Riley Green Celebrates Two Historic Solo-Written No. 1s At BMI

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BMLG’s Scott Borchetta and NHRE’s Jimmy Harnen and Ryan Dokke presented BMI’s Riley Green with No. 1 plaques for “Don’t Mind If I Do” and “Worst Way,” along with a Gold plaque for “Change My Mind,” his current single and fastest-rising track at country radio to date. They also announced that “Worst Way” is now certified 3X Platinum by the RIAA. ; Photo Credit: Larry McCormack for BMI

BMI brought Riley Green and his team together on Wednesday afternoon (Feb. 11) to celebrate the artist’s historic back-to-back No. 1 hits, “Worst Way” and “Don’t Mind If I Do.”

Industry members, friends, and family gathered in the BMI lobby and received a warm welcome from BMI’s Clay Bradley. Gathered on stage were Green and Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment’s Scott Borchetta and Jimmy Harnen.

Bradley began by highlighting the rare nature of the achievement, noting that Green is the first country artist to land consecutive solo-written No. 1 singles on the Billboard Country Airplay chart since Taylor Swift.

“This marks the first time a country artist has landed back to back solo written number one singles on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. Since Ms. Taylor Swift, I think someone else here had something to do with that as well that deserves a big hand,” said Bradley. “Riley has accomplished what very few have ever done. He wrote two number one songs entirely by himself. That’s not just a milestone, it’s a reminder of a lost art form.”

Warner Chappell’s Jessi Vaughn Stevenson was the next to step to the mic, recalling a moment at a previous party where she predicted this very moment. “Most of you will not remember this, but a few years ago at the ‘Different Round Here,’ No. 1 party, I stood upstairs and I told Riley in front of his co-writers on the song that I really, really love his solo written songs even more,” laughed Stevenson. “Watching your live show, growing to what it is, hearing your songwriting continue to level up and seeing the shift from rising star to one of the most in-demand artists in the format, it’s been really incredible.”

Pictured: L to R: MusicRow‘s John Nix Arledge, Riley Green, MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson; Photo: Larry McCormack

Studio Bank’s Ron Cox also took a moment to highlight Green’s Buford Bonds Charitable Fund, an organization founded by Green to honor his grandfathers and serve the needs of veterans. In honor of the two No. 1s, Studio Bank made a donation to the fund.

Before Green spoke, Borchetta and Harnen praised his work ethic and authenticity. Harnen reminded everyone that both singles were certified Platinum before even reaching the top of the radio charts, and Borchetta said Green was the “epitome of Southern culture.”

The producer of the two tracks, Dann Huff, was unable to attend, but was praised by Bradley as “The Maestro” for his work in the studio. “Dan Huff the Maestro, is arranging and producing these records. They sound amazing,” Bradley said.

Finally, Green closed the afternoon out, offering his gratitude to his team, his parents, and his fans.

“I wanna thank all my co-writers for … oh nevermind….” joked Green. “I figured out you get even more if you write it by yourself. It’s easier that way. You don’t have to deal with a bunch of people in the room!”

Green then thanked collaborator Ella Langley for her part on “Don’t Mind If I Do.” “It was such a cool thing to have two giant songs with another artist out on the road and being able to play it together every week,” said Green.

“Something like this is really motivating. I think that as a songwriter it’s nice to have some type of recognition and get a pat on the shoulder from all of you and say what you’re doing is working.”

Corey Kent Celebrates Chart-Topper ‘This Heart’

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Pictured (L-R, back row): Kari Barnhart, Shaina Botwin, Dennis Reese, George Couri, Chris Fox, Mason Hunter, Laura Alexander, Shannan Hatch, Bethany Mako, Kos Weaver, Keithan Melton and Sam Shelton. (L-R, front row): Jacob Hackworth, Thomas Archer, Corey Kent, Michael Tyler, Blake Bollinger and Chris Farren. Photo: Larry McCormack for BMI

Corey Kent gathered the Nashville music industry at the BMI office on Tuesday (Feb. 10) to celebrate his chart-topping hit, “This Heart.”

Hosted by BMI and SESAC, the celebration reunited Kent with his collaborators, including songwriters Thomas Archer, Jacob Hackworth, Blake Bollinger, Michael Tyler and producer Chris Farren.

Emceed by BMI’s Mason Hunter, Boom Music Group’s Shaina Botwin, Sony Music Nashville’s Dennis Reese, Young Guns Publishing’s Laura Alexander, SESAC’s Shannan Hatch, Warner Chappell’s Bethany Mako, Combustion’s Keithan Melton and Goat Island Sound’s Sam Shelton each took the stage to honor the team behind the track.

