Pictured (L-R) front: William Lee Golden, President George H.W. Bush, Joe Bonsall and Richard Sterban. Standing: Duane Allen, Darrick Kinslow, Barbara Bush & Darrell Bowling.
The Oak Ridge Boys had the privilege of spending time visiting with President George H.W. Bush and former First Lady Barbara Bush during a recent trip to Houston, Texas.
Members of the country vocal group, including their tour manager and friend were “honor[ed with a] great visit,” in the words of tenor Joe Bonsall.
The 41st President of the United States experienced health problems during christmas but was seen skydiving in June 2014 to celebrate his 90th birthday.
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/10172920/Oak-Ridge-Boys-Bush.jpg360570Eric T. Parkerhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngEric T. Parker2015-01-29 15:00:302015-01-29 15:00:30Oak Ridge Boys Visit George H.W. Bush
The Academy of Country Music has revealed the nominees for its Songwriter of the Year Award exclusively with MusicRow.
Rodney Clawson, Ashley Gorley, Luke Laird, Josh Osborne, and Chris Tompkins are the five finalists.
The Songwriter of the Year honor will be presented during the 9th annual ACM Honors event, to take place Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2015 in Nashville.
During last year’s 8th annual ACM Honors event, Shane McAnally was named Songwriter of the Year, and feted with a performance by Kelly Clarkson, Kacey Musgraves, and Lady Antebellum’s Hillary Scott.
The remainder of the nominees for the 50th Academy of Country Music awards will be revealed Friday, Jan. 30 at 7:30 a.m. CT via the ACM’s social media sites.
The 50th Academy of Country Music Awards will be presented live from AT&T Stadium on Sunday, April 19 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS Television Network.
ACM Songwriter of the Year nominees (L-R): Chris Tompkins, Rodney Clawson, Luke Laird, Josh Osborne and Ashley Gorley
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/10172920/Songwriters_ACM2.jpg380570Jessica Nicholsonhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngJessica Nicholson2015-01-29 14:01:022015-01-29 14:01:02EXCLUSIVE BREAKING NEWS: ACM Announces 2015 Songwriter Of The Year Nominees
Borman Entertainment Moves To New Nashville Location
The Nashville office of artist management firm Borman Entertainment has moved to The Tower at Renaissance in downtown Nashville, taking up residence on the building’s 26th floor.
The company’s new address is 611 Commerce Street, Suite 2602; Nashville, TN 37203. Phone numbers remain the same: 615-320-3000 (phone) and 615-320-3001 (fax).
Borman Entertainment has locations in Los Angeles and Nashville, and represents Keith Urban, Alison Krauss, Mickey Guyton, and Clayton Anderson from its Nashville office.
Gold Mountain Entertainment Adds To Artist Roster
Front Country Band
The Nashville office of Gold Mountain Entertainment has signed band Front Country to their roster. They join Gold Mountain Nashville’s roster, which includes Ronnie Milsap, Nanci Griffith, The Crickets, Todd Snider, Hard Working Americans, Jeff Austin, Great American Taxi and Jason D. Williams.
Front Country formed in 2011, and includes Adam Roszkiewicz, Jacob Groopman, Jordan Klein, Leif Karlstrom, Melody Walker, and Zach Sharpe. The group recently released the project Sake of the Sound, and will begin their national and international tour in February 2015.
AIMP Panel is ‘All About That Bass’
The Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP) Nashville announces its first panel of 2015 to be held Feb. 18 at the ASCAP’s Connie Bradley Board Room from 11:30am-1:30pm. A case study of Meghan Trainor and the song “All About That Bass,” publishers Carla Wallace and Kerry O’Neil of Big Yellow Dog Music will talk about how the song became a hit, its successes and how this translates into publishing.
With sponsorship by Fifth Third Bank and ASCAP, this event will is free for AIMP members and $15 for guests. Pre-registration is required and can be done here.
The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum’s special exhibition Alan Jackson: 25 Years of Keepin’ It Country, originally scheduled to close in March, has been extended through June 21, 2015.
To celebrate the extension, the museum welcomes the return of Jackson’s cherished ’55 Ford Thunderbird, on display in the Curb Conservatory lobby from Feb. 8 to 16. Jackson began saving money when he was 12 years old and bought the car when he was 15. He restored it with his dad, Gene, and drove it throughout high school. In fact, Denise Jackson, Alan’s wife, agreed to a first date with her future husband because “he owned the coolest car in town.” After the couple married, Jackson sold his dream machine to make a down payment on their first home. Several years later Denise tracked down the car and gave it to Alan as a Christmas gift. The T-Bird served as inspiration for his 2002 song “First Love,” and, in 2008, the car (and Denise) appeared in Jackson’s music video “Good Time.”
“We are thrilled to bring Alan’s ‘first love,’ his 1955 T-Bird, back to the museum,” said Museum Director Kyle Young. “This beautiful car was not only an integral part of Alan and Denise’s love story but the inspiration for one of his songs. Its return is the perfect way to kick-off the exhibit’s extension and celebrate Valentine’s Day.”
To mark the T-Bird’s return and the Jacksons’ incredible love story, the museum is launching the “First Love Getaway” Contest. From today until Feb. 6, fans can share their own first-date stories on the Country Music Hall of Fame’s Facebook page for a chance to win a romantic Valentine’s weekend getaway for two to Nashville. For more information including how to enter and prize details, visit countrymusichalloffame.org.
