Pictured (L-R): Savannah Guthrie as Kenny Rogers and Matt Lauer as Dolly Parton. Photo: Nathan Congleton / TODAY
The Today show celebrated Halloween this morning (Oct. 31) in country fashion, with appearances by the real Reba McEntire, Blake Shelton, Shania Twain, Dolly Parton and Billy Ray Cyrus.
In front of a Grand Ole Opry backdrop, McEntire announced Today hosts one by one as they revealed their costumes with performances from country stars.
Al Roker did his best at Willie Nelson. Savannah Guthrie and Matt Lauer portrayed gender swaps for a rendition of Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton’s “Islands In The Stream,” respectively. Parton herself gave Lauer costume advice in a particular, presumably pre-recorded video segment.
But it was not only Carson Daly‘s version of Billy Ray Cyrus who surprised viewers with an appearance alongside the real country star Cyrus, but Hoda Kotb‘s portrayal of Blake Shelton was also joined by the Warner Music Nashville star. Megyn Kelly‘s version of Shania Twain was surprised later in the morning by the country legend. Twain joined Kelly on her own show later in the day as well as the rest of the costumed hosts. Kathy Lee Gifford made an effort at another Nashville darling, Miley Cyrus.
Shelton then surprised the Today crowd with a Halloween plaza concert in promotion of Texoma Shore, his forthcoming album out Friday (Nov. 3). He performed “I’ll Name the Dogs,” the first single from his new album, along with the album’s title track and the new song, “I Lived It.”
00Eric T. Parkerhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngEric T. Parker2017-10-31 14:12:072017-10-31 14:12:07MusicRowRecess: ‘Today’ Show Brings Halloween To Grand Ole Opry With Reba, Blake Shelton, Shania Twain
Cole Swindell will release his fourth installment of his popular Down Home Sessions EP. Down Home Sessions IV is due Nov. 24.
The Warner Bros./Warner Music Nashville recording artist will hit the road again in support of Down Home Sessions IV, returning to some of the cities, towns and venues where he made some of his first fans. The Down Home Tour IV follows three previous sold-out headlining Down Home Tours. The tour kickoff with cities and dates will be announced soon.
00Jessica Nicholsonhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngJessica Nicholson2017-10-31 10:39:042017-10-31 10:39:04Cole Swindell To Release Latest ‘Down Home Sessions’ Installment Nov. 24
Eight Nashville music industry professionals are set to mix it up in the ring in four Rumble On The Row bouts at the 14th Annual Ringside: A Fight for Kids in Liberty Hall at The Factory in Franklin on March 2.
The matches will include: Bobby Cory (CAA) vs. Bryan Vastano (UTA), Luke Cahill (Aloompa) vs. Brian O’Neil (Artist Manager), Tiffany Goss (Curb) vs. Elyse McKenna (Thiel Audio), and Will Lowery (APA) vs. Austin Mullins (WME).
“These fierce competitors are entirely committed to the training process and helping raise money to touch the lives of so many kids,” said Carolyn Miller, founder and chairman of The Charley Foundation which produces the annual event. “Nashville’s music community continues to step up and presenting four bouts this year is a testament to the popularity of this anticipated annual event.”
The action-packed evening includes gourmet dining, music, surprise celebrity guests, a silent auction with one-of-a-kind items, and of course, boxing. The theme for this year’s event will be “The 70s”.
The annual event benefits The Charley Foundation, an organization that supports agencies that provide relief for children who are victims of neglect, abuse or other crises, children who live with chronic or critical illness, children who endure poverty or homelessness, and children who require mentoring or other proactive outreach.
00Lorie Hollabaughhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngLorie Hollabaugh2017-10-31 10:38:202017-10-31 10:38:2014th Annual ‘Rumble On The Row’ Matches Set For March
Prominent Nashville attorney Orville Almon, Jr. has died.
He practiced entertainment and music law, IP law and business law for over 35 years, representing numerous prominent recording artists, music producers and songwriters, as well as record company executives, music publishers, record companies, television production companies, managers and other clients affiliated with the entertainment industry.
His practice has included re-negotiating existing agreements and new technology issues. He has extensive experience in and is renowned for drafting language for difficult-to-define issues, negotiating with record companies and drafting “issue-specific” agreements. Almon has also successfully negotiated high-profile book deals, including deals for Chicken Soup for the Country Soul and Kurt Cobain Journals).
