Lineup Announced For Tracy Lawrence’s 20th Annual Mission:Possible Benefit Concert

/by

Tracy Lawrence has unveiled the lineup for his 20th annual Mission:Possible Benefit Concert on Nov. 25 at Luke Combs’ Category 10 in Nashville.

Gretchen Wilson, Eric Paslay, Chris Cagle and special guests Halfway to Hazard will perform along with Lawrence at the annual event, which continues to grow and do more good each year for the local community. Tickets for the benefit, which raised $250,000 last year, are on sale now.

New this year, fans can bring canned food items to donate to Second Harvest Food Bank to help support families and individuals facing food insecurity. For every five cans donated, participants will be entered into a raffle for a signed guitar featuring signatures from artists at Lawrence’s annual golf tournament, including Vince Gill, Zach Top, Warren Zeiders, Charles Esten and more. The raffle will take place onsite at the end of the evening.

The milestone anniversary event will be bigger than ever before, aiming to feed over 36,000 people in Middle Tennessee through the Nashville Rescue Mission, eight surrounding county school systems and boots on the ground community organizations who provide for those in need. The day will kick off early morning on Nov. 25 at the Nashville Fairgrounds., and with the help of Cargill, The Poultry Federation and Operation BBQ, the event has expanded to feed more people in the community with 2,050 cooked turkeys and 1,550 frozen turkeys distributed.

“I cannot believe we are celebrating the 20th anniversary of the turkey fry,” says Lawrence. “This event started with a few of my buddies in a church parking lot and only cooking 200 birds. Now our footprint has grown, and we’re cooking 2,000+ turkeys and feeding so many throughout Middle Tennessee. Big things!”

Since its inception, Lawrence’s Mission:Possible has fried over 10,000 turkeys, provided more than 86,000 meals to the homeless across Middle Tennessee, donated over a million dollars to the Nashville Rescue Mission, and raised over $2.5 million which helps further its goals, advocate for those in need, and expand the ability to support aligned causes.

Rounder Records President Stephanie Hudacek Exits

/by

Stephanie Hudacek has exited as President of Rounder Records.

During her time leading the label, Hudacek helped guide Rounder through a period marked by Sierra Ferrell’s breakthrough ascent, four Grammy wins in 2025 and four Grammy nominations for 2026, and eight new artist signings.

Hudacek was involved in the early development of artists including Anna Graves, Ken Pomeroy and Judy Blank, while supporting the careers of established artists Foy Vance, Anderson East and Breakfield and working closely with I’m With Her, Bella White, Ruston Kelly, Samantha Fish, John R. Miller and Katie Pruitt.

Before joining Rounder, Hudacek founded and led Soundly Music, which was later acquired by Thirty Tigers, where she worked with artists including Kaitlin Butts, Maggie Rose, Channing Wilson and Pony Bradshaw.

“I’m proud of what we built at Rounder,” says Hudacek. “My focus has always been to help artists tell the truth of who they are and to create the conditions where their work can thrive. The industry is in a period of real transformation. Artists today need partners who can help them build worlds around their work, grow and enrich relationships with audiences across platforms, and navigate new creative and technological landscapes. We’re entering a moment where artists can connect with audiences in more meaningful and innovative ways than ever before, and I’m genuinely excited about the opportunities ahead.”

CMA Unveils 2025 CMA Touring Awards Nominees

/by

CMA has revealed the nominees for the 2025 CMA Touring Awards, which will take place on Jan. 27 in Nashville. Now in its 20th year, the CMA Touring Awards honor behind-the-scenes members of the country music touring industry. The ceremony will be hosted by Keith Urban.

Up for the nights biggest award of Crew of the Year are the “All-American Road Show Tour” Crew, “Am I Okay? Tour” Crew, “Broken Branches Tour” Crew, “I’m The Problem Tour” Crew, “Jim Bob World Tour” Crew, “Live On Tour” Crew,  “On The Road Tour” Crew,  and “Whirlwind World Tour” Crew.

Veteran artist manager Jim Halsey will be given the CMA Touring Lifetime Achievement Award. The award honors an individual who has positively impacted and contributed to the growth of touring throughout the years. The honoree has proven to have an unprecedented historical impact on country music fans and the industry, and whose presence will have a long-term positive impact.

Throughout his 60 year career, Halsey guided the careers of Roy Clark, Reba McEntire, Merle Haggard, The Oak Ridge Boys, and many others. His acts have performed at legendary venues such as Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden, and Royal Albert Hall.

“Recognizing the incredible work of our touring community is one of the highlights of our year,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “Our road warriors are the heart and soul of our business, bringing their spirit to audiences everywhere with creativity and passion. The growth of Country Music would not be possible without the dedication of each of our nominees, and we can’t wait to celebrate their achievements in January.”

“I love touring, always have, always will,” adds Urban. “And that only happens with so many people behind the scenes out there on the road making it happen every night. The CMA Touring Awards is where we turn the spotlight on our road families and celebrate the hard work they all do for all of us. It’s an honor to host, and I’m glad to be back.”

Final Round voting for the 2025 CMA Touring Awards opens Monday, Dec. 1 and closes Tuesday, Dec. 16 at 6 p.m. CT. All balloting is tabulated by Deloitte.

2025 CMA Touring Awards Nominees:
CATEGORY 1 – CREW OF THE YEAR
“All-American Road Show Tour” Crew – Chris Stapleton
“Am I Okay? Tour” Crew – Megan Moroney
“Broken Branches Tour” Crew – Dierks Bentley
“I’m The Problem Tour” Crew – Morgan Wallen
“Jim Bob World Tour” Crew – HARDY
“Live On Tour” Crew – Kelsea Ballerini
“On The Road Tour” Crew – Tyler Childers
“Whirlwind World Tour” Crew – Lainey Wilson

CATEGORY 2 – BACKLINE TECHNICIAN OF THE YEAR
Patrick Boyle – Tyler Childers
Dalton Ray Brown – Lainey Wilson
William Coats – Eric Church
Casey Ervin – Jelly Roll
Terry Fox – Kenny Chesney
Matt Kennedy – Morgan Wallen
Hunter Lamb – HARDY
Chris Miller – Keith Urban

CATEGORY 3 – BUSINESS MANAGER OF THE YEAR
Stephanie Alderman – Farris, Self & Moore, LLC
Renee Allen – Arnie Barn, Inc.
Legina Chaudoin – O’Neil Hagaman, LLC
Duane Clark – Flood, Bumstead, McCready & McCarthy, Inc.
Jen Conger – Flood, Bumstead, McCready & McCarthy, Inc.
Stephanie Mundy-Self – Farris, Self & Moore, LLC
Kris Wiatr – Wiatr & Associates, LLC
Dwight Wiles – Wiles + Taylor & Co., PC

CATEGORY 4 – COACH/TRUCK DRIVER OF THE YEAR
Chad Allison – HARDY
Tim Barrett – Kane Brown
Dustin Bringham – Parker McCollum
Steve Carmack – Megan Moroney
Greg Cook – Riley Green
Caleb Garrett – Luke Bryan
Jason Humphrey – Jason Aldean
Nick Wagner – Morgan Wallen

CATEGORY 5 – FOH (FRONT OF HOUSE) ENGINEER OF THE YEAR
Ryan Dell – Lainey Wilson
Chris Diener – Kelsea Ballerini
David Loy – Kane Brown
James “Pugs” McDermott – Dierks Bentley
Jeff “Pig” Parsons – Blake Shelton
Robert Scovill – Kenny Chesney
Todd Wines – Miranda Lambert
Ian Zorbaugh – Old Dominion

CATEGORY 6 – LIGHTING DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR
Ben Bearden – Chris Stapleton
Nick Chang – Kelsea Ballerini
Zac Coren – Morgan Wallen
Justin Kitchenman – Luke Bryan
Andy Knighton – Rascal Flatts/Jason Aldean
Kevin Lichty – Old Dominion
Alex Sanchez – Parker McCollum
Alec Takahashi – Thomas Rhett

CATEGORY 7 – MANAGER OF THE YEAR
Narvel Blackstock – Starstruck Entertainment
Hayley Corbett – PunchBowl Entertainment
Enzo DeVincenzo – 377 Management
Kerri Edwards – KP Entertainment
Troy “Tracker” Johnson – TRACK Management
Chris Kappy – Make Wake Artists
Mandelyn Monchick – Red Light Management
Zach Sutton – Red Light Management

CATEGORY 8 – MONITOR ENGINEER OF THE YEAR
Beau Alexander – Morgan Wallen
Curt Armstead – Lainey Wilson
Brad Baisley – Blake Shelton
Cory Benson – Tyler Childers
Chris Daniels – Luke Bryan
Logan Hanna – Brothers Osborne
Chris Newsom – Kelsea Ballerini
Phil Wilkey – Keith Urban