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/10172921/AJ2.jpg380301Kelsey_Gradyhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngKelsey_Grady2015-01-29 10:13:422015-01-29 10:13:42Alan Jackson’s “First Love” Back At Country Music Hall Of Fame
Pictured: (L-R): Carlton Anderson, Jeremy Crady, LeAnn Phelan (ASCAP), Nick Columbia, Maggie Delone, Jeff Anderson, Casey Weston, Jared Scott, Vanessa Branson, Ben Goldsmith, Jordan Schmidt, Carmen Brandy, Tyler Flowers, Thomas Finchum and CayleeAnna Hammack. Not pictured: Hannah Ellis, Jilian Linklater and Daphne Willis.
The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) has announced the talented unsigned songwriters that will make up the ASCAP Guidance from Publishers for Songwriters (GPS) Project Class of 2015.
Now in its fifth year, the GPS Project aims to display unsigned writers for our publishing community. Throughout the project, songwriters are paired with publishers for one meeting a month along with a follow-up for critiquing and networking. Additional special activities will include a songwriters round, networking events and guidance from attorneys and other industry influentials.
“We have to remain focused on writer development, not just at ASCAP, but as a music community,” commented ASCAP Senior Creative Director LeAnn Phelan. “GPS gives deserving young writers an opportunity to learn from the best publishers in the world. It’s really that simple. The publishers do an incredible job and I’m grateful for their participation.”
The 2015 ASCAP GPS Project kicked off in January and will continue throughout the year.
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/10172922/ASCAP-GPS.jpg390570Eric T. Parkerhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngEric T. Parker2015-01-29 09:51:412015-01-29 09:51:41ASCAP Selects Unsigned Writers for Year-long Program
Rodney Crowell, Emmylou Harris, Vince Gill and Cory Chisel, team up for the Celebrity Barn Dance & Benefit Concert on Saturday, March 28 to benefit MusiCares®, Music Health Alliance, Bonaparte’s Retreat and New Beginnings at Lake Charles. The second annual fundraiser will be at The Jaeckle Centre in Thompson’s Station, a premier equine facility and the largest barn in the south.
VIP tickets include a meet and greet, wine tasting and dinner prepared by award-winning chef Dean Fearing of the Austin Ritz-Carlton. Patrons with general admission tickets are invited to bring their own beverages. Tickets at www.thebarndance.com.
I Am A Woman Benefit For Debbie Ballentine
The I Am A Woman concert will benefit Debbie Ballentine who is battling cancer. Set to perform are Lorrie Morgan, Vince Gill, Pam Tillis, Jesse Keith Whitley, Ashlee Hewitt, TG Sheppard, Kelly Lang and Baillie and The Boys. The event will be hosted by TV personality Nan Kelley at the Silver Dollar Saloon on Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $30 per person and available here or at the door. Donations can be made at www.gofundme.com/iwfwic.
Jammin’ For A Good Cause—Charlie Daniels’ Volunteer Jam
Trace Adkins, Ted Nugent, Tracy Lawrence, Craig Morgan, Colt Ford, The Oak Ridge Boys and Michael W. Smith have been added to the line-up of the Charlie Daniels 40th Anniversary Volunteer Jam, set for Aug. 12 at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena.
Previously announced performers include Travis Tritt, Montgomery Gentry, Billy Ray Cyrus, The Kentucky Headhunters, The Outlaws and Lee Roy Parnell. The event benefits The Journey Home Project and The Predators Foundation. Tickets go on sale Friday, Jan. 30 at 10 a.m. CST via Ticketmaster.
To say that DisClaimer is woefully behind in reviewing CCM recordings would be the understatement of the year.
For fans of the genre, some music in this column might be old news. For the rest of you, welcome aboard my voyage of discovery as we survey current Contemporary Christian Music CDs, plus a few traditional gospel offerings.
The column is dominated by such CCM veterans as Michael W. Smith, MercyMe, Steve Taylor, Ginny Owens and the Newsboys, not to mention such Southern gospel old-timers as Gold City and Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver. But you’ll also find three current Grammy Award nominees here, and two of them are this week’s DisClaimer award winners. The Disc of the Day goes to Royal Tailor, and the DisCovery Award belongs to For King & Country.
STEVE TAYLOR & THE PERFECT FOIL/A Life Preserved Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Publisher: none listed; Splint (track)
-Steve Taylor has come the closest of anyone in his field to being the embodiment of a rock star. At least he has always looked and sounded like one, to me (remember Chagall Guevera?). His new incarnation and Kickstarter-funded comeback CD with “The Perfect Foil” is titled Goliath. That’s where you’ll find this psychedelic gem, complete with space-cadet vocals, spare guitar stinging and throbbing rhythm. Despite 30 years in the biz, he retains his satiric wit and his alternative cred.
MICHAEL W. SMITH/The Old Rugged Cross Writers: George Bernard; Producer: Kyle Lee; Publishers: public domain; Cracker
-It is mildly jarring to realize that one of the founders of the CCM genre is now an eminence. Smitty’s current project for Cracker Barrel is a collection of hymn standards like “Just as I Am,” “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” and “Softly and Tenderly.” It leads off with a straightforward reading of this 1913 chestnut. The production is tastefully restrained, just piano, strings, dobro and light vocal harmonies.
