Pictured (L-R): Robert K. Oermann, Tenille Townes, MusicRow Magazine Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
BOBBY KARL WORKS THE ROOM
Chapter 627
MusicRow magazine has been giving awards annually for more than 30 years, but its ceremony took a giant leap forward on Wednesday evening (June 26).
The event moved from the lobbies of BMI or ASCAP to the War Memorial Auditorium. Table sponsorships were offered, and the celebration sold out. Winners’ names were kept secret until they were announced on stage. A cocktail supper was provided. Classy video graphics were added.
There were several new award categories. A new trophy was introduced, designed by artisan Santana Matlock. It is a column of concrete containing earth from the historic sites of Music Row.
Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
One thing that has probably not changed is that the winners are often predictors of what will transpire at the CMA Awards the following fall. Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, Sam Hunt, Kacey Musgraves, Luke Bryan and more have been honored by MusicRow before ascending to CMA glory.
So keep an eye on Wednesday’s big MusicRow winners Luke Combs, Ashley McBryde, Jimmie Allen, Tenille Townes, Hillary Lindsey and Josh Osborne. By the way, McBryde was a double winner.
Here’s something else that was new this year, a celebrity co-host. TV personality and media coach Alecia Davis proved to be a bright and lively foil for MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson as they zipped through a fast-paced awards event.
Pictured: Alecia Davis, Jeremy Bussey, MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
Sherod said she gave him advice about the elements that are in play when hosting an awards show. Then they bantered about it.
“Starting tonight, welcome to the Golden Globes of country music,” Sherod quipped. He was referring to the fact that the Globes predict the Oscars and are far more goofy and relaxed. He wants his industry to feel the same about MusicRow’s presentations.
He listed Alecia’s award-show monologue elements, and both of them dismissed most of them. Tell jokes? Nope. Riff on news headlines? Nope. Sing and dance? Nope and nope. Do a selfie? Yes, they did that.
Pictured (L-R): Alecia Davis, Dann Huff, MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
How about roasting people? They listed sponsors CAA, Vaden Group/Elliott Davis, Keller Turner Andrews Ghanem, City National Bank, Ram Trucks and Todd Cassetty. So, no roasting. At least not them.
Sherod and Alecia kept up their light-hearted energy throughout the ceremony. First up was the presentation of the 2019 All-Star Musician honors.
“This is the one we all want,” said guitar winner Derek Wells. “Thank you, MusicRow – this is amazing,” said fiddle winner Jenee Fleenor. Her category was a tie with Stuart Duncan and Alison Krauss. “I am happy to split this, because they are my heroes,” she added.
Pictured (L-R): Alecia Davis, Make Wake’s Chris Kappy, MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
“I want give a shout-out to all of these up here [on stage] with me and all the other players in the trenches,” said keyboards winner Charles Judge. “We have the greatest gig in the world,” said backup-vocalist winner Russell Terrell. “It’s a blessing beyond belief.”
“It’s amazing to me that I get to stand up here with the greatest musicians in the world,” commented engineer winner Justin Niebank. The other honorees were Nir Z (drums), Jimmie Lee Sloas (bass) and Paul Franklin, plus Russ Pahl (a tie for steel).
Dann Huff returned to the MusicRow stage as 2019 Producer of the Year. He previously won in 2013 and 2006. “I appreciate this very much,” he remarked. “My biggest thanks are to the artists and musicians and Justin and my wife, Sherri, who has put up with my schedule since I started playing guitar at age 18.”
Pictured (L-R): Robert K. Oermann, MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
UMG was named Label of the Year. CAA won Talent Agency of the Year. The Breakthrough Songwriter award went to Jordan Reynolds. Publisher Ben Vaughn accepted on his behalf.
“He’s had an amazing year,” said Ben. “He’s had a No. 1 country song (“Tequila,” “Speechless”). He’s had a No. 1 Christian song. He couldn’t be here because he is at a writer’s retreat, and is probably already three songs into it by now.”
At this point, Sherod and Alecia decided they were jealous of the rest of us, making merry and drinking our wine. They asked for somebody backstage to bring them some wine.
