Big Loud Records, Back Blocks Music, Republic Records Partner To Sign Lily Rose

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Pictured (L-R, back row): Jeff Tanner (VP of Business Affairs, Big Loud), Matt Cottingham, (Ritholz Levy Fields LLP), Stacy Blythe (VP of Promotion, Big Loud), Rakiyah Marshall (CEO, Back Blocks Music), Lily Rose, Seth England (Partner/CEO, Big Loud), Candice Watkins (VP of Marketing, Big Loud), Joey Moi (Partner, Big Loud); (L-R, front row): Paul Logan (VP of Sync & Visual Strategy, Big Loud), Daira Eamon, Patch Culbertson (VP of A&R, Big Loud), Austen Adams (COO, Big Loud). Photo: Chris Hornbuckle (All pictured followed strict testing protocols and guidelines issued by the city health department.)

Big Loud Records, Back Blocks Music and Republic Records have signed emerging artist Lily Rose to a joint-venture record deal.

A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Rose has been pursuing a career in music for more than thirteen years. For the past eight years, she has been routing her own tours throughout the Southeast, while also selling out shows in major markets like Atlanta, New York and Nashville.

On Dec. 1, 2020, Rose posted a clip of “Villain,” a song she wrote with Mackenzie Carpenter and Kyle Clark (produced by Matt Morrissey) about a break-up she believed ended cordially, only to find out she’d been painted as the “bad guy” through social media. The song connected significantly with fans, leading Rose to independently release “Villain” on Dec. 15. The single immediately topped the iTunes all-genre chart. Since its release, “Villain” has amassed over 7 million on-demand streams, 78K in consumption and more than 300K monthly listeners on Spotify.

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“To say I’m excited and humbled to be a part of the Big Loud/Republic family is an understatement. You move to Nashville to sign deals like this, make music videos like these, and write the best songs possible,” says Rose. “Hell, we’re just getting started.”

“The country music business is on fire right now, and artists are breaking independently faster than ever before. Big Loud couldn’t be more excited to work with Lily Rose, who’s emerging from this pack of newcomers. Her voice becomes familiar after just one listen, and to pair that with her catalog of amazing unreleased songs, we believe she’s an artist who will be around for years to come. Lily is a voice that country music has needed for some time, and ‘Villain’ is just the reactive hit to get her started. Welcome to the Big Loud family, Lily,” shares Big Loud Partners (Seth England, Joey Moi, and Craig Wiseman).

Pictured (L-R, top row): Avery Lipman (Co-Founder/President, Republic Records), Tyler Arnold (EVP A&R, Republic Records), Seth England (Partner/Ceo, Big Loud); (L-R, bottom row) Lily Rose, Monte Lipman (Co-Founder/CEO, Republic Records), Rakiyah Marshall (CEO, Back Blocks Music)

“I couldn’t be more thankful to be a part of the partnership between Big Loud and Republic Records and continue to work alongside Lily Rose. Lily is an artist with a unique voice and bright career that will shift the country genre. She is building an amazing team around her to start the journey and tell her story,” says Rakiyah Marshall, Back Blocks Music.

“We’ve had the good fortune of working with Seth England and the Big Loud team for many years. This alliance continues to grow with the extraordinary new signing of Lily Rose and represents the latest evolution of our partnership, all on the heels of the historic Morgan Wallen release. Furthermore, as we prepare to launch the global campaign for Lily in the forthcoming months, we’re thrilled to work with Republic alumnus Rakiyah Marshall and her dynamic new company Back Blocks Music,” says Monte Lipman, Founder and CEO Republic Records.

Brett Young To Perform Live From The Runway In February

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Brett Young is performing a virtual concert to celebrate the launch of Spirit Airlines and Mastercard’s all-new Free Spirit® loyalty program and Free Spirit Mastercard. Brett Young: Live from the Runway will take place on Feb. 4 at 8 p.m. ET.

Young’s performance will be the first-ever concert streamed worldwide from the runway of Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, with planes speeding past. It will begin inside one of Spirit’s newest aircraft before moving outside, where an impressive light show will illuminate the plane’s livery — featuring Young’s face and the details of an upcoming sweepstakes that will be revealed during the show.

“It’s been amazing to team up with our friends from Spirit Airlines and Mastercard for our next virtual show—hope you’re able to tune-in to see all of the cool things they’ve been working on,” Young said. “Thanks to everyone who has continued to be a part of our virtual shows over the past year… I’m so excited to kick off 2021 with fun ways to stay connected until we can all be together again. See y’all on the runway!”

