Mel Tillis
The country community is responding to the death of legend Mel Tillis with an outpouring of love and fond memories. Tillis passed away Sunday, Nov. 19 at a hospital in Ocala, FL at age 85.
“Mel Tillis spent a lifetime giving us joy and laughter and music, which is why his death brings such sadness. Had he never stepped on a stage, he would still have been one of the funniest and most genuine people on the planet. But his whimsy and warmth were only a part of his appeal. He wrote some of country music’s most compelling and consequential songs, he fronted a remarkable band, and he sang with power and emotion. He also shone as an inspiration, revealing what others called an impediment as a vehicle for humor and hope. – Kyle Young, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum CEO
“Kindest man I’ve ever known. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Gonna be some great country music in Heaven this Sunday.” —Billy Ray Cyrus
“My heart is just broken over the passing of the great Mel Tillis. I have so many wonderful memories with him. I’ll never forget working with him on ‘Love Boat’ with Dottie West. We just go way back – from the time I was 8 years old when he brought me on stage with him. When I got older, sometimes I had to use other bands because I didn’t have a band. Mel always let me use his band and I’ll never forget that. We remained friends right up until the end. Love you, Mel.”
—Tanya Tucker
“There are stand-up comedians and then there’s Mel Tillis. His hilarious misadventures out on the road are legendary. Just ask Mac Davis or Ray Stevens. I also know Mel as my friend. Upbeat guy who admirably turned his stuttering into an asset and educated everyone on how to overcome stereotypes. There will never be anyone else like Mel Tillis.” —Naomi Judd
Photo: Courtesy Bellamy Brothers
“I’ve lost a brother. Mel was the very first person I met when I came to Nashville in the late ‘50s and we’ve been friends ever since. I’ve lost another fishing buddy and a talented, talented brother. Without Mel and ‘Detroit City,’ I probably would not have had a career. Mel’s one of those people you’ve got to love.” – Bobby Bare, bandmate of Tillis’ in “Old Dogs” with Jerry Reed and Waylon Jennings. Mel Tillis co-wrote Bare’s smash-hit “Detroit City.”
“Mel was a special friend, great artist, and constant inspiration to me—Heaven’s choir just got sweeter.” – Randy Travis
“Hall of Fame entertainer and songwriter — he was all in one, a great combination. He is one of our biggest heroes.” – Randy Owen of ALABAMA
“Mel Tillis, you will be missed by so many of us you touched over the years. Rest in peace my friend.” – Charlie Daniels
“All I could think of when I heard the news of Mel’s passing was ‘one of the brightest lights in country music went out last night.’ He left an amazing legacy with his songs, but I will always remember his humor more than anything else. It’s sad to think there will be no more ‘Mel Tillis stories.’ – Jeannie Seely
Photo: Courtesy Naomi Judd
“It’s a sad day in country music but even sadder for the family and those of us who loved the late, great Mel Tillis. His life was the stage and making people laugh for years. He was truly one of the kindest men in the business to me. He was great friends with my dad and my uncle Bill and he’s treated me like a daughter. My heart breaks for the future of the Tillis family while they heal. It’s a hole that will never be filled for them. God bless Mel Tillis and the Tillis family.” – Lorrie Morgan
“I was honored to be Mel’s friend! He took me under his wing a long time ago and for that I will be forever grateful. The world has lost a truly talented man. His music and hilarious stories will live on forever. Rest in peace my friend, I’ll see you on the other side.” – Johnny Lee
“We’re so sad to hear about the passing of Mel Tillis, but we feel so fortunate to have known him. Prayers and condolences to all of his family.” —Bellamy Brothers
“Mel Tillis was one of the first people I met in Nashville and he was always so kind to me. We certainly have lost a giant in our music family.” – Lee Roy Parnell
Photo: Courtesy Tanya Tucker
Other artists offered condolences to the family via social media.
Brett Young, Carly Pearce Celebrate Sold-Out Nashville Show
/by Jessica NicholsonBrett Young and Carly Pearce. Photo: Katie Kauss
BMLG labelmates Brett Young and Carly Pearce had much to celebrate during a show at Nashville’s Marathon Music Works on Friday (Nov. 17).
The performance was one of 17 sold-out shows on Young’s first-ever headlining trek, dubbed the Caliville Tour. During the Nashville show, Young lent his soothing, soulful voice to songs including his current single “Like I Loved You,” and his two-time Platinum-certified hit “In Case You Didn’t Know,” as well as the Platinum-certified “Sleep Without You.”
Brett Young celebrates his sold-out Marathon Music Works Nashville show with his team, including Scott Borchetta (President/CEO Big Machine Label Group), Jimmy Harnen (President BMLG Records/EVP BMLG) as well as Red Light Management’s Enzo DeVincenzo and Van Haze. Photo: Katie Kauss
Young has clearly learned one thing from his stints opening shows for Lady Antebellum and Thomas Rhett: Crowds love surprises. Young didn’t falter, as he brought Gavin DeGraw out for a surprise performance.
