Spotify Country Top Spot winner “Body Like A Back Road,” (L-R): Adam Parness, Josh Osborne, Zach Crowell, Shane McAnally, Brittany Schaffer
Photos by GETTY Images
Monday night’s (May 7) AIMP Nashville Awards was a celebration of songs, songwriters and publishers, with SMACKSongs and/or its writers taking home five trophies. The Association of Independent Music Publishers’ Nashville Chapter presented the 3rd annual event at the Ryman Auditorium, welcoming guests with a laid-back, we’re-all-friends-here, vibe.
Highlights included performances by rising artists Luke Combs, Devin Dawson and Ashley McBryde. Each of the nominees for Song of the Year was delivered by songwriters nominated in other categories. Combs and McBryde gave cool countrified versions of pop-influenced hits “All On Me” and “I Could Use A Love Song,” respectively, while Dawson gave a soul-filled take of the more traditional song “Marry Me.” Jordan Davis grooved during “Heartache On The Dance Floor,” Jameson Rodgers and Hannah Ellis made a darling pair for “I’ll Name the Dogs,” Jillian Jacqueline and Steve Moakler offered a smooth shot of “Drinking Problem,” and Kassi Ashton shook the rafters on “Yours.”
Steve Moakler and Jillian Jacqueline perform “Drinkin’ Problem.”
Maren Morris was on hand to present McBryde with the trophy for Rising Artist-Writer of the Year.
Morris then received the Publisher’s Pick award for co-writing “Dear Hate” with Tom Douglas and David Hodges, calling them “amazing poets,” in their absence. “I’m so honored,” she said. “This song means the world to me and I hope it has helped heal.”
The evening was a wonderful way to celebrate years of hard work coming to fruition for songwriters like McBryde and Josh Thompson, who received Rising Songwriter of the Year.
AIMP Nashville Rising Songwriter of the Year Josh Thompson (L) with previous winner Kelly Archer.
Numerous standing ovations throughout the night began with Janine Appleton Ebach who earned Song Champion of the Year. It was a big day for Ebach, whose promotion to Vice President of Curb | Word Music Publishing was also announced. “We do a job that affects generations and I’m grateful to be a part of that,” she said. “I’m grateful to be part of the Nashville music community. We do business like no one else. To quote Jim Ed Norman, ‘There’s people out there with real problems, and we don’t have them.’”
The Independent Spirit Award went to veteran publisher Jeff Carlton, whose career was highlighted in a video reel. He was in the hospital, so his son accepted on his behalf.
SMACKSongs took home trophies for Publisher of the Year, Artist-Writer of the Year (Old Dominion), Song of the Year (“Drinkin’ Problem”), Songwriter of the Year (Shane McAnally) and Spotify Country Top Spot (“Body Like A Back Road”).
The ACM’s Pete Fisher and Rhett Akins presented the Songwriter award to McAnally. “I really am surprised and honored,” he said. “I can’t believe I get to write with so many of my heroes. I am proud to be an independent publisher, and hat’s off to everybody who knows this way is not an easy road, but we are living for the song and living for the dream.”
AIMP Nashville Song Champion of the Year (L-R): previous winner Courtney Crist, 2018 winner Janine Appleton Ebach, and Frank Liddell
Beth Laird and Natalie Hemby (aka The Scrunchies) were the highlight among awards presenters, donning 1980s dresses and attitudes to present Artist-Writer of the Year to Old Dominion, which McAnally accepted on the band’s behalf.
SMACK Pres./co-owner Michael Baum accepted the trophy for Publisher of the Year. “I’m the seen-but-not-heard-force behind SMACKSongs,” he said. “It has been a pleasure getting to know everybody in the Nashville community. We might compete, but we also collaborate, and that’s the magic of Nashville.”
As far as funny presenters, Liz Rose and Jody Williams were a close second to The Scrunchies with their “It all begins with a bong” bit. Song of the Year “Drinkin’ Problem” was written by McAnally and Josh Osborne with Midland, who were on the road.
“I would absolutely not be standing here without Josh Osborne,” said McAnally. “Because of all the creativity and support he has shown me since we met, he has made me such a better writer. And I’m honored I get to do this with him.”
“I feel very lucky to get to be in the rooms that I get to be in and to write these songs,” added Osborne. “It’s my favorite thing to do every day. It’s like a puzzle and trying to figure out how the pieces go together. When they go together just right, you are really fortunate to have a song that somebody wants to record….Song ideas are everywhere. I got this idea from an old episode of MASH, so don’t let anybody tell you you can’t make money by sitting on the couch.”
In closing, AIMP Nashville executive director John Ozier thanked the many people who helped make last night possible, including event co-chairs Baum and Ree Guyer. Award winners were voted on by members of the organization.
