"A Little Bit Stronger" No. 1 Party

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Sheryl Crow congratulates Sara Evans at the “A Little Bit Stronger” No. 1 party.


Revelers packed Cabana yesterday (5/25) to salute the songwriters of the multi-week Sara Evans No. 1, “A Little Bit Stronger.” BMI, ASCAP and SESAC teamed to host the event honoring their respective affiliates Luke Laird, Hillary Lindsey, and Hillary Scott.
BMI’s Jody Williams toasted Laird and Evans, noting that the star is still going strong 14 years after the release of her debut album. He said Laird’s career has grown exponentially in recent years, scoring numerous hits and leading to frequent collaborations in New York and Los Angeles. It was the sixth charttopper for Laird, who also has the new Rodney Atkins single “Take A Back Road.” Williams and others also saluted producer Tony Brown for his work on the song, one of his 100-plus No. 1 hits.
ASCAP’s Mike Sistad gave tribute to Lindsey for her eighth No. 1; she has achieved massive success since first coming to Nashville in 1994 to attend Belmont University. Lindsey was most recently self-published through Raylene Music, which was run by her sister, Taylor Lindsey, but last night Taylor announced Raylene’s new partnership with BMG Chrysalis before turning the stage over to BMG Chrysalis’s Darrell Franklin. “Hillary is as true and heartfelt as the music she creates,” he beamed.
Next, SESAC’s Tim Fink cheered Scott’s first No. 1 as a songwriter outside of Lady Antebellum, while her bandmates Charles Kelley and Dave Haywood cheered in the crowd. Fink noted Scott’s tireless efforts to rebuild Haiti in the wake of last year’s devastating earthquake, and her publisher, EMI, made a donation to the cause on her behalf.
In keeping with the spirit of giving back, Avenue Bank presented a donation to Preston Taylor Ministries in honor of those behind the song.
All three of the songwriters had parents in attendance, including the Lairds from Pennsylvania and Lindseys from Georgia. (We all know Scott’s parents are Nashvillians.) The out-of-towners were celebrating their 39th and 37th wedding anniversaries, respectively. Evans’ hubby and three daughters came up from their home in Birmingham to cheer-on mom, who gave tearful thank-yous to her family, with a special show of gratitude to her brother Matt Evans, her bandmate and lifelong supporter.

A stronger group. (L-R): Universal Music Publishing’s Kent Earls, BMI’s Jody Williams, co-writer Luke Laird, ASCAP’s Mike Sistad, co-writer Hillary Lindsey, Sara Evans, co-writer Hillary Scott, SESAC’s Tim Fink, EMI Foray Music’s Josh VanValkenburg, producer Tony Brown (kneeling), BMG Chrysalis’ Darrell Franklin, Raylene Music/BMG Chrysalis’ Taylor Lindsey, and EMI Music Publishing’s Missy Wilson.

Bank of America on Music Row Robbed

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The Music Row branch of Bank of America was robbed this morning according to a story on WSMV.
WKRN reports a suspicious item was left at the bank, and the robber stated it was a bomb before fleeing the scene. Police sent the bomb squad robot to investigate, and determined the item was harmless.
As the situation unfolded, part of 16th Avenue was closed. It has been reopened.
Located at 1013 16th Ave. South, this was the second time this bank has been hit in as many years. It was also robbed in February 2010.
 

Industry Ink Thursday (5/26)

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A2IM Names Board
A2IM, the American Association of Independent Music, has announced its 2011 Board of Directors. Big Machine GM Andrew Kautz is on the President’s Advisory Committee.
Newly elected A2IM Board of Directors: Priya Dewan (Warp Records), Tor Hansen (Yep Roc Records), Bruce Iglauer (Alligator Records), Martin Mills (Beggars Group) and Victor Zaraya (Razor & Tie).
Newly appointed A2IM President’s Advisory Committee: Andrew Kautz (Big Machine Records), Jim Selby (Naxos USA), and Denny Stilwell (Mack Avenue Records).
The remainder of the board in the middle of three-year terms is: Concord Music Group’s Glen Barros, Sub Pop’s Eric Brown, tinyOGRE Entertainment’s Jim Cooperman, Epitaph’s Dave Hansen, Kill Rock Stars’ Portia Sabin, and Tommy Boy’s Tom Silverman.

