Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Craig Shelburne, Kelsea Ballerini, MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Molly Hannula
Let’s drop a few names right at the beginning, shall we?
MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson, Craig Shelburne, Troy Stephenson, Jessica Nicholson, Eric T. Parker, Molly Hannula. Those are the people you need to know if you want to snag an invitation to the schmooze-a-minute whoop-de-do that is MusicRow magazine’s annual radio party and awards.
This event has historically been sardine-packed with attendees, so the organizers limited the number of invitations sent this year. Guess what? Everyone in the world RSVP’d, so it was still quite a crowd at Margaritaville on Monday afternoon (Feb. 8).
There was an impressive number of artists in this year’s throng. Billy Dean brought his protégé Jason Pritchett. Singer-songwriter Trent Summar was celebrating his new publishing deal with TenTen Music. Sierra Black was handing out cute lollipops with her picture in/on them.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Craig Shelburne, LOCASH, MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Molly Hannula
Others working the room included such recording artists as Sammy Sadler, McKenna & Brock, Macy Martin, James Robert Webb, Morgan Riley, Charee White, The Voice winner Craig Wayne Boyd, Branch & Dean, Mitchell Tenpenny, SaraBeth, Denny Strickland, Courtney Dickinson, Lucas Hoge and Stephanie Quayle, not to mention award winners Florida Georgia Line, Kelsea Ballerini, LOCASH and Erica Nicole.
“Welcome to our 14th annual CountryBreakout Awards,” said Sherod. He introduced Craig Shelburne, since this is Craig’s first appearance at the event as MusicRow’s general manager.
Wasting no time, Sherod and Craig swung right into an award presentation. Capitol Records Nashville won Label of the Year for the 12th time. Eleven of those wins have been consecutive.
“Every year, we love coming here,” said the company’s Shane Allen. “Thanks for everything, and feel free to reach out to us at any time….We couldn’t do what we do on the MusicRow chart without Diane Richey Promotions.”
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Craig Shelburne, Capitol Nashville label staff, MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Molly Hannula
The show’s first entertainer was Erica Nicole. She’s the first female artist to score three consecutive top-20 records on the magazine’s charts. Erica displayed a commanding stage presence, confident vocal belting and a feisty attitude. She wailed effectively on her rocking “I Listen to My Bad Girl” and kept the heat turned up on the potent “It’s Comin’ Down.”
Her first top-10 hit in MusicRow was “I’m Making Mine,” and she nailed the power ballad with plenty of oomph. Erica’s producer, Kent Wells, was in her band on guitar and backing vocals.
Sherod presented MusicRow’s Group/Duo of the Year award to Florida Georgia Line. “It’s an honor to be here,” said FGL’s Tyler Hubbard. “Thank you guys for being here. MusicRow radio reporters were the people who believed in us when no one else did.”
“We really do feel like the luckiest guys in the world,” added his partner Brian Kelley. “We’re more inspired than ever.” Republic Nashville’s promo v.p. Matthew Hargis posed the guys for a photo with the crowd behind them and asked everyone to raise their hands in a No. 1 salute.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Craig Shelburne, FGL’s Tyler Hubbard and Bryan Kelley, and MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Molly Hannula
Florida Georgia Line were also awarded five MusicRow Challenge Coins for co-writing the No. 1 hits “Anything Goes,” “Sippin’ on Fire,” “Sun Daze,” “Dirt” and “This Is How We Roll.”
For the first time in MusicRow history, the Breakthrough Artist and Female Artist of the Year were awarded to the same person, Kelsea Ballerini. “This makes me feel a lot cooler than I actually am,” she quipped. “If you had told me that this would happen a year and a half ago, I probably would have fainted.” When presented with her Challenge Coin for co-writing “Dibs,” Kelsea posed adorably with it, pursing her lips in a smooch.
Male Vocalist of the Year winner Jason Aldean was unable to attend.
The Songwriter of the Year was a three-way tie, with Ashley Gorley, Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne each penning five chart toppers. “Congratulations to Shane and Josh,” said Ashley. “To be in their company is awesome.” Shane added, “I really appreciate everything MusicRow does. Thanks for putting this together.” Josh said, “This is a huge honor. We love sharing it with the MusicRow folks.”
Pictured: FGL’s Tyler Hubbard and Brian Kelley accept MusicRow No. 1 Challenge Coins to celebrate their chart-topping hits. Photo: Molly Hannula
“This is the guy you all need to know, if you don’t already,” said Sherod in introducing Troy Stephenson, MusicRow’s chart director. All of the awards are based on activity on his weekly listings. “I’m thrilled with every single radio station that’s on our [reporting] panel,” said Troy. He presented the Independent Artist of the Year award to Erica Nicole.
“Thank you to MusicRow for making a platform for an artist like me,” she said. “Country radio, thank you for this moment. Thank you so, so much….I share this award with y’all.”
Troy announced Melissa Frost as MusicRow’s Reporter of the Year. She is the programming director at KRRV-FM in Alexandria, Louisiana.
“This is a pretty big honor,” Melissa began. “To all the females out there — keep doing your thing, because eventually it’s gonna pay off. It did for me.” She first learned about the music industry by reading MusicRow magazine as a teenager. How cool is that?
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Craig Shelburne and Troy Stephenson, Erica Nicole, and MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Molly Hannula
The members of LOCASH were given Challenge Coins for co-writing their MusicRow No. 1 “I Love This Life.”
“This is our first Number One, and it feels fantastic,” said the duo’s Chris Lucas. “Country radio, I can’t thank you enough.”
“We’re singing; we’re having fun,” added his partner Preston Brust. “Country radio, you are friends and family. Thank you for being here.”