Almon is a founding partner of Zumwalt, Almon and Hayes. In 2010, he opened his private practice Almon Law.
Over the years, Almon has earned many awards and accomplishments including being recognized in Best Lawyers in America, Mid-South Super Lawyers and by BusinessTN as one of Tennessee’s Best 150 Lawyers. He is a Leadership Music Alumni (Class of 2009), and has been a member of the American, Tennessee and Nashville Bar Associations, and the Country Music Association.
Almon earned his B.S. degree in Business Administration from the University of Missouri. A distinguished military graduate from the Army ROTC program, he served four years in the Army until resigning his commission as a Captain to enter law school at University of Memphis in 1979, where he graduated from Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law.
While at law school he was selected to the Memphis State University Law Review for his academic achievement and elected to the Editorial Board of the Law Review as Administrative Editor for the 1978-79 school year. Upon graduation he was selected as a member of The Order of Barristers for exhibiting excellence and attaining high honor through the art of courtroom advocacy.
Funeral arrangements have not been released at this time.
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/10150802/Orville-Almon-Post-1024x682.jpg6821024Jessica Nicholsonhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngJessica Nicholson2017-10-31 10:16:092019-03-22 13:58:51Nashville Attorney Orville Almon, Jr. Dies
Nashville-based tech firm Aloompa has added JD May as Chief Operating Officer and Mark Confroy as Director of Client Fulfillment.
As COO, May will be responsible for developing and executing key growth strategies for the company in addition to overseeing the day-to-day operations of the current business. May has previously served in executive roles at Songkick, Front Gate Tickets and Ticketmaster. He was also a partner at music tech pioneer echomusic, which was acquired by Ticketmaster in 2007.
“JD has as long and successful history as a music and technology executive helping companies develop scalable, innovative solutions in the live entertainment space,” says company co-founder Drew Burchfield. “He brings a global perspective and a wealth of experience to our team and will help us continue to take advantage of new opportunities in a rapidly developing market.”
“I’ve been a huge fan of Aloompa for many years and have seen first-hand how their powerful platform can combine advanced proximity-based technologies with detailed audience behavior data to provide event producers with never-before-seen insights on their attendees,” May says. “This is game changing for sponsors and brands who are all looking to maximize the impact of their partnerships and return on investment.”
Confroy is a mobile-focused digital leader with more than a decade of experience leading teams and strategy for various brands, institutions and artists. His past experience includes roles at Songkick, HelloWorld, and Mozes.
In 2014, Aloompa created the event proximity platform Presence.
00Lorie Hollabaughhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngLorie Hollabaugh2017-10-31 09:42:042017-10-31 09:42:04J.D. May, Mark Confroy Join Aloompa
Pictured (L-R): Arlo Gilliam, Keith Gattis, Rami Jaffee (Foo Fighters), Kendell Marvel, Mike McAdam, John Henry Trinko, Chris Hennessee, Cowboy Eddie Long. Photo: Nathan Zucker [CLICK TO ENLARGE]
Country songwriter and entertainer, Kendell Marvel, hosted his first Honky Tonk Experience since the release of his debut album Lowdown & Lonesome last week (Oct. 24).
The October installment of the rowdy monthly outing at Nashville’s Exit/In included Brothers Osborne, Steve Gorman (drummer for The Black Crowes) in addition to Foo Fighters guitarist Chris Shiflett and keyboardist Rami Jaffee.
In particular, Jaffee joined on Marvel’s original “Watch Your Heart” and “That Seat’s Saved.” The Brothers Osborne took over the mic completely from Marvel in addition to a rare vocal showcase of John, for covers of Merle Haggard’s “Silver Wings” and Johnny Bush/Willie Nelson’s “Whiskey River.”
Pictured (L-R): T.J. Osborne, Kendell Marvel, John Osborne. Photo: Nathan Zucker
With a mixture of vocal stylings reminiscent of Charlie Daniels, Jamey Johnson, and Trace Adkins, the honky tonk rocker poured in to a plethora of additional covers from Waylon Jennings and Hank Williams in addition to songs from the debut album. Notably, one of Marvel’s two cuts on Chris Stapleton’s forthcoming From A Room: Volume 2 (“Tryin’ To Untangle My Mind”) is also featured on Marvel’s release.
“Go buy ’em both,” said Marvel of he and Stapleton’s releases. “They’re totally different.”
