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Home , All Kinds of Kinds, Ashley McBryde, Ash Bowers, Blanco Brown, Brandy Clark, Chris Tompkins

PRESENTED BY: 32ND ANNUAL

MusicRow Subscribed Members will vote to determine award winners. Ballots will be emailed on July 8, 2020.

Ballot Voting Period: July 8, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. CST – July 17, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. CST.

Winners Announced: August 18, 2020

To become a member, click here. Pictured: Alecia Davis, Kathie Lee Gifford, Sherod Robertson on stage at the 2019 MusicRow Awards. Photo: Steve Lowry

By Sarah Skates

MusicRow Magazine is proud to reveal the nominees for outside nominations being considered for Breakthrough the 2020 MusicRow Awards. This year’s honors will be and Breakthrough Artist-Writer. Male and announced virtually among multiple MusicRow platforms Female Songwriter nominees are based on data from on Tuesday, August 18, 2020. MusicRow’s Top Songwriter Chart. Eligible projects were active between April 1, 2019 to May 31, 2020. Now in its 32nd year, the MusicRow Awards are ’s longest-running trade publication honors.

In addition to established awards for Producer of the TABLE OF CONTENTS Year, Song of the Year, Breakthrough Artist of the Year, Breakthrough Songwriter, and Breakthrough Artist- Category 1: Producer of the Year...... 4 Writer; the MusicRow Awards expanded with the Category 2: Label of the Year...... 8 additional categories Label of the Year, Talent Agency Category 3: Talent Agency of the Year...... 10 of the Year, Robert K. Oermann Discovery Artist of the Category 4: Breakthrough Songwriter of the Year...... 13 Year, Male and Female of the Year, and Artist Category 5: Breakthrough Artist-Writer of the Year...... 19 of the Year in 2019. Category 6: Male Songwriter of the Year...... 24 The Top 10 All-Star Musicians Awards will also Category 7: Female Songwriter of the Year...... 27 be announced on August 18, recognizing the industry’s Category 8: Song of the Year...... 31 most in-demand studio players. Category 9: Robert K. Oermann Discovery Artist of the Year..... 35 Presenting Sponsor of the 2020 MusicRow Awards is Category 10: Breakthrough Artist of the Year...... 37 City National Bank. Category 11: Artist of the Year...... 39 Past Winners...... 41 Final nominees for the MusicRow Awards are determined by a committee comprised of critics and tastemakers, with

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Category 1 | PRODUCER OF THE YEAR Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor a Nashville producer’s work on active during the eligibility period. Achievements may include, but are not limited to, single chart performance and album sales.

Dave Cobb Scott Hendricks and The 400 , , , Dan + Shay, Unit, Lori McKenna, Randy Ballerini, , Michael Ray, Trea Landon Rogers and , King Calaway

Dann Huff Scott Moffatt , Brett Young, Ashley McBryde, , Brooks & Dunn, Eli Young , Lainey Band, , , Wilson, LANCO, Miranda Midland, Riley Green, Runaway Lambert, June, Seaforth,

Ballots will be emailed to MusicRow members on Wed., July 8 | Voting Closes Fri., July 17 at 5 PM 4 FINAL NOMINATIONS

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PRODUCER OF THE YEAR: About the Nominees

Dave Cobb merged critical and commercial success with Jay Joyce leaves fingerprints all over this year’s slate his work on albums by The Highwomen, Jason Isbell of MusicRow Awards nominees, including producing and The 400 Unit, Randy Rogers and Wade Bowen, and projects by Artist of the Year nominees Ashley McBryde the upcoming Lori McKenna project. Tapping into the and . He also produced Song of the Year creative vibes at his homebase of historic RCA Studio nominees “” (McBryde), “Bluebird” A, Cobb continued crafting the cool sounds that helped (Lambert), and “Monsters” (). Joyce steered him become MusicRow Awards Producer of the Year in recent recordings by Brandy Clark, Brothers Osborne, 2018 and 2016. Lainey Wilson, LANCO, Tenille Townes and Declan McKenna. Joyce was voted MusicRow Producer of the Ross Copperman led a diverse group of artists to studio Year in 2017 and 2015. success, ranging from pop-leaning songstresses and Gabby Barrett, to radio mainstays Dierks Scott Moffatt is the studio brains behind Luke Combs’ hit- Bentley and Kenny Chesney, to newcomers King Calaway. making brawn. Together they have churned out multiple Copperman co-produced Barrett’s debut single No. 1 hits, including “Beer Never Broke My Heart,” “Even “I Hope,” which helped her earn two MusicRow Awards Though I’m Leaving” and the most recent “Does To Me,” nominations. With a string of hits as a writer, Copperman which is in the running for MusicRow Awards Song of is also in the running for Male Songwriter of the Year. the Year. Additionally Combs is vying to retain his title as reigning Artist of the Year. This is Moffatt’s first MusicRow Scott Hendricks continued his hitmaking run as producer Awards nomination. for Dan + Shay, Blake Shelton and Michael Ray. His studio skills earned several hit singles during the eligibility period, including Shelton’s “Hell Right,” “Nobody But You” and “God’s Country,” and Dan + Shay’s “All To Myself.” Hendricks’ work helped yield an Artist of the Year nomination for Dan + Shay and a Discovery Award nomination for newcomer Trea Landon.

Dann Huff, a three-time and reigning MusicRow Awards MusicRow Subscribed Producer of the Year, returns to the nominations with Members vote to determine another impressive list of credits. Among the No. award winners. 1 records he produced are Lady A’s “What If I Never Get Over You,” Brett Young’s “Here Tonight,” Eli Young To become a member, Band’s “Love Ain’t,” and Thomas Rhett’s “Remember click here. You Young” and “Beer Can’t Fix” (ft. ). Adding to Huff’s tally are projects by Brantley Gilbert, Brooks & Dunn, Kane Brown, Midland, Riley Green, and Seaforth.

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Category 2 | LABEL OF THE YEAR Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor the achievements of a Nashville label group during the eligibility period.

