Big Loud Launches Severance Records & Signs Flagship Act

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Pictured (L-R): Big Loud Rock/Big Loud Management’s Greg Thompson, Severance Records’ Steve “Stevo” Robertson, Mike Easterlin, Big Loud’s Joey Moi and Seth England. Photo: Brayln Kelly

Big Loud has launched new joint venture Severance Records, a Nashville-based, independent, modern rock label helmed by Co-Presidents Mike Easterlin and Steve “Stevo” Robertson.

Easterlin most recently served as Co-President of Elektra Entertainment after serving as President/GM at two of the company’s cornerstone labels, Fueled By Ramen and Roadrunner Records. His previous career stops also include leadership roles at Island Def Jam and time at Virgin Records. He has fostered the careers of Bailey Zimmerman, Smashing Pumpkins, Lenny Kravitz, Blur, The Killers, Nickelback, Panic! At The Disco, All Time Low, Twenty One Pilots, The Band Camino, Paramore, Shinedown, Tones And I, Young The Giant and more for over 25 years.

“Stevo and I could not be more excited to be joining the Big Loud family,” Easterlin shares. “[Big Loud Partners] Seth [England], Joey [Moi], Craig [Wiseman] and [Big Loud Rock/Big Loud Management Partner & President] Greg [Thompson] have been so supportive from the first time we met about building this partnership together. Watching the company that Big Loud has become in the country space only drives Stevo and I to want to make Severance Records the same kind of force in the alternative space. Our goal is to be rooted in Nashville, but global in vision.”

Robertson joins the joint venture after a 25-year tenure with Atlantic Records, last serving as GM/SVP of A&R, Pop/Rock for the label’s Nashville presence. Across his career as an A&R executive with an ear for alternative hits, he signed Shinedown, Paramore, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Knox and A Day To Remember, among other acts, and helped developed talent including Gayle, Collective Soul, Seven Mary Three, Matchbox 20 and more.

“Mike and Stevo have championed some of the most exciting, culture-driving music of the last two decades, so when the opportunity to work with them in this capacity came up, it was an instant ‘yes,'” adds England, CEO/Partner, Big Loud. “We’re grateful to partner with them and build a legacy together with Severance.”

Severance Records recently signed flagship act Dexter and The Moonrocks. The self-proclaimed “sad space cowboys” are piquing the interest of fans with their edgy take on southern rock.

Sixpence None The Richer To Re-Release Album On Curb Records, Signs Management Deal

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Pictured (L-R): Curb’s Jessie Lowe; Curb’s Giovanna Randolph; Curb’s Jeff Tuerff; Curb’s Benson Curb; Dale Baker; Matt Slocum; Justin Cary; Leigh Nash; Deep South Entertainment’s Dave Rose; Curb’s John Nemoy; Curb’s Bryan Stewart; Curb’s Trevor Mathiesen; Curb’s John Chapman; Curb’s Jonathan Mason; Curb’s Diana Wohl

Sixpence None The Richer is celebrating 25 years of their iconic hit, “Kiss Me,” with a vinyl re-release of their original self-titled album on Curb Records. The band has also reunited for the first time in 12 years, signing a management deal with Deep South Entertainment.

“We are thrilled to celebrate 25 years of the iconic Sixpence None The Richer’s ‘Kiss Me.’ The band’s music has stood the test of time and with this re-release, Curb Records is excited to be part of its continuing story,” says Curb Records Chairman Mike Curb.

“We are so excited about this vinyl release of our self-titled album, and even more so, thrilled to be working together again,” shares Sixpence None The Richer’s Leigh Nash. “It feels like yesterday and tomorrow are waltzing—can’t wait to see where we go next.”

“Kiss Me” was originally released in 1999, earning countless television and film placements, including She’s All That and Dawson’s Creek. The single entered the Billboard Hot 100 Chart for 33 weeks, as well as Billboard’s Top 40 Chart, the Adult Contemporary Chart and Adult Top 40 Chart, deeming the single the sixth most successful in the United States in 1999. “Kiss Me” also achieved Platinum status during its original release.

Since then, Sixpence None The Richer’s “Kiss Me” has continued its iconic reputation, being used in other popular films such as How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days and covered and released by Avril Lavigne, while Taylor Swift has shared that it was the first song she learned to play on the guitar. “Kiss Me” is currently certified RIAA Double Platinum, while the self-titled album that holds the track is certified RIAA Platinum.

