Industry Ink: Patty Loveless, Nashville Briefing, Jeanette Porcello, More

Patty Loveless Touts ‘The Truth’ In Country Music Hall Of Fame Event

Pictured (L-R): Jedd Hughes, Carmella Ramsey, Patty Loveless, Deanie Richardson and Senior Museum Writer-Editor Michel McCall. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum hosted a sold-out performance and conversation with Patty Loveless on Saturday (Aug. 26) in support of its newest exhibit Patty Loveless: No Trouble with the Truth.

During the program, Loveless reflected on her career, touring with the Wilburn Brothers and her decades-long award-winning career. She performed several songs, including “Blame It On Your Heart,” “You Don’t Even Know Who I Am” and “Don’t Toss Us Away.” The program was hosted by the museum’s Senior Writer-Editor Michael McCall and was filmed and will premiere on Oct. 19, as part of the museum’s Live at the Hall digital programs series — available to stream on the museum’s website.

 

Nashville Briefing Hails Artists To Watch At Inaugural Showcase

Tigirlily Gold’s Krista Slaubaugh performs. Photo: Mike Rodway

The Nashville Briefing held its first-ever Artists To Watch showcase Aug. 29 in partnership with SET.Live. The event coincided with the release of Nashville Briefing’s 25 Artists To Watch list. The showcase highlighted artists SHAYLEN, Tigirlily Gold, RVSVHD and Noah Thompson, who were all featured in this year’s list.

“It’s wild to think about how much of a platform Nashville Briefing has become. The fact that we can put on a showcase in a massive venue like The Skydeck and pack it out, is a testament to how passionate our readers are about great live music!” says Zak Kuhn, Founder of Nashville Briefing. “It’s also a testament to the amazing acts we had on the bill last night and the massive fan bases that SHAYLEN, Tigirlily Gold, RVSVHD and Noah Thompson are building.”

 

Jeanette Porcello Named Sr. Manager A&R At Downtown Artists and Label Services

Jeanette Porcello

Jeanette Porcello has joined Downtown Music as Senior Manager, A&R. Porcello began her industry career in A&R at Atlantic Records. In 2020, she secured her first major signing Sara Kays, whose single “Remember That Night” went on to be certified Platinum. Porcello also serves on the leadership team for The Other Nashville Society.

“Jeanette’s deep relationships within and beyond Nashville coupled with her passion for developing independent artists make her an incredible addition to our team,” says Bryan Mooney, Global Vice President of A&R. “I’m excited to work with Jeanette to build out our roster of artists and labels in Nashville.”

 

Ryan Stevenson Makes Opry Debut

Ryan Stevenson

Gotee recording artist Ryan Stevenson marked another milestone in his career with his recent debut on the Grand Ole Opry. The singer-songwriter performed his Gold-selling No. 1 hit “Eye of the Storm,” along with “Speak Life,” the Grammy-nominated TobyMac chart-topper co-written by Stevenson.

The Oregon native and former paramedic shared with the Opry audience how the creation of “Speak Life” was a pivotal moment in his journey, leading to his longstanding relationship with Gotee Records and a string of hit singles. Stevenson also appeared on WSM Radio/Circle Network’s “Coffee, Country and Cody” morning show, where he world-premiered “Rich,” a moving ballad he recently co-wrote.

 

Tricia Williams Rises To President/CEO Of Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation

Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation has named current Program Director Tricia Williams as its Incoming President and CEO. The appointment is in anticipation of the close to the 25-year tenure of Felice Mancini (daughter of renowned composer, Henry Mancini), who guided the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation to national prominence with her tenacious approach to furthering music education in schools.

In her previous role as Program Director, which she’s held since 1999, Williams has supervised and implemented all aspects of the non-profit’s programming with a special concentration in school district support services. Replacing Williams in her previous role as Program Director will be Todd Shipley, now former Director of Arts Education for the Tennessee Department of Education.