The 31st annual MusicRow Awards celebrates the All-Star Musicians. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
Out came surprise guest Kathie Lee Gifford, famous for her wine imbibing on daytime TV. She has moved to Franklin and has been collaborating on songs with attendee Brett James, among others. She shared her own wine brand with the co-hosts.
“I’m happy,” she said. “It’s this place. Everyone is so loving, and they love my wine. I’m blessed beyond belief. My dream job is what I’m doing right now. I can’t thank you enough for the welcome that I’ve received and the warmth.”
“Nashville is built on relationships, and we’re all here because of relationships,” explained Sherod.
“She’s like a dose of sunshine,” said Alecia.
Pictured (L-R): Alecia Davis, Ben Vaughn, MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
Jimmie Allen won Breakthrough Artist-Writer. Josh Osborne won Male Songwriter. Hillary Lindsey won Female Songwriter.
The Song of the Year went to “Girl Goin’ Nowhere,” by Ashley McBryde and Jeremy Bussey. “I knew when I sat down in a room with her that she was something special,” said Jeremy. “It’s the first song we ever wrote together. Thank you to everyone who ever sat in a room with me.”
Sherod announced that a new award was being created and named for MusicRow’s longest-tenured critic. “What do you look for in a new artist?” he asked Robert K. Oermann.
Pictured (L-R): Alecia Davis, BBR’s Sara Knabe, MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
RKO referred to his many years of reviewing acts. In so doing, he did a shout-out to MusicRow founder David M. Ross. Then he addressed the question.
“If you are a new artist, I expect you to say something to us in your music,” RKO said. “I expect you to be a student of this business. This is a community—get to know it. Most of all, I expect you to be different. Don’t come here as a clone of a star, because we already have that star. I want you to be you.”
RKO then announced Tenille Townes as the winner of the Robert K. Oermann Discovery Artist award. “This is so cool,” she said. “I respect all of the other nominees, and I consider myself so lucky to do this. When I first came to town at age 14, I made my mother drive me up and down Music Row. I was in awe of all the buildings. To now be a part of that is unbelievable.”
Pictured (L-R): Alecia Davis, Kathie Lee Gifford, MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
Bussey reappeared to accept on behalf of McBryde when she was named Breakthrough Artist. “This is one of my favorite people on the planet,” Jeremy said. “She’s the coolest chick I’ve ever met, an awesome, incredible soul. Thank you guys for this. We all know it’s tough to be a woman [in country music] right now.”
The Luke Combs triumph as MusicRow subscribers’ Artist of the Year capped the eve.
Working the room were nominees Kevin Welch, Scott Hendricks, Caylee Hammack, C.J. Solar, Laura Veltz, Tofer Brown, Brad Clawson, Aaron Eshuis, Will Weatherly, HARDY, Sean McConnell, Hailey Whitters, and Bobby Pinson. Also such enduring fabulons as Tom Luteran, Tim Wipperman, Tim Fink, Charlie Cook, Craig Campbell, Martha Moore, Steve O’Brien, Pat Higdon, R.J. Curtis and Dale Bobo.
Aspiring hit makers Julia Still, Morgan Clark and Brinn Black were there. So were Bob DiPiero, James Elliott, Kos Weaver, Josh Van Valkenburg, Brad Peterson, John Ozier, Preshias Tomes, Victoria Shaw, Suzanne Lee, E.T. Brown, Chris Kappy, Becky Harris, and Mike Sistad.
The catering was quite good. We noshed to our hearts’ content on burger sliders, red-pepper hummus, pita bread, shrimp & grits, melted-cheese toast points, exquisitely dressed pasta salad, veggies, hot-chicken sliders, polenta bites with sun-dried tomato and feta topping and many mini desserts.
Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
Vanderbilt To Partner With National Museum Of African American Music
/by LB CantrellVanderbilt University is joining with the National Museum of African American Music in a long-term partnership to enrich educational and research opportunities around the musical legacy of African-American composers, performers and supporters and their impact on American culture and musical history.
The university’s pledge of foundational support, which totals $2 million in in-kind contributions and direct financial support, will expand the museum’s archival collection, contribute to innovative programming, support the completion of the facility and more.