“Mastercard remains committed to bringing consumers closer to their passions through new and digital ways,” said Cheryl Guerin, EVP Marketing & Communications in North America for Mastercard. “Together with Spirit Airlines, we are thrilled to provide this streaming concert experience to the homes of many around the world in celebration of the new Free Spirit loyalty program and future travel with the Free Spirit Mastercard.”

“We know a lot of our guests miss going to concerts,” Spirit Airlines Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Bobby Schroeter said. “Inviting Brett Young to play at the airport is our way of bringing them that experience. We’re giving everyone who attends the concert 100 Free Spirit points to show them how quickly their points add up and how easy it is to redeem them, which they can do for every fare on every flight.”

Spirit will be donating 100,000 points to one of the charities closest to Young’s heart — myLIFEspeaks — which is focused on family empowerment, education, public health, and special needs advocacy in Haiti. The airline has a history of supporting the people of Haiti, and continues to serve Port-au-Prince while also providing the only scheduled service to Cap-Haitien from the U.S.

Sheltered Music Publishing, Patrick Joseph Music Sign Melissa Peirce

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Songwriter Melissa Peirce has signed to a partnership deal with Sheltered Music Publishing and industry veteran Pat Higdon’s Patrick Joseph Music.

Peirce’s songs have been recorded by Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, Lady A, Eli Young Band, David Nail and John Paul White (The Civil Wars), among others. Collectively her songs have sold over 12 million units, garnered over 120 million streams, and produced 3 Top 10 hits. Peirce wrote Tyler Farr’s No. 1 hit single, “A Guy Walks Into A Bar,” that was named one of NSAI’s “10 Songs I Wish I’d Written,” and also earned BMI, CMA, and NSAI Awards.

“I am so excited to be a part of Sheltered Music”, says Peirce. “I feel blessed to be part of a publishing company with a legend like Lance Freed at the helm, and the opportunity to work with Darrell Franklin again after many years. Darrell and Dann Huff gave me one of my first publishing deals as a developing writer and I saw many of my first successes with them. It feels like a full circle moment to be a part of this venture, having a 20-year friendship and working relationship with Darrell, and to be part of such a talented group of staff and writers. I am equally as excited to continue my ten-year partnership with publishing legend Pat Higdon. We have celebrated many successes together and I am looking forward to continuing that run with Lance, Darrell, Jenny [Hall] and Dann.”

“Melissa Peirce is a gifted and talented songwriter,” says Higdon. She brings great ideas and a ray of sunshine into every write. I’m so excited to continue working with her in partnership with a wonderful Sheltered Music team.”

Sheltered Music Publishing, SVP Franklin adds “Melissa was the first writer I signed back in the early 2000’s and she was the first writer I spoke to about the new company. Her work ethic, passion, and respect for her art has always stood out to me. She brings everything to the table every time she enters a writer room. I feel honored to be able to work with her again in this new partnership with Pat Higdon.”

CMA Funds Additional Nonprofits In Continuing Commitment To Pandemic Support

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The Country Music Association has strengthened its efforts to aid those affected by the pandemic through its Music Industry COVID Support initiative. The trade organization has outlined additional funding to five nonprofit partners: Music Health Alliance, Musically Fed, Notes for Notes, Porter’s Call, and The Store, which, along with previous nonprofit investments, are funded through CMA’s $3 million long-term COVID-19 commitment that began in early 2020.

Established as a portal for key resources for food supply, health and wellness, and career services, MICS helps connect industry professionals with appropriate nonprofits offering critical support. In the state of Tennessee alone, more than 50,000 music jobs have been impacted by the pandemic, with hundreds of thousands more estimated to be affected nationwide. At the onset of the pandemic, CMA donated $1 million to The Recording Academy’s MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund as well as a $100,000 donation to Music Health Alliance. CMA has continued to analyze and assess the specific needs of music professionals to determine the most vital resources and services to provide, and will announce further nonprofit investments in the coming weeks and months.

“Awareness is key. We are leaning on our entire industry to help us share these essential resources with those in need and keep our people healthy and stable,” said Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “Right now, we recognize the immediacy related to food supply, healthcare and career services, and these five organizations are providing incredible support to music professionals. With the prospect of a vaccine being widely available in the coming months, we will continue to invest in the future of our industry, and the needs required, as we near the return of live touring.”

Those in need are encouraged to visit CMAmics.com and utilize the new chatbot feature to learn more about specific resources available.

