CRS Names Agenda Committee; Newfield Inks With EB Media

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Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has announced its 2010-2011 Agenda Committee for CRS 2011, to be held March 2-4, 2011, at the Nashville Convention Center. The Agenda Committee is made up of volunteers from all areas of the Country radio and record industries and gathers each year to plan events for the upcoming Country Radio Seminar. This year’s committee, which features 11 new members (marked with an asterisk), will meet June 23-25, 2010, to put together the framework and topics for next year’s event. John Paul is serving as Agenda Chair.

The 2010-2011 Agenda Committee for CRS 2011:

Brad Austin / Madison, WI
Jackie Campbell* / WUSN / Chicago, IL
Karin Cupit / Nashville, TN
Andy Denemark / United Stations / New York, NY
Dale Desmond / KTHK / Idaho Falls, ID
Jerry Duncan / Jerry Duncan Promotions / Nashville, TN
Shelly Easton* / WXTU / Philadelphia, PA
Keith Gale / RCA / Nashville, TN
Jeff  Green* /Country Aircheck / Nashville, TN
JoJamie Hahr / The Valory Music Co. / Nashville, TN
Gator Harrison* / WGSQ / Cookeville, TN
Chris Huff / KSCS/KTYS / Dallas, TX
Jay Jennings / WYCD / Detroit, MI
Lisa Juillerat*/ WLHK / Indianapolis, IN
John Kijowski* / WIL / St. Louis, MO
George King / WCTO / Allentown, PA
Gene Kuntz / WITZ/WQKZ / Jasper, IN
Kris Lamb / The Disney Music Group / Phoenix, AZ
Bruce Logan / WKKT / Charlotte, NC
Gary Marince* / Arbitron Inc. / Coraopolis, PA
Clint Marsh / WAWC / Warsaw, IN
Mandy McCormack* / Big Machine Records / Nashville, TN
Sharla McCoy / McCoy & Associates / Nashville, TN
Adrian Michaels / Curb / Nashville, TN
Travis Moon / KAJA / San Antonio, TX
Rick Murray / Premiere Radio Networks / Nashville, TN
Mike O’Malley* / Albright & O’Malley / Milltown, NJ
John Paul / Dial Global / Denver, CO
Annie Sandor / Curb Records / Miami, FL
Chad Schultz / Mozes / Nashville, TN
Jenni Smythe / Girlilla Marketing / Nashville, TN
John Trapane* / Capitol Records / Springs, TX
John Windus* / Columbia River Media Grp / Wentcheewa, WA

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Curb Records artist Heidi Newfield has signed with Ebie McFarland’s Essential Broadcast Media for public relations representation.

Newfield is working on her sophomore solo album with producer Blake Chancey and a single is expected later this year. It will be the follow-up to her hit “Johnny & June.” The singer who got her start with the band Trick Pony (“Pour Me” and “It’s A Heartache”) will spend the summer on the Country Throwdown Tour.

Newfield’s team also includes Greg Hill at GHM/Red Light Management and Stan Barnett at Creative Artist Agency.

Essential Broadcast Media also represents Darius Rucker, Randy Houser, Colt Ford and others. McFarland can be reached at [email protected] or by calling (615) 327-3259.

Johnny Mitchell Exits WMN; Chuck Cannon’s Father Passes

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Due to restructuring at Warner Music Nashville, Manager of Secondary Promotion Johnny Mitchell has left the company. Among his duties was working MusicRow‘s Country Breakout chart. Mitchell can be reached at 615-662-5425 or [email protected]. Reporting stations should now contact Warner’s April Johnson at 615-214-1452 for information.

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Condolences to songwriter Chuck Cannon and his family, including wife Lari White, on the passing of his father Marion C. Cannon. He was 73 and passed away peacefully at his home in Myrtle Beach, SC on Saturday, April 17, 2010.

Memorials may be sent to First Baptist Church of Murrells Inlet, 3891 Hwy. 17 By Pass, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576.

