Wednesday, May 21, 2025

2026 Country Radio Seminar Agenda Committee Named


Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB) has revealed the Agenda Committee for the 2026 Country Radio Seminar (CRS), showcasing a diverse group of industry professionals tasked with shaping the event’s content. The seminar, a cornerstone for country music and radio professionals, fosters education, networking, and innovation within the genre.

Shelly Hargis of BMG/BBR Music Group returns as Committee Chair, bringing her extensive experience to lead the group. She is joined by Co-Vice Chairs Krista Hayes-Pruitt (BMG/BBR Music Group) and Kevin Callahan (Pamal Broadcasting), who will support Hargis in curating a dynamic agenda for CRS 2026, scheduled for February 2026 in Nashville.

The 2026 Agenda Committee comprises a robust lineup of 21 members, representing radio, music labels, management, digital platforms, and voiceover talent:

  • Andrea Burtscher (Audacy)
  • Tanner Davenport (White Boy MGMT/Black Opry)
  • Gideon Dean (Local Daily Media)
  • Katie Dean (Leo33)
  • Paisley Dunn-Banks (7 Mountains Media)
  • Sarah Frazier (Audacy)
  • Bridget Herrmann (Red Street Records)
  • Jamice Jennings (RECORDS Nashville)
  • Jess Jennings (iHeartMedia, KSSN/KKIX)
  • Ileana Landon (Megatrax Production Music)
  • Bo Matthews (Super Hi-Fi)
  • Charlie Maxx (Forever Media/Futuri Media)
  • Nicole Michalik (Beasley Media)
  • Jennipher Miller (Cumulus Media)
  • Brooks O’Brian (Cumulus Indianapolis)
  • Scott Roddy (Audacy)
  • Lo Sessions (KKBQ/Houston
  • Jennifer Shaffer (BMG/Wheelhouse Records)
  • Jimmy Steal (Collective Heads)
  • Jude Walker (Townsquare Media)
  • Neil Wilson (Neil Wilson Voiceovers)

Hargis expressed enthusiasm for the committee’s formation, noting the unprecedented interest in shaping CRS 2026. “Each year, I’m more excited about the future of our industry! We saw record numbers of applicants for the Agenda Committee, reflecting the passion and commitment to growing and improving country radio. I’m thrilled with this year’s team and eager to collaborate on delivering the best CRS agenda yet,” she said in a statement.

Additionally, Brittani Johnson of The Core Entertainment will lead the Digital Music Summit, a key CRS component focusing on digital trends in country music. Her team includes Sarah DeMarco (Amazon), Jared Meyer (Q Prime South), Ed Rivadavia (mtheory), and Bryan Webb (Apple), ensuring expertise in streaming, artist management, and technology.

The Country Radio Seminar, established in 1970, is an annual three-day event that draws thousands of radio professionals, artists, label executives, and media to Nashville. CRS 2026 will feature panels, workshops, performances, and networking opportunities designed to address industry challenges, such as evolving listener habits, digital streaming’s impact, and diversity in country music. The Agenda Committee’s role is critical, as it determines topics, speakers, and sessions that reflect current trends and future directions.

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