Gitty
Multi-Platinum producer Gitty made history last year as the first producer to appear on five Billboard charts simultaneously—an achievement that highlights his versatility across genres, from R&B to country. His current hit “Wild Ones,” a collaboration between Jessie Murph and Jelly Roll, is making waves, with award nominations already rolling in. He also co-wrote Murph’s latest single, “Dirty,” featuring Teddy Swims, marking a significant moment as Gitty helped launch both artists’ careers.
The hitmaker’s influence reaches even further with contributions to Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter and upcoming projects with Swims, Muni Long, Quavo and Anderson .Paak. Gitty is also a two-time 2024 Grammy nominee, recognized for his work with Victoria Monét in both the Record of the Year and Best R&B Song categories.
In addition to his 2021 Grammy nominations for H.E.R.’s Back of My Mind and “Damage,” Gitty earned a Children & Family Emmy Award for his work on Netflix’s We The People. As he continues to push genre boundaries, Gitty’s influence shows no signs of slowing down.
He recently spoke to MusicRow about his success as well as his relationship with Nashville.
MusicRow: How often do you come to Nashville?
This is my fifth trip this year. I’ve really enjoyed it—it’s been the most I’ve ever visited. Last November was my first trip for a Nashville writing session, and the city has really grown on me. There’s a lot about the songwriting culture here that I love and bring back to Los Angeles.
What brought you here originally?
I came out to work with Jessie. She was on tour and living here at the time, and we needed to finish some records, so I flew out here to wrap things up.
I love Jessie’s music. How did you meet?
I met Jessie when she was 17. We did a song that ended up on her first project called “Where Do You Go?” Even then, I knew she had a crazy tone. We just clicked. During our second session when she was 18, we wrote “Wild Ones.” Every time we work together, we come up with something special. Watching her grow as an artist has been incredible. She’s still so young but so wise, and has an amazing story to tell. And with a voice like that, it’s a producer’s playground.
In an interview, she mentioned her sound being a mix of country, soul, rap and pop. How do you approach working with so many influences?
Honestly, it all comes together naturally. Great artists like Jessie create their own universe, and all of those influences just fit. Sometimes the rap and singing happen in the same verse. It’s not random at all—it all belongs there.
Did you get to be in the studio for Jelly Roll’s verse on “Wild Ones”?
No, we didn’t work in the same room. We got it done over email, but having him on the record was amazing. He really took the song up a notch, and it’s been awesome watching his evolution.
You also contributed to Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter. What was it like being part of that?
It was an honor. I played a small part, but it’s amazing to be involved in something that could break so much ground and open doors. I’m proud to have been part of it.
With all the country projects you’ve worked on recently, do you see more opportunities in that space now?
Country music has always been part of my DNA, but it wasn’t where I started. I’ve always been inspired by artists like Willie Nelson and George Jones, but when I approach a country project, I bring my own twist. People don’t want me to impersonate someone else—they want me to bring something different.
Who were your biggest influences before you started making music?
The Beatles and Stevie Wonder were my first loves. I grew up in Russia, so I wasn’t exposed to country music early on. Jazz and soul music was really what I came up listening to. Then I really fell in love with folk music. I fell in love with Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Joni Mitchell, Cat Stevens and James Taylor because I loved the storytelling.
Bob Dylan was my gateway into country music. When I was a teenager, he was performing in New Haven and Willie Nelson was on the bill. I didn’t know anything about Willie Nelson, so I came early to check him out and when I saw him perform, I started crying. From that moment, I was obsessed with country music.
I immersed myself in it. When I started listening to like Hank Williams and western swing, I realized how close western swing was to jazz. We, as Americans, have a common thread through a lot of the music that came from this country.
Tell me about working with Teddy Swims and Victoria Monét—they’re both having such a moment in pop and R&B.
Teddy is another artist I got in with early. I love working with superstars, but there’s nothing like growing with someone and watching them evolve. He trusted me to [help him find his sound], and it’s been amazing to see how it’s all come together.
