DelFest Announces 2021 Lineup

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DelFest has announced the lineup for its 14th annual festival, set for September 23-26.

The initial lineup includes The Del McCoury Band, The Travelin’ McCourys, Old Crow Medicine Show, Sister Sadie, Mandolin Orange, St. Paul & The Broken Bones and more.

In addition to traditional stage sets, attendees can again expect to see collaborations, special guest sit-ins, and various tributes to Del McCoury and his musical legacy. Delfest will, as usual, be immediately preceded by the three-day DelFest Academy hosted by The Travelin’ McCourys and other all-star players.

The festival, which typically happens during Memorial Day weekend, will make a one-time move to the fall in 2021 to ensure a COVID-safe gathering. Festival organizers are working with local and state health officials to ensure musicians, attendees, and staff are cared for, and will adhere to local, state, and federal safety mandates. COVID-specific protocols will be announced closer to the festival.

The festival is located along the Potomac River in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, personally chosen by McCoury, at the Allegany County Fairgrounds in Cumberland, Maryland.

Artist Action: Breland, Ashley McBryde, Colt Ford

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Breland Makes TV Debut, Awarded With Platinum Certification For ‘My Truck’

Breland. Photo: Weiss Eubanks/NBCUniversal

Breland, made his TV debut on The Kelly Clarkson Show this Monday (March 29). During the broadcast, he also gave the debut performance of his current single “Cross Country”.

Breland shared with Clarkson the double meaning behind the songs title—not only as a recap of his journey into the spotlight, but also carving out a space all his own by blurring genre lines. The new version of “Cross Country” featuring Grammy-nominated artist Mickey Guyton is available now.

After the success of his breakout hit “My Truck”, Clarkson also surprised Breland with a plaque to commemorate the song’s official Platinum certification by the RIAA for achieving 1 million sales and stream combined.

Ashley McBryde awarded ‘Yellow Rose of Inspiration Award’ at Song Suffragettes

Pictured (L-R, back row): Todd Cassetty (Song Suffragettes), Mia Mantia, Madeline Finn, Tenille Arts, Ashley McBryde, Kalie Shorr, Phyllis Stark (All Access Nashville), Brittney Spencer, Taylor Fair (Song Suffragettes) (L-R, front row): Mia Morris, Candi Carpenter, Kaylin Roberson, Allie Dunn, Sophia Scott, Livy Jeanne. Photo: Libby Danforth

Song Suffragettes, Nashville’s all-female, singer-songwriter collective, celebrated its 7th anniversary this Monday night (March 29) at The Listening Room Cafe with a sold-out show and livestream that featured special guests and an exciting announcement.

Award-winning country artist Ashley McBryde took the stage and gave a special performance of “Girl Goin’ Nowhere”, as well as her recent Top 10 RIAA Gold-Certified single “One Night Standards” and an unreleased song, “Whiskey and Country Music.”  After her set, McBryde was presented the “Song Suffragettes Yellow Rose of Inspiration Award”, an honor bestowed on a female songwriter who has inspired many Song Suffragettes who hope to follow in McBryde’s footsteps.

During the event, Song Suffragette’s Founder Todd Cassetty took the stage with Event Director Taylor Fair share that The LSS Group, an all-female, entertainment-industry-focused wealth management team led by Eden Lopez, Leslie Schwartz and Paula Steinberg, would continue its year-long Presenting Sponsorship of Song Suffragettes.

The entire sold-out show and livestream is still available for viewing on the Song Suffragettes’ YouTube channel here.

 

Colt Ford, SQAIRZ Release ‘Country Sole’ Golf Shoes

SQAIRZ, one of the fastest growing golf shoe companies, announced Monday (March 29) the launch of a new line of golf shoes called “Country Sole” created in partnership with country music star Colt Ford. The Country Sole shoe features red, white, and blue acoustic guitars on its sides and the word “USA” on the soles and bootstraps. The shoe also features all of the patented SQAIRZ golf shoe technology.

Ford, a former professional golfer, says of the partnership, “When I’m out there on the course, I want to know that I’m doing everything I can to play my best, and that includes wearing the right golf shoes. There’s no doubt that SQAIRZ are giving me the best ground force connection possible and that lets me get more club speed and distance. After trying out SQAIRZ and seeing the immediate impact on my game, it was a no brainer when I was asked to partner on the Country Sole.”

“I couldn’t imagine a better person to work with on the Country Sole,” says Robert Winskowicz, SQAIRZ’s founder and CEO. “Colt Ford is an icon in the country music world and represents what America is really all about – being independent, finding success on your terms and giving back to your community. We’re so proud to offer the Country Sole and to work with Colt on such a special pair of golf shoes.”