Many echoed the same sentiments, thanking Kent and his team for their continued belief in the song and their commitment to pushing it all the way to the top of the charts.

Studio Bank sponsored the event, with Kari Barnhart presenting a special donation in honor of the writers to the Tim Tebow Foundation.

During the party, Kent gifted the songwriters and producer a commemorative bat to acknowledge the song’s success. To celebrate BMI’s new partnership with Green River Whiskey, Kent and each songwriter were each gifted a special single barrel bourbon.

The track marked Archer’s sixth No. 1, Hackworth’s second No. 1, Bollinger’s first No. 1 and Tyler’s seventh No. 1.

Each writer spoke of their long-time friendship and how proud they were to share this accomplishment with one another, thanking their families and teams for their hard work and sacrifices.

“This accomplishment in my mind is entirely a Sony radio team, a songwriter’s accomplishment and a producer accomplishment,” Kent shared during the event. “I’m just fortunate to be the artist that got to be on this song. I’ve never really changed musically what I’ve been doing. The only thing that has ever changed is that God decided to bless it, and so I want to give one-hundred percent of the credit to the hard-working people in this room and to Jesus Christ for changing my life.”

Photo: Larry McCormack for BMI

Photo: Larry McCormack for BMI

BREAKING: Scott Borchetta Exiting HYBE AMERICA, Will Reacquire Big Machine Records Brand [Updated]

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Scott Borchetta

Scott Borchetta is exiting HYBE AMERICA.

Borchetta founded Big Machine Records in 2005. Under his leadership, the company has developed and supported some of the music industry’s most successful artists of the past two decades. He has served as the CEO of Big Machine Label Group since HYBE’s purchase of Ithaca Holdings in 2021.

Borchetta will continue to use the Big Machine Records brand for his future ventures. HYBE AMERICA will retain assets, the distribution deal, the publishing company Big Machine Music and a number of talent currently on the label’s roster including Thomas Rhett, Brett Young, Midland, Justin Moore, Carly Pearce, Preston Cooper, Jackson Dean and Mae Estes.

The HYBE-run company will operate under a new label name, and an announcement on the label’s new leadership will be made in the upcoming days. Additionally, The Valory Music Co. will be folded under the new company.

“Scott has made a lasting mark on the music industry with his sharp eye for talent and his unique vision,” says Isaac Lee, Chairman and CEO of HYBE AMERICA. “He recently approached us to ask for our support as he works to pursue a new, independent and entrepreneurial stage of his career, working to advance the Big Machine brand separately from HYBE. While we are sad to see Scott go, we understand – and want him to pursue his passions, and are grateful for all he did for the company.”

“I am incredibly appreciative of my partnership with HYBE over these last five years,” Borchetta adds. “Chairman Bang often talks of his fondness for entrepreneurs and he, Isaac, and the HYBE leadership team have extended that belief with this incredible showing of support by allowing me to continue to build upon my vision of the Big Machine Records brand. For that, I am forever grateful and wish them nothing but continued and incredible global success.”

“HYBE AMERICA will continue to support our artists’ interests across music, film, television, brands and culture in the U.S. market and beyond,” shares Lee. “We are beyond excited for our future in Nashville and will make further announcements in due course.”

According to an interview with Billboard, Tim McGraw, Rascal Flatts, Lady A, The Jack Wharff Band, Aaron Lewis, Cole Goodwin and MacKenzie Carpenter are among the artists going with Borchetta. With Riley Green being at Nashville Harbor, he is also staying with him. The distribution deal with Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment will remain with HYBE.

As for employees, the interview reveals that Sandi Spika Borchetta will join him, as well 16 other staff members and the Nashville Harbor team. They will stay at the Big Machine offices on Music Row, and he expects that, “HYBE’s intention is to have their own standalone space which they will announce when they are ready.”

Borchetta also shares that he intends to start a new publishing company, as Big Machine Music will stay with HYBE.

Industry Ink: Ella Langley, Chris Stapleton, Salute To 90s Country, Redferrin, More

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Ella Langley Stars in American Eagle’s New Jeans Country Campaign

Ella Langley. Photo: Courtesy of American Eagle

Ella Langley is appearing in American Eagle’s newest brand campaign, American Eagle Jeans Country. As part of the launch, Langley, named the brand’s “Denim Darling,” has also debuted a curated shop on AE.com, featuring her personal favorites across denim, easy tees, layering pieces, and everyday accessories, all styled the way she actually wears them on and off stage.

