Lauren Spahn
The “My Music Row Story” weekly column features notable members of the Nashville music industry selected by the MusicRow editorial team. These individuals serve in key roles that help advance and promote the success of our industry. This column spotlights the invaluable people that keep the wheels rolling and the music playing.
Lauren Spahn is a Shareholder in Buchalter’s Nashville office and a member of the Intellectual Property practice group whose practice operates at the intersection of music, media and technology. She represents the legal and business interests of creators, music and technology companies, including recording artists, songwriters, publishers, executives, record labels, brands, entrepreneurs and other entertainment industry clients. Her practice has a particular emphasis on the live performance industry, where she routinely serves as an outside general counsel to numerous music promoters, talent buyers, venues, events and festivals, as well as advising on international live touring and related vendor deals.
Spahn also handles complex transactional and pre-litigation matters related to copyright, trademark and intellectual property law. She has experience managing international trademark portfolios and advises her clients on branding, sponsorship, marketing and complex licensing matters, as well as infringement claims. In addition, she consults with clients on the development of new businesses and provides advice regarding corporate formation, trademark and intellectual property protection, non-disclosure and confidentiality agreements, employment agreements and other related corporate documents.
Spahn is a regular in Billboard’s Top Music Lawyers list, has been named to MusicRow’s InCharge list each year since 2021 and was named to The Tennessean’s Nashville 30 Under 30 in 2018. She is a University of Miami Distinguished Alumni (2021) and was named to the Leadership Music Class of 2019 and the Grammy NEXT Class of 2019. Spahn is also a member of the Nashville Bar Foundation Leadership Class of 2016-2017 and the 2016 recipient of the Nashville Bar Association President’s Award.
MusicRow: Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Palm City, Florida, about half an hour north of Palm Beach.
Photo: Courtesy of Spahn
Were you into music growing up?
Yes. I played classical piano and sang classical voice from elementary school on. Performing, being in choir and taking lessons really developed my love of music. I played piano and sang through college. It was an integral part of my childhood and shaped what I do today.
Did you always know you wanted to work in music?
Actually, I wanted to be a lawyer. When I was seven, I told my dad I wanted to be the first lady president. No political aspirations now, though. He told me presidents often go to law school, so I decided at seven to become a lawyer. That I stayed with me. When I toured colleges, I saw music business programs. It showed me that I could have a career as a lawyer combined with my passion for music. That solidified my path to becoming an entertainment attorney.
Photo: Courtesy of Spahn
Where did you go to undergrad?
I ended up at Elon University in North Carolina. I was originally a double major in music and political science. I auditioned for the music program and got in, but I quickly realized I didn’t need a music degree to become a lawyer. The workload of being a dual major was overwhelming because the classes didn’t overlap, so I dropped the music major to a minor and focused on the pre-law track.
I had some great internship experiences during undergrad. A key one was with CMT the summer between my junior and senior year, where I interned in music media and licensing business affairs. That really solidified that entertainment law was what I wanted to pursue, and it confirmed that Nashville was where I ultimately wanted to live and work.
How did you come across that internship?
It was hard to find entertainment law experience at the undergraduate level. I’d interned at a law firm and for the Attorney General in DC, but combining law and entertainment was tougher. I focused on cities that had music and positions that combined both things. I did the traditional application for CMT, did the interviews and got the position. It was a great summer that really made me fall in love with Nashville.
Photo: Courtesy of Spahn
Do you have any special memories from that internship that affirmed your career choice?
Definitely the excitement around the CMT awards and CMA Fest. Being submerged in the country music scene here and seeing how fans connect to the music made Nashville feel like a special place.
What was next? Where did you go to law school?
I applied to law schools all over but ended up at the University of Miami. I had no intentions of coming back to Florida, but they had started a joint degree program where you could get a master’s in music business alongside your law degree. It allowed me to get music business experience while getting my law degree, which was perfect way to be able to jump into an entertainment law career.
What stands out from that chapter?
The real-world experience in the music business program—learning how royalties are calculated and diving into the business side, while also getting my law degree. I had great experiences in Miami—I interned for Warner Music Latina and AEG Live—but my heart was still in Nashville.
Photo: Courtesy of Spahn
How did you transition to Nashville?
During my third year of law school, I took a trip to New York and then to Nashville, networking and meeting people. My trip to Nashville ended up being very successful and eye-opening. One of the law firms that I met with asked me how soon I could be here.
I only had one semester left, so I thought creatively and was able to figure out that I could do a visiting semester at Vanderbilt for my last semester and still graduate from the University of Miami. So, I spent my last semester of law school living in Nashville, going to Vanderbilt and interning for an entertainment law firm. Then I spent the summer studying for the Tennessee Bar exam so I could practice here.
What was next?