I’ve been a fan of Victoria for years, even before she was signed. Working on “On My Mama” was incredible, and seeing it do so well has been amazing. She’s an important artist, and I can’t help but to think that that song has been very monumental and has brought her to the world’s attention. It’s such a positive anthem, and it’s been really special to be part of that. My daughter was three when the song came out and she loved it. To have a song that made her feel so positive about her mother and herself—it’s just a force of positivity. To be a part of that reminds me of the purpose of what it is that we do.
You’ve worked across so many genres. How do you manage to do that so seamlessly?
I just follow my gut and focus on what I love. I don’t try to chase trends. If I’m passionate about something, I stick with it until it’s perfect. That’s where the excellence comes from—doing what you truly love.
What’s next for you?
I’m really passionate about developing young artists, writers and producers. I’m starting a global record venture soon, and I’m excited to help shape the future of music.
The Crew To Host 14th Annual CMA Awards Viewing Party
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L–R, back row): Emily Baldridge, Markus Koger, Ava Boney and Cheshire Rigler; (L–R, front row): Julia Keefe, Leah Binkerd and Blake Duncan. Not Pictured: Nathan Thomas, Samantha Sarno and Nicolette McCann. Photo: Katie Larson
The Crew is set to host their 14th annual CMA Awards Viewing Party benefiting Musicians On Call (MOC) at 6 p.m. on Nov. 20 at Tin Roof in downtown Nashville.
A group of executives from all facets of the music industry, The Crew raised over $22,000 for MOC at last year’s viewing party. At this year’s event, industry professionals will have the opportunity to gather and raise money for the organization that brings music to the bedsides of patients, families and caregivers in healthcare environments across the nation while cheering on fellow artists, songwriters and colleagues at the 58th CMA Awards.
“We are so grateful for the support of the community and our incredible sponsors,” shares The Crew. “We are excited to continue this tradition to raise money for such a worthy cause while providing a fun gathering place to watch the awards with colleagues and friends.”
The Crew consists of The Smoking Section Podcast‘s Markus Koger, Big Loud Records’ Ava Boney, Edgehill Music Publishing’s Julia Keefe, The MLC’s Leah Binkerd, Sony Music Nashville’s Nathan Thomas, Hang Your Hat Music’s Emily Baldridge, Combustion Music’s Blake Duncan, SMACKSongs’ Samantha Sarno, Red Light Management’s Nicolette McCann and Keller Turner Andrews & Ghanem, PLLC’s Cheshire Rigler.
Organizations interested in purchasing a sponsorship package should contact Keefe (julia@edgehillmusicpublishing.com), Thomas (nathan.thomas@sonymusic.com) and Duncan (blake@combustionent.com).
Dylan Marlowe Plots ‘Mid-Twenties Crisis Tour’ For 2025
/by Liza AndersonDylan Marlowe. Photo: Jacob Powers
Dylan Marlowe will hit the road on his “Mid-Twenties Crisis Tour” next year.
Kicking off at the Gramercy Theatre in New York City on Jan. 23, the run will include a total of 12 dates, each in a different state. The tour announcement follows the release of Marlowe’s debut album, Mid-Twenties Crisis. Comprised of 15 tracks co-written by the Sony Music Nashville artist that draw from his personal experiences, the project aims to depict the roller coaster of life in one’s 20s.
“I’m so pumped to be hitting the road in January for this tour,” Marlowe shares. “When I was writing for the Mid-Twenties Crisis album, one of my biggest priorities was writing songs that would be great to play live so it’s pretty surreal to have this tour coming up. Can’t wait to see y’all out there!”
Presale tickets are available now, with general sales starting this Friday (Oct. 18). For more information, click here.
Graham Barham Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut
/by Liza AndersonGraham Barham during his Grand Ole Opry debut. Photo: Collette Badora
Graham Barham made his Grand Ole Opry debut last week, just four days after an emergency appendectomy.
