Pictured (L-R): Rising Women on the Row honorees Melissa Spillman, Taylor Lindsey, Sloane Cavitt Logue, Candice Watkins, Tiffany Kerns and Halie Hampton Mosley. Photo: Ed Rode
MusicRow Magazine, Nashville’s leading music industry publication, proudly recognized six Nashville music industry executives during its 11th annual Rising Women on the Row honors this morning (March 19) at the Omni Nashville Hotel. City National Bank, CMT Next Women of Country and Loeb & Loeb served as Presenting Sponsors.
The new class of honorees were CMA’s Tiffany Kerns, Sony Music Nashville’s Taylor Lindsey, WME’s Sloane Cavitt Logue, WHY&HOW’s Halie Hampton Mosley, Concord Music Publishing’s Melissa Spillman and Big Loud Record’s Candice Watkins.
Industry veteran Kerri Edwards was this year’s featured speaker. As the founder and president of management firm KP Entertainment, Edwards is a key figure in the careers of country stars Luke Bryan, Cole Swindell, Dylan Scott and Chayce Beckham.
Presented by CMT Next Women of Country, singer-songwriter Carter Faith was this year’s special performer and was introduced by CMT’s Leslie Fram. Faith has garnered more than 60 million streams with her releases “Wild,” “Already Crazy,” “Greener Pasture,” “Cowboys & Dreamers,” “Joyride” and “Easy Pill,” as well as her debut EP Let Be Love.
Since beginning in 2012, MusicRow‘s annual Rising Women on the Row event has honored over 50 women in the Nashville music industry.
About MusicRow‘s 2024 Rising Women On The Row:
Tiffany Kerns – SVP, Industry Relations & Philanthropy, CMA | Executive Director, CMA Foundation
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson, honoree Tiffany Kerns, MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell. Photo: Ed Rode
In her role as SVP, Industry Relations & Philanthropy, Tiffany Kerns oversees the strategic direction and management of all CMA’s membership events, initiatives and programming. By developing and enhancing robust and innovative CMA membership strategies, Kerns ensures professional development pathways align with the needs of the member base and the future of the industry. Established as CMA’s philanthropic arm, the CMA Foundation has invested nearly $30 million across all 50 states. In her role, Kerns is responsible for the growth, development and execution of the nonprofit’s charitable investments by creating intentional partnerships and implementing an impact-driven grant process. With a steadfast focus on improving the philanthropic model of giving, Kerns has led the charge in enriching music education programs across the United States. She oversees advocacy efforts for the CMA Foundation at the state and federal level, which includes working with dozens of community partners, policymakers, educators and industry leaders to elevate the CMA Foundation’s mission.
Taylor Lindsey – SVP, A&R, Sony Music Nashville
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson, honoree Taylor Lindsey, MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell. Photo: Ed Rode
Taylor Lindsey is the SVP, of A&R at Sony Music Nashville, where she oversees SMN’s dynamic new A&R team as well as signs and develops a diverse roster that includes recorded music icons, breakthrough acts and newcomers. Prior to taking on her current expanded role, Lindsey was directly involved with the development of artists such as Old Dominion, Luke Combs, Maren Morris, Ryan Hurd and Mitchell Tenpenny, among others. Before joining SMN, Lindsey was at BMG where she signed and developed the careers of songwriters and artists as well as pitched the catalogs of 13 chart-topping songwriters, including her award-winning sister, Hillary Lindsey. A respected industry executive, Lindsey has been included in a number of industry power lists including Billboard’s 40 Under 40 (2018), Billboard’s Women In Music (2018, 2019 & 2023), Billboard’s Country Power Players (2022 & 2023), Variety’s Hitmakers Impact (2020), Variety’s Young Leaders In Music (2019) and more. She is also a graduate of the 2019 Class of Leadership Music. She resides in Nashville with her husband, Grammy-nominated songwriter Derrick Southerland, and their daughter, Lyle, and son, Ryder.
Sloane Cavitt Logue – Partner, WME
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson, honoree Sloane Cavitt Logue, MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell. Photo: Ed Rode
Sloane Cavitt Logue leads the Nashville Client Strategy Division at WME, where she works across several departments in navigating various opportunities outside of the live space, including digital, fashion, literary, film, television, talent ventures/partnerships, theater, sports and social impact for clients. Additionally, Logue connects clients with internal opportunities within the Endeavor network, which includes WWE, UFC, PBR, 160over90, Harry Walker, IMG and many more. Prior to joining WME, Logue held tenure at Show Dog-Universal Music and Live Nation. She is a graduate of the University of Kentucky and the Deviate Leadership Program, which focuses on elevating and coaching future female leaders in the entertainment industry. Dedicated to mentoring up-and-coming industry trailblazers, she is actively involved in WME’s mentorship program, as well as Grammy U, and is an inaugural member of CMA’s Female Executive Leadership Program. Logue resides in Nashville with her husband, Dave, their son, Cavitt, and their Bernese Mountain Dog, Captain.