Stapleton has co-writing credit on three tracks from Marvel’s album. The album also features writing with Randy Houser and vocals with Jamey Johnson. Lowdown & Lonesome was produced by Keith Gattis, who co-wrote seven out of 10 tracks alongside Marvel.
Gattis was featured on stage alongside some of Nashville’s most revered players last week, including Cowboy Eddie Long (pedal steel for Jamey Johnson/Hank Williams Jr.), Chris Hennessee (guitarist for Jamey Johnson), Mike McAdam (guitarist for Steve Earle, Mary Chapin Carpenter), Arlo Gilliam (bass player Travis Tritt), Dave Dunseath (drummer for Lee Ann Womack), Melonie Cannon (BGV and daughter of Buddy Cannon) and John Henry Trinko (keyboardist for Randy Houser).
“Now if I could just make enough money to take this band out on the road with me,” Marvel jeered his WME agent. “Jay Williams, if you’re out there…”
00Eric T. Parkerhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngEric T. Parker2017-10-31 09:38:082017-10-31 09:38:08Kendell Marvel Celebrates Album Release With Black Crowes, Foo Fighters, Brothers Osborne
Ron Huntsman, President of Huntsman Entertainment, announced Monday (Oct. 30) the company bearing his name has ceased operations. The decision comes after 52 years in the radio, records and artist promotion and development business, 47 of which have been in Nashville. Huntsman was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2011.
In 1973, he launched Ron Huntsman Promotions. Willie Nelson’s “Blue Eyes Cryin’ In the Rain” was the first of many No. 1 singles he promoted, and others included Waylon Jennings’ “Are You Sure Old Hank Done It This Way,” Billy Swan’s “I Can Help” and Charlie Daniels’ “Uneasy Rider,” “Long Haired Country Boy” and “The South’s Gonna Do It (Again).”
Ron and wife Vivian opened Huntsman Entertainment in 1988.
In addition to his regular programming, Huntsman has overseen production of over 160 album and product release radio specials for virtually every record label in Nashville over the last 29 years. Huntsman Entertainment also produced over 30 Live From Nashville and Live from Hollywood multi-station remote broadcasts during CMA and ACM awards weeks. He was tapped by Country Cares for St. Jude Kids, the radiothon program that has raised over $750 million for the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, to produce “story songs” used by over 200 Country radio stations.
In 1988, Huntsman was awarded the esteemed CMA Founding President’s Award.
Their weekly syndicated radio show Country HitMakers debuted in April of 1994 and at its peak aired on over 600 stations. The final episode aired October 1, 2017. The entertaining Christmas on Music Row program, now in it’s 26th year, will be available through 2017, and stations interested in running the final episode may contact rh@huntsmanent.com.
00Jessica Nicholsonhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngJessica Nicholson2017-10-30 15:59:162017-10-30 15:59:16Huntsman Entertainment Closes
BBR Music Group has named Lynette Garbonola to the newly-created position of VP of International. The appointment comes shortly after a successful Country Music Week in the United Kingdom for BBR artists and as the company continues to role out initiatives in territories across the globe following its January acquisition by BMG.
Garbonola transitions to the position from her role as VP of Digital Media. She joined BBR Music Group in 2010. Prior to BBR she worked at Warner Music Nashville for 16 years where she helped launch their New Media/Digital Department rising to the role of VP of New Media.
“International growth for the BBR roster is a major priority for BMG and they continue to strengthen that commitment with additional resources and actions. The creation of a position in Nashville dedicated exclusively to representing our artists outside of the U.S., as well as BMG artists throughout the globe in Nashville, is a massive step in capitalizing on the significant and growing demand for Country music world-wide,” stated Jon Loba, EVP BBR Music Group. “Lynette has a track record throughout her career of jumping in feet first, identifying and seizing opportunities in an ever-changing marketplace. Add to that her understanding of digital and its role internationally and she is a perfect fit for this role.”
Chris Loss will become the new VP of Digital Strategy & Analytics, working closely with DSP’s, digital advertisers, and ADA distribution. He moves from his current position of VP of Promotion for Stoney Creek Records. Loss began his career in radio before becoming the Director of West Coast Promotion for Lyric Street in 2002. He was part of the team that launched The Valory Music Co. in 2007 serving as Director of National Promotion and later being named VP of Promotion. He joined Stoney Creek Records in 2012.
