
Frank Bumstead.
FBMM Co-Founder Frank Bumstead passed away on yesterday morning (July 20) in Nashville. He was 83.
Before his time at FBMM, Bumstead served as CEO at JMR Investments for 14 years and was a proprietor at Bumstead Company for a decade. Bumstead founded FBMM alongside Mary Ann McCready, the late Chuck Flood and John McCarthy in 1990. Under Bumstead’s leadership, FBMM was the first business management firm to provide services from a seasoned economist. In 1991, Bumstead negotiated and arranged the sale of CMT network to Opryland, and also led the merger of MusicRow Magazine with SouthComm in 2008.
Bumstead was heavily involved in the community. In 2018, Bumstead was honored with the Frances Preston Outstanding Music Industry Achievement Award by the T.J. Martell Foundation. He also was awarded Nashville Opera’s Francis Robinson Award in 2019 for significant contributions to the arts. CMA also recognized him in 2022 with the William Denny Award for a lifetime of dedication and distinguished service to the CMA Board of Directors.
He was also a board member of CMA, where he served as President in 2014 and Chairman in 2015, along with other leadership positions. He also served on the boards of the Armed Services Mutual Benefit Association, Blue Chair Bay® Rum, Brookdale Senior Living, Conway-Welch Family Foundation, Fishbowl Spirits, LLC, Junior Achievement of Nashville, Junior League Advisory Board, Nashville Wire Products, United Supermarkets of Texas and Watkins Institute.
Bumstead was a founding member of the Memorial Foundation’s Board of Trustees and chaired the Foundation’s Finance & Investments Committee for more than 20 years. He was also chairman for Overwatch Alliance and involved with the Armed Services Mutual Benefit Association.
“Frank was brilliant, passionate and a role model to all of us at FBMM,” says Jamie Cheek, Owner and CEO of FBMM. “His expertise in investments and finance was key to FBMM’s ‘edge’ over the years and why we called him our ‘secret weapon.’ Frank was one of a kind, and we will continue to honor the legacy he instilled of hard work and dedication.”
“Frank cared deeply about this industry and the people in it, whether you were a client or not,” adds Sarah Trahern, Country Music Association CEO. “I first met Frank during my interview for the CMA role in 2013, and I’ll never forget his sharp, thoughtful questions–or the unmistakable twinkle in his eyes. He helped lead several important initiatives that positioned CMA for long-term growth and stability. Although he left the Board in 2021, we remained in close touch over the years. My heart is with his wife, Ann, their sons, and all who knew and loved him. Frank was truly one of a kind.”
“Frank Bumstead has been a father figure to me for over 30 years,” shares Frank Thomas, National Baseball Hall of Famer. “Through the ups and downs, he was my anchor. There was nothing I couldn’t call and ask him, but he always kept me in line to do what was right. Some people you can’t replace in your life and that person is Frank Bumstead. I will miss him dearly. God bless the Bumstead family.”
“Although Frank was the primary architect of the [Memorial] Foundation’s sound and successful fiscal strategy, what was most important to him was that the Foundation’s funding supported local nonprofit organizations that helped make life better for others,” Board Chair Dr. David McKee says. Varina Buntin, the Foundation’s Board Vice Chair, shares “Frank’s wise counsel and passion for the Foundation’s mission since its inception has been invaluable, and he will be sorely missed.”
“I have a sincere appreciation for his guidance and leadership throughout the years of working together,” adds Mark Woodforde, International Tennis and Sport Hall of Famer. “He inspired me to grow both personally and professionally. I will miss his friendship and words of encouragement, and he will be deeply missed, but the heavens above have gained a true gentleman.”
“Frank Bumstead was a true patriot having served in combat as a Navy officer in Vietnam,” says Judge George C. Paine II. “He gave generously to veterans’ causes in time and treasure, whether personally or through advocating for them within the Memorial Foundation. Personally, I loved swapping “war stories” with him, and will greatly miss him, his wit, financial acumen and wisdom.”
FBMM will continue to be led by owners Julie Boos, David Boyer, Jamie Cheek, Duane Clark, Jen Conger, Dan Killian, Carmen Romano and Erica Rosa.
An informal visitation/celebration of Bumstead’s life will take place at Mount Olivet Funeral Home on Saturday, Aug. 9, from 12–2p.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests the following organizations for memorials and tributes in honor of his life: Cumberland Heights, Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, Family and Children’s Service, and the Frank M. and Ann S. Bumstead Scholarship at Owen Graduate School of Management.
