October 2015 - Page 4 of 25

Songwriter Ben Goldsmith Signs to BMG and Big Deal Music

October 28, 2015/by Craig_Shelburne

Pictured (L-R): Robert Filhart, ASCAP; Chip Petree, attorney, Ritholz/Levy; Kos Weaver, BMG; Ben Goldsmith, writer; Greg Gallo, Big Deal; Dale Bobo, Big Deal; Sara Knabe, BMG; Pete Robinson, Big Deal

Ben Goldsmith, the former creative manager at BMG Chrysalis, has signed a publishing deal with BMG and Big Deal Music. Goldsmith is a co-writer on Jerrod Niemann’s current single, “Blue Bandana.”

“Ben Goldsmith is one of the hardest-working songwriters I know. I’m excited to have him on this side of our BMG publishing family. Along with his obvious talent, Ben brings an excitement for songwriting that is contagious. You’ll be hearing more from him very soon,” says BMG’s Sara Knabe.

“Ben brings a full toolkit… impressive lyrics, musicianship and track building. He is also one of the most positive guys we have ever met. We are excited to have Ben in the Big Deal family and to partner with BMG for him,” says Big Deal Music’s Dale Bobo.

Goldsmith participated in ASCAP’s GPS program for new songwriters. His hometown is Lexington, Virginia, and he is a graduate of The University Of Miami.

Thomas Rhett Teams With Snap Fitness

October 28, 2015/by Jessica Nicholson

Thomas Rhett has teamed with Snap Fitness, a 24/7 fitness franchise that has more than 2,000 clubs open or in development in 18 countries.

As Snap Fitness’ spokesperson, Rhett will host boot camps in select tour markets throughout the year, as well as challenges on social media for fans. The year-long partnership, which launches in 2016, was brokered by FlyteVu, the marketing agency recently launched by former Warner Music Nashville exec Jeremy Holley and former CAA exec Laura Hutfless.

“Staying in shape is a crucial part of being able to put on a great live show for me,” Rhett says. “So, when I’m on tour or have a day off at home, I try to find some time to work out everyday. It’s a lot easier when you have 24/7 options like Snap Fitness where the guys in the band and [wife] Lauren all can feel comfortable. It’ll be cool to team up to include fans in that part of our daily routine on the road too.”

“We are thrilled to have Thomas Rhett on board as a brand champion,” Snap Fitness Chief Marketing Officer Steele Smiley says. “This is the first major deal with a health/fitness brand in country music. It’s a perfect fit because Thomas embodies a commitment to a healthy lifestyle in the midst of a hectic schedule — something everyone can relate to.”

Rhett recently released his sophomore effort, Tangled Up, and will co-headline the CMT on Tour with Brett Eldredge. The tour launches tomorrow (Oct. 29) in New York City. Next week, Rhett will perform at the 49th annual CMA Awards, where he is nominated for New Artist of the Year.

Tony Brown Named Keynote Speaker For NAMM 2016

October 28, 2015/by Jessica Nicholson

Tony Brown

Legendary Nashville producer and musician Tony Brown has been named a keynote speaker at the 2016 NAMM conference.

Brown’s credits including playing keyboard for Elvis Presley, and producing some of country music’s biggest hit songs, including Reba’s “Fancy,” Steve Earle’s “Copperhead Road,” Trisha Yearwood’s “How Do I Live,” and “Troubadour” from George Strait.

Brown will offer a knowledge gleaned from his 40 years in the music industry during the keynote, which will take place on Jan. 22, 2016 at 11 a.m.

“The 2016 NAMM Show prepares for the largest global presence in show’s history,” said Joe Lamond, president and CEO of NAMM.

Brown will reveal the cover and title of his upcoming coffee table book during a meet-and-greet signing at NAMM. The book is a documentary of his life, and features more than 40 artists and high-profile individuals, including Reba, Vince Gill, George Strait, Don Was, Scott Borchetta, and Jerry Bradley.

NAMM will take place Jan. 21-24 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, Calif. For ticket and more information, visit namm.org.

Cole Swindell’s Debut Album Certified Gold

October 28, 2015/by Troy_Stephenson

Cole Swindell’s self-titled debut album has officially been certified Gold from the RIAA. The Warner Music Nashville release has sold over 3.5 million tracks and more than 159 million streams. Swindell took the first three singles to No. 1 and his current single, “Let Me See Ya Girl” is now in the Top 5. The first three singles have all been RIAA Platinum Certified.

“All I ever wanted to do was get one of my songs heard on country radio, but to now have my fourth Top 10 single is unbelievable to me,” Swindell explained. “It’s even more unbelievable that my debut album is certified Gold. I’m so thankful for my fans and country radio for helping me achieve all these huge milestones in my career.”

Other accomplishments for Swindell in 2015 were being named the ACM New Artist Of The year and earning the CMA Triple Play award for three consecutive No. 1 songs in a 12-month period.

Swindell will close out 2015 headlining his Down Home Tour as part of the inaugural country edition of the Monster Energy Outbreak Tour, beginning at the PlayStation Theater (formerly Best Buy Theatre) in New York on Nov. 11.

