Toby Keith
Music fans around the world woke up to the sad news that country hitmaker Toby Keith had passed away late Monday night (Feb. 5) after a battle with stomach cancer.
At only 62 years old, Keith’s death is a tragic case of gone too soon. The country stalwart announced his cancer diagnosis in June of 2022.
Keith is one of the biggest country artists of the modern era, with more than 40 million albums sold and 32 No. 1 hits. His legacy includes that of a prolific songwriter, as the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame (NaSHOF) inductee wrote 26 of his hits and 11 of those alone. Throughout his career, Keith garnered over 10 billion streams, largely on the strength of his own songwriting and producing, and under the banner of his own record label Show Dog Nashville.
Memorial tributes to Keith have flooded social media from his peers in country music. Below are some of those messages.
“Toby Keith was a powerhouse singer-songwriter, performer, entrepreneur, and country music icon who defined the last several decades of country music and influenced a generation of talent. Here at the Academy, we’ve been able to celebrate Toby countless times over the years, including twice as our ACM Entertainer of the Year, along with more than a dozen of other trophies, such as the ACM Poet’s Award for songwriting and the ACM Career Achievement Award. In particular, I’m so glad we were able to honor Toby with the ACM Spirit Award in 2021, presented to a singer-songwriter who continues the legacy of Merle Haggard, one of Toby’s heroes. Additionally, his phenomenal commitment to philanthropy and serving the community throughout his career echoes in the work of ACM Lifting Lives. On behalf of our staff, Board, and membership, we send our love to Toby’s family, friends, and fans of his incredible music. His legacy in country music will live on forever.” – Damon Whiteside, ACM CEO
“Toby Keith was big, brash, and never bowed down or slowed down for anyone. His story is a distinctly American one—a former roughneck oil worker who carved out his own space in country music with a sinewy voice and an unbending will to succeed. He wrote his breakthrough songs and later formed his own record label when he felt underserved by Nashville. He relished being an outsider and doing things his way. Proudly patriotic, he didn’t mind if his clear-cut convictions ruffled your feathers. For three decades, he reflected the defiant strength of the country music audience. His memory will continue to stand tall.” – Kyle Young, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum CEO
“I was saddened to hear of Toby Keith’s passing. He really was one of the good guys. He helped a lot of people get started in the business. He loved God, he loved his family, and he was a true Patriot. He loved America. A friend to so many, including myself! Rest dear brother, you’re home at last!” – Ricky Skaggs
“I vividly remember Toby Keith walking into these offices for the first time 30 years ago. I had the pleasure of signing him to BMI and worked closely with him and his team ever since. This is a tremendous loss for the songwriting community. His life and his music made a tremendous impact, and I cherished his trust and his friendship.” – Clay Bradley, VP BMI Nashville
“Stood me still with emotion and memories to see and hear of the loss of my friend…the legend…Toby Keith. Heart breaking with thoughts and prayers for his fans and family this morning. We toured together several times around the globe. He was always the kindest…sweetest gentle giant of an outlaw one could ever hope to entertain and make music with. Raising a Red Cup this morning and saying a prayer. Heavens a honkytonk tonight.” – Billy Ray Cyrus
“Toby Keith has gone home. This is very sad news. We loved and respected him on every level and whispered many a prayer for him as he fought this illness. God must have needed a big-hearted Oklahoma singing boy for the great choir. Well, he got one. RIP Toby Keith.” – The Oak Ridge Boys
“Toby did as much good off-stage as he did on it. I got to be a part of his OK Kids Korral a few years back, and we sang a few together to benefit those kids. A good man with a huge legacy that stands as tall as him.” – John Anderson
Kelsea Ballerini Renews With Black River Entertainment
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R): Sandbox Entertainment Group’s Jason Owen; Kelsea Ballerini; and Black River Entertainment’s Gordon Kerr and Rick Froio. Photo: Robby Klein
Over a decade since the independent label launched her career in 2013, Kelsea Ballerini has renewed her recording contract with Black River Entertainment.
