Audacy Backs Zach John King, Stephen Wilson Jr. With LAUNCH Program

Country radio just got two new additions to its roster. Audacy has tapped Zach John King and Stephen Wilson Jr. for spots in its LAUNCH initiative, a platform designed to accelerate careers of up-and-coming acts through coordinated promotional muscle.

King's "Get to Drinkin" and Wilson Jr.'s "Gary" will receive the full treatment: radio rotation across Audacy's country stations, digital support, on-air features, and social amplification. Tim Roberts, Country Format Vice President at Audacy, framed the move as a natural fit for the current Nashville moment. "Radio has always thrived on the thrill of 'new,' and right now, Nashville is delivering in a big way," he said. "We are excited to champion Zach John King and Stephen Wilson Jr.'s new hits across our Audacy Country stations."

The momentum behind both artists already exists. Roberts noted that "both artists are gaining incredible daily momentum through their tours and songs, and we're ready to serve as the launch pad for their rising careers."

King grew up with country radio in his ears, making this milestone personal. "I grew up listening to Country music on the radio, and I think anybody who ever wants to make this a career, especially in Country, wants to have their song on the radio," he explained. "For Audacy to take a shot on me and allow me to be in front of this many people is incredible, and I'm grateful for it."

Sony Music Nashville and Big Loud Records backed the selections. Dennis Reese, Senior Vice President of Radio Marketing & Promotion at Sony Music Nashville, expressed enthusiasm for King's single: "Every new artist needs champions, and we can't thank our partners at Audacy enough for picking Zach John King as their LAUNCH Artist to get behind. Now let's 'Get to Drinkin'!"

Wilson Jr. echoed the gratitude. Lauren Thomas, Senior Vice President Promotion at Big Loud Records, called the partnership crucial. "We're incredibly grateful to Audacy for their continued partnership and for investing in Stephen Wilson Jr. through the LAUNCH program. He's truly a one-of-a-kind artist, and we're 'Gary' excited for what's ahead."

Wilson Jr. himself kept it brief: "Many thanks to Country radio for taking us in. I am 'Gary' grateful. Being Audacy's LAUNCH artist exceeds my dreams, and I can't thank them enough for helping introduce 'Gary' and the story to the world."