Second Annual People’s Choice Country Awards To Focus On Community [Executive Interview]

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NBCUniversal’s Greg Lee

Later this week, the country music community will file through the doors at the Grand Ole Opry House for the second annual People’s Choice Country Awards. The star-studded evening will air live on Thursday, Sept. 26 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC and Peacock.

Last year’s inaugural show, hosted by Opry members Little Big Town, recognized top talent in the industry and showcased electric performances, including Blake Shelton, Carly Pearce, Dan + Shay, Hardy, Jelly Roll, Kane Brown, Kelsea Ballerini, Little Big Town, Toby Keith and Wynonna Judd.

This year, PCCA executives are promising the same exciting night, with some refinements. Greg Lee, Vice President of Live Events and Specials at NBCUniversal Entertainment, spoke to MusicRow leading up to the big night.

“More than any other genre, country music truly feels like a community, with artists supporting fellow artists,” he says when asked what he learned from last year’s PCCAs. “Last year, we saw firsthand how supportive and passionate the country music fans are. The room was literally vibrating with excitement for winners”

This year, fans can expect to see the community lifting up top nominees Zach Bryan, Beyoncé, Kacey Musgraves, Shaboozey, Kane Brown, Morgan Wallen and Luke Combs. Unlike the industry-voted CMA and ACM Awards, though, the PCCAs are entirely fan-voted, with the voting taking place in August.

“The People’s Choice Country Awards is a modern awards show crowning the music, artists, and storytellers that mattered most to those who matter: the people,” Lee says. “A prestigious honor bestowed not by insiders, but by the academy of fans. This show is for the people by the people and is truly representative of what’s trending in pop culture and country music. Fans are at the core of everything we do.”

Winners will be crowned across 18 categories, including six that were added this year to honor one of Nashville’s greatest exports: songs.

“Our goal is to celebrate and honor all aspects of the country music genre and give artists and songwriters the spotlight,” Lee says. “We endeavor to find new ways to be more inclusive and add opportunities for fans to support their favorite artists. This year we added six new categories that will highlight this year’s artistry in the genre.”

In addition to the fan-voted awards, two artists will be highlighted with specially-chosen honors during the evening. Miranda Lambert will receive the Country Icon Award for her decades-long career, during which she’s built an authentic, female-forward brand of country that has shaped the industry. Kane Brown will be honored the Country Champion Award for his passion for service and groundbreaking contributions to the country music industry and beyond.

On the performance side, the second annual PCCAs has a new host: global music icon Shania Twain.

“Shania is truly a country icon for the people, she doesn’t worry about the rules and has broadened the country music space. She focuses on her fans, and that is exactly what this show embodies: a celebration of the people,” Lee says.

Twain will kick off the evening with a show-opening moment before welcoming Lambert, Brown, Keith Urban, Kelsea Ballerini, Lady A, Parker McCollum and The War And Treaty. Today it was revealed that award-winning rapper MGK and country star Brad Paisley would bring a collaboration to the PCCAs stage, as well.

Country artists Carly Pearce, Dan + Shay, Little Big Town, Ashley Cooke, Bailey Zimmerman, Chase Rice, Cody Rhodes, Dasha, Orville Peck, McCollum, Priscilla Block, Scotty McCreery, Shaboozey and Tanner Adell, wrestler Cody Rhodes, TODAY host Dylan Dreyer and comedians Matt Rife and Nate Bargatze will present awards and performances throughout the night.

“This year more than ever, country music is driving pop culture,” Lee shares. “It’s more commercially popular than ever. It feels like a movement and unites us all as Americans. We see this with artists from all genres entering the space. Country music is all about storytelling and songwriters are truly the heart of the genre.”

For the second year, NBC has worked to lift the show’s profile, inviting the signature Live From E! franchise to broadcast live from the Grand Old Opry House as a lead into the PCCAs. Lee points out that the show is part of NBC’s overall interest in country music.

“NBCUniversal has continued its investment in country music, Nashville and the PCA brand by adding more programming, including the upcoming Christmas at the Opry special and Toby Keith: American Icon, which aired in August.”

The Valory Music Co. Appoints Andi Brooks As Director Of Streaming

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Andi Brooks

The Valory Music Co. has appointed Andi Brooks as Director of Streaming.

Brooks moves to the new position from her role as Director of Southwest Promotion & Marketing at fellow Big Machine Label Group imprint Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment (formerly known as BMLG Records). Now on the job, reporting to President George Briner and Senior Vice President, Digital & Promotion Ashley Sidoti, she collaborates with The Valory Music Co.’s streaming partners to strategize and promotes both new releases and the existing catalog.

