AIMP Nashville Chapter Elects John Ozier As President

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John Ozier

The Nashville Chapter of the Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP) has appointed its officers for the 2025-2026 term, with John Ozier (EVP, Creative at Reservoir Media Management) named chapter President. Ozier will succeed Ree Guyer (Wrensong Music), who is stepping down from the role but will continue to serve on the board. Additionally, the Chapter has elected Courtney Crist (Eclipse Music Group) as Vice President, Janine Ebach (Ebach Entertainment) as Secretary and Kari Barnhart (Studio Bank) as Treasurer.

“I am honored to be back on the AIMP Nashville leadership team,” shares Ozier, who previously served as Nashville Chapter President from 2015-2022. “The Chapter has done an amazing job under Ree’s leadership, putting on standout educational programming and strengthening our indie publisher community here in Nashville. I’m excited to dive back in and build on those accomplishments in 2025 and beyond.”

As previously announced, the AIMP Nashville Chapter Board of Directors will also include newly-elected members Duane Hobson (ASCAP), Dave Pacula (Liz Rose Music), Leslie DiPiero (Jonas Group Publishing), Megan Pekar (Loeb & Loeb LLP) and Melissa Spillman (Concord). They will join Guyer and current board members ET Brown (SESAC), Leslie Roberts (BMI), Shannan Hatch (SESAC), Keithan Melton (Combustion Music), Alex Heddle (Big Machine Music), Tim Hunze (Big Machine Music) and Robert Carlton (SMACKSongs). Kendall Lettow (peermusic) will serve as the chapter’s Administration Director, with Alex Tamashunas (Creative Nation) taking on the role of Administration Assistant.

The AIMP Executive Board, made up of the Presidents and Vice Presidents from each chapter, will meet soon to elect the Association’s National Chair.

JUST IN: River House Artists Elevates Leadership Team With Key Promotions

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Zebb Luster, Lance Houston and Raines Edenfield

River House Artists has promoted Zebb Luster to Executive Vice President, Lance Houston to General Manager and Vice President of Streaming and Radio, and Raines Edenfield to Director of A&R.

In his new, expanded role, Luster will continue overseeing all River House Artists’ divisions, including both the label and publishing arms. As the company’s first hire, Luster has played a pivotal role in signing and developing talent, including artists like Hudson Westbrook and Austin Snell. He also played a key role in launching River House’s publishing arm, which has grown to represent a roster of talented writers, including Knox Morris, Nicolette Hayford, Neil Medley, Connie Harrington and songwriting legend Dean Dillon. He will now take on broader strategic responsibilities to shape the organization’s future.

Houston, who joined River House in 2022 after nearly 30 years of experience in country radio, will remain the driving force behind River House’s relationships with radio and streaming partners while taking on additional responsibilities as General Manager. His new role will see him manage the company’s day-to-day operations, including artist development, marketing, budget management, distribution and internal functions.

Edenfield joined the company in 2020 after completing an internship, and has since become a driving force behind the success of artists such as Zach Seabaugh, John Harvie, Knox and many more. In addition to his role as artist manager, Edenfield has served as a manager of A&R, where he was instrumental in signing pop sensation Knox to the publishing division of River House and helping grow his digital streaming presence early on. As Director of A&R, Edenfield will continue to nurture new talent while overseeing the creative development of River House’s artist roster.

“Promoting these dedicated executives shows the hard work and commitment to our artists and each other,” says Lynn Oliver-Cline, Owner/Founder, River House Artists. “It’s been almost 10 years since starting River House and this is the most vibrant and excellent team to date. The future is more exciting than ever with them in charge!”

Luke Combs, Kacey Musgraves, More Among New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival 2025 Lineup

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Luke Combs & Kacey Musgraves.

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell has unveiled its music lineup for the 2025 event, taking place April 24 – May 4 at the at the Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans, Louisiana.

The festival is an annual celebration of New Orleans and Louisiana’s rich culture and heritage, featuring performances by artists from across the globe. It showcases one of the most diverse musical lineups in the world with over 5,000 musicians performing across 14 stages over the course of 8 days. The event highlights nearly every genre of American music, offering an immersive experience.

