Eric Church & Morgan Wallen. Photo: Victoria Will
Eric Church and Morgan Wallen, along with a group of brand builders, have joined forces to relaunch Field & Stream, the iconic outdoor lifestyle brand with origins dating back to 1871.
The group, led by Church and Wallen, purchased the retail side of the trademark from Dick’s Sporting Goods, as well as the media platform from Recurrent. The move not only unifies the legacy brand under the same ownership for the first time in its 150-year history, but will also resurrect the print magazine through a membership community.
“I can remember my grandfather kept a few of his favorite Field & Stream magazines on the dash of his truck,” says Church. “That truck took us on hundreds of outdoor adventures and I all but memorized every story and every picture on every page. They were my Bible. It is the honor of my life to make sure that legacy carries on. It is both this responsibility to an American Icon and also to a young boy in his papaw’s truck that will be the compass that guides our steps.”
Church and Wallen are vested in the brand as avid outdoorsmen, conservationists and storytellers. The new ownership will take a hands-on approach to preserving the authenticity of Field & Stream, solidifying its authority in the outdoor space and ensuring it stays true to its roots.
“There’s nothin’ I love more than being with friends around a campfire, on a boat or in a deer stand—and Field & Stream represents all of those to me,” says Wallen. “Being part of its future is incredible and we want to keep bringing people together outdoors, makin’ memories, for generations to come.”
Key aspects of the relaunch include the Field & Stream 1871 Club, a refreshed digital platform, a limited-edition apparel collection inspired by Church and Wallen and the announcement of an outdoor music festival co-produced by Southern Entertainment coming this fall. Additional plans for future partnerships include a new online marketplace to spotlight and elevate craft makers and artisans in the outdoor lifestyle space.
Today also marks the launch of the Field & Stream 1871 Club, a membership community that pays homage to its storied history and brings back the distinguished, high-quality print publication. Members will enjoy exclusive access to a large-format print magazine, published twice annually, as well as benefits including priority ticket access to the Field & Stream Music Festival, members-only gear, a limited-edition Honor Badge (a revived F&S tradition now offered as a members-only pin), VIP entry into outdoor experiences, exclusive discounts and digital content. Ten percent of the net profits from the 1871 Club will be directed towards non-profit organizations, actively contributing to the support of outdoor causes.
The new Field & Stream brand will be led by Doug McNamee, former president of the Magnolia media and lifestyle brand cofounded by Chip and Joanna Gaines. Colin Kearns, who has served as editor-in-chief for Field & Stream since 2016, will remain in his position alongside his editorial team.
“We are committed to reinforcing Field & Stream’s legendary status as the authoritative voice of the American outdoors,” says McNamee. “We look forward to unifying our passionate enthusiasts under a single canopy as we steward this trusted brand toward a thoughtful and expansive revival. As the latest in the lineage of caretakers, we aim to restore and amplify Field & Stream’s authentic voice with our extended storytelling family.”
Eric Church & Morgan Wallen Unite To Revive ‘Field & Stream’
/by Lorie HollabaughEric Church & Morgan Wallen. Photo: Victoria Will
Eric Church and Morgan Wallen, along with a group of brand builders, have joined forces to relaunch Field & Stream, the iconic outdoor lifestyle brand with origins dating back to 1871.
The group, led by Church and Wallen, purchased the retail side of the trademark from Dick’s Sporting Goods, as well as the media platform from Recurrent. The move not only unifies the legacy brand under the same ownership for the first time in its 150-year history, but will also resurrect the print magazine through a membership community.
“I can remember my grandfather kept a few of his favorite Field & Stream magazines on the dash of his truck,” says Church. “That truck took us on hundreds of outdoor adventures and I all but memorized every story and every picture on every page. They were my Bible. It is the honor of my life to make sure that legacy carries on. It is both this responsibility to an American Icon and also to a young boy in his papaw’s truck that will be the compass that guides our steps.”
Church and Wallen are vested in the brand as avid outdoorsmen, conservationists and storytellers. The new ownership will take a hands-on approach to preserving the authenticity of Field & Stream, solidifying its authority in the outdoor space and ensuring it stays true to its roots.
“There’s nothin’ I love more than being with friends around a campfire, on a boat or in a deer stand—and Field & Stream represents all of those to me,” says Wallen. “Being part of its future is incredible and we want to keep bringing people together outdoors, makin’ memories, for generations to come.”