I passed the bar the first time but struggled to find an entertainment law position. The jobs were scarce and were never posted, and there weren’t as many Nashville companies that were hiring lawyers. So I did volunteer legal work and then landed a job at an IP firm to gain practical law experience. I kept networking, and eventually, Jim Zumwalt from Shackelford, Bowen, McKinley & Norton, LLP, who I’d met multiple times, called me when an associate gave him their notice.
Photo: Courtesy of Spahn
I had dinner with him that night. I flew to a Dallas to interview with the firm three days later and got the job a couple days after that. That job was never posted, it was just an opportunity I got through networking and maintaining relationships. Jim took a chance on a young attorney. That was 11 years ago.
I moved from associate to partner in 2019. Our Nashville office left Shackleford and joined Buchalter in May this year, where I’m now a shareholder.
When you first became an associate, was there anyone who helped you learn the ropes?
I’ve been fortunate to have multiple people champion and mentor me. Mark Robinson, who was in-house at Warner Music at the time, was instrumental in helping me meet Jim Zumwalt. Ever since I was a law student, Mark has been someone who I’ve been able to go to for advice. When I started at Shackleford, John Bider was a great technical lawyer, and I could always go to him with questions. His office was right across from mine. Jay Bowen is also a mentor, he’s a brilliant lawyer. I still go to him for advice.
Photo: Courtesy of Spahn
Do you have a story from early in your career when you realized you were really doing it?
When you’re first starting out as an associate, you do a lot of work for other people, but when you celebrate the success of your own client, it’s special. One that stands out is Ian Munsick. We developed a relationship early on, and I believed in his music from the beginning. He has a very unique brand and is true to who he is—I was a true fan from day one. He made a record that was self-funded, and I helped him and his wife and manager, Caroline Munsick, set up meetings and navigate things. I made the connection with Universal and he ended up getting his first publishing deal. I was subsequently on the team to help facilitate and put together his record deal with Warner Music Nashville. Now he’s having amazing success. It’s been incredible to be part of that journey.
[Another client of mine is] Redferrin. I did his first deal with Tree Vibez and have been a fan of his work from the start. I’m so proud of his success, especially in the past year. Also, Wild Rivers, a Canadian band I’ve worked with for seven or eight years. They’ve gone from playing in front of 20 people to selling out the Ryman, and that’s been amazing to witness.
Photo: Courtesy of Spahn
What are some of your favorite deals to work on?
I love working on the creative artist side when I have that passion, but I’m selective because music is personal to me. A lot of what I do now is on the company side, representing music tech companies, publishers, labels and live event companies. I have a lot of fun in that capacity because I enjoy helping them put all the pieces together and shape their agreements and company structures. It allows me to be creative while staying true to the business side.
What are you excited about with your new firm?
Buchalter has offices across the U.S. We’re not just entertainment litigators and transactional attorneys, so it’s exciting to have access to 500+ lawyers across many practice areas. If a client of mine is interested in starting a wine label or wants to get into NFTs, we have experts in all those fields. We might be looking at tax issues or visa issues with touring overseas. It’s a great resource for me and my clients.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
I love my clients. Eight of my top 10 biggest clients have been with me for six or seven years. I’ve been able to grow with them and be part of their success, which I love.
Photo: Courtesy of Spahn
It sounds like you’ve always been a go-getter. What drives you?
Probably my passion for what I do. Music has always been personal for me. I hated performing, but I loved being part of it behind the scenes. Now, I get to be involved in music in a way that suits my personality and strengths—putting the deals together and helping shape how music is consumed.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
To be true to myself. As a lawyer, everyone has different negotiation styles. To be effective, you need to be authentic to who you are and how you do business. Knowing that has been key to my career.
Drew Baldridge Partners With BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville On New Single, Inks With New Management
/by John Nix ArledgeDrew Baldridge has released his latest single, “Tough People,” following the success of his historic No. 1 hit, “She’s Somebody’s Daughter.” The track, written with Adam Sanders, Jordan Walker and Luke Combs, marks the beginning of his new partnership with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville who will provide support for the single at country radio. “Tough People,” was released via Stoney Creek Records, will officially go for adds on Nov. 4.
“This song means so much to me,” explains Baldridge. “Our world is full of tough people fighting to stay ahead every day. But for me, it’s my story about not giving up on my dreams. I had to risk everything to make ‘She’s Somebody’s Daughter’ a hit. It was definitely a tough time for me, but our team kept our heads down, worked hard, and pulled out a win—hard work pays off, good beats evil and tough times make tough people.”
Additionally, Baldridge has inked with Left | Right Management for representation. Helping guide Baldridge into the next phase of his career is President John Meneilly, along with Jay King. Alex Goodman and Hannah McElroy will oversee day-to-day management.
“From the moment I met Drew, I knew I wanted to be an advocate for everything he stood for,” says Meneilly. “Then he played ‘Tough People’ for me and Jay King, and we wouldn’t stop calling him until he agreed to let us represent him!”