Chris and Preston fronted their rocking band on the throbbing new single “I Know Somebody.” The frothing, emotional “Ship Wrecked” was dedicated to Preston’s wife, who is a new mom. LOCASH’s set concluded with the rolling, driving, joyous “I Love This Life.”
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Craig Shelburne and Troy Stephenson, KRRV’s Melissa Frost, MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Molly Hannula
“Congratulations to all our winners!” said Sherod when bidding the crowd farewell. He gazed at a gathering that included such Music Row fabulons as Butch Baker, Tim McFadden, Paula Szeigis, Martha Moore, Bev Moser, Susan Niles, Skip Bishop, Butch Waugh, Woody Bomar, Rick Kelly, Clif Doyal, Preshias Tomes Harris, Neal Spielberg, David Macias, Rosey Fitzpatrick, Sarah Skates, Ron Huntsman, David M. Ross, Gator Michaels, Fletcher Foster and Jensen Sussman.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Craig Shelburne, songwriters Ashley Gorley, Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne, and MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Molly Hannula
Bobby Karl Works Team UMG At The Ryman
/by Bobby KarlBOBBY KARL WORKS THE ROOM
Chapter 520
Row 1: UMG Nashville Chairman and CEO Mike Dungan, Kacey Musgraves, Keith Urban, UMG Nashville SVP Promotion Royce Risser, EMI’s Ron Bradley and Luke Bryan. Row 2: Capitol’s Shane Allen, EMI’s John Trapane, Capitol’s Brent Jones, MCA’s Michelle Tyrrell, MCA’s Katie Dean, Capitol’s Diane Lockner, EMI’s Mike Krinik, EMI’s Jamie Graves, Mercury’s Jill Brunett, UMG Nashville’s Sarah Beth Watson, Capitol’s Jeremy Guenther and EMI’s Jimmy Rector. Row 3: Capitol’s Bobby Young, MCA’s Donna Jo Passuntino, MCA’s Anna Johnson, UMG Nashville’s David Friedman, Mercury’s Summer Harlow, MCA’s Julianna Vaughn, Lauren Alaina, UMG Nashville’s Chris Schuler and Mercury’s Damon Moberly. Row 4: Eric Paslay, UMG Nashville’s Donna Hughes, MCA’s Miranda McDonald, Capitol’s Ashley Laws, EMI’s Trudie Daniell, Mercury’s Charlie Dean and Canaan Smith. Row 5: Jon Pardi, Capitol’s Paige Elliott, Mercury’s Nick Kaper, UMG Nashville’s Mike Harris, Chris Stapleton, Vince Gill, Mercury’s Sally Green and EMI’s Chris Fabiani. Photo: Peyton Hoge
The best annual concert in Nashville doesn’t sell tickets to the general public.
For the past seven years, that show has been the UMG Luncheon at the Ryman during the Country Radio Seminar convention. The label presents almost its entire roster of superstars. Each performs one number. The songs are stripped down to their country essences since most of the performances are acoustic or have minimal accompaniment. This makes the music at this show all the more powerful.
The 2016 version of the concert was staged in the midst of Tuesday’s snow storm (Feb. 9). As we filed in, one young man was enthusiastically taking selfies with snowflakes. “Don’t mind me; I’m from Florida!” he laughed. He’d never seen snow before.
We picked up our boxed lunches in the lobby, then headed for our pews. As usual, I grabbed a choice one in the balcony, which is where you want to sit in the Ryman.
“Welcome to Episode Seven of UMG at The Ryman, the best musical venue in the United States,” greeted label promo senior v.p. Royce Risser. “Thank you for braving the snow.”
“Happy Snow Day,” said Karen Fairchild of the kick-off act Little Big Town. “We’ve had an incredible year, thanks to you guys,” she added to the assembled radio programmers and execs. “We were thinking about y’all when we wrote this one.” The quartet then warmed the crowd with its flawless harmonies on the nostalgic “From the Beginning.”
Host Royce gave most of his artists nicknames as he introduced them. Canaan Smith, for instance, was “My Sweet Baby Angel.” “I don’t know if I like being called a sweet baby angel by a big grizzly man like Royce Risser,” Canaan responded. He sang the lilting, romantic “Stuck.” As he exited, Canaan shouted, “Thank you for my Number One this year, boys and girls,” referring to “Love You Like That.”
“All we ask is to show your love with airplay,” quipped Royce. He then dubbed Kacey Musgraves, “The Rhinestone Cowgirl.” She delivered the wistful, instantly catchy “Late to the Party” with aplomb. It’s on her Pageant Material CD/LP.
Next, Darius Rucker drew the day’s first standing ovation with the deeply emotional, heart-in-throat delivery of the ballad “I Sang.” People screamed and cheered wildly. “Wow,” said Royce.
Long, tall Jon Pardi was nicknamed Jon “The Bear” Pardi. He was effortlessly charming in delivering the fastest rising single of his career to date, the sublimely countryfied “Head Over Boots.”
Royce called Charles Kelley “Man Antebellum” and told us that the singer-songwriter is two weeks away from being a first-time father. Dierks Bentley and Eric Paslay joined Charles to sing their Grammy-nominated anthem “The Driver.” Performed with only acoustic guitars, this song sounded even more potent than its produced and released version. The audience sang its finale with gusto.
David Nail was dubbed David “Big Daddy” Nail, since he is the recent father of twins. “Get moving, radio: You know it’s a hit,” Royce admonished the crowd before David nailed (sorry, I couldn’t help it) his smoldering, intense ballad “Fighter.”
