Chase Matthew Signs With CAA [Exclusive]

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Pictured (L-R): Ken Madson (Ignition Management), Rachel Brittain (CAA) , Darin Murphy (CAA), Chris Burrus (CAA), Chase Matthew, Meredith Jones (CAA), Loyd Potts (Ignition Management), Cat Carson (CAA), Jeff Krones (CAA) and Emily Van Allsburg (CAA).

Chase Matthew has signed with CAA.

The Warner Records Nashville artist notched his first chart-topper last year with “Darlin’,” amassing more than 1.7 billion global streams and more than 2.5 million followers across social channels. The Nashville native is a member of the Class of 2024 for both Opry NextStage and MusicRow’s Next Big Thing, and earned a nomination at the 2024 People’s Choice Country Awards. He has shared stages with Keith Urban, Luke Bryan and Jason Aldean, among others. Matthew released his third studio album, Chase, last year and is gearing up to release more new music in the coming months.

He is currently amidst his “Holdin’ It Down World Tour,” which runs through the summer.

Matthew is managed by Loyd Potts and Ken Madson at Ignition Nashville.

Natalie Blakley Joins Publicist Team At PERK PR & Creative Agency

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Natalie Blakley

Natalie Blakley has joined PERK PR & Creative Agency as a publicist.

In her role, Natalie will support PR campaigns, client strategy and day-to-day communications, further strengthening PERK’s hands-on, artist-first approach.

“This chapter for PERK feels really special,” shares Trevor Perkins, Founder of PERK PR & Creative Agency. “We’ve been incredibly intentional about growing the team in a way that protects the culture we’ve built. Natalie immediately stood out because of her professionalism, her curiosity, and the way she shows up with genuine care.”

“I’m so excited to join a team that’s not only incredibly strategic but also truly cares about its artists,” says Natalie. “I can’t wait to work with this amazing roster and keep growing professionally.”

PERK PR & Creative Agency’s current client roster includes 3686 Records, Aaron McBee, Ashley Anne, Bottomland, Chad Sellers Project, Dani Jack, Dylan Jakobsen, Faith Schueler, Garrison Nunn, Hayden Coffman, Lane Smith, Madison Olivia, Mike Parker, Peech., Riser House, Riser House Rock, Robert Bacon, Sheyna Gee, Starfish Marketing & Creative, Taylor-Rae and Zach Crean.

Cole Phillips Inks With Eclipse Music Publishing

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Pictured (L-R): Kurt Locher, Anna Thiel, Cole Phillips, Penny Gattis and Courtney Crist.

Songwriter and producer Cole Phillips has signed a worldwide publishing deal with Eclipse Music Publishing.

As a guitarist, Phillips has toured internationally as a sideman for artists including Gretchen Wilson, Colt Ford and Canaan Smith. His credits span country, pop and EDM, with collaborations with Clever, Colt Ford, Scotty Hastings and more. Phillips’ projects throughout his career have collectively generated hundreds of millions of streams.

“Cole is the kind of creative force we’re always looking for,” says Penny Gattis, Partner at Eclipse Music Group. “He understands songs at their core—how they’re written, how they’re produced, and how they translate to an audience.”

“He can take on any role in the writer room,” adds Courtney Crist, Vice President of Eclipse Publishing. “Not only is he an incredible talent, but he’s also the kind of person everyone wants to be around. We’re thrilled to welcome him to the Eclipse Music Group family.”

“I’m grateful to join the Eclipse family,” says Phillips. “Their reputation for championing writers and building careers is second to none, and I’m excited to work with such an amazing publishing team. Big thanks to Penny, Courtney, Anna [Thiel], and Kurt [Locher] for their belief in me and for welcoming me so fully into the fold.”

Group Projects Publishing Adds Josh Kerr As Partner

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Pictured (L-R): Cooper Anstett, Emma Kiefer, Josh Kerr and Anthony Manker. Photo: Courtesy of Group Projects Publishing

Group Projects Publishing has added Josh Kerr as Partner, expanding the leadership team alongside founders Anthony Manker and Cooper Anstett, and Director of A&R Emma Kiefer.