CATEGORY 9 – PRODUCTION MANAGER OF THE YEAR
Chris Alderman – Blake Shelton
John Garriott – Chris Stapleton
Jeff “Goofy” Greeninger – Jon Pardi
Adam Groeninger – Dierks Bentley
Chad Guy – Morgan Wallen
Brent Maxon – Parker McCollum
Earl Neal – Jason Aldean
Ed Wannebo – Kenny Chesney

CATEGORY 10 – PUBLICIST OF THE YEAR
Janet Buck – Essential Broadcast Media
Zach Farnum – 117 Entertainment Group
Asha Goodman – Sacks & Co.
Olivia Hanceri – OH Creative
Tyne Parrish – The GreenRoom
Jessie Schmidt – Schmidt Relations
Wes Vause – Press On Publicity
Jennifer Vessio – 1220 Entertainment Publicity

CATEGORY 11 – STAGE MANAGER OF THE YEAR
Shaun Carswell – Dierks Bentley
Alex Church – Megan Moroney
Sam “Sambo” Coats – Eric Church
Todd Green – Chris Stapleton
Matt Hornbeck – Luke Combs
Josh “Dude” Marcus – Jason Aldean
Allison Noah – Carly Pearce / Lainey Wilson
Lonnie Taylor – Jon Pardi

CATEGORY 12 – SUPPORT SERVICES COMPANY OF THE YEAR
ASCOT Travel Services – Nashville, TN
Bandit Lites – Nashville, TN
Clair Global – Nashville, TN
Crom Tidwell Merchandising – Nashville, TN
Moo TV – Nashville, TN
Pioneer Coach – Nashville, TN
Richards & Southern – Goodlettsville, TN
Sound Image – Nashville, TN

CATEGORY 13 – TALENT AGENT OF THE YEAR
Becky Gardenhire – WME
Chad Kudelka – CAA
Keith Levy – Wasserman Music
Braeden Rountree – WME
Adi Sharma – The Neal Agency
Elisa Vazzana – UTA
Hunter Williams – CAA
Jay Williams – WME

CATEGORY 14 – TALENT BUYER/PROMOTER OF THE YEAR
Bridget Bauer – Messina Touring Group
Todd Boltin – Variety Attractions
Patrick McDill – Live Nation Nashville
Brian O’Connell – Live Nation Nashville
Rich Schaefer – AEG Presents
Aaron Spalding – Live Nation Nashville
Stacy Vee – Goldenvoice
Ed Warm – Joe’s Bar

CATEGORY 15 – TOUR MANAGER OF THE YEAR
Matt Anderson – Old Dominion
Kyle Crownover – Tyler Childers
Dustin DeRosier – Kelsea Ballerini / Little Big Town
Jeff Gossett – Morgan Wallen
Mike McGrath – Keith Urban
Meg Miller – Lainey Wilson
Mark Oglesby – Post Malone
Chelsae Partosan – Megan Moroney

CATEGORY 16 – TOURING MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR
Mark “Taco” Annino (Drums) – Morgan Wallen
Jody Bartula (Fiddle) – Cody Johnson
JT Cure (Bass Guitar) – Chris Stapleton
Jenee Fleenor (Fiddle) – George Strait
Aslan Freeman (Guitar) – Lainey Wilson
Kenny Greenberg (Guitar) – Kenny Chesney
Kurt Ozan (Multi-Instrumentalist) – Luke Combs
Jesse Welles (Multi-Instrumentalist) – Tyler Childers

CATEGORY 17 – TOUR VIDEOGRAPHER/PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR
Mason Allen – Old Dominion
Alex Alvga – Kane Brown
Zach Belcher – Dierks Bentley
Caleb Cockrell – Jordan Davis
Sam Crabtree – Riley Green
Tanner Gallagher – HARDY
Zack Massey – Luke Combs
Catherine Powell – Kelsea Ballerini

CATEGORY 18 – TOUR VIDEO DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR
Dave Bergfeld – Lainey Wilson
Houston Creswell – Dierks Bentley
Adam Cline – Morgan Wallen
Milojko Dobrijevich – Little Big Town
Ron Etters – Chris Stapleton
Jordan Karow – HARDY
Justin Stein – Parker McCollum
Jake Zobrist – Cody Johnson