Big Machine Black River BBR Music Group Label Group Entertainment

Sony Music Warner Music UMG Nashville Nashville Nashville

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Category 3 | TALENT AGENCY OF THE YEAR Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor the achievements of a Nashville talent agency during the eligibility period.

APA Creative Artists Kinkead Agency Entertainment Agency

Paradigm Talent United Talent WME Agency Agency

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Category 4 | BREAKTHROUGH SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor a Nashville songwriter who wrote or co-wrote a Top 10 song for the first time.

Brock Berryhill Zachary Kale Paul Sikes Warner Chappell, BMI; “Good As Sony/ATV, BMI; “I Hope,” recorded Sony/ATV, Endurance Music Group, You,” recorded by Kane Brown; by Gabby Barrett ASCAP; “,” “Homesick,” recorded by Kane recorded by Brown; “What Happens In A Small Town,” recorded by Brantley Gilbert Randy Montana and Lindsay Ell Warner Chappell, BMI; “Beer Never Derrick Southerland Broke My Heart,” recorded by Luke Songs for A Stone Art, UMPG, BMI; Combs; “I Hope You’re Happy Now,” “More Hearts Than Mine,” recorded recorded by and Lee by Endurance Music Group, Sony/ATV, Brice BMI; “,” recorded by Drew Parker Alysa Vanderheym River House Artists admin. by Rhythm House, Roc Nation, Warner Ben Burgess Warner Chappell, BMI; “Homemade” Chappell, SESAC; “Talk You Out Of Warner Chappell, BMI; “Whiskey recorded by It,” recorded by Florida Line Glasses,” recorded by Hunter Phelps Allison Veltz-Cruz Tape Room, Warner Chappell, Big Deal Music, SESAC; “Prayed For Jennifer Denmark ASCAP; “I Don’t Know About You,” You,” recorded by Matt Stell Curb | Word Music Publishing, recorded by ; “Talk You ASCAP; “Make Me Want To,” Out Of It,” recorded by Florida recorded by Jimmie Allen Georgia Line

Josh Dunne Kobalt Music, Revelry Music Group, BMI; “What Happens In A Small Town,” recorded by Brantley Gilbert and Lindsay Ell VOTING BEGINS

Sam Ellis UMPG, ASCAP, SOCAN; “More Subscribed members Hearts Than Mine,” recorded by Ingrid Andress; “What If I Never Get vote to determine Over You,” recorded by Lady A PRESENTED BY: award winners. Lonnie Fowler Amylase, Warner Chappell, ASCAP; “Slow Dance in a Parking Lot,” to become a member recorded by Jordan Davis

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BREAKTHROUGH SONGWRITER: About the Nominees

Brock Berryhill is the only nominee in this category who that success with an even bigger hit—”More Hearts Than earned three No. 1s during the eligibility period: “What Mine,” written with fellow MusicRow Awards nominees Happens In A Small Town” (Brantley Gilbert and Lindsay Ingrid Andress and Derrick Southerland. They are the Ell), and Kane Brown’s pair of chart-toppers “Good As only Breakthrough nominees who simultaneously scored You” and “Homesick.” Berryhill has previous cuts by a Song of the Year nomination. Kenny Chesney, , Jake Owen and . Lonnie Fowler charted his first No. 1 single with “Slow Dance in a Parking Lot,” written with and recorded by Ash Bowers has had notable success in recent years as Jordan Davis. Fowler’s other cuts include additional a publisher, manager and producer, and 2019 yielded songs recorded by Davis, as well as a Bucky Covington his first No. 1 as a songwriter. He co-wrote “Prayed For single. You” with fellow nominees Allison Veltz-Cruz and Matt Stell, which became Stell’s breakthrough hit. Additionally, Zachary Kale’s collaboration with newcomer Gabby Bowers and Stell co-produced the track. Barrett resulted in her breakout No. 1, “I Hope.” Kale co- wrote and co-produced the track which was certified Ben Burgess earned his first No. 1 as co-writer of Platinum by the RIAA and is now a crossover hit on the “,” recorded by Morgan Wallen. This pop charts. Kale also has writing credits on Barrett’s follows Burgess’ numerous cuts with artists as diverse as follow-up single “,” and Matt Stell’s new Dierks Bentley, Tyler Rich, Lil Wayne, , Martin Garrix song “If I Was A Bar.” & Troye Sivan, and HARDY. Burgess recently signed with Records as an artist. Randy Montana has a solid track record of major label cuts, but it wasn’t until 2019 that he scored his first No. Jennifer Denmark earned her first No. 1 as co-writer 1, as co-writer of Luke Combs’ “Beer Never Broke My of “Make Me Want To,” recorded by Jimmie Allen. She Heart.” Montana’s golden touch continued into 2020 with penned with fellow Breakthrough Songwriter another No. 1, “I Hope You’re Happy Now,” recorded by nominee Paul Sikes. Denmark adds this success to her Carly Pearce and , and with Parker McCollum’s previous cuts by , Kelsea Ballerini, single, “Pretty Heart.” , Jason Mraz, and Aaron Carter. Drew Parker earned his first No. 1 hit as co-writer of Josh Dunne celebrated his first No. 1 with “What Happens “Homemade,” recorded by Jake Owen. Parker adds this In A Small Town,” recorded by Brantley Gilbert and success to a string of Luke Combs cuts including “This Lindsay Ell, and co-written with fellow Breakthrough One’s for You,” “Nothing Like You,” and “1, 2 Many” ft. Songwriter nominee Brock Berryhill. This follows Dunne’s Brooks & Dunn. cuts by , Kane Brown, and . Hunter Phelps scored two hits during the eligibility scored his first No. 1 as co-writer of “What If I period: “,” recorded by Florida Georgia Never Get Over You,” recorded by Lady A. Ellis followed Line, and “I Don’t Know About You,” recorded by Chris

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BREAKTHROUGH SONGWRITER: About the Nominees

