Rewind: MusicRow’s Top Stories Of 2023
2023 had no shortage of news from the Nashville music business.
Some of the city’s major labels saw big changes, including Mike Dungan stepping down at UMG Nashville, and Cindy Mabe being appointed the new Chair & CEO of the label. Over at Warner Music Nashville, Cris Lacy and Ben Kline officially began their new era of leadership following the retirement of former label head John Esposito.
This year also saw some of country music’s newest and brightest stars soar to new heights, including Megan Moroney earning her first No. 1 with “Tennessee Orange,” and Bailey Zimmerman having a record-breaking year and continually topping the charts.
After releasing her EP Rolling Up the Welcome Mat in February, Kelsea Ballerini had an explosive year, including performing “Penthouse” at the VMAs and landing on the cover of TIME100. Morgan Wallen had another record-breaking year, with his new One Thing at a Time album and 2021’s Dangerous: The Double Album making him one of the most-listened to artists in the world.
Lainey Wilson continued to dominate her lane in country music in 2023, winning five CMA Awards including the top honor of Entertainer of the Year, four ACM Awards, two CMT Music Awards, three People’s Choice Country Awards and completing a 28-date sold-out headlining tour. Label-mate Jelly Roll also had a breakout year, with his debut country album Whitsitt Chapel becoming the biggest country debut album in Billboard Consumption Chart history. He also took home multiple awards this year and is up for Best New Artist at the Grammy Awards in 2024.
Broadway will see even more country music stars opening businesses in the coming year, with Luke Combs and The Opry Entertainment Group announcing their joint venture for a new four-story entertainment venue on 2nd Ave. Combs continued his reign as one of the genre’s top artists in 2023. His version of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” won Single of the Year at the 57th Annual CMA Awards earlier this week. Additionally, it spent five-consecutive weeks atop Billboard’s Country Airplay chart and reached #1 on the Hot AC chart, the first song by a male solo artist to ever top both the hot AC and country charts. It’s nominated for Best Country Solo Performance at the Grammys.
With the release of her 30-track rock album Rockstar, Hall of Famer Dolly Parton scored the biggest album debut of her seven-decade career. The star-studded project debuted at No. 1 on six different Billboard charts. Another country icon, Brenda Lee, celebrated the 65th anniversary of her Christmas hit “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree,” and saw the song top the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the first time ever, making Lee the oldest woman to top the Hot 100, surpassing previous record-holders Cher (“Believe,” age 52) and Mariah Carey (“All I Want for Christmas is You,” age 53).
After leaving Sony Music Nashville earlier in the year, Miranda Lambert later partnered with Big Loud and hit songwriter/producer Jon Randall to launch Big Loud Texas, where she and Randall will be directly involved in signing and developing artists on the roster.
Grammy-winning songwriters Shane McAnally and Brandy Clark celebrated their musical Shucked earning a Tony award, among a bevy of other recognitions. Alex Newell won for Best Actor in a Feautred Role In a Musical, for the role of LuLu. Newell made history as the first openly non-binary actor to win the award.
Look back on these top stories and more as MusicRow rewinds 2023 below.
Mike Dungan Stepping Down From Helm At UMG Nashville
[January 9, 2023] Universal Music Group Nashville Chairman and CEO Mike Dungan will retire in March. He has led the Nashville arm of the company since 2012. Dungan will continue to serve as an advisor to UMG Chairman and CEO Lucian Grainge. The announcement indicated that Dungan’s successor will be revealed at a later date, though current UMG Nashville president Cindy Mabe is expected to assume the position…
Cindy Mabe Appointed Chair & CEO Of UMG Nashville
[January 10, 2023] Cindy Mabe has been appointed Chair and CEO of Universal Music Group Nashville, effective April 1, 2023. She will succeed Mike Dungan, who will retire from his position at UMG Nashville after more than a decade there and a total of four decades in the music industry During her tenure at UMG, Mabe has helped guide and grow the careers of some of country music’s biggest stars, including Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Jordan Davis, Mickey Guyton, Sam Hunt, Alan Jackson, Parker McCollum, Reba McEntire, Kacey Musgraves, Jon Pardi, Chris Stapleton, George Strait, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Brothers Osborne and Little Big Town, among countless others. She has earned multiple honors, including the Country Music Hall of Fame’s Louise Scruggs Memorial Forum Award and the SOURCE Hall of Fame Award…
The Oriel Company Grows Presence In Nashville [Interview]
[January 13, 2023] Public relations powerhouse Carleen Donovan has had her eyes on Music City for a number of years. She’s a veteran of music publicity, who, at just 20-years-old, launched her career as Head of PR for influential independent label Mute Records after a series of internships. She went on to hold Senior Executive roles at KSA Publicity and Press Here Publicity, in addition to the post of Executive Vice President of Public Relations and Marketing for Career Artist Management / Live Nation…
The Neal Agency Taps Adi Sharma As Co-Head & Agent
[January 17, 2023] Agent Adi Sharma has joined The Neal Agency (TNA) as co-head and agent, expanding the nine-act company to a dozen clients. Coupled with the newest staff addition, TNA has also announced the signing of lifestyle brand Stevenson Ranch to extend the brand’s footprint in the live space and help curate and create live events…
Ben Kline & Cris Lacy Begin New Era Of Leadership At Warner Music Nashville
[January 17, 2023] Warner Music Nashville Co-Chairs / Co-Presidents Ben Kline and Cris Lacy ushered in a new era of leadership at the label with the beginning of 2023. In June of 2022, the music industry veterans were announced as successors to the beloved John Esposito, who remained Chairman & CEO through the remainder of the year. Esposito is now officially Chairman Emeritus, and Lacy and Kline are in charge. The two launched the new year last week (Jan. 11) alongside the full WMN team with a day of culture building and informational programming at a company-wide off-site meeting…
Beyond The Row: MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson Climbs Mount Kilimanjaro
[January 20, 2023] In early January, MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson successfully climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, reaching the summit, the highest point on the dormant volcano. Embarking on a 7-day hike on the Lemosho route, Robertson reached Mount Kilimanjaro’s Uhuru Peak on Friday, January 6, 2023 at 8:34 a.m. East Africa Time…
BMG Promotes JoJamie Hahr To EVP, Recorded Music – Nashville
[January 23, 2023] BMG announced the elevation of JoJamie Hahr to Executive Vice President Recorded Music – Nashville. In her new role, Hahr will oversee day-to-day operations of BMG Recorded Music in Nashville, including BBR Label Group and its roster and imprints Broken Bow Records, Stoney Creek Records, and Wheelhouse Records. She will continue reporting to President of BMG Nashville, Jon Loba. Hahr was promoted to SVP of BBR Music Group in 2020, where she oversaw all artist project strategy, brand partnerships, strategic marketing, as well as digital and creative efforts for each of the BBR Music Group’s three imprints…
Jake Basden Joins Sandbox Entertainment Group As President
[January 31, 2023] Music industry veteran Jake Basden is joining Jason Owen’s Sandbox Entertainment Group as President. Basden brings with him over a decade’s worth of experience in Nashville. During his 12 years at Big Machine Label Group, he was named the 2019 PRWeek “40 under 40” designee and Young PR Professional of the Year winner. He spent a significant portion of his time at BMLG working music projects such as Taylor Swift’s record-breaking album releases, Steven Tyler’s solo country album, Sheryl Crow’s all-star Threads project, Thomas Rhett’s 20 No. 1 songs and Country Music Hall of Famer Glen’s Campbell’s final recordings.
