Writer/Publisher Buzz

Songwriter D. Vincent Williams has opened Black Ink Music Publishing, a Nashville-based independent music publisher. A former staff writer for Warner-Chappell Music, Williams has penned hits including ACM Song of the Year “I’m Movin’ On,” recorded by Rascal Flatts, and James Otto’s recent No. 1, “Just Got Started Loving You.” He will serve as the new company’s CEO. Joining Williams in the new venture are Melinda Duncan, Eric Gioia and industry veteran Noah Dewey. Black Ink’s roster of writers includes Williams, Duncan, Justin Lantz, Cliff “Crash” Cody and writer/artist Matt Jenkins. The company will celebrate its official kick-off this week at a private, invitation-only event.

NSAI’s annual songwriters festival, Tin Pan South, is coming up Tuesday, March 31 – Saturday, April 4. Venues around Nashville will come alive with a slew of in-the-rounds and songwriter showcases. NSAI will post a calendar of Tin Pan South events on Wednesday, (3/11) and make a “Fast-Access Pass” available that same day. The pass allows attendees advance seating (room permitting) over those who purchase tickets at the door. Fast-Access Passes will also be available online at http://www.tinpansouth.com/tickets.asp. NSAI will hold a Festival Preview Party tomorrow, Tuesday (3/10), from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at The Rutledge, 410 4^th Avenue South. In addition to announcements regarding Tin Pan South details, Kelly Archer, Regie Hamm, James House and Rissi Palmer will perform in the round.

Nashville hit songwriter Layng Martine, Jr. (Reba McEntire’s “The Greatest Man I Never Knew,” Trisha Yearwood’s “I Wanna Go Too Far”) has written a poignant and inspirational story that appeared in Sunday’s (3/8) New York Times. “In a Charmed Life, a Road Less Traveled” tells the heartrending story of the songwriter’s wife, Linda, who became a paraplegic after a devastating car accident. With unflinching honesty and emotional frankness, Martine, Jr. tells of the accident’s effect on their lives and their love, both of which have grown deeper and more meaningful as a result of the tragic event. It’s an inspired read and well worth your attention. You can link to the story at http://tinyurl.com/bnoou2.

The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Foundation has elected Dr. Bethel “Bo” Thomas, Vice President for University Advancement, Belmont University; and Kelli L. Gabriel, Sr. Vice President and Financial Advisor, Morgan Stanley in Nashville; to its 2009/2010 Board of Directors. The NaSHOF Board also elected its 2009 officers. Roger Murrah will serve a fourth term as Chair. Other newly elected officers are: Vice Chair – Wayland Holyfield, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member; Vice Chair – John Van Mol, CEO of Dye, Van Mol & Lawrence; Secretary – Pete Fisher, Vice President/General Manager, Grand Ole Opry, Gaylord Entertainment; and Treasurer – Layng Martine, Jr., songwriter.

Nashville music industry veteran Paul Compton has launched Music Highway Writer Services, a music catalog representation and writer management company. Most recently, Compton served as Senior Vice President of Murrah Music Corporation, where he placed the No. 1 smash, “I’m Movin’ On” with Rascal Flatts and also pitched Billy Currington’s 2008 ASCAP Song of the Year, “Good Directions.” To learn more about Music Highway Services, contact Compton at info@musichighway.net or at (615) 289-0769.