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Jonathan Smith Signs With Sony Music Publishing, Extends With Essential Music Publishing

August 7, 2023/by Caela Griffin

Pictured (L-R, front row): Sony Music Publishing’s Aubrey Rupe, Jonathan Smith, Provident Entertainment’s Holly Zabka; (L-R, back row) Sony Music Publishing’s Rusty Gaston, Kenley Flynn and Essential Music Publishing’s Jamie Rodgers

Award-winning songwriter and producer Jonathan Smith has signed a new long-term deal with Sony Music Publishing Nashville, and extended his Essential Music Publishing partnership.

Essential Music Publishing will continue to serve as Smith’s exclusive publisher within worship and contemporary Christian music, while Sony Music Publishing will focus on his songwriting projects across the country music genre,

Smith, a two-time Grammy Award winner, has produced and written many of today’s biggest songs, such as “House of the Lord” by Phil Wickham, “I’m So Blessed” by Cain, “There Was Jesus (feat. Dolly Parton)” by Zach Williams as well as “Chain Breaker” and “Glorious Day” by Passion.

“Our relationship with Jonathan started from a cold call to ask him to join a co-write, and after that day of writing led to an incredible cut with Kenny Chesney and another with breakthrough talent Nate Smith,” says Rusty Gaston, CEO, Sony Music Publishing Nashville. “We are massive fans of Jonathan’s work – it is the heartbeat behind his craft that leaves a unique mark on every one of his songs. We couldn’t be happier to partner with Jonathan and Essential to lead his country music charge.”

“Jonathan continues to be one of the most sought-after songwriters and producers in our market. We are excited about partnering with Rusty and his team at Sony Music Publishing Nashville to extend Jonathan’s songwriting talents into the country space and continue our long-standing partnership with Jonathan in the CCM/worship genre,” shares Holly Zabka, President/CEO, Provident Entertainment.

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Caela Griffin
Caela Griffin
Caela Griffin is a Contributor at MusicRow magazine, where she writes and edits for the print issues and online news, and coordinates special projects. Caela graduated from Middle Tennessee State University with a B.S. in Media + Entertainment concentrating on Law and Ethics, with a minor in Pre-Law. She returns to Nashville having worked in St. Louis’ vibrant arts community as a Marketing Director and an Admin. Coordinator.
Caela Griffin
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