Pictured (L-R): AIMP Rising Independent Artist-Writer of the Year Natalie Hemby, Publisher’s Pick co-writer (“Rich”) Laura Veltz, presenter and songwriter Don Schlitz, Artist-Writer of the Year and Publisher’s Pick co-writer (“Rich”) Maren Morris with co-writer Jessie Jo Dillion. Photo: Getty Images
The Nashville Chapter of the Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP) hosted the second annual AIMP Nashville Awards Monday night (May 8) at the historic Ryman Auditorium. Presented for the first time by the Academy of Country Music, the event honored Nashville’s independent publishers, songwriters, artists and music champions (full list below) with an evening of performances.
“Last night was truly indicative of how great it is to be a part of the independent songwriting and publishing community in Nashville right now,” said AIMP Nashville Executive Director, John Ozier. “The level of talent in the room was incredible and the camaraderie is what keeps the AIMP Nashville continuing to grow as an organization.”
Old Dominion performs Maren Morris’ “80s Mercedes.” Photo: Getty Images
Caitlyn Smith and Walker Hayes perform Miranda Lambert’s “Vice.” Photo: Getty Images
The show kicked off with Old Dominion performing a rendition of Maren Morris’ “80s Mercedes,” followed by Walker Hayes and Caitlyn Smith performing Miranda Lambert’s “Vice.” Devin Dawson performed Brett Young’s “Sleep Without You” before Don Schlitz took the stage to announce Morris’ “Rich” as the 2017 AIMP Publisher’s Pick, with a performance of the song by 2017 AIMP Rising Independent Artist-Writer of the Year Natalie Hemby.
Brandy Clark performs “Kill A Word.” Photo: Getty Images
Carly Pearce sang Keith Urban’s “Blue Ain’t Your Color” and Jon Pardi, along with Bart Butler, announced Morris as the 2017 AIMP Artist-Writer of the Year before Ryan Beaver belted Pardi’s “Head Over Boots.” The evening closed with a performance of Eric Church’s “Kill A Word” by Brandy Clark and the Brothers Osborne’s announcement of “Blue Ain’t Your Color” as the 2017 AIMP Song of the Year.
Pictured (L-R): Big Yellow Dog Music’s Matt Lindsey (VP, Creative), Kerry O’Neil (Co-owner), Carla Wallace (Co-owner) and Lauren Funk (Creative Manager). Photo: Getty Images
Pictured (L-R): TJ Osborne, Clint Lagerberg, Hillary Lindsey and John Osborne. Photo: Getty Images
“The Academy of Country Music was thrilled to support the AIMP as presenting sponsor of the second annual AIMP Nashville Awards,” said Pete Fisher, Academy of Country Music CEO. “All music begins with a song and we are excited to celebrate the independent publishing community who works so hard to give incredible songs life.”
The 2017 AIMP nominees are listed below, with winners indicated in each category. Read MusicRow‘s Bobby Karl review at MusicRow.com.
