Shane Tarleton Exits Warner Music Nashville

Shane Tarleton

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.”

Tarleton can be reached at ShaneTarleton@gmail.com.

CMHOF Reissues Historical Books On Patsy Cline, Jimmie Rodgers, More

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has reissued four historical books exploring the lives and careers of Country Music Hall of Fame members Patsy Cline, The Delmore Brothers, Jimmie Rodgers and Bob Wills.

The newly reissued books include The Life and Times of Patsy Cline by Margaret Jones,
The Delmore Brothers: Truth Is Stranger Than Publicity by Alton Delmore, My Husband, Jimmie Rodgers by Carrie Rodgers, and Bob Wills: Hubbin’ It by Ruth Sheldon.

The quality paperback books have been updated and include fresh interior designs and new cover artwork. Published by the museum’s longstanding publishing arm, CMF Press, the books are now available exclusively on the museum’s website and in its store.

The titles will be available in bookstores across the country and online outlets beginning Oct. 24 through a distribution partnership with the University of Illinois Press. The ongoing partnership between the museum and the university press aims to co-publish new works on country music and related genres as well as release and distribute significant out-of-print historical books.

‘CMT Music Awards’ To Return Live From Austin In 2024

The CMT Music Awards will return live from Moody Center in Austin, Texas on Sunday, April 7, 2024 on CBS, and will be available to stream live and on demand via Paramount+ with Showtime.

Paramount Global’s signature country tentpole returns for the third consecutive year following record-setting 2023 ratings. The 2023 awards scored its biggest audience ever with the broadcast reaching 6.18 million viewers.

“We couldn’t be more excited to bring the CMT Music Awards on CBS back to Austin in 2024,” say Executive Producers Margaret Comeaux, John Hamlin and Leslie Fram. “From the electrifying, sold-out Moody Center crowd to fans packing the streets for our outdoor Congress stage, and Bevo himself walking the red carpet, our Texas-sized welcome proved to be one of our biggest and most unforgettable shows yet. We’re thankful to our incredible partners at Moody Center and with the City of Austin and are thrilled to bring CMT’s signature blend of world premieres, genre-bending surprises and once-in-a-lifetime collaborations back this April.”

Jeff Nickler, Oak View Group’s Senior Vice President, says, “Oak View Group and Moody Center are honored to welcome CMT, CBS and Paramount back to Austin. We look forward to building upon the success of last year’s record-breaking event and to hosting another sold-out audience for country music’s biggest party.”

“The CMT Music Awards are coming back to Austin in 2024, and we couldn’t be more excited,” says Kirk Watson, Mayor of Austin. “As the ‘Live Music Capital of the World,’ Austin is no stranger to celebrating its vibrant music community and showcasing an eclectic array of musical talents. We’re proud that the CMT Music Awards are returning to Austin, and we can’t wait to welcome artists and visitors to our city.”

Big Loud Rock Signs Alt-Pop Artist Bizzy

Bizzy. Photo: Hunter Henderson.

Alt-pop songstress Bizzy has signed with Big Loud Rock, the alternative/rock imprint of Big Loud Records that is home to Hardy, Blame My Youth, Letdown., Jagwar Twin and Yam Haus.

“I’m so incredibly stoked to join the Big Loud Rock family,” shares Bizzy. “The support around me is everything I’ve dreamed of and more. I cannot wait to see what the future holds!”

“It’s an honor and a privilege to be a part of Bizzy’s journey,” shares Big Loud Rock’s Greg Thompson. “On behalf of the Big Loud Rock family, we can’t wait to bring her music to the world.”

In celebration of the new partnership, the 25-year-old Maryland native has introduced herself with the confessional, rock-infused single, “I Don’t Get Breakups,” out now.

Co-written alongside Fran Litterski and Brandon Meagher, Bizzy utilizes her clever diaristic approach to songwriting to capture specific moments of heartache. The track bursts with introspective lyric and pleading vocals to pluck at angsty heartstrings, perfectly encapsulating the anxiety and confusion that come with making the transition from lovers to strangers.

Bizzy recently announced that she is going on her debut tour across the U.S. in direct support of Frenship. She will kick off the tour on Oct. 5 in Carrboro, North Carolina, and stopping by major cities such as Atlanta, Houston, Chicago, and more.

“I’m so excited to get to play my music to so many different audiences and meet everybody,” Bizzy shares. “There is nothing like connecting with people through live music.”