“Anyone who knows Chris Loss, knows he is a data and analytics genius. Our tech partners always include him in beta tests because they know he will identify problems before they do,” said Loba. “Matched with his insanely creative mind and programming/promotion background, he will grow the position in ways we can’t even imagine yet.”
Loss’s replacement as VP of Promotion/Stoney Creek will be announced later this year. Renee Leymon, VP of Radio Syndication & Group Strategy will serve as interim VP of Promotion for Stoney Creek Records until then.
00Jessica Nicholsonhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngJessica Nicholson2017-10-30 15:25:282017-10-30 15:25:28BBR Music Group: Garbonola Named International VP, Loss Named Digital Strategy VP
Chris Young tops this week’s country albums chart with Losing Sleep, moving 39K in total consumption in its debut week, according to Nielsen Soundscan. The album is also the No. 5 album on the overall albums chart this week.
Darius Rucker‘s When Was The Last Time debuts at No. 2, with 34K.
Turnpike Troubadours‘ Long Way From Your Heart opens at No. 3, with 18K sold, followed by Kane Brown‘s self-titled debut project, now with a deluxe edition, at No. 4 with 17K. Thomas Rhett‘s Life Changes rounds out the Top 5 country projects with 15K sold this week.
Other notable debuts on the country albums chart are Margo Price‘s All American Made at No. 12 on the country albums chart with 7.3K, and Wille Nelson‘s Willie and the Boys at No. 19 country with 5.5K.
Kane Brown
On the top digital country songs chart, Kane Brown’s “What Ifs” is at No. 1 with 20K, followed by Chris Stapleton‘s new track “Millionaire,” with 19K. “Millionaire” is off Stapleton’s upcoming album, From ‘A’ Room, Vol. 2, out Dec. 1.
LANCO‘s “Greatest Love Story” is at No. 3, with 19K, followed by Kelsea Ballerini‘s “Miss You More” at No. 4 with 17K. “Miss You More” is featured on Ballerini’s upcoming album Unapologetically, out Nov. 3.
Luke Combs‘ “When It Rains” is at No. 5 with 14K.
Information provided courtesy Nielsen Soundscan.
00Jessica Nicholsonhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngJessica Nicholson2017-10-30 15:07:202017-10-30 15:07:20Weekly Register: Chris Young Tops Country Albums Rankings With ‘Losing Sleep’
The family of Merle Haggard has partnered with Icon Entertainment Group founders Bill and Shannon Miller, as well as the Swett Family, to launch the new Merle Haggard Museum and Merle’s Meat + 3 Saloon, to be located at 121 Third Ave. S. in Nashville. The museum and restaurant is slated to open in summer 2018.
Merle’s Meat + 3 Saloon will be housed on the ground level with the Merle Haggard Museum on an upper floor.
The Millers and the Haggards have curated performance wardrobes, instruments, professional and personal possessions and are designing interactive exhibits as part of the museum. The restaurant will be operated by the Swett Family, who are a staple on the Nashville scene operating their Swett’s Restaurant for 62 years.
This new venture for Bill and Shannon Miller will mark the fifth attraction currently owned and operated by Icon Entertainment Group. Their first property was The Johnny Cash Museum, which opened its doors in April of 2013. Icon Entertainment Group also oversees Nudie’s Honky Tonk, the Patsy Cline Museum and Skull’s Rainbow Room in addition to the sought after Music City Threads clothing company. The Millers also own the Southern Turf Building in Nashville, a four-story building on the National Register of Historic Places because of its location in Printers Alley Historic District
“The world lost one of the greatest country singers of all time and I lost the love of my life when Merle Haggard died on his 79th birthday April 6, 2016,” says Theresa Haggard. “Now, nearly one and half years later, I have partnered with my friends Bill and Shannon Miller, owners of the acclaimed Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline Museums to open the Merle Haggard Museum. Merle would be very happy knowing that his museum will be next door to his dear friend Johnny Cash. I’m sure he is up there smiling about that. Our family is also very excited about the Merle-themed restaurant and bar featuring first-class, Southern home cooking and a saloon to boot. This museum will be a way to preserve and share the love Merle had for music and life.”