“We’re excited to have Andi join The Valory Music Co. team,” says Briner. “Her enthusiasm and passion for music, along with her desire and drive to be the best in the streaming world makes her a great addition.”

Brooks came to Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment in 2019, and previously spent time as a radio host and morning show co-host at WWQM in Madison, Wisconsin.

“I started this journey in radio promotion five years ago with Big Machine Label Group and I’ve been able to work with some of the best artists, managers and radio programmers,” Brooks shares. “Thank you, Scott Borchetta, Jimmy Harnen, Ryan Dokke and my amazing team for the incredible opportunities and leading me along the way. I’m beyond excited for this next chapter in my career and ready to hit the ground running with the wonderful team and artists at VMC and work alongside our DSP partners!”

Carter Faith Gears Up For ‘The Aftermath’

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Carter Faith is prepping for the release of her new EP, The Aftermath, out Oct. 11 via Capitol Records Nashville.

Produced by Tofer Brown, The Aftermath features four previously-released tracks from earlier this year, “Alright,” “Blue Bird” (featuring Alison Krauss,) “Strong Stuff” and “Late Bloomer,” as well as the new title track that will arrive alongside the EP.

“The Aftermath is a collection of songs that all come from a very honest and introspective place,” says Faith. “I am a woman in my early 20s, caught in the limbo of being a child and an adult, each song on this project has a unique balance of self-assuredness and self-doubt. I am so excited to have these songs out into the world and in the hands of anyone who resonates with them. Each song holds a place in my heart and lends itself to a different feeling reflective of when I put pen to paper, and I hope they do the same for anyone who listens.”

A North Carolina native, Faith relocated to Nashville after college to pursue her dream of becoming a country artist. In just a few years, she has accumulated over 111 million global streams on tracks like “Wild,” “Greener Pasture” and “Already Crazy.” Her soaring vocals and authentic storytelling have led to her sharing stages with Little Big Town, Keith Urban and one of her biggest influences, Willie Nelson. She has been featured in CMT’s 2023 Next Women of Country and LISTEN UP 2024 campaigns, in addition to being the first country artist featured in Spotify’s Fresh Finds multi-genre program.

Faith will hit the road for a run of dates supporting Luke Grimes in November, with stops in New York, Nashville, Los Angeles and more, following her upcoming dates supporting Midland that kick off next week.

The Aftermath Track List:
1. “The Aftermath” (Carter Faith, Lauren Hungate, Tofer Brown)
2. “Alright” (Carter Faith, Ashley Monroe, Tofer Brown)
3. “Blue Bird” (Carter Faith, Lauren Hungate, Tofer Brown)
4. “Strong Stuff” (Carter Faith, Jessie Jo Dillon, Tofer Brown, Lauren Hungate)
5. “Late Bloomer” (Carter Faith, Tofer Brown, Margaret Valentine, Lauren Hungate)

King Henry Inks With Big Machine Music

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King Henry. Photo: Courtesy of Big Machine Music

Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer King Henry has signed an exclusive co-publishing agreement with Big Machine Music.

His songwriting credits include Beyoncé’s “All Night,” Maroon 5’s “Help Me Out,” The Weeknd’s “Nothing Without You,” Ryan Hurd’s “Go To Bed Sober,” Lany’s “Thru These Tears” and “I Don’t Wanna Love You Anymore” as well as Sasha Alex Sloan’s “Older” and “Only” with NF. The creator has also collaborated with superstar DJ Diplo on both the writing and production side, contributing to tracks like seven-time Platinum “Heartless (feat. Morgan Wallen),” “Thunderclouds (feat. Sia, Diplo and Labrinth)” and “Lonely (with Jonas Brothers).”

“King Henry is a rare, truly versatile songwriter who can seamlessly create hit music across dance, pop, country and singer-songwriter genres,” says Mike Molinar, Big Machine Music President. “His decision to make Nashville his home base and to partner with Big Machine Music are a testament to the growing diversity of Music City and our songwriter roster. We are proud to welcome him to our team!”

“I’ve been friends with much of the Big Machine Music family for years on the company side as well as the writer side. When it came time to find the right partner in Nashville for myself, it was obvious to me that Big Machine Music was the right choice,” shares King Henry. “I’m excited to continue writing in Nashville and have this team guiding me through the next chapter of my creative journey.”

Chase Matthew To Make Ryman Auditorium Headline Debut

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Chase Matthew. Photo: David Bradley

Nashville native Chase Matthew will make his hometown headlining debut at the iconic Ryman Auditorium on Feb. 21.

