Alli Walker Signs With Huff Co. & ONErpm

Pictured (L-R): Brad Turcotte, Dann Huff, David Huff, Alli Walker, Mike Easterlin, Ryan Cunningham and Lindsey Terry. Photo: Eric Paul

Alli Walker has signed with Huff Co. and ONErpm.

“I’m incredibly excited to begin this next chapter with Huff Co. and ONErpm. Getting the opportunity to work alongside Dann and David Huff has been a dream come true, and I can’t wait for fans to hear what we’ve been creating together,” shares Walker. “This new music feels like the most authentic version of who I am as an artist, and I’m grateful to have such an amazing team behind me as we share it with the world.”

The Prince Edward Island, Canada, native has amassed nearly one million social media followers and three CCMA Award nominations. Her first release from the new partnership, “DOG AT THE DOOR,” is set to release July 31. Walker is also featured on a newly released Amazon Original recording of “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” alongside fellow country artist Julia Cole, released earlier this month exclusively through Amazon Music.

“Alli Walker has a unique blend of Country Rock that no-one is doing. Her sound combines big heavy guitars with a slight mixture of Country roots and tops it off with urgent edgy melodic vocals. She also includes her background of playing traditional bagpipes to top it all off!” says David Huff.

“The first time you hear an Alli Walker song or see her perform, you know exactly who she is as an artist. She’s built a distinct identity that feels authentic and unmistakably her own, and that’s what makes her stand out in the country-rock space. We’re excited to welcome Alli to ONErpm’s joint venture with Huff Co. and help amplify everything she’s been building,” adds Ryan L. Cunningham, Senior Director of A&R at ONErpm.

G Major Mgmt Expands Roster & Team

Mae Estes, Clayton Mullen, Taylor Venis and Kenzie Couch. Photos: Courtesy of G Major Mgmt

G Major Mgmt has expanded its roster and team with the addition of artists Mae Estes and Clayton Mullen, and team members Taylor Venis and Kenzie Couch.

“The heart of G Major has always been the people,” shares G Major Founder Virginia Bunetta. “We look for artists who have a clear vision and a strong work ethic. Our team is one that will champion them every step of the way.”

Blue Highway Records’ Estes has earned recognition as a member of CMT’s Next Women of Country Class of 2024, was named the Association of Independent Music Publishers’ Rising Artist-Writer of the Year in 2024 and is a three-time Arkansas Country Music Association Female Vocalist of the Year. The Arkansas native recently released her label debut, “The 90s Called.”

“I’m absolutely blown away at the powerhouse staff that makes up G Major,” shares Estes. “Virginia is the ultimate leader and truly surrounds herself with only the best. The alignment of this partnership has been the biggest blessing to me and the rest of my team. I’ve truly never been so excited about the future of my music. I’m so excited to continue to dream with and learn from this incredible group of people!”

“Mae Estes is a treasure,” shares Bunetta. “Her songwriting, vocal ability and her love, passion and stewardship for traditional country music is unrivaled. We are thrilled to be a part of her journey.”

Mullen has amassed 40 million career streams and has shared the stage with the likes of Warren Zeiders, Vincent Mason and Logan Crosby. He is preparing to release a new EP this summer with support from CmdShft and will preview the new project with “Can’t Compete with Carolina,” available Friday (July 31).

“I was fortunate to meet the G Major team at exactly the right time in my career,” says Mullen. “I feel like I’m finding my stride as an artist, and I’m ready to take that next big step. From our very first conversation, it was clear we shared the same vision, and I knew I had found a team that truly believed in what I’m building. Their experience, passion and commitment to developing artists made G Major the perfect partner for this next chapter. It already feels like home, and I couldn’t be more excited to see what we’ll accomplish together.”

“Clayton Mullen has built a strong foundation through years of consistent touring and a deep commitment to his craft,” shares G Major Sr. Director of Marketing Samantha Thornton. “It’s exciting to see his artistry continue to grow with each new chapter. We’re honored to be part of his journey as he reaches even more fans.”

Venis joins as Day-to-Day Manager, bringing more than six years of experience across executive operations, artist relations and event management. A Magna Cum Laude graduate of Belmont University’s Music Business program, she has held roles with Red Light Management, SB Projects, Q Prime South and Riser House Entertainment. She joined Big Loud Records in 2021 as Sr. Executive Assistant to the company’s CEO, rising to Day-to-Day manager, where she oversaw merchandise and album launch campaigns, including the record-breaking all-genre No. 1 album One Thing At A Time, as well as Director of Special Events. Venis will serve as Day-to-Day Manager for Estes while working closely with G Major’s roster, helping oversee artist strategy and execution.