Industry Ink: Dylan Scott, Mtheory, MTSU, Cadence Music, Ryan Wesley Smith
/by Lorie HollabaughDylan Scott Performs On Today Show
Pictured (L-R): Today’s Hoda Kotb, Dylan Scott and Today’s Jenna Bush Hager
Dylan Scott performed “I Owe You One” for Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager on Monday morning (Oct. 21) on the Today show. Scott is continuing to climb the Country Airplay charts with two singles, “This Town’s Been Too Good To Us” and “Boys Back Home” with Dylan Marlowe, and fans can catch him on his upcoming headlining “Country Till I Die Tour,” announced last week.
Jared Losow & Dirk Lemmenes Join Mtheory
Dirk Lemmenes and Jared Losow
Mtheory has hired Jared Losow as Senior Director of Tour Marketing and Dirk Lemmenes as Vice President of Client Relations. Previously the Co-Founder and Co-Owner of Barley MGMT, Losow will be based at Mtheory’s New York City office, while Lemmenes—formerly the COO, Chief of Staff and Management Lead for Zac Brown Band—will be based in Atlanta.
Before launching his own boutique management company Barely MGMT in 2023, Losow held marketing leadership positions at NYC live music institutions Le Poisson Rouge and Avant Gardner. He’s also held marketing and project management roles at In de Goot Entertainment, Relapse Records and the San Francisco Symphony.
With over two decades in artist management, operations, and business development, Lemmenes led organizational strategies and assembled and managed teams across marketing, finance, touring and other businesses for Zac Brown Band. Prior to that, his industry roles have included record store owner, music supervisor at MTV and booking agent. He has also written, recorded and toured with several independent bands himself.
Mic-Maker Lewitt Inc. Donates Equipment To MTSU
Photo: Jimmy Hart
Microphone designer and manufacturer Lewitt Inc. has donated cutting-edge microphones to MTSU’s College of Media and Entertainment along with a student discount to those who would like to purchase their gear. The equipment will serve as teaching tools for audio production students.
“We are incredibly thankful for the many contributions Lewitt has made to the Department of Recording Industry,” says Chair of MTSU’s Recording Industry Department, Michelle Conceison. “Their microphones cover a wide range, which is especially helpful for us since our students are learning skills across disciplines and record across genres with a wide musical spectrum.”
Macey Mac Inks With Cadence Music
Pictured (L-R, back row): Jim Tucker (Cadence), Rush Hicks (legal), Lauren Kilgore (legal) and Matt Tucker (Cadence); (L-R, front row): Macey Mac and Adam Box (Cadence)
Mississippi-born artist Macey Mac has signed with Cadence Music, a Nashville-based record label founded by Adam Box and Jim Tucker. Mac’s music is a testament to her Southern roots, weaving together elements of blues, gospel and country into a unique sound.
“Tiny but mighty! Her powerful voice is undoubtedly a force that will carry her, but it’s her authenticity that truly sets her apart,” says Box. “I believe her when she’s singing, and I’ve seen what happens in a room when she takes over. She’s fearless and willing to carve her own path, so that’s exactly what we are going to do.”
Ryan Wesley Smith Exits Big Future Music Group
Ryan Wesley Smith
Ryan Wesley Smith has announced he will be exiting Big Future Music Group, a company he co-founded in 2020. Smith was vital in the early signings of Abby Robertson, I Am They and Bayside Worship.
During his tenure at the label group, Big Future’s artists reached new heights with over 200 million in consumption and 50,000 album equivalents sold on their releases. Smith is currently working on a new venture launching early next year.
Marcus King Sheds Light On Mental Health Awareness [Interview]
/by LB CantrellMarcus King. Photo: JM Collective
As a widely-respected musician in multiple genres, one may not expect Marcus King to struggle much with negative emotions or mental health issues.
The South Carolina-born singer-songwriter garnered a Grammy nomination for his 2020 solo debut album El Dorado, and in addition to packing venues on his own, he’s performed alongside Chris Stapleton, Greta Van Fleet and Nathanial Rateliff.
This spring, King released another album Mood Swings, produced by the iconic Rick Rubin, which explored some of the singer’s darkest moments. The album earned instant critical acclaim with its sonic landscape of the soul, country, blues, rock and Americana sounds, as well as its raw subject matter about times King was truly on the brink and considering taking his own life.
“You’ve either got to let it do something positive or it’s just gonna destroy you from the inside out,” he tells MusicRow. “It’s just like anything else, like childhood traumas, bad memories or heartbreak—all these things that all of us who write music use, subconsciously or not, to write music. I’ve learned to allow my mental health to be a more or less a writing partner for me.”
King shares that as he’s progressed in his career, and life, he’s learned to leave the sharp edges of truth in his songwriting when it comes to darkness instead of filtering it with ambiguity.
“I’ve always written about it, but I’ve been a little more cryptic with it. I’ve always been more inclined to use metaphor and not speak about it directly. With my latest record, I spoke about it more directly.”