 

Justin Love Inks With SB21 Music

Singer-songwriter Justin Love has signed an exclusive publishing deal with SB21 Music. Originally from Waco, Texas, Love’s journey as a songwriter has been defined by his unwavering passion for music. In Nashville, he honed his craft through numerous writers’ rounds and networking events, gaining a reputation for his emotive lyrics and soulful melodies.

“We are really thrilled to welcome Justin Love to the SB21 Music Publishing family,” says Teresa Ammon of SB21 Music Publishing. “His exceptional talent and dedication to his craft align perfectly with our vision of nurturing and supporting extraordinary songwriters. We firmly believe that Justin has the potential to make a significant impact in the industry.”

Walker Montgomery Has Some ‘Work To Do’ With Upcoming EP

Walker Montgomery is set to release his new EP Work To Do on Friday, Sept. 15 via Clear Creek Productions.

Son of John Michael Montgomery and nephew of Montgomery Gentry’s Eddie Montgomery, the Kentucky native was raised outside of the spotlight. He moved to Nashville to pursue his passion and pave his own way in the world of country music.

The singer-songwriter has since earned more than over 5.2 million streams on Spotify with his self-penned debut track “Simple Town” as well as over 20 million streams worldwide with singles “She Don’t Know,” “Out of Nowhere” and “Bad Day To Be A Beer.”

He most recently released the title track, “Lonely For A Livin'” and “Tired of You” from the forthcoming, Bart Butler-produced project.

Montgomery plans to celebrate Work To Do ahead of its release at The Eighth Room in Nashville on Wednesday, Sept. 13. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information, click here.

Work To Do Track Listing:
1. “Lonely For A Livin’” (Jim Collins, Trent Tomlinson)
2. “Work To Do” (Mark Iwrin, Walker Montgomery, Adam Wood)
3. “Tired Of You” (Tony Martin, Josh Thompson, Neil Thrasher)
4. “Things That Break My Heart” (Cary Barlowe, Josh Thompson, Brett Tyler)
5. “Never Again One More Time” (Bart Butler, Jamie Paulin, John Pierce)
6. “Time Stood Still” (Cooper Bascom, Jack Hummel, Walker Montgomery, Kaylin Roberson)

Grand Ole Opry Sets Second Annual Community Day

The Grand Ole Opry will host its Opry Community Day on Oct. 8. for Tennessee residents in celebration of its 98th birthday weekend.

The second annual Opry Community Day gives Tennessee residents the opportunity to experience the Opry’s popular backstage tour free of charge. Complimentary tours will be available from 10-4 p.m. with the presentation of a valid Tennessee state ID. The Opry Plaza will also be transformed into an outdoor party, offering live music and family-friendly activities. Free tickets can be redeemed in person at the Opry box office or in advance online at opry.com.

The official 98th birthday celebration takes place Oct. 4-8, featuring performances by Opry members Lauren Alaina, Crystal Gayle and Lainey Wilson. The Opry’s birthday weekend will also include a special performance and fan Q&A with Opry NextStage trio Chapel Hart, who will salute their favorite female country artists. To round out the celebration, Sara Evans will officially be inducted into the Opry family on Saturday evening.

Jenny Tolman’s Cowgirls At The Cowboy Festival To Return In October

Jenny Tolman is hosting her second annual Cowgirls at The Cowboy festival Oct. 6-8, featuring this year’s headliner, Lauren Alaina.

Tolman will host and perform during the festival, which includes an all-female lineup, at Jackson, Wyoming’s iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. The three-night celebration of strong women in country music will also feature performances by Ashley Monroe, Deana Carter and Tigirlily Gold.

In conjunction with the festival, Tolman will be releasing a four-episode podcast, The Road to Cowgirls at The Cowboy, featuring interviews with Tigirlily Gold,  Monroe, Carter, Caitlyn Smith, who performed at last year’s festival), and Carissa Culiner from CMT, who will oce again cover this year’s festival. The first episode is slated to premiere on Sept. 6, followed by a new episode each Wednesday through the month of September. Tolman and her guests will talk everything women in country, from the festival in Jackson Hole and life on the road, to music and motherhood.