Chancellor Nicholas S. Zeppos announced the innovative partnership at the museum’s sixth annual Legends Gala held last night (June 27) at the Music City Center. “We are proud to partner with the National Museum of African American Music in building global awareness of the musical legacy and impact of African American composers, performers and supporters,” Zeppos said. “This museum will expand the opportunities of our Vanderbilt community, Middle Tennesseans and visitors from around the world to engage in learning and discovery.”
Included in Vanderbilt’s partnership with the museum is a collaboration with the university’s Jean and Alexander Heard Libraries to support an expanded collection of books, scores, sound recordings and material objects related to African American music. This collection will be available for loan, display and study at the museum and will also serve as an important resource for scholarly research on Vanderbilt’s campus.
“The National Museum of African American Music will be an outstanding addition to Nashville’s rich community resources, and this partnership will continue to extend Vanderbilt’s preeminent academic experience beyond the classroom,” said Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Susan R. Wente. “I look forward to the myriad programming, collaborations and scholarly research projects that this partnership makes possible, and to further encouraging our students to embrace lifelong learning experiences that spark or enhance our appreciation for creativity.”
Vanderbilt, in collaboration with the museum, will host speaker events that will include prominent guest lecturers, panel discussions and performances. Departments across the campus will host the events to encourage the broadest engagement by faculty, students and staff. The speaker series will launch after the museum opens.
The university and museum also envision future faculty research endeavors and Immersion Vanderbilt projects for undergraduate students that may be designed around museum holdings and ongoing collaborations between the many university classes that reflect the museum’s repertoire.
“I’m pleased that Vanderbilt’s continued strong role as a community advocate and partner for organizations that align with the university’s values is reflected in this foundational gift and partnership,” said Vice Chancellor for Government and Community Relations Nathan Green.
The museum, scheduled to open in downtown Nashville in early 2020, will be one of the only such resources in the country solely dedicated to educating, preserving and celebrating the influence that African Americans have had on all genres of music—including classical, country, jazz and hip hop.
“With our dedication to expanding the horizons of musical education, I am excited for the possibilities of this partnership to elevate the cultural and intellectual life of our campus, community and region,” said Mark Wait, the Martha Rivers Ingram Dean of the Blair School of Music and professor of music. “A museum focused on African American music will offer many opportunities for student and faculty engagement and will further elevate Nashville’s profile as a center for all genres of music.”
Vanderbilt’s relationship with the National Museum of African American Music began several years ago, and the ties were strengthened by the late Vice Chancellor for University Affairs and Athletics and Athletic Director David Williams II, who served as co-chair of the museum’s campaign steering committee and was an early supporter.
“I am deeply grateful to Chancellor Zeppos and the entire Vanderbilt University leadership team for their commitment to and investment in our mission. This partnership with one of the nation’s best research universities will dramatically enrich the reach and impact of our programming, and we look forward to the many new opportunities we will be able to offer our community and visitors as a result,” H. Beecher Hicks III, president and chief executive officer of the National Museum of African American Music, said. “I am also deeply grateful for the legacy of impact that David Williams had on the museum in its formative years, and for his and Gail Williams’ generous support.”
For more information on the museum, visit the NMAAM website.
Trisha Yearwood Teams With Kelly Clarkson, Don Henley, Garth Brooks On ‘Every Girl’ Album
/by Lorie HollabaughPhoto Credit: Russ Harrington
Trisha Yearwood has revealed the track listing and special guests on her upcoming new project, Every Girl, and has unlocked the pre-order for the upcoming album today. It arrives in stores and digitally on Aug. 30, and includes collaborations with Kelly Clarkson, Garth, and Don Henley. It also notably showcases the talents of a bevy of female writers as well, including Lucie Silvas, Caitlyn Smith, Patricia Conroy, Ashley McBryde, Gretchen Peters, and more.
Additionally, a Limited Edition version of the album, featuring special cover art in vinyl and CD, will be available for pre-order on Yearwood’s official Talk Shop Live channel for a limited time. She will reveal the limited edition cover and discuss the album live on Talk Shop Live today at 5 P.M. CT.
She enlisted the talents of longtime producer Garth Fundis for the new project. The two have maintained a creative partnership that dates back to her double-platinum classic self-titled 1991 debut, and flourishes once again on these 14 songs.