King is in a new place now, having put into place life changes to help support his mental health. Like a lot musicians and touring personnel, King knows all too well the darker colors that life on the road can paint in a person’s psyche. He’s chosen to be vocal about his experience, which has led to profound mental health awareness for his fans and peers.
“Some days you wake up in the bunk and the bunk is completely blacked out. You don’t know what time it is. It’s really easy to fall into a depressive state,” King shares. “I’m touring right now, the winter is coming and I’m fighting off a cold—it’s real easy just to stay in bed and to let that depression get you in a headlock. But it’s important to get up and do something.”
To support himself on the road, King likes to explore the cities he’s in, check out local restaurants and learn about the culture of the places he gets to perform in. He also says that exercise has been critical to his routine.
Photo: Fletcher Moore
“These are all the things that everybody talks about, I guess. Really, having your boys out here, having good community and finding joy in the simpler things in life is what makes me happy,” King shares. “I really enjoy coming off the gig and watching a slasher film with my band on the bus. I used to go out and really get tore up, but not anymore.”
Another life change that King has made has been sobriety, which can prove extremely difficult in a live music setting. A study by Tulane University estimates that 56% of industry professionals struggle with substance use.
“I’ve never had a hard time not starting. I’ve just had a hard time not stopping,” King says when asked how he maintains a sober environment for himself. “I don’t mind having it around. I kind of watch [people drinking] inquisitively, as a matter of fact. To watch somebody enjoy a few drinks responsibly—I can’t even fathom that concept. It’s just not part of my journey right now. I get along better without it.”
To help facilitate spaces for fans and crew struggling to be around alcohol and substances, King has partnered with Stand Together to bring 1 Million Strong on his “Mood Swings The World Tour.” The partnership has brought to life 1 Million Strong lounges—a space for fans in recovery, those who are sober and their allies to connect and find community before and during the show—in select cities, as well as mocktails options to enhance the sober party experience.
“It’s been really touching to meet people who tell me [my show was] their first sober concert experience. Having a sober space where it’s not an exclusive thing—there’s nothing really crazy going on, we’re just not drinking over here—it’s great. It’s like smoking or non-smoking section at Pizza Hut.”
Marcus King. Photo: Fletcher Moore
While sobriety is important to King’s mental health, he never wants to come across as judgemental about it.
“I’ve always enjoyed the idea of just being quietly sober. I don’t need to push my ideas on anybody, but it works for me and it might work for you,” he says. “I don’t want to tell people how to live when they come to my shows, I want people to have as much freedom and openness to do whatever they want, but I just know what I like to do and what I don’t like to do anymore. Having space like [1 Million Strong creates] is paramount.”
In addition to working with 1 Million Strong, King also recently launched the Curfew Fellowship Fund alongside his friend Charles Hedgepath to support musicians who are battling challenges with mental health and addiction.
“The Curfew Foundation is named after our buddy that took his own life. His nickname was Curfew, and he’s actually the person I wrote ‘Goodbye Carolina’ for,” King says. “We wanted to create an open space for artists to be able to speak with one another openly about their mental health journeys in an effort to de-stigmatize it as it relates to our business.”
While still in development, the foundation raises funds for various causes close to King’s heart and will develop a support system for musicians from all walks of life who are battling challenges with mental health and addiction.
As a very respected musician, often a special guests that the best of the best bring out to impress crowds with his virtuoso guitar-slinging and one-of-one voice, King is doing commendable work shedding light on his struggles. His status as a “cool kid” who speaks about and supports his mental health has undoubtedly impacted many.
“I definitely never thought of myself as one of the ‘cool kids,'” King sums with a laugh. “But it’s nice to be doing something that I would actually want people to model themselves after. I’ve never felt that before.”
Claire Ratliff Joins PLA Media
/by Lorie HollabaughClaire Ratliff
Claire Ratliff has joined PLA Media as Senior Publicist.
The entertainment and media veteran comes to the company after nearly two decades as an independent publicist and Owner of Laughing Penguin Publicity & Consulting. Since launching her firm, Ratliff has worked with Lorrie Morgan, David Frizzell, David Ball, The Grascals, Darin & Brooke Aldridge and Balsam Range as well as actress Deidre Hall and Mountain Home Music Company, Mountain Fever Records, Rounder Records and Billy Blue Records, along with various corporate clients.
She has also represented author Liz Mitchell and author and podcast host Stephen M. Thompson, and serves as the Executive Producer of podcast and television series War Paint with Lorrie Morgan. Additionally, the former Columbia Pictures marketer has worked as a freelance writer and performing songwriter.
“I’m thrilled to welcome Claire to the PLA Media team. I’ve been aware of her work and stellar reputation for more than a decade and welcome her always-fresh take, optimism and dedication to great service,” says Pam Lewis, PLA Media Founder & CEO. “She brings a breath of fresh air and a can-do spirit to every challenge.”
