Julianne Cassidy Exits Sweet Talk Publicity

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Julianne Cassidy

Julianne Cassidy, Sr. Director of Publicity, has exited her role at Sweet Talk Publicity. She first joined the company in 2016 as Account Executive.

During her tenure, she led and assisted on artist campaigns spanning established acts to breakout stars including Florida Georgia Line, Kelsea Ballerini, Dustin Lynch, Brian Kelley, LOCASH, Gabby Barrett, Charles Esten, Alana Springsteen, Chase Matthew, Ty Myers and Mason Ramsey, as well as high-profile runs like Missy Elliott’s debut headline tour, “OUT OF THIS WORLD — The Missy Elliott Experience” and Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival. In addition, she handled day-to-day publicity needs for business accounts such as Big Loud, Songs & Daughters and Jonas Group Entertainment.

Prior roles include Associate Editor at Womanista and Digital Editor/National Content at Journal Broadcast Group.

She is actively pursuing opportunities and can be reached at juliannecassidy.contact@gmail.com.

Julien’s Auctions & MusiCares Team For Charity Relief Auction

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Photo: Courtesy of Julien’s Auctions

Julien’s Auctions and MusiCares have revealed the star-powered lineup for the 2026 MusiCares Charity Relief Auction set for Feb. 1.

The auction will feature unique, one-of-a-kind donated items from benny blanco, Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, Charli xcx, Cher, Jelly Roll, Justin Bieber, Katseye, Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars, Olivia Rodrigo & Robert Smith, Sabrina Carpenter, Tony Bennett,Taylor Swift  and more, along with special items from MusiCares Person of the Year honoree Mariah Carey. Additional highlights include more than 50 personal items donated by Boy George, Coldplay, Depeche Mode, Eminem, Foreigner, Paul McCartney, Phil Collins, Ringo Starr, Shakira, and Teddy Swims, with even more to be revealed.

Among the items hitting the auction block are a Soundwaves Artwork from the sold-out series created from the audio recording of “Here for it All” signed by Mariah Carey along with the spare hood and trunk lid from her custom-built Pink 1961 Ford Thunderbird, which will be signed by Carey; a Gibson B.B. King Lucille Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitar autographed by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars; and a rare original large-scale painting by 19-time Grammy Award winner Tony Bennett, the 1995 MusiCares Person of the Year, one of only two large canvases from his collection.

Rounding out the lineup are “The Tortured Poets Department” Epiphone Song Maker Acoustic Guitar signed by Taylor Swift (not played), and a Gibson Jessica signed by Slash, as well as a signed, hardcover edition of 18-time Grammy Award-winning Sir Paul McCartney’s book The Lyrics: 1965 to Present, hand signed and personalized to the winning bidder.

“For 19 years, Julien’s Auctions has been honored to support MusiCares and its vital mission of musicians helping other less fortunate musicians,” says Martin Nolan, Executive Director & Co-Founder of Julien’s Auctions. “Through this enduring partnership, significant funds have been raised to provide critical assistance to members of the music community in times of need. The generosity of this year’s MusiCares’ Person of the Year 2026, Mariah Carey, along with the extraordinary contributions of many other renowned artists, makes a profound impact. A continued reinforcement of the strength, compassion, and solidarity of the global music community.”

“MusiCares is so proud to partner with Julien’s to bring the most extraordinary music memorabilia to music fans around the globe,” says Theresa Wolters, MusiCares Executive Director. “Through the generosity of Mariah Carey and other legendary artists over the years, Julien’s Auctions has raised significant funding, allowing MusiCares to provide the essential care we do.”

The benefit auction takes place live from Santa Monica, California at 1 p.m. CST and online at Juliensauctions.com. Bidding opens today.

Dwight Yoakam To Host Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Benefit Show

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Dwight Yoakam will host the inaugural “Dwight Yoakam & Friends: Rockin’ for the Kids at The Roxy” benefit show taking place during Grammy Awards week in Los Angeles. The one-night-only charity concert is set for Jan. 28 at the Roxy Theatre and will benefit Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA).

Presented by Yoakam alongside Billy Bob Thornton and McG, the evening will feature a full performance by Yoakam and his band, with special guest appearances by Charley Crockett, Marcus King, Lukas Nelson and additional artists to be announced. Video director and producer McG will emcee the event.

“When you walk the halls of a children’s hospital, it changes you. It puts all of life in a very graphic perspective,” says Yoakam. “As Emily and I were there with our own child, we saw so many families facing battles no one hopes to ever have to endure. And while we were fortunate to not face those challenges, that experience never left us. Rockin’ for the Kids is our way of saying thank you to Dr. Krieger and the entire staff at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, on behalf of every family who puts their trust in them every single day.”

