ole Celebrates No. 1 Song With “Peter Pan”
Pictured (L-R): Robert Ott, Chairman and CEO, ole; Kelsea Ballerini, John Ozier, VP Creative, ole; Gilles Godard, VP, Corporate Affairs and Development, ole.
Rights management company ole is celebrating a No. 1 hit with Kelsea Ballerini‘s “Peter Pan,” which was co-produced by ole songwriter/producer Jason Massey and co-written by ole legacy songwriter Jesse Lee.
“Jason Massey and Jesse Lee are some of the best in the industry right now,” said John Ozier, Vice President, Creative at ole. “It’s no wonder that their collaboration with Kelsea Ballerini has resulted in yet another number one song, and ole is very proud to have them as part of our talented team.”
The song was also co-written by Ballerini and Forest Whitehead. In honor of the achievement, ole presented Ballerini with a plaque and an ole No. 1 iPad on Sunday night at the company’s Saloon Jam.
APA Signs Sister Hazel
Sister Hazel
Talent agency APA has signed alternative rock and country band Sister Hazel, best known for the hits “All for You,” “Your Winter” and “Champagne High.”
“The band has a passionate fan base of ‘Hazelnuts’ and a wonderful reputation with promoters throughout the country. We are thrilled to be working with a group that embodies such a positive message and strong work ethic,” said Travis Wolfe, Agent, Corporate & Special Events, for APA Nashville.
“This is a group that our entire team can get behind. We are all excited to dive into the next chapter of Sister Hazel’s career,” added Heath Baumhor, Agent, for APA Nashville.
APA Nashville will handle Sister Hazel’s domestic and international bookings.
Motown Gospel Appoints Senior Management Positions
Pictured (L-R): EJ Gaines, Monica Coates
Motown Gospel has appointed industry executives Monica Coates and EJ Gaines to senior management roles. Coates has been appointed to the role of VP, A&R, while Gaines has been appointed VP, Marketing. They will assume their roles Oct. 3 and will be based at Motown Gospel/CCMG’s Nashville headquarters.
Coates will direct A&R, Creative and Promotion functions, while Gaines will oversee Commercial Partnerships, Publicity and Events, Digital Marketing and Content Creation/Monetization, Sync and Business Affairs. Both Coates and Gaines will also work with CCMG Publishing to discover, sign, and develop songwriters.
Prior to joining Motown Gospel, Coates was General Manager at Kirk Franklin’s Fo Yo Soul Recordings/RCA.
Gaines was previously an entertainment attorney and artist manager, guiding the careers of Mary Mary, Natalie Grant, Jonathan McReynolds, and more.
“We are so excited to be naming Monica Coates and EJ Gaines to these important positions within Motown Gospel,” says Ken Pennell, President of Gospel Music at CCMG. “They both bring a wealth of experience to their respective roles, and our artists will benefit greatly from their diverse skill sets, passion for music and belief in how Gospel Music can enrich the lives of its listeners. All of us within Motown Gospel and CCMG wholeheartedly welcome Monica and EJ to our family.”
Motown Gospel is the recording home to artists including Tasha Cobbs, Tye Tribbett, and more.
Sylvia Prepares First New Album In 14 Years
/by Craig_ShelburneCountry artist Sylvia will release the album It’s All in the Family on Oct. 7, marking her first new music in 14 years. She co-produced the album with longtime collaborator John Mock.
“I hope this music inspires and encourages people of all ages to continue to create in whatever genre brings them joy,” stated Sylvia. “I have found that there is no age limit on creativity. Your best work is ahead of you! I’ve felt like a kid again making this record, and I can hardly wait to share it with the world!”
Sylvia charted 11 Top 10 country singles in the 1980s. Her No. 1 hits include “Drifter” and “Nobody.” She was named 1982 ACM Female Vocalist of the Year.
