Pictured: (L-R): BMI’s Jody Williams, BMI songwriter Ross Copperman, BMI’s Bradley Collins, BMI singer-songwriter Brett Eldredge, Warner Music Nashville’s John Esposito, Sony ATV’s Troy Tomlinson and Josh Van Valkenburg.
Brett Eldredge and his dog Edgar, Ross Copperman and his toddler daughter Iris, and dozens of industry folks saluted “Drunk on Your Love” at BMI on Tuesday afternoon (Aug. 9). It’s the third No. 1 that Copperman and Eldredge have had together.
Warner Bros. Nashville Chairman & CEO John Esposito (a.k.a. Espo), BMI Executive Director Bradley Collins and Sony/ATV Senior Vice President of A&R Josh Van Valkenburg also took their turns at the mic.
During a loose and charming speech, Eldredge recalled his early years socializing with Copperman. “Six years ago we met, I think, and we couldn’t even get into an after-party for a songwriter event. We weren’t cool enough so we drowned our sorrows and also dreamed a little more,” he said. “I think it’s really cool to chase dreams with guys like Ross because he’s a real guy. He’s not in it chasing down money. I mean, he’s doing perfectly fine but he doesn’t care about that. He really believes in the music and believes in the art of what we do.”
Eldredge also thanked Espo. “We’re going to have several drinks together and celebrate this because we chased this down a long time ago at a dinner,” he said. “We were at F. Scott’s listening to jazz music, believe it or not, because we both love jazz. We met and I said, ‘This guy is the guy who’s going to take me somewhere my crazy head dreams of.’ This guy can take me to that place and we are well on our way, brother. I love you, man, and thank you.”
Eldredge also praised his friends at Sony/ATV. “You guys have helped shape me as a songwriter,” he said. “It’s really crazy the job you guys have to figure out: ‘Who is this guy going to work well with?’ These guys live in songs.”
He added, “They came to my place the other day and we all sat on the balcony and we looked out over the city. I remember walking down these streets in college drinking whiskey out of a water bottle with zero dollars in my bank account hardly, dreaming up what I could do. And now there are buildings all over the place and this town is growing from the music here and everything around it. And guys like this help build that, and help me have a career, and believe in these songs that also are the reason we’re here in this business. Never lose that, Nashville! Never lose that. That’s what we need.”
He closed his remarks by tipping his hat to his label’s A&R team, in particular Scott Hendricks, and by recalling the lean times with his family growing up.
“My mom and dad and my brother are here,” he announced. “You guys have been here way before we’ve had any of these kinds of parties. I remember auditioning for shows. We slept in a parking garage over here on couch mattresses, and didn’t sleep at all, just trying to sing in front of these judges for one minute. And try to make someone say, ‘OK, you’re going to be a star.’ If I had been told I was going to be a star at that point, I probably wouldn’t be here, so I’m glad I was told no a lot of times. You’ve got to be told no a lot, and you’ve got to have the people who believe it should be a yes sticking with you, and that’s my family.”
Wrapping things up, he thanked BMI, his label’s radio team and his band and crew.
“We’re gonna go party now! I couldn’t feel any better. Thank you to this whole town for really getting around me and my career, and Ross, and all the songwriters. This is a tough job. Anybody’s who’s trying to do it, I feel ya. I’m still chasing it down with you and it could stop tomorrow. But there’s always that belief. … You chase it and that’s what we’re doing. Cheers!”
Pictured (L-R): Mallory Opheim, Branden Bosler, John Esposito, Ross Copperman, BE, Scott Hendricks, Katie Bright, Peter Strickland, Kristen Williams, Kevin Herring, Cris Lacy
Copperman preceded Eldredge at the podium and genially addressed the crowd by saying, “I look at this stage and I feel like we’re missing somebody. It’s hard to imagine that just the two of us made this whole thing happen—writing it, producing it together in a week and mixing it.”
He continued, “In 2012, when Brett came over to our old house in Bellevue, [my wife] Katlin was probably about 6 months pregnant with the girl you see today. We had a Chihuahua named Bella and Brett always used to put our Chihuahua on his head. We’d be writing the song and he’d be holding the Chihuahua on his head and sing, ‘I woke up…’ I’d say, “It’s getting weird man,” but it worked!”