The album includes songs such as the soaring and sweeping “Tell Me Something I Don’t Know” [feat. Kelly Clarkson], the heartfelt ballad “What Gave Me Away” [feat. Garth Brooks], and elegant closer “Love You Anyway” [feat. Don Henley]. An avowed Linda Ronstadt fan, Yearwood reached out to songwriter Karla Bonoff for a collaboration and ended up recording an emotionally charged take on “Home,” originally cut by Bonnie Raitt.
“I approached this album without any pressure or expectations,” said Yearwood. “I’m so grateful the songs were there. I found 14 tunes I couldn’t live without. You want people to recognize you as an artist, but you also want to take them somewhere they haven’t necessarily been with you before. With the freedom of no expectations, I got back to that feeling I felt on my first album, like I have to do this and put it out there. Over the years, I let go of worrying about perfection. I just wanted to have a good time. I realized maybe that’s when you do your best work.”
This fall, Yearwood launches her first solo tour in five years. The “Every Girl On Tour” kicks off October 3rd with a special three-night engagement with the Nashville Symphony at Schermerhorn Symphony Center. The 22-city trek continues throughout the U. S. with stops in New York, Boston, Atlanta, Chicago, St. Louis, Cincinnati, Fort Worth, Minneapolis, Jacksonville, and more.
Every Girl Full Track List:
Weekly Chart Report (6/28/19)
/by Alex ParryClick here or above to access MusicRow’s weekly CountryBreakout Report.
Kathie Lee Gifford Makes Surprise Appearance At 31st Annual MusicRow Awards
/by Jessica NicholsonPictured: Alecia Davis, Kathie Lee Gifford, Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry
The attendees of Wednesday evening’s (June 26) MusicRow Awards got a special surprise, as new Franklin, Tennessee resident and television personality Kathie Lee Gifford stopped by to greet the crowd.
Onstage, Gifford along with MusicRow Magazine owner/publisher Sherod Robertson and his MusicRow Awards co-host and media personality Alecia Davis treated themselves to a taste of Gifford’s new line of wine, GIFFT by Kathie Lee Gifford. The wine is a partnership between Gifford and Scheid Family Wines, which are 100% estate grown from Scheid’s vineyards in Monterey County, California.
Gifford has been collaborating on music with songwriter Brett James, among others.
“I’m happy,” she told attendees. “It’s this place. Everyone is so loving, and they love my wine. I’m blessed beyond belief. My dream job is what I’m doing right now. I can’t thank you enough for the welcome that I’ve received and the warmth.”
Supporting Sponsors of the event were Vaden Group | Elliott Davis, Creative Artists Agency (CAA) and Keller Turner Andrews & Ghanem, PLLC. Partner level sponsors include Ram Trucks and City National Bank.
Tracy Wilkinson Joins Big Machine Records
/by Jessica NicholsonTracy Wilkinson
Big Machine Records has added Tracy Wilkinson as Southwest Director of Promotion & Marketing, effective July 8 following the departure of Alex Valentine. Based in Houston, Wilkinson will promote the imprint’s roster which includes Reba McEntire, Rascal Flatts, Carly Pearce, Midland, The Cadillac Three, Lauren Jenkins, Noah Schnacky, Dan Smalley, and more.
Big Machine Records VP, Promotion Kris Lamb said, “AV is a legend in the Southwest and if promotion was a sport with jerseys, we’d retire his number. On behalf of our entire Big Machine family we wish him nothing but the best and want to give a warm welcome to Tracy Wilkinson! We’ve been following her career ascension from afar for some time now. Everything she touches turns to gold. It’s a privilege to have her join our team at Big Machine Records.”
“Country radio is a passion of mine and has been so good to me over the years,” said Wilkinson. “Scott Borchetta, Jim Weatherson, Kris Lamb and Erik Powell’s support and confidence in me made this an easy decision for a career transition and I am beyond excited to join the team at Big Machine Records.”
Wilkinson can be reached via 828-244-2827 and tracy.wilkinson@bmlg.net.
DISClaimer: Jenny Tolman, Blanco Brown, The Sisterhood Band Top New Releases
/by Robert K OermannFor this outing of DisClaimer, it’s all about the future.