“You could say that Pam and I have been a mutual admiration society for a long time,” shares Ratliff. “When I think of some of the finest folks I’ve known in the business, they are generally mutual friends of both Pam’s and mine. I’m delighted to hang my ‘hard-at-work hat’ next to hers at PLA Media.”
DISClaimer Single Reviews: Ringo Starr’s Country Debut Is A ‘Simply Lovely Record’
/by Robert K OermannRingo Starr.
Let’s get Latin today.
It has been too long since the country stardom of Johnny Rodriguez, Freddy Fender, Emilio, Rick Trevino and the like. Stepping into this void are veteran Stephanie Urbina Jones and newcomer Moriah, both of whom have excellent new singles.
The biggest current star of the format is on hand today with new music from Morgan Wallen. But even superstars must take a back seat when there’s a Beatle in the house. Ringo Starr wins the Disc of the Day prize.
Taking home a DISCovery Award is Neil Perry with his debut solo release.
RYAN LARKINS / “Buzzin”
Writers: Brad Warren/Brett Warren/Jordan Minton/Ryan Larkins; Producer: Paul Sikes; Label: Red Street Records
– “Nothin’ gets me buzzin’ like you do,” sings Larkins. MusicRow’s Breakthrough Songwriter 2024 awardee is a dandy record maker, too. He sings in a rich, low baritone and conveys warmth and personality with every note. He’s nominated for a CMA Award this year as the co-writer of Cody Johnson’s “The Painter.”
JUSTIN MOORE & DIERKS BENTLEY / “Time’s Ticking”
Writers: Jeremy Stover/Justin Moore/Randy Montana/Will Bundy; Producers: Jeremy Stover, Scott Borchetta; Label: The Valory Music Co.
– Seize the moment and savor it. Don’t put things off—stop and smell the roses, tell folks you love ‘em, “make a memory not just money.” All set to a toe-tapping beat. Well worth your spins.
MÕRIAH / “Hasta Mañana”
Writers: Mõriah/Paul Duncan/Paul Mabury; Producer: Paul Mabury; Label: F2 Entertainment Group
– It’s Hispanic Heritage Month, and it’s high time we had a Latina country star. This breathy, sensuous vocalist puts in her bid with this tuneful bopper. She’ll be releasing a Spanish-language version next week in conjunction with the Day of the Dead holiday.
CLARENCE TILTON & MARTY STUART / “Fred’s Colt”
Writer: Christopher Weber; Producer: none listed; Label: 7814467 Records
– The singing of the Clarence Tilton band’s Chris Weber probably won’t win any awards, but there is a raggedy, rumpled charm in this uptempo outing, enlivened by some red-hot electric guitar picking. Americana programmers take note.
RUNAWAY JUNE / “New Kind Of Emotion”
Writers: Jennifer Wayne/Natalie Stovall/Paul Sikes/Stevie Woodward; Producer: Kristian Bush; Label: Quartz Hill Records
– You just can’t beat this act’s delicious, three-part harmony singing. On this pop track, the trio weaves a lovely audio tapestry of budding romance. “This is what a love song feels like,” they sigh together. It certainly is.
MORGAN WALLEN / “Love Somebody”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Charlie Handsome/Elof Loelv/Jacob Kasher Hindlin/John Byron/Martina Sorbera/Morgan Wallen/Nicholas Gale/Shaun Frank/Steve Francis Richard Mastroianni/Yaakov Gruzman; Producers: Charlie Handsome, Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud Records/Mercury Records/Republic Records
– This is a breezy, upbeat change of pace for this champ hit maker. He’s looking for love while the Latin-tinged track burbles merrily along. The guitar solo is terrific.
SAM WILLIAMS / “Scarlet Lonesome”
Writers: Ben Roberts/Nathan Sexton/Sam Williams; Producers: Ben Roberts, Nathan Sexton; Label: Mercury Nashville
– The torrid power ballad is about being drawn into an obsessive love. The video illustrates that this is a gay romance.
RINGO STARR / “Time On My Hands”
Writers: Daniel Tashian/Paul Kennerley/T Bone Burnett; Producers: Bruce Sugar, Daniel Tashian, T Bone Burnett; Label: UMG Nashville
– At 84, Ringo still sings splendidly. Sharing the spotlight on this mid tempo meditation is a brilliant, crystal-clear production featuring breathtaking steel guitar work by Paul Franklin. A simply lovely record.
STEPHANIE URBINA JONES / “La Reina De Los Angeles Cielto Lindo”
Writers: Mark Marchetti/Stephanie Urbina Jones; Producers: Preston ‘Shoes’ Sullivan/Stephanie Urbina Jones; Label: Global Eyes Entertainment/Casa Del Rio Records
– Jones and her Honky Tonk Mariachi Band are the sound of joy on this delightfully rhythmic prancer. It practically commands you to get up and go into a happiness dance. I have always loved this good-vibes performer, and never more so than now. The song ends with a coda of “Cielito Lindo,” which I always assumed was a folk song. How pleasant to find out that it has a composer.
