2023 had no shortage of news from the Nashville music business.
Some of the city’s major labels saw big changes, including Mike Dungan stepping down at UMG Nashville, and Cindy Mabe being appointed the new Chair & CEO of the label. Over at Warner Music Nashville, Cris Lacy and Ben Kline officially began their new era of leadership following the retirement of former label head John Esposito.
This year also saw some of country music’s newest and brightest stars soar to new heights, including Megan Moroney earning her first No. 1 with “Tennessee Orange,” and Bailey Zimmerman having a record-breaking year and continually topping the charts.
After releasing her EP Rolling Up the Welcome Mat in February, Kelsea Ballerini had an explosive year, including performing “Penthouse” at the VMAs and landing on the cover of TIME100. Morgan Wallen had another record-breaking year, with his new One Thing at a Time album and 2021’s Dangerous: The Double Album making him one of the most-listened to artists in the world.
Lainey Wilson continued to dominate her lane in country music in 2023, winning five CMA Awards including the top honor of Entertainer of the Year, four ACM Awards, two CMT Music Awards, three People’s Choice Country Awards and completing a 28-date sold-out headlining tour. Label-mate Jelly Roll also had a breakout year, with his debut country album Whitsitt Chapel becoming the biggest country debut album in Billboard Consumption Chart history. He also took home multiple awards this year and is up for Best New Artist at the Grammy Awards in 2024.
Broadway will see even more country music stars opening businesses in the coming year, with Luke Combs and The Opry Entertainment Group announcing their joint venture for a new four-story entertainment venue on 2nd Ave. Combs continued his reign as one of the genre’s top artists in 2023. His version of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” won Single of the Year at the 57th Annual CMA Awards earlier this week. Additionally, it spent five-consecutive weeks atop Billboard’s Country Airplay chart and reached #1 on the Hot AC chart, the first song by a male solo artist to ever top both the hot AC and country charts. It’s nominated for Best Country Solo Performance at the Grammys.
With the release of her 30-track rock album Rockstar, Hall of Famer Dolly Parton scored the biggest album debut of her seven-decade career. The star-studded project debuted at No. 1 on six different Billboard charts. Another country icon, Brenda Lee, celebrated the 65th anniversary of her Christmas hit “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree,” and saw the song top the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the first time ever, making Lee the oldest woman to top the Hot 100, surpassing previous record-holders Cher (“Believe,” age 52) and Mariah Carey (“All I Want for Christmas is You,” age 53).
After leaving Sony Music Nashville earlier in the year, Miranda Lambert later partnered with Big Loud and hit songwriter/producer Jon Randall to launch Big Loud Texas, where she and Randall will be directly involved in signing and developing artists on the roster.
Grammy-winning songwriters Shane McAnally and Brandy Clark celebrated their musical Shucked earning a Tony award, among a bevy of other recognitions. Alex Newell won for Best Actor in a Feautred Role In a Musical, for the role of LuLu. Newell made history as the first openly non-binary actor to win the award.
Look back on these top stories and more as MusicRow rewinds 2023 below.
[January 9, 2023] Universal Music Group Nashville Chairman and CEO Mike Dungan will retire in March. He has led the Nashville arm of the company since 2012. Dungan will continue to serve as an advisor to UMG Chairman and CEO Lucian Grainge. The announcement indicated that Dungan’s successor will be revealed at a later date, though current UMG Nashville president Cindy Mabe is expected to assume the position…
Cindy Mabe. Photo: Kevin Wimpy / UMG
[January 10, 2023] Cindy Mabe has been appointed Chair and CEO of Universal Music Group Nashville, effective April 1, 2023. She will succeed Mike Dungan, who will retire from his position at UMG Nashville after more than a decade there and a total of four decades in the music industry During her tenure at UMG, Mabe has helped guide and grow the careers of some of country music’s biggest stars, including Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Jordan Davis, Mickey Guyton, Sam Hunt, Alan Jackson, Parker McCollum, Reba McEntire, Kacey Musgraves, Jon Pardi, Chris Stapleton, George Strait, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Brothers Osborne and Little Big Town, among countless others. She has earned multiple honors, including the Country Music Hall of Fame’s Louise Scruggs Memorial Forum Award and the SOURCE Hall of Fame Award…
[January 13, 2023] Public relations powerhouse Carleen Donovan has had her eyes on Music City for a number of years. She’s a veteran of music publicity, who, at just 20-years-old, launched her career as Head of PR for influential independent label Mute Records after a series of internships. She went on to hold Senior Executive roles at KSA Publicity and Press Here Publicity, in addition to the post of Executive Vice President of Public Relations and Marketing for Career Artist Management / Live Nation…
[January 17, 2023] Agent Adi Sharma has joined The Neal Agency (TNA) as co-head and agent, expanding the nine-act company to a dozen clients. Coupled with the newest staff addition, TNA has also announced the signing of lifestyle brand Stevenson Ranch to extend the brand’s footprint in the live space and help curate and create live events…
Warner Music Nashville staff. Photo: Alan Poizner
[January 17, 2023] Warner Music Nashville Co-Chairs / Co-Presidents Ben Kline and Cris Lacy ushered in a new era of leadership at the label with the beginning of 2023. In June of 2022, the music industry veterans were announced as successors to the beloved John Esposito, who remained Chairman & CEO through the remainder of the year. Esposito is now officially Chairman Emeritus, and Lacy and Kline are in charge. The two launched the new year last week (Jan. 11) alongside the full WMN team with a day of culture building and informational programming at a company-wide off-site meeting…
[January 20, 2023] In early January, MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson successfully climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, reaching the summit, the highest point on the dormant volcano. Embarking on a 7-day hike on the Lemosho route, Robertson reached Mount Kilimanjaro’s Uhuru Peak on Friday, January 6, 2023 at 8:34 a.m. East Africa Time…
JoJamie Hahr. Photo: Cody Heckber
[January 23, 2023] BMG announced the elevation of JoJamie Hahr to Executive Vice President Recorded Music – Nashville. In her new role, Hahr will oversee day-to-day operations of BMG Recorded Music in Nashville, including BBR Label Group and its roster and imprints Broken Bow Records, Stoney Creek Records, and Wheelhouse Records. She will continue reporting to President of BMG Nashville, Jon Loba. Hahr was promoted to SVP of BBR Music Group in 2020, where she oversaw all artist project strategy, brand partnerships, strategic marketing, as well as digital and creative efforts for each of the BBR Music Group’s three imprints…
[January 31, 2023] Music industry veteran Jake Basden is joining Jason Owen’s Sandbox Entertainment Group as President. Basden brings with him over a decade’s worth of experience in Nashville. During his 12 years at Big Machine Label Group, he was named the 2019 PRWeek “40 under 40” designee and Young PR Professional of the Year winner. He spent a significant portion of his time at BMLG working music projects such as Taylor Swift’s record-breaking album releases, Steven Tyler’s solo country album, Sheryl Crow’s all-star Threads project, Thomas Rhett’s 20 No. 1 songs and Country Music Hall of Famer Glen’s Campbell’s final recordings.
Carly Pearce poses with her Grammy Award
[February 6, 2023] At the 65th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday night (Feb. 5), talented Nashville musicians made the most of their time on screen via a handful of performances. Brandi Carlile earned a rousing standing ovation when she kicked the night off with “Broken Horses,” the tune that won her both Best Rock Performance and Best Rock Song earlier in the evening…
[February 28, 2023] MusicRow virtually announced the winners of the 21st annual CountryBreakout Awards throughout the day today (Feb. 28). Winners were spotlighted across all of MusicRow’s online platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. The MusicRow CountryBreakout Awards celebrate those who have dominated country radio’s secondary market. Winners in eight categories are determined by spins on the secondary market stations that report to the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart panel each week…
[March 3, 2023] The Country Music Association hosted their CMA Triple Play Awards ceremony earlier this week at Saint Elle in Nashville. The ceremony was hosted by CMA Board member and composer, Jim Beavers. Now in its 13th year, the CMA Triple Play Awards honor songwriters who pen three No. 1 songs within a 12-month period based on the Country Aircheck, Billboard Country Airplay and Billboard Hot Country Songs charts…
Morgan Wallen performs at Bridgestone Arena. Photo: Ryan Smith
[March 6, 2023] Country superstar Morgan Wallen released his third studio album, One Thing At A Time, on Friday (March 3). To celebrate, he invited 19,292 fans to a free show at Bridgestone Arena, setting an all-time attendance for the arena according to EVP of Entertainment & Venues David Kells. In addition to the near 20,000 fans who filled the stadium on Friday, over a million tuned in on Wallen’s livestream of the event…
[March 13, 2023] Belmont University has appointed Brittany Schaffer as the new Dean of the Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business. Effective May 1, Schaffer fills the role of Doug Howard, who retired last fall. Schaffer will exit her position as Head of Nashville Label Partnerships and Music Strategy at Spotify on April 13. At the DSP, she co-leads the development and execution of Spotify’s global strategy to grow the Country, Christian/Gospel and Americana genres, and is responsible for overseeing all new music releases and campaigns out of Nashville…
[March 15, 2023] Johnny Chiang, who joined Pandora as Senior Director of Country Programming in August of 2022, has expanded his role to also oversee country music programming at SiriusXM. The news comes after a series of changes at SiriusXM/Pandora. Earlier this year, it was announced that Head of Country Music Talent & Industry Relations, Beville Dunkerley, was exiting her position at the platform. Additionally, it was announced last June that JR Schumann would exit his role as Sr. Dir./Music Programming at SiriusXM…
[March 15, 2023] In a social media post, Miranda Lambert announced that she is leaving Sony Music Nashville after 20 years together. She did not disclose where she is headed next. Lambert signed with Sony at the age of 19 and released her debut studio album Kerosene in 2005 via the imprint Epic Nashville. Since then, she has gone on to release seven more studio albums, notch 10 No. 1 hit radio singles and win more than 70 prestigious awards. The reigning ACM Entertainer of the Year is the most decorated artist in the history of the Academy of Country Music.
[March 16, 2023] Five new talented artists were added to the prestigious history of the CRS New Faces of Country Music showcase. Priscilla Block, Jackson Dean, Frank Ray, Jelly Roll and Nate Smith all took the stage in front of the country radio industry last night (March 15) to close out the 2023 edition of Country Radio Seminar. The night was dedicated to Country Radio Hall of Fame member Charlie Monk, who hosted the New Faces show at least 40 times in its 50-plus year history. Throughout the evening, video tributes to Monk appeared on screens, complete with many great stories and jokes from the honorary “Mayor of Music Row.”…
MusicRow’s Rising Women on the Row Class of 2023. Pictured (L-R): Jackie Jones, Stacy Blythe, Martha Earls, Beth Hamilton, Anna Weisband, Brittany Schaffer. Photo: Steve Lowry
[March 24, 2023] At MusicRow‘s annual Rising Women on the Row breakfast event on Thursday (March 23), more than 500 music business professionals came out to support the 2023 class of honorees. Now in its 10th year, MusicRow honored Big Loud’s Stacy Blythe, Neon Coast’s Martha Earls, WME’s Beth Hamilton, RIAA’s Jackie Jones, Spotify’s Brittany Schaffer and Sony Music Publishing’s Anna Weisband. Before the program commenced, attendees visited, drank coffee and took photos at the photo booth. When MusicRow Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson took the stage, he recognized the event’s presenting sponsors, City National Bank and Loeb & Loeb, before introducing featured speaker Lynn Oliver-Cline…
[March 23, 2023] MusicRow has confirmed that Arista Nashville, an imprint of Sony Music Nashville, has dissolved. The Artista Nashville roster has included Nate Smith, Megan Moroney, Brooks & Dunn, Old Dominion, Adam Doleac, Ryan Hurd, Seaforth and Morgan Wade. According to a report from Billboard, Old Dominion and Moroney have moved to Columbia while Nate Smith has gone to RCA. Brooks & Dunn, Seaforth, Hurd, Wade and Doleac will be reassigned when they have projects headed to radio…
[April 4, 2023] Royce Risser, Brian Wright and Stephanie Wright have exited UMG Nashville, MusicRow has confirmed. Risser most recently served as Exec. VP of Promotion, overseeing all promotion efforts in the UMG Nashville four-imprint structure consisting of Capitol Records Nashville, EMI Records Nashville, MCA Nashville and Mercury Nashville. He first joined the company in 1992 with MCA Nashville…
Bailey Zimmerman. Photo: Spidey Smith
[April 11, 2023] Bailey Zimmerman‘s “Rock and A Hard Place” is officially No. 1 on the Country Aircheck/Mediabase Chart, and now holds the title of most-played record across the country in one single week since the Mediabase chart’s inception. The smash hit also landed atop the Billboard Country Airplay chart for the third consecutive week. Additionally, “Rock and A Hard Place” has made its way into the Top 100 on the all-genre Billboard Global 200 chart once again, recently becoming Zimmerman’s first Top 10 hit on their all-genre Hot 100 chart…
[April 13, 2023] Luke Combs has teamed with Opry Entertainment Group on a new, massive multi-level entertainment complex in downtown Nashville at 120 Second Avenue North, the home of longtime downtown staple the Wildhorse Saloon. The new venue is expected to debut in the summer of 2024, but the company plans to operate the venue as the Wildhorse Saloon throughout the planned refurbishment period. Inspired by Combs’ 8x Platinum debut No. 1 hit, “Hurricane,” the venue will be the largest and most versatile entertainment complex in the downtown entertainment district. The 69,000-square-foot complex with an indoor/outdoor capacity of nearly 3,200 will be customized to reflect Combs’ passions for music, songwriting, whiskey and sports…
[April 19, 2023] Allison Laughter has been promoted to VP of Marketing, Digital & Streaming at Red Light Management Nashville. Laughter previously helmed the Digital Marketing & Streaming department and will now direct efforts for Marketing as well. Prior to joining Red Light Management in 2013, Laughter worked in digital marketing and publicity for Capitol Records Nashville and Universal Music Group Nashville…
John Esposito. Photo: Eric Brown
[April 21, 2023] If you’ve been to a music industry event in which Warner Music Nashville Chairman & CEO John “Espo” Esposito speaks, chances are you haven’t forgotten him. The Pennsylvania native stands tall, and dons glasses with dark, circular frames. He speaks with a slight accent, he’s hilariously witty, and is known for his colorful vernacular. In other words, he swears like a sailor…
[May 2, 2023] Big Loud has hired Sara Knabe as SVP of A&R. Effective immediately, Knabe will work in tandem with both the Big Loud Records and Big Loud Publishing A&R teams, leading across. “This is one of the most exciting announcements we’ve gotten to make in a while,” says Big Loud CEO/Partner, Seth England. “Sara was the first person I meaningfully met in Nashville; I got my first internship with her, and she helped me meet [Big Loud Partner] Craig [Wiseman]. We’ve been working with Sara in a freelance capacity for a while now, and have been continuously impressed by her professionalism, her collaborative approach, and her ear for finding outstanding talent. I’m not sure there is any one A&R person in Nashville who has brought me and Joey [Moi] more songs over the years. It is fitting and overdue that she joins our team.”…
[May 9, 2023] BMG/BBR Music Group has hired Peter Strickland as its new General Manager, effective immediately. Strickland, who has been working with BMG/BBR Music Group in a consultancy role for almost two years, brings with him decades worth of music industry experience and knowledge. As GM, he will oversee the financial and daily operations of BMG/BBR Music Group, streamline distribution channels and physical-product sales as well as spearhead the label’s comedy initiatives. He reports to Jon Loba, President of BMG Nashville…
[May 11, 2023] A lawsuit has been filed against Jimmie Allen for sexual assault by his former manager. Allen’s alleged assaults on his former manager are detailed in her interview with Variety. To protect her identity, she is referred to as “Jane Doe” throughout the Variety piece. MusicRow has confirmed with BBR Music Group they they have suspended all activity with Allen effective immediately. UTA has also suspended representation of Allen…
Chris Stapleton at the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards from Ford Center at The Star on May 11, 2023 in Frisco, Texas.