A Grammy Award-winning songwriter, his catalog includes tracks with Kelsea Ballerini, Morgan Wallen, Kenny Chesney, Thomas Rhett, Russell Dickerson, Jessie Murph, Ashley Cooke, Jake Scott, Jordan Davis, Stephen Wilson Jr and more. Kerr recently led production on Dickerson’s latest album, which features the Jonas Brothers collaboration and No. 1 single “Happen To Me,” as well as writing and producing tracks on Rhett’s latest project. A frequent creative partner of for KING & COUNTRY with seven award-winning No. 1 singles, Kerr also co-produced Keith Urban’s CMA-nominated Graffiti U and co-wrote Little Big Town’s ACM-nominated “Sugar Coat.”

“This partnership with Group Projects is about investing in people,” says Kerr. I’m grateful for the opportunity to develop songwriters and artists, champion creativity, and build something meaningful together.”

“Partnering with Josh to support the development of the Group Projects Publishing roster strengthens our A&R capabilities and significantly amplifies the value of our collective resources, drawing on his seasoned industry wisdom, proven instinct for identifying hits, and leadership across writing, production, and creative development,” adds Kiefer. “We are deeply grateful and excited to collaborate alongside him, combining our ears, leveraging his hard-earned relationships and network, and building opportunities to win together.”

Liz Rose Renews Global Partnership With Warner Chappell Music

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Pictured (L-R, back row): Scott Ponce (Liz Rose Music), Austen Adams (WCM), Phil May (WCM) and Dave Pacula (Liz Rose Music). (L-R, front row): Christina Wiltshire (WCM), Liz Rose, Gracie Glass (Liz Rose Music)

Liz Rose has renewed her global partnership with Warner Chappell Music.

The Songwriters Hall of Fame member was a pivotal collaborator for Taylor Swift early in her career, co-writing 16 global hits, including “All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version),” “You Belong With Me” and “Teardrops On My Guitar,” among many others. Beyond that, she has earned cuts with Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, Blake Shelton, Megan Moroney, Dan + Shay, Parker McCollum, Chris Young and Eli Young Band, among many others. An ACM, CMA, and SESAC Songwriter of the Year recipient and Texas Heritage Songwriter Hall of Fame inductee, Rose was honored with a star on the Music City Walk of the Fame last year.

The renewed agreement also reinforces a landmark pact with Liz Rose Music, Rose’s independent publishing company, whose roster includes Eric Paslay, Adam Sanders, Cassidy Daniels and more.

“I’m really happy to continue my partnership with the Warner Chappell team,” shares Rose. “We’ve built something special together over the years, and I’m grateful for the trust, support, and shared commitment to great songs. I’m excited to see what this next chapter brings.”

“Without a doubt, Liz is one of the most influential songwriters of our time, with an impressive catalog of music whose impact transcends generations,” adds Austen Adams, President, WCM Nashville. “We’re proud to continue our longstanding relationship and remain committed to supporting her vision as both a songwriter and a leader. Together with Scott, they’ve built an incredibly talented roster of creators at Liz Rose Music, and we’re honored to be a part of their next chapter.”

Opry Partners With Martin Guitars To Create Opry 100th Anniversary Martin HD-28

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Opry member Vince Gill was the first artist to ever play the one-of-a-kind instrument when the guitar was introduced to the public for the first time and played it on the 100th Anniversary Opry show on November 28, 2025.

The Grand Ole Opry, George Gruhn of Gruhn Guitars, and Martin Guitars have teamed up to create a new, limited-edition Martin HD-28 Grand Ole Opry 100th Anniversary guitar.

Vince Gill was the first artist to ever play the one-of-a-kind instrument when the guitar was introduced to the public for the first time, playing it on the 100th Anniversary Opry show on November 28. The Martin HD-28 Grand Ole Opry 100th Anniversary is handcrafted to honor a century of music, storytelling, and unforgettable moments on country’s most iconic stage. Built on the foundation of Martin’s legendary HD-28, it delivers the bold, balanced Dreadnought tone players have long trusted with powerful bass, clear trebles, and rich overtones shaped by forward-shifted scalloped X-bracing.