Halie Hampton Mosley – Chief Operating Officer, WHY&HOW
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson, honoree Halie Hampton Mosley, MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell. Photo: Ed Rode
Halie Hampton Mosley joined WHY&HOW in October 2021 as Vice President of Roster Operations, and has helped define and oversee the goals and initiatives of the WHY&HOW roster and staff. Since joining, Hampton Mosley has been instrumental in streamlining and expanding roster operations, and establishing internal practices such as WHY&HOW’s parental leave policies. She also remains closely involved in WHY&HOW artist strategy for such acts as Chase Rice, Danielle Bradbery, BRELAND and Kelleigh Bannen, among others. Prior to joining WHY&HOW, Hampton Mosley spent seven years in Artist Management at Maverick Nashville led by long-time Manager Clarence Spalding. She most recently served as the Day-to-Day Artist Manager for Diamond-selling duo Florida Georgia Line at Hit Farm Management in partnership with Full Stop Management led by Irving and Jeffrey Azoff.
Melissa Spillman – VP, A&R, Concord Music Publishing
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson, honoree Melissa Spillman, MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell. Photo: Ed Rode
Melissa Spillman is VP of A&R at Concord Music Publishing. In her role, Spillman is responsible for signing and developing new and established songwriters and artists and placing songs with major recording artists. She started out her career at Dreamcatcher Entertainment which led to a seven-year stint in A&R at Capitol Records. After that she headed up renowned producer Jay Joyce’s Neon Cross Music as Head of Publishing and Production. From there she started her own company, Freetown Music where she oversaw the creative development and management of artists, producers and songwriters until she was tapped by Concord Music Publishing to become their VP of A&R in 2021. Beyond her work in music, Spillman proudly started a non-profit organization called Wan Fambul Foundation, which strives to support children and their families in Sierra Leone, West Africa, the birthplace of three of her sons. She resides in Franklin with her songwriter/producer/author husband Jeremy, four sons and their dog Canyon. You can find her cheering on her sons who play football for the University of Tennessee and Franklin High School this fall.
Candice Watkins – SVP, Marketing, Big Loud Records
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson, honoree Candice Watkins, MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell. Photo: Ed Rode
As SVP of Marketing at Big Loud Records, Candice Watkins brings proven leadership and across-the-board expertise to the independent powerhouse, selected as one of Billboard’s 2023 Women in Music, and a Country Power Player for the last three consecutive years. Leading the label’s marketing efforts across its many ventures and partnerships, Watkins executes creative strategy and bold, cross-platform campaigns that make an impact. Recently, Watkins has led the marketing efforts behind chart-topping successes like Morgan Wallen’s back-to-back all-genre No. 1 albums, as well as the successful recent projects from HARDY, Hailey Whitters, Stephen Wilson Jr., Charles Wesley Godwin and many more. Watkins also spurred introductory campaigns for artists like Jake Worthington, Lauren Watkins, Ashley Cooke, Dylan Gossett and more, while embarking on major campaign efforts for heavy hitters Lauren Alaina, ERNEST, Larry Fleet and more. The Montclair, New Jersey native is a graduate of Boston’s Northeastern University and Los Angeles’ USC. Prior to joining Big Loud, Watkins served as Sr. Director of Marketing & Artist Development at UMG Nashville and preceded by stops at Red Light Management, Mozes Inc., Borman Entertainment and Martingale Entertainment. Outside of her work innovating campaign strategy for Big Loud, Watkins serves on the board for CMA, ACM, and Teen Dream Center.
Veteran Music Manager Erv Woolsey Passes Away At 80
/by LB CantrellErv Woolsey. Photo: Courtesy of The Erv Woolsey Co.
Erv Woolsey, the manager and champion of George Strait for 45 years, passed away this morning (March 20) in Clearwater, Florida due to complications from surgery. He was 80.
In addition to Strait, Woolsey helped steward the careers of Lee Ann Womack, Dierks Bentley, Clay Walker and Country Music Hall of Famer Ronnie Milsap.
Erv Woolsey & George Strait. Photo: Courtesy of The Erv Woolsey Co.
Reflecting on his passing, Strait shared, “My manager for around 45 years and most importantly my friend for even longer, Erv Woolsey, passed away this morning. He had complications from a surgery and just couldn’t overcome it. He was a very tough man, and fought hard, but sadly it was just too much. We will miss him so very much and will never forget all the time we had together. Won’t ever be the same without him.”
Born Eugene Ervine “Erv” Woolsey on Feb. 15, 1944 in Houston, Texas, Woolsey spent his entire professional life in the music business. A graduate of Southwest Texas State University, he started his career in the Promotion department at Decca Records. After spending time at other record labels, Woolsey made his way to Nashville in 1973 when he was tapped as Head of Promotions for ABC Records’ new country division. There he worked with Johnny Rodriguez, Jimmy Buffett, Billy “Crash” Craddock, Donna Fargo, Freddy Fender and the Amazing Rhythm Aces.
