Sloane Cavitt Logue
The “My Music Row Story” weekly column features notable members of the Nashville music industry selected by the MusicRow editorial team. These individuals serve in key roles that help advance and promote the success of our industry. This column spotlights the invaluable people that keep the wheels rolling and the music playing.
Sloane Cavitt Logue leads the Nashville Client Strategy division at WME, where she works across several departments to navigate 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.
Logue will be honored as part of the current class of MusicRow’s Rising Women on the Row on March 19. For more details about the class and the event, click here.
MusicRow: Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Benton, Kentucky, which is located in the western part of the state near Kentucky Lake. My childhood was for sure a country song! I was into everything growing up. I played soccer, AAU basketball, was in BETA Club, drove four-wheelers and Sea-Doos, took karate—everything. I was the basic small-town kid, and definitely hung out at the local gas station on Friday nights. [Laughs]
Photo: Courtesy of Logue
Were you into music?
I’ve always loved country music. I grew up watching the Grand Ole Opry. My grandfather loved music and was always explaining the lyrics to me. Back in high school, my friend Emily had a maroon Honda Accord that we would cruise around in while listening to Gary Allan, Chris Cagle and all the big country artists who were on the radio at the time. I was super into music, but I didn’t realize, at that point, you could have a career on the business side of it.
What were your future plans then?
I went to the University of Kentucky and started out in nursing school. I originally wanted to be a nurse anesthetist but six months in I realized it wasn’t for me. I also wasn’t a fan of the daily scrub attire. [Laughs]
I always knew I wanted to live in Nashville, and since I had a passion for music but for sure didn’t have a musical bone in my body, I figured the music industry would be a career I could love forever. I took the only music business class offered at UK and read Donald Passman’s book All You Need to Know About the Music Business. I remember telling my mom I was no longer going to be a nurse and wanted to concentrate on my passion for music and her response was, “Honey, you cannot sing.” Which still remains true. [Laughs]
Photo: Courtesy of Logue
That’s funny! How did you start your path towards the music business?
My mom [had a mutual friend named] Pam Russell who was also from Kentucky. Pam was the SVP of Sales at Universal Music at the time. I cold called her and asked, “Hi, can I be your intern?” She thankfully said yes and hired me as an intern the summer of 2006. Jen Way, the now SVP of Marketing at Sony Music, was my first boss—and now one of my very best friends.
I went back to Lexington to finish my senior year, but I knew I had to stay connected in order to land a job after I graduated. I would come back to Nashville to be a seat-filler at the CMA Awards and volunteer at CMA Fest! I took every opportunity I could find to network with people in the industry.
While still in school, I worked at Merrick Inn, which was a nice restaurant near campus. Billy Wilcoxon, who was Toby Keith‘s business manager, brought Toby into the restaurant one day. I had seen him before but had never waited on him. I was opening Toby’s bottle of wine—I actually think I broke the cork off in it because I was so nervous talking to him. He asked, “What are you going to do when you graduate college?” I quickly answered, “I’m going to work for you at your record label,” without even thinking.
Toby said, “You keep up with Billy and get with my team. I’ll give you a job when you move to Nashville.” Pam also knew the Head of Sales & Marketing at Show Dog, Johnny Rose. She called Johnny when I was interviewing and put in a good word. Lo and behold, I got the job.
Photo: Courtesy of Logue
What was working at Show Dog like?
It was the best first job I could have ever asked for. I learned so much. I released nine Toby Keith records in the almost eight years of working there. I started out as the “New Media” Coordinator in 2007, which later became the Digital department. I was 21 with a Facebook page, and I vividly remember creating Toby’s Facebook page as one of my first projects. I posted that he was getting a pedicure in Green Hills one time when I accidentally updated his status instead of mine. I also created his then Twitter account. “Go Sooners!” was his first tweet.
It was such a wonderful place to learn all about each aspect of the business because we were such a lean machine. It is where I really learned how much I loved marketing and being creative! In addition to Toby, I worked on projects with Trace Adkins, Alabama, ZZ Top, Randy Houser, Joe Nichols, Josh Thompson, Jonathon Singleton, JT Hodges and many more. Show Dog is where I met Jessie James Decker, who I now represent at WME.
What is one of your favorite memories from that time?
“Red Solo Cup” for sure! Toby came in with this song that the Warren Brothers and Brett and Jim Beavers wrote. He didn’t really cut outside songs, but he loved it. They literally handed me the CD with the video file and I uploaded it at 4 a.m. from my couch. Not long after, it went viral.
At some point I thought, “Has anyone told Solo?” The song was about to be on an episode of Glee, so I went on LinkedIn and looked up the SVP of Solo and sent her a message. She responded and we started working with them. It took me a few years to run out of the cups they sent! Walmart was sending us notes that, thanks to Toby, they only had blue and yellow cups left. It was wild in the coolest way! It was so fun to hear the song, see the music video explode online and build on the insane reaction it had. That also was the year Toby hosted the CMT Awards and came out in a giant Solo cup. It was really special to be a part of such an iconic song.
