Apple Introduces CarPlay

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apple-carplayApple continues to display its tech prowess with CarPlay, which allows users to connect their iPhone to their car’s interface, enabling navigation, call, message and music capabilities from the car’s dashboard.
CarPlay integrates the iPhone with the car’s control system, including buttons and touchscreen, and features Siri voice control. Additionally, CarPlay’s capability with apps like Spotify and iHeartRadio may change the relationship between music and radio, and alter the way in which users discover new music.
Apple’s latest venture, however, only works with iPhone 5 models and models from car manufacturers Ferrari, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo. CarPlay will eventually be compatible with models from BMW, Ford, General Motors, Jaguar Land Rover, Kia, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Peugeot Citroen, Subaru, Suzuki and Toyota.
For more information, visit apple.com.

Industry Pics (3/11/14)

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Radio personality Gerry House made his Grand Ole Opry debut on Friday, March 7. After his performance, House signed copies of his new book, Country Music Broke My Brain: A Behind-The-Microphone Peek At Nashville’s Famous & Fabulous Stars.

Pictured (L-R): Gerry House and Pete Fisher

Pictured (L-R): Gerry House and Grand Ole Opry Vice President and General Manager Pete Fisher. Photo: Chris Hollo

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The first annual Mangia for St. Jude took place Sunday, March 2, raising $18,600 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The dinner at the Cool Cafe in Franklin was attended by more than 100 members of the Nashville music publishing community. The evening was sponsored by Fifth Third Music.

Pictured (Back row, L-R): Greg Gallo, Alex Heddle, Penny Everhard, Kendall Lettow, Dave Pacula Missy Wilson, Stephanie Cox, Courtney Crist, Kevin Lamb, Brad Peterson. (Front row, L-R): Colt Cameron, Jackie Profit, Carrie Gallo, Jessica Turri, Teri Watson and Allison Buchignani

Pictured (Back row, L-R): Greg Gallo, Alex Heddle, Penny Everhard, Kendall Lettow, Dave Pacula, Missy Wilson, Stephanie Cox, Freeman Wizer, Courtney Crist, Kevin Lamb, Brad Peterson. (Front row, L-R): Colt Cameron, Jackie Profit, Carrie Gallo, Jessica Turri, Teri Watson and Allison Buchignani.

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The 10th Annual Ringside: A Fight For Kids gala was held at Liberty Hall in the Factory at Franklin on Friday, March 7. The main event featured a “Rumble on the Row” bout with Van Haze (VP National Promotion, MCA Nashville) and “Sugar” Shane Allen (VP Promotion, UMG Nashville) squaring off in the ring. Haze won the coveted Lucchese belt in a split decision.
Proceeds from the event will benefit The Charley Foundation, which helps charitable organizations benefit children throughout Middle Tennessee.

Pictured (L-R): Jay Hamby, Director of Retail, Lucchese; Van Haze; and Kristy Landers Niedenfuer, 2014 Miss Tennessee USA.Photo: Karen Will Rogers

Pictured (L-R): Jay Hamby, Director of Retail, Lucchese; Van Haze; and Kristy Landers Niedenfuer, 2014 Miss Tennessee USA. Photo: Karen Will Rogers.

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The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum recently honored Leon Rhodes in its quarterly series Nashville Cats: A Celebration of Music City Musicians. Rhodes was a member of the 1960s lineup of Ernest Tubb’s Texas Troubadours. He is also featured on recordings by Julie Andrews, Roy Clark, John Denver, George Jones, Loretta Lynn, Roy Orbison and Dottie West, among others.

Pictured (L-R): Bill Lloyd (program host), Leon Rhodes and Jay Orr (Senior Director of Research, Editorial and Content). Photo: Donn Jones

Pictured (L-R): Bill Lloyd (program host), Leon Rhodes and Jay Orr (Senior Director of Research, Editorial and Content). Photo: Donn Jones

Sam Austin – It Looks Like Rain

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SONY DSCBorn and raised in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sam Austin knows what it means to be “country”. Picking up the guitar as a young boy, Sam’s hobby soon became a passion. In his late teens he began performing solo acoustic shows. As he continued with his acoustic shows his popularity continued to grow, leading to larger audiences and networking with other talented musicians.
Sam has now signed a recording contract with Plateau Music Nashville. Very much the traditionalist, Sam is steadfast in his quest to promote and perform real “Country Music” that connects with a broad audience. Produced by Tony Mantor, Sam’s first album is now available at the shows.
Austin’s first single, “When She Does It” hit No. 41 on MusicRow’s CountryBreakout Chart and his current single “It Looks Like Rain” is impacting radio now.

