MŌRIAH Signs With CAA

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Pictured (L-R): John Huie, CAA; MŌRIAH, and Fletcher Foster, F2 Entertainment (Management).

MŌRIAH has inked an exclusive agency agreement with CAA for music and acting. She will be represented by music agents John Huie and Kara Enos (Nashville), Dan Kim (Los Angeles) for acting, and Omar Garcia (Los Angeles) for Latin music.

“MŌRIAH is the total package. She has everything it takes to be a worldwide star on stage and screen,” says Huie.

In 2025, MŌRIAH was named a 2025 CMT Next Woman of Country, and opened CMA Fest with a Mariachi-backed performance. In the fall, she released her debut country Latin EP NICE LIFE/BUENA VIDA, released in English and Spanish. She also made her Grand Ole Opry debut. This summer, MŌRIAH will shoot a film with Sony Pictures and will perform during a Nashville July 4 celebration.

On screen, she held the starring role in Because of Gracia, and portrayed Loyce Whitman in the Ronald Reagan biopic, Reagan. She made her theatrical debut in Journey to Bethlehem, a musical starring Antonio Banderas which premiered worldwide in November 2023. She has also appeared in The Chosen and MIMICs.

Kashus Culpepper Lights Up Nashville With Grit & Heart

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Kashus Culpepper. Photo: Jessie Addleman

A sold-out crowd gathered Thursday night (March 5) at The Basement East for an intimate and soulful performance from rising singer-songwriter Kashus Culpepper. Blending Southern storytelling with blues, soul, and classic rock influences, Culpepper delivered a dynamic set that highlighted both his musical versatility and his growing command of the stage.

After an opening set from Aubory Bugg, Culpepper opened the show with the energetic “Southern Man,” before moving into “I Believe,” where Culpepper’s vocal delivery drew in the audience.

One of the early highlights came during “Jenni,” when Culpepper demonstrated impressive musicianship by playing harmonica and guitar simultaneously. The middle of the set leaned heavily into Culpepper’s storytelling with songs like “Stay,” “Is It True?” and “Break Me.” Afterward, “Pour Me Out” and “Mean to Me” had the audience dancing and clapping along.

Kashus Culpepper. Photo: Jessie Addleman

“This is such an amazing experience, thank y’all for showing up,” Culpepper said from stage. “I love Nashville this is amazing. I released my debut album January 23, thank you for all the support on it, it’s mind boggling.”

In a case of artistry, “Alabama Beauty Queen” flowed effortlessly into “Just the Two of Us,” combining Culpepper’s style with the classic hit. As the night progressed, he continued building momentum with “Who Hurt You,” “Broken Wing Bird,” and “Better Weather.” “Man of His Word” and “Talk With Me” kept the energy steady as the set moved toward its closing stretch.

Culpepper also paid tribute to some of his influences along the way. His rendition of “One of These Nights” by the Eagles brought a Southern grit to the classic rock staple, while a striking medley of “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers flowing into “Out of My Mind” became one of the evening’s favorite moments.

After closing the main set with “After Me?,” Culpepper returned to the stage for an encore that began with “Cherry Rose.” He then closed the night with a spirited cover of “Whipping Post” by the The Allman Brothers Band, sending the packed room out on a high-energy Southern rock finish.

MusicRow Weekly (Rising Women On The Row, News, Charts, More…)

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This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly highlights a powerful moment for Nashville’s music community, as well as major industry developments across publishing, management, touring and artist signings. At the center of the week’s news is the continued celebration of the women helping shape Music City’s present and future. Click here to see the full edition.

The 13th annual Rising Women on the Row breakfast once again demonstrated the extraordinary spirit of Nashville’s music industry. Hosted by MusicRow Magazine, the event welcomed its largest crowd yet, more than 750 attendees, while maintaining the intimate, supportive atmosphere that has made it a hallmark gathering each year. The celebration took place at JW Marriott Nashville, where the industry gathered to honor six standout female executives: Courtney Allen, Jackie Augustus, Sara Knabe, Victoria Mason, Sophia Sansone and Elisa Vazzana. Keynote speaker Ebie McFarland delivered remarks reflecting on her two decades guiding some of country music’s most enduring careers, underscoring the impact of leadership, mentorship and resilience within the industry.

