Applications Now Open: MusicRow’s 2025 Publisher Company Directory

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Applications are now open for the company directory in MusicRow‘s upcoming Publisher Issue. Companies can apply for inclusion through Friday, Aug. 29. Previously included companies will be solicited separately.

Along with the directory with contact information for Nashville’s publishing community, the issue also features exclusive editorial content focused on this essential segment of the music business.

Applications are now closed.

For questions, please contact the MusicRow team at directory@musicrow.com.

To reserve ad space in the 2025 Publisher issue, contact srobertson@musicrow.com. Rate card information is available here.

Subscribe to MusicRow here to make sure you don’t miss the annual Publisher Issue.

Jeannie Seely Honored During Star-Studded Opry Memorial Show

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Jeannie Seely’s 5,398th Opry show. Photo: Grand Ole Opry / Chris Hollo

Longtime beloved Opry member Jeannie Seely was honored at a special public service, “Jeannie Seely’s 5,398th Opry Show,” on Aug. 14 at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville.

The service was a nod to Seely’s record-setting 5,397 Opry performances throughout her career after her passing on Aug. 1 at 85. Hosted by 650 AM WSM and Grand Ole Opry personalities Mike Terry, Bill Cody, Charlie Mattos and Kelly Sutton, the tribute show featured performances from Ricky Skaggs with Sharon and Cheryl White of The Whites, Larry Gatlin, Darryl Worley, Jamie Dailey of Dailey & Vincent, Louise Mandrell, Steve Wariner, The War and Treaty, T. Graham Brown and Seely’s favorite bluegrass act, Cutter & Cash. Seely’s band accompanied several of the performances.

Victoria Shaw, Charles Esten, Bobby Tomberlin, Buddy Cannon and Erin Enderlin paid tribute to Seely in a writers’ round during the special farewell show, while Seely’s friends Rhonda Vincent, Mandy Barnett, Wendy Moten and Linda Davis sang “Leavin’ and Sayin’ Goodbye” as well as her hit, “Don’t Touch Me,” which began with Seely’s very own pre-recorded vocals. It earned a standing ovation from attendees.

Seely was also honored in video tributes from Dolly Parton, Jimmy Fortune and Keith Bilbrey. Speakers included Opry’s Senior VP and Executive Producer Dan Rogers; Opry Associate Producer Talent Gina Keltner; Robert Bailey, who served with Seely on the local SAG-AFTRA board; Springer Mountain Farms President Gus Arrendale; and Seely’s pastor Hubert Cunningham. 

The service concluded with all of the artists and Opry members in attendance gathering on stage to perform “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.” The finale also included Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, Bill Anderson, Vince Gill, Jamey Johnson, John Conlee, Rudy Gatlin, Riders in the Sky, Old Crow Medicine Show, Dailey & Vincent, The Isaacs, Billy Dean, Deborah Allen and Tim Atwood.

LOCASH’s Galaxy Label Group Expands With Promotion, Staff Addition

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Cheryl Broz, Mitch Mills

LOCASH’s Galaxy Label Group, founded by the duo’s Preston Brust and Chris Lucas, has announced a promotion and a staff addition to the company.

Cheryl Broz has been promoted to Galaxy VP of Operations and the company welcomes Mitch Mills as its new National Director of Promotion.

Brust and Lucas have worked hand-in-hand with Broz to facilitate a string of wins over the last year. In her new role, her responsibilities will also encompass digital initiatives and overall marketing strategy. Broz previously worked as an independent radio consultant for Crave Records, Columbia Records, Arista Records, EMI, Island-Def Jam and Curb Records before joining the Galaxy Label Group team in 2024.

“Cheryl continues to be an emerging industry leader with her keen vision of today’s music marketplace,” Brust says. “Her decades of resume and relationships combined with her modern understanding of discovery make her a slam dunk for leadership on the Galaxy rocket ship!”