“Hometown shows are special for any artist and headlining Ryman Auditorium is an extra special place for a country artist to perform,” shares Matthew. “The history behind the historic Ryman has a significance which makes this such an awesome opportunity. Growing up in Nashville means that my hometown show, and my first time headlining the Ryman, are happening the same night! I’m having a hard time putting into words what everyone should expect, but I know it will be an evening my fans, friends, and family will never forget! Maybe a few surprise guests too.”

Featured in MusicRow’s Next Big Thing Class of 2024, the Warner Music Nashville artist is on track to play over 145 shows for over one million fans this year. Matthew has shared the stage this year with Jason Aldean and Luke Bryan, and has previously supported Jelly Roll, Travis Tritt, Lainey Wilson and more.

He recently hit the top five at radio with his Gold-certified debut single “Love You Again.” He has also released collaborations with Flo Rida (“Floats Your Boat”) and Fernando & Sorocaba (“Cold Blooded”). He received his first award show nomination for The New Artist of 2024 at the People’s Choice Country Awards, taking place on Thursday (Sept. 26).

Pre-sale tickets for Matthew’s Ryman debut begin tomorrow (Sept. 25) with tickets on sale to the general public this Friday (Sept. 27) at 10 a.m. CT.

Luke Combs Notches 19th Consecutive No. 1 With ‘Ain’t No Love In Oklahoma’

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Luke Combs has notched his 19th consecutive No. 1 on the Country Aircheck/Mediabase chart with Twisters: The Album track “Ain’t No Love In Oklahoma,” which also topped the Billboard Country Airplay chart.

The achievement follows the country star’s CMA Award nominations for Entertainer of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year and Album of the Year (Fathers & Sons). Additionally, he is set to headline Washington State’s Gorge Amphitheatre next month ahead of his Category 10 venue opening in November. Combs will also embark on a stadium tour across New Zealand and Australia next year in addition to headlining Stagecoach 2025.

Mitchell Tenpenny To Host David Yurman Event & Third Annual Cornhole Tournament

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Mitchell Tenpenny. Photo: Zach Pigg

Mitchell Tenpenny will host an exclusive event at the David Yurman Nashville store as well as his third annual Cornhole Tournament next week in support of The 10Penny Fund, which seeks to invest in sustainable and meaningful programs that motivate cancer patients, encourage healing and build community.

The David Yurman fundraiser will take place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. this coming Monday (Sept. 30). Attendees will receive a signed vinyl with a purchase of two thousand dollars or more, or a signed guitar with a purchase of $10,000 or more.

Tenpenny’s third annual Cornhole Tournament will follow on Tuesday (Oct. 1), starting at 2 p.m. at Sony Music Publishing Nashville. Tenpenny will participate in the tournament alongside his team, facing off against any industry members who would like to compete for the cost of $500 per team/board. Those interested in watching can donate $10 for a ticket. For more information, click here.

Additionally, merchandise supporting The 10Penny Fund is available to purchase at 10PennyFund.org.

Travis Meadows Signs With Sheltered Music

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Pictured (L-R): Darrell Franklin (Sr.VP Sheltered Music Publishing), Travis Meadows and Freeman Wizer (Sr. Creative Director Sheltered Music Publishing)

Singer-songwriter Travis Meadows has signed a global creative deal with Sheltered Music.

Meadows’ songwriting prowess has gained recognition from top artists in the industry, with a list of singles and cuts for country icons and rockers alike, including Cody Johnson, Kenny Chesney, Eric Church and many more. Some hits penned by Meadows include Dierks Bentley’s “Riser,” Johnson’s “Human,” Chesney’s “Better Boat” and Jake Owen’s “What We Ain’t Got.”

He has had a captivating journey and overcome many personal struggles, and through that, has evolved into a singer-songwriter that has earned accolades for his raw and authentic storytelling.

“Other songwriters and artists often describe Travis as a poet, and I’ve heard it said many times—it’s true,” says Darrell Franklin, Senior Vice President of Sheltered Music. “His heart and soul are felt in every lyric, and you believe every word. As if that weren’t enough, Travis (the artist) takes it to the next level. His delivery is as honest as the words he sings, taking us on a journey that can only be compared to heroes like Springsteen, Petty, and Dylan. I can’t express how honored we are to work with Travis.”

“I was ready for another chapter in my music career, and isn’t it just like life to open up opportunities when you ask for them,” shares Travis. “I’ve known Darrell and Freeman my entire Nashville experience. They are some of the best in the field and good people as well, so it made perfect sense to partner with people who I’ve known and trusted for years. I’m excited about this next phase of whatever comes to us through the magic of lyric and melody.”

