Anna Lemme Promoted To Grand Ole Opry Marketing Manager
Anna Lemme. Photo: Chris Hollo
Opry Entertainment Group has promoted Anna Lemme to Grand Ole Opry Marketing Manager. Lemme, who previously served as Artist & Label Strategy Manager for OEG, will now oversee marketing and promotional strategies for the Grand Ole Opry.
The Blandford, Massachusetts native earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in Music Business from Belmont University. With five years at OEG, Lemme began as an intern at Starstruck Entertainment before joining the company as Marketing Partnership Coordinator and rising to Artist & Label Strategy Manager. During her tenure, Lemme has helped discover and engage new talent for the Opry and led the planning of the Opry NextStage program.
LoCash Kicks Off Treasure Coast Songwriter Festival
LoCash. Photo: Courtesy of BMI
The third annual Treasure Coast Songwriter Festival, a collaboration between iHeartMedia’s WAVE 92.7 and BMI, recently drew country music fans from across Florida for more than 50 songwriter performances at the Pirates Cove Resort & Marina in Stuart, Florida.
The four-day festival kicked off with a performance by LoCash and was followed by 12 BMI songwriters, including Aaron Barker, Dave Gibson, James Slater, Frank Myers, Danny Myrick, Dean Alexander, Matt Warren, Megan Linville, Bridgette Tatum, Kristen Kelly, Brian Sutherland and Sonia Leigh, who all shared the stories behind their biggest songs.
Heartland Presented With Platinum Plaques For “I Loved Her First”
Pictured (L-R): Keith West, Herb Graham, Jason Albert and Chuck Crawford. Photo: Jeremy Westby/2911 Media
In 2006, Lofton Creek Records, owned and operated by Mike and Martha Borchetta, pushed Heartland’s debut single, “I Loved Her First,” to No. 1 in only 17 weeks. Nearly 20 years later, Herb Graham of Graham Artist Management has presented the band with Platinum plaques for the same song.
“It’s remarkable that our song continues to be the wedding song for so many families. What we created as a band and what Mike and Herb did as a team was just undeniable,” says Jason Albert, lead singer for Heartland. “We are back and making new music, so who knows what the next chapter will bring, however, we shall celebrate this victory with pride.”
“Incredible is all I know to say!” says Mike. “Every year, we re-release the song to radio, just in time for wedding season, and people still love it. It’s a song that will never fade away, and I am sure glad about that.”
CMA Foundation & ABC Donate $60,000 to Music Education Programs
During the American Idol finale on May 19, the CMA Foundation, together with ABC, donated a total of $60,000 to three music education programs. The funds were distributed by the three finalists in visits to their hometowns, each receiving $20,000
Jack Blocker, Abi Carter and Will Moseley surprised Texas Music Project in Dallas, Texas, Tools for Tomorrow in Indio, California and Pride of the Pinewoods Band in Hazlehurst, Georgia, respectively with the gifts.
“It truly warms my heart to know how passionate each of this year’s finalists are about the power of music education,” says Tiffany Kerns, CMA Foundation Executive Director. “Abi, Jack and Will each have a personal connection to music education, and we are beyond grateful for each of them shining a light on the importance of music in children’s lives. We work every single day to ensure that our young people have access to participate in music education, and to do that, it takes partners across the country to prioritize what we consider an essential subject for students.”
Later this week, the CMA Foundation will debut a case study on arts and music education in Tennessee school districts. This study is part of ongoing efforts since 2011 to support music educators in creating programs. Additional initiatives include Music Teachers of Excellence grants, professional development, virtual field trips, digital series for students, and grants for music education organizations.
We Should Write Sometime Adds Three To Advisory Board
We Should Write Sometime, the app aimed at connecting songwriters globally, has added Craig Campbell, Randall Foster and Lance Goodman to its advisory board.
“As an artist and songwriter, I understand firsthand the importance of empowering creators in today’s music industry. WSWS’s dedication to connecting songwriters and fostering their success resonates with me,” explains Campbell. “It’s exactly what this industry needs, and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute on that front. The entrepreneurial spirit behind WSWS aligns perfectly with my values, and I believe in their vision for the future of songwriting.”