Pictured (L–R): Grand Ole Opry’s Dan Rogers, Sony Music Nashville’s Randy Goodman, Graham Barham, FNGRPRNT’s Dillon Goldberg and Cornman Music’s Nate Lowery. Photo: Collette Badora
Surrounded by friends and family from his hometown of Oak Ridge, Louisiana, he took the stage to perform “Break It In A Bar” and “Whiskey Whiskey,” earning a standing ovation from the crowd.
“I come from a town of 115 people. My father’s a farmer and my mother’s a schoolteacher,” Barham shared with the audience. “I get to come up here and sing country music under the greatest God, in the greatest country in the entire world. I could not be more thankful to be a part of country music.”
He is currently touring with Ernest for “The Legalize Country Music Road Show,” and will headline his first Nashville show at Row One inside Cannery Hall on Nov. 16.
Fifth Annual ‘St. Jude Presents: Curated’ Event Raises $1.8 Million
/by Lorie HollabaughPhoto: Jordan Turri
Nashville executives, artists, creators and culinary icons enjoyed a night of elegant food and fun at the fifth annual ‘St. Jude Presents: Curated,’ on Oct. 9, raising over $1.8 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in the process.
Pictured (L-R): Dave Haywood, Kelli Haywood, Hillary Scott Tyrrell, Chris Tyrrell, Cassie Kelley and Charles Kelley. Photo: Mary Craven
Held at the home of co-chairs Elizabeth and Bryan Frist for the second year and hosted alongside co-chairs Cassie and Charles Kelley, the evening included a dinner, live auction and performances by Lady A, Ernest and Hardy. The night’s overall message was joie de vivre, a trait seen in the lives of the brave St. Jude patients and highlighted by St. Jude patient Thompson and his mom, who shared their story.
The five-course, French-inspired menu was curated and prepared by chefs Tiffani Ortiz and Andy Doubrava of The Catbird Seat. Guests enjoyed French-themed tastings and treats, and during the live auction, which raised over $850,000, bid on one-of-a-kind packages such as a private Sunday Supper for 20 at The Catbird Seat, a vacation to Cassie and Charles Kelley’s Harbour Island home, a private bourbon dinner (including five barrels of bourbon from Jeff Hopmayer) and more.
Donations from this event will help ensure that families never receive a bill from St. Jude, and treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20 percent to more than 80 percent since the hospital opened more than 50 years ago.
Apple Music Names Wyatt Flores As Up Next Artist [Exclusive]
/by LB CantrellApple Music has named country singer-songwriter Wyatt Flores as the latest addition to its Up Next program, a global artist initiative geared towards identifying, showcasing and elevating rising talent.
“It’s an honor and a privilege to be selected for Apple Music’s Up Next campaign, especially for someone like me coming from where I do and making music like this, it means the world to be part of something so big,” Flores shares. “I’m so grateful to Apple Music for showcasing me and where I come from in such a major way and on such a large scale.”
A native of Stillwater, Oklahoma, Flores is one of Americana music’s most exciting up-and-comers. Even before the release of his full-length debut album, Welcome To The Plains, out on Friday (Oct. 18), Flores has managed to make noise on the Apple Music charts. His 2022 EP The Hutson Sessions reached Apple Music’s top country albums chart in 39 countries, while 2023’s Life Lessons EP reached the top country albums chart in 72 countries, including 27 where he reached the top 10. Flores’ 2024 Half Life project reached a new record of 90 countries.
In the past year alone, Flores’ streams have more than doubled on Apple Music worldwide. In the past year, his streams on the platform’s editorial playlists have grown 257%, as his songs have been featured on some of the Apple Music’s biggest country playlists, including Today’s Country, Country Roads, Don’t Mess With Texas and Country Rewind.
As part of the initiative, Apple has released an exclusive Up Next short film that invites viewers into the quiet life on the family’s charming Stillwater land, his favorite fishing hole and a nostalgic walk through the historic Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa.
Starting today, fans can listen to Flores’ Apple Music 1 radio interview with Kelleigh Bannen and pre-add Welcome to the Plains (Apple Music Edition).