Couch joins the company as Assistant Day-to-Day Manager after building a strong foundation in country music promotion. A graduate of the University of Tennessee, she most recently served as Promotions Coordinator at MCA, where she contributed to multiple No. 1 country radio singles for artists including Jordan Davis, Sam Hunt and Luke Bryan, as well as Taylor Swift’s historic return to country radio with “I Knew It, I Knew You.”

“I am beyond excited for the next chapter of G Major’s growth,” shares Bunetta. “Kenzie and Taylor are incredible additions to our operations team who are already making an impact with their energy and professionalism.”

Myles Erlick Slates Debut Album ‘HANDCRAFTED’ For September

Singer-songwriter and actor Myles Erlick will release his debut album, HANDCRAFTED, on Sept. 4. Alongside the album announcement, Erlick released new track “Dyin’ in This Living Room,” an intimate ballad inspired by a simple moment at home that became unforgettable.

Produced alongside Dann Huff and David Huff in partnership with ONErpm, HANDCRAFTED finds the perfect sound to close out the summer. Written by Erlick, the project captures the beauty of love and chasing something that is bigger than yourself, and each song is fueled by restless ambition and reflects an artist who is constantly evolving, never content to stay in one place.

Latest single “Dyin’ In This Living Room” adds to early album previews “Gimme Love,” “Past Life” and “2AM Playlist.” “Gimme Love” is a high-energy, kickstart to the album, capturing the rush of instant attraction and the thrill of falling hard for someone. “Past Life” tells the story of two strangers whose immediate connection feels so natural it’s as if they’ve loved each other before, or in a past life. “2AM Playlist” reflects on the way familiar songs can take on an entire new meaning when falling so deeply in love. The three singles set the scene for the new album, introducing its themes of love, connection, and coming-of-age.

The Canadian-born Erlick first broke out in the title role in Billy Elliot the Musical on Broadway, appearing in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story and most recently in the Amazon Prime series Motorheads before transitioning from viral performer to rising recording artist. His catalog has earned a rapidly growing global audience, with more than 3.3 million followers across his socials.

HANDCRAFTED Track List:
1. “Hell of a Start” (Myles Erlick, Nolan Sotillo)
2. “Gimme Love” (Myles Erlick, Leland Grant)
3. “Dyin’ In This Living Room” (Myles Erlick, David Thomson)
4. “Past Life” (Myles Erlick, Chris Hurst, Peter Daniel Newman)
5. “2AM Playlist” (Myles Erlick, Brad Wagner, Randall Fowler)
6. “Do or Die” (Myles Erlick, Leland Grant, Mark Taylor)
7. “Better Bring Boots” (Myles Erlick, Peter Daniel Newman, Chris Hurst)
8. “25 To Life” (Myles Erlick, Ty Graham)
9. “Sounds Like You” (Myles Erlick, Aaron Eshuis, Neil Medley, Mike Walker)
10. “Little Bit More” (Feat. Erin Kinsey) (Myles Erlick, Heather Carpenter)
11. “Fight or Flight” (Myles Erlick)
12. “All I Needed” (Myles Erlick, Aaron Eshius, Neil Medley, Mike Walker)
13. “Where My Running Ends” (Myles Erlick, Ty Graham)
14. “All I Needed” (Special Edition Track) (Myles Erlick, Aaron Eshius, Neil Medley, Mike Walker)

BREAKING: Borchetta Entertainment Group Taps Kevin Spellman & Henley Halem As Co-Vice Presidents

Pictured (L-R): Henley Halem, Scott Borchetta and Kevin Spellman. Photo: Courtesy of Borchetta Entertainment Group

Borchetta Entertainment Group, the full-service management division launched by Scott Borchetta earlier this year, has tapped Kevin Spellman and Henley Halem to lead as Co-Vice Presidents.

“The addition of Kevin and Henley to the Borchetta Entertainment Group Management division shows the level of service and commitment we are making to our artists,” says Borchetta. “Kevin and I co-managed Cheap Trick into the Rock’n Roll Hall of Fame and have always remained close. Add Henley Halem to the mix, who is an absolute flamethrower, and this collective is at full strength!”

