Recording Academy Reduces Grammy Week Events

The Recording Academy has unveiled a new schedule for Grammy Week 2025, concentrating on the events with the greatest impact.

As previously announced, the 67th annual Grammy Awards will still take place and air on CBS on Feb. 2 with a renewed focus of raising additional funds for wildfire relief efforts and honoring the bravery and commitment of first responders. To maximize support for both the music community and all those impacted by the crisis in Los Angeles and beyond, many traditional Grammy Week events have been either canceled or restructured.

“We understand how devastating this past week has been on this city and its people,” shares Recording Academy & MusiCares CEO Harvey Mason Jr. “This is our home, it’s home to thousands of music professionals, and many of us have been negatively impacted. So after thoughtful consideration, and multiple assurances from state and local elected leaders, public safety agencies, and with support from our incredible artist community, we have decided to go ahead with the Grammy telecast and some select events. Grammy Week 2025 will not just be about honoring music, it will be about using the power of music to help rebuild, uplift and support those in need.”

The updated Grammy Week schedule, with each event featuring a fundraising component, will include the MusiCares Persons of the Year Charity Gala honoring the Grateful Dead on Jan. 31, the Special Merit Awards Ceremony & Grammy Nominees Reception on Feb. 1 and Clive Davis’ & the Recording Academy’s Pre-Grammy Fundraising Event on also Feb. 1, all culminating with the awards on Feb. 2.

Since the launch of the Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort to Support Music Professionals last week, the Recording Academy and MusiCares have raised and committed over two million dollars in emergency assistance for music industry professionals impacted by the wildfires. To support the Recording Academy and MusiCares’ Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort, or if you or someone you know needs assistance, click here.

‘Bluegrass Nights At The Ryman’ Returns In June

Springer Mountain Farms “Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman” returns to the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville for its 31st year on June 17 with six shows through July 22.

The 2025 series will kick off with Dan Tyminski and concludes with a performance from Country Music Hall of Fame Member Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder. Other featured performers include Rhonda Vincent, Mighty Poplar, East Nash Grass with AJ Lee and more to be announced.

New season passes will be available for purchase after Friday, Feb.16, and single tickets go on sale Feb. 21. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit ryman.com/bluegrass.

All shows begin at 7:30 p.m. CT and will be preceded by a 6 p.m. CT “Pickin’ on the Plaza” pre-show event on the Ryman’s PNC Plaza. Sponsored by Springer Mountain Farms and Farm Bureau Health Plans, the events feature live music from local bluegrass artists presented by WSM Radio.

“Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman” Lineup:
June 17 – Dan Tyminski
June 24 – TBA
July 1 – Rhonda Vincent
July 8 – Mighty Poplar
July 15 – East Nash Grass & AJ Lee
July 22 – Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder

Reminder: Nomination Period For MusicRow’s 2025 Rising Women On The Row Closes Friday

Nominations for MusicRow‘s 2025 Rising Women on the Row honors close on Friday (Jan. 17) at 5 p.m. central time.

Applications are now closed.

Candidates nominated in previous years will need to be resubmitted. Multiple nominations do not increase likelihood of being selected, but you may nominate as many individuals as you like with separate forms. Self-nominations are welcome.

The 12th annual Rising Women on the Row ceremony will be held on March 20, 2025 at the Omni Nashville Hotel. This breakfast event will honor six exceptional businesswomen, celebrating their significant contributions and visionary leadership within the Nashville music industry.

The 2025 Class of Rising Women on the Row will be revealed soon, along with event details. Ticket sales will also open in the coming weeks. For questions, reach out to LB Cantrell at lbcantrell@musicrow.com.

For advertising and sponsorship inquiries, reach out to Sherod Robertson at srobertson@musicrow.com.

As previously-announced, MusicRow will unveil a new print issue at the 2025 Rising Women on the Row breakfast, which will become part of its six annual slate of magazines. Titled “Women of Music Row,” the new print edition will celebrate the women shaping Music Row and feature editorial content highlighting their contributions and impact in the industry.

MusicRow Owner & Publisher Sherod Robertson held the first-ever Rising Women on the Row in 2012. He was inspired to start the beloved event when thinking of his grandmother, and how she was never honored for her accomplishments and tenacious spirit. Since its inaugural year, MusicRow has recognized over 60 deserving executives as Rising Women on the Row.