At the same time, Woolsey and his then wife Connie owned The Prairie Rose, a club in San Marcos, Texas. It was there he first saw and met Strait and, taken with his talent and charisma, began to book him regularly to perform.
After making his mark at ABC, Woolsey embarked on an unprecedented run at MCA during the ’80s. He helped create ongoing radio success for future Country Music Hall of Fame members Barbara Mandrell, Don Williams, Loretta Lynn, Tanya Tucker, Conway Twitty and The Oak Ridge Boys as well as Lee Greenwood.
In 1981, Woolsey convinced label head Jim Foglesong to sign Strait to a record deal at MCA Records, his label home to this day. Strait began his career of hits with debut single “Unwound.”
In 1984, Woolsey left MCA to devote himself to managing Strait’s career. With Woolsey by his side, Strait went on to win several Entertainer of the Year awards across four decades among more than 60 major entertainment awards, sell over 105 million albums, notch more No. 1 songs (60) than any other artist in history, be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and more.
Woolsey continued to stay relevant in the modern times of the genre. His continued love of the business and developing new talent saw him signing emerging artists Ian Munsick, Davisson Brothers Band, Kylie Frey, Triston Marez, Nick Davisson, Zach Neil, Stone Senate and Vince Herman over the last few years.
An accomplished businessman, Woolsey also developed a series of clubs, bars and hangouts throughout his career. Alongside business partner Steve Ford, he opened The Trap before striking gold with the anti-glam, come-as-you-are Losers. Designed as a hole in the wall for publishers, producers, writers and the alternative Music Row types, Losers’ success spawned the equally busy Winners, right next door, and the Dawg House.
Woolsey served on the Board of Directors for the Country Music Association and the Tennessee Museum of History. A frequent counsel to young managers, agents, artists and executives, he was known to be a gracious industry leader who was generous with his knowledge and time.
A longtime fan and passionate member of the horse racing community, Woolsey is a Lifetime Member of the Texas Thoroughbred Association. He was also regular at Kentucky’s Churchill Downs and Keeneland, including Super Stock’s run in the Kentucky Derby Grade One in 2021 and Jordan’s Henny in the Kentucky Oaks Grade One in 2017.
Woolsey passed peacefully under the care of physicians. He is survived by his son Clint, ex-wife Connie, brother David and sister Beth, and preceded in death by his parents, John and Mavis Woolsey, and brother Johnny Woolsey.
Details on arrangements will be shared at a future date.
CRB Holds Special Auction Commemorating Bob Kingsley’s 85th Birthday
/by Lorie HollabaughCountry Radio Broadcasters (CRB) is holding a special memorial auction commemorating what would have been the 85th birthday of the late national radio personality Bob Kingsley.
The auction features plaques gifted to Kingsley by various artists over the years, with bidding starting at $85. Additionally, vintage American Country Countdown apparel is available for purchase. All proceeds from the auction and merchandise sales will benefit the Country Radio Hall of Fame.
“CRS continues to celebrate the life and career of the legendary Bob Kingsley by teaming up with Nan Kingsley for this unique auction generously benefiting the Country Radio Hall of Fame,” says RJ Curtis, Executive Director of CRB/Country Radio Seminar (CRS). “What a fitting way to commemorate his 85th birthday and remember his 1998 CRHOF induction.”
The auction is live now through April 2. For more information, click here.
George Strait Slates Only 2024 Texas Show At Texas A&M’s Kyle Field In June
/by Lorie HollabaughGeorge Strait‘s only Lone Star state performance this year will take place on Saturday, June 15 at Texas A&M’s Kyle Field in College Station. The King of Country will be joined by special guests Parker McCollum and Catie Offerman on the show.
Tickets to the Kyle Field performance go on sale to the general public March 28 at 10 a.m. CT via TheKingAtKyle.com. American Express Card Members can purchase tickets before the general public beginning March 22 through March 27.
Strait will once again team with Chris Stapleton as well to perform one-off stadium dates this year with stops at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, Chicago’s Soldier Field, Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium and more. Little Big Town will join Strait and Stapleton for the nine dates.
Strait’s 2024 Concert Calendar:
5/4 Lucas Oil Stadium Indianapolis, IN
5/11 EverBank Stadium Jacksonville, FL
5/25 Jack Trice Stadium Ames, IA
6/1 Bank of America Stadium Charlotte, NC
6/8 MetLife Stadium East Rutherford, NJ
6/15 Kyle Field College Station, TX
6/29 Rice-Eccles Stadium Salt Lake City, UT
7/13 Ford Field Detroit, MI
7/20 Soldier Field Chicago, IL
12/7 Allegiant Stadium Las Vegas, NV
Music Business Association Announces 2024 Special Award Recipients, Finalists For Bizzy Awards
/by Lorie HollabaughCameo Carlson
Cameo Carlson of mtheory will receive The Music Business Association’s 2024 Presidential Award for Outstanding Executive Achievement at the organization’s third annual Bizzy Awards dinner on May 15 at the JW Marriott Nashville, as part of the Music Biz 2024 Conference.