Jennie Smythe Signs Book Deal
/by Madison HahnenPictured (L-R): Jennifer Gingerich (Forefront Books), Jennie Smythe (Girlilla Marketing) and Becky Nesbitt (Forefront Books). Photo: Courtesy Girlilla Marketing
Girlilla Marketing Founder and CEO Jennie Smythe has signed an exclusive publishing deal with Forefront Books imprint Resolve Editions. She will release a memoir in 2025, distributed by Simon & Schuster.
“I have learned so many things from so many smart people—some of whom are no longer with us—and I want to honor them by passing on what they taught me,” shares Smythe. “I continue to be mentored by strong and clever people who are generous with their time. I am surrounded by co-workers who renew my inspiration and who, I believe, are more talented than me (which is great!). I have loyal clients who have stuck by me. I’ve seen trends in my business that we keep unnecessarily repeating.
“I see frequent mistakes employees make in their formative workplace years,” she continues. “I’ve made epic bad decisions as both an employee and a boss. But, where there was pain and struggle, there’s always been growth and opportunity for me. Where there’s been despair, faith has kicked its ass. Because of my losses, I’ve appreciated my wins more. I hope I can save you some hassle. I hope that I can make you think, laugh and see your own story in mine… because we are all connected, online and offline.”
Smythe has built her career as a forward-thinking entrepreneur. Her digital marketing agency, Girlilla Marketing, was founded in 2008. The female-led company leads the digital marketing campaigns for a diverse roster of world-famous entertainers and brands including Dead & Company, Willie Nelson, Darius Rucker, Blondie, Brooke Shields, Iliza Shlesinger, Terry Crews, Kristin Chenoweth, Vince Gill and many others.
With a lifelong love of music behind her, Smythe’s creative approach has earned her a multitude awards and recognition. She is a multi-year winner of the Nashville Business Journal’s Women in Music City Awards, a MusicRow Magazine Rising Women on the Row honoree and was recognized on the Nashville Post In Charge 2023: Music list.
In the upcoming memoir, Smythe will reflect on her two decades plus of experience in the entertainment industry and digital marketing space. She will also discuss the challenges of becoming an entrepreneur, fighting breast cancer and more.
“From the moment I met Jennie and read her manuscript, I knew it was a perfect match,” says Becky Nesbitt, Publisher, Resolve Editions. “Her journey to the top of the industry is a testament to her grit, determination, and resilience through both wins and losses. Her story will undoubtedly inspire readers everywhere. Having worked with a diverse range of clients, Jennie has proven herself to be a force for good in the industry, and we could not be more pleased to share her incredible story with the world next year.”
Carrie Underwood To Conclude ‘Reflection: The Las Vegas Residency’ In April
/by Lorie HollabaughCarrie Underwood has announced the final performances of her “Reflection: The Las Vegas Residency” at Resorts World Theatre at Resorts World Las Vegas.
The final shows will take place April 9, 11 and 12, concluding her reign as the venue’s first and longest-running headliner. Fans can purchase tickets for the new dates starting this Friday (Oct. 18), and tickets for all remaining 2024 shows and previously-announced spring 2025 shows are on sale now. For more information, click here.
Since its premiere in December 2021, the residency has continuously sold out show. Following the completion of Underwood’s 71st show, over 300,000 fans will have experienced the 100-minute compilation of her chart-topping hits, including nine No. 1s. She plans to kick off her fall run of shows tonight (Oct. 16) with a sold-out performance.
“I have absolutely loved performing in Las Vegas over the past three years,” says Underwood. “I am so proud of the ‘Reflection’ production, which is truly one of my favorite shows to perform. It’s been so special to reflect on the greatest hits that have defined my career so far and to get to share them with the fans that come to Vegas from all over the world.”