Photo: Courtesy of Logue
What was next for you after your time at Show Dog?
In 2015, the label was heading in a different direction and I used that time to figure out what my next step would be. It had been an incredible experience and so much fun. Honestly, I was nervous I wouldn’t find another job that I liked as much as that one, so I decided to pivot my career entirely. I thought I’d had my fun in the music industry, so I decided I’d start a family and sell pharmaceuticals. I even had several pharma interviews but after a few months in my new direction, Jennie Smythe called me and said, “You don’t want to leave the music business. I know of a job at Live Nation on the Ticketmaster side. You should apply, and I am getting you an interview.”
That she did. Thanks to Jennie, I ended up as the Manager of Client Relations at Ticketmaster, which felt like pharmaceutical sales for the music business. I was in every agency staff meeting and every manager’s office, just getting to know people and educating them on all the things Ticketmaster did besides selling tickets.
How did you get to WME?
One of my Ticketmaster meetings was at WME, which is where I met Joey Lee. He picked apart pretty much my entire presentation and had me very rattled. He called me the next day intrigued and wanted to know more about what I was doing. He opened a lot of doors for me and ultimately the one at WME.
I ended up starting the Digital department in Nashville in 2017—that was my bread and butter, and I knew it could be a great service to the artists at WME. Lindsey Dodge now oversees all of our digital initiatives, and my position has evolved into the head of Client Strategy for WME’s Nashville roster.
Photo: Courtesy of Logue
How would you describe what you do?
I’m a dot connector, idea generator, air traffic controller and somedays, a guidance counselor. I play a lot of inside baseball. I spend a lot of time maneuvering pieces of the puzzle to put together an idea and strategy to present to the client and their team. If they like it, then we start executing, which is ultimately my favorite part of the job!
I work within WME and with other Endeavor and TKO properties (IMG, UFC, PBR, WWE, 160over90, etc.) to bring fun and exciting opportunities to clients outside of touring. A lot of the time, it’s taking a client’s dreams or ideas and navigating the best path to make those a reality.
What would you say is your favorite part of your job?
It goes back to a lot of what I did when I worked with Toby—getting to be involved in so many areas. Some days I say, “I wish I had one job!” but I don’t really wish that. I have FOMO [a fear of missing out] in life in general. I refuse to order the same thing at a restaurant twice. I want to be knowledgeable about a lot of things.
WME has an endless amount of resources that I have at my fingertips, and there isn’t a day that goes by where there isn’t a new idea suggested or new relationship started. In addition to that, working with developing talent is so exciting. I love being a part of their first release, their first live show, the FaceTime to tell them they’ve landed their first big festival, their first award show and so on. I love the firsts!
Photo: Courtesy of Logue
Who have been some of your mentors?
Obviously Toby Keith. Without him, I am not sure I would be doing this interview! I am so grateful that he took a chance on me, and I will cherish my memories with him forever. TK Kimbrell let me be in meetings I probably had no business in being in so I could gain the experience. George Nunes and Bill Kennedy were the absolute best and let me fly.
Becky Gardenhire, Joey Lee and Jay Williams are incredible leaders and even better humans. Greg Oswald hired me, and a great mentoring call with Greg is good for the soul. Marion Kraft always has the best advice and so much wisdom. She has taught me a lot. Jennie Smythe encourages me. She pushes me to be my best.
You will be honored at our Rising Women on the Row event next month. What advice would you give women who want to be where you are one day?
You don’t get what you don’t ask for. If I didn’t ask Toby Keith if I could work at his record label, who knows what would’ve happened? Of course, read the room and know when it’s appropriate to ask, but know the worst you are going to get is “No.” You have to network, get to know people and understand how to utilize those relationships professionally. Ask the tough questions, take notes and follow up. Make sure you’re always on someone’s radar.
What is a moment that you’ve had lately that teenage Sloane would think is so cool?
So funny that you are asking me this because I literally just had this moment at the Grammys this year. I thought, “Wow, my 13-year-old self would be so proud!” I went for the very first time and it was everything I ever thought it would be, except the monsoon! I made sure to relish in my experience the whole weekend. I don’t ever want to be in a position where I take how far I’ve gotten for granted.
Brothers Osborne To Release ‘Break Mine’ EP In March
/by Lorie HollabaughBrothers Osborne is gearing up for the release of their new Break Mine EP on March 22 via EMI Records Nashville.
The four-song project includes two new tracks, “Break Mine” and “Get To Movin’ Again,” along with two songs featured on their 2023 Grammy-nominated, self-titled album.
“This one is for the fans,” says TJ Osborne. “Every time we release an album, our fans are asking for more music, faster. We heard that, and held some special songs back from our last project so we could release them now. We also wanted to include a couple of the tracks from Brothers Osborne that we thought deserved some more of the spotlight. We can’t wait to play these songs on the road for you all this spring.”
