The AIMP Nashville Chapter Board of Directors; Back row, (L-R): Mark Brown (Round Hill), Mike Sistad (ASCAP), John Ozier (Reservoir), Michael Martin (Endurance Music Group), ET Brown (SESAC), Chris VanBelkom (Combustion), Courtney Crist, and Alex Heddle (Big Machine). Front row, (L-R): Duff Berschback (Concord), Shannan Hatch, Courtney Kruckeberg (Endurance Music Group), Kendall Lettow (Peer), and Emily Boardman (Hipgnosis). Not Pictured: Robert Carlton, Ree Guyer, Tim Hunze, Leslie Roberts, and Shannon Sanders.
The Nashville Chapter of the Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP) announced the winners of its 6th Annual AIMP Nashville Awards at a special socially distanced event hosted by Charles Esten at The Listening Room Café in Nashville on Tuesday, April 27. The ceremony was also livestreamed to AIMP members.
During the ceremony, Big Machine Music was named Publisher of the Year, with Songwriter of the Year going to Hillary Lindsey (Concord Music Publishing) and Artist-Writer of the Year to Ashley McBryde (Jody Williams Songs).
In addition, Song of the Year went to Lee Brice’s “One of Them Girls” (written by Ashley Gorley, Ben Johnson, Dallas Davidson, and Lee Brice). Hardy’s “Give Heaven Some Hell” (written by Ashley Gorley, Ben Johnson, Hunter Phelps, and Michael Hardy) was named Publisher’s Pick.
AIMP Nashville also recognized Matt Alderman (Curb | Word Music Publishing) as Rising Songwriter of the Year and Ruston Kelly (Concord Music Publishing) as Rising Artist-Writer of the Year. The Song Champion award was presented to Ward Guenther (Whiskey Jam).
The event featured live performances of many of the Song of the Year and Publisher’s Pick nominees, including Ashley McBryde performing Jon Pardi’s “Ain’t Always the Cowboy,” Carly Pearce performing Maddie & Tae’s “Die from a Broken Heart,” Hardy performing Jameson Rodgers’ “Some Girls” (which he co-wrote), Jon Pardi performing Miranda Lambert’s “Bluebird,” Maddie & Tae performing Ashley McBryde’s “One Night Standards” (with McBryde accompanying on Jon Pardi’s guitar), and Tenille Arts and Adam Hambrick performing Carly Pearce and Lee Brice’s “I Hope You’re Happy Now.”
Video performances of Lee Brice playing “Give Heaven Some Hell” and Ryan Hurd playing “One of Them Girls” were also presented.
“Last night was a reaffirmation of the Nashville independent music community and the powerful work they have done to get us through this past year,” said Ree Guyer, Vice President of the AIMP Nashville Chapter and Co-Chair of the AIMP Nashville Awards. “As we approach the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are excited about the return of in-person songwriting sessions, writers’ rounds, and live performances, and know our winners and nominees will continue to create amazing music to soundtrack the hopefully joyous year ahead.”
“Congratulations to all the independent publishers and songwriters who won or were nominated for AIMP Nashville Awards this year!” said John Ozier, AIMP National Chair and President of the AIMP Nashville Chapter. “In an unprecedented and dark time, their songs provided a light for so many. It is a testament to the power of music, which would not exist without those who do the difficult and sometimes unheralded work of songwriting. We are happy to shine a light on them today.”
The full list of winners and nominees by category can be found below.