AIMP Rising Independent Songwriter of the Year
Kelly Archer
Luke Dick
Justin Ebach
Adam Hambrick
Jesse Lee
Jordan Schmidt
AIMP Rising Independent Artist-Writer of the Year
Ryan Beaver
Devin Dawson
Walker Hayes
Natalie Hemby
Carly Pearce
Caitlyn Smith
AIMP Artist-Writer of the Year
Brothers Osborne
Brandy Clark
Eric Church
Maren Morris
Old Dominion
Brett Young
AIMP Song Champion of the Year
Jeff Carlton
Courtney Crist
Celia Froehlig
Shannan Hatch
Bart Herbison
Jeff Skaggs
AIMP Publisher’s Pick
“Leaving Nashville” written by Abe Stoklasa, Donovan Woods
Big Yellow Dog Music, Shakala Publishing
“Love Can Go To Hell” written by Brandy Clark, Scott Stepakoff
Kobalt Music, Sea Gayle Music, Ten Ten Music Group
“Love Triangle” written by Nicolle Galyon, RaeLynn, Jimmy Robbins
Big Machine Music, Prescription, Round Hill Music
“Rich” written by Jessie Jo Dillion, Maren Morris, Laura Veltz
Big Machine Music, Big Yellow Dog Music, Kobalt Music, Revelry Music
“Tacoma” written by Bob DiPiero, Caitlyn Smith
BMG, Cornman Music, Round Hill Music
“Wheels” written by Steve Moakler, Gordie Sampson, Caitlyn Smith
BMG, Cornman Music, Creative Nation Music
AIMP Song of the Year
“Blue Ain’t Your Color” written by Clint Lagerberg, Hillary Lindsey, Steven Lee Olsen Cornman Music, Hillarodyrathbone Music, Sea Gayle Music, Spirit Music
“Head Over Boots” written by Luke Laird, Jon Pardi
Creative Nation Music, Song Factory Music
“Vice” written by Miranda Lambert, Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne
SMACKSongs
“Kill A Word” written by Eric Church, Luke Dick, Jeff Hyde
Little Louder Music
“Sleep Without You” written by Kelly Archer, Justin Ebach, Brett Young
Big Machine Music, Downtown Music, Red Creative, Word Country
“80s Mercedes” written by busbee, Maren Morris
BMG, Big Deal Music, Big Yellow Dog Music
AIMP Independent Writer of the Year
busbee
Ross Copperman
Zach Crowell
Ashley Gorley
Luke Laird
Shane McAnally
AIMP Independent Publisher of the Year
BMG
Big Loud Shirt / Round Hill Music
Big Yellow Dog Music
Combustion Music
Creative Nation Music
SMACKSongs
Nashville’s Mayor Megan Barry Proclaims Ryman Auditorium Day
/by Sherod Robertson(L – R): Vince Gill, Nashville Mayor Megan Barry and Chairman and CEO of Ryman Hospitality Properties, Colin Reed. Credit: Steve Lowry
In a ceremony held earlier today on stage at Ryman Auditorium, Nashville Mayor Megan Barry issued a proclamation celebrating May 10, 2017 as Ryman Auditorium Day in honor of the iconic venue’s 125th anniversary.
“From its beginnings as a church to its years as the home of the Grand Ole Opry to its revival as the coolest concert venue in the world, the Ryman has a story like no other building – anywhere,” Mayor Barry said. “I’m grateful for everything the Ryman means to Nashville, and I’m excited to celebrate its first 125 years while looking forward to many more.”
Colin Reed, chairman and chief executive officer of Ryman Auditorium’s parent company, Ryman Hospitality Properties and Opry Member Vince Gill joined Mayor Barry onstage to celebrate Ryman Auditorium Day, which is also the 132nd anniversary of the meeting between Captain Thomas Ryman and Reverend Sam Jones that inspired Ryman to construct a grand tabernacle for the people of Nashville.
“As the owners of this Nashville treasure, we view ourselves as both the stewards and protectors of its rich and storied legacy,” said Reed. “We are thankful that Mayor Barry has chosen to recognize not only the historical significance of the Ryman but also its continued influence on Nashville’s thriving music and tourism industries.”
“If you think about it, music has had a great history here, but the real purpose of this building was to save people… and 125 years later it’s still saving people,” expressed Gill. “This place just has spirit that you can’t even put into words. It really is a magical place. The very first time I ever sang in this building it was just me and a guitar, and it was one of the most majestic experiences I’ve ever had in my life. I really felt that spirit move through me. This place more than any place I’ve been…I really felt that spirit. Whether I play here with a seven-piece band or a bluegrass band… no matter what you throw at this place it takes it and elevates it.”
Jason Aldean CMHoF Exhibit To Open May 26
/by Haley CrowThe exhibit is presented by outdoor merchandiser, Field & Stream, for which Aldean is a spokesperson. Asphalt Cowboy will include childhood mementos, memorabilia from Aldean’s early career, stage wear, guitars, awards, photos and more from Aldean’s personal collection.