There are plenty of fine works by established stars here — Jon Pardi, Garth & Blake, Kane Brown, Jimmie Allen. But my ears perked up the most for the up and comers.
The Disc of the Day award goes to Jenny Tolman, for whom I wish nothing short of superstardom. For today’s DisCovery Award, we have a tie between two terrific pop-leaning platters. They come to us from Blanco Brown and The Sisterhood Band.
JENNY TOLMAN/So Pretty
Writers: Mark D. Sanders, Sophie Sanders, Jenny Tolman; Producer: Dave Brainard; Publishers: Songs of Sanderosa/Old Sol, ASCAP/SESAC; Old Sol (track)
– Gorgeous. Her voice aches exquisitely on this beautiful melody. It’s a woman-to-woman ballad about one losing her love to the other. Jenny’s album-release party for her awesome There Goes the Neighborhood CD is at City Winery on July 15. Those of you in A&R, in particular, need to hear this extraordinary artist. Get there however you can.
JIMMIE ALLEN/Unwell
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Publishers: none listed; BBR
– If there is even the slightest doubt in your mind about how wonderfully worthy this new artist is, this will erase it. If you’re already a fan, like I am, this will totally confirm it. It’s an acoustic cover of a Matchbox 20 tune where Allen sings his face off. Find it online and experience a little bliss.
THE SISTERHOOD BAND/Bullet
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Publishers: none listed; Arista
– Alyssa Bonagura and Ruby Stewart were both fabulously gifted solo singer-songwriters in Music City. Together in this ensemble, they are dynamite. Their vocal harmonies are twin-like, and their production skills are an audio delight. This track has snappy rhythm, echoey energy and feisty charm. They might have “dodged a bullet,” but you shouldn’t. The other available Sisterhood track is the poppy, choppy “Get Up and Go.” More, more, more.
KANE BROWN & MARSHMELLO/One Thing Right
Writers: Kane Brown/Marshmello/Jesse Frasure/Josh Hoge/Matthew McGuinn; Producer: none listed; Publishers: none listed; RCA
– Solid. Kane’s lead vocal keeps it grounded while international star Marshmello’s audio touches flitter around him. It’s all about the groove.
BLANCO BROWN/The Git Up
Writers: none listed; Producers: none listed; Publishers: none listed; BBR
– This is a boatload of fun, a wonderfully wacky set of instructions for the saloon dancefloor. I am told this is already a viral sensation, and I can certainly hear why. It’s an irresistible novelty. He was a big fan favorite at CMA Music Fest.
JON PARDI/Ain’t Always The Cowboy
Writers: Brandon Kinney/Josh Thompson; Producers: Jon Pardi/Bart Butler/Ryan Gore; Publishers: none listed; Capitol
– Hot on the heels of his single and title tune of the upcoming “Heartache Medication” CD comes another advance taste of the collection. As always, he is a beacon lighting up the darkness to lead us back to true country music. From the fiddle intro to the wailing choruses, this is righteous.
JON LANGSTON/Now You Know
Writers: Jon Langston/Brad Clawson/Brock Berryhill; Producer: Jody Stevens; Publishers: Sony-ATV Countryside/Warner-Tamerlane/Mandy’s Favorite/Murphy the Wolf/Five Miles West/Don’t Be a Gypsy, BMI
– The truck, the hunting dog, the booze, the cooler, the babe, the fishing, the small-town thang, the red neck. You know the drill.
GARTH BROOKS & BLAKE SHELTON/Dive Bar
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Publisher: None listed; Pearl
– Raucous and rowdy. Full of high spirits and good intentions. Somewhat reminiscent of the atmosphere created by the iconic “Friends in Low Places.” Hit bound.
JEANNIE C. RILEY/Me and Bobby McGee
Writers: Kristofferson/Foster; Producers: Larry Marrs & J.R. McNeely; Publishers: none listed; Country rewind
– Her plain-spoken, Texas-twang delivery is perfect for this timeless story song. The tempo is jaunty, and the steel passages are perfection. Never previously released, it is drawn from 1970 radio-show tapes that have been given new productions and now packaged as a CD titled The Music City Sessions. Country Rewind Records has similar releases of long-lost and updated collections by Waylon Jennings, Johnny Russell, Conway Twitty, Connie Smith, Mickey Gilley, Faron Young, Ferlin Husky and more. Cool stuff.