[May 12, 2023] The 58th Academy of Country Music Awards took over Frisco, Texas Thursday night (May 11). Lainey Wilson and Hardy tied for the most wins, taking home four awards each. Lainey won Female Artist of the Year and Album of the Year, as well as Music Event and Visual Media of the Year for her collaboration with Hardy, “Wait In The Truck.” In addition to his shared wins with Lainey, and his second trophy earned in the Music Event category as a producer of the song, Hardy took home Artist-Songwriter of the Year prior to the ACM Awards livestream…
[May 16, 2023] SESAC Performing Rights has promoted Shannan Hatch to SVP, Head of Nashville Creative. Rising from Vice President, Creative Services in the Nashville office, Hatch’s new role will maintain leadership of the Nashville-based Creative Services team in supporting SESAC-affiliated songwriters and publishers. Reporting to Chief Creative Officer Sam Kling, she will work closely with senior management to support creator-focused initiatives…
[May 25, 2023] Universal Music Group Nashville has named Chelsea Blythe as its Executive Vice President of A&R. Blythe began her career as an A&R intern at Interscope Records before becoming the department coordinator where she worked on award-winning artists including Kendrick Lamar, ScHoolboy Q, Rae Sremmurd and Mike WiLL Made-It. Moving to Columbia Records in 2016, Blythe climbed to Vice President of A&R, signed Symba as her first artist, played a role in signing Baby Keem to the label and developed multi-Platinum-selling artists Polo G and The Kid LAROI…
[June 1, 2023] Robert Carlton has been promoted to President and Equity Partner of SMACK. The company’s Michael McAnally Baum has stepped down from his operational role, but will stay on the ownership team alongside CCO Robin Palmer and Founder Shane McAnally. Carlton will continue to manage McAnally while also overseeing SMACK’s publishing, digital and management branches. He joined the company in 2014 and rose to Sr. VP of Development in 2016…
Pictured (L-R, back row): Leslie Roberts (BMI), Josh Miller (BMI), Will Bundy (ASCAP), Riley Green (BMI), Rhett Akins (BMI), Josh Thompson (BMI), Matt Dragstrem (ASCAP), Jon Pardi (BMI) and Mike Sistad (ASCAP);(L-R, front row): Julian Bunetta (BMI), Parker Welling (BMI), Thomas Rhett (BMI), Dann Huff (ASCAP) and Ashley Gorley (ASCAP) Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
[June 8, 2023] In how many music towns would a format-leading superstar take time to speak about each of his co-writers on his last seven chart-toppers? Well that’s exactly what happened in Nashville on Tuesday (June 6) when BMI and ASCAP staged a rooftop party celebrating seven of Thomas Rhett‘s 20 career No. 1 hits. BMI’s Leslie Roberts kicked everything off by welcoming the industry crowd. She quickly turned it over to Studio Bank’s Ron Cox, who made a special donation presentation on behalf of Rhett and the songwriters to Love One International…
[June 12, 2023] Shucked, the musical written by Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally and produced by Sandbox Entertainment’s Jason Owen alongside Broadway producer Mike Bosner, earned nine Tony nominations, and won one last night (June 11) at this year’s 76th annual awards ceremony. Alex Newell made history as the first openly non-binary actor to win the Tony for Best Actor in a Featured Role In a Musical for their role as Lulu…
[June 15, 2023] Garth Brooks is launching a new country station, The BIG 615, exclusively on TuneIn’s SEVENS Radio Network. Fans around the world can stream The BIG 615 for free on TuneIn today. The BIG 615 offers listeners an authentic take on country music and provides songs from the biggest artists today. Radio host Storme Warren will be the official voice of The BIG 615 and plans to partner with Brooks to drive content. Warren will be joined by guest hosts on occasion, including Brooks and other industry stars…
Chad Kudelka
[June 21, 2023] Last spring, veteran Texas music agent Chad Kudelka joined CAA as an Agent in the company’s Music Touring department. Kudelka came to CAA from Red 11 Music, the Nashville and Austin-based agency he co-founded. Now, with a roster that includes Cody Johnson, Koe Wetzel, Wade Bowen, Kolby Cooper, Pecos & The Rooftops, Randall King, Roger Creager and Ray Wylie Hubbard, Kudelka is a leader in both markets…
[June 30, 2023] Independent music publisher Big Machine Music (BMM) has announced a series of promotions, including the elevation of Mike Molinar to President. Effective immediately, Molinar will continue reporting to Big Machine Label Group (BMLG) CEO and Chairman Scott Borchetta. BMM has also promoted Alex Heddle to Senior Vice President of Publishing and Grayson Stephens to Vice President overseeing royalties and finance. Both will continue to report to Molinar…
[July 11, 2023] Sony Music Nashville has appointed Fred Rubenstein as Vice President, Digital Marketing, effective immediately. Rubenstein will be responsible for overseeing the digital marketing team and leading the strategy, execution and implementation of innovative social media and digital marketing campaigns across the Sony Music Nashville roster. He will also focus on exploring new partner/platform opportunities that will enable digital discovery, enhance artists’ brands and drive consumption…
Jim Catino
[July 27, 2023] When Jim Catino left his position as Executive Vice President of A&R at Sony Music Nashville after 20 years with the company, many in the industry were wondering what he would do next. Prior to his exit, Catino has spent the majority of his career working in the major label ecosystem, as well as some time at MCA Music Publishing, Giant Records & Publishing and DreamWorks Publishing. One could have assumed that Catino was tired of “the system,” working with and for a big corporation…
[August 1, 2023] Warner Music Nashville has appointed Stephanie Davenport and Rohan Kohli as the label’s new Vice Presidents of A&R. They will continue reporting to Cris Lacy, WMN Co-Chair & Co-President. “Stephanie and Rohan are incredible artist champions who have been the backbone of the A&R department for years,” Lacy says. “Ben [Kline] and I are excited to announce these well-deserved promotions…
[August 9, 2023] Music industry veteran Tom Becci has been appointed to a newly created role, leading Concord Label Group as its Chief Executive. Effective Aug. 14, Becci will oversee Concord’s entire recorded music division, inclusive of global frontline label and catalog operations. A New Jersey native, Becci got his start in the music business as the manager of special projects for EMI North America and comes to Concord with over 30 years of industry experience, most recently a more than seven year tenure at independent music management agency Red Light Management…
[August 22, 2023] BMG Nashville has hired Mark Logsdon as Vice President of Publicity. Reporting to EVP of BMG Nashville JoJamie Hahr, Logsdon will be responsible for leading the overall publicity strategy and execution for BBR Music Group’s artist roster including Jason Aldean, Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, Dustin Lynch, Chase Rice, Parmalee and more, as well as guiding BMG Nashville’s corporate communications…
Kenley Flynn. Photo: Jason Myers
[August 22, 2023] Sony Music Publishing Nashville has promoted Kenley Flynn to Vice President, Creative A&R. In his new role, Flynn will be responsible for signing and developing talent, and driving creative opportunities on behalf of SMP Nashville’s roster. “Being at Sony Music Publishing these last few years has been genuinely inspiring. I get to work with Nashville’s top songwriters, artists, and producers as well as with an A&R team that is world class. I’m so proud of the story we are writing here and I’m grateful to Rusty [Gaston] and Josh [Van Valkenburg] for letting me play a role in that story,” shares Flynn…
[August 28, 2023] Maverick Nashville’s Head of Artist Services Amanda Cates is leaving her position at the company at the end of the month. She will be taking on consulting projects after her exit. Cates joined Clarence Spalding’s artist management company, Spalding Entertainment, in 2009 to focus on building out the digital department, which has since become artist services. Now Maverick Nashville, the company’s roster includes Jason Aldean, Brooks & Dunn, Darius Rucker, Rascal Flatts and more…
[August 21, 2023] Oliver Anthony‘s “Rich Men North Of Richmond” earns the top debut on the country streaming songs chart this week, scoring the No. 3 slot with 17 million streams according to Luminate data. Morgan Wallen‘s “Last Night” rests at No. 1 with 23 million new streams, adding to 816 million ATD. Luke Combs‘ “Fast Car” cover bides at No. 2 with 18 million streams, adding to 343 million ATD. Zach Bryan‘s “Something In The Orange” drops to No. 4 with 15 million new streams, adding to 889 million ATD, and Bailey Zimmerman‘s “Religiously” remains at No. 5 with 12 million streams, adding to 160 million ATD…
[August 30, 2023] Range Media Partners has hired Nashville-based executives William Lowery and Shawn McSpadden. At Range, Lowery will focus on business development ventures and content opportunities, while McSpadden will be charged with growing the division’s already robust music division, talent roster and shared services department as the newest Managing Partner. Both will remain in Nashville…
Vipin Reddy. Photo: Chris Hollo
[August 30, 2023] UMG Nashville has elevated Vipin Reddy to VP of Streaming. After joining the label group in 2018, Reddy now leads the department. In his new role, he oversees all DSP relationships as well as audio and video streaming strategy for all UMGN artists globally. Prior to joining UMGN, Reddy was part of the UMG global streaming marketing team. The William & Mary graduate and Fairfax, Virginia native has cultivated strong relationships with UMGN streaming partners and most recently was point on UMGN artist strategy with Apple Music and Pandora…
[August 30, 2023] Seven more deserving music industry veterans were inducted into the SOURCE Hall of Fame on Tuesday night (Aug. 29) at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville’s historic Municipal Auditorium. SOURCE Nashville Hall of Fame inductees are nominated and inducted based upon peer recommendations, biographies, accomplishments, reputation, the number of years the individual has worked within the entertainment industry and level of community involvement. All inductees have made a significant impact on the Nashville entertainment industry…
[September 6, 2023] New Nashville-based independent record label Leo33 has signed its first artist, rising country newcomer Zach Top. “We are so thrilled to have Zach as our Leo33 flagship artist – his sound is fresh yet familiar, with a voice that is pure country gold,” shares Katie Dean, Head of Leo33. “We’re so grateful he chose us and joined the pack at Leo33”…
[September 12, 2023] MusicRow Magazine revealed the winners of the 35th annual MusicRow Awards today (Sept. 12) in a series of videos on all MusicRow online platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. City National Bank is the Presenting Sponsor of the 2023 MusicRow Awards. Now in its 35th year, the MusicRow Awards are Nashville’s longest running music industry trade publication honors and celebrate the achievements of songwriters, artists, producers, and more. Winners are voted on by MusicRow’s subscribers…
[September 12, 2023] SMACKSongs has promoted Lee Krabel to Senior Vice President of Publishing, effective immediately. Since joining the company in 2016 as Creative Director, Krabel has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s creative direction and fostering an environment where songwriters can thrive over the years. At SMACK, Krabel runs point on an array of talented songwriters, including Josh Jenkins, Ross Copperman, Scott Stepakoff, Tigirlily Gold, McCoy Moore and Clara Park. In his new role, he will continue to oversee SMACK’s entire roster of songwriters, manage the creative staff, book writing sessions, pitch songs, and identify and sign new and promising writers…
[September 13, 2023] Norbert Nix has exited his position as President of Triple Tigers, the label home to Scotty McCreery, Russell Dickerson and Jordan Fletcher. Triple Tigers’ Kevin Herring and former UMG exec. Annie Ortmeier have become Co-Presidents of the label, reporting to George Couri, Triple Tigers Co-Founder and Triple 8 Management Co-Founder. “Triple Tigers 2.0 is here,” Couri shares. “I look forward to stepping into a more active role, as well as having Kevin and Annie form a dual attack in the worlds of both radio and streaming & digital. Kevin’s radio singles batting average here is unmatched in the industry, and Annie comes from leading streaming and digital strategies at the biggest label in the business…
[September 13, 2023] With his last album, I Hate Cowboys & All Dogs Go To Hell, Chase Rice broke new ground as an artist. The man behind such hits as “Eyes On You,” “Gonna Wanna Tonight,” “Ready Set Roll” and “Drinkin’ Beer. Talkin’ God. Amen.” dug deep for the 14-song project, curating an impressive body of work to both fans and the industry. With a photo of his late father gracing its cover, I Hate Cowboys & All Dogs Go To Hell included some deeper songs about Rice’s life, such as “Key West & Colorado,” as well as some elevated party rockers that we’ve come to know Rice for, such as his currently-rising single “Bad Day To Be A Cold Beer.”…
Kelsea Ballerini. Photo: Daniel Prakopcyk
[September 13, 2023] Kelsea Ballerini celebrated several milestones this week. In addition to turning 30, the country star made her MTV Video Music Awards debut and was one of three chosen to cover the TIME100’s Next List. At the VMAs, Ballerini performed the song “Penthouse” from her lauded Rolling Up The Welcome Mat project. In addition to performing beautifully, the star had a stunning moment at the crescendo of the song, when her flowing white dress suddenly became a black gown for the grand finale…
[September 14, 2023] Big Loud Records has expanded into new territories, adding offices and label managers in London, U.K. and Brisbane, Australia. This bolsters its already established base in Toronto, Canada. Industry executives Cayleigh Shepherd and Johnno Keetels have been tapped as label managers in the U.K. and Australia, respectively. On the Canadian team, Big Loud has elevated Justin Clark to Manager, National Promotion/Associate Label Manager for the territory…
Pictured (L-R): Cindy Mabe/Chair & CEO, UMG Nashville, Luke Bryan, Kerri Edwards/KP Entertainment. Photo: Alan Poizner
[September 14, 2023] Industry members gathered at Brooklyn Bowl earlier this week to celebrate country superstar, Luke Bryan. The five-time Entertainer of the Year recently notched the milestone of 30 No. 1 hits. First topping the charts in 2009 with “Do I,” Bryan has changed the sound of country music in the last 15 years. The occasion served as a celebration of Bryan’s life and work. So many executives and peers that helped his record-breaking career take shape were in attendance, and Bryan thanked a lot of them by name, telling funny stories about their time together. In short, it was a love fest…
[September 14, 2023] Universal Music Group Nashville has launched a new label, Capitol Comedy Nashville, with flagship comedian Nate Bargatze. The new comedy-centered imprint for the label group will bring Bargatze’s Hello, World! audio album to the masses on Sept. 15. “Country music and comedy have always had a throughline connecting lifestyle and culture, sharing stories and character habits through humor,” says UMG Nashville Chair & CEO Cindy Mabe. “We’ve been forever linked going back to the early days of the Grand Ole Opry and classic country shows like Hee Haw where comedians shared billings with musical acts and helped us laugh at ourselves. As we are looking for further ways to reach audiences through storytelling, I feel there is no better time to re-link our comedy history together with the start of our new label, Capitol Comedy Nashville…
[September 15, 2023] Maren Morris is entering her next era of music in a new phase, “honoring where [she’s] been and what [she’s] achieved in country music, but also freely moving forward.” The Grammy winner expressed her feelings about the next step of her journey with the release of a two-track EP, The Bridge. The project’s new tracks include “The Tree,” produced by Greg Kurstin, and “Get the Hell Out of Here,” produced by Jack Antonoff with Morris and Jimmy Robbins. Morris co-wrote both songs with Robbins and Laura Veltz…
[September 27, 2023] “This is becoming my favorite industry awards show.” That statement was shared among throngs of songwriters, publishers and other industry members at last night’s (Sept. 26) sixth annual Nashville Songwriter Awards, put on by Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) with presenting partner City National Bank. And for good reason. The night was full of epic performances, tender speeches and shared congratulations. As it has been since the beginning: it was a love fest…
[September 27, 2023] NBCUniversal is bringing a new party to Nashville with the premiere of the People’s Choice Country Awards. Airing live on NBC and Peacock from the Grand Ole Opry House on Thursday, Sept. 28, this expansion of the People’s Choice Awards brand will be one of country music’s only fan-voted awards shows. The original People’s Choice Awards program launched in 1975 with producer and creator Bob Stivers at the helm. The program aired annually on CBS with a ceremony in January to celebrate the previous year of pop culture. In the early years, Gallup polling determined the results of the categories. Prior to 1982’s Country/Western Musical Performer award, the Awards did not have an accolade specifically for country music…
[October 5, 2023] After 13 years with Warner Music Nashville, Shane Tarleton is leaving the label. Tarleton has spent the last two years serving as Executive Vice President, Artist Development. “I would like to thank the incredible team for all of their passion, creativity and dedication over the years. To the artists who inspire all of us with their amazing talent and art, a special ‘thank you’ to you and your teams for instilling trust in me,” he shares. “I look forward to announcing my next adventure in early 2024.”…
[October 6, 2023] Black River Entertainment has elevated Dawn Delvo to Vice President of Communications. The company has also hired Ally Roden as Publicity Coordinator. Delvo joined the Black River team in 2011, and has been a part of the successful launch of Kelsea Ballerini’s career from the moment she signed with Black River as a songwriter and artist in 2013. The industry veteran previously spent a handful of years in between record labels and independent firms, where she developed skills in publicity, marketing and social media management as well as film and television licensing…
Pictured (L-R): Paul Jenkins, David Fanning, Megan Moroney, Kristian Bush and Ben Williams. Photo: Anna Warner
[October 9, 2023] The SESAC rooftop was filled with festivity as members of the Music Row family united in orange attire on Wednesday afternoon (Oct. 4) to celebrate Megan Moroney‘s first No. hit “Tennessee Orange.” Everyone mingled around clementine-colored tabletops while enjoying food and refreshments as more and more people made their way outside, adding to the tingling zest in the air. SESAC’s Shannan Hatch took the podium to welcome us and call up Moroney and co-writers Ben Williams, David Fanning and Paul Jenkins as well as producer Kristian Bush. Hatch started her remarks by telling the story of how she met Moroney through her manager, Juli Griffith, and followed by expressing her gratitude and love for the artist and her work ethic…
[October 12, 2023] Six iconic tunesmiths became the newest members of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Wednesday night (Oct. 11) in a grand ballroom at the Music City Center. The evening was full of special musical tributes, moving speeches and Music Row camaraderie. It was the 53rd Anniversary Gala and the at-capacity crowd donned their best suits, gowns and cowboy hats for the occasion…
[October 12, 2023] The impact of artificial intelligence is being discussed on Capitol Hill after the Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe Act—or the No Fakes Act—was proposed. Sponsored by Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), the bill seeks to protect singers, musicians actors and other creators from having their voices and/or likeness replicated by artificial intelligence in sound recordings and audiovisual works. The bill would hold people, companies and platforms liable for creating or hosting unauthorized AI replications of entertainers and creators…
[October 19, 2023] Business manager Stephanie Alderman has been promoted to Partner at Farris, Self & Moore (FSM). The firm will continue with its current name, but will now include Alderman in all leadership decisions and high-level initiatives, effective immediately. Hailing from Lansing, Michigan, Alderman kicked off her career by gaining a wide range of experience spanning artist management, publicity and tour production. She found her stride in business management, and now has helmed finances for established recording artists, major touring acts and up-and-coming songwriters for over 15 years…
Pictured (L-R): Honorees, Tanya Tucker, Bob McDill and Patty Loveless attend the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images
[October 23, 2023] At this year’s Medallion Ceremony inducting its newest members, several existing Country Music Hall of Famers shared the spotlight. Staged on Sunday evening (Oct. 22), at the Hall’s CMA Theater, the event saluted Tanya Tucker, Patty Loveless and Bob McDill as the inductees. Among the highlights of the ceremony were the contributions of Vince Gill, Wynonna Judd, Charlie McCoy, Don Schlitz, Connie Smith, Dean Dillon and Brenda Lee, all of whom are previous inductees.
[October 31, 2023] FBMM has named Jen Conger and Erica Rosa as owners of the entertainment business management firm. “Jen and Erica have been key members of FBMM’s leadership for years, and each of the other owners and I are proud to have them step into this circle,” says Duane Clark, Co-Owner, President and Chairman of FBMM. “Erica and Jen have carved their own unique paths at FBMM and have earned the trust and respect of our clients and our employees.”…
[November 6, 2023] Tim Foisset has joined Spotify as Head of Label Partnerships, Nashville. His new role begins today (Nov. 6). At Spotify, Foisset will manage the label partnerships team in Nashville, which includes Gemma McInturff, Miller Guth and Meagan Bennington. Foisset joins Spotify after 13 years at Warner Music Nashville, where he most recently served as SVP Commercial Partnerships, working with Warner Music Nashville’s partners in streaming, digital retail, physical retail, e-commerce and D2C to drive strategic marketing and revenue. He’s guided new release strategies for artists including Blake Shelton, Kenny Chesney, Dan + Shay, Bailey Zimmerman, Ashley McBryde, Gabby Barrett, Ingrid Andress, Cole Swindell, Cody Johnson and more…
Pictured (L-R): Joey Moi (Partner / Producer / President of A&R, Big Loud), Austen Adams (COO, Big Loud), Patch Culbertson (SVP / GM, Big Loud Records), Seth England (CEO / Partner, Big Loud), Miranda Lambert, Jon Randall, Alena Moran (Manager, Triple 8 Management), Candice Watkins (SVP of Marketing, Big Loud Records), Sara Knabe (SVP of A&R, Big Loud Records), Stacy Blythe (SVP of Radio Promotion, Big Loud Records)
[November 6, 2023] Miranda Lambert and Jon Randall have partnered with Big Loud Records to launch their own imprint, Big Loud Texas. Lambert and Randall will be directly involved in signing and developing artists on the roster. In addition, Randall will serve as President of A&R for Big Loud Texas while also contributing his expertise as a producer. “As a teenager chasing my dreams in the honky-tonks of Texas, Nashville seemed so far away,” says Lambert. “Every time I’m back home I get to hear the incredible talent our state produces, and I feel a responsibility to help get more of those Texas voices heard. I’m really excited to team up with my buddy Jon Randall and Big Loud to do just that. Get ready, y’all – we’re bringing even more Texas to town!”…
[November 6, 2023] The annual SESAC awards kicked off country-music week festivities last night (Nov. 5) with a glamorous reception that honored the performance rights organization’s biggest Nashville songs of 2023. Jon Nite was honored as SESAC’s Songwriter of the Year. “Amazing!” he exclaimed. “Thank you guys. I don’t deserve this.” Nite recalled moving to Music City in 1998 with $500 in his pocket. “And now I’m here!” Shannan Hatch, who presented his award, also gave him a commemorative, gleaming, black Gibson J-200 guitar…
[November 7, 2023] The 61st annual ASCAP Country Awards on Monday (Nov. 6) was a lavish cocktail supper that crowned Ashley Gorley and Jordan Davis as its 2023 champs. Gorley won his 10th Songwriter of the Year honor from the performance rights society. This makes him the most honored country songwriter in the organization’s history. “I want to first, as always, thank God,” he said. “Huge thanks to everybody at ASCAP for all they’ve done and continue to do for me. I’ve been with ASCAP since I was a student at Belmont….I’m blessed to be a part of this.”…
[November 8, 2023] The last of the PRO awards ceremonies took place last night (Nov. 7) at BMI’s Nashville headquarters on Music Row. Hosted by BMI’s President & CEO Mike O’Neill and Nashville’s VP of Creative Clay Bradley, the 71st annual BMI Country Awards celebrated the top songwriters and music publishers behind this past year’s 50 most-performed songs in country music, with special awards being given out to the Country Songwriter, Song and Publisher of the Year. The awards also honored the unparalleled career of BMI Icon Award recipient Matraca Berg…
Lainey Wilson accepts the award for Female Vocalist of the Year at The 57th Annual CMA Awards.
[November 9, 2023] Country music stars and industry members assembled at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena last night (Nov. 8) for the 57th CMA Awards. Lainey Wilson was the night’s biggest winner, receiving her first Entertainer of the Year award along with four more. Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton and Jelly Roll were other top winners from the night. Jelly Roll opened the show a cappella with “Need A Favor,” complete with a gospel choir and a surprise guest appearance from Wynonna Judd…
[November 17, 2023] Warner Chappell Music (WCM) has promoted longtime A&R executive BJ Hill to Senior Vice President, A&R. Throughout his career, Hill has worked with the industry’s most prominent songwriters, including Nicolle Galyon, Jordan Reynolds, Charles Kelley and Dave Haywood of Lady A and Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney of Dan + Shay. He also currently supports a host of up-and-coming talent, such as the720, Zack Dyer and Sophia Scott…
[November 21, 2023] New Mountain Capital, LLC, a leading growth-oriented investment firm with over $45 billion in assets under management, will lead a shareholder group to acquire Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI). New Mountain will acquire the company from the shareholders who own BMI today. Mike O’Neill, BMI’s President & CEO, will continue to lead the company, along with his leadership team, following the closing. New Mountain has also reserved additional capital to fund growth investments, new ventures and technology enhancements to help accelerate BMI’s long-term plan to maximize distributions for its affiliates and improve the service it provides to songwriters, composers and publishers…
[November 27, 2023] Global superstar Dolly Parton has landed her biggest album debut of her seven-decade career with her 30-track Rockstar album, with 127,778 units sold in its inaugural week. The star-studded project debuted at No. 1 on six different Billboard charts, including the Top Rock Albums, Top Rock & Alternative Albums, Top Country Albums, Top Album Sales, Top Current Album Sales and Independent Albums charts. It also debuted at No. 2 on Billboard‘s Vinyl Albums Tastemaker Albums chart…
[November 28, 2023] CTM Outlander has acquired the publishing catalog of five-time Grammy-nominated, multi-Platinum singer-songwriter Sam Hunt, and signed him to a go-forward publishing deal for his future works. CTM Outlander is a partnership between the Dallas, Texas-based Outlander Capital, led by Les Ware and Mike McKool, and the Dutch-based leading independent music entertainment company CTM, led by industry veteran André de Raaff…
[November 29, 2023] Reba McEntire has made changes within her core team, adding Justin McIntosh as her new Manager. She has also added Tyler Lewis as Management Coordinator and expanded Leslie Matthews Dugger‘s role of Brand Manager. McIntosh has worked closely with McEntire for more than a decade since he joined her former management home Starstruck Entertainment as VP of Marketing & Creative. Prior to Starstruck, McIntosh worked at Big Machine Label Group, where he was instrumental in digital & marketing strategies for the label’s roster. A Belmont University graduate, his professional experience also includes a role with Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB), in addition to his own creative consulting agency. He is a member of the Country Music Association, Academy of Country Music and the Recording Academy, and has served on the Boards of the Nashville Film Festival and The Theater Bug…
[November 30, 2023] Sr. VP of Promotion Carson James and Sr. Director of A&R Chris Poole have exited BBR Music Group/BMG as part of a company-wide reorganizing, MusicRow has confirmed. James has been part of the BBR Music Group staff for over a decade. He oversaw the promotional efforts for Broken Bow, Stoney Creek and Wheelhouse Records, and led Broken Bow Records to being named 2022’s No. 1 airplay label for country music by Country Aircheck/Mediabase. Prior to joining BBR Music Group, James spent nearly a decade in promotion at Curb Records. He also served as GM at Bullseye Marketing/Research and Hart Media as well as Sr. VP Programming for then Colonial Broadcasting in Montgomery, Alabama…
[December 5, 2023] MusicRow is proud to reveal its list of artists who are predicted to become the Next Big Thing (NBT) in 2024. The 10th annual NBT list features 11 artists, who are each profiled in MusicRow‘s latest 2024 Touring & Next Big Thing print issue, which releases today (Dec. 5). Boasting a stand-out group of rising stars in the country music industry, MusicRow’s Next Big Thing Class of 2024 includes a wide range of talent, diverse in sound, style and level of success. What each artist has in common, though, is extraordinary talent and a passion for today’s ever-evolving country music format. These future superstars will expand the boundaries of country music, carrying the torch of the format both to its loyal fans and into the mainstream…
[December 5, 2023] MusicRow has revealed its 2024 N.B.T. Industry Directory list, highlighting a rising class of music industry leaders. Now in its fifth year, MusicRow’s N.B.T. Industry Directory is the first and only list of its kind, showcasing Nashville music business professionals who occupy important roles at their respective companies. This class of professionals are on a trajectory of excellence to successfully lead the Nashville music industry into the future…
[December 8, 2023] Rock & Roll Hall and Country Music Hall of Famer Brenda Lee is celebrating the 65th anniversary of her iconic holiday hit “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” this year. Written by Johnny Marks, Lee’s label Decca Records released the hit when she was only 13 years old. Now, 65 years later, it has topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the first time ever, causing Lee to break several records, many of which were held by Mariah Carey and “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” With the feat, “Rockin’” is only the third holiday song to hit No. 1 on the Hot 100…
[December 11, 2023] Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB) has revealed the lineup for the Country Radio Seminar (CRS) 2024 New Faces of Country Music Show, taking place Friday, March 1. This year’s showcase will feature George Birge, Dillon Carmichael, Corey Kent, Megan Moroney and Conner Smith. The New Faces of Country Music Show stars five emerging artists who have achieved notable country radio success during the qualification period, which spanned from Nov. 1, 2022, to Oct. 31, 2023, for the 2024 show. The event has served as a pivotal moment in the careers of established country hitmakers since its inception in 1970…
Scott Hendricks. Photo: Connor Dwyer
[December 12, 2023] After nearly 16 years with the company, Scott Hendricks will exit his position as EVP A&R/Creative Advisor at Warner Music Nashville at the end of December. Throughout his tenure in A&R at Warner Music Nashville, Hendricks has overseen 95 No. 1 singles on the country airplay charts. He has also produced an incredible 78 chart-topping hits among 123 total top 10 singles. Hendricks’ expertise has impacted the careers of Blake Shelton, Hunter Hayes, Brett Eldredge, Dan + Shay and many more…
[December 13, 2023] Warner Music Nashville has elevated Mike Dupree to SVP, Creative Director. Reporting to Co-Chair & Co-President Cris Lacy, Dupree and his team manage all of the label’s creative initiatives, including video production and graphic design. “Mike is well known for his long-standing dedication to this label and its artists,” Lacy shares. “Moreover, his desire to build a collaborative creative team is imperative for telling the unique stories of our artists through visual mediums. Ben [Kline] and I are proud to recognize his talent and leadership, and we are excited for this next chapter in his career with Warner Music Nashville.”…
[December 14, 2023] Warner Music Nashville has tapped Stephanie Wright, who joined the company as a consultant in October, as SVP A&R. She will report to Co-Chair & Co-President Cris Lacy. “Ben [Kline] and I have known and respected Stephanie for many years – quite often we’ve been on the other side of her at another label, actively battling it out to sign an artist” Lacy shares. “She is a fierce competitor, a tenacious team leader and has an innate sense for exceptional music and artists. Most importantly, she is recognized in the music community as a passionate advocate for developing songwriters, producers and artists, many of whom she helped achieve their first career milestone. Her reputation and long-standing relationships will strengthen our incredible A&R team exponentially”…
Rewind: MusicRow’s Top Stories Of 2023
/by MusicRow Staff2023 had no shortage of news from the Nashville music business.
Some of the city’s major labels saw big changes, including Mike Dungan stepping down at UMG Nashville, and Cindy Mabe being appointed the new Chair & CEO of the label. Over at Warner Music Nashville, Cris Lacy and Ben Kline officially began their new era of leadership following the retirement of former label head John Esposito.
This year also saw some of country music’s newest and brightest stars soar to new heights, including Megan Moroney earning her first No. 1 with “Tennessee Orange,” and Bailey Zimmerman having a record-breaking year and continually topping the charts.
After releasing her EP Rolling Up the Welcome Mat in February, Kelsea Ballerini had an explosive year, including performing “Penthouse” at the VMAs and landing on the cover of TIME100. Morgan Wallen had another record-breaking year, with his new One Thing at a Time album and 2021’s Dangerous: The Double Album making him one of the most-listened to artists in the world.
Lainey Wilson continued to dominate her lane in country music in 2023, winning five CMA Awards including the top honor of Entertainer of the Year, four ACM Awards, two CMT Music Awards, three People’s Choice Country Awards and completing a 28-date sold-out headlining tour. Label-mate Jelly Roll also had a breakout year, with his debut country album Whitsitt Chapel becoming the biggest country debut album in Billboard Consumption Chart history. He also took home multiple awards this year and is up for Best New Artist at the Grammy Awards in 2024.
Broadway will see even more country music stars opening businesses in the coming year, with Luke Combs and The Opry Entertainment Group announcing their joint venture for a new four-story entertainment venue on 2nd Ave. Combs continued his reign as one of the genre’s top artists in 2023. His version of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” won Single of the Year at the 57th Annual CMA Awards earlier this week. Additionally, it spent five-consecutive weeks atop Billboard’s Country Airplay chart and reached #1 on the Hot AC chart, the first song by a male solo artist to ever top both the hot AC and country charts. It’s nominated for Best Country Solo Performance at the Grammys.
With the release of her 30-track rock album Rockstar, Hall of Famer Dolly Parton scored the biggest album debut of her seven-decade career. The star-studded project debuted at No. 1 on six different Billboard charts. Another country icon, Brenda Lee, celebrated the 65th anniversary of her Christmas hit “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree,” and saw the song top the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the first time ever, making Lee the oldest woman to top the Hot 100, surpassing previous record-holders Cher (“Believe,” age 52) and Mariah Carey (“All I Want for Christmas is You,” age 53).
After leaving Sony Music Nashville earlier in the year, Miranda Lambert later partnered with Big Loud and hit songwriter/producer Jon Randall to launch Big Loud Texas, where she and Randall will be directly involved in signing and developing artists on the roster.
Grammy-winning songwriters Shane McAnally and Brandy Clark celebrated their musical Shucked earning a Tony award, among a bevy of other recognitions. Alex Newell won for Best Actor in a Feautred Role In a Musical, for the role of LuLu. Newell made history as the first openly non-binary actor to win the award.
Look back on these top stories and more as MusicRow rewinds 2023 below.