CRB Session, CMA InSite Focus On Radio Programming

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Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® is planning the “CRS: One on One” mentoring session, to be held May 7 in Nashville, Tenn. KYGO Program Director, Joel Burke, and president of Rusty Walker Programming, Rusty Walker, will be the featured speakers at the one-day session. Only twelve applicants will be accepted, in order to encourage candid, one-on-one interaction and discussion between participants about the current issues and challenges faced by those working in the Country Radio industry.

“As we continue the evolution of Country Radio Seminar, the idea to bring a select group of radio programmers together to learn and exchange ideas in an intimate setting is a logical step in the process,” explains CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne. “Much like ‘Inside the Actors Studio,’ this will give upcoming programmers an amazing opportunity to gain perspective and specific feedback on issues shaping the course of their career. With candid conversation being the only agenda at CRS: One on One, we are eager to gauge the response from this event for consideration towards future endeavors.”

Programmers interested in attending must submit the application found on www.CRB.org before Friday, April 23 at 5 p.m. CST. Eligible applicants must have radio programming experience (any market size) and pay a $59 participation fee, which includes lunch during the session. A random lottery system drawing will determine the 12 accepted applicants. Those accepted will be notified and listed on the CRB website no later than Monday, April 26.

The CRB offices are located at 819 18th Ave. S., Nashville, TN, 37203.  For more information, visit www.CRB.org or contact the CRB office at 615.327.4487.
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The functions of syndicated radio programming is the focus of the latest installment of CMA Industry InSite, an online educational series, posted today. The twelfth episode, “Taking Syndication to the Nation,” features interviews with Blair Garner, Host, “After Midnite with Blair Garner”; Bryan Switzer, VP Programming/Distribution, Citadel Media Networks; and Rosemary Young, Senior Producer, Premiere Radio Networks.

This latest installment discusses the ways in which syndicated programming are used by local radio stations as well as ways in which recording artists can use syndicated programming for marketing and promotion. It can be viewed by CMA members here.

Episodes are posted on the third Monday of the month. With each new episode, CMA members are able to submit questions to the panel of experts.

Non-CMA members will be able to view the first four episodes in the series on CMA’s consumer Web site, CMAworld.com. Episode four, “The Music Rule of Law,” will be posted today. The series is produced by digital marketing firm Hi-Fi Fusion.

Brian Rhoades Joins EMI Nashville Promotion Staff

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Senior Vice President Promotion Steve Hodges has announced the hiring of Brian Rhoades as Director of Promotion, Northeast for EMI Records Nashville. Rhoades, along with the other previously announced promotion staffers Chuck Swaney (Mid/Southwest), Trudie Daniell (Southeast) and Ron Bradley (West Coast), will work as a liaison between the label and country radio stations across the U.S. Rhoades will be based in Nashville.

“Brian brings an extensive promotion background to EMI,” says Hodges. “He will be a great asset to this team adding to an exciting future. Hold on tight, it’s going to be a fun ride!”

Rhoades most recently owned his own independent marketing company, working with clients such as CBS Records, Sony Music, IDJMG and A&M/Octone.

EMI Records Nashville Staff Contact Information:
Steve Hodges, SVP/Promotion                      / 615-269-2033 /          [email protected]
Angela Lange, VP/Promotion                         / 615-269-2085 /          [email protected]
Chuck Swaney, Dir Promotion, MW/SW       / 615-269-2084 /          [email protected]
Brian Rhoades, Dir Promotion, NE                / 615-269-2083 /          [email protected]
Trudie Daniell, Dir Promotion, SE                  / 770-253-1784 /          [email protected]
Ron Bradley, Dir Promotion, West Coast       / 702-334-1898 /          [email protected]

Big Machine Signs Edens Edge; CMT Radio Hires Jenn Nixon

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Front Row L to R: Edens Edge members Cherrill Green, Hannah Blaylock, and Dean Berner. Back Row L to R: Sandi Spika Borchetta, Big Machine Records VP of Creative; Scott Borchetta, Big Machine Records President & CE0; songwriter Kye Fleming, and Heather Moody of TVX Group

Big Machine Records has added country trio Edens Edge to its label family. The band is comprised of Hannah Blaylock (lead vocalist), Dean Berner (harmony vocals, guitar, dobro) and Cherrill Green (harmony vocals, mandolin, banjo, and guitar), with a style deeply rooted in country and bluegrass.