JACKSON MICHELSON/One At A Time
Writers: Jackson Michelson/Justin Ebach/STeven Dale Jones; Producer: none listed; Publishers: none listed; Curb
– Generic sounding. A memorable melody would have been nice.
Dierks Bentley Unveils Whiskey Stage Lineup For His Seven Peaks Festival
/by Lorie HollabaughIn addition to the Whiskey Row stage, the previously announced main stage lineup features Bentley, Luke Bryan, Maren Morris, Jon Pardi and Mitchell Tenpenny, along with Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Ryan Hurd, Steep Canyon Rangers, The War and Treaty, Tenille Townes and Caylee Hammack. Additionally, last year’s highlight, Friday’s HOT COUNTRY NIGHT, is set to return this year with Travis Tritt, Tracy Lawrence, Diamond Rio and Deana Carter, and will feature a special performance by Bentley’s own Hot Country Knights.
Fans can also expect plenty of activities across the weekend including the return of the Somewhere On A Beach Party and Late Night At Whiskey Row, ATV Tours, inflatable kayaking, whitewater rafting and more.
Tickets are on sale now at sevenpeaksfestival.com.
BMI Presents Third Rooftop On The Row Of 2019 With Aaron Watson And Faren Rachels
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R): CDA Entertainment’s Gino Genaro, BMI’s Jody Williams, Aaron Watson, BMI’s Mason Hunter and CAA’s John Huie. Photo: Nathan Zucker
BMI once again hosted its Rooftop on the Row series on Tuesday evening (June 25) at their Nashville office. The third show of the summer series featured Texas star Aaron Watson and up-and-comer Faren Rachels. To kick off the evening, Rachels delivered her brand of rowdy country to a crowd of industry insiders, and included a performance of her latest single “On Paper.”
Pictured: Faren Rachels performs on the BMI Rooftop. Photo: Nathan Zucker
Watson, who has a new album out this week titled Red Bandana, closed out the evening. Performing his fan-favorites and new songs—including “Kiss That Girl Goodbye”—Watson brought his Texas swagger to the BMI terrace. He finished out the set with his BMI award-winning song, “Outta Style.” Fans can catch Watson on tour through the summer.
Pictured: Aaron Watson performs during BMI’s Rooftop on the Row on June 25, 2019. Photo: Nathan Zucker
The next installment of Rooftop on the Row will be Tuesday, July 23 and will feature performances from Troy Cartwright and Maddie and Tae.
Pictured: Faren Rachels and BMI’s Leslie Roberts. Photo: Nathan Zucker
On The Cover: 2019 ‘MusicRow’ Awards Issue
/by Haley CrowMusicRow, Nashville’s leading music industry publication, is proud to release its annual MusicRow Awards print issue. The latest issue features the nominees of the 31st annual MusicRow Awards, who were celebrated during an all-new, expanded ceremony in Nashville Wednesday night (June 26) at War Memorial Auditorium.
The issue also highlights Ken Burns’ Country Music documentary, Kacey Musgraves fashion stylist Erica Cloud, an examination of female country music tours, and actor/musician Kiefer Sutherland, among many other articles.
Gracing the cover of MusicRow’s June/July print magazine is Capitol Records Nashville recording artist Jon Pardi. Pardi’s Platinum-certified album California Sunrise debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart earning him the titles CMA New Artist of the Year and ACM New Male Vocalist of the Year. Pardi dominated the top of the country music charts with consecutive No. 1 hits including 2x Platinum-selling songs “Dirt On My Boots” and “Head Over Boots,” and Platinum-certified “Heartache On The Dance Floor.”
Most recently, “Night Shift” reached No. 5 and No. 8 respectively on Billboard’s Top Country Airplay and Hot Country Songs charts, while “She Ain’t In It” landed in the Top 25. California Sunrise is the follow up to Write You A Song, which debuted at No. 3 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart and yielded Top 10 Gold-selling songs “Up All Night,” “What I Can’t Put Down,” “Missin’ You Crazy” and “When I’ve Been Drinkin” (all co-written by Pardi). Pardi’s upcoming album Heartache Medication is slated for a Sept. 27 release. For more information, visit www.jonpardi.com.