 

Chris Stapleton Unveils Traveller Whiskey Full Proof

Chris Stapleton. Photo: David McClister

Chris Stapleton and Buffalo Trace Distillery Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley have unveiled Traveller Whiskey Full Proof, a bold evolution of the original Blend No. 40, and the award-winning brand’s first line extension since its January 2024 debut.

“Prior to collaborating with Harlen Wheatley and Buffalo Trace Distillery on Traveller Whiskey, I generally leaned toward higher-proof and barrel-strength bottles,” Stapleton shares. “Needless to say, when we decided to experiment with a higher-proof expression, I was excited to see where that could land. One night after a show, we had two potential Full Proof contenders backstage with the band and some friends. Everyone agreed 121 was the clear winner. It’s the same easy-to-drink DNA, just turned up a few notches. I think Traveller Whiskey Full Proof is one of those moments where more of a good thing is definitely a good thing.”

 

‘All-Star Salute To ‘90s Country’ Welcomes Over 30 Country Legacy Faves

Pictured (L-R, front row): John Berry, Deana Carter, Carlene Carter, Lee Roy Parnell, Paulette Carlson, Bryan White; (L-R, second row): Keith Bilbrey, Lee Greenwood, Rick Trevino, Tony Rich, Eric Blankenship, Ty Herndon, Michelle Wright, T. Graham Brown, Lorrie Morgan, Ken Mellons, Janie Fricke, Jamey Johnson; (L-R, third row): Richard Young, Fred Young, Doug Phelps, Greg Martin, Mark Wills, Andy Griggs, Paul Overstreet, Terry McBride, Christy Forester, June Forester, Kathy Forester, Kim Forester; (L-R, fourth row): Billy Dean, Lionel Cartwright, Wade Hayes, Rhett Akins, Neal McCoy, Heath Wright, Darryl Worley, Tracy Byrd, Michael Peterson, Aaron Tippin, Larry Stewart, Tim Rushlow, Richie McDonald. Photo: Bud Gambrell Photography

The Von Braun Center in Huntsville, Alabama hosted the “All-Star Salute To ‘90s Country: Honky Tonk Time Machine” on Feb. 5 with over 30 artists performing their hits for a sold-out crowd. The audience ranging in ages from 5 to 85 were on their feet most of the night dancing in the aisles and singing to songs that helped shape their lives. The event was filmed for an upcoming TV broadcast, and featured Billy Dean, Lionel Cartwright, Wade Hayes, Rhett Akins, Neal McCoy, Aaron Tippin, Lee Roy Parnell, Bryan White, Ty Herndon, and many more country favorites. The night included 17 chart-topping performances with special tributes to Daryle Singletary, Kevin Sharp, Randy Travis and George Jones; as well as three historic throwback moments from artists Janie Fricke (Female Vocalist of the Year), Lee Greenwood (Male Vocalist of the Year), and The Forester Sisters (Group of the Year).

 

Redferrin Surprised With Platinum For Viral Smash ‘Just Like Johnny’

Redferrin, The William Gerard Group, Warner Records Nashville. Photo: Madelyn Ormond

Warner Record Nashville’s Redferrin visited the label’s office on Feb. 5 to toast the release of his new song “If I Was California” and received a surprise from the label and his management during the celebration. Cris Lacy, Warner Records Nashville Chair & President, presented the hitmaker with a Platinum plaque commemorating his viral smash “Just Like Johnny,” which appeared on Redferrin’s debut EP, Old No. 7.

Redferrin is credited as both a co-writer and co-producer on the Platinum song. His new track “If I Was California” is available now and serves as the first release off his upcoming 2026 project, showcasing a different side from the Tennessee son.

 

Tess Kerksen Named Digital Marketing & Account Manager At Noise New Media

Tess Kerksen

Tess Kerksen has joined Noise New Media as Digital Marketing and Account Manager. Kerksen brings more than a decade of experience leading integrated marketing, public relations, and communications efforts for large-scale, high-visibility organizations. Most recently, she served in senior leadership roles at Wisconsin State Fair Park, where she oversaw comprehensive marketing and communications strategies spanning paid media, brand campaigns, digital platforms, media relations, and crisis communications. In addition, she completed the IAFE’s Institute of Fair Management (IFMG) certification in 2023.