The celebration of female leadership continues in the pages of MusicRow Magazine’s newly released Women of Music Row Issue, the publication’s second edition dedicated entirely to the women influencing Nashville’s music ecosystem. This year’s cover star is BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville artist Alexandra Kay. Inside the issue, a number of artists and executives offer insight into the opportunities and challenges shaping the industry today. Kay joins Emily Ann Roberts, Kassi Ashton, Lauren Watkins and MacKenzie Carpenter for a candid roundtable discussion on navigating the modern music business. The issue also features industry veteran Lou Taylor discussing the recently appointed all-female C-suite at Tri Star Sports & Entertainment Group, while Sound Emporium’s Juanita Copeland reflects on her 30-year tenure leading one of Nashville’s most iconic recording facilities. Tucker Wetmore also shares perspective alongside his female-led team about the key role women have played in his rapid ascent. The issue additionally includes insights from McFarland and recognizes the Rising Women on the Row Class of 2026.

Elsewhere in industry leadership news, Academy of Country Music CEO Damon Whiteside has announced he will step down after six and a half years leading the organization. Whiteside will remain CEO through June 30, 2026, before transitioning into the role of CEO Emeritus for the remainder of the year.

The Country Music Association also revealed the recipients of its 2026 CMA Triple Play Awards, set for April 13 in Nashville. Hosted by songwriter Jim Beavers, the ceremony will recognize 16 songwriters who achieved the feat of writing three No. 1 songs within a 12-month period. This year’s honorees include Andy Albert, Louis Bell, John Byron, Jessie Jo Dillon, Ashley Gorley, Riley Green, Charlie Handsome, Jacob Kasher Hindlin, Ella Langley, Chase McGill, John Morgan, Blake Pendergrass, Taylor Phillips, Austin Post, Ernest Keith Smith and Morgan Wallen. In addition to the Triple Play honorees, CMA will celebrate more than 40 songwriters who have earned their first No. 1 country single since the last ceremony. Bart Herbison, Executive Director of the Nashville Songwriters Association International, will also be honored with the CMA Songwriter Advocate Award.

The week also brought several notable industry signings. Mary Kutter has joined WME for global representation. Rising country artist Walker Montgomery has signed a new label deal with Red Street Records. Nathan Wallace has signed with Concord Music Publishing, while Ella Gibson has joined G Major Management.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Dylan Scott takes the No. 1 spot with “What He’ll Never Have.” 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.

CRS 2026 Unveils Workshop Alley Agenda

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CRS 2026 has unveiled the agenda for Workshop Alley. The series will feature three tracks including AI Classroom, 360° Approach to Being a Jock, and Sales: Acoustic. Workshop Alley is set for March 20 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Industry experts participating across the tracks include Phil Becker, Stan Marczewski, Bo Matthews, Jess Jennings, Nikki Thomas and Sarah Frazier, among many others.

CRS 2026 is set for March 18–20 in Nashville. Online registration for the conference has closed. On-site registration will be available in Nashville at the current rate of $799 through the start of the event.

Full Workshop Alley Agenda:
AI Classroom: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Music Row 1
9:00 a.m. – 9:40 a.m. – “Efficiency Tools” – Phil Becker (Alpha Media)
9:45 a.m. – 10:25 a.m. – “Creative Tools” – Nick Steele (Audacy)
10:30 a.m. – 11:10 a.m. – “Prompt Writing” – Stan Marczewski (BBR Music Group/Stoney Creek Records)
11:15 a.m. – 11:55 a.m. – “30 Tech Tools in 30 Minutes” – Clay Walker (Audacy)
360° Approach to Being a Jock: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Music Row 3
9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. – “Fix Your Feed” – Bo Matthews (Super Hi-Fi) & Izzy Guti (Disruptive Soul)
10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. – “Boosting Your Leverage in Contract Talks”
10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. – “From Sold to Sound: Imaging & Promos” – Neil Wilson (Neil Wilson Voiceovers), Jess Jennings (iHeartMedia), Cowboy Kyle (iHeartMedia)
11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. – “Breaks That Land: Relatable, Real, Zero Clichés” – MoJoe Roberts (iHeart)
11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – “Make the Music Work for You: Music Scheduling” – Nikki Thomas (Bristol Broadcasting Company)
Sales: Acoustic: 10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m. | Level 4 – Acoustic Room
10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. – “Cycle of an Ad: Everyone is in Sales” – Moderated by Sarah Frazier (Audacy)

Humanable Expands AI-Free Certification Process

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Humanable has began execution of Phase 2, expanding their human-created art certification to all other art forms. This includes podcasts, short form videos, audiobooks, movies, and photography. Humanable’s goal is to distinguish Generative AI created material from fully human-made art.

