Pictured (L-R): Co-writers Justin Ebach (SESAC), Brett Young (ASCAP), Kelly Archer (BMI). Photo: Terry Wyatt
As equity would have it, the first No. 1 party of 2017 was hosted by ASCAP, BMI and SESAC and was a first for many of the copyright shareholders on Brett Young’s “Sleep Without You.”
The celebration not only recognized Young’s first No. 1 as an artist on Big Machine Records and as a songwriter with Big Machine Music, but first No. 1’s co-writers Justin Ebach and Kelly Archer. Archer’s co-publishers, Red Creative Group and Downtown Music Publishing Nashville, and Ebach’s publisher, Word Country, all celebrated their first No. 1’s as well.
Remarks were heavily directed at Big Machine Label Group’s Laurel Kittleson, A&R Manager. Young was the first artist Kittleson brought to sign. Credit was also given to ShowbizRo’s Liz Morin and Ronna Reeves for their early work with Young.
Additional remarks and gifts were made at the ceremony from Pinnacle Bank’s Ron Cox, Country Aircheck’s Lon Helton and the CRB’s Holly Lane, who noted “Sleep Without You” had notched 99.16 million impressions to date.
(L-R): Back Row – BMLG Records’ Leah Fisher, Angie Coonrod, Lauren Longbine, Liz Gregg Santana, Matthew Hargis, Andrew Thoen. Front Row – BMLG Records President Jimmy Harnen, Justin Ebach, Brett Young, Kelly Archer, BMLG President & CEO Scott Borchetta. Photo: Terry Wyatt
ASCAP’s Mike Sistad hosted the event at The Westin Nashville’s L27 rooftop bar, welcoming his company’s Michael Martin to the stage with the support of First Tennessee Bank to present Young’s first No. 1 ASCAP guitar.
“This has happened really quick, it’s insane,” said Martin. “Through his honest lyrics, west coast music and southern style, he’s created this whole thing called ‘Caliville.’”
Mike Molinar of Big Machine Music presented plaques and remarks before BMLG CEO Scott Borchetta and the label group’s Exec. VP and label President Jimmy Harnen.
“As the kids say, [Brett] gives you all the feels. He understands the swoon…and he is sweeping the country music audience off their feet.”
Producer Dann Huff offered praise for the newcomer. “This is an extremely special No. 1 for me. You are one special human being and artist. You have a gift that I know you’ve worked so hard at, but it is so transcendent to hear you sing and it’s an honor to be a part of your music.”
Young concluded, “I thought for my whole life I would play baseball. God decided I wasn’t going to do that, and the only thing I loved that much was music. Making that a career seemed as ridiculous as making baseball a career…I played in [Beverly Hills] every week, and one week I meet this gentleman from Atlanta named Ruddy Polhill. His wife Rhonda emailed me…and said we’re in this position we would like to help you. That literally changed everything. I made a record at Blackbird in Nashville and met a lot of people and realized I needed to move here. It’s not about your money—it’s about you believing in me, so thank you so much.
“Overnight success is a funny thing. Anyone that calls it that can…This is a 14-year success. But in that moment [when Jimmy Harnen offered me a record deal], it felt like the very beginning. So to Laurel for bringing this to Jimmy…For Liz and Ronna for bringing this to Laurel…to Jimmy for believing in it enough…and to Scott for believing in Jimmy enough to let all this happen, thank you guys so much!”
Pictured (L-R): Producer Dann Huff; publisher Big Machine Music’s Mike Molinar; co-writers Justin Ebach, Brett Young and Kelly Archer; and ASCAP’s Mike Sistad. Photo: Terry Wyatt.
Shannan Hatch from SESAC presented plaques on behalf of Franklin Synergy Bank and her writer, Ebach.
“Each No. 1 party has something special about it, but this has so many special things about it,” said Hatch. “It’s the first for all the writers, the artist, and the song went No. 1 while Justin and his bride Janine were on their honeymoon in Las Vegas. You absolutely can’t plan to celebrate such monumental moments in life at the same time.”
Janine Appleton, Ebach’s wife and publisher at Word Country, continued the celebration with plaques and lively jest.
“Dale Mathews had the vision to expand Word Publishing into a multi-genre entity, which is why I stand before you,” explained Appleton on behalf of CEO Rod Riley. “We as publishers are only as good as the songs we bring to folks, so thank you Ebach for making my job a little easier.