Copperman thanked Eldredge, his wife, his publishers at Sony/ATV, Espo, and Warner Bros., the latter “for embracing these records me and Brett have made, these crazy little pieces of music we have put together. You guys have believed in them.”
Avenue Bank was not on hand to present a check, as is their tradition, but they did make a donation to Alzheimers Foundation of America. Country Radio Broadcasters Executive Director Bill Mayne spoke highly of the song’s achievements.
Van Valkenburg spoke about how Eldredge and Copperman “have profoundly impacted the progression of country music in the past few years. They’ve done so with integrity and balance.” He concluded his speech by commending the songwriters for not forgetting where they came from, and for appreciating the history of Nashville, and giving props to Warner Music Nashville.
With Copperman’s kid nearby, Van Valkenburg adjusted his “f” word to “freakin’” but Espo… well, he didn’t. But after rattling off a few statistics, Espo swelled with pride talking about Eldredge.
“We’re at the beginning of what’s going to be a very long ride, of an artist that’s going to be culturally important for a lot of decades, with a golden baritone that is just beyond soothing and magical.”
Espo then chatted about Eldredge’s upcoming Christmas album, recorded in New York City with a sizable string section and a horn section and rhythm section for good measure.
“Anybody here who really knows me knows that Frank Sinatra is the standard bearer for me. Frank’s three Christmas records aren’t as good as what Brett has recorded,” Esposito stated. “What I know is going to happen here is the world is going to find out he’s not just a great country singer. He’s a singer for the world.”
BMG’s Zach Katz Named To NMPA Board Of Directors
/by Jessica NicholsonZach Katz
The National Music Publishers’ Association has named Zach Katz, President of U.S. Repertoire and Marketing for BMG, as part of the NMPA Board of Directors.
While currently based in Los Angeles, Katz is also responsible for BMG teams in Nashville, New York and Los Angeles, as well as Rise Records in Portland, Oregon. Katz is in charge of a roster which includes star writers such as Bruno Mars, will.i.am, DJ Snake, John Legend, Pitbull, Frank Ocean and Quincy Jones and more.
Prior to BMG, Katz co-founded record label Beluga Heights with his client/partner JR Rotem, where they represented artists including Jason Derulo and Sean Kingston. Previously he served as GM of Groove Attack USA. He began his career in 1996 as a music attorney.
NMPA Board Chairman Irwin Robinson said, “Zach’s eye for talent is matched by his keen understanding of our business. He has always strived for songwriters to be given the respect and royalties they deserve, and the NMPA Board will benefit greatly by his expertise across the industry.”
NMPA President & CEO David Israelite added, “Zach’s career has been defined by finding innovative songwriters and fighting for their rights and their futures. He has extensive knowledge of the obstacles songwriters are up against when it comes to being treated fairly by digital companies, and I am excited that he will join in our efforts directly by joining our Board.”
Katz said, “I’m honored to join the respected music industry professionals as a member of the NMPA’s Board, an organization that champions the rights of creative people with such unwavering commitment. The NMPA and BMG share a similar mission — to create a fair and transparent environment where the interests of publishers and songwriters are protected. I’m looking forward to the work we’ll do together for the advancement and benefit of music industry professionals.”
DISClaimer: Keith Urban’s “Blue” Ballad Stands Out In A Rock Crowd
/by Robert K OermannKeith Urban
It’s a testosterone festival.
There are way too many guys in the mix today. Plus, there’s much too much rock music on hand. Trace Adkins, Kane Brown and Chase Rice are all rocking their brains out. So is Jason Aldean, but at least he has the good taste to do so melodically and with production finesse.
Thus, it comes as no surprise that the single that stands out today is a ballad performance. Give Keith Urban the Disc of the Day award.
The DisCovery Award performance belongs to a former college rugby player from North Carolina. Lend Luke Combs your ears. I think you’ll enjoy his sound as much as I did.
LUKE COMBS/Hurricane
Writers: Luke Combs/Thomas Archer/Taylor Phillips; Producer: none listed; Publisher: none listed; River House (track)
– She wrecked his world by coming on like a super storm. The stately pace, echoey atmosphere, macho vocal and screaming guitars come together to cast a dramatic spell. Recommended.
