Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Berinato
Kane Brown and a team of veteran singer-songwriters have remixed his No. 1 single “Homesick,” and Brown has released the track on the one-year anniversary of the song’s original release date. He is teaming up with the Crown Royal Purple Bag Project to use the song to support veterans through its care package project.
Originally written by Brown, “Homesick” was dedicated to members of the military. The “Homesick (Veterans Version)” track, available on streaming services now, is a re-imagined ballad featuring the vocals of veterans Generald Wilson, Retired Petty Officer First Class, U.S. Navy; J.W. Cortés, Retired Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marines; and Sal Gonzalez, Retired Lance Corporal, U.S. Marines.
For every stream of “Homesick (Veterans Version),” The Crown Royal Purple Bag Project will pack one bag to be donated as a care package to non-profit Packages From Home as part of the brand’s goal of one million bags by the end of 2020, and will donate $1 to community-based organization Minority Veterans of America, up to $100,000.
Crown Royal and Kane Brown are committed to supporting the American heroes who have generously served our country during these unprecedented times, including frontline and essential workers, first responders, healthcare workers, active-duty military servicemembers and those who are fighting for social justice in the minority veteran community.
“I’m honored to partner with The Crown Royal Purple Bag Project and release ‘Homesick (Veterans Version)’ in recognition of the American servicemen and women who have given so generously during this difficult time,” said Brown. “I also recognize the incredible importance of acknowledging the service our minority veterans have made for this country. My hope is this remix shines a light of hope and generosity, to uplift our heroes during this time.”
“Our iconic purple bag is a symbol of generosity and we’re proud that The Crown Royal Purple Bag Project can help give back to those who have given so much of themselves,” said Sophie Kelly, SVP, Whiskies, Diageo NA. “We’re so grateful for the support of Kane and our veteran partners, as well as Packages from Home and Minority Veterans of America, as we continue to give back to those who protect and serve our country.”
Kane Brown, Crown Royal Team With Military Veterans For “Homesick” Remix
/by Lorie HollabaughKane Brown. Photo: Matthew Berinato
Kane Brown and a team of veteran singer-songwriters have remixed his No. 1 single “Homesick,” and Brown has released the track on the one-year anniversary of the song’s original release date. He is teaming up with the Crown Royal Purple Bag Project to use the song to support veterans through its care package project.
Originally written by Brown, “Homesick” was dedicated to members of the military. The “Homesick (Veterans Version)” track, available on streaming services now, is a re-imagined ballad featuring the vocals of veterans Generald Wilson, Retired Petty Officer First Class, U.S. Navy; J.W. Cortés, Retired Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marines; and Sal Gonzalez, Retired Lance Corporal, U.S. Marines.
For every stream of “Homesick (Veterans Version),” The Crown Royal Purple Bag Project will pack one bag to be donated as a care package to non-profit Packages From Home as part of the brand’s goal of one million bags by the end of 2020, and will donate $1 to community-based organization Minority Veterans of America, up to $100,000.
Crown Royal and Kane Brown are committed to supporting the American heroes who have generously served our country during these unprecedented times, including frontline and essential workers, first responders, healthcare workers, active-duty military servicemembers and those who are fighting for social justice in the minority veteran community.
“I’m honored to partner with The Crown Royal Purple Bag Project and release ‘Homesick (Veterans Version)’ in recognition of the American servicemen and women who have given so generously during this difficult time,” said Brown. “I also recognize the incredible importance of acknowledging the service our minority veterans have made for this country. My hope is this remix shines a light of hope and generosity, to uplift our heroes during this time.”
“Our iconic purple bag is a symbol of generosity and we’re proud that The Crown Royal Purple Bag Project can help give back to those who have given so much of themselves,” said Sophie Kelly, SVP, Whiskies, Diageo NA. “We’re so grateful for the support of Kane and our veteran partners, as well as Packages from Home and Minority Veterans of America, as we continue to give back to those who protect and serve our country.”