ROYAL TAILOR/Ready Set Go Writers: Tauren Wells/Cole Walowac/Jeff Pardo; Producer: Cole Walowac; Publishers: Sony-ATV Tree/Songs of Third Base/Brentwood Benson/Meaux Jeaux/Da Bears Da Bears Da Bears/Capitol CMG, BMI/SESAC; Provident/Sony
-This melodic rock group’s current CD is nominated as CCM Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards. It has already yielded such hits as “Remain” and “Original.” The current single/video is a frothing, propulsive collaboration with the rapping Capital Kings, whose Cole Walowac produces. Unlike many of these things, the combination of the soaring tenor vocals and urgent speaking lines is perfectly balanced. The whole Royal Tailor CD totally rocks. Buy it.
Royal Tailor
DOYLE LAWSON & QUICKSILVER/Will You Go Writers: Steve Watts/Doyle Lawson; Producer: Doyle Lawson; Publishers: Red Bud/Top O Holston, ASCAP/BMI; Mountain Home
-Bluegrass Hall of Fame member Lawson has released 40 albums, half of which have been gospel projects. His Quicksilver has seven IBMA Vocal Group of the Year awards and multiple Dove and Grammy nominations. This thrilling call-and-response, raise-the-rafters toe tapper is just one highlight from the group’s Open Carefully, Message Inside collection. These men can flat-out SING. I remain an enormous fan.
NEWSBOYS/Hallelujah for the Cross Writers: Ross King/Todd Wright; Producer: Seth Mosley; Publishers: Simple Tense/Todd Wright, ASCAP/BMI; First
-The repertoire of this durable pop-rock foursome takes a turn toward the traditional on its latest album. They give a kick, a push and a U2 vibe to oldies such as “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” and “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name,” as well as to this rousing title tune. Exciting and ear opening.
GINNY OWENS/No Borders Writers: Ginny Owens/Wordspring/Josh Bronleewe/Benji Cowart; Producer: Josh Bronleewe; Publishers: ChickPower/Wordspring/Word/Howie Cowie, SESAC/ASCAP; ChickPower/Word
-I have always thought that this CCM singer-songwriter deserves mainstream pop stardom. Others have sometimes agreed, since she has been featured on a Lilith Fair tour and at the Sundance Film Festival. Her songs have been heard on the soundtracks of the TV series Roswell, Charmed, Get Real and Felicity. To date, she has sold nearly a million records, largely to the Christian community, despite the fact that her lyrics are seldom church-y. Her latest CD is called I Know a Secret, and it ripples with electronic washes over her gorgeous piano work and glistening vocal performances. Start with this hopeful, uplifting track, then dive into the rest of one of the year’s best female listening experiences.
FOR KING & COUNTRY/Run Wild Writers: none listed; Producers: Seth Mosley/For King & Country; Publishers: none listed; Fervent/Curb
-The Smallbone family has faced its share of tribulations since migrating to Music City from Australia. But now everything is coming up roses for brothers Luke and Joel. Their group, For King & Country, is up for a CCM Album of the Year Grammy Award with its CD Run Wild, Live Free, Love Strong. It kicks off with this stately rock stomper featuring guest Andy Mineo. If you know these guys at all, it’s probably for the anthemic, sing-along hit “Fix My Eyes.” This shows that there’s a lot more where that came from.
LARRY STEPHENSON BAND/Pull Your Savior In Writers: Larry Stephenson; Producers: Ben Surratt/Larry Stephenson; Publishers: Lee-Dawn, BMI; Whysper Dream
-Stephenson is celebrating his 25th anniversary in bluegrass with a gospel collection. His workmanlike lead tenor singing and mandolin work anchor a band that never misses a note, as you’ll hear on this self-composed CD title tune. The rest of the repertoire is drawn largely from familiar bluegrass songwriters such as Randall Hylton, Donna Ulisse, The Louvin Brothers, Lester Flatt and Albert E. Brumley. The whole thing sounds heartfelt.
MERCYME/Shake Writers: MercyMe/Soil Olds/David Garcia/Ben Glover; Producers: David Garcia/Ben Glover; Publishers: MercyMe/Wet as a Fish/Soul Glow Activator/D Soul/Universal/Brentwood Benson/9t One/Arlose, ASCAP/BMI; Fairtrade/Provident (track)
-This big rollicking hit from MercyMe’s Welcome to the New collection is nominated for a Grammy as CCM Song of the Year. The five-man group attacks it with shouted gusto and plenty of oomphy rhythm. The band’s current single, “Greater,” is also on this CD, and it is even more dance happy. I believe this is MercyMe’s 10th nationally distributed album, and something tells me this is their year for Grammy glory.
GOLD CITY/Nothing But The Blood Writers: traditional; Producer: Gordon Mote; Publishers: public domain; New
-For good old-fashioned, four-square gospel harmonizing, you can’t beat these Alabama boys. Their current Hymn Revival collection will send you straight back to church. It kicks off with this steadily building altar call and keeps right on going.
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/10172921/royal-tailor1featured.jpg260390Robert K Oermannhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngRobert K Oermann2015-01-29 09:42:022015-01-29 09:42:02DISClaimer: Royal Tailor, For King & Country Light Up CCM
Pictured (L-R): BBR Music Group Owner/CEO Benny Brown; Magic Mustang Music VP Juli Newton-Griffith; artist Craig Campbell.