Matt Wynn Signs With Given Entertainment For Publishing, Management

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Pictured (L-R): Given Entertainment’s Emily Haupt, Cindy Owen and Kelsey Wise; Matt Wynn; Given’s Cliff Downs and McIntyre Barnhardt. Photo: Bev Moser

Matt Wynn has signed a publishing and management deal with Given Entertainment.

Wynn honed his talents during his teens while touring throughout the Midwest. He performed more than 200 shows in 2019, opening for artists including Luke Combs, Maren Morris, Sam Hunt, Brantley Gilbert, Brett Young, Chris Janson, Russell Dickerson, Jay Leno and more. His soulful sound is influenced by vocalists like Ronnie Dunn, Chris Stapleton and Travis Tritt. Wynn has been working with producer Cliff Downs, Given Entertainment’s Sr VP of Publishing and Artist Development, on new music.

“There is this remarkable authenticity in everything about Matt, as a songwriter, as an artist and most importantly, as a person,” Given Entertainment Founding Partner, Cindy Owen said.  “He is one of the best vocalists I have ever heard, with a soulful vocal style uniquely his own.  It will stop a room. We can’t wait for everyone to get to know this incredibly special guy and his music.”

“One of the biggest things writers and artists look for is a team and a place to call home. I’m blessed and proud to say that I have found that in Given,” Wynn said. “They opened their doors to me well before I officially signed with them. I believe in this company and more importantly I believe in the people there.”

CMT Reveals Next Women Of Country Class Of 2021

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CMT has named ten rising artists to its prestigious Next Women of Country (NWOC) franchise, marking the first-ever linear reveal in program history.

The CMT Next Women of Country Class of 2021 includes:
Ashland Craft
Brittney Spencer
Chapel Hart
Hannah Dasher
Harper Grae
MacKenzie Porter
Priscilla Block
Reyna Roberts
Sacha
Tenille Arts

Pictured (L-R, top row): Ashland Craft, Brittney Spencer, Chapel Hart, Hannah Dasher, Harper Grae; (L-R, bottom row): MacKenzie Porter, Priscilla Block, Reyna Roberts, Sacha, Tenille Arts

The news was shared during a dedicated three-hour special on CMT Hot 20 Countdown, which saw NWOC alum Ashley McBryde (2018), Carly Pearce (2016), Cassadee Pope (2014), Lauren Alaina (2014), Lindsay Ell (2014), Maggie Rose (2017), Maren Morris (2016), Mickey Guyton (2015), Tanya Tucker (2020-21 tour) and Tenille Townes (2019) welcoming the new class.

Tomorrow, Caylee Hammack (2020), Rissi Palmer and Lauren Alaina will host a one-hour digital special, CMT Presents: Next Women of Country Class of 2021, on CMT’s Facebook and YouTube channels featuring full performances from each of the new inductees, with a special appearance from CMT Equal Play ambassador Jennifer Nettles, who also headlined the 2016 CMT Next Women of Country Tour.

“We’re thrilled to welcome the newest class of CMT’s Next Women of Country,” said Leslie Fram, Senior Vice President, Music & Talent, CMT. “These artists represent the best of fresh new talent and the diversity of styles that country music has to offer. We look forward to providing this group more exposure than ever before, particularly within the ViacomCBS family on Pluto TV, as well as providing them with essential resources to help them build their musical careers.”

Over the next year, the new NWOC class will receive cross-brand support for their music and videos across CMT and CMT Music channels, CMT Radio (220+ channels), CMT Hot 20 Countdown, CMT.com and CMT social channels, in addition to cross-promotional opportunities for ViacomCBS’ MTV Entertainment Group.

New this year, the women will be featured in music video rotation in the newly permanent CMT Equal Play channel on Pluto TV, which offers country music 24/7 with an equal male/female playlist.

In addition, CMT will offer its new NWOC inductees access to independent media training, photography consultations and artist advocacy opportunities designed to assist them in supporting charitable causes and social issues. These resources will be provided by Nashville-based communications firm, The Change Agent·cy.

Chris Janson Celebrates Fourth Career No. 1, “Done”

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Photo (L-R): Mitch Oglesby, Matt Roy, Chris Janson, Jamie Paulin

Though it may have looked a little different than a normal No. 1 party, Anthem Entertainment and Warner Chappell Music hosted an intimate dinner this week for Chris Janson and the co-writers of his multi-week chart-topping single “Done.”

“Done” was a MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart No. 1 in July.

The hit song, written by Janson, Mitch Oglesby, Matt Roy and Jamie Paulin, marks the Warner Music Nashville’s fourth career No. 1 as an artist. “Done” follows his Gold-certified, No. 1 “Good Vibes.” Jason’s current single, “Waitin’ On 5,” is at country radio and streaming platforms.