Songwriting University Competition Winner Awarded $10,000 Grand Prize
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured: Billy Sprague, Joe Beck, Michael Blanton, Winner Colin Matchack, Tony Brown and Gary Glover
Songwriting University recently concluded their first of many international songwriting competitions with entries from hundreds of songwriters all over the world. On July 31, finalist Colin Matchack was invited to the Songwriting University office to discuss a potential development deal with the company. He was also surprised with a $10,000 grand prize in the form of a giant check during his visit. A 21-year-old aspiring singer-songwriter, Matchack currently lives in Ooltewah, Tennessee, and entered 14 songs into the competition.
The 15 finalists were chosen by Songwriting University founders Michael Blanton, Gary Glover, Billy Sprague, and Joe Beck, along with celebrity guest judges songwriter Wayne Kirkpatrick and producer Tony Brown.
“When we first started developing Songwriting University three years ago, the goal was to foster and develop the next generation of songwriters,” says SU co-founder Gary Glover. “Finding this talented young writer through this competition is the culmination of 3 years of work and development, it’s why we started the company.”
“Thank you, this means so much,” said Matchack. “I didn’t go to college, I chose music and I don’t have a degree, but it feels like I do now. A degree from Songwriting University.”
Nick Norman Signs With Fourward Music/Cock Crows Publishing
/by Jessica NicholsonNick Norman. Photo: Justin Key
Songwriter Nick Norman has inked a publishing deal with Fourward Music and Lee Brice‘s new publishing company Cock Crows Publishing.
Norman previously became the first artist signed to the newly-launched label and artist development collective Pump House Records, co-founded by Lee Brice, Rob Hatch, Elisha Hoffman and business execs Derek and Kristi Hutchins.
“I am extremely grateful for this opportunity. With a support group that’s second to none, I am confident this is just the beginning,” Norman shares. “These songs are my story and my message — to deliver them alongside a few of my best friends and mentors is an added bonus.”
“Will [Ward] and I have had our eyes on Nick and we’re thrilled to be his publishing partner,” says Shannan Hatch, Fourward Music president. “He’s a prolific writer whose songs connect because he writes from a place of honesty and transparency. His songs grab your heart and make you move, because they come from a genuine place. We’re looking forward to a great future together.”
Brice adds, “I’ve known Nick since we were kids and I’ve always believed in him so starting a publishing imprint to support his dream was a no-brainer and an honor. Now, Nick, let’s watch you fly.”
A South Carolina native, Nick relocated to Key West, Florida in 2005 and built a fan following. His upcoming album was co-produced by Lee Brice, Rob Hatch and Elisha Hoffman and includes songs co-written by Steve Moakler, Cary Barlowe, Will Weatherly and Kyle Jacobs, as well as guest vocalists Jamey Johnson, Josh Abbott and Rebecca Lynn Howard.
For Lee, watching his childhood friend bloom has been a blessing. “He’s always had a passion for singing,” says Lee of Nick, “but after moving to Key West and singing multiple hours a day, six days a week, for more than a decade, he’s at a whole new level. His stuff is so soulful and so groovy.”
Live Nation’s Revenues Dropped 98% In Second Quarter Of 2020
/by Jessica NicholsonLive Nation Entertainment has released its second quarter 2020 results. The concert promoter reported a 98% drop in revenue, from Q2 2019 to Q2 2020, including a 95% drop in concert revenue ($2.6 billion in Q2 2019, vs. $141.8 million in Q2 2020) and an 88% drop in sponsorship and advertising revenue.
While undoubtedly a significant drop in revenues, it’s not unexpected with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic bringing touring schedules and live concerts to a halt.
Live Nation also posted a negative $86 million revenue for ticketing, primarily because of refunds to music fans, while a year ago, Live nation posted positive ticketing revenues of $371 million.
In its 2020 second quarter, Live Nation had 24 concerts in North America, bringing in 8,000 fans, as compared to 7,213 concerts in its second quarter of 2019, which brought in 15.84 million fans.
Live Nation President/CEO Michael Rapino also noted that Live Nation has already sold 19 million tickets to more than 4,000 concerts and festivals slated for 2021.
“Over the past three months, our top priority has been strengthening our financial position to ensure that we have the liquidity and flexibility to get through an extended period with no live events. Our expectation is that live events will return at scale in the summer of 2021, with ticket sales ramping up in the quarters leading up to these shows. Importantly, we remain confident that fans will return to live events when it is safe to do so. Our strongest indicator of demand is that fans are holding on to their tickets, even when given the option of a refund. Through the end of the second quarter, 86% of concert fans are keeping their tickets for rescheduled shows, demonstrating their continued desire to attend concerts in the future despite the current uncertainty,” said Rapino.