Key aspects of the relaunch include the Field & Stream 1871 Club, a refreshed digital platform, a limited-edition apparel collection inspired by Church and Wallen and the announcement of an outdoor music festival co-produced by Southern Entertainment coming this fall. Additional plans for future partnerships include a new online marketplace to spotlight and elevate craft makers and artisans in the outdoor lifestyle space.
Today also marks the launch of the Field & Stream 1871 Club, a membership community that pays homage to its storied history and brings back the distinguished, high-quality print publication. Members will enjoy exclusive access to a large-format print magazine, published twice annually, as well as benefits including priority ticket access to the Field & Stream Music Festival, members-only gear, a limited-edition Honor Badge (a revived F&S tradition now offered as a members-only pin), VIP entry into outdoor experiences, exclusive discounts and digital content. Ten percent of the net profits from the 1871 Club will be directed towards non-profit organizations, actively contributing to the support of outdoor causes.
The new Field & Stream brand will be led by Doug McNamee, former president of the Magnolia media and lifestyle brand cofounded by Chip and Joanna Gaines. Colin Kearns, who has served as editor-in-chief for Field & Stream since 2016, will remain in his position alongside his editorial team.
“We are committed to reinforcing Field & Stream’s legendary status as the authoritative voice of the American outdoors,” says McNamee. “We look forward to unifying our passionate enthusiasts under a single canopy as we steward this trusted brand toward a thoughtful and expansive revival. As the latest in the lineage of caretakers, we aim to restore and amplify Field & Stream’s authentic voice with our extended storytelling family.”
Presenters & Performers Lineup Revealed For Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony
/by Lorie HollabaughCarly Pearce poses with her Grammy Award at the 2023 ceremony
The lineup of presenters and performers has been revealed for the upcoming 66th annual Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony on Feb. 4.
“The Premiere Ceremony is the most incredible lead-up to Music’s Biggest Night,” says Harvey Mason jr., CEO of the Recording Academy. “With an amazing line-up of presenters and performers, we’ll reveal and celebrate the winners of more than 80 categories, spanning the diverse genres and crafts that have contributed to such a spectacular year in music.”
Justin Tranter will host the Premiere Ceremony from the Peacock Theater in L.A., and the opening number will feature a performance by J. Ivy, Larkin Poe, Pentatonix, Sheila E. and Jordin Sparks. Other artists scheduled to perform include current nominees Adam Blackstone, Brandy Clark, Kirk Franklin, Robert Glasper, Bob James, Laufey, Terrace Martin, Gaby Moreno and Harvey Mason Sr.
Presenters for the first Grammy Awards of the day include Carly Pearce, Patti Austin, Natalia Lafourcade, Molly Tuttle, Rufus Wainwright and five-time Grammy winner and former Recording Academy Board of Trustees Chair Jimmy Jam. Recording Academy CEO Mason jr. and Chair of the Board of Trustees Tammy Hurt will provide opening remarks. The 66th Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony will stream live on Sun, Feb. 4, at 3:30 p.m. ET on the Recording Academy’s YouTube channel and on live.GRAMMY.com.
The 66th Grammy Awards will broadcast live following the Premiere Ceremony on CBS and stream live and on-demand on Paramount+. See the list of nominees here.
Lisa Harless Retires After More Than 38 Years With Regions Bank [Exclusive]
/by LB CantrellLisa Harless
Music Row veteran Lisa Harless has retired from her position as Sr. VP/Wealth Advisor, Entertainment and Sports Division of Regions Bank. She was with the company for more than 38 years.
“When I reflect on the past three and half decades, I am incredibly blessed to have known and worked with the legendary and incredibly talented individuals I have worked with—and how fulfilling to have been involved in helping them achieve their financial and career goals,” Harless tells MusicRow. “How fortunate I have been to work with a company like Regions which gives back to our community in countless ways, is an annual corporate sponsor of key music industry organizations, and is the title sponsor of the NSAI’s Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival.”
Harless, a graduate of Lipscomb University, joined Regions in 1985 following time at Aetna Casualty and Surety. In her executive post at the bank, she assisted clients with a wide range of financial services including deposit and credit needs, investments and estate and financial planning.
Private Wealth Advisor Chase Chapman and Music Row Branch Manager Melodie Zack will now head Regions’ Music Row leadership team.