John Carter Cash Tells The Tale Of ‘Pineapple John’ On New Album
/by Lorie HollabaughJohn Carter Cash
John Carter Cash is set to release his full-length album, Pineapple John, on Sept. 12. Cash is giving fans a preview of the upcoming project with the new single, “Snow On the Sand,” which will be released on July 25.
Pineapple John is a cinematic journey that follows the life of the life-worn singer-songwriter Pineapple John. Produced by John Carter and Trey Call, the album explores themes of love, loss, redemption and self-discovery. From the opening prelude “Nekid Man (Pineapple John Prelude)” to the closing track “The Island Fair/ Captain Jim’s Drunken Dream/ Carry On,” the album immerses listeners in a world that is thought-provoking and emotionally-filled.
The first single, “Snow On the Sand,” serves as a pivotal moment in the album’s storyline. The track captures the emotional contrasts of the album, combining poignant lyrics with a stirring soundscape that reflects the warmth of the beach juxtaposed against the cold remnants of a past long left behind.
“I’m incredibly excited to share ‘Snow On The Sand,’” says John Carter Cash. “It’s the first glimpse into Pineapple John and the beginning of what I hope will be a deeply personal journey for my listeners. The full album is a reflection of life’s struggles and triumphs, and I can’t wait to share it with the world.”
The album also features some special guests including Marty Stuart playing electric guitar on “The Island Fair,” Clare Bowen lending backing vocals on both “The Hole In The Bottom of the Sea” and “The Island Fair,” and Brandon Young, (co-writer on “The Ocean Calling”) contributing backing vocals on “Pineapple John,” among other songs. John Carter’s daughter A.B. Cash also joins her father on “Beckoning Melody” and “The Hole in the Bottom of the Sea” features vocals by John’s nephew Thomas Gabriel.
Pineapple John Track List:
1. “Nekid Man (Pineapple John Prelude)” – John Carter Cash, Damon Fielder
2. “Pineapple John” – John Carter Cash, Jack Ezra Cash
3. “Sleeping with The Mermaids” – John Carter Cash, Jack Ezra Cash
4. “Uncle Ben The Devil and The Deep Blue Sea” – John Carter Cash, Jon Vaughn, Dave Daeger
5. “The Ballard of Spider John” – Willis Alan Ramsey
6. “Man Will Pray” – John Carter Cash
7. “The Hole In the Bottom of The Sea” – John Carter Cash, Thomas Gabriel
8. “Soon Come” – John Carter Cash
9. “Shame and Scandal” – Lord Melody
10. “Jamaica Farewell” – Irving Burgie
11. “Snow On The Sand” – John Carter Cash
12. “Beckoning Melody” – John Carter Cash, Anna Belle Cash
13. “Man Will Pray Slight Reprise” – John Carter Cash
14. “The Ocean Calling” – John Carter Cash, Brandon Robert Young
15. “The Island Fair/Captain Jim’s Drunken Dream/Carry On” – John Carter Cash, Joseph Cash
Lukas Nelson Announces ‘American Romance Tour’ For Fall
/by Lorie HollabaughLukas Nelson. Photo: Matthew Berinato
Lukas Nelson will hit the road on his new “American Romance Tour” this fall, beginning Sept. 13.
Special guests Stephen Wilson Jr., The Band Loula and Laci Kaye Booth will join him on the trek, which includes stops in Austin, Dallas, Little Rock, Philadelphia, Detroit, Chicago and more through Oct. 31. Tickets for the new dates will be available for pre-sale starting July 24 with general on-sale following July 25 at lukasnelson.com/tour.
The tour celebrates Nelson’s new album, American Romance, which was released last month via Sony Music Nashville. Across the 12 tracks, including collaborations with Sierra Ferrell and Stephen Wilson Jr., Nelson tells stories of his life on the road, detailing the joys, complexities, beauty and heartbreak he’s encountered during his travels across the country.
Since his debut over a decade ago, Nelson has released eight studio albums, including 2023’s Sticks and Stones, which spent 18 weeks in the top 10 of the Americana Albums chart and reached No. 1 on the Alt Country chart. Nelson recently performed at the MusiCares 2025 Person of the Year Gala, where he honored the Grateful Dead by performing “It Must Have Been the Roses” with Sierra Ferrell.
