The Country Radio Hall of Fame revealed its Class of 2026 on Wednesday during CRS Honors at CRS 2026, spotlighting a group of industry veterans whose careers have shaped both the sound and business of the format across multiple decades and markets.
Presenting the honorees were past inductees Mike Moore (Class of 2024) and Trish Biondo (Class of 2023), continuing a tradition of peer recognition at one of country radio’s most visible annual gatherings.
This year’s class features three honorees in the On-Air Personality category — Chris Carr, Michael J and Rick Jackson — along with four inductees in the Radio category: Marci Braun, Phil Hunt, Bruce Logan and John Marks.
Each has met the organization’s criteria of at least 20 years in radio, including a minimum of 15 years dedicated to the country format, while also leaving a measurable impact on audiences, stations and the broader industry.
The induction ceremony and dinner are scheduled for Aug. 3 at the Virgin Hotel Nashville, where the seven honorees will formally join the ranks of the Country Radio Hall of Fame. Additional ticket information is expected to be announced in the coming months as organizers finalize event details.
Carr’s career stands out for its longevity and consistent success in major markets, particularly in Minneapolis, where he has spent the majority of his tenure with KEEY (K102). His resume includes multiple CMA and ACM Personality of the Year honors, along with recognition for community impact through fundraising efforts that have generated more than $25 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Meanwhile, Michael J built a reputation as a versatile and driven talent, balancing roles in Baltimore and Washington, D.C., while also contributing in programming and music leadership positions throughout his career.
Jackson’s influence stretches across more than five decades, combining on-air success with programming leadership and syndication. From helping launch KYGO in Denver to creating a long-running syndicated show, he has maintained relevance across changing eras of radio while also contributing at the executive level.
In the Radio category, Braun has emerged as one of the format’s most respected programmers, overseeing key markets for Audacy while helping drive both ratings performance and charitable initiatives.
Hunt’s career reflects a wide-ranging impact that includes programming, executive leadership and consulting work that has shaped numerous successful stations nationwide.
Logan’s leadership across multiple markets and companies has consistently produced ratings growth and talent development, while Marks has influenced the format on a global scale through roles spanning terrestrial radio, satellite platforms and streaming. His work with SiriusXM and Spotify underscores the evolving distribution of country music and the importance of strong programming leadership across platforms.
Together, the 2026 class represents a cross-section of country radio’s past, present and future, highlighting individuals who have not only adapted to industry changes but helped lead them.
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