Halem brings more than two decades of experience across artist management, A&R and marketing to Borchetta Entertainment Group, where he will manage a roster including Yung Gravy, Getter, Terror Reid and DJ 4B.

“I’ve spent my career in service of artists — building the infrastructure that turns moments into long, lasting careers,” says Halem. “That’s exactly the work we’re setting out to do here. Scott Borchetta is one of the most successful architects of artist careers this business has ever seen, and together with Kevin Spellman, we’re building something really special.”

Spellman brings 26 years of artist management experience to Borchetta Entertainment Group, where he will develop and manage a roster that includes Molly Tuttle, Easton Corbin, John Foster and Mark Collie. He joins the company from Vector Management, where he most recently served as Head of the Nashville office.

“I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity to step into the VP role at Borchetta Entertainment Group,” adds Spellman. “Scott’s knowledge of this business is unmatched, and getting to learn from him every day while building something special together is a privilege I don’t take for granted. I’m excited for what’s ahead for our artists and this team.”

Joy Oladokun Rekindles Her Creative Flame On Upcoming New Album ‘Hope Is A Heavy Thing’

Joy Oladokun is gearing up for the release of her new album Hope Is A Heavy Thing on Sept. 25 via Concord Records. Ahead of the release, Oladokun has unveiled a new song from the project, “Kind.”

The 12-track collection marks a bold new chapter for the artist, expanding Oladokun’s sound while continuing to prove her ability to bend genres while also bridging cultures. Across the album, which Oladokun produced with Nigerian producer Spellz, she explores identity, connection and self-discovery with the emotional honesty that has become a hallmark of her songwriting. In addition to “Kind” and the previously shared track “Zombie,” the album also features a collaboration with Nigerian artist Adekunle Gold.

“‘To understand your future you have to confront your past.’ This is the driving theme behind Hope Is A Heavy Thing,” shares Oladokun. “It’s a collection I wrote to help myself find my light again after burning out. Produced in Nashville, New York, and the back of a speeding tour bus, this album is sonically an homage to all of the music that inspires me. On this record you’ll find music that nods the brilliance of the Soulquarians, the rawness of Bob Dylan, the rhythms of afrobeats, and the sampling prowess of J Dilla. Not to mention a callback to the Ronettes and a few songs that find inspiration in rock and roll protest music of the 60’s and 70’s.

“You’ll also find me at the most authentic I’ve been able to be as an artist” she continues. “It is a record I wrote for anyone who finds themselves wondering how to hope in these times. Sometimes it means looking back and digging through the muck to find what’s worth fighting for again.”

A queer Black musician and daughter of Nigerian immigrants, Oladokun has become a vital cultural voice, writing songs that explore identity, faith, mental health, and social justice with honesty and restraint. She has collaborated with fellow artists including Chris Stapleton, Brandi Carlile, Maxo Kream, Jack Antonoff, Jason Isbell and Noah Kahan, and has joined Isbell, Kahan, John Mayer, Hozier, My Morning Jacket, Tyler Childers, Pink Sweat$, Leon Bridges and Manchester Orchestra on the road.

Hope Is a Heavy Thing Track List:
1. “Raised By The Radio (A Reintroduction)”
2. “Dear Maria”
3. “Easy Company”
4. “Kind”
5. “TOGIAIM”
6. “Sage” (feat. Adekunle Gold)
7. “The End Of The World”
8. “Zombie”
9. “Toothache”
10. “Don’t Call Me Baby!”
11. “Die Young”
12. “Time Is A River”

Josh Ross Signs With CAA [Exclusive]

Josh Ross

Josh Ross has inked with CAA for representation in all areas.

Ross has earned more than 1.4 billion global streams while building a successful career across North America. The Canadian-born, Nashville-based singer first gained attention with a string of independent releases before breaking through with his debut EP, Complicated.

The project earned him his first JUNO Award for Country Album of the Year in 2025 and included the hit “Trouble,” which reached No. 1 and is certified Double Platinum in Canada and Gold by the RIAA in the U.S. Ross also leads the 2026 CCMA Awards with seven nominations, tying for the most of any artist.

Ross has scored four No. 1 singles at Canadian country radio and made history with back-to-back No. 1 hits on U.S. Country radio with “Single Again” and “Hate How You Look.” “Single Again” made him the first male Canadian country artist in nearly 30 years to top the U.S. Country Airplay chart. The song is now certified 3x Platinum in Canada and Gold in the U.S., while “Hate How You Look” is Platinum in Canada.