Single copies of the MusicRow Awards issue are available for purchase online for $20, and are included with yearly subscriptions at no additional cost.
Bobby Karl Works The Room: The 31st Annual MusicRow Awards
/by Bobby KarlPictured (L-R): Robert K. Oermann, Tenille Townes, MusicRow Magazine Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
BOBBY KARL WORKS THE ROOM
Chapter 627
MusicRow magazine has been giving awards annually for more than 30 years, but its ceremony took a giant leap forward on Wednesday evening (June 26).
The event moved from the lobbies of BMI or ASCAP to the War Memorial Auditorium. Table sponsorships were offered, and the celebration sold out. Winners’ names were kept secret until they were announced on stage. A cocktail supper was provided. Classy video graphics were added.
There were several new award categories. A new trophy was introduced, designed by artisan Santana Matlock. It is a column of concrete containing earth from the historic sites of Music Row.
Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
One thing that has probably not changed is that the winners are often predictors of what will transpire at the CMA Awards the following fall. Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, Sam Hunt, Kacey Musgraves, Luke Bryan and more have been honored by MusicRow before ascending to CMA glory.
So keep an eye on Wednesday’s big MusicRow winners Luke Combs, Ashley McBryde, Jimmie Allen, Tenille Townes, Hillary Lindsey and Josh Osborne. By the way, McBryde was a double winner.
Here’s something else that was new this year, a celebrity co-host. TV personality and media coach Alecia Davis proved to be a bright and lively foil for MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson as they zipped through a fast-paced awards event.
Pictured: Alecia Davis, Jeremy Bussey, MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
Sherod said she gave him advice about the elements that are in play when hosting an awards show. Then they bantered about it.
“Starting tonight, welcome to the Golden Globes of country music,” Sherod quipped. He was referring to the fact that the Globes predict the Oscars and are far more goofy and relaxed. He wants his industry to feel the same about MusicRow’s presentations.
He listed Alecia’s award-show monologue elements, and both of them dismissed most of them. Tell jokes? Nope. Riff on news headlines? Nope. Sing and dance? Nope and nope. Do a selfie? Yes, they did that.
Pictured (L-R): Alecia Davis, Dann Huff, MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
How about roasting people? They listed sponsors CAA, Vaden Group/Elliott Davis, Keller Turner Andrews Ghanem, City National Bank, Ram Trucks and Todd Cassetty. So, no roasting. At least not them.
Sherod and Alecia kept up their light-hearted energy throughout the ceremony. First up was the presentation of the 2019 All-Star Musician honors.
“This is the one we all want,” said guitar winner Derek Wells. “Thank you, MusicRow – this is amazing,” said fiddle winner Jenee Fleenor. Her category was a tie with Stuart Duncan and Alison Krauss. “I am happy to split this, because they are my heroes,” she added.
Pictured (L-R): Alecia Davis, Make Wake’s Chris Kappy, MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
“I want give a shout-out to all of these up here [on stage] with me and all the other players in the trenches,” said keyboards winner Charles Judge. “We have the greatest gig in the world,” said backup-vocalist winner Russell Terrell. “It’s a blessing beyond belief.”
“It’s amazing to me that I get to stand up here with the greatest musicians in the world,” commented engineer winner Justin Niebank. The other honorees were Nir Z (drums), Jimmie Lee Sloas (bass) and Paul Franklin, plus Russ Pahl (a tie for steel).
Dann Huff returned to the MusicRow stage as 2019 Producer of the Year. He previously won in 2013 and 2006. “I appreciate this very much,” he remarked. “My biggest thanks are to the artists and musicians and Justin and my wife, Sherri, who has put up with my schedule since I started playing guitar at age 18.”
Pictured (L-R): Robert K. Oermann, MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
UMG was named Label of the Year. CAA won Talent Agency of the Year. The Breakthrough Songwriter award went to Jordan Reynolds. Publisher Ben Vaughn accepted on his behalf.
