
Rising artist McCoy Moore is giving a nod to the place it all began for him on his upcoming debut album, Sunshine State, due out May 22 via Sony Music Nashville/Cervidae Records.
The Lakeland, Florida native co-wrote all but one of the 14 tracks on the new album, produced by Will Bundy, that taps the spirit and nostalgic heat of long-gone summers. The project is filled with heavy bass lines and steel guitars that hang thick like Spanish Moss off an old Live Oak (similar to the one on the album’s cover, which was shot in Moore’s grandparents’ garage). Writers contributing to the new album include Jessi Alexander, Matt McKinney, Shane McAnally, Thomas Archer and more.
“This record is something I’ve been working on my whole life and didn’t even know it. I feel like I covered all the bases of who I am, where I’m from, and the music I love to make. The people, the places, the memories, it all made this record, even after I left Florida,” shared Moore. “It was only right that I give a nod to the place where it all started, the Sunshine State. I hope y’all absolutely love this record and feel the heart that me and my friends put into it.”
Moore is currently in Europe making his debut on the continent at C2C, and has also been on the road on Hardy’s “Country! Country! Tour,” which will continue through September.
McCoy Moore – Sunshine State Track List:
1. “Sunshine State” (McCoy Moore, Thomas Archer, Johnny Clawson)
2. “Every Single Summer” (McCoy Moore, Thomas Archer, Matt Dragstrem, Michael Tyler)
3. “In Here, Out There” (with Cole Swindell) (McCoy Moore, Jessi Alexander, Sam Ellis, Nick Walsh)
4. “Not Even Close” (McCoy Moore, Sam Ellis, Blake Pendergrass)
5. “Went to the Bar” (McCoy Moore, Aaron Eshuis, Colton Venner, Nick Walsh)
6. “Something to You” (McCoy Moore, Johnny Clawson, Colton Venner, Will Weatherly)
7. “Chesney on a Beach” (McCoy Moore, Brinley Addington, Colton Venner)
8. “Bible and a Bar” (McCoy Moore, Jenn Schott, Jason Saenz)
9. “Memories We Never Made” (McCoy Moore, Blake Bollinger, Colton Venner, Nick Walsh)
10. “Prayin’ For Me” (McCoy Moore, Matt Dragstrem, Seth Ennis)
11. “John Deere Blue” (McCoy Moore, Shane McAnally, Johnny Clawson)
12. “Dyin’ On the Hill” (McCoy Moore, Johnny Clawson, Adam James, Matt McKinney)
13. “Beer I Never Shoulda Bought” (McCoy Moore, Andrew Beason, Adam James, Matt McKinney)
14. “Left Alone” (Nick Walsh)
Produced by Will Bundy
US Recorded Music 2025 Annual Revenue Achieves New High
/by Lauryn SinkAccording to the RIAA 2025 Year-End Recorded Music Revenue Report, the US wholesale annual revenue achieved a record high of $11.5 billion last year.
Last year, streaming revenues grew to $9.5 billion and for the fifth straight year, streaming represented 82% of total US revenue. The US remains the world’s largest paid subscription market with 106.5 million accounts generating $6.4 billion in revenue. Premium paid subscription revenues grew by 6.8% to $5.88 billion. Additionally, US vinyl sales grew for a 19th consecutive year, representing nearly 50% of the format’s global value.
“Fans are consuming music from the artists they love in more ways than ever, and that passion is reflected in today’s report. 2025 reveals a strong and stable music economy resulting from committed label investment and identification of new spaces to expand artists’ creativity. From the ease of streaming to new vinyl to licensing responsible AI tools and services, labels are diversifying fan engagement,” says Matt Bass, RIAA VP Research and Gold & Platinum Operations. “US recorded music has demonstrated sustained growth globally, reaching $6.4 billion alone in paid subscriptions and tallying 50% of global vinyl revenue, leading the way for fans to listen and connect with their favorite music whenever, wherever and however they want.”
“The last 20 years have been marked by unprecedented transformation for recorded music – from the steady rise to dominance of anytime, anywhere streaming options as listeners enjoy tunes from their favorite artists to a resurgence of vinyl as both a listening experience and collectable art. And now, our industry is advancing free-market licensing, building responsible AI partnerships that enhance discovery, deepen fan engagement and unlock new creative possibilities for how music is made and experienced,” adds RIAA Chairman & CEO Mitch Glazier. “Through it all, music remains a cornerstone of culture and a growing economic powerhouse for the US, contributing $212 billion to our GDP and supporting more than 2.5 million American jobs.”