“Laurel is the reason I found out about Brett. When Kelly Archer pulled Ebach in on this co-write I was like if Laurel believes in [Brett], I’m in,” said Appleton.
“I grew up in an atmosphere where dreaming was okay…so thank you to my parents,” Ebach offered. “I want to thank my two kids. Through all the ups and downs of the industry…my kids give me a reason and purpose to get up every day. Thank you all so much, I’m so grateful!”
Pictured (L-R): Justin Ebach (SESAC), Brett Young (ASCAP), Kelly Archer (BMI). Photo: Terry Wyatt
BMI’s David Preston spoke with the support of Pinnacle Bank on behalf of Archer, presenting her first No. 1 Epiphone guitar and silver BMI cups for all.
“Never in my life at BMI have I ever seen our office so excited for any one songwriter to have their first No. 1,” cheered Preston. “All you new writers out there, if you’re looking for an example of somebody to set your sights on and show you the way, Kelly Archer is a great example of the determination and grit it takes to make it in this city.”
Jeremy Stover from Red Creative Group offered plaques and remarks and plaques.
“When Steve Markland and I decided to partner on this Kelly publishing deal, we were both very excited,” remarked Stover. “She’s from Vancouver, B.C. and such a hard worker…Kelly, what you came [to Nashville] to do, you did it!”
Downtown Music Publishing’s Steve Markland then took the stage with plaques.
“Kelly Archer is on fire!” Markland led the audience in cheering. “If you’ve been around our office, about twice a week you hear [that]. It only means Kelly got another cut or her song had a great week on the chart.”
Through her speech, Archer offered thanks for everyone on her journey since her move to Nashville in 2001 and through five publishing deals.
“A lot of things had to go right for this to happen…and I would also have to say, a lot of things had to go wrong to feel the amount of gratitude having everyone here,” she poignantly said. “About two and a half years ago I signed a co-venture publishing deal with Steve Markland and Jeremy Stover…You guys came in at a time I was lacking a lot of confidence. I had been through a few deals and spinning—trying to figure out my purpose in Nashville, living far away from my family…I will always appreciate [their] confidence in my abilities.
“My mom will always be the one who thinks my songs are better than anyone. Everyone needs someone in their life who thinks that.”
Archer raised her glass to the late Andrew Dorff, who had texted a congrats to her before his untimely passing in December.
Archer’s mother concluded the event on stage saying it’s true, she can’t sleep without her husband of 47 years. “I already have a song for when we reach our 50th anniversary. It is going to be “In Case You Didn’t Know.”
“In Case You Didn’t Know” is Young’s follow-up single, and was most added on the first MusicRow CountryBreakout chart of 2017. Young’s self-titled, 12-track album will be available by Big Machine Records Feb. 10.
Brett Young Celebrates First No. 1 With Co-writers On “Sleep Without You”
/by Eric T. ParkerPictured (L-R): Co-writers Justin Ebach (SESAC), Brett Young (ASCAP), Kelly Archer (BMI). Photo: Terry Wyatt
As equity would have it, the first No. 1 party of 2017 was hosted by ASCAP, BMI and SESAC and was a first for many of the copyright shareholders on Brett Young’s “Sleep Without You.”
The celebration not only recognized Young’s first No. 1 as an artist on Big Machine Records and as a songwriter with Big Machine Music, but first No. 1’s co-writers Justin Ebach and Kelly Archer. Archer’s co-publishers, Red Creative Group and Downtown Music Publishing Nashville, and Ebach’s publisher, Word Country, all celebrated their first No. 1’s as well.
Remarks were heavily directed at Big Machine Label Group’s Laurel Kittleson, A&R Manager. Young was the first artist Kittleson brought to sign. Credit was also given to ShowbizRo’s Liz Morin and Ronna Reeves for their early work with Young.
Additional remarks and gifts were made at the ceremony from Pinnacle Bank’s Ron Cox, Country Aircheck’s Lon Helton and the CRB’s Holly Lane, who noted “Sleep Without You” had notched 99.16 million impressions to date.
(L-R): Back Row – BMLG Records’ Leah Fisher, Angie Coonrod, Lauren Longbine, Liz Gregg Santana, Matthew Hargis, Andrew Thoen. Front Row – BMLG Records President Jimmy Harnen, Justin Ebach, Brett Young, Kelly Archer, BMLG President & CEO Scott Borchetta. Photo: Terry Wyatt
ASCAP’s Mike Sistad hosted the event at The Westin Nashville’s L27 rooftop bar, welcoming his company’s Michael Martin to the stage with the support of First Tennessee Bank to present Young’s first No. 1 ASCAP guitar.
