MusicRow Weekly (News, Charts, More…)

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This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly is marked by both celebration and sorrow within the music community. Click here to see the full edition. 

Tragedy struck with the heartbreaking loss of esteemed songwriter and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member Brett James, who died in a private plane crash in North Carolina on Thursday (Sept. 18). He was 57. Known for his prolific career and unparalleled songwriting talent, James had more than 500 songs recorded, including 27 No. 1 hits. He won a Grammy for Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and was honored twice as ASCAP’s Country Songwriter of the Year. His catalog includes songs performed by country giants such as Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw and Rascal Flatts, as well as pop luminaries like Bon Jovi, the Backstreet Boys, Kelly Clarkson and Leona Lewis. In addition to his songwriting, James made an indelible mark as Owner/CEO of Cornman Music and released his own self-written album, I Am Now, in 2020—the same year he was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. 

Capitol Christian Music Group has announced a series of key leadership promotions. David Sylvester has been elevated to General Manager, CCMG Label Group, and Kenny Rodgers steps into the role of Senior Vice President. Rodgers will now oversee the organization’s radio teams, audience development, and digital initiatives. Additionally, Garrett Davis has been promoted to Vice President of A&R, while Cole Linebarger and Becca Redl have both been named Vice President of Marketing. Patrick Ogilvy has also been appointed Vice President of Business and Legal Affairs, further solidifying the label’s strategic leadership team.

Another major development comes from BMG, which has acquired Jason Aldean’s recorded music catalog. The acquisition is part of a broader deal encompassing the recorded and publishing rights to music from 23 artists and songwriters. Altogether, this marks BMG’s largest catalog investment to date, with over 1,000 songs spanning multiple genres included in the monumental transaction.

At MCA, Ailie Birchfield has been appointed Vice President of Media Strategy and Communications, while Connor Hunt joins as Senior Director of Media.

Spirit Music Group has made a major move by acquiring select compositions from country-rock powerhouse HARDY’s publishing catalog. In tandem with the acquisition, HARDY has signed an exclusive go-forward songwriting deal with Spirit Music Nashville.

Legendary singer-songwriter Steve Earle was formally inducted into the Grand Ole Opry on Wednesday night (Sept. 17). The momentous occasion was made even more special by the presence of fellow Opry member and longtime friend Emmylou Harris, who welcomed Earle into the institution.

Other notable signings include multi-genre songwriter Spencer Jordan, who has inked a global publishing deal with River House Artists and Sony Music Publishing Nashville. The Core Entertainment has added acclaimed singer-songwriter Cameron Whitcomb to its artist management roster. Rising band Clay Street Unit has landed a record deal with Leo33.

Additionally, Athena Puharic has joined underscore works as Head of Digital. 

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Morgan Wallen maintains the No. 1 spot with “I Got Better.” 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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