Industry Applauds Justin Moore’s Four Recent No. 1 Hits

Back Row (L-R): ASCAP Songwriter David Lee Murphy, BMI Songwriter Brock Berryhill, ASCAP Songwriter Jessi Alexander, ASCAP Songwriter Cole Taylor, BMI Songwriter Casey Beathard, ASCAP Songwriter Paul DiGiovanni Front Row (L-R): Producer + ASCAP Songwriter Jeremy Stover, BMI Songwriter Randy Montana, Priscilla Block (BMI), Justin Moore (BMI), BMI Songwriter Chase McGill, Producer + Big Machine Label Group’s Scott Borchetta Photo: Steve Lowry, BMI

It was a packed house in BMI’s Nashville office for the celebration of Justin Moore‘s four recent No. 1 singles: “Why We Drink,” “We Didn’t Have Much,” “With A Woman You Love” and “You, Me, And Whiskey” with Priscilla Block.

BMI’s Clay Bradley hosted the event honoring the 10 Nashville songwriters who worked on the tracks. “Why We Drink” was written by Moore, Casey Beathard, David Lee Murphy and Jeremy Stover. “We Didn’t Have Much” was written by Stover, Randy Montana and Paul DiGiovanni. Moore co-wrote “With A Woman You Love” with Stover, DiGiovanni and Chase McGill. His recent hit with Block, “You, Me, and Whiskey,” was written by Brock Berryhill, Jessi Alexander and Cole Taylor.

Big Machine Music’s Scott Borchetta, a co-producer with Stover on the four hits, took the stage alongside the songwriters, looking to be in great health and high spirits following his auto racing accident this spring.

Back Row (L-R): BMI’s Clay Bradley, ASCAP Songwriter David Lee Murphy, ASCAP’s Duane Hobson, BMI Songwriter Brock Berryhill, Warner Chappell Music’s Jessi Stevenson, ASCAP Songwriter Jessi Alexander, Big Machine Music’s Mike Molinar, ASCAP Songwriter Cole Taylor, RED Creative Group’s Taylor Lamb, BMI Songwriter Casey Beathard, Studio Bank’s Ron Cox, ASCAP Songwriter Paul DiGiovanni Front Row (L-R): Little Louder Music’s Arturo Buenahora, Big Machine Label Group’s Allison Jones, Producer + ASCAP Songwriter Jeremy Stover, BMI Songwriter Randy Montana, Priscilla Block (BMI), Justin Moore (BMI), BMI Songwriter Chase McGill, Producer + Big Machine Label Group’s Scott Borchetta, The Valory Music Co.’s George Briner Photo: Steve Lowry, BMI

Borchetta remarked, “I’m usually not nervous at these things, but for some reason today, I’m just nervous. Maybe because it’s the first time to tell you I’m still standing.” That statement was met with thunderous applause.

Industry representatives lauded the writers with heartfelt congratulations and best wishes. ASCAP’s Duane Hobson, Big Machine Music’s Mike Molinar, Warner Chappell Music’s Jessi Stevenson, Universal Music Publishing’s Missy Roberts, Little Louder Music’s Arturo Buenahora, Red Creative’s Taylor Lamb, Anthem Entertainment’s Chandler Thurston, Studio Bank’s Ron Cox and The Valory Music Co.’s George Briner all spoke in praise of the songwriters, producers, publishers, labels and management teams that made the four chart-toppers happen.

Several congratulations were sent to Block, as “You, Me, And Whiskey” marked her first No. 1 hit.

Studio Bank’s Cox spoke to their No. 1 party partnership with BMI, and announced that donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital had been made in each of the writers’ names to honor their success.

When Block spoke, she reminisced on her early days in Music City when she worked at the BMI offices, and snuck to Broadway for one of Moore’s release shows years before they would meet.

“I’ve been a fan of Justin for so long and it’s just really weird to me that I’m not in a cubicle right now—that I get to come to the cool parties, I get to write songs and that I have written songs with basically everyone here. I feel really thankful. This has been such a journey for me,” she said.

Moore closed the program with heartfelt congratulations to Block, and the reminder that celebrating never gets old. He thanked his fellow writers, producers, band, family and fans.

He said, “I’ve been so blessed to be around so many talented people. All the people on this stage, I look up to. Even if I’ve never had the chance to meet you yet or tell you that, I promise I do. [I look up to] all of you guys that I’ve written with and been lucky enough to learn from all these years.

“I sound like a broken record but when you grow up how I did and where I did… This just does not happen to people,” Moore said. “At least you think that until it happens to you. It’s because of great people who have cared about my career, my success and my family as much or more than myself at times. I’m thankful for all of you.”