Since signing with the company, Ballerini has notched seven No. 1 singles, earned 32 RIAA certifications, logged five back-to-back top 10 entries on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and become a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
“It is with great pleasure and true excitement that Black River continues to partner with Kelsea as well as Jason Owen,” saya Black River Entertainment’s President and CEO Gordon Kerr. “I find myself constantly blown away by Kelsea’s artistic vision and musical excellence. And to know Jason as my friend and brother in music is nothing short of humbling and electrifying all at the same time. What a team we make, what history we write, what a story we tell!”
“Over the past few years, Gordon has become a dear friend to me and he and the Black River team remain the best partners to Kelsea and Sandbox for so many reasons,” says Owen, Sandbox Entertainment Group Founder and CEO. “Black River isn’t afraid to take risks, always leaning in with us on ideas that challenge the status quo, including with this groundbreaking recording agreement that rightfully honors Kelsea’s art and her impact in the marketplace.”
Ballerini, a two-time ACM Award and CMA Award winner, has been nominated for four Grammy Awards, including at the most recent ceremony where she was nominated for Best Country Album with her blockbuster Rolling Up The Welcome Mat project. The release of her deeply personal album and accompanying short film in 2023 led Ballerini to her Saturday Night Live debut, universal acclaim from critics and the honor of gracing the cover of TIME Magazine’s TIME100 Next issue.
The star shares, “Black River has always handled my music with the utmost care since signing with them over a decade ago. They’ve never wavered in respecting my vision as an artist, offering me the freedom to be creative and push boundaries. We share our wins and successes like a family, and our renewed agreement reflects just that.”
Women’s Music Business Association Unveils Board & New Members For 2024
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Women’s Music Business Association (WMBA) has unveiled its 2024 Board of Officer Chairs, Board of Directors and Class of 2024. This year marks the WMBA’s 25th anniversary of empowering women in the Nashville music industry.
The 2024 Board of Officer Chairs includes Aura Guadagno (Outback Presents) as President, Mackenzie Adkins (Rhonda & Company) as Vice President, Taylor Baird (KBLM, LLC) as Treasurer, Michelle Barnett Wichern (The Kinkead Entertainment Agency) as Secretary, Megan Astri Raham (Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum) as Events & Education Chair, Beka Bishop (Fantom Presents) as Marketing Chair and Jessica Hamorsky (Degy Entertainment) as Membership Chair.
This year’s WMBA Board of Directors consists of Chairwoman Amery Fridenstine (Above Board Consulting), Sheree Spoltore (Global Songwriters Connection), Jensen Sussman (Sweet Talk Publicity) and Christy Walker-Watkins (AristoPR) at the helm. In an advisory capacity, Brandi Simms (MooTV, Moo Creative, The Steel Mill) will continue her role as Board of Directors Emeritus, and Lauren Spahn (Shackelford, Bowen, McKinley, & Norton LLP) will maintain her position as Legal Counsel.
“As we begin the yearlong celebration of WMBA’s 25th anniversary, I look back to where it began,” shares Fridenstine. “What started as a potluck dinner between friends has become a respected membership organization and a source of education, support and community for women in the music industry. Many talented and inspiring women have served as members, officers and board members, helping to grow the organization to what it is today, and I couldn’t be prouder to be part of that legacy. I’m excited for what the future holds for WMBA and our amazing members and alumni.”