 

Brooke Lee Talks Chevy Campaign On ‘Ward Guenther Show’

Brooke Lee, Ward Guenther. Photo: Courtesy: Apple Music

Spirit Nashville Recordings/2Mix Music artist and songwriter Brooke Lee joined “The Ward Guenther Show” on Apple Music in the studio this week for a conversation about her new music, including her song “Burn To Black,” and what it was like to sing from the top of Castle Rock while filming the newly launched “See The USA In Your Chevrolet” campaign.

She Is The Music To Honor Megan Moroney At Second Annual Sharing The Spotlight Event

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Megan Moroney. Photo: Amber Asaly

She Is The Music’s second annual Sharing the Spotlight event, a powerful evening to celebrate impactful women in the music industry, will honor Megan Moroney and music industry executive Sylvia Rhone on Feb. 18 in Los Angeles.

Co-founded by superstar Alicia Keys, UMPG Chairman & CEO Jody Gerson, recording and mix engineer Ann Mincieli and UTA’s Co-Head of Music Sam Kirby Yoh, SITM will bring together music’s leading artists, executives, and advocates at the event. In a unique twist that embodies SITM’s mission of increasing the number of women working in music, SITM has selected a group of elite music industry powerhouses who will each invite a female in the music business with whom to share their spotlight. The special event reinforces the importance of lifting each other up and creating meaningful connections.

Multi-Platinum hitmaker Megan Moroney is the Artist Spotlight, recognizing not only her chart-topping success but the intentional, gender-balanced approach she brings to every collaboration, from the studio to the stage. Moroney’s commitment to working with diverse, female-led teams demonstrates that excellence and equity can and should go hand in hand. Alicia Keys will present the Artist Spotlight to Moroney.

“Megan represents something so important for this moment in music—the way she builds her teams and shows up for other women is leadership,” says Keys. “Sylvia has been doing this for decades, and tonight is about recognizing that none of us get here alone, and when we share our spotlight, we make the whole industry brighter.”

“I’m so honored to receive this recognition from She Is The Music. I wouldn’t be where I am today, in my career and in life, without the support of all the incredible females around me,” shares Moroney. “Knowing that some of the most talented women in the business always have my back gives me the creative space to focus on my artistry and for this I’m beyond grateful.”

Music industry icon Sylvia Rhone will be honored as the Trailblazer Spotlight for her extraordinary four-decade career breaking barriers and creating opportunities for women across the business. As Chairperson and CEO of Epic Records, Rhone championed countless artists while paving the way for future generations of female executives. She is widely regarded as one of the most powerful and influential figures in music history, with a legacy that includes nurturing the careers of artists from Missy Elliott to Travis Scott while maintaining an unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion.

“Throughout my career, I’ve believed that real power is about using it to create opportunity for others,” says Rhone. “I’m deeply honored to be recognized by an organization that understands progress requires both vision and action.”

“We are honoring Megan and Sylvia for using their platforms and influence to broaden the path for other women,” says Gerson, Chairman & CEO, Universal Music Publishing Group and She Is The Music Co-Founder. “We are also thrilled to welcome our new Executive Director Laura Segura, as this is her first big SITM community event.”

Kylie Morgan To Embark On ‘Healed Cowgirl Tour’

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Kylie Morgan.

Kylie Morgan will embark on her headline “Healed Cowgirl Tour” this spring with dates in the United States and internationally.

The run will hit Pennsylvania, Alabama, Texas and many more cities through June. Ticket information can be found here.

The tour announcement follows the release of Morgan’s new single, “Like My Own.”

“This video is the most honest reflection of my life right now,” she says of the track. “It captures the love, the surprises, and the joy that inspired this song. I hope people see their own families in it- however they’re built.”

2026 Tour Dates:
February 12- Nashville, TN
March 8- Berlin, Germany
March 9- Newcastle, UK
March 10- York, UK
March 13- Birmingham, UK
March 14- Dorset, UK
March 26- Colorado Springs, CO
April 2- Boston, MA
April 3- Leesburg, VA
April 9- Pittsburgh, PA
April 10- Indianapolis, IN
April 24- Champaign, IL
April 25- Cullman, AL
April 29- Seattle, WA
April 30- Portland, OR
May 1- Folsom, CA
May 2- Fontana, CA
May 7- Madison, WI
May 8- Peoria, IL
May 9- Omaha, NE
May 21- The Woodlands, TX
May 22- Dallas, TX
June 19- Washington, DC
June 20- Bloxom, VA

Cody Johnson Adds International Dates To Fall Schedule

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Cody Johnson. Photo: Jay Trevino

Cody Johnson has added six international dates to his “Cody Johnson Live 26 Tour” in October and November.