This year’s lineup includes Luke Combs, Kacey Musgraves, Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives, Margo Price, Kenny Wayne Shepherd with Bobby Rush, Chapel Hart, The Castellows, Pearl Jam, Dave Matthews Band, Lil Wayne & The Roots, Lenny Kravitz, John Fogerty, Burna Boy, Haim, Cage The Elephant, Laufey, Bryson Tiller, Harry Connick Jr., Patti LaBelle, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, My Morning Jacket, Gladys Knight, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Cheap Trick, Babyface, Diana Krall, Goose, The Revivalists, Irma Thomas, Tank and the Bangas, Branford Marsalis, Kamasi Washington, The Wailers feat. Julian Marley, Big Freedia, Ledisi Sings Nina, PJ Morton and many more.

Jazz Fest will also spotlight Mexico’s vibrant music and culture at the Expedia Cultural Exchange Pavilion. Headlining the celebration are Santana, Banda MS and Lila Downs, alongside nineteen bands from both Mexico and the United States. The Pavilion will showcase a wide range of genres, from Mexico’s iconic Mariachi bands to the string-driven Son Jarocho of Veracruz, the traditional marimba music of Chiapas, and the rhythms of Norteño. Attendees can immerse themselves in Mexican culture through craft demonstrations, parades, photography exhibits and educational displays. Additionally, the Cultural Exchange Food stand will offer festival-goers a chance to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine and beverages.

The fest will kickoff with the Jazz & Heritage Gala at Generation Hall in New Orleans on April 23. The gala celebrates music and culture while raising funds to support the foundation’s educational initiatives. Proceeds from the event help provide free music education to over 250 students in Louisiana, including those at the Don “Moose” Jamison Heritage School of Music. The event also contributes to the Jazz & Heritage Foundation’s ongoing work to benefit communities throughout New Orleans and Louisiana, including the distribution of more than $2 million in Community Partnership Grants aimed at strengthening the region’s arts and culture.

Weekend passes and VIP packages are on sale now, with single day tickets available at a later date. This year, Jazz Fest is offering special general admission pricing for Louisiana residents, featuring lower rates. Additionally, Jazz Fest 2025 will once again host the “Locals Thursday” on both weekends, April 24 and May 1, where Louisiana residents can enjoy tickets for just $50. Tickets for Locals Thursday will be available for purchase at a later date. For more information, click here.

Kenny Chesney To Take Over Las Vegas Sphere For 12-Date Residency

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Kenny Chesney will bring his No Shoes Nation to the Sphere in Las Vegas for 12-date residency, starting in May. He will be the first country artist to entertain in the innovative venue.

“I’m always looking for ways to deepen the way No Shoes Nation experiences this music,” shares Chesney, who played his 200th stadium show in 2024. “Over the years, they have shown me through their own response to these songs how passionate they are about what they mean, how these songs are part of their lives. When people give you that much heart, I want to give them even more.

“When we started talking about all of the possibilities playing Sphere offered, I was all in. Just the idea of 4D technology and the impossibly dialed in sound raises the experience for No Shoes Nation, literally immersing them in music, visuals, sound and being together. To me, this is going to be a whole new way of rocking the fans, and I can’t wait.”

The only country artist to rank in Billboard’s Top 10 Touring Acts of the Last 25 Years for 15 consecutive years, Chesney joins cultural icons like U2, Dead & Company, Eagles, Phish, and Afterlife Presents Anyma to headline the 17,600-seat spherical venue.

With technology so advanced, the video content had to be shot on a special camera developed specifically for Sphere’s configuration. It excited Chesney so much that he agreed to the residency without ever attending a concert there.

He shares, “When we started talking, I flew to Vegas with my key tour team. We stood on the floor as they ran the film of U2’s show and we were completely consumed. We could see the band, but it was so much more than that. It almost took what they were doing and multiplied it by another dimension.

“Knowing how much intensity our shows generate, my mind started thinking about all the things we could do. Once you see how the show wraps all the way around you, the dreaming begins.”

Early access tickets are available available now at kennychesney.vibee.com. General sale will begin on Friday, Jan. 31 starting at 10 a.m. PT via KennyChesney.com. Kenny Chesney Live at Sphere Las Vegas is presented by Blue Chair Bay Rum.

Kenny Chesney Live at Sphere Las Vegas Dates:
Thursday, May 22
Saturday, May 24
Sunday, May 25
Wednesday, May 28
Friday, May 30
Saturday, May 31
Wednesday, June 4
Friday, June 6
Saturday, June 7
Wednesday, June 11
Friday, June 13
Saturday, June 14

UMG Nashville Relaunches Lost Highway Imprint With T Bone Burnett

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In partnership with T Bone Burnett, UMG Nashville has relaunched the Lost Highway Records imprint that has been dormant since 2012.

The imprint was originally started in 2000 by former UMG head Luke Lewis, and gets its name from the classic Hank Williams song. Stars that graced Lost Highway Records include Willie Nelson, Lucinda Williams, Hayes Carll, Mary Gauthier and Lyle Lovett, and the label also housed the Grammy-winning soundtrack O Brother Where Art Thou, that Burnett produced, as well as Deadwood and Open Season.

“It was always a mission that we were going to reopen Lost Highway,” UMG Nashville Chairman/CEO Cindy Mabe shared with Billboard. “It just felt like something was missing from the marketplace. Lost Highway was 15 years before its time. Looking at what’s happening to music in general and people living for algorithms, you’re losing art, you’re losing stories.”

The first official release for the newly-ignited Lost Highway Records is Ringo Starr‘s new country album, Look Up, which dropped on Friday (Jan. 10).

Burnett, who is also known for his work with Bob Dylan, Elton John, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss, will helm the label’s creative direction alongside Mabe. No artist signings have been announced yet.

Industry Ink: Niko Moon, Kai Elmer, Pet Community Center, Chuck Wagon Gang

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Niko Moon Advocates For Mental Health Awareness On CBS Mornings

Pictured (L-R): Adriana Diaz, Niko Moon, Tony Dokoupil and Darryl McDaniels. Photo: Brad Turcotte

Niko Moon recently appeared on CBS Mornings alongside Darryl McDaniels of Run-DMC to highlight the importance of mental health awareness. The conversation focused on the 1 Million Strong initiative, which creates supportive and inclusive spaces at concerts and festivals to encourage open discussions about mental wellness and provide resources for those seeking support.

“Music has always been a source of healing for me, and I want it to be the same for my fans,” says Moon. “I’m proud to partner with 1 Million Strong to help create concert experiences that support sobriety and recovery while still being full of joy and connection.”

 

Kai Elmer Rises To VP/Promotion At Fair Trade Services

Kai Elmer

Kai Elmer has been promoted to Vice President of National Promotion at Fair Trade Services. After starting his career at Moody Broadcasting Network in Chicago, Elmer joined the Fair Trade team in 2007 as Manager of National Promotion. He has helped champion songs to Christian radio from many artists throughout his time at the label, including MercyMe, Phil Wickham, CeCe Winans, Micah Tyler, Skillet, Colton Dixon and more.

“It truly is a privilege to serve both our incredible artists and the Christian radio community at large,” says Elmer. “The success we’ve seen over the past few years is a testament to the creativity, hard work, and dedication of the entire Fair Trade team. I love this group of people and couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.”

 

My Furry Valentine Writers Round To Benefit Pet Community Center

“My Furry Valentine: Love Songs Saving Lives” features a songwriters round with Bryan White, Jamie O’Neal, Wade Hayes, Anita Cochran and Mandy Barnett at The Troubadour in Nashville on Feb. 11. 100 percent of the ticket proceeds from the show will provide care for deserving dogs and cats in the community through the Pet Community Center. PCC, which has been serving Nashville since 2011, has set a $15,000 fundraising goal for this event in order to continue opening doors to animal health by protecting the health of pets, preventing pet overpopulation, and providing for pets in need. PCC ensures that financial hardship does not prevent pets from receiving the care they deserve.