Lane. Phelps co-wrote “Talk You Out of It” with fellow Alysa Vanderheym earned her first Top 10 as a co-writer Breakthrough Songwriter nominee Alysa Vanderheym. of “Talk You Out Of It,” penned with fellow MusicRow Phelps also has credits on ’s current single Awards nominees Hunter Phelps, HARDY and Jameson “Lonely If You Are.” Rodgers, and recorded by Florida Georgia Line. Vanderheym also has writing credits on the singles “Lose Paul Sikes earned his first No. 1 with “Make Me Want To,” Somebody” ( ft. OneRepublic), and “Fight” (Tayla co-written with fellow Breakthrough Songwriter nominee Parx ft. Florida Georgia Line). Jennifer Denmark, and recorded by Jimmie Allen. Sikes follows that success with writing credits on “Everywhere Allison Veltz-Cruz celebrated her first No. 1 hit as co- But On,” the new single by Breakthrough Artist nominee writer of “Prayed For You,” which she penned with fellow Matt Stell. MusicRow Awards nominees Ash Bowers and Matt Stell. Among Veltz-Cruz’s other cuts are songs recorded by Derrick Southerland teamed with Sam Ellis and Ingrid Carly Pearce, Kalie Shorr, Ross Ellis and Chris Bandi. Andress to write the No. 1 hit “More Hearts Than Mine.” This talented trio are the only Breakthrough nominees who are also nominated for Song of the Year. Southerland’s catalog is home to more cuts by Andress, Seaforth, and Kane Brown.

MUSICROW AWARDS REWIND

In 2007... In 2008... In 2013... MusicRow Founder David M. Kerri Edwards, David M. Ross, MusicRow Publisher/Owner Ross with 2007 New Artist of 2008 Breakthrough Songwriter Sherod Robertson with 2013 the Year . of the Year , Roger Breakthrough Songwriter of Murrah, and Jody Williams. the Year .

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Category 5 | BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST-WRITER OF THE YEAR

Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor a Nashville songwriter and recording artist who wrote or co- wrote a Top 10 song for the first time.

Blanco Brown Gabby Barrett Ingrid Andress Blanco Theory, SESAC, BBR Sony/ATV, BMI, Warner Music UMPG, BMI, Warner Music Music Group/Wheelhouse Nashville; “I Hope,” recorded Nashville/; Records; “,” by Gabby Barrett “More Hearts Than Mine,” recorded by recorded by Ingrid Andress

Jameson Rodgers Matt Stell Combustion, ASCAP, Sony Sony/ATV, Endurance RED Creative Group, Music Nashville/Columbia Music Group, ASCAP, Sony Anthem Music Publishing, Nashville/River House Artists; Music Nashville/RECORDS/ BMI, UMG Nashville/ “I Don’t Know About You,” ; “Prayed Mercury Records; “After A recorded by Chris Lane and For You,” recorded by Matt Few,” recorded by Travis “Talk You Out of It,” recorded Stell Denning by Florida Georgia Line

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BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST-WRITER: About the Nominees

Blanco Brown burst onto the music scene with the viral Matt Stell is the only artist in 2019 whose debut single sensation “The Git Up,” ultimately earning four billion topped the Billboard Country chart. He co- views across social platforms and holding the No. 1 spot wrote the Platinum-certified song “Prayed For You” on the Billboard chart for 12 weeks. with Breakthrough Songwriter nominees Ash Bowers He wrote and produced the track, melding a style of and Allison Veltz-Cruz. Additionally, Stell and Bowers southern music and rap he calls “TrailerTrap.” Brown co-produced the track. Stell follows that success with is currently featured on Diplo’s new single “Do Si Do.” his currently climbing single, “.” Brown’s career as a songwriter and producer includes work with Fergie, Childish Gambino, and Travis Denning scored his first No. 1 as co-writer of his Kane Brown. own driving single “,” which has notched more than 130 million streams globally and is from his Gabby Barrett shattered records as a co-writer of her debut EP Beer’s Better Cold. Now he is following that debut single “I Hope.” The scorned lover anthem is a success with songwriting credits on Michael Ray’s single Platinum-certified country No. 1 with a video that tallied “Her World Or Mine.” Denning has been building a strong over 50 million views on YouTube alone. As the song reputation as a writer in recent years, securing cuts by surged in popularity, it powered up the Top 40 charts Jason Aldean, , and Chase Rice. and a new crossover version was released featuring pop star .

Ingrid Andress teamed with Sam Ellis and Derrick Southerland to write the No. 1 song “More Hearts Than Mine.” Their collaboration has the rare distinction of being a debut single that is also nominated for Song of the Year. Andress’ breakthrough as a recording artist follows a burgeoning songwriting career, where she collaborated with a spectrum of stylists such as Bebe MusicRow Subscribed Rexha, Charli XCX, , and . Members vote to determine

award winners. is the only nominee in this category with two qualifying hits, and whose songs were recorded by other artists: “I Don’t Know About You,” (Chris Lane) To become a member, and “Talk You Out Of It” (Florida Georgia Line). While click here. making significant headway as a songwriter, Rodgers also made strides as a recording artist and earned a nomination for Discovery Artist of the Year. Among his upcoming cuts is “Born Here Live Here Die Here,” the title track to Luke Bryan’s next album.

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Category 6 | MALE SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor the achievements of a Nashville songwriter during the eligibility period.

Ross Copperman Sony ATV/Endurance Music Round Hill Music, ASCAP Sony/ATV, ASCAP Group, BMI

Josh Osborne Jordan M. Schmidt Jonathan Singleton Sony ATV/SMACK Songs, Tree Vibez Music/Sony ATV, Big Machine Music/Spirit Music ASCAP ASCAP Nashville, ASCAP

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MALE SONGWRITER: Credits from the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart

Ross Copperman “Catch,” recorded by Brett Young “Breaking Up Was Easy In The 90s,” recorded by Sam Hunt “Get Along,” recorded by Kenny Chesney “Cheatin’ Songs,” recorded by Midland “Lady,” recorded by Brett Young “,” recorded by Sam Hunt “Living,” recorded by Dierks Bentley “Kinfolks,” recorded by Sam Hunt “Love Ain’t,” recorded by “Mr. Lonely,” recorded by Midland “Nobody But You,” recorded by Blake Shelton and Gwen “Never Be Sorry,” recorded by Old Dominion Stefani “Nobody But You,” recorded by Blake Shelton and Gwen “The Other Girl,” recorded by Kelsea Ballerini and Halsey Stefani “Tip Of My Tongue,” recorded by Kenny Chesney “One Man Band,” recorded by Old Dominion “,” recorded by Luke Bryan “Really Shouldn’t Drink Around You,” recorded by Teddy “World For Two,” recorded by King Calaway Robb “Sinning With You,” recorded by Sam Hunt Ashley Gorley “World For Two,” recorded by King Calaway “Catch,” recorded by Brett Young “Young Once,” recorded by Sam Hunt “Drop Everything,” recorded by Carlton Anderson “Eyes On You,” recorded by Chase Rice Jordan M. Schmidt “Good Vibes,” recorded by Chris Janson “Anything She Says,” recorded by Mitchell Tenpenny and “Hard To Forget,” recorded by Sam Hunt Seaforth “,” recorded by Kelsea Ballerini “Blessings,” recorded by Florida Georgia Line “I Don’t Know About You,” recorded by Chris Lane “Caught Up In The Country,” recorded by “Living,” recorded by Dierks Bentley “God’s Country,” recorded by Blake Shelton “Love Ain’t,” recorded by Eli Young Band “Like A Rodeo,” recorded by Kane Brown “Notice,” recorded by Thomas Rhett “,” recorded by HARDY “One Big Country Song,” recorded by LOCASH “This Is Us,” recorded by Jimmie Allen and Noah Cyrus “One Of Them Girls,” recorded by Lee Brice “We Back,” recorded by Jason Aldean “Over Drinking,” recorded by “Worldwide Beautiful,” recorded by Kane Brown “Remember You Young,” recorded by Thomas Rhett “Ridin’ Roads,” recorded by Jonathan Singleton “Rumor,” recorded by Lee Brice “Beer Never Broke My Heart,” recorded by Luke Combs “Single Saturday Night,” recorded by “Die From A Broken Heart,” recorded by Maddie & Tae “I Hope You’re Happy Now,” recorded by Carly Pearce and Jon Nite Lee Brice “Friends Don’t,” recorded by Maddie & Tae “In Between,” recorded by Scotty McCreery “I Hope,” recorded by Gabby Barrett “Moon Over Mexico,” recorded by Luke Combs “Knockin’ Boots,” recorded by Luke Bryan “What You See Is What You Get,” recorded by Luke Combs “Lady,” recorded by Brett Young “Living,” recorded by Dierks Bentley “Lost In The Middle Of Nowhere,” recorded by Kane Brown and “What She Wants Tonight,” recorded by Luke Bryan

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Category 7 | FEMALE SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor the achievements of a Nashville songwriter during the eligibility period.

Jennifer Denmark Curb | Word Music Publishing, Warner Chappell, BMI UMPG, BMI ASCAP

Hillary Lindsey Laura Veltz Parker Welling Endurance Music Group/ Big Machine Music, BMI Home Team/Roc Nation/ BMG, ASCAP Warner Chappell, BMI *Signed to Concord Music Publishing in June 2020

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FEMALE SONGWRITER: Credits from the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart

Jennifer Denmark “To Hell & Back,” recorded by “Make Me Want To,” recorded by Jimmie Allen “What If I Never Get Over You,” recorded by Lady A “What I’m Leaving For,” recorded by Lady A Nicolle Galyon “All To Myself,” recorded by Dan + Shay Parker Welling “Details,” recorded by “Every Little Thing,” recorded by “homecoming queen?,” recorded by Kelsea Ballerini “Love You Like I Used To,” recorded by Russell Dickerson “These Days,” recorded by Mackenzie Porter Natalie Hemby “Bluebird,” recorded by Miranda Lambert “Butterflies,” recorded by Kacey Musgraves “Heartache Medication,” recorded by Jon Pardi MUSICROW AWARDS REWIND “Mess With My Head,” recorded by Miranda Lambert “Rainbow,” recorded by Kacey Musgraves “Redesigning Women,” recorded by The Highwomen

Hillary Lindsey “Almost Maybes,” recorded by Jordan Davis “Buy My Own Drinks,” recorded by Runaway June “Closer To You,” recorded by Carly Pearce “Hole In The Bottle,” recorded by Kelsea Ballerini “It All Comes Out In The Wash,” recorded by Miranda Lambert In 2017... “Knockin’ Boots,” recorded by Luke Bryan 2017 Breakthrough Artist winner Maren Morris with “One Beer,” recorded by HARDY featuring Devin Dawson MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson. and “Over Drinking,” recorded by Little Big Town “People Are Different,” recorded by Florida Georgia Line “What She Wants Tonight,” recorded by Luke Bryan “What Whiskey Does,” recorded by

Laura Veltz “A Song For Everything,” recorded by Maren Morris “Keeping Score,” recorded by Dan + Shay featuring “Speechless,” recorded by Dan + Shay In 2019... “The Bones,” recorded by Maren Morris “To A T,” recorded by Ryan Hurd Robert K. Oermann, the first-ever Discovery Artist of the Year recipient Tenille Townes, and MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson.

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Category 8 | SONG OF THE YEAR Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor Nashville writers and publishers on the craft of songwriting, not necessarily chart performance.

