MusicRow is proud to reveal its list of artists, who in 2018, are predicted to become the Next Big Thing (NBT). The 4th annual NBT list features 11 artists, who are each profiled in MusicRow‘s latest 2018 Touring Issue print magazine, which hits shelves Tuesday, Dec. 5.
As in years past, MusicRow‘s Next Big Thing artists range from established hit makers prepping their next moves, to newcomers ready to claim their turns in the spotlight.
“It’s a privilege to bestow MusicRow‘s 2018 Next Big Thing title to these talented artists who are set to excel to higher prominence in the coming year,” says MusicRow Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson. “There’s no doubt these deserving artists will have a significant impact in 2018 and we look forward to following them every step of the way.”
Be sure to pick up your copy of the 2018 Touring Issue print magazine here, or receive your copy with purchase of a yearly subscription.
NBT edit by: Sarah Skates
MusicRow‘s 2018 Next Big Thing List
Ashley McBryde
Atlantic-Warner Music Nashville / Q Prime / WME / The Song Factory / BMI
Ashley McBryde. Photo: John Peets
Ashley McBryde is the traditional female songstress that country music has been missing. Her songs are filled with stories of honesty and hope, carried through the microphone by warm lilting vocals. While expertly conjuring classic country elements, McBryde still manages to be radio ready.
Her debut single for Atlantic/Warner Music Nashville, “A Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega,” reached No. 1 on SiriusXM The Highway’s Hot 30 in 2017. When it recently hit terrestrial radio she was welcomed with open arms as the most added new artist and most added female.
McBryde is prepping the upcoming release of her album Girl Goin’ Nowhere, produced by studio wiz Jay Joyce. In the meantime, the singer is staying busy on the road. McBryde and Dinah (her trusty Gibson J-45 acoustic) have shared the stage with Chris Stapleton, Eric Church, and are joining Luke Combs on tour in 2018.
Brent Cobb
Low Country Sound-Elektra Records / Red Light Management / Paradigm Agency / Carnival Music / BMI
Brent Cobb. Photo: Don VanCleave
Brent Cobb etched a mark on the country/Americana scene with the release of his major label debut Shine On Rainy Day. His southern rock sound was embraced by fans and critics, yielding the Georgia native an Americana Music Award nomination for Emerging Artist of the Year. The album recently earned Cobb a Grammy nomination in the Best Americana Album category.
For more than a decade, Cobb has been making music and building a career, scoring cuts by Miranda Lambert, Luke Bryan and Little Big Town. He has paid his dues on the road, and in 2017 completed a sold-out European headlining run, then joined Chris Stapleton’s extensive U.S. tour.
Ramping up for 2018, Cobb is poised to make an even bigger impact, including opening for Lambert and releasing a new album. He returned to the studio with Grammy-winner Dave Cobb (also his cousin), and fans are enjoying a groovy preview of the project thanks to soulful lead single “Ain’t A Road Too Long.”
Carly Pearce
Big Machine Records-BMLG / Vector Management / CAA / BMG / ASCAP
Carly Pearce. Photo: Courtesy Big Machine Records
The sparse production and soft-spoken delivery of Carly Pearce’s breakout single “Every Little Thing” offers a stark contrast to many of the songs on country radio, but therein lies its appeal. The track has consistently attracted listeners since its first spin on SiriusXM in December 2016. A year later, the single was certified Gold and reached No. 1 on the Mediabase and Billboard Airplay charts, making her one of only four solo females to reach the top of the charts with a debut single in 15 years. With such powerful momentum, Pearce released the follow-up “If My Name Was Whiskey,” scoring her second chart-topper on SiriusXM.
Pearce has been dreaming of a career in country music since she was a five-year-old girl in Kentucky. By age 11 she was honing her traditional vocal stylings with a bluegrass band, and at age 16 she left high school to perform in six shows a day at Dollywood.
After moving to Nashville eight years ago, Pearce continued running down her dream which is coming true piece by piece: She signed with Big Machine Records, released her debut album Every Little Thing, and has opened tours for Thomas Rhett and Blake Shelton.
Devin Dawson
Atlantic Records-Warner Music Nashville / Sandbox Entertainment / CAA / Neon Cross-Warner/Chappell / BMI
Devin Dawson. Photo: Courtesy Warner Music Nashville
The story of talented newcomer Devin Dawson begins in a house nestled in the shadows of legendary Folsom Prison in California, where he grew up absorbing the sounds of Johnny Cash, Alan Jackson, Marvin Gaye and Creedence Clearwater Revival. He followed that love of music across the country to study at Nashville’s Belmont University. Before graduation, he already had a viral hit with a unique mash-up of two Taylor Swift songs.
Dawson’s vibey blend of pop/rock can be found on his Top 20 and climbing single “All On Me,” which has tallied over 30 million on-demand streams. The music video, which was shot in mostly black-and-white at the infamous Tennessee State Prison, has been viewed almost two million times.
A talented songwriter, Dawson co-wrote all 12 cuts on his debut album, Dark Horse, including the deeply personal title track. Jay Joyce produced the set, which will release Jan. 19. Dawson is on the road through the end of the year with labelmate Michael Ray.
Dylan Scott
Curb Records / McMurry Entertainment Group / WME
Dylan Scott. Photo: Joseph Llanes
Dylan Scott’s upbeat hit “My Girl” sent his career into overdrive, becoming his first No. 1 and first Platinum-certified song. Now his steamy follow-up single, “Hooked,” is ascending the country radio charts and has surpassed 12 million Spotify streams.
Scott has been growing his career since the release of his first single in 2013. His debut album followed in 2016, spawning the major hit “My Girl.” With that success, he met fan demand by offering a deluxe version of the self-titled debut and releasing his first holiday EP, Merry Christmas. A hard-touring artist, Scott spent 2017 playing his own headlining dates and enjoying an opening spot with hitmaker Justin Moore.
Growing up in Louisiana, Scott learned the basics of singing and playing guitar from his father—a former guitarist for Freddy Fender and Freddy Hart. Heading into 2018, Scott will become a father himself.
Luke Combs
River House Artists-Columbia Nashville-Sony Nashville / Make Wake / CAA / 50 Egg Music-Big Machine Music / BMI
Luke Combs. Photo: Matthew Berinato
It’s a rare feat for a country newcomer to sell out back-to-back nights at the Ryman Auditorium, but that’s just the latest milestone in a year that keeps getting bigger and better for Luke Combs. Like a lyric from his latest multi-week No. 1, “When It Rains It Pours,” Combs was showered with good fortune last year and is poised for even more in 2018.
His career launched with the gale-force strength of debut single “Hurricane,” which topped the Billboard Country Airplay chart and Mediabase chart for two consecutive weeks, making him the first debut country male to achieve a multi-week No. 1 since 2001. The track went on to earn Platinum certification.
Combs’ major label debut, This One’s For You, landed at No. 1 and remains the top-selling debut country album released last year.
This success comes after years of touring, songwriting, and dues-paying for the Asheville, North Carolina native, all leading to a coveted CMA Award nomination for New Artist of the Year and a presenting spot on the show.
Midland
Big Machine Records-BMLG / Sandbox Entertainment / BRND MGMT / CAA / Warner/Chappell / BMI-ASCAP
Midland. Photo: Harper Smith
Midland brings a throwback swagger to country music, donning Nudie-style suits and playing songs reminiscent of traditionalists Dwight Yoakam and George Strait.
Thanks to the debut single “Drinkin’ Problem,” lead singer Mark Wystrach, bass player Cameron Duddy and guitarist Jess Carson even have a No. 1 hit and Gold certification under their rhinestone belt buckles. (Duddy directed the music video, bringing with him an amazing track record of shooting spectacular videos for Bruno Mars.) Radio continues to embrace Midland, as the band’s second single “Make A Little,” was the most added song for two consecutive weeks.
The trio’s debut album, On The Rocks, was produced by three other big-time hitmakers: Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne and Dann Huff, which helped it reach the top of the charts. In 2018, Midland will bring their neo-retro sound to fans nationwide, performing on top tours with Little Big Town, Kacey Musgraves and Thomas Rhett.
Parmalee
Stoney Creek Records-BBR Music Group / Pennington Entertainment / WME / Universal Music Publishing-27861 Music / BMI
Parmalee. Photo: Joseph Llanes
Parmalee’s new album, 27861, is packed with radio-ready hooks sure to attract fans, just like the band did with its breakout single “Carolina,” which reached No. 1 at radio and went on to Platinum certification.
Since then, Parmalee has earned an ACM Award nomination for New Vocal Duo/Group of the Year, and hundreds of millions of song and video streams. Following that initial success, brothers Matt Thomas and Scott Thomas, cousin Barry Knox, and friend Josh McSwain returned to the studio. The result is their 2017 sophomore album, named after the zip code of their hometown Parmele, NC.
Matt Thomas co-wrote nine of the album’s 12 tracks, and enlisted the help of songwriting heavyweights busbee, Hillary Lindsey, and Ross Copperman. The project’s hook-laden set of singalongs includes “American Nights,” “Back In The Game,” and “Like a Photograph.”
Russell Dickerson
Triple Tigers Records-Sony Music Entertainment / Dennis Entertainment / CAA / BMG / BMI
Russell Dickerson. Photo: Kailey Dickerson
Russell Dickerson’s breakout song “Yours” was a viral hit with more than 65 million streams before it even broke the Top 20 on the country airplay charts. The romantic ballad’s popularity scored him performances on ABC’s The Bachelorette and NBC’s Today Show, and earned the track Gold certification.
The Tennessee native drew from influences including Garth Brooks and Keith Urban when crafting his debut EP, Yours, the first release on Triple Tigers Records, a joint venture with Sony Music.
