Tina Crawford Exits 33 Creative

Tina Crawford

Tina Crawford has exited the management firm 33 Creative.

Crawford started her career in radio at WBCT in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She then worked in promotion and A&R at Broken Bow Records for a decade, eventually rising to Director of Creative, before transitioning to publishing in 2013. Crawford spent more than eight years at Major Bob Music, leaving as VP of the publishing company before teaming up with David Fanning at 33 Creative.

Crawford can be reached at tina@toatentertainment.com. Fanning can be reached at david@33creative.co.

CMA’s Sarah Trahern Tapped As Keynote For ECCHO Live Workshop In November

Sarah Trahern

Country Music Association CEO Sarah Trahern will deliver the keynote address at the 14th annual ECCHO Live Workshop on Nov. 11.

ECCHO Live (formerly Touring Career Workshop) supports live event professionals by offering resources and guidance for both career development and personal well-being. This year’s workshop will feature breakout sessions that cover strategies for landing your next gig, steps to grow into leadership positions in entertainment, smart financial planning to build stability, practical self-care and wellness practices, and guidance on contractor and health insurance options.

For new professionals, a pre-event Career Essentials Workshop will provide additional practical tools, including launching a career in live music, safety preparedness training, professional headshots, and resume consultations. Mentorship, networking, and meaningful community are also at the heart of the event. Registration for the free event at Soundcheck Annex is open now here.

“Live music professionals are at the heart of our industry, and navigating the challenges of this dynamic field requires not only skill and determination but also the support of a strong community,” says Trahern. “CMA has long been committed to supporting the touring community, and we are proud to continue that tradition by partnering with organizations like ECCHO Live. Their work ensures that those who create the experiences we all cherish have the tools, resources and connections they need to thrive—both professionally and personally.”

“Live music can be an unpredictable and sometimes lonely industry to navigate,” says ECCHO Live Founder Chris Lisle. “Our mission is to provide the resources and community that make this a sustainable and fulfilling career path. Our fall workshop is one of our most impactful events, and we hope anyone working in this space will join us on November 11.”

Earlier this year, CMA awarded ECCHO Live a $100,000 grant to support its mental health initiatives.

Nashville Industry Executives Launch By Design

Pictured (L to R): Josh Thompson, Rod Riley, Jeremy Holley and Josh Bailey. Photo: William King

By Design, a new modern music company, has launched under the leadership of Josh Bailey, Jeremy Holley, Rod Riley and Josh Thompson. The label is announced as part of a larger ecosystem comprised of By Design, the record label and music publisher; Archetype Music, a music rights acquisitions company; and Blueprint, a nonprofit equipping creators. The first artists signed to the label include Frankie Ballard, Zoe Levert and Alex Jude, with additional artist signings to be announced.

Bailey spent more than 20 years at Word Entertainment and Capitol Christian Music Group developing artists like for King & Country and Anne Wilson. Holley has experience at Word and Warner Music Group, as well as launching FlyteVu. Riley co-founded Fervent records with his wife Susan and later sold the label to Word, where he led as CEO for a period of time. Thompson spent nearly a decade in label roles at Word before helping lead Futureshirts.

“When the right artist, the right song and the right team come together, the result can be both powerful and lasting.” shares Bailey. “My role has always been to listen for that alignment and create the space where God-given creativity can thrive.”

“At By Design, we’re putting a renewed focus on artist care and building the ecosystems needed to sustain it,” says Holley. “We’re shaping a model that’s as innovative as the artists we serve.”

“We’ve seen firsthand the possibilities and the challenges of the music business,” shares Riley. “And this is our response – building a home where creators thrive, and audiences feel it in the music.”

Thompson shares, “Partnership is built on trust. If we can look our creators in the eyes and know we’re truly building something together, that changes everything about how the music – and the culture it creates – takes shape.”

Jason Aldean Celebrates 30 No. 1s With New Digital Collection

Jason Aldean will release a collection of his chart-topping singles, 30 Number One Hits, digitally on Friday (Oct. 10.)