The band’s follow up hit from the same album, “There She Goes,” was recently RIAA Gold certified. In addition, “Kiss Me” was a hit around the world reaching No. 1 in Australia and Canada as well as RIAA certified Gold or Platinum in multiple territories including the UK and Japan. “Kiss Me” has earned over 290 million streams, while Sixpence None The Richer has earned over 385 million career streams and over 46 million total unique listeners just in the last two years.

Of the band’s new management deal, Deep South Entertainment’s Dave Rose shares, “Witnessing the reunion of Sixpence None The Richer is absolutely thrilling and beautiful. Their music is responsible for shaping the musical landscape across generations and I’m honored to have the opportunity to champion this incredible band as they embark on a new chapter together.”

Jelly Roll, Lady A, More To Perform At iHeartCountry Festival In May

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The iHeartCountry Festival, presented by Capital One, has revealed its 2024 lineup, which includes Jelly Roll, Lady A, Jason Aldean, Brothers Osborne, Ashley McBryde, Old Dominion, Riley Green and Walker Hayes.

The festival, now in its 11th year, will be hosted by on-air personality Bobby Bones on May 4 at Moody Center in Austin, Texas and broadcast across iHeartMedia’s country radio stations nationwide.

“We are so excited to bring the iHeartCountry Festival to country music fans again this year at Moody Center in Austin,” says Rod Phillips, Executive Vice President of Programming for iHeartCountry. “It’s always exciting to watch fans experience performances by so many of the top artists in our format, all on one big iHeart stage.”

Tickets will be available to the general public on Jan. 26 at 12 p.m. CT. Eligible Capital One cardholders get exclusive access to tickets Jan. 23–25. For more information, click here.

Additionally, Capital One cardholders can add a Capital One Access Pass to their purchase for a cardholder pre-event featuring a special performance by Old Dominion, complimentary food, beverages and more. Eligible cardholders can also redeem rewards for exclusive ticket packages on the Capital One website.

AIMP Nashville Awards To Take Place In April

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The Association of Independent Music Publishers’ (AIMP) Nashville Chapter will hold the ninth annual AIMP Nashville Awards at the historic Ryman Auditorium on Monday, April 1.

The event starts at 7 p.m. with doors opening at 5:15 p.m.

Bob DiPiero and Craig Wiseman hosted last year’s awards where Morgan Wallen‘s “Wasted On You” took home a win in a new category recognizing the writers and publishers of the Most Streamed Song of the Year. Other categories include Rising Songwriter of the Year, Rising Artist-Writer of the Year, Artist-Writer of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, Song Champion of the Year, Publisher Pick of the Year, Song of the Year and Top Independent Music Publishers of the Year.

In order to vote, you must become a member by Wednesday, Jan. 31. For more information, click here.

Reminder: Nomination Period For MusicRow’s Rising Women On The Row Closes TOMORROW

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Nominations for MusicRow‘s 11th annual Rising Women on the Row will close TOMORROW, Wednesday, Jan. 17 at 5 p.m. CT.

Nominations for the Rising Women on the Row Class of 2024 are now closed.

Submissions will be considered only through the official nomination process. Candidates nominated in previous years will need to be resubmitted. Multiple nominations do not increase likelihood of being selected, but you may nominate as many individuals as you’d like with separate forms. Self-nominations are welcome.

The 2024 Class of Rising Women on the Row will be announced in the coming weeks, along with event details. The annual breakfast will take place on March 19 at the Omni Nashville Hotel. Tickets will open in the coming weeks as well.

Past honorees include—2023: Stacy Blythe, Martha Earls, Beth Hamilton, Jackie Jones, Brittany Schaffer, Anna Weisband; 2020/2022: Jen Conger, JoJamie Hahr, Mandy Morrison, Missy Roberts, Jennie Smythe, Stephanie Wright; 2019: Janine Ebach, Kelly Janson, Meredith Jones, Lenore Kinder, Sandi Spika Borchetta, Jennifer Turnbow; 2018: Faithe Dillman, Leslie DiPiero, Becky Gardenhire, Lynn Oliver-Cline, Annie Ortmeier, Janet Weir; 2017: Tatum Allsep, Virginia Bunetta, Kerri Edwards, Kella Farris, Laura Hutfless, Juli Newton-Griffith; 2016: Abbey Adams, Amanda Cates, Cris Lacy, Leslie Roberts, Risha Rodgers; 2015: Kele Currier, Tiffany Dunn, Dawn Gates, Jensen Sussman, Lou Taylor; 2014: Julie Boos, Caryl Atwood, Ebie McFarland, Alicia Pruitt, Kelly Rich; 2013: Cyndi Forman, Cindy Hunt, Beth Laird, Cindy Mabe, Brandi Simms; 2012: Shannan Hatch, Mary Hilliard Harrington, Heather McBee, Denise Stevens, Carla Wallace.