AIMP Nashville Rising Artist-Writer of the Year Ashley McBryde
AIMP Nashville 3rd Annual Nominees And Winners
Rising Songwriter Of The Year
Michael Hardy
Matt McGinn
Mitch Rossell
Emily Shackelton
Josh Thompson
Jordan Walker
Rising Artist-Writer Of The Year
Kassi Ashton
Hannah Ellis
Jillian Jacqueline
Ashley McBryde
Steve Moakler
Jameson Rodgers
Artist-Writer Of The Year
Brothers Osborne
Luke Combs
Jordan Davis
Devin Dawson
Maren Morris
Old Dominion
Song Champion Of The Year
Janine Appleton Ebach
Stephanie Cox
Leslie DiPiero
Shannan Hatch
Lee Krabel
Jeff Skaggs
Publisher’s Pick
“Craig” Written Walker Hayes
SMACKsongs, Rarespark Media Group
“Dear Hate” Written By Maren Morris, Tom Douglas, David Hodges
Big Yellow Dog Music, Kobalt Music
“Good Company” Written By Matt Alderman, Tommy Cecil, Jared Mullins
Curb/Word Music Publishing, Horipro Entertainment Group, Big Deal Music
“Happy People” Written By Lori McKenna, Hailey Whitters
Creative Nation Music, Carnival Music, Pulse Music
“I Should Go To Church Sometime” Written By Brinley Addington, Michael Hardy, Sarah Turner
Horipro Entertainment Group, Watsky Music
“Space Cowboy” Written By Kacey Musgraves, Luke Laird, Shane McAnally
Creative Nation Music, SMACKsongs
Song Of The Year
“All On Me” Written By Devin Dawson, Jacob Durrett, Austin Smith
Neon Cross Music
“Drinkin’ Problem” Written By Jess Carson, Cameron Duddy, Mark Wystrach, Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne
Black River Publishing, Spirit Music Group, SMACKSongs
“Heartache On The Dance Floor” Written By Jon Pardi, Bart Butler, Brice Long
Song Factory, Curb/Word Music Publishing
“I Could Use A Love Song” Written By Maren Morris, Jimmy Robbins, Laura Veltz
Big Yellow Dog Music, Round Hill Music, Big Machine Music
“I’ll Name The Dogs” Written By Matt Dragstrem, Ben Hayslip, Josh Thompson
Big Loud Publishing, Round Hill Music, This Music, Big Machine Music
“Marry Me” Written By Thomas Rhett, Jesse Frasure, Ashley Gorley, Shane McAnally
Major Bob Music, Combustion Music, Round Hill Music, SMACKSongs
“Yours” Written By Russell Dickerson, Casey Brown, Parker Welling
3 Ring Circus Music
Songwriter Of The Year
Jesse Frasure
Ashley Gorley
Ben Hayslip
Hillary Lindsey
Shane McAnally
Josh Osborne
Publisher Of The Year
Big Loud Publishing
Big Machine Music
Combustion Music
Rezonant Music
Round Hill Music
SMACKSongs
Independent Spirit—Jeff Carlton
Spotify Country Top Spot—“Body Like A Back Road” Written By Sam Hunt, Zach Crowell, Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne; Independently Published By Combustion Music, Tape Room Music, SMACKSongs
Exactuals Adds Jeff Van Driel, Mark Montgomery To Advisory Board
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Exactuals team will share additional news and details about its music platform on site at Music Biz 2018 in Nashville May 14-17. The California-based company recently opened a Music City office to more closely serve Nashville’s music community.
Van Driel most recently was the CEO of Naxos of America, the leading independent digital and physical distributor of classical music in North America. He first joined the company in 2007. He has also served as Executive Producer at Nashville independent label Suite 28 Records.
Montgomery has founded and co-founded numerous companies, including the anti-venture fund, FLO and most recently, IDDO, an innovation lab. Montgomery’s influence can be found in everything from tech recruitment to state-run brand accelerators, and he is a long-time fixture in the growing Nashville venture community. He is also a professor in the College of Media and Entertainment at MTSU.
“In my 10+ years at Naxos, I saw firsthand how complicated metadata management, royalty calculation, and payment execution can be in the music space,” Van Driel said. “Exactuals is doing exactly what needs to be done to make the process smoother and more secure, and I look forward to lending my voice to their team.”
“Having created, led and advised a wide variety of businesses over the years, including in the music sector, I instantly appreciated the impact that Exactuals was going have on both payments and business intelligence,” Montgomery said. “As a longtime advocate for the creative community in Tennessee, I welcome their expanded team to Nashville and look forward to working with them.”
“Jeff Van Driel brought tremendous success to Naxos of America and is one of the most intelligent and well-respected music industry voices in Nashville,” Exactuals CEO Mike Hurst said. “Mark Montgomery has been involved with many successful endeavors, and his accumen in commerce, marketing, and entrepreneurship will benefit our company greatly as we expand in the music sector. Jeff and Mark will help to guide our growing team in Nashville and we are thrilled to welcome them to our advisory board.”
