Second Round of Talent Announced for Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley at CRS 2026
Country Radio Seminar (CRS) has announced the second round of performers set to appear during Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley.
The newly announced performers scheduled to take the stage on Thursday, March 19 at 6:30 p.m. include Rhett Akins, Jim Beavers, and The Warren Brothers.
The hitmakers join the previously announced lineup, featuring Clint Black, Steve Wariner, and Paul Overstreet, who will headline a special celebration of ’90s country music during the event.
A pivotal figure in modern country music, Rhett Akins launched his professional career in the mid-1990s after signing with Decca Records and releasing his debut album, A Thousand Memories, in 1995. The project produced four chart singles, including his first No. 1, “That Ain’t My Truck.” Co-written by Akins, the hit remains one of his signature recordings. He followed with Somebody New, and went on to score another chart-topper with “Don’t Get Me Started.” Beyond his success as a recording artist, Akins has become one of the most prolific songwriters of his generation, amassing 36 No. 1 singles as a writer. His catalog includes hits recorded by Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton, Jason Aldean, Thomas Rhett, Dustin Lynch, Justin Moore, Chris Young, LOCASH, and Brantley Gilbert, among many others. The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Famer has earned multiple BMI Songwriter of the Year honors, eight CMA Triple Play Awards, been named ACM Songwriter of the Decade, and been recognized as the NMPA Non-Performing Songwriter Icon.
A native Texan, Jim Beavers moved to Nashville in 1991 to pursue a career on the business side of the music industry. His early professional experience included serving as Director of Marketing at Capitol Records, touring musically with Lee Ann Womack, and working as a college professor. Since 2002, Beavers has focused primarily on songwriting, building an extraordinary catalog with dozens of songs recorded by acts such as Chris Stapleton, Luke Bryan, Dierks Bentley, Tim McGraw, Hootie & the Blowfish, Toby Keith, Blake Shelton, Brooks & Dunn, Brad Paisley, and Faith Hill. His compositions have earned multiple CMA, ACM, BMI, and NSAI nominations and awards. Beavers has written nine No. 1 songs and served as CMA Chairman in 2022, underscoring his influence both creatively and as a leader within the industry.
Brothers Brett and Brad Warren, collectively known as The Warren Brothers, have carved out a celebrated career as both artists and songwriters. They have penned chart-toppers and fan favorites for artists including Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Keith Urban, Toby Keith, Dierks Bentley, and more. Their work has earned Grammy nominations and widespread industry respect, while their recordings and live performances have established them as a standout presence in the Nashville songwriting community. Known for their sharp storytelling, humor, and emotional depth, the duo brings a dynamic blend of wit, heart, and hit songs to the Acoustic Alley stage.
Hosted by Fitz of Country Top 40, Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley celebrates the craft of songwriting with stripped-down performances and storytelling from some of the most accomplished artists and writers in the genre. Now in its 13th year, the event has become a cornerstone of CRS programming, offering attendees a rare opportunity to experience hit songs in their purest form.
Sponsored by Country Top 40 with Fitz, Skyview Networks, and First Horizon Bank, with the bar sponsored by ASCAP, Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley continues to be one of the most anticipated and talked-about events of CRS.
General Registration for CRS 2026 is currently available for $698 per person for those not applying for discounted rates. Registration for all rate categories can be completed here.
For more information, visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com and follow CRS on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also call 615-327-4487 for additional information.
About Country Radio Seminar: Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention meticulously designed to facilitate knowledge exchange and foster the exchange of business practices within the Country music industry. With a specific focus on matters relevant to Country radio, CRS serves as a vital platform for industry professionals to thrive and contribute. The dates for CRS 2026 are March 18–20.