“Bluebird” “Does To Me” “Monsters” Songwriters: Miranda Lambert, Luke Dick, Songwriters: Luke Combs, Ray Fulcher, Songwriters: Eric Church, Jeff Hyde Natalie Hemby Tyler Reeve Publishers: Sony/ATV Tree Publishing, Publishers: Sony/ATV Tree Publishing, Publishers: Big Music Machine, 50 Longer And Louder Music, Pink Dog Publishing, Emileon Egg Music, Straight Dimes Mammaw’s Fried Okra Songs, Songs Of Kobalt Music Publishing, Works Of RHA, Music, Little Louder Songs, Publishing America, Inc., Little Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Songs Of Kobalt Music Louder Songs, Songs Of Corp., Larkin Hill Publishing, Publishing America, Inc., Universal, Inc., Wrucke For You Kirbfinder’s Mucho Love BMI Publishing, BMI Music, BMI Recorded by: Eric Church, UMG Nashville Recorded by: Miranda Lambert, Recorded by: Luke Combs feat. Eric (EMI Records Nashville) Nashville (Vanner Records/RCA Church, Nashville) (River House Artists/Columbia Nashville)

“More Hearts Than Mine” “One Night Standards” “The Father, My Son, and Songwriters: Ingrid Andress, Sam Ellis, Derrick Songwriters: Ashley McBryde, Nicolette the Holy Ghost” Southerland Hayford, Shane McAnally Publishers: What Is An Ingrid, Songs Of Publishers: Warner Geo Met Ric Music, Songwriter: Universal, Inc., Straight From The Tempo Investments, Smackstreet Publishers: CMoGo Music Publishing, Art Music, Songs For A Stone Music, Canned Biscuit Songs, BMI, admin by Words & Music Heart, Universal Music Corp., Songs of Harpeth Valley, Warner- International Happy Rock Publishing, ASCAP, Tamerlane Publishing Corp., Recorded by: Craig Morgan, BBR Music BMI Ltd., I Love Group (Broken Bow Records) Recorded by: Ingrid Andress, Warner Music RHA, SESAC, BMI, GMR Nashville/Atlantic Records Recorded by: Ashley McBryde, Warner Music Nashville

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SONG OF THE YEAR: About the Nominees

“Bluebird” “More Hearts Than Mine” Miranda Lambert, Luke Dick and Natalie Hemby co-wrote Ingrid Andress, Derrick Southerland and Sam Ellis Lambert’s lovely song “Bluebird,” offering an insightful composed a modern classic about a family embracing message about moving forward even when life hands their daughter’s new relationship with “More Hearts Than you lemons. (“And if the whole wide world stops singing Mine.” Says Andress, “This is extra special because it’s / And all the stars go dark / I’ll keep the light on in my a song about my family, who I love so much and who soul / Keep a bluebird in my heart”). Says the singer, have been my No. 1 fans from the beginning. I’m beyond “‘Bluebird’ was a song that had a little darkness to it, but happy it has resonated with so many people, because it really was about hope.” It is from her current album that’s the whole beauty of ; real stories that Wildcard, recorded by Producer of the Year nominee are told about real people living in this country.” Andress Jay Joyce. Lambert is nominated for Artist of the Year, co-wrote and co-produced her entire debut album, Lady and was named MusicRow Critics’ Pick in 2005. Like, and is also nominated for Breakthrough Artist-Writer and Breakthrough Artist. “Does To Me” Luke Combs scored his eighth-consecutive No. 1 “One Night Standards” single—a first on Billboard’s chart— Ashley McBryde, Nicolette Hayford and Shane McAnally with “Does To Me” featuring Eric Church. Combs, who expertly crafted a traditional country song of escaping co-wrote the song with Ray Fulcher and Tyler Reeve, loneliness with “One Night Standards.” The lead single describes it this way: “I had a really regular childhood. from McBryde’s current album, , is full of We always had enough to eat and a roof over our head, somber desperation paired with clever lyrics (“I ain’t but that definitely doesn’t mean that my parents weren’t Cinderella but who is? / Call me what you want if the struggling for money. They just did a really good job of shoe fits”). The recording was produced by Producer of living within their means. And so we kind of used that the Year nominee Jay Joyce. McBryde is the reigning sentiment to [express what] the world doesn’t think of MusicRow Breakthrough Artist of the Year and Song of as really awesome achievements...But they’re still things the Year winner for “Girl Goin’ Nowhere.” that you should be proud of.” The track was produced by Producer of the Year nominee Scott Moffatt, and helped “The Father, My Son, and the Holy Ghost” Combs earn a nomination for Artist of the Year. Written and produced solely by Craig Morgan, “The Father, My Son, and the Holy Ghost,” is this year’s only “Monsters” solo-written Song of the Year nominee. The intimate Eric Church and co-writer Jeff Hyde stand up to and emotional song explores the grief, faith and hope metaphorical monsters in the thought provoking song Morgan experienced following the unexpected passing “Monsters.” Sings Church: “Anymore when a restless of his son Jerry. “As difficult as this song was to write feelin’ keeps me up at night / Fallin’ on my knees is my and as difficult as it is to sing, it gives me strength in my new turnin’ on the light / I keep my faith intact, make faith in God,” says Morgan. “My hope is it does the same sure my prayers are said / ’Cause I’ve learned that the for others.” The song was his first piece of new music in monsters ain’t the ones beneath the bed.” The track is over three years, which he initially self-released before from Church’s sixth album, Desperate Man, which was reuniting with Broken Bow Records, his former record helmed by Producer of the Year nominee Jay Joyce. label home. Church is also the featured guest on Luke Combs’ hit “Does To Me,” which is a fellow contender for Song of the Year.

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Category 9 | ROBERT K. OERMANN DISCOVERY ARTIST OF THE YEAR Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor a Nashville developing artist who demonstrates significant talent and potential to rise.

Avenue Beat Jameson Rodgers Niko Moon Big Machine Label Group/Valory Sony Music Nashville/Columbia Sony Music Nashville/RCA Music Co./Tape Room Records, Nashville/River House Artists, Nashville, Warner Chappell, Tape Room Music, Dennis Combustion, ASCAP SESAC Entertainment, ASCAP

Payton Smith Randall King Trea Landon Big Machine Label Group/ Warner Music Nashville, BMG, Warner Music Nashville, , Sony BMI Play It Again Music, BMI ATV/Eclipse Music Group, BMI

Ballots will be emailed to MusicRow members on Wed., July 8 | Voting Closes Fri., July 17 at 5 PM 35 FINAL NOMINATIONS