“On behalf of everyone at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, we are thrilled to be partnering with Mr. Yoakam and his wife on what is sure to be a truly special evening,” adds Mark D. Krieger, MD, the hospital’s Surgeon-in-Chief and the Billy and Audrey L. Wilder Chair in Neurosurgery. “We are grateful to Dwight and Emily for their passion and vision in bringing this night to life.”

Tickets are on sale now. For sponsorship opportunites and VIP tickets, contact Matt Semler.

Tim McGraw To Headline 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series Outdoor Game In Tampa

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Tim McGraw

Tim McGraw is set to perform at the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series outdoor game between the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Boston Bruins on Feb. 1.

The marquee event will be played at Raymond James Stadium, home of the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers, marking the first time in League history that an outdoor game will be played in a football stadium in the state of Florida. Live coverage begins at 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN in the U.S., and on Sportsnet and TVA Sports in Canada as well as via NHL in ASL (ESPN+ in the U.S. and Sportsnet+ in Canada). McGraw will lead the first intermission presented by Ticketmaster performance.

For the NHL Stadium Series, the NHL will build the regulation-size rink inside a steel-framed, air-conditioned structure to protect it from the elements. Spanning 34 feet high, 125 feet wide and 240 feet long, the state-of-the-art tent will be dismantled before the teams face off outdoors in primetime in Florida. McGraw will perform on a stage alongside the rink. A limited number of tickets to the game are still available via Ticketmaster, with more info available at NHL.com/events.

Zach Kale Signs With Sea Gayle Music

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Zach Kale & Team.

Zach Kale has signed with Sea Gayle Music.

Kale has earned cuts with Ella Langley, Florida Georgia Line, Charlie Puth, Keith Urban, Cole Swindell, NELLY, Nate Smith, Parmalee, Lauren Alaina and many others. The CMA and ACM–nominated, Dove Award–winning songwriter and producer co-wrote Gabby Barrett’s 8x Platinum “I Hope” and 4x Platinum “The Good Ones.”

“We’re proud to welcome proven hitmaker Zach Kale to the Sea Gayle Music family,” says Chris DuBois, President of Sea Gayle Music. “Whether he’s in the writing room or behind the console, Zach brings a rare combination of creative instinct, commercial awareness, and an undeniable ability to make music that truly connects. It’s a privilege to partner with him on his journey and look forward to helping create new opportunities for him and his music.”

“I am truly fired up to be working with the Sea Gayle Music team and I look forward to the opportunities ahead,” adds Kale.

BREAKING: CMA CEO Sarah Trahern To Retire

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Sarah Trahern. Photo: John Russell/CMA

Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Country Music Association (CMA), will retire at the end of 2026.

After decades in television, media and the music industry, Trahern took the helm of CMA in 2014. She has strengthened the organization and advanced its mission to heighten the awareness of country music and support its ongoing growth, both domestically and internationally.

“Leading the Country Music Association has been the privilege of my career,” says Trahern. “I am incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together in service of this industry and its people, and deeply grateful for the community that makes country music what it is. After much reflection, I’ve made the decision to retire and embrace this next chapter of life—one that allows me to remain connected to this industry in ways that continue to inspire me, while also creating space for the people and moments that matter most to me, including time with my husband, Wayne, getting outdoors, and simple nights at home with our dog, Riley.”

Under Trahern’s leadership, CMA has continued to evolve its membership initiatives and industry programs to meet the changing needs of the country music community. Her tenure has included expanded investments and coordinated industry support in response to COVID-19, natural disasters and ongoing mental health challenges. At the same time, CMA has strengthened its global engagement, with Trahern guiding efforts to deepen connections in key international markets and elevate country music’s presence worldwide.

Trahern has also reinforced CMA’s commitment to music education through the organization’s nonprofit arm, the CMA Foundation, where she serves as President. The CMA Foundation transforms lives through the power of music education, investing more than $30 million to date in research-informed programs that expand access, empower music teachers and create meaningful opportunities for students.

Trahern’s influence has been widely recognized, including being named one of Nashville Business Journal’s Most Admired CEOs and receiving Billboard’s Country Power Players “Executive of the Year” honor in 2017. In 2024, she was honored with the Bob Kingsley Living Legend Award by the Grand Ole Opry, among many other accolades.