Brothers Osborne also recently confirmed their 35-date “Might As Well Be Us Tour.” The trek includes shows in Atlanta, New Orleans, Philadelphia, Las Vegas, Chicago and more with support from Stephen Wilson Jr., The Cadillac Three, Zach Top, Jackson Dean, Madeline Edwards and Caylee Hammack.
Break Mine EP Track Listing:
1. “Break Mine”
2. “We Ain’t Good At Breaking Up”
3. “Back Home”
4. “Get To Movin’ Again”
My Music Row Story: WME’s Sloane Cavitt Logue
/by LB CantrellSloane Cavitt Logue
Sloane Cavitt Logue leads the Nashville Client Strategy division at WME, where she works across several departments to navigate 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.
Logue will be honored as part of the current class of MusicRow’s Rising Women on the Row on March 19. For more details about the class and the event, click here.
MusicRow: Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Benton, Kentucky, which is located in the western part of the state near Kentucky Lake. My childhood was for sure a country song! I was into everything growing up. I played soccer, AAU basketball, was in BETA Club, drove four-wheelers and Sea-Doos, took karate—everything. I was the basic small-town kid, and definitely hung out at the local gas station on Friday nights. [Laughs]
Photo: Courtesy of Logue
Were you into music?
I’ve always loved country music. I grew up watching the Grand Ole Opry. My grandfather loved music and was always explaining the lyrics to me. Back in high school, my friend Emily had a maroon Honda Accord that we would cruise around in while listening to Gary Allan, Chris Cagle and all the big country artists who were on the radio at the time. I was super into music, but I didn’t realize, at that point, you could have a career on the business side of it.
What were your future plans then?
I went to the University of Kentucky and started out in nursing school. I originally wanted to be a nurse anesthetist but six months in I realized it wasn’t for me. I also wasn’t a fan of the daily scrub attire. [Laughs]
I always knew I wanted to live in Nashville, and since I had a passion for music but for sure didn’t have a musical bone in my body, I figured the music industry would be a career I could love forever. I took the only music business class offered at UK and read Donald Passman’s book All You Need to Know About the Music Business. I remember telling my mom I was no longer going to be a nurse and wanted to concentrate on my passion for music and her response was, “Honey, you cannot sing.” Which still remains true. [Laughs]
Photo: Courtesy of Logue
That’s funny! How did you start your path towards the music business?
My mom [had a mutual friend named] Pam Russell who was also from Kentucky. Pam was the SVP of Sales at Universal Music at the time. I cold called her and asked, “Hi, can I be your intern?” She thankfully said yes and hired me as an intern the summer of 2006. Jen Way, the now SVP of Marketing at Sony Music, was my first boss—and now one of my very best friends.
I went back to Lexington to finish my senior year, but I knew I had to stay connected in order to land a job after I graduated. I would come back to Nashville to be a seat-filler at the CMA Awards and volunteer at CMA Fest! I took every opportunity I could find to network with people in the industry.
While still in school, I worked at Merrick Inn, which was a nice restaurant near campus. Billy Wilcoxon, who was Toby Keith‘s business manager, brought Toby into the restaurant one day. I had seen him before but had never waited on him. I was opening Toby’s bottle of wine—I actually think I broke the cork off in it because I was so nervous talking to him. He asked, “What are you going to do when you graduate college?” I quickly answered, “I’m going to work for you at your record label,” without even thinking.
Toby said, “You keep up with Billy and get with my team. I’ll give you a job when you move to Nashville.” Pam also knew the Head of Sales & Marketing at Show Dog, Johnny Rose. She called Johnny when I was interviewing and put in a good word. Lo and behold, I got the job.
Photo: Courtesy of Logue
What was working at Show Dog like?
It was the best first job I could have ever asked for. I learned so much. I released nine Toby Keith records in the almost eight years of working there. I started out as the “New Media” Coordinator in 2007, which later became the Digital department. I was 21 with a Facebook page, and I vividly remember creating Toby’s Facebook page as one of my first projects. I posted that he was getting a pedicure in Green Hills one time when I accidentally updated his status instead of mine. I also created his then Twitter account. “Go Sooners!” was his first tweet.
It was such a wonderful place to learn all about each aspect of the business because we were such a lean machine. It is where I really learned how much I loved marketing and being creative! In addition to Toby, I worked on projects with Trace Adkins, Alabama, ZZ Top, Randy Houser, Joe Nichols, Josh Thompson, Jonathon Singleton, JT Hodges and many more. Show Dog is where I met Jessie James Decker, who I now represent at WME.
What is one of your favorite memories from that time?
“Red Solo Cup” for sure! Toby came in with this song that the Warren Brothers and Brett and Jim Beavers wrote. He didn’t really cut outside songs, but he loved it. They literally handed me the CD with the video file and I uploaded it at 4 a.m. from my couch. Not long after, it went viral.
At some point I thought, “Has anyone told Solo?” The song was about to be on an episode of Glee, so I went on LinkedIn and looked up the SVP of Solo and sent her a message. She responded and we started working with them. It took me a few years to run out of the cups they sent! Walmart was sending us notes that, thanks to Toby, they only had blue and yellow cups left. It was wild in the coolest way! It was so fun to hear the song, see the music video explode online and build on the insane reaction it had. That also was the year Toby hosted the CMT Awards and came out in a giant Solo cup. It was really special to be a part of such an iconic song.