Anastasia Brown


Format Expands Nashville Operations Headed by Anastasia Brown
Music supervision company Format Entertainment has expanded into Nashville and established a Format Music Publishing satellite office, headed by Anastasia Brown. She will represent local artists for film, TV pilots and commercials. In the last six months, Brown has licensed 10 songs and 12 masters with Nashville ties. She has also signed five local artists to the publishing division. She has been working on the Paramount Pictures re-make of Footloose, while also supervising New Regency’s The Darkest Hour (Emile Hirsch), the ABC-TV pilot from Marc Cherry Hallelujah, and more.
Ruby Records Opens in Nashville
New Hampshire based indie label Ruby Records has opened a Nashville office. CEO Gary Crane says the local operation has signed Jimmy Lehoux. Handling radio promotion is Tom McBee & Associates, with the Thompson Entertainment Group overseeing marketing and public relations.
Ruby Records Nashville (615) 754-8004 ext 3, New Hampshire (603) 715-1044, and info@rubyrecords.us.
McBee can be reached at (615) 824-5370 and twmcbee1@gmail.com.

Megan Burns at Thompson Entertainment Group can be contacted at (615) 742-8004 or media@thompsonentertainmentgroup.com.

James Burton’s Mother Dies
Condolences to musician and Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame member James Burton on the passing of his mother, Lola Poland Burton, on May 23, 2011. She was 96, and left a large, loving family to cherish her memory. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the James Burton Foundation, 714 Elvis Presley Ave, Shreveport, Louisiana 71101.
Composer Greg Sims’ New Film
Nashvillian Greg Sims composed music for the new film The Lion of Judah. The movie is the first 3-D animated faith-based film and is being released worldwide, including a premiere showing at Nashville’s Regal Hollywood 27. He also executive produced the soundtrack, which is available through online retailers such as Amazon.com and iTunes.

Eye On Idol (5/26/11)

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I can hardly believe my own eyes. What a shocker. One of the most unbelievable upsets in American Idol hist—okay, who am I kidding?
And so it came to pass that 17-year-old Scotty McCreery was named the second-youngest American Idol (following Jordin Sparks) in history last night (5/25). Scotty was the odds-on favorite for some time, and while I’m not exactly surprised at the results I have to give the guy kudos. He stayed his remarkably consistent musical course and let his aw-shucks charm capture the hearts of the voting population.
Even following the announcement of his win, he quickly and wisely chose his words: “I’ve got to thank the Lord first… he got me here.” If we can get him to start adding the phrase “country radio” in there somewhere, he’ll be all set for the CMA Awards.
Scotty was also quick to praise runner-up Lauren Alaina, as the two met nearly a year ago during the audition rounds. “Me and her have been together since day one and we are going to stay together.” Aww, you guys!
Results aside, it was an exciting finale event worthy of an exciting season. Finalist James Durbin took the stage with metal icons Judas Priest in a rousing medley of “Living After Midnight” and “Breakin’ The Law.” Durbin prowled the stage beside leather clad Priest frontman Rob Halford, living out many a metal fan’s ultimate fantasy. Many viewers–myself included–probably couldn’t help but wonder what a Scotty/James finale would have looked like after seeing this.
Then every big pop star for miles showed up. Lady Gaga performed “The Edge of Glory” on the literal edge of a gigantic rock formation stage prop. Beyonce performed two times–once with the Top 13 females and once solo on her new single “1 + 1.” Bono and The Edge performed with one of the Spider-Man Broadway musical cast members. Even Tony Bennett and a very tan Tom Jones dropped by, adding a touch of class to the proceedings. Judge J.Lo joined hubby Marc Antony and Sheila E. on a sizzling version of “Aguanile.” Judge Steven Tyler reaffirmed his rock god status by howling the Aerosmith classic “Dream On.”
At the beginning of Season 10, I questioned Idol’s relevance in the marketplace and ability to deliver a compelling program. I’m pleased to say I was entirely wrong. Judges Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler had great chemistry together, there were a couple of surprise eliminations mid-season, and I could even watch the results shows without putting my finger on the fast forward button.
Way to go, Idol. You’ve definitely earned my vote.

