The Nashville music industry was filled with transformative moments and achievements in 2024, setting the stage for an exciting future.
Tennessee took a groundbreaking step in creator rights protection this year with the passage of the Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security (ELVIS) Act. Signed into law by Governor Bill Lee in March, the legislation is the first of its kind to safeguard artists from unauthorized use of their voice and likeness through deepfakes and AI-generated content. This pioneering act sets a national precedent for protecting creators in an ever-evolving technological landscape.
The year saw significant shifts among music labels and their artists. Miranda Lambert joined Republic Records in partnership with Big Loud. Chris Young moved to Black River Entertainment and Kelsea Ballerini re-signed with the label. Blake Shelton ended a two-decade run with Warner Music Nashville, signing with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. Additionally, country music embraced its pop crossover potential with Universal Music Group’s Silver Wings Records and Sony Music Nashville’s Free Flight Records, both dedicated to amplifying independent and pop acts.
Sony Music Nashville announced Randy Goodman’s retirement after nearly a decade as Chairman/CEO, with Taylor Lindsey stepping into the role. Her promotion marks a significant moment as she takes the helm of Sony’s country and Christian music divisions, shaping the label’s future alongside newly named President and COO Ken Robold. The move also means that all three major labels in Nashville have female leadership, with Cindy Mabe helming UMG Nashville and Cris Lacy present as the Co-Chair/Co-President of Warner Music Nashville.
Speaking of Warner Music Nashville, the company underwent significant leadership changes this year as Gregg Nadel joined Lacy as Co-Chair and Co-President. Nadel, a seasoned industry executive, succeeded Ben Kline, who stepped down after a decade of impactful contributions to join Red Light Management.
BMG’s Jon Loba expanded his influence, being promoted to President of Frontline Recordings for The Americas. Leading operations across the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Brazil, Loba’s leadership underscores BMG’s growing impact in the global music scene.
Beyoncé and Post Malone made waves with their respective country albums. Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter featured legends like Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton, while Post Malone’s F-1 Trillion brought collaborations with Chris Stapleton and Morgan Wallen. Both projects redefined genre boundaries and brought fresh energy to country music.
At the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, Lainey Wilson won Best Country Album for her Bell Bottom Country project, while Chris Stapleton, Brandy Clark, Jason Isbell and more also brought wins back to Nashville.
The 59th Academy of Country Music Awards brought an evening of collaborations and cultural moments, with Wilson earning Entertainer of the Year and Stapleton dominating with four wins. Hosted by Reba McEntire, the event showcased 18 performances, cementing the ACM Awards as a celebration of artistry and innovation.
At the 58th Annual CMA Awards, Wallen secured his first Entertainer of the Year award, while Megan Moroney earned New Artist of the Year honors. Brooks & Dunn and Stapleton tied as the most-awarded CMA artists in history, each reaching 19 total wins. The event showcased the breadth of talent in country music and solidified its stars’ legacies.
During this year’s “Awards Week” in Nashville, the SESAC Nashville Music Awards celebrated standout songwriters like Moroney and Jaron Boyer, while the ASCAP Country Music Awards honored icons including Ashley Gorley and Stapleton. BMI’s Country Awards crowned Randy Owen of Alabama with the BMI Icon Award, recognizing his indelible impact on music.
Drew Baldridge became the first self-released artist to top the Country Aircheck/Mediabase chart with “She’s Somebody’s Daughter,” a landmark achievement for independent artists and a testament to the changing dynamics of music distribution. Meanwhile, Ella Langley earned her first No. 1 on country radio with “You Look Like You Love Me” featuring Riley Green, making her the only female artist to lead the Billboard Country Airplay Chart in 2024 and ending a 51-week drought for women at the top. The nearly year-long gap was the longest since the 61-week drought of 2003-2004, underscoring Langley’s historic achievement.
Prolific songwriter Ashley Gorley reached an incredible milestone with his 81st No. 1 hit, continuing to set benchmarks in country music.
With these defining moments and more, 2024 underscored the resilience, creativity, and evolution of the music industry. From groundbreaking legislation to genre-crossing collaborations, it was a year to remember.
[January 8, 2024] The Familie, a sports and music agency, has arrived in Nashville with the addition of two new hires. Royce Risser, previously EVP of Promotion at Universal Music Group, has been hired as The Familie’s Head of Nashville and EVP of Country Music. He will be leading the company’s expansion into Music City. Additionally, The Familie has added artist manager Chase Berlin to the team. As The Familie prepares to make Nashville its national headquarters, Risser will be overseeing and executing Nashville office operations. He will also be leading the development of The Familie’s new country division. The Familie’s roster currently includes artists such as Machine Gun Kelly, Avril Lavigne, Jaden Hossler, Games We Play and sombr.
[January 10, 2024] At a press conference at Studio A in Nashville on Wednesday (Jan. 10), Tennessee Governor Bill Lee introduced bicameral legislation alongside State Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-27) and House Majority Leader William Lamberth (R-44) regarding concerns about creators’ voice, image and likeness rights. The Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security (ELVIS) Act updates Tennessee’s Protection of Personal Rights law, making it the first state in the nation to preserve individual voice, image and likeness against irresponsible and unethical artificial intelligence (AI) in the form of deepfakes and audio cloning. The ELVIS Act seeks to protect the future of Tennessee creators from the harmful misuse of technology on some online platforms, such as computer-generated recordings that resemble artists’ voices or deepfake videos.
River House’s Zebb Luster, Dean Dillon and River House’s Lynn Oliver-Cline
[January 24, 2024] Iconic country songwriter Dean Dillon has signed a worldwide publishing deal with River House Artists, in partnership with Sony Music Publishing. Dillon is a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Having penned many iconic hits for chart-topping artists including George Strait, Kenny Chesney, Lee Ann Womack, Toby Keith and many more, Dillon was named the BMI Country Icon in 2013 and has amassed a combined total of 31 BMI Country and Pop Awards.
[January 25, 2024] BMG is now increasing investment in its U.S. record labels as it “doubles down” on its North America operation, which already accounts for more than 50 percent of its revenue. As part of the plan, BMG Nashville President Jon Loba will become President Frontline Recordings, North America, taking charge of BMG’s entire North American frontline records business across Nashville, Los Angeles, New York and Canada. His other responsibilities include the Rise (Spiritbox, Sum 41) and RBC (Chief Keef, Run The Jewels) imprints as well as the main BMG label.
[January 25, 2024] Music Row veteran Lisa Harless has retired from her position as Sr. VP/Wealth Advisor, Entertainment and Sports Division of Regions Bank. She was with the company for more than 38 years. Harless, a graduate of Lipscomb University, joined Regions in 1985 following time at Aetna Casualty and Surety. In her executive post at the bank, she assisted clients with a wide range of financial services including deposit and credit needs, investments and estate and financial planning.
[January 26, 2024] While on a duck hunting trip last night (Jan. 25), country star Morgan Wallen shared a statement with fans disclosing regret surrounding a past record and artist management deal. He notified fans that a 10th anniversary edition of his EP Stand Alone was set to be released today (Jan. 26) without his consent. In response to the unwanted release, Wallen has dropped a new version of the song, “Spin You Around (1/24),” which he recorded this week. He also shared that he created the re-recorded track’s artwork while hunting, and will be donating $100,000 from the Morgan Wallen Foundation to the Volunteer Lawyers & Professionals for the Arts (VLPA) program in hopes that young aspiring musicians read his story and know they should never have to give up their creative freedoms for an opportunity in the industry.
[January 26, 2024] The charges brought against Chris Young earlier this week after his arrest at a Nashville bar have been dropped, according to a statement from District Attorney General Glenn Funk. Young was arrested on Monday night (Jan. 22) and charged with disorderly conduct, assaulting an officer and resisting arrest after an altercation with a Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) agent who was checking IDs at a downtown bar in Nashville. By Tuesday (Jan. 23), security video footage from the bar was released, showing that the agent initiated the physical altercation with Young.
[January 30, 2024] Big Machine Label Group (BMLG) has elevated Mike Rittberg to COO and Clay Hunnicutt to EVP, Label Operations. Rittberg rises from his position of BMLG’s EVP, Label Operations, overseeing marketing, streaming and all release initiatives across the label group’s core imprints: Big Machine Records, BMLG Records, The Valory Music Co. and Big Machine John Varvatos Records. Hunnicutt most recently served as General Manager for the Big Machine Records imprint, which boasts an impressive roster of artists including Tim McGraw, Carly Pearce, Midland and Jackson Dean, among others. In his new role, he will concentrate on business development, growing the entire label group’s ventures, fostering partnerships and focusing on catalog initiatives, which are critical to company objectives.
Tracy Chapman & Luke Combs perform onstage during the 66th Grammy Awards. Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
[February 5, 2024] The 66th annual Grammy Awards took place Sunday night (Feb. 4) at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Though there weren’t a ton of country music moments throughout the telecast, they were very impactful. Just a few minutes into the show, Luke Combs took the stage to perform “Fast Car” alongside the song’s iconic author, Tracy Chapman. Another country stalwart, Kacey Musgraves, was on hand to present Best Country Album during the telecast. The 2024 trophy went to first-time winner Lainey Wilson for her Bell Bottom Country project. The other country awards were given out prior to the telecast, with Best Country Song and Best Country Solo Performance going to Chris Stapleton‘s “White Horse,” and Zach Bryan and Musgraves taking home the trophy for Best Country Duo/Group Performance with “I Remember Everything.” Other Nashville-based trophy winners included Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Brandy Clark, Brandi Carlile, Allison Russell, Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, Bobby Rush, Larkin Poe, Tye Tribbett, Lecrae and Theron Thomas.
[February 6, 2024] The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) recently concluded its Board of Director elections and selected its leadership for the coming year. Steve Bogard, the longest-serving President in the organization’s history, has decided not to seek another term in leadership, but will continue to serve on NSAI’s Board of Directors. Lee Thomas Miller has been elected by the Board of Directors to serve as the organization’s President, and Jenn Schott has been elected Vice President.
Pictured (L-R): Sandbox Entertainment Group’s Jason Owen; Kelsea Ballerini; and Black River Entertainment’s Gordon Kerr and Rick Froio. Photo: Robby Klein
[February 7, 2024] Over a decade since the independent label launched her career in 2013, Kelsea Ballerini has renewed her recording contract with Black River Entertainment. Since signing with the company, Ballerini has notched seven No. 1 singles, earned 32 RIAA certifications, logged five back-to-back top 10 entries on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and become a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
[February 15, 2024] UMG Nashville has signed singer-songwriter and producer Hueston to the newly created Silver Wings Records. Silver Wings Records is a distribution arm designed to support independent artists and creators. powered by Virgin Music Group’s global distribution network, Silver Wings creates custom campaign services for independent acts and offers various options for developing and enhancing campaigns. The new arm has its own staff overseen by UMG Nashville SVP of Business Development & Strategy Charlene Bryant.
[February 15, 2024] Charlie Cook will exit his positions as Vice President of Country Music for Cumulus, Programming Operations Manager for Cumulus Nashville’s five-station cluster and as the Program Director for both 95.5 Nash Icon (WSM-FM) and 103.3 Country (WKDF). His last day is May 31. In 1996, Cook joined Cumulus Media’s Westwood One as VP, Programming/Formats. 10 years later he joined Cumulus as VP of Programming for the company’s 67 country stations. Cook received the ACM Service Award at the 2023 ACM Honors for his dedication to the format. He was inducted into the Country Radio Hall of Fame in 2011, and received the ACM Service Award at the 2023 ACM Honors as the organization’s longest-serving board member.
[February 19, 2024] Sony Music Nashville has launched a new imprint for non-country music called Free Flight Records. Pop/folk singer-songwriter Darren Kiely has joined the imprint’s roster. He released his debut EP Lost last fall, in which he solo-wrote four of the seven tracks on the project and co-wrote the other three. Kiely has now reached No. 1 on the Irish Homegrown Chart with hit hit “Sunrise” from the project. Lost also features “Mom & Dad,” which debuted in the top 40 on the Irish Singles Chart and also landed him in the top 5 on the Irish Homegrown chart.
[February 23, 2024] Big Machine Label Group imprint BMLG Records is rebranding as Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment. Initially founded as a joint venture in 2009 as Republic Nashville, Big Machine Label Group acquired full ownership of the imprint in 2015 and renamed it BMLG Records. The imprint’s new namesake is meant to serve as a mark of a safe place for artists and executives to write, create, grow and flourish. Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment’s artist roster includes Riley Green, Brett Young, Chris Janson, Lady A, Greylan James and Shane Profitt. Jimmy Harnen remains the President/CEO, with operations continuing as normal.
Kristen Williams
[February 26, 2024] Warner Music Nashville has promoted Kristen Williams to SVP, Radio & Commercial Partnerships. Having led the label’s Radio division since 2010, Williams will now also lead the Commercial Partnerships team which includes retail, streaming, catalog development and direct to consumer efforts. The Radio department will continue to operate under its two-pronged model of focusing on both individual stations and larger national accounts.
[February 27, 2024] MusicRow virtually announced the winners of the 22nd annual CountryBreakout Awards throughout the day today (Feb. 27) across all of MusicRow’s online platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). The MusicRow CountryBreakout Awards celebrate those who have dominated country radio’s secondary market. Winners in eight categories are determined by spins on the secondary market stations that report to the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart panel each week. This years winners include Bryce Burtner, Ashley Gorley, UMG Nashville, BoomTown Saints, Megan Moroney, Dan + Shay, Lainey Wilson and Morgan Wallen.
[February 27, 2024] Universal Music Group Nashville has started a new TV and film production company, Sing Me Back Home Productions. The company will emphasize storytelling through music integration of UMG Nashville’s roster of past and present artists. The new division will be helmed by UMG Nashville Chair & CEO Cindy Mabe and SVP of Digital Business and Creative Development Dawn Gates. This new division will develop a content slate for a variety of documentaries, original scripted and unscripted television, feature films and short form content, and will be heavily involved in securing production partners, music supervision and distribution.
[March 1, 2024] Range Media Partners has signed Country Music Hall of Famer Tanya Tucker in addition to opening a new Nashville office in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood. In the new office, Nashville-based industry veterans Shawn McSpadden and Will Lowery will be joined by Co-Founder & Managing Partner Jack Minihan, who has relocated from Los Angeles. Co-Founder Matt Graham, who has led the company’s growth within the country genre, and artist manager and Head of Touring Kyle Wilensky will also split their time between Music City and Los Angeles.
The New Faces of Country Music Class of 2024, including George Birge, Megan Moroney, Conner Smith, Dillon Carmichael and Corey Kent. Photo: Courtesy of CRB/CRS/Kayla Schoen
[March 4, 2024] To end Country Radio Seminar (CRS) 2024, five breakout artists added their names to the history of the New Faces of Country Music showcase. The annual showcase features five emerging artists who have achieved notable country radio success during the qualification period, which spanned from Nov. 1, 2022, to Oct. 31, 2023, for the 2024 show. The event has served as a pivotal moment in the careers of established country hitmakers since its inception in 1970. On Friday (March 1), Corey Kent, George Birge, Conner Smith, Dillon Carmichael and Megan Moroney added their names to the list.
[March 19, 2024] UMG Nashville has tapped publishing veteran Jake Gear as VP of A&R. Gear brings over 10 years of experience as a publisher, producer and writer manager to his new role. The Iowa native graduated from Nashville’s Belmont University before beginning his career in the Music & Licensing department at CMT. He went on to hold publishing posts at Magic Mustang Music, Sea Gayle Music and BMG. Gear then launched creative publishing venture Hang Your Hat Music in 2020 with Concord and hitmaker Hillary Lindsey. He has also acted as writer manager for Lindsey, and produced albums for Flatland Cavalry, Ben Chapman, Harper O’Neill and Hailey Whitters.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson; Rising Women on the Row honorees Melissa Spillman, Taylor Lindsey, Sloane Cavitt Logue, Candice Watkins, Tiffany Kerns and Halie Hampton Mosley; KP Entertainment’s Kerri Edwards and MusicRow’s LB Cantrell. Photo: Ed Rode
[March 19, 2024] MusicRow Magazine, Nashville’s leading music industry publication, proudly recognized six Nashville music industry executives during its 11th annual Rising Women on the Row honors this morning (March 19) at the Omni Nashville Hotel. City National Bank, CMT Next Women of Country and Loeb & Loeb served as Presenting Sponsors. The new class of honorees were CMA’s Tiffany Kerns, Sony Music Nashville’s Taylor Lindsey, WME’s Sloane Cavitt Logue, WHY&HOW’s Halie Hampton Mosley, Concord Music Publishing’s Melissa Spillman and Big Loud Record’s Candice Watkins.
[March 21, 2024] Just months since its introduction on Jan. 10, the bipartisan Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security (ELVIS) Act was signed into law today (March 21) by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee at lower Broadway honky-tonk Robert’s Western World in Nashville. The ELVIS Act establishes protections for every person’s unique voice and likeness against unauthorized artificial intelligence (AI) deepfakes and voice clones. The act will officially go into effect on July 1 and will update the state’s existing right of publicity to address these fundamental human protections.
[March 25, 2024] Country hitmaker Ashley Gorley has garnered his 75th No. 1 career hit with Hardy‘s “Truck Bed,” which he co-wrote with Hardy, Ben Johnson and Hunter Phelps. Gorley’s record-breaking hit spree started in 2006 with Carrie Underwood’s “Don’t Forget to Remember Me.” Since then, Gorley has had over 400 songs released by artists such as Luke Bryan, Chris Stapleton, Nate Smith, Thomas Rhett, Dan + Shay, Kelsea Ballerini, Cole Swindell, Bon Jovi, Weezer and more.
[March 29, 2024] Beyoncé‘s highly-anticipated country album is here at last. The 27-track Cowboy Carter was released today (March 29), and it highlights the talents of multiple country artists. Country legend Willie Nelson makes an appearance on “Smoke Hour,” and he contributes spoken word on “Smoke Hour II.” Another icon Dolly Parton is also prominently featured, including with a cover of her iconic “Jolene.” Beyoncè’s version twists the narrative—instead of begging Jolene not to take her man, she sings “I’m warnin’ you, don’t come for my man,” making for an exciting new take on the beloved track. Prior to “Jolene,” Dolly’s voice is heard on an interlude called “Dolly P,” where she says “You know that hussy ‘with the good hair’ you sing about? It reminded me of someone I knew back when.’” Other artists featured include Linda Martell, Shaboozey, Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy, Reyna Roberts, Willie Jones, Post Malone and Miley Cyrus.
[April 8, 2024] The 2024 CMT Music Awards took place Sunday night (April 7) at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas. Jelly Roll was the night’s big winner, taking home three trophies for “Need A Favor,” including the coveted Video of the Year as well as Male Video of the Year and CMT Performance of the Year. Other winners included Lainey Wilson (Female Video of the Year with “Watermelon Moonshine”), Dan + Shay (Duo/Group Video of the Year with “Save Me The Trouble”), Carly Pearce and Chris Stapleton (Collaborative of the Year for “We Don’t Fight Anymore”) and more. Kelsea Ballerini served as host for the evening, her fourth time guiding the show.
[April 10, 2024] Belmont University has received a $58 million lead gift from music industry veteran Mike Curb and the Mike Curb Foundation to propel the expansion of its Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business on Music Row. The news and renderings were disclosed last night (April 9) to an industry crowd at a reception prior to the “Belmont at the Opry” event, which commemorated the music business program’s 50th anniversary. The gift marks largest in the school’s history, and will support renovation of existing buildings as well as construction of a new state-of-the-art facility, aiming to preserve the area’s history while providing innovative spaces for entertainment industry education and collaboration.
[April 17, 2024] The Country Music Association held its 2024 CMA Triple Play Awards ceremony on Monday night (April 15). The evening honored seven CMA Triple Play Award recipients for penning three No. 1 songs in a 12-month period, as well as awarded publishing veteran Troy Tomlinson with the CMA Songwriter Advocate Award. The evening took place at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville, and was hosted by songwriter and CMA Board member Jim Beavers. His humor and familiarity with those in the room highlighted the spirit of togetherness the Nashville publishing community has always had. Throughout the night, each of the Triple Play recipients were celebrated, with a collaborator or friend doing the honor of inviting the winners to the stage. Those honored included Jelly Roll, Jordan Schmidt, Hunter Phelps, Chase McGill, Ashley Gorley, Charlie Handsome and Thomas Rhett.