TOBY KEITH/A Few More Cowboys
Writers: Toby Keith/Bobby Pinson/Dean Dillon; Producer: Toby Keith/Bobby Pinson; Publishers: Tokeco/Bobby’s Lyrics Land & Livestock/Do Write/Sixteen Stars/Tenorado/HoriPro, BMI; Show Dog (CDX)
– Adding echo to a voice this powerful is kinda like gilding the lily. But this has a mighty melody and a mighty message. So sing away, bub. Echo and all.
AARON GOODVIN/Woman In Love
Writers: Aaron Goodvin/Bart Butler/Brice Long; Producer: Bart Butler; Publishers: WB/Goodvin Fifty One/Bill Butler/Golden Vault/Woodspring/Blongsongs, ASCAP/BMI/SESAC; Warner Music Canada (AJG) (CDX)
-Pleasant, if ordinary.
JASON ALDEAN/A Little More Summertime
Writers: Jerry Flowers, Tony Martin and Wendell Mobley; Producer: Michael Knox; Broken Bow (ERG)
– Less bombastic and more melodic than usual, which is a welcome change of pace. Also, he wears heartache well. The icing on the cake is a delightful, swirling production.
RYAN FOLLESE/Float Your Boat
Writers: Ryan Follesé, Adrienne Follesé, Jamie Follesé, Keith Follesé, Cameron Montgomery; Producer: Cameron Montgomery; Publishers: Sony/ATV Music Publishing, LLC / Black Saturday Music; BMI; Big Machine (ERG)
– I liked him better when he was a pop artist. That said, this is crunchy and catchy and clever.
TRACE ADKINS/Lit
Writers: Mickey Jack Cones, Monty Criswell, Derek George; Producer: Mickey Jack Cones; Wheelhouse (ERG)
– It lists the ways that things are hot while the production blazes. But it’s all rocked up with no place to go.
KANE BROWN/Thunder In The Rain
Writers: Kane Brown, Josh Hoge, Matthew McVaney; Publishers: Songs of Universal/EMI Foray Music/B Frank Entertainment; BMI/SESAC; RCA (ERG)
– More crashing rock. His vocal performance is kinda cool, but there’s just too much noise around it.
CHASE RICE/Everybody We Know Does
Writers: Jeremy Bussey, Travis Denning; Publishers: Universal Tunes/I’m About To Go Red On Ya Music; SESAC/BMI; Columbia (ERG)
– It’s one of those “country-and-proud-of-it” thangs with a raucous party vibe.
ERIC SOWERS BAND/My Kind of Country
Writers: Eric Sowers; Producer: Gary Carter; Publishers: none listed, BMI; ESB (track)
– This northern Ohio band has a hearty warmth and an engaging earnestness. Welcome to the dance, boys.
KEITH URBAN/Blue Ain’t Your Color
Writers: Steven Lee Olsen/Hillary Lindsey/Clint Lagerberg; Producers: Dann Huff/Keith Urban; Publishers: Warner-Tamerlane/Songs of the Corn/HillaroddyRathbone/BMG/House of Sea Gayle/Clearbox/Spirit Two, BMI/ASCAP; Capitol Nashville
– I dig the “old school” vibe on this ballad. The first time you hear it, the song sounds like a classic. Urban goes four-for-four from the Ripcord album.
Kix Brooks Extends Deal With ‘American Country Countdown’
/by Craig_ShelburneKix Brooks
Westwood One has entered into a multi-year, extended partnership with Kix Brooks, host of American Country Countdown, as he simultaneously celebrates his 10-year anniversary with the show.
“Ten years ago when I was offered the opportunity to host American Country Countdown, I thought ‘Wow I don’t know much about talking on the radio, but I love this business, and I love great songs and talent. I’ll get to spend time with so many friends I never see anymore. This could be fun!” Brooks said.
“I can’t believe how the time has flown, and I’m blown away to think that so many station owners have trusted me with their airwaves, and so many listeners have made me a part of their weekends,” he continued. “And now Cumulus has flattered me again, by asking me to continue with the show for years to come. I consider this to be a huge responsibility, and I look forward to sharing my experiences, along with the lives and music of our great Country artists. I will try my best to make sure every week the listeners out there are having as much fun as I am!”