In Pictures: Wild Horses Festival Holds Third Event In San Diego

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Wild Horses Festival 2023. Photo: Felicia Garcia

The Wild Horses Festival returned to San Diego’s Petco Park Stadium for its third event on Dec. 30.

Zach Bryan headlining Wild Horses Festival 2023. Photo: Felicia Garcia

Hit singer-songwriter Zach Bryan served as the headlining act. A U.S. Navy veteran who was honorably discharged in 2021, Bryan has released over 40 songs in the last year and continued to secure top chart slots, while simultaneously earning a college degree.

Accompanying him on the bill was Trampled by Turtles, a band known for their bluegrass, folk and rock blend, along with Americana quartet The Silent Comedy and artist and musician Sierra Ferrell, who combines country, gypsy jazz, folk and Latin styles.

The Wild Horses Festival seeks to showcase the classic sounds of the modern West on the shores of the Pacific. Previous performers include Paul Cauthen, Midland, Cody Jinks, LeAnn Rimes and Yellowstone actor Ryan Bingham.

Trampled by Turtles performing at Wild Horses Festival 2023. Photo: Felicia Garcia

The Silent Comedy performing at Wild Horses Festival 2023. Photo: Rachael Polack

Sierra Ferrell performing at Wild Horses Festival 2023. Photo: Rachael Polack

Zach Bryan performing with Sierra Ferrell at Wild Horses Festival 2023. Photo: Felicia Garcia

Chris Young To Share Ninth Studio Album This Spring

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Chris Young is gearing up for the spring release of his ninth studio album, Young Love & Saturday Nights, on March 22 via Sony Music Nashville.

Led by the Billboard and Mediabase top 40 title track written by Jesse Frasure, Ashley Gorley and Josh Thompson with a posthumous songwriting credit to David Bowie, the project is Young’s first new album since 2021’s Famous Friends. The record also includes previously-released singles, “Looking for You” and “All Dogs Go to Heaven.”

Among the new tracks on the project is “Right Now,” out today (Jan. 12). Co-written by Young, Chris DeStefano and Josh Hoge, “Right Now” imagines a couple trying define the path of their relationship. The artist is credited as a writer on 15 of Young Love & Saturday Nights‘ 18 tunes and the sole producer on three. He shares co-producer credits with longtime creative partners DeStefano and Corey Crowder.

“This is what this album felt like it needed to be for me,” Young says. “It’s a little louder, a little more raw. Even the stripped-down songs are heavier. I love creating music and I love making it and the fact that I get to do that for a living is a pretty incredible thing.”

Young Love & Saturday Nights Track Listing: 
1. “Looking for You”
2. “All Dogs Go to Heaven”
3. “Young Love & Saturday Nights”
4. “Don’t Call Me”
5. “What She Sees in Me”
6. “Country Boy’s Prayer”
7. “Double Down”
8. “Call It a Day”
9. “Drink to Remember”
10. “Don’t Stop Now”
11. “Fall Out”
12. “Fire”
13. “Gettin’ Older”
14. “Right Now”
15. “Million Miles”
16. “Everybody Grew Up”
17. “Knee Deep in Neon”
18. “Down”

Chase McDaniel Signs With Big Machine Records

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Pictured (L-R, front row): Big Machine Label Group’s Allison Jones, Chase McDaniel and Big Machine Label Group’s Scott Borchetta; (L-R, back row): Big Machine Records’ Kris Lamb, Big Machine Label Group’s Carly Strickland, WME’s Kevin Neal, Big Machine Label Group’s Mike Rittberg, Big Machine Label Group’s Meghan Joyce, Big Machine Records’ Clay Hunnicutt and Big Machine Label Group’s Darielle Schroeder. Photo: Sean Sorensen

Singer-songwriter Chase McDaniel has signed with Big Machine Records.

Raised in Greensburg, Kentucky by his grandparents, McDaniel has overcome all of the obstacles life has thrown at him and chased his dream relentlessly. His song “Project” landed the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Digital Sales and iTunes Country charts, and he plans to release Blame It All On Country Music, his first collection with Big Machine Records, on Jan. 26.

“Chase is not only talented and smart but is truly someone who makes his own luck. He has a determination that inspires our entire team to dig even deeper,” shares Scott Borchetta, CEO & Chairman, Big Machine Label Group. “He has a clear vision, and we can’t wait help make that vision a reality.”