“Our team is so excited to be expanding to other art forms,” shares Lili McGrady, President and Co-Founder, “This growth will allow artists and arts industries to protect their human-made creativity and its appreciation across different mediums. Humans will no longer have to wonder whether what they are seeing or hearing is made fully by humans or if it is AI slop or something in between. Humans will be able to find human artists and human artwork. Together, we can preserve a human future!”

Launched in 2024, Humanable ensures consumers, curators, distributors, PROs, DSPs, buyers, and other artists are able to know if their consumption is fully human created, without the use of Generative AI. Their industry-wide standard certification provides a unique, individual identifier that helps prevent GenAI art from erasing royalties of composers, musicians, and artists.

Kelsea Ballerini Added To Grand Ole Opry Carnegie Hall Show

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Opry member Kelsea Ballerini has been added to the all-star lineup for “An Evening with the Grand Ole Opry” on March 20 at Carnegie Hall.

The one-night-only event is part of Carnegie Hall’s United in Sound: America at 250 festival, which celebrates the nation’s 250th anniversary and marks the continuation of the Opry’s 100th year with unforgettable performances. This special performance also features Opry members Scotty McCreery, Rhonda Vincent and Henry Cho, and special guests Wyatt Flores and The War and Treaty.

The show will mark the Opry’s fourth headlining performance at Carnegie Hall. The Opry made its Carnegie Hall debut in 1947 under the billing “Ernest Tubb and the Grand Ole Opry Stars” with a sold-out performance also featuring the “King of Country Music” Roy Acuff, Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys, Minnie Pearl, Red Foley, Eddy Arnold, and The Carter Sisters with Mother Maybelle Carter.

A return performance in 1961 benefited the Musician’s Aid Society and was headlined by superstar Patsy Cline in her first and only Carnegie Hall appearance among other all-stars. The Grand Ole Opry’s 2005 performance, marking its 80th anniversary, showcased Trace Adkins, Vince Gill, Alison Krauss, Alan Jackson, Martina McBride, Brad Paisley, Ricky Skaggs, Trisha Yearwood along with longtime Opry members Charley Pride, Little Jimmy Dickens, and Bill Anderson.

Tickets for the March 20 show are available here.

Industry Ink: Toby Keith, Megan Moroney, The Band Loula, ASCAP

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Toby Keith Honored By Oklahoma State Legislature With Turnpike Naming

Shelley, Tricia and Stelen Covel and Krystal Keith official honored with the naming of a new turnpike the Toby Keith Expressway, with Oklahoma Turnpike Authority members raising Red Solo Cups in recognition of the superstar.

Toby Keith has been honored by the Oklahoma State Legislature with a turnpike named in his honor. On March 3, Keith’s family attended the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority’s monthly meeting to be officially recognized for the State Legislature’s recent resolution to name the new turnpike the Toby Keith Expressway.

Last month, Rep. Jason Blair, R-Moore, and Sen. Lisa Standridge, R-Norman presented the resolution, which honors Keith’s life, patriotism and enduring contributions to Oklahoma and the nation. The measure was adopted by both houses of the Legislature, and was met with a standing ovation on the Senate floor. The Toby Keith Expressway will be a 28-mile east-west connector turnpike from Interstate 44 east to Interstate 35 near Indian Hills Road, continuing east and north to Interstate 40 at the Kickapoo Turnpike.

 

Megan Moroney Brings Good ‘Medicine’ To Jimmy Fallon

Jimmy Fallon and Megan Moroney. Photo: Todd Owyoung/NBC

Megan Moroney performed this week on NBC’s The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, her second performance on the late night talk show. She delivered a rowdy rendition of “Medicine” on the show from her stratospheric new album Cloud 9, which recently debuted at No. 1 on the all-genre Billboard 200. Continuing the jet-force momentum behind Cloud 9, Moroney is now gearing up for her debut appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show, airing next Wednesday (March 11).

 

The Band Loula Rocks Station Inn Residency With Some Swampgrass

The Band Loula

Rising country/roots duo The Band Loula kicked off their three-night Swampgrass Nights residency with Gary Nichols at Nashville’s legendary The Station Inn with two sold-out performances. Both nights featured performances with surprise guests including John Osborne, Ashley McBryde, Shelly Fairchild and Rob and Ronnie McCoury (Del McCoury Band).