Carlson is the CEO of manager and artist services company mtheory, which provides global marketing and strategic support for artists and artist managers. In 2022, Carlson spearheaded mtheory’s Equal Access Development initiative in partnership with CMT, that gives artists and managers from underrepresented demographics (BIPOC, LGBTQ+ and women) the resources, training and networking opportunities they are not always afforded in country music. Carlson also co-created the Nashville Music Equality group and Digital Divas mentoring group, and currently serves on the Academy of Country Music Diversity & Inclusion Task Force.
The Mechanical Licensing Collective (The MLC) will receive the 2024 Impact Award for Technological Excellence at the event. Since the passing of the Music Modernization Act (MMA) of 2018, which led to The MLC’s designation in 2019 and its full operationalization in 2021, The MLC has fully cemented itself as an essential part of the U.S. music industry’s royalty payments structure. It has built a public database of over 33 million unique works, which can be used free of charge to help artists and rightsholders verify ownership; collected and distributed over $1.7 billion in royalties to songwriters, music publishers, and other rightsholders via blanket mechanical licenses issued to DSPs; and has reached a current match rate of over 90% for all usage. In addition, The MLC has developed a world-class support team and suite of tools within its online portal to help its more than 37,000 members claim and register their works and get paid their mechanical royalties.
The Music Business Association also announced the finalists for the additional seven crowd-nominated award categories to be presented at the dinner, which will be hosted by Gina Miller, SVP & GM of MNRK Music Group, and feature a special performance by Angie K. Additional performances and special guests will be revealed in the coming weeks. The finalists are below.
Leading Light Award:
For a company or executive that has supported their staff via internal initiatives aimed at improving mental health & wellbeing and work/life balance.
– Tiffanie DeBartolo, Chief Executive Super Goddess, Bright Antenna Records
– Leah Ducey, Senior Director of Digital Marketing, Universal Music Group Nashville
– Andreea Gleeson, Chief Executive Officer, TuneCore
– Joel T. Jordan, Founder & President, Synchtank
Agent of Change Award:
For a company that exemplifies a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in their hiring practices, executive development, and promotion structure.
– ATL Collective
– The Beatport Group
– Keychange U.S.
– The Right Productions
#NEXTGEN_NOW One To Watch Award:
For an executive under 40 whose work (professional and/or volunteer) has been exceptional, innovative, and stands out as a contribution to the industry.
– Andrew Batey, Co-Founder & Co-CEO, Beatdapp
– Jorge Brea, Founder & CEO, Symphonic
– Alex Mas Cepero, Marketing Director, TIDAL
– Morgan McKnight, Executive Director, Production Music Association
Maestro of Metadata Award
For a company or executive who has made a significant impact in the area of data processing, credit clarification, streamlining or otherwise promoting clean data and best practices.
– BMAT Music Innovators
– Dae Bogan, Head of Third Party Partnerships, Mechanical Licensing Collective (The MLC)
– Arthur Fitzgibbon, Brazil Director, ONErpm
– OpenPlay
Frontline Innovator Award
For a retail store who showed exceptional inventiveness and ingenuity in their practices during the past year in their interactions with consumers.
– Grimey’s Music, Nashville, TN
– Electric Fetus, Minneapolis, MN
– Rough Trade, New York, NY
– The Sound Garden, Baltimore, MD
Marketing Superstar Award
For a marketing campaign that was innovative and thought provoking. Candidates can be from any sector of the industry, and campaigns can be physical or virtual.
– Elsewhere’s Club Membership Program
– Barbie The Album Early Listening Events, WMX & Atlantic Records
– De La Soul, A.O.I. LLC, distributed by Chrysalis Records & Reservoir
– Eric Nam – House on a Hill, The Orchard
Music Business Educator of the Year Award
Celebrates a music business educator who inspires students to enter the music business.
– Larry Miller, Clinical Professor & Director, NYU Steinhardt Music Business Program, New York University
– Jessica Muñiz-Collado, Assistant Professor of Music Business, University of North Texas
– Joe Rapolla, Chair, Music & Theatre Department & Director, Music Industry Program, Monmouth University
– Patricia Rivera MacMurray, Lecturer, Escuela de Derecho Pontificia Universidad Católica de Puerto Rico
Jelly Roll To Host ‘Opry NextStage Live From Texas’
/by LB CantrellGenre-bending star Jelly Roll will return as host for the “Opry NextStage Live From Texas” show that will precede the 59th Academy of Country Music Awards on May 16 in Texas.
