Front row (L-R): Lindsay Mescher, Dir. of Operations, Still Working Music; Alex Orbison, Co-President, Still Working; Tommy Lee James; Daniel Lee, Sr. Dir., Creative, BMG Chrysalis Nashville. Back row: Kevin Lane, Creative Dir., BMG Chrysalis Nashville; Darrell Franklin, Exec. VP, Creative, BMG Chrysalis Nashville
Music publishing companies Still Working Music and BMG Chrysalis US have formed a strategic joint venture to discover and nurture new talent and sign established songwriters.
The first signing under the deal is veteran songwriter
Tommy Lee James. He has been with Still Working Music for almost 20 years, writing six No. 1 country hits including
Reba McEntire’s and
Brooks & Dunn’s duet “If You See Him/If You See Her,”
Martina McBride’s “Wrong Again,” and
Tim McGraw’s “She’s My Kind of Rain.” He has had cuts by artist such as
Taylor Swift, Easton Corbin, Christina Aguilera, Lonestar, Gary Allan and
Ronnie Dunn. 2012 was a very successful year for James who co-wrote
Pixie Lott’s UK No. 1 “All About Tonight,” had four songs on
Joe Walsh’s new album,
Analog Man, and two cuts on
One Direction’s most recent record,
Take Me Home.
“I’m so excited to continue my nineteen year partnership with Still Working Music and at the same time start a new chapter with the great folks at BMG,” said James.
Nashville-based Still Working Music was founded by the late
Barbara Orbison, a celebrated music executive and wife of the legendary
Roy Orbison. BMG has worked with the Orbison catalog since 2002.
Alex Orbison, Co-President of Still Working Music commented, “Words don’t cover the true pleasure I have in extending Still Working’s long relationship with Tommy Lee James. When my mother founded this company, Tommy was one of her first signings. I couldn’t be prouder as her son and new leader of Still Working to announce that Tommy will be my first signing under our landmark new venture with BMG.”
Darrell Franklin, EVP Creative, BMG Chrysalis Nashville added, “BMG has worked closely with Barbara and Still Working representing Roy Orbison’s works for many years. We feel honored by Alex and the family’s trust in our work and are looking forward to intensifying our relationship even further.”
Magic Mustang Music Adds Two Songwriters To Roster
/by Jessica NicholsonMagic Mustang Music has added songwriters Justin Wilson and Justin Lantz to the publishing company’s roster.
Wilson is a Georgia native who has resided in Nashville for the last 10 years. His songwriting credits include cuts by Joe Nichols, Chris Cagle, The Dirt Drifters and Canaan Smith.
“The energy I feel from the family at BBR Music Group and Magic Mustang is AMAZING!” said Wilson. “I am so blessed to be welcomed like this, and I am so excited about the future.”
“I was very impressed when I met with Justin [Wilson]. His music was something that I thought should be a part of Magic Mustang. We are very glad to have him,” said Juli Newton-Griffith, Sr. Creative Director at Magic Mustang Music.
Lantz was born and raised in Montana, but relocated to Nashville in 1995 to pursue a career in music. He has earned cuts with Clay Walker and several other artists.
“As a long time fan of Magic Mustang Music’s staff and writers, I’m truly honored to officially be part of the company,” said Lantz.
“I have known Justin [Lantz] for a long time. He has a great heart and soul and his music will fit in well with our company,” said Newton-Griffith.
Pictured (L-R): Justin Wilson, Juli Newton-Griffith, Benny Brown
Pictured (L-R): Benny Brown, Juli Newton-Griffith, Justin Lantz
Razor & Tie Signs RPM Management's Carolina Story
/by Jessica NicholsonCarolina Story
RPM Management’s Americana duo, Carolina Story, has signed a licensing deal with Razor & Tie. The duo’s song, “Someone Else,” found on the husband-and-wife’s album, Home, receives song placement on The CW’s Hart of Dixie, tonight (Feb. 19) at 8 p.m. EST.
“Emily and Ben have such a full catalog of great music and we are thrilled to sign such an emerging talent to a licensing deal,” says Razor & Tie executive Brooke Primont. “We have had a great response for music placement and look forward to what’s in store for the duo.”
Carolina Story has had other songs placed on MTV’s Teen Mom and VH1’s Rehab with Dr. Drew.
Carolina Story is comprised of husband-and-wife Ben and Emily Roberts. They formed as a duo in 2008 and have independently released two studio albums, including their most recent Home. Carolina Story is currently working in the studio with producer Blake Chancey.
Still Working Music and BMG Chrysalis US Launch Joint Venture
/by Sarah SkatesFront row (L-R): Lindsay Mescher, Dir. of Operations, Still Working Music; Alex Orbison, Co-President, Still Working; Tommy Lee James; Daniel Lee, Sr. Dir., Creative, BMG Chrysalis Nashville. Back row: Kevin Lane, Creative Dir., BMG Chrysalis Nashville; Darrell Franklin, Exec. VP, Creative, BMG Chrysalis Nashville
Music publishing companies Still Working Music and BMG Chrysalis US have formed a strategic joint venture to discover and nurture new talent and sign established songwriters.
