This week’s edition of the MusicRow Weekly looks back at a busy week across Nashville’s music industry, from the announcement of the 38th annual MusicRow Awards winners to leadership changes, new business ventures, label signings and a Grand Ole Opry debut. Click here to see the full edition.
MusicRow Magazine revealed the winners of the 38th annual MusicRow Awards on Wednesday (Sept. 2), recognizing a wide range of artists, songwriters, executives and music industry companies. This year’s winners include Ben West, Blackbird Studio, Big Loud Records, WME, Sony Music Publishing Nashville, Dan Alley, Hudson Westbrook, Ashley Gorley, Jessie Jo Dillon, “Choosin’ Texas,” Emily Ann Roberts, Carter Faith, Ella Langley, Riley Green and The Red Clay Strays.
The 2026 MusicRow Awards also recognized the Top 10 Album All-Star Musicians, honoring the studio players who performed on the most albums that reached the Top 10 of Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart during the eligibility period. This year’s honorees are Jimmie Lee Sloas, Jerry Roe, Jim Cooley, Joey Moi, Jenee Fleenor, Lucas Ruge-Jones, Bryan Sutton, Dave Cohen, Justin Schipper and Wes Hightower.
Leadership Music also announced a major leadership transition, with Executive Director Debbie Linn set to retire after 15 years with the organization. Linn will remain in the role through 2027, giving Leadership Music time to plan for a smooth transition.
In the business world, BMG and Concord have completed their previously announced partnership, creating a new global music company. The transaction, first announced in April, has received all required regulatory approvals. The company will be headquartered globally in Nashville, with Berlin serving as its European headquarters.
There were also several notable personnel moves across the industry. Brittani Johnson has joined MCA as VP, Streaming, while Chris Schuler, VP, Audience Development, has exited the company. At Mogul, Jeff Tobias has been named Vice President of Sales, and SESAC has promoted Abbey Watson to Manager, Creative Services.
Nashville also welcomed a new financial management firm as Breanne Miller, formerly of Martin, Allbee, Miller, Bryan & Associates LLC, launched Wayfinders, Inc. The Nashville-based company serves recording artists, songwriters, performers, producers and entertainers throughout their careers. Miller is joined by longtime colleague and Belmont University alum Kyle Malone.
On the label and publishing front, Muscadine Bloodline has partnered with Trenches Records/Republic Records, while Maggie Antone has signed with Island Records. Anna Rae has signed a management deal with Joan Of Arc Music, and Bridey Costello has joined Blue Harbor Music through a global publishing and strategic artist partnership deal.
The week also brought a milestone for Slater Nalley, who made his Grand Ole Opry debut Tuesday night (Sept. 1).
In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. STELLA LEFTY takes the No. 1 spot with “Boston.” 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.
Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame To Honor George Strait
/by Madison HahnenGeorge Strait
The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame (NaSHOF) will honor George Strait with the Career Maker Award during the organization’s annual gala on Oct. 26 at Music City Center.
Strait will receive the award for his longtime impact on the careers of Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame members. The Career Maker Award recognizes individuals outside the Hall whose artistic work has helped songwriters achieve their goals of Hall of Fame induction. Strait joins Reba McEntire (2018) as the only recipients of the honor.
Throughout his more than 40-year career, Strait has recorded 264 songs, including 65 top 40 singles, written or co-written by 72 NaSHOF songwriters. Of those writers, 44 were not members of the Hall when Strait first recorded their songs.
“Throughout his phenomenal career as an artist, George Strait has played an integral role in helping more than 40 songwriters achieve induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame,” says Rich Hallworth, Chair of the organization’s Board of Directors. “Which is why we want to express our gratitude to him on Nashville Songwriting’s Most Legendary Night.”
“Having George Strait record a song of mine, especially so early in my career, felt like nothing less than a stamp of approval from Country music itself,” shares Hall of Fame songwriter Gretchen Peters, Board Vice Chair and co-writer of Strait’s “The Chill Of An Early Fall.” “It said, ‘You belong here; you’ve earned your bona fides.’ George is so deeply rooted in the traditions of Country music, so beloved and respected and unassailable in his song choices. Every song he touches becomes, de facto, a George Strait song. To a young songwriter, that meant the world.”
