Pictured (L-R, top row): Universal Music Publishing’s Troy Tomlinson, UMG Nashville’s Mike Dungan, Sony ATV’s Josh Van Valkenburg, BMI’s Mason Hunter and Warner Chappell’s Katy Wolaver and BJ Hill; (L-R, bottom row): BMI songwriters Nicolle Galyon, Keith Urban and Julia Michaels. Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
Keith Urban celebrated his 24th No. 1 song “Coming Home” yesterday (Oct. 23) at Analog at the Hutton Hotel, along with co-writers Nicolle Galyon and co-writer and featured vocalist on the track, Julia Michaels. Co-writer and co-producer, J.R. Rotem was not able to be there. The tune also lists the late Merle Haggard as a writer, so his legacy was celebrated with the No. 1 song, as well.
“This song is inspired by a Merle Haggard song called ‘Mama Tried,’ and so Merle is also a writer on this song and I’m very grateful that he should rightly have another number one under his belt,” Urban said during his acoustic performance of the song.
James Burton, a revered guitar player that played the unforgettable Merle lick, was in attendance.
“When I heard that incredible lick, and that music from Merle Haggard’s song, I thought about growing up in Australia, traveling around with my mom and dad to all these country music festivals, and it was crazy how that music just brought me right back to my home where I was from, what it was like to move to Nashville, which to me was like a fish out of water in a big city. And I felt like a lot of people can experience that going to a new place and getting a bit lost along the way and knowing that they’ve got to recalibrate and get back to the place where people love them and know who they are,” Urban later said.
BMI’s Mason Hunter lead the celebration of the 100% BMI song. “Merle Haggard was, of course, a BMI icon and a continues to represent the BMI catalog and family through his works. Keith has been a BMI member for 22 years.
“J.R. Rotem could not be here and I hate that because he’s been a BMI member for 20 years. He was BMI Producer of the Year in 2009 and he was a BMI Pop Songwriter of the Year in 2011,” Hunter said. He also took the time to gush about another long-time BMI member, Nicolle Galyon.
Julia Michaels was in town to celebrate the song just before her show at Marathon Music Works. Because the track was Michaels’ first country No. 1, the pop singer-songwriter got a Taylor guitar, courtesy of BMI.
Sony/ATV’s Josh Van Valkenburg stepped up to the mic first to talk about Rotem and the late Haggard. Van Valkenburg recognized the Capitol Nashville label and radio promotion staff, before thanking the co-writers and Urban.
“I’ll just say if you would’ve told little kid Josh, that even if for the smallest of reasons that he could be up on stage to be able to honor Merle Haggard, that would be something I wouldn’t have believed. And I’m thankful that we get to represent him and his catalog. Amen to the country gods,” he said.
Pinnacle Bank’s David Duvall announced that they were making a donation to the W.O. Smith School of Music in honor of the song.
Next up, UMPG’s Troy Tomlinson made sure to thank everyone involved. UMPG also made a donation to MusiCares in honor of the song.
“I know he’s not here, but I want to say something anyway. I met J.R. about 20 years ago and he’s one of those guys you meet the first time and you realize he’s naturally gifted. Some of us we called gifted and we have to work really hard to appear gifted, but J.R. has that ability and had it from a very young age. So congratulations to J.R.,” Tomlinson said.
Tomlinson thanked the Capitol Nashville staff, as well as Urban’s management team members Gary Borman and Elisabeth Ashley.
“The first time that I heard anything about this song, he called because of that Merle lick. And this is all I want to say about that, the attitude that he had in that phone conversation with me about Merle and that lick, and how Merle should be presented and represented says everything you need to know about Keith Urban,” Tomlinson said.
“This is the best that that current country music has to offer combined with the best that old country has to offer, and the best that pop has to offer,” said Warner Chappell’s BJ Hill.
Hill was on hand to speak about Galyon, saying that she belonged on a list of influential Kansans. “With all the songs that you’ve written that have touched so many people and your effect on the artist around you, and the people that you’ve helped develop, your new record label and all the other things that you’re working on, I really think that you’ll be up there among the top of that list and many other lists. You have an extremely strong legacy,” Hill said.
Katie Wolaver from Warner Chappell’s LA office was in attendance to celebrate Michaels. “Julia Michaels is a prolific songwriter and artist whose words and melodies have crossed many genres and have topped the charts. She is an authentic collaborator who wears her heart on her sleeve, and I know from our Nashville office that every artist and writer that you work with here absolutely loves you and finds your talent and perspective truly inspiring,” she said.