As Trahern prepares for this next chapter, CMA’s Board of Directors has formed a search committee and retained an independent executive search firm, Buffkin Baker, to facilitate a comprehensive process to identify her successor and ensure a thoughtful and seamless transition. Additional details regarding the search, including how and when potential candidates may be considered, will be announced in February.

“While we will deeply miss Sarah’s leadership, we are excited to carry forward the legacy she has established,” says Jay Williams, Co-Head and Partner, WME, and CMA Board Chairman. “Sarah leaves behind an indelible mark on both the Country Music Association and the broader industry. Her influence has shaped not only CMA but the future of Country Music itself.”

Trahern will remain fully engaged in her role as CEO until the end of 2026, working closely with the Board and senior leadership to guide the CMA into its next era.

ASCAP Reveals Songwriters Selected For GPS Project Class Of 2026

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Picture (L-R, front row): ASCAP’s Emilia James, Eleanor Bryan, Bailey Taylor, Abigail Mae, ASCAP’S Duane Hobson; (L-R, second row): Anna Kline, Remy Garrison; (L-R, third row): Wes Harris, Jay Speight, Maddie Lenhart, Faith Schueler; (L-R, fourth row): Grace + Max, ASCAP’s Ryan O’Grady, Maggie Youngs; (L-R, fifth row): Phoebe Scott, Jake Arthur, Kevin Monahan; (L-R, back row): Josh David, Cade Walker

ASCAP has revealed the songwriters selected for its 13th annual ASCAP GPS (Guidance from Publishers for Songwriters) Project. New this year is the addition of a Christian music cohort joining the country music participants.

The ASCAP GPS Project Class of 2026 includes Abigail Mae, Anna Kline, Bailey Taylor, Cade Walker, Eleanor Bryan, Faith Schueler, Grace + Max, Jake Arthur, Jay Speight, Josh David, Kevin Monahan, Maddie Lenhart, Maggie Youngs, Phoebe Scott, Remy Garrison and Wes Harris. The class was curated by ASCAP Associate Director of Nashville Membership Duane Hobson and ASCAP Manager of Nashville Membership Emilia James.

The program is led by ASCAP Vice President Mike Sistad and aims to help develop unsigned songwriters. Throughout the year, the songwriters will be paired with publishers who will listen and give feedback on their songs and host development sessions. Participating 2026 publishers include Big Machine Music, Capitol CMG Publishing, Centricity Publishing, Curb | Word Music Publishing, Eclipse Music Group, Empire Publishing, Essential Music Publishing, Integrity Music Publishing, King Pen Music, Kobalt Music Publishing, Liz Rose Music, Reservoir Media, Sony Music Publishing, Spirit Music Nashville, TIM Publishing and Warner Chappell Music Nashville.

ASCAP GPS alumni include Jacob Davis, Hannah Dasher, Caylee Hammack, Joe Ragosta and more.

Industry Ink: ASCAP, Randy Rogers, Blessing Offor, Rose Parade, More

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ASCAP Hosts Songwriters Round At The Bluebird Cafe

Pictured (L-R): ASCAP’s Mike Sistad, Kyle Sturrock, ASCAP’s Emilia James, Brianna Nelson, Andrea Vasquez and Joe Clemmons.

ASCAP hosted a songwriters round on Jan. 7 as part of its monthly showcase series at Nashville’s The Bluebird Cafe to support the local songwriting community. ASCAP members Joe Clemmons, Brianna Nelson, Kyle Sturrock and Andrea Vasquez took the stage at the Bluebird Cafe for the recent show to kick off the New Year.

Randy Rogers Family Foundation’s Golf Jam 2026 To Benefit Comal County Senior Citizens Foundation

Pictured (L-R): Kathy Ziebell (CCSCF Staff), Julie Lewin (CCSCF Staff), Clarissa Platt (CCSCF Staff), Phyllis Kyle (CCSCF Board Member), Kris Mira (CCSCF Donor), Daniel Dornier (CCSCF Board Member), Rachel Schaffner (CCSCF Board Member), Chris Smith (CCSCF Executive Director), Jim Collier (CCSCF Board Member), Randy Rogers, Chelsea Rogers (Randy’s wife), Drew Farr (RRFF Board Member), Courtney Bukowski (RRFF Executive Director) and Dr. Taylor Cook (RRFF Board Member)

The Randy Rogers Family Foundation officially announced the Comal County Senior Citizens Foundation as the beneficiary of Golf Jam 2026 during a special reveal event held at Spass Haus on the Wurstfest Grounds. Golf Jam 2026 will take place on April 26 bringing together golf, music, and community support for senior-focused programs in Comal County. The Comal County Senior Citizens Foundation plays a vital role in supporting seniors throughout the region, including helping fund programs that provide nutrition, social connection, and essential services for older adults.