The album will also be available physically in-stores on Nov. 28, including a special vinyl edition that will be available exclusively at Walmart. The collection includes hits like “She’s Country,” “My Kinda Party,” “The Truth,” “Big Green Tractor,” “Fly Over States” and many more fan favorites.

30 No. 1s is a huge milestone, and I couldn’t let it go by without thanking the fans, country radio, the songwriters…” shared Aldean at the time of the milestone. “I appreciate all the support we have gotten from everyone over the last 20 years. And, I don’t plan on going anywhere anytime soon.”

Aldean is currently wrapping the 2025 U.S. leg of his “Full Throttle Tour,” with an upcoming stadium show in Harrison, New Jersey on Oct. 10. His latest single  “How Far Does A Goodbye Go” from his additional upcoming new album recently achieved the largest add date of his career. He’ll head into 2026 with the international and domestic extension of the “Full Throttle Tour” and the recent announcement of his historic return to headline UGA’s Sanford Stadium with Luke Bryan in April.

30 Number One Hits Track List: 
1. “Why”
2. “She’s Country”
3. “Big Green Tractor”
4. “The Truth”
5. “My Kinda Party”
6. “Don’t You Wanna Stay” (with Kelly Clarkson)
7. “Dirt Road Anthem”
8. “Tattoos On This Town”
9. “Fly Over States”
10. “Take a Little Ride”
11. “The Only Way I Know” (with Luke Bryan and Eric Church)
12. “Night Train”
13. “When She Says Baby”
14. “Burnin’ It Down”
15. “Just Gettin’ Started”
16. “Tonight Looks Good On You”
17. “Lights Come On”
18. “A Little More Summertime”
19. “Any Ol’ Barstool”
20.  “You Make It Easy”
21. “Drowns The Whiskey” (feat. Miranda Lambert)
22.  “Girl Like You”
23. “Rearview Town”
24. “Got What I Got”
25. “Blame It On You”
26. “If I Didn’t Love You” (with Carrie Underwood)
27.  “Trouble With a Heartbreak”
28. “Try That In A Small Town”
29. “Friends Like That” – Jason Aldean & John Morgan
30. “Whiskey Drink”

Industry Ink: Parker McCollum, DOGTOBER, She Is The Music, The Wild Feathers, More

Parker McCollum’s “What Kinda Man” Certified Gold By RIAA

Pictured (L-R): Robert Femia (MCA), Enzo DeVincenzo (Red Light Management), Jackie Jones (RIAA), Mike Harris (MCA), Parker McCollum, Stephanie Wright (MCA), Katie McCartney (MCA), Damon Moberly (MCA)

Parker McCollum’s single “What Kinda Man” has been certified Gold by the RIAA. The single is off of McCollum’s self-titled album released earlier this year via MCA.

To celebrate, McCollum hosted a performance and conversation including President and CEO of MCA, Mike Harris, EVP and General Manager of MCA, Katie McCartney, Red Light Management’s Enzo DeVincenzo and Nick Rhodes, Parker McCollum co-producers Frank Liddell and Eric Massey and more.

McCollum is current amidst his 2025 headline tour through the end of the month.

 

DOGTOBER Writers Round Raises $20,000 For PEDIGREE Foundation’s Disaster Relief Grants

Pictured (L-R): Joe Breezy, Danielle Breezy, Deb Fair (PEDIGREE Foundation), Jamie O’Neal, Rodney Good, Carolyn Dawn Johnson and Jamie Floyd.

Jamie O’Neal, Jamie Floyd and Carolyn Dawn Johnson packed the house at 3rd & Lindsley last week for the DOGTOBER Writers Round, which raised an estimated $20,000 to support PEDIGREE Foundation’s Disaster Relief Grants. The event was produced by LEGACY Events and emceed by Danielle Breezy (WKRN’s Chief Meteorologist) and Joe Breezy (Mix 92.9 Afternoons/WKRN).

 

Anzie Blue Hosts 3rd Installment Of She Is The Music & FEMco Writers Round Series

Pictured (L-R): Leslie Fram, Corrina, Ruby Amanfu, Eliana, Jessie Baylin, Angie K. Photo: Gina DiMaio

Anzie Blue hosted recently hosted the third installment of She Is The Music and FEMco’s writer round series celebrating female performers. The showcase featured performances by Ruby Amanfu, Jessie Baylin, Corrina, Angie K and Eliana.