In 2017, Dickerson continued to gain fans online and in concert, touring with Florida Georgia Line and Thomas Rhett. Driven by Spotify streams tallying more than 35 million, his track “Blue Tacoma” was featured in the X-Men film Logan. And his large presence on the platform led to Spotify selecting Dickerson as the inaugural country artist for its new program Rise, designed to identify and break the next wave of music superstars.
Tyminski
Mercury Nashville-UMG / Triple 8 Management / WME / Ten Ten / BMI
Tyminski. Photo: Lori Christian
Revered musician Dan Tyminski ditched his first name and reinvented himself with the creation of Tyminski in late 2017. The result is a cool hybrid of country music; a unique combination of high-lonesome vocals, electronic production and vivid storytelling.
To create his deliciously dark album, Southern Gothic, Tyminski teamed with talented producer Jesse Frasure and co-wrote with some of Nashville’s finest songwriters.
Tyminski began the solo project after the success of Avicii’s 2014 international pop hit “Hey Brother,” featuring Tyminski’s trademark vocals. That song tallied global streams of over 1.1 billion and downloads of 5.3 million, and spurred him to venture outside the acoustic music lane which had earned him 14 Grammy Awards, whether he was singing with longtime band Alison Krauss and Union Station, or as George Clooney’s character in the film O Brother, Where Art Thou? He has previously released three solo albums.
Walker Hayes
Monument Records-Sony Music / SMACK Management / CAA / SMACKSongs-Rarespark Media Group / BMI
Walker Hayes. Photo: Courtesy Essential Broadcast Media
“Boom.” That’s the sound of Walker Hayes dropping bombastic new sounds into country music. It’s also the name of his album on Monument Records, a collection of unusual beats and unique perspectives delivered via a blend of spoken-word-rap and subtle singing. Fans are digging it, because lead single “You Broke Up With Me” is Top 30-and-climbing on the country charts with over 31 million streams.
Through his self-penned collection, Hayes lets listeners in on his real life, ranging from struggles with addiction to supporting a family between record deals. This candid music has attracted high-profile fans including Bobby Bones, who champions Hayes on his influential radio show. Signed to newly re-launched Monument Records, Hayes’ powerful team includes label co-Presidents Jason Owen and Shane McAnally, the latter of which also produced the new album.
Hayes has performed with Bones, as well as Dan + Shay, and now has a coveted opening spot on Thomas Rhett’s tour.
Integrity Music Names Greg Bays As VP, Commercial Partnerships And Marketing
/by Jessica NicholsonGreg Bays
Integrity Music has named Greg Bays as Vice President of Commercial Partnerships and Marketing, overseeing the label’s U.S.-based sales, streaming and marketing initiatives.
In this role, Bays reports to President Jonathan Brown, working from Integrity’s Nashville office in coordination with its U.K.-based team and Integrity’s parent organization, the nonprofit church resource provider, David C. Cook. Bays comes to Integrity with sales and marketing experience, most recently having served as Executive Vice President of Sales and Distribution for Capitol Christian Music Group.
“I’m so excited for this new journey and the opportunity to serve the global church as part of the Integrity team,” says Bays. “Christian music has been the soundtrack of my life, personally and professionally, and worship music especially has played a major part in my story. I’m honored to help Integrity curate and amplify songs of substance from and to churches around the world.”
“As we look for innovative ways to serve our artists and writers, it’s abundantly clear that the discovery and consumption points for music have become one and the same,” says Brown, “which is why we are so excited to have Greg join the Integrity family. He has a history of leading through digital transformation, making this the perfect time to bring sales and marketing together. It’s been a full and exciting year and we’re expecting 2018 to begin a whole new chapter as we welcome additional staff and partner with worship leaders who share our vision.”
Sony Music Nashville Names Jessica Valiyi As Associate Director, Digital Strategy
/by Jessica NicholsonJessica Valiyi
Ed Rivadavia, Vice President, Digital Strategy, Sony Music Nashville, has appointed Jessica Valiyi to the position of Associate Director, Digital Strategy, Sony Music Nashville. Reporting directly to Rivadavia, Valiyi will execute progressive digital marketing initiatives for Sony Music Nashville, and her new role is effective immediately.
“Having worked with Jessica on a variety of digital and D2C initiatives in recent years, I am extremely excited to welcome such a creative and driven professional to SMN’s Digital Strategy team,” shared Rivadavia. “I’m confident that Jessica’s successful track record for executing digital initiatives on behalf of both established and developing artists in a fast-moving label environment will allow her to immediately contribute fresh ideas and perspectives on behalf of our amazing artist roster.”