Mike Dungan Stepping Down From Helm At UMG Nashville
[January 9, 2023] Universal Music Group Nashville Chairman and CEO Mike Dungan will retire in March. He has led the Nashville arm of the company since 2012. Dungan will continue to serve as an advisor to UMG Chairman and CEO Lucian Grainge. The announcement indicated that Dungan’s successor will be revealed at a later date, though current UMG Nashville president Cindy Mabe is expected to assume the position…
Cindy Mabe Appointed Chair & CEO Of UMG Nashville
Cindy Mabe. Photo: Kevin Wimpy / UMG
[January 10, 2023] Cindy Mabe has been appointed Chair and CEO of Universal Music Group Nashville, effective April 1, 2023. She will succeed Mike Dungan, who will retire from his position at UMG Nashville after more than a decade there and a total of four decades in the music industry During her tenure at UMG, Mabe has helped guide and grow the careers of some of country music’s biggest stars, including Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Jordan Davis, Mickey Guyton, Sam Hunt, Alan Jackson, Parker McCollum, Reba McEntire, Kacey Musgraves, Jon Pardi, Chris Stapleton, George Strait, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Brothers Osborne and Little Big Town, among countless others. She has earned multiple honors, including the Country Music Hall of Fame’s Louise Scruggs Memorial Forum Award and the SOURCE Hall of Fame Award…
The Oriel Company Grows Presence In Nashville [Interview]
[January 13, 2023] Public relations powerhouse Carleen Donovan has had her eyes on Music City for a number of years. She’s a veteran of music publicity, who, at just 20-years-old, launched her career as Head of PR for influential independent label Mute Records after a series of internships. She went on to hold Senior Executive roles at KSA Publicity and Press Here Publicity, in addition to the post of Executive Vice President of Public Relations and Marketing for Career Artist Management / Live Nation…
The Neal Agency Taps Adi Sharma As Co-Head & Agent
[January 17, 2023] Agent Adi Sharma has joined The Neal Agency (TNA) as co-head and agent, expanding the nine-act company to a dozen clients. Coupled with the newest staff addition, TNA has also announced the signing of lifestyle brand Stevenson Ranch to extend the brand’s footprint in the live space and help curate and create live events…
Ben Kline & Cris Lacy Begin New Era Of Leadership At Warner Music Nashville
Warner Music Nashville staff. Photo: Alan Poizner
[January 17, 2023] Warner Music Nashville Co-Chairs / Co-Presidents Ben Kline and Cris Lacy ushered in a new era of leadership at the label with the beginning of 2023. In June of 2022, the music industry veterans were announced as successors to the beloved John Esposito, who remained Chairman & CEO through the remainder of the year. Esposito is now officially Chairman Emeritus, and Lacy and Kline are in charge. The two launched the new year last week (Jan. 11) alongside the full WMN team with a day of culture building and informational programming at a company-wide off-site meeting…
Beyond The Row: MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson Climbs Mount Kilimanjaro
[January 20, 2023] In early January, MusicRow Publisher/Owner Sherod Robertson successfully climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, reaching the summit, the highest point on the dormant volcano. Embarking on a 7-day hike on the Lemosho route, Robertson reached Mount Kilimanjaro’s Uhuru Peak on Friday, January 6, 2023 at 8:34 a.m. East Africa Time…
BMG Promotes JoJamie Hahr To EVP, Recorded Music – Nashville
JoJamie Hahr. Photo: Cody Heckber
[January 23, 2023] BMG announced the elevation of JoJamie Hahr to Executive Vice President Recorded Music – Nashville. In her new role, Hahr will oversee day-to-day operations of BMG Recorded Music in Nashville, including BBR Label Group and its roster and imprints Broken Bow Records, Stoney Creek Records, and Wheelhouse Records. She will continue reporting to President of BMG Nashville, Jon Loba. Hahr was promoted to SVP of BBR Music Group in 2020, where she oversaw all artist project strategy, brand partnerships, strategic marketing, as well as digital and creative efforts for each of the BBR Music Group’s three imprints…
Jake Basden Joins Sandbox Entertainment Group As President
[January 31, 2023] Music industry veteran Jake Basden is joining Jason Owen’s Sandbox Entertainment Group as President. Basden brings with him over a decade’s worth of experience in Nashville. During his 12 years at Big Machine Label Group, he was named the 2019 PRWeek “40 under 40” designee and Young PR Professional of the Year winner. He spent a significant portion of his time at BMLG working music projects such as Taylor Swift’s record-breaking album releases, Steven Tyler’s solo country album, Sheryl Crow’s all-star Threads project, Thomas Rhett’s 20 No. 1 songs and Country Music Hall of Famer Glen’s Campbell’s final recordings.
Nashville Talents Shine Bright At 65th Annual Grammy Awards
Carly Pearce poses with her Grammy Award
[February 6, 2023] At the 65th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday night (Feb. 5), talented Nashville musicians made the most of their time on screen via a handful of performances. Brandi Carlile earned a rousing standing ovation when she kicked the night off with “Broken Horses,” the tune that won her both Best Rock Performance and Best Rock Song earlier in the evening…
MusicRow’s 2023 CountryBreakout Award Winners [Full List]
[February 28, 2023] MusicRow virtually announced the winners of the 21st annual CountryBreakout Awards throughout the day today (Feb. 28). Winners were spotlighted across all of MusicRow’s online platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. The MusicRow CountryBreakout Awards celebrate those who have dominated country radio’s secondary market. Winners in eight categories are determined by spins on the secondary market stations that report to the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart panel each week…
CMA Crowns Triple Play Award Recipients, Honors Jody Williams
[March 3, 2023] The Country Music Association hosted their CMA Triple Play Awards ceremony earlier this week at Saint Elle in Nashville. The ceremony was hosted by CMA Board member and composer, Jim Beavers. Now in its 13th year, the CMA Triple Play Awards honor songwriters who pen three No. 1 songs within a 12-month period based on the Country Aircheck, Billboard Country Airplay and Billboard Hot Country Songs charts…
Morgan Wallen Celebrates New Album By Breaking Multiple Records
Morgan Wallen performs at Bridgestone Arena. Photo: Ryan Smith
[March 6, 2023] Country superstar Morgan Wallen released his third studio album, One Thing At A Time, on Friday (March 3). To celebrate, he invited 19,292 fans to a free show at Bridgestone Arena, setting an all-time attendance for the arena according to EVP of Entertainment & Venues David Kells. In addition to the near 20,000 fans who filled the stadium on Friday, over a million tuned in on Wallen’s livestream of the event…
Brittany Schaffer To Exit Spotify, Appointed Dean Of Belmont University’s Curb College
[March 13, 2023] Belmont University has appointed Brittany Schaffer as the new Dean of the Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business. Effective May 1, Schaffer fills the role of Doug Howard, who retired last fall. Schaffer will exit her position as Head of Nashville Label Partnerships and Music Strategy at Spotify on April 13. At the DSP, she co-leads the development and execution of Spotify’s global strategy to grow the Country, Christian/Gospel and Americana genres, and is responsible for overseeing all new music releases and campaigns out of Nashville…
Johnny Chiang Expands Role To Include Oversight Of Country Music Programming At SiriusXM
[March 15, 2023] Johnny Chiang, who joined Pandora as Senior Director of Country Programming in August of 2022, has expanded his role to also oversee country music programming at SiriusXM. The news comes after a series of changes at SiriusXM/Pandora. Earlier this year, it was announced that Head of Country Music Talent & Industry Relations, Beville Dunkerley, was exiting her position at the platform. Additionally, it was announced last June that JR Schumann would exit his role as Sr. Dir./Music Programming at SiriusXM…
Miranda Lambert Leaving Sony Music Nashville
[March 15, 2023] In a social media post, Miranda Lambert announced that she is leaving Sony Music Nashville after 20 years together. She did not disclose where she is headed next. Lambert signed with Sony at the age of 19 and released her debut studio album Kerosene in 2005 via the imprint Epic Nashville. Since then, she has gone on to release seven more studio albums, notch 10 No. 1 hit radio singles and win more than 70 prestigious awards. The reigning ACM Entertainer of the Year is the most decorated artist in the history of the Academy of Country Music.
Five Talented Artists Take The Stage For CRS New Faces 2023
[March 16, 2023] Five new talented artists were added to the prestigious history of the CRS New Faces of Country Music showcase. Priscilla Block, Jackson Dean, Frank Ray, Jelly Roll and Nate Smith all took the stage in front of the country radio industry last night (March 15) to close out the 2023 edition of Country Radio Seminar. The night was dedicated to Country Radio Hall of Fame member Charlie Monk, who hosted the New Faces show at least 40 times in its 50-plus year history. Throughout the evening, video tributes to Monk appeared on screens, complete with many great stories and jokes from the honorary “Mayor of Music Row.”…
MusicRow’s Rising Women On The Row Brings The Community Together
MusicRow’s Rising Women on the Row Class of 2023. Pictured (L-R): Jackie Jones, Stacy Blythe, Martha Earls, Beth Hamilton, Anna Weisband, Brittany Schaffer. Photo: Steve Lowry
[March 24, 2023] At MusicRow‘s annual Rising Women on the Row breakfast event on Thursday (March 23), more than 500 music business professionals came out to support the 2023 class of honorees. Now in its 10th year, MusicRow honored Big Loud’s Stacy Blythe, Neon Coast’s Martha Earls, WME’s Beth Hamilton, RIAA’s Jackie Jones, Spotify’s Brittany Schaffer and Sony Music Publishing’s Anna Weisband. Before the program commenced, attendees visited, drank coffee and took photos at the photo booth. When MusicRow Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson took the stage, he recognized the event’s presenting sponsors, City National Bank and Loeb & Loeb, before introducing featured speaker Lynn Oliver-Cline…
Sony Music Nashville Imprint Arista Nashville Dissolves
[March 23, 2023] MusicRow has confirmed that Arista Nashville, an imprint of Sony Music Nashville, has dissolved. The Artista Nashville roster has included Nate Smith, Megan Moroney, Brooks & Dunn, Old Dominion, Adam Doleac, Ryan Hurd, Seaforth and Morgan Wade. According to a report from Billboard, Old Dominion and Moroney have moved to Columbia while Nate Smith has gone to RCA. Brooks & Dunn, Seaforth, Hurd, Wade and Doleac will be reassigned when they have projects headed to radio…
Royce Risser, Brian Wright & Stephanie Wright Exit UMG Nashville
[April 4, 2023] Royce Risser, Brian Wright and Stephanie Wright have exited UMG Nashville, MusicRow has confirmed. Risser most recently served as Exec. VP of Promotion, overseeing all promotion efforts in the UMG Nashville four-imprint structure consisting of Capitol Records Nashville, EMI Records Nashville, MCA Nashville and Mercury Nashville. He first joined the company in 1992 with MCA Nashville…
Bailey Zimmerman Continues To Top Charts & Break Records
Bailey Zimmerman. Photo: Spidey Smith
[April 11, 2023] Bailey Zimmerman‘s “Rock and A Hard Place” is officially No. 1 on the Country Aircheck/Mediabase Chart, and now holds the title of most-played record across the country in one single week since the Mediabase chart’s inception. The smash hit also landed atop the Billboard Country Airplay chart for the third consecutive week. Additionally, “Rock and A Hard Place” has made its way into the Top 100 on the all-genre Billboard Global 200 chart once again, recently becoming Zimmerman’s first Top 10 hit on their all-genre Hot 100 chart…
Luke Combs & Opry Entertainment Group To Team On Downtown Nashville Entertainment Venue
[April 13, 2023] Luke Combs has teamed with Opry Entertainment Group on a new, massive multi-level entertainment complex in downtown Nashville at 120 Second Avenue North, the home of longtime downtown staple the Wildhorse Saloon. The new venue is expected to debut in the summer of 2024, but the company plans to operate the venue as the Wildhorse Saloon throughout the planned refurbishment period. Inspired by Combs’ 8x Platinum debut No. 1 hit, “Hurricane,” the venue will be the largest and most versatile entertainment complex in the downtown entertainment district. The 69,000-square-foot complex with an indoor/outdoor capacity of nearly 3,200 will be customized to reflect Combs’ passions for music, songwriting, whiskey and sports…
Red Light Management Ups Allison Laughter To VP Of Marketing, Digital & Streaming
[April 19, 2023] Allison Laughter has been promoted to VP of Marketing, Digital & Streaming at Red Light Management Nashville. Laughter previously helmed the Digital Marketing & Streaming department and will now direct efforts for Marketing as well. Prior to joining Red Light Management in 2013, Laughter worked in digital marketing and publicity for Capitol Records Nashville and Universal Music Group Nashville…
Becoming Espo: The Story Of Industry Vet John Esposito [Interview]
John Esposito. Photo: Eric Brown
[April 21, 2023] If you’ve been to a music industry event in which Warner Music Nashville Chairman & CEO John “Espo” Esposito speaks, chances are you haven’t forgotten him. The Pennsylvania native stands tall, and dons glasses with dark, circular frames. He speaks with a slight accent, he’s hilariously witty, and is known for his colorful vernacular. In other words, he swears like a sailor…
Sara Knabe Joins Big Loud As SVP Of AR
[May 2, 2023] Big Loud has hired Sara Knabe as SVP of A&R. Effective immediately, Knabe will work in tandem with both the Big Loud Records and Big Loud Publishing A&R teams, leading across. “This is one of the most exciting announcements we’ve gotten to make in a while,” says Big Loud CEO/Partner, Seth England. “Sara was the first person I meaningfully met in Nashville; I got my first internship with her, and she helped me meet [Big Loud Partner] Craig [Wiseman]. We’ve been working with Sara in a freelance capacity for a while now, and have been continuously impressed by her professionalism, her collaborative approach, and her ear for finding outstanding talent. I’m not sure there is any one A&R person in Nashville who has brought me and Joey [Moi] more songs over the years. It is fitting and overdue that she joins our team.”…
Peter Strickland Joins BMG/BBR Music Group As General Manager
[May 9, 2023] BMG/BBR Music Group has hired Peter Strickland as its new General Manager, effective immediately. Strickland, who has been working with BMG/BBR Music Group in a consultancy role for almost two years, brings with him decades worth of music industry experience and knowledge. As GM, he will oversee the financial and daily operations of BMG/BBR Music Group, streamline distribution channels and physical-product sales as well as spearhead the label’s comedy initiatives. He reports to Jon Loba, President of BMG Nashville…
Country Artist Jimmie Allen Sued For Sexual Assault By Former Manager
[May 11, 2023] A lawsuit has been filed against Jimmie Allen for sexual assault by his former manager. Allen’s alleged assaults on his former manager are detailed in her interview with Variety. To protect her identity, she is referred to as “Jane Doe” throughout the Variety piece. MusicRow has confirmed with BBR Music Group they they have suspended all activity with Allen effective immediately. UTA has also suspended representation of Allen…
ACM Awards Bring The Party To Texas [Show Recap]
Chris Stapleton at the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards from Ford Center at The Star on May 11, 2023 in Frisco, Texas.