“I have tremendous confidence in our Regions Music Row leadership team,” Harless says. “Chapman and Zack share my passion for meeting the financial needs of those in the entertainment industry, and this is the ideal time to turn the banking leadership reins over to them to carry on our tradition of outstanding client service!”
In retirement, Harless will enthusiastically continue her involvement with music and songwriter events, supporting the non-profits close to her heart and serving on Boards and Advisory Councils of key organizations. She also plans to travel with her husband and spend time with her family.
In recognition of her retirement, the Regions Foundation of TN has honored Harless with a $10,000 donation to W.O. Smith Music School in her honor, an organization she holds dear.
Harless describes this transitional season as “reFIREment,” as she is “fired up” about her future plans and all she wants to accomplish in this next chapter.
CMA Hosts International Touring & Consumption MemberSIPS Event
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Chris Kappy, Milly Olykan, Liz Cost, Meredith Goucher and Shannon Saunders. Photo: Becca Risley/CMA
The Country Music Association welcomed members and industry professionals to its Nashville headquarters on Tuesday (Jan. 23) for a MemberSIPS function focused on international opportunities for country music in 2024.
CMA created MemberSIPS to cater to its members’ professional development needs—offering thematic presentations, discussions and gatherings, and giving members a networking opportunity with like-minded professionals while enjoying a beverage with one another.
The networking event was designed specifically for artist teams who are headed to the United Kingdom, Europe and/or Australia in Q1 and Q2. Attendees received advice and info from top industry professionals as well as guidance on how emerging artists can build an international fanbase and how established artists can replicate success overseas.
Professionals in the business came together to discuss leveraging upcoming festivals such as Country to Country (C2C), CMC Rocks and Highways, and share best practices and tips for making the most of international opportunities. Additionally, CMA shared current international consumption data and provided an overview of how it remains engaged year-round with a network of international professionals helping to grow country music in their territories.
Moderator Milly Olykan (CMA Vice President, International Relations & Development) and panelists Chris Kappy (Founder & Chief Navigation Officer, Make Wake Management and CMA Board member), Liz Cost (Vice President, Marketing, Sony Music Nashville) and Shannon Saunders (WME Agent and CMA U.K. Task Force member) shared their expertise, personal experience and observations on country’s impact internationally and what they believe to be the important focuses and steps to help artists succeed in global markets.
BMG Promotes Jon Loba To President Frontline Recordings, North America
/by Liza AndersonPictured (L-R): Jon Loba, Thomas Coesfeld and Thomas Scherer. Photo: Courtesy of BMG
BMG is now increasing investment in its U.S. record labels as it “doubles down” on its North America operation, which already accounts for more than 50 percent of its revenue. As part of the plan, BMG Nashville President Jon Loba will become President Frontline Recordings, North America, taking charge of BMG’s entire North American frontline records business across Nashville, Los Angeles, New York and Canada. His other responsibilities include the Rise (Spiritbox, Sum 41) and RBC (Chief Keef, Run The Jewels) imprints as well as the main BMG label.
Additionally, Thomas Scherer, who oversaw publishing and recordings in Los Angeles and New York, will become President Global Catalog Recordings, while retaining his responsibilities as President, Music Publishing, North America. Alongside CFO North America Joe Gillen, they will comprise BMG’s U.S.-based leadership.
BMG CEO Thomas Coesfeld says, “We are making good on our promise to double down on our U.S. operation with a distinctive new approach: an integrated frontline operation spanning the whole of North America plus a Global Catalog business steered from Los Angeles. BMG is stepping up. This is an integral part of our new strategy to deliver for artists and songwriters and go for growth.”
Loba joined BMG in 2017 when the company acquired Nashville-based BBR Music Group. He has since grown a roster that already included country superstars Jason Aldean and Dustin Lynch to breakout artists such as Blanco Brown, Parmalee and 2024 Grammy nominees Jelly Roll and Lainey Wilson. In 2023, Loba played a key role in BMG receiving its first Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 with Aldean’s “Try That In A Small Town,” and Jelly Roll and Wilson accounted for six of the 12 awards presented at the CMA Awards.
“Under Jon Loba, BMG Nashville has exceeded our expectations year after year. Jon is not only one of the most accomplished record executives in Nashville, the multi-genre success he has achieved with Jelly Roll makes him the ideal person to take additional responsibility for our Los Angeles, New York and Canada recordings business as we further pursue our objective of making BMG the most effective and artist-friendly destination for artists, both established and new,” says Coesfeld. “Jon is a true entrepreneur and combines music savvy with an instinctive and well-rounded managerial style. I am delighted he is stepping up to take on this challenge.”