Past honorees include—2024: Tiffany Kerns, Taylor Lindsey, Sloane Cavitt Logue, Halie Hampton Mosley, Melissa Spillman, Candice Watkins; 2023: Stacy Blythe, Martha Earls, Beth Hamilton, Jackie Jones, Brittany Schaffer, Anna Weisband; 2020/2022: Jen Conger, JoJamie Hahr, Mandy Morrison, Missy Roberts, Jennie Smythe, Stephanie Wright; 2019: Janine Ebach, Kelly Janson, Meredith Jones, Lenore Kinder, Sandi Spika Borchetta, Jennifer Turnbow; 2018: Faithe Dillman, Leslie DiPiero, Becky Gardenhire, Lynn Oliver-Cline, Annie Ortmeier, Janet Weir; 2017: Tatum Allsep, Virginia Bunetta, Kerri Edwards, Kella Farris, Laura Hutfless, Juli Newton-Griffith; 2016: Abbey Adams, Amanda Cates, Cris Lacy, Leslie Roberts, Risha Rodgers; 2015: Kele Currier, Tiffany Dunn, Dawn Gates, Jensen Sussman, Lou Taylor; 2014: Julie Boos, Caryl Atwood, Ebie McFarland, Alicia Pruitt, Kelly Rich; 2013: Cyndi Forman, Cindy Hunt, Beth Laird, Cindy Mabe, Brandi Simms; 2012: Shannan Hatch, Mary Hilliard Harrington, Heather McBee, Denise Stevens, Carla Wallace.

Ryan Perdz Inks With Big Machine Rock

Pictured (L–R): Big Machine Rock’s Heather Luke-Husong, BMLG’s Scott Borchetta, Ryan Perdz and 7S Management’s Mike Polans. Photo: Courtesy of Big Machine Rock

Ryan Perdz has signed with Big Machine Rock, and will release his debut single, “January,” this Friday (Jan. 17).

The 23-year-old Buffalo native has amassed over a million followers on TikTok, with nearly 30 million likes on his acoustic performances of grunge classics and original material. His raw baritone and guitar stylings pull inspiration from influences, such as Chris Cornell, Kurt Cobain and John Frusciante.

“Ryan feels like a generational talent,” says Scott Borchetta, Chairman & CEO, Big Machine Label Group. “He has just enough heartbreak, grunge swagger, keen pop sensibility and sly sense of humor to continually keep you guessing as to where he’s going to go next with his music and lyrics. We’ll make it real easy—just sit back and crank it up!”

“I’m so excited to be a part of the Big Machine Rock family,” Perdz adds. “I’ve been working for this my whole life, and I couldn’t be happier with my amazing team at the label.”

Dead Horse Branding Elevates Brittany Hambrick To President Of Operations & Branding

Brittany Hambrick

Dead Horse Branding has promoted Brittany Hambrick to President of Operations & Branding.

Hambrick joined the company in 2021, after 10 years in the industry. Her previous roles include Global Brand Manager at Sony Music Entertainment where she led major artist campaigns, managed release strategies, digital marketing and brand development. At Universal Music Group, she served as Brand Management Specialist, executing marketing initiatives that strengthened brand visibility. Earlier in her career, she worked as a Wardrobe Stylist at The Label Nashville, designing looks for high-profile artists, TV productions and media campaigns.

Since joining Dead Horse Branding, Hambrick has played a key role in refining the company’s seven Formulas of Branding, spearheading artist development efforts, managing content production and cultivating strategic brand partnerships.

In her new position as President of Operations & Branding, she will continue to drive innovation, oversee client success and further expand the organization’s global presence. She will also manage the daily brand operations for clients, with a focus on developing new artists, and refine brand positioning, while leading the creation of engaging content, including photography, graphic design and music video concept, and oversee social media strategies to enhance engagement and extend reach.

“Working with Dead Horse Branding over the past three years has been an incredible experience,” shares Hambrick. “I’ve learned so much about branding, growth, and how to build meaningful connections with clients. One of the things that sets DHB apart is the opportunity to work directly with the client, gaining firsthand experience and insight into their needs and vision. This is something you can’t achieve in a company that doesn’t give you that personal connection. I’m excited for what’s ahead and can’t wait to continue growing with such a talented and innovative team. Together, we’ll keep pushing boundaries.”

