Longtime Grand Ole Opry guitarist and session musician Jimmy Capps passed away Tuesday, June 2, at age 81. His signature smooth style of guitar playing has been heard on hundreds of recordings from George Jones, The Oak Ridge Boys, George Strait, Kenny Rogers and more, including classics such as “Amarillo By Morning,” “The Gambler,” “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” and “Stand By Your Man.”
Following the announcement of his passing, tributes and memories poured in from artists, industry executives and others. See a few of the tributes below:
“Jimmy helped define country music for more than one generation of fans. His musicianship will live on every time somebody somewhere plays ‘The Gambler,’ ‘He Stopped Loving Her Today,’ or countless other recordings on which he played. He was an absolute fixture on stage and backstage at the Opry. I personally reveled in walking around the corner from my office before showtime and seeing the namesake of the Jimmy Capps Music Room holding court with his smile and his guitar, talking with longtime friends and newcomers alike. The difficult part of being so close-knit at the Opry is that losses like this cut deep. While the Opry will never be the same, it’s better for Jimmy Capps having played his part in it for more than 60 years.” – Dan Rogers, VP & Executive Producer, Grand Ole Opry
“I am convinced that Jimmy was the most-loved person in Nashville. EVERY artist loved him so much. While his book The Man in Back was a great tribute to him, I thought he deserved even more. So I produced a TV documentary on his life. When he saw it, he cried and cried. He said, ‘It’s kind of like going to your own funeral.’ I replied, ‘I wanted to bring your flowers while you were still here. I wanted you to see how much you mean to everyone.’ When it comes to the greatest men who ever walked the earth…I’d put Jimmy Capps in the top two, just behind another JC, Jesus Christ.” –Scot England / Author, The Man In Back
“When I first came to Nashville Jimmy Capps was already a fixture as one of the great guitar players. I worked with Jimmy many times and I got to know him and his wonderful wife Michele even better these last several years at the Opry. Jimmy was always ready with a smile, a kind word and a great guitar lick. I can’t imagine the Opry without Jimmy Capps. These crazy times are much sadder this morning.” – Crystal Gayle
“I am shocked and very saddened to hear that Jimmy Capps has passed away. He was on 90% of the songs that I’ve recorded and he can never be replaced. He was always one of the most authentic and genuine guys I’ve ever known and has accomplished so much in life. We are all so much better for knowing him. One thing that people will miss is looking over their shoulder and seeing Jimmy there. We will all miss you, Jimmy. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Michele.” – B.J. Thomas
“I will cherish the memories of working so many shows and concerts with Jimmy Capps. I will miss his smiling face. Blessings and prayers to his family.” – Janie Fricke
“I have been blessed to work with Jimmy down through the years. He was a universally loved, Godly man, a double-super cool Nashville cat and you couldn’t ask for a better friend. Sheila and I pray for Michele and the rest of his family at this time. Rest in peace, pal.” – T. Graham Brown
“Sending our love and prayers to Michele Capps. Just heard of the passing of Nashville musician Jimmy Capps. His musicianship was heard at the Grand Ole Opry, Country’s Family Reunion, and as The Sheriff on Larry’s Country Diner. I’ve sailed many music cruises with Jimmy, and I know he was so honored to be inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame. He was always humble and kind, and will be missed by many. Rest In Sweet Peace Jimmy Capps.” – Rhonda Vincent
“I am heartbroken over the loss of our great friend Jimmy Capps. He was and always will be a country music icon. It was an honor and privilege to work with him and call him my friend. He was such an amazingly gifted musician, sweet spirit, tender-hearted and beautiful soul! I know Jesus has welcomed Jimmy with open arms into his Heavenly home. My prayers are with Michele & the family. Rest In Peace Jimmy. We love you.” – Deborah Allen
“What a way to wake up this morning. I just got the message that Jimmy Capps passed away last night. I lost my sister last week and this feels like I lost another family member now. I can’t believe he’s gone. Sending prayers for Michele and their family.” – Johnny Lee
“Jimmy, was so incredibly talented; his playing came from endless experiences—he always knew ‘what to play’ and always elevated the music—just having him in the room made the music sound better. A sweet, sensitive soul who will be greatly missed.” – Michael Bonagura / Baillie & The Boys