Click here for a full review of Live Nation Entertainments’s quarterly results.
Matthew West Launches Podcast
/by Lorie HollabaughMatthew West is launching “The Matthew West Podcast” today (Aug. 5) on author, speaker and podcaster Annie F. Downs‘ That Sounds Fun Network.
West debuts three episodes, featuring Casting Crowns’ frontman Mark Hall, mother and daughter team Korie Robertson and Sadie Robertson Huff, and a special Q&A episode with West that will be a monthly feature. Each week, West will welcome artists, authors, professional athletes and more to chat about their stories as well as share the stories from those that have inspired his music and conclude with some encouraging words from his dad, Pastor Joe West. He will release a new episode each week.
“Every episode will also have a musical component called ‘Songs From The Story House’ where I get to share the stories of people’s lives who have inspired the songs,” said West. “From the inspiring story of a fourteen year old walking miracle named William, to the incredible story of Renee, who lost her daughter in a drunk driving accident but discovered the life changing gift of forgiveness, I believe these stories are going to challenge listeners to see the power in their own stories. So here we go! This is gonna be fun.”
“The Matthew West Podcast” joins six other podcasts on the That Sounds Fun Network, which launched in May and already touts millions of downloads.
Creative Nation Hires One, Promotes Three
/by Jessica NicholsonFrom Left to Right: Christina Wighton, Abby Holcomb, Kelsey Granda, Shaina Botwin
(Photo Credit: Spencer Combs)
Nashville-based music company Creative Nation has added Abby Holcomb to their team as Office and Administration Coordinator. Holcomb graduated from the University of North Alabama in 2019 where she studied Music Business, Public Relations, and Marketing. A month after graduation, she moved to Nashville from Muscle Shoals, Alabama, and shortly after, she accepted a receptionist position at Universal Music Group Nashville handling all front office communications and building relationships. As CN’s Office and Admin Coordinator, Holcomb will report to Kelsey Granda and be responsible for managing the Creative Nation offices and publishing catalog as well as assisting the publishing team.
“When I met Abby, I knew her personality would fit well with the Creative Nation culture. Her attention to detail and her friendliness don’t just make her a great fit for the job, but they make her a great fit for the team,” Granda says.
Creative Nation has promoted Granda to VP, Operations and Administration and Shaina Botwinto Creative Manager, Publishing. In her role, Granda will coordinate with the company’s financial and legal teams regarding deals and budgets and oversee day-to-day company operations. In her role, Botwin will continue managing songwriters’ calendars, pitching songs, and signing and developing writers and artists on the publishing roster.
Christina Wighton has shifted roles from Executive Assistant to Beth Laird/Office Director to Executive Assistant to Beth and Luke Laird/Digital Manager. In her new role, Wighton will oversee all content across Creative Nation’s digital platforms. Wighton will continue to assist Beth Laird and will now help oversee Luke Laird’s schedule as well.
“Kelsey, Shaina, and Christina individually bring so much value to the Creative Nation team and their diverse talents make our team stronger, smarter and more fun. I am so proud of their growth, happy to be able to recognize them and continue our work for our songwriters and artists,” says Beth Laird.
Creative Nation is celebrating back-to-back No. 1 country and pop songs this week, with Sam Hunt’s “Hard To Forget” (co-written and co-produced by Luke Laird) and Harry Styles’ “Watermelon Sugar” (co-written and co-produced by Tyler Johnson).
Americana’s Thriving Roots Conference Announces Panels With Bonnie Raitt, Alice Randall, Chris Shiflett, And More
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Americana Music Association’s Thriving Roots Conference, set for Sept. 16-18, has announced some additional panel discussions and sessions as part of this year’s virtual conference.