Royce called Dierks Bentley, “the pilot of perfection, the aviator of awesome,” which amused the star immensely. Dierks did his current single, the drawling, sassy “Somewhere on a Beach.”
Kip Moore was dubbed “Our Resident Surf Rat” by Royce. “There’s only one place that makes me nervous,” Kip told the audience. “And that is this place, in front of y’all. I know a lot of you guys. From the bottom of my heart, thank you so, so much.” Kip gave “Running for You,” a fiery, passionate, electrifying delivery. You’ll find it on Kip’s current Wild Ones collection.
“I call him flat-out sexy,” said Royce introducing Eric Paslay. The lanky singer-songwriter performed the upbeat “High Class” with wiggly, rubber-legged dance moves, which brought squeals and screeches from the ladies.
Nobody in history had won Male, Album and New Artist prizes at the CMA Awards until Chris Stapleton did so last fall. His wailing, hair-raising tenor filled the entire auditorium with its stark power as he stood with just an acoustic guitar and delivered “Either Way” (previously recorded by Lee Ann Womack, but not by him). Chris was rewarded with a loud standing ovation.
Poor 21-year-old youngster Lauren Alaina had to follow that. She shared, “My mom married my dad’s best friend. I grew up calling him Uncle Sam. Now he’s my stepdad. My dad married a 28-year-old and she’s super hot. So, go Dad.” Her song, “Doing Fine” is written with autobiographical lyrics referencing those events and set to a bopping beat.
Royce dubbed Eric Church, “Still the Chief.” The charismatic Eric went solo with his acoustic guitar to tear into his soulful ballad “Record Year.” It appears on his “surprise” album, Mr. Misunderstood, which not even his record label knew about last year.
Vince Gill was introduced as “this industry’s greatest ambassador.” He was awarded a standing ovation before he ever opened his mouth. He talked about his collaboration with Little Big Town on his new single “Take Me Down.” “We’re thinking of calling ourselves LBTVG. That could bring us an interesting new audience,” he joked. Alas, the group had to catch a plane and couldn’t perform with him.
“The label now calls me the AARP guy,” Vince continued. “I made my first record when I was a 17-year-old kid. Local radio played it, and it instilled something in me — hope.
“I have a new record coming, just like all of these knuckleheads. I ain’t quittin.’” He chose the Down to My Last Bad Habit album’s closing track, a slow country weeper in tribute to the late George Jones, “Sad One Comin’ On.” And his eloquence singing it brought him a second standing ovation.
“That’s my hero, right there,” said Royce.
Luke Bryan was next. The superstar sat at the piano to play and sing a lovely, lovely love song called “To the Moon and Back.” It appears on his current Kill the Lights album.
On Monday (Feb. 8), Keith Urban was announced as this year’s Country Radio Broadcasters Artist Humanitarian honoree. “It’s always amazing to play the Ryman,” said Keith as he took the stage. “It’s my favorite venue in all the world. It’s like playing inside of an acoustic guitar. I feel very, very blessed.” With just his own guitar accompaniment, he performed the rippling, sweetly melodic “Break On Me,” superbly.
At this exact time and on this exact show last year, Keith introduced “John Deere, John Cougar, John 3:16,” which went on to great glory. He strapped on his electric guitar to close the UMG concert with it, engaging the audience to sing along with abandon.
Leaving this great cornucopia of music with smiles on their faces were Jimmy Rector, Aaron Hartley, Joanna Carter, Sarah Skates, Brian Collins, David Freedman, Brandi Simms, Tom Lord, Troy Stephenson, Shane Allen and more than 2,000 other lucky souls.
Exclusive: MusicRow’s Reporter Of The Year: Melissa Frost
/by Troy_StephensonMelissa Frost is this year’s recipient of the MusicRow CountryBreakout Award for Reporter of the Year. She’s been at KRRV-FM in Alexandria, Louisiana, for 15 years, and has served as program director there for the last five years.
Prior to her visit to Nashville for Country Radio Seminar, she spent a few moments answering questions about her award-winning career for MusicRow.com
MusicRow: How and when did you get into radio?
Melissa Frost: I got into radio back in 2001 by pure accident, really! I’ve always been a fan of music and my love for country music and the history of the format has always run pretty deep! I always knew I wanted to be in the music business but radio never really crossed my mind. I’ve always had a love for the drums and I thought I was going to be a musician but one day my parents heard (what I call) the “help wanted” commercials and suggested that I give it a try and 15 years later here I am!
Other than KRRV, where else have you worked?
Frost: I’ve really only been on KRRV for the 15 years that I’ve been in radio. I’ve filled in on other formats within the company but my main focus has always been KRRV! As far as the company goes, the first five years I was in radio, the station was owned by Clear Channel. Then 10 years ago Cenla Broadcasting (a local company) purchased KRRV and its three sister stations. Combined with the stations that they already had, Cenla Broadcasting owns a total of eight stations.
What are some of the most memorable moments of 2015?
Frost: 2015 was a pretty memorable year as a whole! One of the events that stands out was our St. Jude Back to School Jamfest. It was the first time that KRRV had an event like this to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. It was a free event that was geared toward helping to raise money for kids! There were games, face painting, food, etc. We had a silent auction and vendors to help raise money throughout the day and we finished the day off with a free concert from Brandon Holland and Erica Nicole.
For a first-time event, we were hoping for a nice crowd but we could have never imagined the number people that showed up to support the event and the artists! Personally for me to have come up with the idea, then watch it all come together and then see it turn into one of the biggest events that we’ve ever had, was a truly an amazing moment.
Why is your station and market so special?