Prior to joining Sony Music Nashville, Valiyi served as the Digital & eCommerce Manager in the Marketing Department at Big Machine Label Group. She launched digital campaigns across the entire BMLG roster for Thomas Rhett, Danielle Bradbery, Florida Georgia Line, Ronnie Dunn, Brantley Gilbert, Justin Moore, Jennifer Nettles, Carly Pearce, Brett Young, Midland, Cheap Trick, The Cadillac Three, and more.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the Sony Music Nashville family in this next chapter of my career,” shared Valiyi. ”SMN’s commitment & vision in the digital space is unmatched. I can’t wait to join Ed and the team and provide my expertise to support the label group’s incredible roster in this ever-changing digital landscape.”
An Indianapolis native, Valiyi graduated from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business in 2010. Her career also includes time at Radio Promotions at Emmis Communications and Procurement at Roche Diagnostics.
Valiyi can be reached at jessica.valiyi@sonymusic.com.
On The Cover: MusicRow’s 2018 Touring Issue
/by Jessica NicholsonMusicRow, Nashville’s leading music industry publication, is proud to reveal its 2018 Touring Issue. The January 2018 print issue highlights all aspects of the touring business, and this year debuts the Touring Transportation Directory, adding to MusicRow‘s signature directory lineup.
The issue also includes edit highlighting MusicRow‘s 2018 Next Big Thing (NBT) selections, announced by MusicRow.com earlier today. MusicRow‘s 4th annual NBT list highlights 11 artists, ranging from established hitmakers prepping their next moves to newcomers ready to claim their turns in the spotlight.
The 48-page magazine’s exclusive coverage features agents Brian Waymire (APA), Marc Dennis and Michael Bryan (CAA), and Joey Lee (WME) for a feature on digital data and tour routing. Agents covered also include Greg Scott (Kinkead), Jonathan Levine (Paradigm), and Curt Motley (UTA) for an update on the latest happenings in touring. In-depth editorial also extends to Sandbox Entertainment’s office for Jason Owen‘s partnership for Tim McGraw and Faith Hill’s Soul2Soul retail line with Lucky Brand. The issue also covers Chris Littleton, tour manager for The Doobie Brothers, Shania Twain, The Eagles, Madonna, and is currently on the road with Tim McGraw and Faith Hill’s Soul2Soul Tour. Special effects company Pyrotek is also highlighted for their work with Florida Georgia Line, Metallica, Taylor Swift, and Beyoncé. Songwriter Wynn Varble discusses taking his one man show on the road to supplement income while a legal feature discusses the need to register copyrights regarding the DMCA’s safe harbor.
Adding to MusicRow‘s three original print directory lineup, the 2018 Touring Issue debuts MusicRow‘s fourth print directory. The Tour Transportation Directory offers a useful guide, for anyone planning to send acts on the road, with pertinent bus and jet leasing companies listed for Nashville. Nine jet companies and 23 bus rental companies are included, all with a reputation for serving the Nashville touring industry.
“MusicRow’s annual Touring Issue is devoted to the segment of our industry which works so hard to give fans the gift of bringing music to life, every day, around the world,” says MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson. “Now complete with a Tour Transportation Directory, MusicRow‘s Touring Issue will become an essential guide for managing gatekeepers on the road.”
Capitol Records Nashville/UMG headliner Luke Bryan graces the cover of MusicRow‘s 2018 Touring Issue. Luke Bryan has won CMA and ACM Entertainer of the Year four times, and served as co-host for the latter television show. Bryan recently signed on as judge for the first season return of American Idol, on ABC. Bryan has garnered 18 No. 1 singles, performed for millions of fans on his headlining arena tours and sold over 10 million albums. His sixth studio album, What Makes You Country releases Friday, Dec. 8, 2017.
Single copies of MusicRow‘s Touring Issue print issue are available for purchase at musicrow.com for $30, and are included with yearly subscriptions.
Will Hoge Signs With New Frontier Touring
/by Lorie HollabaughWill Hoge has signed with New Frontier Touring for booking. Hoge is touring in support of his current album, Anchors, released earlier this year.
“We’re really excited here at NFT to be working with Will, me especially,” said New Frontier’s Jon Bell. Will is Nashville songwriting royalty and there is no better place for him than at New Frontier.”
Byron Kennedy Named VP, Promotion For Stoney Creek
/by Jessica NicholsonByron Kennedy
BBR Music Group has named Byron Kennedy VP of Promotion for label imprint Stoney Creek Records. Stoney Creek Records’ roster includes chart-toppers Randy Houser, Parmalee, Lindsay Ell, Adam Craig and emerging act Jimmie Allen.
Previously Kennedy served as Director of West Coast Regional Promotion for BBR label imprint Wheelhouse Records. He joined the BBR Music Group’s team in July of 2016.
Prior to his time with BBR, Kennedy spent 15 years at CBS Radio working his way up and overseeing a variety of formats as VP of Programming for the entire Sacramento cluster as well as Program Director of country KNCI. Kennedy launched several CBS Radio stations in Sacramento and Phoenix and worked previous stints in Honolulu and Fresno radio markets.