Big Machine Music celebrated another major milestone when they took home Publisher of the Year for the first time at the 6th Annual AIMP Nashville Awards. BMM’s dynamic catalog features over 12,000 songs and three dozen chart-toppers, including five-week No. 1 “Better Together” (written and recorded by Luke Combs) as well as works from Grammy-nominated songwriters Laura Veltz’s “The Bones” (recorded by Maren Morris) and Jessie Jo Dillon’s “10,000 Hours” (recorded by Dan + Shay and Justin Bieber), which holds the highest streaming first-week in country music history. Pictured back row, (L-R): Catalog Manager Taylor Courtney, Vice President Tim Hunze, Vice President Alex Heddle, Sr. Director of Royalties and Finance Grayson Stephens; Front row, (L-R): Creative Director Michelle Attardi, General Manager Mike Molinar, and Creative Coordinator Lizzy Gallatin. Photo Credit: Katie Kauss
RISING SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
Alex Kline (Ziggys Z Music)
Benjy Davis (Big Machine Music)
Jake Mitchell (Reservoir Media / Patrick Joseph Music)
WINNER – Matt Alderman (Curb | Word Music Publishing)
Neil Medley (Mojo Music & Media / Son of a Carl Music)
Nicolette Hayford (River House / SMACKSongs)
Steph Jones (Disney Music Publishing / Hipgnosis Song Group)
RISING ARTIST-WRITER OF THE YEAR
Avenue Beat (Tape Room Music)
Jameson Rodgers (Combustion Music)
WINNER – Ruston Kelly (Concord Music Publishing)
Ryan Hurd (Big Machine Music)
Tenille Arts (Oven Music)
Tenille Townes (Big Yellow Dog)
ARTIST-WRITER OF THE YEAR
WINNER – Ashley McBryde (Jody Williams Songs)
Brothers Osborne (King Pen Music)
Carly Pearce (Altadena)
Eric Church (Little Louder Music)
Jon Pardi (Song Factory Music)
SONG CHAMPION OF THE YEAR
Allison Jones (Big Machine Label Group)
Ciara Shortridge (Curb | Word Music Publishing)
Jake Gear (Hang Your Hat Music)
Laurel Kittleson-Cobb (Curb | Word Entertainment)
Trina Smith-Dort (Me Gusta Music)
WINNER – Ward Guenther (Whiskey Jam)
PUBLISHER’S PICK
“Beautiful Noise” written by Alicia Keys, Brandi Carlile, Brandy Clark, Hailey Whitters, Hillary Lindsey, Lori McKenna, Linda Perry, Ruby Amanfu.
Independently published by Atlas Music Publishing, Big Machine Music, Carnival Music, Concord Music Publishing, Creative Nation, Deep Dark Robot Music, Happy People Music, Like Butta Baby Music, Maps and Records Music, peermusic.
Recorded by Brandi Carlile & Alicia Keys
“Better Than We Found It” written by Jessie Jo Dillon, Jimmy Robbins, Laura Veltz, Maren Morris
. Independently published by Big Ass Pile of Dimes Music, Big Machine Music, Heroes and Halos Music, Millicent Hill Music, JRM3, Muse Magic, Round Hill Music.
Recorded by Maren Morris
“Chasing After You” written by Brinley Addington, Jerry Flowers.
Independently published by Adding Tone Music, Combustion Music, Downtown Music Group, Mojo Music & Media, Tape Room Music
. Recorded by Maren Morris & Ryan Hurd
WINNER – “Give Heaven Some Hell” written by Ashley Gorley, Ben Johnson, Hunter Phelps, Michael Hardy
. Independently published by Big Blue Nation Music, Caleb’s College Fund, Relative Music Group, Round Hill Music, Tape Room Music
. Recorded by HARDY
“Janice at the Hotel Bar” written by Hailey Whitters, Lori McKenna.
Independently published by Carnival Music, Creative Nation, Concord Music Publishing, Maps and Records Music, Pulse Music Group
. Recorded by Hailey Whitters
“Things a Man Oughta Know” written by Jason Nix, Jonathan Singleton, Lainey Wilson.
Independently published by Big Machine Music, Spirit Music.
Recorded by Lainey Wilson
SONG OF THE YEAR
“Ain’t Always the Cowboy” written by Brandon Kinney, Josh Thompson.
Independently published by Big Machine Music, MV2 Music, peermusic, Whiskey Tub Music.
Recorded by Jon Pardi
“Bluebird” written by Luke Dick, Miranda Lambert, Natalie Hemby.
Independently published by Emileon Songs, Little Louder Songs
. Recorded by Miranda Lambert
“Die From a Broken Heart” written by Deric Rutan, Jonathan Singleton, Madison Marlow, Taylor Dye
. Independently published by Big Machine Music, Jehovah Nissi Music, Seven Red Birds Publishing, Spirit Music
. Recorded by Maddie & Tae
“I Hope You’re Happy Now” written by Carly Pearce, Jonathan Singleton, Luke Combs, Randy Montana.
Independently published by 50 Egg Music, Altadena, Big Machine Music, Jett Music, Spirit Music, Straight Dimes Publishing
. Recorded by Carly Pearce & Lee Brice
WINNER – “One of Them Girls” written by Ashley Gorley, Ben Johnson, Dallas Davidson, Lee Brice
. Independently published by 8Minute Publishing, Artist Publishing Group, Big Blue Nation Music, Caleb’s College Fund, Play It Again Music Group, Natalia’s Music Money, Round Hill Music.
Recorded by Lee Brice
“One Night Standards” written by Ashley McBryde, Nicolette Hayford, Shane McAnally.
Independently published by Canned Biscuit Songs, River House, SMACKSongs, Smackstreet Music, Tempo Investments
. Recorded by Ashley McBryde
“Some Girls” written by CJ Solar, Jake Mitchell, Michael Hardy
. Independently published by Harding Road Music, Sea Gayle Music, Relative Music Group, West Pass Music.