Frost: KRRV is pretty special to a lot of people in this market! It’s a very unique station and a true heritage station in every sense! I grew up listening to the station and attending many of the events like Live In The Lobby and the Listener Appreciation Shows. Also another thing that makes KRRV special is the fact that we are a small-to-medium market but the station itself is a 100,000-watt station, so it really does appeal to the masses because of the coverage it has! We are a very locally-driven station and that really sets us apart!
What is your programming philosophy when it comes to music, promotions, etc.?
Frost: My programming philosophy is actually kind of interesting because I look at all the “old rules” of radio and say, “That’s great but let’s try this instead!” I’m not afraid to play female artists back to back, or even three in a row! Good music is just good music and should be heard! I think independent artists should be given a chance and I’m a firm believer in working with promoters, labels and artists to have successful events for your listeners. Most importantly, I think radio should be fun! Whether it’s an on-air contest, doing stuff in the community, having artist visits and even pulling your entire staff together to prank an artist when they stop by for a visit, it all should be fun!
What does it mean to you to be the MusicRow Reporter of the Year?
Frost: I’m extremely honored to be chosen as MusicRow Reporter of the Year! It’s kind of funny because when I was in high school I would buy the MusicRow magazines and read them from cover to cover because that was my way of connecting to Nashville and what was going on there. Since being in the business, I’d hope that one day I would just be considered for it and now to be selected by MusicRow for Reporter of the Year is an unbelievable honor! This truly is one of the highlights of my career. Thank you, MusicRow!
In Photos: ‘MusicRow’ CountryBreakout Awards
/by Eric T. ParkerRead Bobby Karl’s full recap of the 2016 event, or see a full list of winners here.
Photos: Bev Moser/Moments By Moser
CountryBreakout Breakout Artist and Female Artist of the Year also accepts a Challenge Coin for writing and performing her latest chart-topping hit, “Dibs.” Pictured (L-R): Kelsea Ballerini, MusicRow‘s Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson.
Florida Georgia Line accepts MusicRow No. 1 Challenge Coins for five chart-toppers on the CountryBreakout chart. Pictured (L-R): MusicRow‘s GM Craig Shelburne; Florida Georgia Line’s Tyler Hubbard and Brian Kelley; MusicRow‘s Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson.
CountryBreakout Artist of the Year Erica Nicole performs with band, including producer Kent Wells on guitar
MusicRow Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson welcoming a record crowd and unveiling the magazine’s 2016 CountryBreakout Awards print issue, available now.
Songwriter of the Year [tie] recipients enjoy each other’s acceptance speeches. Pictured (L-R): Combustion-Warner/Chappell songwriter Ashley Gorley with SMACK Songs partners/writers Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne
LOCASH accepts No. 1 Challenge Coins for writing and performing the final No. 1 on the MusicRow CountryBreakout Chart of 2015, “I Love This Life” (Dec. 17, 2015). Pictured (L-R) MusicRow GM Craig Shelburne; LOCASH’s Chris Lucas, Preston Brust; MusicRow Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson.
Label of the Year, Capitol Records Nashville accepts honors. Pictured (L-R): MusicRow GM Craig Shelburne; Capitol Nashville VP Promotion Shane Allen; UMG Nashville VP, Promotion David Friedman; Capitol Nashville Midwest Regional Promotion Director Brent Jones; Capitol Nashville Southwest Regional Promotion Director Jeremy Guenther; Capitol Nashville West Regional Promotion Director Paige Elliott; Capitol Nashville Promotion Coordinator Ashley Laws; MusicRow Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson.
Tyler Hubbard (L) and Brian Kelley of Republic Nashville’s Florida Georgia Line thank the audience as they accept a slew of No. 1 Challenge Coins and their second plaque for Group/Duo of the Year.
LOCASH wrap up the afternoon with a performance of “I Love This Life” and more songs at the MusicRow CountryBreakout Awards.
In Pictures: CMHoF, Sierra Black, The Shotgun Seat, Mike Smith
/by Jessica NicholsonCountry Music Hall of Fame and Museum Celebrates Songwriter Al Anderson
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum celebrated songwriter Al Anderson on Saturday, Feb. 6, during its Poets and Prophets program, which honors songwriters who have made significant contributions to country music. Hosted by Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum editor Michael Gray, the program featured archival photos and audio tracks that traced Anderson’s life and career to becoming a hit songwriter.
Anderson performed a number of his songs throughout the event, accompanied by friends Sharon Vaughn, Jeffrey Steele, and Country Music Hall of Fame member Vince Gill.
Pictured (Back row, L-R): Former Poet and Prophet honoree Craig Wiseman, Al Anderson, former Poet and Prophet honoree Bob DiPiero, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum CEO Kyle Young. (Front row, L-R): Former Poet and Prophet honoree Jeffrey Steele, performer Sharon Vaughn, and Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum editor Michael Gray. Photo: Kelli Dirks, CK Photo
OMG Entertainment’s Sierra Black Meets CRB’s Bill Mayne
OMG Entertainment artist Sierra Black chatted about her new single, “Heart on Ice,” with CRB’s Bill Mayne at CRS this week. Her debut CD was produced by Grammy award-winning producer Michael Omartian and Tom Hemby.
Sierra Black with CRB’s Bill Mayne
The Shotgun Seat Hosts Songwriters Round With Phil Barton, Dan Couch, Tia Scola, Billy Montana, Erik Dylan, and Jillian Jacqueline
The Shotgun Seat hosted its first songwriters round, held at Nashville’s The Listening Room last week. The round featured Dan Couch, Tia Scola, Billy Montana, Erik Dylan, and Jillian Jacqueline, as well as a guest appearance from Phil Barton.