“Byron is one of the most natural promotion executives I have ever worked with,” says Jon Loba, EVP, BBR Music Group. “Additionally, he is one of the most natural leaders I have ever worked with. I’m so excited to give him the reigns of the Stoney Creek staff with the huge year they have ahead in 2018 and have no doubt everyone will be trying to steal him as VP, just as they tried to steal him as a regional.
Kennedy will report directly to Carson James, SVP of Promotion, BBR Music Group. His new role will be effective immediately and he can be reached at byron@stoneycreekrecords.com and 916-798-1025.
Ali Matkosky Named Director National Promotion And Strategy At Black River Christian
/by Lorie HollabaughAli Matkosky has been appointed the new Director of National Promotion and Strategy at Black River Christian. Matkosky reports to Black River Christian’s VP of National Promotion Brian Thiele and is based out of Black River’s Music Row offices.
Matkosky comes to the label from Word Entertainment, where she served as their Director of National Promotion. Prior to her four years at Word, she spent two years at Provident Label Group. Matkosky is an alumnus of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.
“I had the privilege of working with Ali for four years before I came to Black River, and I can honestly say that she is one of the best promotion people in this industry,” says Thiele. “We are excited for her to bring her expertise, personality, and passion to Black River Christian!”
“I’m excited to be a part of the growing Black River family,” Matkosky says. “I look forward to working with incredibly talented artists alongside an amazing team.”
Margo Price Sets First Ryman Headlining Show
/by Jessica NicholsonMargo Price will headline Nashville’s legendary Ryman Auditorium for the first time on May 19, 2018. Tickets go on sale this Friday, Dec. 8 and Tyler Childers will support.
In October 2017, Price released All American Made, her second album via Third Man Records.
Upcoming Margo Price tour dates include:
Jan. 20 – Headliner’s Music Hall – Louisville, KY
Jan. 21 – The Ready Room – St. Louis, MO
Jan. 23 – Knucklehead’s – Kansas City, MO
Jan. 24 – ACM@UCO Performance Lab – Oklahoma City, OK
Jan. 26 – Kessler Theater – Dallas, TX
Jan. 28 – Sam’s Burger Joint – San Antonio, TX
Jan. 30 – Emo’s – Austin, TX
Jan. 31 – The Heights Theater – Houston, TX
Feb. 1 – Manship Theatre – Baton Rouge, LA
Feb. 4-11 – Cayamo Cruise – New Orleans, LA
Feb. 18 – The Crescent Ballroom – Phoenix, AZ
Feb. 20 – Fox Theatre – Boulder, CO
Feb. 21 – Bluebird Theater – Denver, CO
Feb. 23 – The State Room – Salt Lake City, UT
Feb. 24 – The Olympic – Boise, ID
Feb. 25 – Neptune – Seattle, WA
Feb. 26 – Revolution Hall – Portland, OR
Feb. 28 – The Independent – San Francisco, CA
March 1 – The Fonda Theatre – Los Angeles, CA
March 2 – Belly Up – Solana Beach, CA
March 3 – Pappy & Harriet’s – Pioneertown, CA
March 9 – C2C Country 2 Country – Glasgow, UK
March 10 – C2C Country 2 Country – Dublin, Ireland
March 11 – C2C Country 2 Country – London, UK
May 19 – Ryman Auditorium – Nashville, TN
Jessi Vaughn Upped To A&R Strategy Coordinator At Warner/Chappell Nashville
/by Lorie HollabaughJessi Vaughn
Jessi Vaughn has been promoted to the newly-created position of A&R Strategy Coordinator for Warner/Chappell Nashville.
In her new role, Vaughn will act as a central A&R team member to develop songwriters and improve their branding, digital strategy and marketing activities. In addition to artist development, Vaughn will also work the Warner/Chappell catalog, identify and solicit co-writing opportunities, recruit songwriters, and generally support A&R projects and events in Nashville.
‘MusicRow’ Reveals 2018 Next Big Thing List
/by Eric T. ParkerAs in years past, MusicRow‘s Next Big Thing artists range from established hit makers prepping their next moves, to newcomers ready to claim their turns in the spotlight.
“It’s a privilege to bestow MusicRow‘s 2018 Next Big Thing title to these talented artists who are set to excel to higher prominence in the coming year,” says MusicRow Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson. “There’s no doubt these deserving artists will have a significant impact in 2018 and we look forward to following them every step of the way.”
Be sure to pick up your copy of the 2018 Touring Issue print magazine here, or receive your copy with purchase of a yearly subscription.
NBT edit by: Sarah Skates
MusicRow‘s 2018 Next Big Thing List
Ashley McBryde
Atlantic-Warner Music Nashville / Q Prime / WME / The Song Factory / BMI
Ashley McBryde. Photo: John Peets
Ashley McBryde is the traditional female songstress that country music has been missing. Her songs are filled with stories of honesty and hope, carried through the microphone by warm lilting vocals. While expertly conjuring classic country elements, McBryde still manages to be radio ready.