Universal Nashville’s Chairman/CEO Mike Dungan spoke on Urban’s meticulous songwriting and recording process. “I’ve watched it for many years and the attention to detail, the insistence that everything be unique and in its own space is just mind boggling to me. And that’s what it takes to stay relevant, to stay current, to keep your fans engaged, to keep the world engaged. He does it every time he steps in to the batter’s box. I am completely in awe of Keith Urban and we are very, very honored to work with anyone who gives that much of his all to make it perfect.”
Dungan recognized his staff, and announced that it was Urban’s 24th No. 1 and his 40th top 10.
“In the history of the country chart, which goes back to January of 1990, Keith is the seventh artist to have 40 top tens. To make it even more unbelievable, this is his company in that elite category: George Strait, Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney, Alan Jackson, Toby Keith and Brooks & Dunn,” Dungan said.
Pictured (L-R): BMI songwriters Nicolle Galyon, Keith Urban and Julia Michaels. Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
Galyon was the first to speak when it came time for the creators to step up to the mic.
She first thanked her publisher, Warner Chappell, as well as BJ Hill and Ben Vaughn. She then thanked the radio promotion team.
“I want to thank these two amazing artists behind me. It’s a thrill to get to write a No. 1 song with anybody, but it is uniquely a thrill to get to collaborate with people that you are truly a fan of. I mean, not to embarrass Keith, but I have stood in an autograph line for Keith Urban at some point in my life. And I still wait up till midnight every time a Julia Michaels song comes out and I download it and buy it. So thank you for just being friends to me and thank you for being incredible artists and on this song, for making me look cooler than I really am to my kids and friends,” Galyon said.
“This is my first number one country situation, so that’s really cool,” Michaels said. “And I couldn’t have pictured doing this with anybody other than Mr. Keith Urban. I’ve known him now for almost three years and not only is he an amazing writer and performer, and just overall human being, he’s also an incredible friend and I’m really grateful to know him,” she said.
Urban recognized Dan McCarroll, his co-writers, management, label, publishers, BMI and his family. He also made sure to recognize Burton.
“I’m just a cog in the wheel, you know, I get to make something and then give it to an incredible team and then hope that they can take this ball and run with it,” he said.
“This song was unusual because it’s the first time that a sample has been used in a country song ever, so I love that,” Urban said. “I love seeing in the credits all these names and then Merle Haggard. I love seeing that in there.
“I wish Theresa and Ben could have been here today, but I loved it. They also gave their blessing for this song and that was very important to me. I also wanted to say that country radio was unbelievably supportive, going above and beyond to get this song to ring the bell. A lot of that was passion for obviously the song, but it’s also a lot of passion for Merle as well. It was an incredible show of love and support for him, and I thank country radio with all of my heart for letting us ring that bell,” Urban said.
Larry Fleet Joins Big Loud Records Roster
/by Lorie Hollabaugh(L-R): Autumn Ledgin, Good Company Entertainment; Chip Petree, Ritholz Levy Fields LLP; Jon Andolina, Good Company Entertainment; Ali Matkosky, Big Loud Records, Jake Owen; Larry Fleet; Seth England, Big Loud; Kevin “Chief” Zaruk, Big Loud; Lloyd Aur Norman, Big Loud; Candice Watkins, Big Loud Records; Joey Moi, Big Loud; Keith Gale, Good Company Entertainment. Photo Credit: Nick Swift
Larry Fleet has signed with Big Loud Records. Fleet’s debut single “Tied Down” is available now across all digital platforms.
The blue-collar, Tennessee native grew up with a love of music sparked by an eclectic mix of influences, from Merle Haggard to Marvin Gaye and everything in between. To make ends meet, Fleet worked construction jobs but never lost sight of his dream of making music. A chance encounter with Jake Owen in 2017 led to a collaborative friendship and an opening slot on the road with Owen. Not long after, Fleet was sharing the stage with one of his heroes, Willie Nelson. Etching his mark in the Nashville songwriting community co-writing with tunesmiths including Rhett Akins, Brett James and Kendell Marvel, the hard-working family man (and father of newborn son, Waylon) is now ready to make his debut on the country scene.
“We cannot wait for the world to hear Larry Fleet,” says Big Loud partner Seth England. “He has a throwback style with a fresh twist, and a one of kind voice. I’m also glad we get to introduce Larry by releasing a full project right away. Fans won’t have to wait long to hear how great he is. Thanks for trusting Big Loud, Larry!”
“I am very excited and blessed to be a part of such a progressive group at Big Loud Records,” said Fleet. “To be on the same label as my buddy, Jake Owen, makes it even better.”
“Tied Down,” written by Fleet with Will Bundy and Jim McCormick, is the first offering from Fleet’s upcoming full-length project, Workin’ Hard, produced by Joey Moi.
Industry Ink: AIMP, IBMA Foundation, Dillon Carmichael, Reviver
/by Lorie HollabaughAIMP Shines Light On State Of Publishing With David Israelite
(L-R): Mike Molinar (Big Machine), Steve Markland (Downtown Music), Ree Guyer (Wrensong, AIMP Nashville Vice President), David Israelite (NMPA), John Ozier (Reservoir, AIMP Nashville President), Tim Hunze (Anthem Entertainment), Shannan Hatch (Fourward Music), Brad Peterson (Regions), and Dale Bobo (Big Deal Music Group, AIMP Nashville Treasurer)
The AIMP Nashville Chapter recently held an event, “State of the Union for U.S. Music Publishing,” featuring NMPA President & CEO David Israelite. Held at CMA’s Nashville offices, the event saw Israelite discussing a variety of publishing matters, with a focus on implementing the legislation behind the Music Modernization Act.
IBMA Accepting Applications For 2020 Project Grants
Dillon Carmichael Celebrates EP Release
(L-R): Jake LaGrone (287 Management) John Dorris (Hallmark Direction Company), Jennifer Johnson (Riser House Records), Dillon Carmichael, Greg McCarn (287 Management) Photo Credit: Daniel Chuma
Dillon Carmichael celebrated the release of his new EP I Do For You on Thursday (Oct. 17) at The Tracking Room. The five-song collection features a who’s-who of songwriters including Chris Stapleton, Rhett Akins, Casey Beathard and others.
Reviver Adds Regional Promotion Manager
Kellie Longworth
Reviver has welcomed Kellie Longworth as Regional Promotion Manager.
“I am thrilled Kellie is joining our team,” says VP/Promotion Jim Malito. “Her enthusiasm and energy fit perfectly with the Reviver culture.”
Kellie graduated from Belmont University with a Bachelors in Business Administration in Music Business and most recently worked at Cold River Records as Promotion Manager in the Southwest, Northeast and Southeast regions. Her first day on the job will be Nov. 4. She can be reached at 937-232-0574.
Bobby Karl Works The Room: The Tennessee Governor’s Arts Awards
/by Bobby KarlBrenda Lee, Little Richard, Ashley Capps
The Tennessee Governor’s Arts Awards are the highest honors this state gives to artists. Music, our signature export, was rightfully front and center this year.
Lauded at the Governor’s Mansion at a Wednesday evening gala (Oct. 23) were Brenda Lee, Little Richard, Janice Birchfield, The Country Music Hall of Fame and Bonnaroo co-founder Ashley Capps.
The celebration began with a hot medley of Little Richard hits by the Jimmy Church Band – “Good Golly Miss Molly,” “Lucille,” “Jenny Jenny,” “Long Tall Sally,” “Keep a Knockin,’” “The Girl Can’t Help It”, “Rip It Up,” and “Tutti Frutti.” Richard Penniman, the full name of the inaugural Rock N Roll Hall of Fame inductee, has been a Tennessee resident for more than 15 years. Before that, he was a resident on and fixture of Jefferson Street in the 1950s.
“Jimi Hendrix was in my band in Nashville [at the Club Baron],” the 86-year-old rock legend recalled. “[Growing up in Georgia,] I listened to [Nashville’s] WLAC all night.
“This shows you how far God brings you….God bless you all.”
Birchfield is the washtub bass player and spokesperson for the East Tennessee string band The Roan Mountain Hilltoppers.
“It has always been an honor and a privilege to represent the music of East Tennessee,” said the Appalachian musician. “It’s been an honor to travel for the state of Tennessee.”
Her old-time country band played, with Janice emceeing and grooving on her homemade bass. The musicians were joined by champion flat-foot cloggers, to the crowd’s delight. Among those mentored by the band are the current Opry stars Old Crow Medicine Show.
Capps not only co-founded Bonnaroo, he was the entrepreneur behind the widely respected Knoxville nightclub Ella Guru’s, the promoter who puts on that city’s annual Big Ears Festival and the owner of Knoxville’s downtown theaters The Bijou and The Tennessee.
“I’m in awe to be here tonight in this extraordinary company,” he said. “It makes me really proud to be a Tennessean.”
Like Capps, the Country Music Hall of Fame was honored in the “Arts Leadership Award” category. The museum’s Kyle Young accepted the accolade.
“Thanks so much for this treasured recognition,” he said. “Country music has not always been treated as a cultural asset. It has not been a particularly easy road. This award is heartening because it offers joyful endorsement of the music that built this town. This art matters. We sustain the music that sustains us.”
The others lauded in the “Arts Leadership” awards category were Linda Caldwell, the founding director of the Tennessee Overhill Heritage Association in East Tennessee and former Tennessee Arts Commission executive director Rich Boyd, a Nashvillian.
Mandy Barnett performed three tunes in honor of Brenda Lee – “I’m Sorry,” “Sweet Nothin’s” and “All Alone Am I” – with the piano accompaniment of Chris Walters.
“Mandy, thank you, what a singer you are,” said Brenda. “It’s been a wonderful, wonderful journey. All of you recipients, you are so precious. I’m just so proud to be here. God bless you. God love you. And, as I always say, ‘Keep on rockin.’”
The others honored in the “Distinguished Artist” category were Knoxville editorial cartoonist Charlie Daniel and Nashville abstract-expressionist painter Joanna Higgs Ross.
Alongside old-time musician Janice Birchfield, the “Folklife Heritage” awardees were Jackson folk sculptor Hattie Marshall-Duncan, Morrison basket maker Sue Williams and Smyrna bead maker Sally Wells, a Chocktaw who became the state’s first Native American honoree.
“What an inspired evening this night was,” said Gov. Bill Lee. “I know a lot more about why Tennessee is such a marvelous place to live than I did two hours ago. “You are part of a legacy that will impact future generations. We are so proud to be part of this event. We honor each one of you tonight.”
As we entered, we were serenaded by the charming, acoustic, brother-sister duo Giri & Uma Peters. During the program, Austin & Courtney Derryberry performed lively string band sounds in between presentations. John Seigenthaler hosted.
Many h’ors d’oeuvres were snacked upon – cheeses on crackers, grapes, cured meats, shrimp, mini-biscuits, etc. However, the Tennessean Executive Residence Conservation Hall ran out of plates.
In addition to Tennessee First Lady Maria Lee, the guests included Manuel, Michael Gray, Robie Cogswell, Jay Orr, Suzanne Kessler, Donna Nicely, Ronnie Shacklett, Sarah Sperling, Gov. Don and Martha Sundquist, Brenda Colladay, Jim Hoobler, Trudy Byrd, George Walker IV, Bobby Fulcher, Anne B. Pope, Joe Kilgore and Joe Brown, the Readyville blacksmith artist who designed the iris-flower-themed statuettes.
The Tennessee Governor’s Arts Awards were established in 1971. They are presented every other year. Prior winners from our
community include Chet Atkins, Earl Scruggs, Eddy Arnold, The Fisk Jubilee Singers, Bill Ivey, Mike Reid, Dolly Parton, Charles K. Wolfe, Bobby Blue Bland, The W.O. Smith School, Johnny Maddox, Booker T. & The MGs, Isaac Hayes, Bobby Jones, Loretta Lynn, B.B. King, The Stax Museum, Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Jim Sherraden, The Fairfield Four, Clara Hieronymus and The Nashville Symphony.
Beverly Keel Named Dean Of MTSU College of Media and Entertainment
/by Lorie HollabaughBeverly Keel
Beverly Keel, chair of MTSU’s top-ranked Department of Recording Industry, will take the reins of the university’s College of Media and Entertainment as its new dean, University Provost Mark Byrnes announced Oct. 23. She succeeds former USA Today editor-in-chief Ken Paulson, who returned to the faculty earlier this year to serve as director of MTSU’s newly-created Free Speech Center. Keel will begin her new role Jan. 1, 2020.
The six-time honoree in the Nashville Business Journal Women in Music City Awards and member of its Hall of Fame will begin her new role with the university Jan. 1.
“Chair Keel’s deep and extensive ties to the recording industry, as well as her considerable experience in journalism and strategic media, elevated her to the top of an impressive list of finalists,” said MTSU President Sidney A. McPhee.
Keel received her bachelor’s degree from MTSU in 1988, joined the recording industry faculty in 1995, and was named chair of the department in 2013.
“I want to provide our students with the opportunities, knowledge and experience necessary to compete in the quickly changing workplace,” Keel said. “I want to add value to a degree from MTSU’s College of Media and Entertainment and do work that continues to make our faculty, staff and alumni proud. Attending MTSU was one of the best decisions of my life because it prepared me for a multifaceted career in media and entertainment and profoundly shaped my life.”
Keel, who will be the first female dean in the college’s history, joined forces with Tracy Gershon and Leslie Fram in 2014 to create Change the Conversation, a coalition designed to help fight gender inequality in country music. During her tenure at MTSU, she also served as director of the John Seigenthaler Chair of Excellence in First Amendment Studies and as president of the International Association for the Study of Popular Music-US.
