Pictured (L-R): MusicRow Chart Director Alex Parry, Smith & Wesley, and MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry
BOBBY KARL WORKS THE ROOM
Chapter 642
The faithful flocked to The Listening Room Café on Wednesday morning (Feb. 19) for MusicRow Magazine’s annual radio celebration.
Taking the stage during the two-hour event were such tried-and-true buddies as Ashley Gorley, Bobby Young, Shane Owens and Diane Richey. As always, this event was a mixture of music, schmoozing, breakfast and award presentations.
“Welcome, welcome, to the 18th annual Country Radio Meet & Greet and CountryBreakout Awards,” said MusicRow Magazine owner/publisher Sherod Robertson in greeting the capacity crowd. He reminded the attendees that, “Secondary radio is the heart and soul of contemporary country music.”
The awards are based on the magazine’s CountryBreakout Radio Chart, which largely tracks such stations’ airplay. These broadcasters are relied upon to introduce new talent and offer opportunities to independent artists, as well as major-label acts.
Sherod thanked MusicRow’s reporting panel and the record promoters who work with those stations. He also offered a shout-out to this year’s presenting sponsor, FirstBank.
“FirstBank has been in business since 1906, has $6 billion in assets and ranks in the top 5% of all U.S. banks. We really appreciate our new sponsor this year.” Beaming in the crowd was the institution’s Karen Clark.
Joe Hanson. Photo: Steve Lowry
Sherod then got right down to business by introducing the day’s first performer, Joe Hanson. He has competed on The Voice and American Idol and is now releasing his first tunes.
Joe worked the stage like a pro and exuded sincerity as he dished out a jaunty, three-song set. He concluded with his debut single, the bopping, charming and hooky “Young Got Old,” urging the crowd to sing along with him.
“Thank you guys so much for having me at this incredible event,” said Joe.
“I’m a big fan,” said Sherod. “You’re going to hear that name for quite awhile, I have a feeling.”
Alex Parry (you probably know her as Alex Kobrick, but she’s wearing a ring now, so get used to it) took the stage to preside over the first batch of MusicRow’s 2020 honorees.
“Thank you all so much for being here – so many radio stations and so many artists – and I love working with every one of you,” said Alex. “Our first award is MusicRow’s Independent Artist of the Year, Smith & Wesley.
“They released three singles in 2019, ‘A Little on the Redneck Side,’ ‘To Be With You’ and their current single, ‘Listen to the Radio.’ They accumulated more spins on the MusicRow chart than any other indie act in 2019.”
“We’ve been coming to this event for five years now,” said the duo’s Scott Smith. “So thank you. We couldn’t do it without you guys.
“Our current single is what it’s all about, ‘Listen to the Radio,’” added his brother and partner Todd Smith.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow Chart Director Alex Parry, KBOE’s Steve Shettler, and MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry
The MusicRow Reporter of the Year honor went to Steve Shettler of KBOE in Oskaloosa, Iowa. “Steve exemplifies this chart,” said Alex.
“I’ve done this for 15 years, and it’s so fun to be here for the first time,” said Steve. “I encourage all of you to play independent artists and regional artists. Thank you, MusicRow for all the great hospitality.
Duo/Group of the Year was earned by Old Dominion, who accepted via video, since they are on tour in Canada.
Pictured (L-R): Kiersten Suarez, Ben Kann, Diane Richey, BMLG’s Michelle Kammerer, MusicRow Chart Director Alex Parry, and MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry
This year’s Breakout Artist is Riley Green. BMLG’s Michelle Kammerer accepted and passed the mike to independent promoter Diane Richey.
“You guys heard the music and embraced it,” said Diane. “Thank you, thank you, thank you for your support, all the time.” Riley also sent in an acceptance video.
Sherod re-took the stage to present the Songwriter of the Year honor to Ashley Gorley. This is his third year to win this award.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson, Ashley Gorley, and MusicRow Chart Director Alex Parry. Photo: Steve Lowry
Ashley had a history-making nine No. 1 hits on the magazine’s chart in 2019. They were “Catch” (Brett Young), “Remember You Young” (Thomas Rhett), “Good Vibes” (Chris Janson), “I Don’t Know About You” (Chris Lane), “Living” (Dierks Bentley), “Rumor” (Lee Brice), “Eyes on You” (Chase Rice), “Love Ain’t” (Eli Young Band) and “What Makes You Country” (Luke Bryan).
“I want to thank MusicRow for all the love they give the songwriting community and Nashville as a whole,” said Ashley.