At Sheltered Music, Meadows joins Emmylou Harris, Rodney Crowell, Marty Stuart and more.

Weekly Register: Miranda Lambert Makes Her Way Up The Country Albums Chart

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Photo: James Macari

Miranda Lambert‘s Postcards from Texas debuts at No. 8 on the country albums chart with 25K in total consumption (19K album only/7.4 million song streams), according to Luminate data.

The top five is stagnant once again, as Post Malone‘s F-1 Trillion holds the top slot with 60K (4.5K album only/70 million song streams). Morgan Wallen‘s One Thing At A Time takes No. 2 with 52K (890 album only/66 million song streams), and Zach Bryan‘s The Great American Bar Scene bides at No. 3 with 38K (250 album only/48 million song streams). Wallen’s Dangerous: The Double Album persists at No. 4 with 33K (360 album only/42 million song streams), followed by Bryan’s self-titled collection at No. 5 with 29K (2.1K album only/35 million song streams).

The top five also remains the same on the country streaming songs chart. Shaboozey‘s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” reigns at No. 1 with 22 million new streams, adding to 732 million ATD, while Post Malone and Wallen’s “I Had Some Help” rests at No. 2 with 19 million streams, adding to 656 million ATD. Bryan’s “Pink Skies” continues at No. 3 with 14 million new streams, adding to 333 million ATD, while Wallen’s “Lies, Lies, Lies” resides at No. 4 with 13 million streams, adding 186 million ATD. Bryan and Kacey Musgraves‘ “I Remember Everything” stays at No. 5 with 12.7 million new streams, adding to a billion ATD.

BREAKING: Ben Kline Stepping Down From Position At Warner Music Nashville, Gregg Nadel Joining Cris Lacy

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Gregg Nadel. Photo: Jimmy Fontaine

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.

Kline says, “Together, we’ve grown Warner Music Nashville to new heights and played vital roles in the development of so many artists. Thanks to WMG leadership for all of the opportunities, faith, and guidance along the way. And thank you to Cris Lacy for her never-wavering support for the artists and their musical visions. I’m excited for the next adventure.”

Based out of the Nashville office, Nadel and Lacy will report to Warner Records CEO & Co-Chairman Aaron Bay-Schuck and COO & Co-Chairman Tom Corson, who report direct to WMG CEO Robert Kyncl, effective Oct. 1. Lacy, Nadel and their team will continue to work with Nashville artists co-signed with Atlantic Music Group.

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.

Bay-Schuck and Corson note: “Gregg grew up at WMG, and over the past three decades, he’s brought his impeccable taste, wisdom, and guidance to an exceptional array of original, powerful voices. He’s an ambidextrous A&R and marketing expert with a global perspective, which will be a tremendous asset at a time when Nashville artists are crossing boundaries and reaching the world stage like never before. Like Gregg, Cris has expanded from her roots as an A&R force into a true multi-dimensional leader, and together, they’ll be a phenomenal team to take Warner Music Nashville into a dynamic future.”

They add, “We’d also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ben Kline. Over his past decade with WMN, his tireless passion for the label’s artists and team has set the company up for continued, expanding success. He leaves with our deepest admiration and best wishes for his next chapter.”

Nadel shares, “I’ve had the honor of working with incredibly talented artists across many sounds and styles, and through it all, I’ve always felt a deep connection to the heartfelt music that comes from Nashville’s rich creative culture. I’m excited to be diving deeper into this brilliant community of musicians and storytellers, and I’m especially excited about working alongside Cris Lacy and the entire team. Thank you to Tom and Aaron for this incredible opportunity.”

Lacy expresses, “Thanks to WMG’s cross-label and cross-genre philosophy, Gregg and I have been collaborating within the company for over a decade. We’re both rooted in a deep love of the music that comes into and out of Nashville. Gregg brings a unique, wide-ranging perspective to what will be a fantastic partnership. He has long invested in the culture and the community of this town, and together, we are fiercely committed to amplifying what makes its music so special. My heartfelt thanks and admiration go out to Ben. It’s been a great ride, and his expertise, leadership, and friendship have made it all the more gratifying. I wish him the very best in all things to come.”

Prior to being named President of Elektra Entertainment in 2017, Nadel served as General Manager of Elektra Records and before that was SVP, A&R and Marketing, for Atlantic Records. A 27-year veteran of WMG, Nadel joined Atlantic straight out of college in 1997. In his marketing capacity, he has spearheaded high-profile campaigns for global superstars such as Ed Sheeran, who he’s worked with since the early days of Sheeran’s career.