Read the full report here.
Todd Thomas & Allyson Gelnett (Massey) To Co-Lead Curb Records Country Radio Promotion Department
/by Lorie HollabaughTodd Thomas & Allyson Gelnett (Massey)
Curb Records has promoted Todd Thomas to National Director, Promotion, where he will co-lead the department alongside National Director, Promotion & Strategic Initiatives Allyson Gelnett (Massey).
In his new role, Thomas will direct the regional promotion staff, which includes Samantha DePrez, Bailey White, Rusty Sherrill, and Brian Day, as well as maintain the Western region. Gelnett (Massey) will continue to handle strategic initiatives as well as the Northeast region. Lori Hartigan continues her role as National Director, Media, overseeing promotion at Music Row and Activator radio panels from the West Coast.
Curb Records’ SVP of Promotion RJ Meacham will depart the label at the end of March following 10 years with the company. He will transition to a consulting role beginning in April while working on the launch of a new music business endeavor which will be announced this spring.
“I’m proud of the team and what we’ve accomplished over the past ten years,” shares Meacham. “This past year was a perfect exclamation point: Dylan Scott ended 2025 as the No. 3 airplay artist, Kelsey Hart was named the No. 5 airplay new artist of the year and earned a slot at CRS’ New Faces of Country Music this week, and Lee Brice launched ‘Killed The Man,’ from his upcoming album, arriving June 5.”
Cole Swindell Teams With Walk-On’s For Nashville Location
/by Lorie HollabaughCole Swindell. Photo: Robby Klein
Cole Swindell has partnered with Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux for a new Nashville location set to open in 2027.
Walk-On’s has also added Marriott properties franchisee Jamie Daniel of Daniel Hospitality as a franchise partner to lead the new Nashville location, which is slated to open on Broadway at 215 Broadway in Nashville. While the concept is still being finalized, Walk-On’s plans to blend its game-day atmosphere with Nashville’s signature honky style and personal touches from Swindell, who joins other celebrity brand partners such as Drew Brees and Dak Prescott in opening a Walk-On’s location.
“Anyone who knows me knows that outside of music, sports are my biggest passion. Partnering with Walk-On’s is a full-circle moment for me,” says Swindell. “To finally bring a location to Nashville and create a community for sports fans in a city that has given me everything is really exciting.”
“In being in the hospitality business for many years, it’s incredible to team up with brands like Walk-On’s that prioritize franchisee success and support,” says Daniel, Walk-On’s Nashville Franchisee. “Adding to the excitement of partnering with Walk-On’s is sharing this journey with a guy like Cole, who believes in the brand’s business model and shares the Walk-On’s mentality, which highlights the hustle and heart of the underdog.”
“Expanding our franchise community while growing our footprint in new territory is a big win for the brand,” says Brandon Landry, Founder and CEO of Walk-On’s. “We are honored to add the Daniels to the brand and look forward to the success we will see in Nashville and beyond. Having the opportunity to bring Walk-On’s to a city that celebrates the same grit and heart that led to coming up with Walk-On’s on the back of a napkin is something we’ll be celebrating for a while.”
BREAKING: Scott Borchetta Launches Management Division, Signs Carly Pearce
/by Lauryn SinkScott Borchetta, Carly Pearce & Mike Blong.
Scott Borchetta has launched a management division of Borchetta Entertainment Group. He has signed Carly Pearce as the initial client, and added Mike Blong as Manager.
The news comes after the announcement that Borchetta would exit HYBE AMERICA last month. Borchetta Entertainment Group will operate as a full-service management division, working closely alongside Big Machine Records
“I couldn’t think of a better way to kick off this new era of Big Machine then by announcing the formation of the Borchetta Entertainment Group and a new management vertical, starting with the Grammy/CMA/ACM award-winning Carly Pearce and her longtime management partner, Mike Blong,” says Borchetta. “This new season for Carly, starting with the amazing new Riley Green duet, ‘If I Don’t Leave I’m Gonna Stay,’ promises to be her best yet. I am so proud to welcome both as the foundational artist and management partner for this exciting new endeavor.”