“In ‘Asphalt Cowboy’ Jason sings about running underneath the stars on a ride that won’t let him go,” said museum CEO Kyle Young. “Years of touring across the country, burning up the asphalt, have led him to country music superstardom on a ride that’s far from over. We are pleased that he will join Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Blake Shelton, Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood among the contemporary artists we have featured in special summer exhibits examining country music in the twenty-first century.”
“I could not be more honored to have an exhibit at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum,” said Aldean. “To look around the space and see my personal heroes and artists who helped shape country music is a surreal feeling. To be a part of a legacy like this really is a dream come true.”
“When we first started working with Jason, it was our goal to create an authentic partnership with someone who is genuinely passionate about the outdoors,” said Lauren Hobart, executive vice president & chief customer & digital officer for DICK’S Sporting Goods, which owns and operates Field & Stream. “We are not only thrilled to be supporting Jason’s exhibit at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, but we’re excited to help bring country music fans and outdoor enthusiasts closer to the music they enjoy.”
For more information, visit countrymusichalloffame.
RaeLynn To Greet Fans On Forever 21 Stops On RaVe Tour
/by Lorie HollabaughPhoto Credit: Katie Kauss
RaeLynn will make a series of in-store appearances at select Forever 21 stores around the country in support of her new RaVe Tour, beginning Friday May 12 at the Jordan Creek Town Center in Des Moines, Iowa. Fans can visit stores to meet with RaeLynn and get copies of her new album Wildhorse signed, and two winners at each event will be selected to receive tickets to that night’s show.
She’ll appear at the Forever 21 at Cool Springs Galleria in Nashville May 23 before wrapping the RaVe tour with her final date at Nashville’s Mercy Lounge May 24, and then launches into a full slate of summer dates.
The video for her new single “Love Triangle” recently earned RaeLynn her second CMT nomination for Breakthrough Video Of The Year at this year’s upcoming CMT Music Awards. Recently nominated for the 2017 Radio Disney Music Awards fan-voted The Freshest!-Best New Artist Country and selected as a 2017 Country Artist to Watch by Pandora, Napster and Billboard, RaeLynn has racked up over 120 million cumulative career streams.
Bobby Bare To Release New Album In May: ‘Things Change’
/by Troy_StephensonCountry Music Hall of Famer and GRAMMY® award-winner Bobby Bare will release Things Change on May 26. The album is Bare’s first studio project in five years and is available for pre-sale now at BobbyBare.com. All CD’s purchased through Bare’s website will be autographed.
Things Change will feature 10 tracks written by Bare, Mary Gauthier, Guy Clark and the producer of the project, hit singer-songwriter Max T. Barnes. It also features a collaboration with Chris Stapleton.
“This is a special collection of songs to me, not just another record, said Bobby Bare. “Great songs from Mary Gauthier, a song I co-wrote with Guy Clark that turned out to be his last and a song that my buddy Hoyt Axton inspired me to write called ‘Things Change.’ That’s the title of the album and the first single. Things do change but my love for songwriters and the fans never, ever will!”
Things Change will be released by Hypermedia Nashville and BFD through RED Distribution.
Florida Georgia Line Opening FGL House In Downtown Nashville
/by Lorie HollabaughPhoto Credit: Delaney Royer
Florida Georgia Line are the latest artists to jump into the hospitality business with the announcement of their new venture, a bar and restaurant in the SoBro district called FGL House.
The four-story attraction on Third Ave. South will feature live music every day of the week and serve up Southern style food with a California flair and plenty of cocktails, including craft beers and specialty drinks featuring the duo’s own Old Camp Whiskey.
“What excites Tyler and I the most is always staying creative. We love seeing what fresh things we can come up with to take our music to a new level and turn our dreams into reality,” shares FGL’s Brian Kelley.
“We want FGL House to be just as welcoming, fun and entertaining for our guests as if they were coming out to one of our shows – nothing but good food, good drinks and good times!,” adds FGL’s Tyler Hubbard. “We can’t wait for opening day to get here!”