Nashville Talents Shine Bright At 65th Annual Grammy Awards
[February 6, 2023] At the 65th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday night (Feb. 5), talented Nashville musicians made the most of their time on screen via a handful of performances. Brandi Carlile earned a rousing standing ovation when she kicked the night off with “Broken Horses,” the tune that won her both Best Rock Performance and Best Rock Song earlier in the evening…
MusicRow’s 2023 CountryBreakout Award Winners [Full List]
[February 28, 2023] MusicRow virtually announced the winners of the 21st annual CountryBreakout Awards throughout the day today (Feb. 28). Winners were spotlighted across all of MusicRow’s online platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. The MusicRow CountryBreakout Awards celebrate those who have dominated country radio’s secondary market. Winners in eight categories are determined by spins on the secondary market stations that report to the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart panel each week…
CMA Crowns Triple Play Award Recipients, Honors Jody Williams
[March 3, 2023] The Country Music Association hosted their CMA Triple Play Awards ceremony earlier this week at Saint Elle in Nashville. The ceremony was hosted by CMA Board member and composer, Jim Beavers. Now in its 13th year, the CMA Triple Play Awards honor songwriters who pen three No. 1 songs within a 12-month period based on the Country Aircheck, Billboard Country Airplay and Billboard Hot Country Songs charts…
Morgan Wallen Celebrates New Album By Breaking Multiple Records
[March 6, 2023] Country superstar Morgan Wallen released his third studio album, One Thing At A Time, on Friday (March 3). To celebrate, he invited 19,292 fans to a free show at Bridgestone Arena, setting an all-time attendance for the arena according to EVP of Entertainment & Venues David Kells. In addition to the near 20,000 fans who filled the stadium on Friday, over a million tuned in on Wallen’s livestream of the event…
Brittany Schaffer To Exit Spotify, Appointed Dean Of Belmont University’s Curb College
[March 13, 2023] Belmont University has appointed Brittany Schaffer as the new Dean of the Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business. Effective May 1, Schaffer fills the role of Doug Howard, who retired last fall. Schaffer will exit her position as Head of Nashville Label Partnerships and Music Strategy at Spotify on April 13. At the DSP, she co-leads the development and execution of Spotify’s global strategy to grow the Country, Christian/Gospel and Americana genres, and is responsible for overseeing all new music releases and campaigns out of Nashville…
Johnny Chiang Expands Role To Include Oversight Of Country Music Programming At SiriusXM
[March 15, 2023] Johnny Chiang, who joined Pandora as Senior Director of Country Programming in August of 2022, has expanded his role to also oversee country music programming at SiriusXM. The news comes after a series of changes at SiriusXM/Pandora. Earlier this year, it was announced that Head of Country Music Talent & Industry Relations, Beville Dunkerley, was exiting her position at the platform. Additionally, it was announced last June that JR Schumann would exit his role as Sr. Dir./Music Programming at SiriusXM…
Miranda Lambert Leaving Sony Music Nashville
[March 15, 2023] In a social media post, Miranda Lambert announced that she is leaving Sony Music Nashville after 20 years together. She did not disclose where she is headed next. Lambert signed with Sony at the age of 19 and released her debut studio album Kerosene in 2005 via the imprint Epic Nashville. Since then, she has gone on to release seven more studio albums, notch 10 No. 1 hit radio singles and win more than 70 prestigious awards. The reigning ACM Entertainer of the Year is the most decorated artist in the history of the Academy of Country Music.
Five Talented Artists Take The Stage For CRS New Faces 2023
[March 16, 2023] Five new talented artists were added to the prestigious history of the CRS New Faces of Country Music showcase. Priscilla Block, Jackson Dean, Frank Ray, Jelly Roll and Nate Smith all took the stage in front of the country radio industry last night (March 15) to close out the 2023 edition of Country Radio Seminar. The night was dedicated to Country Radio Hall of Fame member Charlie Monk, who hosted the New Faces show at least 40 times in its 50-plus year history. Throughout the evening, video tributes to Monk appeared on screens, complete with many great stories and jokes from the honorary “Mayor of Music Row.”…
MusicRow’s Rising Women On The Row Brings The Community Together

MusicRow’s Rising Women on the Row Class of 2023. Pictured (L-R): Jackie Jones, Stacy Blythe, Martha Earls, Beth Hamilton, Anna Weisband, Brittany Schaffer. Photo: Steve Lowry
[March 24, 2023] At MusicRow‘s annual Rising Women on the Row breakfast event on Thursday (March 23), more than 500 music business professionals came out to support the 2023 class of honorees. Now in its 10th year, MusicRow honored Big Loud’s Stacy Blythe, Neon Coast’s Martha Earls, WME’s Beth Hamilton, RIAA’s Jackie Jones, Spotify’s Brittany Schaffer and Sony Music Publishing’s Anna Weisband. Before the program commenced, attendees visited, drank coffee and took photos at the photo booth. When MusicRow Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson took the stage, he recognized the event’s presenting sponsors, City National Bank and Loeb & Loeb, before introducing featured speaker Lynn Oliver-Cline…
Sony Music Nashville Imprint Arista Nashville Dissolves
[March 23, 2023] MusicRow has confirmed that Arista Nashville, an imprint of Sony Music Nashville, has dissolved. The Artista Nashville roster has included Nate Smith, Megan Moroney, Brooks & Dunn, Old Dominion, Adam Doleac, Ryan Hurd, Seaforth and Morgan Wade. According to a report from Billboard, Old Dominion and Moroney have moved to Columbia while Nate Smith has gone to RCA. Brooks & Dunn, Seaforth, Hurd, Wade and Doleac will be reassigned when they have projects headed to radio…
Royce Risser, Brian Wright & Stephanie Wright Exit UMG Nashville
[April 4, 2023] Royce Risser, Brian Wright and Stephanie Wright have exited UMG Nashville, MusicRow has confirmed. Risser most recently served as Exec. VP of Promotion, overseeing all promotion efforts in the UMG Nashville four-imprint structure consisting of Capitol Records Nashville, EMI Records Nashville, MCA Nashville and Mercury Nashville. He first joined the company in 1992 with MCA Nashville…
Bailey Zimmerman Continues To Top Charts & Break Records
[April 11, 2023] Bailey Zimmerman‘s “Rock and A Hard Place” is officially No. 1 on the Country Aircheck/Mediabase Chart, and now holds the title of most-played record across the country in one single week since the Mediabase chart’s inception. The smash hit also landed atop the Billboard Country Airplay chart for the third consecutive week. Additionally, “Rock and A Hard Place” has made its way into the Top 100 on the all-genre Billboard Global 200 chart once again, recently becoming Zimmerman’s first Top 10 hit on their all-genre Hot 100 chart…
Luke Combs & Opry Entertainment Group To Team On Downtown Nashville Entertainment Venue
[April 13, 2023] Luke Combs has teamed with Opry Entertainment Group on a new, massive multi-level entertainment complex in downtown Nashville at 120 Second Avenue North, the home of longtime downtown staple the Wildhorse Saloon. The new venue is expected to debut in the summer of 2024, but the company plans to operate the venue as the Wildhorse Saloon throughout the planned refurbishment period. Inspired by Combs’ 8x Platinum debut No. 1 hit, “Hurricane,” the venue will be the largest and most versatile entertainment complex in the downtown entertainment district. The 69,000-square-foot complex with an indoor/outdoor capacity of nearly 3,200 will be customized to reflect Combs’ passions for music, songwriting, whiskey and sports…
Red Light Management Ups Allison Laughter To VP Of Marketing, Digital & Streaming
[April 19, 2023] Allison Laughter has been promoted to VP of Marketing, Digital & Streaming at Red Light Management Nashville. Laughter previously helmed the Digital Marketing & Streaming department and will now direct efforts for Marketing as well. Prior to joining Red Light Management in 2013, Laughter worked in digital marketing and publicity for Capitol Records Nashville and Universal Music Group Nashville…
Becoming Espo: The Story Of Industry Vet John Esposito [Interview]
[April 21, 2023] If you’ve been to a music industry event in which Warner Music Nashville Chairman & CEO John “Espo” Esposito speaks, chances are you haven’t forgotten him. The Pennsylvania native stands tall, and dons glasses with dark, circular frames. He speaks with a slight accent, he’s hilariously witty, and is known for his colorful vernacular. In other words, he swears like a sailor…
Sara Knabe Joins Big Loud As SVP Of AR
[May 2, 2023] Big Loud has hired Sara Knabe as SVP of A&R. Effective immediately, Knabe will work in tandem with both the Big Loud Records and Big Loud Publishing A&R teams, leading across. “This is one of the most exciting announcements we’ve gotten to make in a while,” says Big Loud CEO/Partner, Seth England. “Sara was the first person I meaningfully met in Nashville; I got my first internship with her, and she helped me meet [Big Loud Partner] Craig [Wiseman]. We’ve been working with Sara in a freelance capacity for a while now, and have been continuously impressed by her professionalism, her collaborative approach, and her ear for finding outstanding talent. I’m not sure there is any one A&R person in Nashville who has brought me and Joey [Moi] more songs over the years. It is fitting and overdue that she joins our team.”…
Peter Strickland Joins BMG/BBR Music Group As General Manager
[May 9, 2023] BMG/BBR Music Group has hired Peter Strickland as its new General Manager, effective immediately. Strickland, who has been working with BMG/BBR Music Group in a consultancy role for almost two years, brings with him decades worth of music industry experience and knowledge. As GM, he will oversee the financial and daily operations of BMG/BBR Music Group, streamline distribution channels and physical-product sales as well as spearhead the label’s comedy initiatives. He reports to Jon Loba, President of BMG Nashville…
Country Artist Jimmie Allen Sued For Sexual Assault By Former Manager
[May 11, 2023] A lawsuit has been filed against Jimmie Allen for sexual assault by his former manager. Allen’s alleged assaults on his former manager are detailed in her interview with Variety. To protect her identity, she is referred to as “Jane Doe” throughout the Variety piece. MusicRow has confirmed with BBR Music Group they they have suspended all activity with Allen effective immediately. UTA has also suspended representation of Allen…
ACM Awards Bring The Party To Texas [Show Recap]

Chris Stapleton at the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards from Ford Center at The Star on May 11, 2023 in Frisco, Texas.
[May 12, 2023] The 58th Academy of Country Music Awards took over Frisco, Texas Thursday night (May 11). Lainey Wilson and Hardy tied for the most wins, taking home four awards each. Lainey won Female Artist of the Year and Album of the Year, as well as Music Event and Visual Media of the Year for her collaboration with Hardy, “Wait In The Truck.” In addition to his shared wins with Lainey, and his second trophy earned in the Music Event category as a producer of the song, Hardy took home Artist-Songwriter of the Year prior to the ACM Awards livestream…
SESAC Ups Shannan Hatch To SVP, Head Of Nashville Creative
[May 16, 2023] SESAC Performing Rights has promoted Shannan Hatch to SVP, Head of Nashville Creative. Rising from Vice President, Creative Services in the Nashville office, Hatch’s new role will maintain leadership of the Nashville-based Creative Services team in supporting SESAC-affiliated songwriters and publishers. Reporting to Chief Creative Officer Sam Kling, she will work closely with senior management to support creator-focused initiatives…
UMG Nashville Names Chelsea Blythe Exec. VP Of A&R
[May 25, 2023] Universal Music Group Nashville has named Chelsea Blythe as its Executive Vice President of A&R. Blythe began her career as an A&R intern at Interscope Records before becoming the department coordinator where she worked on award-winning artists including Kendrick Lamar, ScHoolboy Q, Rae Sremmurd and Mike WiLL Made-It. Moving to Columbia Records in 2016, Blythe climbed to Vice President of A&R, signed Symba as her first artist, played a role in signing Baby Keem to the label and developed multi-Platinum-selling artists Polo G and The Kid LAROI…
Robert Carlton Named President Of SMACK
[June 1, 2023] Robert Carlton has been promoted to President and Equity Partner of SMACK. The company’s Michael McAnally Baum has stepped down from his operational role, but will stay on the ownership team alongside CCO Robin Palmer and Founder Shane McAnally. Carlton will continue to manage McAnally while also overseeing SMACK’s publishing, digital and management branches. He joined the company in 2014 and rose to Sr. VP of Development in 2016…
Thomas Rhett Commemorates Seven No. 1 Songs, Adding To 20 Total

Pictured (L-R, back row): Leslie Roberts (BMI), Josh Miller (BMI), Will Bundy (ASCAP), Riley Green (BMI), Rhett Akins (BMI), Josh Thompson (BMI), Matt Dragstrem (ASCAP), Jon Pardi (BMI) and Mike Sistad (ASCAP);(L-R, front row): Julian Bunetta (BMI), Parker Welling (BMI), Thomas Rhett (BMI), Dann Huff (ASCAP) and Ashley Gorley (ASCAP) Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
[June 8, 2023] In how many music towns would a format-leading superstar take time to speak about each of his co-writers on his last seven chart-toppers? Well that’s exactly what happened in Nashville on Tuesday (June 6) when BMI and ASCAP staged a rooftop party celebrating seven of Thomas Rhett‘s 20 career No. 1 hits. BMI’s Leslie Roberts kicked everything off by welcoming the industry crowd. She quickly turned it over to Studio Bank’s Ron Cox, who made a special donation presentation on behalf of Rhett and the songwriters to Love One International…
Shane McAnally, Brandy Clark-Penned Musical Shucked Wins Historic Tony Award
[June 12, 2023] Shucked, the musical written by Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally and produced by Sandbox Entertainment’s Jason Owen alongside Broadway producer Mike Bosner, earned nine Tony nominations, and won one last night (June 11) at this year’s 76th annual awards ceremony. Alex Newell made history as the first openly non-binary actor to win the Tony for Best Actor in a Featured Role In a Musical for their role as Lulu…
Garth Brooks Launches New Global Station, The BIG 615, On TuneIn
[June 15, 2023] Garth Brooks is launching a new country station, The BIG 615, exclusively on TuneIn’s SEVENS Radio Network. Fans around the world can stream The BIG 615 for free on TuneIn today. The BIG 615 offers listeners an authentic take on country music and provides songs from the biggest artists today. Radio host Storme Warren will be the official voice of The BIG 615 and plans to partner with Brooks to drive content. Warren will be joined by guest hosts on occasion, including Brooks and other industry stars…
CAA’s Chad Kudelka: A Texas Troubadour Making Waves In Nashville [Interview]
[June 21, 2023] Last spring, veteran Texas music agent Chad Kudelka joined CAA as an Agent in the company’s Music Touring department. Kudelka came to CAA from Red 11 Music, the Nashville and Austin-based agency he co-founded. Now, with a roster that includes Cody Johnson, Koe Wetzel, Wade Bowen, Kolby Cooper, Pecos & The Rooftops, Randall King, Roger Creager and Ray Wylie Hubbard, Kudelka is a leader in both markets…
Mike Molinar Promoted To President At Big Machine Music
[June 30, 2023] Independent music publisher Big Machine Music (BMM) has announced a series of promotions, including the elevation of Mike Molinar to President. Effective immediately, Molinar will continue reporting to Big Machine Label Group (BMLG) CEO and Chairman Scott Borchetta. BMM has also promoted Alex Heddle to Senior Vice President of Publishing and Grayson Stephens to Vice President overseeing royalties and finance. Both will continue to report to Molinar…
Fred Rubenstein Joins Sony Music Nashville As VP, Digital Marketing
[July 11, 2023] Sony Music Nashville has appointed Fred Rubenstein as Vice President, Digital Marketing, effective immediately. Rubenstein will be responsible for overseeing the digital marketing team and leading the strategy, execution and implementation of innovative social media and digital marketing campaigns across the Sony Music Nashville roster. He will also focus on exploring new partner/platform opportunities that will enable digital discovery, enhance artists’ brands and drive consumption…
Jim Catino On New Venture: ‘I’m A Friend To Major Labels’ [Interview]
[July 27, 2023] When Jim Catino left his position as Executive Vice President of A&R at Sony Music Nashville after 20 years with the company, many in the industry were wondering what he would do next. Prior to his exit, Catino has spent the majority of his career working in the major label ecosystem, as well as some time at MCA Music Publishing, Giant Records & Publishing and DreamWorks Publishing. One could have assumed that Catino was tired of “the system,” working with and for a big corporation…
Warner Music Nashville’s Stephanie Davenport & Rohan Kohli Earn VP Stripes
[August 1, 2023] Warner Music Nashville has appointed Stephanie Davenport and Rohan Kohli as the label’s new Vice Presidents of A&R. They will continue reporting to Cris Lacy, WMN Co-Chair & Co-President. “Stephanie and Rohan are incredible artist champions who have been the backbone of the A&R department for years,” Lacy says. “Ben [Kline] and I are excited to announce these well-deserved promotions…
Tom Becci Named Chief Executive At Concord Label Group
[August 9, 2023] Music industry veteran Tom Becci has been appointed to a newly created role, leading Concord Label Group as its Chief Executive. Effective Aug. 14, Becci will oversee Concord’s entire recorded music division, inclusive of global frontline label and catalog operations. A New Jersey native, Becci got his start in the music business as the manager of special projects for EMI North America and comes to Concord with over 30 years of industry experience, most recently a more than seven year tenure at independent music management agency Red Light Management…
Mark Logsdon Joins BMG Nashville As VP, Publicity
[August 22, 2023] BMG Nashville has hired Mark Logsdon as Vice President of Publicity. Reporting to EVP of BMG Nashville JoJamie Hahr, Logsdon will be responsible for leading the overall publicity strategy and execution for BBR Music Group’s artist roster including Jason Aldean, Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, Dustin Lynch, Chase Rice, Parmalee and more, as well as guiding BMG Nashville’s corporate communications…
Sony Music Publishing Nashville Elevates Kenley Flynn To VP, Creative A&R
[August 22, 2023] Sony Music Publishing Nashville has promoted Kenley Flynn to Vice President, Creative A&R. In his new role, Flynn will be responsible for signing and developing talent, and driving creative opportunities on behalf of SMP Nashville’s roster. “Being at Sony Music Publishing these last few years has been genuinely inspiring. I get to work with Nashville’s top songwriters, artists, and producers as well as with an A&R team that is world class. I’m so proud of the story we are writing here and I’m grateful to Rusty [Gaston] and Josh [Van Valkenburg] for letting me play a role in that story,” shares Flynn…
Amanda Cates To Exit Maverick Nashville
[August 28, 2023] Maverick Nashville’s Head of Artist Services Amanda Cates is leaving her position at the company at the end of the month. She will be taking on consulting projects after her exit. Cates joined Clarence Spalding’s artist management company, Spalding Entertainment, in 2009 to focus on building out the digital department, which has since become artist services. Now Maverick Nashville, the company’s roster includes Jason Aldean, Brooks & Dunn, Darius Rucker, Rascal Flatts and more…
Weekly Register: Oliver Anthony Tops Country Streaming Songs Chart
[August 21, 2023] Oliver Anthony‘s “Rich Men North Of Richmond” earns the top debut on the country streaming songs chart this week, scoring the No. 3 slot with 17 million streams according to Luminate data. Morgan Wallen‘s “Last Night” rests at No. 1 with 23 million new streams, adding to 816 million ATD. Luke Combs‘ “Fast Car” cover bides at No. 2 with 18 million streams, adding to 343 million ATD. Zach Bryan‘s “Something In The Orange” drops to No. 4 with 15 million new streams, adding to 889 million ATD, and Bailey Zimmerman‘s “Religiously” remains at No. 5 with 12 million streams, adding to 160 million ATD…
Range Media Partners Adds William Lowery & Shawn McSpadden To Leadership Teams
[August 30, 2023] Range Media Partners has hired Nashville-based executives William Lowery and Shawn McSpadden. At Range, Lowery will focus on business development ventures and content opportunities, while McSpadden will be charged with growing the division’s already robust music division, talent roster and shared services department as the newest Managing Partner. Both will remain in Nashville…
UMG Nashville Promotes Vipin Reddy To VP Of Streaming
[August 30, 2023] UMG Nashville has elevated Vipin Reddy to VP of Streaming. After joining the label group in 2018, Reddy now leads the department. In his new role, he oversees all DSP relationships as well as audio and video streaming strategy for all UMGN artists globally. Prior to joining UMGN, Reddy was part of the UMG global streaming marketing team. The William & Mary graduate and Fairfax, Virginia native has cultivated strong relationships with UMGN streaming partners and most recently was point on UMGN artist strategy with Apple Music and Pandora…
SOURCE Hall Of Fame Inducts Seven ‘Women Behind The Music’ At 20th Anniversary Event
[August 30, 2023] Seven more deserving music industry veterans were inducted into the SOURCE Hall of Fame on Tuesday night (Aug. 29) at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville’s historic Municipal Auditorium. SOURCE Nashville Hall of Fame inductees are nominated and inducted based upon peer recommendations, biographies, accomplishments, reputation, the number of years the individual has worked within the entertainment industry and level of community involvement. All inductees have made a significant impact on the Nashville entertainment industry…
Leo33 Signs Flagship Artist Zach Top
[September 6, 2023] New Nashville-based independent record label Leo33 has signed its first artist, rising country newcomer Zach Top. “We are so thrilled to have Zach as our Leo33 flagship artist – his sound is fresh yet familiar, with a voice that is pure country gold,” shares Katie Dean, Head of Leo33. “We’re so grateful he chose us and joined the pack at Leo33”…
35th Annual MusicRow Awards Winners [Full List]
[September 12, 2023] MusicRow Magazine revealed the winners of the 35th annual MusicRow Awards today (Sept. 12) in a series of videos on all MusicRow online platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. City National Bank is the Presenting Sponsor of the 2023 MusicRow Awards. Now in its 35th year, the MusicRow Awards are Nashville’s longest running music industry trade publication honors and celebrate the achievements of songwriters, artists, producers, and more. Winners are voted on by MusicRow’s subscribers…
SMACKSongs Promotes Lee Krabel To Sr. VP Of Publishing
[September 12, 2023] SMACKSongs has promoted Lee Krabel to Senior Vice President of Publishing, effective immediately. Since joining the company in 2016 as Creative Director, Krabel has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s creative direction and fostering an environment where songwriters can thrive over the years. At SMACK, Krabel runs point on an array of talented songwriters, including Josh Jenkins, Ross Copperman, Scott Stepakoff, Tigirlily Gold, McCoy Moore and Clara Park. In his new role, he will continue to oversee SMACK’s entire roster of songwriters, manage the creative staff, book writing sessions, pitch songs, and identify and sign new and promising writers…
Norbert Nix Exits Triple Tigers, Kevin Herring & Annie Ortmeier Named Co-Presidents
[September 13, 2023] Norbert Nix has exited his position as President of Triple Tigers, the label home to Scotty McCreery, Russell Dickerson and Jordan Fletcher. Triple Tigers’ Kevin Herring and former UMG exec. Annie Ortmeier have become Co-Presidents of the label, reporting to George Couri, Triple Tigers Co-Founder and Triple 8 Management Co-Founder. “Triple Tigers 2.0 is here,” Couri shares. “I look forward to stepping into a more active role, as well as having Kevin and Annie form a dual attack in the worlds of both radio and streaming & digital. Kevin’s radio singles batting average here is unmatched in the industry, and Annie comes from leading streaming and digital strategies at the biggest label in the business…
Chase Rice & Kaiser Cunningham Glow In The Reception Of ‘Bench Seat’ Video [Interview]
[September 13, 2023] With his last album, I Hate Cowboys & All Dogs Go To Hell, Chase Rice broke new ground as an artist. The man behind such hits as “Eyes On You,” “Gonna Wanna Tonight,” “Ready Set Roll” and “Drinkin’ Beer. Talkin’ God. Amen.” dug deep for the 14-song project, curating an impressive body of work to both fans and the industry. With a photo of his late father gracing its cover, I Hate Cowboys & All Dogs Go To Hell included some deeper songs about Rice’s life, such as “Key West & Colorado,” as well as some elevated party rockers that we’ve come to know Rice for, such as his currently-rising single “Bad Day To Be A Cold Beer.”…
Kelsea Ballerini Performs At The VMAs, Covers TIME100
[September 13, 2023] Kelsea Ballerini celebrated several milestones this week. In addition to turning 30, the country star made her MTV Video Music Awards debut and was one of three chosen to cover the TIME100’s Next List. At the VMAs, Ballerini performed the song “Penthouse” from her lauded Rolling Up The Welcome Mat project. In addition to performing beautifully, the star had a stunning moment at the crescendo of the song, when her flowing white dress suddenly became a black gown for the grand finale…
Big Loud Records Expands To Australia & United Kingdom
[September 14, 2023] Big Loud Records has expanded into new territories, adding offices and label managers in London, U.K. and Brisbane, Australia. This bolsters its already established base in Toronto, Canada. Industry executives Cayleigh Shepherd and Johnno Keetels have been tapped as label managers in the U.K. and Australia, respectively. On the Canadian team, Big Loud has elevated Justin Clark to Manager, National Promotion/Associate Label Manager for the territory…
Luke Bryan Looks Back On His Career & 30 No. 1 Hits

Pictured (L-R): Cindy Mabe/Chair & CEO, UMG Nashville, Luke Bryan, Kerri Edwards/KP Entertainment. Photo: Alan Poizner
[September 14, 2023] Industry members gathered at Brooklyn Bowl earlier this week to celebrate country superstar, Luke Bryan. The five-time Entertainer of the Year recently notched the milestone of 30 No. 1 hits. First topping the charts in 2009 with “Do I,” Bryan has changed the sound of country music in the last 15 years. The occasion served as a celebration of Bryan’s life and work. So many executives and peers that helped his record-breaking career take shape were in attendance, and Bryan thanked a lot of them by name, telling funny stories about their time together. In short, it was a love fest…
UMG Nashville Launches Capitol Comedy Nashville, Signs Comedian Nate Bargatze