“We have created something special with our artists in Nashville. I am excited at the opportunity to apply the timeless formula we have employed there–genuine partnership with authentic new artists–to BMG’s broader North American recorded business,” shares Loba. “I am grateful to Thomas Coesfeld for his constant inspiration and trust and to the broader BMG team. It’s been an exciting six months since Thomas was named CEO. His energetic and strategic approach to the business has been very inspirational for all of us, because that’s the way our Nashville team runs. I’m looking so forward to working even closer with our staff throughout North America and as important, helping bring the visions of our amazing artists to life.”
Camille Parker Signs With Big AL Management
/by Liza AndersonCamille Parker
Singer-songwriter and producer Camille Parker has signed with artist management and development company Big AL Management.
Parker released her debut EP After The Whiskey, Pt.1 this past fall, and has garnered more than three million on-demand streams globally. Additionally, the CMT Next Women of Country alum was featured on the Apple TV original series My Kind of Country. She has made appearances at Bonnaroo, CMA Fest and The Long Road Festival, and plans to make her Grand Ole Opry debut on Feb. 17.
Founder & CEO Alex Evelyn launched Big AL Management to empower artists and redefine the future of music. Evelyn’s love for music started as a performing percussionist, but she later found a passion for live production while studying audio engineering at Belmont University. She also produced and hosted on the genre-less Nashville radio station YoCo 96.7 FM.
“Camille Parker brings a unique blend of artistry and creativity to the Big AL Management family,” says Evelyn. “As she takes the next steps in her career, we are committed to providing the support and resources necessary for her continued growth and success.”
“I’m very excited to join the Big AL Management family,” shares Parker. “I look forward to growing this partnership and creating great music. Exciting things to come.”
Parker and Evelyn were both part of the second cohort of the Equal Access Development Program, an artist and management training initiative helmed by CMT and management services company Mtheory.
Dean Dillon Signs Publishing Deal With River House Artists & Sony Music Publishing
/by LB CantrellRiver House’s Zebb Luster, Dean Dillon and River House’s Lynn Oliver-Cline
Iconic country songwriter Dean Dillon has signed a worldwide publishing deal with River House Artists, in partnership with Sony Music Publishing.
Dillon is a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Having penned many iconic hits for chart-topping artists including George Strait, Kenny Chesney, Lee Ann Womack, Toby Keith and many more, Dillon was named the BMI Country Icon in 2013 and has amassed a combined total of 31 BMI Country and Pop Awards.
His association with Strait over the years has brought him to an icon status in country music with over 76 hits together, including the Grammy-nominated “Breath You Take” as well as “The Chair,” “I’ve Come to Expect it From You,” “Easy Come, Easy Go,” “She Let Herself Go,” “The Best Day” and endless more.
“We are thrilled to have Dean Dillon join our River House roster. His songwriting is unparalleled, and this is such an exciting time for us,” says Zebb Luster, VP/GM of River House Artists. “I have been a true fan of his songwriting for years and how it has forged a path in country music history. We are honored that he trusts us to continue to further his incredible songwriting legacy.”
Dillon adds, “I’m so excited to be part of the River House family. The team has an excellent track record and are such thoughtful stewards of great songs. I’m looking forward to working with them to further my lasting legacy as a songwriter.”
Dillon moved to Nashville in 1973, and his career has been one that most Music City songwriters aspire to have. His first No. 1 was “Lying Here in Love With You,” recorded by Jim Ed Brown and Helen Cornelius and co-written with Gary Harrison.
Dillon’s latest hits have included George Strait’s “Here for a Good Time” and “Livin’ For the Night” as well as “It’s a Little Too Late” performed by Keith and “I’m Alive” by Chesney and Dave Matthews. In addition to his songbook of hits for other artists, he has charted eight of his songs as a recording artist, with “I’m Into the Bottle (To Get You Out of My Mind)” breaking into the Top 30.
Ryder Johnson Inks Publishing Deal With Prescription Songs
/by Madison HahnenChristian Conant and Ryder Johnson
Multi-Platinum producer and songwriter Ryder Johnson has signed a publishing deal with Prescription Songs.