Since its founding in 2011, Exactuals has established itself as the SaaS leader in the film/TV payments space, solidifying high-profile deals with the industry’s largest talent union, SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild), and the industry’s largest payroll company, Entertainment Partners. It has received more than $23 million in funding to date.
Artist Growth, Pinnacle Financial Team For Live Entertainment Financial Services
/by Jessica Nicholson“We couldn’t be more excited about our partnership with Pinnacle,” said Matt Urmy, Artist Growth founder and chief strategy officer. “Their music, entertainment and sports team has demonstrated a commitment to providing real support to working artists and built an internal culture around that mission. This is in lock-step with who we are at Artist Growth. We can do so much together to help artists unlock the capital they need to focus on their art.”
“The industry has changed, and Matt is way ahead of the curve with Artist Growth,” said Andy Moats, Pinnacle’s director of music, entertainment and sports. “As touring has taken over and become one of the biggest money makers for all involved, the systems for managing it haven’t kept up. Artist Growth has figured out a way to put more power and control into the hands of the artists and the teams who support them. We are ready to help them unlock the further potential in their platform to better serve those on tour and those who finance it.”
Lori McKenna’s New Album ‘The Tree’ Coming In July
/by Lorie HollabaughLori McKenna is set to release her latest album, The Tree, July 20 on CN Records via Thirty Tigers. The project features four tracks penned solely by McKenna, and also includes collaborations with Barry Dean, Luke Laird, Natalie Hemby, Aaron Raitiere, Hailey Whitters, Hillary Lindsey, and Liz Rose.
The Tree is McKenna’s eleventh studio album and second with producer Dave Cobb. Recorded at Nashville’s historic RCA Studio A, the 11-song album features McKenna (vocals, acoustic guitar), Cobb (acoustic/electric guitar, mellotron), Anderson East (electric guitar), Brian Allen (bass), Chris McKenna (mellotron), Chris Powell (drums, percussion) and backing vocals from Kristen Rogers, Natalie Hemby and Hillary Lindsey.
“I love people’s stories about their families—the way they tic and the ways we’re all crazy and love each other,” said McKenna. “I hope my songs shine a little light on that for a second. Maybe our stories remind us of our families and what they give us. It’s beautiful, and sometimes we take it for granted.”
In advance of the release, the album track, “People Get Old,” is premiering today.
McKenna will embark on “The Way Back Home Tour” in support of the new project this summer with stops in Boston, New York, DC, Chicago and Atlanta as well as Philadelphia’s World Café Live and Nashville’s CMA Theatre, among others.
Last year McKenna became the first songwriter to win back-to-back Best Country Song awards at the Grammys since Shania Twain in 1999-2000 with her solo-penned, No. 1 hit “Humble & Kind” (following 2016’s win for “Girl Crush” co-written with Liz Rose and Hillary Lindsey). Her current cuts include Carrie Underwood’s new single, “Cry Pretty,” also penned with Rose and Lindsey.
THE TREE TRACK LISTING:
1. A Mother Never Rests (Lori McKenna, Barry Dean)
2. The Fixer (Lori McKenna)
3. People Get Old (Lori McKenna)
4. Young And Angry Again (Lori McKenna, Barry Dean, Luke Laird)
5. The Tree (Lori McKenna, Natalie Hemby, Aaron Raitiere)
6. You Won’t Even Know I’m Gone (Lori McKenna)
7. Happy People (Lori McKenna, Hailey Whitters)
8. You Can’t Break A Woman (Lori McKenna, Hillary Lindsey, Liz Rose)
9. The Lot Behind St. Mary’s (Lori McKenna)
10. The Way Back Home (Lori McKenna, Luke Laird)
11. Like Patsy Would (Lori McKenna, Hillary Lindsey, Liz Rose)
Devin Dawson Celebrates First MusicRow CountryBreakout Chart No. 1
/by Jessica NicholsonPictured (L-R): MusicRow owner/publisher Sherod Robertson, Jacob Durrett, Devin Dawson, and Austin Smith.
Devin Dawson marked his first No. 1 MusicRow CountryBreakout title in January with “All On Me,” from his debut album, Dark Horse. The singer-songwriter, along with his “All On Me” co-writers Jacob Durrett and Austin Smith, visited the MusicRow offices on May 8 to receive their MusicRow Challenge Coins in celebration of “All On Me” topping the MusicRow CountryBreakout Chart.
Dawson, who is signed to Atlantic Records/Warner Music Nashville, was recently named one of MusicRow’s Next Big Things for 2018. “All On Me” has also been certified Gold by the RIAA.
Dawson initially gained popularity after a mash-up with Louisa Wendorff featuring Taylor Swift singles “Style” and “Blank Space” went viral.
Jacob Durrett, Devin Dawson and Austin Smith with MusicRow staffers.