He also brought opener Carly Pearce out for a stirring rendition of “Whiskey Lullaby,” and offered his own take on the Leonard Cohen classic “Hallelujah” during the Nashville tour stop.
Meanwhile, Pearce offered several songs from her recently-released debut album for BMLG, and celebrated her first No. 1 single, the Gold-certified “Every Little Thing” with her BMLG team after her opening performance. She is the only solo female with a charting country debut single to achieve a Gold-certification in 2017.
Pictured (L-R): BMLG CMO Mike Rittberg, Big Machine Records GM Jim Weatherson and VP Promotion Kris Lamb, Carly Pearce, BMLG President & CEO Scott Borchetta and BMR National Director of Radio Promotion Erik Powell. Photo: Katie Kauss
Brett Young and Gavin DeGraw. Photo: Katie Kauss
Brett Young. Photo: Katie Kauss
Paradigm Agent Steve Dahl Passes
/by Jessica NicholsonSteve Dahl
Steve Dahl, a longtime Paradigm agent who led the agency’s Fairs & Festivals department, and opened Monterey Peninsula Artists’ Nashville office in 1986, has died.
Dahl was a two-time Pollstar Awards nominee for Third Coast Agent of the Year. He served stints as Vice President and Director-At-Large for the Academy of Country Music, and also served on the boards of the International Association of Fairs & Expositions, the International Entertainment Buyers Association, and the Country Music Association.
Before he was an agent, Dahl was the singer, frontman and trumpet player for The Red Dogs, a rhythm & blues band that toured widely and recorded for ATCO/Atlantic Records in the 1960s. The Red Dogs have been inducted into the Kansas Music Hall of Fame, the Nebraska Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Iowa Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and the South Dakota Rock & Roll Music Association Hall of Fame.
Dahl is survived by his wife Beth, with whom he had a son and daughter.
Weekly Register: Taylor Swift’s ‘reputation’ Brings Her Fourth Debut-Week Million Seller
/by Jessica NicholsonKenny Chesney tops this week’s country albums sales rankings (and at No. 9 overall), with Live In No Shoes Nation selling 33K. Last week the album was at No. 2, with 52K, following its debut week of 219K.
Last week’s No. 1 album, Blake Shelton‘s Texoma Shore, moved 32K this week to land at No. 2, down from 63K in its debut week.
Chris Stapleton‘s From A Room: Vol. 1 is at No. 3, with 17K, followed by Kane Brown‘s self-titled project at No. 4 with 15.6K. Stapleton lands a second album in the Top 5 this week, with Traveller at No. 5 with 15.5K.
Tracy Lawrence‘s Good Ole Days greatest hits, duet album debuts at No. 16 with 7.8K.
On the country streaming rankings, Keith Urban‘s new track “Female” tops the chart with 32K sold this week. He debuted the song on the recent CMA Awards airing. Chris Stapleton‘s “Broken Halos” also keeps riding the bump from his recent CMA Awards performance, with 17.5K sold this week. LANCO‘s “Greatest Love Story” moved 17K this week, followed by Kane Brown with “What Ifs” (ft. Lauren Alaina) moving 15K to land at No. 4. Thomas Rhett‘s “Unforgettable” rounds out the Top 5 with 13K.
The top country debut song this week is Danielle Bradbery‘s “Worth It,” which lands at No. 23, moving 5.9K.
Information courtesy Nielsen Soundscan.
Kesha, Old Crow Medicine Show Set For ‘CMT Crossroads’
/by Jessica NicholsonOld Crow Medicine Show will collaborate with pop star Kesha on CMT Crossroads, set to air Wednesday, Dec. 6 at 10 p.m. on CMT.
This past April Old Crow Medicine Show released their sixth album, 50 Years of Blonde on Blonde, via Columbia Nashville, the same label that Bob Dylan, fifty years prior, released his iconic album Blonde on Blonde. Following the 50 Years of Blonde on Blonde album release, Old Crow Medicine Show also released the DVD/BLU-ray performance, 50 Years of Blonde on Blonde THE CONCERT, on Sept. 15. The group was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 2013.
In August, Nashville native Kesha released her third studio album, Rainbow, led by the album’s debut single “Praying.” The project debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200 chart.