Mills most recently spent 15 years at Atlantic Records/Elektra where he helmed releases for everyone from Kelly Clarkson to Bailey Zimmerman and Twenty One Pilots. Prior to Atlantic, he worked as Vice President of Adult Top 40 at Motown Records where he ignited campaigns for the likes of Nelly, Ingrid Michaelson, and more. Early in his career, Mills was a cornerstone of Vanguard Records, leading all promotion efforts and landing hits for the likes of Matt Nathanson. At Galaxy Label Group, his purview will include all formats, spanning Hot AC, pop, country and beyond.

“Mitch came to us from a vast resume of major labels and will head up the Galaxy Label Group New York office,” shares Lucas. “He has a natural ability for crossing music from format to format and knows the paths to finding new fans through innovative exposure strategies. Mitch’s level of energy and positivity is infectious.”

LOCASH just celebrated their multi-week No. 1 smash “Hometown Home” with a special party at BMI’s rooftop in Nashville, the first for Galaxy Label Group. Their current single “Wrong Hearts” also achieved the biggest country radio impact of their career upon its release.

Reach Broz at cheryl@galaxylabelgroup.net and Mills at mitch@galaxylabelgroup.net.

Warner Music Nashville Restructures Radio Team

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Paige Elliott & Andy Flick.

Warner Music Nashville’s radio department is restructuring to include two distinct teams.

The two teams, Team WMN and Team WAR, will be supported by a centralized radio executive team who will work on behalf of the entire roster.

As part of the restructuring, Andy Flick has been elevated to Senior Director, Syndication and Market Strategy. In his new role, Andy will be overseeing airplay, marketing and content strategy for all Warner Music Nashville artists and will report directly to Tom Martens.

Additionally, Paige Elliott will be taking the reins of Team WMN as National Director, Radio. She will continue reporting into Anna Cage.

Wyatt Ellis Inks With Limited Edition Music Publishing [Exclusive]

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Pictured (L-R): Greg Sowders, Wyatt Ellis and Neil Mason.

Wyatt Ellis has inked a global publishing administration deal with Los Angeles-based Limited Edition Music Publishing in conjunction with Warner Chappell Music.

The deal will cover Ellis’ full catalog, including recent releases and upcoming original compositions. Known for blending elements of bluegrass, Americana, folk and country, the east Tennessee native’s debut album, Happy Valley, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Bluegrass Albums chart

“We are thrilled to welcome Wyatt Ellis to the Limited Edition family,” says Greg Sowders and Marc Wilson, Co-Founders/Co-Presidents of Limited Edition. “His playing is as deeply soulful as it is technically brilliant, and his songwriting reflects wisdom well beyond his years. Wyatt represents the future of bluegrass and country music, and we’re honored to be part of his journey.”

“Wyatt’s partnership with Limited Edition/Warner Chappell marks the perfect next step in his career,” adds Ellis’ manager Neil Mason of Red Light. “The partnership unlocks opportunities in Nashville, Los Angeles and beyond, connecting him with top-tier co-writes and creative collaborations. Since first picking up a mandolin, Wyatt’s growth as a songwriter, artist, and instrumentalist has been nothing short of remarkable. With the Limited Edition and Warner Chappell teams curating sessions for his upcoming solo album, Wyatt is poised for his most impactful chapter yet.”

‘Opry 100 Honors’ Pays Tribute To Porter Wagoner

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Tuesday night’s “Opry 100 Honors Porter Wagoner” finale of performers singing “Y’All Come.” Photo: © Grand Ole Opry, by Chris Hollo

The Grand Ole Opry continued its “Opry 100 Honors” series Tuesday night (Aug. 12) by honoring legendary Opry member Porter Wagoner.

Opry members Marty Stuart, Connie Smith, The Isaacs, Mandy Barnett and Old Crow Medicine Show’s Ketch Secor, plus Rhett Akins, Chuck Mead, Gordon Mote and more paid tribute to Wagoner during the special “Opry 100 Honors Porter Wagoner” show.

