ACM & Black Music Action Coalition Accepting Applications For OnRamp Program

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The ACM and The Black Music Action Coalition have announced the opening of applications for its OnRamp program, which is a partnership for a guaranteed income program for 20 young, Black members of the music community, including artists and industry professionals, in Nashville.

The OnRamp program, focused on improving inclusivity and equity within Music City, aims to empower the next generation of leaders in the early stages of their careers by granting access to personal and professional development opportunities, community mentorship, industry exposure, access to exclusive Academy membership panels and tentpole live events, and visibility with Academy Board members and industry leaders. Additionally, through the program, each participant will receive a $1,000 monthly stipend for one year.

To qualify, applicants must identify as African-American, be a resident of the Greater Metro Nashville area (Davidson, Dickson, Maury, Montgomery, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson and Wilson counties), and demonstrate financial need as determined by the Self Sufficiency Calculator. OnRamp applications close Friday, April 28 and candidates accepted into the program will be notified in June, when the program will begin in tandem with the celebration of Black Music Month and to commemorate the Black Music Action Coalition’s third anniversary. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply at acmcountry.com/onramp by April 28.

“The Academy has a rich history of fostering diversity and inclusion in the country music industry both on stage and behind-the-scenes, and we see this partnership as a particularly impactful way to continue our committed work to making the statement ‘Country Music is for Everyone’ a true reality,” says ACM CEO, Damon Whiteside, at the launch of the program. “We’re excited to work with BMAC on this pivotal and transformative work for our Nashville community by increasing opportunities for young professionals from diverse backgrounds in our industry.”

“It speaks volumes for the Black Music Action Coalition and the Academy of Country Music to join forces to launch a guaranteed income program in Nashville for emerging Black artists and young professionals. I applaud Damon Whiteside, the ACM Board and the Level Up team for sharing our vision and becoming true partners with BMAC on a direct impact solution that will begin to address long standing racial inequalities that exist in this country,” shares Co-Founder/Co-Chair of the Black Music Action Coalition, Willie “Prophet” Stiggers, at the launch of the program.

This inaugural program will initially be funded by the Black Music Action Coalition, the Academy of Country Music, and industry partners, and powered by social impact agency BreatheWithMe. The organizations are encouraging corporations and companies operating in Nashville and beyond to make a financial contribution to OnRamp as a means of powering their future equity and inclusion programs. OnRamp is one of many guaranteed income programs BMAC will be announcing throughout the year.

The members of the ACM LEVel Up: Lift Every Voice program’s 2022 cohort will be playing an active role in guiding the OnRamp program and bringing it to life. The two-year curriculum is designed to empower participants to play a pivotal role in expanding the horizons of country music into new audiences that transcend demographics and geography.

Morgan Evans Embraces ‘Life Upside Down’ On Upcoming New EP

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Morgan Evans is releasing his new EP, Life Upside Down, on April 21. His latest single from the project, “On My Own Again,” is out now, with a brand new video featuring footage taken from his five-part documentary series.

The clip showcases Evans’ travels from around the world as he picks up the pieces following major life changes and looks forward to the thrilling uncertainty. The uplifting track was penned by Evans with Zach Kale and Geoff Warburton, and was produced by Chris DeStefano.

“Eight shows, seven countries, three bicycles, two goats and one camel,” recalls Evans of the video for the new single. “For a song documenting a poignant moment in my life, I thought it’d be appropriate to make a video the same way. I invited the guys behind the ‘Over For You’ music video and the docuseries on the road in Morocco, Europe, Ireland and the U.K. for one of the adventures of my life so far.

“I called the EP Life Upside Down because this collection of music could only have come from this time, when my life felt exactly that,” he continues. “To me, these five tracks journey through unexpected heartbreak, self-rediscovery, new beginnings and a newfound gratitude for the present moment.”

Evans is currently on the road with Brett Young for “5 Tour 3 2 1,” and will also provide support on select dates with Billy Currington.

Life Upside Down Track Listing:
1. “Over For You”
2. “On My Own Again”
3. “Hey Little Mama”
4. “All Right Here”
5. “Over For You (Live in Melbourne)”

Rachel Fontenot & Katie Dean Announce New Independent Label, Leo33

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Pictured (L-R): Daniel Lee, Natalie Osborne, Katie Dean and Rachel Fontenot. Photo: Robby Klein

Industry veterans Rachel Fontenot and Katie Dean have announced the launch of Leo33, an independent record label based in Nashville.

With Fontenot (Marketing and Operations) co-leading with Dean (Promotion and Artist Development), the label’s initial core team also includes Daniel Lee (A&R) and Natalie Osborne (A&R).