Taking place on May 15 at 2:30 p.m. CT at Lava Cantina in The Colony, Texas, the show, presented by Tecovas, will feature members of the newly-announced Opry NextStage Class of 2024: Anne Wilson, Chase Matthew, Ella Langley, Flatland Cavalry, Madeline Edwards and Wyatt Flores, along with other special guests. This will mark the second time Jelly Roll has hosted the event.
“Opry NextStage is important because I think it’s creating a culture around younger artists, introducing them to the Opry the right way, and then bringing them up to that next stage,” said Jelly Roll on hosting last year’s show. “It’s showing them the way and getting that Opry love that we all look for in the industry. There’s no more special of a co-sign in country music than the Grand Ole Opry.”
Tickets for “Opry NextStage Live From Texas” are available through an exclusive Opry subscriber pre-sale on Thursday, March 21, at 10 a.m. CT. The general public on-sale begins Friday, March 22, at 10 a.m. CT via Eventbrite.
Since 2019, the NextStage program has introduced new talent to new fans and featured artists such as Riley Green, Parker McCollum, Tenille Townes and Lainey Wilson, who all went on to earn ACM New Male and Female Artist of the Year trophies the year following their NextStage inclusion. Other NextStage alums include Priscilla Block, Breland, Callista Clark, Travis Denning, Tegan Marie, Niko Moon, Restless Road, Jameson Rodgers, Elvie Shane, Nate Smith, Morgan Wade, Hailey Whitters and Yola.
Kip Moore Exits MCA Nashville
/by Madison HahnenKip Moore
Kip Moore has exited MCA Nashville’s roster. Moore spent more than a dozen years on the UMG Nashville imprint.
Expressing his gratitude to the MCA Nashville team, Moore took to social media to share the news. “I’ve been extremely grateful for the opportunity to make records on a label like MCA over the last 10 plus years. They’ve been such a top notch team and I’ve been so lucky to have had the freedom through the years to do it my way. Promo team…I can’t say enough about the rock stars each one of you are. You work tirelessly and you don’t get thanked enough. I almost stayed because of that bond alone,” shared Moore.
Moore also shared he is working on a new record and is having conversations on where he will end up next. “I’m not sure where I’ll end up (currently having those discussions), but in the meantime, doing a record completely independent for the first time in my career has been something I can’t put into words,” said Moore.
Parker McCollum To Headline ACM Lifting Lives Live Concert During ACM Week
/by Lorie HollabaughParker McCollum has been tapped as headliner for this year’s ACM Lifting Lives LIVE all-star concert at Topgolf The Colony in Texas on May 15, ahead of the 59th ACM Awards.
Presented by Choctaw Casinos & Resorts, the event raises money and awareness for ACM Lifting Lives, which works to improve lives through the power of music with a focus on health-related initiatives that use music therapy as a way of healing. Significant annual commitments include the ACM Lifting Lives Autism Lab at Vanderbilt Kennedy Center and their annual Music Camp, a week-long, music-driven, residential program for individuals with Williams syndrome. There are also contributions to various organizations that provide mental health support for the country music community, along with grants through The Diane Holcomb Emergency Relief Fund, given to individuals who face unexpected emergencies or hardships.
“I am truly honored that ACM Lifting Lives has given me the opportunity to host the Parker McCollum & Friends: ACM Lifting Lives event this year at Topgolf in The Colony, TX,” McCollum says. “The work they do to improve lives through the power of music and the funds they raise are vital to helping folks in and out of our Country music community. I can’t wait to have some of my really talented friends join me for a great night supporting the mission of ACM Lifting Lives and help them continue their incredible work.”
“The support of Country Music artists and the industry as a whole are what makes the impactful work of ACM Lifting Lives possible,” explains ACM Lifting Lives Executive Director Lyndsay Cruz. “We have been massive fans of Parker for years, and we couldn’t be more excited that he chose to volunteer his time to help us raise money and awareness in his home state. We can’t wait to party with the fans in north Texas so soon!”
General Admission tickets on the green will be available to ACM Members, ACM A-List subscribers, 59th ACM Awards ticket holders, and Topgolf Friends and Family through an exclusive presale starting this Thursday (March 21). Remaining tickets will be available to the public beginning Friday (March 22) here.
Last year’s ACM Lifting Lives LIVE concert featured Hardy, Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson, Ernest and Bailey Zimmerman on the green at Topgolf The Colony in front of a sold-out house, marking the most successful fundraising event by the organization to date.
Rising Women On The Row Fosters Spirit Of Togetherness
/by Robert K OermannMusicRow Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson gives opening remarks at Rising Women on the Row. Photo: Ed Rode
Few events on the Music Row social calendar strengthen the Nashville music industry’s sense of community better than the annual Rising Women on the Row breakfast celebration.
Now in its 11th year, this get-together is staged by MusicRow magazine to honor female accomplishments. It also reinforces the unique bonds cherished by the Nashville entertainment business. This year’s honorees were Tiffany Kerns, Taylor Lindsey, Sloane Cavitt Logue, Halie Hampton Mosley, Melissa Spillman and Candice Watkins.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson; Rising Women on the Row honorees Melissa Spillman, Taylor Lindsey, Sloane Cavitt Logue, Candice Watkins, Tiffany Kerns and Halie Hampton Mosley; KP Entertainment’s Kerri Edwards and MusicRow’s LB Cantrell. Photo: Ed Rode
“I love the energy we have at this event,” said MusicRow Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson. “I hope you take it with you when you go.” He decided that the theme word to represent the event is “support.”
“I know all of you support each other,” he commented. “We support you at MusicRow.”
That note of togetherness was echoed by several of the honorees.
MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson and KP Entertainment’s Kerri Edwards. Photo: Ed Rode
“I worry about this [sense of] community,” said keynote speaker Kerri Edwards. “I challenge everyone here to help keep that strong. I do think it’s important for what we’re all trying to achieve and build… It changes everything when the people around you are supportive.”
“You love the community, and the community loves you back, in spades,” Robertson told Edwards. Her KP Entertainment company manages the careers of Luke Bryan, Cole Swindell, Dylan Scott and Chayce Beckham and contains a publishing company.
Honoree Halie Hampton Mosley is the COO of the management company WHY&HOW. “What they say is true: It take a village,” she told the crowd in the Omni Hotel ballroom downtown. “You are all incredible champions and leaders.”
“It is incumbent on all of use to truly wrap our arms around women,” said honoree Tiffany Kerns, the SVP of the CMA’s philanthropic arm. “We see them. We support them — 90% of our staff is women.
“This is an incredible honor,” she added to the breakfast crowd. “You are incredibly inspirational.”
Sony Music Nashville SVP Taylor Lindsey also struck a note of community affection. “The truth is, I wouldn’t be standing here without everyone surrounding me,” Lindsey said. “I am a testament to the people around me. I get to have this life because of everyone around me.”
Sloane Cavitt Logue of WME recalled that the late Toby Keith gave her a career-launching opportunity. He hired her when she had no music-business experience. “Toby lifted women up,” she said, becoming tearful. “Miss you, love you, Big Dog Daddy.” Keith was announced Monday (March 18) as an inductee into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Carter Faith performs at Rising Women on the Row. Photo: Ed Rode
“Be kind to yourself,” Cavitt Logue advised the gathering. “Be proud of what you do. Give yourself a moment of grace, because we all need it.”
“Everybody’s path is different,” observed Melissa Spillman of Concord Music Publishing. She and Hampton Mosley both commented on the challenge of balancing family life with the consuming demands of a music-business career. “Today is all about being thankful,” Spillman said. “Thank you for letting me pursue this path. We believe we should ‘have it all’ as women,” including the rewards of both career and family.
“It’s about belonging. And we have each other. We are so blessed.”
“You can lead the way on both [family and career],” commented Hampton Mosley.
“Goodness! I’m so grateful for all of you guys,” said Candice Watkins. The SVP of marketing at Big Loud Records added, “I’m so proud to work with all of you.” She saluted Keith Urban as the person who launched her career.
Robertson took note of the event’s presenting sponsors City National Bank, Loeb & Loeb and CMT’s Next Women of Country program. He introduced CMT’s Leslie Fram, who spearheads the network’s Equal Play plus her Change the Conversation feminist initiatives, as well as Next Women of Country. Fram noted that the last-named celebrated its 10th anniversary last year and introduced singer-songwriter Carter Faith of 2023’s Next Women class.
To her own acoustic-guitar accompaniment, Faith premiered her lilting new single, “Late Bloomer,” which will be released this Friday.
The 600+ attendees enjoyed a buffet breakfast featuring blueberry sausage, cheesy hash browns, scrambled eggs, smoked bacon, melons, blueberries, strawberries, cornbread, biscuits and gravy, fruit flavored yogurt, cranberry juice, coffee, tea and orange juice. A plethora of Music Row businesses sponsored tables — SESAC, Big Loud, Song Suffragettes, AEG, BBR, Black River, River House, Red Light, Curb, FBMM, ONErpm, BMG, CMA, MakeWake, WME, Pinnacle Financial, Sony Music Nashville, The MLC, Wiles & Taylor, Riser House, Back Blocks Music, Kinkead Entertainment, Tri Star, Concord, CAA, Wrensong, KP Entertainment, Activist Artists Management, Sony Music Publishing, Underscore Works and BMI. Each honoree was given a standing ovation by the audience.
Since this event’s founding, more than 60 women have been honored. “These women are all shaping the future of this business,” commented Robertson.
“Have a good attitude, and keep your heart in the right place,” advised Edwards. “It’s about supporting ALL women,” said Kerns.