“I’m so grateful to be presenting Cowgirls at The Cowboy music festival with The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar for our second year in a row,” says Tolman. “Getting to celebrate and bring some of the most talented and legendary women in country music to Jackson Hole is a huge honor. The Cowboy has such a special place in my heart, along with the people of Jackson, so I can’t wait for them to experience the magic of Lauren, Tigirlily Gold, Deana and Ashley, for themselves!”

Tony Jackson Slates ‘I’ve Got Songs To Sing’ For September

Photo: Jim Shea

Tony Jackson will release his new album I’ve Got Songs To Sing on Sept. 29 via Bob Frank Distribution (BFD)/Audium Nashville.

The country artist first gained attention with his viral track “The Grand Tour,” featured on his self-titled debut album.

Jackson has collected more than 100 million video streams to date, and has continued that momentum with “Do You Remember Country Music,” a track he recorded with Randy Travis that is included on the new project. The single quickly surpassed 40,000 streams in just five days following its release.

Produced by Chuck Rhodes and Buddy Hyatt in Nashville as well as John Sebastian and Jim Della Croce in Woodstock, I’ve Got Songs To Sing also features a duet with the bluegrass great Rhonda Vincent, “Leave a Light On.”

“I am very proud of this project and thankful to be joined by such legendary studio musicians,” explains Jackson. “I am especially thankful to my friends, Rhonda Vincent, and Randy Travis, for being a part of it. I met Randy as a kid while living overseas and it remains a powerful core memory. Working with him professionally as an adult is a dream realized.”

Other songs include Jimmy Webb’s “Wichita Lineman,” John Sebastian’s “Darlin’ Be Home Soon” and new numbers written by Jackson, Mo Pitney, Vince Melamed, Bobby Tomberlin, Jamey Johnson, Karen Staley and Erin Enderlin. The tracks also mix the stylings of top industry musicians Cindy Cashdollar, Eric Parker, Clifford Carter, Waddy Wachtel, Kenny Vaughn, Jeff Alan Ross, Billy Thomas, Joe Spivey, Dave Roe, Brent Mason, Lonnie Wilson, Duncan Mullins, Joel Key and Jenee Fleenor.

I’ve Got Songs To Sing Track Listing:
1. “I’ve Got Songs to Sing”
2. “Good Time”
3. “Leave a Light On (feat. Rhonda Vincent)”
4. “Five Dollar Bible”
5. “A Lot Like Texas”
6. “A Little While”
7. “Darlin’ Be Home Soon”
8. “Dyann”
9. “I’m All In”
10. “Wichita Lineman”
11. “Do You Remember Country Music (feat. Randy Travis)”

Lauren Daigle, KultureCity Establish Sensory Rooms In ‘Kaleidoscope Tour’ Venues

Lauren Daigle

Lauren Daigle has continued her partnership with KultureCity to create and renovate 17 sensory rooms at venue stops on her “The Kaleidoscope Tour,” including 15 new rooms.

Specifically designed by medical professionals, the renovated or refurbished spaces provide dedicated environments for individuals in need of a quieter and more secure environment from which to enjoy concert and sporting events. The rooms are scheduled to be completed by the time Daigle’s tour kicks off on Sept. 6.

Each sensory room will be outfitted with bean bags from Yogibo, visual light panels by Nanoleaf, activity panels, Sparkle Interactive Light by NunoErin, bubble walls and a custom tactile artwork created by an artist on the autism spectrum. In addition, sensory bags will be available at all tour stops for those who might need them.

“The amazing thing about playing live is that feeling I get when I’m looking out from the stage seeing people connect to the music—and to each other,” shares Daigle. “These sensory rooms we’re creating with KultureCity, are all about giving everyone that experience. For me, that’s what touring is all about.