Belmont’s Mike Curb College Of Entertainment Celebrates Golden Anniversary

Mike Curb, Ashley Gorley, Brittany Schaffer, Milton Johnson and Dr. Greg Jones. Photo by Sam Simpkins

Belmont University’s Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business celebrated 50 years of its music business program on Tuesday night (Oct. 3) with an evening of reflection, stories and songs in the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts.

The event kicks off a year-long celebration of the program’s golden anniversary. The evening was anchored by three themes: how Music City is central to the music business program’s origin story and identity; the rich community built and sustained at Belmont; and the impact the program continues to have on students, alumni, the industry and the world.

“While there are incredibly talented creatives across this campus, the Curb College – and it’s pioneering music business program – is the major catalyst for sparking, nurturing and supporting the creative community that defines our culture,” said Belmont University President Dr. Greg Jones. “There is an innovative, entrepreneurial spirit here like no other. Tonight, we celebrate the gifted artists, writers, musicians, executives and more who flourished through Belmont to impact the industry, and look forward, striving to an even more dynamic future.”

Officially launched in 1973, Belmont’s music business program was woven together by visionaries who created an enduring legacy for Belmont within the music industry. With support from former University president Dr. Herbert Gabhart, beloved professor and program founder Bob Mulloy, and industry executive Cecil Scaife, and propelled forward by the incredible generosity of Mike Curb, the program has graduated more than 6,000 alumni throughout its 50 years.

Notable alumni on hand for the special evening included Rusty Gaston, CEO, Sony Music Publishing Nashville; Charlene Bryant, SVP of Business Development & Strategy, Universal Music Group Nashville; Sara Knabe, SVP of A&R, Big Loud; Frank Rogers CEO/Chief Creative, Spirit Music Nashville; Dan Franquemont, Head of Partnerships, Eventshop; and Blair Miller, Founder/CEO, Chaos Creators Entertainment.

Doug Howard. Photo by Sam Simpkins

The event featured special music as well, as musician/writer/producer Gordon Kennedy performed the 1997 Grammy-winning Song of the Year “Change the World,” along with co-writer Tommy Sims, with 2023 graduate Summer Joy and an ensemble of Fisk Jubilee Singers alumni taking lead on vocals. Songwriters and alumni Emily Falvey and Kelley Lovelace and music business faculty member Dwayne O’Brien also performed a writer’s round during the special evening.

During the event former Curb College Dean Doug Howard was presented with the Robert E. Mulloy Award of Excellence by alumnus and President/CEO of Warner Chappell Music, Ben Vaughn. A Curb College tradition, the award seeks to highlight and honor an individual who has had an important impact on the entertainment industry and has displayed notable service to Belmont University.

Curb College Dean Brittany Schaffer shared updates for the future for the college, from expanded course offerings to partnering with Falvey  the newly launched Belmont Online to offer a fully asynchronous course, “The Art of Songwriting.” In addition, the Songwriters Hall of Fame exhibit, “The Power of Song,” — curated by the Grammy Museum — is making a stop on campus through April 2024.

“When I reflect on this evening, I’m touched by the shoulders we stand on,” said Schaffer. “Bob Mulloy started something special 50 years ago, and it’s truly humbling to have that mantle now to take this program into its next 50 years. The leaders who came before us have paved the way for a community of leaders who shape our culture with the work they do every day.”

Belmont’s Music Business 50th anniversary celebration will culminate April 9 as the University hosts the first-ever “Belmont at the Opry.” Performer announcements and a ticket on-sale date will be announced soon.

12th Annual Touring Career Workshop Set For November

The 12th annual Touring Career Workshop (TCW) is set for Nov. 14 at the Soundcheck Annex in Nashville.

TCW was created in 2011 by Chris Lisle, owner of concert event design, production and management firm CLLD, and industry professional Erik Parker as a way to provide access to experts and professional resources for the touring industry. The program serves as a large gathering of touring professionals, as well as those interested in careers in the industry.

Among the breakout sessions for this year’s balance-themed event are Touring Career Paths, Setting up Your Business, Making the Money Last, Personal Life Balance, Event Safety Alliance, Vendor Employment Panel and Health Insurance Options. There will also be a networking session with top vendors from the touring industry.

“We’re excited to return to the Soundcheck Annex for the 12th annual Touring Career Workshop. The focus on work/life balance is especially important this year,” says Lisle. “In addition to breakout sessions on the topic, we will also offer several sessions dedicated to educating those not currently working in live entertainment but who are considering one of the many career paths available to them.”

Registration for the free event is now open. For more information, click here.