Blong joins Borchetta Entertainment Group following his tenure at Starstruck Entertainment, where he served as Pearce’s day-to-day manager beginning in 2022.
“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Carly through multiple stages of her career, and it has been incredibly rewarding to witness her continual growth as an artist and storyteller,” adds Blong. “Joining forces with Scott and Borchetta Entertainment Group is an exciting next chapter for all of us as we continue to build on the momentum Carly has created around the world.”
BREAKING: MCA Ups Miranda McDonald & Jimmy Rector To SVP, Promotion & Regional Marketing
/by Madison HahnenMiranda McDonald & Jimmy Rector.
MCA has elevated Miranda McDonald and Jimmy Rector to Senior Vice President, Promotion & Regional Marketing. Both will report directly to Damon Moberly, Senior Vice President of Promotion & Touring.
In their new roles, the duo will lead the national country radio strategy while also overseeing regional marketing initiatives across markets.
McDonald will helm promotion for the MCA Nashville roster, which includes George Strait, Reba, Parker McCollum, Jon Pardi, Jordan Davis, Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood and more. Throughout her time at MCA, she has played a pivotal part in obtaining multiple No. 1 singles.
Rector will oversee promotion for the Mercury Nashville roster, which includes Eric Church, Chris Stapleton, Tyler Hubbard, Tucker Wetmore and others. Throughout his time at MCA, he as helped launch and develop breakthrough campaigns across both emerging and established acts.
“Miranda and Jimmy are two of the most trusted and respected leaders in country radio,” says Moberly. “They both bring a rare combination of relationships, instincts, and tireless work ethic that consistently translates into real results for our artists. These promotions recognize the impact they’ve already made and the leadership they bring to the entire team.”
Jo Dee Messina To Release First New LP In A Decade This Summer
/by Lorie HollabaughJo Dee Messina will release her first new album in over 10 years, Bridges, later this summer. The first single from the new album “Some Bridges,” is out today (March 12).
The new track highlights that life is all about change—and sometimes that change is necessary. “We are often told not to burn bridges—and it’s good advice,” says Messina. “I’ve lived long enough to know that’s true. But there are also exceptions, and sometimes it’s OK to let that baby burn. In life, sometimes we just need to look forward and keep going.”
“Some Bridges” was written alongside Kat Higgins and James T. Slater and mixed by Chris Lord-Alge, Grammy-winning producer, engineer, and frequent collaborator who mixed many of Messina’s biggest songs, including the 1996 hit “Heads Carolina, Tails California.”
Most albums reflect a season, but Messina’s new album, Bridges, is 10 years worth of seasons rolled up into one: the love, the life, the pain, the fight, the learning, and the living through it all. Over the past decade, Messina has encountered road bumps both minor and heartbreaking: loss, struggle, and sicknesses that might have wrecked someone without glimmers of light to hold onto like her music, her children, and her faith. All of it is woven throughout Bridges.
Messina will also hit the road throughout the summer playing dates across the U.S. beginning on March 15 in Chandler, Arizona.
Lee Thomas Miller, Eric Paslay, More Among ‘Sac Song & Wine Series’ Lineup
/by Lauryn SinkLee Thomas Miller & Eric Paslay
“Sac Song & Wine Series” will return for its fourth year in Elk Grove, California at the Lamoure Vineyards. The series is set to begin May 15 and will take place once a month through October 9.
Throughout the series, guests will include Chris DeStefano, Lee Thomas Miller, Kelly Archer, Marv Green, Sarah Buxton, Eric Paslay, James Otto and Ben Williams, with more artists to be announced later.
Each evening will also feature a curated Hometown Segment, showcasing local artists. Guests can also enjoy food trucks, lawn games and more. Tickets are available here.