Marty Stuart unveils his specially-designed Opry 100 themed mic stand on Tuesday night’s show “Opry 100 Honors Porter Wagoner.” Photo: © Grand Ole Opry, photo by Chris Hollo

During the tribute, Stuart unveil his specially-designed Opry 100 themed mic stand that was designed in the same iconic style worn by not only him but by longtime friend Porter Wagoner, whose style he emulated. The retro-styled stage wear both Stuart and Wagoner wore were designed by master designer Manuel Cuevas. The custom mic stand was inspired by Stuart’s style, reflecting his iconic wardrobe and specifically the look he wore on the night of his Opry induction, Nov. 28, 1992. The mic stand will be used for special performances throughout the Opry’s centennial celebration and was commissioned exclusively to celebrate Marty Stuart for the Opry’s 100th year.

Upcoming “Opry 100 Honors” shows will include “Opry 100 Honors Bill Monroe” (Sept. 16) featuring Opry members Ricky Skaggs, Del McCoury Band, Carly Pearce, Riders In The Sky as well as The Kentucky Headhunters, The Brothers Comotose and more, and “Opry 100 Honors Minnie Pearl and Roy Acuff” (Oct. 18) featuring performances by Opry members Vince Gill, Bill Anderson, Gary Mule Deer, Old Crow Medicine Show, Steve Wariner, plus Chonda Pierce, and more.

FEMco To Host Conversation With Megan Moroney & Diane Warren

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FEMco will host its first interview-based series on Sept. 2 at Anzie Blue. The event will feature Diane Warren in conversation with Megan Moroney. The event will be moderated by FEMco’s Leslie Fram portions of the proceeds benefit local animal rescue organizations via MuttNation..

“Having the incomparable Diane Warren and Megan Moroney in the same room, meeting in person for the very first time, and having the privilege of listening to the experiences and perspectives of these two compelling and accomplished women is PERFECTION,” says Fram. “This one-of-a-kind FEMco Presents experience is the type of event that the music community here lives and breathes for, and I could not be more excited to launch this series with these two extraordinary women.”

The one-hour, ticketed event is sponsored by MTSU’s College of Media & Entertainment and tickets to the event are available now.

MusicRow Weekly (News, Charts, More…)

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This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly is brimming with notable career moves, strategic promotions and exciting milestones across the music industry. Click here to see the full edition.

A major leadership transition is on the horizon as industry executive Austen Adams has been named President of Warner Chappell Music Nashville. Adams, who officially begins his new role on Sept. 15, will report to WCM Co-Chairs and CEO Guy Moot and COO Carianne Marshall. He brings with him a deep well of experience, having spent the past six years as COO of Big Loud’s Publishing and Records divisions. His leadership at Big Loud helped shape the careers of standout artists like Morgan Wallen, HARDY, Miranda Lambert, Ernest and Stephen Wilson Jr.

In celebration of its 10th anniversary, The Kinkead Entertainment Agency has announced two promotions. Julie Devereux has been elevated to CEO, while Greg Scott has been named President. Devereux, whose background includes high-level advertising campaigns for brands like Pepsi and Taco Bell and management of artists like Tracy Nelson and Sammy Kershaw, will continue to oversee agency development, including its film and television ventures. Scott, who joined Kinkead at its founding in 2015, brings a dual degree in music business and production, and decades of experience as both a touring artist and label owner. He’ll now lead all live performance bookings and talent development efforts for the agency.

At Big Machine Label Group, Justin Ford has been promoted to Vice President, Creative Design & Branding. Ford, previously Senior Creative Director, has been an integral part of BMLG’s visual identity for a decade, contributing award-winning work for artists such as Thomas Rhett, Carly Pearce and Sheryl Crow. His efforts have been recognized with numerous honors including Davey, Communicator and PRINT Awards. Ford, a Murray State University alum, continues to lead design strategy across the label’s roster.