[May 12, 2023] The 58th Academy of Country Music Awards took over Frisco, Texas Thursday night (May 11). Lainey Wilson and Hardy tied for the most wins, taking home four awards each. Lainey won Female Artist of the Year and Album of the Year, as well as Music Event and Visual Media of the Year for her collaboration with Hardy, “Wait In The Truck.” In addition to his shared wins with Lainey, and his second trophy earned in the Music Event category as a producer of the song, Hardy took home Artist-Songwriter of the Year prior to the ACM Awards livestream…
SESAC Ups Shannan Hatch To SVP, Head Of Nashville Creative
[May 16, 2023] SESAC Performing Rights has promoted Shannan Hatch to SVP, Head of Nashville Creative. Rising from Vice President, Creative Services in the Nashville office, Hatch’s new role will maintain leadership of the Nashville-based Creative Services team in supporting SESAC-affiliated songwriters and publishers. Reporting to Chief Creative Officer Sam Kling, she will work closely with senior management to support creator-focused initiatives…
UMG Nashville Names Chelsea Blythe Exec. VP Of A&R
[May 25, 2023] Universal Music Group Nashville has named Chelsea Blythe as its Executive Vice President of A&R. Blythe began her career as an A&R intern at Interscope Records before becoming the department coordinator where she worked on award-winning artists including Kendrick Lamar, ScHoolboy Q, Rae Sremmurd and Mike WiLL Made-It. Moving to Columbia Records in 2016, Blythe climbed to Vice President of A&R, signed Symba as her first artist, played a role in signing Baby Keem to the label and developed multi-Platinum-selling artists Polo G and The Kid LAROI…
Robert Carlton Named President Of SMACK
[June 1, 2023] Robert Carlton has been promoted to President and Equity Partner of SMACK. The company’s Michael McAnally Baum has stepped down from his operational role, but will stay on the ownership team alongside CCO Robin Palmer and Founder Shane McAnally. Carlton will continue to manage McAnally while also overseeing SMACK’s publishing, digital and management branches. He joined the company in 2014 and rose to Sr. VP of Development in 2016…
Thomas Rhett Commemorates Seven No. 1 Songs, Adding To 20 Total
Pictured (L-R, back row): Leslie Roberts (BMI), Josh Miller (BMI), Will Bundy (ASCAP), Riley Green (BMI), Rhett Akins (BMI), Josh Thompson (BMI), Matt Dragstrem (ASCAP), Jon Pardi (BMI) and Mike Sistad (ASCAP);(L-R, front row): Julian Bunetta (BMI), Parker Welling (BMI), Thomas Rhett (BMI), Dann Huff (ASCAP) and Ashley Gorley (ASCAP) Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
[June 8, 2023] In how many music towns would a format-leading superstar take time to speak about each of his co-writers on his last seven chart-toppers? Well that’s exactly what happened in Nashville on Tuesday (June 6) when BMI and ASCAP staged a rooftop party celebrating seven of Thomas Rhett‘s 20 career No. 1 hits. BMI’s Leslie Roberts kicked everything off by welcoming the industry crowd. She quickly turned it over to Studio Bank’s Ron Cox, who made a special donation presentation on behalf of Rhett and the songwriters to Love One International…
Shane McAnally, Brandy Clark-Penned Musical Shucked Wins Historic Tony Award
[June 12, 2023] Shucked, the musical written by Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally and produced by Sandbox Entertainment’s Jason Owen alongside Broadway producer Mike Bosner, earned nine Tony nominations, and won one last night (June 11) at this year’s 76th annual awards ceremony. Alex Newell made history as the first openly non-binary actor to win the Tony for Best Actor in a Featured Role In a Musical for their role as Lulu…
Garth Brooks Launches New Global Station, The BIG 615, On TuneIn
[June 15, 2023] Garth Brooks is launching a new country station, The BIG 615, exclusively on TuneIn’s SEVENS Radio Network. Fans around the world can stream The BIG 615 for free on TuneIn today. The BIG 615 offers listeners an authentic take on country music and provides songs from the biggest artists today. Radio host Storme Warren will be the official voice of The BIG 615 and plans to partner with Brooks to drive content. Warren will be joined by guest hosts on occasion, including Brooks and other industry stars…
CAA’s Chad Kudelka: A Texas Troubadour Making Waves In Nashville [Interview]
Chad Kudelka
[June 21, 2023] Last spring, veteran Texas music agent Chad Kudelka joined CAA as an Agent in the company’s Music Touring department. Kudelka came to CAA from Red 11 Music, the Nashville and Austin-based agency he co-founded. Now, with a roster that includes Cody Johnson, Koe Wetzel, Wade Bowen, Kolby Cooper, Pecos & The Rooftops, Randall King, Roger Creager and Ray Wylie Hubbard, Kudelka is a leader in both markets…
Mike Molinar Promoted To President At Big Machine Music
[June 30, 2023] Independent music publisher Big Machine Music (BMM) has announced a series of promotions, including the elevation of Mike Molinar to President. Effective immediately, Molinar will continue reporting to Big Machine Label Group (BMLG) CEO and Chairman Scott Borchetta. BMM has also promoted Alex Heddle to Senior Vice President of Publishing and Grayson Stephens to Vice President overseeing royalties and finance. Both will continue to report to Molinar…
Fred Rubenstein Joins Sony Music Nashville As VP, Digital Marketing
[July 11, 2023] Sony Music Nashville has appointed Fred Rubenstein as Vice President, Digital Marketing, effective immediately. Rubenstein will be responsible for overseeing the digital marketing team and leading the strategy, execution and implementation of innovative social media and digital marketing campaigns across the Sony Music Nashville roster. He will also focus on exploring new partner/platform opportunities that will enable digital discovery, enhance artists’ brands and drive consumption…
Jim Catino On New Venture: ‘I’m A Friend To Major Labels’ [Interview]
Jim Catino
[July 27, 2023] When Jim Catino left his position as Executive Vice President of A&R at Sony Music Nashville after 20 years with the company, many in the industry were wondering what he would do next. Prior to his exit, Catino has spent the majority of his career working in the major label ecosystem, as well as some time at MCA Music Publishing, Giant Records & Publishing and DreamWorks Publishing. One could have assumed that Catino was tired of “the system,” working with and for a big corporation…
Warner Music Nashville’s Stephanie Davenport & Rohan Kohli Earn VP Stripes
[August 1, 2023] Warner Music Nashville has appointed Stephanie Davenport and Rohan Kohli as the label’s new Vice Presidents of A&R. They will continue reporting to Cris Lacy, WMN Co-Chair & Co-President. “Stephanie and Rohan are incredible artist champions who have been the backbone of the A&R department for years,” Lacy says. “Ben [Kline] and I are excited to announce these well-deserved promotions…
Tom Becci Named Chief Executive At Concord Label Group
[August 9, 2023] Music industry veteran Tom Becci has been appointed to a newly created role, leading Concord Label Group as its Chief Executive. Effective Aug. 14, Becci will oversee Concord’s entire recorded music division, inclusive of global frontline label and catalog operations. A New Jersey native, Becci got his start in the music business as the manager of special projects for EMI North America and comes to Concord with over 30 years of industry experience, most recently a more than seven year tenure at independent music management agency Red Light Management…
Mark Logsdon Joins BMG Nashville As VP, Publicity
[August 22, 2023] BMG Nashville has hired Mark Logsdon as Vice President of Publicity. Reporting to EVP of BMG Nashville JoJamie Hahr, Logsdon will be responsible for leading the overall publicity strategy and execution for BBR Music Group’s artist roster including Jason Aldean, Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, Dustin Lynch, Chase Rice, Parmalee and more, as well as guiding BMG Nashville’s corporate communications…
Sony Music Publishing Nashville Elevates Kenley Flynn To VP, Creative A&R
Kenley Flynn. Photo: Jason Myers
[August 22, 2023] Sony Music Publishing Nashville has promoted Kenley Flynn to Vice President, Creative A&R. In his new role, Flynn will be responsible for signing and developing talent, and driving creative opportunities on behalf of SMP Nashville’s roster. “Being at Sony Music Publishing these last few years has been genuinely inspiring. I get to work with Nashville’s top songwriters, artists, and producers as well as with an A&R team that is world class. I’m so proud of the story we are writing here and I’m grateful to Rusty [Gaston] and Josh [Van Valkenburg] for letting me play a role in that story,” shares Flynn…
Amanda Cates To Exit Maverick Nashville
[August 28, 2023] Maverick Nashville’s Head of Artist Services Amanda Cates is leaving her position at the company at the end of the month. She will be taking on consulting projects after her exit. Cates joined Clarence Spalding’s artist management company, Spalding Entertainment, in 2009 to focus on building out the digital department, which has since become artist services. Now Maverick Nashville, the company’s roster includes Jason Aldean, Brooks & Dunn, Darius Rucker, Rascal Flatts and more…
Weekly Register: Oliver Anthony Tops Country Streaming Songs Chart
[August 21, 2023] Oliver Anthony‘s “Rich Men North Of Richmond” earns the top debut on the country streaming songs chart this week, scoring the No. 3 slot with 17 million streams according to Luminate data. Morgan Wallen‘s “Last Night” rests at No. 1 with 23 million new streams, adding to 816 million ATD. Luke Combs‘ “Fast Car” cover bides at No. 2 with 18 million streams, adding to 343 million ATD. Zach Bryan‘s “Something In The Orange” drops to No. 4 with 15 million new streams, adding to 889 million ATD, and Bailey Zimmerman‘s “Religiously” remains at No. 5 with 12 million streams, adding to 160 million ATD…
Range Media Partners Adds William Lowery & Shawn McSpadden To Leadership Teams
[August 30, 2023] Range Media Partners has hired Nashville-based executives William Lowery and Shawn McSpadden. At Range, Lowery will focus on business development ventures and content opportunities, while McSpadden will be charged with growing the division’s already robust music division, talent roster and shared services department as the newest Managing Partner. Both will remain in Nashville…
UMG Nashville Promotes Vipin Reddy To VP Of Streaming
Vipin Reddy. Photo: Chris Hollo
[August 30, 2023] UMG Nashville has elevated Vipin Reddy to VP of Streaming. After joining the label group in 2018, Reddy now leads the department. In his new role, he oversees all DSP relationships as well as audio and video streaming strategy for all UMGN artists globally. Prior to joining UMGN, Reddy was part of the UMG global streaming marketing team. The William & Mary graduate and Fairfax, Virginia native has cultivated strong relationships with UMGN streaming partners and most recently was point on UMGN artist strategy with Apple Music and Pandora…
SOURCE Hall Of Fame Inducts Seven ‘Women Behind The Music’ At 20th Anniversary Event
[August 30, 2023] Seven more deserving music industry veterans were inducted into the SOURCE Hall of Fame on Tuesday night (Aug. 29) at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville’s historic Municipal Auditorium. SOURCE Nashville Hall of Fame inductees are nominated and inducted based upon peer recommendations, biographies, accomplishments, reputation, the number of years the individual has worked within the entertainment industry and level of community involvement. All inductees have made a significant impact on the Nashville entertainment industry…
Leo33 Signs Flagship Artist Zach Top
[September 6, 2023] New Nashville-based independent record label Leo33 has signed its first artist, rising country newcomer Zach Top. “We are so thrilled to have Zach as our Leo33 flagship artist – his sound is fresh yet familiar, with a voice that is pure country gold,” shares Katie Dean, Head of Leo33. “We’re so grateful he chose us and joined the pack at Leo33”…
35th Annual MusicRow Awards Winners [Full List]
[September 12, 2023] MusicRow Magazine revealed the winners of the 35th annual MusicRow Awards today (Sept. 12) in a series of videos on all MusicRow online platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. City National Bank is the Presenting Sponsor of the 2023 MusicRow Awards. Now in its 35th year, the MusicRow Awards are Nashville’s longest running music industry trade publication honors and celebrate the achievements of songwriters, artists, producers, and more. Winners are voted on by MusicRow’s subscribers…
SMACKSongs Promotes Lee Krabel To Sr. VP Of Publishing
[September 12, 2023] SMACKSongs has promoted Lee Krabel to Senior Vice President of Publishing, effective immediately. Since joining the company in 2016 as Creative Director, Krabel has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s creative direction and fostering an environment where songwriters can thrive over the years. At SMACK, Krabel runs point on an array of talented songwriters, including Josh Jenkins, Ross Copperman, Scott Stepakoff, Tigirlily Gold, McCoy Moore and Clara Park. In his new role, he will continue to oversee SMACK’s entire roster of songwriters, manage the creative staff, book writing sessions, pitch songs, and identify and sign new and promising writers…
Norbert Nix Exits Triple Tigers, Kevin Herring & Annie Ortmeier Named Co-Presidents
[September 13, 2023] Norbert Nix has exited his position as President of Triple Tigers, the label home to Scotty McCreery, Russell Dickerson and Jordan Fletcher. Triple Tigers’ Kevin Herring and former UMG exec. Annie Ortmeier have become Co-Presidents of the label, reporting to George Couri, Triple Tigers Co-Founder and Triple 8 Management Co-Founder. “Triple Tigers 2.0 is here,” Couri shares. “I look forward to stepping into a more active role, as well as having Kevin and Annie form a dual attack in the worlds of both radio and streaming & digital. Kevin’s radio singles batting average here is unmatched in the industry, and Annie comes from leading streaming and digital strategies at the biggest label in the business…
Chase Rice & Kaiser Cunningham Glow In The Reception Of ‘Bench Seat’ Video [Interview]
[September 13, 2023] With his last album, I Hate Cowboys & All Dogs Go To Hell, Chase Rice broke new ground as an artist. The man behind such hits as “Eyes On You,” “Gonna Wanna Tonight,” “Ready Set Roll” and “Drinkin’ Beer. Talkin’ God. Amen.” dug deep for the 14-song project, curating an impressive body of work to both fans and the industry. With a photo of his late father gracing its cover, I Hate Cowboys & All Dogs Go To Hell included some deeper songs about Rice’s life, such as “Key West & Colorado,” as well as some elevated party rockers that we’ve come to know Rice for, such as his currently-rising single “Bad Day To Be A Cold Beer.”…
Kelsea Ballerini Performs At The VMAs, Covers TIME100
Kelsea Ballerini. Photo: Daniel Prakopcyk
[September 13, 2023] Kelsea Ballerini celebrated several milestones this week. In addition to turning 30, the country star made her MTV Video Music Awards debut and was one of three chosen to cover the TIME100’s Next List. At the VMAs, Ballerini performed the song “Penthouse” from her lauded Rolling Up The Welcome Mat project. In addition to performing beautifully, the star had a stunning moment at the crescendo of the song, when her flowing white dress suddenly became a black gown for the grand finale…
Big Loud Records Expands To Australia & United Kingdom
[September 14, 2023] Big Loud Records has expanded into new territories, adding offices and label managers in London, U.K. and Brisbane, Australia. This bolsters its already established base in Toronto, Canada. Industry executives Cayleigh Shepherd and Johnno Keetels have been tapped as label managers in the U.K. and Australia, respectively. On the Canadian team, Big Loud has elevated Justin Clark to Manager, National Promotion/Associate Label Manager for the territory…
Luke Bryan Looks Back On His Career & 30 No. 1 Hits
Pictured (L-R): Cindy Mabe/Chair & CEO, UMG Nashville, Luke Bryan, Kerri Edwards/KP Entertainment. Photo: Alan Poizner
[September 14, 2023] Industry members gathered at Brooklyn Bowl earlier this week to celebrate country superstar, Luke Bryan. The five-time Entertainer of the Year recently notched the milestone of 30 No. 1 hits. First topping the charts in 2009 with “Do I,” Bryan has changed the sound of country music in the last 15 years. The occasion served as a celebration of Bryan’s life and work. So many executives and peers that helped his record-breaking career take shape were in attendance, and Bryan thanked a lot of them by name, telling funny stories about their time together. In short, it was a love fest…
UMG Nashville Launches Capitol Comedy Nashville, Signs Comedian Nate Bargatze
[September 14, 2023] Universal Music Group Nashville has launched a new label, Capitol Comedy Nashville, with flagship comedian Nate Bargatze. The new comedy-centered imprint for the label group will bring Bargatze’s Hello, World! audio album to the masses on Sept. 15. “Country music and comedy have always had a throughline connecting lifestyle and culture, sharing stories and character habits through humor,” says UMG Nashville Chair & CEO Cindy Mabe. “We’ve been forever linked going back to the early days of the Grand Ole Opry and classic country shows like Hee Haw where comedians shared billings with musical acts and helped us laugh at ourselves. As we are looking for further ways to reach audiences through storytelling, I feel there is no better time to re-link our comedy history together with the start of our new label, Capitol Comedy Nashville…
Maren Morris ‘Freely Moving Forward’ Beyond Country Music
[September 15, 2023] Maren Morris is entering her next era of music in a new phase, “honoring where [she’s] been and what [she’s] achieved in country music, but also freely moving forward.” The Grammy winner expressed her feelings about the next step of her journey with the release of a two-track EP, The Bridge. The project’s new tracks include “The Tree,” produced by Greg Kurstin, and “Get the Hell Out of Here,” produced by Jack Antonoff with Morris and Jimmy Robbins. Morris co-wrote both songs with Robbins and Laura Veltz…
NSAI Notches Another Epic Nashville Songwriter Awards Show [Recap]
[September 27, 2023] “This is becoming my favorite industry awards show.” That statement was shared among throngs of songwriters, publishers and other industry members at last night’s (Sept. 26) sixth annual Nashville Songwriter Awards, put on by Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) with presenting partner City National Bank. And for good reason. The night was full of epic performances, tender speeches and shared congratulations. As it has been since the beginning: it was a love fest…
Country Music Gets A New Awards Show: A Look At The People’s Choice Country Awards
[September 27, 2023] NBCUniversal is bringing a new party to Nashville with the premiere of the People’s Choice Country Awards. Airing live on NBC and Peacock from the Grand Ole Opry House on Thursday, Sept. 28, this expansion of the People’s Choice Awards brand will be one of country music’s only fan-voted awards shows. The original People’s Choice Awards program launched in 1975 with producer and creator Bob Stivers at the helm. The program aired annually on CBS with a ceremony in January to celebrate the previous year of pop culture. In the early years, Gallup polling determined the results of the categories. Prior to 1982’s Country/Western Musical Performer award, the Awards did not have an accolade specifically for country music…
Shane Tarleton Exits Warner Music Nashville
[October 5, 2023] After 13 years with Warner Music Nashville, Shane Tarleton is leaving the label. Tarleton has spent the last two years serving as Executive Vice President, Artist Development. “I would like to thank the incredible team for all of their passion, creativity and dedication over the years. To the artists who inspire all of us with their amazing talent and art, a special ‘thank you’ to you and your teams for instilling trust in me,” he shares. “I look forward to announcing my next adventure in early 2024.”…
Black River Entertainment Elevates Dawn Delvo To VP Of Communications
[October 6, 2023] Black River Entertainment has elevated Dawn Delvo to Vice President of Communications. The company has also hired Ally Roden as Publicity Coordinator. Delvo joined the Black River team in 2011, and has been a part of the successful launch of Kelsea Ballerini’s career from the moment she signed with Black River as a songwriter and artist in 2013. The industry veteran previously spent a handful of years in between record labels and independent firms, where she developed skills in publicity, marketing and social media management as well as film and television licensing…
Music Row Wears ‘Tennessee Orange’ For Megan Moroney’s First No. 1
Pictured (L-R): Paul Jenkins, David Fanning, Megan Moroney, Kristian Bush and Ben Williams. Photo: Anna Warner
[October 9, 2023] The SESAC rooftop was filled with festivity as members of the Music Row family united in orange attire on Wednesday afternoon (Oct. 4) to celebrate Megan Moroney‘s first No. hit “Tennessee Orange.” Everyone mingled around clementine-colored tabletops while enjoying food and refreshments as more and more people made their way outside, adding to the tingling zest in the air. SESAC’s Shannan Hatch took the podium to welcome us and call up Moroney and co-writers Ben Williams, David Fanning and Paul Jenkins as well as producer Kristian Bush. Hatch started her remarks by telling the story of how she met Moroney through her manager, Juli Griffith, and followed by expressing her gratitude and love for the artist and her work ethic…
Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inducts Six During Special Night Of Music
[October 12, 2023] Six iconic tunesmiths became the newest members of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Wednesday night (Oct. 11) in a grand ballroom at the Music City Center. The evening was full of special musical tributes, moving speeches and Music Row camaraderie. It was the 53rd Anniversary Gala and the at-capacity crowd donned their best suits, gowns and cowboy hats for the occasion…
Music Industry Organizations Back Newly Proposed ‘No Fakes’ AI Bill
[October 12, 2023] The impact of artificial intelligence is being discussed on Capitol Hill after the Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe Act—or the No Fakes Act—was proposed. Sponsored by Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), the bill seeks to protect singers, musicians actors and other creators from having their voices and/or likeness replicated by artificial intelligence in sound recordings and audiovisual works. The bill would hold people, companies and platforms liable for creating or hosting unauthorized AI replications of entertainers and creators…
Stephanie Alderman Named Partner At Farris, Self & Moore
[October 19, 2023] Business manager Stephanie Alderman has been promoted to Partner at Farris, Self & Moore (FSM). The firm will continue with its current name, but will now include Alderman in all leadership decisions and high-level initiatives, effective immediately. Hailing from Lansing, Michigan, Alderman kicked off her career by gaining a wide range of experience spanning artist management, publicity and tour production. She found her stride in business management, and now has helmed finances for established recording artists, major touring acts and up-and-coming songwriters for over 15 years…
Tanya Tucker, Patty Loveless & Bob McDill Enter Hall Of Fame
Pictured (L-R): Honorees, Tanya Tucker, Bob McDill and Patty Loveless attend the Class of 2023 Medallion Ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images
[October 23, 2023] At this year’s Medallion Ceremony inducting its newest members, several existing Country Music Hall of Famers shared the spotlight. Staged on Sunday evening (Oct. 22), at the Hall’s CMA Theater, the event saluted Tanya Tucker, Patty Loveless and Bob McDill as the inductees. Among the highlights of the ceremony were the contributions of Vince Gill, Wynonna Judd, Charlie McCoy, Don Schlitz, Connie Smith, Dean Dillon and Brenda Lee, all of whom are previous inductees.
