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.
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.
Alan Jackson & Sturgill Simpson To Headline Two Step Inn 2025
/by Liza AndersonAlan Jackson and Sturgill Simpson will headline the third annual Two Step Inn, taking place April 5–6 at San Gabriel Park in Georgetown, Texas.
This will mark Jackson’s first Two Step Inn appearance. Like all performances on his “Last Call: One More For The Road Tour,” this will be the final chance to see the country icon perform in the Austin area. Simpson will treat the crowd to hits from his catalog and tracks from his latest album, Passage du Desir, under the name Johnny Blue Skies on the main stage.
Miranda Lambert, Flatland Cavalry, Diplo, Gavin Adcock, Ernest, Eli Young Band, Randall King, Tracy Byrd, Diamond Rio and more will perform on Saturday (April 5), followed by Lynyrd Skynyrd, Ryan Bingham and The Texas Gentlemen, Nelly, Shane Smith & The Saints, Sammy Kershaw, Ole 60 and The Panhandlers, among others, on Sunday (April 6).
The function will also feature curated and inclusive central Texas fare as well as vintage and arts & craft vendors that seek to celebrate the spirit of the Lone Star State.
One-Day and Two-Day General Admission, General Admission+, VIP and Platinum presale tickets will go on sale tomorrow (Oct. 25) at 12 p.m. CT. A public sale featuring any remaining tickets is set to follow. For more information, click here.
Additionally, in support of future park and community improvements, Two Step Inn has donated more than $1.1 million to Friends of Georgetown Parks and Recreation, with a total donation reaching over $2.3 million since 2023. The event has generated almost $200 million to the local Georgetown economy since its inaugural year, with this year’s installment bringing in more than $100 million.
Lakeview Named SiriusXM & Pandora’s Newest Artist Accelerator
/by Lorie HollabaughCountry-rock duo Lakeview is the newest addition to SiriusXM and Pandora’s Artist Accelerator program. The group recently delivered an exclusive guest DJ session on SiriusXM’s Octane.
During the session, band members Jesse Denaro and Luke Healy discussed their relationship with Wage War and their love for Nickelback. The duo is the only act to have singles currently being played on both Sirius XM The Highway with “What I Know Now” and Sirius XM Octane with “Money Where Your Mouth Is,” which has reached top five on their Big Uns Countdown and placed in power rotation. Their self-titled debut was released in September.
Lakeview joins a growing Artist Accelerator list that includes artists such as Alex Warren, Coco Jones, Austin Snell, Ivory Scott, Gonzy and more. The Artist Accelerator program develops and breaks new artists by leveraging SiriusXM and Pandora’s audiences.
Bailey Zimmerman Celebrates With Double No. 1 Party
/by John Nix ArledgePictured (L-R, back row): Run Out The Clock’s Lynn Lowe, BMI’s MaryAnn Keen, ASCAP’s Emilia James, Reach Music Publishing’s Scott Rubin, Warner Chappell’s Bryce Sherlow and Reach Music Publishing’s Sarah Feldman; (L-R, front row): Alex Palmer (BMI), Bailey Zimmerman (BMI), Austin Shawn (BMI/Producer), Marty James (BMI), Studio Bank’s Ron Cox. Photo: Aubrey Wise for BMI
BMI brought Bailey Zimmerman and his team together on Tuesday afternoon (Oct. 22) to celebrate chart-toppers “Religiously” and “Where It Ends,” the latter marking the artist’s fourth and most recent No. 1 track.
Industry members, friends and family gathered atop the BMI rooftop in the warm, fall weather before receiving an equally warm welcome from BMI’s Clay Bradley and MaryAnn Keen. Keen took over as emcee and invited up the crew behind “Where It Ends,” Zimmerman, Joe London, producer Austin Shawn and Grant Averill, who was celebrating his first No. 1 as a songwriter.