[September 14, 2023] Universal Music Group Nashville has launched a new label, Capitol Comedy Nashville, with flagship comedian Nate Bargatze. The new comedy-centered imprint for the label group will bring Bargatze’s Hello, World! audio album to the masses on Sept. 15. “Country music and comedy have always had a throughline connecting lifestyle and culture, sharing stories and character habits through humor,” says UMG Nashville Chair & CEO Cindy Mabe. “We’ve been forever linked going back to the early days of the Grand Ole Opry and classic country shows like Hee Haw where comedians shared billings with musical acts and helped us laugh at ourselves. As we are looking for further ways to reach audiences through storytelling, I feel there is no better time to re-link our comedy history together with the start of our new label, Capitol Comedy Nashville…
Maren Morris ‘Freely Moving Forward’ Beyond Country Music
[September 15, 2023] Maren Morris is entering her next era of music in a new phase, “honoring where [she’s] been and what [she’s] achieved in country music, but also freely moving forward.” The Grammy winner expressed her feelings about the next step of her journey with the release of a two-track EP, The Bridge. The project’s new tracks include “The Tree,” produced by Greg Kurstin, and “Get the Hell Out of Here,” produced by Jack Antonoff with Morris and Jimmy Robbins. Morris co-wrote both songs with Robbins and Laura Veltz…
NSAI Notches Another Epic Nashville Songwriter Awards Show [Recap]
[September 27, 2023] “This is becoming my favorite industry awards show.” That statement was shared among throngs of songwriters, publishers and other industry members at last night’s (Sept. 26) sixth annual Nashville Songwriter Awards, put on by Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) with presenting partner City National Bank. And for good reason. The night was full of epic performances, tender speeches and shared congratulations. As it has been since the beginning: it was a love fest…
Country Music Gets A New Awards Show: A Look At The People’s Choice Country Awards
[September 27, 2023] NBCUniversal is bringing a new party to Nashville with the premiere of the People’s Choice Country Awards. Airing live on NBC and Peacock from the Grand Ole Opry House on Thursday, Sept. 28, this expansion of the People’s Choice Awards brand will be one of country music’s only fan-voted awards shows. The original People’s Choice Awards program launched in 1975 with producer and creator Bob Stivers at the helm. The program aired annually on CBS with a ceremony in January to celebrate the previous year of pop culture. In the early years, Gallup polling determined the results of the categories. Prior to 1982’s Country/Western Musical Performer award, the Awards did not have an accolade specifically for country music…
Shane Tarleton Exits Warner Music Nashville
[October 5, 2023] After 13 years with Warner Music Nashville, Shane Tarleton is leaving the label. Tarleton has spent the last two years serving as Executive Vice President, Artist Development. “I would like to thank the incredible team for all of their passion, creativity and dedication over the years. To the artists who inspire all of us with their amazing talent and art, a special ‘thank you’ to you and your teams for instilling trust in me,” he shares. “I look forward to announcing my next adventure in early 2024.”…
Black River Entertainment Elevates Dawn Delvo To VP Of Communications
[October 6, 2023] Black River Entertainment has elevated Dawn Delvo to Vice President of Communications. The company has also hired Ally Roden as Publicity Coordinator. Delvo joined the Black River team in 2011, and has been a part of the successful launch of Kelsea Ballerini’s career from the moment she signed with Black River as a songwriter and artist in 2013. The industry veteran previously spent a handful of years in between record labels and independent firms, where she developed skills in publicity, marketing and social media management as well as film and television licensing…
Music Row Wears ‘Tennessee Orange’ For Megan Moroney’s First No. 1

Pictured (L-R): Paul Jenkins, David Fanning, Megan Moroney, Kristian Bush and Ben Williams. Photo: Anna Warner
[October 9, 2023] The SESAC rooftop was filled with festivity as members of the Music Row family united in orange attire on Wednesday afternoon (Oct. 4) to celebrate Megan Moroney‘s first No. hit “Tennessee Orange.” Everyone mingled around clementine-colored tabletops while enjoying food and refreshments as more and more people made their way outside, adding to the tingling zest in the air. SESAC’s Shannan Hatch took the podium to welcome us and call up Moroney and co-writers Ben Williams, David Fanning and Paul Jenkins as well as producer Kristian Bush. Hatch started her remarks by telling the story of how she met Moroney through her manager, Juli Griffith, and followed by expressing her gratitude and love for the artist and her work ethic…
Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inducts Six During Special Night Of Music
[October 12, 2023] Six iconic tunesmiths became the newest members of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Wednesday night (Oct. 11) in a grand ballroom at the Music City Center. The evening was full of special musical tributes, moving speeches and Music Row camaraderie. It was the 53rd Anniversary Gala and the at-capacity crowd donned their best suits, gowns and cowboy hats for the occasion…
Music Industry Organizations Back Newly Proposed ‘No Fakes’ AI Bill
[October 12, 2023] The impact of artificial intelligence is being discussed on Capitol Hill after the Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe Act—or the No Fakes Act—was proposed. Sponsored by Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), the bill seeks to protect singers, musicians actors and other creators from having their voices and/or likeness replicated by artificial intelligence in sound recordings and audiovisual works. The bill would hold people, companies and platforms liable for creating or hosting unauthorized AI replications of entertainers and creators…
Stephanie Alderman Named Partner At Farris, Self & Moore
[October 19, 2023] Business manager Stephanie Alderman has been promoted to Partner at Farris, Self & Moore (FSM). The firm will continue with its current name, but will now include Alderman in all leadership decisions and high-level initiatives, effective immediately. Hailing from Lansing, Michigan, Alderman kicked off her career by gaining a wide range of experience spanning artist management, publicity and tour production. She found her stride in business management, and now has helmed finances for established recording artists, major touring acts and up-and-coming songwriters for over 15 years…
Tanya Tucker, Patty Loveless & Bob McDill Enter Hall Of Fame

Pictured (L-R): Honorees, Tanya Tucker, Bob McDill and Patty Loveless attend the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images
[October 23, 2023] At this year’s Medallion Ceremony inducting its newest members, several existing Country Music Hall of Famers shared the spotlight. Staged on Sunday evening (Oct. 22), at the Hall’s CMA Theater, the event saluted Tanya Tucker, Patty Loveless and Bob McDill as the inductees. Among the highlights of the ceremony were the contributions of Vince Gill, Wynonna Judd, Charlie McCoy, Don Schlitz, Connie Smith, Dean Dillon and Brenda Lee, all of whom are previous inductees.