Weekly Radio Report (10/25/19)
/by Alex ParryClick here or above to access MusicRow’s weekly CountryBreakout Radio Report.
In Pictures: Musicians Hall of Fame Medallion Ceremony And Induction Concert
/by Haley CrowPictured: Garth Brooks and Steve Wariner perform as Musicians Hall of Fame Inductees look on. Photo: Royce DeGrie/Courtesy of Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum
The Musicians Hall of Fame inducted its 2019 class on Tuesday night (Oct. 22) with a Medallion Ceremony and Induction Concert at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in downtown Nashville. The celebratory evening hosted by Paul Shaffer included guest performances by Zac Brown, Mandy Barnett, Vince Gill, Ronnie Dunn, Kix Brooks, Garth Brooks, Keb’ Mo’, and Ricky Skaggs.
This year’s Musicians Hall of Fame inductees were:
*Honored posthumously
Pictured: In addition to their induction to the Musicians Hall of Fame, Jeff Cook, Teddy Gentry and Randy Owen of ALABAMA received the first ever Lifetime Achievement Award from the Musicians Hall of Fame. Photo: Royce DeGrie/Courtesy of Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum
Pictured: Paul Shaffer hosting the Musicians Hall of Fame Induction Concert at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. Photo: Royce DeGrie/Courtesy of Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum
Pictured: Zac Brown performs at the Musicians Hall of Fame Induction Concert at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. Photo: Royce DeGrie/Courtesy of Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum
The Cadillac Three Preview New Album ‘Country Fuzz’ At Nashville Party, Reveal Tracklist
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R): BMLG’s Mike Rittberg, Clay Hunnicutt, TC3’s Kelby Ray, BMLG’s Scott Borchetta, TC3’s Jaren Johnston, BMLG’s Allison Jones, TC3’s Neil Mason, Red Light Management’s Bryan Frasher. Photo: Catherine Powell
Country rock band The Cadillac Three previewed their third studio album, Country Fuzz, for fans and industry members at Yee-Haw Brewing Co. in downtown Nashville on Oct. 23 with a lively outdoor set. Country Fuzz is slated for release Feb. 7, 2020 on Big Machine Records, with tour dates across the globe previewing some of the new tunes. Pre-order begins today (Oct. 25), with “Back Home” and “Long After Last Call” available for download/streaming immediately.
Band members Jaren Johnston (Guitar, Lead Vocals), Kelby Ray (Lap Steel Guitar) and Neil Mason (Drums, Percussion, Vocals) introduced “Hard Out Here For A Country Boy,” “Blue El Camino,” “Back Home” and “Heat” before launching into “Slow Rollin’,” “All The Makin’s Of A Saturday Night” then “Whiskey And Smoke.” They closed out with TC3 fans singing along to “Peace Love & Dixie” from 2016’s Bury Me In My Boots.
Johnston thanked the label Big Machine Records for their partnership, as well as other industry friends who have supported the band.
“We’ve spent the last two and a half years working on this album but our sound even since high school has always been the epitome of Country Fuzz– country, rock and just a little bit of funk. With the blessing of our families and label letting us do what we do, we’re gonna give you a little taste of what’s to come next February 7,” he said.
Country Fuzz’s tracklist featured a collaboration with Chris Janson and Travis Tritt on “Hard Out Here For A Country Boy,” as well as tracks co-written by Lori McKenna, Corey Crowder, Craig Wiseman, Ross Copperman and more. TC3 produced 15 of the 16 tracks on the record, with Dann Huff attributed on “Crackin’ Cold Ones With The Boys.”
Tracklist:
“Bar Round Here” | Jaren Johnston, Neil Mason, Lori McKenna
“The Jam” | Jaren Johnston, Corey Crowder, Brian Kelley, James McNair
“Hard Out Here For A Country Boy” (featuring Chris Jason and Travis Tritt) | Jaren Johnston, Neil Mason, Jeremy Stover
“Slow Rollin’” | Jaren Johnston, Neil Mason
“All The Makin’s Of A Saturday Night” | Jaren Johnston, Neil Mason, Josh Dunne
“Crackin’ Cold Ones With The Boys” | Jaren Johnston, Kelby Ray Caldwell, Neil Mason, Jefferson Brown, Benjamin Dunn, Chris Grainger, Brandon Wootten
“Labels” | Neil Mason, Corey Crowder, Luke Dick
“Raise Hell” | Jaren Johnston
“Back Home” | James McNair, Chris Tompkins, Craig Wiseman
“Dirt Road Nights” | Jaren Johnston, Neil Mason, Jeremy Stover
“Blue El Camino” | Jaren Johnston, Neil Mason, Adam James
“Jack Daniels’ Heart” | Neil Mason, Josh Dunne
“Why Ya Gotta Go Out Like That” | Jaren Johnston, Neil Mason, Ross Copperman
“Heat” | Jaren Johnston, Kelby Ray Caldwell, Neil Mason, Jimmy Robbins
“Whiskey And Smoke” | Jaren Johnston, Kelby Ray Caldwell, Neil Mason
“Long After Last Call” | Jaren Johnston
Big Yellow Dog Music Signs Jim Beavers
/by Jessica NicholsonPictured (L-R): Carla Wallace (Big Yellow Dog Music), Jacee Badeaux (Big Yellow Dog Music), Jim Beavers (Artist), Lauren Funk (Big Yellow Dog Music), Kerry O’Neil (Big Yellow Dog Music).