Pictured (L-R, back row): Hipgnosis’ Ashley Alexander, Nice Life’s Caitlin Lytle, BMI’s MaryAnn Keen, Warner Chappell’s Bryce Sherlow, Warner Music Nashville’s Gregg Nadel; (L-R, front row): Joe London (BMI), Bailey Zimmerman (BMI), Austin Shawn (Producer), Grant Averill (BMI), Studio Bank’s Ron Cox. Photo: Aubrey Wise for BMI
On deck to congratulate their songwriters were Nice Life Music’s Caitlin Lytle, Hipgnosis’ Ashley Alexander and Warner Chappell’s Bryce Sherlow.
Sherlow shared the room’s sentiments by praising Zimmerman’s era-defining sound before commending Shawn’s creative touch, “Bailey, you truly are a groundbreaking artist who is able to share stories that connect with all audiences, even across genres. Austin, you absolutely crushed this record. Thank you for bringing back the true guitar solo to radio singles. You are a musical scientist and your heart shines through each record that you produce.”
Next, it was time for the songwriters to speak. London stepped to the podium first, taking his moment to highlight those around him, including Averill of whom he said, “What a moment, bud. We have been working together the past few years, and I couldn’t be more proud to stand here with you celebrating your first No. 1. Seeing this track reach the top is a testament to your talent and passion for songwriting.”
Pictured Back Row: The Core team; Front Row (L-R): Joe London, Bailey Zimmerman, Austin Shawn, Grant Averill; Photo: Isaac Mason
Averill echoed his sentiment, sharing that he and London’s bands used to play together in San Francisco more than 12 years ago, “It is crazy to think this is what we are doing now. I can’t believe it. Thank you so much to everyone.”
The songwriters then left the stage to make way for Marty James and Alex Palmer who, along with Zimmerman and Frank Romano, co-wrote “Religiously.” Speaking on their behalf were ASCAP’s Emilia James, Reach Music Publishing’s Scott Rubin, Run Out The Clock’s Lynn Lowe, Studio Bank’s Ron Cox, Warner Music Nashville’s Gregg Nadel and The Core Entertainment’s Simon Tikhman and Chief Zaruk.
The songwriters spoke next with James, one of the minds behind the 13-times Platinum single “Despacito,” taking the mic first, “This song is proof, for me, that songs can help you move forward in life. It is a proud day for me to have my first country No. 1 with a track that is so true to life.”
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s LB Cantrell, Joe London, Bailey Zimmerman, Austin Shawn, Grant Averill, MusicRow’s John Nix Arledge. Photo: Aubrey Wise for BMI
“I am so grateful for the team behind this song and these guys up here, who are like brothers to me,” said Shawn. “Truly, from the bottom of my heart, thank you.”
“Marty and I have written who knows how many songs together, 50, 100?” Palmer posed. “I think it is a testament to country music that our first No. 1 together is this one.”
Zimmerman spoke last, driving home how many people play a part in making a song go No. 1.
“A lot of people don’t get to see the behind-the-scenes aspects of these tracks. To put in so much love and time and effort into something that you don’t get recognized for is unbelievable. These parties are not only for us, they are for you and for others to see how much it takes to do what we do.”
Elysse Yulo Signs With Sony Music Publishing Nashville
/by Madison HahnenPictured (L–R, back row): Tom Luteran, Anna Weisband, Alex Albanese, Aubrey Landon, Josh Van Valkenburg, Taylor Ratkovich and Dale Bobo; (L–R, front row): Rusty Gaston, Elysse Yulo, Samantha Fisher and Kenley Flynn. Photo: Amy Allmand
Songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist Elysse Yulo has signed a global deal with Sony Music Publishing Nashville.
“Elysse is a very special talent that I couldn’t be happier to be working with,” shares Kenley Flynn, Vice President, Creative A&R, Sony Music Publishing Nashville. “Her talents as a songwriter and producer are matched only by her work ethic and persistence. I’m so excited to help her reach new heights.”
The Connecticut native, now based in Nashville, has worked with an array of artists across multiple genres, such as Quavo, Lana Del Rey, Zach John King, Maddox Batson and more.