Among the new events are Rosanne Cash‘s “Love and Vigilance” with Ry Cooder, Angela Davis, Bonnie Raitt and Alice Randall, RIAA’s “Record Setting” with Mitch Glazier and Michele Ballantyne, “How to Stay Creative When You’re Off the Road” with Paul Thorn + Elvin Bishop, “Striking a Chord,” with Grammy Museum Executive Director Scott Goldman talking to this year’s Americana Instrumentalist of the Year nominees Ellen Angelico, Annie Clements, Brittany Haas, Zachariah Hickman and Rich Hinman, and “The Future of Americana” featuring Chris Shiflett along with Leslie Fram (CMT), David Macias (Thirty Tigers), Linda Ryan (Gimme Radio) and Bruce Warren (WXPN / NPR Music’s World Café) as they forecast the future of the genre.
During virtual breaks in the conference, Dualtone Music Group will have a music segment showcasing their artist roster, and Radio Woodstock’s Empire State of Americana will shine a light on five rising music stars.
With over 50 panel discussions and more than 40 special events filled with music, Thriving Rootswill bring the Americana music community together for three full days of insights from its top industry professionals and leading artists. The virtual conference agenda will be announced in late August.
MusicRow Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson Featured On ‘The Zak Kuhn Show’
/by LB CantrellPictured: MusicRow Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson
MusicRow Magazine Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson recently shared stories and insights from his career on The Zak Kuhn Show podcast.
Zak Kuhn is an artist manager and founder of The Nashville Briefing, an email newsletter that covers country music and Nashville news, as well as The Zak Kuhn Show podcast. The podcast has featured industry leaders including former BMI CEO, Del Bryant; CMA Awards Executive Producer, Robert Deaton; Executive Director of Country Radio Seminar, RJ Curtis, former RCA Records leader, Joe Galante, and more.
Robertson acquired MusicRow in 2010. During the ’90s, Robertson served as Director of Finance for Arista Records, working under Tim DuBois and Mike Dungan. He launched his career in the music industry in 1991 as VP, Finance and CFO at Reunion Records, Inc. and its publishing company, Reunion Music Group, Inc., then led by Terry Hemmings.
The discussion includes Robertson’s entry into the music business, growing the MusicRow brand, including the Rising Women on the Row event which has continued to reach new heights each year. Listen here.
Kuhn’s first episode featured an interview with MusicRow Founder, David M. Ross. Between Ross’ narration of the beginning of MusicRow, and Robertson’s telling of its most recent decade, highlights of the nearly 40-year history of MusicRow Magazine is covered on The Zak Kuhn Showpodcast.
Chattanooga’s Songbirds Guitar Museum To Close Aug. 15
/by Lorie HollabaughSongbirds Guitar Museum in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is another casualty of the coronavirus pandemic, with the museum closing for good on Aug. 15, as well as at its sister live music venues Songbirds North and South, reports the Times Free Press.
The three-year-old facility at the Chattanooga Choo Choo houses the world’s largest collection of rare and vintage guitars. When the larger Revelry Room venue closed in 2018, Songbirds acquired that space as well, adding Songbirds North and Songbirds South to their footprint.
President and Songbirds Foundation Chairman of the Board Johnny Smith revealed that the Songbirds Foundation will continue. The foundation is dedicated to teaching guitar to area youth, especially in low-income areas, and will soon have an increased presence in area middle schools and in the music therapy department at University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
“Songbirds LLC is getting out of the museum and venue business,” Smith told the Times Free Press. “We will keep the name because it is just too good of a brand and we will focus on the work of the foundation. They’ve figured out how to make this work in this current world. They are actually thriving thanks to videos and teaching in a virtual world.”
Smith said anybody who bought tickets or memberships to the museum will have their money refunded.
WAKG Music Director Alan Rowe Dies At 66
/by Jessica NicholsonWAKG music director and MusicRow radio reporter Alan Rowe died Thursday, July 23, at age 66, following a brief battle with cancer.
Rowe spent part of his career at WDVA and WYPR before joining Danville, Virginia’s WAKG in 1992. He started as the station’s Music Director and nighttime air time personality, then moved into middays where he entertained the “at work” crowd for over 25 years.
Over the past two years, he also became a presence at WAKG sister station WBTM. An avid supporter of music, Rowe was also a bass player himself and performed in local bands including The Flaming Blue Iguanas, KICKS, and ZMAX.
A Memorial Service is planned for Thursday, Aug. 13 at Norris Funeral Home, Mt. Hermon Chapel, in Danville, Virginia.
WAKG Music Director Alan Rowe. Photo: WAKG