Cam, Sheryl Crow, Beth Laird Included In Recording Academy Diversity Task Force
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Recording Academy has announced the names of its newly formed task force on diversity and inclusion that will examine barriers and biases affecting women and other underrepresented voices in the industry and, specifically, the Recording Academy.
Tina Tchen, Chair of the Recording Academy’s task force, has spent weeks since her appointment meeting with and listening to constituents across the music community, and using that feedback to assemble a task force that is balanced in perspectives and interests to ensure that the group is independent and focused on making progress in the industry. All members will volunteer their time and expertise, and none are employed by the Recording Academy or hold any position on its Board. The task force includes the following music creators, executives, scholars, and thought leaders in gender equality and diversity:
“I’m honored to lead such an esteemed group of visionaries who possess the experience and passion needed to drive real change in building a more inclusive and equitable music community,” said Tchen. “This is an important first step made possible by the Recording Academy’s leadership, which recognizes the benefit of examining these issues with fresh eyes.”
The task force is set to meet shortly to begin a review of Recording Academy operations and policies across the areas of corporate governance, hiring and promotion, membership, awards, and the GRAMMY Awards telecast. As Chair, Tchen will develop an operational roadmap for the task force and update the Recording Academy on the group’s progress on an ongoing basis throughout the year. As one of its first orders of business, the task force has established a feedback tool to collect public input and suggestions for the group’s review and consideration. Anyone interested in providing suggestions for the task force can do so by visiting grammy.com/taskforcefeedba
“This is an extremely important initiative for us,” said John Poppo, Chair of the Recording Academy Board of Trustees. “The Board takes seriously any role the Recording Academy can play in serving our music community, and certainly one that could facilitate increased diversity and inclusion. We are inspired by the prospect of what this task force might accomplish, and we’re grateful to Tina and the group’s esteemed members for graciously agreeing to partner with us in this effort.”
Jason Aldean To Open Four-Story Nashville Entertainment Complex
/by Jessica NicholsonJust in time for CMA Fest in June, reigning ACM Entertainer of the Year Jason Aldean will open a four-story entertainment complex, dubbed Jason Aldean’s Kitchen+Roof Top Bar, in downtown Nashville’s Lower Broadway area. The venue will be located between 3rd and 4th avenue, and will feature music on two floors, with a focus on new local talent.
The 27,000-square-feet venue will feature 250 dining seats, six bars, and a homestyle menu of southern food. Aldean teamed with chef Tomasz Wosiak to create a menu that includes Southern cooking favorites, steaks, pastas, salads and more. Aldean also worked with Tomasz to recreate his mother’s own homemade peach cobbler.
The venue will also feature the largest outdoor patio on Broadway. Inside, guests will find an homage to Aldean’s No. 1 hit “Big Green Tractor,” with a 1961 4020 John Deere tractor on display.
Two giant video walls will showcase guests’ favorite sporting events – as well as videos from today’s country stars – while the mezzanine level will include an official store with memorabilia, T-shirts, hats, jackets and a signature glassware line. The venue also offers private, VIP experiences available for groups up to 1,500.
“It’s pretty cool to finally have my own spot downtown where people can go and have a good time,” said Aldean. “We’ve been working on this for a while and I’m looking forward to having everyone in town for CMA Music Fest help break it in.”
Industry Pics: Nashville AES, Tribe Kelley, Kiefer Sutherland
/by Jessica NicholsonNashville Audio Engineering Society Holds “Spring Mixer” Competition
The 2018 AES Nashville Spring Mixer winning mixing team from SAE Institute-Nashville: (standing, L-R) Rich Kelly III and Brian Prost with the judging panel (seated, L-R), David Thoener, Dan Shike, Doug Sarrett, Louie Higuera and Chris Mara (Adam Smith not shown).
The Nashville Section of the Audio Engineering Society held its 15th-annual “Spring Mixer” competition on April 19. Area universities and technical schools with audio recording programs were invited to participate in the annual student mixing competition. Participating were students from Belmont University, Middle Tennessee State University, SAE Institute-Nashville, The Art Institute of Tennessee – Nashville, and The Blackbird Academy.
The final mix created by each team, using tracks from a recording session of “This Is Me Now” by artist Laura Palumbo, was judged on eight elements, including Fidelity/Sonics, Imaging Width, Image Depth, Mix Balance, Lead Presence, Mix Development, Dynamic Range/Preparation for Mastering and Documentation – completion of page 5 of AES/Recording Academy Producers & Engineers Wing Session Documentation.
The winning team of this year’s competition, representing SAE Institute-Nashville, was composed of Rich Kelly III and Brian Prost. Second place went to Belmont University and the team composed of Jonathan Korzelius, Tanya Orlov and Alberto Sewald. Third place went to The Art Institute of Tennessee-Nashville and the team of TeDarrius Weekley, Dusty Mahan and Ian Gibson.