Opening in early summer 2017 in partnership with LRC Group, the new venue also boasts the largest rooftop lounge area Nashville has to offer, dedicated to an all-day and all-night party with stunning views of the Music City skyline. Visitors can also enjoy a basement-level lounge complete with its own baby grand piano, cocktail menu inspired by ‘90s pop culture, and specialty martinis. Dee Jay Silver will also spin custom country mixes during Country Club Tuesdays at the new hotspot.
The duo will be busy this summer as well on their soon-to-launch Smooth Tour 2017, featuring Nelly, Chris Lane, and select dates with the Backstreet Boys. Kicking off June 2 in Austin, Texas, the tour will also feature Morgan Wallen and Russell Dickerson, who have just been added to the bill on select dates.
Grand Ole Opry To Salute Veterans Of Desert Storm
/by Troy_StephensonThe public is invited to be a part of red carpet arrivals from veterans, which will be outside the Opry House beginning at 5:45 p.m. The evening’s Opry performance begins at 7:00 p.m. with Trace Adkins, Terri Clark, Dailey & Vincent, Charlie Daniels Band, Chris Young, and the MusiCorps Wounded Warrior Band.
Throughout the evening, fans will learn of the heroic actions of Desert Storm veterans as well as the National Desert Storm War Memorial Association’s work to build the National Desert Storm Memorial in Washington D.C.
“Country music was a major part of the patriotism that swept the U.S. and the support our troops felt from the folks back home in 1990 and 1991,” said Scott C. Stump, CEO of the National Desert Storm War Memorial. “It’s exciting to be able to celebrate that continued patriotism and reflect on the sacrifices of our Desert Storm veterans at the home of country music, the Grand Ole Opry.”
Brett Eldredge To Release New Album In August
/by Lorie HollabaughThe album will feature Eldredge’s new single “Somethin’ I’m Good At,” which he debuted on the 52nd ACM Awards and has already racked up over 10.2 million streams.
“It’s kind of crazy to see an album cover with just your name on it,” Eldredge said. “I think that shows what I want to say with this album. Maybe it takes a little bit of guts to put out a self-titled album – but if it’s 100% honestly you, then that should come across through the music. That’s my name and I hope my fans love me for me. Hopefully they feel the connection of these songs and they help them through their everyday lives. Because that’s why I make this music.”
The new album is his first studio album in two years, but Eldredge released a Christmas album Glow in October that contained a chart-topping duet with Meghan Trainor of the classic “Baby It’s Cold Outside.” He’ll no doubt preview many of the songs off the brand new album as part of Luke Bryan’s “Huntin’, Fishin’ and Lovin’ Every Day” tour this Summer.
Industry Ink: BMI, Keith Stegall, Writer’s Den Music Group, K-LOVE Fan Awards
/by Jessica NicholsonKeith Stegall Honored With BMI’s Million-Air Awards
Pictured: BMI’s Jody Williams, BMI songwriter Keith Stegall and BMI’s David Preston. Photo: Steve Lowry
BMI’s Jody Williams and David Preston dropped by BMI songwriter Keith Stegall’s home to present the decorated songwriter with two more Million-Air Awards. Marking the milestone of millions of radio air plays, Stegall was presented with designations for one million plays of “Sexy Eyes” and five million plays of “Don’t Rock The Jukebox.”
Writer’s Den Music Group Signs Noel McKay
Pictured (L-R, back row): Bobby Rymer, Writer’s Den; Shannan Hatch, SESAC; Sarah Feldman, Writer’s Den. (Front row): Noel McKay
Bobby Rymer and Sarah Feldman of Writer’s Den Music Group are pleased to announce the signing of writer/artist Noel McKay to a worldwide publishing agreement. Writer’s Den recently signed McKay’s fellow High Plains Jamboree member Brennen Leigh.
“So many of my established music business and songwriter friends have told me Writer’s Den is one of the good ones. The enthusiasm for great songs is contagious. I’m extremely happy to be writing for them.” says McKay.