The next sponsored showcase is scheduled for November 5 at Anzie Blue, featuring Allison Ponthier and more to be announced soon.

 

The Wild Feathers Sign With Signal Fire Agency

The Wild Feathers.

The Wild Feathers have signed with Signal Fire Agency for exclusive booking representation.

“I’ve been a fan of The Wild Feathers’ music and sound for over a decade—first seeing them live in 2013,” shares Josh Green, Founder and Agent at Signal Fire Agency, who will oversee all touring strategy and live opportunities effective immediately. “To now have the opportunity to work with them and help shape the next chapter of their touring career is incredibly exciting.”

The Nashville-based band formed in 2010 by a group of former frontmen. They have topped Billboard’s Heatseekers chart with their debut album on Warner Records and earned recognition from Rolling Stone, The New York Times, and more. The band has shared stages with icons including Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson and Bob Seger.

 

Joey Green Signs With Rise Music Group & The Kirby Organization

Pictured (L-R): Tanner Louis (Rise), Michael Kelley (TKO), Joey Green

Joey Green has signed an artist management deal with Rise Music Group and agency deal with The Kirby Organization (TKO). Green recently earned his third No. 1 on Texas Regional Radio Charts with his single “Heartbroke.”

“I’m super stoked to have Rise Music Group on my team and to join a roster of artists I truly believe in. It means a lot to have an industry team that shares my vision for the future of my music and career. Signing with Michael at TKO was also a no-brainer—he’s been doing an incredible job for years with both indie and signed touring artists. With the release of Dive Bar coming alongside these amazing new team members, I couldn’t be more excited to hit the ground running with fresh content, tour dates, and a ton of new music,” says Green.

 

Clark Beckham Signs With NCS Records

Pictured (L-R): Bryant Urich, vice president, Nashville Christian Songwriters; Clark Beckham;
and John Chisum, founder and president, Nashville Christian Songwriters.

American Idol runner-up Clark Beckham has signed with NCS Records, the new label imprint of Nashville Christian Songwriters. In addition to making NCS Records his label home, Beckham joins the organization’s staff as a coach and mentor.

“I’m excited to partner with Clark and his artistry,” says John Chisum, NCS Founder and President. “His vocals are off the chart and his heart for God and ministry is too. It’s rare to find a stellar vocal talent like Clark, but I fell in love with his desire to teach others how to step into their calling as songwriters and artists. His experience on American Idol and his years coaching artists and writers are perfect fits for our mission at NCS. We’re anticipating a great new season together!”

“What drew me to NCS is how passionate they are about helping Christian artists,” Beckham says. “We both believe that high quality music coming from high quality hearts changes the world. That’s why when it comes to me and NCS, it’s hand in glove. They teach, coach, make great music, and they want to take over the world for Jesus.”

Charlie Handsome Sits Atop The MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart

Charlie Handsome.

Charlie Handsome has re-claimed the No. 1 spot on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. His current entries include BigXthaPlug and Ella Langley’s “Hell At Night,” Marshmello and Jelly Roll’s “Holy Water” and Morgan Wallen’s “I Ain’t Comin’ Back” (feat. Post Malone), “I Got Better,” “I’m The Problem,” “Just In Case,” “Miami,” “Superman,” “TN” and “What I Want” (feat. Tate McRae).

Riley Green remains at No. 2 with his solo penned Langley duet “Don’t Mind If I Do.” Chase McGill sits at No. 3 with “20 Cigarettes,” “Brunette,” “Happen To Me,” “I Got Better,” “It Won’t Be Long,” “Miami,” “Straight Line” and “TN.”

Blake Pendergrass (No. 4) and Morgan Wallen (No. 5) round out this week’s top five.

The weekly MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart uses algorithms based upon song activity according to airplay, digital download track sales and streams. This unique and exclusive addition to the MusicRow portfolio is the only songwriter chart of its kind.

Click here to view the full MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart.

