single, “Hasta Mañana,” in 2024.

On Saturday, actor, author, singer-songwriter and U.S. Army veteran Craig Morgan will take the stage in the museum’s Ford Theater. The Grand Ole Opry member is known for his songs “Almost Home,” “Bonfire,” “I Got You,” “More Trucks Than Cars” and “The Father, My Son and the Holy Ghost.”

Tico Hernandez is set to perform on Sunday in the museum’s Ford Theater. The Sapulpa, Oklahoma native has been Lauren Alaina’s music director, bandleader and guitarist for more than a decade in addition to touring with artists like British band the Farm, hip-hop act Group 1 Crew, country duo the JaneDear Girls, songwriter and performer Nicole C. Mullen and pop artist Jaci Velasquez.

All programs at the museum are included with museum admission and free to museum members. Seating is limited, and a program ticket is required for admittance. Visit here for more information.

Bobby Bones To Explore 60 Years Of ACM History On New Prime Video Special

Radio and TV personality Bobby Bones will take viewers on a journey through six decades of the Academy of Country Music Awards on the Bobby Bones’ ACM Awards 60th Celebration Special, available on Prime Video starting today (May 2).

Bones explores the evolution of the ACM Awards, highlighting unforgettable performances, groundbreaking moments and legends that helped shape the genre and the show’s enduring legacy as ACM prepares to celebrate its 60th Awards show on May 8.

The special includes conversations with Brooks & Dunn, Keith Urban and Lainey Wilson reflecting on the Academy’s impact on their careers and the broader music world. Bones also reveals his top 10 moments from ACM Awards history and shines a spotlight on the evening’s host Reba McEntire, reflecting on her groundbreaking role as a longtime ACM host, performer and trailblazer in the industry.

A five-time ACM Awards winner himself, Bones has also been added to the ACM Awards show on May 8, where he will have multiple moments throughout the night with candid artist interviews.

Industry Ink: Zach Top, Tucker Wetmore, Vincent Mason, More

Zach Top Makes His Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon Debut

YouTube video

Zach Top made his late-night TV debut this week performing “I Never Lie” on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Top’s current single, “I Never Lie” is No. 4 on the Mediabase Country Aircheck chart and No. 7 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart this week and continuing to rise on both. The performance adds to a breakout year for Top, who was named the 2025 ACM New Male Artist of the Year and is also nominated for Album of the Year at the upcoming 60th Annual ACM Awards.

 

Tucker Wetmore Brings ‘Bad Luck’ To ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live!

YouTube video

Tucker Wetmore performed on ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live! Tuesday night (April 29) as he made his late night television debut with a high energy performance of “Bad Luck Looks Good On Me” from his just-released debut album, What Not To. The newcomer dropped the album on April 25 – just 12 months into his meteoric rise. The album release caps off a banner month for Wetmore, who earned an ACM nomination for New Male Artist of the Year and brought the house down last weekend at Stagecoach in his debut performance at the coveted festival. He also surprised fans with a pop-up performance at NYLON’s Desert Disco.

 

Vincent Mason Surprised With Gold At Stagecoach For ‘Hell Is A Dance Floor’

Pictured (L-R): Sean Lewow (Music Soup), Vincent Mason, Max Motley (Music Soup) and Matt Musacchio (Red Light Management). Photo: Ethan Dsa

Rising Interscope/UMG Nashville/Music Soup artist and songwriter Vincent Mason earned his first RIAA Gold certification with his breakout single, “Hell Is A Dance Floor.” Mason was surprised with a commemorative plaque backstage celebrating the single’s Gold status following two standout performances at Stagecoach Festival.

 

Rodney Atkins Celebrates Platinum At Ryman Sell-Out

Pictured (L-R): Elijah Atkins, Allan Atkins, Curb’s Jeff Tuerff, Curb’s Sarah Schumacher, Curb’s Ciara Shortridge, Rose Falcon, Rodney Atkins, Scout Atkins, Curb’s Calista Miller and Greg Hill

Rodney Atkins recently celebrated the RIAA Platinum certification of his hit album, Take A Back Road, during his April 26 sold-out show at the Ryman Auditorium. Performing fan favorites like “Farmer’s Daughter,” “Take A Back Road” and “If You’re Going Through Hell,” Atkins’ 22-year-old son, Elijah, joined him on stage to duet “Watching You,” as Elijah starred in the original music video and was the inspiration for the song almost 20 years ago. Atkins recently teased a full-length version of a “Watching You” duet with Elijah via social media, which has reached nearly 8 million views.

 

Eric Blankenship Fulfills Lifelong Dream With Opry Guest Appearance

Eric Blankenship. Photo: Hunter Pitts

Eric Blankenship achieved a milestone moment in his musical journey with his recent performance at the Grand Ole Opry, joining The Isaacs on stage as their special guest performing the Jack Greene classic “Statue Of A Fool.” The performance marks a full-circle moment for Blankenship, whose album Rollin’ With The Flow reflects decades of dedication to traditional country music.

Don McLean Signs With Day After Day Productions

Don McLean

Grammy honoree and Songwriter Hall of Fame member Don McLean has signed with Day After Day Productions for worldwide touring representation.

McLean remains an influential force in music over five decades into his celebrated career. His signature song “American Pie,” released over 50 years ago, continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, evidenced by its inclusion in the Library of Congress National Recording Registry, being named a Top 5 Song of the 20th Century by the Recording Industry Association of America, and its frequent appearances in film, TV and commercials.

In 2015, one of McLean’s four handwritten manuscripts of the lyrics to “American Pie” was auctioned by Christies, selling for just over $1.2 million. In 2019 he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and his music has found a renewed audience among younger generations through platforms like TikTok and YouTube, demonstrating its timeless appeal and ability to connect with new listeners.

“It’s an incredible honor to represent Don, a true American icon whose music has shaped generations,” says Michelle Scarbrough, McLean’s responsible agent at Day After Day. “His timeless artistry and enduring influence continue to captivate audiences around the world, and we’re thrilled to be part of the next chapter in his legendary career.”