Scott Borchetta, President & CEO of Big Machine, discovered the band when they performed at the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremony last year.

Even though the members of Edens Edge grew up about an hour apart in Arkansas, they didn’t know each other until they were introduced through mutual friends in college. After entering the CMT/ NSAI Songwriters Contest in 2006, the band was discovered by Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member Kye Fleming who helped further develop the group’s talents.

Edens Edge is managed by Heather Moody, President of TVX Group Nashville. With the creative direction of Kye Fleming Publishing, the trio is currently writing and recording its Big Machine Records debut.

In recent months the band has opened for Ronnie Milsap and Randy Travis, and is scheduled to support Lady Antebellum, Lonestar and Gloriana on the road this summer.

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CMT Radio Network has added Jenn Nixon as the new morning reporter; it was announced by Jean Williams, director, CMT Radio Network. Nixon will serve as CMT’s live on-air correspondent for more than 30 markets nationwide, including WIRK in West Palm Beach, Fla.; KZSN in Wichita, Kan.; KAJA San Antonio, Texas; KTST Oklahoma City, Okla.; and WSOC Charlotte, N.C. Nixon joins CMT from WJNO in West Palm Beach, Fla. where she was most recently the assistant program director for the Clear Channel station. Nixon will begin her live morning broadcasts on Tuesday, April 13.

The Palm Beach County native has worked in radio since 2002 with stints at 107.9 WIRK and 97.9 WRMF, both in West Palm Beach. She replaces Emilee Warner, who recently joined Compass Records Group as director of publicity and promotions.

Sirius/XM Unveils All-Alan Jackson Radio

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SIRIUS XM Radio announced today (4/7) that it will launch Alan Jackson’s Freight Train Radio, a seven-day long, commercial-free music channel celebrating the music and career of the country music superstar. The channel will launch on Friday, April 9 at 11:00 pm CT and will run until Thursday, April 15 at 10:59 pm CT on SIRIUS channel 61 and XM channel 17.

Alan Jackson’s Freight Train Radio will feature the award-winning country superstar talking about and playing music from his 18-album career, from his first album, Here in the Real World, to his most recent release, Freight Train. Jackson will personally introduce each song and share stories and personal anecdotes about writing, recording and performing some of the most popular country hits of all time.

In addition to hearing non-stop Alan Jackson music, listeners will hear Jackson introducing and playing songs by his favorite artists, both traditional and contemporary, including George Strait, Randy Travis, Lee Ann Womack, Hank Williams Sr., Hank Williams Jr. and George Jones.

Jackson also talks about family life, how it’s changed over the years with his success and share personal stories about his father and what it means being a father.

Rick Murray Promoted at Premiere

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Rick Murray

Premiere Radio Networks has announced that  Rick Murray has been promoted to Vice President, Integrated Marketing and Promotions, from Director of Marketing and Brand Development for After MidNite with Blair Garner. In this newly created position, Murray will be responsible for the marketing, brand development, partnerships and promotions of Premiere’s nationally syndicated country programs – After MidNite with Blair Garner, The Big D & Bubba Show and The Crook & Chase Countdown. He will also focus on client-based program integration and marketing solutions, in addition to working closely with Clear Channel Radio Digital. Based in Nashville, Murray will report to Jennifer Leimgruber, Premiere Radio Networks SVP of Programming, and Beth Tepper, Premiere Radio Networks SVP Integrated Marketing and Promotions.

“I’m very excited to expand my role with Premiere and its country properties,” says Murray. “There’s an incredible opportunity to package our assets and drive benefits for advertisers, listeners, affiliates, record labels and artists. I look forward to being a part of such an exceptional team!”