“Golf Jam has grown over the years, and it felt right to bring it home,” says Rogers. “New Braunfels is where my family has planted roots, and it’s a community that means a great deal to us. Partnering with the Comal County Senior Citizens Foundation allows us to support the people who helped build this community.”

Blessing Offor Is New Voice For ‘TODAY With Jenna & Sheinelle,’ Pens New Theme Song

Blessing Offor

Blessing Offor is kicking off 2026 as the new voice for TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle. The new theme song penned by Offor, “We’re Shining,” captures the lively positive energy both Jenna and Sheinelle bring to weekday mornings. “I remember when I got the text from Jenna asking if I’d consider writing and recording the theme song for Jenna & Sheinelle; I was so excited and honored,” recalls Offor. “The joy they embody is easy to capture because it’s so real and genuine. I’m still pinching myself that this is happening!”

On Feb. 14, Offor will embark on his first headline tour in support of his sophomore album Real, The “Heart So Real Tour.” The tour kicks off in Raleigh and includes stops including Washington DC, Philadelphia, New York, and Columbus before wrapping in Indianapolis on Feb. 25.

2026 Rose Parade Has Nashville Connections

Teri Nelson Carpenter, Founder & CEO of Reel Muzik Werks, has been the Music Supervisor for the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California for the past four years, and this year she worked with some fellow local musicians – the Franklin High School Band – who were invited to perform at this year’s annual event. This year’s parade theme was “The Magic In Teamwork” and the Franklin High School Band performed a rendition of Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5” for the crowds.

Kacee Clanton Brings Decades Of Experience To Vocal Coaching Business VPC

Artist, producer, and Broadway singer Kacee Clanton is accepting new clients for her vocal performance coaching business, VPC. Clanton has starred on Broadway, toured extensively as a backing vocalist with top artists, released multiple albums, and written and performed for films, TV, commercials, and video games. She has been teaching for almost two decades at local, collegiate, and professional levels. Previously based out of LA and NYC, she has relocated to the Nashville area and continues work as a private coach and mentor for all ages and levels. She coaches artists and touring singers/musicians to enhance their performance skills and endurance, singers and actors doing stage, film and TV, and prepares students for all types of auditions. More information can be found at VocalPerformanceCoach.com or by emailing kacee@kaceeclanton.com.

Samantha DePrez Rises To Sr. Director/Promotion At Curb Records

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Samantha DePrez.

Samantha DePrez has been promoted to Senior Director of Promotion at Curb Records.

DePrez began her career at Curb Records 17 years ago as an intern, later joining the promotion team full-time as a coordinator after graduating from Ball State University. In 2017, she was promoted to Director of Promotion for the Midwest, immediately playing a key role in the push for Dylan Scott’s first No. 1 single. During her time with the company, DePrez has been responsible for regional artist airplay and for overseeing streaming and social metrics related to fan engagement across the label’s roster.

“Sam has been a constant force at Curb—thoughtful, driven, and always focused on how to best serve the artists and the team. We’re proud of her and excited for what’s ahead,” says RJ Meacham, Curb Senior Vice President of Promotion.

TICKETS OPEN NOW: MusicRow’s 2026 Rising Women On The Row Event

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Tickets for MusicRow‘s 13th annual Rising Women on the Row breakfast event are on sale now.

This year, honorees are Courtney Allen, Jackie Augustus, Sara Knabe, Victoria Mason, Sophia Sansone and Elisa Vazzana. Read more about them here.

City National Bank is Presenting Sponsor for the 2026 Rising Women on the Row, which will take place at Nashville’s JW Marriott at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 3.

Ebie McFarland will be this year’s featured speaker. Attendees will gain insights from her during an on-stage interview with MusicRow Publisher and Owner Sherod Robertson.

New this year: a very limited number of VIP Reserved Tables for 10, offering priority seating and additional perks (full details available at the purchase link below).

Standard Tables for 10 are also available and include recognition in event materials. Individual tickets may be purchased as well.

Tickets for Rising Women on the Row are now closed. They will not be sold at the door.

Tickets will not be sold at the door.

For any questions regarding the event, contact LB Cantrell at lbcantrell@musicrow.com. For advertising and sponsorship inquiries, reach out to Sherod Robertson at srobertson@musicrow.com.

All ticket sales are final and non-refundable.