“I’m so honored to be receiving the Career Maker Award from the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame,” adds Strait. “I look forward to being there with some of the most talented Hall of Fame songwriters I’ve been so lucky to be associated with throughout my career. You folks definitely make the world a better place through your amazing abilities as songwriters and artists. See you there.”
The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Gala benefits the nonprofit Nashville Songwriters Foundation and honors each inductee with tributes and acoustic performances from guest artists.
Recent performers and participants have included John Anderson, Clint Black, Garth Brooks, Luke Bryan, Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, Eric Church, The Del McCoury Band, Brooks & Dunn, Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Emmylou Harris, Jason Isbell, Alan Jackson, Toby Keith, Little Big Town, Tim McGraw, Olivia Newton-John, Thomas Rhett, John Rich, Blake Shelton, Marty Stuart, Taylor Swift, The Isaacs, The Oak Ridge Boys, Josh Turner, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban and Trisha Yearwood.
BREAKING: Lainey Wilson Returns To Host The 60th Annual CMA Awards
/by LB CantrellLainey Wilson. Photo: Disney/Robby Klein
CMA and ABC have revealed that Lainey Wilson will return to host The 60th Annual CMA Awards. This year will mark the 12-time CMA Award winner’s third consecutive year in the role and second consecutive year as solo host.
The announcement was made live on ESPN’s College GameDay, timed to the show’s own milestone 500th show on the road from Louisiana State University in Wilson’s home state.
The CMA Awards broadcasts live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena Wednesday, Nov. 18 at 8/7c on ABC, Disney+ and will be available next day on Hulu.
“I couldn’t be more excited to be hosting the CMA Awards again this year, especially with it being the 60th anniversary,” says Wilson. “I’ve had so much fun hosting the last two years, and this one’s going to be extra special. Can’t wait to see y’all in November!”
The 2026 CMA Awards nominees will be revealed Thursday, Sept. 10, first on ABC’s Good Morning America and then via livestream on CMA’s official YouTube channel. Tickets for the 60th annual CMA Awards go on sale Friday, Sept. 18 at CMAworld.com/tickets.
MusicRow Weekly (MusicRow Awards, News, Charts, More…)
/by Madison HahnenThis week’s edition of the MusicRow Weekly looks back at a busy week across Nashville’s music industry, from the announcement of the 38th annual MusicRow Awards winners to leadership changes, new business ventures, label signings and a Grand Ole Opry debut. Click here to see the full edition.
MusicRow Magazine revealed the winners of the 38th annual MusicRow Awards on Wednesday (Sept. 2), recognizing a wide range of artists, songwriters, executives and music industry companies. This year’s winners include Ben West, Blackbird Studio, Big Loud Records, WME, Sony Music Publishing Nashville, Dan Alley, Hudson Westbrook, Ashley Gorley, Jessie Jo Dillon, “Choosin’ Texas,” Emily Ann Roberts, Carter Faith, Ella Langley, Riley Green and The Red Clay Strays.
The 2026 MusicRow Awards also recognized the Top 10 Album All-Star Musicians, honoring the studio players who performed on the most albums that reached the Top 10 of Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart during the eligibility period. This year’s honorees are Jimmie Lee Sloas, Jerry Roe, Jim Cooley, Joey Moi, Jenee Fleenor, Lucas Ruge-Jones, Bryan Sutton, Dave Cohen, Justin Schipper and Wes Hightower.
Leadership Music also announced a major leadership transition, with Executive Director Debbie Linn set to retire after 15 years with the organization. Linn will remain in the role through 2027, giving Leadership Music time to plan for a smooth transition.
In the business world, BMG and Concord have completed their previously announced partnership, creating a new global music company. The transaction, first announced in April, has received all required regulatory approvals. The company will be headquartered globally in Nashville, with Berlin serving as its European headquarters.