“My family is honored to join with our dear friends, the Haggard family, to bring a new, world-class museum to Nashville,” says Bill Miller, Founder of Icon Entertainment Group. “Merle Haggard is one of the most iconic country music singers and songwriters of all time. Rolling Stone and Billboard magazines both named him the number one country entertainer of all-time. We are very excited to begin the process of designing and building Merle’s museum which will also feature a Southern-style restaurant and saloon bearing his name. We are thrilled to be working with long time Nashville family restaurant operator David Swett, who brings his highly respected expertise to our restaurant. Swett’s opened their doors in 1954 and is still going strong.”
00Jessica Nicholsonhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngJessica Nicholson2017-10-30 14:05:262017-10-30 14:05:26Merle Haggard Museum And Restaurant To Open In Nashville
MusicRowRecess: ‘Today’ Show Brings Halloween To Grand Ole Opry With Reba, Blake Shelton, Shania Twain
/by Eric T. ParkerPictured (L-R): Savannah Guthrie as Kenny Rogers and Matt Lauer as Dolly Parton. Photo: Nathan Congleton / TODAY
The Today show celebrated Halloween this morning (Oct. 31) in country fashion, with appearances by the real Reba McEntire, Blake Shelton, Shania Twain, Dolly Parton and Billy Ray Cyrus.
In front of a Grand Ole Opry backdrop, McEntire announced Today hosts one by one as they revealed their costumes with performances from country stars.
VIEW THE 8 MINUTE SEGMENT HERE (or below)
Al Roker did his best at Willie Nelson. Savannah Guthrie and Matt Lauer portrayed gender swaps for a rendition of Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton’s “Islands In The Stream,” respectively. Parton herself gave Lauer costume advice in a particular, presumably pre-recorded video segment.
But it was not only Carson Daly‘s version of Billy Ray Cyrus who surprised viewers with an appearance alongside the real country star Cyrus, but Hoda Kotb‘s portrayal of Blake Shelton was also joined by the Warner Music Nashville star. Megyn Kelly‘s version of Shania Twain was surprised later in the morning by the country legend. Twain joined Kelly on her own show later in the day as well as the rest of the costumed hosts. Kathy Lee Gifford made an effort at another Nashville darling, Miley Cyrus.
Shelton then surprised the Today crowd with a Halloween plaza concert in promotion of Texoma Shore, his forthcoming album out Friday (Nov. 3). He performed “I’ll Name the Dogs,” the first single from his new album, along with the album’s title track and the new song, “I Lived It.”
Cole Swindell To Release Latest ‘Down Home Sessions’ Installment Nov. 24
/by Jessica NicholsonCole Swindell will release his fourth installment of his popular Down Home Sessions EP. Down Home Sessions IV is due Nov. 24.
The Warner Bros./Warner Music Nashville recording artist will hit the road again in support of Down Home Sessions IV, returning to some of the cities, towns and venues where he made some of his first fans. The Down Home Tour IV follows three previous sold-out headlining Down Home Tours. The tour kickoff with cities and dates will be announced soon.
14th Annual ‘Rumble On The Row’ Matches Set For March
/by Lorie HollabaughThe matches will include: Bobby Cory (CAA) vs. Bryan Vastano (UTA), Luke Cahill (Aloompa) vs. Brian O’Neil (Artist Manager), Tiffany Goss (Curb) vs. Elyse McKenna (Thiel Audio), and Will Lowery (APA) vs. Austin Mullins (WME).
“These fierce competitors are entirely committed to the training process and helping raise money to touch the lives of so many kids,” said Carolyn Miller, founder and chairman of The Charley Foundation which produces the annual event. “Nashville’s music community continues to step up and presenting four bouts this year is a testament to the popularity of this anticipated annual event.”
The action-packed evening includes gourmet dining, music, surprise celebrity guests, a silent auction with one-of-a-kind items, and of course, boxing. The theme for this year’s event will be “The 70s”.
The annual event benefits The Charley Foundation, an organization that supports agencies that provide relief for children who are victims of neglect, abuse or other crises, children who live with chronic or critical illness, children who endure poverty or homelessness, and children who require mentoring or other proactive outreach.
Nashville Attorney Orville Almon, Jr. Dies
/by Jessica NicholsonOrville Almon, Jr.
Prominent Nashville attorney Orville Almon, Jr. has died.
He practiced entertainment and music law, IP law and business law for over 35 years, representing numerous prominent recording artists, music producers and songwriters, as well as record company executives, music publishers, record companies, television production companies, managers and other clients affiliated with the entertainment industry.