The song’s original mixing engineer, John Jaszcz, spoke to the students before the session, making them aware of the sound he was going for on his finished mix, and emphasizing the feel of the song.
Florida Georgia Line’s Brian Kelley And Wife Brittney Launch Denim Line
Florida Georgia Line member Brian Kelley and wife Brittney Marie Kelley launched their new Tribe Kelley Denim line at their Nashville-based Tribe Kelley Trading post on May 2. With local designer Ranger Stitch on-site offering complimentary embroidery, the Kelleys welcomed friends and family to exclusively shop their American-made denim line including vests, jackets, and jeans for men and women. Tagged with their signature teepee logo, the collection features a range of blues and denim styles. Tribe Kelley Denim is also available on tribekelley.com.
Kiefer Sutherland Celebrates Following Nashville Show
Pictured (L-R): Adkins Publicity’s Scott Adkins, CMT’s Leslie Fram, Tanya Tucker, Kiefer Sutherland, Nashville Grammys Executive Director Susan Stewart, Kiefer’s Manager/Producer Jude Cole
Kiefer Sutherland visited with Nashville industry members after his show at Top Golf’s The Cowan on May 7.
Maren Morris To Perform Bluebird Cafe Show For Documentary
/by Jessica NicholsonMaren Morris
Maren Morris will return to the Bluebird Cafe, where she debuted her critically-acclaimed “My Church” single long before it hit country radio’s Top 10 and earned Morris a Grammy award.
Morris’ upcoming songwriter round on May 17 with Ryan Hurd, Jimmy Robbins and Laura Veltz will be filmed and included in Bluebird, the first in-depth documentary about the indelible influence the 90-seat music venue has had on Nashville’s music community. The film is in the final stages of production.
The songwriter round will begin at 6 p.m. on May 17. Proceeds from the $30 prepaid cover charge will be donated to The HEROES Fund, Morris’ charity to benefit fine arts and music programs in public schools.
“Here at The Bluebird, we are so lucky to be able to hear young artists and writers as they begin their musical journeys,” said Erika Wollam Nichols, Bluebird Cafe COO/GM. “Maren Morris was one of those songwriters who struck us all, right from the earliest days, both with her music and with her dedication to her craft. We are thrilled to have the chance to film her performance for our documentary back in The Bluebird where she played when her star first began to rise.”
Advance pre-paid reservations for the special round can only be made through bluebirdcafe.com beginning Thursday, May 10 at 8 a.m. CT.
AIMP Nashville Awards Showcase Indie Talent
/by Sarah SkatesSpotify Country Top Spot winner “Body Like A Back Road,” (L-R): Adam Parness, Josh Osborne, Zach Crowell, Shane McAnally, Brittany Schaffer
Photos by GETTY Images
Monday night’s (May 7) AIMP Nashville Awards was a celebration of songs, songwriters and publishers, with SMACKSongs and/or its writers taking home five trophies. The Association of Independent Music Publishers’ Nashville Chapter presented the 3rd annual event at the Ryman Auditorium, welcoming guests with a laid-back, we’re-all-friends-here, vibe.
Highlights included performances by rising artists Luke Combs, Devin Dawson and Ashley McBryde. Each of the nominees for Song of the Year was delivered by songwriters nominated in other categories. Combs and McBryde gave cool countrified versions of pop-influenced hits “All On Me” and “I Could Use A Love Song,” respectively, while Dawson gave a soul-filled take of the more traditional song “Marry Me.” Jordan Davis grooved during “Heartache On The Dance Floor,” Jameson Rodgers and Hannah Ellis made a darling pair for “I’ll Name the Dogs,” Jillian Jacqueline and Steve Moakler offered a smooth shot of “Drinking Problem,” and Kassi Ashton shook the rafters on “Yours.”
Steve Moakler and Jillian Jacqueline perform “Drinkin’ Problem.”
Maren Morris was on hand to present McBryde with the trophy for Rising Artist-Writer of the Year.
Morris then received the Publisher’s Pick award for co-writing “Dear Hate” with Tom Douglas and David Hodges, calling them “amazing poets,” in their absence. “I’m so honored,” she said. “This song means the world to me and I hope it has helped heal.”
The evening was a wonderful way to celebrate years of hard work coming to fruition for songwriters like McBryde and Josh Thompson, who received Rising Songwriter of the Year.
AIMP Nashville Rising Songwriter of the Year Josh Thompson (L) with previous winner Kelly Archer.
Numerous standing ovations throughout the night began with Janine Appleton Ebach who earned Song Champion of the Year. It was a big day for Ebach, whose promotion to Vice President of Curb | Word Music Publishing was also announced. “We do a job that affects generations and I’m grateful to be a part of that,” she said. “I’m grateful to be part of the Nashville music community. We do business like no one else. To quote Jim Ed Norman, ‘There’s people out there with real problems, and we don’t have them.’”