ROBERT K. OERMANN DISCOVERY ARTIST OF THE YEAR: About the Nominees

Avenue Beat powered onto the scene with the debut an online video series called It Started With A Song, “Ruin That For Me,” which has amassed over 11 million covering artists who influenced his music, ranging from global streams to date and continues to rise at country Pearl Jam and , to and Chris radio. The Genzennial trio comprised of Sami Bearden, Young. Savana Santos and Sam Backoff is spreading like wildfire through social media apps including TikTok, thanks to Randall King is a modern traditionalist with a strong their melodic brand of pop, keen lyrics, and saucy titles following in his native Texas, playing 150 dates per like “Thank You Anxiety” and “I Don’t Really Like Your year and self-releasing music before signing with Boyfriend.” Warner Music Nashville in 2019. Now he’s working with seasoned producers Bart Butler and Ryan Gore, and is Jameson Rodgers is storming country radio with his still bringing plenty of twang to his new music, including debut single “Some Girls.” The previously recent releases “She Gone” and “Hey Cowgirl.” King’s released two successful independent EPs, accruing 2018 self-titled and self-produced album has contributed millions of streams and fans. He spent much of 2019 to his more than 15 million on-demand streams. supporting Luke Combs on tour and playing his own headlining dates. Rodgers, a Mississippi native, initially Trea Landon is a rising singer-songwriter who is primed made his mark on Music City as a songwriter, and earned for success with the release of his Dirt Road Dancin’ EP, an additional MusicRow Awards nomination this year for produced by hitmaker Scott Hendricks, who is nominated Breakthrough Artist-Writer, as co-writer of hits by Florida for Producer of the Year. Landon began playing guitar Georgia Line and Chris Lane. and writing music at age 16. Citing fellow Georgia natives The Peach Pickers as one of his major influences, he Niko Moon is warming up summer radio with his playful, followed in their footsteps to Nashville in 2015 and self-penned debut single “Good Time.” Though it is his landed a publishing deal with ’s Play first time on the radio as an artist, Moon has a strong It Again Music. musical track record as a longtime collaborator with Band, having credits on five of the band’s No. 1s. Moon is co-writing and co-producing his debut EP, set for release later this year. He is a Texas native who relocated to Georgia at age 10. The result is his own hooky blend of southern music meets sunny hip-hop.

Payton Smith is primed for success with his debut single “Like I Knew You Would,” which he co-wrote. The Louisiana native is a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter known for a stage presence that belies his 20 years. These talents have helped him accrue over 20 million global streams. As a self-taught musician, Smith has

Ballots will be emailed to MusicRow members on Wed., July 8 | Voting Closes Fri., July 17 at 5 PM 36 FINAL NOMINATIONS

Category 10 | BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST OF THE YEAR Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor a Nashville artist who achieved significant career progress for the first time.

Blanco Brown Gabby Barrett HARDY BBR Music Group/Wheelhouse Warner Music Nashville, Sony/ Big Loud Records, Relative Records, Blanco Theory, SESAC ATV, BMI Music Group, BMI

Ingrid Andress Matt Stell Travis Denning Warner Music Nashville/ Sony Music Nashville/ UMG Nashville/Mercury Atlantic Records, UMPG, BMI RECORDS/Arista Nashville, Records, RED Creative Group, Sony/ATV, Endurance Anthem Music Publishing, BMI Music Group, ASCAP

Ballots will be emailed to MusicRow members on Wed., July 8 | Voting Closes Fri., July 17 at 5 PM 37 FINAL NOMINATIONS

BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST OF THE YEAR: About the Nominees

Blanco Brown swaggered onto the music scene as the Matt Stell soared on to the airwaves with his self- mastermind behind the international viral sensation “The penned “Prayed for You,” which was the only Billboard Git Up.” Though he had been working in studios and chart-topper by a debut artist in 2019. He is continuing songwriting for years, the track was his breakthrough to attract fans with new music, including his currently as an artist. His album, Honeysuckle & Lightning Bugs, climbing single, “Everywhere But On,” and another new is inspired by his youth growing up in during track “If I Was A Bar.” Stell is an Arkansas native and self- the school year and rural Georgia during the summer, taught vocalist and guitar-player. He made the move along the way learning to value diverse styles of music. to Music City in 2014, where he landed a publishing and management deal with fellow MusicRow Awards Gabby Barrett scored big with her blockbuster hit nominee Ash Bowers. “I Hope,” which she co-wrote, and continues the momentum with her debut album, Goldmine, and follow- Travis Denning celebrated his first No. 1 with “After A up single “The Good Ones.” Upon release, Goldmine Few,” which he co-wrote, and has gone on to have earned the most first-week debut album streams for any 130 million streams globally. The song catapulted his country act in history. Barrett built a strong independent artist career, and he is following that with new single touring base, performing more than 130 shows a year in “Where That Beer’s Been.” The Georgia native first made 2017, before rising to national prominence as a finalist impressions with the release of his Top 40 debut single on ABC’s . “David Ashley Parker From Powder Springs.” Denning kicked off 2020 as direct support for Dustin Lynch and HARDY continued gaining ground as a songwriter and has previously opened for Cole Swindell, , artist during the last year. His album HIXTAPE VOL. 1 and played his own headlining tour. welcomes 17 all-star collaborators such as and Thomas Rhett, and features rising single “One Beer” with Lauren Alaina and Devin Dawson. As a songwriter, HARDY tallied recent No. 1 singles by Chris Lane (“I Don’t Know About You”) and Blake Shelton (“God’s Country”). The Mississippi native has been working on his upcoming full-length project with producer .

Ingrid Andress is experiencing an amazing rise to the top. Her self-penned single, “More Hearts Than Mine,” MusicRow Subscribed is one of only two solo-female-debut singles to go No. 1 Members vote to determine on the Country Airplay chart in 2020. (The other is fellow award winners. nominee and Warner Music Nashville labelmate Gabby Barrett.) Andress co-wrote and co-produced her entire To become a member, album , which debuted as the then-highest click here. streaming country female debut album of all time. The Colorado native follows the success of “More Hearts Than Mine” with new fast-climbing single, “The Stranger.”

Ballots will be emailed to MusicRow members on Wed., July 8 | Voting Closes Fri., July 17 at 5 PM 38 FINAL NOMINATIONS

Category 11 | ARTIST OF THE YEAR Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor outstanding achievements by a Nashville artist during the eligibility period.