“I loved Jimmy Capps. He was one of my mentors. I played alongside him in the studio and at the Grand Ole Opry for over four decades. Even now, when I close my eyes, I can see him walking through the Opry artist entrance, guitar case in hand. He walked slowly—with purpose. He was there to put on the best show he could. He loved the music. It was his life. He was the best rhythm guitar player I have EVER worked with. He was a perfectionist. As good as he was, he continued to practice and hone. That’s what made him so damn good. You could always count on him to know what to play and where to play it. We shared stories and secrets. There were times he treated me like a brother. There were times he treated me like a son. But every time we were together, he treated me like a friend. R.I.P, James D. Thank you for being such a great teacher. I learned from the best—Timbo.” – Tim Atwood
“I’ll always cherish the memories of any time that I was blessed to share the stage with Jimmy Capps. He is the epitome of a classic country music guitarist and one of the nicest people I ever met. RIP Jimmy Capps—we all love you dearly!” – Shane Owens
“My thoughts are with the family of Opry Legend/guitarist Mr Jimmy Capps. What an incredible legacy he will leave behind. One of Nashville’s most well respected guitarists. I had the honor of meeting him backstage at the Opry last year. He was soft-spoken and so humble. I will never forget asking him ‘How many times have you played the Opry in your career?’ He looked at me and grinned and said ‘way too many to count ha ha!’—Treasured memory of Jimmy. God bless him.” – J.D. Shelburne
“The loss of Jimmy Capps will be felt on so many levels… certainly at the Opry, on so many recording sessions, Larry’s Country Diner, Country Family Reunion, the Musician’s Hall of Fame…and most of all by his family and many, many friends and fans. He will be remembered not only as a great musician, but as one of the most wonderful men you could ever know. My heart goes out to my friend Michele, with the assurance I will be there for her. I feel it is ironic and yet appropriate that the CMA hashtag today said #theshowmustbepaused, yes Jimmy it must.” – Jeannie Seely
“What a great loss of one of our finest gentlemen in country music and one of our best and most consistent musicians. It will be hard to see the Grand Ole Opry stage without Jimmy Capps on it! He was a dear friend and will be dearly missed. Thank the Lord we have his music on so many hit recordings and Opry shows. Our prayers are with his living wife, Michele and his whole family!” – Connie Smith
“My love and prayers go out to his wife, Michele, and all his family and friends, the Grand Ole Opry folks and more. Jimmy was much loved by all and will be missed.” – David Ball
“Along with legions of other friends and fans.. my heart breaks at the loss of our ‘Sheriff’.. Jimmy Capps. He shared his talents and heart for decades.The reservoir of music that he leaves us is a blessing. But, the MAN will be greatly missed. My prayers are with Michele and with Mark and the entire Capps family. The Country Music Family has lost a great brother. RIP Jimmy Capps.” – Linda Davis
“Like so many, my heart is hurting over the loss of Jimmy Capps. One of the greatest musicians ever who started out playing with the Louvin Brothers and remained current and successfully reinvented himself a few times. But, the first thing that comes to mind when I think of Jimmy is a humble, kind and caring soul. I also think of his soul mate, Michele. They were quite a team and were the definition of true Love.”–Bobby Tomberlin
“I always felt extremely lucky, and a bit awed, to be around Jimmy – he was the ultimate guitar player—Mr. Smooth! More importantly, he was a real gentleman—one of the nicest, most humble musicians I’ve ever met. And, he and Michele obviously had a great, loving relationship; it was apparent from being around them. RIP, Jimmy! Love to Michele, Mark, and his family. Another great one gone.” –Marlon Hargis / Exile
“Oh boy. This is a hard one to hear. The Country Music world knows how gifted Jimmy was, but those of us who knew his warmth and generosity were the true lucky ones. Condolences to Michele. RIP.” – JP Pennington / Exile
“Waking up to this sad news has hit very hard! Meeting Jimmy Capps on the Opry was an honor and a thrill and then actually getting to know him and experience his warmth, humor and amazing talent was an absolute joy! There are certain individuals who are, or become, legends and in this business he was all that and more. We are heartbroken at his passing and extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Michele, his son Mark, family and all who loved him. The Heavenly choir has gained a CPA, (certified guitar picker!) RIP Jimmy.” –Sonny LeMaire / Exile
“Jimmy was a big man in more ways than stature alone. He left us at a time when the world needs more like him.” – Steve Goetzman / Exile
“When we found out the world lost another musical legend and friend in Jimmy Capps our hearts were broken. What an honor it was for us to get to play with and know Jimmy and his wife Michele over the last few years. Y’all know him not only as Jimmy Capps…but also the Sheriff on Larry’s Country Diner. The mark he left on our lives and in the music industry will always be cherished. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Michele, their family and the collective Grand Ole Opry family during this difficult time.” –Darin and Brooke Aldridge
“It goes without saying, Jimmy Capps was one of the musical greats…a legend. But far more importantly, Jimmy was one of the finest people I have ever had the privilege to know. Humble, Kind, Gracious and Warm. Just being around him made you want to be a better person. His wife Michele not only shares a birthday with Jimmy, but she also shares the same qualities that made all who knew, loved and admired her husband. My deepest condolences go out to her, Mark and all the Capps family. Stage left, at the Opry, will be forever empty.” –Dallas Wayne / SiriusXM
Kid Politics Inks With Verge Records
/by Lorie HollabaughKid Politics signs with Verge Records. Photo (L-R): Jeff Tobias (A&R, ONErpm), Mickey Jack Cones (President/COO, Verge Records), Kelby Dover (KP), Nick Arbuckle (KP), Emmanuel Zunz (Founder/CEO, ONErpm), Ken Madson (General Manager, ONErpm) | Photo Credit: Samantha Dover
Nashville pop duo Kid Politics has signed to Verge Records. Frontman Kelby Dover, from Screven, Georgia, and Conroe, Texas native Nick Arbuckle are set to drop their first single “Free” June 12 on all platforms.
“My head is in the clouds for these guys!” said Mickey Jack Cones, president and COO of Verge, an imprint of distribution giant ONErpm. “Their music is extremely positive, and the message of ‘Free’ needs to be heard now more than ever.”
“We feel at home with Verge,” said Arbuckle. “The global reach Founder/CEO Emmanuel Zunz has built with OneRPM, combined with the focused attention and direction from Mickey Jack and their entire staff has given us the opportunity to bring the message and music of Kid Politics to a worldwide platform.”
Mickey Guyton Takes Aim At Racial Inequality In New Anthem "Black Like Me"
/by Jessica NicholsonAs the music industry embraced the Black Out Tuesday movement on June 2, UMG Nashville artist Mickey Guyton released the intensely personal song “Black Like Me,” which chronicles her experiences growing up as an African-American in a society that does not treat everyone equally.
“Little kid in a small town / I did my best just to fit in / Broke my heart on the playground / When they said I was different,” she sings on the first verse, before adding, “Now I’m all grown up and nothin’ has changed / Yeah, it’s still the same.”
“I wrote this song over a year ago because I was so tired of seeing so much hate and oppression,” Guyton said via a post on Instagram. “And yet here we are in the exact same place! We must change that,” she added. “I hope this song can give you a small glimpse into what my brothers and sisters have endured for 400+ years.”
On Tuesday, June 2, Guyton also took part on a virtual interview panel titled “A Conversation on Being African-American In The Nashville Music Industry,” moderated by Beverly Keel, Dean of MTSU College of Media and Entertainment, along with Sekou Franklin, Ph.D., MTSU Department of Political Science.
During this year’s Country Radio Seminar in February, Guyton issued another strong track, “What Are You Gonna Tell Her?,” which took aim at gender inequality, an issue that has long plagued country radio.
Summerfest 2020 In Milwaukee Canceled
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. Board of Directors made the decision to cancel Summerfest 2020 at a regularly scheduled meeting, and the announcement comes after the festival was previously rescheduled to September, from its original June dates in 2020.
“After careful, diligent, and thoughtful consideration and out of an abundance of caution for the health and safety of our community – including artists, fans, vendors, participants and staff – Summerfest presented by American Family Insurance will not take place in September 2020, as previously announced,” said Don Smiley, President & CEO of Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. “It is our honor to be responsible for such a storied tradition. With five decades of festivals, countless legendary performances and millions of memories, Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. explored numerous options to ensure the Summerfest tradition could continue in 2020, in a safe and healthy manner. Yet, given the information available today, and the uncertainty surrounding very large gatherings, we cannot in good conscience proceed with the festival this year. The immediate future presents multiple levels of risk for our fans, and we choose the side of safety.”