Recorded by Jameson Rodgers
SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
Michael Hardy (Relative Music Group)
Ashley Gorley (Round Hill Music)
Shane McAnally (Tempo Investments)
Josh Thompson (MV2 Entertainment)
Ernest K Smith (Big Loud Music)
WINNER – Hillary Lindsey (Concord Music Publishing)
PUBLISHER OF THE YEAR
WINNER – Big Machine Music
Downtown Music Publishing
Kobalt Music
peermusic
Round Hill Music
SMACKSongs
AIMP Nashville Awards:
Founding Chairman:
Michael McAnally Baum,
Ree Guyer
2021 AIMP Nashville Awards Committee:
Ree Guyer, Courtney Crist, Shannan Hatch, Alex Heddle, Abbe Nameche, Sophie Moll
Production Team: Tim Fink, Nic Dugger
Graphics: Andy Sundin, Molly Bouchon
Warner Music Nashville Welcomes Zac Brown Band
/by Sarah SkatesWarner Music Nashville has signed Zac Brown Band via a deal with Warner Music Nashville / Home Grown Music. New music is expected soon from the band that has tallied more than nine billion streams and 15 No. 1 radio singles over the course of more than a decade.
“Warner Music Nashville and Zac Brown Band share a fundamental value: forging connections through amazing and heartfelt music,” says Warner Music Nashville Chairman & CEO John Esposito. “Their songs have ceaselessly fed our hearts and souls, and I am so proud to welcome them to our label home as we journey together into this new chapter.”
The multi-Platinum, three-time Grammy-winning band has had six consecutive albums reach the Top 10 of the Billboard 200 and five consecutive albums debut at No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Albums chart.
Warner joins the band’s team which includes managers David Plyler and Dirk Lemmenes at Home Grown Music, Scott Clayton and Matthew Morgan at WME, Cameo Carlson and Michael Corcoran at mtheory, Stephanie Jones at JONESWORKS and Reid Hunter at Serling Rooks Hunter McKoy Worob & Averill LLP.
“We couldn’t be more excited to become part of the Warner Music Nashville family,” says Zac Brown. “We feel incredibly blessed to be working with John Esposito, Cris Lacy, Ben Kline and their talented team. We’ve been hard at work in the studio and can’t wait to share our new music with our fans!”
Adds WMN EVP A&R Cris Lacy: “Zac Brown Band is known worldwide for their consummate musicianship, litany of timeless hits and incomparable live shows. From the moment they stepped onto the scene, they were grinding out this game-changing vision. When we heard the new music our only question was, ‘How quickly can we get this to the fans?’ It was absolutely, positively undeniable. Enough said. It feels good to have them back in the Warner family, and we’re excited to make some new history together.”
Hit Songwriter Pam Belford Passes
/by Robert K OermannPam Belford, Photo: Barbara Potter
Widely beloved Nashville songwriter Pam Belford passed away last Thursday (4/22) at age 70.
Noted for such songs as George Strait’s “If I Know Me” and “Holding My Own,” Belford was a favorite performer at The Bluebird Café and a longtime employee of the Nashville Public Library.
Pamela Anne Belford was born March 29, 1951. She began showcasing her songs at the Bluebird during “in the round” appearances in the early 1980s, and she remained a steady visitor to the songwriters’ mecca for more than 30 years. She was also a regular at the Commodore Lounge writers’ nights. In addition to her own songs, the petite entertainer was noted for performing witty parodies of others’ hits.
Noted as a skilled lyricist, she began writing poetry when she was nine and playing guitar at age 13 in Cincinnati, Ohio. Belford received the instrument as a Hanukkah present. She recalled that she couldn’t learn others’ songs when she played, so she started writing her own.
Her first publisher in Music City was Peermusic. She got her first cut when pop-music legend Connie Francis recorded “Don’t Tell Me Not to Cry” in 1981. Produced by Harold Shedd, the track was reissued in 2004 and 2020. In 1981, Terri Gibbs became the first country act to record her material.
She co-wrote songs with Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member Dean Dillon for five years. Their “If I Know Me” was a No. 1 hit for superstar Strait for two weeks in 1991. The fan favorite “Holding My Own” was the title tune of his 1992 album.
Belford’s other songwriting collaborators included Kent Blazy, Angela Kaset, David Ball, Angel Pontier, Aaron Barker, Jeremy Stover, Billy Dean and John Tirro. But much of her catalog is solo written.