CATEGORY 19 – VENUE OF THE YEAR
BankNH Pavilion – Gilford, NH
Bridgestone Arena – Nashville, TN
Fenway Park – Boston, MA
Grand Ole Opry House – Nashville, TN
Greek Theatre – Los Angeles, CA
Moody Center – Austin, TX
The Pinnacle – Nashville, TN
Red Rocks Amphitheatre – Morrison, CO

CATEGORY 20 – UNSUNG HERO OF THE YEAR
Holly Atherton (Production Assistant) – Chris Stapleton
Chase Butler (Road Manager) – Riley Green
Michael Corcoran (General Manager) – mtheory
Kayla Carter Greear (Production Assistant) – Luke Bryan
Jeff “Bean” Griffin (Road Manager) – HARDY
Lolo Kinser (Logistics Coordinator) – Post Malone
Diana “Lemonade” McBride (Backstage Hospitality) – Grand Ole Opry
Mel Murphy (Road Representative) – Live Nation Nashville

Carrie Underwood, Shinedown & Creed To Headline ‘Velocity At Field Of Dreams Festival’ In 2026

/by

Carrie Underwood will join Shinedown and Creed for the “Velocity at Field of Dreams Festival” in 2026, which has expanded to a three-day event Sept. 4-6 at the iconic Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville, Iowa.

The lineup will include Underwood headlining on Sept. 5, with multi-Platinum rock powerhouse Shinedown taking the stage on Sept. 4, and Creed closing out the festival on Sept. 6. Tickets are available now exclusively through EASOL.

The expanded 2026 edition of the festival follows the success of 2025’s historic debut, which drew more than 35,000 fans to Dyersville for the first major, multi-day music festival ever held on the Field of Dreams site, and generated over $11.2 million in economic impact for the region. The inaugural weekend featured a sold-out “Tim McGraw Live at Field of Dreams” event that included a heartfelt tribute to his father, MLB legend Tug McGraw, and the Velocity Music Festival headlined by Nickelback.

“We knew this event would be something special, but the impact on the local economy blew our expectations out of the water,” says Nick Abate, Founder and CEO of U.S. Concert Agency. “Last year proved that Field of Dreams is not only an iconic film location, but a world class live entertainment venue. And in 2026, we’re taking this experience to an even higher level.”

Origins Music Group Hosts Second Annual Origins Impact Awards

/by

Angie K accepts Artist of the Year Award. Photo: Lorenzo Huerta, León de Bronce

Origins Music Group hosted its second annual Origins Impact Awards at The Cowan in Nashville on Thursday night (Nov. 20). Hosted by Justin Lee Williams with emceeing by Marcus K. Dowling, the ceremony celebrated country’s expanding sound with performances, tributes and activations.

Angie K won the night’s biggest honor of Artist of the Year. “Hey Mom I Made It” by Sacha was crowned Song of the Year, while Emerging Artist of the Year went to Rodell Duff. Shannon Sanders, Rissi Palmer and the Country Music Hall of Fame produced the Innovative Project of the Year with “From Where I Stand,” and “Jesus at the Taco Truck” by Frank Ray & Shy Carter took home Best Collaborative Effort of the Year.

Warner Music Nashville’s James Marsh was crowned Executive of the Year, while Song Suffragettes won the Community Advocate Award. The Cultural Impact of the Year went to Color Me Country Radio/Rissi Palmer, and Coffey Anderson was honored with Champion of the Year.

Photo: Lorenzo Huerta, León de Bronce

Performers throughout the evening included Steve Ray Ladson, Pynk Beard (backed by Nate Bean & 4Given choir) Wendy Moten, Coffey Anderson, Sam Pounds, RVSHD, Sammy Arriaga, Kenny Sharp & Brown Liquor Music, Grayson Russell, Andrea Vasquez and 2’Live Brie.

“We started the Impact Awards to celebrate innovators, creatives, supporters and champions who make Nashville’s music scene tick,” shares Corey Jones, Origins Music Group Co-Founder. “We wanted to point to the people pushing boundaries creatively and culturally; the ones doing the work not often seen until it reaches critical mass. We wanted to point to the people making change and thinking outside the box in every way and we’re so proud of what that’s become in our second year of producing this show.”

“Our honorees are rewriting the rules, uplifting their communities and defining the future of country music,” adds Stephen Miller II, Origins Music Group Co-Founder. “This is exactly why the Origins Impact Awards exists, to celebrate those leading the charge. We’re proud of what this has become, of our winners, nominees and community at large and look forward to hosting this again next year!”

