NSAI Celebrates Chart-Topping Songs With Nashville Bash

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NSAI Board President Lee Thomas Miller and NSAI Executive Director Bart Herbison with the Hargrove family

NSAI Board President Lee Thomas Miller and NSAI Executive Director Bart Herbison with the Hargrove family

The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) celebrated its latest #1 Party, sponsored by Klindt, Cole & Associates, on Tuesday, Feb. 23, at the Music Mill, NSAI’s Music Row headquarters.

NSAI honored 18 Nashville-associated writers whose songs topped the Billboard Airplay, Digital, Hot or Mediabase charts between August 2015 and December 2015 in both country and Christian music formats.

Additionally, the family of Linda Hargrove accepted her #1 award for “Tennessee Whiskey” on her behalf. Country artist Chris Stapleton covered the song on his album Traveller.

Songwriters and their #1 plaques

Songwriters and their #1 plaques

Songs Recognized
“Anything Goes,” Writers: Craig Wiseman, Chris Tompkins, Felix McTeigue; recorded by Florida Georgia Line
“Kick the Dust Up” Writers: Ashley Gorley, Chris DeStefano, Dallas Davidson; recorded by Luke Bryan
“Kiss You in the Morning” Writers: Justin Wilson, Michael White; recorded by Michael Ray
“Young & Crazy” Writers: Ashley Gorley, Rhett Akins, Shane McAnally; recorded by Frankie Ballard
“Hell of a Night” Writers: Jaron Boyer, Adam Sanders, Zach Crowell; recorded by Dustin Lynch
“Save it for a Rainy Day” Writers: Andrew Dorff, Matt Ramsey, Brad Tursi; recorded by Kenny Chesney
“Buy Me a Boat” Writers: Chris DuBois, Chris Janson; recorded by Chris Janson
“John Cougar, John Deere, John 3:16” Writers: Josh Osborne, Ross Copperman, Shane McAnally; recorded by Keith Urban
“Lose My Mind” Writers: Heather Morgan, Ross Copperman, Brett Eldredge; recorded by Brett Eldredge
“Strip it Down” Writers: Jon Nite, Ross Copperman, Luke Bryan; recorded by Luke Bryan
“I’m Comin’ Over” Writers: Corey Crowder, Josh Hoge, Chris Young; recorded by Chris Young
“Let Me See Ya Girl” Writers: Jody Stevens, Michael Carter, Cole Swindell; recorded by Cole Swindell
“Smoke Break” Writers: Chris DeStefano, Hillary Lindsey, Carrie Underwood; recorded by Carrie Underwood
“Tennessee Whiskey” Writers: Dean Dillon, Linda Hargrove; recorded by Chris Stapleton
“At the Cross (Love Ran Red)” Writers: Matt Armstrong, Ed Cash, Jonas Myrin, Matt Redman, Chris Tomlin; recorded by Chris Tomlin
“Fix My Eyes” Writers: Seth Mosley, Joel Smallbone, Luke Smallbone; recorded by for KING & COUNTRY
“He Knows My Name” Writers: Seth Mosley, Mia Fieldes, Francesca Battistelli; recorded by Francesca Battistelli
“He Knows” Writers: Seth Mosley, Jeremy Camp; recorded by Jeremy Camp
“Flawless” Writers: Ben Glover, David Garcia, Solomon Olds, Barry Graul, Bart Millard, Michael John Scheuchzer, Nathan Cochran, Robin Shaffer; recorded by Mercy Me

Songwriter Sean McConnell Signs To Rounder Records

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Sean McConnell

Sean McConnell

Rounder Records has announced the signing of Nashville-based singer-songwriter Sean McConnell, whose Rounder debut is slated for a summer release.

Tracy Gershon, Vice President of A&R at Rounder, said, “I have been a fan of Sean’s songwriting for a long time. I was so excited when he played me this new body of work, and I’m even more excited that Rounder can be a part of his artistic journey.”

McConnell grew up in Boston with parents who sang in folk clubs. He signed a publishing deal with Warner/Chappell Publishing right out of college. He is also a regular on the Texas touring circuit.

McConnell is a co-writer of Rascal Flatts’ “Come Wake Me Up.” His songs have been recorded by Brothers Osborne, Eli Young Band, Martina McBride, Tim McGraw, David Nail, Brad Paisley, Randy Rogers Band and more.

Although his self-titled new album will serve as his introduction to many listeners, McConnell is an experienced performer with several D.I.Y. indie releases to his credit.

“I kind of feel like I’ve been in a really long boot camp,” he said. “I’m really grateful for that, because I feel like I’ve gained enough experience to know the deal and be prepared for anything. I’m excited to see where the next part of the journey takes me.”

In advance of his summer release, McConnell has launched a set of spring tour dates with Drew Holcomb and Kris Allen. He will play a solo date at Nashville’s 3rd & Lindsley on March 5.

McConnell is represented by 333 Entertainment and Brave World Artist Agency.

Artist Pics: Peter Frampton, Chris Lane, Florida Georgia Line, Maggie Rose

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Peter Frampton spoke at the Nashville Indie Artist Forum, hosted by TuneCore, on Saturday, Feb. 20. The event was attended by independent musicians and features sessions and performances from several artists and musicians, including Frampton. He stressed how dedication and practice are so important and taking notes from the best can help musicians grow and optimize music and performance.

Peter Frampton speaks during Nashville Indie Artist

Peter Frampton speaks during Nashville Indie Artist Forum

 

Chris Lane was welcomed to the Grand Ole Opry stage for his debut performance by country music legend Bill Anderson on Saturday, Feb. 20. Lane performed his single “Fix,” as well as the fan favorite, “For Her.” Lane also welcomed Big Loud Shirt songwriter Sarah Buxton, who co-wrote “Fix” with Jesse Frasure and Abe Stoklasa, as a special guest on background vocals.

Pictured (L-R): Chris Lane, Bill Anderson. Photo: Chris Hollo

Pictured (L-R): Chris Lane, Bill Anderson. Photo: Chris Hollo

 

Florida Georgia Line made their first live performance of 2016 at the Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb. 21. They performed at the pre-show for thousands of fans packed onto Daytona International Speedway’s grassy tri-oval, singing “Anything Goes,” “Round Here,” and “This Is How We Roll.”

Florida Georgia Line

Florida Georgia Line

 

At BMI/YEP’s showcase at Exit/In on Tuesday, Feb. 22, Maggie Rose performed tracks from her upcoming double EP set: The Variety Show – Vol.1 (April) and The Variety Show – Vol.2 (Summer). 

Pictured (L-R): Perry Howard, Director of Writer-Publisher Relations, BMI; Maggie Rose; Andrew Cohen, YEP Board Member and Suit Music Management.

Pictured (L-R): Perry Howard, Director of Writer-Publisher Relations, BMI; Maggie Rose; Andrew Cohen, YEP Board Member and Suit Music Management.

Publishing Notes: ole Signs Tony Martin, Deluge Music Signs Brennin, peermusic Writers Retreat

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ole Signs Tony Martin

Independent rights management company ole has inked a deal with Nashville songwriter Tony Martin. Martin’s songs include 15 No. 1 hits, such as “Time Is Love” by Josh Turner and “Banjo” by Rascal Flatts. He has also notched eight Top 5 and five Top 10 tracks.

“I’ve been itching to find a publishing company with the reach of a major and the spirit of an indie, so when ole came calling, I knew it was the place for me,” said Martin. “I’m excited to have the freedom to focus on the creative while ole handles the rest.”

Under the deal, ole has purchased Martin’s catalog and future co-publishing rights.

Pictured (L-R): Leslie Roberts, Director, BMI; Ben Strain, Creative Director, ole; Emily Mueller, Creative Manager, ole; Jody Williams, VP, BMI; songwriter Tony Martin, Mike Whelan, Sr. Creative Director, ole; Shellien Kinsey, Creative Coordinator, ole; John Ozier, GM Creative, ole.

Pictured (L-R): Leslie Roberts, Director, BMI; Ben Strain, Creative Director, ole; Emily Mueller, Creative Manager, ole; Jody Williams, VP, BMI; songwriter Tony Martin, Mike Whelan, Sr. Creative Director, ole; Shellien Kinsey, Creative Coordinator, ole; John Ozier, GM Creative, ole.