That catalog includes “Sad State of Affairs,” which charted for Leon Everette in 1986. She also had cuts by such country artists as Doug Stone, Linda Jordan, Karen Taylor-Good, Blackcreek, Rich McCready, Renee Wahl, Anna Marie, Susan H. Brantley and Michael Dean Church, as well as Dean Dillon.
In 2015, she released her album Slow Dancing Cowboys & Strawberry Pie, marketing it on her Facebook page.
Pam Belford retired from the Nashville Public Library system five years ago. Details of her death have not been made public, but it was evidently sudden and unexpected. Funeral arrangements were not announced.
Friends and loved ones remember her warmth and kindness. Online tributes can be left here.
2021 AIMP Nashville Awards Winners Announced at 6th Annual Event
/by Sarah SkatesThe AIMP Nashville Chapter Board of Directors; Back row, (L-R): Mark Brown (Round Hill), Mike Sistad (ASCAP), John Ozier (Reservoir), Michael Martin (Endurance Music Group), ET Brown (SESAC), Chris VanBelkom (Combustion), Courtney Crist, and Alex Heddle (Big Machine). Front row, (L-R): Duff Berschback (Concord), Shannan Hatch, Courtney Kruckeberg (Endurance Music Group), Kendall Lettow (Peer), and Emily Boardman (Hipgnosis). Not Pictured: Robert Carlton, Ree Guyer, Tim Hunze, Leslie Roberts, and Shannon Sanders.
The Nashville Chapter of the Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP) announced the winners of its 6th Annual AIMP Nashville Awards at a special socially distanced event hosted by Charles Esten at The Listening Room Café in Nashville on Tuesday, April 27. The ceremony was also livestreamed to AIMP members.
During the ceremony, Big Machine Music was named Publisher of the Year, with Songwriter of the Year going to Hillary Lindsey (Concord Music Publishing) and Artist-Writer of the Year to Ashley McBryde (Jody Williams Songs).
In addition, Song of the Year went to Lee Brice’s “One of Them Girls” (written by Ashley Gorley, Ben Johnson, Dallas Davidson, and Lee Brice). Hardy’s “Give Heaven Some Hell” (written by Ashley Gorley, Ben Johnson, Hunter Phelps, and Michael Hardy) was named Publisher’s Pick.
AIMP Nashville also recognized Matt Alderman (Curb | Word Music Publishing) as Rising Songwriter of the Year and Ruston Kelly (Concord Music Publishing) as Rising Artist-Writer of the Year. The Song Champion award was presented to Ward Guenther (Whiskey Jam).
The event featured live performances of many of the Song of the Year and Publisher’s Pick nominees, including Ashley McBryde performing Jon Pardi’s “Ain’t Always the Cowboy,” Carly Pearce performing Maddie & Tae’s “Die from a Broken Heart,” Hardy performing Jameson Rodgers’ “Some Girls” (which he co-wrote), Jon Pardi performing Miranda Lambert’s “Bluebird,” Maddie & Tae performing Ashley McBryde’s “One Night Standards” (with McBryde accompanying on Jon Pardi’s guitar), and Tenille Arts and Adam Hambrick performing Carly Pearce and Lee Brice’s “I Hope You’re Happy Now.”
Video performances of Lee Brice playing “Give Heaven Some Hell” and Ryan Hurd playing “One of Them Girls” were also presented.
“Last night was a reaffirmation of the Nashville independent music community and the powerful work they have done to get us through this past year,” said Ree Guyer, Vice President of the AIMP Nashville Chapter and Co-Chair of the AIMP Nashville Awards. “As we approach the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are excited about the return of in-person songwriting sessions, writers’ rounds, and live performances, and know our winners and nominees will continue to create amazing music to soundtrack the hopefully joyous year ahead.”
“Congratulations to all the independent publishers and songwriters who won or were nominated for AIMP Nashville Awards this year!” said John Ozier, AIMP National Chair and President of the AIMP Nashville Chapter. “In an unprecedented and dark time, their songs provided a light for so many. It is a testament to the power of music, which would not exist without those who do the difficult and sometimes unheralded work of songwriting. We are happy to shine a light on them today.”
The full list of winners and nominees by category can be found below.