Photo: Lorenzo Huerta, León de Bronce

A portion of the proceeds from the Origins Impact Awards ticket sales went to the Origins Music Impact, a 501(c)(3) established to recognize the growing challenges faced by artists in the music industry.

“We understand that pursuing a career in music is not just about talent; it’s about overcoming obstacles,” says Jones. “From the difficulties of securing housing to the complexities of organizing live performances, merchandise sales, and writers’ camps, the path for artists can often feel insurmountable. That’s why we exist. Our mission is to bridge the gap and empower artists by providing essential resources and opportunities. Through our platform, Origins Music Group, we offer innovative programming such as Origins Sessions, Origins Uncut, and our flagship event, the Origins Impact Awards. These initiatives are designed to spotlight emerging talent, foster community, and generate critical funding for the work that needs to be done in our industry.”

2025 Origins Impact Awards Winners:
Angie K
Winner, Artist of the Year

“Hey Mom I Made It”
Sacha Visagie
Winner, Song of the Year

Rodell Duff
Winner, Emerging Artist of the Year

“From Where I Stand”
Produced by Shannon Sanders, Rissi Palmer, Country Music Hall of Fame
Winner, Innovative Project of the Year

“Jesus at the Taco Truck”
Frank Ray & Shy Carter
Winner, Best Collaborative Effort of the Year

James Marsh
Warner Music Nashville
Winner, Executive of the Year

Song Suffragettes
Winner, Community Advocate Award

Color Me Country Radio / Rissi Palmer
Winner, Cultural Impact of the Year

Coffey Anderson
Winner, Champion of the Year

Leah Galván Turner
Winner, Female Country Pop/Rock Artist of the Year

Sam Pounds
Winner, Male Country Pop/Rock Artist of the Year

Reyna Roberts
Winner, Female Country Hip Hop Artist of the Year

Kng Ego
Winner, Male Country Hip Hop Artist of the Year

Miko Marks
Winner, Female Country Soul Artist of the Year

Pynk Beard
Winner, Male Country Soul Artist of the Year

MŌRIAH
Winner, Female Country Latin Artist of the Year

Sammy Arriaga
Winner, Male Country Latin Artist of the Year

Photo: Lorenzo Huerta, León de Bronce

Photo: Lorenzo Huerta, León de Bronce

Windy City Smokeout Unveils 2026 Headliners

/by

Windy City Smokeout will return to Chicago’s United Center for the 13th year from July 8-12.

This year’s headliners will include Hootie & the Blowfish on Thursday, Lainey Wilson on Friday, Jordan Davis on Saturday, and Blake Shelton closing out the festival on Sunday.

For the first time in festival history, the event will kick off with a Wednesday night concert headlined by Treaty Oak Revival, with opening sets from Braxton Keith and Sterling Elza on July 8.

In addition to the music, guests can also enjoy the “Biggest Happy Hour of the Summer,” a bottomless BBQ, beverage options and more.

4-Day and Single Day General Admission, VIP, Platinum and Wednesday wristbands on sale now.

The complete lineup of artists will be announced soon.

Hit Songwriter Walt Aldridge Passes

/by

Walt Aldridge. Photo: Courtesy of Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame

Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member Walt Aldridge died Wednesday (Nov. 19) at age 70 following a long illness.

He was noted for such award-winning songs as “(There’s) No Gettin’ Over Me,” “Holding Her and Loving You” and “I Loved Her First.” Aldridge was also a producer, a singer, a studio engineer, a guitarist and a bandleader. He taught in the Entertainment Industry Department of the University of North Alabama for approximately 10 years. He was a mainstay of the Muscle Shoals music scene.

James Walton Aldridge Jr. was a native of Florence, Alabama, and he remained in that area for most of his life. He spent 17 years as a staff engineer at Fame Studios in Muscle Shoals. During that time, he worked on more than 200 records for artists such as Mac Davis, Wilson Pickett, The Osmonds, Clarence Carter, the Gatlins, Jerry Reed and Dobie Gray.

His songwriting career took flight with “(There’s) No Gettin’ Over Me” in 1981 when Ronnie Milsap took the song to No. 1 on the country chart and won a Grammy Award for his performance. Co-written with frequent collaborator Tom Brasfield, the song also became a top pop hit and won ASCAP’s Country Song of the Year award in 1982.