Singer-songwriter Craig Campbell has signed to Magic Mustang Music’s publishing roster. This follows Campbell’s signing with BBR Music Group’s label imprint, Red Bow Records, last month.
“I have known Craig for a while and have always been impressed by his talent,” said Juli Newton-Griffith, VP of Publishing for Magic Mustang Music. “To have him as part of our team is beyond exciting. We are ready to hit the ground running!”
Campbell, a SESAC songwriter, recently notched a co-writing credit for “All American Kid,” featured on Garth Brooks’ album Man Against Machine. Campbell also co-penned half of the songs on his 2013 sophomore effort, Never Regret, as well as the majority of the tunes on his self-titled 2011 debut album, including his Top 15 hit “Family Man.”
“I’m super excited to join the Magic Mustang roster,” said Campbell. “Some of my favorite songs I’ve written have been with writers Rob Hatch and Justin Wilson, and now to be a part of that family is a pretty big deal to me. I’ve always admired what Juli and the Magic Mustang team do in the publishing world and I am so looking forward to what is ahead.”
Campbell is booked by William Morris Endeavor.
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/10172923/craig-campbell1.jpg428570Jessica Nicholsonhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngJessica Nicholson2015-01-28 15:59:282015-01-28 15:59:28Craig Campbell Signs With Magic Mustang Music For Publishing
Kristian Bush will release his debut solo Streamsound Records album, Southern Gravity, on April 7.
A proven hit-maker with the duo Sugarland, Bush teamed with producer Tom Tapley and executive producer Byron Gallimore (Sugarland, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw) for the release. Bush is a co-writer on each of the album’s 12 tracks (listing below).
The lead single for the album, “Trailer Hitch,” has risen to No. 42 on the MusicRow Chart as of this week. The inspiring lyrics sparked Bush to partner with Goodwill Industries International for the #GiveItAway campaign to encourage donations of used clothing and goods.
“The songs on Southern Gravity feel like home to me, and I am proud and excited to share them, finally,” said Bush. “They are your stories as much as they are mine, and I hope you hear yourself in here, no matter if you are standing up, falling down, or dancing in between the pieces of your life.”
In 2015, Bush will continue his Put Your Soul In It Tour, beginning with appearances at the Ryman Auditorium (2/15), The Bluebird Cafe (2/26) and the Grand Ole Opry (3/6) in Nashville before heading overseas for select tour stops in Australia.
Southern Gravity Track Listing
1. “Make Another Memory” (Kristian Bush/Jeff Cohen/Rodney Clawson)
2. “Light Me Up” (Bush/Jesse Rice)
3. “Trailer Hitch” (Bush/Brandon Bush/Tim Owens)
4. “Southern Gravity” (Bush/Scooter Carusoe)
5. “Flip Flops” (Bush/Jeff Cohen/Paul Overstreet)
6. “Giving It Up” (Bush/Jeff Cohen/Tom Douglas)
7. “Feeling Fine California” (Bush/Cohen/Overstreet)
8. “Waiting On An Angel” (Bush/Cohen/Bob DiPiero)
9. “Walk Tall” (Bush/Cohen/Nathaniel “Bo”Rinehart/William “Bear” Rinehart)
10. “SendingYou A Sunset” (Bush/Tim Owens)
11. “Sweet Love” (Bush/Sherrie Austin/Phil Barton/Cohen)
12. “House On A Beach” (Bush/Canaan Smith)
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/10172923/Kristian-Bush-Southern-Gravity.jpg299300Eric T. Parkerhttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngEric T. Parker2015-01-28 15:50:102015-01-28 15:50:10Kristian Bush Sets Streamsound Debut
Pictured (l-r): Three Mules Music’s Chris Hunter; ‘Country Aircheck’s’ Chuck Aly; Universal Music Group’s Mike Dungan; producer Zach Crowell; co-writers Shane McAnally, Sam Hunt and Josh Osborne; ASCAP’s LeAnn Phelan; Black River Publishing’s Celia Froehlig; and Universal Music Publishing’s Kent Earls. Photo: Alan Poizner.
Sam Hunt had plenty of reasons to celebrate Monday (Jan. 26): his first No. 1 as an artist, his third No. 1 as a songwriter, and the launch of a sold-out headlining tour. So he marked the occasion with a performance at Rocketown in Nashville—complete with breakdancing kids and graffiti artists.
Breakdancers were in the audience at the Sam Hunt tour preview.
Hunt and his team kicked off the festivities by toasting his debut single “Leave The Night On” reaching No. 1. After success penning hits for other artists, Hunt co-wrote the song with frequent collaborators Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne—it was their seventh and fifth chartoppers, respectively. All three songwriters are ASCAP members. “I think Josh is a secret weapon,” said McAnally, “but I think the secret is out.” Saluting Hunt, he added, “he makes music that comes from the heart… without regard for genre.”
“You are a game changer,” agreed UMPG’s Kent Earls.
“Leave The Night On” has sold one million copies, making it Hunt’s first platinum single as an artist. The follow-up, “Take Your Time,” is the most downloaded country song on this week’s chart.
McAnally called his co-producer Zach Crowell a “mindreader” for helping complete the sound they were striving for. “Leave The Night On” is Crowell’s first No. 1 as a producer, though his experience includes manning the boards for LeCrae.