Meanwhile, the Grand Ole Opry stage was the site of a touching moment this week. On Saturday night (Aug. 9), country music icon Kathy Mattea received a surprise invitation from Opry member Charlie McCoy to become the newest member of the esteemed institution.

Rising artist Lanie Gardner made her Opry debut on Aug. 6, performing her songs “Hills Have Eyes” and “Faded Polaroids,” the title track of her forthcoming sophomore album.

In artist representation news, LOCASH, the duo of Preston Brust and Chris Lucas, has signed with CAA for exclusive representation in all areas. Sticks Management has expanded its roster with the addition of Gavin Adcock. At the same time, Adcock’s manager, Saxon Curry, has officially joined the company.

River House Artists continues to bolster its team with the addition of Helena Akhtar as Director of Digital Marketing & Artist Development.

Veteran music executive Benny Brown has made waves with the acquisition of Wide Open Music Publishing and the launch of a new venture: North Chapel Music. The new company inherits the full Wide Open catalog, including several country chart-toppers such as Brett Young’s Diamond-certified hit “In Case You Didn’t Know,” Matt Stell’s “Prayed For You,” and George Birge’s “Cowboy Songs” and “Mind On You.”

Lastly, Relative Music Group has announced a global publishing deal with Jeb Gipson, in partnership with Sony Music Publishing.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Scotty McCreery and Hootie & the Blowfish return to the No. 1 spot with “Bottle Rockets.” Explore more chart data here.

The MusicRow Weekly is delivered every Friday, featuring Nashville’s top music industry news, exclusive interviews, song reviews, radio and songwriter charts and more. Sign up for free here.

Industry Ink: Old Dominion, Alison Brown, Nikki Kovacevich, Under Color, Jon Wolfe

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Old Dominion Earns New RIAA Certifications

Pictured (L-R): Clint Higham (Morris Higham), Taylor Lindsey (Sony Music Nashville), Trevor Rosen, Geoff Sprung, Brad Tursi, Matthew Ramsey, Ken Rebold (Sony Music Nashville) and Will Hitchcock (Morris Higham).

Old Dominion has earned new RIAA certifications, marking “Memory Lane” going double Platinum, “Snapback” hitting triple Platinum, and “One Man Band” ascending to 8x Platinum.

The honors were presented by representatives from Sony Nashville during a listening party for the band’s upcoming record Barbara at their own Odie’s bar.

“What do I say now?” frontman Matthew Ramsey said while holding the new Platinum record for “One Man Band.” “We’re very excited about this album. I think it’s the most united we’ve been as a band, from the writing, recording, to how we feel about the final product. We can’t wait to share it with you.”

 

CMHOFM Honors Alison Brown

Pictured (L-R, back row): Museum writer-editor Allison Moorer, Lorianne Crook, Sally Williams, Alison Brown, Sarah Trahern and museum CEO Kyle Young. (L-R, front row) Bebe Evans and Bonnie Garner. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum recognized Alison Brown this week at its 17th annual Louise Scruggs Memorial Forum in the museum’s Ford Theater. This annual forum, which began in 2007, recognizes music industry leaders who continue the legacy of Louise Scruggs. During an in-depth interview with museum writer-editor Allison Moorer, Brown discussed her more than 35 years as a musician, producer, songwriter and record label executive. The program featured a special performance by Brown, Becky Buller, Sierra Hull and Molly Tuttle.

Known for her blend of diverse musical styles, Brown has recorded twelve solo albums and has produced works for Claire Lynch, Bobby Osborne and Peter Rowan, among others. She released her Grammy-nominated debut album, Simple Pleasures, in 1990 and became the first woman to win the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Banjo Player of the Year award in 1991. Brown won a Grammy for Best Country Instrumental Performance in 2001 and was inducted into the American Banjo Hall of Fame in 2019. In 1995, Brown co-founded the internationally recognized label Compass Records with her husband, Garry West. Over the last 30 years, the label has amassed a catalog of more than 1,000 releases across multiple imprints.