Big Machine Music celebrated another major milestone when they took home Publisher of the Year for the first time at the 6th Annual AIMP Nashville Awards. BMM’s dynamic catalog features over 12,000 songs and three dozen chart-toppers, including five-week No. 1 “Better Together” (written and recorded by Luke Combs) as well as works from Grammy-nominated songwriters Laura Veltz’s “The Bones” (recorded by Maren Morris) and Jessie Jo Dillon’s “10,000 Hours” (recorded by Dan + Shay and Justin Bieber), which holds the highest streaming first-week in country music history. Pictured back row, (L-R): Catalog Manager Taylor Courtney, Vice President Tim Hunze, Vice President Alex Heddle, Sr. Director of Royalties and Finance Grayson Stephens; Front row, (L-R): Creative Director Michelle Attardi, General Manager Mike Molinar, and Creative Coordinator Lizzy Gallatin. Photo Credit: Katie Kauss
RISING SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
Alex Kline (Ziggys Z Music)
Benjy Davis (Big Machine Music)
Jake Mitchell (Reservoir Media / Patrick Joseph Music)
WINNER – Matt Alderman (Curb | Word Music Publishing)
Neil Medley (Mojo Music & Media / Son of a Carl Music)
Nicolette Hayford (River House / SMACKSongs)
Steph Jones (Disney Music Publishing / Hipgnosis Song Group)
RISING ARTIST-WRITER OF THE YEAR
Avenue Beat (Tape Room Music)
Jameson Rodgers (Combustion Music)
WINNER – Ruston Kelly (Concord Music Publishing)
Ryan Hurd (Big Machine Music)
Tenille Arts (Oven Music)
Tenille Townes (Big Yellow Dog)
ARTIST-WRITER OF THE YEAR
WINNER – Ashley McBryde (Jody Williams Songs)
Brothers Osborne (King Pen Music)
Carly Pearce (Altadena)
Eric Church (Little Louder Music)
Jon Pardi (Song Factory Music)
SONG CHAMPION OF THE YEAR
Allison Jones (Big Machine Label Group)
Ciara Shortridge (Curb | Word Music Publishing)
Jake Gear (Hang Your Hat Music)
Laurel Kittleson-Cobb (Curb | Word Entertainment)
Trina Smith-Dort (Me Gusta Music)
WINNER – Ward Guenther (Whiskey Jam)
PUBLISHER’S PICK
“Beautiful Noise” written by Alicia Keys, Brandi Carlile, Brandy Clark, Hailey Whitters, Hillary Lindsey, Lori McKenna, Linda Perry, Ruby Amanfu. Independently published by Atlas Music Publishing, Big Machine Music, Carnival Music, Concord Music Publishing, Creative Nation, Deep Dark Robot Music, Happy People Music, Like Butta Baby Music, Maps and Records Music, peermusic. Recorded by Brandi Carlile & Alicia Keys
“Better Than We Found It” written by Jessie Jo Dillon, Jimmy Robbins, Laura Veltz, Maren Morris . Independently published by Big Ass Pile of Dimes Music, Big Machine Music, Heroes and Halos Music, Millicent Hill Music, JRM3, Muse Magic, Round Hill Music. Recorded by Maren Morris
“Chasing After You” written by Brinley Addington, Jerry Flowers. Independently published by Adding Tone Music, Combustion Music, Downtown Music Group, Mojo Music & Media, Tape Room Music . Recorded by Maren Morris & Ryan Hurd
WINNER – “Give Heaven Some Hell” written by Ashley Gorley, Ben Johnson, Hunter Phelps, Michael Hardy . Independently published by Big Blue Nation Music, Caleb’s College Fund, Relative Music Group, Round Hill Music, Tape Room Music . Recorded by HARDY
“Janice at the Hotel Bar” written by Hailey Whitters, Lori McKenna. Independently published by Carnival Music, Creative Nation, Concord Music Publishing, Maps and Records Music, Pulse Music Group . Recorded by Hailey Whitters
“Things a Man Oughta Know” written by Jason Nix, Jonathan Singleton, Lainey Wilson. Independently published by Big Machine Music, Spirit Music. Recorded by Lainey Wilson
SONG OF THE YEAR
“Ain’t Always the Cowboy” written by Brandon Kinney, Josh Thompson. Independently published by Big Machine Music, MV2 Music, peermusic, Whiskey Tub Music. Recorded by Jon Pardi
“Bluebird” written by Luke Dick, Miranda Lambert, Natalie Hemby. Independently published by Emileon Songs, Little Louder Songs . Recorded by Miranda Lambert
“Die From a Broken Heart” written by Deric Rutan, Jonathan Singleton, Madison Marlow, Taylor Dye . Independently published by Big Machine Music, Jehovah Nissi Music, Seven Red Birds Publishing, Spirit Music . Recorded by Maddie & Tae
“I Hope You’re Happy Now” written by Carly Pearce, Jonathan Singleton, Luke Combs, Randy Montana. Independently published by 50 Egg Music, Altadena, Big Machine Music, Jett Music, Spirit Music, Straight Dimes Publishing . Recorded by Carly Pearce & Lee Brice
WINNER – “One of Them Girls” written by Ashley Gorley, Ben Johnson, Dallas Davidson, Lee Brice . Independently published by 8Minute Publishing, Artist Publishing Group, Big Blue Nation Music, Caleb’s College Fund, Play It Again Music Group, Natalia’s Music Money, Round Hill Music. Recorded by Lee Brice