Montana offered a rendition of Jo Dee Messina’s “Bring On The Rain” from 2002, while Dylan performed “Comeback Kid,” a track from Kip Moore’s sophomore album, Wild Ones. Couch offered the Canaan Smith track, “Hole In A Bottle.” Montana and the crowd traded lines on Sara Evans’ “Suds in the Bucket,” while Barton performed Lee Brice’s “A Woman Like You.”
The Shotgun Seat Songwriters Round at Nashville’s The Listening Room
Mike Smith Celebrates Super Bowl and CRS
On Sunday (Feb. 7), country artist Mike Smith welcomed radio programmers who arrived in Nashville early for Country Radio Seminar to a viewing party for Super Bowl 50 at the downtown restaurant B.B. King’s.
Pictured (L-R): Gabe Buch (WQPC), Bub Mccullough (WMCI), Lee Richey (WKPQ), Ryan Mccall (WGLR), Mike Smith, Melissa Frost (KRRV), Fletch Brown (WXFL), Stan Soboleski (WFRY), Tom Duke (KGUS), Jarrett Jackson (KCJC). Seated, (L-R): Drew Kirby (KBKB), Cole Younger (WOKA), Derek Beck (KRGI), Dr. Dave (KDKD), Mike Thomas (KFAV), Bill Booth (WKDZ). Floor (L-R: Michael Rhea (WATZ), Josh Gass (WOOZ), Steve Ferguson (WTHO), George Davis (KBXB), Gator Glass (WIVK), Lynn Rutledge (WMEV). Photo: Rick Diamond / Getty Images
Keith Urban Accepts CRS Artist Humanitarian Award
/by Craig_ShelburnePictured (L-R): Lady Antebellum, Keith Urban at CRS 2016. Photo: Sara Kauss
Keith Urban appeared at Country Radio Seminar (CRS) on Monday afternoon (Feb. 8) to receive the Artist Humanitarian Award in person. He accepted the honor from Lady Antebellum. His wife, Nicole Kidman, was in the audience at the Omni Nashville Hotel.
During his speech, Urban recounted how his family’s home in Australia burned down when he was 9. He said that several organizations, including a local country music club that his parents belonged to, stepped in to help with donated items and fundraisers.
“It was so apparent to me, right from the age of 9, that this is what it’s about. People fall on hard times, people need help, various causes need help and support. So, I’m just extremely grateful that I’ve been given a chance to bring a spotlight that my wife and I both have, to causes that mean something to us, and hopefully they benefit from it. It’s what I love to do more than anything,” he said.
Joking that he was a terrible athlete in school, and an even worse scholar, he told the audience that he was grateful that music was an option in his school—and that making instruments available to all students is one of his biggest goals. He is an avid supporter of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Grammy in the Schools, and Mr. Holland’s Opus Fund, among many other organizations.
In closing, Urban noted, “I want to really share this award with all of the volunteers and people who work behind the scenes in countless organizations, that have no name recognition, that never receive these kinds of things, but work tirelessly and give of the most precious thing we all have, which is time.”
Urban also appeared at the UMG Nashville lunch and performance on Tuesday afternoon, singing “Break On Me” and “John Cougar, John Deere, John 3:16.”
NSAI Announces New, Re-Elected Members To Board Of Directors
/by Craig_ShelburneNashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) just concluded its 2016 Board of Directors election. New board members are Jeff Cohen, Ben Glover, Connie Harrington and Liz Rose.
Current board member who were re-elected include Tony Arata, James Dean Hicks, Byron Hill, Lee Thomas Miller, Jenn Schott, Stephony Smith and Dave Turnbull.
These members join existing board members Rhett Akins, Jim Beavers, past-President Steve Bogard, Roger Brown, Beckie Foster, Nicolle Galyon, Ben Hayslip, Brett James, Tim Nichols, Gary Nicholson, Rivers Rutherford, Anthony Smith, Caitlyn Smith, Bobby Tomberlin, Troy Verges and Danny Wells, whose terms expire in 2017.
The election includes votes by the NSAI Professional Songwriter Membership and appointments by the NSAI Board of Directors.
Nominees Announced For iHeartRadio Music Awards
/by Jessica NicholsonTaylor Swift, Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, Sam Hunt, Zac Brown Band and Thomas Rhett are among the nominees for the upcoming iHeartRadio Music Awards, slated to air Sunday, April 3, on TBS, TNT and truTV at 8 p.m. ET. The ceremony will be held at The Forum in Los Angeles.
This year’s event features awards in 31 categories, including several new honors such as Female Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Best Group/Duo of the Year, Best Tour, Country Artist of the Year, and Album of the Year.
Tickets go on sale for the general public on Saturday (Feb. 13) at 10 a.m. PST.
Nominees For iHeartRadio Music Awards 2016
Country Artist of the Year: (New Category)
· Blake Shelton
· Brad Paisley
· Luke Bryan
· Sam Hunt
· Thomas Rhett
Country Song of the Year:
· “Buy Me A Boat” – Chris Janson
· “Homegrown” – Zac Brown Band
· “I See You” – Luke Bryan
· “Lose My Mind” – Brett Eldredge
· “Take Your Time” – Sam Hunt
Female Artist of the Year: (New Category)
· Adele
· Carrie Underwood
· Meghan Trainor
· Selena Gomez
· Taylor Swift
Male Artist of the Year: (New Category)
· Ed Sheeran
· Justin Bieber
· Luke Bryan
· Sam Smith
· The Weeknd
Best New Artist:
· Fetty Wap
· Hozier
· Sam Hunt
· Shawn Mendes
· Tove Lo
Best Duo/Group of the Year: (New Category)
· Fall Out Boy
· Maroon 5
· One Direction
· Walk The Moon
· Zac Brown Band
Album of the Year: (New Category)
· 1989 – Taylor Swift
· 25 – Adele
· Beauty Behind the Madness – The Weeknd
· In the Lonely Hour – Sam Smith
· X – Ed Sheeran
Song of the Year:
· “Blank Space” – Taylor Swift
· “Can’t Feel My Face” – The Weeknd
· “Hello” – Adele
· “Shut Up and Dance” – Walk The Moon
· “Uptown Funk” – Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars
Best Tour: (New Category)
· Foo Fighters
· Garth Brooks
· Luke Bryan
· Taylor Swift
· U2
Alternative Rock Artist of the Year: (New Category)
· AWOLNATION
· Foo Fighters
· Muse
· Twenty One Pilots
· X Ambassadors
Alternative Rock Song of the Year:
· “Cigarette Daydreams” – Cage The Elephant
· “Ex’s & Oh’s” – Elle King
· “Renegades” – X Ambassadors
· “Shut Up and Dance” – Walk The Moon
· “Stressed Out” – Twenty One Pilots
Rock Artist of the Year: (New Category)
· Breaking Benjamin
· Disturbed
· Five Finger Death Punch
· Foo Fighters
· Three Days Grace
Rock Song of the Year: (New Category)
· “Cut The Cord” – Shinedown
· “Failure” – Breaking Benjamin
· “Footsteps” – Pop Evil
· “Heavy Is The Head” – Zac Brown Band featuring Chris Cornell
· “I Am Machine” – Three Days Grace
Dance Song of the Year:
· “Hey Mama” – David Guetta featuring Nicki Minaj, Bebe Rexha & Afrojack
· “Lean On” – Major Lazer & DJ Snake featuring MØ
· “Waves” – Mr. Probz
· “Where Are Ü Now?” – Skrillex & Diplo with Justin Bieber
· “You Know You Like It” – DJ Snake & AlunaGeorge
Dance Artist of the Year: (New Category)
· Calvin Harris
· David Guetta
· Major Lazer
· Skrillex & Diplo
· Zedd
Hip Hop Song of the Year: (New Category)
· “Blessings” – Big Sean featuring Drake & Kanye West
· “Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh)” – Rich Homie Quan
· “Hotline Bling” – Drake
· “Trap Queen” – Fetty Wap
· “Truffle Butter” – Nicki Minaj featuring Drake & Lil Wayne
Hip Hop Artist of the Year: (New Category)
· Big Sean
· Drake
· Fetty Wap
· Future
· J. Cole
R&B Song of the Year: (New Category)
· “Bitch Better Have My Money” – Rihanna
· “Earned It” – The Weeknd
· “Planes” – Jeremih featuring J. Cole
· “Post To Be” – Omarion featuring Chris Brown & Jhene Aiko
· “The Hills” – The Weeknd
R&B Artist of the Year: (New Category)
· Beyoncé
· Chris Brown
· The Weeknd
· Trey Songz
· Usher
Latin Song of the Year: (New Category)
· “Ay Vamos” – J Balvin
· “El Perdón” – Nicky Jam & Enrique Iglesias
· “Hilito” – Romeo Santos
· “La Gozadera” – Gente De Zona featuring Marc Anthony
· “Mi Verdad” – Maná featuring Shakira
Latin Artist of the Year: (New Category)
· Enrique Iglesias
· J Balvin
· Nicky Jam
· Pitbull
· Prince Royce
Regional Mexican Song of the Year: (New Category)
· “Aunque Ahora Estés Con Él” – Calibre 50
· “Eres Una Niña” – Gerardo Ortiz
· “Levantando Polvadera” – Voz de Mando
· “Mi Vicio Más Grande” – Banda El Recodo de Cruz Lizárraga
· “Te Mestiste” – Ariel Camacho y Los Plebes del Rancho
Regional Mexican Artist of the Year: (New Category)
· Banda Los Recoditos
· Calibre 50
· Gerardo Ortiz
· Julión Álvarez y Su Norteño Banda
· Voz De Mando
Best Lyrics: *Socially Voted Category
· “Die A Happy Man” – Thomas Rhett
· “Fight Song” – Rachel Platten
· “Hello” – Adele
· “Photograph” – Ed Sheeran
· “See You Again” – Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth
Best Collaboration: *Socially Voted Category
· “Bad Blood” – Taylor Swift featuring Kendrick Lamar
· “Like I’m Gonna Lose You” – Meghan Trainor featuring John Legend
· “See You Again” – Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth
· “Uptown Funk” – Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars
· “Where Are Ü Now?” – Skrillex & Diplo with Justin Bieber
Best Cover Song: (New Category) *Socially Voted Category
· “1989” (Album in Full) – Ryan Adams covering Taylor Swift
· “Bad Blood” – Alessia Cara covering Taylor Swift
· “Bitch Better Have My Money” – Kelly Clarkson covering Rihanna
· “Cheerleader” – Pentatonix covering Omi
· “Hands To Myself/Sorry” – Troy Sivan covering Selena Gomez And Justin Bieber
· “Hello” – Demi Lovato covering Adele
· “Hotline Bling” – Justin Bieber covering Drake
· “Hotline Bling” – Sam Smith & Disclosure covering Drake
· “Trap Queen” – Ed Sheeran covering Fetty Wap
· “Uptown Funk” – Fifth Harmony, Jasmine V, Jacob Whitesides and Mahogany Lox covering Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars
Best Song from a Movie: (New Category) *Socially Voted Category
· “Earned It” – The Weeknd (50 Shades of Grey)
· “Love Me Like You Do” – Ellie Goulding (50 Shades of Grey)
· “See You Again” – Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth (Furious 7)
· “Til It Happens To You” – Lady Gaga (The Hunting Ground)
· “Writing’s On The Wall” – Sam Smith (Spectre)
Most Meme-able Moment: (New Category) *Socially Voted Category
· Adele and all of the “Hello” memes (Lionel Richie, Miss Piggy, Etc.)
· Drake and “Hotline Bling”
· Katy Perry and the Left Shark (from Super Bowl 49)
· Kanye West and Kanye For President / Kanye 2020
· Taylor Swift’s “Crazy Girl” with Running Mascara (from “Blank Space” video)
Best Fan Army: *Socially Voted Category
· 5 Seconds of Summer 5SOSFam
· Adam Lambert – Glamberts
· Ariana Grande – Arianators
· Demi Lovato – Lovatics
· Fifth Harmony – Harmonizers
· Justin Bieber – Beliebers
· Little Mix – Mixers
· Nicki Minaj – Barbz
· One Direction – Directioners
· Selena Gomez – Selenators
· Shawn Mendes – Mendes Army
· Taylor Swift – Swifties
Acme Radio Will Launch Feb. 10 From Downtown Studio
/by Craig_ShelburneDowntown Nashville restaurant/venue Acme Feed & Seed, in partnership with TuneIn, will launch Acme Radio on Wednesday (Feb. 10) via TuneIn’s app.
From a state-of-the-art studio on site, Acme Radio will focus on music from Nashville, as well as live-streamed concerts from any one of its four floors.
Tom Morales, owner of Acme Feed & Seed, said, “If you are one of the best musicians in Nashville, you are one of the best in the world. Acme’s stage gives this talent a live, local platform and Acme Radio will give them an international one. We are creating the opportunity for these artists to be discovered regardless of the genre.”
Justin Hammel, who will serve as program director, said, “I’m so excited to be a part of Acme Radio. Building a radio station from the ground up has been an amazing experience and it’s just the beginning. I can’t wait to introduce our rich Nashville culture to a global audience and to show everyone why Nashville truly is Music City.”
Acme Radio’s lifestyle shows will include: Cropper Radio Hour with Steve Cropper; TAG Radio Hour with Guthrie Trapp; Roots Now with Barry Mazor; Entrepreneurial Mind with Dr. Jeff Cornwall and Kane Harrison; Vinyl Lunch with Tim Hibbs; Bhop & Baribeau Show with Brad Hopkins and Rachel Baribeau; The Side Men with Bruce Bouton; Cocktails with Nashville’s Bar Heroes; The Hive with Jennifer Masley; Pairs Wells with Food with Executive Chef Matt Farley; Nashville Jazz with Greg Pogue; Film Nashville Transmedia Hour with Andy van Roon; and Buzz Cuts UK with Chris Smith.
Bobby Karl Works The 14th Annual MusicRow CountryBreakout Awards
/by Bobby KarlPictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Craig Shelburne, Kelsea Ballerini, MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Molly Hannula
Let’s drop a few names right at the beginning, shall we?
MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson, Craig Shelburne, Troy Stephenson, Jessica Nicholson, Eric T. Parker, Molly Hannula. Those are the people you need to know if you want to snag an invitation to the schmooze-a-minute whoop-de-do that is MusicRow magazine’s annual radio party and awards.
This event has historically been sardine-packed with attendees, so the organizers limited the number of invitations sent this year. Guess what? Everyone in the world RSVP’d, so it was still quite a crowd at Margaritaville on Monday afternoon (Feb. 8).
There was an impressive number of artists in this year’s throng. Billy Dean brought his protégé Jason Pritchett. Singer-songwriter Trent Summar was celebrating his new publishing deal with TenTen Music. Sierra Black was handing out cute lollipops with her picture in/on them.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Craig Shelburne, LOCASH, MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Molly Hannula
Others working the room included such recording artists as Sammy Sadler, McKenna & Brock, Macy Martin, James Robert Webb, Morgan Riley, Charee White, The Voice winner Craig Wayne Boyd, Branch & Dean, Mitchell Tenpenny, SaraBeth, Denny Strickland, Courtney Dickinson, Lucas Hoge and Stephanie Quayle, not to mention award winners Florida Georgia Line, Kelsea Ballerini, LOCASH and Erica Nicole.
“Welcome to our 14th annual CountryBreakout Awards,” said Sherod. He introduced Craig Shelburne, since this is Craig’s first appearance at the event as MusicRow’s general manager.
Wasting no time, Sherod and Craig swung right into an award presentation. Capitol Records Nashville won Label of the Year for the 12th time. Eleven of those wins have been consecutive.
“Every year, we love coming here,” said the company’s Shane Allen. “Thanks for everything, and feel free to reach out to us at any time….We couldn’t do what we do on the MusicRow chart without Diane Richey Promotions.”
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Craig Shelburne, Capitol Nashville label staff, MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Molly Hannula
The show’s first entertainer was Erica Nicole. She’s the first female artist to score three consecutive top-20 records on the magazine’s charts. Erica displayed a commanding stage presence, confident vocal belting and a feisty attitude. She wailed effectively on her rocking “I Listen to My Bad Girl” and kept the heat turned up on the potent “It’s Comin’ Down.”
Her first top-10 hit in MusicRow was “I’m Making Mine,” and she nailed the power ballad with plenty of oomph. Erica’s producer, Kent Wells, was in her band on guitar and backing vocals.