Her recent cut “Tough,” recorded by Ray and Quavo, has amassed over 100 million streams and hit the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Yulo’s credits also include Batson’s ‘Tears In The River” and “I Wanna Know,” which have both seen viral success. Additionally, she is attributed to King’s “The Way I See You” from his Wannabe Cowboy EP.
Yulo is currently managed by Samantha Fisher of Sullivan Rose.
“I’m so excited to have found my home here at Sony Music Publishing and to be continuing my relationship with Samantha Fisher and Sullivan Rose,” she says. “Kenley Flynn has been such a champion over the last year and Sam has had my back for the last year and a half, so having Kenley and Sam together is the perfect dream team for me! I can’t wait to see what we and the entire Sony Music Publishing staff can achieve together!”
Tiera Kennedy Remains ‘Rooted’ In Authenticity On Debut Album [Interview]
/by Liza AndersonTiera Kennedy. Photo: Kamren Kennedy
Songstress Tiera Kennedy is flying to new heights in the music industry with her feathery, smooth vocal stylings and the honest and vulnerable way in which she shares her stories.
Having infused her R&B-accented country sound into the People’s Choice Country Award-nominated “Blackbiird” cover featured on Beyoncè’s Cowboy Carter album as well as her 2021 self-titled EP and other previous releases, Kennedy continues to stay to herself now as an independent artist on her debut album, Rooted, and recently took some time to chat with MusicRow about the newly-unveiled project.
When developing the album, Kennedy didn’t put labels or limits on any musical facet and welcomed any influences that wandered into writing sessions—an approach similar to one she saw Beyoncè took with Cowboy Carter.
“When I was putting Rooted together, I tried to bring that same sentiment [that Beyoncè had] of not really caring about fitting into the box that people wanted me to be in, but fitting into the box that I wanted to be in.
“I think this is the first time that I’ve looked at a body of work and been fully proud of every single moment on the project, and that’s how it should be.”
The Alabama native says her songwriting has evolved in various ways since she first moved to Nashville.
“I care a lot less about what other people have to say about the music that I’m writing,” Kennedy notes. “It has been so freeing to create music that I love and not try to put it in a box while I’m in the writers’ room. I’m able to be so much more vulnerable both lyrically and sonically.”
She serves as co-writer on each of the 11 tracks, including singles “I Ain’t A Cowgirl” and “Cry” as well as the Jordin Sparks collaboration “Damn If He Don’t Love Me.”
“It was really important for me, especially with Rooted being my story and my introduction to so many people to have a hand in creating all of the songs.”
“This was my first project that wasn’t self-titled, and I really wanted it to mean something. I had this long list of titles and Rooted was the one that kept sticking out to me,” she explains. “Initially, when we put this album together, it meant something different. It was an album of stories, of my roots, but after my record deal ended, it became the literal definition of the word rooted—to stand firm and be confident in who you are. So when I started choosing songs and writing new work for the record, I wanted to go a little deeper.”
Kennedy continues, “I usually like to put out fun, upbeat songs that people can jam to, but I’ve realized over the course of this year that life is not only sunshine and rainbows, and that it’s okay to talk about the hard things and how you got got through them. So that’s really what this album represents for me.”
She first gave listeners a taste of her new-found liberation with the release of “I Ain’t A Cowgirl” this past spring. Written by Kennedy, Rooted producer Cameron Bedell, David DeVaul and Joe Fox, the tune is one of her favorites on the album.
“It was the first song where I was okay with being more vulnerable and letting people know that I’m not always happy and sharing the darker side my journey. Filming the video and everything surrounding that song has just brought me so much peace, and to see the way it’s affected other people as well has been really special.”
Along with her vulnerable side, her beautiful multi-genre blend is on full display with tracks like “Cry,” which samples the Timbaland-produced Justin Timberlake hit “Cry Me A River” while discussing the concepts of deserving better and prioritizing your own happiness, and “Damn If He Don’t Love Me” with Sparks, co-penned by Kennedy, Bedell and Shane Stevens.