Other early songwriting hits for Aldridge included “’Til You’re Gone” sung by Barbara Mandrell (1982), “Holding Her and Loving You” by Earl Thomas Conley (1983), “She Sure Got Away With My Heart” by John Anderson (1984), “Crime of Passion” by Ricky Van Shelton (1987) and “One Owner Heart,” “Doncha” and “In Over My Heart” all by T.G. Sheppard (1985). All of these were top-10 hits. “Holding Her and Loving You” was named the NSAI Song of the Year.

The songwriter had top-20 successes with “She’s Steppin’ Out” for Con Hunley (1981), “Anybody’s Heart But Mine” for Terri Gibbs (1983) and “Save the Last Chance” (1985) for Johnny Lee (1985).

In the late 1980s, Walt Aldridge sang lead, produced and wrote the songs for the country-rock band The Shooters. The group charted with seven of Aldridge’s co-written tunes in 1987-89, including “They Only Come Out at Night” (1987), “Borderline” (1988) and “If I Ever Go Crazy” (1989). The group’s lone album was issued by Epic Records in 1987.

Aldridge also continued writing for others. Conway Twitty scored a major hit with “She’s Got a Single Thing in Mind” in 1989. In 1990, Shenandoah succeeded with “See If I Care” and Ricky Van Shelton went to the top of the charts in 1991 with “I Am a Simple Man.” Steve Wariner’s “Leave Him Out of This” (1992), BlackHawk’s “I Sure Can Smell the Rain” (1994), Pam Tillis’s “Deep Down” (1995), BlackHawk’s “Like There Ain’t No Yesterday” (1995), Reba McEntire’s “The Fear of Being Alone” (1996), and Sons of the Desert’s “Whatever Comes First” (1997) were all top-10 hits co-written by Aldridge. His songwriting collaborators often included his fellow Muscle Shoals neighbors Mac McAnally, Robert Byrne and James LeBlanc, as well as Brasfield. He also wrote regularly with Nashville folk performer Kate Campbell.

Walt Aldridge entered the new century with a new clutch of songwriting hits. These included “Some Things Never Change” for Tim McGraw (2000), “Modern Day Bonnie and Clyde” for Travis Tritt (2002) and the chart-topping “I Loved Her First” for Heartland (2006).

He wrote songs that were covered by Alabama, T. Graham Brown, Joe Diffie, George Strait, Restless Heart, K.T. Oslin, Tanya Tucker, Darryl Worley, Jo Dee Messina, Sammy Kershaw, Martina McBride, Lonestar, Blake Shelton Little Texas, Ty Herndon, Billy Ray Cyrus, Bill Anderson, Eddy Raven and a host of other big country stars.

Walt Aldridge wrote or co-wrote 56 top-40 country hits over four decades. His pop-music cuts include recordings by Peter Cetera, Lou Reed, Candi Staton and Andrew Gold, among others.

As a record producer, Walt Aldridge worked with Lacy J. Dalton, Lisa Angelle, Marty Stuart, Buffy Lawson, Troy Goldsby, and Jason Sellers, as well as Campbell and Heartland.

Aldridge was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2017 and the Alabama Music Hall of Fame in 2018. He earned more than 30 songwriter awards from ASCAP.

Walt Aldridge is survived by his wife, Stephanie, children Rachael Stolt and Hannah Aldridge, nine grandchildren, sister Ramona Faucett and a large extended family. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Morrison Funeral Home & Crematory in Florence, Alabama.

As a gift to the family, the Entertainment Department of the University of North Alabama is hosting the funeral service at its Mane Room, 310 N Pine St, Florence, AL. Visitation will be Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025, 12:00pm – 2:00pm. Service will immediately follow visitation. Burial will be at Greenview Memorial Park located at 3657 Old Chisholm Rd., Florence, AL following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Walt Aldridge Entertainment Industry Scholarship. Checks may be sent to: UNA Foundation, UNA, Box 5113, Florence, AL 35632. Reference the Walt Aldridge Entertainment Industry Scholarship. To send flowers to the family or to plant a tree in memory of Walt Aldridge, contact Morrison Funeral Home.

Scott Borchetta Receives 2025 CMA Irving Waugh Award Of Excellence

/by

Riley Green, Big Machine Label Group Founder, Chairman and CEO Scott Borchetta and CMA CEO Sarah Trahern after surprising Borchetta with the 2025 CMA Irving Waugh Award of Excellence on the red carpet of The 59th Annual CMA Awards. Photo: John Russell/CMA

Big Machine Label Group Founder, Chairman, and CEO Scott Borchetta was honored with the 2025 CMA Irving Waugh Award of Excellence ahead of the CMA Awards earlier this week.