“This has happened really quick, it’s insane,” said Martin. “Through his honest lyrics, west coast music and southern style, he’s created this whole thing called ‘Caliville.’”
Mike Molinar of Big Machine Music presented plaques and remarks before BMLG CEO Scott Borchetta and the label group’s Exec. VP and label President Jimmy Harnen.
“As the kids say, [Brett] gives you all the feels. He understands the swoon…and he is sweeping the country music audience off their feet.”
Producer Dann Huff offered praise for the newcomer. “This is an extremely special No. 1 for me. You are one special human being and artist. You have a gift that I know you’ve worked so hard at, but it is so transcendent to hear you sing and it’s an honor to be a part of your music.”
Young concluded, “I thought for my whole life I would play baseball. God decided I wasn’t going to do that, and the only thing I loved that much was music. Making that a career seemed as ridiculous as making baseball a career…I played in [Beverly Hills] every week, and one week I meet this gentleman from Atlanta named Ruddy Polhill. His wife Rhonda emailed me…and said we’re in this position we would like to help you. That literally changed everything. I made a record at Blackbird in Nashville and met a lot of people and realized I needed to move here. It’s not about your money—it’s about you believing in me, so thank you so much.
“Overnight success is a funny thing. Anyone that calls it that can…This is a 14-year success. But in that moment [when Jimmy Harnen offered me a record deal], it felt like the very beginning. So to Laurel for bringing this to Jimmy…For Liz and Ronna for bringing this to Laurel…to Jimmy for believing in it enough…and to Scott for believing in Jimmy enough to let all this happen, thank you guys so much!”
Pictured (L-R): Producer Dann Huff; publisher Big Machine Music’s Mike Molinar; co-writers Justin Ebach, Brett Young and Kelly Archer; and ASCAP’s Mike Sistad. Photo: Terry Wyatt.
Shannan Hatch from SESAC presented plaques on behalf of Franklin Synergy Bank and her writer, Ebach.
“Each No. 1 party has something special about it, but this has so many special things about it,” said Hatch. “It’s the first for all the writers, the artist, and the song went No. 1 while Justin and his bride Janine were on their honeymoon in Las Vegas. You absolutely can’t plan to celebrate such monumental moments in life at the same time.”
Janine Appleton, Ebach’s wife and publisher at Word Country, continued the celebration with plaques and lively jest.
“Dale Mathews had the vision to expand Word Publishing into a multi-genre entity, which is why I stand before you,” explained Appleton on behalf of CEO Rod Riley. “We as publishers are only as good as the songs we bring to folks, so thank you Ebach for making my job a little easier.
“Laurel is the reason I found out about Brett. When Kelly Archer pulled Ebach in on this co-write I was like if Laurel believes in [Brett], I’m in,” said Appleton.
“I grew up in an atmosphere where dreaming was okay…so thank you to my parents,” Ebach offered. “I want to thank my two kids. Through all the ups and downs of the industry…my kids give me a reason and purpose to get up every day. Thank you all so much, I’m so grateful!”
Pictured (L-R): Justin Ebach (SESAC), Brett Young (ASCAP), Kelly Archer (BMI). Photo: Terry Wyatt
BMI’s David Preston spoke with the support of Pinnacle Bank on behalf of Archer, presenting her first No. 1 Epiphone guitar and silver BMI cups for all.
“Never in my life at BMI have I ever seen our office so excited for any one songwriter to have their first No. 1,” cheered Preston. “All you new writers out there, if you’re looking for an example of somebody to set your sights on and show you the way, Kelly Archer is a great example of the determination and grit it takes to make it in this city.”
Jeremy Stover from Red Creative Group offered plaques and remarks and plaques.
“When Steve Markland and I decided to partner on this Kelly publishing deal, we were both very excited,” remarked Stover. “She’s from Vancouver, B.C. and such a hard worker…Kelly, what you came [to Nashville] to do, you did it!”
Downtown Music Publishing’s Steve Markland then took the stage with plaques.
“Kelly Archer is on fire!” Markland led the audience in cheering. “If you’ve been around our office, about twice a week you hear [that]. It only means Kelly got another cut or her song had a great week on the chart.”
