Nashvilles Music Scene Shakes Up Leadership, Publishing, and Artist Representation in July 2026

A whirlwind of moves rippled through Nashville last week, reshaping the city’s country‑music ecosystem. The Academy of Country Music (ACM) named a new chief executive, the Country Music Association (CMA) lost a senior executive, labels beefed up their promotion rosters, and a host of songwriters and performers secured fresh publishing and representation deals.

Academy of Country Music names Andy Schuon CEO According to MusicRow Weekly, the ACM will bring Andy Schuon on board as its next chief executive officer, effective September 1. Schuon’s career has spanned radio and television, with stints at Reno’s KOZZ, San Antonio’s KZEP, and executive roles at MTV and Revolt. Since its founding in 1964, the ACM has overseen the country‑music awards and a range of industry events.

CMA senior executive to leave The CMA announced that Tiffany Kerns, who has served as senior vice president of industry relations and philanthropy and as executive director of the CMA Foundation, will depart both organizations on September 2. Kerns joined the CMA in 2013 and has overseen membership events and philanthropic initiatives.

Label promotion hires Triple Tigers Records and AKANDO Music added former Valory promotion executive Chris Palmer as vice president of national promotion. Palmer’s appointment, effective July 27, follows his promotion of Raffaella Braun to co‑president of the label.

Riser House Entertainment expanded its promotion team by hiring Paul Grosser as director of regional promotion. Grosser, a Belmont University graduate, began his career with a Sony Music Nashville internship and has worked his way up through promotion roles.

Publishing deals Songwriter Adam James signed a worldwide publishing agreement with Sony Music Publishing Nashville, according to a July 22 announcement. In a separate deal, Stephony Smith entered a publishing partnership with SMACKSongs. The rising trio DELTONA secured a publishing contract with Sony Music Publishing Nashville in partnership with The Core Entertainment, announced July 23.

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

Grand Ole Opry debuts The week also highlighted new Grand Ole Opry debuts. Rising artist Tyce Delk made his Opry appearance on July 16, while Daniel Grindstaff & The Uptown Troubadours debuted in the Opry circle for the first time.

CountryBreakout Radio Chart The MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart listed Ella Langley and Morgan Wallen at the No. 1 spot with “I Can’t Love You Anymore.” The chart reflects radio airplay across the United States.

These developments illustrate a period of transition and growth in Nashville’s country‑music industry. Leadership changes at the ACM and CMA signal a shift toward new strategic directions, while the influx of promotion talent at Triple Tigers and Riser House suggests a focus on expanding market reach. The publishing and representation deals underscore the continued demand for fresh songwriting and artist visibility in a competitive market.

As the industry moves into the fall, stakeholders will watch how the new ACM CEO’s tenure shapes the organization’s initiatives and how the CMA’s leadership transition affects its programs. Meanwhile, the newly signed songwriters and artists will aim to capitalize on the opportunities presented by their new partners.

Conclusion The July 2026 week in Nashville’s music scene was marked by key leadership appointments, strategic hires, and new publishing and representation agreements. These moves position the ACM, CMA, labels, and artists for the next chapter in country‑music’s evolving landscape.