Ashley Gorley Kicks Off 2020 Atop The MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart

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The 2019 Songwriter of the Year, Ashley Gorley, is kicking off 2020 in a place he’s grown accustomed to: atop the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. With co-writer credits on Brett Young’s “Catch,” LOCASH’s “One Big Country Song,” Thomas Rhett’s “Remember You Young” and Dustin Lynch’s “Ridin’ Roads,” Gorley sets himself up for another chart-dominating year.

Laura Veltz follows Gorley with credits on “The Bones” (Maren Morris), “To A T” (Ryan Hurd) and “What If I Never Get Over You” (Lady Antebellum). Jesse Frasure takes third with credits on “Blessings” (Florida Georgia Line), “One Big Country Song” (LOCASH), “One Thing Right” (Marshmello & Kane Brown) and “Remember You Young” (Thomas Rhett).

Luke Combs takes the No. 4 position and Zach Crowell rounds out the top five.

The MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart, published every week, uses algorithms based upon song activity garnered from airplay, digital downloaded track sales and streams. This unique and exclusive addition to the MusicRow portfolio is the first songwriter chart of its kind.

Click here to view the full MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart.

Kane Brown Kicks Off Staples Center 20th Anniversary Celebration

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Kane Brown played his record-breaking sellout show at L.A.’s Staples Center last Thursday night (Jan. 9), making him one of only 11 country acts to have sold out the historic LA arena in the venue’s 20-year history.

In partnership with the Staples Center’s 20th anniversary celebration, Brown took to the stage to perform fan-favorites including “Learning,” as well as his four No. 1 hits, “Heaven,” “What Ifs,” “Lose It” and “Good As You.” Special surprise guest Marshmello also showed up to join Brown for their single, “One Thing Right” which was officially certified Platinum and has more than half a billion streams to date. Brown also gave fans a sneak preview of new music and future collaborations, performing two new tracks for his fans including “Take Me Home” with country trio Restless Road.

Brown joins the elite club of country acts selling out Staples Center, which also includes Garth Brooks, Carrie Underwood, Eric Church, George Strait, Keith Urban, Kenny Chesney, Rascal Flatts, Dixie Chicks, Shania Twain and Tim McGraw. He is the first artist in Billboard history to Top all 5 Billboard Country charts simultaneously, and with his 4X Platinum certification of “Heaven,” he also became one of only five country acts with multiple quadruple Platinum hits, joining Luke Bryan, Florida Georgia Line, Sam Hunt and Taylor Swift.

Pictured (L-R): Sony Music Nashville Chairman & CEO Randy Goodman, EFG Management Owner Martha Earls, Kane Brown, ACM CEO Damon Whiteside. Photo Credit: Chase Hentges

Pictured (L-R) at a reception prior to Kane Brown’s Staple Center show are: Sony Music Nashville Chairman & CEO Randy Goodman; EFG Management Owner Martha Earls; Sony Music President, Film and TV A&R Tom Mackay; Sony Music EVP, Film, TV, and Commercial Licensing Paula Erickson; Kane Brown; NBC’s “This Is Us” actor and “Good As You” music video star Lonnie Chavis; Producer Dann Huff. Photo Credit: Chase Hentges

Radio Veteran Barry Freeman Passes

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Industry vet Barry Freeman passed away on Friday, Jan. 10 in Palm Springs, California. He was 83.

Freeman enjoyed a multifaceted 52-year career in the music industry. Freeman had over 1,000 radio interview tours and radio concert specials under his belt, plus countless Number One singles as a promotion man.

A native of Paterson, New Jersey, Freeman was born the son of Martin “Ticker” and Esther Freeman. Ticker rose to fame as musical director for Dinah Shore and Andy Williams, and penned the hit song for Shore’s hit, “So Dear To My Heart,”— the title song of the 1948 Disney film of the same name. He instilled a love for music in his son, and Barry Freeman parlayed that passion into a career which began at Coral Records in 1956, where he learned the ropes of radio promotion plugging singles for Debbie Reynolds, Rosemary Clooney, Buddy Holly, and numerous other stars of the era.

Between 1958 and 1969, Freeman worked his way up via regional positions for United Artists Records in Los Angeles, Harmon Records in New York, legendary Kapp Records in Chicago and then back to the West Coast as an independent promoter, driving songs including Jeannie C. Riley’s “Harper Valley PTA” to the top of the charts.