He has also toured with Luke Bryan and Jelly Roll. Ross will make summer festival appearances at Festival du Cochon, County Line Country Fest, XRoads41 and more before heading to the UK and Ireland on his headlining “Later Tonight Tour.” He will then join Dan + Shay on “The Young Tour” this fall.

Ross is managed by Simon Tikhman, Chief Zaruk and Tracy Martin of The Core Entertainment.

Izzy Mahoubi Signs With 3686 Records

Pictured (L-R): Eric Arjes (3686 Records), Izzy Mahoubi and Levi Hummon (3686 Records)

Singer-songwriter Izzy Mahoubi has inked with 3686 Records.

Mahoubi first gained attention after her cover of a Rage Against the Machine song went viral, earning more than 7 million combined views on Instagram and TikTok. The moment introduced thousands of new fans to the Arizona native’s original music and helped establish her signature sound, a mix of Southwest emo, Southern gothic and desert blues, driven by honest songwriting and powerful rock performances.

A seasoned live performer, Mahoubi has shared the stage with artists including Em Beihold, The California Honeydrops, and Adam Melchor while building a loyal fanbase across the Southwest. She has also performed at Arizona’s Mesa Music Festival and Dreamy Draw Festival.

“We are so excited to welcome Izzy Mahoubi to the 3686 Records family,” shares 3686 Records Co-Founder Levi Hummon. “We first discovered her through her viral ‘Rage Against the Machine’ cover, but it didn’t take long to realize her original music was just as incredible. Izzy is the real deal, and we truly believe the world is about to have its faces melted by a genuine rock star. We couldn’t be more excited to be a part of what’s next.”

“Signing any deal is a privilege, but signing with a team as passionate and encouraging as 3686 feels like a dream come true,” adds Mahoubi. “I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to work on my next project with. I’m beyond grateful to the entire team, and especially Levi and Eric [Arjes], for believing in me and these Southwest emo songs. I cannot wait to share this next chapter of music.”

MusicRow Weekly (Andy Schuon, News, Charts, More…)

This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly is packed with major executive moves, new signings and milestone career moments across Nashville’s music industry. Click here to see the full edition.

Leading the headlines, the Academy of Country Music has named Andy Schuon as its new Chief Executive Officer. Schuon will officially step into the role on Sept. 1, bringing decades of entertainment and media leadership to the organization as it enters its next chapter.

The Country Music Association also announced a significant leadership change, with CMA SVP of Industry Relations & Philanthropy and CMA Foundation Executive Director Tiffany Kerns set to depart the organization on Sept. 2 after years of service to the country music community.

On the label front, Triple Tigers Records/AKANDO Music welcomed veteran promotion executive Chris Palmer as Vice President of National Promotion, while Riser House Entertainment expanded its promotion team by adding Paul Grosser as Director of Regional Promotion.

Publishing activity remained strong this week as hit songwriter Adam James signed a worldwide publishing agreement with Sony Music Publishing Nashville. Acclaimed songwriter Stephony Smith also entered a new chapter, inking a deal with SMACKSongs. Meanwhile, rising trio DELTONA signed a publishing deal with Sony Music Publishing Nashville in partnership with The Core Entertainment.

Several artists also announced new career partnerships. Colton Dawson signed with WME for representation, Lakelin Lemmings joined The Kinkead Entertainment Agency for exclusive global booking, Wyatt McCubbin inked with Dave Cobb’s Lucille Records, and Evan Bartels signed with Joan Of Arc Records.

The week also featured memorable career milestones on the Grand Ole Opry stage. Rising artist Tyce Delk made his Opry debut last Thursday (July 16), while Daniel Grindstaff & The Uptown Troubadours also stepped into the Opry circle for the first time.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Ella Langley and Morgan Wallen take the No. 1 spot with “I Can’t Love You Anymore.” 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.

Industry Ink: Shania Twain, SOURCE, Phil Barton

Shania Twain Performs Exclusive SiriusXM Show

Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for SiriusXM

Shania Twain celebrated the release of her new album with a special one-night-only show for SiriusXM to a packed room of subscribers and fans at New York City’s Racket NYC. She performed fan favorites like “Man! I Feel Like A Woman!,” “Come On Over,” and “You’re Still The One” as well as songs from her new album including “Stranger Things,” “Dirty Rosie” and the title track, “Little Miss Twain.”

To commemorate the album release, SiriusXM also launched Little Miss Twain Radio, an exclusive pop-up channel celebrating her career and the music that has shaped her journey.