 

The Chuck Wagon Gang Signs With Thoroughbred Records

The Chuck Wagon Gang

The Chuck Wagon Gang has signed with Thoroughbred Records , a division of Daywind Music Group. For nearly 90 years the group has influenced Gospel music with an instantly identifiable sound that seamlessly blends southern, country and bluegrass gospel and has captivated generations throughout their history. They were inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 1998, have performed in the White House, and had albums become part of the Smithsonian Institution’s permanent music collection. They have received multiple awards throughout their tenure, solidifying their place as one of the most influential groups in the genre, and sold millions of records and songbooks.

“With a rich history of nearly 90 years, it is a sincere honor to have the opportunity to work with and represent The Chuck Wagon Gang, as they continue to keep the unique sound and legacy of this legendary group alive for future generations to enjoy and appreciate,” says Jerry Salley, Creative Director and A&R at Thoroughbred Records.

SiriusXM The Highway Names Hudson Westbrook As Newest ‘Highway Find’

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Pictured (L–R): SiriusXM The Highway’s Buzz Brainard, Hudson Westbrook and SiriusXM The Highway’s “Trapper” John Morris

Hudson Westbrook has been selected as SiriusXM The Highway’s newest “Highway Find.”

The “Highway Find” program is part of the channel’s commitment to highlighting new talent. With the accolade, Westbrook joins a group that includes Parker McCollum, Luke Combs, Gabby Barrett, Maren Morris, Dan + Shay, Florida Georgia Line and more.

Host Buzz Brainard surprised him with the news during his live performance at the SiriusXM studios in downtown Nashville today (Jan. 15). Westbrook’s “House Again” was his latest song to air, making the top 15 on the channel.

“Thank y’all so much for this, that is insane,” he shared. “Thank you to everyone who’s been listening on The Highway. This is crazy, thank you.”

Westbrook has collected more than 129 million global streams, and is currently on the road for his “Take Your Time Tour.” He plans to visit Columbia, Missouri tomorrow (Jan 16).

Recording Academy Reduces Grammy Week Events

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The Recording Academy has unveiled a new schedule for Grammy Week 2025, concentrating on the events with the greatest impact.

As previously announced, the 67th annual Grammy Awards will still take place and air on CBS on Feb. 2 with a renewed focus of raising additional funds for wildfire relief efforts and honoring the bravery and commitment of first responders. To maximize support for both the music community and all those impacted by the crisis in Los Angeles and beyond, many traditional Grammy Week events have been either canceled or restructured.

“We understand how devastating this past week has been on this city and its people,” shares Recording Academy & MusiCares CEO Harvey Mason Jr. “This is our home, it’s home to thousands of music professionals, and many of us have been negatively impacted. So after thoughtful consideration, and multiple assurances from state and local elected leaders, public safety agencies, and with support from our incredible artist community, we have decided to go ahead with the Grammy telecast and some select events. Grammy Week 2025 will not just be about honoring music, it will be about using the power of music to help rebuild, uplift and support those in need.”

The updated Grammy Week schedule, with each event featuring a fundraising component, will include the MusiCares Persons of the Year Charity Gala honoring the Grateful Dead on Jan. 31, the Special Merit Awards Ceremony & Grammy Nominees Reception on Feb. 1 and Clive Davis’ & the Recording Academy’s Pre-Grammy Fundraising Event on also Feb. 1, all culminating with the awards on Feb. 2.

Since the launch of the Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort to Support Music Professionals last week, the Recording Academy and MusiCares have raised and committed over two million dollars in emergency assistance for music industry professionals impacted by the wildfires. To support the Recording Academy and MusiCares’ Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort, or if you or someone you know needs assistance, click here.

‘Bluegrass Nights At The Ryman’ Returns In June

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Springer Mountain Farms “Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman” returns to the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville for its 31st year on June 17 with six shows through July 22.