Foo Fighters, Lizzo, Jason Isbell, Niko Moon Among Bonnaroo 2021 Lineup

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Bonnaroo has revealed its lineup for the festival’s upcoming 20th anniversary, set to take place September 2–5, 2021 in Manchester, Tenn. Among the artists slated to perform during the four-day event are Foo Fighters, Megan Thee Stallion, Lizzo, Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit, Tyler The Creator, Lana Del Rey, Brittany Howard, Leon Bridges, Janelle Monae, My Morning Jacket, Breland, Niko Moon, and many more. The Grand Ole Opry featuring special guests will also return for this year’s 20th anniversary festival.

Bonnaroo will once again present an extraordinarily diverse bill featuring a selection of top artists performing around the clock across more than 10 unique stages over the four-day festival. Tickets for Bonnaroo will go on sale today (March 31) via bonnaroo.com/tickets. Options include General Admission (4-Day), GA+ (4-Day), VIP (4-Day), Platinum (4-Day), General Admission Camping & Parking, VIP Camping, Platinum Camping, and more. Car Camping Passes are priced at only $60 (plus fees) per car, not per person, allowing fans to both save money and reduce their carbon footprint by carpooling.

To celebrate the return of Bonnaroo and to commemorate the festival’s 20th anniversary, Bonnaroo has created a one-of-a-kind NFT collection including a 1 of 1 special edition of the 2021 Lineup Poster. This is the first time a music festival has produced an NFT collection and Bonnaroo is partnering with digital artist Archan Nair and premier NFT marketplace, Makers Place to present it. These digital works of art will be available exclusively on Makers Place on Saturday, April 3rd at 5:30 p.m. CT.

“It’s exciting to see Tennessee stages come back to life in time to celebrate the 20th anniversary of this internationally acclaimed festival,” says Gov. Bill Lee. “Fans are ready to gather together and celebrate their shared love of music once again. We welcome them back for a full Bonnaroo and what is sure to be a truly unforgettable event!”

Bonnaroo organizers will be in regular communication with local health and public safety officials and will continue to abide by relevant recommendations. As it approaches, festival goers will receive regular updates with the important information needed to plan their trip to The Farm, including any changes to policies and procedures they’ll need to know before entering the festival and campgrounds.

John Marks Exits Spotify

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John Marks

John Marks is leaving his position as Global Director of Country Music at Spotify, effective March 31, 2021.

Marks joined Spotify in 2015, as one of only two Nashville Spotify employees covering the country market. While at the company, Marks was instrumental in growing the music streaming platform’s Hot Country brand, championing new artists, and establishing Spotify’s footprint in Nashville. He was an integral figure in building Spotify’s reputation as a global symbol for music consumption and discovery and a driver of country music culture; culminating 6 million followers and 5 billion streams as of 4th Quarter 2020.

Marks spent most of his career in programming and operations in terrestrial radio. He moved to Nashville in 2010 to work at SiriusXM, where he became Head of Country Music Programming. During his 5-year tenure at SiriusXM, he brought The Highway to prominence, helping to bring artists like Florida Georgia Line, Old Dominion, Kelsea Ballerini, Chase Rice, and Russell Dickerson to a national audience.

“It has been a privilege to work at Spotify since the beginning of its Nashville journey,” says Marks. “But I am also excited about what adventures lie ahead. I want to thank Jeremy Erlich, Rachel Whitney, our editorial team and the entire Spotify crew for the work that we have accomplished both in the United States and internationally.”

“When John Marks joined Spotify, he brought a wealth of knowledge and passion for the country genre—and has been an incredible asset to the Nashville team,” says Jeremy Erlich, co-head of Music, Spotify. “John will be truly missed and we wish him well.”

Marks has served on the Board of Directors of the Country Music Association since 2012, and served on the Board of Directors for the Academy of Country Music between 2018 – 2019. He is also the recipient of the 2018 Jo Walker-Meador International Award from the CMA and the 2018 International Services to the Industry Award from the British Country Music Association. Marks can be reached at johnmarks615@gmail.com.

Rachel Whitney, who joined Spotify over a year ago as Head of Editorial for Nashville, is leading the team that covers all things country, Christian, gospel, folk, Americana and roots music. Whitney has over 15 years of experience in Nashville working at music companies such as Pandora and Youtube, where she led country music programming.

Scotty McCreery Signs With Universal Music Publishing Nashville

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Pictured (L-R:) Scott Stem (Triple 8 Management), George Couri (Triple 8 Management), Terry Wakefield (UMPG), Scotty McCreery, Troy Tomlinson (UMPG). Photo: Danielle Del Valle

Scotty McCreery has signed an exclusive, worldwide publishing agreement with Universal Music Publishing Nashville.

McCreery won the American Idol competition 10 years ago, and since then has become an award-winning country artist with many accolades under his belt. He’s a three-time BMI Award winner as the writer of one of the top 50 country songs of the year in 2015 for “See You Tonight,” in 2018 for “Five More Minutes,” and in 2019 for “This is It,” as well as winner of the NSAI Songwriter Award for One of the Top Ten Songs I Wish I’d Written for “Five More Minutes” in 2018. The multi-Platinum selling singer-songwriter co-wrote all 11 songs on his most recent album, the RIAA Gold-certified Seasons Change, including his three consecutive No. 1 hits: “Five More Minutes,” “See You Tonight,” and “In Between.” McCreery is also a co-writer of his current single “You Time.”

“We all watched as Scotty came onto the scene as a high school athlete who simply loved to sing and entertain,” says Terry Wakefield, Senior Vice President of A&R, UMPG Nashville. “He has now grown into one of country music’s most consistent hit makers. We are thrilled to represent him and his songs.”

“Writing songs is one of my favorite things to do,” says McCreery. “I’ve written nearly all my life, and since coming to Nashville ten years ago, I’ve had the opportunity to co-write with many talented songwriters in town who have both taught and encouraged me. Signing with Universal Music Publishing and working with Troy Tomlinson, Terry Wakefield, and all the great folks on their team is another big step in my songwriting journey. I am proud to call Universal Music Publishing my home.”

McCreery is currently writing and recording the anticipated follow-up to his acclaimed Seasons Change, with “You Time” as the lead single. Written by McCreery, Frank Rogers and Aaron Eshuis, and produced by Rogers, Eshuis and Derek Wells, the track has garnered nearly 11 million streams since its release and is steadily climbing up the country charts.

McCreery is represented by Triple 8 Management’s George Couri and Scott Stem for management, as well as WME’s Nate Towne for booking.

Maggie Rose Releases Rousing New Single, Announces Live Events

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Maggie Rose. Photo: Ford Fairchild

Maggie Rose has released a new single, “What Are We Fighting For,” from her forthcoming album, Have A Seat. The rousing, gospel-charged new track is available everywhere today. The album arrives Friday, August 20 via Starstruck Records.

The soulful single sets the tone for Have A Seat’s message of loving solidarity, its power intensified by Rose’s tender yet powerful vocals and soulful harmonies from Karita Law and Shanay Johnson, a duo known for their work with Brittany Howard and Emily King.

“What am I fighting for?” asks Rose. “Compassion, empathy, and even excellence within me, my music, and the people and the world around me, but don’t get me wrong—my zeal is not always consistent, and the question itself poses varying challenges from one day to the next. Some days I struggle to simply feel worthy and everything feels heavy and dark. Other days I’m totally fired up and I demand that my worthiness be recognized. Some days I have no will to fight, other days I’m frustrated at the lack of fight I observe around me. However, just asking the question of ourselves everyday is a fight in itself, and the question is one only we alone can ask and answer.”

Rose will host her podcast Salute The Songbirds as a live concert event on April 28 at City Winery in Nashville. Presented by Osiris Media, the event will feature performances from Elizabeth Cook, Jillette Johnson, Kalie Shorr, Nicole Atkins and Nicki Bluhm. Fans can also tune in to live stream the show via Mandolin, and a portion of proceeds from the event will benefit Women in Music. She will also play a Live For Live Music event, benefiting Sweet Relief, in Denver, Colorado on April 16.

Have A Seat was introduced last month with the release of the album’s fiery-horn-groove stomp of first song “Do It.” The album is Rose’s third full-length and was produced by Ben Tanner of Alabama Shakes at the iconic FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. in a series of pre-pandemic sessions.

Katy Wolaver Promoted To Senior Vice President, A&R At Warner Chappell Music

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Katy Wolaver

Katy Wolaver has been elevated to Senior Vice President, A&R at Warner Chappell Music. 

Wolaver joined Warner Chappell in 2016 as Senior Director before being promoted to Vice President in 2018. Last year, she broadened her role to work between Nashville and Los Angeles and has put together numerous high-profile sessions, including one with Dan + Shay that resulted in the duo’s newest single, “Glad You Exist.” She manages a mix of talent, including Jesse Frasure, Ava Max, Tayla Parx, All Time Low, MAG (Bad Bunny), Michael Pollack (Maroon 5), Sean Douglas (Thomas Rhett), Fraser Churchill (Mickey Guyton), Sasha Sloan, and many more. Wolaver has also spent the last few years developing Michael Pollack’s songwriting career and was instrumental in setting up a session with Jon Bellion that resulted in multiple hits, including “Memories” by Maroon 5, “Holy” Justin Bieber ft. Chance The Rapper, “Anyone” by Bieber, and “Prisoner” by Miley Cyrus ft. Dua Lipa. Wolaver got her start in music in 2006 at Arthouse Entertainment and went on to serve as Director of A&R at SONGS Music Publishing.