Hunt said he had been writing with McAnally and Osborne for about five years and thanked them for believing in him. Watching from the crowd were his parents Joan and Allen Hunt, visiting from Cedartown, Georgia. The MCA Nashville artist also noted appreciation for his team before launching into an enthusiastic set including “Leave The Night On,” “Take Your Time,” “Break Up In A Small Town,” “House Party” and “Speakers.”
His Lipstick Graffiti outing opens Thursday, Jan. 29 with a sold-out show at famed Los Angeles venue The Troubador. Later this year he joins Lady Antebellum’s tour.
A graffiti artist at work during the party.
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/10172923/slider-sam-hunt-no1-party.jpg370576Sarah Skateshttps://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngSarah Skates2015-01-28 15:44:332015-01-28 15:44:33Sam Hunt Celebrates No. 1 Single, Upcoming Tour
Oak Ridge Boys Visit George H.W. Bush
/by Eric T. ParkerPictured (L-R) front: William Lee Golden, President George H.W. Bush, Joe Bonsall and Richard Sterban. Standing: Duane Allen, Darrick Kinslow, Barbara Bush & Darrell Bowling.
The Oak Ridge Boys had the privilege of spending time visiting with President George H.W. Bush and former First Lady Barbara Bush during a recent trip to Houston, Texas.
Members of the country vocal group, including their tour manager and friend were “honor[ed with a] great visit,” in the words of tenor Joe Bonsall.
The 41st President of the United States experienced health problems during christmas but was seen skydiving in June 2014 to celebrate his 90th birthday.
EXCLUSIVE BREAKING NEWS: ACM Announces 2015 Songwriter Of The Year Nominees
/by Jessica NicholsonRodney Clawson, Ashley Gorley, Luke Laird, Josh Osborne, and Chris Tompkins are the five finalists.
The Songwriter of the Year honor will be presented during the 9th annual ACM Honors event, to take place Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2015 in Nashville.
During last year’s 8th annual ACM Honors event, Shane McAnally was named Songwriter of the Year, and feted with a performance by Kelly Clarkson, Kacey Musgraves, and Lady Antebellum’s Hillary Scott.
The remainder of the nominees for the 50th Academy of Country Music awards will be revealed Friday, Jan. 30 at 7:30 a.m. CT via the ACM’s social media sites.
The 50th Academy of Country Music Awards will be presented live from AT&T Stadium on Sunday, April 19 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS Television Network.
ACM Songwriter of the Year nominees (L-R): Chris Tompkins, Rodney Clawson, Luke Laird, Josh Osborne and Ashley Gorley
Industry Ink: Borman Entertainment, Gold Mountain Entertainment, AIMP
/by Jessica NicholsonBorman Entertainment Moves To New Nashville Location
The company’s new address is 611 Commerce Street, Suite 2602; Nashville, TN 37203. Phone numbers remain the same: 615-320-3000 (phone) and 615-320-3001 (fax).
Borman Entertainment has locations in Los Angeles and Nashville, and represents Keith Urban, Alison Krauss, Mickey Guyton, and Clayton Anderson from its Nashville office.
Gold Mountain Entertainment Adds To Artist Roster
Front Country Band
The Nashville office of Gold Mountain Entertainment has signed band Front Country to their roster. They join Gold Mountain Nashville’s roster, which includes Ronnie Milsap, Nanci Griffith, The Crickets, Todd Snider, Hard Working Americans, Jeff Austin, Great American Taxi and Jason D. Williams.
Front Country formed in 2011, and includes Adam Roszkiewicz, Jacob Groopman, Jordan Klein, Leif Karlstrom, Melody Walker, and Zach Sharpe. The group recently released the project Sake of the Sound, and will begin their national and international tour in February 2015.
AIMP Panel is ‘All About That Bass’
With sponsorship by Fifth Third Bank and ASCAP, this event will is free for AIMP members and $15 for guests. Pre-registration is required and can be done here.
Alan Jackson’s “First Love” Back At Country Music Hall Of Fame
/by Kelsey_GradyTo celebrate the extension, the museum welcomes the return of Jackson’s cherished ’55 Ford Thunderbird, on display in the Curb Conservatory lobby from Feb. 8 to 16. Jackson began saving money when he was 12 years old and bought the car when he was 15. He restored it with his dad, Gene, and drove it throughout high school. In fact, Denise Jackson, Alan’s wife, agreed to a first date with her future husband because “he owned the coolest car in town.” After the couple married, Jackson sold his dream machine to make a down payment on their first home. Several years later Denise tracked down the car and gave it to Alan as a Christmas gift. The T-Bird served as inspiration for his 2002 song “First Love,” and, in 2008, the car (and Denise) appeared in Jackson’s music video “Good Time.”
“We are thrilled to bring Alan’s ‘first love,’ his 1955 T-Bird, back to the museum,” said Museum Director Kyle Young. “This beautiful car was not only an integral part of Alan and Denise’s love story but the inspiration for one of his songs. Its return is the perfect way to kick-off the exhibit’s extension and celebrate Valentine’s Day.”
To mark the T-Bird’s return and the Jacksons’ incredible love story, the museum is launching the “First Love Getaway” Contest. From today until Feb. 6, fans can share their own first-date stories on the Country Music Hall of Fame’s Facebook page for a chance to win a romantic Valentine’s weekend getaway for two to Nashville. For more information including how to enter and prize details, visit countrymusichalloffame.org.