Jelly Roll Nabs Eighth Consecutive No. 1

Jelly Roll has earned his eighth consecutive No. 1 with “Heart of Stone.” The emotional track is on his Beautifully Broken album. The tune was co-penned by Jelly Roll alongside Zach Crowell, Blake Pendergrass and Shy Carter, and was produced by Crowell.

Jelly Roll was recently named a nominee at this year’s CMA Awards, and is also up for three awards at this week’s Dove Awards. Later this month, he will start a run of shows across Australia and New Zealand, before playing Corona Capital Festival in Mexico City this November. He will wrap up the year with a New Year’s Eve show in Las Vegas.

Cindy Finke Exits MCA

Cindy Finke

MCA’s Cindy Finke, Director of Media Marketing, has exited the position.

Finke joined UMG/MCA in 2021 and led publicity efforts for a diverse roster including Brenda Lee, Tyler Hubbard, Luke Grimes, Ringo Starr and more. She is looking for her next opportunity.

Finke can be reached at cmcfinke07@gmail.com.

Brantley Gilbert Signs With BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville

Pictured (L-R): BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville’s VP, A&R Camille Kenny, Brantley Gilbert’s Tour Manager Corey Roberson, BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville’s EVP, Recorded Music JoJamie Hahr, BMG Americas President, Frontline Recordings Jon Loba, Brantley Gilbert, Red Light Management’s Aaron Keiser, BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville’s General Manager Peter Strickland, BMG’s VP, Global Content & Creative Jen Morgan & Red Light Management’s Tom Lord. Photo: Brian Vaughan

Multi-Platinum artist Brantley Gilbert has signed with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. Led by Jon Loba, BMG Americas President of Frontline Records, Gilbert’s new label team joined Gilbert on stage at his recent Nashville stop of the “Tattoos Tour” to celebrate the news.

“I’m fired up to kick off this next chapter with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville,” shares Gilbert. “They support their artists in ways that really move the needle, and it means a lot that they believe in what we’re building and want to be a part of it. We’ve got some big things on the horizon, and I’m looking forward to having this crew in my corner as we take it to the next level.”

“I’ll never forget years ago when JoJamie Hahr came into my office on fire about an independent artist named Brantley Gilbert,” says Loba. “From my first listen, it was easy to hear what she was so excited about. He proved her right, exploding into the mainstream of country music. He continues to be one of the most exceptional writers of today with the live show to match. We saw the rabid connection he’s built with his audience again Friday night at FirstBank Amphitheatre. JoJamie and I dreamed of one day working again with Brantley. Luckily for us and BMG, dreams come true!”

Gilbert has garnered over 8.3 billion career streams, boasts back-to-back Platinum-selling albums and seven chart-topping hits including the RIAA 7x Platinum “Bottoms Up;” 2x Platinum “Country Must Be Country Wide;” 2x Platinum “You Don’t Know Her Like I Do;” 2x Platinum “One Hell of An Amen;” and the Platinum-certified “What Happens In A Small Town.” He also wrote ACM Artist of the Decade and now labelmate Jason Aldean’s No. 1 smashes “Dirt Road Anthem” and “My Kinda Party.”

Talent Announced For ‘New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash’

Pictured (clockwise): Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson, CeCe Winans and Bailey Zimmerman

Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson and Bailey Zimmerman will help Music City ring in 2026 as headliners of New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash. The country superstars will perform live at Nashville’s very own Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, airing live on Wednesday, Dec. 31 (8:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT, 10:30 PM-1:30 AM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, and streaming on Paramount+.

Gospel music legend CeCe Winans will also take the stage as a special guest, bringing her powerhouse vocals to the night’s festivities alongside the acclaimed Fisk Jubilee Singers. The collaboration will add a soulful note to the star-studded lineup that Music City locals and visitors can enjoy for free at Bicentennial Park’s main stage. The festivities will be capped off by the iconic Music Note drop at midnight.

Last year’s event marked an all-time high for attendance, with 220,000 people attending.

New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash is executive produced by Robert Deaton and Mary Hilliard Harrington in partnership with Music City Inc., the foundation of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. The special will be directed by Sandra Restrepo.