Rymer said, “I was already a fan of Noel, but I knew we wanted to work with him after asking him where an idea for a song came from and he responded”, “The music business is fraught with people with emotional problems. That’s where.”
K-LOVE Fan Awards Coming To Select Theaters Nationwide
The awards, hosted Matthew West and Elisabeth Hasselbeck, will take place May 28 at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville. Artists attending will include Danny Gokey, Jeremy Camp, Britt Nicole, Matthew West, Jesus Culture, Crowder, Mandisa, MercyMe, for King & Country, and more.
2nd Annual AIMP Nashville Awards Winners
/by Haley CrowPictured (L-R): AIMP Rising Independent Artist-Writer of the Year Natalie Hemby, Publisher’s Pick co-writer (“Rich”) Laura Veltz, presenter and songwriter Don Schlitz, Artist-Writer of the Year and Publisher’s Pick co-writer (“Rich”) Maren Morris with co-writer Jessie Jo Dillion. Photo: Getty Images
The Nashville Chapter of the Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP) hosted the second annual AIMP Nashville Awards Monday night (May 8) at the historic Ryman Auditorium. Presented for the first time by the Academy of Country Music, the event honored Nashville’s independent publishers, songwriters, artists and music champions (full list below) with an evening of performances.
“Last night was truly indicative of how great it is to be a part of the independent songwriting and publishing community in Nashville right now,” said AIMP Nashville Executive Director, John Ozier. “The level of talent in the room was incredible and the camaraderie is what keeps the AIMP Nashville continuing to grow as an organization.”
Old Dominion performs Maren Morris’ “80s Mercedes.” Photo: Getty Images
Caitlyn Smith and Walker Hayes perform Miranda Lambert’s “Vice.” Photo: Getty Images
The show kicked off with Old Dominion performing a rendition of Maren Morris’ “80s Mercedes,” followed by Walker Hayes and Caitlyn Smith performing Miranda Lambert’s “Vice.” Devin Dawson performed Brett Young’s “Sleep Without You” before Don Schlitz took the stage to announce Morris’ “Rich” as the 2017 AIMP Publisher’s Pick, with a performance of the song by 2017 AIMP Rising Independent Artist-Writer of the Year Natalie Hemby.
Brandy Clark performs “Kill A Word.” Photo: Getty Images
Carly Pearce sang Keith Urban’s “Blue Ain’t Your Color” and Jon Pardi, along with Bart Butler, announced Morris as the 2017 AIMP Artist-Writer of the Year before Ryan Beaver belted Pardi’s “Head Over Boots.” The evening closed with a performance of Eric Church’s “Kill A Word” by Brandy Clark and the Brothers Osborne’s announcement of “Blue Ain’t Your Color” as the 2017 AIMP Song of the Year.
Pictured (L-R): Big Yellow Dog Music’s Matt Lindsey (VP, Creative), Kerry O’Neil (Co-owner), Carla Wallace (Co-owner) and Lauren Funk (Creative Manager). Photo: Getty Images
Pictured (L-R): TJ Osborne, Clint Lagerberg, Hillary Lindsey and John Osborne. Photo: Getty Images
“The Academy of Country Music was thrilled to support the AIMP as presenting sponsor of the second annual AIMP Nashville Awards,” said Pete Fisher, Academy of Country Music CEO. “All music begins with a song and we are excited to celebrate the independent publishing community who works so hard to give incredible songs life.”
The 2017 AIMP nominees are listed below, with winners indicated in each category. Read MusicRow‘s Bobby Karl review at MusicRow.com.