FBMM Names Erica Rosa & Jen Conger As Owners
[October 31, 2023] FBMM has named Jen Conger and Erica Rosa as owners of the entertainment business management firm. “Jen and Erica have been key members of FBMM’s leadership for years, and each of the other owners and I are proud to have them step into this circle,” says Duane Clark, Co-Owner, President and Chairman of FBMM. “Erica and Jen have carved their own unique paths at FBMM and have earned the trust and respect of our clients and our employees.”…
Tim Foisset Joins Spotify
[November 6, 2023] Tim Foisset has joined Spotify as Head of Label Partnerships, Nashville. His new role begins today (Nov. 6). At Spotify, Foisset will manage the label partnerships team in Nashville, which includes Gemma McInturff, Miller Guth and Meagan Bennington. Foisset joins Spotify after 13 years at Warner Music Nashville, where he most recently served as SVP Commercial Partnerships, working with Warner Music Nashville’s partners in streaming, digital retail, physical retail, e-commerce and D2C to drive strategic marketing and revenue. He’s guided new release strategies for artists including Blake Shelton, Kenny Chesney, Dan + Shay, Bailey Zimmerman, Ashley McBryde, Gabby Barrett, Ingrid Andress, Cole Swindell, Cody Johnson and more…
Miranda Lambert & Jon Randall Partner With Big Loud To Launch Big Loud Texas
Pictured (L-R): Joey Moi (Partner / Producer / President of A&R, Big Loud), Austen Adams (COO, Big Loud), Patch Culbertson (SVP / GM, Big Loud Records), Seth England (CEO / Partner, Big Loud), Miranda Lambert, Jon Randall, Alena Moran (Manager, Triple 8 Management), Candice Watkins (SVP of Marketing, Big Loud Records), Sara Knabe (SVP of A&R, Big Loud Records), Stacy Blythe (SVP of Radio Promotion, Big Loud Records)
[November 6, 2023] Miranda Lambert and Jon Randall have partnered with Big Loud Records to launch their own imprint, Big Loud Texas. Lambert and Randall will be directly involved in signing and developing artists on the roster. In addition, Randall will serve as President of A&R for Big Loud Texas while also contributing his expertise as a producer. “As a teenager chasing my dreams in the honky-tonks of Texas, Nashville seemed so far away,” says Lambert. “Every time I’m back home I get to hear the incredible talent our state produces, and I feel a responsibility to help get more of those Texas voices heard. I’m really excited to team up with my buddy Jon Randall and Big Loud to do just that. Get ready, y’all – we’re bringing even more Texas to town!”…
SESAC Celebrates Hits & Heritage
[November 6, 2023] The annual SESAC awards kicked off country-music week festivities last night (Nov. 5) with a glamorous reception that honored the performance rights organization’s biggest Nashville songs of 2023. Jon Nite was honored as SESAC’s Songwriter of the Year. “Amazing!” he exclaimed. “Thank you guys. I don’t deserve this.” Nite recalled moving to Music City in 1998 with $500 in his pocket. “And now I’m here!” Shannan Hatch, who presented his award, also gave him a commemorative, gleaming, black Gibson J-200 guitar…
ASCAP Tosses Epic Party To Honor Songwriters & Publishers
[November 7, 2023] The 61st annual ASCAP Country Awards on Monday (Nov. 6) was a lavish cocktail supper that crowned Ashley Gorley and Jordan Davis as its 2023 champs. Gorley won his 10th Songwriter of the Year honor from the performance rights society. This makes him the most honored country songwriter in the organization’s history. “I want to first, as always, thank God,” he said. “Huge thanks to everybody at ASCAP for all they’ve done and continue to do for me. I’ve been with ASCAP since I was a student at Belmont….I’m blessed to be a part of this.”…
BMI Country Awards Toast To 2023 Winners, Honor Matraca Berg With Icon Award
[November 8, 2023] The last of the PRO awards ceremonies took place last night (Nov. 7) at BMI’s Nashville headquarters on Music Row. Hosted by BMI’s President & CEO Mike O’Neill and Nashville’s VP of Creative Clay Bradley, the 71st annual BMI Country Awards celebrated the top songwriters and music publishers behind this past year’s 50 most-performed songs in country music, with special awards being given out to the Country Songwriter, Song and Publisher of the Year. The awards also honored the unparalleled career of BMI Icon Award recipient Matraca Berg…
The 57th CMA Awards Brings Great Music & Deserved Wins [Recap]
Lainey Wilson accepts the award for Female Vocalist of the Year at The 57th Annual CMA Awards.
[November 9, 2023] Country music stars and industry members assembled at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena last night (Nov. 8) for the 57th CMA Awards. Lainey Wilson was the night’s biggest winner, receiving her first Entertainer of the Year award along with four more. Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton and Jelly Roll were other top winners from the night. Jelly Roll opened the show a cappella with “Need A Favor,” complete with a gospel choir and a surprise guest appearance from Wynonna Judd…
Warner Chappell Music Promotes BJ Hill To Sr. VP, A&R
[November 17, 2023] Warner Chappell Music (WCM) has promoted longtime A&R executive BJ Hill to Senior Vice President, A&R. Throughout his career, Hill has worked with the industry’s most prominent songwriters, including Nicolle Galyon, Jordan Reynolds, Charles Kelley and Dave Haywood of Lady A and Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney of Dan + Shay. He also currently supports a host of up-and-coming talent, such as the720, Zack Dyer and Sophia Scott…
New Mountain Capital To Lead A Shareholder Group To Acquire BMI
[November 21, 2023] New Mountain Capital, LLC, a leading growth-oriented investment firm with over $45 billion in assets under management, will lead a shareholder group to acquire Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI). New Mountain will acquire the company from the shareholders who own BMI today. Mike O’Neill, BMI’s President & CEO, will continue to lead the company, along with his leadership team, following the closing. New Mountain has also reserved additional capital to fund growth investments, new ventures and technology enhancements to help accelerate BMI’s long-term plan to maximize distributions for its affiliates and improve the service it provides to songwriters, composers and publishers…
Dolly Parton Scores The Biggest Album Debut Sales Week Of Her Career With ‘Rockstar’
[November 27, 2023] Global superstar Dolly Parton has landed her biggest album debut of her seven-decade career with her 30-track Rockstar album, with 127,778 units sold in its inaugural week. The star-studded project debuted at No. 1 on six different Billboard charts, including the Top Rock Albums, Top Rock & Alternative Albums, Top Country Albums, Top Album Sales, Top Current Album Sales and Independent Albums charts. It also debuted at No. 2 on Billboard‘s Vinyl Albums Tastemaker Albums chart…
CTM Outlander Signs Sam Hunt To A Worldwide Publishing Deal
[November 28, 2023] CTM Outlander has acquired the publishing catalog of five-time Grammy-nominated, multi-Platinum singer-songwriter Sam Hunt, and signed him to a go-forward publishing deal for his future works. CTM Outlander is a partnership between the Dallas, Texas-based Outlander Capital, led by Les Ware and Mike McKool, and the Dutch-based leading independent music entertainment company CTM, led by industry veteran André de Raaff…
Reba McEntire Appoints Justin McIntosh As Manager, Among Other Team Changes
[November 29, 2023] Reba McEntire has made changes within her core team, adding Justin McIntosh as her new Manager. She has also added Tyler Lewis as Management Coordinator and expanded Leslie Matthews Dugger‘s role of Brand Manager. McIntosh has worked closely with McEntire for more than a decade since he joined her former management home Starstruck Entertainment as VP of Marketing & Creative. Prior to Starstruck, McIntosh worked at Big Machine Label Group, where he was instrumental in digital & marketing strategies for the label’s roster. A Belmont University graduate, his professional experience also includes a role with Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB), in addition to his own creative consulting agency. He is a member of the Country Music Association, Academy of Country Music and the Recording Academy, and has served on the Boards of the Nashville Film Festival and The Theater Bug…
Carson James & Chris Poole Exit BBR Music Group/BMG Amid Restructuring
[November 30, 2023] Sr. VP of Promotion Carson James and Sr. Director of A&R Chris Poole have exited BBR Music Group/BMG as part of a company-wide reorganizing, MusicRow has confirmed. James has been part of the BBR Music Group staff for over a decade. He oversaw the promotional efforts for Broken Bow, Stoney Creek and Wheelhouse Records, and led Broken Bow Records to being named 2022’s No. 1 airplay label for country music by Country Aircheck/Mediabase. Prior to joining BBR Music Group, James spent nearly a decade in promotion at Curb Records. He also served as GM at Bullseye Marketing/Research and Hart Media as well as Sr. VP Programming for then Colonial Broadcasting in Montgomery, Alabama…
MusicRow Reveals Next Big Thing Artists Class Of 2024
[December 5, 2023] MusicRow is proud to reveal its list of artists who are predicted to become the Next Big Thing (NBT) in 2024. The 10th annual NBT list features 11 artists, who are each profiled in MusicRow‘s latest 2024 Touring & Next Big Thing print issue, which releases today (Dec. 5). Boasting a stand-out group of rising stars in the country music industry, MusicRow’s Next Big Thing Class of 2024 includes a wide range of talent, diverse in sound, style and level of success. What each artist has in common, though, is extraordinary talent and a passion for today’s ever-evolving country music format. These future superstars will expand the boundaries of country music, carrying the torch of the format both to its loyal fans and into the mainstream…
MusicRow’s 2024 N.B.T. Industry Directory Highlights The Next Generation Of Leaders
[December 5, 2023] MusicRow has revealed its 2024 N.B.T. Industry Directory list, highlighting a rising class of music industry leaders. Now in its fifth year, MusicRow’s N.B.T. Industry Directory is the first and only list of its kind, showcasing Nashville music business professionals who occupy important roles at their respective companies. This class of professionals are on a trajectory of excellence to successfully lead the Nashville music industry into the future…
Brenda Lee Gets Her Flowers For Her Enduring Christmas Classic [Interview]
[December 8, 2023] Rock & Roll Hall and Country Music Hall of Famer Brenda Lee is celebrating the 65th anniversary of her iconic holiday hit “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” this year. Written by Johnny Marks, Lee’s label Decca Records released the hit when she was only 13 years old. Now, 65 years later, it has topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the first time ever, causing Lee to break several records, many of which were held by Mariah Carey and “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” With the feat, “Rockin’” is only the third holiday song to hit No. 1 on the Hot 100…
Lineup Revealed For CRS 2024 New Faces Show
[December 11, 2023] Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB) has revealed the lineup for the Country Radio Seminar (CRS) 2024 New Faces of Country Music Show, taking place Friday, March 1. This year’s showcase will feature George Birge, Dillon Carmichael, Corey Kent, Megan Moroney and Conner Smith. The New Faces of Country Music Show stars five emerging artists who have achieved notable country radio success during the qualification period, which spanned from Nov. 1, 2022, to Oct. 31, 2023, for the 2024 show. The event has served as a pivotal moment in the careers of established country hitmakers since its inception in 1970…
Scott Hendricks To Exit Warner Music Nashville
Scott Hendricks. Photo: Connor Dwyer
[December 12, 2023] After nearly 16 years with the company, Scott Hendricks will exit his position as EVP A&R/Creative Advisor at Warner Music Nashville at the end of December. Throughout his tenure in A&R at Warner Music Nashville, Hendricks has overseen 95 No. 1 singles on the country airplay charts. He has also produced an incredible 78 chart-topping hits among 123 total top 10 singles. Hendricks’ expertise has impacted the careers of Blake Shelton, Hunter Hayes, Brett Eldredge, Dan + Shay and many more…
Warner Music Nashville Promotes Mike Dupree To SVP, Creative Director
[December 13, 2023] Warner Music Nashville has elevated Mike Dupree to SVP, Creative Director. Reporting to Co-Chair & Co-President Cris Lacy, Dupree and his team manage all of the label’s creative initiatives, including video production and graphic design. “Mike is well known for his long-standing dedication to this label and its artists,” Lacy shares. “Moreover, his desire to build a collaborative creative team is imperative for telling the unique stories of our artists through visual mediums. Ben [Kline] and I are proud to recognize his talent and leadership, and we are excited for this next chapter in his career with Warner Music Nashville.”…
Stephanie Wright Joins Warner Music Nashville As SVP A&R
[December 14, 2023] Warner Music Nashville has tapped Stephanie Wright, who joined the company as a consultant in October, as SVP A&R. She will report to Co-Chair & Co-President Cris Lacy. “Ben [Kline] and I have known and respected Stephanie for many years – quite often we’ve been on the other side of her at another label, actively battling it out to sign an artist” Lacy shares. “She is a fierce competitor, a tenacious team leader and has an innate sense for exceptional music and artists. Most importantly, she is recognized in the music community as a passionate advocate for developing songwriters, producers and artists, many of whom she helped achieve their first career milestone. Her reputation and long-standing relationships will strengthen our incredible A&R team exponentially”…
Opry Entertainment Group & Vanderbilt Health Celebrate Partnership
/by Liza AndersonReverend Raye Nell Dyer & Reverand Frank Macht flipping the switch to illuminate the Opry barn Christmas lights.
A series of special events were held at the Grand Ole Opry and on the Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) campus to celebrate Opry Entertainment Group and Vanderbilt Health’s partnership, formed earlier this year.
Through this partnership, Vanderbilt Health is now the official medical provider for all Grand Ole Opry shows as well as concerts and other functions hosted at the Opry and Ryman Auditorium. With this, LifeFlight Event Medicine is onsite to provide EMS coverage for all events.
“Opry Entertainment and Vanderbilt Health have a long history of collaboration, not only in business but also in community wellness, safety and health programs, and we are pleased to extend our relationship with Vanderbilt through these services,” says Pete Weien, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Opry Entertainment Group. “Nashville’s distinctive character as both a vibrant music city and a thriving medical hub makes this an excellent opportunity to further unite our two businesses.”
“Nashville’s two greatest exports are music and healthcare. As leaders in these areas Vanderbilt Health and Opry Entertainment are strengthening our historic partnership to provide enhanced safety and wellness initiatives for patrons of Opry Entertainment’s storied venues. We feel that this collaboration is a win for both organizations, our employees, and for our city at large,” says Stuart Dill, Chief Marketing Officer, Vanderbilt Health.
On Dec. 11, the Grand Ole Opry welcomed VUMC’s hospital chaplains to Monday night’s Opry Country Christmas performance, where Reverend Raye Nell Dyer and Reverend Frank Macht had the honor of flipping the switch to illuminate the Opry barn Christmas lights.
In addition to the Opry celebration, Vanderbilt Health organized two events on the VUMC campus to further highlight the collaboration, which showcased the partnership’s shared commitment to the Nashville community. The events included a holiday experience with an original Ryman Auditorium pew, ticket giveaways and more for VUMC and Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt employees.
Third Annual Nash To Naples Songwriter Fest Set For January
/by Lorie HollabaughThe third annual Nash to Naples Songwriter Fest is set for Jan. 6 at Cambier Park in Naples, Florida.
This year’s lineup includes Wendell Mobley, Lee Thomas Miller, Cameron Bedell, Emily Falvey and Casey Brown.
The show will feature Nashville coming together in Naples to bring hope to the broken in Ecuador. The concert is free, but a suggested donation is recommended- $20 for General Admission, $50 for Premium Lawn and $750 for VIP. Donations will be collected throughout the event for the Hacienda of Hope, a foundation providing support and shelter for children in Ecuador. For more information, click here.
The Nash to Naples team recently took a trip to Ecuador to spend some time at the Hacienda of Hope. In previous visits, the team has brought a songwriter and artist to teach children creative skills. The Hacienda of Hope began in 2003 with the focus of providing for children who need a safe place to call home. Through the years, it has become a foundation that not only offers a home but also an education and spiritual formation for children who otherwise may have fallen through the cracks.