WARREN HAYNES, LUKAS NELSON & JAMEY JOHNSON / “Day Of Reckoning”
Writers: Lukas Nelson/Warren Haynes; Producer: Warren Haynes; Label: Fantasy Records
– The track conjures a swampy, bluesy mood while the three voices swap soulful, apocalyptic lines about coming together in brotherhood. Kinda left field, but totally groovy, in an optimistic, Civil Rights anthemic sorta way. Haynes is the frontman for the Americana band Gov’t Mule. This is drawn from his solo album Million Voices Whisper, which drops on Nov. 1.
HARPER GRACE / “Jolene”
Writer: Dolly Parton; Producers: Cooper Bascom, Tedd T.; Label: Curb Records
– The smoky-voiced American Idol alumnus tackles the often-sung Parton classic with vivacious verve. She really rocks it. So much so that she sounds like she’s ready to punch Jolene’s lights out.
NEIL PERRY / “If You Can’t Don’t”
Writers: Neil Perry/Jet Harvey/Jackson Nance; Producers: Nathan Chapman, Neil Perry; Label: NP
– He was always overshadowed as a vocalist in The Band Perry. With his debut solo outing, Neil Perry claims the spotlight he deserves. The take-me-as-I-am song is about loving an imperfect man. The electronic production is loaded with dramatic tension and dynamics that mirror the shifting tones of the vocal. Excellent work.
BRANTLEY GILBERT & ASHLEY COOKE / “Over When We’re Sober”
Writers: Brantley Gilbert/Brock Berryhill/Jason Bradley DeFord/Justin Wilson; Producers: Brock Berryhill, Brantley Gilbert, Scott Borchetta; Label: The Valory Music Co.
– They broke up, but they keep hooking up after they’ve been belting whiskey in the club at night. The song is cool and they both sing great, but the record sounds busy and over produced. Gilbert & Cooke will perform this on tomorrow’s telecast of The Kelly Clarkson Show.
CRB Now Accepting Applications For Futuri Digital Pioneer Scholarship
/by Liza AndersonCountry Radio Broadcasters (CRB) is currently accepting applications for the Futuri Digital Pioneer Scholarship.
Funded by AI technology company Futuri to recognize and support the next generation of leaders advancing the future of digital radio, the scholarship will be awarded to a student who has demonstrated outstanding promise in shaping the digital evolution of radio.
The recipient will receive a package that includes a complimentary registration to attend Country Radio Seminar (CRS) 2025, along with hotel accommodations and airfare for the event, taking place Feb. 19–21. They will also be given one year of access to Futuri’s TopicPulse, an AI-powered, real-time content curation and show prep system used by radio stations to stay ahead of the conversation and increase audience engagement.
Applications are due Nov. 8. For more information, click here.
Hannah McFarland Signs With The Core Records & Capitol Music Group
/by Lorie HollabaughHannah McFarland
Hannah McFarland has signed a joint venture deal with The Core Records and Capitol Music Group.
Alabama-bred McFarland moved to Nashville in 2016 and first got a career boost when Zach Bryan invited her onstage in Birmingham to perform his hit “I Remember Everything” earlier this year—a career-defining moment for the singer. Her organic rise has led to touring opportunities, opening for acts like Kelsea Ballerini, Old Dominion and Travis Tritt. She is currently on the road with Brett Young, Tucker Wetmore and Kip Moore on dates throughout the fall.
“From the moment we heard Hannah’s music, we knew she had something special,” share Chief Zaruk and Simon Tikhman, Co-Founders and CEOs of The Core. “Her unique voice, compelling storytelling, and undeniable talent make her a perfect fit for The Core. We’re excited to partner with Capitol Music Group to bring her music to a global audience.”
Chairman & CEO of Capitol Music Group Tom March adds, “We are thrilled to welcome Hannah into the CMG Family alongside our partners at The Core Records. Hannah is a brilliant and talented musician, and we look forward to embarking on this next chapter together with her.”
“Signing with The Core Records and Capitol Music Group feels like the perfect fit as I take this next major step in my career,” says McFarland. “Both teams understand my vision and have the resources and knowledge to help me grow as an artist while staying true to my sound. I’m so excited to have these incredible partners by my side as we work together to share my music with the world.”
McFarland is currently working on her first full-length project, and the first single from the project, “Hey Highway,” is out tomorrow (Oct. 25).
CMHOFM To Offer Free Admission To Active-Duty & Retired Service Members On Veterans Day
/by Madison HahnenThe Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum will celebrate active-duty and retired service members with free museum admission on Veterans Day (Nov. 11). Free admission will also available for up to three immediate family members.
From 10 a.m.–12 p.m, all visitors will have the chance to show appreciation for military members and their families by making postcards for active-duty troops in the museum’s Taylor Swift Education Center. Through A Million Thanks, a nonprofit organization that provides support to military members, cards will be mailed to those serving overseas.