 

Brennin Signs To Deluge Music

Brennin is the latest signing to Deluge Music’s Nashville roster. “All It took was hearing his new EP and him walking in the door and I was in!” says President Mark Friedman.

Brennin is also represented by WME.

Pictured (L-R): Mark Friedman (Deluge Music), Brennin, Stephanie Greene.

Pictured (L-R): Mark Friedman (Deluge Music), Brennin, Stephanie Greene

 

peermusic Writers Go “Somewhere On A Beach” For Writer Retreat

Pictured (Front to back): Michael Tyler, artist, Reviver Records; Michael Knox, Jaron Boyer, Brandon Kinney, Jeffrey East.

Pictured (Front to back): Michael Tyler, artist, Reviver Records; Michael Knox, Jaron Boyer, Brandon Kinney, Jeffrey East.

Staff and writers with peermusic Nashville converged “somewhere on a beach” to celebrate new signings Jeffrey East and Brandon Kinney, as well as the current chart success of the single “Somewhere on a Beach” (Dierks Bentley) co-written by Michael Tyler and Jaron Boyer.

“It’s always good to get writers away from their daily routine to enjoy personal time together. It’s exciting to see these guys grow together as a team,” says Michael Knox, V.P. peermusic Nashville.

Redevelopment Of Bridgestone Arena Could Include Permanent Outdoor Stage, Storefronts

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Bridgestone Arena. Nashville.gov

Bridgestone Arena. Nashville.gov

Bridgestone Arena may undergo a major redevelopment, according to Nashville Public Radio.

Arena executives and the Metro Sports Authority have met with design firm Popolous’ consultant Adam Stover, who helped design the new Yankee Stadium.

Among the ideas they are considering: constructing a permanent outdoor bandstage on the Bridgestone Arena’s plaza, creating storefronts along Broadway, and building a multi-use structure atop the current parking garage.

“Nothing is off the table right now,” Stover said.

A major redevelopment would follow similar overhauls happening around downtown Nashville, including the $400 million redevelopment of Nashville’s former convention center, which will include retail and residential buildings.

The Bridgestone Arena was built in 1997 by HOK Sports Facilities Group of Kansas City, Missouri, the same group that designed Nashville LP Field. Cost of construction was $144 million.

The facility currently includes a seating capacity of approximately 20,000 for concerts, 18,500 for basketball, and 17,500 for ice hockey. There are also 72 luxury suites in the arena.

Along with tours and sporting events, the venue has hosted the CMA Awards, the CMT Music Awards and the All For The Hall annual benefit concerts.

BMI’s Jody Williams Honored By Texas Heritage Songwriters Association

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Pictured (L-R): Photo: Ted Parker Jr.

BMI’s Jody Williams, songwriter Nicolle Galyon, Karen Williams, Raul Malo, Ed Williams, and songwriter Rodney Clawson

BMI’s Jody Williams has been named the recipient of the Darrell K Royal Texas Music Legend Award, which honors those who provide recognition and support to songwriters.

The award is named for the late University of Texas football coach Darrell K Royal, who was known for his appreciation for musicians and songwriters.

BMI Jody Williams Texas Heritage 2016

BMI’s Jody Williams accepts the Darrell K Royal Texas Music Legend Award. Photo: Ted Parker Jr.

Williams was honored during the Feb. 20 ceremony at the Bob Bullock Texas History Museum, where he was recognized for his work with Texas Heritage Hall of Fame members Robert Earl Keen, Whitey Shafer and Larry Gatlin, as well as musicians like Shakey Graves, Maren Morris, Gary Clark Jr. and more.

The winner is inducted alongside four songwriters into the Texas Heritage Songwriters Association. Joe Ely, Will Jennings, Roy Orbison and J.D. Souther were the songwriters selected for his year’s induction.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott spoke at the event, and Raul Malo, Nicolle Galyon and Rodney Clawson were among the performers.

Pictured (L-R): BMI's Jody Williams and Texas Governor Greg Abbott.

Pictured (L-R): BMI’s Jody Williams and Texas Governor Greg Abbott. Photo: Ted Parker Jr.

IEBA Adds Seven New Board Members

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Newly-elected IEBA Board Directors Scott Pang (ICM Partners), Adam Kornfeld (Artist Group International), Eric Bresler (AEG Facilities), and Brad Garrett (Police Productions).

Newly-elected IEBA Board Directors Scott Pang (ICM Partners), Adam Kornfeld (Artist Group International), Eric Bresler (AEG Facilities), and Brad Garrett (Police Productions).

Members of International Entertainment Buyers Association (IEBA) have elected seven new Board Directors for 2016. Each director will serve up to two three-year terms.

New IEBA Board Directors:

Eric Bresler, VP Event Booking & Development, AEG Facilities
Brad Garrett, Managing Partner, Police Productions
Adam Kornfeld, President Touring North America, Artist Group International
Angela Miles-Powell, Regional Vice President, Ticketmaster
Scott Pang, Agent, ICM Partners
Megan Wilson, VP Tour Marketing, Red Light Management
John Zarling, SVP Partnership Marketing & Promotion Strategy, Big Machine Label Group

A full list of IEBA’s Board of Directors is below:

Officers:
Immediate Past Chairman – Nicole More, VP of Sales/Entertainment Producer, Neste Event Marketing
Chairman – Kell Houston, Owner, Houston Productions
President – Jon Petrunak, Director of Business Development, Live Nation Arenas
Vice President – Ali Harnell, Senior Vice President, AEG Live / Messina Touring Group
Secretary – Todd Boltin, Entertainment Consultant/Concert Producer, Variety Attractions

Directors:
Wade Asher, General Manager, Chippewa Valley Music Festivals
Bob Babisch, VP of Entertainment, Milwaukee Summerfest
Chris Baldizan, SVP of Entertainment, MGM Resorts International
Tim Beeding, Agent, CAA
John Bolton, Vice President, SMG Entertainment
Lori Bowman, Talent Buyer/Producer, Integrity Events
Eric Bresler, VP Event Booking & Development, AEG Facilities
Charlie Davis, Senior Casino Agent, Paradise Artists
Jeff Epstein, Co-Owner/Agent, Universal Attractions Agency
Andrew Farwell, Concert Promoter, Outback Concerts
Brad Garrett, Managing Partner, Police Productions
Greg Janese, Agent, Paradigm Talent Agency
Barry Jeffrey, Vice President, WME
Brock Jones, VP Booking, SpectraPresents
Adam Kornfeld, President Touring North America, Artist Group International
Darin Lashinsky, CEO, NS2
Roger LeBlanc, Talent Buyer, Madison Entertainment
Hugh Lombardi, SVP & GM, TD Garden
Kevin Meyer, Co-Founder & President, Meridian Entertainment Group
Angela Miles-Powell, Regional Vice President, Ticketmaster
Kevin Neal, Partner/Agent, WME
Lori Otelsberg, President, Signature Entertainment
Scott Pang, Agent, ICM Partners
Lance Roberts, VP Nashville, United Talent Agency
Michelle Romeo, Agent, Romeo Entertainment Group
Ron Sakamoto, President, Gold & Gold Productions
Gary Smith, COO, Pollstar
Amy Tall Chief, Director of Entertainment & Events, Osage Casinos
Ed Warm, Co-Owner, Joe’s Bar
Frank Wing, Vice President, APA
Megan Wilson, VP Tour Marketing, Red Light Management
John Zarling, SVP Partnership Marketing & Promotion Strategy, Big Machine Label Group

IEBA’s 46th Annual Conference will be held Oct. 9-11, 2016 at the Omni Nashville. Registration is open. The deadline to purchase registration at the early bird rate of $549 is March 31. For more information and to register, visit www.ieba.org.

Dega Jam Country Festival Canceled

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DegaJamNew country festival Dega Jam, which was slated to launch July 1-3, 2016 at the Talladega Superspeedway, has been canceled. Dega Jam was spearheaded by AEG Live, in conjunction with Festival Productions, Inc. CEO and New Orleans Jazz Fest producer Quint Davis.

“We sincerely apologize to everyone impacted by this difficult decision—fans, artists, industry partners, corporate partners, and everyone at Talladega Superspeedway,” read a statement on the Dega Jam official website.

The country festival was slated to include performers Eric Church, Blake Shelton, Toby Keith, and Kid Rock.

Ticket purchasers will automatically receive full refunds, including all service charges, beginning Tuesday (Feb. 23).

Dega Jam is the latest country festival to be canceled, following the halting of the Big Barrel festival (AEG Live’s Goldenvoice Division) in Dover, Delaware, as well as Live Nation’s Farmborough (New York) and Delaware Junction in Harrington, Delaware.

In Pictures: Phil Vassar, Sarah Darling, Rascal Flatts, Blake Shelton

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Phil Vassar Welcomes Sarah Darling For “Songs From The Cellar” Episode

Phil Vassar welcomed singer/songwriter Sarah Darling for an all-new episode of “Songs from the Cellar,” where Vassar opens the doors to his personal cellar to showcase wine and spirits, share stories and collaborate with special guests.

In the first of a two-part episode, Vassar sampled Darling’s homemade macaroons, paired with a 2011 St Urban-Hof Splatise Riesling before they collaborated on her new tune titled, “Cowboy Ride,” featured on Darling’s upcoming album. The second part will be released in the coming weeks.

Phil Vassar and Sarah Darling

Phil Vassar and Sarah Darling

 

Rascal Flatts Launches Second Las Vegas Residency

ACM Vocal Group Of The Year nominees Rascal Flatts began their second Vegas Residency: Rascal Flatts Rhythm & Roots last Wednesday (Feb. 17). The group returned to The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino after a successful debut residency there last year. During a performance this past weekend, the trio also welcomed guest Brian McKnight to the stage for renditions of “Back At One” and “One Last Cry.”

Photo courtesy of Maverick

Photo courtesy of Maverick

 

Blake Shelton Makes Radio Visit During Tour Launch

Blake Shelton visited with radio station WUBE during the first night of the Blake Shelton Presented By Gildan Tour in Cincinnati on Thursday, Feb. 18.

Pictured (L-R): Ron James (WUBE), Lou Ramirez (WMN), Grover Collins (WUBE), BS, Kristen Williams (WMN).

Pictured (L-R): Ron James (WUBE), Lou Ramirez (WMN), Grover Collins (WUBE), Blake Shelton, Kristen Williams (WMN).

Thomas Rhett Celebrates Chart Success With Double No. 1 Party

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Photo Caption (L-R): Producer Dann Huff, “Die A Happy Man” Songwriter Sean Douglas, Thomas Rhett, “Die A Happy Man” Songwriter Joe London, Producer/”Crash And Burn” Songwriter Jesse Frasure. Photo: Erika Goldring

Photo Caption (L-R): Producer Dann Huff, “Die A Happy Man” Songwriter Sean Douglas, Thomas Rhett, “Die A Happy Man” Songwriter Joe London, Producer/”Crash And Burn” Songwriter Jesse Frasure. Photo: Erika Goldring

The Valory Music Co. artist Thomas Rhett and his fellow songwriters had plenty to celebrate Monday (Feb. 22) as music industry members gathered to honor Rhett’s two latest No. 1 singles (bringing his total as an artist to five consecutive No. 1 songs) with a BMI-hosted shindig at Nashville’s BarTaco, a favorite dining spot for Rhett and his wife Lauren.

“Die A Happy Man” spent six weeks atop the country songs rankings, the first song since 2008 to manage that feat. BMI’s Leslie Roberts noted that the song went from being written to topping the country chart within one year. The song followed Rhett’s previous No. 1 “Crash and Burn,” penned by Jesse Frasure and Chris Stapleton.

Though Rhett was celebrating his third No. 1 song as a songwriter (“Die A Happy Man”), the party was a first for many of his fellow songwriters.

Though songwriter, producer, and Major Bob Music VP of A&R Frasure penned his first No. 1 song with Florida Georgia Line’s “Sun Daze,” his attendance at the party for “Crash and Burn” marked his first time being honored as a songwriter during a No. 1 party. BMI gave Frasure a BMI guitar to commemorate his first No. 1 song.

The multi-talented Frasure has written for FGL, Meghan Trainor, and Kenny Chesney, produced for TobyMac, and also serves as VP of A&R for Major Bob Music and remains an in-demand DJ for artists like Nicki Minaj and Cee Lo Green.