Originally from Arkansas, Johnson’s cross-genre talent has landed him projects with some of music’s biggest stars. Most notably, Johnson has received credits on “No Return (with The Kid Laroi and Lil Durk)” by Polo G, “Choppa Shoot The Loudest (with Chief Keef, feat. Trippie Redd)” by Lil Tecca, “Spinnin’ (feat. Est Gee)” by Lil Durk and “How The Game Go” by Rod Wave. He has also collaborated on projects with HotBoii, Lil Yachty, Mike Posner, Tom Morello, City Morgue and more.
“I’m more than excited to finally be a part of the Prescription family! We all worked so hard to get this deal done because of how eager we were to get work done. I can’t wait to see where it goes from here,” says Johnson.
Christian Conant, A&R, Prescription Songs adds, “We’re so lucky to welcome Ryder into the fold here at Prescription Songs! His credits and work ethic speak for themselves, but above all that, he’s a great human being. I’m confident this is still just the beginning for Ryder. I can’t wait to see where this partnership takes us! I’m incredibly thankful for Diana Sanders and John Rybicki for their legal guidance, and Katie Fagan for bringing us all together!”
Dolly Parton Expands Downhome Comfort Food Line With Duncan Hines/Conagra
/by Lorie HollabaughDolly Parton
Dolly Parton and Duncan Hines’ parent company Conagra Brands have developed a new line of retail food items through a new licensing partnership.
The new partnership expands beyond Dolly’s Duncan Hines Sweet Treats to a variety of new food categories, including frozen foods and refrigerated items, as well as grocery and snack items inspired by down-home comfort cuisine.
“I loved co-creating my Duncan Hines line with Conagra and I’m thrilled we’re going well beyond the baking aisle with new items across the store,” says Parton. “We’re looking to continue to inspire special moments in the kitchen, with some of my family’s favorite recipes, and I think people are really going to love them!”
The new products will start rolling onto store shelves nationwide this month, with an expanded line-up of Duncan Hines’ mixes including Chocolate Cake Mix, Yellow Cake Mix, Cinnamon Crumb Cake Mix, Blueberry Muffin Mix and Banana Nut Muffin Mix. Additionally, the first single branded Dolly Parton item, Buttermilk Pancake Mix, will start hitting shelves this winter and marks Dolly’s first foray into the breakfast category. More items are expected to launch later in 2024, including frozen items.
Parton’s newest baking mixes and frostings are flowing through to stores nationwide now on a rolling launch, but the brand is giving consumers a chance to try some of the new items and get exclusive, limited-edition Dolly keepsakes with the new Dolly Parton Bake Like a Rockstar Baking Collection, available online only while supplies last. The kit includes: Dolly Parton’s Blueberry Muffin Mix, Cinnamon Swirl Crumb Cake Mix, Favorite Chocolate Cake Mix and Creamy Chocolate Buttercream Frosting; an exclusive magnet featuring the popular illustration of Dolly from the Duncan Hines’ packaging; a Dolly-inspired, collectible oven mitt; and recipe cards with some of Dolly’s favorite recipes like Lemon Glazed Blueberry Crumb Cake and Coffee Cake Muffins.
“This unprecedented partnership with Dolly Parton gives us an incredible opportunity to further cement Conagra Brands in our established categories, while authentically positioning us for tremendous growth in new ones including Southern cooking and comfort food,” says Tom McGough, Chief Operating Officer at Conagra Brands.
Chris Young’s Attorney Releases Statement
/by LB CantrellChris Young. Photo: Jeff Johnson
Chris Young‘s attorney Bill Ramsey has issued a statement denouncing the singer’s arrest earlier this week, when he was charged with disorderly conduct, assaulting an officer and resisting arrest after an altercation at a bar in Nashville.
After his arrest on Monday night (Jan. 22), Young’s mugshot was shared across social media and national media outlets. Reports shared that he had allegedly assaulted a Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) agent who was checking IDs at a downtown bar in Nashville.
Video evidence that surfaced on Wednesday (Jan. 24) seemed to show that the agent initiated the physical altercation with Young.
Though the singer has been unable to comment directly on the incident, his attorney has spoken out.
“What happened to my client Chris Young at a bar in Nashville on Monday night was wrong and he never should have been arrested and charged in the first place,” Ramsey says. “In light of the video evidence, Tennessee ABC needs to drop the charges and apologize for the physical, emotional and professional harm done towards my client.”