Parker McCollum and Emily Ann Roberts will open the shows in Manchester, London, Birmingham, Glasgow, Belfast and Dublin. Tickets will go on sale tomorrow (Feb. 13) at LiveNation.co.uk and CodyJohnsonMusic.com.

Johnson launched his “Cody Johnson Live 26” tour over the weekend, playing two sold-out shows in Birmingham’s Legacy Arena at The BJCC. The opening weekend marked Cody’s return to the live stage since his eardrum surgery last fall. 

In 2025, he sold 400,000 tickets and landed on Billboard’s Top 100 Tours list. Last year’s tour took him to Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and across the U.S., including two back-to-back sold-out shows at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. This weekend he has shows in Champaign, Illinois and Louisville, Kentucky.

“Cody Johnson Live 26” Tour schedule
2/13 – Champaign, IL – State Farm Center
2/14 – Louisville, KY – KFC YUM! Center
2/27 – Winston-Salem, NC – LJVM Coliseum
2/28 – Columbia, SC – Colonial Life Arena
3/6 – Pittsburgh. PA – PPG Paints Arena
3/7 – Baltimore, MD – CFG Bank Arena
3/22 – Houston, TX – Houston Rodeo (NRG Stadium)
3/28 – N. Little Rock, AR – Simmons Bank Arena
4/10 – Bossier City, LA – Brookshire Grocery Arena
4/11 – New Orleans – Caesars Superdome – Honda Rodeo Fest*
4/18 – St. Louis, MO – Chaifetz Arena
4/24 – Indio, CA – Stagecoach*
5/2 – Clemson, SC – Death Valley (Clemson Stadium) +w/ George Strait
5/8 – Sioux Falls, SD – Denny Sanford PREMIER Center
5/9 – Des Moines, IA – Casey’s Center
5/29 – Grand Rapids, MI – Van Andel Arena
5/30 – Rosemont, IL – Allstate Arena
6/13 – Atlanta, GA – Braves Country Fest (Truist Park)*
6/26 – Milwaukee, WI – American Family Ins Amp*
7/11 – Cavendish, PE – Cavendish Beach Music Festival*
7/17 – Columbus, OH – Nationwide Arena (2nd Show)
7/18 – Columbus, OH – Nationwide Arena
7/25 – Jacksonville, FL – Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena
8/8 – Oklahoma City, OK – Paycom Center
8/22 – Knoxville, TN – Food City Center
8/29 – Saint Paul, MN – Grand Casino Arena
9/12 – Tacoma, WA – Tacoma Dome
10/24 – Manchester, UK – AO Arena
10/27 – London, UK – The O2
11/1 – Birmingham, UK – Utilita Arena
11/2 – Glasgow, UK – OVO Hydro
11/4 – Belfast, UK – SSE Arena Belfast
11/5 – Dublin, IE – 3Arena
*Festival dates

The Jack Wharff Band Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut

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The Jack Wharff Band. Photo: Chris Hollo for Grand Ole Opry.

The Jack Wharff Band made their Grand Ole Opry debut on Tuesday night (Feb. 10).

“I’m trying to think of what a man can even say when he’s standing in the fulfillment of a vision he’s had since he was 13 years old,” Wharff shared from the stage. “From the bottom of my heart, to everybody at the Opry, everybody who came out to see us tonight, and everybody up here on this stage – thank you.”

The performance followed a surprise invitation from Ole Crow Medicine Show’s Ketch Secor who broke the invitation news to the four-piece in December. The band opened their set with the high-energy “Burnin’ It Down” before performing their breakout track, “Washed.”

The band is currently rounding out the U.S. leg of their headlining “From The Hills To The Holler Tour” before they travel to Europe in March. Their sophomore EP Strange is slated for release March 13.

Pictured (L-R): Big Machine Label Group’s LJ Stoll, The Jack Wharff Band’s Ryan Atchison, The Jack Wharff Band’s Evan Novoa, Big Machine Label Group’s Scott Borchetta, The Jack Wharff Band’s Garrett Howell, The Jack Wharff Band’s Jack Wharff, Big Machine Label Group’s Allison Jones, Big Machine Records’ Kris Lamb. Photo: Zach Wesner for Big Machine Records

Photo: Chris Hollo for Grand Ole Opry

Photo: Chris Hollo for Grand Ole Opry

IBMA Announces Leadership Bluegrass Class Of 2026

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The International Bluegrass Music Association has announced the 2026 class of Leadership Bluegrass, the professional development program designed to cultivate the next generation of industry leaders.