 

Nikki Kovacevich Joins Black River Entertainment As Marketing & PR Coordinator

Nikki Kovacevich. Photo: Courtesy of Black River Entertainment

Black River Entertainment has added Nikki Kovacevich as Marketing and PR Coordinator.

The Ohio native has made stops at The Lede Company and King Publicity prior to joining Black River.

“I’m so excited to start this journey with Black River Entertainment,” says Kovacevich. “Working alongside such creative and driven artists and staff is honestly surreal. I can’t wait to dive in, grow, and be a part of shaping what’s next!”

 

Under Color Celebrates Launch

Photo: Jordan Simison

Under Color, the new artist management and creative services company founded by Kohl Almire, officially celebrated its launch on Aug. 12 at The Lipstick Lounge. The evening featured performances from roster artists Maddie Medley and Harleigh Colt (Charlie Holt), drawing a full house of artists, industry leaders and community members in support.

“Launching Under Color is about creating a space where artists can be fully themselves,” says Almire. “This event wasn’t just a celebration of the company, it was a celebration of the community we’re building around vulnerability, artistry and identity.”

 

Jon Wolfe and Friends: Hill Country Flood Relief Benefit Raises $115,000

Jon Wolfe and Friends: Hill Country Flood Relief Benefit

The Jon Wolfe and Friends: Hill Country Flood Relief Benefit raised over $115,000. Wolfe was joined on stage by Tracy Byrd, Kevin Fowler, Roger Creager, William Beckmann, Radney Foster, Kelly Willis, Jake Worthington, Kylie Frey, Bleu Edmondson, Billie Jo Jones, Walker Montgomery, David Lewis, Clay Hollis and Cody Hibbard.

“Last night was a true testament to the heart of the hill country and the selfless people that live here and visit here. It was truly a special night for a much needed cause. The impact of the catastrophic floods in Kerr County and surrounding areas has left such a massive need for help – I’m beyond thankful to have the opportunity to work with Gruene Hall and humbled by the amazing artists that gave of their time and talents,” shares Wolfe.

Sons Of Habit Sign With WME

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Pictured (L-R, front row): Hagan Edge, Dalton Daniels, Mitchell Douglas, Jeffrey Parish and Noah Patrick; (L-R, back row): WME’s Adam Fisher, Champ Management / Red Light Management’s Evan Miller and Matt Musacchio and WME’s Janelle Flint. Photo: Dakota DeGraw

Rising indie folk band Sons of Habit has signed with WME for exclusive global representation across all areas.

Formed only a year ago in the small community of Habit, Kentucky, Sons of Habit is comprised of childhood friends lead singer Mitchell Douglas, writing partner Hagan Edge and bandmates Dalton Daniels, Jeffrey Parish and Noah Patrick—all who hail from Owensboro, Kentucky. The group takes its name from the trailer in Habit where they first began making their music, blending country grit, rock edge and heartfelt storytelling into a sound all their own.

Last week, the band released “Fool’s Gold,” which comes on the heels of their debut EP, Nostalgia, released earlier this year. Fans can hear the music and more as the band continues their “A Long Way From Corydon Tour.” Since their first single “Madeline,” Sons of Habit has earned millions of streams, played headline shows nationwide, and shared stages with Ole 60, Shane Smith & The Saints, The Revivalists and Dustin Lynch.

“Sons of Habit’s authenticity, musicianship and undeniable chemistry make them one of the most exciting new acts on the scene,” says WME’s Adam Fisher. “We’re thrilled to welcome them to WME and look forward to helping them bring their music to audiences worldwide.”

“We’ve been chasing this dream since those first nights in the trailer back in Habit, Kentucky,” says Sons of Habit. “To have WME in our corner means we can take the music we love to even more people, in more places, than we ever imagined. This is just the beginning.”