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The Times Are A-Changin’

42% of the American public consider themselves country music fans (42%!!). That’s according to Sheri Warnke, VP of Corporate Partnerships at the Country Music Association. With so much music saturating the airwaves, however, how can country artists–or any artists, for that matter–hope to stand out?

The first day of the Country Music Summit in Nashville stressed the necessity of community, hard work and, most importantly, the music fan. With all-star panels that included Charlie Daniels, Jason Aldean, and Carrie Underwood, as well as many of the drivers behind the industry, the summit provided tips on navigating hurdles in one’s career and advice on achieving longevity. Below are 10 takeaways every artist should heed.

Radio remains an important platform for exposure.
“65 million people a week listen to country radio,” said panelist T.K. Kimbrell of TKO Artist Management who works with Toby Keith. “If there’s one focus I want my acts concentrating on, it’s radio.”

Ken Levitan, co-president of Vector Management and manager of Trace Adkins, Kings of Leon and Hank Williams Jr., agreed. “Country radio is probably the most important tool [for country artists].”

For the complete article visit Billboard Pro.