“One Night Standards” written by Ashley McBryde, Nicolette Hayford, Shane McAnally. Independently published by Canned Biscuit Songs, River House, SMACKSongs, Smackstreet Music, Tempo Investments . Recorded by Ashley McBryde
“Some Girls” written by CJ Solar, Jake Mitchell, Michael Hardy . Independently published by Harding Road Music, Sea Gayle Music, Relative Music Group, West Pass Music. Recorded by Jameson Rodgers
SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
Michael Hardy (Relative Music Group)
Ashley Gorley (Round Hill Music)
Shane McAnally (Tempo Investments)
Josh Thompson (MV2 Entertainment)
Ernest K Smith (Big Loud Music)
WINNER – Hillary Lindsey (Concord Music Publishing)
PUBLISHER OF THE YEAR
WINNER – Big Machine Music
Downtown Music Publishing
Kobalt Music
peermusic
Round Hill Music
SMACKSongs
AIMP Nashville Awards:
Founding Chairman: Michael McAnally Baum, Ree Guyer
2021 AIMP Nashville Awards Committee: Ree Guyer, Courtney Crist, Shannan Hatch, Alex Heddle, Abbe Nameche, Sophie Moll
Production Team: Tim Fink, Nic Dugger
Graphics: Andy Sundin, Molly Bouchon
Lukas Nelson & Promise Of The Real’s ‘A Few Stars Apart’ Set For June
/by Lorie HollabaughLukas Nelson & Promise of the Real prove you can go home again on their latest album, A Few Stars Apart, due out this summer. The new project will be released June 11 on Fantasy Records, and in advance of the new release, the album’s first single, “Perennial Bloom (Back To You),” is out today (4/28).
The eleven songs on A Few Stars Apart are a testament to the human connection: between close family and friends, as well as one’s own heart. Produced by Dave Cobb, the album was inspired by the stillness Nelson found while riding out the beginning of the pandemic with his family in Texas, and was recorded with the full band live on eight-track tape over three weeks at Nashville’s historic RCA Studio A.
“I’m from what one might say is the ultimate road family—I’ve been on the road my entire life,” shares Nelson. “I’ve never been anywhere longer than three months, and suddenly here we are, the four of us together… We had a lot of really important bonding that happened during that time. And I have to say, as terrible as the pandemic has been in so many ways, for my inner peace, I was able to take a lot of good from this time. I was able to pause and reflect. It took me a really long time to come back to the home in my heart. In a physical sense, that’s Texas and Hawaii. But in a spiritual sense as well—I think I finally decided not to run from who I am and who I am destined to be. First and foremost, that’s a songwriter. That’s what this record means to me. There’s a story being told through the whole record. A story about connection and coming home.”
Eclipse Music Group Adds Jordan James To Songwriting Roster
/by Lydia FarthingPictured L-R: Leslie Roberts (Assistant Vice President, BMI), Jordan James, Penny Gattis (General Manager, Eclipse Music Publishing)
Jordan James has signed an exclusive worldwide publishing deal with Eclipse Music Group.
A native of Atlanta, Georgia, James has been singing and writing songs from an early age. At 12, he was selected to sing with Kenny Rogers as a part of his annual Christmas concert which awakened his passion for performing.
James’ pursuit towards music moved him away from home when he was handpicked by producer David Foster to participate in his 2009 Hit Man Tour. Jordan comes to Nashville by way of Los Angeles where he achieved numerous pop cuts, including songs placed with multi-Platinum selling artists Andy Grammer and Hailee Steinfeld.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jordan James to the Eclipse Music family. He’s an authentic artist whose music showcases his Georgia roots as well as his experience on the West Coast,” says General Manager of Eclipse’s publishing division, Penny Gattis. “His songs are familiar and fresh at the same time and his world class vocals are equally matched by his songwriting ability. We feel privileged to be his publishing home.”
“I’m honored to be a part of this incredible team, and I know we can and will build something big here,” says James. “I’m so grateful to have a support system like Eclipse on my side and I can’t wait to see what our future holds.”
Eclipse Music Group is a Nashville-based independent music publisher and management company that was founded in 2017. The company’s focus lies on identifying and supporting creative talent and nurturing the next generation of artists and songwriters.