FBMM Names Erica Rosa & Jen Conger As Owners
[October 31, 2023] FBMM has named Jen Conger and Erica Rosa as owners of the entertainment business management firm. “Jen and Erica have been key members of FBMM’s leadership for years, and each of the other owners and I are proud to have them step into this circle,” says Duane Clark, Co-Owner, President and Chairman of FBMM. “Erica and Jen have carved their own unique paths at FBMM and have earned the trust and respect of our clients and our employees.”…
Tim Foisset Joins Spotify
[November 6, 2023] Tim Foisset has joined Spotify as Head of Label Partnerships, Nashville. His new role begins today (Nov. 6). At Spotify, Foisset will manage the label partnerships team in Nashville, which includes Gemma McInturff, Miller Guth and Meagan Bennington. Foisset joins Spotify after 13 years at Warner Music Nashville, where he most recently served as SVP Commercial Partnerships, working with Warner Music Nashville’s partners in streaming, digital retail, physical retail, e-commerce and D2C to drive strategic marketing and revenue. He’s guided new release strategies for artists including Blake Shelton, Kenny Chesney, Dan + Shay, Bailey Zimmerman, Ashley McBryde, Gabby Barrett, Ingrid Andress, Cole Swindell, Cody Johnson and more…
Miranda Lambert & Jon Randall Partner With Big Loud To Launch Big Loud Texas

Pictured (L-R): Joey Moi (Partner / Producer / President of A&R, Big Loud), Austen Adams (COO, Big Loud), Patch Culbertson (SVP / GM, Big Loud Records), Seth England (CEO / Partner, Big Loud), Miranda Lambert, Jon Randall, Alena Moran (Manager, Triple 8 Management), Candice Watkins (SVP of Marketing, Big Loud Records), Sara Knabe (SVP of A&R, Big Loud Records), Stacy Blythe (SVP of Radio Promotion, Big Loud Records)
[November 6, 2023] Miranda Lambert and Jon Randall have partnered with Big Loud Records to launch their own imprint, Big Loud Texas. Lambert and Randall will be directly involved in signing and developing artists on the roster. In addition, Randall will serve as President of A&R for Big Loud Texas while also contributing his expertise as a producer. “As a teenager chasing my dreams in the honky-tonks of Texas, Nashville seemed so far away,” says Lambert. “Every time I’m back home I get to hear the incredible talent our state produces, and I feel a responsibility to help get more of those Texas voices heard. I’m really excited to team up with my buddy Jon Randall and Big Loud to do just that. Get ready, y’all – we’re bringing even more Texas to town!”…
SESAC Celebrates Hits & Heritage
[November 6, 2023] The annual SESAC awards kicked off country-music week festivities last night (Nov. 5) with a glamorous reception that honored the performance rights organization’s biggest Nashville songs of 2023. Jon Nite was honored as SESAC’s Songwriter of the Year. “Amazing!” he exclaimed. “Thank you guys. I don’t deserve this.” Nite recalled moving to Music City in 1998 with $500 in his pocket. “And now I’m here!” Shannan Hatch, who presented his award, also gave him a commemorative, gleaming, black Gibson J-200 guitar…
ASCAP Tosses Epic Party To Honor Songwriters & Publishers
[November 7, 2023] The 61st annual ASCAP Country Awards on Monday (Nov. 6) was a lavish cocktail supper that crowned Ashley Gorley and Jordan Davis as its 2023 champs. Gorley won his 10th Songwriter of the Year honor from the performance rights society. This makes him the most honored country songwriter in the organization’s history. “I want to first, as always, thank God,” he said. “Huge thanks to everybody at ASCAP for all they’ve done and continue to do for me. I’ve been with ASCAP since I was a student at Belmont….I’m blessed to be a part of this.”…
BMI Country Awards Toast To 2023 Winners, Honor Matraca Berg With Icon Award
[November 8, 2023] The last of the PRO awards ceremonies took place last night (Nov. 7) at BMI’s Nashville headquarters on Music Row. Hosted by BMI’s President & CEO Mike O’Neill and Nashville’s VP of Creative Clay Bradley, the 71st annual BMI Country Awards celebrated the top songwriters and music publishers behind this past year’s 50 most-performed songs in country music, with special awards being given out to the Country Songwriter, Song and Publisher of the Year. The awards also honored the unparalleled career of BMI Icon Award recipient Matraca Berg…
The 57th CMA Awards Brings Great Music & Deserved Wins [Recap]
[November 9, 2023] Country music stars and industry members assembled at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena last night (Nov. 8) for the 57th CMA Awards. Lainey Wilson was the night’s biggest winner, receiving her first Entertainer of the Year award along with four more. Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton and Jelly Roll were other top winners from the night. Jelly Roll opened the show a cappella with “Need A Favor,” complete with a gospel choir and a surprise guest appearance from Wynonna Judd…
Warner Chappell Music Promotes BJ Hill To Sr. VP, A&R
[November 17, 2023] Warner Chappell Music (WCM) has promoted longtime A&R executive BJ Hill to Senior Vice President, A&R. Throughout his career, Hill has worked with the industry’s most prominent songwriters, including Nicolle Galyon, Jordan Reynolds, Charles Kelley and Dave Haywood of Lady A and Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney of Dan + Shay. He also currently supports a host of up-and-coming talent, such as the720, Zack Dyer and Sophia Scott…
New Mountain Capital To Lead A Shareholder Group To Acquire BMI
[November 21, 2023] New Mountain Capital, LLC, a leading growth-oriented investment firm with over $45 billion in assets under management, will lead a shareholder group to acquire Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI). New Mountain will acquire the company from the shareholders who own BMI today. Mike O’Neill, BMI’s President & CEO, will continue to lead the company, along with his leadership team, following the closing. New Mountain has also reserved additional capital to fund growth investments, new ventures and technology enhancements to help accelerate BMI’s long-term plan to maximize distributions for its affiliates and improve the service it provides to songwriters, composers and publishers…
Dolly Parton Scores The Biggest Album Debut Sales Week Of Her Career With ‘Rockstar’
[November 27, 2023] Global superstar Dolly Parton has landed her biggest album debut of her seven-decade career with her 30-track Rockstar album, with 127,778 units sold in its inaugural week. The star-studded project debuted at No. 1 on six different Billboard charts, including the Top Rock Albums, Top Rock & Alternative Albums, Top Country Albums, Top Album Sales, Top Current Album Sales and Independent Albums charts. It also debuted at No. 2 on Billboard‘s Vinyl Albums Tastemaker Albums chart…
CTM Outlander Signs Sam Hunt To A Worldwide Publishing Deal