Wallace Joseph has also been appointed Vice President, A&R at the company. In Wolaver and Joesph’s new roles, they will continue to report to Ryan Press, President of A&R, U.S. and help grow the company’s roster of legendary songwriters and producers.

Joseph works closely with Summer Walker, Tay Keith, Murda Beatz, Section 8, T-Minus, Wale, Dougie F, Turbo, Pluss, and Lazá, among others. Throughout his career, Joseph has helped develop the hitmakers behind hits like “Leave Me Alone” by Flipp Dinero, “Juicy (ft. Tyga)” and “Say So” by Doja Cat, as well as the Grammy-award winning single “Where Are Ü Now” by Jack Ü ft. Justin Bieber and the viral sensation “Broccoli” by Shelley (FKA DRAM) ft. Lil Yachty, among others. Prior to joining Warner Chappell in August 2017, Joseph ran a music management company, HMWRK.

“Katy and Wallace both have an amazing ear for talent discovery and a natural ability to turn someone with potential into the next big hitmaker,” says Press. “They’ve already helped to build the careers of some of today’s hottest songwriters and are truly a great example of where hard work and dedication can get you in this business. I couldn’t be more proud to see them continue to grow with us as A&R executives.”

“A&R is all about building connections and developing talent, and over this past year, I’ve had the chance to work between LA and Nashville to find new ways to pair our writers with different artists across a variety of genres,” says Wolaver. “I’m very grateful to Ryan and the entire leadership team at Warner Chappell for believing in my approach and allowing me to expand these efforts even more.”

Bobby Bones Joins Music City Baseball Initiative

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Bobby Bones. Photo: Courtesy Music City Baseball

Award-winning radio personality Bobby Bones has joined Music City Baseball, a group committed to bringing a Major League Baseball team to Nashville.

“I’m thrilled to join the initiative to bring Major League Baseball to Nashville,” says Bones. “Nashville is second to none in uniting sports and music, making it the perfect destination for a Major League team.  I look forward to joining Music City Baseball’s efforts to honor the incredible history of the Nashville Stars, as well as pave the way for the future of MLB in Nashville.”

Bones joins the community advisory board alongside Justin Timberlake, Darius Rucker, Luke Combs and Eddie George.

“Bobby is going to play a critical role in helping us generate excitement surrounding bringing a team here. His energy and enthusiasm around the cause is unmatched and we are thrilled to have him join our leadership team,” says John Loar, managing director of Music City Baseball.

MCB is committed to privately financing the ballpark and bringing a Major League franchise to Nashville built on equity, inclusion, and diversity. To honor the Negro League teams that played in Nashville early in the last century, MCB is honored to resurrect the Nashville Stars moniker for the prospective franchise.

FGL’s Brian Kelley Partners With Warner Music Nashville For Solo Music

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Brian Kelley. Photo: Ben Christensen

Florida Georgia Line‘s Brian Kelley has announced a new partnership with Warner Music Nashville. The label will represent Kelley’s solo music venture, Nashville South Records, Inc.

The news comes months after the ACM nominated duo announced on social media that they will be releasing their own music as individuals.

“I couldn’t be more grateful for everyone who has helped me on my journey to get here. I’m humbled to team up with Warner Music Nashville to take the music I’ve been dreamin’ and schemin’ up to the next level,” says Kelley. “This is just the beginning of a whole new adventure. My vision for what’s next is a vibe and state of mind—get ready to ride the wave with ya Beach Cowboy, y’all!”

Kelley teased new music on his Instagram yesterday (March 30).

 

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A post shared by Brian Kelley (@briankelley)

“We are honored that Brian Kelley chose WMN as home to his solo endeavors,” says Warner Music Nashville EVP A&R Cris Lacy. “I’ve been an FGL believer from day one, and BK’s clear vision for himself and his upcoming project is a testament to his heart, soul, and talent. His new music is the perfect antidote to 2020, and what an incredible way to start 2021!”

Kelley is represented by Full Stop Management (Irving Azoff, Jeffrey Azoff) in partnership with WHY&HOW (Bruce Kalmick, Eddie Kloesel).

Recording Academy Announces Date For 64th Annual Grammy Awards

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The Recording Academy has announced the 64th Annual Grammy Awards will be held on Sunday, April 3, 2022 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The awards will be broadcast live on the CBS television network from 8-11:30 p.m. ET and available to stream live and on-demand on Paramount+. Additional details on next year’s Grammy nominations will be announced in the coming months.

This year’s Grammy Awards were postponed until March 14 due to health concerns around the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Grammys are voted on by the Recording Academy’s voting membership body of music makers representing all genres and creative disciplines, including artists, songwriters, producers, mixers, and engineers.