Pictured (L-R): Republic’S EVP and CFO Joe Schmidt, Founder and Vice Chairman Avery Lipman, President and COO Jim Roppo; Miranda Lambert; Republic’s Founder and Chairman Monte Lipman, Big Loud Records’ CEO Seth England. Photo: Julia Drummond
[April 23, 2024] Miranda Lambert has signed a record deal with Republic Records in partnership with Big Loud, who will add support on country radio promotion as well as other marketing efforts. Her first release under the new deal will be the single “Wranglers,” arriving May 3. The label deal expands on Lambert’s relationship with Big Loud. Last November, she and Jon Randall partnered with Seth England and the company to launch the imprint Big Loud Texas.
[May 14, 2024] Since it was revealed that Spotify would be changing the way it pays songwriters and publishers by acting as a bundled subscription service with the addition of audiobooks, songwriter organizations and community members have expressed their frustration with the streaming giant. Billboard recently estimated that Spotify’s reclassification from a “standalone portable subscription” to a “bundled subscription offering” will cause a $150 million cut to U.S. mechanical royalty payments, leading organizations such as Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), National Music Publishers Association (NMPA) and Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP) to speak out.
Reba McEntire at the 59th Academy of Country Music Awards from Ford Center at The Star on May 16, 2024 in Frisco, Texas.
[May 17, 2024] The 59th Academy of Country Music Awards took place Thursday night (May 16) at The Star in Frisco, Texas. Lainey Wilson was crowned ACM Entertainer of the Year, her first time receiving the honor. Chris Stapleton led the night in total wins with four awards, followed by Wilson with three wins, and Luke Combs and Jordan Davis with two wins. Other winners included Dan + Shay, Old Dominion, Megan Moroney, Nate Smith, Tigirlily Gold, Jelly Roll, Parker McCollum, Jessie Jo Dillon and more. Music icon Reba McEntire hosted the two hour show that featured 18 performances from 19 artists, along with several collaborations.
[May 30, 2024] Big Loud Records has elevated Patch Culbertson to EVP/GM, effective immediately. He is now the company’s first Executive Vice President, and will report directly to Big Loud partners Seth England, Joey Moi and Craig Wiseman. In his elevated role, Culbertson will continue to oversee day-to-day operations, strategizing on commercial tactics and helping to expand the creative development of the Big Loud Records roster.
Lainey Wilson inducted as the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. Photo: Chris Hollo for Grand Ole Opry
[June 8, 2024] Grammy, CMA and ACM winner Lainey Wilson was officially welcomed into the Grand Ole Opry family Friday night (June 7) by Opry members Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood. Wilson performed earlier in the evening with Opry member Terri Clark, who was celebrating her 20th anniversary as a member. The two performed Clark’s “Poor Poor Pitiful Me” before Wilson joined another music icon, Wynonna, on Tom Petty hit “Refugee.” She then performed some of her own hits, including “Things A Man Oughta Know,” “Heart Like A Truck” and “Watermelon Moonshine” as well as new songs “Dreamcatcher” and “Hang Tight Honey.”
[June 10, 2024] Warner Chappell Music has elevated seasoned A&R executive Jessi Vaughn Stevenson to Vice President, A&R and Digital. Stevenson has worked with some of country music’s most influential songwriters, including Jessi Alexander, Rhett Akins, Parker McCollum, Riley Green, Hailey Whitters, Morgan Wallen, Randy Montana, Little Big Town and more. She will continue reporting to Ben Vaughn, President & CEO of Warner Chappell Music Nashville, as she strategizes around new and innovative opportunities for writers.
[June 10, 2024] Less than six months after being promoted to President of Frontline Recordings for North America, BMG has upped Jon Loba again to President of Frontline Recordings for The Americas. The Nashville-based industry veteran will lead a team of executives across the United States, including Los Angeles, Miami and Nashville, as well as Canada, Mexico and Brazil.
Tucker Wetmore performs at the Hard Rock Stage on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
[June 11, 2024] The Country Music Association hosted its 51st CMA Fest this past weekend (June 6-9), ushering in the next half-century of bringing country music to fans around the world. This year’s festival brought fans from all 50 states and 46 countries to Nashville. With multiple stages spread throughout the city, attendees heard from more than 300 performers. Most of CMA Fest is free of charge, with the option to buy tickets or passes to shows at Nissan Stadium and Ascend Amphitheater, as well as admission to Fan Fair X in Music City Center. Artists donate their time to appear at CMA Fest so that a portion of ticket proceeds can directly benefit music education initiatives across the country through the CMA Foundation.
[June 14, 2024] The Songwriters Hall of Fame’s 53rd Annual Induction and Awards Dinner took place Thursday night (June 13) in New York City. The evening honored 2024 inductees Hillary Lindsey, Timothy Mosley (Timbaland), Dean Pitchford, Bill Berry, Peter Buck, Mike Mills and Michael Stipe of R.E.M. and Walter Becker and Donald Fagan of Steely Dan. Each were saluted for the immeasurable impact of their songs. Additionally, multi-award-winner Diane Warren received the prestigious Johnny Mercer Award, and four-time Grammy winner SZA was given the Hal David Starlight Award. The night also followed the posthumous induction of legendary country songwriter Cindy Walker to the SHOF in a special tribute held at a SHOF Master Session in Nashville.
[June 24, 2024] Kelly Bolton has joined Warner Records as VP of A&R. Working out of Nashville, Bolton will collaborate closely with Co-Chairman & CEO Aaron Bay-Schuck on signing, developing and cultivating country artists for the Los Angeles-based label. She will report directly to EVP/Head of A&R Karen Kwak.
[July 10, 2024] Big Loud Records has promoted Stacy Blythe to EVP, Promotion, effective immediately. She joins recently-promoted EVP / GM Patch Culbertson with the upgraded title, further elevating a new class of leaders at the label who report directly to partners Seth England, Joey Moi and Craig Wiseman. Blythe has led her promotion team to 24 No. 1 singles at country radio in just under nine years since joining in 2015, starting with the label’s first-ever radio single, Chris Lane’s Platinum-certified “Fix,” to their most recent No. 1 with Post Malone and Morgan Wallen’s history-making all-genre No. 1 smash “I Had Some Help.”
Morgan Wallen and Austin Neal
[July 11, 2024] MusicRow has confirmed reports that Morgan Wallen‘s longtime agent Austin Neal is taking over his management. The two are launching a new firm, Sticks Management, with Wallen as its sole client. The change moves Wallen from the Big Loud Management roster, but his relationship with Big Loud Records and company leader Seth England remains intact. Wallen’s former co-manager Kathleen Flaherty has been named Executive Director of the Morgan Wallen Foundation.
[August 1, 2024] Season four winner Carrie Underwood will return to American Idol as its newest judge. She will join fellow country star Luke Bryan and music legend Lionel Richie on the judging panel as well as longtime host Ryan Seacrest for the music competition series’ 23rd overall season, and eighth season on ABC and Hulu.
[August 14, 2024] Sony Music Nashville surprised Luke Combs with five new plaques commemorating historic certifications during his fifth anniversary appearance at the Grand Ole Opry last night (Aug. 13). The presentations included two Diamond certifications for “When It Rains It Pours” and “Hurricane,” solidifying Combs as the first artist to earn three RIAA Diamond-certified country singles, as the tunes join previously Diamond-certified hit “Beautiful Crazy.” “When It Rains It Pours” and “Hurricane” also mark the 10th and 11th country singles to attain Diamond certification.
[August 16, 2024] Global superstar Post Malone has unveiled his highly-anticipated country album, F-1 Trillion, today (Aug. 16) via Mercury Records/Republic Records in collaboration with Big Loud. The track list includes a whos who of elite country collaborators, including icons Dolly Parton, Hank Williams Jr. and Tim McGraw as well as current superstars Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, Lainey Wilson, Jelly Roll, Chris Stapleton and more. Post Malone fans and industry members took over midtown Nashville last night (Aug. 15) for a F-1 Trillion celebration at Loser’s Bar & Grill, hosted by Spotify. Attendees were treated with an appearance from Post, customizable t-shirts and plenty of specialty drinks.
[August 26, 2024] Drew Baldridge has made history by becoming the first self-released artist to reach No. 1 on the Country Aircheck/Mediabase chart and No. 3 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart with his hit “She’s Somebody’s Daughter,” surpassing the 2017 mark held by Aaron Watson. The Gold-certified track has also garnered over 1.1 billion streams across streaming and social media platforms and debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
[August 27, 2024] MusicRow Magazine has revealed the winners of the 36th annual MusicRow Awards today (Aug. 27) on all of its online platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and X. Now in its 36th year, the MusicRow Awards are Nashville’s longest-running music industry trade publication honors and celebrate the achievements of songwriters, artists, producers and more. Winners are voted on by MusicRow’s subscribers. This year’s winners include Jay Joyce, Big Loud Records, WME, Ryan Larkins, Ashley Cooke, Ashley Gorley, Jessi Alexander, Josh Phillips, Zach Top, Shaboozey, Lainey Wilson, Jelly Roll and Old Dominion.
[August 28, 2024] Six more deserving music industry veterans were inducted into the SOURCE Hall of Fame last night (Aug. 27) at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville’s historic Municipal Auditorium. Jeannie Seely was also honored with the Jo Walker-Meador Lifetime Achievement Award. Seely served as host for the night alongside her partner in crime, Country Music Hall of Fame member Brenda Lee, as well as a new host, Grand Ole Opry member Mandy Barnett. This year’s honorees included Teena Scogin Camp, Marty Craighead, Leslie Fram, Kathy Harris, Judy Seale and Sheree’ Spoltore’.
[September 3, 2024] After two decades together, Blake Shelton and Warner Music Nashville have amicably parted ways. Shelton burst onto the scene in 2001 with his No. 1 debut single, “Austin,” which began a string of 28 No. 1 singles, 11 billion global streams, 13 million albums, and 52 million singles sold. He has won 10 CMA Awards, including Entertainer of the Year and five consecutive Male Vocalist of the Year Awards, multiple ACM, AMA, CMT, People’s Choice Awards and more.
[September 4, 2024] Executive VP and COO Mike Harris will leave his position at UMG Nashville at the end of the month to pursue a new opportunity. Harris joined UMG Nashville as Chief Operating Officer in 2016. He previously served as Exec. VP/GM for Caroline, a division of the Capitol Music Group. Under his guidance, Caroline had marketshare growth every year, culminating in the highest share in company history while delivering four No. 1 debuts for their partners in 2015 as well as four Grammy Awards. Prior to joining Caroline in 2013, Harris spent 15 years total with EMI.
Michael Bryan. Photo: Saami Bloom
[September 11, 2024] Michael Bryan has been promoted to Global Head of Country Music at Apple. In addition to overseeing country music, he will be responsible for supporting the company’s Christian and gospel teams in Nashville. Bryan joined Apple in 2020 as Director of Apple Music Country Radio before being promoted to Director of Editorial Operations & Audio Production in 2022. Prior to joining the company, he served as Talent Agent/Artist Development Lead at CAA and spent time in radio, including the role of Sr. VP of Programming for iHeartMedia between 2012 and 2016.
[September 11, 2024] Shane Tarleton has joined Morris Higham Management. He joins the home to artists Kenny Chesney, Old Dominion and more from his most recent position of Executive Vice President of Artist Development at Warner Music Nashville. Prior to WMN, Tarleton spent time at RCA and Titley / Spalding Artist Management. At Morris Higham, Tarleton will touch creative and content as management firms oversee more of these needs for their rosters.
[September 17, 2024] The Pinnacle, Nashville Yards’ 4,500-capacity music venue presented by AEG, is set to open the weekend of Feb. 28 with a surprise artist to be announced at a later date. Equipped with cutting-edge lighting and video systems, the venue is designed host private events and live television productions in addition to a variety of concerts. It also features an open-air rooftop space and bar.
Randy Goodman. Photo: Matthew Berinato
[September 18, 2024] Randy Goodman, Chairman and CEO of Sony Music Nashville, will retire at the end of 2024 after more than 35 years in the music industry. He has helmed the label since 2015, during which time he has also overseen Sony Music’s Christian music enterprise, Provident Entertainment. At Sony, Goodman has overseen the careers of stars Luke Combs, Kane Brown, Maren Morris, Megan Moroney and Nate Smith, as well as key breaking artists including Mitchell Tenpenny, Kameron Marlowe, Corey Kent and Morgan Wade among others.
[September 19, 2024] Lainey Wilson celebrated the grand opening of her new bar Bell Bottoms Up on Tuesday night (Sept. 17). The 27,000 square foot space first opened in May, where Wilson hosted an eight hour meet and greet with fans. Since then, Wilson has made several appearances in the space, including her ACM Honors after party to celebrate her Triple Crown and Milestone ACM Awards. During the grand opening, Wilson cut the venue ribbon before hoping on the rooftop stage for a surprise performance. The setlist included some of the singer’s biggest hits such as “Watermelon Moonshine” and “Heart Like A Truck.” She also dove into her new Whirlwind album with “4X4XU” and “Hang Tight Honey,” among others.
BMG team with Blake Shelton. Photo: Sonny Alvarez/BMG
[September 23, 2024] Blake Shelton has signed with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. Shelton is currently climbing the charts with Post Malone collaboration “Pour Me A Drink.” His resume includes 28 No. 1 singles, 11 billion global streams, 52 million singles sold and 13 million albums sold. The country star has also received various accolades, including CMA Entertainer of the Year and five consecutive Male Vocalist of the Year wins.
[September 24, 2024] Universal Music Group Nashville has named Robert Kilduff as Chief Financial Officer. Bringing over 30 years of experience and a wealth of knowledge in financial leadership, strategic financial planning, operations and corporate development to the role, Kilduff joins the label following years as CFO for non-profit organization, the Gary Sinise Foundation. Prior to that he served as CFO of New Form Entertainment, VP of Financial Planning & Analysis for WME, and VP of Financial Planning & Analysis for Universal Music Group North America.
Gregg Nadel. Photo: Jimmy Fontaine
[September 24, 2024] Longstanding WMG leader Gregg Nadel has been appointed Co-Chair & Co-President of Warner Music Nashville. He will work alongside Cris Lacy, who has been Co-Head of Warner Music Nashville for the past two years and marks her 20th anniversary with the company next year. Nadel succeeds Ben Kline, who has decided to step down after a decade with the company. In the course of his nearly three-decade career, Nadel—who most recently served as President of Elektra Entertainment—has signed and/or championed such acclaimed country and roots-based artists as Zac Brown Band, Brandi Carlile, The Highwomen, Sturgill Simpson, Bailey Zimmerman, and Brittney Spencer, among many other artists across multiple genres.
[September 25, 2024] Warner Chappell Music has elevated Spencer Nohe to Vice President, A&R. He will continue reporting to Warner Chappell Music Nashville President & CEO Ben Vaughn to develop both emerging and established songwriters as well as expand creative opportunities for the publisher’s country roster. Throughout his time in the industry, Nohe has worked with chart-topping superstars and rising hitmakers like Thomas Rhett, Jesse Frasure, Parker Welling, Casey Brown, Josh Kerr, Matt Jenkins, Alysa Vanderheym, Devin Dawson, Alana Springsteen, Brittney Spencer and Conner Smith, among others.
[September 25, 2024] If there was one thing on display at the seventh annual Nashville Songwriter Awards last night (Sept. 24), it was the unrelenting pursuit of the craft that fill the lives of both new and established songwriters day in and day out. Staged by NSAI and presented by City National Bank, the beloved awards show showcased the careers of industry stalwarts who’ve chased good songs their whole careers as well as modern hitmakers who are in the pursuit every day. Honoring category winners for Song, Songwriter and Songwriter-Artist of the Year as well as the 2024 Legendary Song award and the “10 Songs I Wish I’d Written,” the evening was full of stories behind the song, special speeches and tender moments between collaborators. Enduring country music heroes Alan Jackson and Buddy Cannon were also honored for their limitless contributions.
[September 27, 2024] The second annual People’s Choice Country Awards was held at the historic Grand Ole Opry last night (Sept. 26), where the country music community gathered to celebrate the genre’s favorite people: the fans. Host Shania Twain came down from the rafters on a pink heart with to start off the electric night. As the country legend was descending with “Man! I Feel Like A Women” playing in the background, fans and other country stars in attendance were on their feet for the first of many times throughout the night. Award winners throughout the night included Shaboozey, Dan + Shay, mgk, Jelly Roll, Dasha, Old Dominion and more. Miranda Lambert was also also presented with the Country Icon Award, while the Country Champion Award was given to Kane Brown.
Leslie Fram
[October 1, 2024] CMT’s Senior Vice President of Music Strategy & Talent Leslie Fram has confirmed her exit as part of Paramount’s series of layoffs that affected the network. Fram oversaw all music on all platforms at CMT and negotiated talent for major tentpole and music specials. A champion of female artists, in 2013 she created CMT’s Next Women of Country franchise, which has grown to include a tour, and also oversaw CMT’s Equal Play platform.
[October 2, 2024] Multi-Grammy nominee Jamey Johnson has signed with Warner Music Nashville through his record label, Big Gassed Records, and will release new song “Someday When I’m Old” this Friday (Oct. 4). For his first release with the label, the Grand Ole Opry member is revisiting an old favorite. “Someday When I’m Old” has remained on Johnson’s mind since he sang on the song’s demo in 2004.
[October 3, 2024] Mary Catherine Kinney has joined Republic as Executive VP of Artist & Label Strategy. In her new role, Kinney will lead artist and label strategy for the label group’s Republic Records, Island Records, Mercury Records and Def Jam Recordings. Based in Nashville, she will lead business strategy for Republic’s labels and reinforce their Nashville presence.
[October 3, 2024] According to multiple outlets, including CNN, Garth Brooks has been accused of sexual assault and battery by a woman who says she worked for him as a hairstylist and makeup artist. Named “Jane Roe” in the complaint, filed in a state court in California today (Oct. 3), she claims that she was raped by Brooks during a work trip in 2019. The suit alleges that Roe began handling hair and makeup services for Brooks in 2017, and that she was first hired to do hair and makeup for his wife, Trisha Yearwood, in 1999.
Country Music Hall Of Fame Inducts John Anderson, James Burton & Toby Keith
Pictured (L-R): John Anderson, James Burton and Tricia Covel attend the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
[October 21, 2024] Three more outstanding record-makers were added to the historic Country Music Hall of Fame last night (Oct. 20) during a star-studded Medallion Ceremony in the Hall’s CMA Theater. John Anderson, James Burton and Toby Keith became the 153rd, 154th and 155th members of the esteemed institution.
[October 22, 2024] Morgan Wallen concluded his “One Night At A Time Tour” with a two-night stint at Charlotte’s Bank of America Stadium this past weekend (Oct. 18–19). Named after his third studio album, the 87-show run has seen the CMA Entertainer of the Year nominee perform for more than 3.1 million fans in 51 stadiums as well as arenas and amphitheaters across 10 countries and three continents, excluding festivals.
[November 4, 2024] Category 10, the Luke Combs-inspired entertainment complex, is now open. The opening of the four-story, 67,000-square-foot venue was celebrated Friday night (Nov. 1) with a private concert for Combs’ Bootlegger fans, which included a concert from the man himself. The celebration continued all weekend with live music from up-and-coming artists and DJs. Inside Hurricane Hall, guests experienced the debut of “The Light Show,” an immersive, custom-designed light feature that punctuated the main room of the venue. At select times, “The Light Show” will be paired with synchronized routines by Category 10’s new dance team.
[November 7, 2024] The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame (NaSHOF) celebrated six new members during its 54th Anniversary Gala last night (Nov. 6) at Music City Center. Al Anderson and Liz Rose were honored in the Contemporary Songwriter category, while Dan Penn and Victoria Shaw were welcomed into the Veteran Songwriter category. David Bellamy was recognized in Veteran Songwriter/Artist category, and the late Tony Joe White was inducted into the Legacy category, designed specifically to honor NaSHOF-worthy candidates who have passed away.
[November 8, 2024] The nominees for the 67th Annual Grammy Awards were announced this morning (Nov. 8), with Beyoncé (11), Charli xcx (7), Billie Eilish (7), Kendrick Lamar (7), Post Malone (7), Sabrina Carpenter (6), Chappell Roan (6), Taylor Swift (6) and Shaboozey leading the pack. With their respective country albums, Beyoncé and Post also led the country categories, with the former earning a nod for Best Country Solo Performance (“16 Carriages”), Best Country Duo/Group Performance (“II Most Wanted” with Miley Cyrus), Best Country Song (“Texas Hold ‘Em”) and Best Country Album (Cowboy Carter), and the latter represented in Best Country Duo/Group Performance (“I Had Some Help” with Morgan Wallen), Best Country Song (“I Had Some Help”) and Best Country Album (F-1 Trillion).
Taylor Lindsey. Photo: Emily Dorio
[November 18, 2024] Taylor Lindsey has been promoted to Chairman/CEO of Sony Music Nashville, beginning in January. She steps into the role that Randy Goodman will exit at the end of the year to retire. Ken Robold has also been elevated to President and COO of Sony Music Nashville. Lindsey will oversee Sony Music Nashville as well as Christian music company Provident Entertainment. She will report to Chairman of Sony Music Group, Rob Stringer.
[November 18, 2024] Pam Matthews, Executive Director of IEBA, will retire in early 2025 after 45 years in the music industry. Since 2013, Matthews has been at the helm of IEBA, the premier nonprofit trade organization for live entertainment professionals involved in buying, booking and selling talent. IEBA hosts an annual conference in Nashville, fostering connections among industry members. In 2017, the organization launched its Educational Outreach Fund, providing up to 50 scholarships annually to students enrolled in music business programs across North America.
[November 18, 2024] It’s officially Awards Week in Music City. First on the agenda was the 2024 SESAC Nashville Music Awards, thrown at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum on Sunday night (Nov. 17). More than 400 songwriters and publishers socialized in the Museum’s beautiful event hall, which overlooks the Nashville skyline. The performing rights organization spared no expense decorating the space, arranging moody purple lighting and a gorgeous stage area with the SESAC logo prominently displayed. Guitar art by Nashville artist Rob Hendon decorated the hall, and elegant florals punctuated the room. Among the nights winners were Megan Moroney, Sierra Ferrell, Jared Keim, Pete Good, Jaron Boyer, Michael Tyler, Josh Jenkins, Allison Veltz Cruz, Casey Brown, Chris LaCorte and more.
[November 19, 2024] Country music stars, songwriters and publishers ascended the steps of The Twelve Thirty Club on Monday night (Nov. 18) for the ASCAP Celebrates Nashville event, awarding the top performing ASCAP members of the past year. The upscale club featured multiple spaces for party-goers to mingle, with intimate seating areas thoughtfully placed beneath the soft, dim lighting. The drinks were flowing with multiple bar locations, and attendees noshed on The Twelve Thirty Club’s yummy sushi and sashimi, shrimp cocktail, hummus and crudités, pimento cheese and pita bread and more. Among the nights winners were Ashley Gorley, Chris Stapleton, Jacob Hindlin, Shaboozey, Matthew Ramsey, Trevor Rosen, Brett Young, Jessie Murph, Kelsea Ballerini, George Birge and more.
[November 20, 2024] Hundreds of industry members gathered at BMI’s Nashville headquarters last night (Nov. 19) for the 72nd annual BMI Country Awards. Transforming the building’s parking garage into an extravagant ballroom, the evening was full of special celebrations and music for what BMI Nashville’s VP of Creative, Clay Bradley, called the “greatest parking lot party in country music.” After presenting half of their most-performed song awards, O’Neill and Bradley changed gears to begin honoring the iconic Alabama frontman Randy Owen with the BMI Icon Award, an honor bestowed on songwriters who have had an indelible influence on music makers over generations. Among the nights winners were Chase McGill, Zach Bryan, John Byron, Charlie Handsome, Chayce Beckham, Chris Janson, Teddy Swims, Thomas Rhett, Parker McCollum, Kane Brown and more.
Luke Bryan, Peyton Manning and Lainey Wilson host “The 58th Annual CMA Awards,” live from Bridgestone Arena Wednesday, November 20, 2024 on ABC.
[November 21, 2024] The 58th annual CMA Awards took over Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena last night (Nov. 20) and included performances of some of the past year’s biggest hits and record-breaking wins. Morgan Wallen won his first ever Entertainer of the Year trophy, while Megan Moroney was crowned New Artist of the Year. Brooks & Dunn and Chris Stapleton tied for winning the most CMA Awards of all time, each with 19 total wins. Other winners included Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson, Old Dominion, Ella Langley, Riley Green, Charlie Worsham and more. Wilson served as co-host alongside Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning.
[November 25, 2024] After nearly two decades, Kix Brooks is stepping down as Host of American Country Countdown. Since January 2006, Brooks has taken listeners through the week’s top hits, upholding tradition while championing up-and-coming artists and bridging the gap between classic sounds and modern influences. His candid, intimate interviews sought to provide unfiltered insights into both the past and future of country music.
[December 3, 2024] BMG has promoted Katie Kerkhover to Senior Vice President, A&R, Frontline Recordings, North America. In her newly-expanded role, Kerkhover will lead the A&R teams at the BMG offices in Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville, New York and Toronto. Currently based in Nashville, she will split her time between the Music City and Los Angeles offices, reporting directly to Jon Loba, President of Frontline Recordings, The Americas.
[December 3, 2024] Industry veteran Troy “Tracker” Johnson will launch TRACK Mgmt, a full-service management company based in Nashville in partnership with Live Nation, in January. Managers Emily Smith and Drew Magid will join him as the company’s core team, with a flagship client roster comprised of Hardy, Dallas Smith, Jake Worthington and McCoy Moore. With over 20 years of touring and management experience, Johnson has worked with hit artists, including Hardy, Morgan Wallen, Florida Georgia Line and many more. This new venture follows nearly a decade of leadership at Big Loud Management.
Pictured (L-R): Sound Stage Studio’s Nick Autry; Black River’s Dawn Delvo, Tanya Schrage, Rick Froio, and Gordon S. Kerr; Chris Young; Red Light Management’s Kailyn Finnegan; Black River’s Doug Johnson, Grace Watson and Bill Macky. Photo: Moncell Allen
[December 4, 2024] After 19 years with Sony Music Nashville, Chris Young has signed a new record deal with Black River Entertainment. Young, a Grand Ole Opry member, has accumulated over five billion on-demand streams, 14 career No. 1 singles, 25 RIAA-certified projects and numerous ACM, AMA, CMA and Grammy nominations, as well as wins for Performance of the Year and Collaborative Video of the Year at the CMT Music Awards.
[December 5, 2024] Academy of Country Music Chief of Staff/VP, Artist & Industry Relations Tommy Moore plans to leave the organization on Dec. 13 for a new opportunity. He has been with ACM since 2011. Moore will join Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) as Director of Entertainment Engagement in January. In his new role, he will help raise awareness and support for VUMC’s mission by deepening relationships within the entertainment and sports industries.
[December 9, 2024] Grammy-winning and multi-Platinum singer-songwriter Lainey Wilson has renewed with Sony Music Publishing Nashville, extending their partnership that first began in 2017. Wilson has notched seven No. 1 hits, including “Watermelon Moonshine” and the double-Platinum “Heart Like A Truck,” as well as award-winning collaborations with Cole Swindell, Jelly Roll and Hardy. The CMA and ACM Entertainer of the Year winner won her first-ever Best Country Album Grammy Award in 2024 for Bell Bottom Country. With her latest album, Whirlwind, released earlier this year, she clenched her second consecutive Best Country Album nomination at the upcoming 2025 Grammy Awards.
[Dec. 9, 2024] Breakout singer-songwriter Ella Langley has earned her first No. 1 on country radio with “You Look Like You Love Me” featuring Riley Green. The tune was written by Langley, Green and Aaron Raitiere. The feat makes Langley the first female artist to lead the Billboard Country Airplay Chart in 2024. The last woman to top the chart was Lainey Wilson, who was a featured vocalist on Jelly Roll’s “Save Me,” which topped the chart for two weeks in December. Prior to that Wilson spent three weeks at No. 1 in October of 2023 with “Watermelon Moonshine,” meaning that Langley ends the 51-week break between women in the lead spot. According to Billboard, the nearly year-long gap marked the longest stretch without a female chart-topper since the record 61-week drought in 2003-2004.
[December 10, 2024] MusicRow is proud to reveal its list of artists who are predicted to become the Next Big Thing (NBT) in 2025. The 11th annual NBT list features 13 artists, who are each profiled in MusicRow‘s latest 2025 Touring & Next Big Thing print issue, which releases today (Dec. 10). The Class of 2025 consists of Tanner Adell (Bad Cow/Love Renaissance), Gavin Adcock (Thrivin Here Records/Warner Music Nashville), Mackenzie Carpenter (Big Machine Label Group (The Valory Music Co.)), Carter Faith (UMG Nashville (Capitol Records Nashville)), Dylan Gossett (Big Loud Texas/Mercury Records), Ella Langley (Columbia Records/SAWGOD), Vincent Mason (Interscope Records/UMG Nashville/Music Soup), Dylan Marlowe (Sony Music Nashville/Play It Again Music), Drake Milligan (BBR Music Group/Stoney Creek Records), Zach Top (Leo33), Tigirlily Gold (Monument Records), The Red Clay Strays (RCA Records) and Tucker Wetmore (UMG Nashville/Back Blocks Music/Mercury Records).
[December 10, 2024] MusicRow has revealed its 2025 N.B.T. Industry Directory list, highlighting a rising class of music industry leaders. Now in its sixth year, MusicRow’s N.B.T. Industry Directory is the first and only list of its kind, showcasing Nashville music business professionals who occupy important roles at their respective companies. This class of professionals are on a trajectory of excellence to successfully lead the Nashville music industry into the future.
Ben Kline
[December 11, 2024] Industry veteran Ben Kline has joined the Red Light Management Executive Leadership Team in Nashville. In his new role, Kline will help oversee Red Light’s Nashville operations as well as focus on new business opportunities for the company and its artists. He reports to the company’s founder, Coran Capshaw.
[December 11, 2024] The Country Radio Broadcasters have unveiled the lineup for the New Faces of Country Music Show at CRS 2025. Next year’s class includes Drew Baldridge (Lyric Ridge/BMG/Stoney Creek), Ashley Cooke (Big Loud/Back Blocks), Dasha (Warner Records), Zach Top (Leo33) and Warren Zeiders (Warner Records). For over five decades, the New Faces of Country Music Show has served as a platform to showcase five emerging artists who have achieved notable success on country radio during the qualification period. The period for this class spanned from Nov. 1, 2023 to Oct. 31, 2024.
Rewind: MusicRow’s Top Stories Of 2024
/by MusicRow StaffThe Nashville music industry was filled with transformative moments and achievements in 2024, setting the stage for an exciting future.
Tennessee took a groundbreaking step in creator rights protection this year with the passage of the Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security (ELVIS) Act. Signed into law by Governor Bill Lee in March, the legislation is the first of its kind to safeguard artists from unauthorized use of their voice and likeness through deepfakes and AI-generated content. This pioneering act sets a national precedent for protecting creators in an ever-evolving technological landscape.
The year saw significant shifts among music labels and their artists. Miranda Lambert joined Republic Records in partnership with Big Loud. Chris Young moved to Black River Entertainment and Kelsea Ballerini re-signed with the label. Blake Shelton ended a two-decade run with Warner Music Nashville, signing with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. Additionally, country music embraced its pop crossover potential with Universal Music Group’s Silver Wings Records and Sony Music Nashville’s Free Flight Records, both dedicated to amplifying independent and pop acts.
Sony Music Nashville announced Randy Goodman’s retirement after nearly a decade as Chairman/CEO, with Taylor Lindsey stepping into the role. Her promotion marks a significant moment as she takes the helm of Sony’s country and Christian music divisions, shaping the label’s future alongside newly named President and COO Ken Robold. The move also means that all three major labels in Nashville have female leadership, with Cindy Mabe helming UMG Nashville and Cris Lacy present as the Co-Chair/Co-President of Warner Music Nashville.
Speaking of Warner Music Nashville, the company underwent significant leadership changes this year as Gregg Nadel joined Lacy as Co-Chair and Co-President. Nadel, a seasoned industry executive, succeeded Ben Kline, who stepped down after a decade of impactful contributions to join Red Light Management.
BMG’s Jon Loba expanded his influence, being promoted to President of Frontline Recordings for The Americas. Leading operations across the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Brazil, Loba’s leadership underscores BMG’s growing impact in the global music scene.
Beyoncé and Post Malone made waves with their respective country albums. Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter featured legends like Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton, while Post Malone’s F-1 Trillion brought collaborations with Chris Stapleton and Morgan Wallen. Both projects redefined genre boundaries and brought fresh energy to country music.
At the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, Lainey Wilson won Best Country Album for her Bell Bottom Country project, while Chris Stapleton, Brandy Clark, Jason Isbell and more also brought wins back to Nashville.
The 59th Academy of Country Music Awards brought an evening of collaborations and cultural moments, with Wilson earning Entertainer of the Year and Stapleton dominating with four wins. Hosted by Reba McEntire, the event showcased 18 performances, cementing the ACM Awards as a celebration of artistry and innovation.
At the 58th Annual CMA Awards, Wallen secured his first Entertainer of the Year award, while Megan Moroney earned New Artist of the Year honors. Brooks & Dunn and Stapleton tied as the most-awarded CMA artists in history, each reaching 19 total wins. The event showcased the breadth of talent in country music and solidified its stars’ legacies.
During this year’s “Awards Week” in Nashville, the SESAC Nashville Music Awards celebrated standout songwriters like Moroney and Jaron Boyer, while the ASCAP Country Music Awards honored icons including Ashley Gorley and Stapleton. BMI’s Country Awards crowned Randy Owen of Alabama with the BMI Icon Award, recognizing his indelible impact on music.
Drew Baldridge became the first self-released artist to top the Country Aircheck/Mediabase chart with “She’s Somebody’s Daughter,” a landmark achievement for independent artists and a testament to the changing dynamics of music distribution. Meanwhile, Ella Langley earned her first No. 1 on country radio with “You Look Like You Love Me” featuring Riley Green, making her the only female artist to lead the Billboard Country Airplay Chart in 2024 and ending a 51-week drought for women at the top. The nearly year-long gap was the longest since the 61-week drought of 2003-2004, underscoring Langley’s historic achievement.
Prolific songwriter Ashley Gorley reached an incredible milestone with his 81st No. 1 hit, continuing to set benchmarks in country music.
With these defining moments and more, 2024 underscored the resilience, creativity, and evolution of the music industry. From groundbreaking legislation to genre-crossing collaborations, it was a year to remember.
The Familie To Establish Nashville HQ, Led By Royce Risser
[January 8, 2024] The Familie, a sports and music agency, has arrived in Nashville with the addition of two new hires. Royce Risser, previously EVP of Promotion at Universal Music Group, has been hired as The Familie’s Head of Nashville and EVP of Country Music. He will be leading the company’s expansion into Music City. Additionally, The Familie has added artist manager Chase Berlin to the team. As The Familie prepares to make Nashville its national headquarters, Risser will be overseeing and executing Nashville office operations. He will also be leading the development of The Familie’s new country division. The Familie’s roster currently includes artists such as Machine Gun Kelly, Avril Lavigne, Jaden Hossler, Games We Play and sombr.
Governor Bill Lee Introduces ELVIS Act For Likeness, Voice & Image Protection
[January 10, 2024] At a press conference at Studio A in Nashville on Wednesday (Jan. 10), Tennessee Governor Bill Lee introduced bicameral legislation alongside State Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-27) and House Majority Leader William Lamberth (R-44) regarding concerns about creators’ voice, image and likeness rights. The Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security (ELVIS) Act updates Tennessee’s Protection of Personal Rights law, making it the first state in the nation to preserve individual voice, image and likeness against irresponsible and unethical artificial intelligence (AI) in the form of deepfakes and audio cloning. The ELVIS Act seeks to protect the future of Tennessee creators from the harmful misuse of technology on some online platforms, such as computer-generated recordings that resemble artists’ voices or deepfake videos.
Dean Dillon Signs Publishing Deal With River House Artists & Sony Music Publishing
River House’s Zebb Luster, Dean Dillon and River House’s Lynn Oliver-Cline
[January 24, 2024] Iconic country songwriter Dean Dillon has signed a worldwide publishing deal with River House Artists, in partnership with Sony Music Publishing. Dillon is a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Having penned many iconic hits for chart-topping artists including George Strait, Kenny Chesney, Lee Ann Womack, Toby Keith and many more, Dillon was named the BMI Country Icon in 2013 and has amassed a combined total of 31 BMI Country and Pop Awards.
BMG Promotes Jon Loba To President Frontline Recordings, North America
[January 25, 2024] BMG is now increasing investment in its U.S. record labels as it “doubles down” on its North America operation, which already accounts for more than 50 percent of its revenue. As part of the plan, BMG Nashville President Jon Loba will become President Frontline Recordings, North America, taking charge of BMG’s entire North American frontline records business across Nashville, Los Angeles, New York and Canada. His other responsibilities include the Rise (Spiritbox, Sum 41) and RBC (Chief Keef, Run The Jewels) imprints as well as the main BMG label.
Lisa Harless Retires After More Than 38 Years With Regions Bank [Exclusive]
[January 25, 2024] Music Row veteran Lisa Harless has retired from her position as Sr. VP/Wealth Advisor, Entertainment and Sports Division of Regions Bank. She was with the company for more than 38 years. Harless, a graduate of Lipscomb University, joined Regions in 1985 following time at Aetna Casualty and Surety. In her executive post at the bank, she assisted clients with a wide range of financial services including deposit and credit needs, investments and estate and financial planning.
Morgan Wallen Shares Statement & ‘Spin You Around (1/24)’
[January 26, 2024] While on a duck hunting trip last night (Jan. 25), country star Morgan Wallen shared a statement with fans disclosing regret surrounding a past record and artist management deal. He notified fans that a 10th anniversary edition of his EP Stand Alone was set to be released today (Jan. 26) without his consent. In response to the unwanted release, Wallen has dropped a new version of the song, “Spin You Around (1/24),” which he recorded this week. He also shared that he created the re-recorded track’s artwork while hunting, and will be donating $100,000 from the Morgan Wallen Foundation to the Volunteer Lawyers & Professionals for the Arts (VLPA) program in hopes that young aspiring musicians read his story and know they should never have to give up their creative freedoms for an opportunity in the industry.
Charges Against Chris Young Dropped After Review Of Evidence
[January 26, 2024] The charges brought against Chris Young earlier this week after his arrest at a Nashville bar have been dropped, according to a statement from District Attorney General Glenn Funk. Young was arrested on Monday night (Jan. 22) and charged with disorderly conduct, assaulting an officer and resisting arrest after an altercation with a Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) agent who was checking IDs at a downtown bar in Nashville. By Tuesday (Jan. 23), security video footage from the bar was released, showing that the agent initiated the physical altercation with Young.
Big Machine Label Group Promotes Mike Rittberg & Clay Hunnicutt
[January 30, 2024] Big Machine Label Group (BMLG) has elevated Mike Rittberg to COO and Clay Hunnicutt to EVP, Label Operations. Rittberg rises from his position of BMLG’s EVP, Label Operations, overseeing marketing, streaming and all release initiatives across the label group’s core imprints: Big Machine Records, BMLG Records, The Valory Music Co. and Big Machine John Varvatos Records. Hunnicutt most recently served as General Manager for the Big Machine Records imprint, which boasts an impressive roster of artists including Tim McGraw, Carly Pearce, Midland and Jackson Dean, among others. In his new role, he will concentrate on business development, growing the entire label group’s ventures, fostering partnerships and focusing on catalog initiatives, which are critical to company objectives.
Luke Combs, Lainey Wilson Represent Country Music At 66th Annual Grammy Awards [Recap]
Tracy Chapman & Luke Combs perform onstage during the 66th Grammy Awards. Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
[February 5, 2024] The 66th annual Grammy Awards took place Sunday night (Feb. 4) at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Though there weren’t a ton of country music moments throughout the telecast, they were very impactful. Just a few minutes into the show, Luke Combs took the stage to perform “Fast Car” alongside the song’s iconic author, Tracy Chapman. Another country stalwart, Kacey Musgraves, was on hand to present Best Country Album during the telecast. The 2024 trophy went to first-time winner Lainey Wilson for her Bell Bottom Country project. The other country awards were given out prior to the telecast, with Best Country Song and Best Country Solo Performance going to Chris Stapleton‘s “White Horse,” and Zach Bryan and Musgraves taking home the trophy for Best Country Duo/Group Performance with “I Remember Everything.” Other Nashville-based trophy winners included Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Brandy Clark, Brandi Carlile, Allison Russell, Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, Bobby Rush, Larkin Poe, Tye Tribbett, Lecrae and Theron Thomas.
NSAI Elects New President & VP As Steve Bogard Ends Tenure In Leadership
[February 6, 2024] The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) recently concluded its Board of Director elections and selected its leadership for the coming year. Steve Bogard, the longest-serving President in the organization’s history, has decided not to seek another term in leadership, but will continue to serve on NSAI’s Board of Directors. Lee Thomas Miller has been elected by the Board of Directors to serve as the organization’s President, and Jenn Schott has been elected Vice President.
Kelsea Ballerini Renews With Black River Entertainment
Pictured (L-R): Sandbox Entertainment Group’s Jason Owen; Kelsea Ballerini; and Black River Entertainment’s Gordon Kerr and Rick Froio. Photo: Robby Klein
[February 7, 2024] Over a decade since the independent label launched her career in 2013, Kelsea Ballerini has renewed her recording contract with Black River Entertainment. Since signing with the company, Ballerini has notched seven No. 1 singles, earned 32 RIAA certifications, logged five back-to-back top 10 entries on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and become a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
UMG Nashville Unveils Silver Wings Records With Flagship Artist Hueston
[February 15, 2024] UMG Nashville has signed singer-songwriter and producer Hueston to the newly created Silver Wings Records. Silver Wings Records is a distribution arm designed to support independent artists and creators. powered by Virgin Music Group’s global distribution network, Silver Wings creates custom campaign services for independent acts and offers various options for developing and enhancing campaigns. The new arm has its own staff overseen by UMG Nashville SVP of Business Development & Strategy Charlene Bryant.
Charlie Cook To Exit Cumulus
[February 15, 2024] Charlie Cook will exit his positions as Vice President of Country Music for Cumulus, Programming Operations Manager for Cumulus Nashville’s five-station cluster and as the Program Director for both 95.5 Nash Icon (WSM-FM) and 103.3 Country (WKDF). His last day is May 31. In 1996, Cook joined Cumulus Media’s Westwood One as VP, Programming/Formats. 10 years later he joined Cumulus as VP of Programming for the company’s 67 country stations. Cook received the ACM Service Award at the 2023 ACM Honors for his dedication to the format. He was inducted into the Country Radio Hall of Fame in 2011, and received the ACM Service Award at the 2023 ACM Honors as the organization’s longest-serving board member.
Sony Music Nashville Launches New Pop Imprint, Free Flight Records
[February 19, 2024] Sony Music Nashville has launched a new imprint for non-country music called Free Flight Records. Pop/folk singer-songwriter Darren Kiely has joined the imprint’s roster. He released his debut EP Lost last fall, in which he solo-wrote four of the seven tracks on the project and co-wrote the other three. Kiely has now reached No. 1 on the Irish Homegrown Chart with hit hit “Sunrise” from the project. Lost also features “Mom & Dad,” which debuted in the top 40 on the Irish Singles Chart and also landed him in the top 5 on the Irish Homegrown chart.
BMLG Records Rebrands As Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment
[February 23, 2024] Big Machine Label Group imprint BMLG Records is rebranding as Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment. Initially founded as a joint venture in 2009 as Republic Nashville, Big Machine Label Group acquired full ownership of the imprint in 2015 and renamed it BMLG Records. The imprint’s new namesake is meant to serve as a mark of a safe place for artists and executives to write, create, grow and flourish. Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment’s artist roster includes Riley Green, Brett Young, Chris Janson, Lady A, Greylan James and Shane Profitt. Jimmy Harnen remains the President/CEO, with operations continuing as normal.
Warner Music Nashville Promotes Kristen Williams
Kristen Williams
[February 26, 2024] Warner Music Nashville has promoted Kristen Williams to SVP, Radio & Commercial Partnerships. Having led the label’s Radio division since 2010, Williams will now also lead the Commercial Partnerships team which includes retail, streaming, catalog development and direct to consumer efforts. The Radio department will continue to operate under its two-pronged model of focusing on both individual stations and larger national accounts.
MusicRow’s 2024 CountryBreakout Award Winners [Full List]
[February 27, 2024] MusicRow virtually announced the winners of the 22nd annual CountryBreakout Awards throughout the day today (Feb. 27) across all of MusicRow’s online platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). The MusicRow CountryBreakout Awards celebrate those who have dominated country radio’s secondary market. Winners in eight categories are determined by spins on the secondary market stations that report to the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart panel each week. This years winners include Bryce Burtner, Ashley Gorley, UMG Nashville, BoomTown Saints, Megan Moroney, Dan + Shay, Lainey Wilson and Morgan Wallen.
UMG Nashville Launches Sing Me Back Home Productions
[February 27, 2024] Universal Music Group Nashville has started a new TV and film production company, Sing Me Back Home Productions. The company will emphasize storytelling through music integration of UMG Nashville’s roster of past and present artists. The new division will be helmed by UMG Nashville Chair & CEO Cindy Mabe and SVP of Digital Business and Creative Development Dawn Gates. This new division will develop a content slate for a variety of documentaries, original scripted and unscripted television, feature films and short form content, and will be heavily involved in securing production partners, music supervision and distribution.
Range Media Partners Signs Tanya Tucker & Opens Nashville Office
[March 1, 2024] Range Media Partners has signed Country Music Hall of Famer Tanya Tucker in addition to opening a new Nashville office in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood. In the new office, Nashville-based industry veterans Shawn McSpadden and Will Lowery will be joined by Co-Founder & Managing Partner Jack Minihan, who has relocated from Los Angeles. Co-Founder Matt Graham, who has led the company’s growth within the country genre, and artist manager and Head of Touring Kyle Wilensky will also split their time between Music City and Los Angeles.
CRS New Faces 2024 Showcase Highlights Five Talented Artists
The New Faces of Country Music Class of 2024, including George Birge, Megan Moroney, Conner Smith, Dillon Carmichael and Corey Kent. Photo: Courtesy of CRB/CRS/Kayla Schoen
[March 4, 2024] To end Country Radio Seminar (CRS) 2024, five breakout artists added their names to the history of the New Faces of Country Music showcase. The annual showcase features five emerging artists who have achieved notable country radio success during the qualification period, which spanned from Nov. 1, 2022, to Oct. 31, 2023, for the 2024 show. The event has served as a pivotal moment in the careers of established country hitmakers since its inception in 1970. On Friday (March 1), Corey Kent, George Birge, Conner Smith, Dillon Carmichael and Megan Moroney added their names to the list.
UMG Nashville Taps Jake Gear As VP, A&R
[March 19, 2024] UMG Nashville has tapped publishing veteran Jake Gear as VP of A&R. Gear brings over 10 years of experience as a publisher, producer and writer manager to his new role. The Iowa native graduated from Nashville’s Belmont University before beginning his career in the Music & Licensing department at CMT. He went on to hold publishing posts at Magic Mustang Music, Sea Gayle Music and BMG. Gear then launched creative publishing venture Hang Your Hat Music in 2020 with Concord and hitmaker Hillary Lindsey. He has also acted as writer manager for Lindsey, and produced albums for Flatland Cavalry, Ben Chapman, Harper O’Neill and Hailey Whitters.
MusicRow Magazine Honors Six At 11th Annual Rising Women On The Row
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson; Rising Women on the Row honorees Melissa Spillman, Taylor Lindsey, Sloane Cavitt Logue, Candice Watkins, Tiffany Kerns and Halie Hampton Mosley; KP Entertainment’s Kerri Edwards and MusicRow’s LB Cantrell. Photo: Ed Rode
[March 19, 2024] MusicRow Magazine, Nashville’s leading music industry publication, proudly recognized six Nashville music industry executives during its 11th annual Rising Women on the Row honors this morning (March 19) at the Omni Nashville Hotel. City National Bank, CMT Next Women of Country and Loeb & Loeb served as Presenting Sponsors. The new class of honorees were CMA’s Tiffany Kerns, Sony Music Nashville’s Taylor Lindsey, WME’s Sloane Cavitt Logue, WHY&HOW’s Halie Hampton Mosley, Concord Music Publishing’s Melissa Spillman and Big Loud Record’s Candice Watkins.
ELVIS Act Is Signed Into Law
[March 21, 2024] Just months since its introduction on Jan. 10, the bipartisan Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security (ELVIS) Act was signed into law today (March 21) by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee at lower Broadway honky-tonk Robert’s Western World in Nashville. The ELVIS Act establishes protections for every person’s unique voice and likeness against unauthorized artificial intelligence (AI) deepfakes and voice clones. The act will officially go into effect on July 1 and will update the state’s existing right of publicity to address these fundamental human protections.
Ashley Gorley Notches 75th No. 1 Song
[March 25, 2024] Country hitmaker Ashley Gorley has garnered his 75th No. 1 career hit with Hardy‘s “Truck Bed,” which he co-wrote with Hardy, Ben Johnson and Hunter Phelps. Gorley’s record-breaking hit spree started in 2006 with Carrie Underwood’s “Don’t Forget to Remember Me.” Since then, Gorley has had over 400 songs released by artists such as Luke Bryan, Chris Stapleton, Nate Smith, Thomas Rhett, Dan + Shay, Kelsea Ballerini, Cole Swindell, Bon Jovi, Weezer and more.
Beyoncé Shares ‘Cowboy Carter’ Album, Featuring A Bevy Of Country Artists
[March 29, 2024] Beyoncé‘s highly-anticipated country album is here at last. The 27-track Cowboy Carter was released today (March 29), and it highlights the talents of multiple country artists. Country legend Willie Nelson makes an appearance on “Smoke Hour,” and he contributes spoken word on “Smoke Hour II.” Another icon Dolly Parton is also prominently featured, including with a cover of her iconic “Jolene.” Beyoncè’s version twists the narrative—instead of begging Jolene not to take her man, she sings “I’m warnin’ you, don’t come for my man,” making for an exciting new take on the beloved track. Prior to “Jolene,” Dolly’s voice is heard on an interlude called “Dolly P,” where she says “You know that hussy ‘with the good hair’ you sing about? It reminded me of someone I knew back when.’” Other artists featured include Linda Martell, Shaboozey, Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy, Reyna Roberts, Willie Jones, Post Malone and Miley Cyrus.
2024 CMT Music Awards Take Over Austin, Texas [Recap]
[April 8, 2024] The 2024 CMT Music Awards took place Sunday night (April 7) at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas. Jelly Roll was the night’s big winner, taking home three trophies for “Need A Favor,” including the coveted Video of the Year as well as Male Video of the Year and CMT Performance of the Year. Other winners included Lainey Wilson (Female Video of the Year with “Watermelon Moonshine”), Dan + Shay (Duo/Group Video of the Year with “Save Me The Trouble”), Carly Pearce and Chris Stapleton (Collaborative of the Year for “We Don’t Fight Anymore”) and more. Kelsea Ballerini served as host for the evening, her fourth time guiding the show.
Belmont University Receives $58 Million Lead Gift For Music Row Expansion
[April 10, 2024] Belmont University has received a $58 million lead gift from music industry veteran Mike Curb and the Mike Curb Foundation to propel the expansion of its Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business on Music Row. The news and renderings were disclosed last night (April 9) to an industry crowd at a reception prior to the “Belmont at the Opry” event, which commemorated the music business program’s 50th anniversary. The gift marks largest in the school’s history, and will support renovation of existing buildings as well as construction of a new state-of-the-art facility, aiming to preserve the area’s history while providing innovative spaces for entertainment industry education and collaboration.
CMA Celebrates Triple Play Award Recipients, Honors Troy Tomlinson
[April 17, 2024] The Country Music Association held its 2024 CMA Triple Play Awards ceremony on Monday night (April 15). The evening honored seven CMA Triple Play Award recipients for penning three No. 1 songs in a 12-month period, as well as awarded publishing veteran Troy Tomlinson with the CMA Songwriter Advocate Award. The evening took place at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville, and was hosted by songwriter and CMA Board member Jim Beavers. His humor and familiarity with those in the room highlighted the spirit of togetherness the Nashville publishing community has always had. Throughout the night, each of the Triple Play recipients were celebrated, with a collaborator or friend doing the honor of inviting the winners to the stage. Those honored included Jelly Roll, Jordan Schmidt, Hunter Phelps, Chase McGill, Ashley Gorley, Charlie Handsome and Thomas Rhett.
Miranda Lambert Signs A New Record Deal
Pictured (L-R): Republic’S EVP and CFO Joe Schmidt, Founder and Vice Chairman Avery Lipman, President and COO Jim Roppo; Miranda Lambert; Republic’s Founder and Chairman Monte Lipman, Big Loud Records’ CEO Seth England. Photo: Julia Drummond
[April 23, 2024] Miranda Lambert has signed a record deal with Republic Records in partnership with Big Loud, who will add support on country radio promotion as well as other marketing efforts. Her first release under the new deal will be the single “Wranglers,” arriving May 3. The label deal expands on Lambert’s relationship with Big Loud. Last November, she and Jon Randall partnered with Seth England and the company to launch the imprint Big Loud Texas.
NSAI, NMPA, More Share Frustration With Spotify’s Payment Change
[May 14, 2024] Since it was revealed that Spotify would be changing the way it pays songwriters and publishers by acting as a bundled subscription service with the addition of audiobooks, songwriter organizations and community members have expressed their frustration with the streaming giant. Billboard recently estimated that Spotify’s reclassification from a “standalone portable subscription” to a “bundled subscription offering” will cause a $150 million cut to U.S. mechanical royalty payments, leading organizations such as Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), National Music Publishers Association (NMPA) and Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP) to speak out.
The 59th ACM Awards Focuses On Fun Collaborations & Cultural Moments [Recap]
Reba McEntire at the 59th Academy of Country Music Awards from Ford Center at The Star on May 16, 2024 in Frisco, Texas.
[May 17, 2024] The 59th Academy of Country Music Awards took place Thursday night (May 16) at The Star in Frisco, Texas. Lainey Wilson was crowned ACM Entertainer of the Year, her first time receiving the honor. Chris Stapleton led the night in total wins with four awards, followed by Wilson with three wins, and Luke Combs and Jordan Davis with two wins. Other winners included Dan + Shay, Old Dominion, Megan Moroney, Nate Smith, Tigirlily Gold, Jelly Roll, Parker McCollum, Jessie Jo Dillon and more. Music icon Reba McEntire hosted the two hour show that featured 18 performances from 19 artists, along with several collaborations.
Big Loud Promotes Patch Culbertson To EVP/GM
[May 30, 2024] Big Loud Records has elevated Patch Culbertson to EVP/GM, effective immediately. He is now the company’s first Executive Vice President, and will report directly to Big Loud partners Seth England, Joey Moi and Craig Wiseman. In his elevated role, Culbertson will continue to oversee day-to-day operations, strategizing on commercial tactics and helping to expand the creative development of the Big Loud Records roster.
Lainey Wilson Becomes A Grand Ole Opry Member
Lainey Wilson inducted as the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry. Photo: Chris Hollo for Grand Ole Opry
[June 8, 2024] Grammy, CMA and ACM winner Lainey Wilson was officially welcomed into the Grand Ole Opry family Friday night (June 7) by Opry members Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood. Wilson performed earlier in the evening with Opry member Terri Clark, who was celebrating her 20th anniversary as a member. The two performed Clark’s “Poor Poor Pitiful Me” before Wilson joined another music icon, Wynonna, on Tom Petty hit “Refugee.” She then performed some of her own hits, including “Things A Man Oughta Know,” “Heart Like A Truck” and “Watermelon Moonshine” as well as new songs “Dreamcatcher” and “Hang Tight Honey.”
Warner Chappell Promotes Jessi Vaughn Stevenson
[June 10, 2024] Warner Chappell Music has elevated seasoned A&R executive Jessi Vaughn Stevenson to Vice President, A&R and Digital. Stevenson has worked with some of country music’s most influential songwriters, including Jessi Alexander, Rhett Akins, Parker McCollum, Riley Green, Hailey Whitters, Morgan Wallen, Randy Montana, Little Big Town and more. She will continue reporting to Ben Vaughn, President & CEO of Warner Chappell Music Nashville, as she strategizes around new and innovative opportunities for writers.
Jon Loba Further Expands Role At BMG
[June 10, 2024] Less than six months after being promoted to President of Frontline Recordings for North America, BMG has upped Jon Loba again to President of Frontline Recordings for The Americas. The Nashville-based industry veteran will lead a team of executives across the United States, including Los Angeles, Miami and Nashville, as well as Canada, Mexico and Brazil.
CMA Fest 2024 Brings Music From Over 300 Artists To Fans
Tucker Wetmore performs at the Hard Rock Stage on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
[June 11, 2024] The Country Music Association hosted its 51st CMA Fest this past weekend (June 6-9), ushering in the next half-century of bringing country music to fans around the world. This year’s festival brought fans from all 50 states and 46 countries to Nashville. With multiple stages spread throughout the city, attendees heard from more than 300 performers. Most of CMA Fest is free of charge, with the option to buy tickets or passes to shows at Nissan Stadium and Ascend Amphitheater, as well as admission to Fan Fair X in Music City Center. Artists donate their time to appear at CMA Fest so that a portion of ticket proceeds can directly benefit music education initiatives across the country through the CMA Foundation.
Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inducts Hillary Lindsey, More
[June 14, 2024] The Songwriters Hall of Fame’s 53rd Annual Induction and Awards Dinner took place Thursday night (June 13) in New York City. The evening honored 2024 inductees Hillary Lindsey, Timothy Mosley (Timbaland), Dean Pitchford, Bill Berry, Peter Buck, Mike Mills and Michael Stipe of R.E.M. and Walter Becker and Donald Fagan of Steely Dan. Each were saluted for the immeasurable impact of their songs. Additionally, multi-award-winner Diane Warren received the prestigious Johnny Mercer Award, and four-time Grammy winner SZA was given the Hal David Starlight Award. The night also followed the posthumous induction of legendary country songwriter Cindy Walker to the SHOF in a special tribute held at a SHOF Master Session in Nashville.
Kelly Bolton Joins Warner Records
[June 24, 2024] Kelly Bolton has joined Warner Records as VP of A&R. Working out of Nashville, Bolton will collaborate closely with Co-Chairman & CEO Aaron Bay-Schuck on signing, developing and cultivating country artists for the Los Angeles-based label. She will report directly to EVP/Head of A&R Karen Kwak.
Big Loud Promotes Stacy Blythe To EVP, Promotion
[July 10, 2024] Big Loud Records has promoted Stacy Blythe to EVP, Promotion, effective immediately. She joins recently-promoted EVP / GM Patch Culbertson with the upgraded title, further elevating a new class of leaders at the label who report directly to partners Seth England, Joey Moi and Craig Wiseman. Blythe has led her promotion team to 24 No. 1 singles at country radio in just under nine years since joining in 2015, starting with the label’s first-ever radio single, Chris Lane’s Platinum-certified “Fix,” to their most recent No. 1 with Post Malone and Morgan Wallen’s history-making all-genre No. 1 smash “I Had Some Help.”
Morgan Wallen Changes Management
Morgan Wallen and Austin Neal
[July 11, 2024] MusicRow has confirmed reports that Morgan Wallen‘s longtime agent Austin Neal is taking over his management. The two are launching a new firm, Sticks Management, with Wallen as its sole client. The change moves Wallen from the Big Loud Management roster, but his relationship with Big Loud Records and company leader Seth England remains intact. Wallen’s former co-manager Kathleen Flaherty has been named Executive Director of the Morgan Wallen Foundation.
Carrie Underwood To Return To ‘American Idol’ As Newest Judge
[August 1, 2024] Season four winner Carrie Underwood will return to American Idol as its newest judge. She will join fellow country star Luke Bryan and music legend Lionel Richie on the judging panel as well as longtime host Ryan Seacrest for the music competition series’ 23rd overall season, and eighth season on ABC and Hulu.
Luke Combs Becomes First Artist To Score Three RIAA Diamond-Certified Country Singles
[August 14, 2024] Sony Music Nashville surprised Luke Combs with five new plaques commemorating historic certifications during his fifth anniversary appearance at the Grand Ole Opry last night (Aug. 13). The presentations included two Diamond certifications for “When It Rains It Pours” and “Hurricane,” solidifying Combs as the first artist to earn three RIAA Diamond-certified country singles, as the tunes join previously Diamond-certified hit “Beautiful Crazy.” “When It Rains It Pours” and “Hurricane” also mark the 10th and 11th country singles to attain Diamond certification.
Post Malone Unveils ‘F-1 Trillion,’ Celebrates With Spotify-Hosted Shindig At Loser’s
[August 16, 2024] Global superstar Post Malone has unveiled his highly-anticipated country album, F-1 Trillion, today (Aug. 16) via Mercury Records/Republic Records in collaboration with Big Loud. The track list includes a whos who of elite country collaborators, including icons Dolly Parton, Hank Williams Jr. and Tim McGraw as well as current superstars Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, Lainey Wilson, Jelly Roll, Chris Stapleton and more. Post Malone fans and industry members took over midtown Nashville last night (Aug. 15) for a F-1 Trillion celebration at Loser’s Bar & Grill, hosted by Spotify. Attendees were treated with an appearance from Post, customizable t-shirts and plenty of specialty drinks.
Drew Baldridge Becomes First Self-Released Artist To Reach No. 1 On Country Aircheck/Mediabase Chart
[August 26, 2024] Drew Baldridge has made history by becoming the first self-released artist to reach No. 1 on the Country Aircheck/Mediabase chart and No. 3 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart with his hit “She’s Somebody’s Daughter,” surpassing the 2017 mark held by Aaron Watson. The Gold-certified track has also garnered over 1.1 billion streams across streaming and social media platforms and debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
2024 MusicRow Awards Winners [Full List]
[August 27, 2024] MusicRow Magazine has revealed the winners of the 36th annual MusicRow Awards today (Aug. 27) on all of its online platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and X. Now in its 36th year, the MusicRow Awards are Nashville’s longest-running music industry trade publication honors and celebrate the achievements of songwriters, artists, producers and more. Winners are voted on by MusicRow’s subscribers. This year’s winners include Jay Joyce, Big Loud Records, WME, Ryan Larkins, Ashley Cooke, Ashley Gorley, Jessi Alexander, Josh Phillips, Zach Top, Shaboozey, Lainey Wilson, Jelly Roll and Old Dominion.
SOURCE Hall Of Fame Inducts Six ‘Women Behind The Music,’ Honors Jeannie Seely
[August 28, 2024] Six more deserving music industry veterans were inducted into the SOURCE Hall of Fame last night (Aug. 27) at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville’s historic Municipal Auditorium. Jeannie Seely was also honored with the Jo Walker-Meador Lifetime Achievement Award. Seely served as host for the night alongside her partner in crime, Country Music Hall of Fame member Brenda Lee, as well as a new host, Grand Ole Opry member Mandy Barnett. This year’s honorees included Teena Scogin Camp, Marty Craighead, Leslie Fram, Kathy Harris, Judy Seale and Sheree’ Spoltore’.
Blake Shelton & Warner Music Nashville Part Ways
[September 3, 2024] After two decades together, Blake Shelton and Warner Music Nashville have amicably parted ways. Shelton burst onto the scene in 2001 with his No. 1 debut single, “Austin,” which began a string of 28 No. 1 singles, 11 billion global streams, 13 million albums, and 52 million singles sold. He has won 10 CMA Awards, including Entertainer of the Year and five consecutive Male Vocalist of the Year Awards, multiple ACM, AMA, CMT, People’s Choice Awards and more.
Mike Harris To Exit UMG Nashville
[September 4, 2024] Executive VP and COO Mike Harris will leave his position at UMG Nashville at the end of the month to pursue a new opportunity. Harris joined UMG Nashville as Chief Operating Officer in 2016. He previously served as Exec. VP/GM for Caroline, a division of the Capitol Music Group. Under his guidance, Caroline had marketshare growth every year, culminating in the highest share in company history while delivering four No. 1 debuts for their partners in 2015 as well as four Grammy Awards. Prior to joining Caroline in 2013, Harris spent 15 years total with EMI.
Michael Bryan Upped To Global Head Of Country Music At Apple
Michael Bryan. Photo: Saami Bloom
[September 11, 2024] Michael Bryan has been promoted to Global Head of Country Music at Apple. In addition to overseeing country music, he will be responsible for supporting the company’s Christian and gospel teams in Nashville. Bryan joined Apple in 2020 as Director of Apple Music Country Radio before being promoted to Director of Editorial Operations & Audio Production in 2022. Prior to joining the company, he served as Talent Agent/Artist Development Lead at CAA and spent time in radio, including the role of Sr. VP of Programming for iHeartMedia between 2012 and 2016.
Shane Tarleton Joins Morris Higham Management
[September 11, 2024] Shane Tarleton has joined Morris Higham Management. He joins the home to artists Kenny Chesney, Old Dominion and more from his most recent position of Executive Vice President of Artist Development at Warner Music Nashville. Prior to WMN, Tarleton spent time at RCA and Titley / Spalding Artist Management. At Morris Higham, Tarleton will touch creative and content as management firms oversee more of these needs for their rosters.
Nashville Yards To Open The Pinnacle Music Venue In February
[September 17, 2024] The Pinnacle, Nashville Yards’ 4,500-capacity music venue presented by AEG, is set to open the weekend of Feb. 28 with a surprise artist to be announced at a later date. Equipped with cutting-edge lighting and video systems, the venue is designed host private events and live television productions in addition to a variety of concerts. It also features an open-air rooftop space and bar.
Randy Goodman To Retire From Sony Music Nashville At End Of 2024
Randy Goodman. Photo: Matthew Berinato
[September 18, 2024] Randy Goodman, Chairman and CEO of Sony Music Nashville, will retire at the end of 2024 after more than 35 years in the music industry. He has helmed the label since 2015, during which time he has also overseen Sony Music’s Christian music enterprise, Provident Entertainment. At Sony, Goodman has overseen the careers of stars Luke Combs, Kane Brown, Maren Morris, Megan Moroney and Nate Smith, as well as key breaking artists including Mitchell Tenpenny, Kameron Marlowe, Corey Kent and Morgan Wade among others.
Lainey Wilson Celebrates Bell Bottoms Up Grand Opening
[September 19, 2024] Lainey Wilson celebrated the grand opening of her new bar Bell Bottoms Up on Tuesday night (Sept. 17). The 27,000 square foot space first opened in May, where Wilson hosted an eight hour meet and greet with fans. Since then, Wilson has made several appearances in the space, including her ACM Honors after party to celebrate her Triple Crown and Milestone ACM Awards. During the grand opening, Wilson cut the venue ribbon before hoping on the rooftop stage for a surprise performance. The setlist included some of the singer’s biggest hits such as “Watermelon Moonshine” and “Heart Like A Truck.” She also dove into her new Whirlwind album with “4X4XU” and “Hang Tight Honey,” among others.
Blake Shelton Signs With BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville
BMG team with Blake Shelton. Photo: Sonny Alvarez/BMG
[September 23, 2024] Blake Shelton has signed with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. Shelton is currently climbing the charts with Post Malone collaboration “Pour Me A Drink.” His resume includes 28 No. 1 singles, 11 billion global streams, 52 million singles sold and 13 million albums sold. The country star has also received various accolades, including CMA Entertainer of the Year and five consecutive Male Vocalist of the Year wins.
UMG Nashville Appoints Robert Kilduff As CFO
[September 24, 2024] Universal Music Group Nashville has named Robert Kilduff as Chief Financial Officer. Bringing over 30 years of experience and a wealth of knowledge in financial leadership, strategic financial planning, operations and corporate development to the role, Kilduff joins the label following years as CFO for non-profit organization, the Gary Sinise Foundation. Prior to that he served as CFO of New Form Entertainment, VP of Financial Planning & Analysis for WME, and VP of Financial Planning & Analysis for Universal Music Group North America.
Ben Kline Stepping Down From Position At Warner Music Nashville, Gregg Nadel Joining Cris Lacy
Gregg Nadel. Photo: Jimmy Fontaine
[September 24, 2024] Longstanding WMG leader Gregg Nadel has been appointed Co-Chair & Co-President of Warner Music Nashville. He will work alongside Cris Lacy, who has been Co-Head of Warner Music Nashville for the past two years and marks her 20th anniversary with the company next year. Nadel succeeds Ben Kline, who has decided to step down after a decade with the company. In the course of his nearly three-decade career, Nadel—who most recently served as President of Elektra Entertainment—has signed and/or championed such acclaimed country and roots-based artists as Zac Brown Band, Brandi Carlile, The Highwomen, Sturgill Simpson, Bailey Zimmerman, and Brittney Spencer, among many other artists across multiple genres.
Warner Chappell Music Elevates Spencer Nohe
[September 25, 2024] Warner Chappell Music has elevated Spencer Nohe to Vice President, A&R. He will continue reporting to Warner Chappell Music Nashville President & CEO Ben Vaughn to develop both emerging and established songwriters as well as expand creative opportunities for the publisher’s country roster. Throughout his time in the industry, Nohe has worked with chart-topping superstars and rising hitmakers like Thomas Rhett, Jesse Frasure, Parker Welling, Casey Brown, Josh Kerr, Matt Jenkins, Alysa Vanderheym, Devin Dawson, Alana Springsteen, Brittney Spencer and Conner Smith, among others.
NSAI Honors Pursuit Of The Craft At Seventh Annual Nashville Songwriter Awards
[September 25, 2024] If there was one thing on display at the seventh annual Nashville Songwriter Awards last night (Sept. 24), it was the unrelenting pursuit of the craft that fill the lives of both new and established songwriters day in and day out. Staged by NSAI and presented by City National Bank, the beloved awards show showcased the careers of industry stalwarts who’ve chased good songs their whole careers as well as modern hitmakers who are in the pursuit every day. Honoring category winners for Song, Songwriter and Songwriter-Artist of the Year as well as the 2024 Legendary Song award and the “10 Songs I Wish I’d Written,” the evening was full of stories behind the song, special speeches and tender moments between collaborators. Enduring country music heroes Alan Jackson and Buddy Cannon were also honored for their limitless contributions.
People’s Choice Country Awards Dedicates Night To Fans During Second Annual Ceremony
[September 27, 2024] The second annual People’s Choice Country Awards was held at the historic Grand Ole Opry last night (Sept. 26), where the country music community gathered to celebrate the genre’s favorite people: the fans. Host Shania Twain came down from the rafters on a pink heart with to start off the electric night. As the country legend was descending with “Man! I Feel Like A Women” playing in the background, fans and other country stars in attendance were on their feet for the first of many times throughout the night. Award winners throughout the night included Shaboozey, Dan + Shay, mgk, Jelly Roll, Dasha, Old Dominion and more. Miranda Lambert was also also presented with the Country Icon Award, while the Country Champion Award was given to Kane Brown.
Leslie Fram Exits CMT After 13 Years
Leslie Fram
[October 1, 2024] CMT’s Senior Vice President of Music Strategy & Talent Leslie Fram has confirmed her exit as part of Paramount’s series of layoffs that affected the network. Fram oversaw all music on all platforms at CMT and negotiated talent for major tentpole and music specials. A champion of female artists, in 2013 she created CMT’s Next Women of Country franchise, which has grown to include a tour, and also oversaw CMT’s Equal Play platform.
Jamey Johnson Signs With Warner Music Nashville
[October 2, 2024] Multi-Grammy nominee Jamey Johnson has signed with Warner Music Nashville through his record label, Big Gassed Records, and will release new song “Someday When I’m Old” this Friday (Oct. 4). For his first release with the label, the Grand Ole Opry member is revisiting an old favorite. “Someday When I’m Old” has remained on Johnson’s mind since he sang on the song’s demo in 2004.
Mary Catherine Kinney Joins Republic
[October 3, 2024] Mary Catherine Kinney has joined Republic as Executive VP of Artist & Label Strategy. In her new role, Kinney will lead artist and label strategy for the label group’s Republic Records, Island Records, Mercury Records and Def Jam Recordings. Based in Nashville, she will lead business strategy for Republic’s labels and reinforce their Nashville presence.
Garth Brooks Accused Of Sexual Assault & Battery
[October 3, 2024] According to multiple outlets, including CNN, Garth Brooks has been accused of sexual assault and battery by a woman who says she worked for him as a hairstylist and makeup artist. Named “Jane Roe” in the complaint, filed in a state court in California today (Oct. 3), she claims that she was raped by Brooks during a work trip in 2019. The suit alleges that Roe began handling hair and makeup services for Brooks in 2017, and that she was first hired to do hair and makeup for his wife, Trisha Yearwood, in 1999.
Country Music Hall Of Fame Inducts John Anderson, James Burton & Toby Keith
Pictured (L-R): John Anderson, James Burton and Tricia Covel attend the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
[October 21, 2024] Three more outstanding record-makers were added to the historic Country Music Hall of Fame last night (Oct. 20) during a star-studded Medallion Ceremony in the Hall’s CMA Theater. John Anderson, James Burton and Toby Keith became the 153rd, 154th and 155th members of the esteemed institution.
Morgan Wallen Concludes 87-Show ‘One Night At A Time Tour’
[October 22, 2024] Morgan Wallen concluded his “One Night At A Time Tour” with a two-night stint at Charlotte’s Bank of America Stadium this past weekend (Oct. 18–19). Named after his third studio album, the 87-show run has seen the CMA Entertainer of the Year nominee perform for more than 3.1 million fans in 51 stadiums as well as arenas and amphitheaters across 10 countries and three continents, excluding festivals.
Luke Combs & Opry Entertainment Group Open Category 10 [See Inside]
[November 4, 2024] Category 10, the Luke Combs-inspired entertainment complex, is now open. The opening of the four-story, 67,000-square-foot venue was celebrated Friday night (Nov. 1) with a private concert for Combs’ Bootlegger fans, which included a concert from the man himself. The celebration continued all weekend with live music from up-and-coming artists and DJs. Inside Hurricane Hall, guests experienced the debut of “The Light Show,” an immersive, custom-designed light feature that punctuated the main room of the venue. At select times, “The Light Show” will be paired with synchronized routines by Category 10’s new dance team.
Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inducts Six New Members At 54th Anniversary Gala
[November 7, 2024] The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame (NaSHOF) celebrated six new members during its 54th Anniversary Gala last night (Nov. 6) at Music City Center. Al Anderson and Liz Rose were honored in the Contemporary Songwriter category, while Dan Penn and Victoria Shaw were welcomed into the Veteran Songwriter category. David Bellamy was recognized in Veteran Songwriter/Artist category, and the late Tony Joe White was inducted into the Legacy category, designed specifically to honor NaSHOF-worthy candidates who have passed away.
Beyoncé, Post Malone & Shaboozey Lead Country Grammy Nominations
[November 8, 2024] The nominees for the 67th Annual Grammy Awards were announced this morning (Nov. 8), with Beyoncé (11), Charli xcx (7), Billie Eilish (7), Kendrick Lamar (7), Post Malone (7), Sabrina Carpenter (6), Chappell Roan (6), Taylor Swift (6) and Shaboozey leading the pack. With their respective country albums, Beyoncé and Post also led the country categories, with the former earning a nod for Best Country Solo Performance (“16 Carriages”), Best Country Duo/Group Performance (“II Most Wanted” with Miley Cyrus), Best Country Song (“Texas Hold ‘Em”) and Best Country Album (Cowboy Carter), and the latter represented in Best Country Duo/Group Performance (“I Had Some Help” with Morgan Wallen), Best Country Song (“I Had Some Help”) and Best Country Album (F-1 Trillion).
Taylor Lindsey Promoted To Sony Music Nashville Chairman/CEO
Taylor Lindsey. Photo: Emily Dorio
[November 18, 2024] Taylor Lindsey has been promoted to Chairman/CEO of Sony Music Nashville, beginning in January. She steps into the role that Randy Goodman will exit at the end of the year to retire. Ken Robold has also been elevated to President and COO of Sony Music Nashville. Lindsey will oversee Sony Music Nashville as well as Christian music company Provident Entertainment. She will report to Chairman of Sony Music Group, Rob Stringer.
IEBA Executive Director, Pam Matthews, To Retire
[November 18, 2024] Pam Matthews, Executive Director of IEBA, will retire in early 2025 after 45 years in the music industry. Since 2013, Matthews has been at the helm of IEBA, the premier nonprofit trade organization for live entertainment professionals involved in buying, booking and selling talent. IEBA hosts an annual conference in Nashville, fostering connections among industry members. In 2017, the organization launched its Educational Outreach Fund, providing up to 50 scholarships annually to students enrolled in music business programs across North America.
SESAC Celebrates Community & Creativity At 2024 Nashville Music Awards
[November 18, 2024] It’s officially Awards Week in Music City. First on the agenda was the 2024 SESAC Nashville Music Awards, thrown at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum on Sunday night (Nov. 17). More than 400 songwriters and publishers socialized in the Museum’s beautiful event hall, which overlooks the Nashville skyline. The performing rights organization spared no expense decorating the space, arranging moody purple lighting and a gorgeous stage area with the SESAC logo prominently displayed. Guitar art by Nashville artist Rob Hendon decorated the hall, and elegant florals punctuated the room. Among the nights winners were Megan Moroney, Sierra Ferrell, Jared Keim, Pete Good, Jaron Boyer, Michael Tyler, Josh Jenkins, Allison Veltz Cruz, Casey Brown, Chris LaCorte and more.
62nd ASCAP Country Music Awards Honors Talented Songwriters & Publishers
[November 19, 2024] Country music stars, songwriters and publishers ascended the steps of The Twelve Thirty Club on Monday night (Nov. 18) for the ASCAP Celebrates Nashville event, awarding the top performing ASCAP members of the past year. The upscale club featured multiple spaces for party-goers to mingle, with intimate seating areas thoughtfully placed beneath the soft, dim lighting. The drinks were flowing with multiple bar locations, and attendees noshed on The Twelve Thirty Club’s yummy sushi and sashimi, shrimp cocktail, hummus and crudités, pimento cheese and pita bread and more. Among the nights winners were Ashley Gorley, Chris Stapleton, Jacob Hindlin, Shaboozey, Matthew Ramsey, Trevor Rosen, Brett Young, Jessie Murph, Kelsea Ballerini, George Birge and more.
BMI Celebrates 2024 Country Award Winners, Honors Randy Owen With Icon Award
[November 20, 2024] Hundreds of industry members gathered at BMI’s Nashville headquarters last night (Nov. 19) for the 72nd annual BMI Country Awards. Transforming the building’s parking garage into an extravagant ballroom, the evening was full of special celebrations and music for what BMI Nashville’s VP of Creative, Clay Bradley, called the “greatest parking lot party in country music.” After presenting half of their most-performed song awards, O’Neill and Bradley changed gears to begin honoring the iconic Alabama frontman Randy Owen with the BMI Icon Award, an honor bestowed on songwriters who have had an indelible influence on music makers over generations. Among the nights winners were Chase McGill, Zach Bryan, John Byron, Charlie Handsome, Chayce Beckham, Chris Janson, Teddy Swims, Thomas Rhett, Parker McCollum, Kane Brown and more.
2024 CMA Awards Crowns New Winners, Showcases Fun Collaborations [Recap]
Luke Bryan, Peyton Manning and Lainey Wilson host “The 58th Annual CMA Awards,” live from Bridgestone Arena Wednesday, November 20, 2024 on ABC.
[November 21, 2024] The 58th annual CMA Awards took over Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena last night (Nov. 20) and included performances of some of the past year’s biggest hits and record-breaking wins. Morgan Wallen won his first ever Entertainer of the Year trophy, while Megan Moroney was crowned New Artist of the Year. Brooks & Dunn and Chris Stapleton tied for winning the most CMA Awards of all time, each with 19 total wins. Other winners included Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson, Old Dominion, Ella Langley, Riley Green, Charlie Worsham and more. Wilson served as co-host alongside Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning.
Kix Brooks To Step Down As American Country Countdown Host
[November 25, 2024] After nearly two decades, Kix Brooks is stepping down as Host of American Country Countdown. Since January 2006, Brooks has taken listeners through the week’s top hits, upholding tradition while championing up-and-coming artists and bridging the gap between classic sounds and modern influences. His candid, intimate interviews sought to provide unfiltered insights into both the past and future of country music.
BMG Elevates Katie Kerkhover
[December 3, 2024] BMG has promoted Katie Kerkhover to Senior Vice President, A&R, Frontline Recordings, North America. In her newly-expanded role, Kerkhover will lead the A&R teams at the BMG offices in Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville, New York and Toronto. Currently based in Nashville, she will split her time between the Music City and Los Angeles offices, reporting directly to Jon Loba, President of Frontline Recordings, The Americas.
Troy ‘Tracker’ Johnson To Launch TRACK Mgmt
[December 3, 2024] Industry veteran Troy “Tracker” Johnson will launch TRACK Mgmt, a full-service management company based in Nashville in partnership with Live Nation, in January. Managers Emily Smith and Drew Magid will join him as the company’s core team, with a flagship client roster comprised of Hardy, Dallas Smith, Jake Worthington and McCoy Moore. With over 20 years of touring and management experience, Johnson has worked with hit artists, including Hardy, Morgan Wallen, Florida Georgia Line and many more. This new venture follows nearly a decade of leadership at Big Loud Management.
Chris Young Signs With Black River Entertainment
Pictured (L-R): Sound Stage Studio’s Nick Autry; Black River’s Dawn Delvo, Tanya Schrage, Rick Froio, and Gordon S. Kerr; Chris Young; Red Light Management’s Kailyn Finnegan; Black River’s Doug Johnson, Grace Watson and Bill Macky. Photo: Moncell Allen
[December 4, 2024] After 19 years with Sony Music Nashville, Chris Young has signed a new record deal with Black River Entertainment. Young, a Grand Ole Opry member, has accumulated over five billion on-demand streams, 14 career No. 1 singles, 25 RIAA-certified projects and numerous ACM, AMA, CMA and Grammy nominations, as well as wins for Performance of the Year and Collaborative Video of the Year at the CMT Music Awards.
Tommy Moore To Exit ACM
[December 5, 2024] Academy of Country Music Chief of Staff/VP, Artist & Industry Relations Tommy Moore plans to leave the organization on Dec. 13 for a new opportunity. He has been with ACM since 2011. Moore will join Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) as Director of Entertainment Engagement in January. In his new role, he will help raise awareness and support for VUMC’s mission by deepening relationships within the entertainment and sports industries.
Lainey Wilson Renews With Sony Music Publishing Nashville
[December 9, 2024] Grammy-winning and multi-Platinum singer-songwriter Lainey Wilson has renewed with Sony Music Publishing Nashville, extending their partnership that first began in 2017. Wilson has notched seven No. 1 hits, including “Watermelon Moonshine” and the double-Platinum “Heart Like A Truck,” as well as award-winning collaborations with Cole Swindell, Jelly Roll and Hardy. The CMA and ACM Entertainer of the Year winner won her first-ever Best Country Album Grammy Award in 2024 for Bell Bottom Country. With her latest album, Whirlwind, released earlier this year, she clenched her second consecutive Best Country Album nomination at the upcoming 2025 Grammy Awards.
Ella Langley Notches First No. 1 Single At Country Radio
[Dec. 9, 2024] Breakout singer-songwriter Ella Langley has earned her first No. 1 on country radio with “You Look Like You Love Me” featuring Riley Green. The tune was written by Langley, Green and Aaron Raitiere. The feat makes Langley the first female artist to lead the Billboard Country Airplay Chart in 2024. The last woman to top the chart was Lainey Wilson, who was a featured vocalist on Jelly Roll’s “Save Me,” which topped the chart for two weeks in December. Prior to that Wilson spent three weeks at No. 1 in October of 2023 with “Watermelon Moonshine,” meaning that Langley ends the 51-week break between women in the lead spot. According to Billboard, the nearly year-long gap marked the longest stretch without a female chart-topper since the record 61-week drought in 2003-2004.
MusicRow Reveals Next Big Thing Artists Class Of 2025
[December 10, 2024] MusicRow is proud to reveal its list of artists who are predicted to become the Next Big Thing (NBT) in 2025. The 11th annual NBT list features 13 artists, who are each profiled in MusicRow‘s latest 2025 Touring & Next Big Thing print issue, which releases today (Dec. 10). The Class of 2025 consists of Tanner Adell (Bad Cow/Love Renaissance), Gavin Adcock (Thrivin Here Records/Warner Music Nashville), Mackenzie Carpenter (Big Machine Label Group (The Valory Music Co.)), Carter Faith (UMG Nashville (Capitol Records Nashville)), Dylan Gossett (Big Loud Texas/Mercury Records), Ella Langley (Columbia Records/SAWGOD), Vincent Mason (Interscope Records/UMG Nashville/Music Soup), Dylan Marlowe (Sony Music Nashville/Play It Again Music), Drake Milligan (BBR Music Group/Stoney Creek Records), Zach Top (Leo33), Tigirlily Gold (Monument Records), The Red Clay Strays (RCA Records) and Tucker Wetmore (UMG Nashville/Back Blocks Music/Mercury Records).
MusicRow’s 2025 N.B.T. Industry Directory Highlights The Next Generation Of Leaders
[December 10, 2024] MusicRow has revealed its 2025 N.B.T. Industry Directory list, highlighting a rising class of music industry leaders. Now in its sixth year, MusicRow’s N.B.T. Industry Directory is the first and only list of its kind, showcasing Nashville music business professionals who occupy important roles at their respective companies. This class of professionals are on a trajectory of excellence to successfully lead the Nashville music industry into the future.
Ben Kline Joins Red Light Management
Ben Kline
[December 11, 2024] Industry veteran Ben Kline has joined the Red Light Management Executive Leadership Team in Nashville. In his new role, Kline will help oversee Red Light’s Nashville operations as well as focus on new business opportunities for the company and its artists. He reports to the company’s founder, Coran Capshaw.
Lineup Announced For 2025 CRS New Faces Show
[December 11, 2024] The Country Radio Broadcasters have unveiled the lineup for the New Faces of Country Music Show at CRS 2025. Next year’s class includes Drew Baldridge (Lyric Ridge/BMG/Stoney Creek), Ashley Cooke (Big Loud/Back Blocks), Dasha (Warner Records), Zach Top (Leo33) and Warren Zeiders (Warner Records). For over five decades, the New Faces of Country Music Show has served as a platform to showcase five emerging artists who have achieved notable success on country radio during the qualification period. The period for this class spanned from Nov. 1, 2023 to Oct. 31, 2024.
Rewind: 2024 MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart No. 1 Hits
/by MusicRow StaffSince 2002, the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart has crowned No. 1 songs in the secondary country radio marketplace. With 50 chart weeks in 2024, MusicRow has added 27 songs to the list of No. 1 hits. MusicRow congratulates each artist, songwriter and label for their accomplishments this year.
Morgan Wallen once again topped the MusicRow chart the most this year, notching six No. 1 hits including the two-week No. 1s “Mamaw’s House” with Thomas Rhett and “Man Made A Bar” with Eric Church, five-week No. 1 “I Had Some Help” with Post Malone, three-week No. 1 “Lies Lies Lies,” “Cowgirls” with Ernest and “Love Somebody.” Rhett and Post Malone notched three No. 1 tunes, while Lainey Wilson and Jelly Roll each earned two chart-toppers in the year.
Luke Combs, who notched three No. 1s on the MusicRow Radio Chart this year, had the longest run of 2024, with “Where The Wild Things Are” holding the spot for six consecutive weeks (Jan. 5- Feb. 9). His “Ain’t No Love In Oklahoma” was also a multi-week No. 1 (July 26 and Aug. 2).
Three artists notched their first MusicRow No. 1 this year, including Ashley Cooke (“Your Place”), Post Malone (“I Had Some Help,” “Pour Me A Drink” and “Guy For That”) and Ella Langley (“You Look Like You Love Me”).
As a secondary radio chart, the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart serves as an indicator for future successes on the major country radio charts. Of the 27 songs to top the MusicRow chart in 2024, 25 of them became chart-toppers on either the Mediabase Chart or the Billboard Country Airplay chart.
2024 data from the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is being reviewed for the 23rd annual MusicRow CountryBreakout Awards. Winners in eight categories will be revealed on Feb. 14, 2025 on all MusicRow platforms.
2024 MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart No. 1s:
January 5, 2024, January 12, 2024, January 19, 2024, January 26, 2024, February 2, 2024, February 9, 2024 – “Where The Wild Things Are,” Luke Combs
February 15, 2024 – “I Can Feel It,” Kane Brown
February 23, 2024, March 1, 2024 – “Mamaw’s House,” Thomas Rhett feat. Morgan Wallen
March 8, 2024, March 29, 2024 – “Man Made A Bar,” Morgan Wallen feat. Eric Church
March 15, 2024 – “Wildflowers and Wild Horses,” Lainey Wilson
March 22, 2024 – “Burn It Down,” Parker McCollum
April 5, 2024 – “Take Her Home,” Kenny Chesney
April 12, 2024 – “Tucson Too Late,” Jordan Davis
April 19, 2024 – “Where It Ends,” Bailey Zimmerman
April 25, 2024 – “Your Place,” Ashley Cooke
May 3, 2024, June 7, 2024 – “Halfway To Hell,” Jelly Roll
May 10, 2024 – “Back Then Right Now,” Tyler Hubbard
May 17, 2024, May 24, 2024 – “Dirt Cheap,” Cody Johnson
May 31, 2024 – “Bulletproof,” Nate Smith
June 14, 2024, June 21, 2024, June 26, 2024, July 5, 2024, July 12, 2024 – “I Had Some Help,” Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen
July 19, 2024 — “Cowgirls,” Morgan Wallen feat. Ernest
August 2, 2024, July 26, 2024 — “Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma,” Luke Combs
August 9, 2024 — “This Is My Dirt,” Justin Moore
August, 23, 2024, August 16, 2024 — “Hang Tight Honey,” Lainey Wilson
August, 30, 2024 — “Love You, Miss You, Mean It,” Luke Bryan
Sept 20, 2024, Sept 13, 2024, Sept 6, 2024 — “Pour Me A Drink,” Post Malone feat. Blake Shelton
Sept 27, 2024 — “I Am Not Okay,” Jelly Roll
Oct 18, 2024, Oct 11, 2024, Oct 4, 2024 — “Lies Lies Lies,” Morgan Wallen
October 25, 2024 — “Beautiful As You,” Thomas Rhett
Nov. 27, 2024, Nov 22, 2024, Nov 15, 2024, Nov 8, 2024, Nov 1, 2024 — “You Look Like You Love Me,” Ella Langley feat. Riley Green
Dec. 6, 2024 — “Love Somebody,” Morgan Wallen
Dec. 13, 2024 — “Guy For That,” Post Malone feat. Luke Combs
MusicRow Amplifies Industry Wisdom Through Print
/by MusicRow StaffWith MusicRow’s six yearly print issues, subscribers have the opportunity to read exclusive editorial content and hear from some of the Nashville music industry’s thought-leaders.
This year’s features included interviews with Spotify’s Rachel Whitney, Storme Warren, Sacks & Co.’s Asha Goodman, Robert K. Oermann, Grand Ole Opry’s b, Downtown’s Emily Stephenson, NSAI’s Bart Herbison, Back Blocks Music’s Rakiyah Marshall and many more. Managers Daniel Miller, Charly Salvatore and Juli Griffith gathered for a round-table with MusicRow in the Artist Roster issue, as did Spencer Nohe, Roxy King, Amy Hendon Scott and Alex Heddle in the Publisher issue, and Hunter Williams, Elisa Vazzana, Adi Sharma, Beth Hamilton and Keith Levy in the Touring/Next Big Thing issue.
MusicRow also distributed five updated directories, including the InCharge executive directory, the Artist Roster company directory, the Publisher company directory and the Next Big Thing rising executives directory.
Follow along below as MusicRow revisits its print editions of 2024. All six MusicRow print issues detailed are available for purchase at MusicRow.com, and are included with MusicRow subscriptions.
Country Radio & Streaming Issue (February/March 2024)
Curb Records’ Dylan Scott graced the cover of the 2024 Country Radio & Streaming Issue. The ACM Award-nominated, multi-Platinum singer has notched four No. 1 singles at radio (“My Girl,” “Nobody,” “New Truck” and “Can’t Have Mine”), as well as top five hit, “Hooked.” Inside this issue, MusicRow spotlights the 2024 CountryBreakout Awards winners. The 2024 winners include Male Artist of the Year Morgan Wallen, Female Artist of the Year Lainey Wilson, Group/Duo of the Year Dan + Shay, Breakout Artist of the Year Megan Moroney and Independent Artist of the Year Boomtown Saints. UMG Nashville was honored with Label of the Year for the first time, while Ashley Gorley was named Songwriter of the Year for the fifth time. KRWQ’s Bryce Burtner, who reports to the weekly MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart, was named Reporter of the Year.
Also in this issue, MusicRow takes a close look at Big Loud’s radio success and strategies with SVP, Promotion Stacy Blythe and then-VP, Promotion Ali Matkosky, and discusses country music’s growth with Spotify’s Head of Editorial Nashville Rachel Whitney. The CRS New Faces Class of 2024 is spotlighted along with The Big 615’s Storme Warren, who shares more about the new platform with MusicRow. The issue also features a special profile on veteran radio promoter Diane Richey, who retired after decades of success in the music business, as well as lists of past CountryBreakout Award winners and categories.
InCharge Issue (April/May 2024)
Black River’s Kelsea Ballerini covered MusicRow‘s sought-after InCharge Issue this year. Among dozens of accolades, she’s garnered four Grammy Award nominations, won two ACM Awards, Billboard Awards and CMA Awards; an iHeartRadio Music Awards honor and received multiple career nominations from the ACM, CMA, Billboard Music Awards, American Music Awards, CMT and People’s Choice Awards. Notably, she snagged her first nomination as an artist/producer for the ACM Awards’ Music Event of the Year in 2022 for “Half Of My Hometown.”
This annual guide highlights some of the most influential industry executives in the Nashville music business. This year’s edition includes 374 profiles which are accompanied by contact information, career biographies and detailed board and organizational membership affiliations. The guide also includes a record label staff index, a company appendix and a professional categories appendix, which lists executives by their areas of expertise, including label, talent agency, management, music publishing, legal, finance, performing rights organizations and more.
Artist Roster Issue (June/July 2024)
ASCAP songwriter and Big Loud Records/Songs & Daughters/Pigasus Records recording artist Hailey Whitters is featured on the cover of MusicRow’s 2024 Artist Roster Issue. “Everything She Ain’t” marked multiple firsts for the Iowa-born artist including her first-ever top 20 single at country radio, appearance on the Billboard Hot 100 and RIAA Platinum certification. This year’s Artist Roster print edition features exclusive editorials including a celebration of Curb Records’ 60th anniversary. In the six decades since its inception, the company has achieved an impressive 435 No. 1 hits, garnered over 1,500 top 10 songs and charted over 4,500 total records. Founder and Chairman Mike Curb talks to MusicRow about the label’s journey and his vision. Three of Nashville’s top managers—Daniel Miller, Charly Salvatore and Juli Griffith—come together for a roundtable discussing the opportunities and challenges they face in our rapidly-growing industry.
The Artist Roster issue also explores the impact of Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album on the industry and the featured artists that have been championed because of it. Elsewhere, Asha Goodman, Exec. VP of Sacks & Co. and head of its Nashville office also talks with MusicRow about elevating their expansive client list. Finally, this issue features a look inside the exciting Nashville Yards development. Pinnacle’s Head of Music, Sports and Entertainment Andy Moats; CAA Co-Head of Nashville Music Jeff Krones; Southwest Value Partners’ Managing Partner Cary Mack and AEG Presents’ Regional VP Mike DuCharme all give their expertise on the value the new neighborhood will bring to the industry. In addition to its editorial features, MusicRow’s 2024 Artist Roster contains a seven-part company directory, complete with client rosters in the categories: Label, Management, Talent Agents, Publicity, Artist Services (Banking, Business Management/Financial/Insurance, Digital Music, Legal, Marketing and Radio Promotion), Media and Organizations (Trade & Professional Development, Performing & Mechanical Rights and Unions).
MusicRow Awards Issue (August/September 2024)
Big Loud/Back Blocks/Mercury/Republic emerging star Ashley Cooke graced the cover of the 2024 MusicRow Awards print issue. Cooke’s July 2023 debut album shot in the dark unfolds as if it was ripped from pages of her personal journal. Fully capturing the essence of a daring twenty-something growing up, chasing her dreams and taking risks, Cooke infuses heartfelt lyrics, captivating melodies and raw relatability as she invites listeners to come along for the ride. The striking debut garnered Cooke praise from critics, as well as her first CMT Award for Breakthrough Female Video of the Year at the 2024 CMT Awards. The ACM New Female Artist of the Year nominee recently celebrated her first career No. 1 song at country radio with “your place.”
The issue spotlights MusicRow Awards nominees in a range of categories, including Producer of the Year, Label Group of the Year, Talent Agency of the Year, Breakthrough Songwriter of the Year, Breakthrough Artist-Writer of the Year, Male Songwriter of the Year, Female Songwriter of the Year, Song of the Year, Discovery Artist of the Year, Breakthrough Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Group/Duo Artist of the Year and Entertainer of the Year, as well as the Top 10 Album All-Star Musicians. The winners were announced online in a virtual event on Aug. 27.
The 2024 MusicRow Awards print issue also looks into the illustrious career of country music journalist and historian Robert K. Oermann, as well as Opry Photographer Chris Hollo. The MusicRow Awards print issue also contains an informative roundup of all the awards applicable to the Nashville music industry.
Publisher Issue (October/November 2024)
MusicRow’s 2024 Publisher Issue featured COJO Music / Warner Music Nashville artist Cody Johnson on the cover. Johnson has established a following of passionately loyal fans who regularly sell out shows across the country. The artist that media has touted “just might be the future of real country music” has skyrocketed to success with five celebrated albums, including Leather, Human: The Double Album, A Cody Johnson Christmas, Cody Johnson & The Rockin’ CJB Live and Ain’t Nothin’ To It; plus an award-winning feature-length documentary, Dear Rodeo: The Cody Johnson Story. He has amassed 7.5 billion global streams and three No. 1 singles.
The Publisher Issue includes the 2024 Publisher Directory, listing Nashville’s top publishing companies as well as organizations available for songwriters. Back again in the 2024 Publisher Issue is the State of the Union roundtable, this time featuring Warner Chappell’s Spencer Nohe, UMPG’s Roxy King, Big Machine Music’s Alex Heddle and BMG’s Amy Hendon Scott. Elsewhere, NSAI’s Bart Herbison tells MusicRow about the issues facing songwriters, and Downtown Music Publishing’s Emily Stephenson is the subject of the popular My Music Row Story column.
For the 2024 Publisher Issue, Nashville hitmakers Charlie Handsome, Ernest and Chandler Walters spoke with MusicRow about the making of Post Malone’s blockbuster F-1 Trillion album. MusicRow’s 2024 Publisher Issue also highlights the work and careers of some of Nashville’s most in-demand songwriters, including Connie Harrington, Jordan Reynolds, Tanner Adell, Pete Good, Lauren Hungate and Matthew West.
Touring & Next Big Thing Issue (December 2024/January 2025)
The last of the MusicRow print issues for the year, the Touring & Next Big Thing issue, featured The Valory Music Co.’s Thomas Rhett on the cover. Pairing his laid-back perspective with a vocal drenched in casual country soul, Rhett has spent just over 10 years gathering 22 No. 1s, 16 billion streams and armfuls of accolades—eight ACM Awards including 2020’s Entertainer of the Year, two CMA Awards, five Grammy Award nominations, plus trophies from the CMT Music Awards, Billboard Awards and iHeartRadio Awards. He has also been recognized with five CMA Triple Play Awards for penning three No. 1 songs within a 12-month period, and he’s never remained static.
Inside MusicRow‘s Touring & Next Big Thing Issue is the 11th annual Next Big Thing class of artists, consisting of Tanner Adell (Bad Cow/Love Renaissance), Gavin Adcock (Thrivin Here Records/Warner Music Nashville), Mackenzie Carpenter (Big Machine Label Group (The Valory Music Co.)), Carter Faith (UMG Nashville (Capitol Records Nashville)), Dylan Gossett (Big Loud Texas/Mercury Records), Ella Langley (Columbia Records/SAWGOD), Vincent Mason (Interscope Records/UMG Nashville/Music Soup), Dylan Marlowe (Sony Music Nashville/Play It Again Music), Drake Milligan (BBR Music Group/Stoney Creek Records), Zach Top (Leo33), Tigirlily Gold (Monument Records), The Red Clay Strays (RCA Records) and Tucker Wetmore (UMG Nashville/Back Blocks Music/Mercury Records). This issue also features the N.B.T. Industry Directory Class of 2025, which highlights rising Nashville music business professionals who are having a major impact on the industry. MusicRow’s N.B.T. Industry Directory is the first and only list of its kind. These industry members occupy important roles at their respective companies, and are on a trajectory of excellence to successfully lead the Nashville music industry into the future.
The 2025 Touring & Next Big Thing Issue features top agents CAA’s Hunter Williams, WME’s Beth Hamilton, The Neal Agency’s Adi Sharma, UTA’s Elisa Vazzana and Wasserman’s Keith Levy in a roundtable discussion about the issues and opportunities facing the live music business. Mike Harris shares some wisdom regarding his career path and professional philosophies with MusicRow, and Back Blocks Music’s Rakiyah Marshall talks about taking the “back blocks” to success. MusicRow highlights Bonnaroo’s sustainability practices in this issue, and Outback Presents’ Michael Smardak talks about their country and comedy rosters. This issue also includes a look at Nashville music venues.
Important Print Dates For 2025:
Women’s Issue (February/March 2025)
Space Deadline: 2/21
Camera Ready Art Deadline: 3/4
Street Date: 3/20
InCharge Issue (April/May 2025)
Space Deadline: 4/11
Camera Ready Art Deadline: 4/29
Street Date: 5/13
Artist Roster Issue (June/July 2025)
Space Deadline: 5/23
Camera Ready Art Deadline: 6/10
Street Date: 6/24
MusicRow Awards Issue (August/September 2025)
Space Deadline: 7/25
Camera Ready Art Deadline: 8/5
Street Date: 8/26
Publisher Issue (October/November 2025)
Space Deadline: 9/18
Camera Ready Art Deadline: 10/7
Street Date: 10/21
Touring & Next Big Thing Issue (December 2025/January 2026)
Space Deadline: 10/31
Camera Ready Art Deadline: 11/18
Street Date: 12/9
Robert K. Oermann Showcases Standout Nashville Music In DISClaimer
/by MusicRow StaffShortly after MusicRow Magazine was established in 1981, respected music critic, author and historian Robert K. Oermann began reviewing the newest music to come out of Nashville with his weekly DISClaimer column.
Each week, Oermann shares his thoughts on a collection of new tunes. His reviews have become an iconic part of MusicRow.
In each week’s DISClaimer column, Oermann chooses a Disc of the Day as a highlight of the pack. Below are his 2024 Disc of the Day winners.
DREW HOLCOMB & THE NEIGHBORS / “Way Back When”
Writers: Drew Holcomb/Kevin Scott Rhoads; Producer: Cason Cooley; Label: Magnolia Music
– Over the course of two decades and nine albums, these folks have been a comforting constant on the Nashville music scene. The group’s current album, Strangers No More, has taken it to previously unscaled heights at festivals, on TV, in print and on the Americana charts. Holcomb’s warm baritone carries this warm, heart-tugging ballad accompanied by soft piano and strings. It’s about parenthood and the passage of time and is deeply, deeply affecting. I remain an immense fan. Always have been.
CHRIS YOUNG / “Right Now”
Writers: Chris Young/Chris DeStefano/Josh Hoge/Paul DiGiovanni; Producers: Chris Young/Chris DeStefano; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Magnificent. He’s carrying a torch so hot that the whole track smolders. While percussion throbs and guitars cry, one of our greatest current country singers yearns for her in a lonely well of desire. Play it again.
MEGAN MORONEY/ “No Caller ID”
Writers: Megan Moroney/Jessi Alexander/Connie Harrington/Jessie Jo Dillon; Producer: Kristen Bush; Label: Sony Music Nashville/Columbia Records
– This is so well written. She’s trying to move on, but he worms his way back in by ringing her up drunk at 3 a.m. with no caller ID. Does she pick up the phone? Unfortunately, yes. A short story in song with a creative approach that you have to admire. This lady is very special.
DALTON DOVER / “Take Me Home Country Roads”
Writers: Bill Danoff/John Denver/Taffy Nivert; Producer: Matthew McVaney; Label: Mercury
– He remains one of our finest young country voices. Think again, if you think you’ve heard this oldie often enough. Dover’s slowed-down, gentle, caressing, thoughtful reading of the lyric brings a whole new dimension to the song. This man has the goods. A loud, “Amen” from this corner.
MORGAN WALLEN / “Spin You Around”
Writers: Morgan Wallen/Paul Trust/Sergio Sanchez; Producers: Joey Moi/Morgan Wallen/Bryan Sutton/Paul Trust; Label: Big Loud
– I just love the warmth in his singing voice. While Bryan Sutton’s acoustic guitar strums beautiful filigrees, Wallen pleads for favors from the one who stole his heart away. Supremely excellent work.
DAN + SHAY/ “Bigger Houses”
Writers: Dan Smyers/Andy Albert/Jordan Minton/Jordan Reynolds; Producers: Dan Smyers/Scott Hendricks; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– The title to the duo’s new album has a classic-country sentiment: Money can’t buy happiness. The delicate, pristine production laced with acoustic guitar supports a softly sincere Shay Mooney lead vocal with a gentle Dan Smyers baritone harmony. A gorgeous little record.
ANNE WILSON/ “God And Country”
Writers: Anne Wilson/Jeff Pardo/Matthew West/Trannie Anderson; Producers: Jeff Pardo/Jonathan Smith; Label: Sparrow (SPR)
– The single might be “Rain in the Rearview,” but this advance track from the Christian-music star’s country album debut is a spectacular show-stopper. The production rocks splendidly, she sings her face off and the lyric is a beautifully written series of contrasting images. Absolutely play this. Wilson is in this year’s class of CMT’s Next Women of Country.
BEYONCÉ/ “Texas Hold ‘Em”
Writers: Beyoncé/Brian Bates/Elizabeth Lowell Boland/Megan Bülow/Nate Ferraro/Raphael Saadiq; Producers: Beyoncé/Raphael Saadiq/Nate Ferraro/Killah B/Hit-Boy/Stuart White.Mariel Gomerez; Label: Parkwood Entertainment/Columbia
– Queen Bey summons you to the country dancefloor, and you dare not refuse. The beats are irresistible, the tune is catchy and the vibe is fun, fun, fun. A much deserved smash.
ASHLEY McBRYDE / “The Devil I Know”
Writers: Ashley McBryde/Bobby Pinson/Jeremy Stover; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– I reviewed this nearly a year ago as the title tune of her album. Now it is her new single, so those words bear repeating: “Snarling electric guitar, slapped percussion, nervous acoustic strumming, chant-like support vocals and wild audio frothing make this a heart-stopping listening experience. The lyric is just as riveting—she’s a bar fly who resists changing her wayward ways. This woman rules.” I love it that she was introduced at Warner’s CRS showcase yesterday as, “The incomparable Ashley McBryde.” Amen to that.
CODY JOHNSON / “Dirt Cheap”
Writer: Josh Phillips; Producer: Trent Willmon; Label: CoJo Music/Warner Music Nashville
– A masterful country performance on every level. The tug-at-your-heartsrings lyric is powerful enough, but Johnson’s delivery kicks it into another realm. A superstar at work.
CHRIS YOUNG / “What She Sees In Me”
Writers: Chris Young/Christian Stalnecker/Josh Hoge/Kyle Fishman/Ray Fulcher; Producer: Chris Young; Label: RCA Records Nashville
– His country baritone grabs you from the first note. The ultra-romantic ballad swoons with emotion. Love this. Love him.
WILLIE NELSON / “The Border”
Writers: Allen Shamblin/Rodney Crowell; Producer: Buddy Cannon; Label: Legacy Recordings
– This vivid word portrait of a border patrol worker paints a picture encompassing the suffering of migrants, the dangers of policing, and the evil profiteering of smugglers. Nelson’s weathered tenor vocal is a marvel of shaded emotions, and the rippling guitars in Latin rhythm are an audio wonderland.
ZAC BROWN BAND / “Tie Up”
Writers: Jonathan Singleton/Ben Simonetti/Chris Gelbuda/Josh Hoge/Zac Brown; Producers: Zac Brown/Ben Simonetti; Label: Home Grown Music/Warner Music Nashville
– This loping, easy-going groove welcomes us to summer fun. Get on the water, pop a top when you dock the boat and relax in the sunshine. I can feel the warm weather already.
DALTON DOVER / “Bury Me In This Bar”
Writers: Benjy Davis/Dalton Dover/Dan Isbell/Jamie Davis; Producer: Matthew McVaney; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Dover continues his winning ways with this romping, stomping honky tonker with flourishes of steel and galloping rhythm. Thirsty for real country music? Belly up to this bar. You need the song on your playlist, now more than ever.
LILY ROSE / “True North”
Writers: David Garcia/Hillary Lindsey/Trannie Anderson/Lily Rose; Producers: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: Big Loud Records/Back Blocks Music/Mercury Records/Republic Records
– Deliciously melodic and marvelously evocative as a lyric. When she feels like she’s losing her way, “I head down South to my True North.” Authentic and honest. Sung with ringing conviction. This Georgia artist hits a bullseye every time. Lily Rose stages her Grand Ole Opry debut on Saturday night. They’re lucky to have her.
BLANCO BROWN / “Good As It Gets”
Writers: Bennie Amey III/David Fanning/Matt Thomas/Tommy Cecil; Producer: Blanco Brown; Label: Wheelhouse Records
– The charismatic “Git Up” man has returned with a new EP and this change-of-pace, deeply romantic outing. Instruments swirl around him as he soars into his upper vocal register. Sonically innovative and totally dreamy.
KAMERON MARLOWE/ “Keepin’ The Lights On”
Writers: Kameron Marlowe/Kendell Marvel/Phil O’Donnell; Producer: Dan Huff; Label: Columbia Nashville
– The title tune of Marlowe’s upcoming sophomore album is a recollection of hard times when his hard-working parents weathered spirit-crushing storms to provide for the family. The beautifully produced ballad mixes his expressive, soulful voice up front and intimately in your ear. I have been a consistent fan of this artist for four years and am more convinced than ever that he is one of our greatest living country singers.
JOHNNY CASH / “Well Alright”
Writer: Johnny Cash; Producers: Johnny Cash/John Carter Cash/David Ferguson/Josh Matas/Mike Daniel; Label: Mercury
– I’m really excited about the upcoming Cash album Songwriter (due June 28). It is comprised of 1993 song demos by the legend. He was in fine voice, and it has been surrounded by newly recorded, brilliant production by his talented son and his longtime studio confederate “Fergie” Ferguson. This advanced taste is a light-hearted ditty about finding love in a laundromat. The band, featuring Marty Stuart, kicks up some rockabilly stardust that echoes Cash’s early Sun singles. Hearty and satisfying.
TRAVIS DENNING / “Add Her To The List”
Writers: Paul DiGiovanni/Bobby Pinson/Jeremy Stover; Producers: Paul DiGiovanni/Jeremy Stover; Label: Mercury Nashville
– He has run into the ditch, hit dead ends, taken wrong turns and screwed up many, many times. Not the least of the things he wishes he could fix is the relationship. So of all the wrongs he’d make right, you can “add her to the list.” Marvelously well written and performed with verve. This deserves massive airplay.
MICKEY GUYTON / “Scary Love”
Writers: Karen Kosowski/Emma-Lee/Mickey Guyton/Victoria Banks; Producer: Karen Kosowski; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– Guyton is such an excellent singer. And with a piece of material this strong, she can really raise the rafters. The pounding, throbbing production matches her passionate performance of this inspirational motherhood lyric. The video features beyond-adorable footage of her baby as an infant and as a toddler. Your heart will melt.
MEGAN MORONEY / “Indifferent”
Writers: Ben Williams/Mackenzie Carpenter/Megan Moroney/Micah Carpenter; Producer: Kristian Bush; Label: Columbia Nashville/Columbia Records
– The creativity and wit in this woman’s songwriting always delight me. This female-empowerment romp has oomphy stadium chords, but it’s the feisty attitude that keeps you hanging on every line. Love her. Love this.
CARLY PEARCE / “Fault Line”
Writers: Carly Pearce/Jordan Reynolds/Nicole Galyon/Shane McAnally; Producers: Shane McAnally/Josh Osborne/Carly Pearce; Label: Big Machine Records
– Hallelujah! Carly reminds us all what a really cool, traditional country song sounds like. This depiction of a crumbling marriage is packed with playful lyric details as it two-steps merrily across the country dance floor. Loved it. Loved it. Loved it.
LAINEY WILSON / “Hang Tight Honey”
Writers: Driver Williams/Jason Nix/Lainey Wilson/Paul Sikes; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Broken Bow Records
– Wilson premiered this new tune on The Voice. Its a snappy hillbilly rocker that comes on with whiplash energy and wildfire heat. The lady rules, and this is a summertime smash.
CARLY PEARCE / “Truck On Fire”
Writers: Carly Pearce/Justin Ebach/Charles Kelley; Producers: Shane McAnally/Josh Osborne/Carly Pearce; Label: Big Machine Records
– “Liar, liar, truck on fire,” she warbles in this deceptively bouncy ditty. She has plans to torch his ride, you see. As usual, she sings her face off. Catch Carly in a primo slot on Sunday night at the Nissan Stadium CMA Fest finale or during her afternoon appearance on the CMA Close Up stage in Music City Center.
WARREN ZEIDERS / “Relapse”
Writers: Blake Pendergrass/Justin Ebach/Warren Zeiders; Producer: Mike Elizondo; Label: Warner Records
– This one’s an infectious banger that sounds like the perfect summer country song. The tempo is ferocious; the guitars are high and bright; he’s singing his face off. What’s not to like?
LUKE COMBS / “Remember Him That Way”
Writers: Erik Dylan/Jessi Alexander/Jonathan Singleton/Luke Combs; Producers: Chip Matthews/Jonathan Singleton/Luke Combs; Label: Seven Ridges Records/Columbia Nashville
– This warm recollection of an aging dad is drawn from Luke’s excellent Fathers and Sons album. Dobro, guitar and mandolin notes ripple around his heartfelt vocal. The whole project is emotionally awesome. There is a reason why this man is a country superstar.
BROTHERS OSBORNE / “Break Mine (Live)”
Writers: John Osborne/Pete Good/Shane McAnally/TJ Osborne; Producers: none listed; Label: EMI Nashville
– This was arguably the most electrifying performance on Tuesday’s ABC TV special of the CMA Music Fest, and it is now a YouTube clip. T.J.’s commanding lead singing and John’s jaw-dropping guitar solos are both at the top of their games. This will make you proud to be a country-music fan.
MORGAN WALLEN / “Lies, Lies, Lies”
Writers: Chris Tompkins/Daniel Ross/Jessie Jo Dillon/Josh Miller; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud Records/Mercury Records/Republic Records
– If he tells himself, or her, that he is over the heartbreak, he is lying. The lovelorn lament is beautifully produced, and Wallen’s delivery, as usual, is hillbilly perfection. Essential listening, especially the live version recorded at Abby Road studios.
SAM WILLIAMS / “Carnival Heart”
Writers: Ned Houston/PJ Harding/Sam Williams; Producers: Ben Roberts, Nathan Sexton; Label: Mercury Nashville
– This ballad is the theme song of the dazzling Cirque du Soleil Songblazers show currently ongoing at TPAC. It’s a gorgeous, stately waltz with a swirling production, an aching tenor vocal, lovely lyrics and a melody to get lost in. Williams is getting ready to release his sophomore album this fall. Can’t wait to hear it.
HARPER GRACE & KELSEY HART / “Freedom”
Writers: Kelsea Ballerini/Justin Ebach/Charles Kelley; Producers: Cameron Jaymes, Ben West; Label: Curb
– They’ve broken up, but are far from over one another. Both singers sound simply splendid on this ultra-tuneful, ultra-rhythmic, pulsating rush of sound. The luscious harmonies and soaring melody alternate with conversational bits that catch your ear. I would love to hear this in my car on the radio. A lot.
GEORGE STRAIT / “Three Drinks Behind”
Writers: Benjamin Gaither/Jeff Silvey/Kim Williams; Producers: Chuck Ainlay, George Strait, Tony Brown; Label: MCA Nashville
– I dig the chugging rhythm and mellow melody of this barroom ditty. Delivered with a smile from a Country Music Hall of Famer who can still knock it out of the park. Put this mini masterpiece on repeat pronto.
JORDAN DAVIS / “I Ain’t Sayin’”
Writers: Emily Reid/Mark Holman/Steve Moakler/Travis Wood; Producer: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: MCA Nashville
– Mr. Davis tries on a jaunty tempo tune, and it fits just right. He might not be Mr. Right, but that other guy “sure as hell ain’t.” I remain an enormous fan.
RANDALL KING / “I Could Be That Rain”
Writers: Brian Fuller/Mason Thornley; Producers: Jared Conrad, Randall King; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– It is one of the great mysteries of our time why this superb vocalist is not yet a country superstar. As always, he delivers the goods. This time, he rides atop a cool rhythm pattern and some crashing guitars as he wails to the heavens. So nice I played it twice.
KELSEA BALLERINI / “Sorry Mom”
Writers: Jessie Jo Dillon/Alysa Vanderheym/Hillary Lindsey/Karen Fairchild/Kelsea Ballerini; Producers: Kelsea Ballerini, Alysa Vanderheym; Label: Black River Entertainment/Big Machine Music
– Yeah, she’s been drinking and smoking and having sex. But beyond all the mistakes, escapades and disagreements, she’s become a woman her mother can be proud of. Beautifully done, from the exquisite production to her lilting, conversational vocal. This mid-tempo gem is drawn from her upcoming, female-centric album Patterns. I, for one, cannot wait to hear the rest of it.
JACKSON DEAN / “Heavens To Betsy”
Writers: Benjy Davis/Driver Williams/Jackson Dean; Producer: Luke Dick; Label: Big Machine Records
– This soulful guy has a new lyric video for this wonderful story song about a man who speaks to a loved one from beyond the grave. As if his terrific singing and the dynamite lyric aren’t enough, the spectacular production has froth and foam and tempo, tempo, tempo. Electrifying in every way.