The first signing under the deal is veteran songwriter Tommy Lee James. He has been with Still Working Music for almost 20 years, writing six No. 1 country hits including Reba McEntire’s and Brooks & Dunn’s duet “If You See Him/If You See Her,” Martina McBride’s “Wrong Again,” and Tim McGraw’s “She’s My Kind of Rain.” He has had cuts by artist such as Taylor Swift, Easton Corbin, Christina Aguilera, Lonestar, Gary Allan and Ronnie Dunn. 2012 was a very successful year for James who co-wrote Pixie Lott’s UK No. 1 “All About Tonight,” had four songs on Joe Walsh’s new album, Analog Man, and two cuts on One Direction’s most recent record, Take Me Home.
“I’m so excited to continue my nineteen year partnership with Still Working Music and at the same time start a new chapter with the great folks at BMG,” said James.
Nashville-based Still Working Music was founded by the late Barbara Orbison, a celebrated music executive and wife of the legendary Roy Orbison. BMG has worked with the Orbison catalog since 2002.
Alex Orbison, Co-President of Still Working Music commented, “Words don’t cover the true pleasure I have in extending Still Working’s long relationship with Tommy Lee James. When my mother founded this company, Tommy was one of her first signings. I couldn’t be prouder as her son and new leader of Still Working to announce that Tommy will be my first signing under our landmark new venture with BMG.”
Darrell Franklin, EVP Creative, BMG Chrysalis Nashville added, “BMG has worked closely with Barbara and Still Working representing Roy Orbison’s works for many years. We feel honored by Alex and the family’s trust in our work and are looking forward to intensifying our relationship even further.”
Craig Morgan To Headline Country Music Marathon Concert
/by Sarah SkatesCraig Morgan will headline the post-race concert for the St. Jude Country Music Marathon & ½ Marathon presented by Nissan. He will be joined by special guest Sarah Darling to cap the weekend of festivities with a concert at the Nashville Municipal Auditorium on Saturday, April 27 at 7 p.m.
Nashville’s premier running event attracts more than 30,000 runners, walkers and 6,000 junior racers, who will take on the 26.2 and 13.1-mile courses while passing many of Nashville’s best live bands along the route.
Complimentary concert tickets are provided to all registered runners and volunteers. Runners may purchase additional tickets for $35.
“Last year was a remarkable year for the St. Jude Country Music Marathon & ½ Marathon, with our supporters raising more than $700,000 for our lifesaving mission,” said Richard Shadyac Jr., CEO of ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. “We’re grateful to be a part of this amazing race, and for the support of St. Jude Heroes, race participants and avid country music fans who are helping us raise awareness and funds to continue finding cures and saving the lives of children around the world.”
Rising Women On The Row–Nomination Period Ends This Friday (2/22)
/by Jessica NicholsonMusicRow‘s Rising Women on the Row Breakfast is designed to salute up-and-coming women who have made substantial contributions to the Nashville music industry early in their careers.
This year’s honorees will again be feted at a sit-down breakfast and awards ceremony set for Friday, March 22 at 8:30 a.m. at Maggiano’s.
To nominate those women who are fast becoming visionary leaders in Nashville’s music industry, use the official form here. Self-nominees and peer-nominees are welcome. Multiple nominations do not increase chances of recognition.
Click here for nomination form.
Click here to purchase tickets.
Tony Brown Weds Jamie Nicole Antee in Nashville
/by Jessica NicholsonProducer, musician and label executive Tony Brown wed Jamie Nicole Antee in a private Valentine’s Day ceremony at Woodmont Christian Church in Nashville, Tenn. on Feb. 14.
In recent months Brown completed production on the debut effort by new Arista Nashville artist Kristen Kelly. He also collaborated with pop music superstar group, Train, on a critically acclaimed track for A Very Special Christmas, 25 Years, a project for which he acted as executive producer (Big Machine Records).
Beginning his professional career in the music industry as the piano player in Elvis Presley’s band, Brown spent 19 years as president of MCA Records, where he worked with artists including George Strait, Vince Gill, Jimmy Buffett, Brooks & Dunn, Reba McEntire, Lee Ann Womack, Lionel Richie, Trisha Yearwood, Wynonna, Patty Loveless, George Jones and others.
A four-time Grammy winner, Brown has also earned four Academy of Country Music Awards. He is a member of NARAS, CMA, ACM, IBMA, GMA and Leadership Music.
This is the fourth marriage for Tony and the second for Jamie.