“I thought that [Jordin] would be perfect for ‘Damn If He Don’t Love Me’ because it’s about my love for my husband [Kamren], who’s my creative director, and her husband is also her manager, so we really relate to each other on that front,” she says. “I thought it would be a beautiful story for us to tell together.
“I grew up listening to Jordin. She just has this massive voice and is so talented, so collaborating with her on that song was wild. She absolutely killed it and brought all of herself to it. I’m so honored to have her on that song with me.”
Kennedy hopes that this new music allows fans to escape and feel a range emotions, both good and bad, that concludes in empowerment.
“At the end of the record, at the end of a show, I want people to leave feeling like they can conquer the world, because that’s how I felt making this record. It’s the most freeing I’ve ever felt as an artist, and I think that everyone should fill that in whatever they do.”
Rooted Track Listing:
1. “Keep Your Promises” (Tiera Kennedy, Jim Beavers)
2. “Cry” (Tiera Kennedy, Cameron Bedell, Jared Scott, Justin Timberlake, Timothy Mosley (Timbaland), Scott Storch)
3. “Better Than Me” (Tiera Kennedy, Joe Fox, Jared Scott, Allison Veltz)
4. “You Don’t Get It” (Tiera Kennedy, Cameron Bedell, David DeVaul)
5. “I’d Look Good In That Truck” (Tiera Kennedy, Mark Trussell, Joe Fox, Trannie Anderson)
6. “Rooted” (Tiera Kennedy, Jared Scott, Cameron Bedell, Emily Falvey)
7. “Can’t Help My Country” (Tiera Kennedy, Cameron Bedell, Heather Morgan)
8. “Sweet Home Alabama” (Tiera Kennedy, Cameron Bedell, Jared Scott)
9. “Damn If He Don’t Love Me (feat. Jordin Sparks)” (Tiera Kennedy, Cameron Bedell, Shane Stevens)
10. “I Ain’t A Cowgirl” (Tiera Kennedy, David Devaul, Joe Fox, Cameron Bedell)
11. “Last Call” (Tiera Kennedy, Cameron Bedell, Emily Landis)
Industry Veteran Bob Bender Passes
/by Lorie HollabaughBob Bender
Industry veteran Robert “Bob” Bender passed away on Oct. 13 after a battle with cancer. He was 67.
The Bakersfield native followed his passion for live music early. After graduation from high school, his career took him from Bakersfield to Los Angeles, San Francisco and finally to Nashville. For nearly 50 years Bender worked in almost every facet of the industry, culminating in executive positions at Curb Records. He produced over 300 tours, festivals and concerts throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe, Mexico and Japan, along with managing and working at multiple record labels.
As a tour manager, Bender was part of the 1989 “Ringo Starr and his All-Star Band Tour,” along with representing artists including Billy Preston, Dwight Twilley, Lisa Lisa and the Cult Jam, Rick Derringer, Edgar Winter, Gene Pitney and Anvil. While Manager of Artist Development for Curb Records he represented Tim McGraw, LeAnn Rimes, Jo Dee Messina and Hank Williams, Jr. He oversaw Curb’s Christian retail segment, helping develop it into a million dollar division which led him to become Curb’s Director of Sales.
In 2017 Bender partnered with Tom Sabella to host The Business Side of Music Podcast, which grew into a leading music industry podcast show on Spotify. The podcast had over 300,000 listeners in 120 countries around the world. Bender was also producing other podcasts, including Between the Notes with Jack Sharkey, Two Dudes Talk Money and Music and Lorrie Morgan’s War Paint, which was his final production credit.
Bender is survived by his wife Debbie Halle; sister Melissa McDonald and husband Jeff; daughter Erin Fitzwater and her husband Jeff; son Joshua Schock; daughter Nicole Perez and husband Christopher; son Devon Bender and his fiancee Mandi Altheide; son Caleb Bender; son Patrick Halle; daughter Katie Berry and husband Cody; daughter Lindsay Halle; 13 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Church of the Holy Rosary (192 Graylynn Dr, Nashville, TN 37214) on Dec. 7 at 11 a.m., with interment at Calvary Cemetery (1001 Lebanon Pike, Nashville, TN 37210) directly afterwards. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to Music Health Alliance.