George Strait Announces Two 2017 Concerts in Las Vegas

October 28, 2015/by Craig_Shelburne

George Strait has added two concerts to his slate of Las Vegas appearances. The new dates are Feb. 17-18, 2017, at the Las Vegas Arena.

Strait has already sold out concerts at the venue for April 22-23, Sept. 9-10 and Dec. 2-3, 2016. Kacey Musgraves will support the 2016 dates but the opening act for 2017 has not yet been announced.

“I’ve missed stepping on stage and playing that first note…hearing the crowd sing in unison…there’s just nothing like it,” said Strait. “I’d be lying if I said it didn’t feel good to know that the fans have missed me too.”

Tickets for the new dates will go on sale to the public on Nov. 6, with pre-sales beginning Friday, Oct. 30.

Artist Pics: Josh Kelley, Krystal Keith, Jerrod Niemann, Carrie Underwood

October 28, 2015/by contributor

Josh Kelley at City Winery

Artist Josh Kelley offered a preview of his upcoming album with an afternoon showcase at Nashville’s City Winery on Monday (Oct. 26), prior to his headlining show that night. The project will be released in 2016 by the Rounder Label Group.

Pictured (L-R): Josh Hunter – Hill Entertainment Group, Greg Hill – Hill Entertainment Group, Tracy Gershon – Rounder Label Group, Josh Kelley, Leslie Fram – CMT, Cliff O’Sullivan – Rounder Label Group, David Newmark – Rounder Label Group

Krystal Keith Welcomes Daughter Hensley Jack Sandubrae

Showdog Nashville’s Krystal Keith and her husband Andrew Sandubrae welcomed their baby girl, Hensley Jack Sandubrae, on Monday October 19. She arrived weighing 6 lbs., 11 oz and 18.5 inches long, Hensley is the couple’s first child.

Mom and baby are healthy, happy, and now at home settling in with dad. Krystal Keith is the daughter of Toby Keith.

Jerrod Niemann Plays San Jose’s Club Rodeo

Sea Gayle/Arista Nashville’s Jerrod Niemann played Club Rodeo in San Jose this past weekend, where he caught up with friend’s from San Jose’s KRTY.

Pictured (L-R): Opening act Chris Giles, KRTY General Manager Nate Deaton, Niemann, and KRTY General Sales Manager Tina Ferguson.

Carrie Underwood Celebrates ‘Storyteller’ Album with iHeartRadio Release Party

On Thursday, Oct. 22, Carrie Underwood was the focus of a special iHeartRadio Album Release Party hosted by Bobby Bones at the iHeartRadio Theater in New York City, all in celebration of the Oct. 25 release of her new album, Storyteller.

Pictured (L-R): Arista Nashville VP Promotion Lesly Simon; Justin Cole, Director of Country Programming, Premiere Networks; Bobby Bones; Rod Phillips, Sr. VP Programming/Brand Manager, iHeartCountry; and Colton Bradford, WBWL Boston night show host. Photo: Todd Owyoung

Hank Williams Jr. To Release Nash Icon Project in January

October 27, 2015/by Jessica Nicholson

Hank Williams Jr. will release his upcoming 37th album, It’s About Time, on Jan. 15, 2016. The project is his debut for Nash Icon Records. On Nov. 4, he will premiere his lead single, “Are You Ready for the Country” featuring Eric Church, across Cumulus stations nationwide. Hank Williams Jr. and Church will open the 49th Annual CMA Awards with the new collaboration.

The new single, penned by Neil Young and previously recorded by Waylon Jennings, will be available on Nov. 4 at digital retailers. Fans can also digitally pre-order the album on Nov. 4 and will receive four instant “grat tracks” during December and January, prior to the album’s release.

Church isn’t the only star collaboration found on the project. It features a re-recorded version of “Born to Boogie” featuring Brantley Gilbert and Justin Moore, with Brad Paisley on guitar. The collection also includes Hank Jr. originals such as “Dress Like A Icon,” “Just Call Me Hank,” and the album’s title track. Warner Music Nashville artist Chris Janson is a co-writer on “Those Days Are Gone” and “God Fearin’ Man.”

It’s About Time was produced by Julian Raymond, known for his work with Glen Campbell and Cheap Trick.

“I could not be happier to be working with Scott Borchetta and the team at BMLG,” Williams said. “The support they have shown this album has been tremendous and I am so excited for the fans to hear the new stuff.”

It’s About Time Track Listing

1. “Are You Ready for the Country” featuring Eric Church (Neil Young)
2. “Club U.S.A.” (Tony Stampley, Bonnie Swayze)
3. “God Fearin’ Man” (Chris Janson, Brandon Kinney, Kendell Marvell)
4. “Those Days Are Gone” (Chris Janson, Brice Long, Terry McBride)
5. “Dress Like An Icon” (Hank Williams Jr.)
6. “God and Guns” (Mark Stephen Jones, Travis Meadows, Bud Tower)
7. “Just Call Me Hank” (Hank Williams Jr.)
8. “Mental Revenge” (Mel Tillis)
9. “It’s About Time” (Hank Williams Jr.)
10. “The Party’s On” (Hank Williams Jr., Joe Kent, Tony Stampley)
11. “Wrapped Up, Tangled Up in Jesus (God’s Got It)” (Reverend Charlie Jackson)
12. “Born to Boogie” featuring Brantley Gilbert, Justin Moore and Brad Paisley (Hank Williams Jr.)

Artist Updates: Lady Antebellum, Zac Brown, Lee Ann Womack

October 27, 2015/by Craig_Shelburne

Lady Antebellum Plans Concert Film

Lady Antebellum will release a concert film via Eagle Rock Entertainment on Nov. 13. Titled Lady Antebellum: Wheels Up Tour, the set will be available on DVD, Blu-Ray and digital formats. A CD/DVD combination will also be sold exclusively at Walmart. The band filmed their concert in Irvine, Calif., on June 27 for the new collection. The project also offers behind-the-scenes footage, giving fans a look at life on the road.

Zac Brown Added to Lionel Richie Event

Zac Brown has joined the lineup for an all-star concert to honor Lionel Richie as the 2016 MusiCares Person of the Year.

Previously announced country performers on the show include Luke Bryan and Lady Antebellum. Lenny Kravitz, John Legend, Demi Lovato, The Roots, Usher and Stevie Wonder have also been confirmed for the event, which will take place on Feb. 13 in Los Angeles.

Lee Ann Womack Headlines LGBT Fundraiser

Lee Ann Womack

Lee Ann Womack will perform a fundraising concert for the Nashville LGBT Chamber of Commerce on Nov. 8. Her set will be a part of an event called TASTE, which combines food, wine and distilleries, and music. Womack’s performance is presented by CMT. The event will take place at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets are $75 and $100.

Luke Bryan To Join Dallas Cowboys As Halftime Performer For Thanksgiving Day Game

October 27, 2015/by Troy_Stephenson

Pictured with Luke Bryan are Charlotte Jones Anderson, executive vice president and chief brand officer for the Dallas Cowboys and former national advisory chairperson for The Salvation Army, Lt. Col. Ron Busroe, and members of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.

Luke Bryan will kick off The Salvation Army’s annual Red Kettle Campaign by performing live at AT&T stadium in Dallas at halftime of the Dallas Cowboys vs Carolina Panthers game on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26. This will be the 19th year the Dallas Cowboys have partnered with The Salvation Army to launch the iconic annual campaign, which raises millions of dollars throughout the holiday season.

“As a football fan, I’m especially excited to be performing on Thanksgiving Day,” said Bryan. “It’s also an honor to spotlight two great organizations like Dallas Cowboys and The Salvation Army and raise awareness for all the great work they do.”

“Luke Bryan is one of the biggest names in country music, but he has an incredibly humble spirit and is always searching for ways to give back and help others. For us, it was a perfect fit for what the Red Kettle kickoff represents for our partnership with The Salvation Army,” said Charlotte Jones Anderson, executive vice president and chief brand officer for the Dallas Cowboys and former national advisory chairperson for The Salvation Army. “Millions of families and children are impacted every year by the good works of The Salvation Army, and our goal is to help spread that message and educate Americans that every penny dropped in those red kettles goes toward making a difference.”

The Red Kettle Campaign runs from Thanksgiving Day through Christmas Eve and is the largest and longest-running fundraiser of its kind.

Sam Hunt Celebrates First Year of ‘Montevallo’ With Mixtape Reissue

October 27, 2015/by Jessica Nicholson

Sam Hunt‘s debut album, Montevallo, has been an undeniable hit in the past year. To celebrate the first anniversary of his debut release, the MCA Nashville artist has today (Oct. 27) released a digital reissue of his original acoustic mixtape, Between The Pines, which served as the blueprint for Montevallo.

Hunt co-wrote all 15 tracks on Between The Pines, including some songs that later became hits for other artists. The release includes Hunt’s renditions of “Cop Car,” which became a hit for Keith Urban; “We Are Tonight,” which turned into a No. 1 hit for Billy Currington; and Hunt’s first Nashville cut as as songwriter, “Come Over,” which became a signature No. 1 song for Kenny Chesney.

In addition, Hunt is hosting a free street party tomorrow night (Wednesday, Oct. 28) at 6 p.m. at a pop up stage on 5th Ave. S between Demonbreun St. and Korean Veterans Blvd. in downtown Nashville.

Between The Pines Track Listing:

1. Raised On It (Acoustic)
2. Cop Car (Acoustic)
3. Ex to See (Acoustic)
4. House Party (Acoustic)
5. Leave the Night On (Acoustic)
6. We Are Tonight (Acoustic)
7. Make You Miss Me (Acoustic)
8. I Met a Girl (Acoustic)
9. Bottle It Up (Acoustic)
10. Saturday Night (Acoustic)
11. Speakers (Acoustic)
12. Vacation (Acoustic)
13. Vandalizer (Acoustic)
14. Goodbye (Acoustic)
15. Come Over (Acoustic)

To purchase Between The Pines, visit http://umgn.us/Mixtape.