“We’ve known Brittany since 2012, and even then, she stood out to us as both an incredible person and a remarkable business talent,” says Melissa Core-Caballo, CEO and Co-Founder of Dead Horse Branding. “To think that just three years ago, we reunited unexpectedly, and in such a short time, Brittany has become more than just a part of Dead Horse Branding—she’s truly a partner. Her contributions have been integral to the success of our company and the clients we serve. This title and promotion are a perfect reflection of her impact, and we’re beyond excited to watch her continue to shape and lead the vision we’ve built. She is, without a doubt, Dead Horse Branding.”

“A true one-in-a-million! We’ve spent years searching for someone like Brittany, and she’s the perfect addition to both our team and our inner circle,” adds Rick Caballo, CCO. “Not only is she an incredible person, but she’s also absolutely brilliant at what she does. We’re all better for having her in our lives.”

Additionally, Dead Horse Branding had added Sergio Valenzuela as Assistant Creative Director, who will report directly to Hambrick and Rick Caballo.

Electric Feel Entertainment Signs Thomas Edwards

Pictured (L–R): Electric Feel’s John Bradley, Thomas Edwards and Electric Feel’s Austin Rosen. Photo: Taylor Stanford

Electric Feel Entertainment has signed emerging singer-songwriter Thomas Edwards.

The Kingsport, Tennessee native comes from a family of musicians, and began singing in church at a young age. After his football career at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville was cut short by an injury, Edwards decided to embrace his musical roots and move to Nashville. He released his debut single, “Runnin’ Through That T,” in 2023 as an ode to his dreams of playing collegiate football.

Last year, Edwards shared his second single, “Old Crowd,” and inked with UTA for booking representation.

“I’ve been able to spend the past couple years watching Thomas develop into the incredible writer and artist that he is and is still becoming,” says John Bradley, Country A&R, Electric Feel Entertainment. “Stoked to be on his team. This is only the first big step of many!”

“Signing with Electric Feel was an easy decision. To me, it’s always been about the people, not the place, and John Bradley helped me in my music career from the day I got to town,” shares Edwards. “When I got the ball rolling with my music and had to decide on a publisher, it was a no brainer. Since joining EF, I’ve been able to expand my scope as a creative, writing songs across multiple genres and collaborating with artists around the world. EF has allowed me to focus my effort on making music, not necessarily being contained by the parameters of any one specific genre.”

The Oak Ridge Boys Add Dates To ‘American Made Farewell Tour’

The Oak Ridge Boys

The Oak Ridge Boys have added a series of dates to their “American Made Farewell Tour.”

They’ll kick off the next leg Jan. 24 with four Grand Ole Opry dates through Mar. 1, then head to South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Ohio and more through the end of the year. The tour, named after one of their most beloved hits, celebrates the Oaks’ decades-long career and supports their latest album, Mama’s Boys, which was released in November of last year via Lightning Rod/Thirty Tigers.

The group will head back into the studio later this year to record a new album, continuing their legacy of creating music that resonates with fans old and new.

“We’ve had so much fun touring from city to city and getting to see everyone,”shares William Lee Golden. “The response we received from the new album has been wonderful and we hope you love it as much as we do. Keep checking our website as new dates will be added soon!”

American Made Farewell Tour” Dates:
Jan 24 – Grand Ole Opry / Nashville, Tenn.
Jan 25 – Grand Ole Opry / Nashville, Tenn.
Feb 28 – Grand Ole Opry / Nashville, Tenn.
Mar 1 – Grand Ole Opry / Nashville, Tenn.
Mar 6 – Florida Strawberry Festival / Plant City, Fla.
Mar 7 – Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium / Spartanburg, S.c.
Mar 21 – the Midland Theatre / Newark, Ohio
Mar 22 – American Music Theatre / Lancaster, Pa.
Mar 23 – American Music Theatre / Lancaster, Pa.
May 18 – the Caverns / Pelham, Tenn.
Jun 5 – Bluegate Performing Arts Center / Shipshewana, Ind.
Jun 6 – Bluegate Performing Arts Center / Shipshewana, Ind.
Jun 7 – Renfro Valley – the New Barn Theater / Mount Vernon, Ky.
Jun 13 – Hartville Kitchen / Hartville, Ohio
Jun 14 – Hartville Kitchen / Hartville, Ohio
Aug 5 – Warren County Fair / Pittsfield, Pa.
Aug 15 – Fairbury Fair / Fairbury, Ill.
Sep 13 – Alabama Theatre / North Myrtle Beach, S.c.
Sep 21 – Bloomsburg Fair / Bloomsburg, Pa.
Dec 13 – Crystal Grand Music Theatre / Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