He eventually landed jobs in radio promotion first as Head of West Coast Promotion for Capitol Records in 1970. Instrumental in the careers of Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Steve Miller Band, Helen Reddy, Linda Ronstadt, and others, Freeman was lured away in 1974 by Atlantic Records to head their West Coast promotion. While at Atlantic, Freeman notched hits for the likes of Aretha Franklin, Led Zeppelin, Bette Midler, AC/DC, Foreigner, Bad Company, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, and many more.

By 1981 the industry executive shifted to radio, being named Head of Talent Acquisition for Westwood One. Responsible for securing programming for their live radio shows and interview tours, Freeman inked deals with multiple artists for special-event broadcasts. In 1984 Freeman pivoted to Entertainment Radio Networks as Head of Artist Relations, booking two syndicated radio shows of the 1980’s and 1990’s: Hitline USA and Countryline USA. In 1994, Freeman segued to Nashville during the early 90’s country boom, assuming the role of Bureau Chief and VP/Country for upstart trade magazine Network 40. After a two-year run growing the trade magazine, Freeman returned to radio, remaining in Music City to helm the Mid-south office of ABC Radio Networks in 1996.

After three years at ABC, and after a run on the road as an independent promotion rep for Warner Music Group comedy acts including Bill Engvall, in 2000 Freeman formed FM Entertainment, a company focused on booking morning show radio interviews. Following his retirement in 2008 Freeman battled a long run of health challenges.

Freeman is survived by his daughters Felicia Maliani and Debra Goelz, sons-in-law Dave Goelz and Michael Maliani, grandchildren Vincent, Marissa, Gianno, Benjamin, and Amy, and brothers Robbie, Michael, and Richard. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Los Angeles home of friend Lark Baskerville on Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. Those wishing to attend should notify Debra at goelz.debbie@gmail.com.

Lauren Daigle Celebrates Platinum Album, Double Platinum Single In Nashville

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Pictured (L-R): Jason Ingram, 12Tone co-founder Steve Bartels, Lauren Daigle, Paul Mabury, CEO and Founder of maddjett Leigh Holt, Centricity CEO Caren Seidle

Lauren Daigle, along with members of her management and label teams at maddjett Management, 12Tone Records, and Centricity Music, gathered on Thursday (Jan. 9) to celebrate the crossover contemporary Christian music and pop star’s Platinum success with her project Look Up Child, as well as the double Platinum success of her single “You Say.” A throng of well wishers from Nashville’s music industry turned out at Nashville’s venue The Cordelle for the party.

“I’m so grateful to have gathered with colleagues and friends to celebrate the success of Look Up Child,” said Daigle’s manager, maddjett’s Leigh Holt. “Having everyone together under one roof to honor the art and impact of this historic record made for an incredible night. This album is the result of the hard work and sacrifice of so many talented people. As a community, we are all so proud of this project and the impact it has had around the world.”

Look Up Child debuted at No. 3 on the all-genre Billboard Top 200 Album chart in September 2018. Last year, the album earned Daigle a Grammy for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album, while “You Say” earned a Grammy for Best Contemporary Christian Music Song/Performance. The track also earned Daigle her first No. 1 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart.

The album marks Daigle’s second Platinum album, following her 2015 release How Can It Be. In addition to the double Platinum success of “You Say,” Daigle has earned the Platinum single “Trust In You,” as well as gold singles “First,” “How Can It Be,” and “Rescue.”

Lauren Daigle.

Pictured: Michael Wadina, Leigh Holt, Lauren Daigle, Kimberly Hopkins, Liz Zinke

Lauren Daigle with CCMG staffers.

Pictured: Jason Ingram, Lauren Daigle, Paul Mabury

Country Music Association Announces International Awards Nominees

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The Country Music Association has revealed the nominees for this year’s CMA International Awards, which honors executives and artists who have significantly contributed to the global growth and promotion of country music. These awards are voted on by international CMA members and will be presented starting in March as the CMA hosts international events in Germany, the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and Japan.

“CMA continues to be inspired by and grateful for the support of our international partners in expanding and evolving the country music genre globally,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “We’re thrilled to honor the industry executives, broadcast partners and artists who have impacted the country music community outside of the United States as this year’s CMA International Awards nominees.”