There were also several notable personnel moves across the industry. Brittani Johnson has joined MCA as VP, Streaming, while Chris Schuler, VP, Audience Development, has exited the company. At Mogul, Jeff Tobias has been named Vice President of Sales, and SESAC has promoted Abbey Watson to Manager, Creative Services.
Nashville also welcomed a new financial management firm as Breanne Miller, formerly of Martin, Allbee, Miller, Bryan & Associates LLC, launched Wayfinders, Inc. The Nashville-based company serves recording artists, songwriters, performers, producers and entertainers throughout their careers. Miller is joined by longtime colleague and Belmont University alum Kyle Malone.
On the label and publishing front, Muscadine Bloodline has partnered with Trenches Records/Republic Records, while Maggie Antone has signed with Island Records. Anna Rae has signed a management deal with Joan Of Arc Music, and Bridey Costello has joined Blue Harbor Music through a global publishing and strategic artist partnership deal.
The week also brought a milestone for Slater Nalley, who made his Grand Ole Opry debut Tuesday night (Sept. 1).
In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. STELLA LEFTY takes the No. 1 spot with “Boston.” 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.
Belle Frantz To Share ‘Hymns From A Barstool’ In November
/by Lauryn SinkBelle Frantz will release her debut album, Hymns From A Barstool, on Nov. 6.
The album’s title comes from its sole original track. Written by Frantz, Roger Springer and Wyatt McCubbin, the song reflects on the reassurance of God’s presence. The idea for the project initially came when Frantz rediscovered songs she listened to as a child. Produced by Gena Johnson, the 17-track album features hymns including “He Walks With Me,” “The Old Rugged Cross,” “I’ll Fly Away” and “I Saw The Light.” Wynonna Judd joins her for a rendition of “How Great Thou Art,” and Reba McEntire joins to read a passage of scripture.
Frantz recorded “Amazing Grace at Paine Memorial” and “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus at Paine Memorial” with just a piano in her hometown church. She then recorded “How Great Thou Art at First Assembly of God” and “Softly & Tenderly at First Assembly of God” inside the historic East Tupelo First Assembly of God Church, her great-grandfather Otis’ church in Mississippi which Elvis also attended.
Frantz made her Grand Ole Opry debut during last week’s Dolly Parton tribute show. She honored Parton during the show by singing “Where No One Stands Alone,” which earned a standing ovation. Her rendition of the track is available to stream now.
“I’ve always believed God meets you in your struggle and these songs comforted me when I needed them most so I just started recording what was on my heart. If they can make somebody else feel a little better or less alone, then that’s enough for me. I’m not trying to tell anybody how to live or pass any judgements— to me, God has always been way more of a feeling than a building anyway,” shares Frantz. “’Where No One Stands Alone’ really encapsulates the heart of the album for me. Doing this record completely independently, I often felt like I was at this alone, but I kept being reminded throughout the process that He was there, walking with me and holding my hand. There were so many moments that felt like divine providence, like Reba joining on.”
Frantz will join Carly Pearce on her upcoming “Honest Woman: Up Close” tour.
Hymns From A Barstool Track List:
Hymns From A Barstool Track List:
1. “Prelude & Prayer”
2. “He Walks With Me”- (C. Austin Miles)
3. “Amazing Grace at Paine Memorial”- (John Newton)
4. “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus at Paine Memorial”- (Helen Howarth Lemmel)
5. “How Great Thou Art at First Assembly of God”- (Carl Boberg)
6. “Softly & Tenderly at First Assembly of God”- (Will L. Thompson)
7. “The Old Rugged Cross”- (George Bennard)
8. “How Great Thou Art (feat. Wynonna Judd)”- (Carl Boberg)
9. “Interlude: Taps” (Composed by: Daniel Butterfield)
10. “I’ll Fly Away”- (Albert E. Brumley)
11. “Just a Closer Walk with Thee” – (Kenneth Morris)
12. “I Saw The Light” -(Hank Williams Sr.)