Carrie Underwood Dan + Shay Luke Combs UMG Nashville/ Warner Music Nashville, Warner Sony Music Nashville/River Nashville, BMI Chappell, ASCAP, BMI House Artists/Columbia Nashville, UMPG, BMI

Maren Morris Miranda Lambert Thomas Rhett Sony Music Nashville/Columbia Sony Music Nashville/ Big Machine Label Group/ Nashville, UMPG, BMI Vanner Records/RCA Valory Music Co., Sony/ATV, Nashville, Sony/ATV, BMI BMI

Ballots will be emailed to MusicRow members on Wed., July 8 | Voting Closes Fri., July 17 at 5 PM 39 FINAL NOMINATIONS

ARTIST OF THE YEAR: About the Nominees

Carrie Underwood dazzled audiences with one of the woman, with 23.96 million streams. Her Platinum-certified year’s most impressive tours, The Tour 360, single “The Bones” became the longest leading No. 1 tallying numerous sold-out dates and earning critical on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart by a solo female praise. The massive arena production utilized 36 artist after its 11th week. Additionally, “The Bones” has projectors, 19 video projection screens, 15 stage elevators very significant crossover success, including a version and over 400 moving lights. On the radio, Underwood with Hozier. That follows her chart-topper “GIRL” last continued her hitmaking streak with the sultry single summer. Now Morris is on to her latest single, “To Hell & “Drinking Alone” and the sunny “Southbound.” She also Back,” and her next adventure, motherhood, having had continued to successfully expand her lifestyle brand with her first baby in March. Morris is the 2016 Breakthrough the release of her best-selling book, Find Your Path. Songwriter and 2017 Breakthrough Artist of the Year.

Dan + Shay continued a meteoric rise with the release Miranda Lambert released her seventh studio album, of “10,000 Hours” featuring Justin Bieber, which Wildcard, earning another debut at No. 1 on the Billboard topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for 21 Top Country Album Charts and another round of critical consecutive weeks. The RIAA Platinum-certified hit was praise. The album is home to the Grammy-nominated the fastest country single of 2019 to reach one million single “It All Comes Out in The Wash” and her current track equivalents. The duo also scored another No. single, “Bluebird,” which is in the running for MusicRow 1 during the eligibility period with “All To Myself,” and Awards Song of the Year. Wildcard was helmed by took home their second consecutive Grammy award Jay Joyce, who is nominated for Producer of the Year. for Best Country Duo/Group Performance for their multi- Lambert is the 2005 MusicRow Critics Pick winner, which Platinum No. 1, “Speechless.” Dan + Shay are produced predicts the future success of new artists. by Producer of the Year nominee Scott Hendricks. Thomas Rhett continues his hitmaking streak with Luke Combs’ current album What You See Is What You his fourth studio album , offering Get barrelled to No. 1 on the all-genre autobiographical snapshots and cool sounds that have chart and enjoyed the largest-ever streaming week for endeared fans to him since the beginning. The current a country album with 74 million on-demand streams. album has spawned three No. 1 hits all of which he During the eligibility period, Combs scored his seventh co-wrote (“Sixteen,” “Look What God Gave Her” and and eighth consecutive chart-toppers with “Even Though “Remember You Young”) and his most recent “Beer I’m Leaving” and current single, “Does To Me” featuring Can’t Fix” ft. Jon Pardi, which earned Thomas Rhett Eric Church, which is in the running for Song of the Year. his 15th career and record-breaking ninth consecutive Combs is the reigning MusicRow Awards Artist of the No. 1. His current single, “Be A Light,” features Reba Year and the 2018 Breakthrough Artist of the Year. His McEntire, , Chris Tomlin and Keith Urban, producer Scott Moffatt is nominated for Producer of the and is climbing at country radio. Thomas Rhett frequently Year. works with Producer of the Year nominee Dann Huff.

Maren Morris has seen major success with current album GIRL, which shattered the record for the largest ever debut streaming week for a country album by a

Ballots will be emailed to MusicRow members on Wed., July 8 | Voting Closes Fri., July 17 at 5 PM 40 PAST WINNERS

Awards were selected by critics until 2008, when they became member voted.

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR 2017: Jesse Lee 2016: Maren Morris Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor a Nashville producer’s 2015: Michael Carter work on albums active during the eligibility period. Achievements may include, 2014: Nicolle Galyon and Cole Swindell (tie) but are not limited to, single chart performance and album sales. 2013: Kacey Musgraves 2012: Johnny Bulford and Phil Barton 2019: Dann Huff 2011: Kimberly Perry 2018: Dave Cobb 2010: Chris Young 2017: Jay Joyce 2009: James Otto 2016: Dave Cobb 2008: Luke Bryan 2015: Jay Joyce 2007: and 2014: 2006: Jason Matthews 2013: Dann Huff 2005: Vicky McGehee 2012: Frank Liddell 2004: Jim Brown/Don Rollins 2011: Paul Worley 2003: 2010: Frank Liddell & Mike Wrucke 2002: Anthony Smith 2008-09: Frank Rogers 2001: 2007: 2000: 2006: Dann Huff 1999: 2005: Frank Rogers 1998: Harley Allen 2004: Buddy Cannon 1997: Cathy Majeski, Sunny Russ, Stephony Smith 2003: 1996: Jim Lauderdale 2002: Keith Stegall 2001: Mark Wright 1999-2000: Byron Gallimore BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST-WRITER OF THE YEAR

Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor a Nashville songwriter PRODUCER HONOR ROLL and recording artist who wrote or co-wrote a Top 10 song for the first time.