The Irving Waugh Award of Excellence is presented to an individual who is the originator and caretaker of ideas and actions that have dramatically broadened and improved country music’s influence on a national or international level for the benefit of the industry. Borchetta was surprised with the award on the red carpet by three-time 2025 CMA Award winner and Big Machine Label Group artist Riley Green. Borchetta is a 2025 CMA Awards nominee in the Musical Event of the Year category for his production work on Green’s “Don’t Mind If I Do,” which features Ella Langley.

“Scott has played a pivotal role in shaping country music’s modern era,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “I’ve watched him navigate this industry with remarkable clarity and conviction—championing emerging talent, supporting legacy artists and investing in ideas that move our genre forward. His influence stretches across decades, and honoring him with the Irving Waugh Award of Excellence feels both meaningful and well-deserved.”

“I truly did not see this coming,” says Borchetta. “A sincere thank you to our extraordinary CEO, Sarah Trahern, and all on the CMA Board for this incredible recognition. Irving Waugh was a true visionary who did so much for country music and its culture, and I’m humbled to stand on his shoulders alongside so many who continue to shape and inspire the world of country music.”

Industry Ink: Keith Urban, Zach Top, Grand Ole Opry, Shannon Saunders, More

/by

Keith Urban Headlines St. Jude Benefit Show

Terry Duffy, Keith Urban, and St. Jude patients, Maelin-Kate and Brinley.

Keith Urban recently headlined a benefit concert at the CME Group Tour Championship in Naples, Florida, helping to raise a record $2M for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Tuesday marked Urban’s third consecutive appearance at the event, and was held on the Tiburon golf course of the Ritz Carlton. Over 2,000 people attended with 100% of the proceeds going towards the cause.

 

Zach Top Celebrates CMA Win

Pictured (L-R): Daniel Lee, Joseph Manzo, Chris Fabiani, Meg Goggins, Natalie
Osborne, Zach Top, Katie Dean, Tracy Gibson, Dusty Cantrell and Ana Shabeer.

Zach Top celebrated his CMA Award for New Artist of the Year with the Leo33 team at the WME after party.

 

Grand Ole Opry Hosts International Partners

Opry gathers with International Media & Partners Before Opry Show.

The Grand Ole Opry hosted international partners in town for the 59th Annual CMA Awards on Wednesday at WSM Studios on the Opry Plaza. The event preceded the partners visit to the Opry next door and was held to celebrate international support of the Opry100 celebration this year.

Justin Thomson, a 2025 CMA international broadcast winner, was the Opry100 special guest announcer on Wednesday. Baylon Leonard, 2019 and 2021 CMA international broadcast winner, guest announced during Tuesday’s show.

 

Shannon Saunders Receives Rob Potts International Live Music Advancement Award

Pictured (L-R): Jay Williams (Co-Head, WME Nashville Office), Shannon Saunders (WME Agent), Becky Gardenhire (Co-Head, WME Nashville Office) and Jordan Davis at the CMA Awards. Photo: Jamie Schramm.

WME’s Shannon Saunders received the Rob Potts International Live Music Advancement Award this week during the CMA Awards. Jordan Davis presented the award during an early ceremony on Wednesday.

 

Jon Reddick Earns His First Two RIAA Gold Certifications

Pictured (L-R): Joey Elwood, TobyMac, Tyrus Morgan, Jon Reddick, Dan Pitts, Andrea Hirth, Jess Loper.

Jon Reddick earned his first two RIAA Gold certifications for “God, Turn It Around” and “I Believe It (The Life of Jesus).” He was surprised by the certifications at his No. 1 Radio celebration for “No Fear” at his label Gotee Records.

“Every song is an important one, but the ones that connect and create engagement are always memorable and fun to be a part of,” says Joey Elwood, co-founder of Gotee Records and CEO of Bell Partners Christian Music. “When we first started Gotee, I’m not sure we truly knew how hard it was to achieve ‘Gold’ status on songs or albums, but I do not take these moments for granted these days. Having two go ‘Gold’ simultaneously is something I don’t think I’ve ever celebrated, and it speaks to how deeply the songs Jon writes and performs are connecting with listeners and congregations everywhere. Love that people are hearing Jon’s ‘voice’ and they’re saying yes.”

