Creative Nation Signs Derek Bahr, Hires Alex Tamashunas As Creative Manager

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Pictured (L-R): Christina Wighton, Brandon Gill, Emily Furman, Beth Laird, Derek Bahr, Kelsey Granda, Luke Laird, Abby Holcomb. Photo: Katie Kauss

Derek Bahr has signed a multi-faceted label, publishing, and management deal with Creative Nation. The company has also hired Alex Tamashunas as its new Creative Manager.

Bahr spent the last decade as a road musician for Jon Pardi, Jordan Davis, Ryan Hurd, Cassadee Pope, Rodney Atkins, and more. He’s been writing songs for years, but in 2020 when gigs shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he devoted some time to writing, recording, and producing his own debut EP, Collecting Dust.

“Derek’s debut EP impressed our whole team,” Sr. Director of Creative, Emily Furman said.  “He is a true songwriter with a unique point of view and an ability to craft a song that stands out and says something. We’re thrilled to welcome him to Creative Nation and to introduce him to the songwriting community.”

“I’m beyond thrilled to have the chance to work with this incredible team at Creative Nation. A number of my songwriting heroes call CN home, and it’s an absolute dream come true to be under the same roof as them,” Bahr adds. “The world class professionalism this team brings to the table is only matched by their focus on compassionate kindness, and I’m so grateful for the chance to grow and learn from this amazing group of people.”

Alex Tamashunas. Photo: Spencer Combs

On the staffing side, Tamashunas graduated from NYU’s music business program in 2014. The Mount Holly, New Jersey native pursued a career in music journalism and PR until 2018, when she decided to move to Nashville for a position at Anthem Entertainment.

“Alex’s passion for songwriters and positive energy are infectious! Her prior publishing experience and musical interests complement our clients and staff and we are very excited to have her join the Creative Nation publishing team,” Co-Founder and CEO, Beth Laird comments.

“Creative Nation has been a dream company of mine for years. Beth and Luke [Laird] have fostered a family-style environment that cares deeply for the well being of its people, all while growing a roster of writers that are fiercely competitive in both country and pop formats,” Tamashunas says. “To be a part of this company’s story feels surreal.”

Lorie Hollabaugh
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