 

SOURCE Nashville Celebrates 35 Years

Pictured (L-R): Co-founder Shelia Shipley Biddy, current President Mallory Mason Pascal and co-founder Judy Harris

SOURCE Nashville members gathered at Marathon Village on July 15 to celebrate the organization’s 35th anniversary.

Attendees socialized and enjoyed 90s country music, a photobooth and more. Co-founders Shelia Shipley Biddy and Judy Harris were in attendance, who started the organization with the late Pat Rolfe.

 

The Listening Room Celebrates Phil Barton’s 500th Show

Pictured (L-R): Victoria Banks, Tristan McIntosh, Phil Barton, Liz Rose, Lee Brice, Guest Fan Performer, Chris Blair, Seth Ennis and Cameron Bedell. Photo: Courtesy of The Listening Room Cafe

The Listening Room celebrated Phil Barton‘s 500th show at the venue on July 21 at a sold-out show.

Special guests included Victoria Banks, Tristan McIntosh, Liz Rose, Lee Brice, Chris Blair, Seth Ennis, Cameron Bedell, Cassidy Daniels, Chris Ryan, Kyle Schuesler, Rose Falcon, Rodney Atkins, Andrew Ferris and Emily Shackelton.

CMA Hosts 13th Annual CMA EDU Leadership Summit

Photo: Addison Hilton/Courtesy of CMA

The Country Music Association welcomed its CMA EDU Class of 2026-2027 to Nashville for the 13th annual CMA EDU Leadership Summit, held Monday, July 20 through Wednesday, July 22 at CMA’s headquarters and locations across Nashville.

Photo: Addison Hilton/Courtesy of CMA

Over three immersive days, students participated in hands-on professional development, behind-the-scenes industry education, and conversations with artists, executives and CMA EDU alumni across multiple sectors of the Country Music business. This year’s class is made up of 34 students representing 24 universities across the country.

“CMA EDU is one of the most meaningful ways we invest in the long-term strength of the Country Music industry,” says Tiffany Kerns, CMA Senior Vice President, Industry Relations & Philanthropy. “When we created this program, the vision was to bring students and industry professionals together in one place, and to give emerging leaders access to the people, perspectives and relationships that can shape an entire career. It’s incredibly rewarding to see that vision continue to grow, with hundreds of alumni now working throughout the music industry. We hope every student leaves with new knowledge, genuine connections and the confidence to begin building a career of their own.”

Photo: Addison Hilton/Courtesy of CMA

On Monday, students were welcomed by CMA EDU alum Kate Watson (CMA Senior Director, Industry Relations) and Grace Martins (CMA Manager, Industry Relations), who introduced the class to the program before visiting Rock Nashville for a behind-the-scenes.

On Tuesday, Sarah Trahern (CMA CEO) opened the day with remarks, followed by a session led by Kerns. Students then heard from HARDY and members of his team, including Troy “Tracker” Johnson (Founder & Artist Manager, TRACK mgmt), Taylor Watson (Tour Manager) and Marisa Mineo (Head of Tour Marketing, The Neal Agency), during an artist team panel moderated by Madi White (CMA Manager, Integrated Marketing). The conversation explored how management, touring and tour marketing work together to support an artist’s career.

The afternoon continued with a management panel hosted by Sandbox Entertainment featuring Madison Moll (Digital Manager, Sandbox Entertainment Group), Lucia Kaminsky (President, Sandbox Entertainment Group) and Keith Bunn (Digital Director, Sandbox Entertainment Group) and moderated by Jordan Maynard (CMA Coordinator, Marketing). Students also heard directly from CMA EDU alumni working across the business, including Jackson Kiger (A&R Manager, Sony Music Publishing), Claire Martin (Agent Assistant, THE TEAM) and Landon Collins (A&R Analytics Manager, MCA). The day concluded with a writers round featuring Gloria Anderson, Caleb Mitchell and Braydon Watts.

Photo: Addison Hilton/Courtesy of CMA

Wednesday opened with a keynote conversation featuring Troy Tomlinson (Chairman and CEO, Universal Music Publishing Group Nashville). Students then participated in professional development opportunities including headshots, a Q&A with Kerns, and one-on-one conversations with Watson and Martins. The Summit concluded with a special “Live at CMA” conversation and performance from rising artist Stella Lefty, moderated by CMA EDU student Jade Blatter.

Applications for 2027-2028 program open Aug. 4. More information can be found here.