The Independent Spirit Award went to veteran publisher Jeff Carlton, whose career was highlighted in a video reel. He was in the hospital, so his son accepted on his behalf.
SMACKSongs took home trophies for Publisher of the Year, Artist-Writer of the Year (Old Dominion), Song of the Year (“Drinkin’ Problem”), Songwriter of the Year (Shane McAnally) and Spotify Country Top Spot (“Body Like A Back Road”).
The ACM’s Pete Fisher and Rhett Akins presented the Songwriter award to McAnally. “I really am surprised and honored,” he said. “I can’t believe I get to write with so many of my heroes. I am proud to be an independent publisher, and hat’s off to everybody who knows this way is not an easy road, but we are living for the song and living for the dream.”
AIMP Nashville Song Champion of the Year (L-R): previous winner Courtney Crist, 2018 winner Janine Appleton Ebach, and Frank Liddell
Beth Laird and Natalie Hemby (aka The Scrunchies) were the highlight among awards presenters, donning 1980s dresses and attitudes to present Artist-Writer of the Year to Old Dominion, which McAnally accepted on the band’s behalf.
SMACK Pres./co-owner Michael Baum accepted the trophy for Publisher of the Year. “I’m the seen-but-not-heard-force behind SMACKSongs,” he said. “It has been a pleasure getting to know everybody in the Nashville community. We might compete, but we also collaborate, and that’s the magic of Nashville.”
As far as funny presenters, Liz Rose and Jody Williams were a close second to The Scrunchies with their “It all begins with a bong” bit. Song of the Year “Drinkin’ Problem” was written by McAnally and Josh Osborne with Midland, who were on the road.
“I would absolutely not be standing here without Josh Osborne,” said McAnally. “Because of all the creativity and support he has shown me since we met, he has made me such a better writer. And I’m honored I get to do this with him.”
“I feel very lucky to get to be in the rooms that I get to be in and to write these songs,” added Osborne. “It’s my favorite thing to do every day. It’s like a puzzle and trying to figure out how the pieces go together. When they go together just right, you are really fortunate to have a song that somebody wants to record….Song ideas are everywhere. I got this idea from an old episode of MASH, so don’t let anybody tell you you can’t make money by sitting on the couch.”
In closing, AIMP Nashville executive director John Ozier thanked the many people who helped make last night possible, including event co-chairs Baum and Ree Guyer. Award winners were voted on by members of the organization.
AIMP Nashville Rising Artist-Writer of the Year Ashley McBryde
AIMP Nashville 3rd Annual Nominees And Winners
Rising Songwriter Of The Year
Michael Hardy
Matt McGinn
Mitch Rossell
Emily Shackelton
Josh Thompson
Jordan Walker
Rising Artist-Writer Of The Year
Kassi Ashton
Hannah Ellis
Jillian Jacqueline
Ashley McBryde
Steve Moakler
Jameson Rodgers
Artist-Writer Of The Year
Brothers Osborne
Luke Combs
Jordan Davis
Devin Dawson
Maren Morris
Old Dominion
Song Champion Of The Year
Janine Appleton Ebach
Stephanie Cox
Leslie DiPiero
Shannan Hatch
Lee Krabel
Jeff Skaggs
Publisher’s Pick
“Craig” Written Walker Hayes
SMACKsongs, Rarespark Media Group
“Dear Hate” Written By Maren Morris, Tom Douglas, David Hodges
Big Yellow Dog Music, Kobalt Music
“Good Company” Written By Matt Alderman, Tommy Cecil, Jared Mullins
Curb/Word Music Publishing, Horipro Entertainment Group, Big Deal Music
“Happy People” Written By Lori McKenna, Hailey Whitters
Creative Nation Music, Carnival Music, Pulse Music
“I Should Go To Church Sometime” Written By Brinley Addington, Michael Hardy, Sarah Turner
Horipro Entertainment Group, Watsky Music
“Space Cowboy” Written By Kacey Musgraves, Luke Laird, Shane McAnally
Creative Nation Music, SMACKsongs
Song Of The Year
“All On Me” Written By Devin Dawson, Jacob Durrett, Austin Smith
Neon Cross Music
“Drinkin’ Problem” Written By Jess Carson, Cameron Duddy, Mark Wystrach, Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne
Black River Publishing, Spirit Music Group, SMACKSongs
“Heartache On The Dance Floor” Written By Jon Pardi, Bart Butler, Brice Long
Song Factory, Curb/Word Music Publishing
“I Could Use A Love Song” Written By Maren Morris, Jimmy Robbins, Laura Veltz
Big Yellow Dog Music, Round Hill Music, Big Machine Music
“I’ll Name The Dogs” Written By Matt Dragstrem, Ben Hayslip, Josh Thompson
Big Loud Publishing, Round Hill Music, This Music, Big Machine Music
“Marry Me” Written By Thomas Rhett, Jesse Frasure, Ashley Gorley, Shane McAnally
Major Bob Music, Combustion Music, Round Hill Music, SMACKSongs
“Yours” Written By Russell Dickerson, Casey Brown, Parker Welling
3 Ring Circus Music
Songwriter Of The Year
Jesse Frasure
Ashley Gorley
Ben Hayslip
Hillary Lindsey
Shane McAnally
Josh Osborne
Publisher Of The Year
Big Loud Publishing
Big Machine Music
Combustion Music
Rezonant Music
Round Hill Music
SMACKSongs
Independent Spirit—Jeff Carlton
Spotify Country Top Spot—“Body Like A Back Road” Written By Sam Hunt, Zach Crowell, Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne; Independently Published By Combustion Music, Tape Room Music, SMACKSongs
ACM Honors Recipients Include Matraca Berg, Alan Jackson, Rob Potts, Darius Rucker
/by Lorie HollabaughThe event will take place Wednesday, Aug. 22, 2018 at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.