Photo: Courtesy of Logue
What was next for you after your time at Show Dog?
In 2015, the label was heading in a different direction and I used that time to figure out what my next step would be. It had been an incredible experience and so much fun. Honestly, I was nervous I wouldn’t find another job that I liked as much as that one, so I decided to pivot my career entirely. I thought I’d had my fun in the music industry, so I decided I’d start a family and sell pharmaceuticals. I even had several pharma interviews but after a few months in my new direction, Jennie Smythe called me and said, “You don’t want to leave the music business. I know of a job at Live Nation on the Ticketmaster side. You should apply, and I am getting you an interview.”
That she did. Thanks to Jennie, I ended up as the Manager of Client Relations at Ticketmaster, which felt like pharmaceutical sales for the music business. I was in every agency staff meeting and every manager’s office, just getting to know people and educating them on all the things Ticketmaster did besides selling tickets.
How did you get to WME?
One of my Ticketmaster meetings was at WME, which is where I met Joey Lee. He picked apart pretty much my entire presentation and had me very rattled. He called me the next day intrigued and wanted to know more about what I was doing. He opened a lot of doors for me and ultimately the one at WME.
I ended up starting the Digital department in Nashville in 2017—that was my bread and butter, and I knew it could be a great service to the artists at WME. Lindsey Dodge now oversees all of our digital initiatives, and my position has evolved into the head of Client Strategy for WME’s Nashville roster.
Photo: Courtesy of Logue
How would you describe what you do?
I’m a dot connector, idea generator, air traffic controller and somedays, a guidance counselor. I play a lot of inside baseball. I spend a lot of time maneuvering pieces of the puzzle to put together an idea and strategy to present to the client and their team. If they like it, then we start executing, which is ultimately my favorite part of the job!
I work within WME and with other Endeavor and TKO properties (IMG, UFC, PBR, WWE, 160over90, etc.) to bring fun and exciting opportunities to clients outside of touring. A lot of the time, it’s taking a client’s dreams or ideas and navigating the best path to make those a reality.
What would you say is your favorite part of your job?
It goes back to a lot of what I did when I worked with Toby—getting to be involved in so many areas. Some days I say, “I wish I had one job!” but I don’t really wish that. I have FOMO [a fear of missing out] in life in general. I refuse to order the same thing at a restaurant twice. I want to be knowledgeable about a lot of things.
WME has an endless amount of resources that I have at my fingertips, and there isn’t a day that goes by where there isn’t a new idea suggested or new relationship started. In addition to that, working with developing talent is so exciting. I love being a part of their first release, their first live show, the FaceTime to tell them they’ve landed their first big festival, their first award show and so on. I love the firsts!
Photo: Courtesy of Logue
Who have been some of your mentors?
Obviously Toby Keith. Without him, I am not sure I would be doing this interview! I am so grateful that he took a chance on me, and I will cherish my memories with him forever. TK Kimbrell let me be in meetings I probably had no business in being in so I could gain the experience. George Nunes and Bill Kennedy were the absolute best and let me fly.
Becky Gardenhire, Joey Lee and Jay Williams are incredible leaders and even better humans. Greg Oswald hired me, and a great mentoring call with Greg is good for the soul. Marion Kraft always has the best advice and so much wisdom. She has taught me a lot. Jennie Smythe encourages me. She pushes me to be my best.
You will be honored at our Rising Women on the Row event next month. What advice would you give women who want to be where you are one day?
You don’t get what you don’t ask for. If I didn’t ask Toby Keith if I could work at his record label, who knows what would’ve happened? Of course, read the room and know when it’s appropriate to ask, but know the worst you are going to get is “No.” You have to network, get to know people and understand how to utilize those relationships professionally. Ask the tough questions, take notes and follow up. Make sure you’re always on someone’s radar.
What is a moment that you’ve had lately that teenage Sloane would think is so cool?
So funny that you are asking me this because I literally just had this moment at the Grammys this year. I thought, “Wow, my 13-year-old self would be so proud!” I went for the very first time and it was everything I ever thought it would be, except the monsoon! I made sure to relish in my experience the whole weekend. I don’t ever want to be in a position where I take how far I’ve gotten for granted.
Folk Artist Darren Kiely Inks With UTA
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Josh Garrett (UTA), Beth Morton (UTA), Scott Clayton (UTA), Darren Kiely, Brendan Rich (Rich MGMT), Sarah Paravia (Rich MGMT), Buster Phillips (UTA), Sarah Casey (UTA), Sydney Bryant (UTA). Photo: Courtesy of UTA
Irish singer-songwriter Darren Kiely has signed with UTA for worldwide representation in all areas.
