Andrew Wendowski, founder and CEO of Music Mayhem, continues to shape independent music storytelling from a dual base in Philadelphia and Nashville. At 31, he oversees content as Editor-In-Chief for the brand, bringing a rich multimedia background from his earlier work as a sought-after photojournalist and tour photographer. His lens has captured major names and moments for labels such as Interscope and Republic, with images featuring stars like Taylor Swift, Metallica, Harry Styles, P!NK, Morgan Wallen, Carrie Underwood, The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Shania Twain, and hundreds more. Wendowski’s work has appeared in a range of campaigns and publications, including Billboard and Rolling Stone, and he remains active in the concert scene, travel, and photography.
In music news from Nashville, Luke Combs received the ACM International Award for outstanding contributions to the growth of Country Music around the world at the 18th Academy of Country Music Honors held at The Pinnacle. Ashley McBryde delivered a stirring six-song tribute to the star, performing a set that included hits such as When It Rains It Pours, Beautiful Crazy, Beer Never Broke My Heart, Where The Wild Things Are, Whoever You Turn Out To Be, and Honky Tonk Highway, all with just an acoustic guitar and her resonant voice. Combs sat with his wife, Nicole Hocking Combs, in the crowd as McBryde performed, later joining the stage to accept the award.
Combs expressed gratitude for his wife and family, noting that ten years ago he had never even flown, and reflecting on the sacrifices behind touring life. He thanked his manager Chris Kappy and acknowledged the artists who have supported him on international tours, including Cody Johnson and Ashley McBryde. He underscored his belief in sharing country music with fans worldwide, often funding or organizing tours abroad to reach audiences beyond the United States. He also thanked his team, band, and crew for their dedication.
The ACM International Award recognizes a Country Music artist, duo, group, or industry leader for outstanding contributions to the growth of Country Music throughout the world. Combs has become a global phenomenon by blending traditional country with contemporary appeal, a reach reflected in more than 10 billion streams and about 25 million monthly listeners, with sold-out arenas across the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Australia. Previous recipients of the award include Dan + Shay, Alan Jackson, Lady A, Kacey Musgraves, Dolly Parton, Rascal Flatts, Taylor Swift, and Keith Urban.
ACM Honors is celebrated as the country music industry’s favorite night, highlighting industry awards, songwriter awards, and special honors. The event’s host team, including Damon Whiteside, the ACM CEO, emphasized that behind every song is a community of songwriters, musicians, and industry leaders who drive the artistry forward. The ceremony also featured tribute performances from a star-studded lineup, honoring honorees such as Jessie Jo Dillon, Jelly Roll, Mac McAnally, Ben Vaughn, Eric Church, Randy Travis, Rissi Palmer, Lainey Wilson, Luke Combs, Cody Johnson, and Twisters.
For fans eager to relive the night, CMT will air a three-hour broadcast titled CMT Hot 20: ACM Honors Edition on September 27, featuring exclusive backstage interviews and show highlights. The broadcast is hosted by Cody Alan and Carissa Culiner, with Russell Dickerson and Carly Pearce also serving as hosts for the event’s coverage.
Additional context and perspective
– The ACM Honors night continues to emphasize the global reach of country music, highlighting how artists like Combs are shaping the genre’s international footprint through tours, streams, and cross-border collaborations.
– Ashley McBryde’s tribute underscores the collaborative spirit of the country music community, where contemporary artists draw on a shared history to celebrate peers’ achievements.
– For readers tracking industry talent and media, the integration of a prominent music press figure like Andrew Wendowski showcases how independent outlets are evolving to cover major industry moments with in-depth storytelling and multimedia content.
Summary
Luke Combs’ ACM International Award nod highlights his role in expanding country music’s reach worldwide, supported by a global touring schedule and massive streaming presence. Ashley McBryde’s heartfelt tribute underscored the musician-to-musician camaraderie at the heart of the genre, while the ceremony reinforced ACM Honors as a key annual showcase for artists, songwriters, and industry leaders. With plans to broadcast the event on CMT, fans will have extended access to performances and candid moments from this landmark night.
Overall, the piece underscores optimism for country music’s continued global growth and the ongoing collaboration among artists, managers, and media to bring rich stories from the scene to audiences everywhere.