Raffaella Braun and Annie Ortmeier Strengthen Triple Tigers as First All-Female Co-Presidents in Country Music

When Kevin Herring announced his resignation as co-president of Triple Tigers on July 6, it marked a significant shift in the country music landscape. Raffaella Braun, previously vice president of radio promotion, stepped into the role alongside Annie Ortmeier, creating the first all-female co-president team at a major country label.

A Historic Transition

Braun and Ortmeier’s appointment coincides with a notable achievement in the industry: women have dominated the top five positions on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart for five consecutive weeks. This is only the fifth time since 1980 that women have secured the top five spots, and it is the first instance of maintaining this achievement beyond two weeks.

The Rise of Female Leadership

Ortmeier reflected on the evolution of women’s roles in the industry, recalling a time when she questioned the lack of female artists despite the presence of women in executive positions. With artists like Ella Langley, Megan Moroney, Taylor Swift, and Lainey Wilson making waves in country music, she noted that the landscape is changing.

Braun, originally from Montclair, New Jersey, moved to Nashville in 1998 to attend Vanderbilt University. She expressed surprise at how quickly she adapted to the Southern culture, stating that she initially resisted country music and sorority life but found herself immersed in both within months.

Career Path and Mentorship

Braun’s journey in the music industry began after nine years at Creative Artists Agency (CAA) before transitioning to country radio promotion at Warner Music Nashville and later at Triple Tigers. Throughout her career, she reported to Herring, who she described as a unique mentor, guiding her with a steady hand and strong interpersonal skills.

The transition to co-presidents maintains continuity at Triple Tigers. Herring and Ortmeier were previously selected to lead the label’s daily operations, combining their complementary backgrounds in radio programming and digital marketing. This structural hierarchy allows staff to consult with either leader based on their areas of expertise.

Importance of Radio in Country Music

Braun’s promotion underscores the significance of radio in Triple Tigers’ operations. Ortmeier emphasized that from the moment Herring indicated he would step back, it was clear that Braun would be the ideal successor.

While Braun was unaware of the plan initially, hints from Herring and managing partner George Couri became clearer when Herring announced his intention to shift out of day-to-day responsibilities.

Achievements and Future Prospects

Since its founding as a joint venture between Thirty Tigers, Sony Music’s The Orchard, and Couri’s Triple 8 Management, Triple Tigers has released 26 singles to radio, with half reaching No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart. This success has garnered attention, leading to collaborations with Columbia’s New York division on various country-focused projects.

The label recently expanded its promotional efforts by launching Akando Music, which represents artists such as Turnpike Troubadours and Chris Young, alongside its core roster, including Russell Dickerson and Scotty McCreery.

Despite a boutique staff of 14 employees, the company has room to grow by adding new acts. As Ortmeier and Braun adjust to their new roles, they will navigate their distinct areas of expertise while determining the dynamics of their leadership style.

Looking Ahead

Braun expressed a desire to embrace a positive leadership approach, hoping to be seen as the “good cop” in their executive dynamic. Both leaders aspire for the industry to evolve beyond recognizing women’s achievements as milestones, envisioning a future where leadership is defined by capability rather than gender.

Ortmeier articulated this vision, stating the goal is to move past the notion of “firsts” for women in the industry. She emphasized the importance of recognizing individuals for their contributions without gender being a focal point.

As reported by www.billboard.com.

Explore the latest digital editions of FAME Delivered in the Magazine section.

Published on 2026-07-22 00:35:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk