Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith Prepare To Ring In The Holidays With Annual Christmas Tour

Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith are teaming up once again this year for their annual Christmas Tour, which will include Republic recording artist Jordan Smith, Season 9 winner of NBC’s The Voice, and a full symphony orchestra at each performance.

Presented by Balsam Hill, the 22-city tour will launch Nov. 11 in Omaha, Nebraska, and travel to major markets across the U.S., including Houston, Dallas, Washington, D.C., Seattle, Denver, Atlanta, Salt Lake City, Tampa, and more.

“I started looking forward to this year’s tour after the final encore of last year’s tour!” exclaims Michael W. Smith. “Performing with Amy and Jordan – in front of a full symphony orchestra – is about as good as it gets for me!”

“Michael, Jordan and I have been looking forward to touring together again all year!” confirms Grant. “We had so much fun together last year, and it felt like our creative gifts complemented one another in a unique way. As we started to plan the show, it was our goal to enhance people’s experience of the Christmas season by providing them a night of exquisite music and a message of hope.”

In support of their longstanding relationship with Compassion International, Smith and Grant are exclusively meeting with as many as 200 people in each city who sponsor a child through the organization prior to the concert and through the website meetamyandmichael.com. The “Compassion Meet & Greet” is an opportunity to learn more about the Compassion International’s child sponsorship experience and will include a photo opportunity with the artists.

2017 Christmas Tour:
Sat. Nov. 11   Omaha, NE                 CenturyLink Center
Mon. Nov. 13  Denver, CO                Bellco Theatre
Tue. Nov. 14   Orem, UT                   UCCU Center
Wed. Nov. 15  Nampa, ID                  Idaho Center
Thu. Nov. 16   Kennewick, WA          Toyota Center
Fri. Nov. 17     Abbotsford, BC           Abbotsford Entertainment and Sport Center
Sat. Nov. 18    Everett, WA                Xfinity Arena at Everett
Sun. Nov. 19   Portland, OR               Moda Center
Sat. Nov. 25    Duluth, GA                  Infinite Energy Center
Sun. Nov. 26   Tampa, FL                  Amalie Arena
Thu. Nov. 30   Oklahoma City, OK     Crossings Community Church **
Fri. Dec. 1       Tulsa, OK                    BOK Center
Sat. Dec. 2      Grand Prairie, TX        Verizon Wireless
Sun. Dec. 3     Sugar Land, TX           Smart Financial Center
Tues. Dec. 5   Greensboro, NC          Westover Church **
Fri. Dec. 8       Kansas City, MO         Sprint Center
Sat. Dec. 9      Madison, WI                Alliant Energy Center
Sun. Dec. 10   Grand Rapids, MI        Van Andel Arena
Thu. Dec. 14   Van Wert, OH              Niswonger Performing Arts Center **
Fri. Dec. 15     Columbus, OH             Nationwide Arena
Sat. Dec. 16    Fairfax, VA                  Eaglebank Arena
Sun. Dec. 17   Hershey, PA                GIANT Center

* All dates and venues are subject to change without notice
** Amy Grant will not appear on these events

John Berry Brings ‘Songs And Stories’ To The Country Network, The Heartland Network

Photo: Justin Kaicles

John Berry is sharing tunes and tales from 25 years in music during his new weekly show, Songs and Stories With John Berry, a 30-minute program which airs on The Country Network and The Heartland Network, and bringing along several artist friends to do the same. First season guests include Billy Ray Cyrus, Craig Morgan, Clay Walker, Mo Pitney, Lee Roy Parnell, Collin Raye, Neal McCoy, Billy Dean, Suzy Bogguss, Mark Wills and Delbert McClinton.

Each show is filmed at Nashville’s Douglas Corner, where Berry first showcased his music and earned his first major label deal. The show is produced by Jeff Moseley/CJM Productions.

Songs and Stories With John Berry airs on The Country Network each Monday night at 9 p.m. ET, with re-airings on Tuesdays (11 a.m./8 p.m. ET), Wednesdays (10 p.m. ET), Saturdays (3 p.m. ET) and Sundays (7 p.m. ET). The Heartland Network airs the program on Thursday evenings at 8 p.m. ET, with re-airings on Fridays (5 p.m. ET), Saturdays (9 p.m. ET) and Sundays (7 p.m. ET).

“It’s hard to believe that the dream of a Songs and Stories TV series is now a reality and that the airing of it is upon us,” Berry says. “It was a magical time filming each episode and an honor to get to know these artist friends on a different level as they sang songs and shared their stories. I am excited to share it with viewers.”

In addition to The Heartland Network and The Country Network, the show can be seen on Keep It Country TV (Europe), The Family Channel, the Angel Two Network, AMG TV, and the VTN Network.

In 1995, Berry earned the Horizon Award honor from the Country Music Association. The same year, he earned a Grammy nomination for his hit single, “Your Love Amazes Me.” He also earned the Top 10 hits including “She’s Taken A Shine,” “Standing On The Edge Of Goodbye,” “What’s In It For Me,” and “You and Only You.”

iHeartMedia President Darren Davis Inks Four-Year Contract Extension

iHeartMedia Networks Group has announced a four-year contract extension with President Darren Davis. Davis will continue to report to Bob Pittman, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of iHeartMedia, Inc.

Under the new agreement, Davis will continue to oversee the success and close integration of the company’s extensive multi-platform assets, including the iHeartRadio Network, Premiere Networks, Total Traffic + Weather Network, and the NBC News Radio Network, as well as iHeartMedia’s in-house audio and visual creative agency. Davis will also continue as President of iHeartRadio, the fastest-growing digital audio service in the U.S. With over a billion downloads, iHeartRadio reached 100 million registered users this year.

“We’re pleased that Darren will continue to lead the integration of our Networks group that enables iHeartMedia to harness the unparalleled power, reach and scale of our digital and broadcast platforms,” said Pittman. “His twenty-five-years of experience working in every facet of iHeartMedia means he has a unique understanding of every aspect of our company — from our broadcast radio stations and iHeartRadio to our sales teams and partnerships, and how they can all work together to best serve our consumers, partners, affiliates and advertisers.”

“Since I was a kid, I knew I’d spend my life in radio,” said Davis. “I’ve seen a lot in the last twenty-five years as iHeartMedia has expanded into multiple platforms like the industry-leading iHeartRadio. There isn’t a day that goes by where I’m not amazed by iHeartMedia’s evolution, which is built on broadcast radio — my first love — and now provides one-of-a-kind programming, entertainment and opportunities to connect our advertising partners across our unparalleled range of multiple platforms in ways that no other company can. I’m thrilled to be continuing this journey.”

The executive began his career as an intern at iHeartMedia’s Adult Contemporary WASH-FM in Washington, DC in 1992, and celebrates his 25th anniversary with the company next month. He was named Program Director at WASH-FM at just 23 years old and has since worked as Regional Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia Detroit and Chicago, Senior Vice President of Programming, and Executive Vice President and General Manager of National Programming before being named to his current position in 2014.  Davis also built and managed the Premium Choice national network and worked to develop iHeartMedia’s strategic national programming capabilities.

Nashville’s WJXA Names New Morning, Evening Show Hosts

Pictured (L-R): Brandon O’Brien, Ricki Smith, Anna Marie

Following a lengthy national search, WJXA-FM/Nashville (Mix 92.9) has named Brandon O’Brien and Ricki Smith to its morning show team. They will join current producer/co-host Clint Redwine in the morning drive beginning Aug. 21.

Following the realignment of the morning show, radio personality Anna Marie has been transitioned to nights.

O’Brien previously served as PD/Afternoon Drive host for WUSH-FM in Norfolk, Virginia, while Smith was the AM drive co-host at WARH-FM in St. Louis.

WJXA/WNFN Operations Manager Barbara Bridges said, “I’m so excited to add Brandon and Ricki to the Mix Morning Show! These two individuals have a ton of talent and this combination with Clint will elevate an already successful morning show to the next level. We’re thrilled that this all came together!”

Brandon O’Brien commented, “Not only do I live in the greatest city in the world, I will also have an opportunity to be a huge part of the Nashville community and work alongside some amazing and talented folks at Midwest Communications/Nashville!”

Smith said,“A personality looks for nothing more than what happens every day with this incredible team of talented people in Nashville. I’m totally pumped about being able to contribute to Mix 92.9’s continued success.”

According to WJXA-FM/WNFN- FM Operations Manager Barbara Bridges, “Anna has a 20-year track record of success with our female audience and our fans absolutely love her! The warmth and connection she will bring to a special nighttime show will be amazing. I can’t wait to hear what we can do when Anna gets rolling!”

Anna Marie added, “I’m so excited! I love my listeners and this move gives me the opportunity to get closer to them. We’ve had a wonderful 20-year relationship so far and now we get a new time and space to get together. I expect beautiful things!”

BBR Music Group, BMG Partner With Kid Rock

Pictured (L-R): Carson James, SVP of Promotion, BBR Music Group; Shelley Hargis, VP of Promotion, Red Bow Records; Rick Shedd, General Manager, BBR Music Group; Dan Gill, GM/SVP Sales, Recorded Music, BMG; Lee Trink, Dare Mighty Entertainment; Kid Rock; JoJamie Hahr, VP of Marketing, BBR Music Group; Lynette Garbonola, VP of Digital Media, BBR Music Group; Jon Cohen, EVP, U.S. Recorded Music, BMG; Jon Loba, EVP of BBR Music Group; Jason Murray, BMG Canada

BBR Music Group and BMG have teamed with Kid Rock to release the multi-platinum rock artist’s new music.

Upcoming new music will be released under the artist’s Top Dog Records in conjunction with BBR Music Group in Nashville and BMG in Los Angeles.

Craig Wiseman Talks Big Loud Rebranding, Working With Big Loud Writers

In 2003, songwriter Craig Wiseman, primarily known at the time for songs including Tim McGraw’s “The Cowboy In Me” and “Everywhere,” and Kenny Chesney’s “The Good Stuff,” launched his own startup publishing company, Big Loud Shirt. The then-fledgling publishing company’s first boost came in June 2004 when Tim McGraw released Wiseman’s “Live Like You Were Dying” to country radio. The song would earn Song of the Year honors from the Nashville Songwriters Association International, Country Music Association, Academy of Country Music, and the Recording Academy.

A multitude of songs followed, including Brooks & Dunn’s “Believe,” Blake Shelton’s “Boys Round Here,” and more. Wiseman was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2015.

In the years that followed, Big Loud has diversified, adding management, recording and a newly-announced venture capital division in a move inspired by Wiseman’s involvement in his now songwriter, Sarah Buxton. Shortly after the expansion, Big Loud signed artists including superstars Florida Georgia line to their management and publishing divisions, and are currently working at breaking artists including Chris Lane, Morgan Wallen and Jillian Jacqueline at Big Loud Records.

Wiseman and his fellow Big Loud partners Seth England, Joey Moi, Kevin “Chief” Zaruk and Big Loud Records president Clay Hunnicutt recently announced the rebranding of Big Loud, consolidating the company’s publishing, recording, management and newly-announced capital venture under the Big Loud moniker.

“Everybody kind of called it Big Loud anyway,” Wiseman says. “We thought we should just go with it.”

Along with the rebranding comes a simplified version of Big Loud Shirt’s iconic Hawaiian shirt logo, which Wiseman says was created by his wife KK.

“She did our first logo and we liked that font and we liked that font and pop of red. Nothing crazy, just simple. That has served us well. It is kind of nice and simple and it’s pretty much stayed the same. We kind of kept is simple and close to the original.”

Craig Wiseman. Photo: Delaney Royer

The Big Loud publishing roster includes Brian Kelley, Chris Lane, Cameron Montgomery (with Tree Vibez Music), Chris Tompkins, Wiseman, Joey Moi, Matt Dragstrem, Morgan Wallen, Rodney Clawson, Sarah Buxton, The Warren Brothers, and Tyler Hubbard.

Big Loud’s publishing arm celebrated a new signing in Jamie Moore this year, who jointly signed to Big Loud’s publishing and management arms. Moore is a Muscle Shoals, Alabama, native who has had success with Florida Georgia Line’s hit featuring Tim McGraw, “May We All,” which Moore co-wrote with fellow Big Loud songwriter Rodney Clawson.

“Jamie and Chris Tompkins knew each other back in Muscle Shoals, Alabama,” Wiseman notes. “He’s a great guy and we all liked writing with him. Blake [Shelton] just cut something me and Jamie wrote on his new record.”

Moore has also contributed songs on albums from Carrie Underwood, Chris Lane, The Swon Brothers, and Christian artists Mandisa and TobyMac, including his 2013 hit, “Speak Life.” Moore has also contributed background vocals, piano and string arrangements to several of TobyMac’s projects.

“He’s a very spiritual guy, and depending on his cowriters, he can write with Rodney and do a song for Blake Shelton on Tuesday, and then write with one of his Christian co-writers and win a Christian Grammy.”

Other Big Loud successes in the past year include Jason Aldean’s “Lights Come On,” co-written by Brad and Brett Warren, Tyler Hubbard and Brian Kelley. Wiseman penned Blake Shelton’s “Came Here To Forget,” while Chris Lane earned his first No. 1 song with “Fix.” Clawson also co-wrote Luke Bryan’s “Fast.”

Big Loud also announced the re-signing of writers Clawson and Buxton. Buxton first signed with Big Loud in 2012; among her hits are Keith Urban’s “Stupid Boy,” which also appeared on her 2010 self-titled album for Lyric Street. She also penned Sara Evans’ “Slow Me Down,” “Florida Georgia Line’s “Sun Daze,” Chris Lane’s “Fix,” and more.

Back in 2007, Buxton released her own album, Almost My Record, for Lyric Street. Wiseman was one of the producers on the project.

“It went through the record label, and it was kind of a comedy of errors, but that happens,” Wiseman recalls. “I kind of realized I don’t want to get this invested in a project I don’t have control over again. A few years ago she wanted to change publishing so she came over. Of course she does great as a writer and frankly I would love to do an EP on Sarah, and we’ve talked about it some,” says Wiseman. “I think she’s a world-class singer and I still totally see her having a life as a singer, if not becoming a huge star. But she is balancing being a writer and mother and all of that.”

Now, ten years later, the popularity of streaming and downloading have shifted the industry’s economics, making it easier for many artists and songwriters to take their music directly to fans.

“We are getting to a spot where you can release an album and you don’t have to do so much of the old-school thing. You know, you have to do radio promotion; you have to do these straight-up country approach. Also, producer guys have their own rigs and it doesn’t cost $25,000 to cut a record. You don’t have to sell half a million to break even. It’s definitely a whole new world now.”

Taylor Hicks Joins Webster Public Relations Roster

Taylor Hicks

Taylor Hicks, the Season 5 winner of American Idol, has signed with Webster Public Relations for representation.

Hicks also hosts Slate Plate, an INSP original series that follows Hicks across the United States in search of the nation’s most popular foods. Slate Plate’s season 2 will premiere Aug. 11 at 8 p.m. ET. Hicks also starred in the hit musical Grease On Broadway, which extended to an 18-month tour. He began a residency at Bally’s Las Vegas, and then at Paris Las Vegas.

“Taylor has shown his talent expands beyond the music realm to a variety of facets in the entertainment industry,” said Kirt Webster, president of Webster Public Relations. “I’m excited for all the possibilities to come with this partnership.”

 

Sound Diplomacy To Host Music Tourism Convention Franklin

International music agency Sound Diplomacy has partnered with Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival, Visit Franklin, and the Americana Music Triangle to present Music Tourism Convention Franklin. The two-day event, held on Sept. 21 and 22 at The Factory in Franklin, Tennessee, will bring together music and tourism executives to expand on the opportunities the industries can gain from each other.

“Music is a universal language that speaks to the world and is a key component in the decision-making process of where many travelers decide to spend their vacations,” says Ellie Westman Chin, President & CEO of Visit Franklin. “Our mission at Visit Franklin is to share Franklin, Tennessee with the world, and we are excited to be partnering with an international leader like Sound Diplomacy to not only do that but also bring together so many other destinations to share ideas and learn from one another.”

The convention will focus on various topics including Music & Destination Marketing, Music & Travel, and Music Attractions, and will feature TEDx-style talks and panel discussions from industry leaders.

The final day will conclude with an official reception at Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival. Attendees will also receive discounted tickets to the festival, held Sept. 23 and 24 at The Park at Harlinsdale in Franklin.

Tickets for the two-day convention cost $150 and are available at a discounted rate of $100 for current students.

For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.

Taylor Lindsey Upped To VP/A&R At Sony Music Nashville

Photo credit: Cameron Powell

Taylor Lindsey has been promoted to the position of Vice President, A&R at Sony Music Nashville. Most recently Senior Director, A&R, Lindsey joined the label group in September of 2013 and will continue to report directly to Senior Vice President, A&R, Jim Catino.

“Taylor has truly made an important impact since she joined our company,” Catino remarked, “and it’s an honor for me to announce her well-deserved promotion to Vice President of A&R.”  He continues, “She not only has been instrumental in building the Sony Music Nashville roster, but, in so doing, has earned great respect from the Sony team and the music community.”

“I’m so grateful to be able to grow and push the boundaries of my career with the support and guidance of Randy Goodman and Jim Catino at a company like Sony, where expansion and innovation are encouraged,” said Taylor Lindsey. “I am extremely proud of our roster of amazing talent and to be a part of the Sony Music Nashville team. Working with iconic artists of today and trailblazing artists of tomorrow is incredibly inspiring.”

Lindsey has been instrumental in the signings and development of such artists as Cam, Maren Morris and Old Dominion, among others, and played a key role in recent releases such as Kenny Chesney and Brad Paisley. She and Catino continue to share day-to-day A&R responsibilities for all the artists on the Sony Music Nashville rosters.

 

Weekly Register: Lucas Hoge Tops Country Albums Rankings

In its second week of release, Rebel Engine Entertainment artist Lucas Hoge tops the Nielsen Soundscan Country Albums rankings, with Dirty South moving 9.9K and rising from No. 3 to the top slot.

Chris Stapleton takes the second and third slots on the country charts, with From A Room at No. 2 with 9.2K, and Traveller at No. 3 with 6.4K. Now That’s What I Call Country 10 rises one spot to No. 4, with 6.1K moved this week.

Lady Antebellum‘s Heart Break rises from No. 6 to No. 5, with 5.4K.

Joe NicholsNever Gets Old debuts at No. 6 on the country albums chart this week, with 4.8K. Logan Mize‘s Come Back Road debuts at No. 20 on the country albums rankings with 1.6K.

Digital Songs

Thomas Rhett makes this week’s top debut on the country digital songs chart, with “Unforgettable” landing at No. 2 country and moving 29K in its first week. The singer-songwriter has two tracks in the Top 5 this week on the country digital songs chart, with “Craving You” (ft. Maren Morris) at No. 5, with 14K.

Sam Hunt‘s “Body Like A Back Road” continues at No. 1 , with 40K moved this week, and 1.471 million to date.

Kane Brown‘s “What Ifs” (ft. Lauren Alaina) is at No. 3, with 18K, while Dustin Lynch‘s “Small Town Boy” is at No. 4, with 17K.

Information provided by Nielsen Soundscan