Her debut single for Atlantic/Warner Music Nashville, “A Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega,” reached No. 1 on SiriusXM The Highway’s Hot 30 in 2017. When it recently hit terrestrial radio she was welcomed with open arms as the most added new artist and most added female.
McBryde is prepping the upcoming release of her album Girl Goin’ Nowhere, produced by studio wiz Jay Joyce. In the meantime, the singer is staying busy on the road. McBryde and Dinah (her trusty Gibson J-45 acoustic) have shared the stage with Chris Stapleton, Eric Church, and are joining Luke Combs on tour in 2018.
Brent Cobb
Low Country Sound-Elektra Records / Red Light Management / Paradigm Agency / Carnival Music / BMI
Brent Cobb. Photo: Don VanCleave
Brent Cobb etched a mark on the country/Americana scene with the release of his major label debut Shine On Rainy Day. His southern rock sound was embraced by fans and critics, yielding the Georgia native an Americana Music Award nomination for Emerging Artist of the Year. The album recently earned Cobb a Grammy nomination in the Best Americana Album category.
For more than a decade, Cobb has been making music and building a career, scoring cuts by Miranda Lambert, Luke Bryan and Little Big Town. He has paid his dues on the road, and in 2017 completed a sold-out European headlining run, then joined Chris Stapleton’s extensive U.S. tour.
Ramping up for 2018, Cobb is poised to make an even bigger impact, including opening for Lambert and releasing a new album. He returned to the studio with Grammy-winner Dave Cobb (also his cousin), and fans are enjoying a groovy preview of the project thanks to soulful lead single “Ain’t A Road Too Long.”
Carly Pearce
Big Machine Records-BMLG / Vector Management / CAA / BMG / ASCAP
Carly Pearce. Photo: Courtesy Big Machine Records
The sparse production and soft-spoken delivery of Carly Pearce’s breakout single “Every Little Thing” offers a stark contrast to many of the songs on country radio, but therein lies its appeal. The track has consistently attracted listeners since its first spin on SiriusXM in December 2016. A year later, the single was certified Gold and reached No. 1 on the Mediabase and Billboard Airplay charts, making her one of only four solo females to reach the top of the charts with a debut single in 15 years. With such powerful momentum, Pearce released the follow-up “If My Name Was Whiskey,” scoring her second chart-topper on SiriusXM.
Pearce has been dreaming of a career in country music since she was a five-year-old girl in Kentucky. By age 11 she was honing her traditional vocal stylings with a bluegrass band, and at age 16 she left high school to perform in six shows a day at Dollywood.
After moving to Nashville eight years ago, Pearce continued running down her dream which is coming true piece by piece: She signed with Big Machine Records, released her debut album Every Little Thing, and has opened tours for Thomas Rhett and Blake Shelton.
Devin Dawson
Atlantic Records-Warner Music Nashville / Sandbox Entertainment / CAA / Neon Cross-Warner/Chappell / BMI
Devin Dawson. Photo: Courtesy Warner Music Nashville
The story of talented newcomer Devin Dawson begins in a house nestled in the shadows of legendary Folsom Prison in California, where he grew up absorbing the sounds of Johnny Cash, Alan Jackson, Marvin Gaye and Creedence Clearwater Revival. He followed that love of music across the country to study at Nashville’s Belmont University. Before graduation, he already had a viral hit with a unique mash-up of two Taylor Swift songs.
Dawson’s vibey blend of pop/rock can be found on his Top 20 and climbing single “All On Me,” which has tallied over 30 million on-demand streams. The music video, which was shot in mostly black-and-white at the infamous Tennessee State Prison, has been viewed almost two million times.
A talented songwriter, Dawson co-wrote all 12 cuts on his debut album, Dark Horse, including the deeply personal title track. Jay Joyce produced the set, which will release Jan. 19. Dawson is on the road through the end of the year with labelmate Michael Ray.
Dylan Scott
Curb Records / McMurry Entertainment Group / WME
Dylan Scott. Photo: Joseph Llanes
Dylan Scott’s upbeat hit “My Girl” sent his career into overdrive, becoming his first No. 1 and first Platinum-certified song. Now his steamy follow-up single, “Hooked,” is ascending the country radio charts and has surpassed 12 million Spotify streams.
Scott has been growing his career since the release of his first single in 2013. His debut album followed in 2016, spawning the major hit “My Girl.” With that success, he met fan demand by offering a deluxe version of the self-titled debut and releasing his first holiday EP, Merry Christmas. A hard-touring artist, Scott spent 2017 playing his own headlining dates and enjoying an opening spot with hitmaker Justin Moore.
Growing up in Louisiana, Scott learned the basics of singing and playing guitar from his father—a former guitarist for Freddy Fender and Freddy Hart. Heading into 2018, Scott will become a father himself.