Kiely is the flagship artist for Sony Nashville’s new non-country label Free Flight Records, and hails from a quaint town in Co. Cork, Ireland. His folk-infused pop sound originates from his inherited love of traditional Irish music, intertwined with modern influences such as The Lumineers and Noah Kahan. At just five years old, Kiely learned the tin whistle, and at eight, he picked up the fiddle, eventually teaching himself to play guitar as well. He began singing in 2019, quickly garnering attention for his raw and fervent vocals and emotive delivery.
After winning numerous honors at a national level in Irish traditional music, Kiely moved to New York in 2022 to continue developing his own music and sound. Since then, he’s worked with producer David Baron (The Lumineers) and has entered Ireland’s top 50 viral charts three times with his debut singles “How Could You Love Me,” “Ella” and “Time To Leave.”
Kiely’s song “Mom & Dad” debuted in the top 40 on the Irish Singles Chart and put him in the top five on the Irish Homegrown Chart. The singer-songwriter also recently landed a No. 1 on the Official Irish Homegrown Chart with new track “Sunrise” from his recently released EP Lost.
In January 2024, Kiely began his expanded 33-date headline North American tour, “The Lost Tour,” selling out rooms in Chicago, Toronto, Philadelphia, Minneapolis and more. He will be embarking on the second leg of the North American tour in early March 2024.
MCA Nashville Elevates Shannon Hogan To Director Of Promotion, Southeast
/by Liza AndersonShannon Hogan
MCA Nashville has elevated Shannon Hogan to Director of Promotion, Southeast.
Hogan most recently served as Manager, Promotion, after joining the team as Coordinator in 2021. Since beginning her tenure at the UMG Nashville imprint, she has assisted in garnering six No. 1 singles, planning and executing showcases as well as facilitating travel logistics for radio events.
The New York native is a graduate Rochester Institute of Technology. Her passion for radio developed during a two-year stint as WBEE and WPXY Promotions Director at Entercom, now known as Audacy.
“Since joining MCA two and a half years ago, Shannon has demonstrated a strong work ethic, becoming a valuable member of our team,” shares David Friedman, Vice President of Promotion, MCA Nashville. “Her experience in radio, attention to detail and passion for our artists make her the perfect choice for this role and we know she will crush it!”
Priscilla Block Signs With WME For Global Representation
/by John Nix ArledgePriscilla Block. Photo: Britton Webb
In a move set to amplify her rising star power, country artist Priscilla Block signed a global representation deal with WME. Co-Head of WME’s Nashville Office, Joey Lee, will spearhead Block’s representation.
As one of the first country music stars to rise out of social media platform TikTok, Block is joined by a fervent fanbase drawn to her unique blend of country, pop and southern rock. Her success does not stop at social media, though. Block was nominated for ACM New Female Artist of the Year in both 2022 and 2023, and her fan-favorite track “Just About Over You,” was not only named one of The New York Times Best Songs of 2020, but soared to the top 15 on country radio, earning her an RIAA Platinum certification.
Priscilla’s sound, marked by empowerment, self-love and catchy melodies, continues to make waves in the country music space. Her major label debut album, Welcome to the Block Party, also secured a spot on The New York Times Best Albums of 2022 with hits “Wish You Were the Whiskey” and “My Bar.” Keeping her stride, Block recently earned her first country radio No. 1 alongside Justin Moore with their duet hit “You, Me, and Whiskey.”
For booking inquiries, contact Lee at JLE@wmeagency.com. Block is managed by Charly Salvatore with Underscore Works and is signed to Mercury Nashville.
Matt Schuster Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Cris Lacy (Co-Chair & Co-President, WMN), Ben Kline (Co-Chair & Co-President, WMN), Matt Schuster, Eric Parker (Manager, EP Music Group), Anna Pittman (VP of Artist Development, WMN), Rohan Kohli (VP of A&R, WMN). Photo: Chris Hollo for Grand Ole Opry
Warner Music Nashville’s rising artist Matt Schuster made his Grand Ole Opry debut last Saturday night (Feb. 24).
Matt Schuster makes Grand Ole Opry debut. Photo: Chris Hollo for Grand Ole Opry
The artist-songwriter stepped into the iconic circle to deliver two songs to the packed Opry house. Schuster’s latest track, “Left Me In The Dusk,” rounded out a handful of new songs released by the Illinois native in 2023, which also includes the song “Last Fall.” His label debut, “Tell Me Tennessee,” was released in September 2023, earning him the weekly MusicRow DISCovery Award.
Schuster signed with Warner Music Nashville after two years of releasing music independently, with four tracks landing in the top 200 of Spotify’s Country Global chart and over 150 million streams to date. He also recently landed a cut on label-mate Bailey Zimmerman’s Religiously. The Album. with “Chase Her.”
Touring in 2023 with Ashley Cooke and a quick trip down under at Ridin’ Hearts Festival in Sydney and Melbourne, Schuster closed out 2023 with shows alongside Kameron Marlowe and Dylan Scott.