AIMP Rising Independent Songwriter of the Year
Kelly Archer
Luke Dick
Justin Ebach
Adam Hambrick
Jesse Lee
Jordan Schmidt
AIMP Rising Independent Artist-Writer of the Year
Ryan Beaver
Devin Dawson
Walker Hayes
Natalie Hemby
Carly Pearce
Caitlyn Smith
AIMP Artist-Writer of the Year
Brothers Osborne
Brandy Clark
Eric Church
Maren Morris
Old Dominion
Brett Young
AIMP Song Champion of the Year
Jeff Carlton
Courtney Crist
Celia Froehlig
Shannan Hatch
Bart Herbison
Jeff Skaggs
AIMP Publisher’s Pick
“Leaving Nashville” written by Abe Stoklasa, Donovan Woods
Big Yellow Dog Music, Shakala Publishing
“Love Can Go To Hell” written by Brandy Clark, Scott Stepakoff
Kobalt Music, Sea Gayle Music, Ten Ten Music Group
“Love Triangle” written by Nicolle Galyon, RaeLynn, Jimmy Robbins
Big Machine Music, Prescription, Round Hill Music
“Rich” written by Jessie Jo Dillion, Maren Morris, Laura Veltz
Big Machine Music, Big Yellow Dog Music, Kobalt Music, Revelry Music
“Tacoma” written by Bob DiPiero, Caitlyn Smith
BMG, Cornman Music, Round Hill Music
“Wheels” written by Steve Moakler, Gordie Sampson, Caitlyn Smith
BMG, Cornman Music, Creative Nation Music
AIMP Song of the Year
“Blue Ain’t Your Color” written by Clint Lagerberg, Hillary Lindsey, Steven Lee Olsen Cornman Music, Hillarodyrathbone Music, Sea Gayle Music, Spirit Music
“Head Over Boots” written by Luke Laird, Jon Pardi
Creative Nation Music, Song Factory Music
“Vice” written by Miranda Lambert, Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne
SMACKSongs
“Kill A Word” written by Eric Church, Luke Dick, Jeff Hyde
Little Louder Music
“Sleep Without You” written by Kelly Archer, Justin Ebach, Brett Young
Big Machine Music, Downtown Music, Red Creative, Word Country
“80s Mercedes” written by busbee, Maren Morris
BMG, Big Deal Music, Big Yellow Dog Music
AIMP Independent Writer of the Year
busbee
Ross Copperman
Zach Crowell
Ashley Gorley
Luke Laird
Shane McAnally
AIMP Independent Publisher of the Year
BMG
Big Loud Shirt / Round Hill Music
Big Yellow Dog Music
Combustion Music
Creative Nation Music
SMACKSongs
Artist Updates: Darius Rucker, Carrie Underwood, Rodney Atkins
/by Jessica NicholsonDarius Rucker Goes Undercover
Undercover Boss is produced by Stephen Lambert, Greg Goldman, Chris Carlson and Greg Lipstone for Studio Lambert/All3Media America.
“I’ve been in the music business for a long time, and this is an experience I will never forget,” Rucker said. “Our industry is all about cultivating and sharing great music, so having the opportunity to go undercover and authentically participate in an artist’s early days was just incredible.”
Carrie Underwood, Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation Partner To Fully Fund Girls Team Sports Projects
The pledge marks the third Sports Matter donation on behalf of CALIA by Carrie Underwood and The DICK’S Foundation, as a part of its broader $500,000 commitment to support girls youth sports across the country. Two grants were previously awarded in 2016: $100,000 to Underwood’s alma mater, Checotah (Okla.) School District’s Girls Athletic programs and $100,000 to Aldine Independent School District’s Girls Athletic programs in Houston, Texas.
“Sports were a big part of my life growing up, so it’s important to me that girls across the country get those same opportunities,” said CALIA Lead Designer, Carrie Underwood. “Through Sports Matter, CALIA and The DICK’S Foundation, we are empowering hundreds of girls across the country to learn, grow and dream, teaching them to do what they love later in life.”
Rodney Atkins To Host 7th Annual Music City Gives Back Concert
“Nashville is a special place in the way that people in this community truly support one another and this is another great example of Nashville and the music industry coming together to support the kids and future of our community,” said Atkins. “As an artist, I’m blessed to be able to call Nashville home and grateful for the opportunity to give back through music with this event every year.”
The concert is free and open to the public and performances will begin at 4:55 p.m. Select artists will also be available to sign autographs in the free, no-ticket-required sponsor activation area from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., where guests can have a drink, get some food and meet their favorite artists.