[November 28, 2023] CTM Outlander has acquired the publishing catalog of five-time Grammy-nominated, multi-Platinum singer-songwriter Sam Hunt, and signed him to a go-forward publishing deal for his future works. CTM Outlander is a partnership between the Dallas, Texas-based Outlander Capital, led by Les Ware and Mike McKool, and the Dutch-based leading independent music entertainment company CTM, led by industry veteran André de Raaff…
Reba McEntire Appoints Justin McIntosh As Manager, Among Other Team Changes
[November 29, 2023] Reba McEntire has made changes within her core team, adding Justin McIntosh as her new Manager. She has also added Tyler Lewis as Management Coordinator and expanded Leslie Matthews Dugger‘s role of Brand Manager. McIntosh has worked closely with McEntire for more than a decade since he joined her former management home Starstruck Entertainment as VP of Marketing & Creative. Prior to Starstruck, McIntosh worked at Big Machine Label Group, where he was instrumental in digital & marketing strategies for the label’s roster. A Belmont University graduate, his professional experience also includes a role with Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB), in addition to his own creative consulting agency. He is a member of the Country Music Association, Academy of Country Music and the Recording Academy, and has served on the Boards of the Nashville Film Festival and The Theater Bug…
Carson James & Chris Poole Exit BBR Music Group/BMG Amid Restructuring
[November 30, 2023] Sr. VP of Promotion Carson James and Sr. Director of A&R Chris Poole have exited BBR Music Group/BMG as part of a company-wide reorganizing, MusicRow has confirmed. James has been part of the BBR Music Group staff for over a decade. He oversaw the promotional efforts for Broken Bow, Stoney Creek and Wheelhouse Records, and led Broken Bow Records to being named 2022’s No. 1 airplay label for country music by Country Aircheck/Mediabase. Prior to joining BBR Music Group, James spent nearly a decade in promotion at Curb Records. He also served as GM at Bullseye Marketing/Research and Hart Media as well as Sr. VP Programming for then Colonial Broadcasting in Montgomery, Alabama…
MusicRow Reveals Next Big Thing Artists Class Of 2024
[December 5, 2023] MusicRow is proud to reveal its list of artists who are predicted to become the Next Big Thing (NBT) in 2024. The 10th annual NBT list features 11 artists, who are each profiled in MusicRow‘s latest 2024 Touring & Next Big Thing print issue, which releases today (Dec. 5). Boasting a stand-out group of rising stars in the country music industry, MusicRow’s Next Big Thing Class of 2024 includes a wide range of talent, diverse in sound, style and level of success. What each artist has in common, though, is extraordinary talent and a passion for today’s ever-evolving country music format. These future superstars will expand the boundaries of country music, carrying the torch of the format both to its loyal fans and into the mainstream…
MusicRow’s 2024 N.B.T. Industry Directory Highlights The Next Generation Of Leaders
[December 5, 2023] MusicRow has revealed its 2024 N.B.T. Industry Directory list, highlighting a rising class of music industry leaders. Now in its fifth year, MusicRow’s N.B.T. Industry Directory is the first and only list of its kind, showcasing Nashville music business professionals who occupy important roles at their respective companies. This class of professionals are on a trajectory of excellence to successfully lead the Nashville music industry into the future…
Brenda Lee Gets Her Flowers For Her Enduring Christmas Classic [Interview]
[December 8, 2023] Rock & Roll Hall and Country Music Hall of Famer Brenda Lee is celebrating the 65th anniversary of her iconic holiday hit “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” this year. Written by Johnny Marks, Lee’s label Decca Records released the hit when she was only 13 years old. Now, 65 years later, it has topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the first time ever, causing Lee to break several records, many of which were held by Mariah Carey and “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” With the feat, “Rockin’” is only the third holiday song to hit No. 1 on the Hot 100…
Lineup Revealed For CRS 2024 New Faces Show
[December 11, 2023] Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB) has revealed the lineup for the Country Radio Seminar (CRS) 2024 New Faces of Country Music Show, taking place Friday, March 1. This year’s showcase will feature George Birge, Dillon Carmichael, Corey Kent, Megan Moroney and Conner Smith. The New Faces of Country Music Show stars five emerging artists who have achieved notable country radio success during the qualification period, which spanned from Nov. 1, 2022, to Oct. 31, 2023, for the 2024 show. The event has served as a pivotal moment in the careers of established country hitmakers since its inception in 1970…
Scott Hendricks To Exit Warner Music Nashville
[December 12, 2023] After nearly 16 years with the company, Scott Hendricks will exit his position as EVP A&R/Creative Advisor at Warner Music Nashville at the end of December. Throughout his tenure in A&R at Warner Music Nashville, Hendricks has overseen 95 No. 1 singles on the country airplay charts. He has also produced an incredible 78 chart-topping hits among 123 total top 10 singles. Hendricks’ expertise has impacted the careers of Blake Shelton, Hunter Hayes, Brett Eldredge, Dan + Shay and many more…
Warner Music Nashville Promotes Mike Dupree To SVP, Creative Director
[December 13, 2023] Warner Music Nashville has elevated Mike Dupree to SVP, Creative Director. Reporting to Co-Chair & Co-President Cris Lacy, Dupree and his team manage all of the label’s creative initiatives, including video production and graphic design. “Mike is well known for his long-standing dedication to this label and its artists,” Lacy shares. “Moreover, his desire to build a collaborative creative team is imperative for telling the unique stories of our artists through visual mediums. Ben [Kline] and I are proud to recognize his talent and leadership, and we are excited for this next chapter in his career with Warner Music Nashville.”…
Stephanie Wright Joins Warner Music Nashville As SVP A&R
[December 14, 2023] Warner Music Nashville has tapped Stephanie Wright, who joined the company as a consultant in October, as SVP A&R. She will report to Co-Chair & Co-President Cris Lacy. “Ben [Kline] and I have known and respected Stephanie for many years – quite often we’ve been on the other side of her at another label, actively battling it out to sign an artist” Lacy shares. “She is a fierce competitor, a tenacious team leader and has an innate sense for exceptional music and artists. Most importantly, she is recognized in the music community as a passionate advocate for developing songwriters, producers and artists, many of whom she helped achieve their first career milestone. Her reputation and long-standing relationships will strengthen our incredible A&R team exponentially”…
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