“Having spent years in the music industry, I’m constantly drawn to innovation that empowers creators. WSWS, at the intersection of technology and music creators, is exactly that. My background makes me excited to contribute to WSWS’s vision. I can’t wait to collaborate with the team and be a part of something that fuels the success of songwriters and creatives Everywhere,” Foster adds.
Goodman shares, “I am thrilled to join the WSWS advisory board. My experience in the music tech and startup sectors has shown me the immense potential for technology to revolutionize the music industry. WSWS is at the forefront of this change, and I look forward to helping shape its future and support the incredible community of songwriters it serves.”
17th Annual ACM Honors To Take Place In August
/by Liza AndersonThe 17th Annual ACM Honors will take place on Wednesday, Aug. 21 at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium. The evening of live music and tributes aims to celebrate the recipients of the Academy of Country Music’s Special Awards, Songwriter of the Year, Artist-Songwriter of the Year, Studio Recording Awards and Industry Awards from the 59th ACM Awards cycle.
Voted on by the ACM’s Board of Directors, the Special Award winners are recognized based on their outstanding achievements and contributions to the country music industry and ACM Lifting Lives.
Last week, Jessie Jo Dillon was named this year’s Songwriter of the Year, and Chris Stapleton was crowned Artist-Songwriter of the Year. These awards are presented to individuals who stand out as the top wordsmiths of the past year, helping to create the stories that are shared with country music fans through song. The winners are selected by a special panel of judges composed of songwriters, publishers, producers and performing rights organization (PRO) representatives.
The ACM Studio Recording Awards honor various musicians and creators with categories including Bass Player of the Year, Drummer of the Year, Acoustic Guitar Player of the Year, Piano/Keys Player of the Year, Specialty Instrument(s) Player of the Year, Electric Guitar Player of the Year, Audio Engineer of the Year and Producer of the Year. The eligibility of each artist, musician, producer and engineer recognized in their respective category is determined by a professional panel of judges chosen by the ACM Officers, with each honoree having achieved a top 20 or better on the Billboard Hot Country Songs, Billboard Top Country Albums or Mediabase Country charts during the current eligibility period. For more information on ACM Studio Recording Awards eligibility and nominees, click here.
The ACM Industry Awards recognize venues and talent buyers/promoters who have bought or promoted a set number of country concerts, are in good standing with all agents/vendors and helps promote country music ticket sales. The set number of concerts varies based on the category, those of which include: Casino of the Year – Theater, Casino of the Year – Arena, Fair/Rodeo of the Year, Festival of the Year, Club of the Year, Theater of the Year, Outdoor Venue of the Year, Arena of the Year, Don Romeo Talent Buyer of the Year and Promoter of the Year. For more information on ACM Industry Awards eligibility and nominees, click here.
Additional details regarding this year’s winners, host, performers and general event information will be announced in the coming weeks and months.
K-Love Fan Awards Reveal 2024 Presenters & Performers
/by Madison HahnenCeremony Co-Host Brandon Lake will take the stage along with Anne Wilson, Cain, Crowder, Elevation Worship, Housefires, Jeremy Camp, Josh Baldwin, Katy Nichole, Lauren Daigle, Matthew West, Rachael Lampa, Tauren Wells and Terrian. There will also be surprise performances.
Presenters across all fields of entertainment are also scheduled to appear. Musicians MercyMe’s Bart Millard, Brandon Heath, Colton Dixon, Danny Gokey, David Leonard, Ellie Holcomb, Jon Reddick, Josiah Queen, Matt Maher, Matthew West, Rebecca St. James, Riley Clemmons, Seph Schlueter, Taylor and Madison Cain and Tasha Layton will help to hand out awards.
Additionally, former NFL player Benjamin Watson and his wife Kirsten, filmmaker and creator of The Chosen Dallas Jenkins, actors Elizabeth Tabish and Jonathan Roumie, television personality Willie Robertson, author and podcaster Annie F. Downs, country star and author Granger Smith and speaker and author Lisa Harper will take stage.