In addition to the annual free TCW event, a year-round All Access Program offers four counseling sessions with one of several pre-approved therapists and life coaches for all artists, musicians, crews, staffs and their spouses, at no cost. This year, the All Access Program expanded services to Lollapalooza and Bonnaroo, where all artists, bands, crews and staff members had access to a free session with a licensed on-site therapist. Everything is handled confidentially, and the names of participants are only known by their therapist.

Mitchell Tenpenny Preps For Second Annual Cornhole Tournament

Mitchell & his mother, Debbie Tenpenny, at 2022’s Cornhole Tournament. Photo: Brocoff Photography

On Tuesday (Oct. 10), Mitchell Tenpenny will hold his second annual Cornhole Tournament in the parking lot of Sony Music Publishing on Music Row from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

While the tournament is sure to be a blast—with artists, songwriters and business folk tossing bags and enjoying fellowship—Tenpenny’s new tradition is very important to him, as it benefits his 10Penny Fund.

2022’s Cornhole Tournament

Tenpenny started the fund in 2018 out of his own personal experience with cancer. He lost his father to the disease in 2014, and his mother was diagnosed with breast cancer last August.

“I got the call on my birthday that my mom is technically cancer-free right now,” Tenpenny told MusicRow. “My aunt is currently going through it as well. It’s been a massive part of my life.”

With help from the fund, Tenpenny seeks to help provide inspirational support to cancer patients and their families beyond traditional medical treatment. The 10Penny Fund invests in sustainable and meaningful programs that motivate patients, encourage healing and build a community of support

“I wanted to do something on the mental side of cancer,” he says. “We’ve got great doctors and great treatments all over the place, and money goes to that all the time, but a lot of people don’t understand the stress level on the mental side of that battle.

“I saw that with my father and my mother. When you have a team around you that can constantly inspire you and get your mind right, [there are] more success stories. That’s what we focus on.”

Tenpenny supports the fund year-round by bringing awareness to the fight against cancer, as well as hosting fundraisers, whether that be proceeds from a live concert, sporting event, merchandise sales and more.

On Monday (Oct. 9), Tenpenny will be at the David Yurman store in The Mall at Green Hills to help support the fund. If customers buy $10,000 in jewelry, they will receive a signed guitar, and if they spend $2,000, they will get a signed Tenpenny vinyl album. 10 percent of sales made Monday will go to the 10Penny Fund. Customers can also use code “10P” on Monday when shopping online at David Yurman.

Last year, Tenpenny held his inaugural Cornhole Tournament and raised over $50,000. Chris Young generously matched it, which put the total over $100,000.

This year, Tenpenny is excited to bring the event back for his friends on Music Row.

“Everyone loves cornhole, so it’s a fun time,” he shares. “Everyone writes there and works in that area, so it’s cool and easy to get people involved. When your work day is over, walk on over, throw some cornhole and raise some money for a good cause.”

The guest list for Tuesday’s tournament includes Nate Smith, Ashley Cooke, Michael Ray, Meghan Patrick and more.

“We’ve got amazing donors, tons of beverages and food. We’ve got drinks—it is Music Row after all,” he says. “All around, we’re going to enjoy ourselves and raise some money.”

To sign up to play, click here. $10 spectator tickets for entry to Tenpenny’s cornhole tournament can be purchased day-of or also at the link. Food and beverages will be free with entry. To donate, visit 10pennyfund.org.

Lauren Watkins Plans On ‘Introducing: The Heartbreak’ This November

Album Art: Courtesy of Big Loud Records/Songs & Daughters. Photo: Luke Rogers

Lauren Watkins will release Introducing: The Heartbreak, the second installment of her debut project, on Nov. 17, and unveil two of the new tracks on Oct. 20.

Produced by Joey Moi, Introducing: The Heartbreak is made up of six originals co-written by Watkins alongside hitmakers Jessie Jo Dillon, Ashley Monroe, The Warren Brothers, Nicolle Galyon, Rodney Clawson, David Garcia and more. It serves as a continuation of her April-released debut, Introducing: Lauren Watkins. Joined by fellow singer-songwriters Carter Faith and Jake Worthington on the collection, the Nashville songstress’ talent and collaborative capabilities as both a writer and an artist shine.

Introducing: The Heartbreak is basically the next step in introducing myself and my music to the world,” says Watkins. “First, I released Introducing: Lauren Watkins, which was just saying, ‘Here’s me, here’s where I came from, what I’m influenced by.’ This is the next step, going even deeper into who I am, what I’ve gone through, how I think about things. It’s truly introducing the heartbreak I’ve experienced, which will eventually roll out into something much bigger.