Watkins sent the crowd on its way with this appeal: “If you’re in a position to give someone an opportunity, do it. Change someone’s life today.”
The Mavericks’ New Album ‘Moon & Stars’ Slated For May
/by John Nix ArledgeRecorded across three studios in Nashville, Santa Fe and Louisiana, Moon & Stars aims to continue The Maverick’s genre-bending sound with a blend of outlaw country, rock, blues, R&B and more. To achieve this, the band collaborated with songwriters Bernie Taupin, Sam Hollander and Wally Wilson along with special guests Sierra Ferrell, Maggie Rose, Nicole Atkins and Max Abrams.
In an Instagram post announcing the album, The Mavericks stated, “This record has been a journey of reflection, introspection, patience, learning and evolving. Some of these songs were written years ago, but they weren’t ready. Or maybe we weren’t. We are now…”
In addition to performing their title track, The Mavericks are previewing new songs on their “European & UK Tour 2024” that are scheduled for release in late March and April. The “Moon & Stars Tour” will kick off on May 17 at ACL Live at Moody Theater in Austin, Texas, with more dates to follow.
MusicRow Magazine Honors Six At 11th Annual Rising Women On The Row
/by MusicRow StaffPictured (L-R): Rising Women on the Row honorees Melissa Spillman, Taylor Lindsey, Sloane Cavitt Logue, Candice Watkins, Tiffany Kerns and Halie Hampton Mosley. Photo: Ed Rode
MusicRow Magazine, Nashville’s leading music industry publication, proudly recognized six Nashville music industry executives during its 11th annual Rising Women on the Row honors this morning (March 19) at the Omni Nashville Hotel. City National Bank, CMT Next Women of Country and Loeb & Loeb served as Presenting Sponsors.
The new class of honorees were CMA’s Tiffany Kerns, Sony Music Nashville’s Taylor Lindsey, WME’s Sloane Cavitt Logue, WHY&HOW’s Halie Hampton Mosley, Concord Music Publishing’s Melissa Spillman and Big Loud Record’s Candice Watkins.
Industry veteran Kerri Edwards was this year’s featured speaker. As the founder and president of management firm KP Entertainment, Edwards is a key figure in the careers of country stars Luke Bryan, Cole Swindell, Dylan Scott and Chayce Beckham.
Presented by CMT Next Women of Country, singer-songwriter Carter Faith was this year’s special performer and was introduced by CMT’s Leslie Fram. Faith has garnered more than 60 million streams with her releases “Wild,” “Already Crazy,” “Greener Pasture,” “Cowboys & Dreamers,” “Joyride” and “Easy Pill,” as well as her debut EP Let Be Love.
Since beginning in 2012, MusicRow‘s annual Rising Women on the Row event has honored over 50 women in the Nashville music industry.
About MusicRow‘s 2024 Rising Women On The Row:
Tiffany Kerns – SVP, Industry Relations & Philanthropy, CMA | Executive Director, CMA Foundation
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson, honoree Tiffany Kerns, MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell. Photo: Ed Rode
In her role as SVP, Industry Relations & Philanthropy, Tiffany Kerns oversees the strategic direction and management of all CMA’s membership events, initiatives and programming. By developing and enhancing robust and innovative CMA membership strategies, Kerns ensures professional development pathways align with the needs of the member base and the future of the industry. Established as CMA’s philanthropic arm, the CMA Foundation has invested nearly $30 million across all 50 states. In her role, Kerns is responsible for the growth, development and execution of the nonprofit’s charitable investments by creating intentional partnerships and implementing an impact-driven grant process. With a steadfast focus on improving the philanthropic model of giving, Kerns has led the charge in enriching music education programs across the United States. She oversees advocacy efforts for the CMA Foundation at the state and federal level, which includes working with dozens of community partners, policymakers, educators and industry leaders to elevate the CMA Foundation’s mission.
Taylor Lindsey – SVP, A&R, Sony Music Nashville
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson, honoree Taylor Lindsey, MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell. Photo: Ed Rode
Taylor Lindsey is the SVP, of A&R at Sony Music Nashville, where she oversees SMN’s dynamic new A&R team as well as signs and develops a diverse roster that includes recorded music icons, breakthrough acts and newcomers. Prior to taking on her current expanded role, Lindsey was directly involved with the development of artists such as Old Dominion, Luke Combs, Maren Morris, Ryan Hurd and Mitchell Tenpenny, among others. Before joining SMN, Lindsey was at BMG where she signed and developed the careers of songwriters and artists as well as pitched the catalogs of 13 chart-topping songwriters, including her award-winning sister, Hillary Lindsey. A respected industry executive, Lindsey has been included in a number of industry power lists including Billboard’s 40 Under 40 (2018), Billboard’s Women In Music (2018, 2019 & 2023), Billboard’s Country Power Players (2022 & 2023), Variety’s Hitmakers Impact (2020), Variety’s Young Leaders In Music (2019) and more. She is also a graduate of the 2019 Class of Leadership Music. She resides in Nashville with her husband, Grammy-nominated songwriter Derrick Southerland, and their daughter, Lyle, and son, Ryder.