Performers Announced For ACM Party For A Cause Festival

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party for a cause 20141The 2nd Annual ACM Party for a Cause Festival, a two-day outdoor music festival, will be headlined by Rascal Flatts and Keith Urban on Friday, April 4 and Saturday, April 5, respectively. The festival will be the first-ever special event held at The LINQ, Caesars Entertainment’s new open-air entertainment district at the heart of the Las Vegas Strip.
The event is part of The Week Vegas Goes Country leading up to the 49th Academy of Country Music Awards on Sunday, April 6, 2014 at 8 p.m. live ET/delayed PT on the CBS Television Network.
Friday’s “Outnumber Hunger Live!” concert series will benefit Outnumber Hunger, an initiative from General Mills, Big Machine Label Group and Feeding America. The main stage will feature Rascal Flatts, along with performers Danielle Bradbery, Justin Moore, Cassadee Pope, Thomas Rhett, Florida Georgia Line, and The Cadillac Three. Plus Will Hoge, Chase Rice and Charlie Worsham will perform on the Party Stage.
Saturday’s line-up will be presented by ACM Lifting Lives and will benefit several military philanthropies including Folds of Honor Foundation, Wounded Warrior Project, Navy SEAL Foundation, Team Rubicon, and Nellis AFB Force Support Squadron. The evening’s headliner will be Keith Urban and includes scheduled performances by Lee Brice, Brett Eldredge, Tyler Farr, Kip Moore, Joe Nichols, Jerrod Niemann, Chris Young, Love and Theft,and Parmalee. Plus Joel Crouse, Jon Pardi, Leah Turner, Austin Webb, Dan + Shay, and Max Impact, the premier rock band of the United States Air Force, will perform on the Party Stage.
Following the Main Stage performances on Saturday, April 5, the festivities will continue with ACM After Hours with Jerrod Niemann & Friends on the Party Stage, featuring performances by Tyler Farr, Jerrod Niemann, American Young, Natalie Stovall and The Drive, The Swon Brothers, and more.

Artist Updates (3/10/14)

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blake shelton1

Blake Shelton


Blake Shelton has sold out his shows at Madison Square Garden in New York and Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. This marks Shelton’s first time headlining both venues.
“I’m in L.A. to film The Voice and I drive by the Hollywood Bowl on my way to the set. It is such an iconic venue and I have wanted to perform there for a long time,” said Shelton. “Then there is Madison Square Garden. Hands down, there is not one artist who doesn’t dream about playing Madison Square Garden—it’s mind blowing to think I’m performing at Madison Square Garden and the Hollywood Bowl let alone selling them out. I’m incredibly thankful for my fans selling out both these shows so fast. I promise the band and I will bring you a show you won’t forget. I love you guys!”
The 20+ date Ten Times Crazier Tour 2014, promoted by LiveNation, with sponsors including Pepsi, kicks off in June and will visit cities including Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York.

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mel tillis11

Mel Tillis


Country Music Hall of Famer Mel Tillis is recovering in Nashville following heart surgery. Tillis’ daughter Pam Tillis released the following statement on the health status of the music legend:

“Over the weekend, Daddy required a routine heart procedure. He’s doing fantastic and is expected to make a full recovery. In typical Mel Tillis fashion, he’s already cutting up and cracking jokes with the nurses. Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated.”
Fans are encouraged to visit meltillis.com for updates on Tillis and upcoming tour dates.
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vince gill 11

Vince Gill


Vince Gill is gearing up for several concerts this year at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. The singer-songwriter-guitarist will headline the 16th annual Jammin’ To Beat The Blues at the historic Ryman Auditorium on April 1. The concert will benefit the Mental Health America of Middle Tennessee.
In December, Gill and wife Amy Grant will headline six shows at the Ryman Auditorium for Christmas at the Ryman.

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ben folds111

Ben Folds


Ben Folds will unveil a new piano concerto for area high school students at Nashville Symphony Young People’s Concert, slated for Friday, March 14 at 11:45 a.m. The event will take place at Laura Turner Concert Hall at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center.
The event is free and open to public, private and home schools.