2020 CMA INTERNATIONAL AWARDS – NOMINEES:

JO WALKER MEADOR INTERNATIONAL AWARD
This award recognizes outstanding achievement by an individual in advocating and supporting country music’s marketing development in territories outside the United States. 

  • John Esposito, Warner Music Nashville, United States
  • Christina Sas, UMG International, Germany
  • Brad Turcotte, Universal Music Group Nashville, United States
  • Chris York, SJM Concerts, United Kingdom
WESLEY ROSE INTERNATIONAL MEDIA ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
This award recognizes outstanding achievements in the media as they relate to country music outside of the United States. 
  • Tiffany Astle, penelopePR, Canada
  • Mathias Bridfelt, SVT, Sweden
  • Claire Horton, Claire Horton PR, United Kingdom
  • Baylen Leonard, United Kingdom
INTERNATIONAL ARTIST ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
This award recognizes outstanding achievement by a United States-based artist who has demonstrated the most significant creative growth, development and promotion of the country music industry outside of the United States during the eligibility period. 
  • Dan + Shay
  • Lil Nas X and Billy Ray Cyrus
  • Kip Moore
  • Maren Morris
  • Keith Urban
INTERNATIONAL COUNTRY BROADCASTER AWARD
This award recognizes outstanding achievement by a radio broadcaster or syndicated radio reporter outside the United States who has made important contributions for the development of country music in his/her country.   
  • Ben Earle, The Shires, United Kingdom
  • Paul Ferguson, Cool 100.1 & 99.5 Hits FM, Canada
  • Amanda Kingsland, Rogers Communications, Canada
JEFF WALKER GLOBAL COUNTRY ARTIST AWARD
This award recognizes outstanding achievements by a country music artist signed outside of the United States. The artist must have furthered the popularity of country music as well as brought attention to the country music format in their foreign based territory.
  • Ilse DeLange, the Netherlands
  • James Barker Band, Canada
  • Jill Johnson, Sweden

Josh Osborne Renews Deal With ASCAP

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Josh Osborne has renewed his membership agreement with ASCAP.

“Josh is one of country music’s most talented and successful hitmakers, and he has earned a reputation as one of the most in-demand collaborators on Music Row,” said ASCAP Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth Matthews. “He is truly a songwriter’s songwriter, and we are excited to be by his side as he continues to shape the genre with his insightful yet universal writing style.”

Osborne earned his first No. 1 song in 2012 with “Come Over,” recorded by Kenny Chesney, and since then has been nominated for numerous awards by the Academy of Country Music, Billboard Music Awards, Country Music Association, NARAS and more. In 2014, Kacey Musgraves’ single “Merry Go Round,” co-written by Osborne, earned a Grammy for Best Country Song. The RIAA certified double platinum No. 1 hit “Take Your Time,” recorded by Sam Hunt, earned Osborne a Song of the Year nomination at the 2015 CMA Awards, and that year he also won his first ASCAP Country Song of the Year Award for Sam Hunt’s “Leave The Night On.” He also co-penned Hunt’s record-breaking, multi-platinum 2018 ASCAP Song of the Year smash, “Body Like a Back Road.”

“I am so thankful for the success that I have had as an ASCAP writer, and I am so excited to get to continue to be a part of the ASCAP family,” said Osborne.

Kelsey Wise Joins Given Music Publishing

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Kelsey Wise.

Kelsey Wise has been announced as Given Music Publishing’s new Creative Director. Wise has previously worked for Sony/ATV Music and Big Deal Music Group. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Belmont University with a degree in Music Business.

“Kelsey’s passion and drive for championing songwriters is beyond impressive, as are her incredible creative instincts,” says Given Founding Partner Cindy Owen. “She brings a number of invaluable skills to our company and is a tremendous asset as we continue to build our team at Given.”

“I am incredibly excited to be starting this next chapter with Given Music Publishing and couldn’t be more grateful for Cindy’s confidence in me,” Wise said. “There are so many cool things coming down the pike for our writers and the company in general, and I am just thrilled for the opportunity to work with such talented writers and staff.”

Wise can be reached at kelsey@givenmusicpublishing.com.

Jill Andrews Announces New Project, ‘Thirties’

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Acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician Jill Andrews will release her anticipated new album, Thirties, Mar. 27 via Vulture Vulture/Tone Tree Music. In advance of the release, Andrews’ new song, “Back Together,” is debuting today (Jan. 10).