James joins Eclipse Music’s growing roster of talent which includes Ronnie Bowman, Nick Connors, Sarah Darling, Early James, Eric Masse, Jim McCormick, and Payton Smith.
Dualtone Music Group Celebrates Two Decades Of Hits With New Album
/by Lorie HollabaughDualtone Music Group is celebrating its 20th anniversary with the release of brand new album Amerikinda: 20 Years Of Dualtone. Due out Aug. 6, the album features Dualtone artists and alumni including The Lumineers, Brett Dennen, Gregory Alan Isakov, Mt. Joy, Shovels & Rope, and Langhorne Slim covering each other’s songs in celebration of the label’s landmark birthday.
Known for its roster of artists straddling the line between roots and AAA, Dualtone was founded in 2001 by Scott Robinson and Dan Herrington, and joined soon after by Paul Roper, who quickly established the company as a label that would change the paradigm of what a successful indie model could be. Based around a co-operative approach built on fair, transparent partnerships, Dualtone bred a family atmosphere where artists could effectively build and grow with the label.
Inaugural releases from Dualtone included David Ball’s Amigo as well as the pivotal June Carter Cash Grammy-winning album Wildwood Flower. As the label grew, they continued to bring in elder statesmen like Guy Clark and Bobby Bare, while also branching out with younger artists such as Drew Holcomb, Noah Gundersen, The Felice Brothers, Delta Spirit, Shakey Graves, Wild Child, Amos Lee, Robert Earl Keen, The Lone Bellow and Kathleen Edwards.
Even after a tumultuous 2020, which saw the Dualtone headquarters in East Nashville leveled by a tornado and a global pandemic hitting within weeks of each other, the label reports that it is thriving, posting some of its all-time best sales and streaming numbers to date.
“From the very start, we’ve tried to build this safe, encouraging space for artists to experiment and create,” said Robinson, “and it’s just so cool to see how deeply these bands have connected with each other and to hear the influences and friendships that stretch across the whole history of the label. At the end of the day, there’s something special about the energy of Dualtone, and it’s not because of me or Paul or any other individual. It’s because of the way that everyone, artists and staff alike, come together as a community.”
2) Mt. Joy – “Ain’t No Reason” (Brett Dennen)
3) The Wild Reeds – “Younger Days” (Mt. Joy)
4) Gregory Alan Isakov – “Salt And The Sea” (The Lumineers)
5) The Lumineers – “Caves” (Gregory Alan Isakov)
6) Angie McMahon – “Tea, Milk & Honey” (Oh Pep!)
7) Langhorne Slim – “Stubborn Love” (The Lumineeres)
8) Brett Dennen – “Life Is Confusing” (Langhorne Slim)
9) Drew & Ellie Holcomb – “Keep On The Sunny Side” (June Carter Cash)
10) Ivan & Alyosha – “Let Your Heart Hold Fast” (Fort Atlantic)
11) The Lone Bellow – “O’ Be Joyful” (Shovels & Rope)
12) Shakey Graves – “Cheers” (The Wild Reeds)
13) Shovels & Rope – “Dearly Departed” (Shakey Graves)
14) Hayes Carll – “Worry B Gone” (Guy Clark)
15) Radney Foster – “Riding With Private Malone” (David Ball)
BREAKING: ‘MusicRow’ Parent Company Launches New Sports Publication
/by LB CantrellMusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson says, “Last year I asked myself, ‘What if there was a MusicRow-type trade publication for the exploding Nashville sports industry?’ and that idea proved to be one I could never shake off.”
Robertson adds, “After a lot of hard work and planning the last few months, I am pumped to have our new sister publication, The Sports Credential, come to fruition. I personally know that I want to be part of the growing Nashville sports industry and I think many others do to. It’s a natural fit for us because we can use our incredibly successful MusicRow model and apply it to the sports industry here in Nashville and do so successfully. We’ve added great talent to our team who will be laser focused on this venture and my excitement is honestly, hard to contain. Come join The Sports Credential. It’s going to be a fun ride!”
With sports being a dynamic and growing industry, The Sports Credential serves as a helpful resource, the kind of publication that focuses on the sports industry and its decision makers, in order to connect and inform those of who want to be ‘in the know’ and on the front row as Nashville inevitably becomes a national sports hub.
Whether it’s Darius Rucker joining the effort to bring Major League Baseball to Nashville, Scott Borchetta’s Big Machine becoming title sponsor for IndyCar Music City Grand Prix, or the Nashville Sounds affiliating with Milwaukee Brewers, there’s no doubt Nashville’s explosive growth in sports is just beginning.