His practice has included re-negotiating existing agreements and new technology issues. He has extensive experience in and is renowned for drafting language for difficult-to-define issues, negotiating with record companies and drafting “issue-specific” agreements. Almon has also successfully negotiated high-profile book deals, including deals for Chicken Soup for the Country Soul and Kurt Cobain Journals).
Almon is a founding partner of Zumwalt, Almon and Hayes. In 2010, he opened his private practice Almon Law.
Over the years, Almon has earned many awards and accomplishments including being recognized in Best Lawyers in America, Mid-South Super Lawyers and by BusinessTN as one of Tennessee’s Best 150 Lawyers. He is a Leadership Music Alumni (Class of 2009), and has been a member of the American, Tennessee and Nashville Bar Associations, and the Country Music Association.
Almon earned his B.S. degree in Business Administration from the University of Missouri. A distinguished military graduate from the Army ROTC program, he served four years in the Army until resigning his commission as a Captain to enter law school at University of Memphis in 1979, where he graduated from Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law.
While at law school he was selected to the Memphis State University Law Review for his academic achievement and elected to the Editorial Board of the Law Review as Administrative Editor for the 1978-79 school year. Upon graduation he was selected as a member of The Order of Barristers for exhibiting excellence and attaining high honor through the art of courtroom advocacy.
Funeral arrangements have not been released at this time.
J.D. May, Mark Confroy Join Aloompa
/by Lorie HollabaughJ.D. May, Mark Confroy
Nashville-based tech firm Aloompa has added JD May as Chief Operating Officer and Mark Confroy as Director of Client Fulfillment.
As COO, May will be responsible for developing and executing key growth strategies for the company in addition to overseeing the day-to-day operations of the current business. May has previously served in executive roles at Songkick, Front Gate Tickets and Ticketmaster. He was also a partner at music tech pioneer echomusic, which was acquired by Ticketmaster in 2007.
“JD has as long and successful history as a music and technology executive helping companies develop scalable, innovative solutions in the live entertainment space,” says company co-founder Drew Burchfield. “He brings a global perspective and a wealth of experience to our team and will help us continue to take advantage of new opportunities in a rapidly developing market.”
“I’ve been a huge fan of Aloompa for many years and have seen first-hand how their powerful platform can combine advanced proximity-based technologies with detailed audience behavior data to provide event producers with never-before-seen insights on their attendees,” May says. “This is game changing for sponsors and brands who are all looking to maximize the impact of their partnerships and return on investment.”
Confroy is a mobile-focused digital leader with more than a decade of experience leading teams and strategy for various brands, institutions and artists. His past experience includes roles at Songkick, HelloWorld, and Mozes.
In 2014, Aloompa created the event proximity platform Presence.
Kendell Marvel Celebrates Album Release With Black Crowes, Foo Fighters, Brothers Osborne
/by Eric T. ParkerPictured (L-R): Arlo Gilliam, Keith Gattis, Rami Jaffee (Foo Fighters), Kendell Marvel, Mike McAdam, John Henry Trinko, Chris Hennessee, Cowboy Eddie Long. Photo: Nathan Zucker [CLICK TO ENLARGE]
The October installment of the rowdy monthly outing at Nashville’s Exit/In included Brothers Osborne, Steve Gorman (drummer for The Black Crowes) in addition to Foo Fighters guitarist Chris Shiflett and keyboardist Rami Jaffee.
In particular, Jaffee joined on Marvel’s original “Watch Your Heart” and “That Seat’s Saved.” The Brothers Osborne took over the mic completely from Marvel in addition to a rare vocal showcase of John, for covers of Merle Haggard’s “Silver Wings” and Johnny Bush/Willie Nelson’s “Whiskey River.”
Pictured (L-R): T.J. Osborne, Kendell Marvel, John Osborne. Photo: Nathan Zucker
With a mixture of vocal stylings reminiscent of Charlie Daniels, Jamey Johnson, and Trace Adkins, the honky tonk rocker poured in to a plethora of additional covers from Waylon Jennings and Hank Williams in addition to songs from the debut album. Notably, one of Marvel’s two cuts on Chris Stapleton’s forthcoming From A Room: Volume 2 (“Tryin’ To Untangle My Mind”) is also featured on Marvel’s release.
“Go buy ’em both,” said Marvel of he and Stapleton’s releases. “They’re totally different.”
Stapleton has co-writing credit on three tracks from Marvel’s album. The album also features writing with Randy Houser and vocals with Jamey Johnson. Lowdown & Lonesome was produced by Keith Gattis, who co-wrote seven out of 10 tracks alongside Marvel.
Gattis was featured on stage alongside some of Nashville’s most revered players last week, including Cowboy Eddie Long (pedal steel for Jamey Johnson/Hank Williams Jr.), Chris Hennessee (guitarist for Jamey Johnson), Mike McAdam (guitarist for Steve Earle, Mary Chapin Carpenter), Arlo Gilliam (bass player Travis Tritt), Dave Dunseath (drummer for Lee Ann Womack), Melonie Cannon (BGV and daughter of Buddy Cannon) and John Henry Trinko (keyboardist for Randy Houser).
“Now if I could just make enough money to take this band out on the road with me,” Marvel jeered his WME agent. “Jay Williams, if you’re out there…”
Huntsman Entertainment Closes
/by Jessica NicholsonRon and Vivian Huntsman.
Ron Huntsman, President of Huntsman Entertainment, announced Monday (Oct. 30) the company bearing his name has ceased operations. The decision comes after 52 years in the radio, records and artist promotion and development business, 47 of which have been in Nashville. Huntsman was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2011.
In 1973, he launched Ron Huntsman Promotions. Willie Nelson’s “Blue Eyes Cryin’ In the Rain” was the first of many No. 1 singles he promoted, and others included Waylon Jennings’ “Are You Sure Old Hank Done It This Way,” Billy Swan’s “I Can Help” and Charlie Daniels’ “Uneasy Rider,” “Long Haired Country Boy” and “The South’s Gonna Do It (Again).”
Ron and wife Vivian opened Huntsman Entertainment in 1988.
In addition to his regular programming, Huntsman has overseen production of over 160 album and product release radio specials for virtually every record label in Nashville over the last 29 years. Huntsman Entertainment also produced over 30 Live From Nashville and Live from Hollywood multi-station remote broadcasts during CMA and ACM awards weeks. He was tapped by Country Cares for St. Jude Kids, the radiothon program that has raised over $750 million for the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, to produce “story songs” used by over 200 Country radio stations.
In 1988, Huntsman was awarded the esteemed CMA Founding President’s Award.
Their weekly syndicated radio show Country HitMakers debuted in April of 1994 and at its peak aired on over 600 stations. The final episode aired October 1, 2017. The entertaining Christmas on Music Row program, now in it’s 26th year, will be available through 2017, and stations interested in running the final episode may contact rh@huntsmanent.com.
BBR Music Group: Garbonola Named International VP, Loss Named Digital Strategy VP
/by Jessica NicholsonPictured (L-R): Lynette Garbonola, Chris Loss
BBR Music Group has named Lynette Garbonola to the newly-created position of VP of International. The appointment comes shortly after a successful Country Music Week in the United Kingdom for BBR artists and as the company continues to role out initiatives in territories across the globe following its January acquisition by BMG.
Garbonola transitions to the position from her role as VP of Digital Media. She joined BBR Music Group in 2010. Prior to BBR she worked at Warner Music Nashville for 16 years where she helped launch their New Media/Digital Department rising to the role of VP of New Media.
“International growth for the BBR roster is a major priority for BMG and they continue to strengthen that commitment with additional resources and actions. The creation of a position in Nashville dedicated exclusively to representing our artists outside of the U.S., as well as BMG artists throughout the globe in Nashville, is a massive step in capitalizing on the significant and growing demand for Country music world-wide,” stated Jon Loba, EVP BBR Music Group. “Lynette has a track record throughout her career of jumping in feet first, identifying and seizing opportunities in an ever-changing marketplace. Add to that her understanding of digital and its role internationally and she is a perfect fit for this role.”
Chris Loss will become the new VP of Digital Strategy & Analytics, working closely with DSP’s, digital advertisers, and ADA distribution. He moves from his current position of VP of Promotion for Stoney Creek Records. Loss began his career in radio before becoming the Director of West Coast Promotion for Lyric Street in 2002. He was part of the team that launched The Valory Music Co. in 2007 serving as Director of National Promotion and later being named VP of Promotion. He joined Stoney Creek Records in 2012.
“Anyone who knows Chris Loss, knows he is a data and analytics genius. Our tech partners always include him in beta tests because they know he will identify problems before they do,” said Loba. “Matched with his insanely creative mind and programming/promotion background, he will grow the position in ways we can’t even imagine yet.”