The Mavericks End Another Year At The Ryman & Announce New Album
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Mavericks. Photo: David McClister
The Mavericks wrapped another 100-show year of touring this month by returning home to Nashville for their year-end tradition of a two-night grand finale at the historic Ryman Auditorium.
The band then reconvened in Nashville’s Blackbird Studio to put the final touches on a new album, with initial singles expected in the first quarter of 2024, and a full album release set for late spring. The new project will mark The Mavericks first studio album since 2020’s chart-topping En Espanol project, and the band’s first full album of original English language compositions since 2017’s Brand New Day.
The Mavericks have already announced another extensive tour for the first half of the new year that includes a spring 14-show run in Europe.
Second ‘Opry At The Ryman’ Shows Added To January Dates
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Grand Ole Opry has added second 9:30 p.m. shows to two in its run of three “Opry At The Ryman” shows next month due to audience demand.
A second show has been added for Jan. 12 featuring the Opry debut of Lucinda Williams in addition to Brothers Osborne, Emmylou Harris and Rodney Crowell, Maggie Rose and more to be announced. Another show has also been added to the Opry’s second annual “Opry Goes Dolly” celebration on Jan. 19 featuring performances by Lauren Alaina, Terri Clark, Dailey & Vincent, Elle King, Ashley Monroe, Tigirlily Gold and more.
“Opry Goes Dolly” will celebrate Opry member Dolly Parton, and falls on her actual birthday, marking the second straight year the show has celebrated the icon’s birthday. While Parton will not appear in-person, the night will include artists performing their favorites of her hits, themed events, photo-ops and more. Five dollars from every ticket sold to the Jan. 19 show will be donated to the Opry Trust Fund in Parton’s honor. For more than 50 years, the fund has assisted members of the country music community in need.
The Opry’s Ryman run will allow time for placement of a new venetian curtain at the Grand Ole Opry House, the Opry’s permanent home. Tickets are on sale now for these and additional 2024 Opry shows at (615) 871-OPRY and opry.com.
Robert K. Oermann Highlights Exceptional Nashville Music With DISClaimer
/by MusicRow StaffShortly after MusicRow Magazine was established in 1981, respected music critic, author and historian Robert K. Oermann began reviewing the newest music to come out of Nashville with his weekly DISClaimer column.
Each week, Oermann shares his thoughts on a collection of new tunes. His reviews have become an iconic part of MusicRow.
In each week’s DISClaimer column, Oermann chooses a Disc of the Day as a highlight of the pack. Below are his 2023 Disc of the Day winners. Click here to listen to a playlist of the Disc of the Day from 2023.
ASHLEY McBRYDE, CAYLEE HAMMACK & PILLBOX PATTI / “Brenda Put Your Bra On”
Writers: Ashley McBryde/Brandy Clark/Benjy Dvis/Connie Harrington/Nicolette Hayford/Aaron Raitiere; Producer: John Osborne; Label: Warner
–Howlingly good. White-trash domestic upheaval depicted with wit, sass and salt. The storytelling talent, funny-bone tickling and vocal panache in this are all beyond great. McBryde rules!
LUKAS GRAHAM & MICKEY GUYTON / “Home Movies”
Writers: David LaBrel/Jaramye Daniels/Nicolle Galyon/Rory Andrew; Producers: Rory Andrew/Markus Artved; Label: Warner
–Graham’s strong, penetrating delivery is powerful enough. In fact, he’s downright hair raising in his upper register. Add Guyton’s sensational soprano and you’ve got total audio magic. The superb production is the icing on this scrumptious cake. He is a Danish pop artist with billions of international streams, and this stunning duet stakes his claim for country stardom. In a word, awesome.
JORDAN DAVIS / “No Time Soon”
Writers: Jacob Davis/Jordan Davis/Matt Jenkins/Josh Jenkins; Producer: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: MCA
–Mr. Davis gets all steamy and sexy on this rumbling, compelling country rocker. He advises his paramour to lay down for some love making that won’t quit for quite some time. This one’s going straight to the top with no stops.
CHRIS YOUNG / “Looking for You”
Writers: Chris Young/Chris DeStefano/James McNair/Emily Weisband; Producers: Chris Young/Chris DeStefano; Label: RCA
–One of my favorite male country voices returns with a pile driver that begs to be cranked up to “10.” The quest for love has seldom rocked so splendidly.
DEBORAH ALLEN / “All Or Nothing at All”
Writers: Deborah Allen/Margaret Phillips; Producer: Deborah Allen; Label: Orchard Entertainment
— Allen struts her vocal chops on this stately, monumental-sounding torch ballad. Her soprano shouts contrast with husky intimacies in the oomphy production. Well done, sister.
KANE BROWN & KATELYN BROWN / “Thank God”
Writers: Christian Stainecker/Jared Mullis/Jaxson Free/Josh Hoge/Kyle Fishman; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Sony
– Mr. and Mrs. Brown are all giddy in love on this sweet, lilting outing. I’m happy to report that she is a fine singer in her own right. My only disappointment was that Katelyn didn’t break into vocal harmony with Kane until the very last phrase of the song.
DARIUS RUCKER / “Lift Me Up”
Writers: Rihanna/Ryan Coogler/Ludwig Goransson/Tems; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: UMG
– Wakanda forever! Right on the heels of Rihanna’s Super Bowl halftime performance comes Rucker’s fine cover of her Oscar-nominated theme song from the Black Panther franchise. Beautifully produced, spiritually uplifting and soul stirring. It builds to anthem-level intensity before receding into an intimate prayer. Essential.
BROTHERS OSBORNE & ASHLEY McBRYDE / “Play Ball”
Writers: Ashley McBryde/Brandy Clark/Benjy Davis/Connie Harrington/Nicolette Hayford/Aaron Ratiere; Producer: John Osborne; Label: Warner
– If there was an award for Country Concert of the Year, I’d be polishing a statuette for Ashley McBryde. Her “Welcome to Lindeville” all-star gathering at the Ryman last week was the most wildly entertaining and meaningful country event of our era. I have already told you about her extraordinary album’s “Bonfire at Tina’s,” “Gospel Night at the Strip Club” and “Brenda Put Your Bra On,” all of which were stunning in live performance. One thing the concert revealed was how important is the album’s producer, John Osborne. He and his brilliant vocalist brother T.J. turned this exquisite song into an an epic small-town poem about the groundskeeper at Dennis Linde Field. In a word, awesome.
BRAD PAISLEY / “Same Here”
Writers: Brad Paisley/Lee Thomas Miller/Taylor Goldsmith; Producer: Luke Wooten/Brad Paisley; Label: EMI
– Released on the first anniversary of the terrible Ukraine invasion, this yearning ballad is awash in nostalgia, longing and reflection. The third verse addresses our brothers overseas who pray for peace and freedom. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy makes a moving cameo vocal appearance, and proceeds will benefit Ukrainian relief efforts. This is country stardom at its finest.
ASHLEY McBRYDE / “Light on in the Kitchen”
Writers: Ashley McBryde/Connie Harrington/Jessi Alexander; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– Life advice, set to rippling guitars, shuffling percussion and tinkling mandolin. The singer carries strength and love with her everywhere, thanks to the support and wisdom of mama. Immensely tender and wonderfully listenable. I believed every word, and that’s the mark of a great country record.
SHANIA TWAIN / “Queen of Me”
Writers: Shania Twain/Adam Messinger; Producer: Adam Messinger; Label: Republic
– More hooks than a tuna boat. It’s all here: A totally cool vocal performance, an ear-worm melody, fabulous production thump and a self-affirming lyric. She makes records like no one else. This is the title tune of her latest.
LUKE COMBS / “5 Leaf Clover”
Writers: Luke Combs/Jessi Alexander/Chase McGill; Producers: Luke Combs/Chip Matthews/Jonathan Singleton; Label: River House/Columbia Nashville
His heart is in his throat on this beautiful song of gratitude and blessings. His mighty voice is unfurled in majesty as he soars professing love on the choruses. The production is wonderfully shaded and restrained. The new Combs album drops tomorrow, and that is where you’ll find this mini masterpiece.
BRANDY CLARK / “Buried”
Writers: Brandy Clark, Jessie Jo Dillon; Producer: Brandi Carlile; Label: Warner Records
– This is a stunning ballad of ache and loss by one of our greatest living country songwriters. Clark’s broken-hearted delivery is shadowed by gentle acoustic guitar plucking and soft vocal harmonies. Among the many brilliant touches in the writing is the artful placing of the song’s title as the song’s very last word. She is just so awesome. It’s an advance track from her forthcoming fourth album. With Shane McAnally, Clark is also the cowriter of the Broadway musical Shucked, which opens in New York on April 4. Last Sunday’s New York Times had an extensive piece about it.
TANYA TUCKER / “Kindness”
Writers: Tim Hanseroth/Phil Hanseroth; Producers: Brandi Carlile/Shooter Jennings; Label: Fantasy
– Pensive and powerful. The living legend exudes enduring charisma in this stunning, stirring performance. An echoey atmosphere surrounds her as she sings of a turbulent life yearning toward peace. It’s an advance track from her forthcoming Sweet Western Sound collection that reunites her with Carlile and Jennings. I love this woman’s style: She rode a magnificent black stallion on the streets of downtown Nashville this week to announce it, as well as her upcoming June 3-4 concerts at the Ryman. Oh, and one more thing: FINALLY she is going into the Country Music Hall of Fame, where she so richly and deservedly belongs. I have been wishing for this day for years.
BROTHERS OSBORNE / “Nobody’s Nobody”
Writers: John Osborne/TJ Osborne/Mike Elizondo/Kendell Marvel; Producer: Mike Elizondo; Label: EMI
– Stately, stomping, scintillating, searing and sensational. The moody, drama-laden vocal unspools a message of inclusion for both sinners and saints. Meanwhile, the band flavors the piping-hot track with buzz-saw guitars, chant-like harmonies and pounding percussion. These guys always deliver in spades.
MEGAN MORONEY / “Girl in the Mirror”
Writers: Megan Moroney/Jessie Jo Dillon/Matt Jenkins; Producer: Kristian Bush; Label: Columbia Nashville
– I absolutely adore her “Tennessee Orange” single. Here’s another demonstration that we’re in the presence of a major, major new talent. She gazes into the mirror, but doesn’t recognize her own reflection because he’s bent her all out of shape. “You can’t love the boy more than you love the girl in the mirror,” she sings with a palpable ache in her throat.
COLBIE CAILLAT / “Worth It”
Writers: Colbie Caillat/Liz Rose/AJ Pruis; Producer: Jamie Kenney; Label: Blue Jean Baby Records
– Pop star Caillat has always had country tendencies. On this power ballad, she realizes the relationship is kaput, but doesn’t regret a thing. “I know it wasn’t perfect, but loving you was worth it,” she sings in the hooky refrain. The echoey production atmosphere gives the whole thing a dreamy quality.
OLD DOMINION / “I Should Have Married You”
Writers: Matthew Ramsey/Trevor Rosen/Whit Sellers/Geoff Sprung/Brad Tursi/Shane McAnally; Producers: Old Dominion/Shane McAnally; Label: Arista Nashville
– Enchanting. The rippling production, twirling melody, percussive effects and hearty vocals combine to weave a delightful tapestry of sound. The summertime vibe and merry tempo contrast with a lyric of regret. There’s a reason why this is the five-time ACM Group of the Year, and this is it.
CHRIS JANSON, DOLLY PARTON & SLASH / “21 Forever”
Writers: Chris Janson/Tommy Cecil/Tom Douglas; Producers: Julian Raymond/Chris Janson/Scott Borchetta; Label: BMLG Records
– Yes, it’s a sensational collaboration. But the song is so awesome and powerful that it doesn’t need any guest stars at all. That said, Janson turns in the finest vocal of his career to date, and I’ll go to my grave loving Dolly. Hang on for the extended, breath-taking Slash guitar solo at the coda. A magnificent recording.
LEE BRICE / “Save the Roses”
Writers: Lee Brice/Joe Leathers/Kyle Jacobs; Producers: Ben Glover/Kyle Jacobs; Label: Curb Records
– I love this man. He’s a song magnet who gets to me every time. Brice is a superb country singer who delivers a lyric like no one else in this business. In this case, it is a powerful, chesty elegy to the late songwriter Kyle Jacobs, and I promise it will hit you in your heart.
CARRIE UNDERWOOD / “Out of That Truck”
Writers: Carrie Underwood/David Garcia/Lydia Vaughan; Producers: David Garcia/Carrie Underwood; Label: Capitol Nashville
– Carrie rocks out on this defiant stomper addressed to her ex. She vows that no matter how hard he tries, he’ll never erase her memory from his truck, because they shared so much in it. A winner.
WENDY MOTEN / “Don’t Give Up”
Writers: Wendy Moten/David Santos; Producers: Paul Worley/Wendy Moten; Label: Radio Eye Music
– After more than 20 years as a background vocalist for others, Moten shot to national fame via competing on The Voice last year. She was an inspiration to mature performers everywhere when she became a fan-favorite finalist. Her new single is similarly inspiring, a life philosophy about persevering through the storms. Not only that, it’s a groove-saturated sonic slab of soul. Everything about this is electrifying, from the sizzling organ to the rump-shaking rhythm section, from the tasty guitar licks to her shout-to-the-heavens vocal. All together now: “Hallelujah!”
PARKER McCOLLUM / “Burn It Down”
Writers: Parker McCollum/Hillary Lindsay/Lori McKenna/Liz Rose; Producer: Jon Randall; Label: MCA Nashville
– The smoldering heartache song bursts into flame on its bridge and keeps on burning to its smoking-ashes finale. McCollum’s delivery is appropriately edgy and pained. The man is a star.
GABBY BARRETT / “Glory Days”
Writers: Gabby Barrett/Emily Weisband/Seth Mosley/James McNair; Producers: Gabby Barrett/Ross Copperman; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– This youngster is a queen of catchy hooks, as this rapid, rushing rocker underscores. She savors the simple joys of everyday love while beats thump all around her. “I Hope,” “The Good Ones” and “Pick Me Up” were the country-pop gems that propelled her debut album. This lead-off track of her sophomore collection suggests that she’s only just begun. Barrett heads to her home turf on Aug. 11 for a post-game concert when the Pirates play the Reds at PNC Park, which is baseball’s most perfect venue.
BRAD PAISLEY / “So Many Summers”
Writers: Brad Paisley/Ross Copperman/Lee Thomas Miller; Producers: Luke Wooten/Brad Paisley; Label: Loaded Goat/UMG
– Live it up and have a good time, because you only get so many summers. “Swing for the fence, jump in the water …and tell her you love her.” A word of wisdom from the senior citizen at the playground. And it RAWKS. Play this on repeat.
TIM McGRAW / “Hey Whiskey”
Writers: Brad Hutsell/Joel Hutsell/Brad Warren/Brett Warren; Producers: Tim McGraw/Byron Gallimore; Label: Big Machine Records
– Eloquently heartbreaking. He addresses the drink that took his money, drove away a good woman, occupied his life and left him in hell. Sighing steel and brushed percussion hurt with every note. One more reason to eagerly anticipate the release of his new Standing Room Only collection in August.
JO DEE MESSINA / “Just To Be Loved”
Writers: Jess Cates/Jordan Mohilowski/Tim Nichols/Jo Dee Messina; Producer: Jordan Mohilowski; Label: JDM
– Messina is having a moment, thanks to the revival of “Heads Carolina Tails California.” Her comeback single is a beautifully produced bopper with rippling mandolin, burbling bass, stacked vocals, crisp percussion and a breezy summertime vibe. Her voice remains as hearty and warm as ever. The lyric’s message about being true to yourself is lovely, too. So delightful sounding that I didn’t want it to end.
DAVID NAIL / “Silverado”
Writers: David Nail/Grant Vogel/Robyn Collins; Producer: Grant Vogel; Label: One Five Sound, LLC
– Let’s face it: The man was born to sing. And what woman could resist this come-on? He wants to take it slow, get to know her and ride off to unknown adventures in his truck. The echoey track takes on layer after lovely layer as this wafting, romantic ode unfurls.
HANNAH DASHER / “(I’m the One That Taught Him) That Thing You Like”
Writers: Hannah Dasher/Brandon Hood/Wynn Varble; Producers: none listed; Label: HD
– Witty, bluesy and twanging. She takes the new girlfriend aside to let her know just how intimately she knows the boy on this unreleased track. A fabulous sonic slab. I remain a massive fan.
CHRIS YOUNG / “Young Love & Saturday Nights”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Jesse Frasure/Josh Thompson/David Bowie; Producers: Chris Young/Corey Crowder/Chris DeStafano; Label: RCA
– The melody quotes “Rebel Rebel” by David Bowie, but this uptempo romp is country all the way. It’s a joyous celebration of old trucks, small towns, radio tunes and necking in the parking lot. Roll down the windows and crank it up on a carefree weekend.
