MusicRow Weekly (News, Charts, More…)

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This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly is brimming with notable career moves, strategic promotions and exciting milestones across the music industry. Click here to see the full edition.

A major leadership transition is on the horizon as industry executive Austen Adams has been named President of Warner Chappell Music Nashville. Adams, who officially begins his new role on Sept. 15, will report to WCM Co-Chairs and CEO Guy Moot and COO Carianne Marshall. He brings with him a deep well of experience, having spent the past six years as COO of Big Loud’s Publishing and Records divisions. His leadership at Big Loud helped shape the careers of standout artists like Morgan Wallen, HARDY, Miranda Lambert, Ernest and Stephen Wilson Jr.

In celebration of its 10th anniversary, The Kinkead Entertainment Agency has announced two promotions. Julie Devereux has been elevated to CEO, while Greg Scott has been named President. Devereux, whose background includes high-level advertising campaigns for brands like Pepsi and Taco Bell and management of artists like Tracy Nelson and Sammy Kershaw, will continue to oversee agency development, including its film and television ventures. Scott, who joined Kinkead at its founding in 2015, brings a dual degree in music business and production, and decades of experience as both a touring artist and label owner. He’ll now lead all live performance bookings and talent development efforts for the agency.

At Big Machine Label Group, Justin Ford has been promoted to Vice President, Creative Design & Branding. Ford, previously Senior Creative Director, has been an integral part of BMLG’s visual identity for a decade, contributing award-winning work for artists such as Thomas Rhett, Carly Pearce and Sheryl Crow. His efforts have been recognized with numerous honors including Davey, Communicator and PRINT Awards. Ford, a Murray State University alum, continues to lead design strategy across the label’s roster.

Meanwhile, the Grand Ole Opry stage was the site of a touching moment this week. On Saturday night (Aug. 9), country music icon Kathy Mattea received a surprise invitation from Opry member Charlie McCoy to become the newest member of the esteemed institution.

Rising artist Lanie Gardner made her Opry debut on Aug. 6, performing her songs “Hills Have Eyes” and “Faded Polaroids,” the title track of her forthcoming sophomore album.

In artist representation news, LOCASH, the duo of Preston Brust and Chris Lucas, has signed with CAA for exclusive representation in all areas. Sticks Management has expanded its roster with the addition of Gavin Adcock. At the same time, Adcock’s manager, Saxon Curry, has officially joined the company.

River House Artists continues to bolster its team with the addition of Helena Akhtar as Director of Digital Marketing & Artist Development.

Veteran music executive Benny Brown has made waves with the acquisition of Wide Open Music Publishing and the launch of a new venture: North Chapel Music. The new company inherits the full Wide Open catalog, including several country chart-toppers such as Brett Young’s Diamond-certified hit “In Case You Didn’t Know,” Matt Stell’s “Prayed For You,” and George Birge’s “Cowboy Songs” and “Mind On You.”

Lastly, Relative Music Group has announced a global publishing deal with Jeb Gipson, in partnership with Sony Music Publishing.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Scotty McCreery and Hootie & the Blowfish return to the No. 1 spot with “Bottle Rockets.” Explore more chart data here.

The MusicRow Weekly is delivered every Friday, featuring Nashville’s top music industry news, exclusive interviews, song reviews, radio and songwriter charts and more. Sign up for free here.

Madison Hahnen
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