A bevy of country music stars have served in the United States military, including Country Music Hall of Fame members Johnny Cash, George Jones, Willie Nelson and Elvis Presley, among others.
Timed admission tickets can be reserved by calling 615-416-2001. Tickets can also be obtained at the museum’s box office on Nov. 11. Valid military ID is required to claim tickets. Advanced reservations are highly recommended. Active-duty and retired service members will also receive a 10% discount at The Museum Store and the Hatch Show Print retail store on Nov. 11.
My Music Row Story: Buchalter’s Lauren Spahn
/by LB CantrellLauren Spahn
Lauren Spahn is a Shareholder in Buchalter’s Nashville office and a member of the Intellectual Property practice group whose practice operates at the intersection of music, media and technology. She represents the legal and business interests of creators, music and technology companies, including recording artists, songwriters, publishers, executives, record labels, brands, entrepreneurs and other entertainment industry clients. Her practice has a particular emphasis on the live performance industry, where she routinely serves as an outside general counsel to numerous music promoters, talent buyers, venues, events and festivals, as well as advising on international live touring and related vendor deals.
Spahn also handles complex transactional and pre-litigation matters related to copyright, trademark and intellectual property law. She has experience managing international trademark portfolios and advises her clients on branding, sponsorship, marketing and complex licensing matters, as well as infringement claims. In addition, she consults with clients on the development of new businesses and provides advice regarding corporate formation, trademark and intellectual property protection, non-disclosure and confidentiality agreements, employment agreements and other related corporate documents.
Spahn is a regular in Billboard’s Top Music Lawyers list, has been named to MusicRow’s InCharge list each year since 2021 and was named to The Tennessean’s Nashville 30 Under 30 in 2018. She is a University of Miami Distinguished Alumni (2021) and was named to the Leadership Music Class of 2019 and the Grammy NEXT Class of 2019. Spahn is also a member of the Nashville Bar Foundation Leadership Class of 2016-2017 and the 2016 recipient of the Nashville Bar Association President’s Award.
MusicRow: Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Palm City, Florida, about half an hour north of Palm Beach.
Photo: Courtesy of Spahn
Were you into music growing up?
Yes. I played classical piano and sang classical voice from elementary school on. Performing, being in choir and taking lessons really developed my love of music. I played piano and sang through college. It was an integral part of my childhood and shaped what I do today.
Did you always know you wanted to work in music?
Actually, I wanted to be a lawyer. When I was seven, I told my dad I wanted to be the first lady president. No political aspirations now, though. He told me presidents often go to law school, so I decided at seven to become a lawyer. That I stayed with me. When I toured colleges, I saw music business programs. It showed me that I could have a career as a lawyer combined with my passion for music. That solidified my path to becoming an entertainment attorney.
Photo: Courtesy of Spahn
Where did you go to undergrad?
I ended up at Elon University in North Carolina. I was originally a double major in music and political science. I auditioned for the music program and got in, but I quickly realized I didn’t need a music degree to become a lawyer. The workload of being a dual major was overwhelming because the classes didn’t overlap, so I dropped the music major to a minor and focused on the pre-law track.
I had some great internship experiences during undergrad. A key one was with CMT the summer between my junior and senior year, where I interned in music media and licensing business affairs. That really solidified that entertainment law was what I wanted to pursue, and it confirmed that Nashville was where I ultimately wanted to live and work.
How did you come across that internship?
It was hard to find entertainment law experience at the undergraduate level. I’d interned at a law firm and for the Attorney General in DC, but combining law and entertainment was tougher. I focused on cities that had music and positions that combined both things. I did the traditional application for CMT, did the interviews and got the position. It was a great summer that really made me fall in love with Nashville.
Photo: Courtesy of Spahn
Do you have any special memories from that internship that affirmed your career choice?
Definitely the excitement around the CMT awards and CMA Fest. Being submerged in the country music scene here and seeing how fans connect to the music made Nashville feel like a special place.
What was next? Where did you go to law school?
I applied to law schools all over but ended up at the University of Miami. I had no intentions of coming back to Florida, but they had started a joint degree program where you could get a master’s in music business alongside your law degree. It allowed me to get music business experience while getting my law degree, which was perfect way to be able to jump into an entertainment law career.
What stands out from that chapter?
The real-world experience in the music business program—learning how royalties are calculated and diving into the business side, while also getting my law degree. I had great experiences in Miami—I interned for Warner Music Latina and AEG Live—but my heart was still in Nashville.
Photo: Courtesy of Spahn
How did you transition to Nashville?
During my third year of law school, I took a trip to New York and then to Nashville, networking and meeting people. My trip to Nashville ended up being very successful and eye-opening. One of the law firms that I met with asked me how soon I could be here.
I only had one semester left, so I thought creatively and was able to figure out that I could do a visiting semester at Vanderbilt for my last semester and still graduate from the University of Miami. So, I spent my last semester of law school living in Nashville, going to Vanderbilt and interning for an entertainment law firm. Then I spent the summer studying for the Tennessee Bar exam so I could practice here.