“Extending our partnership with Kix is a no-brainer,” said Suzanne Grimes, Westwood One’s President and EVP, Corporate Marketing for Cumulus. “He’s more than a country legend—his lifestyle and entertainment brands touch millions beyond the country space. Plus, our listeners and our clients just adore him. We look forward to extending our relationship working with Kix on multiple new projects.”
Musicians On Call Honors Lady Antebellum, Raises $100,000
/by Jessica NicholsonPictured (L-R): Dave Haywood, Bobby Bones, Hillary Scott, Pete Griffin, Charles Kelley, and Lindsay Ell.
Musicians On Call (MOC) honored Lady Antebellum with the Music Heals Award at an invitation-only event at the Hard Rock Cafe in Nashville on Tuesday (Aug 9). The nonprofit organization brings live and recorded music to the bedsides of patients in healthcare facilities across the country.
The event, part of Musicians On Call’s Half A Million Moments campaign, raised over $100,000. The evening was hosted by iHeartRadio on-air personality and MOC Board Member Bobby Bones and featured performances by Lindsay Ell, Hunter Hayes and Eric Paslay, who all performed some of their favorite Lady Antebellum songs.
The Half A Million Moments Celebration last night also honored outgoing National Board Chair Scott Welch with the Leadership in Music Award, Volunteer Guide Richa Chandra, and Volunteer Musician Laura Eady for their hard work and dedication to helping deliver the healing power of music with MOC.
The Half A Million Moments Celebration was thanks in part to sponsors LadyAID, City National Bank, Genentech, CAA, Onsite Workshops, UMG Nashville, Adams & Reese LLP, ASCAP, Grand Ole Opry, Hard Rock International and Hard Rock Heals, Red Light Management, RIAA, SESAC and Warner/Chappell Nashville.
“We couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate our milestone of reaching half a million patients, families and caregivers in hospitals then a night like this with our greatest supporters and champions,” said Pete Griffin, Musicians On Call President. “Charles, Dave and Hillary of Lady A have been huge supporters of our program personally and their music has been a staple at our Bedside Performance Programs, always delivering the healing power of music to the patients who hear them.”
Pictured (L-R): Lindsay Ell, Eric Paslay, Hillary Scott, Charles Kelley, Hunter Hayes, Dave Haywood
Kelli Haywood Returns To Starstruck Management Group
/by Jessica NicholsonKelli Haywood
Music industry executive Kelli Haywood has returned to Starstruck Management Group, in the role of Manager and Vice President, Artist Development, where she reunites with Starstruck Management Group’s Narvel Blackstock and Brandon Blackstock.
She also will focus on signing and cultivating new talent at the music entertainment agency.
Haywood, who formerly served as VP, Brand Management at Warner Music Nashville, returns to Starstruck in a full-time role after founding her own artist management agency, KCH Entertainment, a year ago. She continued to serve as a consultant to the Blackstocks. Before that she served a two-year stint as Starstruck’s Vice President of Marketing and Partnerships.
“Brandon and I have worked with Kelli for several years when she was in charge of marketing for Blake Shelton at Warner Bros. Records,” Narvel Blackstock said. “We have always been extremely impressed with Kelli’s intelligence and talent whether working with her at the label or later when she brought many corporate partners for Starstruck artists. She has shown a broad understanding of what it takes for an artist to achieve their dreams and we could not be more happy to have her joining us at Starstruck.”
“I have worked with Narvel and Brandon for many years and believe that they are the best in the business,” Haywood said. “We have a unique opportunity to grow our roster and continue to build on the great successes we have had. I look forward to being a part of this great team.”
United Artist Tower Penthouse Purchased For $2.1 Million
/by Jessica NicholsonPhoto: CoStar
The 9th floor penthouse of Nashville’s United Artist Tower and 12 parking spaces have been acquired by Sai Ram 009 LLC from the Bryant Family Trust for $2.1 million.
Dickson, Tennessee businessman Jay Patel, owner of Sai Ram 009 LLC, previously purchased the building’s remaining eight floors and the parking garage last year for $3.8 million. The group now owns the entire building.
“This opens up a lot of opportunities,” spokesperson David Ewing, spokesperson for the buyer, told MusicRow. “They want to put something unique to help Music Row as it progresses and continues to be a unique place. They want something to complement that.”