LoCash Launches Galaxy Label Group
/by Liza AndersonLoCash. Photo: Josh Beech
LoCash announced the launch of their new record label, Galaxy Label Group, last night (Feb. 28) during Country Radio Seminar (CRS). The country duo—made up of Preston Brust and Chris Lucas—will be the first act signed to the label.
“Launching our own record label has been a part of our plan since day one,” shares Brust. “And with the ever-changing landscape of modern music, now is the perfect time. As seasoned artists, it’s really important for us to do what we know how to do and do it well. Confidently moving forward with creative control is the natural next step for us.”
Lucas adds, “I haven’t been this excited since moving to Nashville years ago! With the relationships we’ve built in the industry along the way, it’s time we add a new chapter to the LoCash book. We are in control of ourselves as artists and are ready to help aspiring artists as well as the songwriters succeed in today’s music world.”
Galaxy Label Group was formed in partnership with industry veterans Skip Bishop and Butch Waugh’s Studio2Bee Entertainment, and has executive staff in place with plans to enlarge its roster.
“We’re extremely grateful to Jon Loba and his executive team for helping us create such a modern, forward-thinking and artist/writer-friendly distribution arrangement,” says Bishop. “It’s this kind of imaginative insight that will elevate the level of shared success.”
In celebration of the new label, LoCash is working on their next project and will release the first single, “Hometown Home,” this spring.
Kacey Musgraves To Launch ‘Deeper Well World Tour’ In April
/by Lorie HollabaughKacey Musgraves will kick off her 2024 “Deeper Well World Tour” this spring in Dublin, Ireland on April 28. Madi Diaz, Father John Misty, Lord Huron and Nickel Creek will join as support on the new tour.
The headlining tour will include stops in Europe and the U.K., followed by the North American leg beginning on Sept. 4 in State College, Pennsylvania. The “Deeper Well World Tour” will visit cities across the U.S. including Boston, Seattle, San Francisco, San Diego, Dallas, Austin and more, wrapping with a two-night stand in her own backyard at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Dec. 6 and 7.
American Express Card Members can purchase tickets for the “Deeper Well World Tour” in select markets before the general public, and Amex Early Access for the North American and UK dates begins March 5-7. Tickets go on sale to the general public at kaceymusgraves.com/tour on March 8.
Along with the “Deeper Well World Tour” announcement, Kacey has also unveiled the evocative new track, “Too Good to be True” out today (Feb. 29). “Too Good to be True” is the second single released ahead of her upcoming fifth studio album, Deeper Well, out March 15 on Interscope Records/MCA Nashville.
Ahead of the album release, Kacey will make her third appearance on Saturday Night Live on March 2, followed by performances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on March 14 and NBC’s Today show on March 15.
Kacey Musgraves “Deeper Well World Tour” Dates:
Sunday, April 28, 2024- Dublin, IE @ 3Olympia Theatre +
Wednesday, May 1, 2024- Amsterdam, NL @ Paradiso +
Friday, May 3, 2024- Brussels, BE@ Ancienne Belgique +
Sunday, May 5, 2024- Cologne, DE @ Carlswerk Victoria +
Monday, May 6, 2024- Hamburg, DE @ DOCKS +
Thursday, May 9, 2024- Glasgow, UK @ 02 Academy Glasgow +
Saturday, May 11, 2024- Manchester, UK @ 02 Apollo Manchester +
Monday, May 13, 2024- Wolverhampton, UK @ The Civic at The Halls +
Tuesday, May 14, 2024- London, UK @ Roundhouse +
Wednesday, September 4, 2024- State College, PA @ Bryce Jordan Center *
Friday, September 6, 2024- Boston, MA @ TD Garden *
Saturday, September 7, 2024- Boston, MA @ TD Garden *
Monday, September 9, 2024- Newark, NJ @ Prudential Center *
Wednesday, September 11, 2024- Grand Rapids, MI @ Van Andel Arena *
Thursday, September 12, 2024- Rosemont, IL @ Allstate Arena *
Sunday, September 15, 2024- Greenwood Village, CO @ Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre *
Thursday, September 19, 2024- Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena *
Friday, September 20, 2024- Seattle, WA @ Climate Pledge Arena *
Monday, September 23, 2024- Sacramento, CA @ Golden 1 Center *
Tuesday, September 24, 2024- San Francisco, CA @ Chase Center *
Friday, September 27, 2024- Glendale, AZ @ Desert Diamond Arena *
Saturday, September 28, 2024- Las Vegas, NV @ T-Mobile Arena *
Tuesday, October 1, 2024- San Diego, CA @ Pechanga Arena San Diego *
Thursday, October 3, 2024- Inglewood, CA @ Kia Forum *
Friday, October 4, 2024- Inglewood, CA @ Kia Forum *
Wednesday, November 6, 2024- Laval, QC @ Place Bell #
Thursday, November 7, 2024- Toronto, ON @ Scotiabank Arena #
Saturday, November 9, 2024- Baltimore, MD @ CFG Bank Arena #
Sunday, November 10, 2024- Pittsburgh, PA @ PPG Paints Arena #