What was next?
I passed the bar the first time but struggled to find an entertainment law position. The jobs were scarce and were never posted, and there weren’t as many Nashville companies that were hiring lawyers. So I did volunteer legal work and then landed a job at an IP firm to gain practical law experience. I kept networking, and eventually, Jim Zumwalt from Shackelford, Bowen, McKinley & Norton, LLP, who I’d met multiple times, called me when an associate gave him their notice.
Photo: Courtesy of Spahn
I had dinner with him that night. I flew to a Dallas to interview with the firm three days later and got the job a couple days after that. That job was never posted, it was just an opportunity I got through networking and maintaining relationships. Jim took a chance on a young attorney. That was 11 years ago.
I moved from associate to partner in 2019. Our Nashville office left Shackleford and joined Buchalter in May this year, where I’m now a shareholder.
When you first became an associate, was there anyone who helped you learn the ropes?
I’ve been fortunate to have multiple people champion and mentor me. Mark Robinson, who was in-house at Warner Music at the time, was instrumental in helping me meet Jim Zumwalt. Ever since I was a law student, Mark has been someone who I’ve been able to go to for advice. When I started at Shackleford, John Bider was a great technical lawyer, and I could always go to him with questions. His office was right across from mine. Jay Bowen is also a mentor, he’s a brilliant lawyer. I still go to him for advice.
Photo: Courtesy of Spahn
Do you have a story from early in your career when you realized you were really doing it?
When you’re first starting out as an associate, you do a lot of work for other people, but when you celebrate the success of your own client, it’s special. One that stands out is Ian Munsick. We developed a relationship early on, and I believed in his music from the beginning. He has a very unique brand and is true to who he is—I was a true fan from day one. He made a record that was self-funded, and I helped him and his wife and manager, Caroline Munsick, set up meetings and navigate things. I made the connection with Universal and he ended up getting his first publishing deal. I was subsequently on the team to help facilitate and put together his record deal with Warner Music Nashville. Now he’s having amazing success. It’s been incredible to be part of that journey.
[Another client of mine is] Redferrin. I did his first deal with Tree Vibez and have been a fan of his work from the start. I’m so proud of his success, especially in the past year. Also, Wild Rivers, a Canadian band I’ve worked with for seven or eight years. They’ve gone from playing in front of 20 people to selling out the Ryman, and that’s been amazing to witness.
Photo: Courtesy of Spahn
What are some of your favorite deals to work on?
I love working on the creative artist side when I have that passion, but I’m selective because music is personal to me. A lot of what I do now is on the company side, representing music tech companies, publishers, labels and live event companies. I have a lot of fun in that capacity because I enjoy helping them put all the pieces together and shape their agreements and company structures. It allows me to be creative while staying true to the business side.
What are you excited about with your new firm?
Buchalter has offices across the U.S. We’re not just entertainment litigators and transactional attorneys, so it’s exciting to have access to 500+ lawyers across many practice areas. If a client of mine is interested in starting a wine label or wants to get into NFTs, we have experts in all those fields. We might be looking at tax issues or visa issues with touring overseas. It’s a great resource for me and my clients.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
I love my clients. Eight of my top 10 biggest clients have been with me for six or seven years. I’ve been able to grow with them and be part of their success, which I love.
Photo: Courtesy of Spahn
It sounds like you’ve always been a go-getter. What drives you?
Probably my passion for what I do. Music has always been personal for me. I hated performing, but I loved being part of it behind the scenes. Now, I get to be involved in music in a way that suits my personality and strengths—putting the deals together and helping shape how music is consumed.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
To be true to myself. As a lawyer, everyone has different negotiation styles. To be effective, you need to be authentic to who you are and how you do business. Knowing that has been key to my career.
Black River Entertainment Adds Jim Malito As Director Of Radio Promotion, West Coast
/by Lorie HollabaughJim Malito. Photo: Courtesy of Black River Entertainment
Black River Entertainment has added Jim Malito as Director of Radio Promotion, West Coast.
The music industry veteran’s previous career stops include posts at Warner Music Nashville, BBR Music Group, Dreamcatcher and Stone Country Records, where he most recently held national positions.
“I’m excited that Jim has agreed to join our team here at Black River,” shares Bill Macky, VP, National Promotion. “His years of experience in regional and national promotion, plus his ‘let’s get it done’ work ethic, makes him an excellent addition to our staff.”
“When contacted about joining the independent powerhouse label, Black River Entertainment, I jumped at the opportunity,” says Malito. “Gordon Kerr, Rick Froio, Bill Macky and the entire team have consistently delivered hits from Kelsea Ballerini as they continue to grow their roster. I’m excited to be part of the future of Black River Entertainment!”
He remains based in Phoenix, and can be reached at jmalito@blackriverent.com.