Industry Ink (6/21/12)

Schlitz Inducted Into Hall of Fame, Signs With Sea Gayle
Legendary tunesmith Don Schlitz was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame at the organization’s 43rd annual Awards Gala on June 14, and was saluted by Kenny Rogers who performed Schlitz’s classic “The Gambler.” Schlitz also recently signed to Nashville-based Sea Gayle Music, whose VP of Creative Mike Owens was in New York for the celebration.

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Third Coast Promotes Debbie Moore
Debbie Moore has been promoted to Vice President of Nashville-based Third Coast Talent, where she will focus on artist contracts, press, and media. Third Coast represents Little Jimmy Dickens, Janie Fricke, Jeannie Seely, T.G. Sheppard, and Gene Watson. She joined Third Coast in 2002 as Entertainment Coordinator, and previously worked with BMI for 11 years. She is also a member of Moore & Moore (with her twin sister Carrie) and a songwriter who penned the No. 1 hit “Wish You Were Here” for Mark Wills.

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The Grascals Ink New Booking Deal
The Grascals have signed an exclusive booking agreement with Nashville’s Conway Entertainment Group, headed up by veteran Tony Conway. The Grascals signed to Mountain Home Music earlier in 2012 and released new album Life Finds A Way.

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Jim Havey PR To Rep The Label
The Label, Gary Allan’s high-end men’s boutique in the 12 South district, has retained Nashville-based Jim Havey Public Relations to handle publicity.

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KY’s Country Music Road to Fame Winner Announced
Logan Hall of Vergie, KY, took home the grand prize in the Country Music Road to Fame talent competition held June 16 at the Mountain Arts Center in Prestonburg, KY. Hall will have the opportunity to write and record an original song at Tom T. Hall’s studio and participate in a career development course with PCG Nashville.

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Cassidy Departs DSR Entertainment
Kristen Cassidy has exited her position with DSR Entertainment, which oversees the career of David St. Romain. “David is an amazing talent,” said Cassidy. “I wish him happiness and continued success.” Going forward reach her at krazykristencassidy@yahoo.com.

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Willis Launches Volt Music Group
Manager and Radio Submit co-owner Monte Willis and partner Donnie Dolac have announced the opening of new publishing and management company Volt Music Group. “Many of the high points of my career have come from my work in Nashville and I am very excited to find the right partners in the Doleac family to once again focus on what I love most, working with songwriters,” said Willis. Signings will be announced soon.