To mark the Opry’s 100th anniversary, Martin’s artisans added exclusive unique details, including a headplate featuring a custom inlay of the historic WSM microphone rendered in mother-of-pearl and abalone, a tribute to the broadcast that carried country music nationwide. A matching commemorative inlay theme continues along the ebony fingerboard, celebrating a century of Opry history. Handcrafted with a solid spruce top, solid East Indian rosewood back and sides, bold herringbone top trim, and elegant antique white binding, this special HD-28 also features a comfortable Golden Era Modified Low Oval neck.

The limited edition Martin HD-28 Grand Ole Opry 100th Anniversary guitar is available for purchase here.

ONErpm Adds Mike Easterlin To Lead Nashville Office [Exclusive]

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Mike Easterlin. Photo: Courtesy of ONErpm

ONErpm has added Mike Easterlin as Managing Director of its Nashville division.

Easterlin brings decades of experience in A&R and promotion to the role, with stops at Virgin, Def Jam and Atlantic. He later served as co-president of the relaunched Elektra Records before co-founding Severance Records. At ONErpm, Easterlin will oversee A&R, roster development and day-to-day operations in Nashville.

“I’ve always believed in the independent spirit of artists—the drive to create, take risks and build something real. Helping talent find their voice and turn it into a lasting career has always been my passion,” shares Easterlin. “ONErpm embodies those same values: passion, focus, transparency, and a real commitment to giving artists a global platform to grow on their own terms.”

Additionally, ONErpm has added Josh Tomlinson as Director of A&R, Lindsey Terry as the Country Marketing Director, and Chad Neville as a Project Manager.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring my love for the song and the creator to ONErpm to help grow our Nashville business while working with some of the most forward-thinking minds in the music industry,” says Tomlinson.

Industry Ink: Broken Bow Records, BMI, NEEDTOBREATHE, Country Music Cruise, More

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Broken Bow Records Celebrates 50th No. 1

Pictured (L-R): Peter Strickland, Layna Bunt, JoJamie Hahr, Lee Adams & Jon Loba.

On Jan. 16, BMG Americas’ President, Frontline Recordings Jon Loba, BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville’s EVP, Recorded Music JoJamie Hahr and BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville’s General Manager Peter Strickland surprised Broken Bow Records’ VP, Promotion Lee Adams and Broken Bow Records’ Director, Promotion West Coast Layna Bunt with a plaque celebrating their 50th number one for Broken Bow Records.

 

BMI Hosts ‘How I Wrote That Song’ Series

Pictured (L-R): BMI’s Mike O’Neill, Edgar Barrera, JID, Laura Veltz, Rogét Chahayed, INK, BMI’s Mike Steinberg and Catherine Brewton. Photo: Louis Lee for BMI.

BMI hosted a Grammy edition of its How I Wrote That Song series at The London West Hollywood on Jan. 30.

The panel featured 2026 GRAMMY-nominated songwriters and producers Rogét Chahayed, INK, Edgar Barrera and Laura Veltz. BMI’s VP, Creative, Catherine Brewton led the discussion.

Over the two-hour panel, DJ Faucet played a couple of hit songs from each panelist, and the audience got an insider’s look into how each hit was created.

 

NEEDTOBREATHE Unveils ‘The Season of The Long Surrender’ Documentary

Youtube video

NEEDTOBREATHE has unveiled its The Season of The Long Surrender documentary.

Directed by Babysweet, The Season of The Long Surrender chronicles the making of the band’s 10th studio album, The Long Surrender. The documentary follows NEEDTOBREATHE in the studio, on stage, and on the road, with interspersed interviews with the band’s four members about what making the album has meant to each of them.

The Long Surrender will be released via MCA on March 27

 

Country Music Cruise Raises $57,900 Benefitting CMHOFM

Pictured (L-R): Ryan Hallquist, the Museum’s Manager of Advancement, Major Gifts; Mike Jason, StarVista LIVE President/Country Music Cruise Executive Producer; winning bidders Jeff King and Eric Blankenship; and Mike Robertson, Country Music Cruise Executive Producer. Photo: Sam Kerrigan/StarVista LIVE

Last week, the Country Music Cruise raised $57,900 benefitting the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s nonprofit mission of preserving the history of country music and making it broadly accessible to a global audience.