Lukas Nelson Confirmed Tour Dates:
July 23—Kingston, NY—Ulster Performing Arts Center
July 25—Rutland, VT—Paramount Theatre
July 26—Newport, RI—Newport Folk Festival
July 28—Deerfield, MA—Tree House Brewing Company
August 1—Big Sky, MT—Wildlands Festival*
August 2—Big Sky, MT—Wildlands Festival*
August 3—Rexford, MT—Abayance Bay Marina
August 6—Billings, MT—Pub Station
August 8—Park City, UT—Canyons Village at Park City
August 10—Alta, WY—Grand Targhee Bluegrass Festival
September 13—Telluride, CO—Telluride Blues and Brews Festival
September 19—Ashland, KY—Healing Appalachia
September 20—Bristol, TN—Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion
September 26—Dana Point, CA—Ohana Festival
September 29—Austin, TX—Paramount Theatre†
September 30—Austin, TX—Paramount Theatre†
October 2—Dallas, TX—Majestic Theatre†
October 3—Little Rock, AR—The Hall†
October 4—Memphis, TN—Mempho Music Festival
October 6—Decatur, AL—Princess Theatre
October 8—Nashville, TN—The Pinnacle§
October 9—Atlanta, GA—Buckhead Theatre§
October 10—North Charleston, SC—Riverfront Revival Music Festival
October 12—Wilmington, NC—Live Oak Bank Pavilion‡
October 14—Washington, D.C—Lincoln Theater§
October 15—Philadelphia, PA—Brooklyn Bowl§
October 21—Cleveland, OH—Globe Iron§
October 22—Detroit, MI—Majestic Theatre§
October 24—Milwaukee, WI—The Rave§
October 25—Madison, WI—The Sylvee§
October 26—Chicago, IL—The Vic§
October 28—Saint Paul, MN—Palace Theater§
October 29—Omaha, NE—The Admiral§
October 31—Denver, CO—Paramount Theatre§
*supporting Dave Matthews
†with special guest Laci Kaye Booth
§with special guest The Band Loula
‡with special guests Stephen Wilson Jr. and The Band Loula
Wierok Entertainment Taps Holly Salazar As Head Of Publishing And Rights Management
/by Lauryn SinkHolly Salazar.
Wierok Entertainment has tapped Holly Salazar as Head of Publishing and Rights Management, overseeing the company’s catalog across its label imprints including WieRok Records, Amplo Records, Wie3 Records, and WieRise Music. Salazar will lead the company’s newly centralized publishing and rights division as it brings its music rights administration fully in-house.
“Holly is one of the sharpest minds in music publishing and rights,” says Lance Wieland, WieRok Entertainment Group Co-Founder and CEO. “She’s a systems builder, a champion for creatives and someone who sees both the forest and the trees. I believe she’ll be a catalyst for our continued growth and a key voice in nurturing our servant-leader culture. She brings not only deep expertise but also a spirit of collaboration that fits beautifully within the heart and hustle of our team. We couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome her into this next chapter.”
Salazar comes to WieRok with over 15 years of experience in publishing, royalties, licensing and creative rights strategy, having administered more than 2,000 songs and secured over 500 placements across radio, film, streaming, church platforms and editorial playlists. She has spent time with Bethel Music, BMI and most recently Dvout Music, where she oversaw global rights operations.
Weekly Register: Morgan Wallen Stays Atop Streaming Charts
/by Lauryn SinkMorgan Wallen.
Morgan Wallen continues to hold the lead on both the albums and singles charts this week, according to Luminate data. His recently-released I’m The Problem album remains at No. 1 with 147K in total consumption (7.3K in album only and 177 million in song streams). His duet with Tate McRae, “What I Want,” tops the songs chart with 18 million streams this week, adding to its 194 million total.
On the albums chart, Wallen also holds the No. 2 and No. 3 spots with One Thing At A Time garnering 39K in total consumption and Dangerous: The Double Album earning 28K in total consumption. Shaboozey holds the No. 4 spot with Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going reaching 26K in total consumption. Rounding out this week’s chart is Post Malone’s F-1 Trillion with 19K in total consumption.