Updates From CMA Music Festival and CMT Awards

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Zac Brown Band and Alan Jackson will perform at the CMA Music Festival. ZBB is also set for the CMT Music Awards.



• CMT Music Awards organizers have added performances by Big & Rich, Toby Keith, Zac Brown Band and Luke Bryan. Recently announced host Kid Rock will perform with Sheryl Crow. The show premieres live on Wed., June 8 at 8:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. CT on CMT and CMT.com. Already announced performers include Jason Aldean, Keith Urban, Lady Antebellum, Rascal Flatts and Sugarland.

As the CMA Music Festival draws near, running Thursday through Sunday, June 9-12, here’s a list of the latest updates:
• Zac Brown Band will be joined onstage at LP Field during the nighttime concerts on June 9 by Randy Travis, acclaimed folk/soul artist Amos Lee, and singer/songwriter Sonia Leigh. This is in addition to the previously announced appearance by Alan Jackson.
• The third annual Guitars of the Stars Benefit Auction will be Thurs., June 9, 4 p.m. at Hall of Fame Park. It will give fans the opportunity to bid on acoustic guitars decorated by country stars, with proceeds benefiting the Opry Trust Fund which assists members of the country music community in need. Among the stars confirmed to contribute guitars are Jerrod Niemann, Darius Rucker, and Carrie Underwood. Steve Wariner and Josh Thompson will each contribute performances and an autographed guitar to the free event.
• The Porter Wagoner Memorial Artists & Anglers Fishing Tournament will be Tues., June 7, where country music artists and celebrities will be paired with professional bass anglers for the event at Old Hickory Lake. The weigh-in will take place at 1:00 p.m. at Saunders Ferry Park in Hendersonville, Tenn. To cap the event, Bobby Bare will perform at 7:00 p.m. at the Farm House Restaurant at Fontanel. Both the weigh-in and concert are open to the public.
• David St. Romain will perform at the Nashville Navy Party as one of the events surrounding CMA Music Festival. The show is Tues., June 7 at Limelight at 5 p.m. He is gaining traction with single, “Twenty Years Late,” from his debut album, All I Really Wanted To Say.
LP Field line-up:
Thursday, June 9: Jason Aldean (with a guest performance from Kelly Clarkson), Easton Corbin, Sara Evans, Brad Paisley, and Zac Brown Band (with guest performances from Alan Jackson, Amos Lee, Sonia Leigh, and Randy Travis).
Friday, June 10: Dierks Bentley, Lady Antebellum, Reba, Ashton Shepherd, Sugarland, and Keith Urban.
Saturday, June 11: Trace Adkins, Little Big Town, Martina McBride, Rascal Flatts, Josh Turner, and Chris Young.
Sunday, June 12: The Band Perry, the JaneDear girls, Miranda Lambert, Darius Rucker, Blake Shelton, and Taylor Swift.
The event, which celebrates its 40th birthday since beginning as Fan Fair® in 1972, will once again be filmed for an ABC television special to air in late summer.

Photos From The Road (5/25/11)

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Corey Wagar stopped to visit with WCJW/Warsaw, NY, which was the first station to add her single “Hurricane.” (L-R): Wagar, WCJW PD Lee Richey, guitarist Gordon Brown


Aria Records Nashville David St. Romain continues to visit radio stations across the country to help promote his single, "Twenty Years Late." (L-R) Aria Records Nashville national promoter Kristen Cassidy, KWNR/Las Vegas PD Cary Rolfe, St. Romain.