“For now,” she teases, “it’s these six songs that tell the top-to-bottom story of a love, and it’s the perfect introduction to what comes next. I hope you love it like I do.”

Additionally, Watkins will bring her residency, “The Heartbreak Supper Club,” to Nashville’s Springwater Supper Club & Lounge on Oct. 17, Oct. 31 and Nov. 14. She will also hit the road this fall and winter to support Austin Snell‘s “Muddy Water Rockstar Tour” and Conner Smith‘s “Creek Will Rise Tour” before an exciting year of touring in 2024, where she’ll debut at Stagecoach and support Morgan Wallen on several “One Night At A Time 2024 Tour” stadium dates.

Introducing: The Heartbreak Track Listing:
1. “Fine County Line” (Lauren Watkins, Rodney Clawson, Nicolle Galyon)
2. “Jealous of Jane” (Lauren Watkins, Caroline Watkins, Brad Warren, Brett Warren)
3. “Fly On The Wall (feat. Jake Worthington)” (Lauren Watkins, Andy Sheridan, Brad Warren, Brett Warren)
4. “Stuck In My Ways” (Lauren Watkins, Will Bundy, David Garcia, Emily Landis)
5. “Cowboys on Music Row (feat. Carter Faith)” (Lauren Watkins, Jessie Jo Dillon, Carter Faith, Lauren Hungate, Ashley Monroe, Caroline Watkins)
6. “The Table” (Lauren Watkins, Nicolle Galyon, Brad Warren, Brett Warren)

Industry Ink: Lindsay Brandt, The Swon Brothers, Bernard Porter

Lindsay Brandt Named VP/Marketing, Creative At Fantasy Records

Lindsay Brandt. Photo: Brent Mullins

Lindsay Brandt has been appointed VP of Marketing, Creative at Fantasy Records. In the newly created position, Brandt will serve as Fantasy’s in-house Creative Director and Head of Marketing with a focus on content development and digital strategy, reporting to Fantasy President, Margi Cheske.

Brandt was previously Sr. Director, Creative & Digital for Activist Artists Management in Los Angeles. A graduate of Hofstra University, the New York native began her career at Mick Management in 2007 handling digital strategy where she worked with John Mayer and Walk The Moon. In 2014, Brandt moved to C3 Presents, where she signed the alt-electro outfit Mutemath and launched the independent label and publishing operations. In 2018, she established her own creative agency and artist management company, Honest Defector, working alongside musicians and visual artists in brand development, marketing, and touring strategy.

 

The Swon Brothers Celebrate New Album Covers Vol 1 At The Late Great

Pictured (L-R): Shelby Kennedy (ONErpm) Vanessa Davis (Manager), Janice Jackson (Travellers Hollow Music), Erin Patterson (Dir. of Tour Marketing,Agent/DADP), Zach Swon, Colton Swon, Danielle DeMaso (FBMM Balance) and Cheri Cranford (Splash)

The Swon Brothers, comprised of Zach and Colton, hosted a release party for their latest album Covers Vol 1, rocking the house with some guilty pleasures from the project at The Late Great at the Virgin Hotel Nashville on Friday night (Sept. 29).

The duo treated guests to a special full band performance of some of their favorites from the new album, and surprised attendees when they were joined by Heath Wright of Ricochet for the live version of their focus track, the Ronnie Milsap classic “No Gettin’ Over Me.” Blake Shelton also makes a guest appearance on the new album courtesy of Warner Music Nashville on the Swons’ version of the Kenny Rogers classic, “Love Or Something Like It.”

 

Bernard Porter Named Global Media Archives Representative

Bernard Porter, PCG and Joey Kent, President and CEO Global Media Archives

Bernard Porter of PCG has been appointed as Representative for Global Media Archives. With an extensive collection that includes the renowned Louisiana Hayride recordings, Global Media Archives is poised to bring legendary music to a global audience.

Porter’s appointment comes on the heels of his instrumental role in securing worldwide distribution through a partnership with BFE/Audium/Sony Orchard for the highly anticipated ICON Series. The series will showcase individual releases featuring legends such as Elvis, Hank Williams, George Jones, Johnny Cash and Faron Young.

Porter says, “I’m thrilled to bridge my relationships with Global Media Archives and the BFE/Orchard team. Together, we are committed to preserving and promoting these iconic master recordings and bringing them to the ears of music enthusiasts worldwide. The ICON Series is just the beginning, and we look forward to many more remarkable releases in the future.”