It’s All in the Family Track List
1. “Every Time A Train Goes By”
2. “Somebody’s Daughter”
3. “Leave the Past in the Past”
4. “A Right Turn”
5. “All in the Family”
6. “Grandpa Kirby Runnin’ the Hounds”
7. “Immigrant Shoes”
8. “Cumberland Rose”
9. “Hope’s Too Hard”
10. “I Didn’t Know What I Was Missing”
11. “Here Lately”
12. “Do Not Cry For Me”
CMA Honors Gord Bamford, Paul McGuire With International Achievement Awards
/by Jessica NicholsonGord Bamford. Photo: Grant W. Martin Photography
The Country Music Association presented entertainer Gord Bamford and radio show host Paul McGuire with CMA International Achievement Awards on Saturday (Sept. 10) during the Canadian Country Music Association Gala Dinner and Awards in London, Ontario.
A 22-time CCMA Award winner, Bamford received the Jeff Walker Global Artist Award, which recognizes outstanding achievements by a country artist originally signed outside of the United States in both furthering the popularity of country music and bringing attention to the country music format in their foreign-based territory.
“I am truly honored and humbled to receive the CMA Jeff Walker Global Artist Award,” said Bamford. “To be recognized by CMA for a second time is a highlight in my career and something I am very proud of. Jeff Walker was a dear friend and one of the first people to warmly welcome me to Nashville, so to win this award in the first year it has been named in Jeff’s honor is extremely emotional and extra special. This award will be proudly displayed in our Nashville home. A heartfelt thank you to CMA.”
Paul McGuire. Photo: Grant W. Martin Photography
McGuire was presented with the International Country Broadcaster Award, recognizing outstanding achievement by radio broadcasters outside the U.S. who have made important contributions to the development of Country Music in their country.
“I felt immediately welcomed and embraced by the country music community the first time I traveled to Nashville 10 years ago,” remarked McGuire. “To be recognized by CMA, the gatekeepers of the genre that I love and respect so much, is a true and humbling honor that I will carry with me forever. And the fact that a kid born in Edinburgh, Scotland and raised in Toronto, Canada can win a CMA Award is proof that country music knows no borders.”
“The CCMA Gala Awards event was a wonderful forum to present two prestigious CMA Awards to our very deserving Canadian recipients. These awards from CMA are a vital and symbolic tribute to the hard work and dedication applied by these individuals as they go above and beyond in the interest of propagating the country music format around the globe,” said Ted Ellis, Harbour Media Partners President, CMA Board member, and CCMA Chairman.
CMA Senior Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Partnerships Damon Whiteside (left) and Harbour Media Partners President, CMA Board member, and CCMA Chairman Ted Ellis. Photo: Grant W. Martin Photography
BBR Music Group Signs Walker McGuire To Wheelhouse Records
/by Jessica NicholsonPictured (back row, L-R): EVP of BBR Music Group Jon Loba; VP of Promotion Wheelhouse Records Teddi Bonadies; SVP of Promotion BBR Music Group Carson James; COR Entertainment’s Mickey Jack Cones. (Front row, L-R): Jordan Walker; CEO/ Founder BBR Music Group Benny Brown; Johnny McGuire
BBR Music Group has signed country duo Walker McGuire to its Wheelhouse Records imprint.
Walker McGuire includes BMI singer-songwriters Jordan Walker and Johnny McGuire. The duo met in 2012, when they performed at the same open mic night at Nashville venue The Commodore. The duo combined their vocal and songwriting talents. In the past year, they have performed more than 200 shows.
The duo is produced by Mickey Jack Cones, and managed by Cones’ COR Entertainment, and signed to Combustion/Atlas and Cor Music Publishing. The duo is booked by United Talent Agency.
“Walker McGuire’s songwriting skills, stage presence and unique vocal blend impressed me the first time I heard the duo live. Most importantly, Walker McGuire is relatable to country music fans and we’re proud to welcome Jordan and Johnny to Wheelhouse Records and the BBR Music Group family,” said BBR Music Group CEO/Founder Benny Brown.