Sherod presented MusicRow’s Group/Duo of the Year award to Florida Georgia Line. “It’s an honor to be here,” said FGL’s Tyler Hubbard. “Thank you guys for being here. MusicRow radio reporters were the people who believed in us when no one else did.”
“We really do feel like the luckiest guys in the world,” added his partner Brian Kelley. “We’re more inspired than ever.” Republic Nashville’s promo v.p. Matthew Hargis posed the guys for a photo with the crowd behind them and asked everyone to raise their hands in a No. 1 salute.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Craig Shelburne, FGL’s Tyler Hubbard and Bryan Kelley, and MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Molly Hannula
Florida Georgia Line were also awarded five MusicRow Challenge Coins for co-writing the No. 1 hits “Anything Goes,” “Sippin’ on Fire,” “Sun Daze,” “Dirt” and “This Is How We Roll.”
For the first time in MusicRow history, the Breakthrough Artist and Female Artist of the Year were awarded to the same person, Kelsea Ballerini. “This makes me feel a lot cooler than I actually am,” she quipped. “If you had told me that this would happen a year and a half ago, I probably would have fainted.” When presented with her Challenge Coin for co-writing “Dibs,” Kelsea posed adorably with it, pursing her lips in a smooch.
Male Vocalist of the Year winner Jason Aldean was unable to attend.
The Songwriter of the Year was a three-way tie, with Ashley Gorley, Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne each penning five chart toppers. “Congratulations to Shane and Josh,” said Ashley. “To be in their company is awesome.” Shane added, “I really appreciate everything MusicRow does. Thanks for putting this together.” Josh said, “This is a huge honor. We love sharing it with the MusicRow folks.”
Pictured: FGL’s Tyler Hubbard and Brian Kelley accept MusicRow No. 1 Challenge Coins to celebrate their chart-topping hits. Photo: Molly Hannula
“This is the guy you all need to know, if you don’t already,” said Sherod in introducing Troy Stephenson, MusicRow’s chart director. All of the awards are based on activity on his weekly listings. “I’m thrilled with every single radio station that’s on our [reporting] panel,” said Troy. He presented the Independent Artist of the Year award to Erica Nicole.
“Thank you to MusicRow for making a platform for an artist like me,” she said. “Country radio, thank you for this moment. Thank you so, so much….I share this award with y’all.”
Troy announced Melissa Frost as MusicRow’s Reporter of the Year. She is the programming director at KRRV-FM in Alexandria, Louisiana.
“This is a pretty big honor,” Melissa began. “To all the females out there — keep doing your thing, because eventually it’s gonna pay off. It did for me.” She first learned about the music industry by reading MusicRow magazine as a teenager. How cool is that?
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Craig Shelburne and Troy Stephenson, Erica Nicole, and MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Molly Hannula
The members of LOCASH were given Challenge Coins for co-writing their MusicRow No. 1 “I Love This Life.”
“This is our first Number One, and it feels fantastic,” said the duo’s Chris Lucas. “Country radio, I can’t thank you enough.”
“We’re singing; we’re having fun,” added his partner Preston Brust. “Country radio, you are friends and family. Thank you for being here.”
Chris and Preston fronted their rocking band on the throbbing new single “I Know Somebody.” The frothing, emotional “Ship Wrecked” was dedicated to Preston’s wife, who is a new mom. LOCASH’s set concluded with the rolling, driving, joyous “I Love This Life.”
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Craig Shelburne and Troy Stephenson, KRRV’s Melissa Frost, MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Molly Hannula
“Congratulations to all our winners!” said Sherod when bidding the crowd farewell. He gazed at a gathering that included such Music Row fabulons as Butch Baker, Tim McFadden, Paula Szeigis, Martha Moore, Bev Moser, Susan Niles, Skip Bishop, Butch Waugh, Woody Bomar, Rick Kelly, Clif Doyal, Preshias Tomes Harris, Neal Spielberg, David Macias, Rosey Fitzpatrick, Sarah Skates, Ron Huntsman, David M. Ross, Gator Michaels, Fletcher Foster and Jensen Sussman.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Craig Shelburne, songwriters Ashley Gorley, Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne, and MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson. Photo: Molly Hannula
In Photos: Big Machine Label Group, Steven Tyler at CRS
/by Craig_ShelburneScott Borchetta and Steven Tyler. Photo: Rick Diamond, Getty Images
Big Machine Label Group hosted country radio and industry executives at a late-night, private showcase at aVenue in downtown Nashville on Monday night (Feb. 8), capping off the first official day of Country Radio Seminar (CRS).
Steven Tyler. Photo: Rick Diamond, Getty Images
Performers from the label included Steven Tyler, A Thousand Horses, The Cadillac Three and Drake White.
Pictured (L-R): Drake White; A Thousand Horses’ Bill Satcher, Graham DeLoach, Zach Brown and Michael Hobby; BMLG President/CEO Scott Borchetta; Steven Tyler; The Cadillac Three’s Jaren Johnston, Neil Mason, and Kelby Ray. Photo: Rick Diamond, Getty Images
BMLG artists RaeLynn and Tara Thompson were spotted in the crowd, along with BMLG President & CEO Scott Borchetta and imprint leaders George Briner (The Valory Music Co. SVP Promotion), Jimmy Harnen (BMLG EVP & Republic Nashville President), Jack Purcell (Big Machine Records SVP Promotion) and Chris Stacey (Dot Records GM).
A Thousand Horses. Photo: Rick Diamond, Getty Images
The Cadillac Three. Photo: Rick Diamond, Getty Images
Drake White. Photo: Rick Diamond, Getty Images