Sloane Cavitt Logue – Partner, WME
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson, honoree Sloane Cavitt Logue, MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell. Photo: Ed Rode
Sloane Cavitt Logue leads the Nashville Client Strategy Division at WME, where she works across several departments in navigating various opportunities outside of the live space, including digital, fashion, literary, film, television, talent ventures/partnerships, theater, sports and social impact for clients. Additionally, Logue connects clients with internal opportunities within the Endeavor network, which includes WWE, UFC, PBR, 160over90, Harry Walker, IMG and many more. Prior to joining WME, Logue held tenure at Show Dog-Universal Music and Live Nation. She is a graduate of the University of Kentucky and the Deviate Leadership Program, which focuses on elevating and coaching future female leaders in the entertainment industry. Dedicated to mentoring up-and-coming industry trailblazers, she is actively involved in WME’s mentorship program, as well as Grammy U, and is an inaugural member of CMA’s Female Executive Leadership Program. Logue resides in Nashville with her husband, Dave, their son, Cavitt, and their Bernese Mountain Dog, Captain.
Halie Hampton Mosley – Chief Operating Officer, WHY&HOW
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson, honoree Halie Hampton Mosley, MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell. Photo: Ed Rode
Halie Hampton Mosley joined WHY&HOW in October 2021 as Vice President of Roster Operations, and has helped define and oversee the goals and initiatives of the WHY&HOW roster and staff. Since joining, Hampton Mosley has been instrumental in streamlining and expanding roster operations, and establishing internal practices such as WHY&HOW’s parental leave policies. She also remains closely involved in WHY&HOW artist strategy for such acts as Chase Rice, Danielle Bradbery, BRELAND and Kelleigh Bannen, among others. Prior to joining WHY&HOW, Hampton Mosley spent seven years in Artist Management at Maverick Nashville led by long-time Manager Clarence Spalding. She most recently served as the Day-to-Day Artist Manager for Diamond-selling duo Florida Georgia Line at Hit Farm Management in partnership with Full Stop Management led by Irving and Jeffrey Azoff.
Melissa Spillman – VP, A&R, Concord Music Publishing
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson, honoree Melissa Spillman, MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell. Photo: Ed Rode
Melissa Spillman is VP of A&R at Concord Music Publishing. In her role, Spillman is responsible for signing and developing new and established songwriters and artists and placing songs with major recording artists. She started out her career at Dreamcatcher Entertainment which led to a seven-year stint in A&R at Capitol Records. After that she headed up renowned producer Jay Joyce’s Neon Cross Music as Head of Publishing and Production. From there she started her own company, Freetown Music where she oversaw the creative development and management of artists, producers and songwriters until she was tapped by Concord Music Publishing to become their VP of A&R in 2021. Beyond her work in music, Spillman proudly started a non-profit organization called Wan Fambul Foundation, which strives to support children and their families in Sierra Leone, West Africa, the birthplace of three of her sons. She resides in Franklin with her songwriter/producer/author husband Jeremy, four sons and their dog Canyon. You can find her cheering on her sons who play football for the University of Tennessee and Franklin High School this fall.
Candice Watkins – SVP, Marketing, Big Loud Records
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson, honoree Candice Watkins, MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell. Photo: Ed Rode
As SVP of Marketing at Big Loud Records, Candice Watkins brings proven leadership and across-the-board expertise to the independent powerhouse, selected as one of Billboard’s 2023 Women in Music, and a Country Power Player for the last three consecutive years. Leading the label’s marketing efforts across its many ventures and partnerships, Watkins executes creative strategy and bold, cross-platform campaigns that make an impact. Recently, Watkins has led the marketing efforts behind chart-topping successes like Morgan Wallen’s back-to-back all-genre No. 1 albums, as well as the successful recent projects from HARDY, Hailey Whitters, Stephen Wilson Jr., Charles Wesley Godwin and many more. Watkins also spurred introductory campaigns for artists like Jake Worthington, Lauren Watkins, Ashley Cooke, Dylan Gossett and more, while embarking on major campaign efforts for heavy hitters Lauren Alaina, ERNEST, Larry Fleet and more. The Montclair, New Jersey native is a graduate of Boston’s Northeastern University and Los Angeles’ USC. Prior to joining Big Loud, Watkins served as Sr. Director of Marketing & Artist Development at UMG Nashville and preceded by stops at Red Light Management, Mozes Inc., Borman Entertainment and Martingale Entertainment. Outside of her work innovating campaign strategy for Big Loud, Watkins serves on the board for CMA, ACM, and Teen Dream Center.