Luke Combs
River House Artists-Columbia Nashville-Sony Nashville / Make Wake / CAA / 50 Egg Music-Big Machine Music / BMI
Luke Combs. Photo: Matthew Berinato
It’s a rare feat for a country newcomer to sell out back-to-back nights at the Ryman Auditorium, but that’s just the latest milestone in a year that keeps getting bigger and better for Luke Combs. Like a lyric from his latest multi-week No. 1, “When It Rains It Pours,” Combs was showered with good fortune last year and is poised for even more in 2018.
His career launched with the gale-force strength of debut single “Hurricane,” which topped the Billboard Country Airplay chart and Mediabase chart for two consecutive weeks, making him the first debut country male to achieve a multi-week No. 1 since 2001. The track went on to earn Platinum certification.
Combs’ major label debut, This One’s For You, landed at No. 1 and remains the top-selling debut country album released last year.
This success comes after years of touring, songwriting, and dues-paying for the Asheville, North Carolina native, all leading to a coveted CMA Award nomination for New Artist of the Year and a presenting spot on the show.
Midland
Big Machine Records-BMLG / Sandbox Entertainment / BRND MGMT / CAA / Warner/Chappell / BMI-ASCAP
Midland. Photo: Harper Smith
Midland brings a throwback swagger to country music, donning Nudie-style suits and playing songs reminiscent of traditionalists Dwight Yoakam and George Strait.
Thanks to the debut single “Drinkin’ Problem,” lead singer Mark Wystrach, bass player Cameron Duddy and guitarist Jess Carson even have a No. 1 hit and Gold certification under their rhinestone belt buckles. (Duddy directed the music video, bringing with him an amazing track record of shooting spectacular videos for Bruno Mars.) Radio continues to embrace Midland, as the band’s second single “Make A Little,” was the most added song for two consecutive weeks.
The trio’s debut album, On The Rocks, was produced by three other big-time hitmakers: Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne and Dann Huff, which helped it reach the top of the charts. In 2018, Midland will bring their neo-retro sound to fans nationwide, performing on top tours with Little Big Town, Kacey Musgraves and Thomas Rhett.
Parmalee
Stoney Creek Records-BBR Music Group / Pennington Entertainment / WME / Universal Music Publishing-27861 Music / BMI
Parmalee. Photo: Joseph Llanes
Parmalee’s new album, 27861, is packed with radio-ready hooks sure to attract fans, just like the band did with its breakout single “Carolina,” which reached No. 1 at radio and went on to Platinum certification.
Since then, Parmalee has earned an ACM Award nomination for New Vocal Duo/Group of the Year, and hundreds of millions of song and video streams. Following that initial success, brothers Matt Thomas and Scott Thomas, cousin Barry Knox, and friend Josh McSwain returned to the studio. The result is their 2017 sophomore album, named after the zip code of their hometown Parmele, NC.
Matt Thomas co-wrote nine of the album’s 12 tracks, and enlisted the help of songwriting heavyweights busbee, Hillary Lindsey, and Ross Copperman. The project’s hook-laden set of singalongs includes “American Nights,” “Back In The Game,” and “Like a Photograph.”
Russell Dickerson
Triple Tigers Records-Sony Music Entertainment / Dennis Entertainment / CAA / BMG / BMI
Russell Dickerson. Photo: Kailey Dickerson
Russell Dickerson’s breakout song “Yours” was a viral hit with more than 65 million streams before it even broke the Top 20 on the country airplay charts. The romantic ballad’s popularity scored him performances on ABC’s The Bachelorette and NBC’s Today Show, and earned the track Gold certification.
The Tennessee native drew from influences including Garth Brooks and Keith Urban when crafting his debut EP, Yours, the first release on Triple Tigers Records, a joint venture with Sony Music.
In 2017, Dickerson continued to gain fans online and in concert, touring with Florida Georgia Line and Thomas Rhett. Driven by Spotify streams tallying more than 35 million, his track “Blue Tacoma” was featured in the X-Men film Logan. And his large presence on the platform led to Spotify selecting Dickerson as the inaugural country artist for its new program Rise, designed to identify and break the next wave of music superstars.
Tyminski
Mercury Nashville-UMG / Triple 8 Management / WME / Ten Ten / BMI
Tyminski. Photo: Lori Christian
Revered musician Dan Tyminski ditched his first name and reinvented himself with the creation of Tyminski in late 2017. The result is a cool hybrid of country music; a unique combination of high-lonesome vocals, electronic production and vivid storytelling.
To create his deliciously dark album, Southern Gothic, Tyminski teamed with talented producer Jesse Frasure and co-wrote with some of Nashville’s finest songwriters.