Luke Bryan & Jockey To Open Coopers 12South Retail Spot In Nashville
/by Lorie HollabaughLuke Bryan. Photo: Jim Wright
Luke Bryan has partnered with Jockey International Inc. to open Coopers 12South, an experiential retail spot in the heart of Nashville’s 12South neighborhood at 2605 12th Avenue South.
Coopers 12South pays homage to the Nashville music scene, embracing Bryan’s love of the great outdoors and giving a hat tip to the Jockey brand story, centering on family, community and tradition. The store will be a fusion of activations, music, local artisan workshops, community events and exclusive apparel. It will feature limited-edition Jockey Outdoors by Luke Bryan Collection merchandise and curated goods, offer quality-crafted clothing inspired by the Nashville music scene, and share the pioneering legacy of Jockey founder, Reverend Samuel T. Cooper.
Throughout each space of Coopers 12South, guests will be met with immersive LED walls, distinctive art installations and exclusive, limited-edition merchandise. The store will also feature local Nashville elements, from merch to artisan goods and music to locally crafted giftable items and will showcase up-and-coming local designers and artists yet to be discovered. Outside of the store, guests will be invited to sit, relax and stay at a front-of-store patio area covered by a trellis. The space is being designed by interior designer Mark Simmons and his associate designer Alli Roberts.
“I could not be more excited to partner with my friends at Jockey to open this store right here in Music City on 12South,” says Bryan. “Coopers 12South is going to be such a great experience for everyone who enters our door while also focusing on being a good neighbor to those up and down that street. What an honor to not only shine a light on the outdoors I love to sing about and live every day but also offer a place for many others to share their visions and passions.”
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Luke and bring an immersive, lifestyle-first store to the 12South community that creates a distinctive experience for our guests,” says Mark Fedyk, President and COO, Jockey. “The store’s offerings and atmosphere will be tailored to, and embody, the 12South neighborhood and its community. This will be a unique and one-of-a-kind store that ‘fits’ the neighborhood. Everything about Coopers 12South will be done in a thoughtful way that meshes with community and carries a local vibe.”
In June 2024, Jockey opened a satellite office in Nashville at Fifth + Broadway, further establishing roots in the community. The Coopers 12South store is expected to open to the public in late November.
Country Music Hall Of Fame & Museum Receives National Medal Of Arts
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has been awarded the prestigious National Medal of Arts.
The medal was awarded by President Joe Biden during a special ceremony at the White House on Monday (Oct. 21). Kyle Young, Chief Executive Officer of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, accepted the Medal on behalf of the institution.
The ceremony recognized 20 recipients representing the past two years. Primarily awarded to individuals, the CMHOFM was the only institution to receive the Medal among the new recipients. Established in 1984, the Medal is the highest award given to artists and arts institutions who are “deserving of special recognition by reason of their outstanding contributions to the excellence, growth, support and availability of the arts in the U.S.”
“Our museum and country music itself were both born of humble beginnings — an origin that made it common for many to dismiss the artform or any careful study of it,” says Young. “The National Medal of Arts is a treasured validation of our longtime commitment to country music’s cultural significance, even when our work was not considered a serious endeavor. For more than a century, this music has given voice to the thoughts, feelings, hardships, triumphs and values of our country’s people. This prestigious recognition, to me, says that our institution is on the right track — collecting, studying and cherishing country music while holding to a broad approach including all forms of American vernacular music in its narrative.”
As one of the most-visited history museums in the country, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum welcomed more than 1.6 million visitors in 2023 and offered more than 1,200 educational programs. Its flagship Words & Music program promotes language arts by pairing songwriters with school classrooms to create original songs. In addition, the museum offers the 7,500-square-foot Taylor Swift Education Center and the CMA Theater and Ford Theater which regularly host live music and cultural events. The museum’s collection facilities, including the Frist Library and Archive, houses the world’s largest assemblage of country music artifacts and serves as a research hub for understanding the genre’s history and impact.