The 2025 series will kick off with Dan Tyminski and concludes with a performance from Country Music Hall of Fame Member Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder. Other featured performers include Rhonda Vincent, Mighty Poplar, East Nash Grass with AJ Lee and more to be announced.

New season passes will be available for purchase after Friday, Feb.16, and single tickets go on sale Feb. 21. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit ryman.com/bluegrass.

All shows begin at 7:30 p.m. CT and will be preceded by a 6 p.m. CT “Pickin’ on the Plaza” pre-show event on the Ryman’s PNC Plaza. Sponsored by Springer Mountain Farms and Farm Bureau Health Plans, the events feature live music from local bluegrass artists presented by WSM Radio.

“Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman” Lineup:
June 17 – Dan Tyminski
June 24 – TBA
July 1 – Rhonda Vincent
July 8 – Mighty Poplar
July 15 – East Nash Grass & AJ Lee
July 22 – Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder

Reminder: Nomination Period For MusicRow’s 2025 Rising Women On The Row Closes Friday

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Nominations for MusicRow‘s 2025 Rising Women on the Row honors close on Friday (Jan. 17) at 5 p.m. central time.

Applications are now closed.

Candidates nominated in previous years will need to be resubmitted. Multiple nominations do not increase likelihood of being selected, but you may nominate as many individuals as you like with separate forms. Self-nominations are welcome.

The 12th annual Rising Women on the Row ceremony will be held on March 20, 2025 at the Omni Nashville Hotel. This breakfast event will honor six exceptional businesswomen, celebrating their significant contributions and visionary leadership within the Nashville music industry.

The 2025 Class of Rising Women on the Row will be revealed soon, along with event details. Ticket sales will also open in the coming weeks. For questions, reach out to LB Cantrell at lbcantrell@musicrow.com.

For advertising and sponsorship inquiries, reach out to Sherod Robertson at srobertson@musicrow.com.

As previously-announced, MusicRow will unveil a new print issue at the 2025 Rising Women on the Row breakfast, which will become part of its six annual slate of magazines. Titled “Women of Music Row,” the new print edition will celebrate the women shaping Music Row and feature editorial content highlighting their contributions and impact in the industry.

MusicRow Owner & Publisher Sherod Robertson held the first-ever Rising Women on the Row in 2012. He was inspired to start the beloved event when thinking of his grandmother, and how she was never honored for her accomplishments and tenacious spirit. Since its inaugural year, MusicRow has recognized over 60 deserving executives as Rising Women on the Row.

Past honorees include—2024: Tiffany Kerns, Taylor Lindsey, Sloane Cavitt Logue, Halie Hampton Mosley, Melissa Spillman, Candice Watkins; 2023: Stacy Blythe, Martha Earls, Beth Hamilton, Jackie Jones, Brittany Schaffer, Anna Weisband; 2020/2022: Jen Conger, JoJamie Hahr, Mandy Morrison, Missy Roberts, Jennie Smythe, Stephanie Wright; 2019: Janine Ebach, Kelly Janson, Meredith Jones, Lenore Kinder, Sandi Spika Borchetta, Jennifer Turnbow; 2018: Faithe Dillman, Leslie DiPiero, Becky Gardenhire, Lynn Oliver-Cline, Annie Ortmeier, Janet Weir; 2017: Tatum Allsep, Virginia Bunetta, Kerri Edwards, Kella Farris, Laura Hutfless, Juli Newton-Griffith; 2016: Abbey Adams, Amanda Cates, Cris Lacy, Leslie Roberts, Risha Rodgers; 2015: Kele Currier, Tiffany Dunn, Dawn Gates, Jensen Sussman, Lou Taylor; 2014: Julie Boos, Caryl Atwood, Ebie McFarland, Alicia Pruitt, Kelly Rich; 2013: Cyndi Forman, Cindy Hunt, Beth Laird, Cindy Mabe, Brandi Simms; 2012: Shannan Hatch, Mary Hilliard Harrington, Heather McBee, Denise Stevens, Carla Wallace.