K-Love has also announced this year’s recipient of the Sports Impact Award, Matthew Slater. Slater played football at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), then went on to be selected by the New England Patriots in the 2008 NFL draft. During his 16-year career, Slater won three super bowls and was selected for 10 Pro Bowl appearances. Off the field, he was dedicated to his Slater Family Foundation, a program to support the Ron Burton Training Village, International Justice Mission, Voices of Martyrs, Open Doors, Compassion International, Danita’s Children and more.
“Matthew Slater wasn’t just a special teams player for the Patriots. He was a special team player who helped us win three Super Bowls and made a positive impact on the many lives he touched, both on and off the field,” commented Robert Kraft, Chairman & CEO, New England Patriots. “He is a man of integrity and high moral character who is led by his faith and committed to his family. There is no finer person than Matthew Slater. His character and commitment to our organization, his teammates and the game of football are unparalleled. We are all better for knowing Matthew Slater.”
The ceremony will be available to stream on May 31 on TBN at 7 p.m. CT and again at 9 p.m. CT.
Lineup Announced For 2024 Ryman & BMI Block Party
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Ryman Auditorium and BMI have announced the lineup for this year’s Ryman & BMI Block Party, taking place June 6–8 at the PNC Plaza outdoor stage.
The three-day free event will feature performances from 16 rising BMI affiliates. Josh Melton, Old Hickory, Graham Barham and The Castellows will take the stage on the first. The second day will include Ty Gregory, The Band Loula, Taylor Austin Dye, Ashley Ryan, Grant Gilbert and Twinnie. Closing out the event on the third day will be Miko Marks, Hueston, Britnee Kellogg, Struggle Jennings, Meg McRee and The Georgia Thunderbolts.
Photo ops, giveaways, food trucks and more will also be available.
2024 Ryman & BMI Block Party Lineup:
Thursday, June 6
1:50 p.m. – Josh Melton
2:40 p.m.– Old Hickory
3:30 p.m.– Graham Barham
4:20 p.m.– The Castellows
Friday, June 7
12:10 p.m. – Ty Gregory
1:00 p.m. – The Band Loula
1:50 p.m. – Taylor Austin Dye
2:40 p.m. – Ashley Ryan
3:30 p.m. – Grant Gilbert
4:20 p.m. – Twinnie
Saturday, June 8
12:10 p.m. – Miko Marks
1:00 p.m. – Hueston
1:50 p.m. – Britnee Kellogg
2:40 p.m. – Struggle Jennings
3:30 p.m. – Meg McRee
4:20 p.m. – The Georgia Thunderbolts
Monika Tashman Named Partner At Loeb & Loeb
/by Lorie HollabaughMonika Tashman has joined Loeb & Loeb’s Nashville office as a Partner in the Entertainment department. She will continue her New York-based practice, working out of Loeb’s Nashville office.
“Loeb has been the leading law firm for the entertainment industry for over a century and I am excited to join in its storied history,” says Tashman. “The firm’s deep bench of entertainment lawyers, collaborative culture and strong industry experience are the perfect complements to my practice, and together I know that we will continue to provide optimal service to clients across the entertainment industry.”
Tashman earned her B.S. magna cum laude from New York University and her J.D. from Cardozo School of Law. She joins Loeb & Loeb from Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP. With decades of experience in the entertainment industry, Tashman represents all types of industry clients from entrepreneurial artists and record labels to emerging entertainment-focused businesses and experiential music production companies. Her deep industry knowledge, coaching background and legal experience enable her to offer a distinctive approach to negotiating strategic deals in the industry.
Beyond the music industry, Tashman’s experience and client base extends to literary, fashion, thought leaders, beauty, art and corporate matters. She has extensive experience handling complex and pivotal deals that have major impacts on the broader entertainment and media industry.
“With over 25 years of experience in the music and entertainment industries and an impressive track record of success, Monika is a fantastic addition to our team,” says Scott Edel, Chair of Loeb & Loeb’s Entertainment department. “Continued growth and being able to work seamlessly across key entertainment hubs is a strategic priority for our group, and Monika’s joining is an important step in continuing to action on those priorities.”
“Monika expands our music expertise and market presence on an international level,” says Derek Crownover, Co-Office Administrative Partner of the Nashville office and Vice Chair of the Music Industry practice group. “Her personality, leadership and client care will be a great addition to our practice group and the firm.”
Lainey Wilson Invited To Join The Grand Ole Opry
/by Liza AndersonReba McEntire & Lainey Wilson. Photo: Courtesy of NBCUniversal
Following her live performance of her new single “Hang Tight Honey” on NBC’s The Voice last night (May 21), Lainey Wilson was surprised by Opry member Reba McEntire with an invitation to become an official member of the Grand Ole Opry family.
Lainey Wilson with her custom-made belt buckle. Photo: Courtesy of NBCUniversal
The ACM Entertainer of the Year made her Opry debut on Feb. 14, 2020, and will be inducted on Friday, June 7.
“Lainey, I am so proud of you. You did a wonderful job. I have heard that I have inspired you in what you have done so far, and I am thrilled to death if I have had anything to do with your career because you are blowing it up. I was so proud of you at the ACMs the other night and I couldn’t be more proud to be the one that helps you continue to bridge the gap between our generations. I’d like to be the person to invite you to become an official member of the Grand Ole Opry,” said McEntire.
She then presented Wilson with a gift commemorating the occasion, a custom-made belt buckle reading “Opry” and “Lainey” with “2024” emblazoned on its reverse side.
“I am so incredibly honored to be invited to become an official member of the Grand Ole Opy, and to have the legendary Reba McEntire surprise me during tonight’s show was such an unforgettable moment,” shared Wilson. “This is something I’ve always dreamed of, ever since my first trip to the Opry when I was nine years old. I will never forget this moment!”
“There is not a doubt in my mind that Lainey will make an impact on country music and the Grand Ole Opry for generations to come,” says Dan Rogers, Senior Vice President & Executive Producer, Grand Ole Opry. “On the eve of the Opry’s 100th year, we’re so very excited to say ‘welcome home’ to one of country music’s great voices and personalities.”
Industry Ink: Anna Lemme, LoCash, Heartland, CMA, We Should Write Sometime
/by John Nix ArledgeAnna Lemme Promoted To Grand Ole Opry Marketing Manager
Anna Lemme. Photo: Chris Hollo
Opry Entertainment Group has promoted Anna Lemme to Grand Ole Opry Marketing Manager. Lemme, who previously served as Artist & Label Strategy Manager for OEG, will now oversee marketing and promotional strategies for the Grand Ole Opry.
The Blandford, Massachusetts native earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in Music Business from Belmont University. With five years at OEG, Lemme began as an intern at Starstruck Entertainment before joining the company as Marketing Partnership Coordinator and rising to Artist & Label Strategy Manager. During her tenure, Lemme has helped discover and engage new talent for the Opry and led the planning of the Opry NextStage program.
LoCash Kicks Off Treasure Coast Songwriter Festival
LoCash. Photo: Courtesy of BMI
The third annual Treasure Coast Songwriter Festival, a collaboration between iHeartMedia’s WAVE 92.7 and BMI, recently drew country music fans from across Florida for more than 50 songwriter performances at the Pirates Cove Resort & Marina in Stuart, Florida.
The four-day festival kicked off with a performance by LoCash and was followed by 12 BMI songwriters, including Aaron Barker, Dave Gibson, James Slater, Frank Myers, Danny Myrick, Dean Alexander, Matt Warren, Megan Linville, Bridgette Tatum, Kristen Kelly, Brian Sutherland and Sonia Leigh, who all shared the stories behind their biggest songs.
Heartland Presented With Platinum Plaques For “I Loved Her First”
Pictured (L-R): Keith West, Herb Graham, Jason Albert and Chuck Crawford. Photo: Jeremy Westby/2911 Media
In 2006, Lofton Creek Records, owned and operated by Mike and Martha Borchetta, pushed Heartland’s debut single, “I Loved Her First,” to No. 1 in only 17 weeks. Nearly 20 years later, Herb Graham of Graham Artist Management has presented the band with Platinum plaques for the same song.
“It’s remarkable that our song continues to be the wedding song for so many families. What we created as a band and what Mike and Herb did as a team was just undeniable,” says Jason Albert, lead singer for Heartland. “We are back and making new music, so who knows what the next chapter will bring, however, we shall celebrate this victory with pride.”
“Incredible is all I know to say!” says Mike. “Every year, we re-release the song to radio, just in time for wedding season, and people still love it. It’s a song that will never fade away, and I am sure glad about that.”
CMA Foundation & ABC Donate $60,000 to Music Education Programs
During the American Idol finale on May 19, the CMA Foundation, together with ABC, donated a total of $60,000 to three music education programs. The funds were distributed by the three finalists in visits to their hometowns, each receiving $20,000
Jack Blocker, Abi Carter and Will Moseley surprised Texas Music Project in Dallas, Texas, Tools for Tomorrow in Indio, California and Pride of the Pinewoods Band in Hazlehurst, Georgia, respectively with the gifts.
“It truly warms my heart to know how passionate each of this year’s finalists are about the power of music education,” says Tiffany Kerns, CMA Foundation Executive Director. “Abi, Jack and Will each have a personal connection to music education, and we are beyond grateful for each of them shining a light on the importance of music in children’s lives. We work every single day to ensure that our young people have access to participate in music education, and to do that, it takes partners across the country to prioritize what we consider an essential subject for students.”
Later this week, the CMA Foundation will debut a case study on arts and music education in Tennessee school districts. This study is part of ongoing efforts since 2011 to support music educators in creating programs. Additional initiatives include Music Teachers of Excellence grants, professional development, virtual field trips, digital series for students, and grants for music education organizations.
We Should Write Sometime Adds Three To Advisory Board
We Should Write Sometime, the app aimed at connecting songwriters globally, has added Craig Campbell, Randall Foster and Lance Goodman to its advisory board.
“As an artist and songwriter, I understand firsthand the importance of empowering creators in today’s music industry. WSWS’s dedication to connecting songwriters and fostering their success resonates with me,” explains Campbell. “It’s exactly what this industry needs, and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute on that front. The entrepreneurial spirit behind WSWS aligns perfectly with my values, and I believe in their vision for the future of songwriting.”
“Having spent years in the music industry, I’m constantly drawn to innovation that empowers creators. WSWS, at the intersection of technology and music creators, is exactly that. My background makes me excited to contribute to WSWS’s vision. I can’t wait to collaborate with the team and be a part of something that fuels the success of songwriters and creatives Everywhere,” Foster adds.
Goodman shares, “I am thrilled to join the WSWS advisory board. My experience in the music tech and startup sectors has shown me the immense potential for technology to revolutionize the music industry. WSWS is at the forefront of this change, and I look forward to helping shape its future and support the incredible community of songwriters it serves.”
Billy Currington Celebrates RIAA Certifications, Slates New Album
/by John Nix ArledgePictured (L-R): John Dennis, Damon Moberly, Billy Currington, Rob Femia. Photo: Jeff Johnson
Multi-Platinum artist Billy Currington performed to a sold-out crowd at Ascend Amphitheater in Nashville on Saturday, May 18.
Before he took the stage, the singer was presented with a plaque by his UMG Nashville/Mercury Nashville and Dennis Entertainment teams to commemorate his Doin’ Somethin’ Right album achieving a double-Platinum certification, along with his singles “Must Be Doin’ Somethin’ Right” and “Good Directions” reaching four-times Platinum status.
Currington is set to release an 11-track album of his top-charting singles on July 5, titled #1’s Vol. 1. Additionally, he will continue his headlining tour through September with appearances in New York, Las Vegas, Gulf Coast Jam, Country Stampede and Windy City Smokeout.
#1’s Vol. 1 Track Listing:
Side A
1. Must Be Doin’ Somethin’ Right
2. Good Directions
3. People Are Crazy
4. That’s How Country Boys Roll
5. Pretty Good at Drinkin’ Beer
6. Let Me Down Easy
Side B
7. Hey Girl
8. We Are Tonight
9. Don’t It
10. It Don’t Hurt Like It Used To
11. Do I Make You Wanna
Hannah Kerr To Share Sophomore Project In August
/by Lorie HollabaughHannah Kerr plans to share her sophomore project, As I Am, on Aug. 30. The Curb Records artist recently gave listeners a taste of the album with the release of track “Church Hurt.”
As I Am marks the full-length follow-up to Kerr’s 2016 debut project, Overflow. This new body of work finds her wrestling with her insecurities in the light of grace and leaning on her faith in the wake of uncertainty. Kerr co-wrote each of the album’s 14 songs, including the lead single “Changed” as well as “If I Were You” and “Church Hurt.”
With “Church Hurt,” she pens a letter of apology filled with confessions and questions. Kerr penned the single alongside Tommy Iceland and Cindy Morgan.
Additionally, the singer-songwriter has been sharing the stage with Big Daddy Weave on their “Heaven Changes Everything Tour.”
As I Am Track Listing:
1. “As I Am”
2. “Jesus Is Why”
3. “If I Were You”
4. “Changed”
5. “Everything I Need”
6. “Fear Not”
7. “I Won’t”
8. “One Day Away”
9. “Church Hurt”
10. “No Conditions”
11. “The Things I Don’t Know”
12. “Pray On It”
13. “Same God”
14. “Your Love Is Everywhere”
Weekly Register: Post Malone & Morgan Wallen Score Top Country Streaming Songs Debut
/by Liza AndersonPost Malone & Morgan Wallen. Photo: Courtesy of Mercury Records/Republic/Big Loud Records
Post Malone and Morgan Wallen‘s history-making “I Had Some Help” debuts at No. 1 on the country streaming songs chart this week with 70 million streams, according to Luminate data.
Shaboozey‘s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” shifts down to No. 2 with 36 million new streams, adding to 142 million ATD, followed by Zach Bryan and Kacey Musgraves‘ “I Remember Everything” at No. 3 with 16 million streams, adding to 739 million ATD. Wallen’s “Last Night” moves to No. 4 with 13 million new streams, adding to 1.38 billion ATD, and Bryan’s “Something In The Orange” secures No. 5 with 12 million streams, adding to 1.39 billion ATD.
On the country albums chart, Wallen’s One Thing At A Time persists at the top with 75K in total consumption (1.5K album only/95 million song streams), and his Dangerous: The Double Album remains at No. 2 with 44K (463 album only/57 million song streams). Zach Bryan rises to No. 3 with 38K (2.7K album only/45 million song streams), while Beyoncé‘s Cowboy Carter slides down to No. 4 with 35K (3.9K album only/39 million song streams). Bryan’s American Heartbreak stays at No. 5 with 31K (748 album only/40 million song streams).
Chris August Signs With Warner Chappell Music & Cornman Music
/by Liza AndersonPictured (L–R, back row): Warner Chappell’s Ben Vaughn and Cornman Music’s Nate Lowery; (L–R, front row): Cornman Music’s Brett James, Chris August and Cornman Music’s Chris Owen. Photo: Courtesy of Warner Chappell Music
Singer-songwriter Chris August has signed a global publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music and Cornman Music.
Amassing more than 150 million streams with over 500,000 albums sold, the Dallas native’s work has ruled the Billboard Christian Songs chart, among others. His chart-toppers consist of “Starry Night,” “Restore” and “He Said” with Group 1 Crew. August’s credits also include “God Whispered Your Name,” “Battle” and more.
Having spent over two decades in the music industry, August has received various ASCAP honors, and took home multiple GMA Dove Awards—including Male Vocalist of the Year and New Artist of the Year—in 2015. He has also collaborated with acts such as Keith Urban, Pentatonix, Tenille Arts, Meghan Patrick, Abbey Cone, Hootie & The Blowfish, Ryan Cabrera and Mandisa.
“I’m so excited to be joining the incredible team at Cornman and Warner Chappell,” shares August. “Getting to work with Brett James, Nate Lowery and Ben Vaughn and the entire team is a dang dream!”
“Brett and I are thrilled to be working with Chris alongside Ben and the incredible team at Warner Chappell. His talent and personality are top notch,” says Lowery, General Manager & VP, Cornman Music. “We’ve been fans of Chris for a while now, and we’re excited to see what the future holds. His experience across multiple genres will bring so much to our team.”