Little Extra Music continues to expand its roster with the signing of singer/songwriter/producer Carolyn Dawn Johnson to a worldwide publishing agreement.

“I met Carolyn Dawn not long after she came to Nashville and was an instant fan,” said company president Lisa Ramsey Perkins. “She’s not only an amazing singer and songwriter, she’s one of the first women I met who produced her own records. I’ve always wanted to work with her and am thrilled she’s now a part of the Little Extra Music family!”

“I’m so happy to be working with Lisa,” said Johnson. “I’ve always admired her energy and passion for the music, the artists and the industry. She has worn many hats and brings so much to the table! I value her ears and expertise and am thankful for this partnership, as she makes me want to do better every single day, and to me, that’s how a publisher/writer relationship should be.”

Four years after moving from Vancouver, BC Canada to Nashville, Johnson scored her first hit as a songwriter when Chely Wright took “Single White Female” to the No. 1 spot. The success led to publishing deals and cuts with artists like Patty Loveless, Kathy Mattea, Pam Tillis, Suzy Bogguss, Jo Dee Messina and others. MusicRow Magazine named her “Breakthrough Songwriter of the Year” in 2000, the same year Arista Nashville signed her to a record deal.

Johnson produced her 2001 debut album titled Room With a View, which contained the Top 5 single “Complicated,” as well as singles “Georgia” and “I Don’t Want You to Go.” She went on to open tours for Reba McEntire, Alan Jackson, Kenny Chesney and Keith Urban.

The Academy of Country Music Awards crowned her Top New Female Vocalist in 2002, and the American Music Awards honored her as Favorite New Country Artist the following year. In 2004 and 2009, the Canadian Country Music Awards named Johnson Producer of the Year for her work on many Canadian-based projects. To date, she has racked up 17 CCMA’s, including the title for reigning Female Vocalist of the Year.

She has also spent time singing background vocals for Martina McBride, Miranda Lambert, and others.

“I like to say that I’ve had many bonuses to my dreams … things, people, events and accolades, in addition toand off the beaten path from my original goals,” notes Johnson. “I’ve certainly gone further then I actually imagined, but that doesn’t make me stop in my tracks. I just want to keep doing this for the rest of my life. Music truly is what makesmy world go round.”

Black River Entertainment’s CEO Gordon Kerr has announced the contract renewal of Vice President of Publishing, Celia Froehlig.

“From the moment I met Celia Froehlig I was impressed,” said Kerr. “Over the last four years, that first impression has been exceeded countless times. On a daily basis Celia demonstrates proven leadership, strength of character, commitment to the song and knowledge of publishing, surpassed by none. She is the epitome of class, professionalism and through her visionary leadership has guided Black River Publishing to tremendous success. As we look to the future, Celia’s engaging leadership style and commitment to Black River will enable our catalogue and writers the ability to continue to influence our culture.”

In 2014, Black River’s publishing arm celebrated songs including Josh Osborne’s “My Eyes” (Osborne/Dorff/James), performed by Blake Shelton featuring Gwen Sebastian; “We Are Tonight” by Billy Currington; and “Leave The Night On” by Sam Hunt.

“So many exciting things are happening at Black River Entertainment and I am thrilled to continue to be a part of such a great company,” said Froehlig. “When I came to BRE, I had a vision for the publishing company and Gordon and the Pegula’s have allowed me to work toward making that vision a reality. 2015 is going to be a great year for Black River!”

Froehlig’s career began at Chappell Music, where she was asked to remain as Creative Director when Chappell Music merged with Warner Brothers to form Warner/Chappell. Froehlig later accepted the position as Vice-President, Southern Region of EMI Music Publishing, where she remained for nine years. Upon leaving EMI, Celia opened a joint venture company with what is now Sony/ATV.

Luke Foley has signed a worldwide publishing deal with Nashville independent publishing venture Combustion Atlas.

Foley began his music career in the spotlight as frontman of rock and roll act Farewell Flight. Now residing in Nashville, Tenn., he continues to write for and perform with Farewell Flight. In addition, he writes with an eclectic collection of writers covering a wide variety of genres, from electronic synth pop to 90’s inspired rock n roll. His song “The Places We’ll Go” was featured in CITGO’s 2013 “Fueling Good” summer ad campaign, as well as in the CW’s “Hart of Dixie.”

“Luke’s passion for and skill in writing nostalgic songs that sound familiar yet are undeniably unique are what first drew me in. Add to that his prolific work ethic and I think we have the ingredients for long-term success. We couldn’t be happier to partner with Luke and look forward to elevating him as an artist and a writer,” said Kenley Flynn, Creative Director, Combustion Music.

Combustion Atlas’ team has delivered hits for artists including Miranda Lambert, Luke Bryan, Florida Georgia Line, Carrie Underwood, Dierks Bentley, Keith Urban, and others.

In 2014, Atlas Music Publishing CEO, Richard Stumpf and Combustion Music owner/President, Chris Farren announced Atlas Music Publishing and the highly successful Combustion Music have formed a long-term joint venture under the banner Combustion Atlas.

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ASCAP has signed Sea Gayle Music songwriter-artist CJ Solar.

Just a few months ago, Baton Rouge, La., native CJ Solar started at Sea Gayle Music as an intern, suggested for the job by VP of Creative Freeman Wizer. Wizer’s colleague, VP of Creative Mike Owens, heard Solar’s tunes and immediately wanted to sign him. When EVP/GM Marc Driskill and the rest of the Sea Gayle creative team heard his music, Solar was offered a publishing deal on the spot.

“His lyrics are well beyond his years and his voice is distinctive and soulful. What a great story and an amazing talent. We are really excited about working with CJ and having him as part of the Sea Gayle roster,” commented Driskill.