Over on the songs chart, Wallen holds the top three spots. “Just In Case” comes in at No. 2 with 14 million streams this week. “I’m The Problem” follows with 13 million streams. Taking No. 4 is Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” with 11 million streams this week. Wallen has reclaimed the No. 5 spot with “I Got Better” garnering 11 million streams this week.
The Choir Room Signs With Centricity Music
/by Madison HahnenPictured: (L-R, back row): Michael Walter (Behind, Choir Room), Marcus Perry (Behind, Choir Room), Chris Strawder (Behind, Choir Room) and John Mays (Centricity Music). (L-R, front row): Garrett Miller (Choir Room), Andrew Lambeth (Centricity Music), Benny Martinex (Choir Room), Caren Seidle (Centricity Music), Jay White (Choir Room), Dwan Hill (Choir Room), Hannah Gifford (Management), Camy McCardle (Centricity Music), John Stokes (Centricity Music) and Chad Segura (Centricity Music).
Musical group The Choir Room has signed with Centricity Music.
The group was formed by three time Grammy winner Dwan Hill in 2022. The group joins people of all ages to create music together by allowing audiences to sing with the group on stage, rather than watching the performance. Since their formation, they have had over a thousand people featured in global concerts, and have had guest vocals from Ben Rector, San Franklin, Tasha Layton, Allen Stone and Fred Hammond, among others.
The Choir Room is also featured on Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll’s “Hard Fought Hallelujah.” At the 2024 GMA Dove Awards, they joined Forrest Frank on stage for a performance. Last year, the group released their debut album Let’s Have Church (Live), which includes their collaboration with Ben Rector “Joy- The Choir Room Version,” which has amassed over one million streams.
“Centricity is excited to partner with a musical talent like Dwan and everyone involved with The Choir Room,” shares Caren Seidle, CEO of Centricity Music. “They have created a way to bring people from all walks of life together in one room to sing powerful and uplifting songs across generations. Their passion and dedication to authentic connection through music are truly inspiring, and we are honored to support their journey.”
Their sophomore album, Everybody Needs Someone will be released later this year via Centricity Music.
Concord Closes $1.765 Billion In Asset-Backed Securitization
/by Lauryn SinkConcord has issued $1.765 billion in a series of new five-year, seven-year, and ten-year senior notes. The ten-year tranche marks the longest duration asset-backed securitization issuance at scale in the music sector.
The notes are secured by Concord’s catalog of over 1.3 million music copyrights, featuring the songs and recordings of artists such as The Beatles, Beyonce, Bruno Mars, Carrie Underwood, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Daddy Yankee, Ed Sheeran, Genesis, Imagine Dragons, John Fogerty, Kiss, Michael Jackson, Otis Redding, Phil Collins, Pink Floyd, R.E.M., Rihanna, Rodgers & Hammerstein, Taylor Swift and The Rolling Stones.
Apollo Global Securities, LLC and ATLAS SP Securities acted as joint bookrunners for the transaction, Redding Ridge Asset Management served as structuring agent, with the Bank of New York Mellon acting as trustee. Virtu Global Advisors, LLC provided valuation services, while DLA Piper provided legal counsel for Concord and Milbank LLP for Apollo affiliates.
Concord’s securitization catalog is valued at more than $5.1 billion and the notes were rated A+ by KBRA and A2 by Moody’s. Apollo, through its Capital Solutions business and its affiliates, structured the ABS transaction and formed an investor syndicate led by Apollo-managed funds and affiliates. Proceeds from the issuance will be used to repay the company’s $1.65 billion 2022-1 note series and refinance and extend its $100 million variable funding note.
“As Concord continues to grow both our catalog and frontline roster, ensuring long-term access to institutional capital and continuing to build upon our strong financial foundation are crucial. ABS transactions like the one we just closed will remain a vital part of our growth strategy, allowing us to continue to lower our cost of capital while expanding our global capabilities in support of the artists and songwriters we serve,” says Bob Valentine, CEO of Concord. “I am incredibly grateful to the Apollo team, who continue to provide customized solutions so that Concord can live out its mission to elevate the voices of artists around the world.”
“We are pleased to structure and lead this landmark ABS transaction for Concord, which represents a continuation of our long-term financing partnership and demonstrates Concord’s innovative approach to music securitization through the issuance of the industry’s first 10-year tranche,” shares Apollo Partner Michael Paniwozik. “We continue to be impressed by the quality and breadth of the actively managed catalog that Concord has built and look forward to supporting its journey for years to come.”