Pictured (L-R): Rachel Fontenot, Katie Dean. Photo: Robby Klein

The company is named after the constellation, and embodies characteristics of the lion and lioness: courage, confidence and cooperation and nods to the iconic LP’s RPM, a music enthusiast’s nostalgic yet contemporary format for experiencing music. The company aims to position creativity front-and-center at every stage of the experience as a Leo33 artist, from the initial deal through music creation, marketing, streaming, promotion and distribution.

“As the industry evolves, so does the role of the label,” says Dean. “We’re trying to build a model for the future—an entrepreneurial approach that combines the resources of a major with the agility and focus of an independent.”

“The members of this team have experienced so many different facets of this industry—each has a unique perspective and passion,” notes Fontenot, highlighting that the core team’s backgrounds include decades at major record labels and publishing companies.

Dean most recently spent nearly 18 years at Universal Music Group, the last seven at the helm of the MCA Nashville imprint. She has had a hand in the careers of artists including Sam Hunt, George Strait, Kacey Musgraves, Vince Gill, Jordan Davis, Parker McCollum, Chris Stapleton, Keith Urban and more. Prior to UMG, Dean spent time at the Country Music Association, Disney’s Lyric Street Records, Music.com, AristoMedia and Mediabase. Contact Dean at katie@leo33music.com.

Fontenot began her career with BMG Nashville—later Sony Music Nashville— where she held several roles within the company including production, sales, artist development and international. She eventually serving as Director of Marketing & Artist Development at Sony. Fontenot launched her own artist consulting firm in 2017, with a focus on marketing strategy and artist development. She most recently served as VP of Marketing & Artist Development at UMG Nashville. Throughout her career Fontenot has been involved in major projects by artists including Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, Sara Evans, Martina McBride, Maren Morris, Eric Church, Vince Gill, Reba McEntire, Jon Pardi and more. Contact Fontenot at rachel@leo33music.com.

Lee has served as Creative Director for independent publisher Ten Ten Music Group, as VP of Creative for global music entity BMG, in A&R at Warner Records LA and as President of Altadena, an independent label and publishing venture he founded with late hit songwriter and producer Busbee. Lee was instrumental in the career of Carly Pearce, while also working closely with multi-award winning songwriter Hillary Lindsey and Busbee as he became an in-demand producer for artists such as Morris, Keith Urban and Gwen Stefani. Contact Lee at daniel@leo33music.com.

Osborne, formerly of Downtown Music Publishing, served as Senior Creative Director after beginning as their first intern and quickly working her way up, playing a crucial role in building the company’s office, culture and team. Under her guidance, Downtown signed successful and emerging songwriters such as Madi Diaz, Alex Hall, Fancy Hagood, Sarah Buxton, Lucie Silvas, The Brummies and Yola. She also worked with influential songwriters such as Kendell Marvel, Kelly Archer, Marc Beeson and Big Al Anderson. Contact Osborne at natalie@leo33music.com.

Nathan Wilson Signs With Round Hill Music

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Pictured (L-R): Round Hill’s Mike Whelan, Nathan Wilson, Round Hill’s Lindsay Will and Bob Squance. Photo: Courtesy of Round Hill Music

Nathan Wilson has signed an exclusive publishing deal with Round Hill Music, which has celebrated over 70 No. 1 songs since opening their doors in 2014.

In the past year, the Kentucky native has amassed over seven million streams across all platforms and over 12 million views on TikTok. His upcoming single, “Good at Getting Gone,” drops on April 14.

“Nathan is the full package, and I am beyond excited for Round Hill to be a part of his career,” says Lindsay Will, Round Hill Director of A&R. “He has a powerful voice combined with natural talent, an incredible work ethic and the ability to craft great songs. I can’t wait to see what he accomplishes.”

“When I was 10, my mom bought me my first guitar,” shares Wilson. “If you told me that guitar would lead me moving to Nashville to pursue a dream of writing songs and playing music, I would’ve told you that you’re crazy. Thank you to Lindsay and to Round Hill for giving me the opportunity to do what I love and am truly passionate about. We’ve been working hard and we’re just getting started.”

Nashville Creators To Gather For ‘A Night Of Joy’ Honoring The Covenant School

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Nashville musicians will come together for “A Night Of Joy Celebrating The Covenant School” at Belmont University’s Fisher Center on Wednesday, April 12 at 7 p.m.

Hosted by author and speaker Annie F. Downs, the evening of restoration, music and memory will feature a renowned group of artists lending their voices and talents in support of The Covenant School and Covenant Church, where a deadly shooting occurred on March 27, taking the lives of three students and three staff members.