“Scott and the team over at Big Machine Records have understood what fuels me and my dreams from the first meeting. It just clicked,” says McDaniel. “I can’t express how grateful and excited I am to work with them, learn from them and grow this thing together.”

Aaron Lewis Readies New Album ‘The Hill’

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Aaron Lewis. Photo: Jim Wright

Aaron Lewis is set to release his new album The Hill, due March 29 via The Valory Music Co.

A deeply personal set written from a lifetime of highs and lows, it pairs Lewis’ iconic vocal rasp with a bare-bones acoustic sound, and features 10 tracks penned solo or with a tight circle of collaborators. The set speaks to a time of upheaval, both in the wider world and within, and was produced by Lewis alongside Ira Dean.

Often backed by just a guitar, dobro and mandolin, Lewis offers up an honest take on his views through songs penned with Dean, Bobby Pinson, Matt McGinn and Jeffrey Steele. On the opening track, “Let’s Go Fishing,” he shares his take on the country’s problems in a lightly-coded protest anthem with a let-it-be theme.

“Music has always been my escape, my way of expressing the things that I don’t express very well in life,” Lewis explains. “I’m coming up on 52 years old, and I’m on the hill I’m going to stand on. Nobody’s going to change me now. This record is a snapshot of my life and how I’m feeling and where my head is at—and that’s what my records have always been. It’s another record that’s just really stripped down to the guts. I like raw. I like life’s imperfections showing through. I’m not perfect, nobody is. And I don’t want the music I’m putting out to be either.”

The Hill Track List:
1. “Let’s Go Fishing” | Aaron Lewis, Bobby Pinson
2. “Over The Hill” | Aaron Lewis, Matt McGinn, Bobby Pinson
3. “Made In China” | Aaron Lewis, Bobby Pinson
4. “Spinnin’” | Aaron Lewis, Ira Dean, Jeffrey Steele
5. “Over Me” | Aaron Lewis, Ira Dean, Jeffrey Steele
6. “Outlaw” | Aaron Lewis, Matt McGinn, Bobby Pinson
7. “Up To Me” | Aaron Lewis, Bobby Pinson
8. “That’s My Life” | Aaron Lewis, Ira Dean, Jeffrey Steele
9. “Only In My Mind” | Aaron Lewis, Ira Dean, Jeffrey Steele
10. “Little More Mine” | Aaron Lewis, Matt McGinn, Bobby Pinson

Futureshirts Promotes Corey Neal To CEO, Jon Ekker Becomes Chairman

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Pictured (L-R): Corey Neal & Jon Ekker

Entertainment merchandising company Futureshirts has appointed former COO Corey Neal to CEO, effective Jan. 11. Former Founder and CEO Jon Ekker will now be Chairman of the company.

Based in Nashville, Futureshirts offers product development, touring and on-site, e-commerce and retail licensing services. They serve a full range of clients from all different music genres, as well as comedy performers. Notable clients include Journey, Kane Brown, Bert Kreischer, Foreigner, Sam Hunt, Laufey, Carly Pearce, TobyMac and many more.

Neal first started his career at Futureshirts in 2008, coming on as an Account Executive. After three years in the position, he was promoted to COO in 2011.

“I am truly honored and excited about the opportunity to step into this role,” Neal says. “Over the past 16 years I have had the privilege of experiencing the evolution of Futureshirts, and I look forward to building upon the impressive foundation that Jon has established. I am thankful for our incredible team, and I look forward to maintaining the outstanding service our clients expect.”

Since opening Futureshirts 28 years ago, Ekker has been leading the charge in pioneering merchandising. With the slogan “merch made easy,” the company has provided a reliable and easy experience for their clients, and the fans.

“I’m incredibly proud of all that we have been able to achieve over the last 28 years and all that I am confident Futureshirts will achieve in the years to come. From our humble beginnings in Billings, Montana in 1996, we set out to provide our clients with an easy and reliable merchandising experience and that remains our primary focus as we move forward,” Ekker explains.

“For the last 16-years, Corey has lived and breathed the ‘Futureshirts way’ and is the perfect person to actively support and grow our vision and legacy in the years to come,” Ekker adds. “His tenure in the business, trusted relationships, and vision for the future partnered with our deeply committed team, will poise Futureshirts to provide a world class experience to our clients and fans. Our tremendous team and clients, old and new, have made my last 28 years at the helm of Futureshirts a joy and privilege and I am excited to continue forward as Chairman.”