Since The Sports Credential is a separate publication from MusicRow, those wishing to receive information and news will need to sign up directly to receive its FREE weekly and breaking news emails. Click here to sign up.
The new publication’s website and social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) are live now.
Priscilla Block To Celebrate EP with Live Stream, Opry Debut
/by Sarah SkatesPriscilla Block. Photo: Logen Christopher
Mercury Nashville rising star Priscilla Block will release her self-titled major label debut EP this Friday, April 30. Known for her relatable, candid lyrics, she wrote all six tracks on project (track list below).
On Thursday (April 29), Block will perform live and discuss the songs featured on the project in a countdown to the EP’s release that night. She has partnered with Busch Beer to stream her full band show live from the Hard Rock Cafe in downtown Nashville. Fans can tune in here or on Busch’s Facebook page beginning at 9 p.m. CT.
“I am so, so, so excited to do this livestream,” says Block. “So many people haven’t been able to see me play live, and it has been a long time since I’ve been able to play with my band. And I’m so excited to talk about each song and also give people a taste of what a live show’s gonna look like!”
She will make her Grand Ole Opry debut this weekend. Fans can tune in Saturday, May 1 where she will be live on Circle TV, Circle All Access Facebook, YouTube and Twitter channels.
Priscilla Block EP Track Listing:
1. Wish You Were The Whiskey – Priscilla Block, Sarah Jones, Josh Beale, Kate Hastings
2. Just About Over You – Block, S. Jones, Emily Kroll
3. Heels In Hand – Block, S. Jones, J. Beale, K. Hastings, Robbie Artress
4. Sad Girls Do Sad Things – Block, S. Jones, E. Kroll
5. Bad Part of Good – Block, R. Artress
6. I Bet You Wanna Know – Block, S. Jones, Stone Aielli
Downtown Music Lays Off Nashville Employees
/by LB CantrellDowntown has laid off a portion of its Nashville-based employees following the sale of its portfolio of 145,000 owned and co-published music copyrights to a Concord affiliate.
In an official statement provided to MusicRow, Downtown confirmed that, “a limited number of job functions have been deemed redundant,” and that the company is “looking for opportunities to reassign impacted employees elsewhere within the organization or with other employers.” It was also revealed that Downtown will end their lease in the Nashville office.
Downtown’s official statement in full: “As part of Downtown’s strategic shift towards music services, a limited number of job functions have been deemed redundant. Where possible, we are looking for opportunities to reassign impacted employees elsewhere within the organization or with other employers. We have decided to end our lease in our physical Nashville offices, which were designed primarily for creative operations, and explore our options to support the needs of our ongoing business. We continue to employ Nashville-based executives at Downtown Music Services, Songtrust, and Songspace.”
Billboard reports that executive vp A&R Steve Markland was among those let go, but that has not been confirmed by MusicRow at this time.
Among the works acquired by Concord are songs popularized by Adele, Aretha Franklin, Beyoncé, Blake Shelton, Bruno Mars, Carrie Underwood, David Bowie, Eric Clapton, the Grateful Dead, Jay-Z, Lady Gaga, Madonna, Maroon 5, Marvin Gaye, Mary J. Blige, Mos Def, Mötley Crüe, New Order, Rage Against the Machine, Ray Charles, Santigold, Sam Smith, Stevie Wonder, and The 1975 among many others.
This is a developing story…
Nicole Kasper, Paige Kosinski Announce Odyssey Entertainment Group
/by Sarah Skates(L-R): Paige Kosinski and Nicole Kasper. Photo: Acacia Evans
Nicole Kasper and Paige Kosinski have launched Odyssey Entertainment Group in Nashville, offering influencer management as well as music artist management. They will utilize streaming and social media platforms to spur fan base growth, with a cross-marketing strategy that includes brand partnerships both inside and outside the music space, and having influencer clients that can simultaneously promote their roster of music clients.
Odyssey debuts with a growing roster of 25 clients including Enola Bedard, Cindy Chen, Rom’Nya Akia, Becca Bastos, The Williams Fam, Brian Esperon, Ana Gum, Crescent Shay, Sarah Hambly and Brittany Ostofe. Since the company’s formation, it was worked with major brands including HBO, Netflix, Chipotle, Elf, and Instagram.
Kasper and Kosinki met during their time at Warehouse West Entertainment, where they handled publishing/management, and marketing, respectively. According to the announcement, their careers include time at Universal Music Group, Live Nation, Clear Channel Radio, Q Prime Management, ASCAP, Creative Artists Agency, and Big Machine Label Group.
Reach them at nicole@odysseyentgroup.com or paige@odysseyentgroup.com.