WMBA Class of 2024:
Lucki Price (Sony Music Publishing)
Amber Stoneman (Nashville Unsigned & Minting Music)
Maggie Baugh (Artist)
Christina Mitchell (Opry Entertainment Group)
Allison Cooper (Naxos of America, Inc)
Katie Sundra (Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum)
Krista Gilley (Gibson Brands)
Kelsey Roche (FBMM)
Lena Stone (Lena Stone Creative)
Kayce Russell (Warner Chappell Music)
Bridget Buchholz (Tour Manager)
Emma Lansworth (SESAC)
Dani Rose (Artist)
Remi Heitzman (The Kinkead Entertainment Agency)
Annissa Allen-Gore (Counsel, LLP)
Jessica Kelley (Outback Presents)
Alexis Donn (Artist-Songwriter)
Kendyl Ford (Convention Production Rigging & Freelance)
Nikki Denton (24 Entertainment, Robert Deaton)
Lois Zozobrado (Parmalee Touring)
Lauren Klein (Sony Music Nashville)
Kelli Johnson (Vita Music, Kelli Johnson Music)
Rachel Mangan (Dirickson Law, PLLC)
Kayla Michaud (Kayla Eileen Media)
Stephanie Quayle (Artist, Big Sky Music Group)
Country Music Community Mourns Death Of Toby Keith
/by LB CantrellToby Keith
Music fans around the world woke up to the sad news that country hitmaker Toby Keith had passed away late Monday night (Feb. 5) after a battle with stomach cancer.
At only 62 years old, Keith’s death is a tragic case of gone too soon. The country stalwart announced his cancer diagnosis in June of 2022.
Keith is one of the biggest country artists of the modern era, with more than 40 million albums sold and 32 No. 1 hits. His legacy includes that of a prolific songwriter, as the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame (NaSHOF) inductee wrote 26 of his hits and 11 of those alone. Throughout his career, Keith garnered over 10 billion streams, largely on the strength of his own songwriting and producing, and under the banner of his own record label Show Dog Nashville.
Memorial tributes to Keith have flooded social media from his peers in country music. Below are some of those messages.
“Toby Keith was a powerhouse singer-songwriter, performer, entrepreneur, and country music icon who defined the last several decades of country music and influenced a generation of talent. Here at the Academy, we’ve been able to celebrate Toby countless times over the years, including twice as our ACM Entertainer of the Year, along with more than a dozen of other trophies, such as the ACM Poet’s Award for songwriting and the ACM Career Achievement Award. In particular, I’m so glad we were able to honor Toby with the ACM Spirit Award in 2021, presented to a singer-songwriter who continues the legacy of Merle Haggard, one of Toby’s heroes. Additionally, his phenomenal commitment to philanthropy and serving the community throughout his career echoes in the work of ACM Lifting Lives. On behalf of our staff, Board, and membership, we send our love to Toby’s family, friends, and fans of his incredible music. His legacy in country music will live on forever.” – Damon Whiteside, ACM CEO
“Toby Keith was big, brash, and never bowed down or slowed down for anyone. His story is a distinctly American one—a former roughneck oil worker who carved out his own space in country music with a sinewy voice and an unbending will to succeed. He wrote his breakthrough songs and later formed his own record label when he felt underserved by Nashville. He relished being an outsider and doing things his way. Proudly patriotic, he didn’t mind if his clear-cut convictions ruffled your feathers. For three decades, he reflected the defiant strength of the country music audience. His memory will continue to stand tall.” – Kyle Young, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum CEO
“I was saddened to hear of Toby Keith’s passing. He really was one of the good guys. He helped a lot of people get started in the business. He loved God, he loved his family, and he was a true Patriot. He loved America. A friend to so many, including myself! Rest dear brother, you’re home at last!” – Ricky Skaggs
“I vividly remember Toby Keith walking into these offices for the first time 30 years ago. I had the pleasure of signing him to BMI and worked closely with him and his team ever since. This is a tremendous loss for the songwriting community. His life and his music made a tremendous impact, and I cherished his trust and his friendship.” – Clay Bradley, VP BMI Nashville
“Stood me still with emotion and memories to see and hear of the loss of my friend…the legend…Toby Keith. Heart breaking with thoughts and prayers for his fans and family this morning. We toured together several times around the globe. He was always the kindest…sweetest gentle giant of an outlaw one could ever hope to entertain and make music with. Raising a Red Cup this morning and saying a prayer. Heavens a honkytonk tonight.” – Billy Ray Cyrus
“Toby Keith has gone home. This is very sad news. We loved and respected him on every level and whispered many a prayer for him as he fought this illness. God must have needed a big-hearted Oklahoma singing boy for the great choir. Well, he got one. RIP Toby Keith.” – The Oak Ridge Boys
“Toby did as much good off-stage as he did on it. I got to be a part of his OK Kids Korral a few years back, and we sang a few together to benefit those kids. A good man with a huge legacy that stands as tall as him.” – John Anderson
Maverick Nashville Signs Jenna LaMaster
/by Liza AndersonPictured (L-R): Marne McLyman, Jenna LaMaster and Clarence Spalding
Maverick Nashville has signed singer-songwriter Jenna LaMaster to a management deal.
LaMaster joins the company’s roster of Brooks & Dunn, Darius Rucker, Elvie Shane, Hootie & the Blowfish, Jason Aldean, Lauren Alaina, Rachel Wammack, Rascal Flatts, Shane Profitt and Terri Clark.
The barrel-racing, western songstress moved from the mountains of California to Texas to compete on the professional rodeo circuit. She then made her way to Nashville to pursue her country music dream and signed a publishing deal with Sheltered Music. LaMaster has scored cuts with Ashland Craft, Kasey Tyndall and Dylan Marlowe, among others, and recently released her debut single “Drunk Thoughts.”
Marne McLyman will oversee LaMaster along with clients Brooks & Dunn and Clark.
“From the moment I heard Jenna’s music I knew I wanted to work with her. Her authenticity, sound and lyrics are what I love about country music. I’m excited to bring Jenna’s talent as an artist and a songwriter to the masses,” says McLyman.
“This is a dream come true. I am beyond excited to partner with Maverick Nashville and take the next step in my artist career,” shares LaMaster. “I could not imagine a better team than Marne McLyman and Clarence Spalding! I can’t wait to see what we will accomplish together.”
Stagecoach 2024 Palomino Stage To Feature Dwight Yoakam, Leon Bridges & The Beach Boys
/by Madison HahnenIconic country music festival Stagecoach has released their Palomino Stage lineup for the 2024 festival, taking place April 26-28 in Indio, California.
Performers on this year’s Palomino stage lineup include Dwight Yoakam, Carin Léon, Paul Cauthen, Leon Bridges, Charley Crockett, Luke Grimes, The Beach Boys, Clint Black, Pam Tillis and more.
Festival attendees often pack the Palomino stage to catch a glimpse of their favorite artists giving a once-in-a-lifetime intimate performance. Past performers who have graced the same stage include Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, George Jones, John Prine, Jerry Lee Lewis, Smokey Robinson, Emmylou Harris, Glen Campbell and many more.
The Palomino stage is just another highlight of this year’s sold-out festival, which will see Eric Church, Miranda Lambert and Morgan Wallen headline the Mane Stage during the three-day weekend.
Industry Ink: Cody Johnson, Bailey Zimmerman, Morgan Wade, Auburn McCormick
/by Madison HahnenCody Johnson Celebrates RIAA Certifications
Pictured (L-R): Cris Lacy (Co-Chair & Co-President, Warner Music Nashville), Cody Johnson, Ben Kline (Co-Chair & Co-President, Warner Music Nashville), Kristen Williams (SVP Radio, Warner Music Nashville)
Country star Cody Johnson performed in front of a sold-out crowd on Feb. 2 at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. The headline show marked a record for the singer, as it became the most tickets sold by a male country artist in their Bridgestone debut.
Before taking the stage, Warner Music Nashville helped present Johnson with 46 new RIAA certifications. These certifications combined total more than 17 million in sales and streams. He also received a Gold certification for current single “The Painter,” which debuted at country radio with the singer’s largest add date so far.
Bailey Zimmerman Kicks Off Headline Tour In Los Angeles
Pictured (L-R): Patrick Sabatini (SVP Legal & Business Affairs, Warner Music Nashville), Ben Kline (Co-Chair & Co-President, Warner Music Nashville), Bailey Zimmerman, Cris Lacy (Co-Chair & Co-President, Warner Music Nashville), Eric Wong (President & Chief Marketing Officer, Warner Recorded Music)
Fast-rising country star Bailey Zimmerman kicked off his “Religiously: The Tour” on Feb. 1 at The Novo in Los Angeles, California. The sold-out crowd started lining up hours before the show, eager to see Zimmerman. He captivated the audience with performances of hits “Religiously,” “Rock And A Hard Place,” “Where It Ends” and many more.
The tour will continue this week in California before hitting more than 30 stops including New York City, Indianapolis, San Antonio and more.
Country Music Hall Of Fame Hosts Concert & Conversation With Morgan Wade
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Senior Public Programs Manager Kayleigh Shoemaker and Morgan Wade at the museum Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum hosted singer-songwriter Morgan Wade for a concert and conversation over the weekend. Wade is featured in the museum’s exhibition “American Currents: State of the Music,” in the “Unbroken Circle” portion.
The event was offered in support of the exhibition, and was filmed. The program will be part of the museum’s Live at the Hall digital program series, premiering at a later date.
Auburn McCormick Signs With Rose & Thorn Records
Pictured: (Back Row, L-R): Jared Scott (R&T Records), Falon Simmons (R&T Records), Connor Rankin (R&T Records). Front Row: Auburn McCormick
Emerging country singer-songwriter Auburn McCormick has signed a record deal with Nashville-based independent label Rose & Thorn Records. The label was founded by Connor Rankin and has added Jared Scott as Director of Operations and Falon Simmons as Head of A&R.
“Signing a record deal has always been a goal of mine. From a young age, I knew music was what I was supposed to do with my life,” shares McCormick. “Once I saw how passionate they were about me and my music, and their belief that we could and would be better than the industry ‘standard,’ I knew this was my team.”
NSAI Elects New President & VP As Steve Bogard Ends Tenure In Leadership
/by LB CantrellLee Thomas Miller & Jenn Schott
The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) recently concluded its Board of Director elections and selected its leadership for the coming year. Steve Bogard, the longest-serving President in the organization’s history, has decided not to seek another term in leadership, but will continue to serve on NSAI’s Board of Directors.
Lee Thomas Miller has been elected by the Board of Directors to serve as the organization’s President, and Jenn Schott has been elected Vice President.
Steve Bogard
“Steve Bogard led NSAI through complicated trials where we sought higher streaming rates, the Music Modernization Act, and many challenges as we sought to improve compensation for American Songwriters,” shares NSAI Executive Director Bart Herbison. “Every songwriter in the United States owes him a handshake and thank you for his work and the thousands of hours he sacrificed.”
Herbison adds, “We are also glad to welcome Lee Thomas Miller who has served as President previously and is a proven, effective advocate. And Jenn Schott who will serve as NSAI Vice President after years of experience on our board and Executive Committee.”
Additionally, Trannie Anderson will join the NSAI Board for her first term. 10 current board members have been re-elected to two-year terms, including Bogard, Schott, Chris DeStefano, J.T. Harding, Byron Hill, Josh Kear, Jamie Moore, Jon Nite, Liz Rose and Emily Shackelton.
Roger Brown was re-appointed to a one-year term as Legislative Chair. Rhett Akins and Caitlyn Smith were re-appointed to one-year terms in the Artist-Writer board positions. Brett James was re-appointed to a one-year term in the Industry Liaison position.
All join existing board members Miller, Kelly Archer, Sarah Buxton, David Hodges, Jessie Jo Dillon, Tim Nichols, Josh Osborne, Rivers Rutherford, Anthony L. Smith, Troy Verges and Parker Welling, whose terms will expire in 2025.
NSAI Board elections happen in two phases and include voting by the NSAI Professional Songwriter Membership and appointments by the NSAI Board of Directors. The board terms begin each year at the April meeting.
Anne Wilson Embraces Her ‘Rebel’ Side On New Country & Christian Hybrid Project
/by Lorie HollabaughAnne Wilson is gearing up to release a genre-blending new album Rebel on April 19 via UMG Nashville and Capitol Christian Music Group. To offer fans a taste of the forthcoming album, Wilson has released the new song, “God & Country.”
The new single, which was co-penned with Jeff Pardo, Matthew West and Trannie Anderson, showcases both sides of Wilson as an artist and the faith-infused country music that defines Rebel. She revisits the Kentucky roots that shaped her identity in the track, from church pews and Sunday morning choirs to mud tires and Friday night lights, and offers a glimpse of what it’s like to grow up in the heart of the heartland.
A co-writer on each of the album’s 16 tracks, Wilson teamed up with some of Music Row’s most in-demand songwriters for the project firmly rooted in both country and Christian music. The album was produced by Pardo and Jonathan Smith.
“I can’t wait for everyone to hear these brand new songs on April 19,” shares Wilson. “I’ve been working so hard over the past 15 months to write these songs, record them and get them into the world! I was raised on two things: the love of God and the love of all things country. That’s what fuels the music I make and that’s what you’ll hear more of on Rebel. I’m just so excited we are this close to releasing the record!”
In addition to “God & Country,” Wilson has been making waves with her current country single, “Rain In The Rearview,” co-written with West, Jaren Johnston and Zach Kale. Meanwhile, her single “Strong” continues to stand firm at Christian radio, reaching the Top 15 on the Billboard Christian Airplay and Mediabase Audience charts and climbing.’
Wilson will celebrate the release of Rebel with a special one-night-only event in Lexington, Kentucky, taking place on Sunday, April 21 at 7 p.m. ET at the Lexington Opera House. Tickets will go one sale this Friday, Feb. 9 at 10 a.m. ET.
Andy Flick Elevated To National Director, Radio At Warner Music Nashville
/by LB CantrellAndy Flick. Photo: Michael Tedesco
Warner Music Nashville has promoted Andy Flick to National Director, Radio for Team WMN. Effective immediately, he will continue reporting to VP Radio Anna Cage.
Flick joined WMN in April 2021 as Regional Manager, Radio (North) for Team WAR after more than 20 years at Sony. Over the past three years he has played an instrumental role in radio campaigns for Chase Matthew, Dan + Shay, Gabby Barrett, Tyler Braden, Zac Brown Band and Zach Bryan. Flick and Team WAR started 2024 by celebrating Dan + Shay‘s 10th No. 1 song at country radio.
“Andy is the ultimate professional, a natural leader and a chart ninja,” Cage shares. “We are thrilled to have him leading the charge for Team WMN.”
“I am beyond thankful to Kristen Williams, Tom Martens and Anna Cage for the opportunity to join Team WMN,” Flick says. “This is a dynamic radio team, and I admire their unwavering passion and extraordinary work on behalf of our world-class artist roster. I’m excited for this new role, and I look forward to working with our radio partners to connect listeners with some of the most inspiring artists and music in the format.”
Curb Records Promo Veteran Mike Rogers To Retire
/by Lorie HollabaughMike Rogers
Curb Records National Director, Promotion Mike Rogers has announced his retirement, effective March 1.
The 35-year radio promotion veteran has been National Director, Promotion at Curb since 2002 and, prior to that, worked on the promotion team at CBS/Sony.
“Thank you, Mike, for the incredible 21 years you’ve given Curb Records,” says Curb Records Chairman, Mike Curb. “We are very sad to see you retire but we are grateful for every second you’ve spent with our team. We look forward to seeing what your next chapter brings.”
“Mike Curb’s belief in me these last 21 years was unparalleled,” says Rogers. “I was and always will be proudest of all we have accomplished in my time at Curb. You entrusted me to give your music its best shot and I hope I made you proud. To have actually learned from a legend will always be a crowning achievement in my career. Now, it’s time to ‘do some life’ with my wife, Laura, and our two daughters, all of whom sacrificed a ton as I lived out that road life as a radio promotion rep.”