Ringo Starr Invited To Make Grand Ole Opry Debut

Emmylou Harris surprising Ringo Starr onstage at the Ryman Auditorium. Photo: Courtesy of Beautiful Day Media

Ringo Starr was surprised by Emmylou Harris with an invitation to make his Grand Ole Opry debut last night (Jan. 14) during the first of his two sold-out headlining shows at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium in support of his new country album, Look Up.

The multi-Grammy winner and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer will make his debut on Feb. 21 as part of the Opry’s ongoing 100-year celebration.

When Harris asked, Starr pretended to think about it and teasingly replied, “When is that, July?” Harris answered, “February,” to which he enthusiastically said, “I’d love to. It’s an honor and a pleasure. Thank you.”

“What an honor that after all the extraordinary music he has made and all the incredible history he’s been a part of, Ringo Starr will be making his Opry debut during this, the Opry’s milestone 100th year,” shared Dan Rogers, Executive Producer, Grand Ole Opry. “It’s going to be a night like no other.”

Starr will return to the Ryman Auditorium stage tonight (Jan. 15) for his second show.

Wrensong Publishing Hires Haily Harris

Haily Harris

Wrensong Publishing has hired Haily Harris as Creative Manager.

Harris comes to Wrensong from Jody Williams Songs (JWS), where she assisted Jody Williams, Nina Jenkins Fisher and Tenasie Courtright with various publishing endeavors as an intern. The Marietta, Georgia native graduated from Belmont University in 2024, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in music business with a legal emphasis.

In her new role, Harris will work with songwriters Makayla Lynn, Joe Ginsberg, Connor Matthews and Charles Esten.

“We are so excited to welcome Haily to the Wrensong team. She came highly recommended from Jody Williams and Nina Jenkins Fisher as their amazing intern. You cannot get a better endorsement than team Jody Williams Songs!! We are very impressed by her entrepreneur spirit and ‘get it done’ attitude,” says Ree Guyer, President & Owner, Wrensong Publishing. “We see great things in her future, and we are thrilled she is on team Wrensong.”

“I am so excited and honored to join the Wrensong team! This past year interning at Jody Williams Songs, I have learned so much, and found a true passion for songs and the people who bring them to life. I look forward to learning and growing with this amazing group of women,” shares Harris.

Jelly Roll Celebrates Latest Chart-Topper At Riverbend Maximum Security Institution

“I Am Not Okay” No. 1 Party. Photo: Keith Griner

Jelly Roll celebrated his sixth consecutive, and eighth overall, chart-topper at country radio, “I Am Not Okay,” at Nashville’s Riverbend Maximum Security Institution last week with the facility’s inmates and staff alongside his co-writers Taylor Phillips, Ashley Gorley and Casey Brown as well as producer Zach Crowell, his label team and industry members.

Lainey Wilson and Jelly Roll during “I Am Not Okay” No. 1 Party. Photo: Keith Griner

The first-of-its-kind No. 1 party featured a performance by the hitmaker and a surprise appearance by label-mate Lainey Wilson. Jelly Roll treated attendees to tunes, including the Platinum hit, after visiting members of the institution’s braille program, who transform text into braille for students at the Tennessee School For the Blind and printed materials for those visually-impaired.

“I Am Not Okay” served as the lead single for his sophomore country project, Beautifully Broken, and is currently up for Best Country Song and Best Country Solo Performance at the 67th  Grammy Awards. The tune has ranked as high at No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart since its release in June. It also held the top slot on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and Country Aircheck/Mediabase chart for multiple weeks, and reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.

Jelly Roll with Riverbend Maximum Security Institution inmates during “I Am Not Okay” No. 1 Party. Photo: Stephanie Siau