Loss’s replacement as VP of Promotion/Stoney Creek will be announced later this year. Renee Leymon, VP of Radio Syndication & Group Strategy will serve as interim VP of Promotion for Stoney Creek Records until then.
Garbonola can be reached at lynette@bbrmusicgroup.com and 615.610.2100.
Loss can be reached at can be reached at chris@bbrmusicgroup.com and 615.610.2117.
Leymon can be reached at renee@bbrmusicgroup.com and 615.610.2118
Weekly Register: Chris Young Tops Country Albums Rankings With ‘Losing Sleep’
/by Jessica NicholsonChris Young. Photo: John Shearer
Chris Young tops this week’s country albums chart with Losing Sleep, moving 39K in total consumption in its debut week, according to Nielsen Soundscan. The album is also the No. 5 album on the overall albums chart this week.
Darius Rucker‘s When Was The Last Time debuts at No. 2, with 34K.
Turnpike Troubadours‘ Long Way From Your Heart opens at No. 3, with 18K sold, followed by Kane Brown‘s self-titled debut project, now with a deluxe edition, at No. 4 with 17K. Thomas Rhett‘s Life Changes rounds out the Top 5 country projects with 15K sold this week.
Other notable debuts on the country albums chart are Margo Price‘s All American Made at No. 12 on the country albums chart with 7.3K, and Wille Nelson‘s Willie and the Boys at No. 19 country with 5.5K.
Kane Brown
On the top digital country songs chart, Kane Brown’s “What Ifs” is at No. 1 with 20K, followed by Chris Stapleton‘s new track “Millionaire,” with 19K. “Millionaire” is off Stapleton’s upcoming album, From ‘A’ Room, Vol. 2, out Dec. 1.
LANCO‘s “Greatest Love Story” is at No. 3, with 19K, followed by Kelsea Ballerini‘s “Miss You More” at No. 4 with 17K. “Miss You More” is featured on Ballerini’s upcoming album Unapologetically, out Nov. 3.
Luke Combs‘ “When It Rains” is at No. 5 with 14K.
Information provided courtesy Nielsen Soundscan.
Merle Haggard Museum And Restaurant To Open In Nashville
/by Jessica NicholsonMerle’s Meat + 3 Saloon will be housed on the ground level with the Merle Haggard Museum on an upper floor.
The Millers and the Haggards have curated performance wardrobes, instruments, professional and personal possessions and are designing interactive exhibits as part of the museum. The restaurant will be operated by the Swett Family, who are a staple on the Nashville scene operating their Swett’s Restaurant for 62 years.
This new venture for Bill and Shannon Miller will mark the fifth attraction currently owned and operated by Icon Entertainment Group. Their first property was The Johnny Cash Museum, which opened its doors in April of 2013. Icon Entertainment Group also oversees Nudie’s Honky Tonk, the Patsy Cline Museum and Skull’s Rainbow Room in addition to the sought after Music City Threads clothing company. The Millers also own the Southern Turf Building in Nashville, a four-story building on the National Register of Historic Places because of its location in Printers Alley Historic District
“The world lost one of the greatest country singers of all time and I lost the love of my life when Merle Haggard died on his 79th birthday April 6, 2016,” says Theresa Haggard. “Now, nearly one and half years later, I have partnered with my friends Bill and Shannon Miller, owners of the acclaimed Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline Museums to open the Merle Haggard Museum. Merle would be very happy knowing that his museum will be next door to his dear friend Johnny Cash. I’m sure he is up there smiling about that. Our family is also very excited about the Merle-themed restaurant and bar featuring first-class, Southern home cooking and a saloon to boot. This museum will be a way to preserve and share the love Merle had for music and life.”
“My family is honored to join with our dear friends, the Haggard family, to bring a new, world-class museum to Nashville,” says Bill Miller, Founder of Icon Entertainment Group. “Merle Haggard is one of the most iconic country music singers and songwriters of all time. Rolling Stone and Billboard magazines both named him the number one country entertainer of all-time. We are very excited to begin the process of designing and building Merle’s museum which will also feature a Southern-style restaurant and saloon bearing his name. We are thrilled to be working with long time Nashville family restaurant operator David Swett, who brings his highly respected expertise to our restaurant. Swett’s opened their doors in 1954 and is still going strong.”