Clint Daniels Signs With Major Bob Music

Pictured (L-R, back row): Mike Doyle (Major Bob), Emily Hasty (Major Bob), Andy Friday (Major Bob) and Denise Shackelford (The Primacy Firm); (L-R, front row): Aubrey Daniels (Major Bob), Clint Daniels and Bob Doyle (Major Bob)

Singer-songwriter Clint Daniels has signed a publishing deal with Major Bob Music.

First signed to Arista Nashville as a solo artist in 1998, Daniels decided to hone in on his songwriting after landing his first No. 1 single for co-writing “Brokenheartsville” for Joe Nichols. He also signed a label deal with Epic Records in 2003. Most recently, Daniels was nominated for both a Grammy Award for Best Country Song and an ACM Award for Song of the Year with Eric Church’s “Some Of It” in 2020.

Throughout his songwriting career Daniels has also had songs recorded by George Strait, Alan Jackson, Brooks & Dunn, Montgomery Gentry, Clay Walker, Easton Corbin, Jon Pardi, Brandy Clark, Cody Johnson and more.

“Clint is the type of songwriter that made me want to be a publisher. I feel every chord played, and every word written down in his songs because it was either experienced or observed with heart,” reflects Aubrey Daniels, Major Bob’s Head of Publishing. “His writing is timeless and his love for country music is admired. I’m so excited that after all this time, we’ll officially be working together.”

Restless Road Slates ‘Goin’ Out Like That Tour’ For Spring

Restless Road. Photo: Robby Klein

Restless Road is heading back out on the road on their new “Goin’ Out Like That Tour” beginning March 27 in Salt Lake City.

Special guest Kelsey Hart will join the trio on the new headlining trek, which features 20 stops across North America this spring to markets including Los Angeles, San Diego, Boston, Philadelphia, New York, Chicago and more. Public ticket on sale begins Friday, Jan. 17, and more information is available at restlessroad.com.

“We’re so excited to hit the road again in 2025,” shares Restless Road. “This past year on tour was incredible, and we were blown away by the energy from everyone who came out to our shows. Seeing fans show up from all around the world meant so much to us. We’re so thankful and can’t wait to do it all over again this spring!”

The new tour follows a run of headlining shows in 2024 on their “Last Rodeo Tour.” The group wrapped up the year with sold-out shows across Europe and the U.K., including stops in Berlin, Munich and London, and kicked off 2025 with the release of their latest single, “Work On Me” earlier this month.

“Goin’ Out Like That Tour” with special guest Kelsey Hart:
March 27, 2025 in Salt Lake City, Utah at The Depot
March 28, 2025 in Denver, Colo. at Grizzly Rose
March 29, 2025 in Grand Junction, Colo. at Warehouse2565
April 2, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif. at Troubadour
April 3, 2025 in San Diego, Calif. at House of Blues
April 4, 2025 in Roseville, Calif. at Goldfield Trading Post
April 8, 2025 in Boise, Idaho at Knitting Factory
April 10, 2025 in Seattle, Wash. at The Showbox
April 11, 2025 in Spokane, Wash. at Knitting Factory
April 12, 2025 in Vancouver, BC at Hollywood Theatre
April 24, 2025 in Boston, Mass. at Paradise Rock Club
April 25, 2025 in Philadelphia, Penn. at Union Transfer
April 30, 2025 in New York, N.Y. at Irving Plaza
May 1, 2025 in Toronto, ON at Adelaide Hall
May 2, 2025 in London, ON at London Music Hall
May 3, 2025 in Montreal, QC at Le Studio TD
May 15, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio at House of Blues
May 16, 2025 in Chicago, Ill. at Joe’s on Weed Street
May 17, 2025 in Grand Rapids, Mich. at The Intersection
May 31, 2025 in Fort Myers, Fla. at The Ranch

Justin McIntosh Signs Kristin Chenoweth, Launches JTMC Entertainment

Justin McIntosh, Kristin Chenoweth

Artist manager Justin McIntosh has formed JTMC Entertainment, and signed actress, singer and New York Times bestselling author Kristin Chenoweth. She joins multi-media entertainment mogul Reba McEntire, whom he’s represented since 2023, on McIntosh’s roster.

Chenoweth is widely celebrated for originating the iconic role of Glinda the Good Witch in Broadway’s smash hit Wicked and recently made a cameo in the 2024 blockbuster film adaptation, starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. She also starred in the 2024 Netflix holiday film Our Little Secret alongside Lindsay Lohan and Ian Harding, which debuted at No. 1 on the platform with over 32 million views.

Chenoweth will make her return to Broadway with The Queen of Versailles, reuniting with Wicked composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz. The production is inspired by the true story of Jackie Siegel, a wealthy socialite who set out to build a home modeled after the Palace of Versailles.

“2025 marks my 20-year anniversary of working in this business, and I am thrilled to start the next chapter of my career with an artist like Kristin Chenoweth,” shares McIntosh. “Much like Reba, she reaches far beyond just one medium of entertainment, and I am so excited to continue expanding upon the incredible legacy she is building.”

Alongside McIntosh, McEntire has seen career highlights such as her role as a coach on multiple seasons of NBC’s The Voice, performing the national anthem at Super Bowl LVII, unveiling a best-selling book Not That Fancy, releasing new music and debuting the critically acclaimed sitcom Happy’s Place on NBC.

The two have worked together for more than a decade, starting with his role as VP of Marketing & Creative at Starstruck Entertainment, where he also worked with Kelly Clarkson and Blake Shelton. A Belmont University alumnus, his professional experience also includes time with Big Machine Label Group and Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc., in addition to his own creative consulting agency.

Reach McIntosh at Justin@jtmcent.com.

AIMP Nashville Chapter Elects John Ozier As President

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

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

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

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

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

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’

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).