Daigle’s partnership with KultureCity began in 2021, when together they created the The Lauren Daigle Sensory Room at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. The room was sponsored by Daigle’s own The Price Fund, as are all of the rooms being created for this effort. Since 2019, KultureCity has created over 1,900 sensory-inclusive venues in seven countries and has been recognized nationwide for using its resources to revolutionize and affect change in the community for those with sensory needs, not just those with autism.

“Music is something that we associate with and to know that Lauren and her team are going the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included at a concert is truly amazing,” says Uma Srivastava, Executive Director, KultureCity. “We’re honored to partner with Lauren to provide a truly inclusive experience for all fans and guests!”

“The Kaleidoscope Tour,” which kicks off on Sept. 6 in Memphis, Tennessee includes stops in Los Angeles, Newark, Boston, Atlanta, Seattle and Baton Rouge. Before its conclusion in the U.S., the tour will have seen 30 stops before heading overseas with Brandon Lake, Crowder, Josh Garrels and Victory Boyd appearing on select dates.

Daigle is set to release the remainder of her self-titled album on Sept. 8 via Atlantic Records, in partnership with Centricity Music.

Megan Youngblood Joins MCA Nashville As West Coast Promotion Director

Megan Youngblood. Photo: Matt Marcheski

Megan Youngblood has been hired as Director of Promotion, West Coast for MCA Nashville.

Youngblood brings over two decades of radio experience to the role including, most recently, six years as the West Coast regional rep for Capitol Records Nashville.

“Megan is a high caliber radio and records pro that exudes passion for our artists and their music,” says MCA Nashville VP of Promotion David Friedman. “She is the perfect fit for our team and I’m very excited to have her join MCA.”

MCA Nashville’s current roster includes Kassi Ashton, Jordan Davis, Vince Gill, Sam Hunt, Kip Moore, Kacey Musgraves, Parker McCollum, Reba McEntire, Catie Offerman, George Strait and Josh Turner.

Bryan Martin Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut

Bryan Martin during his Grand Ole Opry debut. Photo: Julian Mendoza

Louisiana native Bryan Martin fulfilled a lifelong dream when he made his Grand Ole Opry debut on Tuesday (Aug. 29).

He performed his unrelenting anthem “Goin For Broke” as well as his single “We Ride,” for the Opry crowd, earning a standing ovation from the audience. With his family, friends and label team by his side, Martin checked off a significant moment from his bucket list on the unforgettable night.

“Man.. I thought I could only dream about stepping in that circle,” shares Martin. “I’m just so thankful for everybody that came out to support me and I couldn’t be more honored to step in the same circle as everybody who came before me.”

After 15 years in the oil industry, Martin continues to make significant strides in his career since moving to Nashville. His rock-tinged single “We Ride” has garnered more than 82 million worldwide streams and is moving up the Billboard chart. With upcoming music set for release later this year, Martin is currently on the road on his “Goin For Broke Tour,” with stops in Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Las Vegas and more.

SOURCE Hall Of Fame Inducts Seven ‘Women Behind The Music’ At 20th Anniversary Event

Pictured (L-R, back row): Marcie Allen Van Mol and Valerie Summers; (L-R, front row): Becky Shanks, Jackie Patillo, Denise Stiff and Janice Jackson. Not Pictured: Renee Bell. Photo: Moments By Moser Photography

Seven more deserving music industry veterans were inducted into the SOURCE Hall of Fame on Tuesday night (Aug. 29) at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville’s historic Municipal Auditorium.

SOURCE Nashville Hall of Fame inductees are nominated and inducted based upon peer recommendations, biographies, accomplishments, reputation, the number of years the individual has worked within the entertainment industry and level of community involvement. All inductees have made a significant impact on the Nashville entertainment industry.