Additional off-camera categories to be awarded include to-be-announced Industry Awards and Studio Recording Awards, along with previously announced Songwriter of the Year Award winner, Rhett Akins. This marks Akins’ first ACM Songwriter of the Year award.
ACM CLIFFIE STONE ICON AWARD – Recipient: Alan Jackson. This award is presented to a country music artist, duo/group or industry leader who throughout their career has advanced the popularity of the genre through their contributions in multiple facets of the industry such as songwriting, recording, production, touring, film, television, literary works, philanthropic contributions and other goodwill efforts.
ACM MERLE HAGGARD SPIRIT AWARD – Recipient: Dierks Bentley. This award is presented to a singer-songwriter who is continuing the legacy of country legend and 20-time ACM Award Winner Merle Haggard by following his/her own path, crafting great songs and epitomizing Merle’s spirit through genuine performances and great storytelling.
ACM GARY HABER LIFTING LIVES AWARD – Recipient: Darius Rucker. This award is presented to a country music artist, duo/group or industry professional who is devoted to improving lives through the power of music, has a generosity of spirit, and is committed to serving others, voted on by the ACM Lifting Lives Board of Directors.
ACM GENE WEED MILESTONE AWARD – Recipient: Sam Hunt. This award is presented to a country music artist, duo/group or industry leader for a specific, unprecedented or outstanding achievement in the field of country music during the preceding calendar year.
ACM POET’S AWARD – Recipients: Matraca Berg and Norro Wilson (awarded posthumously). This award is presented to a country music songwriter for outstanding and longstanding musical and/or lyrical contributions throughout their career, with special consideration given to a song or songs’ impact on the culture of country music.
Berg has written major country hits across four consecutive decades while maintaining the reputation as one of Nashville’s most eloquent songwriters. A Nashville native, Berg and co-writer Bobby Braddock scored a No. 1 hit in 1983 with “Faking Love” by T.G. Sheppard and Karen Brooks. Berg was just 18 at the time. Four years later, Reba McEntire recorded “The Last One to Know” as the title track to her 1987 album; again, Berg notched a No. 1 single. Throughout the 1990s, Berg secured plentiful cuts from country music’s top female artists. Trisha Yearwood solidified her stardom with “Wrong Side of Memphis,” “XXX’s and OOO’s (An American Girl),” and “Everybody Knows,” while Patty Loveless boosted her career with “I’m That Kind of Girl” and “You Can Feel Bad.” Berg secured an ACM Song of the Year nomination for Deana Carter’s exquisite “Strawberry Wine.” Kenny Chesney and Grace Potter released their rendition of “You and Tequila” in 2011, leading to another ACM Song of the Year nod. She has written singles for Suzy Bogguss, Dixie Chicks, Sara Evans, Faith Hill, Martina McBride, Linda Ronstadt, Gretchen Wilson and more. Berg was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2008.
Wilson worked in nearly every facet of the Nashville music industry, earning perhaps his greatest acclaim by composing classics for George Jones, Charlie Rich and Tammy Wynette. Wilson grew up in Kentucky and moved to Nashville as a teenager after joining a gospel group. He spent much of the next decade pursuing a performing career until a song he co-wrote, “Baby, Baby (I Know You’re a Lady),” hit No. 1 for David Houston in 1970. Wilson’s songwriting catalog grew to include Jones signatures like “A Picture of Me (Without You),” “The Grand Tour” and “The Door.” Wilson co-wrote three of Rich’s No. 1 hits: “The Most Beautiful Girl,” “A Very Special Love Song,” and “I Love My Friend.” Wynette found success with Wilson compositions such as “I’ll See Him Through,” “He Loves Me All the Way,” “My Man” and “Another Lonely Song.” In addition, Charley Pride secured No. 1 hits in the early 1980s with “Never Been So Loved (In All My Life)” and “Night Games.” In other roles, Wilson signed Keith Whitley to RCA and co-produced several Kenny Chesney albums. He was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1996. Wilson passed away in 2017.