Old Crow Medicine Show and Kesha join a long list of eclectic and iconic artists in the 15-year history of CMT Crossroads, which launched Jan. 13, 2002, with a performance by Elvis Costello and Lucinda Williams. Since the beginning the series has showcased dream musical partnerships including Kid Rock and Hank Williams, Jr.; Ray Charles and Travis Tritt; Dave Matthews and Emmylou Harris; Bon Jovi and Sugarland; Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire; Def Leppard and Taylor Swift; Sting and Vince Gill; John Mayer and Keith Urban; Steven Tyler and Carrie Underwood; Stevie Nicks and Lady Antebellum; Katy Perry and Kacey Musgraves; Alicia Keys and Maren Morris; and most recently, the Backstreet Boys and Florida Georgia Line.
CMT Crossroads is produced by CMT’s Margaret Comeaux and Switched On Entertainment’s John Hamlin.
Danielle Bradbery’s “Heart Of Dixie” Goes Gold
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): G Major’s Virginia Davis, BMLG Records President/EVP BMLG Jimmy Harnen, Danielle Bradbery, BMLG President/CEO Scott Borchetta, G Major’s Samantha Thornton
Danielle Bradbery recently celebrated the Gold certification of her debut single, “The Heart Of Dixie.” Bradbery is gearing up for the release of her sophomore album, I Don’t Believe We’ve Met, on Dec. 1. Bradbery co-wrote seven of the album’s 10 tracks, marking her first time co-writing.
Country Radio Broadcasters Names 2018 Rusty Walker Scholarship Recipients
/by Lorie HollabaughJennifer Hays, Mark Wells, Jamie Jackson
The Country Radio Broadcasters have named Jennifer Hays – “Jenn Parker” (Music Director/On Air, KCTR/Billings, MT), Mark “Haystack” Wells (Program Director/KCYT-FM/Fayetteville, AR), and Jamie Jackson (Promotions Director/95.3 KRTY/San Jose) as recipients of the 2018 Rusty Walker Scholarship. Each individual will receive an all-expense paid trip and attendance to CRS 2018 February 5-7, 2018. The three scholars will be recognized during the CRS 2018 Opening Ceremonies.
The Rusty Walker Scholarship program is named in honor of Country Radio Hall of Fame member Rusty Walker, who passed away in May 2012 at the age of 59. To honor Walker’s belief in cultivating rising stars, CRS created the scholarship program in his name, enabling young members of the industry who may not otherwise have the chance to attend CRS.
Scott Clayton Joins WME
/by Jessica NicholsonScott Clayton
Scott Clayton has joined WME as Partner and Co-Head of its Nashville office. Clayton will also lead the agency’s Rock division, working across WME’s global music team to identify and support rock artists and bands. Clayton was previously with CAA since 2000.
Clayton joins WME’s Nashville Co-Heads Rob Beckham, Joey Lee, Greg Oswald and Jay Williams in overseeing the daily operations for the Nashville office.
“Scott is unquestionably one of the most respected executives in the live music industry, having identified and worked with many great rock artists,” said WME’s Head of Music Marc Geiger. “We are seeing many different genres of music thriving out of Nashville right now, and with Scott’s addition we are in a great position to take advantage of the market opportunities available to us.”
“We have long admired Scott as a competitor, and are proud to now call him our colleague,” said Jay Williams, Co-Head of WME’s Nashville office. “His understanding of where the business is heading and how WME can provide even greater services to its clients make him an ideal fit. We look forward to bringing his leadership and insight to our colleagues and clients.”
“Over the course of my career I’ve been proud to watch the music community in Nashville grow into a global force,” said Clayton. “Overseeing the rock business from this city speaks to its importance and the city’s continued expansion. WME has demonstrated a strong commitment to Nashville and the rock genre, and I look forward to working to create new opportunities for all of our clients.”
During his career, Clayton has worked with some of the biggest musicians and bands in the world, including John Mayer, Dead & Company, Kings of Leon, Train, and Zac Brown Band. He is also Co-Chair of the Music City Music Council, alongside Mayor Megan Barry and Vice Chair Sally Williams of Opry Entertainment.
This announcement follows news last month that Joey Lee and Jay Williams joined Beckham and Oswald as Co-Heads of the Nashville office.
Scott Clayton Exits CAA Nashville Office
/by Jessica NicholsonScott Clayton
CAA Co-Head Scott Clayton has exited the talent agency’s Nashville office, MusicRow has confirmed.
Clayton has been with CAA since 2000, where he has represented John Mayer, Train, Kings of Leon, Dead & Company, My Morning Jacket, and more. He moved to Nashville in 1994 to launch Progressive Global Agency. He is a member of the Music City Music Council.
Following Clayton’s exit, CAA’s Nashville office co-heads now include Marc Dennis, Rod Essig, John Huie and Darin Murphy.
Country Community Reacts To Passing Of Mel Tillis
/by Lorie HollabaughMel Tillis
The country community is responding to the death of legend Mel Tillis with an outpouring of love and fond memories. Tillis passed away Sunday, Nov. 19 at a hospital in Ocala, FL at age 85.