The money was raised through auctioning two acoustic autographed guitars prior to Josh Turner’s two headline performances. Both guitars were signed by Country Music Hall of Fame members Randy Owen of Alabama, Jimmy Fortune of The Statler Brothers, and Patty Loveless, as well as Turner, T. Graham Brown, Linda Davis, David Frizzell, Wade Hays, The Malpass Brothers, Neal McCoy, Chuck Mead, Shenandoah, and others.

 

John Carter Cash To Unveil First Visual Art Exhibition

John Carter Cash will unveil his first visual art exhibition, “Dark Hallways,” on Feb. 13 at Southern Underground Gallery in Leiper’s Fork, Tennessee.

“My art is not about the spaces we go through physically, but about those we move through internally,” he shares.

Cash will host an opening reception benefitting SOS Children’s Villages International.

Tyler Booth Signs JV Deal With Average Joes & Big Gassed Records

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Pictured (Back Row, L-R): Forrest Latta (President, AJE); Andrew Davis (SVP, AJE); Clinton Woolsey (CEO, EWC) and Allen Mitchell (President, EWC). (Front Row, L-R): Tyler Booth and Jamey Johnson. Photo: Joseph Cash

Singer/songwriter Tyler Booth has signed a joint venture agreement with Jamey Johnson’s Big Gassed Records and Average Joes Entertainment. He has also inked with The Erv Woolsey Company for management.

After playing festivals in high school and attending Morehead State, the Campton, Kentucky native recorded an EP, Make It to Mexico, and received more than 1 million views on his the video for “Hank Crankin’ People.” His song “Palomino Princess” garnered more than 22 million streams on Spotify alone. He has toured with Brantley Gilbert, Darius Rucker and Dwight Yoakam, and recorded with Brooks & Dunn on “Lost and Found” on their 2019 Reboot album.

“We couldn’t be more excited to be involved with Tyler,” shares Forrest Latta, president of Average Joes Entertainment. “After hearing his latest project – the talent, the growth, the ability to create the traditional sounds and compelling stories that have made country music great – we couldn’t get enough. And to partner with an icon like Jamey made this a no brainer. We had to be a part of it.”

“He is a wonderful singer and a great songwriter and he deserves to be heard,” Johnson says. “When I found out that he was off the label, I called him up and told him, ‘Keep writing. Keep your head up. Stay busy. Keep recording and let’s see what happens.’ He called me after he had recorded some songs and I listened to a few of them. He even asked me to sing on one with him. When I heard what he had been working on, I knew he was ready. He just needs an opportunity.”

“Tyler embodies the traditional, storytelling spirit that has been at the core of our company’s reputation since its formation in the ‘80s,” shares Erv Woolsey Company president Allen Mitchell. “As the EWC forges into the future, we couldn’t be more proud that he chose to partner with us for this next chapter of his career.”

HARDY Enters Top 10 On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart

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HARDY. Photo: Ryan Smith

HARDY has moved into the top 10 on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. With his own “Favorite Country Song” and Morgan Wallen’s “I Ain’t Comin’ Back” and “I Got Better,” the singer-songwriter sits at No. 10 this week.

Zach Bryan remains at No. 1 for the third consecutive week with all solo-penned “Appetite,” “Bad News,” “Drowning,” “Plastic Cigarette,” “Runny Eggs,” “Santa Fe,” “Say Why,” “Skin,” “Slicked Back” and “With Heaven On Top.” Chase McGill moves to No. 2 with “20 Cigarettes,” “Brunette,” “I Got Better,” “It Won’t Be Long,” “the hell you are” and “Water At A Wedding.”

Blake Pendergrass (No. 3), Ty Myers (No. 4) and Randy Montana (No. 5) round out this week’s top five.

The weekly MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart uses algorithms based upon song activity according to airplay, digital download track sales and streams. This unique and exclusive addition to the MusicRow portfolio is the only songwriter chart of its kind.

Click here to view the full MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart.