Gary Allan To Launch CMA Music Fest’s Riverfront Shows

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Gary Allan films his cameo in the Chevrolet Riverfront Stage lineup reveal video near LP Field in Nashville. Photo: Christian Bottorff / CMA

Gary Allan films his cameo in the Chevrolet Riverfront Stage lineup reveal video near LP Field in Nashville. Photo: Christian Bottorff / CMA

Fan favorite Gary Allan is set to launch this year’s set of Chevrolet Riverfront Stage shows during the 2015 CMA Music Festival. The singer-songwriter will jump start four days of music on Thursday, June 11 at 10 a.m. CT.The free Riverfront shows will take place from 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. each day of the festival, which runs Thursday, June 11 through Sunday, June 14 in Nashville.

“Gary is extremely popular with our fans and I can’t think of a better artist to jump-start four days of non-stop, free music,” said Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “We have an amazing lineup and when you consider that admission is free, there is no reason not to come down and enjoy everything this Festival has to offer.”

Katie Armiger will perform the National Anthem on opening day.

Full Riverfront Lineup Schedule:

June 11, 2015
10:00 am, Gary Allan
11:15 am, Montgomery Gentry
12:00 pm, The Cadillac Three
12:45 pm, Ashley Monroe
01:30 pm, Maddie & Tae
02:15 pm, Craig Campbell
03:00 pm, Dan + Shay
03:45 pm, Scotty McCreery
04:30 pm, Rodney Atkins

June 12, 2015
10:00 am, Clay Walker
11:15 am, Darryl Worley
12:00 pm, Restless Heart
12:45 pm, Kellie Pickler
01:30 pm, Eric Paslay
02:15 pm, RaeLynn
03:00 pm, Charles Esten
03:45 pm, Chase Rice
04:30 pm, Lorrie Morgan

June 13, 2015
10:00 am, Kristian Bush
11:15 am, Maggie Rose
12:00 pm, Cassadee Pope
12:45 pm, Aaron Watson
01:30 pm, Jason Michael Carroll
02:15 pm,  The Swon Brothers
03:00 pm, Parmalee
03:45 pm, Corey Smith
04:30 pm, Tanya Tucker

June 14, 2015
10:00 am, Jack Ingram
11:15 am, Lonestar
12:00 pm, Big Smo
12:45 pm, Dustin Lynch
01:30 pm, Thompson Square
02:15 pm, Canaan Smith
03:00 pm, Craig Wayne Boyd
03:45 pm, Phil Vassar
04:30 pm, Diamond Rio

Grammy Museum Extends Taylor Swift Exhibit Through October

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The Taylor Swift Experience at the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles. Photo: Grammy Museum

The Taylor Swift Experience at the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles. Photo: Grammy Museum

Music fans have flocked to Los Angeles’ Grammy Museum to view its current exhibit, The Taylor Swift Experience, since the exhibit opened on the singer-songwriter’s 25th birthday on Dec. 13, 2014. Attendance has been so high that the museum has agreed to extend the exhibit through Oct. 4, 2015. The Taylor Swift Experience, which was originally slated to close in May 2015, is located in the Grammy Museum’s Special Exhibits Gallery, where temporary exhibits are showcased on a rotating basis.

“Since debuting in December 2014, The Taylor Swift Experience has become one of our most popular exhibits yet,” said Bob Santelli, Executive Director of the Grammy Museum. “We’re excited to continue to showcase Taylor’s impressive timeline of success, especially as we welcome her back to STAPLES Center, at our home, L.A. LIVE, this August, for her sold-out The 1989 World Tour.”

Items on display in the exhibit, which was visited by Swift during Grammy Week in February, include:
-Early childhood reading books
-Never-before-seen family and childhood photos
-Tour costumes from Swift’s RED Tour
-Handwritten lyrics for the singer/songwriter’s hit “22”
-Swift’s 2009 GRAMMY Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance for “White Horse”
-Official props used in the music video for “Shake It Off”
-Dresses worn by Swift in her music video for “Mean”
-The dress Swift wore in the music video for “Teardrops On My Guitar”
-Swift’s banjo used during her performance at the 54th GRAMMY Awards in 2012

The Grammy Museum is located at 800 West Olympic Blvd. in Los Angeles.

Dierks Bentley, Eric Church, Brett Eldredge and More Set for 16th Annual Best Cellars Dinner

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Best Cellars DinnerDierks Bentley, Eric Church, Brett Eldredge, Amy Grant, Big Kenny, Mat Kearney, Jana Kramer, members of Little Big Town, Martina McBride, Peter Frampton and Tommy Shaw (of Styx) are joining forces with celebrity chef Jonathan Waxman during the 16th annual Best Cellars Dinner on April 27 at City Winery.

Co-chairs for the evening’s event include WMN’s John Esposito, Capitol CMG’s Bill Hearn, and Tom Black.

The exclusive annual food-and-wine event pairs some of country music’s “Best Sellers” (2015 Grammy Award nominees and a CMA New Artist of the Year winner among this year’s featured artists) with “Best Cellars” (wine from some of the U.S. top collectors) to help the T.J. Martell Foundation fund research for leukemia, cancer and AIDS at the Frances Williams Preston Labs at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center.

“The Best Cellars Dinner is one of the best events that we feature in the Nashville market,” said Laura Heatherly, CEO of the T.J. Martell Foundation. “We always have great food, world class wine, wonderful celebrities and fun! We owe so much to Billy Ray Hearn, a wonderful friend to the Foundation and wine connoisseur who started the event years ago.”

Hearn, a member of the Gospel Music Hall of Fame and a forefather of modern-day Christian music labels, passed away on April 15 of this year. He will be recognized at this year’s dinner for his invaluable contributions to the TJ Martell and the Best Cellars Dinner. The dinner has raised more than $3 million since Hearn founded the event in 1999.

Credited with bringing his California sensibilities to New York, Waxman introduced the practices of using seasonal foods and local ingredients in a gourmet setting. He recently helped found Kings of Leon’s Nashville Music & Wine Festival and opened Nashville restaurant Adele’s.

The reception begins at 6:30 p.m., with dinner beginning at 7:15 p.m. Attire is black tie.

Limited seating is available, and tickets are $1,200. To purchase, visit tjmartell.org.

Weekly Register: Reba’s Back With No. 1 Debut

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reba with her ACM 2015

Reba had plenty of visibility during release week, including winning an ACM Milestone Award.

Reba’s first new studio album in five years sailed to the top of the country charts; Love Somebody debuted at No. 1 with sales of 58K/total activity of 62K. The Nash Icon artist had momentum from lead single “Going Out Like That,” which has already sold more than 100K downloads. She also scored with a sassy performance on Sunday night’s (April 19) ACM Awards, blending the single with her modern-classic hits “Fancy,” “Is There Life Out There,” and “The Night The Lights Went Out in Georgia.”

Also scoring a solid debut is Dwight Yoakam’s Second Hand Heart (WBR) coming in at No. 2 country with sales of 21K. These debuts helped give country album sales a 33 percent bump week-over-week.

Rounding out the top five country albums are No. 3 Sam Hunt (18K), No. 4 Florida Georgia Line (13K) and No. 5 Now That’s What I Call ACM Awards 50 Years (12K).

Little Big Town gave a stellar performance of “Girl Crush” on the ACM Awards, reeling in 97K downloads and landing at No. 1 on the country tracks this week, pushing the song past the gold goalposts with 522K RTD. This is the best one-week sales tally for a country track in 2015.

Interestingly, Meghan Linsey’s cover of the same song from The Voice is this week’s top country debut, coming in at No. 3 with 44K. George Strait, who also had a notable ACM performance, debuts single “Let It Go” at No. 9 country, selling 27K. Hanging in the top 5 are: Sam Hunt “Take Your Time” (58K), Zac Brown Band “Homegrown” (39K) and Florida Georgia Line “Sippin’ On Fire” (35K).

Little Big Town’s “Girl Crush” has the best one week sales for a country track

“Girl Crush” earned the best one-week sales tally for a country track in 2015.

Kaleidoscope Media Relocates, Hires Two

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Pictured (L-R): Robert Hamm, Scott Adkins.

Pictured (L-R): Robert Hamm, Scott Adkins.

Kaleidoscope Media, a PR/publicity/events company representing Bonnaroo among other clients, has hired additional leadership and relocated its headquarters to a 6,500-square-foot space in Nashville’s Charlotte Corridor (3808 Park Avenue).