“It has been immensely rewarding to support Concord’s continued evolution leveraging the ABS structure that we established in 2022,” adds Apollo Managing Director Paul Sipio. “Since that time, Bob and team have made tremendous progress advancing the company’s growth strategy through several additive acquisitions. We believe the four transactions that we’ve executed with Concord to date reflect the differentiated nature of Apollo’s integrated platform, bringing together combined capabilities of Apollo, ATLAS SP, and Redding Ridge to provide tailored structured solutions.”
Parker McCollum Brings Celebrated New Album To FirstBank Amphitheater
/by Lauryn SinkParker McCollum.
Parker McCollum brought his signature country sound to FirstBank Amphitheater in Franklin on Thursday night (July 17), mixing familiar fan-favorites with a selection of new songs from his latest release.
Vincent Mason set the tone of the night early with tracks like “Hell is a Dance Floor,” “Train of Thought” and “Wish You Well.” He debuted his newest tune, “Damned If I Do,” just ahead of its Friday release. Before McCollum took the stage, the Randy Rogers Band kept the momentum up with a set including “Too Late For Goodbye,” “In My Arms Instead,” “Kiss Me In The Dark” and more.
As the sun dipped behind the amphitheater, McCollum stepped onstage. He kicked off the set with “My Blue” before rolling into “Big Sky” and “Meet In The Middle.” The crowd responded loud and early as he moved into a run of staples, including “Young Man’s Blues,” “Stoned” and “To Be Loved By You.”
The energy stayed high as he introduced new material from his recently released self-titled album, like “Hope That I’m Enough” and “What Kinda Man.”
Midway through the set, after a crowd singalong of “I Can’t Breathe,” McCollum paused to interact with fans in the pit, signing posters and writing “You Are Enough” for a fan planning to get it tattooed. Before continuing, he brought out his wife, Hallie Ray Light McCollum, and their son, Major, to a warm welcome from the crowd and moved into “The Rest Of My Life.”
“To the guy who has said ‘I love you, Parker’ between every song — I love you too,” McCollum laughed, before slowing things down with “Hell of a Year” and “Watch Me Bleed.”
The pace snapped back up with “Handle on You,” followed by a special moment as the Randy Rogers Band returned to the stage for “Killin’ Me,” a track McCollum co-wrote with Rogers himself.
From there, it was a run of closers including the crowd-beloved “Big Ole Fancy House,” his chart-topper “Burn It Down” and the brand-new “Solid Country Gold,” before wrapping the night with “Pretty Heart,” “Like a Cowboy” and “My Worst Enemy.”
The tour continues this weekend (July 24) in Louisiana.
Hardy Moves Into Top 15 On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart
/by Madison HahnenHardy. Photo: Ryan Smith
Hardy has moved into the top 15 on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. His own “Favorite Country Song” and collaboration with Ella Langley “Never Met Anyone Like You,” as well as Morgan Wallen‘s “I Got Better,” “I Ain’t Comin’ Back” and “I’m A Little Crazy” push the singer-songwriter to the No. 15 spot.
Charlie Handsome remains in the No. 1 spot for the eight consecutive week with “What I Want,” “Just In Case,” “I’m The Problem,” “I Got Better,” “Love Somebody,” “I Ain’t Comin’ Back,” “Superman,” “TN,” “Don’t We,” “Eyes Are Closed,” “Where’d That Girl Go,” “Kiss Her In Front Of You,” “Kick Myself” and “Falling Apart.” Wallen stays at No. 2 with “What I Want,” “Just In Case,” “I’m The Problem,” “I Got Better,” “Love Somebody,” “I Ain’t Comin’ Back,” “Superman,” “TN,” “Don’t We,” “Eyes Are Closed,” “Where’d That Girl Go,” “Kick Myself” and “Falling Apart.”
John Byron (No. 3), Ashley Gorley (No. 4) and Chase McGill (No. 5) round out this week’s top five.
The weekly MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart uses algorithms based upon song activity according to airplay, digital download track sales and streams. This unique and exclusive addition to the MusicRow portfolio is the only songwriter chart of its kind.
Click here to view the full MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart.