“It has been an honor to have Carrie serve as our first and longest-running headliner at Resorts World Theatre,” says Bobby Reynolds, Senior Vice President, AEG Presents Las Vegas. “Reflecting on her last three and a half years at this venue is marked with a myriad of unforgettable moments. Her unparalleled talent matched with her vision for ‘Reflection: The Las Vegas Residency’ created an unprecedented concert experience for over 300,000 adoring fans from around the world. These final performances are the last chance for fans to experience Carrie’s chart-topping hits in this one-of-a-kind show!”
Marcus Hummon To Release New Single & ‘Songs For Emily’ EP [Exclusive]
/by Liza AndersonNashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member Marcus Hummon will release his new single, “I Never Saw A Moor,” this Friday (Oct. 18). The tune is included on his forthcoming EP, Songs For Emily, out Nov. 15 via 3686 RECORDS.
Inspired by the famous work of Emily Dickinson, Songs For Emily marks a departure from Hummon’s country and pop stylings, and an entrance into the world of American poetry and composition.
On “I Never Saw A Moor,” he reflects, “It’s the first Emily Dickinson poem I memorized, and I loved the sense of divinity in nature and intuitive spiritual thought, which were key elements of the Transcendentalist movement. I did take some liberties with the composition, not setting the lines exactly as written, but creating a song based on her poem.”
The EP, which features Mary Chapin Carpenter on “I Dwell in Possibility,” aims to pay homage to Dickinson’s writing, blending her unique style with Hummon’s individual sound. Additionally, the Grammy winner has extended his musical talents to theater, recently premiering his folk-opera, No Man’s Land, at Belmont University’s Massey Hall.
“With this record, I’d love to shine a light on Emily Dickinson, her genius and her great gift to us all,” he shares. “I’ve sought to push myself as a musician and recording artist with this project. I’ve ‘set’ some poetry before in the theater world, but this is a deeper dive into the work of a uniquely ‘American’ poet.”
Parker McCollum, Chase Rice, More Set For Cattle Country Festival In April
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Cattle Country Festival returns for its second year April 10-12, and is set to be even bigger and better in celebration of the bicentennial of Gonzales, Texas.
The 2025 lineup will include Parker McCollum, Tanya Tucker, Clint Black, Wyatt Flores, Chase Rice, Clay Walker, Reckless Kelly, Aaron Watson, Giovannie & The Hired Guns, 49 Winchester, Wade Bowen, Drake White, Shenandoah, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Tyler Halverson, Sophia Scott, Logan Mize and more, with additional acts to be announced later this year.
“On behalf of the vibrant community of Gonzales, Texas, we extend a heartfelt welcome to all guests of the Cattle Country Festival,” says Susan Sankey, Interim Director of the Gonzales Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture. “This is especially fun as we celebrate our town’s 200th birthday in 2025. The economic impact from the festival’s inaugural year was purely remarkable and prosperous for Gonzales and its presence enriches our town and brings our shared love for music and culture to life. We appreciate Cattle Country fans for celebrating with us in this remarkable milestone bicentennial year, and we look forward to creating unforgettable memories together.”
Tickets are on sale now at CattleCountryFest.com.
Genre Fusionist Gitty Talks Letting His Gut Lead The Way [Interview]
/by LB CantrellGitty
Multi-Platinum producer Gitty made history last year as the first producer to appear on five Billboard charts simultaneously—an achievement that highlights his versatility across genres, from R&B to country. His current hit “Wild Ones,” a collaboration between Jessie Murph and Jelly Roll, is making waves, with award nominations already rolling in. He also co-wrote Murph’s latest single, “Dirty,” featuring Teddy Swims, marking a significant moment as Gitty helped launch both artists’ careers.
The hitmaker’s influence reaches even further with contributions to Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter and upcoming projects with Swims, Muni Long, Quavo and Anderson .Paak. Gitty is also a two-time 2024 Grammy nominee, recognized for his work with Victoria Monét in both the Record of the Year and Best R&B Song categories.
In addition to his 2021 Grammy nominations for H.E.R.’s Back of My Mind and “Damage,” Gitty earned a Children & Family Emmy Award for his work on Netflix’s We The People. As he continues to push genre boundaries, Gitty’s influence shows no signs of slowing down.