13. “Only Trust Him”- (John H. Stockton)
14. “Where No One Stands Alone” -(Mosie Lister)
15. “Reading of Scripture” (Reba McEntire)
16. “Hymns From A Barstool” – (Written by: Belle Frantz, Roger Springer, Wyatt Mccubbin)
17. “Reprise”
New Randy Travis Album ‘Same Old Way’ Slated For November
/by Lorie HollabaughFans will get an album of brand new material from Randy Travis when Same Old Way is released Nov. 13 via Warner Records Nashville.
The title track from the new 12-song project, which was penned by Travis with his longtime producer and friend, Kyle Lehning, is out today (Sept. 4). The song is the only song the pair has written together, and the first time Lehning has had a major songwriting credit. Lehning uncovered the new songs for Same Old Way after years of them being locked away in the vault. He assembled, remixed, and remastered the recordings with input from Travis, giving the world 12 more Travis originals and bringing back that iconic voice that still resonates to this day.
Same Old Way is the first album of completely new material Travis has released in over 18 years, and is packed with songs spanning his career from 1986-2013. Travis has already released two singles from the project, “Fish On” and “I Don’t Care,” in addition to today’s title track.
“When life throws you a curveball, swing for the fences the ‘same old way’ and hope you knock it out of the park! Team Travis helped me run the bases on this one, and it feels like a home run! It’s a joy and a blessing to be able to bring new music to my listeners—thank you all for still showing up for me,” says Travis.
This year marks 40 years since the release of Travis’ debut multi-Platinum album Storms Of Life. He’ll wrap up his “More Life Tour” in November, which has visited over 54 cities and 24 states and reconnected Travis with his fans all across the country.
Same Old Way Track List:
1. “I Know Where I’d Be Without You”
2. “Fish On”
3. “I Don’t Care”
4. “Just Read The Signs”
5. “Mission Of Love”
6. “I Catch ‘Em”
7. “There’s No Getting Over You”
8. “They Called It A Church”
9. “One Tear At A Time”
10. “Same Old Way”
11. “My Greatest Fear”
12. “Set The Blues Back”
Matt Koziol Signs With Casual Records
/by Madison HahnenPictured (L-R): Natalie Grummer (Casual), Heather Vassar (Casual), Matt Koziol, Niner Nyenhuis (Casual) and John Cantu (Outrider). Photo: Becca Mitchel
Matt Koziol has inked with Casual Records.
After discovering Elvis as a young child, Koziol spent his formative years singing in choirs and talent shows before picking up an instrument and joining bands as a teenager. His early career took him through clubs across the Northeast, eventually leading him to Los Angeles, where he began developing his skills as a songwriter, before eventually making the move to Nashville.
His music draws from a wide range of influences, including Motown, rock, bluegrass and the songwriting of Bruce Springsteen and James Taylor. Koziol’s songs often pull from real-life experiences, giving his writing an honest quality. He has also performed alongside Maren Morris, 49 Winchester, Shane Smith & The Saints, Jon Pardi and Hailey Whitters, as well as appearances at Bonnaroo and AMERICANAFEST.
Koziol released his debut single on Casual Records, “90 Proof,” today (Sept. 4).
“Matt has that rare thing you can’t coach, a voice that sounds like it’s lived every word it sings,” says Casual Records’ Heather Vassar. “Signing him to Casual Records was an easy call. We’re not just backing a song, we’re backing an artist with a real story and the work ethic to keep telling it. ’90 Proof’ is just the beginning of what he’s going to do with us.”
“90 proof is the definition of guttural to me,” adds Koziol. “I wanted it to have enough space for you to feel everything to your bones, and I can’t wait for everyone to hear it. When it comes to Casual and Heather, it’s truly just working with people you love. Heather has been a champion of mine and has shown up in my career at different times, and there’s something to be said about people who truly believe in you. That’s her, and her team. I couldn’t ask for more.”
To date, Koziol has garnered 13.4K Instagram followers, 33.6K TikTok followers, 1M+ YouTube views, and 6.5M+ Spotify streams.
Industry Ink: Hudson Westbrook, Warren Zeiders, ASCAP, Kyle Gates, StarVista LIVE, Lotus Sessions
/by Lauryn SinkHudson Westbrook Throws The First Pitch At Texas Rangers Game
Hudson Westbrook. Photo: Ian Noh
Hudson Westbrook threw the ceremonial first pitch at Tuesday night’s Texas Rangers game against the Athletics. The Rangers won 8-5.
Westbrook released the fifth preview from his upcoming sophomore album, “The Joker,” today (Sept. 4). The Made You Look album will be released Nov. 6.
Warren Zeiders Hosts Nashville Album Preview
Pictured (L-R): Jamie Ernst, Holly Gleason, Warren Zeiders, Cris Lacy, and Charly Salvatore
Warren Zeiders hosted an album preview event earlier this week in advance of his third studio album No Brakes, out today via Warner Records. Moderated by Holly Gleason, Zeiders discussed the project, his upbringing, influences and misconceptions people may have of him.
ASCAP Hosts Songwriters Round At The Bluebird Cafe
Pictured (L-R): Lilly Hart, ASCAP’s Duane Hobson, Brooke Hatala, Aaron Pollock, Jackson Dreyer
ASCAP hosted a songwriters round on Wednesday (Sept. 2) as part of their monthly showcase series dedicated to supporting emerging storytellers. ASCAP members Lilly Hart, Brooke Hatala, Aaron Pollock and Jackson Dreyer took the stage at Nashville’s Bluebird Cafe for the monthly series show.
Kyle Gates Inks With Evergreen Artist Group
Pictured (L-R): Jodi Cockrell (Agent, Evergreen Artist Group), Kyle Gates, Liam Sullivan (CEO / Artist Manager, Deep Cuts Management), Andrew McWilliams (Founder / Owner, Evergreen Artist Group). Photo: Courtesy of Evergreen Artist Group
Santa Anna Records’ Kyle Gates has signed with Evergreen Artist Group.
Based in La Vernia, Texas, Gates’ music is inspired by the sounds of George Strait, Keith Whitley, and Randy Travis. He has released two songs this year, “I’ll Be Fishin’,” and “Easy Come, Easy Go,” with more new music to come.
“We’re incredibly excited to start working with Kyle,” Evergreen Artist Group Founder/Owner Andrew McWilliams says. “Two things you can’t fake are authenticity and drive, and Kyle has plenty of both. He’s not an artist who’s going to sit around and wait for fans to come to him. He’s going to get out on the road, put in the work and build an audience the old-fashioned way. As an agency that focuses on artist development, it couldn’t be a better fit.”
StarVista LIVE Donates To St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Pictured (L-R): Craig Campbell, Janine Morris and Scott Hinshelwood.
StarVista LIVE recently presented St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital with a $129,000 donation. The funds were raised during the March voyage of SVL’s sold-out 70s Rock & Romance Cruise, bringing the two-year total to over $362,000.
Two acoustic guitars autographed by the artists performing on the seven-day cruise in March, including Alan Parsons Live Project, Ambrosia, Bay City Rollers, Don Felder, Lou Gramm, KANSAS, The Marshall Tucker Band, Melissa Manchester, and many more, were sold via live auction on the main stage of the ship.
Harrison Sokoloff Launches ‘Lotus Sessions’
Harrison Sokoloff has launched Lotus Sessions, a free weekly meditation and mindful living practice for people working in music.
The first session is set for Sept. 14 and sessions will be held via Zoom every Monday at 9 a.m. CT. More information is available here.
Opry To Celebrate Vince Gill’s 35th Anniversary With Two Shows
/by Lorie HollabaughVince Gill. Photo: David McClister
The Grand Ole Opry will celebrate Vince Gill‘s 35th anniversary as an Opry member with two shows on Saturday, Oct. 17 at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
Gill will also be joined for the milestone celebration by longtime friends and fellow Opry members Ricky Skaggs and Patty Loveless, along with his wife Amy Grant, Wendy Moten and more, with additional artists to be announced in the coming weeks.