Industry Ink: Pat Green & Friends, André de Raaff, She Is The Music, William Beckmann, More
/by Lauryn SinkPat Green & Friends Raises $1 Million For Texas Flood Relief
Pat Green performs at Globe Life Field. Photo: Tim Heitman
The Pat Green & Friends Texas Flood Relief Livestream last week raised over $1 million by the end of the broadcast alone. Working in partnership with the Texas Rangers and REV Entertainment, the event brought together over 300,000 viewers with performances from Miranda Lambert, Jon Pardi, Dierks Bentley, Parker McCollum, Jamey Johnson, Corey Kent, Casey Donahew, Cross Canadian Ragweed, Josh Abbott, Ryan Bingham, Eli Young Band, Flatland Cavalry, Joe Nichols, Kaitlin Butts, Ty Myers, Kevin Fowler, Aaron Watson, Jon Wolfe and Bob Schneider.
“I’ve always believed in the power of the community of musicians and music fans,” shares Green. “They all came together last night, where that belief was confirmed in the most beautiful way.”
All proceeds from the concert and livestream will be distributed to Kerr County Relief, TEXSAR and the Do It For Durrett Foundation via The Pat Green Foundation, directly benefiting the families affected by this heart-wrenching disaster. Donations can still be made here.
André De Raaff Presented With CMA Certificate Of Recognition
Pictured (L-R): Thomas Deelder (Creative Director CTM Publishing BV), André de Raaff, Sarah Trahern and Jody Williams (Jody Williams Songs, CMA Songwriter Advocate)
CMA recently recognized André De Raaff’s 50 year commitment to Nashville and the international growth of country music. The special certificate was also presented to celebrate the 25th anniversary of CTM Publishing BV.
She Is The Music, FEMco & Anzie Blue Host Songwriter Showcase
Pictured (Back row, L-R): Maggie Rose, Sinclair, Jillian Jacqueline, Mary Marguerite, Summer Joy. (Front row, L-R): Leslie Fram, Marcie Allen. Photo: iamjohnjo
She Is The Music, FEMco and Anzie Blue hosted a celebration of female voices and genre diversity with a free showcase featuring Maggie Rose, Jillian Jacqueline, Summer Joy, Stella Prince, Mary Marguerite and Sinclair.
Anzie Blue Co-Founder, Marcie Allen, and FEMco Founder, Leslie Fram, announced that their partnership with She Is The Music will now take place monthly at Anzie Blue. The August show line-up will be announced soon.
William Beckmann Performs “Lonely Over You” On ‘The Late Show With Stephen Colbert’
William Beckmann recently performed “Lonely Over You” on the Late Show With Stephen Colbert as part of their weekly #LateShowMeMusic series.
Alex Miller Stops by KXIA Before Rodney Atkins Show
Alex Miller and Doris Day.
Billy Jam Records’ Alex Miller dropped by to perform and chat on the Morning show at KXIA (Kix101.1) with Music Director Doris Day in Marshalltown, Iowa on his way to his show with Rodney Atkins.
The Boykinz Receive AGT Golden Buzzer
The BoykinZ. Photo: Trea Patton/NBC
The BoykinZ recently received Americas Got Talent’s golden buzzer for the performance of their original song “Fell In Love With A Cowboy.” The Golden Buzzer distinction allows the group to automatically advance to the show’s live episodes this fall on NBC.
Mural Honoring Kody Norris & The Kody Norris Show Announced For Mountain City
Pictured (L-R): Tim White (artist), Charlie Lowman, Billy Walker, Josiah Tyree, Mary Rachel Norris, Kody Norris, Bonnie Reece, Chris Reece, Jerry Jordan (Mountain City Mayor), Ginger Milsap, Tim Brown, Jenny Johnson, and Mary Nave.
A mural honoring bluegrass artist Kody Norris will soon be installed in his hometown of Mountain City, Tennessee. The tribute recognizes Norris’s contributions to bluegrass and country music, as well as his efforts to preserve traditional Appalachian culture.
“Words can not express the amount of gratitude and love I have for my hometown and community,” shares Norris. “I have had the opportunity several times to leave, and each time, it made me realize even more that I could never leave Mountain City, Tennessee. I am humbled and honored and thankful!”
BREAKING: FBMM Co-Founder Frank Bumstead Passes
/by Madison HahnenFrank Bumstead.
FBMM Co-Founder Frank Bumstead passed away on yesterday morning (July 20) in Nashville. He was 83.