Tuesday, November 12, 2024- Louisville, KY @ KFC Yum! Center #
Wednesday, November 13, 2024- Columbus, OH @ Schottenstein Center #
Friday, November 15, 2024- Brooklyn, NY @ Barclays Center #
Saturday, November 16, 2024- Brooklyn, NY @ Barclays Center #
Thursday, November 21, 2024- Houston, TX @ Toyota Center #
Friday, November 22, 2024- Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center #
Saturday, November 23, 2024- Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center #
Tuesday, November 26, 2024- Austin, TX @ Moody Center #
Wednesday, November 27, 2024- Austin, TX @ Moody Center #
Friday, November 29, 2024- Tampa, FL @ Amalie Arena #
Saturday, November 30, 2024- Hollywood, FL @ Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood #
Monday, December 2, 2024- Orlando, FL @ Kia Center #
Thursday, December 5, 2024- Charlotte, NC @ Spectrum Center #
Friday, December 6, 2024- Nashville, TN @ Bridgestone Arena #
Saturday, December 7, 2024- Nashville, TN @ Bridgestone Arena #
+Madi Diaz supporting
*Father John Misty/ Nickel Creek supporting
#Lord Huron/ Nickel Creek supporting
Jelly Roll & Lainey Wilson Toast At Tin Roof To Multiple No. 1s
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R, back row): BBR/BMG’s Jon Loba, Warner Chappell’s BJ Hill, BMG’s Chris Oglesby, BMI’s Shannon Sanders, Studio Bank’s Kari Barnhart, Stoney Creek’s Adrian Michaels and BBR/BMG’s JoJamie Hahr; (L-R, front row): Lainey Wilson, Jelly Roll and David Ray Stevens. Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
Music industry members gathered at Tin Roof on Demonbreun last week to celebrate three chart-toppers from two country music stars.
Jelly Roll and co-writers Austin Nivarel and Joe and Rob Ragosta were there to commemorate Jelly’s “Need A Favor” topping the charts. Lainey Wilson and co-writers Josh Kear and Jordan Schmidt were celebrated for her fifth consecutive No. 1 “Watermelon Moonshine.” Finally, both stars toasted to their collaborative hit “Save Me” with Jelly’s co-writer David Ray Stevens.
BMI’s Clay Bradley welcomed everyone to the midtown hotspot to get the party started before turning it over to Shannon Sanders, a longtime friend of Jelly’s, to emcee the special celebration. ASCAP’s Evyn Mustoe Johnston was on hand to honor the PRO’s affiliates.
Pictured (L-R, back row): BMI’s Shannon Sanders, BMG’s Chris Oglesby, Sony Music Publishing’s Rusty Gaston, Reservoir’s John Ozier, Studio Bank’s Kari Barnhart, ASCAP’s Evyn Johnston and Stoney Creek’s Adrian Michaels; (L-R, front row): Rob Ragosta, Joe Ragosta, Jelly Roll and Austin Nivarel. Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
Taking turns to give each song its moment, the celebrations started with “Need A Favor.” Publishers, including BMG’s Chris Oglesby, Reservoir’s John Ozier and Sony Music Publishing’s Rusty Gaston, took turns speaking about each of their writers.
All of the co-writers except Jelly were celebrating their first No. 1. Two of the writers, Joe and Rob, are brothers, making it even more special. All were full of gratitude, calling out their publishers, supporters, Jelly and their families.
“I got to do this with my brother,” Rob said. “We’ve been doing this for 20 years at a serious level, chasing this dream. We always did it with our best friends and we always did it with our family.”
Joe shared, “Jelly, you’re an icon. It’s so far beyond artistry at this point. You’re part of the culture.”
“Before I worked with Jelly Roll, I worked with a lot of his collaborators. I began to hear the phrase, ‘Jelly Roll changed my life,’ so often that I started to think, ‘He’s got to be paying these people. How much money does this guy have?'” Austin said. “Then I got the opportunity to meet him and work with him… A year and a half later, I can certainly say that Jelly Roll changed my life.”
Pictured (L-R): BMI’s Clay Bradley, Studio Bank’s Kari Barnhart, Lainey Wilson, Josh Kear, ASCAP’s Evyn Johnston and BBR’s Shelley Hargis. Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
Next up, it was time to celebrate “Save Me,” the anthem Jelly wrote with David Ray. Lainey joined Jelly on a collaborative version of the song that topped the charts at the end of 2023.
Industry members including BMG’s Chris Oglesby, Warner Chappell’s BJ Hill and BBR Music Group’s Adrian Michaels were on hand to speak about the record-breaking song.
“I’m the luckiest man in the world. If I’m in a dream, please don’t wake me up,” David Ray said when it was his turn to speak. He thanked all his supporters and team members before inviting two jewelers from Ice Box to present Jelly with a piece of jewelry to commemorate the occasion, a gesture Jelly did for him to mark their “Son Of A Sinner” chart-topper.
Then the crowd got to hear from Jelly. He thanked all of his team members, making sure to mention what each of them bring to the table, as well as country radio.