“Since joining Premiere last year, Rick’s marketing expertise and creativity have been key to the continued success of After MidNite with Blair Garner,” says Leimgruber. “We’re delighted to have Rick expand his role and confident he’ll continue to drive growth and success across our country programs.”

A former Vice President of Strategic Marketing for the Country Music Association, Murray has more than 25 years of entertainment marketing and event production experience. He joined Premiere Radio Networks last year as director of marketing and brand development for After MidNite with Blair Garner. In that position he also worked closely with record labels and handled all promotions for the program. Prior to joining Premiere, Murray was President of Greylock Entertainment, a full-service integrated entertainment marketing and promotional company which worked with such clients such as the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences, actor Jason Alexander, country music artist Katie Armiger and many others.

EMI Nashville Builds Promotion Staff

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Senior Vice President Promotion Steve Hodges announces three new EMI Records Nashville staffers today: Chuck Swaney (Director of Promotion, Mid/Southwest), Trudie Daniell (Director of Promotion, Southeast) and Ron Bradley (Director of Promotion, West Coast). Beginning Monday, April 5 all three will work as a liaison between the label and country radio stations across the U.S.

“Chuck brings us a wealth of valuable experience and passion,” said Hodges. “He’s developed great relationships at country radio. I’m very excited at his enthusiasm for EMI Nashville!” Chuck was most recently at Bigger Picture Entertainment where he was a promotion executive. He will be based in Nashville, TN.

“Trudie is a stalwart regional with an infectious personality,” commented Hodges. “Her work ethic is second to none. We are lucky to be able to add her to this brand new staff!” Trudie joins the label from 9 North Records where she was the director of promotion SE/SW. She will be based in Atlanta, GA.

“Ron’s wide range of experience is a huge attribute,” added Hodges. “He is very passionate and proud of our format. We’re elated to add him to our EMI Nashville team and ready to kick start this new venture!” Ron previously held the title of President at R. Bradley Artist & Project Development. He will be based in San Diego, CA.

All three Regionals will report to both Senior Vice President Promotion Steve Hodges and EMI Records Nashville Vice President Promotion Angela Lange. A Northeast regional for EMI Records Nashville will be announced soon.

Treehouse Hires Nate Ritches; Compass Adds Emilee Warner

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Emilee Warner

Compass Records Group has tapped Emilee Warner as Director of Publicity and Promotions. She started the role earlier this month and can be reached at [email protected], W: 615-320-7672, or M: 615-418-4846.

Compass Records has also signed Richard Julian and will release his album Girls Need Attention May 4. The project was recorded at Norah Jones’s home studio.

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Tony Benken, VP of Promotion for Treehouse Records, has hired Nathan “Nate” Ritches for Midwest regional promotion duties. Ritches will be based out of Nashville and will start immediately.

“Nate has the kind of experience that regionals need these days…not only radio experience through a syndicator, but he’s worked for a production company, a talent buyer, and his own business,” says Benken. “He’s a tenacious self-starter that fits into what Treehouse is all about, and I’m happy to have him join us!”

The label is currently working Blaine Larsen’s single, “Chillin.'”

Ritches can be reached at 541-678-4282 or [email protected].

MP3 Players Plug In To More Cars

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Listening to an iPod or other MP3 player via connection to a car stereo is growing in popularity. Just released information from an Arbitron/Edison Infinite Dial national survey shows that 24 percent of persons over age 12 have ever listened to an iPod, iPhone or other MP3 player while connected to a car stereo.

The results, which will be revealed in full on April 8, come from a national survey of 1753 Americans age 12 and up. Forty-four percent of respondents said they own an MP3 player, and 54 percent of those said they have connected their players for listening in the car. The study shows that most of those who listen by connecing in the car do so more than once a week.

Larry Rosin, President of Edison Research, says this is a significant development because he calls the car “a crucial battleground for people’s attention.”

The complete study, “The Infinite Dial 2010 – Digital Platforms and the Future of Audio,” will be presented in a webinar on April 8, details here.