Before his time at FBMM, Bumstead served as CEO at JMR Investments for 14 years and was a proprietor at Bumstead Company for a decade. Bumstead founded FBMM alongside Mary Ann McCready, the late Chuck Flood and John McCarthy in 1990. Under Bumstead’s leadership, FBMM was the first business management firm to provide services from a seasoned economist. In 1991, Bumstead negotiated and arranged the sale of CMT network to Opryland, and also led the merger of MusicRow Magazine with SouthComm in 2008.
Bumstead was heavily involved in the community. In 2018, Bumstead was honored with the Frances Preston Outstanding Music Industry Achievement Award by the T.J. Martell Foundation. He also was awarded Nashville Opera’s Francis Robinson Award in 2019 for significant contributions to the arts. CMA also recognized him in 2022 with the William Denny Award for a lifetime of dedication and distinguished service to the CMA Board of Directors.
He was also a board member of CMA, where he served as President in 2014 and Chairman in 2015, along with other leadership positions. He also served on the boards of the Armed Services Mutual Benefit Association, Blue Chair Bay® Rum, Brookdale Senior Living, Conway-Welch Family Foundation, Fishbowl Spirits, LLC, Junior Achievement of Nashville, Junior League Advisory Board, Nashville Wire Products, United Supermarkets of Texas and Watkins Institute.
Bumstead was a founding member of the Memorial Foundation’s Board of Trustees and chaired the Foundation’s Finance & Investments Committee for more than 20 years. He was also chairman for Overwatch Alliance and involved with the Armed Services Mutual Benefit Association.
“Frank was brilliant, passionate and a role model to all of us at FBMM,” says Jamie Cheek, Owner and CEO of FBMM. “His expertise in investments and finance was key to FBMM’s ‘edge’ over the years and why we called him our ‘secret weapon.’ Frank was one of a kind, and we will continue to honor the legacy he instilled of hard work and dedication.”
“Frank cared deeply about this industry and the people in it, whether you were a client or not,” adds Sarah Trahern, Country Music Association CEO. “I first met Frank during my interview for the CMA role in 2013, and I’ll never forget his sharp, thoughtful questions–or the unmistakable twinkle in his eyes. He helped lead several important initiatives that positioned CMA for long-term growth and stability. Although he left the Board in 2021, we remained in close touch over the years. My heart is with his wife, Ann, their sons, and all who knew and loved him. Frank was truly one of a kind.”
“Frank Bumstead has been a father figure to me for over 30 years,” shares Frank Thomas, National Baseball Hall of Famer. “Through the ups and downs, he was my anchor. There was nothing I couldn’t call and ask him, but he always kept me in line to do what was right. Some people you can’t replace in your life and that person is Frank Bumstead. I will miss him dearly. God bless the Bumstead family.”
“Although Frank was the primary architect of the [Memorial] Foundation’s sound and successful fiscal strategy, what was most important to him was that the Foundation’s funding supported local nonprofit organizations that helped make life better for others,” Board Chair Dr. David McKee says. Varina Buntin, the Foundation’s Board Vice Chair, shares “Frank’s wise counsel and passion for the Foundation’s mission since its inception has been invaluable, and he will be sorely missed.”
“I have a sincere appreciation for his guidance and leadership throughout the years of working together,” adds Mark Woodforde, International Tennis and Sport Hall of Famer. “He inspired me to grow both personally and professionally. I will miss his friendship and words of encouragement, and he will be deeply missed, but the heavens above have gained a true gentleman.”
“Frank Bumstead was a true patriot having served in combat as a Navy officer in Vietnam,” says Judge George C. Paine II. “He gave generously to veterans’ causes in time and treasure, whether personally or through advocating for them within the Memorial Foundation. Personally, I loved swapping “war stories” with him, and will greatly miss him, his wit, financial acumen and wisdom.”
FBMM will continue to be led by owners Julie Boos, David Boyer, Jamie Cheek, Duane Clark, Jen Conger, Dan Killian, Carmen Romano and Erica Rosa.
An informal visitation/celebration of Bumstead’s life will take place at Mount Olivet Funeral Home on Saturday, Aug. 9, from 12–2p.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests the following organizations for memorials and tributes in honor of his life: Cumberland Heights, Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, Family and Children’s Service, and the Frank M. and Ann S. Bumstead Scholarship at Owen Graduate School of Management.