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Charles Esten

Charles Esten


On Saturday, April 26, 2014, the 15th annual St. Jude Country Music Marathon & ½ Marathon presented by Nissan, will feature actors Charles “Chip” Esten and Clare Bowen, who play “Deacon Claybourn” and “Scarlett O’Connor” on ABC’s hit television show Nashville. They will take the stage for the post-race concert at the Bridgestone Arena at 7 p.m. Rising star Chase Rice will open the show.
The musically themed road race attracts more than 30,000 runners, walkers and 6,000 junior racers through KiDS ROCK Nashville, who will take on the 26.2 and 13.1-mile courses while passing many of Nashville’s best live bands along the route.
The concert is open to the public and tickets are now on sale for $35. Tickets can be purchased at the Bridgestone Arena box office, TicketMaster charge-by-phone at 1-800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.

Warner/Chappell Music Signs Aimee Mayo

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Aimee Mayo

Aimee Mayo


Warner/Chappell Music (WCM), the music publishing arm of Warner Music Group, has signed a worldwide publishing agreement with chart-topping songwriter and former BMI Songwriter of the Year Aimee Mayo.
“Warner/Chappell already feels like home,” said Mayo. “To me, energy is everything, and I am beyond excited to be surrounded by such an innovative and inspiring team. I look forward to celebrating lots of monster smash hits together and I’m honored to be part of such a long lineage of legendary songwriters.”
Ben Vaughn, Executive Vice President, Warner/Chappell Music Nashville, said, “Aimee Mayo is a creative force of nature. I’ve always been impressed with her passion, drive, and creativity. On behalf of the A&R team we couldn’t be happier to have her join the Warner/Chappell family and look forward to helping bring her songs to life.”
Mayo has penned songs for Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney, Faith Hill, Sara Evans, and Carrie Underwood, as well as pop artists including Backstreet Boys, Jessica Simpson, and Adam Lambert.
Mayo was honored with the Academy of Country Music’s Song of the Year, BMI’s Song of the Year, and the NSAI Song of the Year awards for Lonestar‘s “Amazed.” The song also garnered her a Grammy nomination.
Mayo lives in Nashville with her husband and co-writer, Chris Lindsey, and their three children.

AristoMedia Group Adds Two

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Sherilyn Pettus

Sharilyn Pettus


The AristoMedia Group has announced the hiring of Sharilyn Pettus to the PR division, AristoPR, and Corey Rice to the video marketing division, AristoVideo.
Sharilyn Pettus came to The AristoMedia Group in late 2013 after graduating from Troy University. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree with concentrations in Business Management and Marketing. Pettus was active in the Sorrell College of Business Marketing Club and interned in the Business Affairs department at Broken Bow Records.
An organizational pro, her responsibilities include client relations, market research and database management, story solicitation, media and event coordination and various other public relations duties. Pettus will serve as Publicist and can be reached at [email protected] or 615-269-7071, ext. 132. Pettus will report directly to Sr. Director of Publicity, Christy Watkins.
Corey Rice

Corey Rice


Corey Rice joins AristoMedia from Curb Records where he served as Tape Services Coordinator. In between his three and a half years with the label, he served in the United States Peace Corps from 2011-2013 in Albania.
In 2010, he graduated from Belmont University with a BBA in Music Business.
Rice will serve as Visual Content Specialist and will focus on the use of visual mediums to support brand identity, follower growth and calls to action. He can be reached at [email protected] or 615-269-7071, ext. 141. Rice will report directly to AristoMedia Group Sr. VP, Craig Bann.

Swift, Chesney Top 'Money Makers' List

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taylor swift

Taylor Swift


Taylor Swift and Kenny Chesney lead Billboard‘s ranking of top “Money Makers” for 2013. For these superstars, and most others on the list, touring was the single biggest source of income.
Artists were ranked by U.S. earnings, which were calculated from touring, recorded music sales, publishing royalties, and revenues from digital music and video streaming. Revenue from sponsorships, merchandising and synchronization was not included.
Swift’s earnings for 2013 totaled $39,699,575.60, placing her at the pinnacle of the list. Her Red Tour alone brought in an estimated $30 million. The publication predicts she grossed an additional $10 million in merch sales and endorsement deals.
Kenny Chesney. Photo: Shaun Silva