The Band Loula will be back for their final performance on March 29 and is also preparing to release their next new song, “Mother’s Mother,” on March 20. During opening weekend at The Station Inn, producer John Osborne joined them onstage to perform the song in a full-circle moment that gave fans a glimpse into the band’s upcoming release. Before the new music drops, The Band Loula will be busy on the road, starting with a stop at the Warner Records Nashville CRS luncheon. They’ll also head to Austin for a series of high-profile performances at SXSW.

 

ASCAP Hosts Bluebird Songwriters Round

Pictured (L-R): ASCAP’s Ryan O’Grady, Emmy Moyen, Julia Morey, Gavin Lucas, Cyrena Wages and ASCAP’s Emilia James

ASCAP hosted a songwriters’ round at the Bluebird Cafe’ in Nashville on March 4 as part of their monthly showcase series dedicated to supporting emerging storytellers. ASCAP members Cyrena Wages, Emmy Moyen, Gavin Lucas and Julia Morey took the stage at the iconic Music City venue to share some of their songs and stories.

Lauren Alaina To Reveal Final ACM Radio Award Winners At CRS New Faces Show

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Lauren Alaina will reveal the final ACM Radio Award winners for National On-Air Personality of the Year – Daily and National On-Air Personality of the Year – Weekly on stage at the New Faces of Country Music Show on March 20, completing the full slate of ACM Radio Awards announced across CRS 2026.

Earlier in the week at CRS Honors, the winners for ACM Station of the Year and On-Air Personality of the Year will be revealed. Additionally, during the New Faces Show the CRS/Country Aircheck Awards will be presented, honoring innovation, leadership, and outstanding contributions to the country radio format. The evening will also include the presentation of the Tom Rivers Humanitarian Award, recognizing exceptional philanthropic leadership within the country radio community. The 2026 honoree will be introduced by 2023 recipient and CRB Board member Brent Michaels.

This year’s New Faces of Country Music Show will feature performances from Kelsey Hart, Ella Langley, Chase Matthew, John Morgan, Meghan Patrick, and Josh Ross. Country radio personality Elaina Smith will return as host. Co-partnered by the Academy of Country Music and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the New Faces of Country Music Show continues its longstanding tradition of supporting St. Jude’s lifesaving mission.

Skylar Grey Signs With Casual Media Partners For Management

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Skylar Grey & Heather Vassar. Photo: Shervin Lainez

Skylar Grey has signed with Casual Media Partners. She is represented for management by Founder and CEO Heather Vassar.

Grey has collaborated with artists including Eminem, Macklemore, Jelly Roll, Rihanna and Zedd, with credits on hits including “Where’d You Go,” “Love The Way You Lie” and “Coming Home.” She has also contributed to films including as Venom 2, Aquaman, 50 Shades of Grey and the Fast and Furious franchise. Her combined catalog has earned over 19 billion total streams, plus she has amassed a combined social following of more than 4M.

Grey is set to release her new album Wasted Potential on May 22. The album marks her first release in the partnership with Vassar. She has previewed the project with her new single single “Come,” available today (March 6).

Priscilla Block Makes Ryman Debut

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Priscilla Block. Photo: JC Robbins

Priscilla Block made her Ryman debut on Wednesday night (March 4), capping her 2026 “Things You Didn’t See Tour.”

The show featured surprise guests including Tracy Lawrence, who joined Block for “Find Out Who Your Friends Are,” Shenandoah, who stepped on stage for “Two Dozen Roses,” Sara Evans for a duet of “Suds in the Bucket,” and Chase Matthew for a performance of “Stranger Things” off Block’s new album.

Midway through the show, Block was honored onstage with a RIAA Platinum certification for “You, Me, And Whiskey,” her No. 1 hit with Justin Moore.

Block performed every song from her new album, Things You Didn’t See, along with a mashup of Sabrina Carpenter’s “Please Please Please,” Billie Eilish’s “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” and Gracie Abrams’ “That’s So True.”

Pictured (L-R): Jimmy Rector (MCA), Stephanie Wright (MCA), Charly Salvatore (underscore works), Priscilla Block, Jordin Wentworth (underscore works), Damon Moberly (MCA).

Shenandoah & Priscilla Block. Photo: JC Robbins

Photo: JC Robbins

Priscilla Block & Tracy Lawrence. Photo: JC Robbins