Refunds on Summerfest admission tickets purchased via summerfest.com or Ticketmaster are available, and information on how to get a refund on festival admission ticketscan be found at summerfest.com.
Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman, Mac Powell Team For Drive-In Theater Tour (Exclusive)
/by Jessica NicholsonThree of Contemporary Christian Music’s legendary artists—Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman and Mac Powell—are joining forces for an upcoming 10-city drive-in theater tour set to launch Thursday, July 16 at Stardust Drive-In Theatre in Watertown, Tennessee, just outside of Nashville.
“We are three friends who are excited to play music together again,” Chapman tells MusicRow.
The tour is the latest installment of a series of Awakening Events-produced drive-in theater tours, following previously-announced tours from Newsboys, United and TobyMac. The tour comes as drive-in theaters across the country have become concert hotspots, a way for artists to continue to perform for fans while helping to make sure social distancing guidelines are observed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Keith Urban recently performed a private concert at Watertown’s Stardust Drive-In Theatre to honor Vanderbilt medical professionals. Eli Young Band will be among the performers at a four-night, drive-in “Concert in Your Car” series, which launches today in Arlington, Texas. Smith recently performed a drive-in show at Franklin, Tennessee’s Williamson County Ag Expo Center, welcoming an estimated 5,000 fans. Awakening Event’s Drive-In Theater tours are among the first full-fledged multi-city tours to have happened during this COVID-19 pandemic.
“These kinds of tours have never been done before and I love a great adventure, no pun intended,” Smith told MusicRow.
Chapman and Third Day most recently toured together in 2016 as part of the SCC3D tour, while Chapman and Smith co-headlined the United Tour in 2009. Collectively, Chapman, Powell and Smith have earned 113 No. 1 hits, sold 35 million albums, garnered 12 Grammy Awards and 128 Dove Awards.
Instead of performing separate individual sets, the three artists will perform together as one unit, welcoming a handful of musicians to help round out the band. Among those musicians is bass player Brent Milligan, who has played with both Chapman and Smith, and has produced some of Chapman’s albums.
Chapman says he jumped at the chance to play music for live audiences again, and was inspired by a recent experience at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium.
“I went to the Ryman to do a live recording of a song I’ve written in the middle of all this called, ‘Together We’ll Get Through This.’ It was just me and two people from the crew there and a piano. I walked into the dressing room that has the picture of Minnie Pearl and Roy Acuff. I walked in and I literally broke down, because it was one of those first moments where the reality set it that these places are made for relationships and for music to bring us together and help remind us that we are not alone. I felt like the whole auditorium was weeping, like ‘Where are the people?’ So when I got the call to do this, I loved the idea that I get to bring people together, and to hang with two of my best buddies and best people in business.”
They also don’t rule out the possibility that the tour could result in new music.
“You never know,” Smith says.
“Anytime you get artists on the road and on stage, you never know what can happen. This year has been unprecedented, so we have a lot to write about. I wouldn’t be surprised if we jumpstart something and played it before the end of the tour,” Chapman added.
Ultimately, the tour—like many of the drive-in theater shows popping up around the country—is a testament to artists who want to find any way possible to bring music, hope and inspiration to fans.
“We just want people to be encouraged to hang in there,” Powell tells MusicRow. “All of us have a new reality, at least for right now. For us to be able to come together and make music, I know every time I’m around these guys and the band, I’m encouraged, so we want to do that for each other and in turn cast that out to the audience, and encourage people to stay strong.”
“To have these influential solo artists come together for this concept, to see them performing in collaboration together on one stage, it’s truly a monumental occasion,” said Dan Fife, President and Founder of Awakening Events.
Tickets will be available beginning Friday, June 5 at 12:00 p.m. ET. Tickets will be sold by the car load, with up to six people per car.
As with previous Awakening Events-produced drive-in theater shows, the events will comply with all local COVID-19 guidelines. As each carload will be appropriately spaced apart in accordance with social distancing guidelines, attendees are welcome to bring lawn chairs and blankets.