ACM MAE BOREN AXTON SERVICE AWARD – Recipients: Mickey Christensen, Chris Christensen and Eddie Miller (all awarded posthumously). This award is presented to an outstanding country music artist, duo/group or industry leader in recognition of years of dedication and service to the Academy of Country Music.
Nightclub owners Mickey and Chris Christensen and performing songwriter Eddie Miller, along with performer Tommy Wiggins, co-founded the organization that became known as the Academy of Country Music. In 1964 they created the Country and Western Music Academy to promote West Coast country artists. Christensen and his wife Mickey moved from Iowa to Long Beach, California, in 1941. In time, Chris acquired a stake in a jukebox company while Mickey owned and operated venues like Pike’s Canteen, C&M Corral and the Red Barrel Niteclub. Two of the first musicians they hired were Buck and Bonnie Owens. West Coast entertainers started dropping by the Red Barrel, including Eddie Miller and Tommy Wiggins. A conversation led to an idea to emulate the Oscars and create an awards show. The earliest banquets took place at the Red Barrel before the first official ceremony was held at The Hollywood Palladium on February 28, 1966. An Oklahoma native and former railroad worker, Miller wrote country hits like “Release Me,” (Ray Price, Kitty Wells), “I Love You Honey” (Patsy Cline), “There She Goes” (Carl Smith) and “Thanks a Lot” (Ernest Tubb). He was a co-founder of the Nashville Songwriters Association, which developed into NSAI. [Surviving ACM founder Tommy Wiggins received this award at the 2013 ACM Honors.]
ACM JIM REEVES INTERNATIONAL AWARD – Recipient: Rob Potts (awarded posthumously). The Jim Reeves International Award is presented to an artist or industry leader for outstanding contributions to the acceptance of country music throughout the world.
Potts cultivated a country music connection between Australia and the United States, paving the way for American superstars to perform Down Under for thousands of new fans. Potts and his business partner Michael Chugg established the brand of CMC Rocks leading to festivals like CMC Rocks the Snowy, CMC Rocks the Hunter and CMC Rocks QLD. The latter became the first-ever sold-out country music festival in Australia, with 18,000 tickets sold for its 2018 lineup featuring Luke Bryan. Potts had worked as a booking agent for artists like Keith Urban, Tommy Emmanuel and Lee Kernaghan. He brought country talent like Jason Aldean, Brooks & Dunn, Dixie Chicks, Florida Georgia Line, Alan Jackson, Tim McGraw & Faith Hill, Dolly Parton, Taylor Swift and Zac Brown Band to the Australian market. In addition, Potts managed Warner Music Nashville artist Morgan Evans. In 2016, Potts launched FanGate Music, a joint label with Sony Music Entertainment Australia, in order to seek out and develop international country artists while still paying attention to emerging local talent. A partnership with Nashville-based Dreamlined Entertainment was announced in October 2017, less than two weeks before Potts died following a motorcycle accident in Australia. He was 65.
ACM SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR AWARD – Previously announced winner Rhett Akins has been chosen as the recipient of the Songwriter of the Year Award. This award is presented to an individual known predominately as a songwriter, selected by a Professional Panel of judges composed of songwriters, publishers, producers, and performing rights organization representatives.
Akins landed on the ACM Awards ballot 20 years ago in the New Male Vocalist category, thanks to hit singles like “That Ain’t My Truck” and “Don’t Get Me Started.” Now, two decades later, he is one of Nashville’s most prominent songwriters. A list of Akins’ recent hits reads like a “who’s who” of country music, including Dustin Lynch’s “Small Town Boy,” Jon Pardi’s “Dirt on My Boots,” Blake Shelton’s “I Lived It” and Akins’ son Thomas Rhett’s “Star of the Show” and “Life Changes.” Luke Bryan’s “Huntin’, Fishin’ and Lovin’ Every Day,” Jason Aldean’s “When She Says Baby” and Shelton’s “Honeybee” and “Boys Round Here” have all been country radio staples. Akins has placed at least one song on Billboard’s Country Airplay Chart every week for the past 8 years, and he has been recognized as BMI Country Songwriter of the Year twice. Growing up in Valdosta, Georgia, Akins admired rugged country artists like Waylon Jennings, Charlie Daniels and Hank Williams, Jr. He moved to Nashville in 1992, earned a publishing deal and started singing demos. A record deal in 1994 led to two albums on Decca and one on MCA Nashville. Akins has released three independent solo albums, and, with fellow Georgia natives Dallas Davidson and Ben Hayslip, he is a member of The Peach Pickers – a tried-and-true songwriting collaboration that has yielded countless cuts. This is his third nomination for ACM Songwriter of the Year.