To no one’s surprise, Luke Combs won the Male Artist award. His manager, Lynn Oliver-Cline, came on stage to accept.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson, MusicRow Chart Director Alex Parry, and River House Artists’ Lynn Oliver-Cline. Photo: Steve Lowry
“It’s so cool to be here with all of you,” she said. “It’s gone from here (where he was the 2018 Breakout Artist winner) to the stadiums. So thanks to you.” Luke sent in a video thank you as well.
The Label of the Year winner at the event was Capitol Records. This is the imprint’s 16th time to win the honor and its 15th consecutive one. Its eight No. 1 smashes during the year were earned by Carrie Underwood, Dierks Bentley, Jon Pardi, Luke Bryan and Keith Urban.
“We’re blessed at Capitol to work with some of the most talented artists in this business,” said the label’s Bobby Young in his acceptance speech. He also brought up Diane Richey’s promotion team.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson, Capitol Records Nashville’s Bobby Young, and MusicRow Chart Director Alex Parry. Photo: Steve Lowry
Bobby also accepted on behalf of Female Vocalist winner Carrie Underwood. He read a note she’d written for the occasion. “Thank you to MusicRow and to the entire community,” said Carrie. “I am so proud of all the female artists out there who are doing this for the love of the music.”
The event finale was provided by a sterling show by Shane Owens. “Are y’all ready to get countrified?” he asked the crowd before diving into “Try Them On,” “Country Never Goes Out of Style” and “Hard Luck Girl.”
Shane won the MusicRow Independent Artist of the Year in 2018. His honky-tonk vocal slides were dynamite, and his on-stage warmth was endearing. “God bless country music!” he exclaimed.
Shane Owens. Photo: Steve Lowry
Mingling in the mob were such artists as CJ Solar, Joe & Martina, Dallas Remington, Katlyn Lowe, Jesse Labelle, The Voice winner Chevelle (Chevel Shepherd), Dylan Jacobson, Cody McCarver, Shane Runion and Exile’s Sonny LeMaire, Marlon Hargis and Steve Goetzman.
They had competition in working the room from Becky Harris, Preshias Harris, Ann Chrisman, Anne Sarosdy Yarborough, Jerry Duncan, Teri Brown, Mark Logsdon, Dale Bobo, Steve Lowry, Woody Bomar, Sherrill Blackmon, Dennis Banka, Neal Spielberg, Wayne Halper, Regina Raleigh, Chuck Thompson, Martha Moore, Bev Moser, Derek Beck, Tim McFadden and Beth Gwinn.
On one end of the Listening Room was a generous breakfast bar. On the other end was a backdrop for photo ops. Both stayed busy all morning long.
Kenny Chesney Accepts Humanitarian Of The Year Honor During CRS
/by Jessica NicholsonKenny Chesney. Photo: Kayla Shoen/CRS
This year’s Country Radio Seminar officially launched on Wednesday (Feb. 19), with one of music’s best-selling, top touring artists: Kenny Chesney.
Chesney led Warner Music Nashville’s annual CRS luncheon, where he was honored this year with the CRS Humanitarian of the Year Award, which is awarded to a country artist who has displayed exceptional humanitarian efforts during their career. Past recipients of the honor have included Chesney’s fellow Warner Music Nashville labelmate Blake Shelton, as well as Brooks & Dunn, Reba, Lady Antebellum, Carrie Underwood, Reba McEntire, and more.
Chesney has done plenty of his own humanitarian work, most recently by launching his Love for Love City Foundation to help those in St. John affected by the devastation left in the wake of Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. Chesney and some of his core staff also helped to rescue and relocate more than 2,000 displaced animals in St. Thomas and St. John to no-kill shelters and new homes in the U.S. All of the proceeds from Chesney’s 2018 album, Songs for the Saints, also went to the Love for Love City Fund; the project has helped raise more than $1 million to date. After the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, Chesney teamed with the Boston Medical Center to create the Spread the Love Fund to benefit amputee survivors; the fund has raised more than $2 million to date. Chesney’s love of oceans, beaches and island life has become an integral part of his brand over the years, and his No Shoes Reefs initiative has helped rebuild coral reefs in Jacksonville, Florida and supported other ocean ecology efforts.
“I have to tell you, I have a lot of emotions standing up here,” Chesney told the crowd of more than 1,000 radio programmers and music industry members during the Warner Music Nashville luncheon. “I am embarrassed and uncomfortable, but God has given me the gift of communicating with people through music… and that’s given me a unique platform to help, especially with the Virgin Islands, with Songs for the Saints, which was written in the moment and came from the heart.
“You know, I’d heard ‘One Love’ by Bob Marley my whole life, but when you’re under that kind of stress, to see everyone coming together to rebuild and help? I got to see what that song was in action. What was really amazing were so many people who didn’t really have anything, and the way they gave.”
Warner Music Nashville also treated the label luncheon attendees to performances from other hitmakers on the roster, including Chris Janson, Ashley McBryde, Gabby Barrett, Michael Ray, and Shy Carter.
Photo ID (Back row, L-R): RJ Curtis (Executive Director, CRB); Scott Hendricks (EVP A&R, WMN); Cris Lacy (EVP A&R); John Esposito (Chairman &; CEO, WMN); Kristen Williams (SVP Radio, WMN); Kurt Johnson (Board President, CRB); Ben Kline (EVP / GM, WMN)
(Front row, L-R): Cody Johnson; Ashley McBryde; Chris Janson; Kenny Chesney; Michael Ray; Gabby Barrett; Shy Carter
Chesney also performed three songs, including the multi-week No. 1 single from Songs for the Saints, “Get Along,” as well as “Save It For A Rainy Day,” and “When The Sun Goes Down.” He also thanked Warner Music Nashville Chairman/CEO John Esposito for supporting him in the making of a charitable album as his first project at his new label home.
“It was in God’s hands. So I want to thank Esposito and everybody at Warner for accepting me and for understanding that this was something bigger than all of us,” Chesney told the crowd. “And I’m really proud that I made this record.
“And I will say that in 2018, when we did our stadium run, when I saw a lot of your faces out at the shows, it was the one thing that everybody wanted to talk about. And it reminded me that I have been doing this for a little while now, and it kind of feels like family in a lot of ways. And when family hurt, somebody in the family hurts, we all hurt. And I felt that from all of you guys. I want to say I really appreciate it. And it gave me so much energy to go out on the road. And we were blessed with a song about hope and love and loving everybody.”
Bobby Karl Works The Room: MusicRow Magazine’s CountryBreakout Awards
/by Bobby KarlPictured (L-R): MusicRow Chart Director Alex Parry, Smith & Wesley, and MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry
BOBBY KARL WORKS THE ROOM
Chapter 642
The faithful flocked to The Listening Room Café on Wednesday morning (Feb. 19) for MusicRow Magazine’s annual radio celebration.
Taking the stage during the two-hour event were such tried-and-true buddies as Ashley Gorley, Bobby Young, Shane Owens and Diane Richey. As always, this event was a mixture of music, schmoozing, breakfast and award presentations.
“Welcome, welcome, to the 18th annual Country Radio Meet & Greet and CountryBreakout Awards,” said MusicRow Magazine owner/publisher Sherod Robertson in greeting the capacity crowd. He reminded the attendees that, “Secondary radio is the heart and soul of contemporary country music.”
The awards are based on the magazine’s CountryBreakout Radio Chart, which largely tracks such stations’ airplay. These broadcasters are relied upon to introduce new talent and offer opportunities to independent artists, as well as major-label acts.
Sherod thanked MusicRow’s reporting panel and the record promoters who work with those stations. He also offered a shout-out to this year’s presenting sponsor, FirstBank.
“FirstBank has been in business since 1906, has $6 billion in assets and ranks in the top 5% of all U.S. banks. We really appreciate our new sponsor this year.” Beaming in the crowd was the institution’s Karen Clark.
Joe Hanson. Photo: Steve Lowry
Sherod then got right down to business by introducing the day’s first performer, Joe Hanson. He has competed on The Voice and American Idol and is now releasing his first tunes.
Joe worked the stage like a pro and exuded sincerity as he dished out a jaunty, three-song set. He concluded with his debut single, the bopping, charming and hooky “Young Got Old,” urging the crowd to sing along with him.
“Thank you guys so much for having me at this incredible event,” said Joe.
“I’m a big fan,” said Sherod. “You’re going to hear that name for quite awhile, I have a feeling.”
Alex Parry (you probably know her as Alex Kobrick, but she’s wearing a ring now, so get used to it) took the stage to preside over the first batch of MusicRow’s 2020 honorees.
“Thank you all so much for being here – so many radio stations and so many artists – and I love working with every one of you,” said Alex. “Our first award is MusicRow’s Independent Artist of the Year, Smith & Wesley.
“They released three singles in 2019, ‘A Little on the Redneck Side,’ ‘To Be With You’ and their current single, ‘Listen to the Radio.’ They accumulated more spins on the MusicRow chart than any other indie act in 2019.”
“We’ve been coming to this event for five years now,” said the duo’s Scott Smith. “So thank you. We couldn’t do it without you guys.
“Our current single is what it’s all about, ‘Listen to the Radio,’” added his brother and partner Todd Smith.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow Chart Director Alex Parry, KBOE’s Steve Shettler, and MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry
The MusicRow Reporter of the Year honor went to Steve Shettler of KBOE in Oskaloosa, Iowa. “Steve exemplifies this chart,” said Alex.
“I’ve done this for 15 years, and it’s so fun to be here for the first time,” said Steve. “I encourage all of you to play independent artists and regional artists. Thank you, MusicRow for all the great hospitality.
Duo/Group of the Year was earned by Old Dominion, who accepted via video, since they are on tour in Canada.
Pictured (L-R): Kiersten Suarez, Ben Kann, Diane Richey, BMLG’s Michelle Kammerer, MusicRow Chart Director Alex Parry, and MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson. Photo: Steve Lowry
This year’s Breakout Artist is Riley Green. BMLG’s Michelle Kammerer accepted and passed the mike to independent promoter Diane Richey.
“You guys heard the music and embraced it,” said Diane. “Thank you, thank you, thank you for your support, all the time.” Riley also sent in an acceptance video.
Sherod re-took the stage to present the Songwriter of the Year honor to Ashley Gorley. This is his third year to win this award.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson, Ashley Gorley, and MusicRow Chart Director Alex Parry. Photo: Steve Lowry
Ashley had a history-making nine No. 1 hits on the magazine’s chart in 2019. They were “Catch” (Brett Young), “Remember You Young” (Thomas Rhett), “Good Vibes” (Chris Janson), “I Don’t Know About You” (Chris Lane), “Living” (Dierks Bentley), “Rumor” (Lee Brice), “Eyes on You” (Chase Rice), “Love Ain’t” (Eli Young Band) and “What Makes You Country” (Luke Bryan).
“I want to thank MusicRow for all the love they give the songwriting community and Nashville as a whole,” said Ashley.
To no one’s surprise, Luke Combs won the Male Artist award. His manager, Lynn Oliver-Cline, came on stage to accept.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson, MusicRow Chart Director Alex Parry, and River House Artists’ Lynn Oliver-Cline. Photo: Steve Lowry
“It’s so cool to be here with all of you,” she said. “It’s gone from here (where he was the 2018 Breakout Artist winner) to the stadiums. So thanks to you.” Luke sent in a video thank you as well.
The Label of the Year winner at the event was Capitol Records. This is the imprint’s 16th time to win the honor and its 15th consecutive one. Its eight No. 1 smashes during the year were earned by Carrie Underwood, Dierks Bentley, Jon Pardi, Luke Bryan and Keith Urban.
“We’re blessed at Capitol to work with some of the most talented artists in this business,” said the label’s Bobby Young in his acceptance speech. He also brought up Diane Richey’s promotion team.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson, Capitol Records Nashville’s Bobby Young, and MusicRow Chart Director Alex Parry. Photo: Steve Lowry
Bobby also accepted on behalf of Female Vocalist winner Carrie Underwood. He read a note she’d written for the occasion. “Thank you to MusicRow and to the entire community,” said Carrie. “I am so proud of all the female artists out there who are doing this for the love of the music.”
The event finale was provided by a sterling show by Shane Owens. “Are y’all ready to get countrified?” he asked the crowd before diving into “Try Them On,” “Country Never Goes Out of Style” and “Hard Luck Girl.”
Shane won the MusicRow Independent Artist of the Year in 2018. His honky-tonk vocal slides were dynamite, and his on-stage warmth was endearing. “God bless country music!” he exclaimed.
Shane Owens. Photo: Steve Lowry
Mingling in the mob were such artists as CJ Solar, Joe & Martina, Dallas Remington, Katlyn Lowe, Jesse Labelle, The Voice winner Chevelle (Chevel Shepherd), Dylan Jacobson, Cody McCarver, Shane Runion and Exile’s Sonny LeMaire, Marlon Hargis and Steve Goetzman.
They had competition in working the room from Becky Harris, Preshias Harris, Ann Chrisman, Anne Sarosdy Yarborough, Jerry Duncan, Teri Brown, Mark Logsdon, Dale Bobo, Steve Lowry, Woody Bomar, Sherrill Blackmon, Dennis Banka, Neal Spielberg, Wayne Halper, Regina Raleigh, Chuck Thompson, Martha Moore, Bev Moser, Derek Beck, Tim McFadden and Beth Gwinn.
On one end of the Listening Room was a generous breakfast bar. On the other end was a backdrop for photo ops. Both stayed busy all morning long.
Maren Morris, Jason Isbell And The 400 Unit To Lead Railbird Festival
/by Jessica NicholsonJason Isbell and the 400 Unit and Maren Morris will headline the 2020 Railbird Festival, which returns for a second year to the Grounds at Keeneland in Lexington, Kentucky on Aug. 22-23.
The show’s lineup will also include Tanya Tucker, the Decemberists, Colter Wall, Whiskey Myers, The War and Treaty, Shovels and Rope, Caitlyn Smith, and more.
The Railbird Festival launched last year, led by performers including Brandi Carlile, Mavis Staples, and Tyler Childers. Remaining tickets to the festival will go on sale Feb. 21 at 10 a.m. ET. Weekend VIP passes are also still available.
Academy Of Country Music Announces Radio Awards Winners
/by Jessica NicholsonThis year also marks the fourth Large Market On-Air Personality of the Year win for WUBE-FM’s The Big Dave Show, as well as a first-time win for Large Market Station of the Year for WUBE. WUSY-FM takes home their eighth win in the Medium Market Station of the Year, while WYCT-FM also celebrates a fourth win for Small Market Station of the Year.
Carly Pearce announced the winners earlier today.
“Congratulations to all the winners of the 55th ACM Radio Awards. Country radio continues to be one of the largest connectors between fans, artists and songwriters and this recognition is well-deserved for all of these radio innovators that keep our genre strong. We are honored to celebrate you,” said Damon Whiteside, CEO of the Academy of Country Music.
Below is a complete list of the Radio Award winners for the 55th Academy of Country Music Awards:
ON-AIR PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR WINNERS:
RADIO STATION OF THE YEAR WINNERS:
On The Cover: MusicRow Magazine’s Country Radio Issue Features Sam Hunt
/by Jessica NicholsonMusicRow Magazine’s 2020 Country Radio Issue, with MCA Nashville artist Sam Hunt gracing the cover, releases today (Feb. 19).
Multi-Platinum-selling, award-winning hitmaker Sam Hunt recently introduced fans to his brand-new song, “Kinfolks.” Leaning on the sentiment of “you can’t make old friends,” Hunt exemplifies the importance of bringing a new relationship into the mix and comfortability of home. “Kinfolks” follows Hunt’s GRAMMY-nominated, triple-Platinum-selling debut album, Montevallo (MCA Nashville), which topped the Billboard Country Albums Chart in its first week; and his three-week No. 1, 6x Platinum-selling, GRAMMY-nominated smash, “Body Like A Back Road.”
Montevallo produced four No. 1 singles and five Platinum and multi-Platinum-selling hits including “Leave the Night On,” “House Party,” “Take Your Time,” “Break Up In A Small Town” and “Make You Miss Me.” Then, Hunt’s “Body Like A Back Road” release shot to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart where it remained for an unprecedented 34 consecutive weeks, shattering the record for most weeks atop the nearly 59-year-old chart. “Body Like A Back Road” was also the No. 1 most-streamed and No. 1 most-downloaded country song of 2017, and the No. 3 most-downloaded and Top 25 most-streamed all genre song of 2017.
Called “stylistically provocative” by The New York Times and “deceptively phenomenal” by The Washington Post, Hunt has received accolades from Associated Press, Billboard, Los Angeles Times, NPR, Rolling Stone, SPIN Magazine, Village Voice, The New York Times, The Washington Post and more. Since Montevallo’s 2014 release, Hunt has accumulated over 6.85 billion global streams and has earned 22 million RIAA certified units. Hunt’s new album SOUTHSIDE releases April 3.
Hunt is signed with UMPG for publishing, aligned with performing rights organization ASCAP, managed by HOMESTEAD/Red Light Management, and booked by CAA’s Darin Murphy.
MusicRow Magazine’s annual Country Radio Issue also features the winners for this year’s MusicRow CountryBreakout Awards, held Feb. 19 in Nashville.
This issue also spotlights YouTube’s Copeland Isaacson and Margaret Hart, takes an inside look at country radio tours with Trea Landon, highlights playlist creation with WCFT’s Shelly Marx and explores artist-led podcasts such as those launched (or in the works) by Midland, Kelleigh Bannen, Reba McEntire and more.
Single copies of MusicRow’s Country Radio Issue are available for purchase at musicrow.com for $20, and are included with yearly MusicRow memberships.
Tyler Booth Signs With Warner Chappell Music
/by Lorie HollabaughBack row (L-R): Ben Vaughn (WCM), Will Overton (WCM). Front row (L-R): Phil O’Donnell, Tyler Booth
Tyler Booth has signed a worldwide publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music.
Born and raised in Southeastern Kentucky, Booth began playing guitar and writing songs at age 10 and went on to attend Morehead State University. After building a grassroots following in Kentucky from his live performances, Booth moved to Nashville to pursue his passion for writing and singing full time. In 2017, he teamed up with songwriter/producer Phil O’Donnell to record his self-titled debut EP, featuring “Hank Crankin’ People,” If We Make It To Mexico,” and “Surrender.”
“When I walk into the Warner Chappell building I feel like I’m at home,” said Booth. “This is where I want to hang my hat. Their team have become family. It all just feels right for the songs I write and sing.”
Booth is represented by CAA and was recently announced as the first signing to Sony Music Nashville and Villa 40’s joint venture agreement.
Brad Paisley To Kick Off 2020 World Tour In May
/by Lorie HollabaughFans can purchase tickets for all dates now at bradpaisley.com. Live Nation is the official promoter of the tour and select cities are part of Live Nation’s Country Megaticket. A portion of all ticket sales will go to The Store, a nonprofit, free, referral-based grocery store that Paisley and wife Kimberly Williams-Paisley, in partnership with Belmont University, are spearheading in Nashville. The year-round, free grocery store will allow low income individuals and families in the Nashville area to shop with dignity to help cover their basic needs.
Paisley’s first prime-time special, Brad Paisley Thinks He’s Special, aired on ABC in December and garnered over 9.2 million viewers. He is also involved with a successful, ongoing multi-year ad campaign with Nationwide Insurance, along with Peyton Manning.
Brad Paisley 2020 World Tour dates:
*February 21: San Antonio, TX- San Antonio Rodeo
**March 6: Penticton, BC-South Okanagan Events Centre
**March 7: Abbotsford, BC-Abbotsford Centre
**March 9: Grand Prairie, AB-Revolution Place
**March 12: Moose Jaw, SK-Mosaic Place
**March 13: Medicine Hat, AB-Canalta Centre
*March 20: Thackerville, OK-WinStar World Casino
*March 21: Houston, TX-Houston Rodeo & Livestock
**April 2: Niagara Falls, ON-Niagara Falls Entertainment Centre
*April 3: Uncasville, CT-Mohegan Sun Arena
May 15: Concord, CA-Concord Pavilion
May 16: Irvine, CA-FivePoint Amphitheatre
May 17: San Diego, CA-North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre
May 22: Ridgefield, WA-Sunlight Supply Amphitheater
May 23: George, WA-Gorge Amphitheatre
May 28: Albuquerque, NM-Isleta Amphitheater
May 29: Denver, CO-Pepsi Center
May 30: Salt Lake City, UT-USANA Amphitheatre
June 4: Detroit, MI-DTE Energy Music Theatre
June 5: Chicago, IL-Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
June 6: St. Louis, MO-Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
June 12: Virginia Beach, VA-Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater
June 13: Bristow, VA-Jiffy Lube Live
June 18: Cincinnati, OH-Riverbend Music Center
June 19: Alpharetta, GA-Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
June 20: Charlotte, NC-PNC Music Pavilion
July 20: Bergen, Norway-Bergenhus Festning
July 22: Trondheim, Norway-Kristiansten Festning
***July 24: Goteborg, Sweden-Liseberg
***July 25: Gavle, Sweden-Furuviiksparken
July 29: Amsterdam, Netherlands-AFAS Live
July 30: Berlin, Germany-Zitadelle
***July 31: Schwetzingen, Germany-Schlossgarten Open Air
August 7: Syracuse, NY -St. Joseph’s Health Amphitheater at Lakeview
August 8: Pittsburgh, PA-KeyBank Pavilion
August 9: Bethel, NY-Bethel Woods Center
August 13: Wantagh, NY-Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater
***August 14: Montreal, QC-Lasso Festival DeMusique Country
August 15: Mansfield, MA-Xfinity Center
***August 22: Lima, OH-Allen County Fairground
September 3: West Palm Beach, FL – iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre
September 4: St. Augustine, FL-St. Augustine Amphitheatre
September 6: Tampa, FL-MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
September 26: Westbrook, ME -Maine Savings Pavilion at Rock Row
September 27: Bloomsburg, PA-Bloomsburg Fair
*Paisley Only
**Paisley and local support
***Festival – includes Paisley and multiple artists
Endurance Music Group Acquires Wide Open Music
/by Jessica NicholsonPictured (L-R): Endurance Music Group’s Michael Martin, Wide Open Music’s Ash Bowers, Endurance Music Group’s Mark Ahlberg and Josh Saxe. Photo by Ed Rode.
Endurance Music Group has acquired Wide Open Music, adding a roster of artist-writers including Jimmie Allen and Matt Stell, Wide Open co-founder Ash Bowers, and songwriters Seth Alley and Paul Sikes to the Endurance fold.
Endurance President Michael Martin said, “We are thrilled to welcome Wide Open Music into the Endurance family. Mark Ahlberg and Amplified Administration have helped lay the foundation for a successful relationship with Ash and his team, and we can’t wait to see where this new partnership takes us.” Raven Capital Management Co-Founder Jeremy Tucker added, “The Wide Open Music roster is an exciting addition to the Endurance team of songwriters. We’re confident this partnership will bring even greater success for our newly expanded musical family.”
Bowers added, “Our Wide Open roster of artists and songwriters is the foundation of what we have been fortunate enough to build over the past few years. It was important for me to help our writers reach new levels, and we have been blessed with the opportunity to join the Endurance team. With Endurance we have a publishing home that not only has some of the best players in the business, but is also a group of people that strive for greatness and encourage integrity.”
Bowers and Steve Williams launched Wide Open Music as a publishing company in 2013 and earned success with songs including Brett Young’s double-platinum, 2018 BMI Country Song of the Year “In Case You Didn’t Know.” In 2017 the company expanded into management, representing Broken Bow/BMG artist Jimmie Allen, whose single “Best Shot” spent three weeks at No. 1 on the country radio charts in 2018. The company also signed Matt Stell, who signed a label deal with Arista and earned a No. 1 hit with “Prayed For You” in 2019.
Endurance Music Group made its debut in mid-2019 with hit songwriters Scooter Carusoe (“Drunk Girl” – Chris Janson, “For the First Time”- Darius Rucker) and Clint Lagerberg (“Blue Ain’t Your Color” – Keith Urban, “Here Comes Goodbye” – Rascal Flatts), emerging songwriter-artists Jake Rose and Ryan Plappert, and songwriter Ben Stoll. Endurance also represents the catalogs of hit songwriters Kevin Kadish (“All About That Bass” – Meghan Trainor, “Whiskey Glasses” -Morgan Wallen), BMI Country Songwriter of the Year Ross Copperman (“Tip of My Tongue“ – Kenny Chesney, “Love Someone” – Brett Eldredge), Hillary Lindsey (“Girl Crush” – Little Big Town, “Blue Ain’t Your Color” – Keith Urban), Extreme Writers Group (“I Saw God Today” – George Strait, “I Loved Her First” – Heartland), and Matt Jenkins (“Confession” – Florida Georgia Line, “Cop Car” -Keith Urban).
Country Radio Hall Of Fame To Add Six
/by Jessica NicholsonThis year’s inductees include George Beasley (Beasley Media Group Founder), Victor Sansone (Retired KSCS/Dallas and WKHX/Atlanta GM), Jim Duncan (Former R&R VP/Country Editor), Mark “Hawkeye” Louis (KSCS/Dallas), Chuck Edwards (WYCD/Detroit) and Tim Wilson (former WAXX/Eau Claire, Wisconsin PD/MD/on-air talent).
CRB’s Country Radio Hall of Fame Committee Chairman Joel Raab commented, “We are proud to welcome these deserving new members to the Country Radio Hall of Fame. Each has had a unique and lasting impact upon country radio.”
About the 2020 Inductees:
Radio (off-air) Category:
Jim Duncan: 2019 marked Duncan’s seventh decade in country radio—all of them in major markets, where his career touched all corners of the radio business, including weekend air talent; morning show host; music director; program director, and syndicated radio. His influence on country radio reached beyond his local market, as he represented the industry on the CMA, and CRB Board of Directors. For nine years, Duncan served as VP and Country Editor for legendary trade newspaper, Radio & Records. In that role, he was a true ambassador for country radio, and the music industry, and was instrumental in the career development of many industry professionals who went on to be our format’s most influential leaders.
Victor Sansone: During an illustrious, 34-year career with Capital Cities/ABC/Disney, first on the sales management side, and eventually, in the general manager role, Sansone oversaw two, legendary country radio properties, in two of the largest, and most important country markets in America: Dallas, and Atlanta. He arrived at KSCS/Dallas in 1987 and guided the station to ratings and revenue triumphs. KSCS stayed atop the overall market rankings for 21 consecutive rating periods. He repeated that success upon his move to Atlanta in 1997, with a 10-year run of similar rating and revenue dominance with WKHX. His leadership qualities were called upon at a national level, as he served on the CMA Board of Directors, rising to President and Chairman, where he made a difference by protecting radio’s interests and point of view.