Tyminski began the solo project after the success of Avicii’s 2014 international pop hit “Hey Brother,” featuring Tyminski’s trademark vocals. That song tallied global streams of over 1.1 billion and downloads of 5.3 million, and spurred him to venture outside the acoustic music lane which had earned him 14 Grammy Awards, whether he was singing with longtime band Alison Krauss and Union Station, or as George Clooney’s character in the film O Brother, Where Art Thou? He has previously released three solo albums.
Walker Hayes
Monument Records-Sony Music / SMACK Management / CAA / SMACKSongs-Rarespark Media Group / BMI
Walker Hayes. Photo: Courtesy Essential Broadcast Media
“Boom.” That’s the sound of Walker Hayes dropping bombastic new sounds into country music. It’s also the name of his album on Monument Records, a collection of unusual beats and unique perspectives delivered via a blend of spoken-word-rap and subtle singing. Fans are digging it, because lead single “You Broke Up With Me” is Top 30-and-climbing on the country charts with over 31 million streams.
Through his self-penned collection, Hayes lets listeners in on his real life, ranging from struggles with addiction to supporting a family between record deals. This candid music has attracted high-profile fans including Bobby Bones, who champions Hayes on his influential radio show. Signed to newly re-launched Monument Records, Hayes’ powerful team includes label co-Presidents Jason Owen and Shane McAnally, the latter of which also produced the new album.
Hayes has performed with Bones, as well as Dan + Shay, and now has a coveted opening spot on Thomas Rhett’s tour.
Industry Pics: Luke Combs, Disney, SESAC, Clint Black
/by Haley CrowLuke Combs Celebrates Gold-Certified Debut Album
Pictured (front row, L-R): Alex Heddle, Big Machine Music Publishing; Mike Molinar, Big Machine Music Publishing; Lyndsay Church, Sony Music Nashville; Luke Combs; Paige Altone, Sony Music Nashville; Lauren Thomas, Sony Music Nashville; Mary Catherine Kinney, Sony Music Nashville; Tracy Fleaner, Sony Music Nashville; and Chris Kappy, MAKE WAKE Management; (back row, L-R): Shane Allen, Sony Music Nashville; Lynn Oliver-Cline, River House Artists; John Zarling, Sony Music Nashville; Taylor Lindsey, Sony Music Nashville; Steve Hodges, Sony Music Nashville; and Ed Rivadavia, Sony Music Nashville. [CLICK TO ENLARGE]
Combs will release his third single from the project, “One Number Away,” on January 8. This follows his two back-to-back multi-week No. 1 hits–the Platinum-certified “Hurricane” and Gold-certified “When It Rains It Pours.” Today Combs was also announced as a finalist for CRS’ annual New Faces Of Country Music Show for February 2018.
Disney Music Publishing Holds Annual Songwriting Camp
Pictured (back row, L-R): Brandon Kitchen (Director, A&R, DMG), Tony Ferrari, Jintae Ko, Doug Rockwell, Louis Schoorl, Nick Pingree, Steph Jones, and Peter Lloyd (Director, A&R); (front row L-R): Barbara Vander Linde (VP, DMP), Dewain Whitmore, Jr., Jason Mater, Blush, Tina Parol, Jordan Power, Mio Vukovic (SVP Creative, DMG), and Johnny Dibb. [CLICK TO ENLARGE]
The camp was hosted by Disney Music Group Senior Vice President of Creative Mio Vukovic and DMP Vice President Barbara Vander Linde.
SESAC’s Jake Rose Performs At Wildhorse Saloon
Pictured (L-R): Rezonant Music Publishing’s Tim Wipperman, SESAC’s Shannan Hatch, artist Jake Rose and SESAC’s ET Brown.
SESAC singer/songwriter Jake Rose performed at the Wildhorse Saloon last Thursday night (Nov. 30). Rose spent time with Rezonant Music Publishing’s Tim Wipperman and SESAC’s Shannan Hatch and ET Brown before taking the stage.
Nashville Music Industry Helps Raise Money For Special Forces Operations
Pictured (L-R): Songwriters Jon Nite, Chris DeStefano and JT Harding perform at Tomahawk Charitable’s 2017 Nashville Benefit supporting Special Operations Forces on November 14, 2017.
Nashville-based Tomahawk Charitable Solutions recently hosted a fundraiser benefitting Special Forces Operations at City Winery. The sold-out event—featuring Clint Black, Tyler Farr and songwriters Chris DeStefano, JT Harding, Jon Nite and Houston Phillips—was attended by many music industry executives and raised over $300,000 to aid our nation’s service members. Highlights included Pat Martin, of Martin’s BBQ, winning a live auction for a bottle of Silver Oak from Black’s personal wine collection.
Clint Black performs at City Winery for Tomahawk Charitable’s 2017 Nashville Benefit supporting Special Operations Forces on November 14, 2017.
Pictured (L-R): Larry McGrath, Clint Black, Keith Walawender (CEO, Tomahawk Strategic), and Daysha McGrath backstage at Tomahawk Charitable’s 2017 Nashville Benefit supporting Special Operations Forces at City Winery.