“We’re excited that we’ve developed a way for our fans to safely come together and enjoy live music again. In the climate of today we need more positivity in the world, and we take great pride in being able to offer some of that positivity safely,” said Curtis Pinkerton, director of Marketing for Awakening Events.
The Drive-In Theater Tour, supported by K-LOVE, Air1 Radio, Food for the Hungry, and Altrua HealthShare is exclusively produced by Awakening Events. For information, visit awakeningevents.com.
Tour Dates:
Thu, Jul 16 – Stardust Drive-in Theatre – Watertown, TN
Fri, Jul 17 – Swingin’ Midway Drive-in – Athens, TN
Sun, Jul 19 – Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre – Henderson, NC
Mon, Jul 20 – Goochland Drive-In Theater – Hadensville, VA
Tue, Jul 21 – The Family Drive in Theatre – Stephens City, VA
Fri, Jul 24 – Birdsong Drive-in – Camden, TN
Sat, Jul 25 – Iuka Drive-in – Iuka, MS
Sun, Jul 26 – Pink Cadillac Drive-in – Centerville, TN
Tue, Jul 28 – Parkway Drive-in – Maryville, TN
Wed, Jul 29 – Montana Drive-in Theater – Estill Springs, TN
Christian Hale Signs With Centricity Publishing
/by Lorie Hollabaugh(L-R:) Chad Segura (VP of Publishing), Justin Nicolet (Creative Director of Publishing), Leah Hale, Christian Hale, Alex Diaz (Publishing Coordinator)
Writer/Producer Christian Hale has signed a publishing deal with Centricity Publishing.
A multi-genre songwriter, Hale co-wrote “Yours,” the latest single from Centricity artist Caitie Hurst, and has upcoming singles from Fair Trade artist Jack Cassidy, as well as new Centricity artist Coby James. Hale also has sync placements with Nike, Google, Facebook, Subaru, Fox, NFL, HGTV, TLC, iHeart radio, and more.
The publishing arm of Centricity Music, Centricity Publishing’s writer and artist roster includes Lauren Daigle, Seth Mosley, Jordan Feliz, Paul Duncan, and more.
CMA To Host Web-Based Panel, ‘CMA Fest Through The Years’
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Country Music Association is hosting a special virtual webinar at 3 p.m. CT today (June 4), marking the day that would have been the kickoff of CMA Music Fest this year. The 2020 festival was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“CMA Fest Through the Years” will be moderated by CMA CEO Sarah Trahern, and will feature Chris Young (CMA Board member, three-time CMA Awards-nominated country artist), Jeannie Seely (four-time CMA Awards-nominated country legend), Lon Helton (CMA Board member, nine-time CMA National Broadcast Personality of the Year), Tony Conway (longtime CMA Board member and 11-year Executive Producer of CMA Music Festival), and Ed Benson (former Executive Director of the CMA).
The industry leaders will share stories and memories of CMA Fest over the years during the special event. CMA Fest (formerly known as Fan Fair) launched April 12-15, 1972 at Nashville’s Municipal Auditorium, with 5,000 fans attending the inaugural event. The event moved to the Nashville Fairgrounds in 1982, before transitioning to several locations across downtown Nashville, including LP Field (now called Nissan Stadium), Riverfront Park and Music City Center.
Next year’s CMA Fest will take place June 10-13.
This panel is the latest installment in an ongoing webinar series for CMA members. With programming often reserved as a CMA member perk, the trade association is making this series available
Nashville’s Music Community Remembers Prominent Guitarist Jimmy Capps
/by Jessica NicholsonLongtime Grand Ole Opry guitarist and session musician Jimmy Capps passed away Tuesday, June 2, at age 81. His signature smooth style of guitar playing has been heard on hundreds of recordings from George Jones, The Oak Ridge Boys, George Strait, Kenny Rogers and more, including classics such as “Amarillo By Morning,” “The Gambler,” “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” and “Stand By Your Man.”
Following the announcement of his passing, tributes and memories poured in from artists, industry executives and others. See a few of the tributes below:
“Jimmy helped define country music for more than one generation of fans. His musicianship will live on every time somebody somewhere plays ‘The Gambler,’ ‘He Stopped Loving Her Today,’ or countless other recordings on which he played. He was an absolute fixture on stage and backstage at the Opry. I personally reveled in walking around the corner from my office before showtime and seeing the namesake of the Jimmy Capps Music Room holding court with his smile and his guitar, talking with longtime friends and newcomers alike. The difficult part of being so close-knit at the Opry is that losses like this cut deep. While the Opry will never be the same, it’s better for Jimmy Capps having played his part in it for more than 60 years.” – Dan Rogers, VP & Executive Producer, Grand Ole Opry
“I am convinced that Jimmy was the most-loved person in Nashville. EVERY artist loved him so much. While his book The Man in Back was a great tribute to him, I thought he deserved even more. So I produced a TV documentary on his life. When he saw it, he cried and cried. He said, ‘It’s kind of like going to your own funeral.’ I replied, ‘I wanted to bring your flowers while you were still here. I wanted you to see how much you mean to everyone.’ When it comes to the greatest men who ever walked the earth…I’d put Jimmy Capps in the top two, just behind another JC, Jesus Christ.” –Scot England / Author, The Man In Back
“When I first came to Nashville Jimmy Capps was already a fixture as one of the great guitar players. I worked with Jimmy many times and I got to know him and his wonderful wife Michele even better these last several years at the Opry. Jimmy was always ready with a smile, a kind word and a great guitar lick. I can’t imagine the Opry without Jimmy Capps. These crazy times are much sadder this morning.” – Crystal Gayle
“I am shocked and very saddened to hear that Jimmy Capps has passed away. He was on 90% of the songs that I’ve recorded and he can never be replaced. He was always one of the most authentic and genuine guys I’ve ever known and has accomplished so much in life. We are all so much better for knowing him. One thing that people will miss is looking over their shoulder and seeing Jimmy there. We will all miss you, Jimmy. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Michele.” – B.J. Thomas
“I will cherish the memories of working so many shows and concerts with Jimmy Capps. I will miss his smiling face. Blessings and prayers to his family.” – Janie Fricke
“I have been blessed to work with Jimmy down through the years. He was a universally loved, Godly man, a double-super cool Nashville cat and you couldn’t ask for a better friend. Sheila and I pray for Michele and the rest of his family at this time. Rest in peace, pal.” – T. Graham Brown
“Sending our love and prayers to Michele Capps. Just heard of the passing of Nashville musician Jimmy Capps. His musicianship was heard at the Grand Ole Opry, Country’s Family Reunion, and as The Sheriff on Larry’s Country Diner. I’ve sailed many music cruises with Jimmy, and I know he was so honored to be inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame. He was always humble and kind, and will be missed by many. Rest In Sweet Peace Jimmy Capps.” – Rhonda Vincent
“I am heartbroken over the loss of our great friend Jimmy Capps. He was and always will be a country music icon. It was an honor and privilege to work with him and call him my friend. He was such an amazingly gifted musician, sweet spirit, tender-hearted and beautiful soul! I know Jesus has welcomed Jimmy with open arms into his Heavenly home. My prayers are with Michele & the family. Rest In Peace Jimmy. We love you.” – Deborah Allen
“What a way to wake up this morning. I just got the message that Jimmy Capps passed away last night. I lost my sister last week and this feels like I lost another family member now. I can’t believe he’s gone. Sending prayers for Michele and their family.” – Johnny Lee
“Jimmy, was so incredibly talented; his playing came from endless experiences—he always knew ‘what to play’ and always elevated the music—just having him in the room made the music sound better. A sweet, sensitive soul who will be greatly missed.” – Michael Bonagura / Baillie & The Boys
“I loved Jimmy Capps. He was one of my mentors. I played alongside him in the studio and at the Grand Ole Opry for over four decades. Even now, when I close my eyes, I can see him walking through the Opry artist entrance, guitar case in hand. He walked slowly—with purpose. He was there to put on the best show he could. He loved the music. It was his life. He was the best rhythm guitar player I have EVER worked with. He was a perfectionist. As good as he was, he continued to practice and hone. That’s what made him so damn good. You could always count on him to know what to play and where to play it. We shared stories and secrets. There were times he treated me like a brother. There were times he treated me like a son. But every time we were together, he treated me like a friend. R.I.P, James D. Thank you for being such a great teacher. I learned from the best—Timbo.” – Tim Atwood
“I’ll always cherish the memories of any time that I was blessed to share the stage with Jimmy Capps. He is the epitome of a classic country music guitarist and one of the nicest people I ever met. RIP Jimmy Capps—we all love you dearly!” – Shane Owens
“My thoughts are with the family of Opry Legend/guitarist Mr Jimmy Capps. What an incredible legacy he will leave behind. One of Nashville’s most well respected guitarists. I had the honor of meeting him backstage at the Opry last year. He was soft-spoken and so humble. I will never forget asking him ‘How many times have you played the Opry in your career?’ He looked at me and grinned and said ‘way too many to count ha ha!’—Treasured memory of Jimmy. God bless him.” – J.D. Shelburne
“The loss of Jimmy Capps will be felt on so many levels… certainly at the Opry, on so many recording sessions, Larry’s Country Diner, Country Family Reunion, the Musician’s Hall of Fame…and most of all by his family and many, many friends and fans. He will be remembered not only as a great musician, but as one of the most wonderful men you could ever know. My heart goes out to my friend Michele, with the assurance I will be there for her. I feel it is ironic and yet appropriate that the CMA hashtag today said #theshowmustbepaused, yes Jimmy it must.” – Jeannie Seely
“What a great loss of one of our finest gentlemen in country music and one of our best and most consistent musicians. It will be hard to see the Grand Ole Opry stage without Jimmy Capps on it! He was a dear friend and will be dearly missed. Thank the Lord we have his music on so many hit recordings and Opry shows. Our prayers are with his living wife, Michele and his whole family!” – Connie Smith
“My love and prayers go out to his wife, Michele, and all his family and friends, the Grand Ole Opry folks and more. Jimmy was much loved by all and will be missed.” – David Ball
“Along with legions of other friends and fans.. my heart breaks at the loss of our ‘Sheriff’.. Jimmy Capps. He shared his talents and heart for decades.The reservoir of music that he leaves us is a blessing. But, the MAN will be greatly missed. My prayers are with Michele and with Mark and the entire Capps family. The Country Music Family has lost a great brother. RIP Jimmy Capps.” – Linda Davis
“Like so many, my heart is hurting over the loss of Jimmy Capps. One of the greatest musicians ever who started out playing with the Louvin Brothers and remained current and successfully reinvented himself a few times. But, the first thing that comes to mind when I think of Jimmy is a humble, kind and caring soul. I also think of his soul mate, Michele. They were quite a team and were the definition of true Love.”–Bobby Tomberlin
“I always felt extremely lucky, and a bit awed, to be around Jimmy – he was the ultimate guitar player—Mr. Smooth! More importantly, he was a real gentleman—one of the nicest, most humble musicians I’ve ever met. And, he and Michele obviously had a great, loving relationship; it was apparent from being around them. RIP, Jimmy! Love to Michele, Mark, and his family. Another great one gone.” –Marlon Hargis / Exile
“Oh boy. This is a hard one to hear. The Country Music world knows how gifted Jimmy was, but those of us who knew his warmth and generosity were the true lucky ones. Condolences to Michele. RIP.” – JP Pennington / Exile
“Waking up to this sad news has hit very hard! Meeting Jimmy Capps on the Opry was an honor and a thrill and then actually getting to know him and experience his warmth, humor and amazing talent was an absolute joy! There are certain individuals who are, or become, legends and in this business he was all that and more. We are heartbroken at his passing and extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Michele, his son Mark, family and all who loved him. The Heavenly choir has gained a CPA, (certified guitar picker!) RIP Jimmy.” –Sonny LeMaire / Exile
“Jimmy was a big man in more ways than stature alone. He left us at a time when the world needs more like him.” – Steve Goetzman / Exile
“When we found out the world lost another musical legend and friend in Jimmy Capps our hearts were broken. What an honor it was for us to get to play with and know Jimmy and his wife Michele over the last few years. Y’all know him not only as Jimmy Capps…but also the Sheriff on Larry’s Country Diner. The mark he left on our lives and in the music industry will always be cherished. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Michele, their family and the collective Grand Ole Opry family during this difficult time.” –Darin and Brooke Aldridge
“It goes without saying, Jimmy Capps was one of the musical greats…a legend. But far more importantly, Jimmy was one of the finest people I have ever had the privilege to know. Humble, Kind, Gracious and Warm. Just being around him made you want to be a better person. His wife Michele not only shares a birthday with Jimmy, but she also shares the same qualities that made all who knew, loved and admired her husband. My deepest condolences go out to her, Mark and all the Capps family. Stage left, at the Opry, will be forever empty.” –Dallas Wayne / SiriusXM
Alan Jackson’s "Small Town Drive-In" Concerts Rescheduled
/by Jessica NicholsonAlan Jackson’s “Small Town Drive-In” concerts, which were planned for this week on June 5 in Cullman, Alabama, and June 6 in Fairhope, Alabama, are being rescheduled for next week due to the weekend threat of tropical weather on the Gulf Coast.
