The $30 million industry event

The Billboard Country Power Players 2026 ceremony was held on June 3 at The Eye Rooftop at Category 10 in downtown Nashville, honorng the genre's top artists and music executives.

The event was co-hosted by Billboard co-chief content officers Leila Cobo and Jason Lipshutz , who kicked off the evening by acknowledging the enduring influence and constant evolution of country music.

Lipshutz stated that country music is an artform that is constantly expanding, with new superstars, new smashes, and new records being set, while still valuing longstanding traditions.

Country music's timeless essence

Cobo thanked the honorees for their contributions to the unprecedented success of country music both domestically and internationally.

Riley Green was honored with the Hitmaker award, presented by country legend Clint Black. Black praised Green's music as pure country and expressed admiration for his songwriting.

Green, who has achieved four number-one hits on Billboard's Country Airplay chart , noted that the award held special significance as he is the sole writer behind several of his hits, including 'Worst Way' and 'Don't Mind If I Do.'

Country music's new guard

The Rising Star award was presented to Tucker Wetmore by HARDY, who commended Wetmore's hard work and success.

Wetmore has scored hits like 'Brunette' and '3, 2, 1' and has been captivating auudiences worldwide with his live shows.

In his acceptance speech, Wetmore expressed gratitude to God, his family, and his industry team at MCA, Mercury, WME, and OH Creative.

Country music's collaborative spirit

Comedian Matt Rife presented the Groundbreaker award to The Red Clay Strays, calling them his very good friends and favorite band.

He praised their timeless sound that evokes music's golden age.

Frontman Brandon Coleman accepted the award, humbly noting that the band doesn't feel they've broken any ground but simply create art true to themselves .

Country music's next generation

Additionally, songwriter Tom Douglas presented an honor to Miranda Lambert, co-writer of her signature hit 'The House That Built Me.'

Douglas described Lambert as tough yet generous, rugged yet nurturing, and willing to lift up the next generation.

Lambert thanked the community for its support over her 23-year career, stating that country music is her life and she is dedicated to uplifting emerging talent.

The ceremony highlighted the collaborative and celebratory spirit of Nashville's music scene, honoring achievements across the industry.

The event underscored the continued growth of country music and the artists and executives driving its success.