Family trio Lucy Angel is visiting country radio in support of its new single "Serious,” and recently stopped at Hit Country 102.5 WMDH/New Castle, IN. (L-R): LA’s Emily Anderton, WMDH PD Shane Goad, LA’s Lindsay Anderton, LA’s Kate Anderton and WMDH’s Wild Bill

Golden "Honey Bee"

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Warner Music Nashville staff with President & CEO John Esposito


How sweet it is!
“Honey Bee” recorded by Blake Shelton buzzes beyond the hive to become the fastest rising single ever to sell over 500,000 units by a male country soloist—in seven weeks. The track was introduced during the ACM awards, hosted by Shelton and Reba, and downloaded 138,000 units its very first week.
The track will be featured on the newlywed’s upcoming Red River Blue album scheduled to debut July 12. Shelton is the reining CMA Male Vocalist and enjoying huge ratings as part of the TV singing competition, The Voice. “Honey Bee” follows his three consecutive No. 1 hits: “Who Are You When I’m Not Looking,” “All About Tonight” and “Hillbilly Bone.”
 

Peermusic Signs Rachel Farley

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(L-R) Ken Madson of Full Scope Entertainment (Rachel’s Manager), peermusic Sr. Creative Director/producer Michael Knox and peermusic VP Kevin Lamb watch songwriter Rachel Farley ink her co-publishing agreement.


peermusic has signed 15-year old Rachel Farley to an exclusive songwriter/co-publishing agreement, announces peermusic VP Kevin Lamb.
Farley was brought to the attention of peermusic via Sr. Creative Director Michael Knox (Jason Aldean, Montgomery Gentry, Trace Adkins, Randy Owen, Josh Thompson, Frankie Ballard) who is producing her debut CD for Average Joe’s Entertainment. The new release will feature Farley’s writing or co-writing on all 10 tracks. Knox discovered the young talent on MySpace and has followed her burgeoning career for three years.
“I was impressed with Rachel’s artistry for years,” says Knox, “but when I heard the songs she was writing, I was also amazed at how well she was able to express who she is, considering she was so young. She’s the kind of songwriter that can not only write for herself, but other artists as well.”
Farley began performing professionally at the age of 11 in her home town of Lawrenceville, Georgia, and was already penning her own original songs by age 12.
peermusic, founded in 1928 by Ralph S. Peer, calls itself the world’s largest global independent publishing company with 35 offices in 28 countries.

Bug Acquires Sugar Hill Publishing Rights

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Bug Music CEO John Rudolph announced today the company has entered into an exclusive agreement to administer rights to Sugar Hill Records’ music publishing catalog. The deal gives Bug Music worldwide rights to a 600-title library containing a “who’s who” of country, bluegrass and Americana music.
The rosters at Sugar Hill Records’ two publishing companies, Southern Melody Publishing Co. and Queen’s Counsel Music, include Nickel Creek members Chris Thile, Sarah and Sean Watkins, Robin and Linda Williams, Ralph Stanley, Etta Baker, Claude Hensley, Ruth Franks, Doc Watson, Tommy Thompson of Red Clay Ramblers, and members of Donna the Buffalo, Austin Lounge Lizards and Seldom Scene.
“Sugar Hill’s Southern Melody Publishing Co. and Queen’s Counsel Music developed a rich catalog of American roots music,” Bug Music Senior VP Garry Velletri said. “Sugar Hill has done an amazing job in working with their writers, and we’re proud to represent and find new opportunities across multiple platforms for their music.”
Bug Music claims to be the largest U.S. independent contemporary publisher, spread across eight offices in the U.S. and Europe. Sugar Hill Records, co-founded in Durham, North Carolina in 1978, has grown to become one of the country’s premier country, bluegrass and Americana record labels.
 

Whiskey Myers Meets Industry And Media

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(L-R) Cody Tate, Gary Brown, Cody Cannon, John Jeffers and Jeff Hogg. Photo: Izzynashville.com


(Nashville, TN) Texas-based Southern Country rockers Whiskey Myers debuted material from their recently released Firewater album last night for an industry crowd at downtown Nashville venue The Rutledge. Firewater, released April 26, earned a No. 3 debut on the iTunes Country Albums chart and a No. 26 debut on Billboard’s Country Albums chart.
The five-piece Tyler, Texas, outfit offered a 35-minute set which included their current Top 15 Texas chart single, “Bar, Guitar and a Honky Tonk Crowd.”
In the past year the band has opened for artists including Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, Luke Bryan and Randy Houser. In the coming months they have dates scheduled with Dwight Yoakam and .38 Special, among others.