“We are excited to finish our purchase of the United Artist Tower, which is the tallest building on Music Row and is in the heart of this booming area of Nashville. We are looking forward to exploring what is the best use of this great building in the future and we continue to get inquiries about this site,” Patel said in a statement.
The United Artist Tower is located at 50 Music Square West, and was built in 1974. The 56,700 square foot building was built by two members of Elvis Presley’s backing band The Jordanaires, and served as an office building, as housed studios and office space for several radio stations. The building was converted into condominiums in 2006.
Ewing says plans for the building should be revealed in the coming months.
Promotion Staff Changes At Reviver Entertainment Group
/by Jessica NicholsonPaul Williams, Suzanne Durham and Glenn Noblit, all former 1608 regional directors, will join Amara Hall and Dave Collins as Reviver Records regional managers. Williams will serve as Northeast regional manager, Durham will lead as midwest regional manager and Noblit will move into the Southwest regional manager position, effective immediately. Hall becomes Reviver Records’ Northeast regional manager and Collins continues as West Coast regional manager.
1608 regional promotion managers now include Clay Henderson leading the Southwest/Midwest and Ben Bieri overseeing the West Coast. An East Coast regional manager will be announced soon. Hayley Cowoski continues as promotion coordinator for Reviver Records and 1608. All regional managers and radio promotion staff members will report to Reeves.
“We’re thrilled to have these seasoned pros lead our radio promotion in their respective regions. Their experience is unrivaled and we know their drive, creativity and passion will generate consistent victories,” Reeves said.
Reviver Entertainment Group encompasses Reviver Records, Reviver Label Services, 1608, Reviver Publishing and Reviver Productions. Reviver Entertainment Group launched in June 2016.
Brett Eldredge, Ross Copperman Toast “Drunk On Your Love” At BMI
/by Craig_ShelburnePictured: (L-R): BMI’s Jody Williams, BMI songwriter Ross Copperman, BMI’s Bradley Collins, BMI singer-songwriter Brett Eldredge, Warner Music Nashville’s John Esposito, Sony ATV’s Troy Tomlinson and Josh Van Valkenburg.
Brett Eldredge and his dog Edgar, Ross Copperman and his toddler daughter Iris, and dozens of industry folks saluted “Drunk on Your Love” at BMI on Tuesday afternoon (Aug. 9). It’s the third No. 1 that Copperman and Eldredge have had together.
Warner Bros. Nashville Chairman & CEO John Esposito (a.k.a. Espo), BMI Executive Director Bradley Collins and Sony/ATV Senior Vice President of A&R Josh Van Valkenburg also took their turns at the mic.
During a loose and charming speech, Eldredge recalled his early years socializing with Copperman. “Six years ago we met, I think, and we couldn’t even get into an after-party for a songwriter event. We weren’t cool enough so we drowned our sorrows and also dreamed a little more,” he said. “I think it’s really cool to chase dreams with guys like Ross because he’s a real guy. He’s not in it chasing down money. I mean, he’s doing perfectly fine but he doesn’t care about that. He really believes in the music and believes in the art of what we do.”
Eldredge also praised his friends at Sony/ATV. “You guys have helped shape me as a songwriter,” he said. “It’s really crazy the job you guys have to figure out: ‘Who is this guy going to work well with?’ These guys live in songs.”
He added, “They came to my place the other day and we all sat on the balcony and we looked out over the city. I remember walking down these streets in college drinking whiskey out of a water bottle with zero dollars in my bank account hardly, dreaming up what I could do. And now there are buildings all over the place and this town is growing from the music here and everything around it. And guys like this help build that, and help me have a career, and believe in these songs that also are the reason we’re here in this business. Never lose that, Nashville! Never lose that. That’s what we need.”
He closed his remarks by tipping his hat to his label’s A&R team, in particular Scott Hendricks, and by recalling the lean times with his family growing up.
“My mom and dad and my brother are here,” he announced. “You guys have been here way before we’ve had any of these kinds of parties. I remember auditioning for shows. We slept in a parking garage over here on couch mattresses, and didn’t sleep at all, just trying to sing in front of these judges for one minute. And try to make someone say, ‘OK, you’re going to be a star.’ If I had been told I was going to be a star at that point, I probably wouldn’t be here, so I’m glad I was told no a lot of times. You’ve got to be told no a lot, and you’ve got to have the people who believe it should be a yes sticking with you, and that’s my family.”
