King Pen, Warner Chappell Music Nashville Sign Jay DeMarcus

Pictured (L-R): Spencer Nohe (WCM), Bethany Mako (WCM), Kelly King (King Pen), DeMarcus, Ben Vaughn (WCM), Harrison Sokoloff (King Pen), Christina Wiltshire (WCM)

King Pen Music and Warner Chappell Music (WCM) Nashville have signed a worldwide publishing deal with Grammy-winning songwriter and producer Jay DeMarcus.

A member of the country group Rascal Flatts, DeMarcus has racked up 17 No. 1 hits, over 23 million albums sold, 35 million digital downloads, and 2 billion streams throughout his career. As one of the most awarded country groups of the past decade, the trio has earned more than 40 trophies from the Academy of Country Music, Country Music Association, People’s Choice, and more.

DeMarcus is also a Grammy-winning producer, working with acts like Chicago, Ronnie Dunn, Kix Brooks, Shenandoah, and Reba. He was honored in 2018 for producing Jason Crabb’s album Unexpected, which was named Best Roots Gospel Album by The Recording Academy.

Also on the executive side of the music business, Demarcus is the CEO and owner of Christian record label Red Street Records, home to Crabb, Avalon, Lauren Camey, Cade Thompson, and Iveth Luna.

Ben Vaughn, President & CEO, WCM Nashville comments: “Jay’s name has always been synonymous with quality music throughout his career as an artist, writer, and producer. He also has an incredible sense of humor! Our team at Warner Chappell is excited to join forces with the King Pen team in working with Jay as he moves into this next chapter of his career.”

“It has been an honor to have been a part of Jay Demarcus’ legacy over the past 20+ years. His strong characteristics of work ethic, talent, and ability to create strong relationships has proven his success,” adds Kelly King, President, King Pen Music. “I’m looking forward to continuing our great relationship along with our Warner Chappell family in this next chapter of his career.”

“I’m so excited for this opportunity, and this new chapter in my life,” DeMarcus says. “To partner with Kelly in this capacity after 20 years of working together, just feels like such a natural, and easy fit. Ben is one of the absolute best in our business, and I’m honored to be a small part of such an extraordinary team. Exciting things are ahead!”