“He’s had an amazing year,” said Ben. “He’s had a No. 1 country song (“Tequila,” “Speechless”). He’s had a No. 1 Christian song. He couldn’t be here because he is at a writer’s retreat, and is probably already three songs into it by now.”
At this point, Sherod and Alecia decided they were jealous of the rest of us, making merry and drinking our wine. They asked for somebody backstage to bring them some wine.
The 31st annual MusicRow Awards celebrates the All-Star Musicians. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
Out came surprise guest Kathie Lee Gifford, famous for her wine imbibing on daytime TV. She has moved to Franklin and has been collaborating on songs with attendee Brett James, among others. She shared her own wine brand with the co-hosts.
“I’m happy,” she said. “It’s this place. Everyone is so loving, and they love my wine. I’m blessed beyond belief. My dream job is what I’m doing right now. I can’t thank you enough for the welcome that I’ve received and the warmth.”
“Nashville is built on relationships, and we’re all here because of relationships,” explained Sherod.
“She’s like a dose of sunshine,” said Alecia.
Pictured (L-R): Alecia Davis, Ben Vaughn, MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
Jimmie Allen won Breakthrough Artist-Writer. Josh Osborne won Male Songwriter. Hillary Lindsey won Female Songwriter.
The Song of the Year went to “Girl Goin’ Nowhere,” by Ashley McBryde and Jeremy Bussey. “I knew when I sat down in a room with her that she was something special,” said Jeremy. “It’s the first song we ever wrote together. Thank you to everyone who ever sat in a room with me.”
Sherod announced that a new award was being created and named for MusicRow’s longest-tenured critic. “What do you look for in a new artist?” he asked Robert K. Oermann.
Pictured (L-R): Alecia Davis, BBR’s Sara Knabe, MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
RKO referred to his many years of reviewing acts. In so doing, he did a shout-out to MusicRow founder David M. Ross. Then he addressed the question.
“If you are a new artist, I expect you to say something to us in your music,” RKO said. “I expect you to be a student of this business. This is a community—get to know it. Most of all, I expect you to be different. Don’t come here as a clone of a star, because we already have that star. I want you to be you.”
RKO then announced Tenille Townes as the winner of the Robert K. Oermann Discovery Artist award. “This is so cool,” she said. “I respect all of the other nominees, and I consider myself so lucky to do this. When I first came to town at age 14, I made my mother drive me up and down Music Row. I was in awe of all the buildings. To now be a part of that is unbelievable.”
Pictured (L-R): Alecia Davis, Kathie Lee Gifford, MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow
Bussey reappeared to accept on behalf of McBryde when she was named Breakthrough Artist. “This is one of my favorite people on the planet,” Jeremy said. “She’s the coolest chick I’ve ever met, an awesome, incredible soul. Thank you guys for this. We all know it’s tough to be a woman [in country music] right now.”
The Luke Combs triumph as MusicRow subscribers’ Artist of the Year capped the eve.
Working the room were nominees Kevin Welch, Scott Hendricks, Caylee Hammack, C.J. Solar, Laura Veltz, Tofer Brown, Brad Clawson, Aaron Eshuis, Will Weatherly, HARDY, Sean McConnell, Hailey Whitters, and Bobby Pinson. Also such enduring fabulons as Tom Luteran, Tim Wipperman, Tim Fink, Charlie Cook, Craig Campbell, Martha Moore, Steve O’Brien, Pat Higdon, R.J. Curtis and Dale Bobo.
Aspiring hit makers Julia Still, Morgan Clark and Brinn Black were there. So were Bob DiPiero, James Elliott, Kos Weaver, Josh Van Valkenburg, Brad Peterson, John Ozier, Preshias Tomes, Victoria Shaw, Suzanne Lee, E.T. Brown, Chris Kappy, Becky Harris, and Mike Sistad.
The catering was quite good. We noshed to our hearts’ content on burger sliders, red-pepper hummus, pita bread, shrimp & grits, melted-cheese toast points, exquisitely dressed pasta salad, veggies, hot-chicken sliders, polenta bites with sun-dried tomato and feta topping and many mini desserts.
Photo: Steve Lowry for MusicRow