NATE SMITH / “Fix What You Didn’t Break”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Lindsay Rimes/Nate Smith/Taylor Phillips; Producer: Lindsay Rimes; Label: RCA Records Nashville
– His vocal and the track are very processed for country music, but this record is gorgeous however you label its sound. The uplifting, hopeful lyric is about the redemptive power of love, and Smith delivers it with heart.
MEGAN MORONEY / “Am I Okay?”
Writers: Jessie Jo Dillon/Luke Laird/Megan Moroney; Producer: Kristian Bush; Label: Columbia Nashville/Columbia Records
– Ridiculously charming. She’s falling head over heels for a dreamboat who treats her right. So of course she thinks she’s going nuts. A bopper with a zillion smiles.
ZAC BROWN BAND / “Two Blue Chairs And You”
Writers: Ben Simonetti/Jonathan Singleton/Rob Snyder/Zac Brown; Producers: Ben Simonetti, Zac Brown; Label: Home Grown Music/Warner Music Nashville
– This bopper will make you instantly yearn for a Caribbean vacation. Loved the wordless, harmonized, a cappella vocal interlude. An absolutely perfect single.
POST MALONE & LUKE COMBS / “Guy For That”
Writers: Austin Post/Charlie Handsome/Ernest Keith Smith/Hoskins/James McNair/Louis Bell/Luke Combs; Producers: Charlie Handsome, Hoskins, Louis Bell; Label: Mercury Records/Republic Records
– The sound of country music joy. These two romp through this country rocker like a couple of colts let loose in a pasture. Turn it up and dance along.
LUKAS NELSON feat. THE TRAVELIN’ McCOURYS & SIERRA FERRELL / “Someone Like You”
Writers: Dan Wilson/Adele Adkins; Producer: none listed; Label: LN
– Yes, it’s the 2011 Adele pop hit delivered by super country stylists Nelson and Ferrell, backed by the bluegrass picking of the McCourys. First of all, it is utterly enchanting. Second of all, I would love to hear these two singers together more often. Third of all, drop what you are doing and glue your ears to this when it drops tomorrow. A single that’s truly an event.
BRANTLEY GILBERT / “Tattoos”
Writers: Brantley Gilbert/Cole Taylor/Jake Mitchell/Randy Montana; Producers: Brantley Gilbert, Brock Berryhill, Jake Mitchell, Scott Borchetta; Label: The Valory Music Co.
– “My body is a temple, but my temple is a canvas,” He proudly displays his body art, because his tattoos tell the story of who he is. A hypnotic single of swirling atmosphere. Highly recommended. Just so you know: he drops an “F” bomb in the lyric.
ERNEST & LAINEY WILSON / “Would If I Could”
Writers: Dean Dillon/Skip Ewing; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud
– Wow. The song is country eloquent, and their duet performance is perfection. The supremely well crafted ballad closes the book on a relationship that’s better off in the past. The exquisite vocals are beautifully shaded and evocative to convey its emotional complexity. I love this record. A solo version from Ernest impacts radio on Oct. 7.
NATE SMITH & AVRIL LAVIGNE / “Can You Die From A Broken Heart”
Writers: Kevin Fisher/Michael Matosic/Tom Walker; Producer: Lindsay Rimes; Label: RCA Nashville
– His soulful baritone groan and her aching/piercing soprano blend beautifully on this broken-hearted power ballad. Smith is on a roll, with three consecutive country chart-toppers under his belt. Lavigne is a zillion-selling pop star. The single is a sonic masterpiece. This can’t miss.
JAMEY JOHNSON / “Someday When I’m Old”
Writers: Aimee Mayo/Chris Lindsey/Troy Verges; Producer: The Kent Hardly Playboys; Label: Warner Music Nashville/Big Gassed Records
– Hallelujah! One of our greatest living country singers is back with a vengeance on this moody contemplation of mortality. It’s a brilliant song, and he totally owns it with his heartfelt performance.
MICKEY GUYTON / “House On Fire”
Writers: Jenna Andrews/Mickey Guyton/Stephen Kirk; Producers: Nolan Verner, Stephen Kirk; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– Passionate, melodic, fierce, loving and deliciously listenable. This is the title tune of Guyton’s sophomore album, and it’s the performance of a lifetime. A career highlight that takes it up to a whole new level.
ERIC CHURCH / “Darkest Hour”
Writer: Eric Church; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: EMI Music Nashville
– The Chief has stepped up to the plate to extend a helping hand to the devastated victims of Hurricane Helene in his home state. He is donating his songwriting royalties from this moving, spiritual, uplifting recording of falsetto blue-eyed soul to provide aid today and forever to his fellow North Carolinians. The social responsibility is as admirable as the beautiful song is. Applause, applause.
JELLY ROLL / “I Am Not Okay”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Casey Brown/Jason Deford/Taylor Phillips; Producer: Zach Crowell; Label: BBR Music Group
– This is arguably his finest vocal performance to date, full of gripping passion and believability. For troubled souls everywhere: “When it’s all said and done/I am not okay/But it’s all gonna be alright.” This turbulent-but-uplifting track deserves to be a No. 1 record.
RINGO STARR / “Time On My Hands”
Writers: Daniel Tashian/Paul Kennerley/T Bone Burnett; Producers: Bruce Sugar, Daniel Tashian, T Bone Burnett; Label: UMG Nashville
– At 84, Ringo still sings splendidly. Sharing the spotlight on this mid tempo meditation is a brilliant, crystal-clear production featuring breathtaking steel guitar work by Paul Franklin. A simply lovely record.
BLANCO BROWN / “Back 2 Basics”
Writers: Blanco Brown, Jordan Reynolds, Andy Albert; Producer: Blanco Brown; Label: Wheelhouse
– The title tune of Brown’s new EP is a lovely track that yearns to rekindle romance with a longtime lover. The gently brushed percussion and audio watercolor tones frame an earnest, soulful vocal that exudes strength and tenderness. This guy can sing.
JELLY ROLL / “Liar”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Ben Johnson/Jason DeFord/Taylor Phillips; Producer: Zach Crowell; Label: BBR Music Group
– This man is going from strength to strength. This pulse-quickening country-rocker is brilliantly produced with pounding rhythm, stuttering guitar and inspirational choir. But the star attraction here is a stunning vocal performance, full of fire, fury and passion. He has had six No. 1 records in succession, and I see no reason whatsoever that this shouldn’t be number seven.
LONESTAR / “Try”
Writers: Ben West/Busbee; Producer: Dean Sams; Label: Lonestar
– This is a cover of P!nk’s 2012 pop hit “Try.” First of all, I adore P!nk. Second of all, new lead vocalist Drew Womack has always affected me deeply (recall his work in Sons of the Desert). Third of all, this reinterpretation works spectacularly well. Absolutely play “Try” on repeat. The track is drawn from a forthcoming EP of Lonestar’s country versions of iconic songs by female pop artists such as Adele, Fleetwood Mac’s Christine McVie, Cyndi Lauper and Eurhythmics. Essential listening.
KACEY MUSGRAVES / “The Architect”
Writers: Josh Osborne/Kacey Musgraves/Shane McAnally; Producers: Daniel Tashian, Ian Fitchuk, Kacey Musgraves; Label: Interscope Records/MCA Nashville
– Nominated for a Grammy as Best Country Song, this was a standout on Wednesday’s CMA Awards telecast. Musgraves delivers it in a folk-angel soprano as she muses about our Higher Power. Melodic, thoughtful, lilting, deep and utterly captivating. Also: Gorgeously produced, as is her entire Deeper Well collection. She hits Bridgestone Arena on Dec. 6 & 7 with Nickel Creek and Lord Huron in support.
BLAKE SHELTON / “Texas”
Writers: Johnny Clawson/Josh Dorr/Kyle Sturrock/Lalo Guzman; Producer: Scott Hendricks; Label: Wheelhouse Records
– He’s such a superb country singer. With a song this cool, he’s unstoppable. Shelton’s debut on his new label turns some interesting rhythmic corners and sports super clever lyrics. Plus, you get a “Greek chorus” talking to him. “If she ain’t with me in Tennessee…she’s probably in Texas,” because that’s where ex’s go. This deserves to be a massive hit.
RUNAWAY JUNE / “He Ain’t My Problem”
Writers: Jennifer Wayne/Natalie Stovall/Stevie Woodward; Producer: Kristian Bush; Label: Quartz Hill Records
– Feisty and fun, fun, fun. The saucy kiss-off song is packed with clever asides, cool instrumental licks, sexy lines, punchy-uptempo rhythms and delicious three-part harmony. I love this record, and their songwriting is peerless.
DAN + SHAY / “Officially Christmas”
Writers: Dan Smyers/Dave Barnes/Jordan Reynolds/Nicolle Galyon; Producers: Dan Smyers, Scott Hendricks; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– Shay Mooney’s tenor voice was born for this season. He sounds like a warm wool sweater on a cold night. The production by Dan Smyers sparkles and dazzles with holiday cheer. This is the bopping title tune to a fabulous double album of Christmas music. As of this year, this duo owns the holiday.
RILEY GREEN / “Jesus Saves”
Writer: Riley Green; Producers: Dann Huff, Jimmy Harnen, Scott Borchetta; Label: Nashville Harbor
– Intensely moving. Green tells the tale of a homeless, jobless veteran on the street and the circumstances that brought him to a place of destitution. A simple guitar accompaniment and some soft strings frame the poetry. Brilliantly done.
Cody Johnson Wraps ‘The Leather Tour’ In Las Vegas
/by Lorie HollabaughCody Johnson performing at Las Vegas’ MGM Garden Arena. Photo: Jay Trevino
Cody Johnson wrapped “The Leather Tour” this past weekend with two sold-out shows in Las Vegas at the MGM Garden Arena.
Lainey Wilson made a surprise appearance during his final concert on Friday night (Dec. 13), joining him on Willie Nelson’s “Mamas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys.” Johnson was in Vegas earlier in the week to compete in the World Series of Team Roping during the 2024 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo at Thomas & Mack Center.
“The Leather Tour” launched last January with two sold-out shows, and went on to sell out 30 stops during its run, including Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena and his first-ever headline stadium date at Arlington’s Globe Life Field.
Johnson has celebrated another banner year in 2024 with two No. 1, award-winning singles “The Painter” and “Dirt Cheap,” adding 2.5 billion global streams this year to his now 8.5 billion career global streams total. Additionally, he plans will ring in 2025 by performing during Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest on ABC before kicking off his “Leather Deluxe Tour” on Jan. 17.
Michael Bublé & Carly Pearce Cultivate Community With Holiday Collaboration [Interview]
/by Liza AndersonMichael Bublé & Carly Pearce
Over the years, Grammy winners Michael Bublé and Carly Pearce have individually connected with crowds and comforted listeners with their work. After Pearce served as a Playoff Advisor for Bublé’s team on season 26 of NBC’s The Voice, the two joined forces to further cultivate community this holiday season with their first-ever collaboration, “Maybe This Christmas,” released via Reprise Records.
Bublé co-wrote the tune with Chase McGill, Greg Wells and Jann Arden, and knew he wanted Pearce to be a part of it.
“Very luckily and serendipitously, we have the same publicist. So when I was doing The Voice and I knew I had to have a mentor, I asked if we could get her [to come on], and she said yes, thankfully,” Bublé tells MusicRow. “I had [also] been writing this song, and I knew this was not a romantic song. It was a song about somebody questioning their faith and struggling through a really tough time of year, so I was hoping that she would play the part of that person who’s calling out to say ‘Everything’s going be okay.'”
Pearce showed immediate interest after he pitched the idea. “I committed before I had ever heard the song,” she laughs.
Carly Pearce and Michael Bublé performing at the Grand Ole Opry. Photo: Jamie Wendt
The songstress continues, “I think they wrote it so perfectly for anybody who this isn’t a joyous season for, and maybe they struggle to feel seen in their grief, their sadness or their loneliness, as way for them to truly know they are not alone. Whether it’s God or a friend or a family, somebody is right there watching out for you.”
They recently performed the duet during The Voice Finale, and shared it with the Grand Ole Opry last week as Bublé stepped into the sacred circle for the first time—a dream come true for the multi-Platinum entertainer.
“Many times when I write, I write country songs,” he notes. “‘Home’ was a country song. “Lost” was very country. I’m just inspired by the genre.”
A longtime friend of Bublé who was struggling served as the muse for “Maybe This Christmas.” When he learned his friend was living on the street, Bublé provided as many resources as possible and took him to The Kettle Society in Vancouver. That friend, who is now back with his family and doing well, reached out to Bublé after hearing the song to express his gratitude and how the lyrics have resonated with him.
“What people won’t forget, and what will live on forever, is how you made them feel. It’s a short life, and you’ve got a chance to make a difference,” states Bublé. “For us, as musicians, what a beautiful chance [this is] to spread some light and give a little hope to people. I just think it’s magical to walk into a room and come out with something that actually changes or saves lives. It’s amazing. What a gift.”
WME Promotes Sara Pincus & Lauren Cunningham
/by Madison HahnenLauren Cunningham & Sara Pincus.
WME has promoted Sara Pincus within the Brand Partnerships department and Lauren Cunningham to Agent in the country music department.
Pincus is a Los Angeles native with a background in Advertising, having studied at Syracuse University. She began her career at WME in 2018 at the Beverly Hills office, initially working in the PA department before relocating to the Nashville office in 2019, where she supported Music Agents Austin Mullins and Mark Roeder. After being let go due to the pandemic in 2020, Sara returned to WME in February of 2021, joining the Brand Partnerships department to work for both Michael Jasper and Shari Lewin all while participating in the Agent Trainee program. In early 2024, she was promoted to coordinator within the department.
Cunningham began her career with WME during her undergraduate years at Ole Miss, serving as a Coordinator for Brand Activations with the Athletic Department. Upon graduation from the University of Mississippi, Lauren started work at WME Nashville as an assistant, before leaving in 2020 to work with Rogue Management artists Ingrid Andress and Fletcher. Lauren continued her education with additional certifications in Digital Marketing Strategies from Northwestern’s Kellogg Business School. Upon her return to WME Nashville in 2021, while in the Agent Trainee Program, Lauren worked with WME Partners Henry Glascock and Abby Wells Baas.
Ryan Larkins Drops Surprise Gospel Project
/by Lorie HollabaughRyan Larkins
Red Street Records artist Ryan Larkins dropped a surprise 10-track album of classic gospel hymns, The Gospel Takes, songs he cherished as the foundations of his musical upbringing as a Tennessee native and the son of a Pentecostal preacher.
Larkins was only introduced to country music in his early twenties, and this collection of hymns including “Old Rugged Cross” and “I Have Decided To Follow Jesus” are not only special to Larkins, but are also known and beloved around the world.
“The Gospel Takes is a project that I am very passionate about,” says Larkins. “These songs have meant so much to me throughout my life. They were recorded in the most simple way, to let the words and the melodies take you back to an old oak pew in a little country church. I hope they move you as they have me!”
The album was co-produced by Larkins with Adam Engelhart, and follows a performance of his recently-released rendition of “White Christmas” on American Country Network’s holiday special, American Country Christmas.
The Gospel Takes Track List:
1. “What A Friend We Have In Jesus”
2. “Blessed Assurance”
3. “I Have Decided To Follow Jesus”
4. “Old Rugged Cross”
5. “Victory In Jesus”
6. “Great Is Thy Faithfulness / It Is Well”
7. “I’ll Fly Away”
8. “Nothing But The Blood of Jesus”
9. “Can’t Even Walk Without You Holding My Hand”
10. “Someday It’ll All Make Sense”
Flatland Cavalry Releases Extended Album
/by Madison HahnenFlatland Cavalry has released an extended version of their 10th anniversary album, titled Flatland Forever(more), via Interscope Records.
The project features all 25 tracks from Flatland Forever, alongside band commentary and new versions of select fan-favorite tracks, including “A Life Where We Work Out,” “One I Want,” “Mis Últimas Palabras” and more.
Additionally, the band will release a full-length performance video of their Ryman Auditorium headline debut from earlier this year on Dec. 23 at 8 p.m. CT via YouTube. The concert featured special guests Kaitlin Butts and Colby Acuff, and includes the group receiving their first RIAA certification for Gold-certified “A Life Where We Work Out.”
To end 2024, they will also perform their first headline arena show at Fort Worth’s Dickies Arena on Dec. 31. The band will then kick off their “Flatland Forever Tour” in February. Tour stops include Atlanta’s Coca-Cola Roxy, Birmingham’s Alabama Theatre, Omaha’s Steelhouse Omaha and more.
Flatland Forever(more) Track Listing:
1. “Intro (commentary)”
2. “No Shade of Green”
3. “Summertime Love (commentary)”
4. “Summertime Love”
5. “Missing You”
6. “Three Car Garage (commentary)”
7. “Three Car Garage”
8. “One I Want”
9. “One I Want (First Dance Cut)”
10. “A Life Where We Work Out (commentary)”
11. “A Life Where We Work Out” (feat. Kaitlin Butts)
12. “A Life Where We Work Out (First Dance Cut)”
13. “Humble Folks”
14. “Lubbock (commentary)”
15. “Lubbock”
16. “Homeland Insecurity (commentary)”
17. “Come Back Down”
18. “Pretty Women”
19. “Sleeping Alone”
20. “Years From Now (Acoustic)”
21. “War With My Mind (commentary)”
22. “War With My Mind”
23. “Some Things Never Change”
24. “Gettin’ By”
25. “Tilt Your Chair Back”
26. “Countryman (commentary)”
27. “Countryman”
28. “Mis Últimas Palabras (commentary)”
29. “Mis Últimas Palabras (Work Tape)”
30. “Mountain Song”
31. “How Long”
32. “Parallel” (feat. Ashley Monroe)
33. “If We Said Goodbye”
34. “Mornings With You (commentary)”
35. “Mornings With You (Worktape)”
36. “Mornings With You” (feat. Kaitlin Butts)
37. “Spinnin’”
38. “Don’t Have To Do This Like That”
39. “Chasing A Feeling (commentary)”
40. “Chasing A Feeling”
Bob Dylan Archive Heads to Julien’s Auctions Nashville
/by Lorie HollabaughBob Dylan. Photo: Val Wilmer
Julien’s Auctions will host “Celebrating Bob Dylan: The Aronowitz Archive, T Bone Burnett & More” auction at the Musician’s Hall of Fame & Museum in Nashville on Jan. 18.
The auction features 60 items, 50 of these from journalist Al Aronowitz‘s personal archive including two pages containing three progressive typewritten drafts of the lyrics to “Mr. Tambourine Man,” an early Dylan oil painting from 1968, a 1963 handbill from his first major headline performance at Town Hall in New York City, early vintage photos, original sketches and much more. The auction also includes a 1983 Fender Telecaster made for and owned by Dylan and signed handwritten lyrics for “Blowin’ In The Wind.”
The auction is highlighted by a one-of-one Ionic Original disc of Bob Dylan’s new studio recording of “The Times They Are A-Changin'” from a special session with producer Burnett. In honor of “Celebrating Bob Dylan,” a special exhibition showcasing highlights from the Al Aronowitz collection will run through Jan. 17 prior to the auction.
“Billie Holiday, Miles Davis, Mick Jagger, Jerry Garcia, Carole King… My Father was this incredible connector,” says Myles Aronowitz, son of Al. “He was much more than a journalist, he understood what these artists were trying to do. He didn’t just meet these cultural icons, he brought them together. He introduced Allen Ginsberg to Bob Dylan, Bob Dylan to The Beatles. My Father was the one who turned The Beatles on for the first time. He connected Jimi Hendrix with Miles Davis, Nico with Lou Reed.
“He wasn’t just a writer with a powerbase as a New York columnist; Al had this unique kind of magic. He made these introductions that went on to shape culture itself. It was more than power or influence—there was something truly magical about what he did. The collection represents my Father’s instinctive ability to identify and connect with greatness. Each item is evidence of this, and how with his magic, he literally brought you into the room!”