The event that honors seven “Women Behind The Music” marked its 20th anniversary on Tuesday. Country Music Hall of Fame member Brenda Lee and Grand Ole Opry Star Jeannie Seely hosted the sold-out in-person event.

This year’s honorees included Marcie Allen Van Mol, Renee Bell, Janice Jackson, Jackie Patillo, Becky Shanks, Denise Stiff and Valerie Summers.

After SOURCE’s Hall of Fame Awards Chair, Erica Rosa, welcomed everyone to dine, SOURCE President Mallory Mason-Pascal got the awards ceremony started. The inductees were honored by their friends, family and peers, as Lee and Seely told the crowd of their extensive accomplishments. Then, a video from a special client or colleague would play to further highlight the honoree’s impact.

As usual, Lee and Seely were a hoot, constantly poking fun at each other and others in the audience. Lee has been hosting the SOURCE Awards since her best friend Kay Smith established it in 2003. Seely joined her not too long after.

Pictured (L-R, back row): Denise Stiff, Marcie Allen Van Mol, Jackie Patillo and Valerie Summers; (L-R, front row): Becky Shanks, Grand Ole Opry Star/Co-Host Jeannie Seely, Country Music Hall of Fame Member/Co-Host Brenda Lee and Janice Jackson. Not Pictured: Renee Bell. Photo: Moments By Moser Photography

“A lot of women have done a lot of work. That’s why we’re here,” Lee shared. Seely concurred, saying, “I love honoring the women who do the real work behind the scenes.”

Van Mol was the first inductee to be honored. Her career has included time at Cellar Door Concerts, William Morris Endeavor (WME), MAD Booking & Events, Creative Artist Agency (CAA), NYU and her own, MAC Presents. The executive recently opened up the new music venue and event space in Hillsboro Village, AB.

Van Mol was honored with some words of praise from the President of Virgin Music, Jacqueline Saturn, via a video.

When Van Mol got up to speak, she encouraged those in the room to empower others. She spoke about those who mentored her, including her aunt, former music industry executive Bebe Evans.

“If there’s one thing I could say to all of you here, it’s about giving women an opportunity and giving them a shot,” Van Mol said. “I challenge every woman in here to use your voice, use your platform and give every opportunity that you can to the next generation of female leaders because we need them.”

Next to be honored was Bell, who was unfortunately ill and not able to attend in person.

Bell impacted the Nashville music industry during her time at MCA and RCA/Sony, working in A&R with some of the brightest stars in country music. One of those stars, Kenny Chesney, sent Bell well wishes from somewhere picturesque.

BMI’s Leslie Roberts accepted the honor of behalf of Bell, reading some notes she had prepared for the occasion.

“Thank you to all of the women who paved the way for me,” Bell wrote. “To name a few: Connie Bradley, Donna Hilley, Celia Froehlig, Mary Martin, Martha Sharp and Margie Hunt. Thank you SOURCE for this amazing honor.”

Jackson was honored next. Her tenure on Music Row includes stints at ASCAP, Capitol/EMI/Liberty Records, Blendingwell/Sister John Music, Maypop Music Group, Almo/Irving Music, Joe Scaife Productions & Publishing, Copyright Society of the South, Writer’s Den Music Group, MCS Music America, Inc., Peermusic and Travellers Hollow Music.

British singer-songwriter Mark Knopfler paid his respects to Jackson via video, telling fun stories about his time with her in Nashville.

Jackson used her time at the podium to talk about some of the songwriters and executives she was grateful to have worked with.

“I wouldn’t be here without the help and encouragement of so many,” she said. “To my fellow SOURCE Hall of Fame inductees, both past and present, allow me to borrow a phrase from Rodney Crowell: ‘Kudos to you for a job well done.'”

The Gospel Music Association’s Patillo was the next to be honored. Before becoming head of the GMA, her career stops included Star Song Communications, Integrity Gospel/Integrity Media, Verity Records and Sony Music Entertainment.