Producer earning the most Top 20 singles and Top 10 albums for each year. 2019: Jimmie Allen Became Producer of the Year in 1999. 2018: Devin Dawson 2017: Lauren Alaina 1998: No award presented 1997: Wilbur C. Rimes 1996: Tony Brown MALE SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR 1995: Allen Reynolds 1994: James Stroud Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor the achievements of a 1993: Tony Brown Nashville songwriter during the eligibility period. 1991-92: Allen Reynolds 1990: Tony Brown 2019: Josh Osborne 1982-89: Jimmy Bowen FEMALE SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR LABEL OF THE YEAR Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor the achievements of a Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor the achievements of a Nashville songwriter during the eligibility period. Nashville label group during the eligibility period. 2019: Hillary Lindsey 2019: UMG Nashville TOP SONGWRITER TALENT AGENCY OF THE YEAR Songwriter earning the most Top 20 singles for each year. Category merged Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor the achievements of a with Breakthrough Songwriter in 1998. Nashville talent agency during the eligibility period. 1997: 2019: CAA 1996: Mark D. Sanders 1995: Tom Shapiro 1994: Gary Burr BREAKTHROUGH SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR 1993: 1992: Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor a Nashville songwriter 1991: Pat Alger who wrote or co-wrote a Top 10 song for the first time. 1987-90: Don Schlitz 1986: Dave Loggins 2019: Jordan Reynolds 1985: Troy Seals 2018: Emily Shackelton

41 PAST WINNERS

SONG OF THE YEAR 2001: “There Is No Arizona,” written by Jamie O’Neal, Shaye Smith, Lisa Drew; published by EMI Music, Zomba Music Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor Nashville writers and 2000: “He Didn’t Have To Be,” written by , Kelley publishers on the craft of songwriting, not necessarily chart performance. Lovelace; published by EMI April Music, , Love Ranch Music 2019: “Girl Goin’ Nowhere” written by Ashley McBryde, Jeremy 1999: “Don’t Laugh At Me,” written by Allen Shamblin, Steve Seskin; Bussey; published by Songs Of Song Factory, BMI/Beejo published by Built On , David Aaron Music, Love Fetch Publishing, BMI/Universal Tunes, SESAC This Town Music 2018: (tie) “Drunk Girl” written by Chris Janson, Scooter Carusoe, 1998: “Something That We Do,” written by Clint Black, Skip Ewing; ; published by ole Red Vinyl Music, Buckkilla published by Blackened Music, Opryland Music Group Music, Scrambler Music, Abbotts Creek Music Two, Sony/ATV 1997: “Friends,” written by Jerry Holland; published by That’s A Tree Publishing, Tomdouglasmusic, ASCAP, BMI Smash Publishing, Mike Curb Music (tie) “” written by David Frasier, Ed 1996: “,” written by Vince Melamed, Gary Burr; Hill, Josh Kear; published by SB 21 Music Publishing, Purdy published by MCA Music, Patrick Joseph Music Beard Music, Songs Of Amylase Music, Five Hills Music, Do Write Music, Year Of The Dog Music, Champagne Whiskey Publishing, Downtown DLJ Songs, ASCAP, BMI ROBERT K. OERMANN DISCOVERY ARTIST 2017: “Blue Ain’t Your Color,” written by Steven Lee Olsen, Hillary OF THE YEAR Lindsey, Clint Lagerberg; published by WB Music Corp., Music Of The Corn, Rezolution Music, BMG Gold Songs, House Of Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor a Nashville developing Sea Gayle Music, Spirit Catalog Holdings, S.a.r.l/Spirit Two artist who demonstrates significant talent and potential to rise. Nashville, ASCAP 2016: “,” written by Lori McKenna; published by 2019: Tenille Townes Songs of Universal, Hoodie 2015: “,” written by Hillary Lindsey, Lori McKenna, ; published by Warner-Tamerlane, Songs of , BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST OF THE YEAR Songs of Universal, Hoodie, HillarodyRathbone, BMG 2014: “All Kinds Of Kinds,” written by Phillip Coleman and Don Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor a Nashville artist who Henry; published by Carnival Music, Warner-Tamerlane achieved significant career progress for the first time. 2013: (tie) “I Your Truck,” written by , Connie Harrington, Jimmy Yeary; published by Vistaville Music, Happy 2019: Ashley McBryde Tears Music, EMI Blackwood, Watch This Girl Publishing, Great 2018: Luke Combs Day At This Time Music, Beattyville Music 2017: Maren Morris (tie) “Merry Go ‘Round,” written by Kacey Musgraves, Josh 2016: Old Dominion Osborne, Shane McAnally; published by 351 Music, Warner 2015: Sam Hunt Tamerlane, Crazy Water Music, Little Blue Egg, Universal 2014: Brandy Clark Music, Want A Fresh One 2013: Kacey Musgraves 2012: “,” written by and ; 2012: Eli Young Band published by Deanaling Music, Hannaberg Music, Songs of 2011: Universal Inc., WB Music Corp 2010: 2011: “,” written by Kimberly Perry; published by 2009: Pearlfeather, Rio Bravo 2008: Lady A 2010: “,” written by Allen Shamblin, Tom Douglas; published by Sony/ATV-Tree Publishing Co., Tomdouglasmusic, Built On Rock Music CRITICS’ PICK/NEW ARTIST 2009: written by Jamey Johnson, James Otto, Lee “In Color,” To recognize an outstanding new artist who released their first single in the Thomas Miller; published by New Songs of Sea Gayle, EMI awards year. Became Breakthrough Artist in 2008. Blackwood, Warner Tamerlane, Eldorotto Music 2008: “,” written by Brad Paisley; published by EMI April 2007: Taylor Swift Music, Sea Gayle Music 2006: Carrie Underwood 2007: “,” written by Lori McKenna; published by 2005: Miranda Lambert Melanie Howard Music, Inc. 2004: 2006: “,” written by Jeffrey Steele, Steve 2003: Robson; published by Songs of Windswept Pacific, Almo 2002: Blake Shelton Music Corp. 2001: Mark McGuinn 2005: “,” written by Bill Anderson, ; 2000: Eric Heatherly published by Sony/ATV-Tree, Mr. Bubba, Reynsong, Who Ya Say, Wrensong 2004: “Almost Home,” written by Craig Morgan, Kerry Kurt Phillips; ARTIST OF THE YEAR published by Magic Mustang Music Inc., Sufferin’ Succotash Songs Voted by MusicRow’s subscribed members to honor outstanding achievements 2003: “Red Ragtop,” written by Jason White; published by Sony/ATV by a Nashville artist during the eligibility period. Music 2002: “Where Were You (When The World Stopped Turning),” 2019: Luke Combs written by Alan Jackson; published by EMI Music Publishing

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