ASCAP Selects Unsigned Writers for Year-long Program
/by Eric T. ParkerPictured: (L-R): Carlton Anderson, Jeremy Crady, LeAnn Phelan (ASCAP), Nick Columbia, Maggie Delone, Jeff Anderson, Casey Weston, Jared Scott, Vanessa Branson, Ben Goldsmith, Jordan Schmidt, Carmen Brandy, Tyler Flowers, Thomas Finchum and CayleeAnna Hammack. Not pictured: Hannah Ellis, Jilian Linklater and Daphne Willis.
The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) has announced the talented unsigned songwriters that will make up the ASCAP Guidance from Publishers for Songwriters (GPS) Project Class of 2015.
Now in its fifth year, the GPS Project aims to display unsigned writers for our publishing community. Throughout the project, songwriters are paired with publishers for one meeting a month along with a follow-up for critiquing and networking. Additional special activities will include a songwriters round, networking events and guidance from attorneys and other industry influentials.
“We have to remain focused on writer development, not just at ASCAP, but as a music community,” commented ASCAP Senior Creative Director LeAnn Phelan. “GPS gives deserving young writers an opportunity to learn from the best publishers in the world. It’s really that simple. The publishers do an incredible job and I’m grateful for their participation.”
The 2015 ASCAP GPS Project kicked off in January and will continue throughout the year.
Star-Studded Benefits: Two-Step With Vince Gill, Emmylou Harris, Rodney Crowell
/by Sarah SkatesRodney Crowell, Emmylou Harris, Vince Gill and Cory Chisel, team up for the Celebrity Barn Dance & Benefit Concert on Saturday, March 28 to benefit MusiCares®, Music Health Alliance, Bonaparte’s Retreat and New Beginnings at Lake Charles. The second annual fundraiser will be at The Jaeckle Centre in Thompson’s Station, a premier equine facility and the largest barn in the south.
VIP tickets include a meet and greet, wine tasting and dinner prepared by award-winning chef Dean Fearing of the Austin Ritz-Carlton. Patrons with general admission tickets are invited to bring their own beverages. Tickets at www.thebarndance.com.
The I Am A Woman concert will benefit Debbie Ballentine who is battling cancer. Set to perform are Lorrie Morgan, Vince Gill, Pam Tillis, Jesse Keith Whitley, Ashlee Hewitt, TG Sheppard, Kelly Lang and Baillie and The Boys. The event will be hosted by TV personality Nan Kelley at the Silver Dollar Saloon on Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $30 per person and available here or at the door. Donations can be made at www.gofundme.com/iwfwic.
Jammin’ For A Good Cause—Charlie Daniels’ Volunteer Jam
Trace Adkins, Ted Nugent, Tracy Lawrence, Craig Morgan, Colt Ford, The Oak Ridge Boys and Michael W. Smith have been added to the line-up of the Charlie Daniels 40th Anniversary Volunteer Jam, set for Aug. 12 at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena.
Previously announced performers include Travis Tritt, Montgomery Gentry, Billy Ray Cyrus, The Kentucky Headhunters, The Outlaws and Lee Roy Parnell. The event benefits The Journey Home Project and The Predators Foundation. Tickets go on sale Friday, Jan. 30 at 10 a.m. CST via Ticketmaster.
DISClaimer: Royal Tailor, For King & Country Light Up CCM
/by Robert K OermannFor King & Country
To say that DisClaimer is woefully behind in reviewing CCM recordings would be the understatement of the year.
For fans of the genre, some music in this column might be old news. For the rest of you, welcome aboard my voyage of discovery as we survey current Contemporary Christian Music CDs, plus a few traditional gospel offerings.
The column is dominated by such CCM veterans as Michael W. Smith, MercyMe, Steve Taylor, Ginny Owens and the Newsboys, not to mention such Southern gospel old-timers as Gold City and Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver. But you’ll also find three current Grammy Award nominees here, and two of them are this week’s DisClaimer award winners. The Disc of the Day goes to Royal Tailor, and the DisCovery Award belongs to For King & Country.
STEVE TAYLOR & THE PERFECT FOIL/A Life Preserved
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Publisher: none listed; Splint (track)
-Steve Taylor has come the closest of anyone in his field to being the embodiment of a rock star. At least he has always looked and sounded like one, to me (remember Chagall Guevera?). His new incarnation and Kickstarter-funded comeback CD with “The Perfect Foil” is titled Goliath. That’s where you’ll find this psychedelic gem, complete with space-cadet vocals, spare guitar stinging and throbbing rhythm. Despite 30 years in the biz, he retains his satiric wit and his alternative cred.
MICHAEL W. SMITH/The Old Rugged Cross
Writers: George Bernard; Producer: Kyle Lee; Publishers: public domain; Cracker
-It is mildly jarring to realize that one of the founders of the CCM genre is now an eminence. Smitty’s current project for Cracker Barrel is a collection of hymn standards like “Just as I Am,” “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” and “Softly and Tenderly.” It leads off with a straightforward reading of this 1913 chestnut. The production is tastefully restrained, just piano, strings, dobro and light vocal harmonies.
ROYAL TAILOR/Ready Set Go
Writers: Tauren Wells/Cole Walowac/Jeff Pardo; Producer: Cole Walowac; Publishers: Sony-ATV Tree/Songs of Third Base/Brentwood Benson/Meaux Jeaux/Da Bears Da Bears Da Bears/Capitol CMG, BMI/SESAC; Provident/Sony
-This melodic rock group’s current CD is nominated as CCM Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards. It has already yielded such hits as “Remain” and “Original.” The current single/video is a frothing, propulsive collaboration with the rapping Capital Kings, whose Cole Walowac produces. Unlike many of these things, the combination of the soaring tenor vocals and urgent speaking lines is perfectly balanced. The whole Royal Tailor CD totally rocks. Buy it.
Royal Tailor
DOYLE LAWSON & QUICKSILVER/Will You Go
Writers: Steve Watts/Doyle Lawson; Producer: Doyle Lawson; Publishers: Red Bud/Top O Holston, ASCAP/BMI; Mountain Home
-Bluegrass Hall of Fame member Lawson has released 40 albums, half of which have been gospel projects. His Quicksilver has seven IBMA Vocal Group of the Year awards and multiple Dove and Grammy nominations. This thrilling call-and-response, raise-the-rafters toe tapper is just one highlight from the group’s Open Carefully, Message Inside collection. These men can flat-out SING. I remain an enormous fan.
NEWSBOYS/Hallelujah for the Cross
Writers: Ross King/Todd Wright; Producer: Seth Mosley; Publishers: Simple Tense/Todd Wright, ASCAP/BMI; First
-The repertoire of this durable pop-rock foursome takes a turn toward the traditional on its latest album. They give a kick, a push and a U2 vibe to oldies such as “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” and “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name,” as well as to this rousing title tune. Exciting and ear opening.
GINNY OWENS/No Borders
Writers: Ginny Owens/Wordspring/Josh Bronleewe/Benji Cowart; Producer: Josh Bronleewe; Publishers: ChickPower/Wordspring/Word/Howie Cowie, SESAC/ASCAP; ChickPower/Word
-I have always thought that this CCM singer-songwriter deserves mainstream pop stardom. Others have sometimes agreed, since she has been featured on a Lilith Fair tour and at the Sundance Film Festival. Her songs have been heard on the soundtracks of the TV series Roswell, Charmed, Get Real and Felicity. To date, she has sold nearly a million records, largely to the Christian community, despite the fact that her lyrics are seldom church-y. Her latest CD is called I Know a Secret, and it ripples with electronic washes over her gorgeous piano work and glistening vocal performances. Start with this hopeful, uplifting track, then dive into the rest of one of the year’s best female listening experiences.
FOR KING & COUNTRY/Run Wild
Writers: none listed; Producers: Seth Mosley/For King & Country; Publishers: none listed; Fervent/Curb
-The Smallbone family has faced its share of tribulations since migrating to Music City from Australia. But now everything is coming up roses for brothers Luke and Joel. Their group, For King & Country, is up for a CCM Album of the Year Grammy Award with its CD Run Wild, Live Free, Love Strong. It kicks off with this stately rock stomper featuring guest Andy Mineo. If you know these guys at all, it’s probably for the anthemic, sing-along hit “Fix My Eyes.” This shows that there’s a lot more where that came from.
LARRY STEPHENSON BAND/Pull Your Savior In
Writers: Larry Stephenson; Producers: Ben Surratt/Larry Stephenson; Publishers: Lee-Dawn, BMI; Whysper Dream
-Stephenson is celebrating his 25th anniversary in bluegrass with a gospel collection. His workmanlike lead tenor singing and mandolin work anchor a band that never misses a note, as you’ll hear on this self-composed CD title tune. The rest of the repertoire is drawn largely from familiar bluegrass songwriters such as Randall Hylton, Donna Ulisse, The Louvin Brothers, Lester Flatt and Albert E. Brumley. The whole thing sounds heartfelt.
MERCYME/Shake
Writers: MercyMe/Soil Olds/David Garcia/Ben Glover; Producers: David Garcia/Ben Glover; Publishers: MercyMe/Wet as a Fish/Soul Glow Activator/D Soul/Universal/Brentwood Benson/9t One/Arlose, ASCAP/BMI; Fairtrade/Provident (track)
-This big rollicking hit from MercyMe’s Welcome to the New collection is nominated for a Grammy as CCM Song of the Year. The five-man group attacks it with shouted gusto and plenty of oomphy rhythm. The band’s current single, “Greater,” is also on this CD, and it is even more dance happy. I believe this is MercyMe’s 10th nationally distributed album, and something tells me this is their year for Grammy glory.
GOLD CITY/Nothing But The Blood
Writers: traditional; Producer: Gordon Mote; Publishers: public domain; New
-For good old-fashioned, four-square gospel harmonizing, you can’t beat these Alabama boys. Their current Hymn Revival collection will send you straight back to church. It kicks off with this steadily building altar call and keeps right on going.
Craig Campbell Signs With Magic Mustang Music For Publishing
/by Jessica NicholsonPictured (L-R): BBR Music Group Owner/CEO Benny Brown; Magic Mustang Music VP Juli Newton-Griffith; artist Craig Campbell.
Singer-songwriter Craig Campbell has signed to Magic Mustang Music’s publishing roster. This follows Campbell’s signing with BBR Music Group’s label imprint, Red Bow Records, last month.
“I have known Craig for a while and have always been impressed by his talent,” said Juli Newton-Griffith, VP of Publishing for Magic Mustang Music. “To have him as part of our team is beyond exciting. We are ready to hit the ground running!”
Campbell, a SESAC songwriter, recently notched a co-writing credit for “All American Kid,” featured on Garth Brooks’ album Man Against Machine. Campbell also co-penned half of the songs on his 2013 sophomore effort, Never Regret, as well as the majority of the tunes on his self-titled 2011 debut album, including his Top 15 hit “Family Man.”
“I’m super excited to join the Magic Mustang roster,” said Campbell. “Some of my favorite songs I’ve written have been with writers Rob Hatch and Justin Wilson, and now to be a part of that family is a pretty big deal to me. I’ve always admired what Juli and the Magic Mustang team do in the publishing world and I am so looking forward to what is ahead.”
Campbell is booked by William Morris Endeavor.
Kristian Bush Sets Streamsound Debut
/by Eric T. ParkerA proven hit-maker with the duo Sugarland, Bush teamed with producer Tom Tapley and executive producer Byron Gallimore (Sugarland, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw) for the release. Bush is a co-writer on each of the album’s 12 tracks (listing below).
The lead single for the album, “Trailer Hitch,” has risen to No. 42 on the MusicRow Chart as of this week. The inspiring lyrics sparked Bush to partner with Goodwill Industries International for the #GiveItAway campaign to encourage donations of used clothing and goods.
“The songs on Southern Gravity feel like home to me, and I am proud and excited to share them, finally,” said Bush. “They are your stories as much as they are mine, and I hope you hear yourself in here, no matter if you are standing up, falling down, or dancing in between the pieces of your life.”
In 2015, Bush will continue his Put Your Soul In It Tour, beginning with appearances at the Ryman Auditorium (2/15), The Bluebird Cafe (2/26) and the Grand Ole Opry (3/6) in Nashville before heading overseas for select tour stops in Australia.
Southern Gravity Track Listing
1. “Make Another Memory” (Kristian Bush/Jeff Cohen/Rodney Clawson)
2. “Light Me Up” (Bush/Jesse Rice)
3. “Trailer Hitch” (Bush/Brandon Bush/Tim Owens)
4. “Southern Gravity” (Bush/Scooter Carusoe)
5. “Flip Flops” (Bush/Jeff Cohen/Paul Overstreet)
6. “Giving It Up” (Bush/Jeff Cohen/Tom Douglas)
7. “Feeling Fine California” (Bush/Cohen/Overstreet)
8. “Waiting On An Angel” (Bush/Cohen/Bob DiPiero)
9. “Walk Tall” (Bush/Cohen/Nathaniel “Bo”Rinehart/William “Bear” Rinehart)
10. “SendingYou A Sunset” (Bush/Tim Owens)
11. “Sweet Love” (Bush/Sherrie Austin/Phil Barton/Cohen)
12. “House On A Beach” (Bush/Canaan Smith)
Sam Hunt Celebrates No. 1 Single, Upcoming Tour
/by Sarah SkatesPictured (l-r): Three Mules Music’s Chris Hunter; ‘Country Aircheck’s’ Chuck Aly; Universal Music Group’s Mike Dungan; producer Zach Crowell; co-writers Shane McAnally, Sam Hunt and Josh Osborne; ASCAP’s LeAnn Phelan; Black River Publishing’s Celia Froehlig; and Universal Music Publishing’s Kent Earls. Photo: Alan Poizner.
Sam Hunt had plenty of reasons to celebrate Monday (Jan. 26): his first No. 1 as an artist, his third No. 1 as a songwriter, and the launch of a sold-out headlining tour. So he marked the occasion with a performance at Rocketown in Nashville—complete with breakdancing kids and graffiti artists.
Breakdancers were in the audience at the Sam Hunt tour preview.
Hunt and his team kicked off the festivities by toasting his debut single “Leave The Night On” reaching No. 1. After success penning hits for other artists, Hunt co-wrote the song with frequent collaborators Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne—it was their seventh and fifth chartoppers, respectively. All three songwriters are ASCAP members. “I think Josh is a secret weapon,” said McAnally, “but I think the secret is out.” Saluting Hunt, he added, “he makes music that comes from the heart… without regard for genre.”
“You are a game changer,” agreed UMPG’s Kent Earls.
“Leave The Night On” has sold one million copies, making it Hunt’s first platinum single as an artist. The follow-up, “Take Your Time,” is the most downloaded country song on this week’s chart.
McAnally called his co-producer Zach Crowell a “mindreader” for helping complete the sound they were striving for. “Leave The Night On” is Crowell’s first No. 1 as a producer, though his experience includes manning the boards for LeCrae.
Hunt said he had been writing with McAnally and Osborne for about five years and thanked them for believing in him. Watching from the crowd were his parents Joan and Allen Hunt, visiting from Cedartown, Georgia. The MCA Nashville artist also noted appreciation for his team before launching into an enthusiastic set including “Leave The Night On,” “Take Your Time,” “Break Up In A Small Town,” “House Party” and “Speakers.”
His Lipstick Graffiti outing opens Thursday, Jan. 29 with a sold-out show at famed Los Angeles venue The Troubador. Later this year he joins Lady Antebellum’s tour.
A graffiti artist at work during the party.