Chronicle:
Songwriter/producer Busbee, whose given name is Michael James Ryan, died last night (9/29). He was 43. Busbee experienced success in the top 40 world before crossing over into country with co-writing and producing credits including Maren Morris, Keith Urban, Florida Georgia Line, Lauren Alaina, Carly Pearce, Blake Shelton, Jason Aldean, Lady Antebellum and Garth Brooks. His work with Morris landed him three Grammy nominations in 2017 and is nominated at the upcoming 53rd Annual CMA Awards where Girl is up for Album of the Year. Busbee launched artists and songwriter development company Altadena last year in a joint venture with Warner Bros. Records. He also held a publishing agreement with Warner/Chappell and a creative partnership with Red Light Management. Services have not been announced.
The Year End Print Special
featuring:
The Year In Music:
Morgan, Ella & More
CMA Radio Winners
Recap The Week
Label Of The Year
Big Loud Turns 10
BMG's Jon Loba:
The Interview
The 2026 Grammy
Voter's Guide
A quick reference guide to the 2026 Grammy Nominees
Inside This Issue:
Exstream: What Is Mainstream Country?
You Never Forget Your First … Cousin
Survey Says: NuVoodoo Research