The Cullman, Alabama show is now slated for Friday, June 12, while the Fairhope, Alabama concert is set for Saturday, June 13.
The shows will find the Country Music Hall of Fame member playing to nearly 2,000 vehicles. Both shows are being staged in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines regarding social distancing. Attendees can order concessions via phone, to be delivered to them at their vehicles.
All purchased tickets will be honored at the rescheduled dates. Additional info about tickets and about Alan Jackson’s “Small Town Drive-In” concerts can be found at alanjacksondrivein.com.
Warner Music Group Announces Creation Of Charitable Fund, Announces IPO Pricing
/by Lorie HollabaughAn advisory panel made up of appointees from Warner Music Group and the Blavatnik Family Foundation will establish procedures to identify and support those in the music community, and organizations strengthening education, and promoting equality, opportunity, diversity and inclusion.
“This fund will support the extraordinary, dedicated organizations that are on the front lines of the fight against racism and injustice, and that help those in need across the music industry,” said Steve Cooper, CEO, Warner Music Group. “Our advisory panel, which will draw from a diverse cross-section of people from our team and the wider community, will help us be very thoughtful and accountable in how we make an impact. We’re determined to contribute, on a sustained long-term basis, to the effort to bring about real change.”
Warner Music Group Corp. also announced the pricing of its initial public offering of 77,000,000 shares of its Class A common stock, at a public offering price of $25.00 per share. The size of the IPO was increased from the previously-announced 70,000,000 shares. The offering consists entirely of secondary shares to be sold by Access Industries, LLC and certain related selling stockholders. The company will not receive any proceeds from the offering. The shares of Class A common stock are trading beginning today (June 3) on The Nasdaq Stock Market under the ticker symbol “WMG”. The underwriters will have a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 11,550,000 shares of Class A common stock from the selling stockholders.
Copperline Music Group Adds Three Staffers
/by Jessica NicholsonNecessary, Mayotte, Korver.
Copperline Music Group has named Seth Necessary as Director, Radio Promotions, to lead the label’s national and regional radio promotions efforts.
Additionally, Justin Mayotte has joined as Director, Social Content and Videography, and Jessica Korver has joined as Social Media Coordinator.
“To keep the momentum of the label’s vision, we are strengthening our team with the addition of Seth, Justin, and Jessica to the CMG family,” states Rusty Harmon, Partner at Copperline Music Group.
“Being a part of this talented team of music business professionals is thrilling,” says Necessary. “Putting our artists in a position to succeed, through diverse but comprehensive avenues and aggressive efforts, is the hallmark of Copperline’s vision. I am proud to have the opportunity to lead that charge at radio.”
Necessary has had nearly 20 years of experience in country radio promotions. His career began in syndication at Huntsman Entertainment, directing such efforts as Country HitMakers and Christmas on Music Row, the Live From Nashville! radio remote during CMA Awards week, and various album premiere projects. Following this, he ascended to the position of Director of Country Broadcasting at Impact Radio Networks, leading the clearance of various programs and album projects, independent record promotion to the Texas/Red Dirt scene, and satellite radio tours for key artists within the country format. He became one of the top promoters in the Texas/Red Dirt scene for over nine years. He was most recently the Director of Promotions, Midwest/Texas for Riser House Entertainment in Nashville. He is based out of Hallsville, Texas, where he resides with his wife Brittney and two children, ten-year-old Wesley and one-year-old Vivian.
Copperline Music Group has recently grown its roster to include John Schneider/Maven Entertainment, Black Sheep Label Group, and Lozen Entertainment Group.