Those slated to perform include Ben Rector, Carrie Underwood, Chris Tomlin, Colony House, Dave Barnes, Drew Holcomb, Ellie Holcomb, Ketch Secor, Lady A, Mat Kearney, Matt Maher, Natalie Hemby, Sixpence None the Richer, Stephanie and Nathan Chapman, The War And Treaty, The Warren Brothers, Thomas Rhett, Trent Dabbs and Tyler Hubbard.

Brett Taylor, Luke Laird and Sandra McCracken, as well as Dwan Hill, Jasmine Mullen and Sarah Kroger will also take the stage to honor the victims and their families, the church, staff, and the first responders, with more special guests to be announced soon.

Early access ticket sales began yesterday (April 4) and public tickets are on sale now. All proceeds benefit The Covenant School. For more information, click here.

Tiffany Kerns Earns Sr. VP Stripes At CMA, Among Three Other Promotions

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Pictured (clockwise): Michael Farris, Tiffany Kerns, Catharine McNelly and Ben Balch

The Country Music Association has announced the promotions of four staff members, including Tiffany Kerns, who has risen to Senior Vice President of Industry Relations & Philanthropy.

Additionally, Catharine McNelly has been elevated to Vice President of Communications, Ben Balch rises to Senior Director of Accounting & Financial Planning and Michael Farris has been promoted to Senior Director of Business Strategy & Insights.

“Tiffany, Catharine, Ben and Michael are all key strategic and forward-thinking leaders across a variety of teams at CMA,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA CEO. “They each display unwavering commitment to CMA’s mission while continuing to innovate and create solutions-based strategies in their respective fields.”

Kerns joined CMA in 2013 after spending time at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. In her new role, she will continue overseeing the strategic direction and management of CMA Membership including operations, programming, events and the organization’s newly launched membership structure. Kerns will also continue shepherding Board of Directors activity and key CMA pipeline programs including CMA’s Women’s Leadership Academy, CMA’s collegiate programs (including CMA EDU and CMA’s Diversity & Inclusion Fellowship). Furthermore, she will continue leading CMA’s community building and outreach efforts, ensuring the development of key partners that elevate CMA’s message and drive support of the country music industry overall.

In addition to her executive role with Membership and Industry Relations, Kerns leads CMA’s philanthropic arm, the CMA Foundation, as Executive Director and reports to Trahern.

With her promotion, McNelly takes on a greater strategic role with communications and talent relations efforts across all of CMA’s events, programs and initiatives. She joined CMA in 2017 and oversees PR and media activity for CMA membership and organizational initiatives, as well as CMA television properties—the CMA Awards, CMA Fest and CMA Country Christmas—corporate/executive profiles and talent outreach. In addition to these efforts, McNelly also leads communication planning and media support for the CMA Foundation. McNelly reports to Senior Vice President, Marketing, Content & Communications Strategy, Kelly Striewski.

Balch, who joined CMA in 2013, will continue to oversee reporting and financial standing for both CMA and the CMA Foundation in his new role as Senior Director, Accounting & Financial Planning. Balch also manages the annual budget process and periodic forecasts, as well as coordination of the annual audit team with outside auditors. He performs the monthly General Ledger closing processes, reviewing and reconciling as well as the monthly closing processes for Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable. Balch reports to Senior Vice President, Finance & Administration, Amy Smartt.

In his elevated position, Farris will further lead the Ticketing, Data Architecture and Insights teams. Responsible for ticket offerings, pricing, platform partners, sales strategies, ticket operations and the development of premium offerings, he serves as the lead ticketing strategist for all of CMA’s events. He will also continue to lead the creation and buildout of CMA’s data warehouse and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platform as well as develop strategies for data sources, reporting and resources that support the growth and health of the country music industry worldwide. Farris reports to Vice President, Business Strategy & Operations, Emily Evans.

Reach Kerns at tkerns@cmaworld.com, McNelly at cmcnelly@cmaworld.com, Balch at bbalch@cmaworld.com and Farris at mfarris@cmaworld.com.

Song Suffragettes Honor Natalie Hemby During 9th Anniversary Celebration

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Pictured (L-R): Todd Cassetty, Natalie Hemby and Maddie Lenhart. Photo: Libby Danforth

The singer-songwriter collective Song Suffragettes celebrated their 9th anniversary with a sold-out show at The Listening Room Cafe last night (April 3).

The evening kicked off with a writers’ round hosted by Song Suffragette and Universal Music Publishing artist Carter Faith, who performed alongside Morgan Johnston, Valerie Ponzio, Shelly Fairchild and Warner Music Nashville recording artist Robyn Ottolini. Multi-instrumentalist and resident cajon player Mia Morris backed all performances in addition to performing an original song of her own.