Big Yellow Dog Music has signed songwriter and music industry professional Jim Beavers to its roster.
The former Capitol Records label executive’s nine No. 1 hits include “Drink a Beer” (Luke Bryan), “Watching Airplanes” (Gary Allan), “Why Don’t We Just Dance” (Josh Turner) and several by Dierks Bentley, among others. His compositions have received multiple CMA, ACM, BMI, and NSAI awards. Beavers serves on the board of both the CMA and NSAI and co-wrote the new Hootie & the Blowfish single, “Hold On,” with Chris Stapleton.
“I have been a fan of Jim since my college days when I would hoist up my red solo cup to ‘Red Solo Cup,’” says Big Yellow Dog Music Senior Creative Director Lauren Funk. “Little did I know back then that I’d get the chance to work with such a prolific hitmaker. His wit and ability to turn a phrase are what make his songs so special and unique. We couldn’t be more excited to partner with Jim and welcome him to the Big Yellow Dog team.”
“Simply put, no other publisher in Nashville can do what Big Yellow Dog does so well,” says Beavers. “I’m excited and proud to be associated with Lauren, Carla, Kerry and the entire Big Yellow Dog crew…and you can quote me on that.”
Keith Urban Celebrates 24th No. 1 Hit “Coming Home”
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R, top row): Universal Music Publishing’s Troy Tomlinson, UMG Nashville’s Mike Dungan, Sony ATV’s Josh Van Valkenburg, BMI’s Mason Hunter and Warner Chappell’s Katy Wolaver and BJ Hill; (L-R, bottom row): BMI songwriters Nicolle Galyon, Keith Urban and Julia Michaels. Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
Keith Urban celebrated his 24th No. 1 song “Coming Home” yesterday (Oct. 23) at Analog at the Hutton Hotel, along with co-writers Nicolle Galyon and co-writer and featured vocalist on the track, Julia Michaels. Co-writer and co-producer, J.R. Rotem was not able to be there. The tune also lists the late Merle Haggard as a writer, so his legacy was celebrated with the No. 1 song, as well.
“This song is inspired by a Merle Haggard song called ‘Mama Tried,’ and so Merle is also a writer on this song and I’m very grateful that he should rightly have another number one under his belt,” Urban said during his acoustic performance of the song.
James Burton, a revered guitar player that played the unforgettable Merle lick, was in attendance.
“When I heard that incredible lick, and that music from Merle Haggard’s song, I thought about growing up in Australia, traveling around with my mom and dad to all these country music festivals, and it was crazy how that music just brought me right back to my home where I was from, what it was like to move to Nashville, which to me was like a fish out of water in a big city. And I felt like a lot of people can experience that going to a new place and getting a bit lost along the way and knowing that they’ve got to recalibrate and get back to the place where people love them and know who they are,” Urban later said.
BMI’s Mason Hunter lead the celebration of the 100% BMI song. “Merle Haggard was, of course, a BMI icon and a continues to represent the BMI catalog and family through his works. Keith has been a BMI member for 22 years.
“J.R. Rotem could not be here and I hate that because he’s been a BMI member for 20 years. He was BMI Producer of the Year in 2009 and he was a BMI Pop Songwriter of the Year in 2011,” Hunter said. He also took the time to gush about another long-time BMI member, Nicolle Galyon.
Julia Michaels was in town to celebrate the song just before her show at Marathon Music Works. Because the track was Michaels’ first country No. 1, the pop singer-songwriter got a Taylor guitar, courtesy of BMI.
Sony/ATV’s Josh Van Valkenburg stepped up to the mic first to talk about Rotem and the late Haggard. Van Valkenburg recognized the Capitol Nashville label and radio promotion staff, before thanking the co-writers and Urban.
“I’ll just say if you would’ve told little kid Josh, that even if for the smallest of reasons that he could be up on stage to be able to honor Merle Haggard, that would be something I wouldn’t have believed. And I’m thankful that we get to represent him and his catalog. Amen to the country gods,” he said.
Pinnacle Bank’s David Duvall announced that they were making a donation to the W.O. Smith School of Music in honor of the song.
Next up, UMPG’s Troy Tomlinson made sure to thank everyone involved. UMPG also made a donation to MusiCares in honor of the song.
“I know he’s not here, but I want to say something anyway. I met J.R. about 20 years ago and he’s one of those guys you meet the first time and you realize he’s naturally gifted. Some of us we called gifted and we have to work really hard to appear gifted, but J.R. has that ability and had it from a very young age. So congratulations to J.R.,” Tomlinson said.
Tomlinson thanked the Capitol Nashville staff, as well as Urban’s management team members Gary Borman and Elisabeth Ashley.
“The first time that I heard anything about this song, he called because of that Merle lick. And this is all I want to say about that, the attitude that he had in that phone conversation with me about Merle and that lick, and how Merle should be presented and represented says everything you need to know about Keith Urban,” Tomlinson said.
“This is the best that that current country music has to offer combined with the best that old country has to offer, and the best that pop has to offer,” said Warner Chappell’s BJ Hill.
Hill was on hand to speak about Galyon, saying that she belonged on a list of influential Kansans. “With all the songs that you’ve written that have touched so many people and your effect on the artist around you, and the people that you’ve helped develop, your new record label and all the other things that you’re working on, I really think that you’ll be up there among the top of that list and many other lists. You have an extremely strong legacy,” Hill said.
Katie Wolaver from Warner Chappell’s LA office was in attendance to celebrate Michaels. “Julia Michaels is a prolific songwriter and artist whose words and melodies have crossed many genres and have topped the charts. She is an authentic collaborator who wears her heart on her sleeve, and I know from our Nashville office that every artist and writer that you work with here absolutely loves you and finds your talent and perspective truly inspiring,” she said.
Universal Nashville’s Chairman/CEO Mike Dungan spoke on Urban’s meticulous songwriting and recording process. “I’ve watched it for many years and the attention to detail, the insistence that everything be unique and in its own space is just mind boggling to me. And that’s what it takes to stay relevant, to stay current, to keep your fans engaged, to keep the world engaged. He does it every time he steps in to the batter’s box. I am completely in awe of Keith Urban and we are very, very honored to work with anyone who gives that much of his all to make it perfect.”
Dungan recognized his staff, and announced that it was Urban’s 24th No. 1 and his 40th top 10.
“In the history of the country chart, which goes back to January of 1990, Keith is the seventh artist to have 40 top tens. To make it even more unbelievable, this is his company in that elite category: George Strait, Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney, Alan Jackson, Toby Keith and Brooks & Dunn,” Dungan said.
Pictured (L-R): BMI songwriters Nicolle Galyon, Keith Urban and Julia Michaels. Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
Galyon was the first to speak when it came time for the creators to step up to the mic.
She first thanked her publisher, Warner Chappell, as well as BJ Hill and Ben Vaughn. She then thanked the radio promotion team.
“I want to thank these two amazing artists behind me. It’s a thrill to get to write a No. 1 song with anybody, but it is uniquely a thrill to get to collaborate with people that you are truly a fan of. I mean, not to embarrass Keith, but I have stood in an autograph line for Keith Urban at some point in my life. And I still wait up till midnight every time a Julia Michaels song comes out and I download it and buy it. So thank you for just being friends to me and thank you for being incredible artists and on this song, for making me look cooler than I really am to my kids and friends,” Galyon said.
“This is my first number one country situation, so that’s really cool,” Michaels said. “And I couldn’t have pictured doing this with anybody other than Mr. Keith Urban. I’ve known him now for almost three years and not only is he an amazing writer and performer, and just overall human being, he’s also an incredible friend and I’m really grateful to know him,” she said.
Urban recognized Dan McCarroll, his co-writers, management, label, publishers, BMI and his family. He also made sure to recognize Burton.
“I’m just a cog in the wheel, you know, I get to make something and then give it to an incredible team and then hope that they can take this ball and run with it,” he said.
“This song was unusual because it’s the first time that a sample has been used in a country song ever, so I love that,” Urban said. “I love seeing in the credits all these names and then Merle Haggard. I love seeing that in there.
“I wish Theresa and Ben could have been here today, but I loved it. They also gave their blessing for this song and that was very important to me. I also wanted to say that country radio was unbelievably supportive, going above and beyond to get this song to ring the bell. A lot of that was passion for obviously the song, but it’s also a lot of passion for Merle as well. It was an incredible show of love and support for him, and I thank country radio with all of my heart for letting us ring that bell,” Urban said.