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Tim Mcgraw, Tyler Hubbard Claim Most Added At Country Radio

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Topping off a whirlwind week, Tim McGraw and Tyler Hubbard have claimed the most added spot at country radio with their new collaboration “Undivided” released via Big Machine Records. This milestone marks the most first week adds in the history of the Mediabase chart.

“Undivided” debuted at No. 61 last week on the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart receiving a total of 25 new adds. This week, the single received 22 new adds and gained 337 spins putting it at No. 31 on the CountryBreakout Radio Chart.

To celebrate, the pair joined their respective management teams and label via Zoom.

Pictured (L-R): Row 1 – Big Machine Records’ Samantha Kane, Tracy Wilkinson, Bill Lubitz and Brooke Diaz; EM.Co’s Jack Purcell. Row 2 – Big Machine Records’ JC Coffey, Kris Lamb; Tim McGraw; Big Machine Records’ Clay Hunnicutt; EM.Co’s Kelly Clague. Row 3 – EM.Co’s Scott Siman; Big Machine Label Group’s Scott Borchetta; Tyler Hubbard; EM.Co’s Jeff Davis; Big Machine Label Group’s Erik Powell. Row 4: Full Stop Management’s Jeffrey Azoff and Irving Azoff; Big Machine Records’ Nicole Hunt; Hit Farm Management’s Halie Hampton.

Lucas Hoge Shares Gospel Favorites On New ‘Sunday Sessions’ Project

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Lucas Hoge‘s first gospel project, the 10-track acoustic Sunday Sessions, is out today (Jan. 22).

Sunday Sessions follows the tremendous response to Hoge’s #SundaySessions weekly live stream, which airs Sundays on Facebook at 8 a.m. PT in partnership with Country Rebel. The album features acoustic versions of gospel hymns and standards that were most requested during his Sunday live stream, along with some of Hoge’s original faith-based music. Hoge’s #SundaySessions have continue to chart on Pollstar‘s Weekly Livestream Chart for 28 out of 32 weeks.

The Nebraska native returns with his new series Hoge Wild for a second season in June 2021. The show had a successful inaugural season in the U.S. on Sportsman Channel in 2020 and is now airing in Canada Friday nights at 11 p.m. ET and re-airing throughout the week on Sportsman Channel Canada. Fans everywhere can stream the series on MOTV. Hoge Wild takes viewers across the globe with the singer as he travels to New Zealand, Bolivia, Africa and more.

Sunday Sessions Track List: 
1.) Sweet By and By
2.) Because He Lives
3.) Just A Closer Walk With Thee
4.) Don’t Fear Goodbye
5.) Power In The Blood
6.) How Great Thou Art
7.) Old Rugged Cross
8.) Have I Done Something
9.) Everlasting Arms
10.) This Little Light Of Mine Medley

Pat Barrett Readies Sophomore Album For February

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Pat Barrett is set to release his sophomore album, Act Justly, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly, on Feb. 26 on Bowyer & Bow/Capitol Christian Music Group.

The new album features 17 tracks, including four songs released in 2020 (“Canvas and Clay,” “Lightning (ft. Harolddd),” “No Weapon,” and “Heavenly”). It was recorded over the span of two years and highlights Barrett as a worship leader as well as an artist/songwriter and features guest artists such as Chris Tomlin on “As For Me” and Harolddd on “Lightning.”

Accompanying the studio project will be specially-recorded live videos released over the next few months with appearances including Tomlin, Mack Brock, Jon Reddick and Franni Rae Cash of We The Kingdom. The pre-order for the new album is available now, along with the title track and lyric video.

“I made a promise to myself years ago to only share songs that have helped me in some way,” said Barrett. “For this album, I have tried to stay true to that promise. Act Justly, Love Mercy, Walk humbly…Act, love, walk….for me, these have been the songs that touch every area of my life. The songs that have helped ‘make sense’ of things, and also the songs that have helped set the table of communion when not much has made sense at all. Some songs are about matters of the heart and some songs are matter of fact about how things aren’t the way they should be. It felt important to include both. In a lot of ways I see this collection as an invitation to abide in God, but also an invitation to change. The type of change that happens when you audit your soul and don’t like what you find. These are the songs I’ve sung at the top of my lungs on Sunday and under my breath on Monday. Songs about faith, hope, love, marriage, kids, questions, regret, moving on…and for me, all of it worship. So I’ve decided to keep all of it on this project.”