The Country Radio Seminar is the largest annual gathering of Country radio professionals; however, this year allegations of sexual misconduct have cast a shadow over the seminar for many as leaders from Country Radio Broadcasters stayed silent.
In January, an article was published by Rolling Stone talking about sexual harassment and misconduct in Country radio, and CRS was mentioned numerous times.
"It's something that's so behind the scenes, and it destroys careers," Camille Rae, a Country music artist attending her second CRS, said. "It destroys souls. We come here with a dream, and we're so eager. I'm so eager to just get to that next level."
On Monday, a WTVF NewsChannel 5 crew attempted to interview Bill Mayne, the executive director of Country Radio Broadcasters, about the seminar this week, as well as the sexual misconduct allegations. The interview was initially granted, but later denied. The credentials for our crew were revoked, and our crew was asked to leave.
NewsChannel5 did interview Rae who said she had never experienced any sexual harassment or misconduct first-hand at CRS or during a radio tour, and for her and many others, CRS is a great event that can help move a career forward.
Rae hopes Country Music officials will speak out against sexual misconduct and make it clear that it's unacceptable, that way the focus can be on the good that comes out of Country radio and those who work in the industry.
Wednesday is the final day of CRS, and the seminar is planning on having two workshops titled "A Conversation About Harassment." In the description, it says the workshop will answer questions individuals might have as it pertains to the topic, including how to recognize harassment, how to avoid it, and what to do about it.
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