DISClaimer: The Enduring Greatness Of Tanya Tucker
/by Robert K OermannGreetings, and welcome to an all-female DisClaimer column.
If the boneheads at country radio won’t give you a fair shot, ladies, I certainly will. Especially when there’s this much talent to showcase.
Among those leading the charge today are Lauren Alaina, Mandy Barnett, Maddie & Tae, Allie Colleen and Kalie Shorr, all with worthy new tracks.
But I am completely awestruck by newcomer Caroline Watkins, who easily claims the DisCovery Award. If the rest of her songs are as strong as this, she’s a humongous talent.
I’m sure all of the women here will join me in bowing down to the enduring greatness of Tanya Tucker. She’s the Disc of the Day…..today and every day.
CAROLINE WATKINS/Drunk Girls in Bathrooms
Writers: none listed; Producer: Jason Massey; Publishers: none listed; CW
– “Where everybody’s your new best friend.” Gals cheer up one another, talk clothes and shoes, dry your tears, hold your beer while you fix your makeup. What a wonderful place the Ladies Room is. This song is genius. I totally love it.
TANYA TUCKER/Bring My Flowers Now
Writers: Tanya Tucker/Brandi Carlile/Tim Hanseroth/Phil Hanseroth, Producer: Brandi Carlile/Shooter Jennings; Publisher: none listed; BMI; Fantasy
– If this doesn’t tug at your heart, you haven’t got one. A magnificent, meaningful ballad from one of the greatest country voices in history. I say, yes, bring this woman the accolades and praise she deserves RIGHT NOW. I say, yes, let’s give her a Grammy Award NOW. I say, yes, let’s put her into the Country Music Hall of Fame NOW.
ALLIE COLLEEN/Along The Way
Writers: Allie Colleen/Stephen McMorran; Producer: none listed; Audiam
– The percolating rhythm anchors a sweet vocal that urges you to climb your mountains and dream, but with love by your side. Very uplifting.
MADDIE & TAE/Everywhere I’m Goin’
Writers: Maddie Marlow/Taylor Dye/Josh Thompson/Jimmy Robbins; Producer: Derek Wells; Publisher: none listed; Mercury Nashville
– I so much welcome the return of these two. The title tune of the duo’s new EP has a similar feisty/sunny quality as their earlier work, but with added maturity and confidence. The vocal blend is as perfect here as it is on their excellent single “Die From a Broken Heart.”
CLARE DUNN/Gold to Glitter
Writer: Clare Dunn/Ben West/Jamie Moore; Producer: Ben West/Clare Dunn; Publisher: none listed; MCA Nashville
– Her husky, powerful voice is in full flight here, as are her electric guitar chops. I still think she has a solid shot at pop stardom, because both this and her other new track, “Money’s All Gone,” rock a little too hard to qualify as “country.”
MANDY BARNETT/The End of the World
Writer: Arthur Kent/Sylvia Dee; Producer: Fred Mollin; Publisher: none listed; Melody Place/BMG
-Luminous. She towers over most of the competition as a Nashville Sound chanteuse. The song is a gorgeous Skeeter Davis classic from 1963. No current country stylist could bring it back more beautifully. The strings are super, too.
LAUREN ALAINA/The Other Side
Writers: Lauren Alaina/Jon Nite/Zach Kale; Producer: David Garcia; Mercury Nashville
– Lauren introduced this echoey ballad during her Dancing With the Stars spotlight earlier this week. It is a touching, spiritual ode to her late stepfather, whom she believes is her Guardian Angel watching her from the Other Side.
EmiSUNSHINE & THE RAIN/Crimson Moon
Writers: none listed; Producers: EmiSunshine/Tony Brown; Publisher: none listed; EmiSunshine
-She’s only 15, but she’s growing in leaps and bounds. The vocal performance and the songwriting are still on the juvenile side. I’d keep an ear on her future.
LAINEY WILSON/Dirty Looks
Writers: Brent Anderson/Lainey Wilson/Smith Ahnquist; Producer: Jay Joyce; Publisher: none listed; BBR
– There’s something uncomfortably compressed about this audio. It makes her sound artificial. She clearly has ability, but I don’t think this is a career-launching recording.
KALIE SHORR/Lullaby
Writers: Kalie Shorr/Robyn Collins/Will Stone; Producers: Skip Black/Kalie Shorr; Publisher: none listed; KS
– She’s getting over a relationship and sleeping alone with her own lullaby to soothe her. The mix is loaded with dynamics, ranging from hushed intimacy to full-on rocking. Tougher sounding than she used to be, this young woman is going places.