 

Noise New Media Adds Four

Pictured (L-R): Bruna Balduino, Heather Giddens, Quentin Beverly, Gina Rivera. Photo: Noah Clark.

Noise New Media has added four people to its Nashville based team. Heather Giddens joins as Director of Marketing & Client Services, Quentin Beverly is Digital Marketing Coordinator – Comedy, Gina Rivera enters as Digital Marketing and Advertising Manager, and Bruna Balduino takes on Paid Media Manager.

MusicRow Weekly (2025 CMA Awards, News, Charts, More…)

/by

This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly captures one of the busiest and most celebratory stretches of Nashville’s year, as country music creators, executives and industry supporters gathered across the city for awards shows, career milestones and major business moves. Click here to see the full edition.

Country music’s biggest night unfolded at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena during the 59th annual CMA Awards on Nov. 19. Lainey Wilson continued her remarkable ascent, securing the evening’s top honor—Entertainer of the Year—alongside a repeat win for Female Vocalist of the Year. Cody Johnson took home Male Vocalist of the Year, while emerging favorites The Red Clay Strays earned Vocal Group of the Year and Brooks & Dunn extended their storied legacy with another Vocal Duo of the Year win. Ella Langley and Riley Green shared the spotlight with Single and Song of the Year honors for their hit “you look like you love me,” and Wilson’s Whirlwind claimed Album of the Year.

The 2025 BMI Country Awards took place on Nov. 18, where Clint Black was honored with the prestigious BMI Icon Award for his prolific influence on the genre. BMI recognized the writers and publishers of the 50 most-performed country songs of the year, with Charlie Handsome earning BMI Country Songwriter of the Year. “I Had Some Help,” recorded by Post Malone featuring Morgan Wallen, was named BMI Country Song of the Year. Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp. earned BMI Publisher of the Year after contributing to an impressive 32 of the year’s top 50 songs.

One night earlier, the 2025 ASCAP Nashville Songwriters Celebration recognized the most-performed country and Christian songs of the year. Shaboozey captured ASCAP Country Music Songwriter/Artist of the Year, while Sony Music Publishing earned Publisher of the Year. Ashley Gorley extended his historic run with his 12th ASCAP Country Music Songwriter of the Year win—more than any writer across any genre in ASCAP history. The smash hit “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” was named ASCAP Country Song of the Year, commemorating a remarkable run that included 19 weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100, tying the record for the longest-running No. 1 of all time.

Kicking off CMA Awards week, the SESAC Nashville Awards returned on Nov. 16 at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. More than 500 creators and industry leaders gathered as Jessie Jo Dillon surprised Megan Moroney with Song of the Year honors for her chart-topping hit “Am I Okay?” Warner Chappell Music claimed Publisher of the Year, while Michael Tyler was named SESAC’s Songwriter of the Year.

This week also brought notable business updates across Music Row. Citrin Cooperman expanded into Nashville with its new partnership with local firm KBFM, establishing its first Music City office. Nate Lowery has been appointed President of the late Brett James’ Cornman Music, joining James’ children in ushering the company into its next chapter. Harris, Huelsman, Barnes & Company elevated John Huelsman to President and Founder Becky Harris to CEO. Meanwhile, FBMM announced the year-end retirement of its first-ever employee and current Chief People Officer, Betty Sanders. Longtime ASCAP executive Kele Currier is also retiring after 33 years in the industry, including 13 years supporting Nashville songwriters.

International achievements were in the spotlight as well, with the Country Music Association unveiling this year’s CMA International Award recipients. Honorees included BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville’s Lynette Garbonola, WME’s Shannon Saunders, iHeartCountry Australia’s Justin Thomson and Sveriges Radio’s Mattias Hansson. Morgan Wallen earned the International Artist Achievement Award, and Cameron Whitcomb was presented the Jeff Walker Global Country Artist Award. Variety’s Chris Willman was recognized with the 2025 CMA Media Achievement Award.

In artist and publishing news, Dasha joined Spotify’s prestigious Billions Club exactly two years after releasing her viral hit “Austin (Boots Stop Workin’).” Jeff Garrison signed with Electric Feel Publishing and TurnTable Music, while Hayden Blount inked a new publishing deal with Eclipse Music Group.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. HARDY maintains the No. 1 spot with “Favorite Country Song.” 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.