He recently spoke to MusicRow about his success as well as his relationship with Nashville.
MusicRow: How often do you come to Nashville?
This is my fifth trip this year. I’ve really enjoyed it—it’s been the most I’ve ever visited. Last November was my first trip for a Nashville writing session, and the city has really grown on me. There’s a lot about the songwriting culture here that I love and bring back to Los Angeles.
What brought you here originally?
I came out to work with Jessie. She was on tour and living here at the time, and we needed to finish some records, so I flew out here to wrap things up.
I love Jessie’s music. How did you meet?
I met Jessie when she was 17. We did a song that ended up on her first project called “Where Do You Go?” Even then, I knew she had a crazy tone. We just clicked. During our second session when she was 18, we wrote “Wild Ones.” Every time we work together, we come up with something special. Watching her grow as an artist has been incredible. She’s still so young but so wise, and has an amazing story to tell. And with a voice like that, it’s a producer’s playground.
In an interview, she mentioned her sound being a mix of country, soul, rap and pop. How do you approach working with so many influences?
Honestly, it all comes together naturally. Great artists like Jessie create their own universe, and all of those influences just fit. Sometimes the rap and singing happen in the same verse. It’s not random at all—it all belongs there.
Did you get to be in the studio for Jelly Roll’s verse on “Wild Ones”?
No, we didn’t work in the same room. We got it done over email, but having him on the record was amazing. He really took the song up a notch, and it’s been awesome watching his evolution.
You also contributed to Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter. What was it like being part of that?
It was an honor. I played a small part, but it’s amazing to be involved in something that could break so much ground and open doors. I’m proud to have been part of it.
With all the country projects you’ve worked on recently, do you see more opportunities in that space now?
Country music has always been part of my DNA, but it wasn’t where I started. I’ve always been inspired by artists like Willie Nelson and George Jones, but when I approach a country project, I bring my own twist. People don’t want me to impersonate someone else—they want me to bring something different.
Who were your biggest influences before you started making music?
The Beatles and Stevie Wonder were my first loves. I grew up in Russia, so I wasn’t exposed to country music early on. Jazz and soul music was really what I came up listening to. Then I really fell in love with folk music. I fell in love with Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Joni Mitchell, Cat Stevens and James Taylor because I loved the storytelling.
Bob Dylan was my gateway into country music. When I was a teenager, he was performing in New Haven and Willie Nelson was on the bill. I didn’t know anything about Willie Nelson, so I came early to check him out and when I saw him perform, I started crying. From that moment, I was obsessed with country music.
I immersed myself in it. When I started listening to like Hank Williams and western swing, I realized how close western swing was to jazz. We, as Americans, have a common thread through a lot of the music that came from this country.
Tell me about working with Teddy Swims and Victoria Monét—they’re both having such a moment in pop and R&B.
Teddy is another artist I got in with early. I love working with superstars, but there’s nothing like growing with someone and watching them evolve. He trusted me to [help him find his sound], and it’s been amazing to see how it’s all come together.
I’ve been a fan of Victoria for years, even before she was signed. Working on “On My Mama” was incredible, and seeing it do so well has been amazing. She’s an important artist, and I can’t help but to think that that song has been very monumental and has brought her to the world’s attention. It’s such a positive anthem, and it’s been really special to be part of that. My daughter was three when the song came out and she loved it. To have a song that made her feel so positive about her mother and herself—it’s just a force of positivity. To be a part of that reminds me of the purpose of what it is that we do.
You’ve worked across so many genres. How do you manage to do that so seamlessly?
I just follow my gut and focus on what I love. I don’t try to chase trends. If I’m passionate about something, I stick with it until it’s perfect. That’s where the excellence comes from—doing what you truly love.
What’s next for you?
I’m really passionate about developing young artists, writers and producers. I’m starting a global record venture soon, and I’m excited to help shape the future of music.