Gospel great CeCe Winans congratulated Patillo via video for the honor. When Patillo spoke, she talked about her journey’s mountains and valleys.

“I pray all of our stories here tonight will encourage others and continue to shine a light on the important work that women are doing in our industry. God bless you all and to God be the glory,” she said.

Shanks was the next to be inducted. She made her mark while working at United Artists Agency/CBS Songs, Maypop Music and Peermusic. Alabama‘s Teddy Gentry congratulated her via video.

When she spoke, Shanks highlighted moments in her career that put stars in her eyes, of which there were many.

“I made the decision in 2014 to retire and spend more time with family and friends–and a little more beach time. I still had stars in my eyes from all of those wonderful memories and a star for each writer that I had hopefully helped along the way,” Shanks said. “Tonight I am receiving a very special star and gratefully thank SOURCE for this honor. All those stars will forever brightly shine.”

The next to be honored was Stiff, who impacted the industry while working at GreilWorks,Teena Shirts, BareWorks, Summer Lights, Keith Case and Associates, Scared Stiff Music and Sheehan’s Pub Co., Bob Titley Management and DS Management. Longtime client and friend Alison Krauss, alongside Robert Plant, congratulated her in a funny, musical video.

True to her heart as an artist manager, Stiff used a lot of her time at the podium to speak about the talent she had gotten to work with as a manager and as an Executive Music Producer on O Brother, Where Art Thou?

“I am so grateful for it all. I’m grateful for all of the incredibly artists I was privileged to work with and for all of the people who helped me along the way.”

Summers was the final honoree to be inducted. Her career has included time at William Morris Agency, Inc./WME, Destination Music/Gary Musick Production and Arrington Vineyards.

Summers was honored with a video message from Kirk Franklin. When she spoke, she recognized the friends and colleagues who had lifted her up along the way.

Summers recognized her friend Chevy Nash for helping her to see her potential. “She was the first person to encourage me to have a career,” Summers said. “She encouraged me to not be a stupid blonde from Oklahoma and learn about business, how to be better at what I do and how to embrace music.”

Connor McCutcheon Signs With Spirit Music Nashville/Fluid Music Revolution

Pictured (L-R, front row): Spirit Music Nashville’s Andy Hodges, Spirit Music Nashville/Fluid Music Revolution’s AJ Burton, Connor McCutcheon, Spirit Music Group’s Frank Rogers and Spirit Music Nashville’s Kara Jackson; (L-R, back row): Spirit Music Nashville’s Kennedy Murphy, Brian Bradford, Cole Perry, Lewis Brisbois’ Austin Wells and McKenzie Boyd

Connor McCutcheon has signed a worldwide publishing deal with Spirit Music Nashville/Fluid Music Revolution.

The Nashville singer-songwriter has opened for artists Gary LeVox, Trey Lewis and Mitch Rossell, and headlined his own shows, bringing a contagious energy to all. He has performed at the Music City Grand Prix Riverfront and iHeart Radio Stages, Whiskey Jam and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

“We are very excited to welcome Connor McCutcheon to Spirit/Fluid,” says Frank Rogers, Chief Creative Officer, Spirit Music Group & Chief Executive Officer, Spirit Music Nashville. “Connor has the ability to write songs that draw you in lyrically and then deliver those songs with an honest, unique voice. We feel the sky is the limit for Connor both as a songwriter and an artist.”

“It’s not every day a talent like Connor enters your radar,” states AJ Burton, Vice President, Spirit Music Nashville/Fluid Music Revolution. “Kid is a born entertainer, has an impeccable drive to succeed and is a great storyteller. This is gonna be a fun ride!”

“I couldn’t be more excited to join the Spirit Music Nashville/Fluid Music Revolution team! From the first time I met Frank, AJ and the rest of the team, I knew they were building something special,” shares McCutcheon. “I feel so blessed to have a team that believes in me just as much as I believe in them. Can’t wait to get to work!”