Jesse Frasure thanked his co-writer Stapleton, who could not attend. “Me and Chris are the ultimate odd couple. I’m so proud of him. It’s been wild to watch this ride, and I’m honored to call him a friend and a co-writer. I don’t ever quite feel justified to be in the same room with him. We have this motto that says, ‘Sad Songs For Dance Floors,’ that’s what we write.”

The party was also a first for Rhett’s “Die A Happy Man” co-writers Joe London and Sean Douglas, who are based in Los Angeles and had never attended a Nashville-style No. 1 party.

London, a producer and songwriter, has had hits including Pitbull’s “Pitbull” and “Day Drinking,” as well as Fifth Harmony’s “BO$$” and Jason Derulo’s “Wiggle.” Meanwhile, Douglas has penned “Heart Attack” for Demi Lovato, and Derulo’s “Wiggle” and “Talk Dirty.” Douglas is also the son of actor Michael Keaton.

“This is one of the most special songs I’ve been a part of,” said Rhett. “I feel like I found myself on this record process, and in my life right now, just in rooms of people that don’t make any sense and should never have a chance of working.” The writers each thanked their wives for inspiring the R&B-influenced song.

(L-R): Back Row – Producer Dann Huff, EMI Blackwood’s Troy Tomlinson, BMI’s Jody Williams, Warner Chappell’s Marc Wilson, BMI’s Leslie Roberts, The Valory Music Co.’s George Briner Front Row – Big Deal Music’s Pete Robinson, “Die A Happy Man” songwriter Sean Douglas, Thomas Rhett, “Die A Happy Man” songwriter Joe London, Big Deal Music’s Casey Robinson, Producer/”Crash And Burn” songwriter Jesse Frasure

(L-R): Back Row – Producer Dann Huff, EMI Blackwood’s Troy Tomlinson, BMI’s Jody Williams, Warner Chappell’s Marc Wilson, BMI’s Leslie Roberts, The Valory Music Co.’s George Briner
Front Row – Big Deal Music’s Pete Robinson, “Die A Happy Man” songwriter Sean Douglas, Thomas Rhett, “Die A Happy Man” songwriter Joe London, Big Deal Music’s Casey Robinson, Producer/”Crash And Burn” songwriter Jesse Frasure

Meanwhile, Sony/ATV’s Troy Tomlinson welcomed Rhett’s wife Lauren to the stage and thanked her for providing Rhett’s inspiration for “Die A Happy Man.” He also presented Lauren with a gift from Tiffany & Co.

Among those celebrating Rhett’s two chart-toppers were Warner/Chappell’s Ben Vaughn and Marc Wilson, CMA’s Brandi Simms, Country Radio Broadcasters’ Ashley Silver and Charlie Cook, producer Dann Huff, Big Deal Music’s Pete Robinson, and Valory Music Company’s George Briner.

Avenue Bank’s Ron Cox announced the bank would make two donations on behalf of the writers of both songs to 147 Million Orphans, a charity supported by Thomas Rhett and Lauren.

Thomas Rhett is aiming to add to his chart-topper total with his latest single, “T-Shirt,” a song he has been eager to include on an album for several years.

“I really wanted to cut it on the first album. So this song has been with me for a long time. It was one of my wife’s favorite songs that I put on hold that I didn’t write. It’s just fun and if there was ever a time to put out a song that I always wanted to put out, why not do it after that one? I think it’s a great song to lead into the summertime, and we love playing it live. We’ve been playing it live for like three years, so for it to finally get the recognition that I’ve wanted it to for a long time, this was our shot so we went for it,” he said.

Though Rhett says his team is likely to follow “T-Shirt” with another single from Tangled Up, he is already thinking ahead to the next album.

“[Tangled Up] came out in September, and by the time ‘Die A Happy Man’ had gone Number One, the album had been out for like three months. As an artist I think you feel like you have to turn things around so fast,” he said. “You really do have time to be creative. If you don’t take that time to be creative, then you are going to put something out that’s not worth anybody’s time, in my opinion, at least for myself. I’ve already been out on the road writing a ton and I’m not even writing for me, I’m just writing songs to figure out what direction my brain wants to go, what kind of songs I want to write, where I’m at in my life right now, what kind of content I want to write, so it’s just really fun to get back in and be creative again and start that process again.”