Wrapping things up, he thanked BMI, his label’s radio team and his band and crew.
“We’re gonna go party now! I couldn’t feel any better. Thank you to this whole town for really getting around me and my career, and Ross, and all the songwriters. This is a tough job. Anybody’s who’s trying to do it, I feel ya. I’m still chasing it down with you and it could stop tomorrow. But there’s always that belief. … You chase it and that’s what we’re doing. Cheers!”
Pictured (L-R): Mallory Opheim, Branden Bosler, John Esposito, Ross Copperman, BE, Scott Hendricks, Katie Bright, Peter Strickland, Kristen Williams, Kevin Herring, Cris Lacy
Copperman preceded Eldredge at the podium and genially addressed the crowd by saying, “I look at this stage and I feel like we’re missing somebody. It’s hard to imagine that just the two of us made this whole thing happen—writing it, producing it together in a week and mixing it.”
He continued, “In 2012, when Brett came over to our old house in Bellevue, [my wife] Katlin was probably about 6 months pregnant with the girl you see today. We had a Chihuahua named Bella and Brett always used to put our Chihuahua on his head. We’d be writing the song and he’d be holding the Chihuahua on his head and sing, ‘I woke up…’ I’d say, “It’s getting weird man,” but it worked!”
Copperman thanked Eldredge, his wife, his publishers at Sony/ATV, Espo, and Warner Bros., the latter “for embracing these records me and Brett have made, these crazy little pieces of music we have put together. You guys have believed in them.”
Avenue Bank was not on hand to present a check, as is their tradition, but they did make a donation to Alzheimers Foundation of America. Country Radio Broadcasters Executive Director Bill Mayne spoke highly of the song’s achievements.
Van Valkenburg spoke about how Eldredge and Copperman “have profoundly impacted the progression of country music in the past few years. They’ve done so with integrity and balance.” He concluded his speech by commending the songwriters for not forgetting where they came from, and for appreciating the history of Nashville, and giving props to Warner Music Nashville.
With Copperman’s kid nearby, Van Valkenburg adjusted his “f” word to “freakin’” but Espo… well, he didn’t. But after rattling off a few statistics, Espo swelled with pride talking about Eldredge.
“We’re at the beginning of what’s going to be a very long ride, of an artist that’s going to be culturally important for a lot of decades, with a golden baritone that is just beyond soothing and magical.”
Espo then chatted about Eldredge’s upcoming Christmas album, recorded in New York City with a sizable string section and a horn section and rhythm section for good measure.
“Anybody here who really knows me knows that Frank Sinatra is the standard bearer for me. Frank’s three Christmas records aren’t as good as what Brett has recorded,” Esposito stated. “What I know is going to happen here is the world is going to find out he’s not just a great country singer. He’s a singer for the world.”
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Plans Johnny Cash Tribute Concert
/by Eric T. ParkerJohnny Cash photo courtesy Sony Music Entertainment
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland will honor Johnny Cash during the 21st Annual Music Masters series, presented by Klipsch Audio.
The celebration—including an exhibit opening, interviews, panels, bus tour and educational programs—will honor the 1992 inductee during the week of Oct. 17-22. The Annual Music Masters concert will take place Oct. 21 at Playhouse Square’s State Theatre. A performer lineup, general tickets and event details are expected in September. VIP packages are available, starting at $300, by calling 216-515-1201 or emailing development@rockhall.org.
“We are so grateful that the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is honoring Johnny Cash for the 2016 Annual Music Masters series,” said John Carter Cash. “Our father remains one of the most enduring names in entertainment history, and this recognition helps further his legacy and inspire both existing fans as well as a whole new generation of Johnny Cash fans.”