Sac Song & Wine Series Schedule:
May 15: Chris DeStefano & TBA
June 19: TBA
July 18: Lee Thomas Miller & Kelly Archer
August 21: Marv Green & Sarah Buxton
September 18: Eric Paslay & TBA
October 9: James Otto & Ben Williams
Industry Ink: Megan Moroney, Riley Green, JT Harding, Forrest Frank, Lyrics For Life
/by Lorie HollabaughMegan Moroney Shares Cloud 9 Energy On ‘Drew Barrymore Show’
Photo: Courtesy of The Drew Barrymore Show
Megan Moroney sat down for a heart-to-heart conversation this week on The Drew Barrymore Show. During her debut appearance on the daytime talk show, the hitmaker joined Barrymore for a chat about her Billboard 200-topping album Cloud 9 and much more. Moroney’s episode included an impromptu ramen taste test and a discussion of post-breakup payback.
Moroney also took the stage this week at the 72,220-capacity NRG Stadium for her sold-out debut performance at RodeoHouston, where she rode up to the stage in her Cloud 9-pink Bronco.
Riley Green Rocks Aussie Rugby Crowd Of 50,000
Riley Green.
Riley Green played for over 50,000 attendees at Wednesday night’s (March 11) Brisbane Broncos vs Parramatta Eels Rugby match at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Australia. He performed at the match before embarking on the first show of his sold-out Australian leg of his tour tonight in Melbourne.
‘Music City’ The Musical Gears Up For Opening In New NYC Venue
Photo: Laura S. Fuchs
The musical Music City, which opened to rave reviews last year and was extended three times by popular demand in its run at Bedlam, will open soon blocks from Times Square.
The immersive space will fully embody the world of Music City, inviting audiences to step inside The Wicked Tickle, a country bar where music, storytelling, and nightlife collide. The show features songs by multi-Platinum songwriter J.T. Harding, including “Smile,” “Sangria,” and “Somewhere In My Car,” and an original book by playwright Peter Zinn. Music City is directed by Bedlam’s artistic director Eric Tucker. Tickets are available at here.
Forrest Frank Celebrates Houston Homecoming Ahead Of New ‘Jesus Generation Tour’
Photo: Courtesy of Houston Rodeo.
Forrest Frank recently experienced a career-defining hometown moment, headlining the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in front of more than 70,000 fans. The sold-out crowd at NRG Stadium marked Frank’s debut at the legendary event and a full-circle milestone for the singer, who grew up in the Houston area.
Frank’s set featured a surprise appearance from Houston rap legend Paul Wall. This summer, Frank will embark on the “The Jesus Generation Tour,” his largest headline run to date.
Sister Hazel, John Rzeznik & Stan Lynch Unite For Lyrics for Life Benefit
Chris Watkins Photography
Sister Hazel hosted the eighth annual Lyrics for Life – An Evening of Making Music Matter on March 7 in their hometown of Gainesville, Florida, raising more than $800,000 for the Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation and STOP! Children’s Cancer.
The evening began with an acoustic storytelling performance from Sister Hazel’s Ken Block and Drew Copeland, joined by special guest John Rzeznik of Goo Goo Dolls. The trio performed stripped-down versions of some of their most beloved songs while sharing personal stories with the audience. Rzeznik joined Sister Hazel for “Give A Little Bit,” before the finale of “American Girl” that featured a surprise appearance by Stan Lynch, the former drummer of Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers.
MusicRow Weekly (CountryBreakout Awards, News, Charts, More…)
/by Madison HahnenThis week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly highlights major milestones, industry honors and new ventures shaping the country music landscape, from the latest CountryBreakout Awards to notable career moves across the business. Click here to see the full edition.
For 24 years, MusicRow has celebrated the power of country radio in secondary markets through its annual MusicRow CountryBreakout Awards. The awards recognize the songs, artists and industry professionals who dominated spins on the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart panel throughout the previous year. Drawing from reporting stations in secondary markets across the country, the awards honor eight categories that reflect the collaborative effort required to bring a hit song to life, from songwriting and recording to promotion and radio support.
This year’s winners reflect the breadth of talent driving the genre’s continued success. Morgan Wallen, Megan Moroney, Rascal Flatts, Hudson Westbrook and LOCASH each topped their respective categories for the most spins across the reporting stations, while MCA earned recognition on the label side. Behind the scenes, hit songwriters Ashley Gorley, Charlie Handsome and Taylor Phillips were honored for their songwriting achievements, while MusicRow Radio Chart reporter Justin Brown was also recognized for his contributions.