George Beasley: George Beasley has logged 58 years in the radio industry, serving as founder, chairman, and CEO for Beasley Media Group, which currently owns 64 radio stations in 15 large and medium markets across the United States. One of those properties is country powerhouse WXTU/Philadelphia, one of the most consistently successful country radio stations in America.
The Country Radio Hall of Fame recognition only adds to the many industry honors bestowed upon this inductee: The Library of American Broadcasting honored him as a “Giant of Broadcasting” in 2012, and the Florida Association of Broadcasters named him “Broadcaster of the Year” in 2011. Previous recognition from Country Radio Broadcasters includes the organization’s “Tom Rivers Humanitarian Award” in 2010.
Personality (on-air) Category:
Tim Wilson: 26 of Wilson’s 45 years in country radio were spent at one station: WAXX/Eau Claire, Wisconsin, where he served as PD, MD and, air personality. The radio station—and, he personally—were deeply embedded in the community through participation in local events and fundraisers for important causes. He also donated his time as an advisor for Future Business Leaders of America at Eau Claire Memorial High School and for Phi Beta Lambda at the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire. His efforts, and those of the station to popularize country music in the Northlands by way of artist support, industry relations, and advocacy for the genre garnered high ratings for WAXX, but reached national proportions too, with recognition as CMA Personality of the Year; CMA PD of the Year; Billboard PD, MD, and Personality of the Year honors, and the NAB’s prestigious Marconi Award.
Chuck Edwards: For the past 20 years, Edwards has been a country radio mainstay at WYCD/Detroit, where he co-hosted afternoons with fellow CRHOF member, the late Linda Lee for 16 successful years. He is currently helming the station’s morning show. His country radio roots date back to 1983, when he started in Knoxville, but was soon lured to Memphis for a brief stint, before joining legendary KSCS in 1986 for afternoons. After 13 successful years in Dallas, he moved to the Motor City, and became a fixture there. During his time in the Motor City, Edwards has been honored on a local and national level, with the 2011 CMA Personality of the Year, Michigan Association of Broadcasters Broadcaster of the Year, plus multiple ACM personality nominations, and Marconi nominations.
Mark “Hawkeye” Louis: It was only a matter of time before Hawkeye found his way to the Country Radio Hall of Fame—he’s been surrounded by fellow Hall Of Famers his entire career, starting at KAJA/San Antonio early in his career, with time alongside 2015 inductee, Randy Carroll. For the past 29 years, he’s been a fixture at KSCS/Dallas, many of those years spent partnered with 2006 CRHoF inductee, Terry Dorsey. His current program director is 2019 Hall of Fame class member, Mac Daniels. Hawkeye has forged an identity and career unto himself during those years, and has become a Dallas radio icon. His current “Hawkeye In the Morning” show on KSCS is the longest-running FM morning show in the Dallas market. He’s given back to the community too—establishing the Mark Rybczyk Scholarship for broadcasting students at his alma mater, The University of North Texas. In 2015, he was honored by Cook Children’s Hospital in Fort Worth for 800 hours of volunteer service, and for starting the annual Cook Children’s Radiothon in 2014.
Steven Battey Signs With Anthem Entertainment
/by Lorie HollabaughAfter having solid success as a pop songwriter/producer, Savannah, GA native Battey moved from Los Angeles to Nashville in 2014 to pursue his love for country music. His credits include a Grammy Award for his contributions on Madonna’s Revolver record, and two Grammy nominations for his work on Justin Bieber’s certified Platinum album My World 2.0 and Flo Rida’s Top 5 Billboard Hot 100 hit, “Sugar.” An innovator with his talent and vision, Battey’s mix of urban influences and country roots assisted him in his transition to Nashville. In 2016, Steven began working with Luke Combs, and the two would eventually write and produce the song “One Number Away,” which was the third single from Luke’s major label debut album This One’s For You. The song became Battey’s first No. 1 on the Billboard Country charts and also won the ASCAP Song of the Year Award in 2019.
“When I heard Steven’s music after his win for ASCAP Country Song of the Year with ‘One Number Away’, we realized he was a uniquely talented multi-genre writer and artist,” said Tim Wipperman, President of Anthem Music Publishing Nashville. He brings a singular perspective on life to us and I’m beyond pleased he chose to work with Anthem.”
“I wanna thank Anthem for believing in me and bringing me on this amazing roster of talent, said Battey. “Special shout out to Tim Wipperman and Helen Murphy, without them this would not be possible. I’m so grateful to be a part of this amazing creative family.”