CHRIS STAPLETON / “White Horse”
Writers: Chris Stapleton/Dan Wilson; Producers: Dave Cobb/Morgane Stapleton/Chris Stapleton; Label: Mercury Nashville
– His voice is such a torrent of sound that he can make your heart beat faster without hardly trying. This fiery single blurs the lines between country and southern rock while confirming his bonfire intensity as a performer. Undeniable.
EXILE / “Rough Around the Edges”
Writers: Les Taylor/Larry Cordle/J.P. Pennington; Producers: J.P. Pennington/Sonny LeMaire; Label: Clearwater Records
– The band’s first new radio single in more than 30 years is a frothing rocker that shows the veteran act’s spit and fire are undimmed by time. The tempo is in overdrive, the guitars stutter mightily, keyboards sizzle and the vocals wail. And if you listen closely, the lyric is as cute as all get out. I love this.
JORDAN DAVIS / “Tuscon Too Late”
Writers: Jordan Davis/Jacob Davis/Josh Jenkins/Matt Jenkins; Producer: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: MCA Nashville
– Quite well written. The gently rolling tempo and his expressively resigned delivery sell this busted-heart song like gangbusters. I love a good, sad, country tune, and this one’s a pip. Classic, classy stuff.
CARLY PEARCE / “Country Music Made Me Do It”
Writers: Carly Pearce/Josh Osborne/Shane McAnally; Producers: Carly Pearce/Josh Osborne/Shane McAnally; Label: Big Machine Records
– Charming. This lilting, endearing performance is an ode to the soundtrack of her life, and Pearce sings every note with truth and authenticity. She was born to wear a country crown.
CHARLIE WORSHAM & LUKE COMBS / “How I Learned to Pray”
Writers: Charlie Worsham/Jeremy Spillman/Ryan Tyndell; Producer: Jaren Johnston; Label: Warner
– Beautifully done. Worsham’s pitch-perfect voice and guitar eloquence carry the poignant piece with a wonderfully sympathetic assist by Combs. If you don’t already love Charlie Worsham, you are way behind the times. Get on board and get ready for Compadres, an October EP featuring collaborations with Lainey Wilson, Kip Moore, Dierks Bentley and Elle King as well as this little moment of musical magic.
WALKER HAYES / “Good With Me”
Writers: Walker Hayes/Shane McAnally/Scott Stepakoff; Producers: Walker Hayes/Joe Thibodeau; Label: Monument Records/RCA
– Just when you were wondering what happened to the “Fancy Like” guy, he’s back with a hillbilly earworm that is just as delightful. This ditty is one big grin from start to finish. I love that the verses touch on hot-button topics and the choruses toss ‘em all out the window to warble merrily about good times at the lake. A complete delight.
BILLY CURRINGTON / “Anchor Man”
Writers: Paul Overstreet/Scotty Emerick; Producer: Carson Chamberlain; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Wistful and yearning. It will take you out beyond the reef onto the open sea with a breeze in your face. The song’s protagonist is a former news anchor who has chucked it all to ignore headlines and deadlines and spend his days fishing. It wasn’t intended as such, but it kinda sounds like an audio homage to the late and much mourned Jimmy Buffett.
COLBIE CAILLAT & SHERYL CROW / “I’ll Be Here”
Writers: Colbie Caillat/Brett James/Jason Reeves/Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds; Producer: Jamie Kenney; Label: Blue Jean Baby Records/The Orchard
– This is the title tune of Caillat’s new country album (due Oct. 6). It is an uplifting, breezy tempo tune that exudes love and light, supportive friendship and spirit-lifting trust. She and Crow have migrated here from pop and both righteously belong in the country firmament, because they’re better country singers than half of the people that are already in the format. Play and believe.
TYLER CHILDERS / “In Your Love”
Writers: Tyler Childers/Geno Seale; Producers: Tyler Childers/The Food Stamps; Label: Hickman Holler/RCA Records
– This guy’s new Rustin’ In The Rain album is an all-genre sales sensation and his new arena tour has sold out everywhere, including two nights at Madison Square Garden, Red Rocks and Rupp Arena as well as two nights next April at Bridgestone. The penetrating country singer-songwriter is becoming a total rock star without any radio support. Americana Highways calls him, “one of the most talented and important musical forces in American music.” Amen to that. The brilliantly acted video for this love song has stirred some controversy since it depicts two male coal miners who fall in love until one is felled by black lung. If you are not on this man’s express train to stardom, get on board now.
ALLISON RUSSELL / “The Returner”
Writers: Allison Russell/Drew Lindsay/JT Nero; Producers: Allison Russell/Dim Star; Label: Fantasy
– The title tune of this gifted artist’s latest collection is a slow groove that’s equal parts gospel, folk and soul. The lyric of surrender and inspiration glows with mysticism and is drenched in sisterly harmony vocals. This album is essential. Russell’s social activism was saluted with the Seigenthaler Free Speech Award at the Americana Awards on Wednesday eve.
THE SHINDELLAS / “Ooh La La”
Writers: Claude Kelly/Chuck Harmony (Louis York); Producers: Claude Kelly/Chuck Harmony (Louis York); Label: Weirdo Workshop/Thirty Tigers
– The “girl group” sound of the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s is not dead. It lives on in the delicious sound of this Nashville trio. They swing lightly to the groove-soaked beats of this sunny love ditty, alternating solo vocal step-outs with creamy harmonies. As fizzy and sweet as a soda-fountain concoction. There’s a video out now, and you’ll find it on the group’s new album, Shindo, which drops Oct. 20. Can’t wait that long? The Shindellas’ Americana showcase is Saturday (Sept. 23) at 7 p.m. at The Basement East.
JIMMY BUFFETT / “Bubbles Up”
Writers: Jimmy Buffett/Will Kimbrough; Producers: Michael Utley/Mac McAnally; Label: Sun Records
– Warmly philosophical and contemplative. Acoustic guitar strumming and a subtle bass heartbeat underlie Buffett’s relaxed, friendly delivery. Co-written with Nashville guitar treasure Will Kimbrough (a longtime Coral Reefer), the ballad reflects on your life’s journey and encourages optimism and hope. What a eulogy. What a gift.
OLD DOMINION & MEGAN MORONEY / “Can’t Break Up Now”
Writers: Emily Weisband/Tofer Brown/Matthew Ramsey/Trevor Rosen; Producers: Old Dominion/Ross Copperman; Label: Columbia Nashville
— Country’s new “it girl” teams up with the genre’s top band to create a little audio magic. The power ballad features primo picking and dynamic vocal harmonies. Matthew Ramsey and Moroney portray a troubled couple who have too much invested in one another to call it quits. As you might guess where this group is concerned, the melody is luscious.
HAILEY WHITTERS / “I’m In Love”
Writers: Lee Thomas Miller/Nicolle Galyon/Cameron Bedell; Producers: Jake Gear/Hailey Whitters; Label: Big Loud/Pigasus/Songs & Daughters
– Adorable. As cute as a kitten. As fizzy as soda pop. Ya gotta love this little ray of sunshine. Whitters is the reigning ACM New Female Artist of the Year and is vying for a similar CMA award next month. Play this.
CHRIS STAPLETON / “It Takes a Woman”
Writers: Chris Stapleton/Ronnie Bowman/Jerry Salley; Producers: Chris Stapleton/Dave Cobb/Morgane Stapleton; Label: Mercury Nashville
– This stately ballad is exquisite. Wrap your loved one in your arms and slow dance around the room while his magic voice swirls in the air.
SAM HUNT / “Came The Closest”
Writers: Sam Hunt/Josh Osborne/Shane McAnally; Producers: Sam Hunt/Zach Crowell; Label: MCA Nashville
– The guy tried to play it straight for her sake. He cut his hair, shaved, acted nice around her parents, took a 9-to-5 job, quit drinking whiskey and tried settling down. But he’s a rambling man at heart, so they never married and he moved on. The airy production is terrific, and Hunt’s vocal is as warm as a hot toddy. Absolutely, yes.
BRAD PAISLEY / “The Medicine Will”
Writers: Brad Paisley/Lee Thomas Miller; Producers: Brad Paisley/Luke Wooten; Label: EMI Nashville
– Absolutely extraordinary. Paisley takes on the opioid epidemic, which is especially lethal in his West Virginia homeland. His word portrait encompasses coal mining and small-town devastation while offering sympathy and understanding to victims. The dobro-laced production drives a brisk track with an enormously sincere vocal performance. Essential listening.
LUKE COMBS / “Where the Wild Things Are”
Writers: Dave Turnbull/Randy Montana; Producers: Luke Combs/Chip Matthews/Jonathan Singleton; Label: River House Artists/Columbia Nashville
– What a voice. This is a mighty, mighty country-music man. And perhaps never more so than on this punchy rocker about a man who follows his big brother to Hollywood. Right up to the death scene, his gripping delivery keeps you on the edge of your seat. A simply brilliant performance of a titanically well-written song. He justifiably stopped the show with this at the CMA Awards.
MICKEY GUYTON / “The Best”
Writers: Mike Chapman/Holly Knight; Producer: none listed; Label: MG
– Guyton tore the house down when she paid homage to Tina Turner during yesterday (Nov. 15)’s CMT Smashing Glass female special. Honorees Tanya Tucker and Patti LaBelle rocked along joyously in the audience while she strutted through this commanding performance. If you didn’t catch it, go to YouTube right now and check it out. Star-making stuff.
TIM MCGRAW / “Runnin’ Outta Love”
Writers: Matt McGinn/Lindsay Rimes/Brad Warren/Brett Warren; Producers: Tim McGraw/Byron Gallimore; Label: Big Machine Records
– This is downright inspirational. McGraw’s solid delivery of the hope-filled lyric rides atop a splendid, galloping rhythm track that cranks the excitement up. His top-10 tally currently stands at 69. Let’s make it an even 70, shall we?
LUKE GRIMES / “Clay Pigeons”
Writer: Blaze Foley; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Yellowstone star Grimes continues his pursuit of country stardom with this brilliantly written folk-country outing. His relaxed, thoughtful reading of the lyric feels like he’s sitting right next you. The song comes from the late Texas tunesmith Blaze Foley. Essential listening.
BRENDA LEE / “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree (Remix)”
Writer: Johnny Marks; Producer: Owen Bradley: Label: MCA Nashville
– Thumpy electronic drumming pounds away as Lee and the Nashville A-Team’s original track echoes in the background. This new remix is packaged with her (superior) 1958 rockabilly version on a new holiday EP. This year, the song made the Music City legend the oldest person in history to have a No. 1 Billboard pop hit. Lee’s 79th birthday was on Monday (Dec. 11). What a double celebration. Rock on, Little Miss Dynamite.
CeCe Winans Slates ‘The Goodness Tour’ For Spring 2024
/by Lorie HollabaughCeCe Winans is set to launch “The Goodness Tour” on Feb. 28 in Shreveport, Louisiana.
The new 20-date tour will visit New Orleans, Richmond, Detroit, Chicago, Austin, Miami and more through May 3. Winans will showcase tracks from her album Believe For It, including the chart-toppers “Goodness of God,” “Never Lost” and “Believe For It,” and will also debut brand new songs from her forthcoming album More Than This, featuring “Holy Forever,” “That’s My King” and more.
“Over the last year, my team and I have been thanking God for the blessings and opportunities that we’ve been given,” says Winans. “As we toured and listened to stories of healing and restoration, we started to think about what’s next? What more is there to say? During ‘The Goodness Tour,’ we’ll get to share new songs and worship where we don’t just believe for great things, but we acknowledge His goodness, while having no ability to perceive how much more God has in store for us. We are praying with expectation of what is coming, and we hope you’ll join us.”
Tickets are available now. For more information, click here.
Winans is also set to take the stage on the CBS Christmas special A Home for The Holidays, airing tomorrow (Dec. 22). Celebrating 25 years, the program is dedicated to shedding light on the imperative social issue of American children in foster care, inspiring thousands of adoptions.
“The Goodness Tour” Dates:
Feb. 28 – Shreveport, LA – Shreveport Municipal Memorial Auditorium
Feb. 29 – Mobile, AL – Cottage Hill Baptist Church
March 1 – New Orleans, LA – Franklin Avenue Baptist Church
March 6 – Fayetteville, NC – Crown Theater
March 7 – Greensboro, NC – Mt. Zion Church
March 8 – Hixson, TN (Chattanooga) – Abba’s House
March 13 – Greenville, SC – Redemption Church East
March 14 – Richmond, VA – Liberation Church
March 15 – Columbia, SC – First Baptist Church Columbia
March 20 – Liberty Township, OH (Cincinnati) – Princeton Pike Church of God
March 21 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theater
March 22 – Chicago, IL – House of Hope
April 13 – Los Angeles, CA – Peacock Theater
April 18 – Visalia, CA – Visalia First Assembly of God
April 19 – San Jose, CA – Redemption Church West
April 24 – Carrolton, TX (Dallas) – Bent Tree Bible Fellowship
April 25 – Austin, TX – Austin Ridge Bible Bee Cave
April 26 – Houston, TX – Fallbrook Church
May 2 – Miami, FL – James L. Knight Center
May 3 – Brandon, FL (Tampa) – Bell Shoals Church
Jelly Roll Among ‘Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve’ Times Square Lineup
/by Liza AndersonThe Times Square performance lineup has been unveiled for Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve With Ryan Seacrest 2024, airing live on ABC Dec. 31 at 7 p.m. CT.
Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve With Ryan Seacrest celebrates the year’s best in music with more than five hours of dynamic performances, fan-favorite personalities and a look at New Year’s Eve celebrations around the globe. Seacrest will host the festivities alongside artist Rita Ora from New York’s Times Square.
The 2024 lineup includes Jelly Roll and Jessie Murph as well as Megan Thee Stallion, Sabrina Carpenter and Tyla.
Jelly Roll will perform a medley of his hits live from Times Square, and will be joined by Murph. The two recently released their single “Wild Ones,” and Jelly Roll recently wrapped his “Backroad Baptism Arena Tour.” He also celebrated three back-to-back No. 1s from his debut country album Whitsitt Chapel, including lastest smash “Save Me” with Lainey Wilson.
Additionally, this year will mark the first-ever live radio simulcast of the beloved annual event airing across 150 iHeartRadio stations nationwide including Z100 New York, KIIS-FM Los Angeles, KISS FM Chicago, Q102 Philly, 102.9 Dallas and more. The show will also be available on the iHeartRadio app.
Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve With Ryan Seacrest 2024 is produced by Dick Clark Productions with Seacrest, Michael Dempsey and Barry Adelman serving as executive producers.
Kenny Rogers’ ‘The Gambler’ Mixed In Dolby Atmos For 45th Anniversary
/by Lorie HollabaughPhoto: Alexa King Stone
Kenny Rogers‘ The Gambler album has been mixed in immersive Dolby Atmos from the original masters by engineer and producer David Leonard to commemorate “The Gambler” hit and the 45th anniversary of the namesake record.
The new Dolby Atmos mix retains the feel of the classic album but offers a fresh perspective, putting listeners in the center of the music while revealing details with unique clarity and depth. The Gambler is available to stream in Dolby Atmos on Apple Music, Amazon Music Unlimited and Tidal now.
“We are so excited that Kenny’s iconic album The Gambler is now available in Dolby Atmos and fans can experience these songs like never before,” says Wanda Rogers. “This was one of Kenny’s absolute favorite albums he ever made, and I know he would have been thrilled to be able to hear the music surround him just like it did when he recorded it in the studio with all the amazing musicians and the great Larry Butler producing.”
Forty-five years ago on Dec. 16, 1978, “The Gambler” hit No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, giving Rogers’ his third No. 1 of the year. The song spent spend three consecutive weeks in the top spot and become a mainstream crossover hit, climbing to No. 16 on the pop chart.
Written by Don Schlitz, “The Gambler” would go on to win the Grammy for Best Male Country Vocal Performance and spawn a television movie on CBS starring Rogers. The film eventually led to four additional films, making it the longest-running film series franchise on television. Meanwhile, The Gambler album, featuring the crossover smash “She Believes In Me” as well as “I Wish That I Could Hurt That Way Again” and “Tennessee Bottle,” became a chart-topper, won Album of the Year at the CMA Awards and was five-time Platinum-certified in the United States.
Sawyer Brown’s Mark Miller To Release New Memoir In February
/by Lorie HollabaughSawyer Brown‘s Mark Miller is commemorating 40 years in the business and pulling back the curtain on his longtime career with his new memoir The Boys And Me: My Life in the Country Music Supergroup Sawyer Brown, out Feb. 6 via Forefront Books.
In the new memoir, Miller takes readers on an intimate journey through the highs and lows of his time with the band, from the early days of honing their craft in small-town venues to winning the first-ever televised singing competition, Star Search, and becoming one of country’s most enduring acts.
The book features a foreword by Pro Football Hall of Famer Kurt Warner and a backstage pass to the heart and soul of Sawyer Brown with never-before-told stories.
Accompanied by the band’s new documentary, Get Me To The Stage On Time, and a Blake Shelton-produced album, Desperado Troubadours, coming March 8, Miller’s memoir continues the celebration of Sawyer Brown’s 40th anniversary. The album’s first two singles “Under This Ole Hat” and “Get Me To The Stage On Time” are available now.