“We’ve both been dreaming of doing this since we were kids and we are extremely grateful to Benny and the BBR Music Group team for believing in us and giving us this opportunity,” said Walker McGuire in a joint statement.
Walker McGuire. Photo: Chase Lauer
Artist Updates: Brantley Gilbert, Lorrie Morgan, Mo Pitney, Jared Wade
/by Jessica NicholsonBrantley Gilbert Gives Songwriters First Listen New Album
Front row (L-R): Dann Huff (producer), Mike Dekle, Brantley Gilbert, Ben Hayslip, Bobby Pinson, Cledus T. Judd. Back row (L-R): Brett James, Justin Weaver, Andrew DeRoberts, Derek George, Ashley Gorley, Brian Davis, Rhett Akins, Michael Dulaney, Blake Chaffin, Jeremy Bussey, Jayce Hein. Photo: Amy Allmand
Warner/Chappell Nashville, along with Warner/Chappell songwriter and The Valory Music Co. artist Brantley Gilbert, hosted a listening party for the songwriters who contributed to Gilbert’s upcoming studio album. The listening party was held at Southern Ground Studio, where the album was recorded.
Kneeling: Brantley Gilbert. Front row (L-R): Emily Falvey, Karen Harrison Hite, LuAnn Inman, Alicia Pruitt. Second row (L-R ): Matt Michiels, Justin Weaver, Bethany Mako, Ashley Gorley, Ben Hayslip, Cledus T Judd, Patricia Mainello. Back row, (L-R): Brett James, Derek George, Alison Junker, Brian Davis, BJ Hill, Rhett Akins, Michael Dulaney, Ben Vaughn, Neena Wright, Will Overton, Jessi Vaughn
Lorrie Morgan, Mo Pitney, Chris Tomlin Sign On For Music With A Mission
Lorrie Morgan, Mo Pitney
Lorrie Morgan, Mo Pitney, and CCM singer-songwriter Chris Tomlin will take part in this year’s Music with a Mission, slated for Oct. 2 at 7 p.m. at Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville. Also on the bill are Jason Crabb and Ruby Amanfu.
Jim Gray will conduct the award-winning Nashville Symphony.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Nashville Rescue Mission. The Mission serves over 2,000 meals a day, and provides over 800 men, women, and children experiencing homelessness with safe shelter each night. For more, visit nashvillesymphony.org.
Jared Wade Releases EP We’ve Got The Summer
Wade, an independent artist, recently signed with SESAC, and was scouted by SESAC’s Shannan Hatch. He performed on Luke Bryan’s Farm Tour, and has been featured on The Pursuit Channel’s Outdoor Edge.
Taylor Swift Renews Deal With Sony/ATV
/by Craig_ShelburneTaylor Swift
Taylor Swift has extended her longtime publishing relationship with Sony/ATV.
Swift moved to Nashville at the age of 14 to pursue her music career. Once there, she signed with Sony/ATV, becoming the youngest writer/artist ever signed to the company.
In a press release, the company stated, “Sony/ATV is proud to say Taylor’s new deal reflects her record-breaking achievements and recognition as one of the world’s greatest songwriters. “
Opry Hosts Special Show For Country Cares For St. Jude Kids
/by Craig_ShelburnePictured (L-R): Opry announcer Bill Cody, Ian, Alabama’s Randy Owen. Photo: Chris Hollo for the Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry celebrated Country Cares for St. Jude Kids during a special show on Tuesday (Sept. 13). Performers included Randy Owen of Alabama, Old Dominion, Wade Hayes, Ricky Skaggs, Montgomery Gentry, and Drake White, among others.
Old Dominion with Ian. Photo: Chris Hollo for the Grand Ole Opry
Throughout the show, photos and videos of special moments from Country Cares for St. Jude Kids were shared during the Opry performances. St. Jude patient Ian, who is 8 years old, took the stage as a special guest announcer for the night.