Each year, 25 participants are selected to take part in the immersive three-day experience featuring panels, strategic discussions and collaborative activities focused on the business of bluegrass and its place in the larger world of entertainment. Since its founding in 2000, Leadership Bluegrass has graduated more than 500 alumni representing every sector of the industry.

“Seeing the Leadership Bluegrass participant list each year gives me real hope for the future of our industry,” says Ken White, IBMA Executive Director. “This year’s class highlights the growing global reach of bluegrass, bringing together industry professionals from Québec, British Columbia, Switzerland, Australia, and the United States. Their diverse experiences and perspectives will help guide the future of bluegrass music.”

The Leadership Bluegrass Class Of 2026:

Chassady Abernathy – Sound Biscuit / Appalachian Road Show / ETSU (Ellijay, GA)
Evie Andrus – East Tennessee Bluegrass Association, President / University of Tennessee, Lecturer of Appalachian Music / Pellissippi State Community College, Adjunct Music Faculty / Laurel Theater, Managing Director (Knoxville, TN)
Jessica Blankenship – Kentucky Music Hall of Fame & Museum (London, KY)
Kathryn Boucher – Spartanburg Philharmonic (Spartanburg, SC)
Madeleine Cody – The Cody Sisters (Brooklyn, NY)Amy Sue Combs – International Bluegrass Music Association (Bowling Green, KY)
Joe Dan Cornett – North Chapel Music (White House, TN)
Gina Dilg – Square Dance Agency (Radford, VA)
Helen Foley – California Bluegrass Association (Sonoma, CA)
Tanya Guenther – NimblePie Creative Co. / NimbleFingers Bluegrass & Old-Time Workshops & Festival (Mile Ranch, British Columbia, Canada)
Byron Hill – Byron Hill Music (Franklin, TN)
Tyler Hughes – The Crooked Road (Big Stone Gap, VA)
Stephen M. Johnson – Represent / GPA Government and Public Affairs (Owensboro, KY)
Sarah W. Larsen – Black-Eyed Suzies / Little Fiddle Studio (Stevesville, MD)
Joanne Ledesma – Musicbizgal.com (Glendora, CA)
Isaac McCarthy – The Ohio State University / Bluegrass Pride (Gerrardstown, WV)
Will McSeveney – Skyline Records (Nashville, TN)
Bridget Rees – Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival (Megan, New South Wales, Australia)
Benjamin Russell – Gordon Rees / Delta Hayride Association (Nashville, TN)
Mark R. Schuster – IBMA Foundation (Langley, WA)
Elliot Siff – The Bluegrass Journeymen Academy / Elliot Siff Productions (Golden, CO)
Carly Speno – Bonfire Entertainment (Laval, Québec, Canada)
Randy Steele – tnjams.com (Chattanooga, TN)
Shelly Surdoval – The Recording Academy (Franklin, TN)
Urs-Rainer von Arx – Swiss Bluegrass Music Association / Country Ramblers (Zürich, Switzerland)
Liz Wolfe – BluegrassJamsNearMe.com (New York, NY)

2026 IBMA Leadership Bluegrass will be held March 2-4 at the Country Music Association in Nashville. Jeff Westerinen will serve as facilitator, with Nancy Posey as assistant facilitator.

SOURCE Nashville Unveils 2026 Hall Of Fame Awards Inductees

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Pictured (clockwise): Debbie Cheek Carroll, Paige Conners, Cris Lacy, Carla Wallace, Sherry Oakley and Margie McGahey.

SOURCE Nashville has revealed the six women who will be inducted into the SOURCE Hall of Fame this year. The 23rd annual event, presented by Springer Mountain Farms, will take place on Aug. 25 at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum in Historic Municipal Auditorium.

This year’s inductees include Debbie Cheek Carroll, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (Private Practice), MusiCares, Belmont University; Paige Conners, CBS Records/Sony Music Nashville, Warner Bros. Records Nashville, Paul Worley Productions, Nashville Musicians Association, AFM Local 257; Cris Lacy, Warner Music Nashville; Margie McGahey, WSM Radio/Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Association,101.7 The WORM; Sherry Oakley, BMI; and Carla Wallace, Big Yellow Dog.

For partnership and program ad opportunities, reach out to Rachel Guttmann here. For more information on the 2026 SOURCE Hall of Fame Awards, click here.