“Mel Tillis spent a lifetime giving us joy and laughter and music, which is why his death brings such sadness. Had he never stepped on a stage, he would still have been one of the funniest and most genuine people on the planet. But his whimsy and warmth were only a part of his appeal. He wrote some of country music’s most compelling and consequential songs, he fronted a remarkable band, and he sang with power and emotion. He also shone as an inspiration, revealing what others called an impediment as a vehicle for humor and hope. – Kyle Young, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum CEO
“Kindest man I’ve ever known. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Gonna be some great country music in Heaven this Sunday.” —Billy Ray Cyrus
“My heart is just broken over the passing of the great Mel Tillis. I have so many wonderful memories with him. I’ll never forget working with him on ‘Love Boat’ with Dottie West. We just go way back – from the time I was 8 years old when he brought me on stage with him. When I got older, sometimes I had to use other bands because I didn’t have a band. Mel always let me use his band and I’ll never forget that. We remained friends right up until the end. Love you, Mel.”
—Tanya Tucker
“There are stand-up comedians and then there’s Mel Tillis. His hilarious misadventures out on the road are legendary. Just ask Mac Davis or Ray Stevens. I also know Mel as my friend. Upbeat guy who admirably turned his stuttering into an asset and educated everyone on how to overcome stereotypes. There will never be anyone else like Mel Tillis.” —Naomi Judd
Photo: Courtesy Bellamy Brothers
“I’ve lost a brother. Mel was the very first person I met when I came to Nashville in the late ‘50s and we’ve been friends ever since. I’ve lost another fishing buddy and a talented, talented brother. Without Mel and ‘Detroit City,’ I probably would not have had a career. Mel’s one of those people you’ve got to love.” – Bobby Bare, bandmate of Tillis’ in “Old Dogs” with Jerry Reed and Waylon Jennings. Mel Tillis co-wrote Bare’s smash-hit “Detroit City.”
“Mel was a special friend, great artist, and constant inspiration to me—Heaven’s choir just got sweeter.” – Randy Travis
“Hall of Fame entertainer and songwriter — he was all in one, a great combination. He is one of our biggest heroes.” – Randy Owen of ALABAMA
“Mel Tillis, you will be missed by so many of us you touched over the years. Rest in peace my friend.” – Charlie Daniels
“All I could think of when I heard the news of Mel’s passing was ‘one of the brightest lights in country music went out last night.’ He left an amazing legacy with his songs, but I will always remember his humor more than anything else. It’s sad to think there will be no more ‘Mel Tillis stories.’ – Jeannie Seely
Photo: Courtesy Naomi Judd
“It’s a sad day in country music but even sadder for the family and those of us who loved the late, great Mel Tillis. His life was the stage and making people laugh for years. He was truly one of the kindest men in the business to me. He was great friends with my dad and my uncle Bill and he’s treated me like a daughter. My heart breaks for the future of the Tillis family while they heal. It’s a hole that will never be filled for them. God bless Mel Tillis and the Tillis family.” – Lorrie Morgan
“I was honored to be Mel’s friend! He took me under his wing a long time ago and for that I will be forever grateful. The world has lost a truly talented man. His music and hilarious stories will live on forever. Rest in peace my friend, I’ll see you on the other side.” – Johnny Lee
“We’re so sad to hear about the passing of Mel Tillis, but we feel so fortunate to have known him. Prayers and condolences to all of his family.” —Bellamy Brothers
“Mel Tillis was one of the first people I met in Nashville and he was always so kind to me. We certainly have lost a giant in our music family.” – Lee Roy Parnell
Photo: Courtesy Tanya Tucker
Other artists offered condolences to the family via social media.
Keith Urban Earns Three American Music Awards
/by Jessica NicholsonKeith Urban was Nashville’s big winner Sunday evening (Nov. 19) at the American Music Awards. Urban picked up three honors, including Favorite Male Artist-Country, Favorite Album-Country (for Ripcord), and Favorite Song-Country (for “Blue Ain’t Your Color”).
Carrie Underwood picked up Favorite Female Artist-Country, while Little Big Town earned Favorite Duo or Group-Country.
Lauren Daigle earned Favorite Artist-Contemporary Inspirational.
AMA nominees Florida Georgia Line performed with Hailee Steinfeld on the collaboration “Let Me Go.” Other performance highlights included Pink‘s jawdropping aerial performance from the side of the JW Marriott Los Angeles. Christina Aguilera performed a medley of hits from Whitney Houston’s The Bodyguard soundtrack, which was recently celebrated with an anniversary re-issue edition. Kelly Clarkson performed a medley of “Miss Independent” and “Love So Soft” while also teaming with Pink for a rendition of R.E.M.’s “Everybody Hurts,” with images from the numerous tragedies that plagued 2017, including shootings and hurricanes, on the screen behind them.
Diana Ross was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
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