Pictured (L-R): Ian, Ricky Skaggs. Photo: Chris Hollo for the Grand Ole Opry
After Ian presented Owen with a memento thanking him for 27 years of work with Country Cares for St. Jude Kids, the singer returned the favor and surprised Ian with an official print recognizing his Opry guest announcer appearance.
Pictured (L-R): Ian, Wade Hayes. Photo: Chris Hollo for the Grand Ole Opry
Miranda Lambert Reveals Title, Release Date For New Album
/by Craig_ShelburneMiranda Lambert. Photo: Becky Fluke
Miranda Lambert will release a new album, The Weight of These Wings, on Nov. 18 on RCA Nashville.
Frank Liddell, Glenn Worf, and Eric Masse are credited as producers on the album, which features the lead single “Vice.” Lambert released her prior album, Platinum, in 2014.
Lambert announced the news on Tuesday (Sept. 13) via a social media video.
Artist Updates: Jason Aldean, Little Big Town, Maddie & Tae, Brothers Osborne
/by Eric T. ParkerJason Aldean Debuts ‘Pandora Sessions’ Exclusive
Pandora has premiered Jason Aldean‘s collection of five live recordings in its Pandora Sessions series. Tracks include “A Little More Summertime,” “Burn It Down,” “Dirt Road Anthem,” “Lights Come On,” and “This Plane Don’t Go There” in addition to commentary from Aldean. Recorded live at Pandora’s Oakland, California headquarters, the session also features video performances.
See Aldean’s performance of “A Little More Summertime” below.
Little Big Town Added To Luke Bryan’s 2017 Crash My Playa
Little Big Town will join in the third year of Luke Bryan’s Crash My Playa, the all-inclusive concert vacation set for Jan. 19-22, 2017 in Riviera Maya, Mexico.
Previously announced headliners Blake Shelton and Bryan will appear alongside Randy Houser, Dustin Lynch and Brothers Osborne. Bryan will headline two of the four nightly concerts. Additional performers will be announced soon. For more information, visit crashmyplaya.com.
Maddie & Tae To Celebrate Bloomingdale’s Partnership With Fashion Week Showcase
Maddie & Tae wearing AQUA x Maddie & Tae. Photo: Courtesy of Bloomingdale’s
Maddie & Tae will celebrate the launch of AQUA x Maddie & Tae—a collection of ensemble pieces for school, work or a night on the town—at Bloomingdale’s on Thursday (Sept. 15) to cap New York City’s iconic Fashion Week
Hosted at the 59th street Bloomingdale’s location in Manhattan, the curated collection targets the youthful sense of adventure and girl power spirit of the Dot Records duo. Items range from $38 to $498 at all Bloomingdale’s stores and at bloomingdales.com.
Brothers Osborne Stop By Larry King Now
Brothers Osborne. Photo: Jim Wright
Brothers Osborne joined Larry King for his online series Larry King Now. The special featured the duo discussing their debut album Pawn Shop in addition to their rural, blue-collar upbringing and musical influences Merle Haggard, Bob Seger, and Gregg Allman. The interview is available on Hulu.com or Ora.tv. The Larry King Now special also features Kix Brooks.
The brothers received nominations for New Artist of the Year and Vocal Duo of the Year at the 50th Annual CMA Awards. After wrapping a stint on the road with Miranda Lambert, the brothers will head out for their own dates. They will be appearing at Pilgrimage Festival in Franklin, Tennessee, as well as Skyville Live.
Industry Ink: ole, APA, Motown Gospel
/by Jessica Nicholsonole Celebrates No. 1 Song With “Peter Pan”
Pictured (L-R): Robert Ott, Chairman and CEO, ole; Kelsea Ballerini, John Ozier, VP Creative, ole; Gilles Godard, VP, Corporate Affairs and Development, ole.