“I’ve had four No. 1s in my career. Three of those four songs were written with people who had never had a No. 1 before. I take great pride in that,” Jelly said.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow‘s Madison Hahnen, Lainey Wilson, Jelly Roll, David Ray Stevens and MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell. Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
Next it was time to celebrate Lainey Wilson’s “Watermelon Moonshine.” Lainey and co-writer Josh Kear appeared onstage to celebrate. Their co-writer Jordan Schmidt wasn’t able to make it.
Sony Music Publishing’s Rusty Gaston and BBR Music Group’s Shelley Hargis spoke about Lainey and her co-writers. Studio Bank’s Kari Barnhart made a presentation letting the crowd know that the bank had made a charitable donation in honor of the songs.
The mic was then turned over to Josh and Lainey.
“I started writing on Music Row when I was 19, which means I’ve been coming to these things for over 30 years. If I’ve learned anything, it’s that short speeches are the best speeches,” he said, adding in his thanks to his village. “Thank you to everyone who had anything to do with this song.”
Lainey was the last to speak. “I could not be more appreciative to anybody who has put their hands on my songs or any songs that I’ve been able to be a part of. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for making my dreams come true.”
Industry Ink: Justin Moore & Randy Houser, Severance Records, Carin León, More
/by Madison HahnenJustin Moore & Randy Houser Surprise Downtown Nashville
Justin Moore and Randy Houser during their surprise performance. Photo: Cody Villalobos
Multi-Platinum artist Justin Moore and country star Randy Houser made a surprise appearance at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge in downtown Nashville last night (Feb. 27). The pair paid tribute to the late Toby Keith with a performance of “Should’ve Been A Cowboy.”
Trevor Provost Joins Severance Records As Marketing Manager
Trevor Provost. Photo: Brayln Kelly
Independent, modern rock label Severance Records, a division of Big Loud Rock, has added Trevor Provost as Marketing Manager.
In this role, he will lead and execute the label’s marketing strategy. Provost will report directly to Co-President Mike Easterlin. He joins the team after serving as Day-to-Day Manager at SMACKSongs and spending time at marketing agency Reach. In 2023, Provost launched Blinders Entertainment, a management and consulting firm.
“I’m really excited to be joining Stevo [Robertson] and Mike at Severance Records in everything they’re building. The opportunity to learn and work so closely with two hyper-skilled executives—and businessmen who do it in the right way—is a dream,” says Provost. “Our perspective on the value and attention that a label must bring to an artist in 2024 was so aligned that it felt like the perfect fit. With the highest caliber partner in Big Loud, I’m looking forward to developing culturally significant acts and deep relationships with the fans.”
Carin León & UMPG Celebrate Grand Ole Opry Debut
Pictured (L-R): Jorge Juárez (management), Yadira Moreno (UMPG MD, Mexico & Central America), Carin León, Roxy King (UMPG Director, A&R), Alexandra Lioutikoff (UMPG President, Latin America & U.S. Latin) and Troy Tomlinson (UMPG Nashville Chairman & CEO)
Singer-songwriter Carin León and Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) celebrated León’s Grand Ole Opry debut this past weekend. León signed with UMPG in 2023.
ACM Hosts OnRamp Program Songwriters Round
Pictured (L-R): Kortney Toney (Academy of Country Music, Manager, Programming & Community Engagement), Tae Lewis, Julie Williams, Kendall “Ken-Say” Warner, The Kentucky Gentlemen, Tylar Bryant and Larysa Jaye
The Academy of Country Music hosted a songwriters round in Nashville last Thursday (Feb. 22) featuring members of their OnRamp professional development program. Performers included The Kentucky Gentlemen, Larysa Jaye, Tae Lewis, Nick Tabron, Kendall “Ken-Say” Warner and Julie Williams.
The OnRamp program is in collaboration with the Black Music Action Coalition, and focuses on improving inclusivity and equity within Music City while aiming to empower the next generation of leaders in the early stages of their careers. Half of the inaugural class are artists, the other half come from across the industry and range from attorneys to audio engineers and publicists to business managers.
Bob Minner Inks With Billy Blue Publishing
Pictured (L-R): Ed Leonard (President, Billy Blue Records), Bob Minner, Joe Dan Cornett (Creative Director, Billy Blue Publishing) and Jerry Salley (A&R/Creative Director, Billy Blue Records)
Bob Minner has signed a co-publishing deal with Billy Blue Publishing alongside his publishing company Bluestring Songs International.
Minner has been playing guitar for country superstar Tim McGraw for 31 years, and has had cuts with Authentic Unlimited, Volume Five, Daily & Vincent and more. His most recent cut by Authentic Unlimited, “Fall In Tennessee,” was nominated for SPBGMA 2024 Song of the Year.
“I am extremely honored to be a part of Billy Blue Publishing. I was raised in a deep bluegrass upbringing in Missouri, and bluegrass has always been my creative passion. A huge thanks to Ed Leonard, Jerry Salley and Joe Dan Cornett for this opportunity,” says Minner.