Tony Brown and Jamie Nicole Antee. Photo: Peter Nash
Dierks Bentley, Josh Turner, More Join Final George Jones Concert
/by Eric T. ParkerGeorge Jones
Montgomery Gentry, Kenny Rogers, Josh Turner, and Dierks Bentley are the latest additions to the ever-growing list of guests to take the stage with George Jones for his final Nashville concert.
Taking place at the Bridgestone Arena on Nov. 22, the show has previously announced artists Charlie Daniels, Lorrie Morgan, Randy Travis, Jamey Johnson and Gene Watson.
“I am excited that my friends all want to be with me on this show,” says Jones. “This is sure going to be a fun and emotional night with lots of memories, friends, and great country music.”
Tickets for the Nashville finale are currently on sale at all Ticketmaster locations.
Jones will mark the end of an era with 2013’s farewell tour titled The Grand Tour, expected to make approximately 44 stops. Click here for the itinerary.
Celebration of Life For Rick Blackburn To Be Held April 27
/by Jessica NicholsonRick Blackburn 11-19-90. Photo: Alan Mayor
A Celebration of Life will be held for music executive Rick Blackburn will be held April 27 in Blackburn’s hometown of Milford, Ohio.
Blackburn, who passed away Nov. 30, 2012, is survived by his wife Suzie. According to a release, it was Blackburn’s wish that friends and former classmates gather for a time of fun and fellowship. They have also extended an invitation to the event to Blackburn’s friends and colleagues in Nashville.
The Celebration of life will be held at 6 p.m. at the Victor Stier American Legion (450 Victor Stier Drive, Milford, Ohio). Dress will be casual. Refreshments will include a meal/hos d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Reservations are not required, but an RSVP would be appreciated.
To RSVP, e-mail Linda Powers or call 513-831-6556.
As the head of the Columbia and Epic imprints of CBS Records in 1980-87, Blackburn launched major hits for such stars as Ricky Skaggs, Rosanne Cash, Willie Nelson, Exile, Ricky Van Shelton, Merle Haggard, Chet Atkins, Vern Gosdin, Crystal Gayle, the Gatlins, Janie Fricke, Mickey Gilley, Moe Bandy, Joe Stampley, George Jones, Charly McClain, Lacy J. Dalton, Rodney Crowell and more.
While Blackburn was in charge of Atlantic Records in 1989-99, the label made radio stars of John Michael Montgomery, Neal McCoy, Confederate Railroad and Tracy Lawrence.
Richard Norman Blackburn was born Nov. 16, 1942 in Cincinnati, Ohio to Richard and Norma Horne Blackburn. He began his career promoting pop records in his hometown. He worked for Mercury Records in Chicago in 1965, then moved to CBS in New York in 1968.
Beginning in 1970, he helped run Ode Records with Lou Adler and Herb Alpert in Los Angeles. The company’s roster included Cheech & Chong, Carole King and Spirit. It also marketed the soundtrack to The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
Lady Antebellum Sets Release Date For Fourth Studio Album
/by Jessica NicholsonLady Antebellum will release its fourth Capitol Nashville studio album, Golden, on May 7.
“This album feels to me like one of those that from start to finish could be a good road-trip record and that’s what we wanted,” said Lady A’s Charles Kelley. “It’s one of the reasons why the term ‘golden’ was kind of cool. I think about road trips and driving down the road with those little streaks of sunshine popping through the trees, especially at sunset. ‘Golden’…it just gives you this warm, easy feeling.”
“Writing and recording this record really took us back to when we first met each other,” added Hillary Scott. “When I first met the boys, we spent a lot of time around the piano at the house they lived in at the time. We didn’t really know each other at all, but there was still some magic and then the harmonies – that’s how it all started – that blend of our voices and that blend of our songwriting craft. So, it’s exciting that even on our fourth record, we can still find that.”
Snapshots: Chris Young, Craig Campbell, Logan Mize
/by Sarah SkatesChris Young and his team celebrated his sold out headlining show at New York City’s Best Buy Theater on Friday night (Feb. 15).
(L-R): WME’s Rob Beckham, AEG’s Mark Schulman, Chris Young, Shopkeeper Management’s Crystal Dishmon and AEG’s Casey McCabe
• • •
Craig Campbell will appear on the GAC Daily Countdown today (Feb. 19) at noon and 6:00 p.m./ET. He joins host Suzanne Alexander for the fan-voted show which will feature his latest hit video “Outta My Head,” which has been in the top spot for multiple weeks.
• • •
Big Yellow Dog Records artist Logan Mize makes his acting debut in tonight’s (Feb. 19) episode of Hart of Dixie at 8:00 p.m./ET on the CW Network. Mize and his band appear as themselves, performing “Good Life” and “High and Dry.” Mize continues to tour in support of his LP, Nobody In Nashville.
(L-R): Derek Wyatt , Tyler Chiarelli, Logan Mize, Josh Gleave