The Recording Academy, along with its affiliated charitable foundation MusiCares, have established a COVID-19 Relief Fund to aid music industry members affected by the coronavirus outbreak and the resulting cancellation of several music concerts, tours and events.
MusiCares will administer the fund, which will be used to directly support those in the music community with the greatest need. Both the Recording Academy and MusiCares have contributed an initial donation of $1 million each, totaling $2 million. Additionally, all Recording Academy Chapters have committed to fundraising in their local communities. Further updates and announcements will be made in the coming days.
“Event cancellations are at unprecedented levels and the situation therefore requires an unprecedented response,” said Recording Academy Chair and interim CEO Harvey Mason Jr. “Many people in the industry are now in crisis, not knowing what the future holds or having to deal with dire commercial realities. We are asking the entire industry to stand with us to support the musicians, artists and professionals who are the bedrock and the future of our music community.
“It’s in times like these that many of us turn to music. Music can help us cope, and has the power to bring us together during a time when many of us might feel isolated. We encourage people everywhere to embrace the music industry which needs our help in these uncertain times.”
“The music industry is built on the work of musicians, artists, and music professionals,” adds MusiCares chair Steve Boom. “It is in times like these, that the industry needs to come together to support those who are struggling, particularly those who rely on touring incomes to survive. We know this fund will need to be significant. We will not be able to do it alone, and that’s why we are asking the entire music community including labels, streaming services, and anyone who is able to join us in this important effort. We’re all in when the good times roll, and it’s important that we’re all in when times are tough, too.”
Applicants should have at least five years of employment in the music industry, at least six commercially released recordings (singles), or at least six commercially or promotionally released music videos.
Applicants should also include the following information:
- a detailed music industry background documentation (articles, liner notes, letters from employers, etc.)
- a biography, resume or discography
- documentation of loss of income (copy of your contract, flyers or links to event sites listing your involvement in the canceled events, letter/email from employer identifying cancelation)
- a copy of lease or mortgage statement for mortgage consideration.
If you wish to support the Recording Academy’s efforts to assist music people in need, visit: grammy.com/MusiCares/CoronavirusReliefFund
If you are a member of the music industry in need of assistance, visit: musicares.org.
Industry Ink: Kane Brown, SMACK, PLA Media
/by Jessica NicholsonKane Brown Celebrates Three New RIAA Certifications
Kane Brown
Kane Brown has added three new certifications to his tally. His self-titled debut album has reached 2x multi-Platinum, while his latest album Experiment, has been certified Platinum by the RIAA. Additionally, Brown’s current No. 1 country radio hit “Homesick” has been certified Platinum.
Jamie Cologna Exits SMACK
Jamie Cologna has exited SMACK to begin work with WMA’s public relations division in Nashville.
Amber Anderson will begin in the role of Shane McAnally and Michael McAnally Baum’s executive assistant on March 23, and can be reached at amber@smacksongs.com at that time.
PLA Media Adds Two Team Members
Pictured: Bicknell, Herrera
PLA Media has added two team members. Samantha Bicknell has joined PLA Media as a Social Media Coordinator and Maria Herrera will serve as a Publicity & Social Media Coordinator.
“We are thrilled to have two such talented, experienced professionals bring their expertise and new ideas to PLA to help us keep growing and improving our services,” say PLA Media Founder Pam Lewis.
Bicknell, a New York native, moved to Tennessee to earn her bachelor’s degree from Middle Tennessee State University. Her previous professional experience includes: Sony Music Global, Red Light Management and the Country Music Association. Herrera is a Florida native with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida. She has served on the communications team at multiple award shows including the Billboard Music Awards, iHeart Music Awards and American Music Awards.
Regions Bank Announces $150,000 Commitment to Tennessee Tornado Relief
/by LB CantrellThe Regions Foundation recently announced a commitment of $150,000, including immediate grants to nonprofit organizations, in support of tornado recovery in Middle Tennessee. Additionally, Regions Bank announced a series of disaster-recovery financial services to help people and businesses amid the recovery from the March 3 tornado.
“Regions has served the people and businesses of Middle Tennessee for many years, and we are committed to working hand-in-hand with our customers and communities throughout the recovery,” said John Turner, Regions President and CEO. “Our hope is that the grants we are announcing today, and the disaster-recovery financial services we are putting in place, will help make the recovery easier for our neighbors in need. Our team will stand with Middle Tennessee in the days, weeks and months to come as our neighborhoods and communities recover and rebuild.”
The Regions Foundation is a nonprofit initiative of Regions Bank that supports community investments. Organizations that will be supported by initial grants from the Regions Foundation include:
“We have seen first-hand the destruction left behind by this storm, and we understand the needs and challenges facing the people and businesses of Middle Tennessee,” said Lee Blank, Nashville Market Executive for Regions Bank. “We are focused on supporting the recovery while also serving as a financial resource. In addition to the disaster-recovery offers we are announcing today, we invite people to meet with us one-on-one at our local branches, share your needs, and allow us to offer customized insights and guidance that can help you with the financial aspects of storm recovery.”
Regions also offers an online Disaster Resource Center through Regions.com, which provides contact numbers and other helpful information to help customers with specific needs.
For more details, visit doingmoretoday.com.
Adam Doleac Renews Deal With Sony/ATV
/by Jessica NicholsonPictured (Top row, L-R): Josh Van Valkenburg, Mya Hansen, Anna Weisband, Tom Luteran, Katie Kerkhover, Eric Garcia. Bottom row: Dane Schmidt, Adam Doleac, Rusty Gaston
Adam Doleac has renewed his global publishing deal with Sony/ATV. Under his first agreement with Sony/ATV, Doleac, who is also signed as an artist with Arista Nashville, earned songwriter cuts with Hootie & The Blowfish, Kane Brown, Gabby Barrett, and Darius Rucker.
Doleac recently released his first single, “Famous,” to country radio; the song spent two weeks at No. 1 on SiriusXM’s The Highway and earned more than 35 million global streams.
“I couldn’t be happier to re-sign with my Sony/ATV family,” said Doleac. “They have been big believers in me and my music since the very beginning, and for that, I will always be grateful. There’s no better team out there, and I’m excited to fill a few more blank pages of this journey with them.”
“I’m beyond excited to work alongside Adam for the next chapter of his career.” said Dane Schmidt, Creative Director at Sony/ATV. “I’m a huge advocate of great work ethic, and Adam has continued to show day in and day out he’s willing to go above and beyond to out work everyone. We’re thankful to be a part of his team, and look forward to our future together!”
The Recording Academy, MusiCares Launch COVID-19 Relief Fund
/by Jessica NicholsonMusiCares will administer the fund, which will be used to directly support those in the music community with the greatest need. Both the Recording Academy and MusiCares have contributed an initial donation of $1 million each, totaling $2 million. Additionally, all Recording Academy Chapters have committed to fundraising in their local communities. Further updates and announcements will be made in the coming days.
“Event cancellations are at unprecedented levels and the situation therefore requires an unprecedented response,” said Recording Academy Chair and interim CEO Harvey Mason Jr. “Many people in the industry are now in crisis, not knowing what the future holds or having to deal with dire commercial realities. We are asking the entire industry to stand with us to support the musicians, artists and professionals who are the bedrock and the future of our music community.
“It’s in times like these that many of us turn to music. Music can help us cope, and has the power to bring us together during a time when many of us might feel isolated. We encourage people everywhere to embrace the music industry which needs our help in these uncertain times.”
“The music industry is built on the work of musicians, artists, and music professionals,” adds MusiCares chair Steve Boom. “It is in times like these, that the industry needs to come together to support those who are struggling, particularly those who rely on touring incomes to survive. We know this fund will need to be significant. We will not be able to do it alone, and that’s why we are asking the entire music community including labels, streaming services, and anyone who is able to join us in this important effort. We’re all in when the good times roll, and it’s important that we’re all in when times are tough, too.”
Applicants should have at least five years of employment in the music industry, at least six commercially released recordings (singles), or at least six commercially or promotionally released music videos.
Applicants should also include the following information:
If you wish to support the Recording Academy’s efforts to assist music people in need, visit: grammy.com/
If you are a member of the music industry in need of assistance, visit: musicares.org.
New Heartland Group Enters Artist Management Space
/by Lorie HollabaughThe New Heartland Group has launched an entertainment division, One Bullet Entertainment (1BE), which includes artist management as well as work in direct artist-to-brand partnerships. Paul Jankowski leads the new division.
Danielle Bradbery joins as the first artist signed to the new management company, while the new division has also announced that Lipton Tea retained 1BE to secure the Luke Bryan partnership, which includes Lipton’s sponsorship of Bryan’s “Proud To Be Right Here” tour.
“Paul and his team have been instrumental in managing all aspects of our Lipton brand partnership with music mega-star Luke Bryan,” said Pepsi-Lipton Partnership Brand Communications lead, Heather Simmons. “Paul has personally been involved in every step of the way. He navigates inevitable challenges with urgency and professionalism, and keeps everything on track and moving forward. Paul and his team are responsive and always willing to go the extra mile. Working with them is truly a pleasure.”
“Finding the right manager is as important as finding the right song,” said Bradbery. “There has to be deep mutual trust as well as an unwavering passion for the music. There was no doubt that Paul and his team were the right fit for me, especially at this important phase of my career. I love how they think strategically while really understanding me as an artist. I’m excited to be One Bullet’s first artist!”
Jeff Van Driel Named GM/Global Administration For Concord
/by Lorie HollabaughJeff Van Driel
Jeff Van Driel has joined Concord in the newly-created position of General Manager, Global Administration. Based in Concord’s Nashville headquarters, Van Driel will provide strategic and technical guidance on all Royalty, Copyright and Licensing administration for the company’s recorded music, publishing and theatricals businesses worldwide. He will report to Concord COO Jim Selby.
Since moving to the US from Canada 13 years ago, Van Driel has filled a variety of roles in the industry including 11 years at the classical label and distributor Naxos. He then took on the challenge of leading the music tech startup mVibe while also performing advisory, operational, legal, business affairs and administrative duties as a consultant for other companies.
“Jeff’s background in IT systems, best practices, finance, royalty and payment operations make him the ideal candidate for this much-needed new position at Concord,” says Concord COO Jim Selby. “He has a deep knowledge of how to integrate practical solutions and implement effective administrative technologies which will help to lead Concord’s team towards continued success and strategic growth.”
“I am honored and thrilled to be a part of the talented global team at Concord,” said Driel. “I have been impressed with the discipline and strategy that Concord employs in growing substantially through both acquisition and talent development while implementing supportive systems, forward-thinking procedures and a culture of diversity. I look forward to helping facilitate continued growth and ongoing success.”
President Trump Releases Coronavirus Guidelines For Next 15 Days To Slow Spread
/by LB CantrellPresident Trump released national guidelines for the next 15 days to slow the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the United States.
Among the guidelines are directives to pay attention to and abide by state and local authorities, stay home if you feel sick, keep your children home if they are sick, if someone in your home tests positive for the Coronavirus, keep the entire household home, and more. President Trump also advices elderly Americans and those with serious underlying health conditions to stay home and away from other people, as well.
“Even if you are young, or otherwise healthy, you are at risk and your activities can increase the risk for others. It is critical that you do your part to slow the spread of the coronavirus,” the guidelines say.
Further, President Trump advises those who engage in work or schooling to stay home whenever possible; avoid social gatherings of more than 10 people; avoid eating or drinking at bars, restaurants, and food courts and opt for drive-thru, pickup or delivery options instead; avoid discretionary travel; do not visit nursing homes or other long-term care facilities; and practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently, avoiding touching your face, sneeze/cough into a tissue or the inside of your elbow, and disinfect frequently used items as much as possible.
The President also recommended state and local government to close schools; and that starts and localities that close schools need to address possible childcare needs of critical responders, and as well as the nutritional needs of children.
View President Trump’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America here. For more information, visit coronavirus.gov.
Josh Thompson Signs Publishing Deal With MV2 Entertainment
/by Jessica Nicholson(L-R): Nicole Sherrill – Creative Director; Tony Harrell – General Manager; Josh Thompson; Mike Whelan – Senior Creative Director; Ben Strain – Creative Director; Lauren Davis – Artist Management and Contract Services.
Hit songwriter Josh Thompson has signed an exclusive publishing deal with MV2 Entertainment. Thompson is a co-writer on Jon Pardi’s current single “Ain’t Always The Cowboy,” as well as Tyler Farr’s “Only Truck In Town,” and has cuts on upcoming albums from Luke Bryan, Sam Hunt, Florida Georgia Line, and Morgan Wallen. He also co-wrote recent hits including Blake Shelton’s “I’ll Name The Dogs,” Aldean’s “Any Ol’ Barstool,” and Aldean’s hit collaboration with Miranda Lambert, “Drowns The Whiskey.”
He has co-written more than 35 major label placements since 2016, with songs recorded by Tim McGraw, Rascal Flatts, Darius Rucker, Luke Combs, Brett Young, Jake Owen, Justin Moore, Chris Lane, Michael Ray, Maddie and Tae, and more.
Thompson also had his own hits as an artist earlier in his career, including the Top 20 songs “Beer on the Table” and “Cold Beer with Your Name On It,” as well as the Gold-certified “Way Out Here.”
“Josh Thompson is a true journeyman hitmaker, and our entire team is ecstatic about having him here at MV2,” says MV2 General Manager Tony Harrell.
“Writing and creating songs with my buddies is the best job in the world. I’m truly honored to live this life and be in this special industry. I’m excited to start the next chapter of my music row story with the passionate team at MV2. I genuinely look forward to further building on what James, Tony, Mike, and Ben have started,” says Josh Thompson.
MV2 Entertainment’s roster includes Thomas Archer, Nora Collins, Nick Donley, Forrest Finn, David Frasier, and Houston Phillips.
Hannah Ellis Signs With Curb Records
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (back row, L-R): Curb Records National Director, Country Promotion Mike Rogers; Curb Records VP, Country Publishing & Creative Colt Murski; Safford-Motley’s Scott Safford; Curb Records SVP, Revenue & New Business Benson Curb; Curb Records SVP, A&R & Finance Bryan Stewart; CAA’s Emily Van Allsburg; Curb Records VP, Country Promotion RJ Meacham; Curb Records VP, Legal Affairs John Nemoy. Front row: Curb Records VP, Artist Development & A&R Laurel Kittleson; Hannah Ellis; Curb Records Chairman Mike Curb
Hannah Ellis has signed with Curb Records.
The singer/songwriter signed a publishing deal with Curb Publishing in 2015, where she has penned songs recorded by Russell Dickerson, Carly Pearce, Emily Weisband, Cassadee Pope, Sidewalk Prophets and Filmore. The Kentucky native has toured with Gavin DeGraw, Dwight Yoakam, Devin Dawson, and many others.
“We are proud to continue our very successful relationship with Hannah Ellis as a songwriter, and even more excited to welcome her as a recording artist to Curb Records,” said Curb Records Chairman Mike Curb.
Laurel Kittleson, VP, Artist Development & A&R at Curb Records adds, “Years ago when she was my intern, I saw Hannah’s incredible work ethic and passion for her craft. It’s been amazing to continually experience her growth as a songwriter and artist over the past few years. I speak for myself and the entire Curb Records team when I say that we are beyond excited to welcome her to the family!”
Tortuga Music Festival Rescheduled For October
/by Jessica NicholsonRock The Ocean’s Tortuga Music Festival, which features headliners Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert and Tim McGraw, has been rescheduled for Oct. 2-4, 2020 at Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, Florida. All passes already purchased for the festival’s former dates (April 17-19) will be honored in October.
Other artists on the performer lineup include Jimmie Allen, Kelsea Ballerini, Barenaked Ladies, Gabby Barrett, Lee Brice, Blanco Brown, Billy Currington, Jordan Davis, Gone West ft. Colbie Caillat, Riley Green, Caylee Hammack, HARDY, Hirie, Jon Pardi, Jon Langston, Tracy Lawrence, LOCASH, Pitbull, Runaway June, Cole Swindell, Toots and the Maytals, Vanilla Ice, Morgan Wallen, Ya’boys and additional artist Michael Ray will also take the Main Stage and Sunset Stage.