Scott Adkins has joined the firm as Director of Publicity/PR after working more than 10 years in television broadcasting, most recently as an Anchor/Reporter at the NBC affiliate in Louisville, Ky.

Robert Hamm will lead Kaleidoscope’s new business and events division as Director of Operations & Events. Hamm previously ran his own events management and production firm.

“Scott and Robert bring a wealth of experience, energy and knowledge to Kaleidoscope Media,” said Angie Gore, founder of the firm, which she established in 1997. “Their dedication to clients, vision for the future and enthusiasm for their work is contagious. I’m confident they’ll lead our firm to new ventures and opportunities, and I’m proud to work alongside both of them.

“Our new location is part of our commitment to Nashville and the revitalization of the Charlotte corridor. We’re thrilled to be part of the fabric of this neighborhood and intend to be active initiators and supporters of the creative and healthy growth of our new community.”

The facility–originally constructed and occupied by the Salvation Army in 1972–includes a commercial kitchen, several offices, community space, an outdoor green space, and event space–perfect for yoga or artist showcases.

Kaleidoscope Media’s phone number remains the same, 615-321-3211.

Kaleidoscope Media's new 3808 Park Avenue headquarters.

Kaleidoscope Media’s new 3808 Park Avenue headquarters.

Guy Clark Documentary Surpasses Kickstarter Goal

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guy clark

Pictured (Front row, L-R): Robert Earl Keen, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, Guy Clark and Maude the dog. Pictured (Back row, L-R): Steve Earle, Jerry Jeff Walker, Rodney Crowell, Joe Ely and Terry Allen.

A Kickstarter campaign to make a documentary about singer-songwriter Guy Clark has surpassed its goal of $75,000 in only three days. Music Industry veteran Tamara Saviano headed up the campaign to make the documentary, which will coincide with Clark’s biography Without Getting Killed or Caught.
The Kickstarter campaign runs until May 20 and they have now set a “stretch-goal” that they hope to reach by that date. The funds will be used for licensing music, photos and footage, insurance, accounting, and more.

As of today, more than 700 people have donated to the campaign.

“I’m thrilled that we have another 29 days to build this campaign,” says Saviano. “But instead of setting a goal for a dollar amount, I’d like our stretch goal to be for more people. So let’s make that our goal. If you’re with me, let’s keep spreading the word about this campaign, but instead of trying to reach the next tier of financial support, let’s grow this 706 people to 5000 people.”

Without Getting Killed or Caught: The Life and Music of Guy Clark traces the life of music pioneer Clark, who, with his wife Susanna, shaped the contemporary folk and American roots music scene. The film follows Guy’s journey as he moves from Texas to Los Angeles to Nashville to become one of the most revered songwriters in American music and an influential folk hero of the 20th century.

To donate to Guy Clark’s Kickstarter campaign, click here.

Industry Ink: Michael Deputato, Sammy Kershaw, Bev Moser, ASCAP

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Pictured: Michael Deputato with wife and daughter

Pictured: Michael Deputato with wife Milenka and their daughter.

GoFundMe Campaign Launched For Former UMGN Exec Deputato

A GoFundMe campaign has been set up for industry executive Michael Deputato, who is fighting brain cancer. Deputato has beaten brain cancer once, but after spending the last decade in remission, the brain cancer has returned.

Deputato worked at UMGN for eight years, before moving to New York in 2012.

To donate, visit gofundme.com.

 

Sammy Kershaw Lands New Record Deal

Sammy KershawSammy Kershaw, known for hits including “Cadillac Style,” “Love of My Life,” and “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful,” has signed with Los Angeles-based Cleopatra Records.

The singer-songwriter is set to release his new album I Won’t Back Down on June 9.

“Sammy Kershaw is one of those voices that you know the moment you hear it. We at Cleopatra are excited to work with an artist of Sammy’s caliber,” says Cleopatra Records President Tim Yasui.

 

Bev Moser Named To Nossi College of Art’s Photography Advisory Board

Bev Moser

Bev Moser

Industry photographer Bev Moser of Moments By Moser Photography has been invited to serve and participate on the Nossi College of Art’s Photography Advisory Board. Board members offer advice and suggestions on the school’s curriculum and give a real-world business perspective in discussions on classes in photography, videography, graphic design, and illustration, as well as the processes of hiring photographers, and more.

Nossi College of Art is based in Madison, Tenn.

