2025 Impact 50 Honoree: Becky Gardenhire

BECKY GARDENHIRE
Co-Head & Senior Partner
WME Nashville Office

LAST JOB NOT IN THE LIVE BIZ: “TV Production Assistant”
PERSON YOU’D LIKE TO SEE ON THIS LIST: “Tatem Allsep from Music Health Alliance.”

As a partner and co-head of WME’s Nashville outpost, Becky Gardenhire is excited about new music from clients Rascal Flatts, Trisha Yearwood, Lukas Nelson and Jordan Davis. The exciting year is one of many for Gardenhire, who has long worked in entertainment.

Rascal Flatts has been with WME since they began their career, and the band released a duets album, Life is a Highway, on June 6 featuring collaborations with Jonas Brothers, Carly Pearce, Backstreet Boys, Jordan Davis and more. In February the country group launched the “Life Is A Highway Tour,” marking a return from its hiatus and celebrating 25 years of hits. Gardenhire says that “helping launch this next chapter of their live career has been equal parts nostalgic and forward-thinking – a true highlight of the year.” Up next, Rascal Flatts will headline LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah, July 4.

Though the live entertainment and touring industry faces challenges including rising production costs, pricing pressure and evolving fan expectations, Gardenhire proclaims that demand for live events remains strong.

“Success in this environment requires smarter, more strategic planning,” Gardenhire says. “We’re working with artist teams early in the process to build resilient and impactful touring strategies. Open conversations about budgets and ticketing from the start help us create experiences that are both sustainable and fan-forward.”
Gardenhire emphasizes the importance of technology in keeping artists and fans engaged: “I’m continually inspired by artists who are using technology and data to better understand and connect directly with their audiences. It’s changing how we build careers and plan tours.

“I serve on the advisory board of Mellomanic, a platform that empowers artists with meaningful, data-driven insights to deepen fan relationships. This kind of innovation has the potential to elevate the entire live experience – for both artists and fans.”