Thirties is Andrews’ first solo release in nearly five years and the first project she has co-produced with Lucas Morton. Andrews will also release a companion book titled, Thirties: The Album in Portrait and Prose, the same day as the album. The book provides an in-depth look at the album through essays and photographs and features a foreword written by Grammy award-winning artist Joy Williams.

In addition to Andrews and Morton, the album features several renowned musicians and songwriters including Ian Fitchuk, Natalie Hemby and Daniel Tashian.

Andrews will embark on a nationwide tour this spring to support the album, including a stop at Nashville’s Mercy Lounge.

Thirties Track List:
1. “Sorry Now”
2. “Sold My Heart”
3. “Forces”
4. “The Party”
5. “Gimme The Beat Back”
6. “Call It Even”
7. “Back Together”
8. “My Own Way”
9. “River Swimming”
10. “The Kids Are Growing Up”
11. “Falling For”
12. “Wherever I End Up”
13. “The Way To Go”

Jim Lauderdale Announces ‘When Carolina Comes Home Again’ Album

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Grammy Award-winning American music icon Jim Lauderdale announced today (Jan. 10) that he will release his 33rd album, When Carolina Comes Home Again, March 6 on Yep Roc Records. The leading single, “As A Sign,” is now available at all digital platforms.

Recorded at Echo Mountain Recording in Asheville, North Carolina, the 13-track album pays homage to his native state and features instrumental accompaniment from various members of North Carolina-based acts, including Balsam Range, Cane Mill Road, Hank Pattie & the Current, John Stickley, Songs From The Road Band, Steep Canyon Rangers, and Town Mountain; as well as Matt Pruett (banjo); Pattie Hopkins Kinlaw (fiddle); Aaron Ramsey (mandolin); Nick Dauphinais and Presley Barker on guitars.

“North Carolina has such a long and important heritage in bluegrass music,” Lauderdale says. “Since it’s where I’m originally from and where I started playing bluegrass, it seemed right to go back to my roots in bluegrass there and collaborate with musicians in that area. There’s just something in the atmosphere there. Hearing bluegrass in different areas and settings in North Carolina, the music is just there in the air. The first bluegrass festival I ever went to was Union Grove when I was 14, and it blew my mind. The music got into my bones, and I just had to get a banjo.”

Lauderdale also announced that he will continue his From Another World tour with a string of U.S. dates across the West Coast in May, before embarking on a tour in support of When Carolina Comes Home Again.

When Carolina Comes Home Again tracklist:
1. When Carolina Comes Home Again – John Oates & Jim Lauderdale
2. As A Sign – Robert Hunter & Jim Lauderdale
3. Misery’s Embrace – Charles R. Humphrey III & Jim Lauderdale
4. The Last To Know – Charles R. Humphrey III & Jim Lauderdale
5. It Takes One To Wonder – Graham Sharp & Jim Lauderdale
6. Cackalacky – Si Kahn & Jim Lauderdale
7. You’ll Have To Earn It – Charles R. Humphrey III & Jim Lauderdale
8. You’ve Got This – Jim Lauderdale
9. Mountaineer – Jim Lauderdale
10. I’m Here To Remind You – Sara Douga & Jim Lauderdale
11. Moonrider – Jim Lauderdale
12. Spin A Yarn – Jim Lauderdale
13. Better Than You Found It – Logan Ledger & Jim Lauderdale

When Carolina Comes Home Again is now available for pre-order.

 

Devon Gilfillian Releases New Album ‘Black Hole Rainbow’

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Devon Gilfillian‘s debut album Black Hole Rainbow is out today on Capitol Records. The leadoff track, “Unchained” has been released as well, and Gilfillian also shared the official video for the new song today.

The inspiring new clip features Devon’s younger brother, Ryan Gilfillian, who at age 17 was in a serious car accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. The video follows him as he goes about a typical day and captures Ryan’s will to live and love fully, despite any setbacks, and was directed by Clara Aranovich and shot in the brothers’ hometown of Morton, PA.

“This song is about becoming the best version of yourself no matter what obstacles get in your way,” said Gilfillian. “My brother is a prime example of that. He doesn’t let anything hold him back from being his fullest self.”

Gilfillian is currently on tour with Grace Potter. His North American run includes shows at The Fillmore in Philadelphia (January 24), New York City’s Beacon Theatre (February 1) and a date at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville (February 19).

YouTube video