 

Newcomer Bailey James Aligns with ASCAP

Pennsylvania singer-songwriter Bailey James signed with ASCAP recently while in Nashville. James has co-written with Jeanie McQuinn, Steve O’Brien and other Nashville writers. She is also working with Jeff Teague of Artist & Repertoire, LLC, as well as DareDevil Productions.

Pictured (L-R): Bailey James with ASCAP's Mike Sistad.

Pictured (L-R): Bailey James with ASCAP’s Mike Sistad.

Kathy Best’s BDBest Events To Represent George Jones Museum

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George Jones

George Jones

BDBest Events, helmed by music industry veteran and event planner Kathy Best, has been selected as the official event planning agency to represent the George Jones Museum.

“I am thrilled about having Kathy join our team as we launch The George Jones Museum,” says Nancy Jones. “Her expertise and knowledge of event planning and 20+ years in the music industry is unparalleled in Nashville and we have many exciting things ahead of us.”

“It is an honor to be working with the George Jones Museum,” says Best. “Nancy Jones and her staff have put together a great tribute to one of Country Music’s most defining performers. Just as impressive is the beautifully designed state of the art event spaces. It’s gorgeous and we are already booking weddings and events before opening. I’m looking forward to spreading the word about the George Jones Museum.” The Museum includes a restaurant, a 7,800 sq. foot event center, a roof top event space and bar overlooking Nashville’s Riverfront Park.

As an event planner and venue owner, Best has planned over 350 weddings including the 2011 wedding for Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert as well as Thomas Rhett, Tom Gossin (Gloriana), Sarah Darling, as well as Brantley Gilbert’s upcoming nuptials. Prior to that, she helmed Front Page Publicity, where she represented artists including Lambert, Martina McBride, the Dixie Chicks and Country Music Hall of Fame member George Strait.

Best can be reached at kathy@frontporchfarmstn.com or events@georgejonesmuseum.com

The George Jones Museum is located at 128 Second Avenue North in Nashville.

Norway To Become First Country To Eliminate FM Radio Band

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RadioTowerNorway has revealed that it will become the first country to turn off its FM radio band, beginning Jan. 11, 2017. It plans to stop transmission of the last FM signal in the country’s northern regions by Dec. 13, 2017.

According to a statement by the Norwegian government, the decision aims to save approximately $25 million (US) per year, and aid in facilitating a switch to digital radio.

The Norwegian government stated that the cost of using the FM network is eight times higher than using Digital Broadcasting (DAB) System, which is a standard of digital radio technology used throughout Europe.

“This is an important day for everyone who loves radio,” said Thor Gjermund Eriksen, head of public broadcasting network NRK, in a statement. “The minister’s decision allows us to concentrate our resources even more upon what is most important, namely to create high-quality and diverse radio content to our listeners.”

“Listeners will have access to more diverse and pluralistic radio content, and enjoy better sound quality and new functionality. Digitization will also greatly improve the emergency preparedness system, facilitate increased competition and offer new opportunities for innovation and development,” Minister of Culter Thorhild Widvey added. “Whereas the FM system only had space for five national channels, DAB already offers 22, and there is capacity for almost 20 more.”

Norway’s DAB system offers 22 national channels, compared to five on the FM band. Though Norway is the first to shut off its FM band, other countries in Europe and Southeast Asia are in the process of transitioning to DAB.

March 2015 Tallies From RIAA

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unnamedIn March 2015, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) awarded certifications for 55 Digital Single Awards and 12 Album Awards.

Among those with Nashville ties are Hunter Hayes (“I Want Crazy”) at 2x Platinum, Taylor Swift (“22,” “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together”) at 3x and 6x Platinum, respectively. Jana Kramer’s “Why Ya Wanna” hit Platinum as did Swift’s “Style.”

Nashville Notable Gold Singles
Lee Brice – “Drinking Class”
Brett Eldredge – “Mean To Me”
Hunter Hayes – “Everybody’s Got Somebody But Me”
Hunter Hayes – “Invisible”
Sam Hunt – “Take Your Time”
Blake Shelton feat. Ashley Monroe – “Lonely Tonight”
Cole Swindell – “You Ain’t Worth The Whiskey”

Nashville Notable Gold Albums
Chris Tomlin – How Great Is Our God: The Essential Collection
Meghan Trainor – Title