Kenny Chesney. Photo: Shaun Silva


Chesney’s income for 2013 topped $32,956,240.70, due in large part to his major outing the No Shoes Nation Tour, which earned $90 million. The superstar’s past 10 consecutive tours topped 1 million in attendance.
Justin Timberlake, Bon Jovi and The Rolling Stones rounded out the magazine’s Top 5 Money Makers for 2013.
Luke Bryan danced his way to No. 8 on the list, with $22,142,235.98. Much of the income is thanks to 2.7 million albums and 7.6 million digital tracks sold. He also brought in $15.4 million from touring in 2013.
Jason Aldean was listed at No. 14 with $17,896,191.98 of yearly income. His amphitheater trek brought in $15.2 million. He didn’t release a new album in 2013, but sold nearly 5 million digital tracks and raked in $505,000 in streaming royalties.
George Strait landed at No. 15 on the list, bringing in $16,002,761.63. His The Cowboy Rides Away farewell tour earned in $13.8 million. The icon also earned the Country Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year trophy in November 2013.
Blake Shelton slid into the No. 27 slot with $10, 349,774.77. He banked $5.9 million from tour dates, and racked up about 1.7 million album sales (physical and digital), and almost 7 million track sales. Shelton’s coaching gig on The Voice added to his bankroll.
Zac Brown Band rounded out the top 30 on the list. Most of their $9,888,213.32 tally came from touring, with an additional $230,000-plus earned from streaming royalties.
Scoring places in the Top 40 were No. 34. Rascal Flatts ($9.215 million), No. 36 Miranda Lambert ($8.831 million), No. 38 Tim McGraw ($8.761 million) and No. 40 Carrie Underwood ($8.051 million).

Jo Dee Messina To Perform at Rising Women on the Row

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Jodee

Jo Dee Messina

Jo Dee Messina will treat guests of MusicRow’s 3rd Annual Rising Women on the Row ceremony to a sampling of her latest music with an acoustic performance at the March 21 breakfast.

The multi-Platinum artist is busy promoting her March 18 album release, Me, which includes current single “A Woman’s Rant.” Last week, the track debuted in the top 3 most added singles on MusicRow’s CountryBreakout Chart.

As previously announced, the Rising Women on the Row event will feature a sit-down discussion with The Recording Academy’s Senior Vice President, Member Services, Nancy Shapiro.
Honorees at the breakfast include Nashville music industry executives Julie Boos (Flood, Bumstead, McCready & McCarthy), Caryl Healey (Sony Music Nashville), Kelly Rich (Big Machine Label Group), Ebie McFarland (Essential Broadcast Media), and Alicia Pruitt (Warner/Chappell Music).
City National Bank is the Presenting Sponsor for MusicRow’s event for the third year. Additional Supporting Sponsorships are available for the first time this year.
Tickets are are sold out.
Final_Logo_Presenting_SponsorClick Here for more information.
Click Here to read more about the honorees.
Click Here to read more about the featured speaker.

Industry Ink (3/10/14)

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March 10 birthday girl Carrie Underwood received an early birthday present from Sony Music Nashville Chairman & CEO Gary Overton, who presented her with a plaque in recognition of reaching a massive 10,000,000 “likes” on her Facebook page.

Pictured (L-R): Sony Overton, Carrie Underwood

Pictured (L-R): Sony Music Nashville Chairman & CEO Gary Overton, Carrie Underwood

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tayla lynn1111Tayla Lynn has signed an exclusive recording contract with Nashville-based indie label Victor House Records, led by James House. Lynn’s first release, a three-song, seven-inch vinyl EP titled Coal Dust, will be available for the popular Record Store Day (April 19). Lynn will perform at the legendary Ernest Tubb’s Record Shop in Nashville at 1 p.m. CT on April 19.

Produced by singer-songwriter House (Martina McBride, Dwight Yoakam) and musician-producer Michael Bradford, the recording features Lynn’s iconic grandmother Loretta Lynn singing her original harmony part with Tayla on a true to the original remake of Loretta’s first single, “Honky Tonk Girl.” The three-song set also includes two versions of “Coal Dust,” a song that captures life growing up in the Lynn family. One version is a gospel mix exclusive to Record Store Day.

 

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kobaltKobalt Music Group has announced that an affiliate of MSD Capital, L.P., the private investment firm for Michael S. Dell and his family, has made a significant growth capital investment in the business. MSD Capital’s commitment includes a primary investment and also the acquisition of a stake from SPARK Ventures plc, a founding investor in Kobalt. A representative of MSD Capital will join Kobalt’s Board of Directors.
Kobalt’s proprietary technology and global digital platform enable its clients, who include many of the world’s best-known songwriters, to collect their royalties more efficiently.

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yep11Young Entertainment Professionals (YEP) will host ‘YEP Night at The Basement,’ featuring songwriters Rhett Akins, Kent Blazy, Doug Johnson, Erik Dylan, Kylie Sackley, Emily Weisband, Nick Sturms, Josh Mirenda, and Chris Gelbuda. YEP Night at The Basement will take place Wednesday, March 12 at 6 p.m. Attendance is $5, and admittance is 21 and older.

Music venue The Basement is located at 1604 8th Ave. S.