Rights management company ole is celebrating a No. 1 hit with Kelsea Ballerini‘s “Peter Pan,” which was co-produced by ole songwriter/producer Jason Massey and co-written by ole legacy songwriter Jesse Lee.
“Jason Massey and Jesse Lee are some of the best in the industry right now,” said John Ozier, Vice President, Creative at ole. “It’s no wonder that their collaboration with Kelsea Ballerini has resulted in yet another number one song, and ole is very proud to have them as part of our talented team.”
The song was also co-written by Ballerini and Forest Whitehead. In honor of the achievement, ole presented Ballerini with a plaque and an ole No. 1 iPad on Sunday night at the company’s Saloon Jam.
APA Signs Sister Hazel
Sister Hazel
Talent agency APA has signed alternative rock and country band Sister Hazel, best known for the hits “All for You,” “Your Winter” and “Champagne High.”
“The band has a passionate fan base of ‘Hazelnuts’ and a wonderful reputation with promoters throughout the country. We are thrilled to be working with a group that embodies such a positive message and strong work ethic,” said Travis Wolfe, Agent, Corporate & Special Events, for APA Nashville.
“This is a group that our entire team can get behind. We are all excited to dive into the next chapter of Sister Hazel’s career,” added Heath Baumhor, Agent, for APA Nashville.
APA Nashville will handle Sister Hazel’s domestic and international bookings.
Motown Gospel Appoints Senior Management Positions
Pictured (L-R): EJ Gaines, Monica Coates
Motown Gospel has appointed industry executives Monica Coates and EJ Gaines to senior management roles. Coates has been appointed to the role of VP, A&R, while Gaines has been appointed VP, Marketing. They will assume their roles Oct. 3 and will be based at Motown Gospel/CCMG’s Nashville headquarters.
Coates will direct A&R, Creative and Promotion functions, while Gaines will oversee Commercial Partnerships, Publicity and Events, Digital Marketing and Content Creation/Monetization, Sync and Business Affairs. Both Coates and Gaines will also work with CCMG Publishing to discover, sign, and develop songwriters.
Prior to joining Motown Gospel, Coates was General Manager at Kirk Franklin’s Fo Yo Soul Recordings/RCA.
Gaines was previously an entertainment attorney and artist manager, guiding the careers of Mary Mary, Natalie Grant, Jonathan McReynolds, and more.
“We are so excited to be naming Monica Coates and EJ Gaines to these important positions within Motown Gospel,” says Ken Pennell, President of Gospel Music at CCMG. “They both bring a wealth of experience to their respective roles, and our artists will benefit greatly from their diverse skill sets, passion for music and belief in how Gospel Music can enrich the lives of its listeners. All of us within Motown Gospel and CCMG wholeheartedly welcome Monica and EJ to our family.”
Motown Gospel is the recording home to artists including Tasha Cobbs, Tye Tribbett, and more.
Madison House Opens Nashville Office With Jordan Burger
/by Craig_ShelburneJordan Burger
Booking agency Madison House, Inc has hired Jordan Burger to lead its new Nashville office. The agency is headquartered in Boulder, Colorado.
Some of Burger’s clients include Kris Allen, David Cook, Delta Rae, Colin Hay, Civil Twilight, Knox Hamilton, Walker, Katie Herzig and Matt Wertz. Burger’s previous career stops include Fleming Artists, The Agency Group and Pinnacle Entertainment.
Adam Bauer, also formerly of Fleming Artists, has been hired by Madison House to head a new office in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Burger comments, “I have been inspired by Madison House and all they’ve stood for since their inception some 20 years ago. Their creative, entrepreneurial spirit and their ability to manage and book top tier artists, while curating and promoting the best of events has been a regular motivation. I love the music they represent, and I’m excited about my existing team and me to become a part of their family, and I can’t wait to introduce Madison House to the Nashville music community.”
The Nashville office is located at 115 29th Ave. S. Burger can be reached at jordan@madison-house.com and 303-544-9900.