Another major moment this week came on Tuesday night (March 10), when Jelly Roll officially became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. The singer-songwriter was inducted by close friend and fellow Opry member Lainey Wilson during an emotional ceremony, marking a career milestone for the artist.
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum also announced a major new exhibition spotlighting the life and career of Clint Black. Titled “Clint Black: The Hard Way On Purpose,” the exhibit will trace Black’s path from a working-class upbringing to becoming one of country music’s defining voices of the late 1980s and beyond. Featuring artifacts, personal items and career highlights, the exhibit will open April 22 and run through August 2027 as part of the museum’s regular admission offerings.
Elsewhere in the industry, longtime music executive Brian O’Connell was honored with the Bob Kingsley Living Legend Award, recognizing his lasting contributions to country music and artist development.
Veteran artist manager Bill Simmons, management partner Kendal Marcy and award-winning songwriter and publisher Chris DuBois have launched Domain Artist Management in partnership with Domain Capital Group. The new firm begins operations with its flagship client, three-time Grammy winner Brad Paisley.
On the booking and publishing fronts, rising artist Jacob Hackworth has signed with The Neal Agency for booking representation, while songwriter Jamie Moore has inked a deal with Spirit Music Group.
In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Miranda Lambert and Chris Stapleton take the No. 1 spot with “A Song To Sing.” Explore more chart data here.
The MusicRow Weekly is delivered every Friday, featuring Nashville’s top music industry news, exclusive interviews, song reviews, radio and songwriter charts and more. Sign up for free here.
McCoy Moore Gets Nostalgic On ‘Sunshine State’ Set For May
/by Lorie HollabaughRising artist McCoy Moore is giving a nod to the place it all began for him on his upcoming debut album, Sunshine State, due out May 22 via Sony Music Nashville/Cervidae Records.
The Lakeland, Florida native co-wrote all but one of the 14 tracks on the new album, produced by Will Bundy, that taps the spirit and nostalgic heat of long-gone summers. The project is filled with heavy bass lines and steel guitars that hang thick like Spanish Moss off an old Live Oak (similar to the one on the album’s cover, which was shot in Moore’s grandparents’ garage). Writers contributing to the new album include Jessi Alexander, Matt McKinney, Shane McAnally, Thomas Archer and more.
“This record is something I’ve been working on my whole life and didn’t even know it. I feel like I covered all the bases of who I am, where I’m from, and the music I love to make. The people, the places, the memories, it all made this record, even after I left Florida,” shared Moore. “It was only right that I give a nod to the place where it all started, the Sunshine State. I hope y’all absolutely love this record and feel the heart that me and my friends put into it.”
Moore is currently in Europe making his debut on the continent at C2C, and has also been on the road on Hardy’s “Country! Country! Tour,” which will continue through September.
McCoy Moore – Sunshine State Track List:
1. “Sunshine State” (McCoy Moore, Thomas Archer, Johnny Clawson)
2. “Every Single Summer” (McCoy Moore, Thomas Archer, Matt Dragstrem, Michael Tyler)
3. “In Here, Out There” (with Cole Swindell) (McCoy Moore, Jessi Alexander, Sam Ellis, Nick Walsh)
4. “Not Even Close” (McCoy Moore, Sam Ellis, Blake Pendergrass)
5. “Went to the Bar” (McCoy Moore, Aaron Eshuis, Colton Venner, Nick Walsh)
6. “Something to You” (McCoy Moore, Johnny Clawson, Colton Venner, Will Weatherly)
7. “Chesney on a Beach” (McCoy Moore, Brinley Addington, Colton Venner)
8. “Bible and a Bar” (McCoy Moore, Jenn Schott, Jason Saenz)
9. “Memories We Never Made” (McCoy Moore, Blake Bollinger, Colton Venner, Nick Walsh)
10. “Prayin’ For Me” (McCoy Moore, Matt Dragstrem, Seth Ennis)
11. “John Deere Blue” (McCoy Moore, Shane McAnally, Johnny Clawson)
12. “Dyin’ On the Hill” (McCoy Moore, Johnny Clawson, Adam James, Matt McKinney)
13. “Beer I Never Shoulda Bought” (McCoy Moore, Andrew Beason, Adam James, Matt McKinney)
14. “Left Alone” (Nick Walsh)
Produced by Will Bundy