“The 21st Annual Music Masters concert will explore his many musical journeys and include performers who represent the broad range of his influence,” said Jason Hanley, VP of Education and Visitor Engagement for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. “What’s so amazing about Cash is that almost every musician you ask will tell you that they love his music – from the rockabilly and country of his Sun Records recordings in the 1950s, and his outlaw image and his famous concerts at Folsom Prison and San Quentin, to his enduring love for June Carter Cash and their music work together (including the great ‘Ring of Fire”’), or his later American Recordings music that frequently saw him putting his own unique musical fingerprints on some of rocks newest sounds (like Depeche Mode’s ‘Personal Jesus’ or Nine Inch Nails’ ‘Hurt’). Fans will also be able to pay tribute to Cash and the longstanding popularity and impact of his work that lives on in our lives throughout the weeklong celebration. Music Masters is about bringing everything we do at the Rock Hall together to look at the life, music, and legacy of an artist.”
Educational programs include a keynote lecture at Case Western Reserve University. Capping off the week, on Oct. 22, fans will be able to participate in a Johnny Cash celebration at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with special guests and events exploring Cash’s impact on popular music. Cash’s million-mile tour bus,“J.C. Unit One,” is at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame through October 2016. The 40-foot ebony and silver rig transported Cash and his wife June, along with a cast of characters from 1980-2003, including the 1991 Highwayman Tour with Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings and Kris Kristofferson.
The Annual Music Masters series, a co-production of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Museum and the Center for Popular Music Studies at Case Western Reserve University, celebrates the lives and careers of artists who changed the shape and sound of rock ‘n’ roll music. Previous honorees and performers have included Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, Woody Guthrie, Sam Cooke, Les Paul, Janis Joplin, Fats Domino, Aretha Franklin, Leon Russell, Everly Brothers, Graham Nash, Vince Gill, Emmylou Harris and Smokey Robinson.
Lauren Daigle, Hillsong UNITED, Chris Tomlin Lead Dove Award Nominations
/by Jessica NicholsonPictured (clockwise from top left): Lauren Daigle, Chris Tomlin, Hillsong UNITED
Lauren Daigle leads the nominees for the 47th annual Dove Awards with six nominations, including Artist of the Year, Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year (“Trust In You”), Song of the Year (“First,” “Trust In You”), Songwriter of the Year (Artist), and Contemporary Christian Artist of the Year.
Hillsong UNITED follows with five nominations, including nominations in the Artist of the Year, Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year (Empires), Worship Album of the Year (Empires), and Recorded Music Packaging of the Year categories.
Chris Tomlin also picked up five nominations including Songwriter of the Year-Artist, Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year (“Good Good Father”), Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year (“Let It Be Jesus”), Worship Song of the Year (“Even So Come”), and Christmas Album of the Year categories.
Songwriter Jason Ingram picked up seven nods, including Song of the Year (“First”).
“Congratulations to all of this year’s Dove Award nominees!” GMA executive director Jackie Patillo stated. “We celebrate the outstanding achievement, hard work and creative excellence you have poured into this life-changing music.”
Patillo continued, “Our theme this year is ‘Love. Amplified.,’ a phrase we believe encompasses the collective power and impact of our music. At a time when so much of the world is divided and hostility is in the air, we will turn up the volume of love and the hope that can only be found in Jesus Christ.”
The Dove Awards will be held Oct. 11 at Lipscomb University and will air on TBN on Oct. 16. Voting for the final winners will run Aug. 23 through Aug. 30.
47th Annual Dove Awards Nominations
Artist of the Year
for KING & COUNTRY, Word Entertainment
Hillsong UNITED, Hillsong Music Australia/Sparrow Records
Lauren Daigle, Centricity Music
Lecrae, Reach Records
TobyMac, ForeFront Records
New Artist of the Year
Hollyn, Gotee Records
Jordan Feliz, Centricity Music
Stars Go Dim, Word Entertainment
Travis Greene, RCA Inspiration
We Are Messengers, Word Entertainment
Contemporary Christian Artist of the Year
Casting Crowns, Reunion Records
Danny Gokey, BMG Rights Management
for King & Country, Word Entertainment
Lauren Daigle, Centricity Music
TobyMac, Forefront Records
Songwriter of the Year (Artist)
Chris Tomlin
Joel Houston
Lauren Daigle
Matt Redman
Matthew West
Songwriter of the Year (non-Artist)
Bernie Herms
David Garcia
Jason Ingram
Michael Farren
Paul Mabury
Producer of the Year
Bernie Herms
David Garcia
Kirk Franklin
Wayne Haun
(Team) Seth Mosley & Michael X O’Connor
For a full list of 47th annual Dove Award nominees, visit doveawards.com.