Gill made his Opry debut on June 29, 1989, and was inducted as an official member on August 10, 1991. In the 35 years since, the Country Music Hall of Fame member has become one of the Opry’s greatest ambassadors, returning to the hallowed stage throughout his career to perform, collaborate with fellow artists and friends, and welcome new generations into the Circle.
The hitmaker has been marking another career milestone through his ongoing 50 Years From Home music series, a year-long collection of EPs featuring new songs alongside tracks from throughout his career. Gill recently concluded his “50 Years From Home Tour,” celebrating five decades since leaving Oklahoma to pursue his music. The 27-city tour launched in June and included a sold-out, six-night residency at the Ryman Auditorium. He’ll return to the Ryman in December for his annual “Christmas at the Ryman” residency with Amy Grant.
The War And Treaty Unveil New ‘Country Baptism’ EP
/by Lauryn SinkThe War And Treaty have unveiled their new EP, Country Baptism, out now via Atlantic Outpost.
The husband-and-wife team of Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter first introduced fans to the project last week with a debut live performance on NBC’s America’s Got Talent.
“This EP is about continuing the body of work that reflects our journey together,” says the duo. “Country Baptism begins with a conversation about overcoming moral injury through true love and care.”
The War And Treaty have amassed over 100 million worldwide streams numerous awards over the last decade. Earlier this year, the duo released their fifth studio album and Atlantic Outpost debut, The Story of Michael and Tanya. Executive produced by Michael Trotter Jr., the album features collaborations with Whoopi Goldberg, Valerie June and Wynonna.
The band is touring throughout the fall with upcoming dates in Tennessee, Indiana, Utah and more.
Country Baptism Tracklist:
1. “Country Baptism Interlude” (Michael Trotter Jr., Tanya Trotter)
2. “Country Baptism” (Michael Trotter Jr., Tanya Trotter)
3. “Earthquake” (Michael Trotter Jr., Tanya Trotter)
4. “Keep You Warm Tonight” (Michael Trotter Jr., Tanya Trotter)
5. “It’ll Hurt Me More Than It’ll Hurt You” (Jonathan Singleton, Michael Trotter Jr., Tanya Trotter)
6. “Cowgirls Cry When Cowboys Lie” (Michael Trotter Jr., Tanya Trotter)
7. “It Won’t Go Away” (Michael Trotter Jr., Tanya Trotter)
Americana Music Association Announces Performers For 25th Annual Honors & Awards Show
/by Lorie HollabaughRobert Plant, Brandi Carlile, Margo Price and more are among the artists set to perform at the upcoming 25th annual Americana Honors & Awards Sept. 16 at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.
Plant will return to the awards stage 15 years after his 2011 Album of the Year Band of Joy with a special performance as a 2026 recipient of the Americana Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Other artists among this year’s Honors & Awards lineup include Boy Golden, Crowe Boys, Flatland Cavalry, I’m With Her, Jesse Welles, Kashus Culpepper, Kathleen Edwards, Ken Pomeroy, Molly Tuttle, Mon Rovîa, and S.G. Goodman.
The Milk Carton Kids return to host this year’s show, with Buddy Miller serving once again as musical director for the Americana All-Star Band, featuring Don Was, Larry Campbell, Fred Eltringham, Jen Gunderman, Jim Hoke, and The McCrary Sisters.
The Americana Music Association will also pay tribute to Dolly Parton as a Lifetime Achievement Honoree and for her impact on roots music as well as her storytelling, songwriting, and creative excellence, which embody the spirit of Americana. A special performance is planned honoring her life and legacy after her recent passing.
The 2026 Honors & Awards show will stream live via NPR’s YouTube channel and Americana Music Association’s Facebook page on Sept. 16 at 6:30 p.m. CT, while live audio simulcasts of the show will be available via SiriusXM’s Outlaw Country and on Nashville area radio stations WRLT (100.1 FM), WSM (650 AM) and WMOT (89.5 FM). A special edited version of the program will also be broadcast in the Austin City Limits time slot, premiering on Nov. 21.
The ceremony is the hallmark event for the 26th annual AMERICANAFEST, held across more than 40 venues throughout Nashville Sept. 15-19.