Through her speech, Archer offered thanks for everyone on her journey since her move to Nashville in 2001 and through five publishing deals.
“A lot of things had to go right for this to happen…and I would also have to say, a lot of things had to go wrong to feel the amount of gratitude having everyone here,” she poignantly said. “About two and a half years ago I signed a co-venture publishing deal with Steve Markland and Jeremy Stover…You guys came in at a time I was lacking a lot of confidence. I had been through a few deals and spinning—trying to figure out my purpose in Nashville, living far away from my family…I will always appreciate [their] confidence in my abilities.
“My mom will always be the one who thinks my songs are better than anyone. Everyone needs someone in their life who thinks that.”
Archer raised her glass to the late Andrew Dorff, who had texted a congrats to her before his untimely passing in December.
Archer’s mother concluded the event on stage saying it’s true, she can’t sleep without her husband of 47 years. “I already have a song for when we reach our 50th anniversary. It is going to be “In Case You Didn’t Know.”
“In Case You Didn’t Know” is Young’s follow-up single, and was most added on the first MusicRow CountryBreakout chart of 2017. Young’s self-titled, 12-track album will be available by Big Machine Records Feb. 10.
Nashville’s Pancake Pantry Under New Ownership
/by Lorie Hollabaugh“I am honored to be trusted with the future of this iconic landmark and am excited to play a part of Nashville’s rich history,” said Keltner in an email. “Pancake Pantry is a local treasure and I intend to carry on the Baldwin family’s legacy and preserve this special ‘Nashville tradition.'”
H.G. Hill Realty Co. still owns the building housing the restaurant.
Loretta Lynn Hall of Fame Exhibit to Open August 25
/by Lorie HollabaughLoretta Lynn
As part of its 50th anniversary celebration, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum will debut a major exhibition on the life of Loretta Lynn opening August 25.
“I am so happy the Country Music Hall of Fame has asked me to be one of their main exhibits in 2017…gonna show off my 50 some odd years in country music!,” exclaimed Loretta on hearing news of the exhibition. “They best have a big space…I have a lot of stuff! I’m so proud to share my life, and music with the Hall of Fame. Y’all come see us!”
2017 is shaping up to be a banner year for the legend, who celebrates her 85th birthday April 14. As part of the celebration she will perform two shows at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville April 14-15. The Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award winner is also up for another Grammy this year for Best Country Album for 2016’s Full Circle project. Full Circle was Lynn’s 40th Top 10 Country album and the highest-charting album she’s ever had on the Billboard 200.
PBS will also be re-airing “American Masters – Loretta Lynn: Still a Mountain Girl” on Jan. 27 on the network.
Celebration Of Life Set For Andrew Dorff
/by Jessica NicholsonAndrew Dorff
A celebration of life has been set for songwriter Andrew Dorff. Dorff died on Dec. 19, 2016, just days after his 40th birthday.
The celebration of life, hosted by BMI and Universal Music Publishing Group Nashville, will be held Wednesday, Jan. 11, beginning at 4 p.m. at City Winery. City Winery is located at 609 Lafayette Street in Nashville. Parking is limited.
The son of songwriter/composer Stephen “Steve” Dorff, Sr. and brother of actor Stephen Dorff, the Los Angeles native made his way to Nashville in 2003 to pursue songwriting. He went on to sign with Universal Music Publishing Group Nashville.
In 2008, he earned a Top 10 hit with Martina McBride’s “Ride.” Since then he went on to deliver more hits, including “Somebody’s Heartbreak” (Hunter Hayes), “Bleed Red” (Ronnie Dunn), and “Missing” (William Michael Morgan).
In July 2016, BMI celebrated Dorff’s hit for Kenny Chesney, “Save It For A Rainy Day,” and honored him with four Million-Air Awards, for one million radio spins each of “Somebody’s Heartbreak,” “Neon Light,” “My Eyes,” and “Save It For A Rainy Day.”
Old Dominion To Play Free Nashville Show
/by Jessica NicholsonIn 2016, Old Dominion played 182 shows to over 60,000 fans in North America on the Meat and Candy Tour alone (not including fans they played to on Kenny Chesney’s Spread The Love Tour). Their debut album Meat & Candy was certified Gold by the RIAA.
Old Dominion, comprised of lead singer Matthew Ramsey, lead guitarist Brad Tursi, multi-instrumentalist Trevor Rosen, bassist Geoff Sprung and drummer Whit Sellers, will kick-off 2017 joining Miranda Lambert on her Highway Vagabon Tour.
Chris Tomlin to Host ‘Good Friday Nashville’ Worship Event
/by Lorie HollabaughChris Tomlin is planning a special night of worship in Music City with his upcoming “Good Friday Nashville” event. Tomlin aims to unite the church in remembrance and celebration of the meaningful day with the special show at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena April 14. The show will also feature Big Daddy Weave, Zach Williams, Mosaic MSC and more who will lead in a time of worship during the event. Best-selling author Max Lucado will also share a message during the evening.
“I’m so excited for the Church to come together on Good Friday and remember the incredible gift we’ve been given because of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross,” Tomlin said. “It’s my prayer that we never lose sight of Calvary. It’s the reason we have hope – the reason we sing.”
“Good Friday Nashville” falls in the midst of Tomlin’s Worship Night In America Tour which will make 23 stops in arenas across the country this spring. He plans on using the event as a way to give back to the community, rallying behind impactful efforts in the city of Nashville, where he and his family reside.
Shane McAnally Purchases Former Jim Owens Entertainment Building
/by Jessica Nicholson1110 16th Ave. S. Photo: @2017 Google Maps
Songwriter/producer Shane McAnally has purchased the two-story Music Row building that was previously home to Jim Owens Entertainment, Inc., located at 1110 16th Ave. S. The building was purchased for $1.89 million.
63 Music Sq. E. Photo: @2017 Google Maps
John Ettinger Joins Cold River Records
/by Jessica NicholsonJohn Ettinger
Cold River Records President Pete O’Heeron has appointed John Ettinger to the newly created role of Senior Vice President of Radio Promotion and Artist Development. Ettinger will report directly to O’Heeron, effective immediately.
“We are excited to take the next step and expand our team with someone who has such a fantastic reputation,” comments O’Heeron.
“The whole team at Cold River Records is overjoyed to welcome John,” said Cold River’s VP/Radio Promotion Jim Dandy. “John’s expertise and passion help continue our label’s commitment to excellence and growing new fans at radio for Drew Baldridge.”
With over 26 years in the music business, Ettinger’s previous roles include VP of Promotion at Mercury Records, leader of Disney’s Carolwood Records promo staff, and head of label-service company The Talent Associates.
“I am a fan of the talented group of promotion staffers Jim and Pete have put together at Cold River, and have been a fan of Drew Baldridge since I first saw him perform two years ago. They are a passionate team who are making great strides in the industry,” said Ettinger. “This new chapter is very exciting for me and I know The Talent Associates is in great hands with Ryan Barnstead!”
Ettinger can be reached at john@coldriverrecords.com or 615-438-7667.
Mackenzie Johnson Signs With Spirit/Fluid
/by Lorie HollabaughPennsylvania native Johnson taught herself to play guitar at 15, and began uploading covers and original songs to her YouTube channel. She has since garnered over 425,000 YouTube subscribers and nearly 40 million views.
“I was intrigued by Mackenzie Johnson from the very first note. She is a uniquely talented singer, songwriter and artist. We look forward to helping her expand her already impressive fan base and bring her music to the world. Fluid Music Revolution could not be more excited to welcome Mackenzie Johnson to the family,” said Rogers.
“I am thrilled to be starting my Nashville journey alongside everyone at Fluid/Spirit. I get to make music with Frank Rogers, one of my favorite people and someone who believes in my work wholeheartedly. I know my songs are in great hands with this entire team. I can’t wait to get to work!” said Johnson.
U2, The Weeknd, Margo Price Part of Bonnaroo’s 2017 Lineup
/by Lorie HollabaughOther artists performing this year include Chance The Rapper, Major Lazer, Flume, The XX, Lorde, Travis Scott, Marshmello, Big Gigantic, Glass Animals, Future Islands, Portugal, The Man, Car Seat Headrest, Louis The Child, Flatbush Zombies, The Orwells, and Lucy Dacus.
The festival continues to expand and improve upon its pursuit of true sustainability each year, and 2016 saw the grand opening of more than 400 permanent toilets and hundreds of permanent shower stalls and water filling stations, all made possible by the park’s investment in its own devoted water line. The festival has been recognized twice by the state of Tennessee, winning the Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Award and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation’s Pursuit of Excellence Award for its environmentally-friendly ways.
Tickets for Bonnaroo 2017 are on sale now exclusively at bonnaroo.com.