A second writers’ round followed with singer-songwriters Gina Venier, Carmen Dianne, Victoria Banks and Jessica Wills Fisher taking the stage along with host Haley Mae Campbell and Mia Morris. In a surprise moment, Song Suffragettes alumna Maggie Rose took to the stage to perform a new song from her forthcoming project.

Next, Song Suffragettes’ Event Director Maddie Lenhart formally welcomed Rose back to the stage to act as interviewer for the night’s special guest. Song Suffragettes’ founder Todd Cassetty then introduced two-time Grammy winner Natalie Hemby before an inspired and jocular half-hour interview that covered topics ranging from her songwriting process to her inspirations.

Cassetty and Lenhart presented Hemby with the Song Suffragettes Yellow Rose of Inspiration Award, an honor bestowed on a female songwriter who has inspired the many Song Suffragette women who hope to follow in Hemby’s successful footsteps.

Pictured (L-R, back row): Grace Bowers, Carmen Dianne, Morgan Johnston, Valerie Ponzio, Natalie Hemby, Maggie Rose, Gina Venier and Victoria Banks. (L-R, front row):Todd Cassetty, Jessica Wills Fisher, Carter Faith, Robyn Ottolini, Haley Mae Campbell, Maddie Lenhart. Photo: Libby Danforth

“I love people. I love music. I love other people’s music,” says Hemby, who is also member of critically acclaimed supergroup The Highwomen with Brandi Carlile, Maren Morris and Amanda Shires. “I like to learn from people. And I think the moment you stop doing that, is the moment you should hang it up.”

Hemby also performed her brand new song written with Sarah Jarosz, “Good At What I Do” and “Rainbow,” recorded by Kacey Musgraves. For her unplugged performance of Grammy-winning “Crowded Table,” recorded by The Highwomen, Hemby walked through the packed house encouraging them to sing along.

As Cassetty recalled the nine-year history of Song Suffragettes and the successes of an all-female singer-songwriter collective, he noted two recent developments: the Monday night shows at The Listening Room Cafe and the launch of Song Suffragettes London, a monthly satellite show at The Camden Club in the UK.

“We’re so proud to continue to expand the Song Suffragettes collective of empowered women singer-songwriters,” says Cassetty. “From day one, our mission has been to present the depth of undeniable talent in the underserved female singer-songwriter community, and we will continue to do that as we gratefully enter our tenth year.”

Cassetty credited the nearly 400 women who have played Song Suffragettes as well as the all-female staff and interns for making it possible to have successful shows in Nashville and London. He also recognized and thanked returning sponsor The LSS Group, an all-female, entertainment-industry-focused wealth management group led by Eden Lopez, Leslie Schwartz and Paula Steinberg for their continued commitment as the presenting sponsorship of Song Suffragettes.

Visit the Song Suffragettes’ YouTube to see the entire anniversary performance.

BMI Celebrates Gospel Music Trailblazers

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Pictured (L-R): BMI’s Wardell Malloy, BMI President & CEO Mike O’Neill, Dr. Bobby Jones, BMI’s Catherine Brewton, BeBe Winans. Photo: Erika Goldring/Getty Images for BMI

Gospel legend Dr. Bobby Jones and stars Tamela and David Mann were celebrated recently at the 2023 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards at Flourish in Atlanta.

The awards show paid tribute to the best in the Gospel music community and honored BMI’s Gospel Song of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, Publisher of the Year and the top 25 Gospel songs of the previous year. BMI’s President & CEO, Mike O’Neill and Vice President, Creative, Atlanta, Catherine Brewton hosted the event.

The luncheon kicked off with a celebration of music and joyful worship with Jonathan McReynolds, Chandler Moore and Kirk Franklin performing a medley of three of BMI’s award-winning songs, “Grace,” “Jireh” and “Kingdom,” before moving to the event’s main honorees and award winners.

As a Trailblazer of Gospel Music honoree, Nashville’s Dr. Bobby Jones was saluted for his legendary career, mentorship of the next generation and his tireless contributions to the genre. The tribute performances honoring Jones’ legacy kicked off with The Company singing “What a Friend,” followed by a rendition of “Bring it to Jesus” featuring Beverly Crawford.

Pictured (L-R): BMI’s Wardell Malloy, BMI’s Catherine Brewton, Tamela Mann, David Mann, BMI President & CEO Mike O’Neill. Photo: Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BMI

Tamela and David Mann were celebrated as BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music for their exceptional success in the genre and beyond, both as songwriters, artists and actors. The musical tributes to The Manns kicked off with Zacardi Cortez and Anaysha Figueroa-Cooper‘smoving performance of “Now Behold the Lamb,” followed by Lisa Knowles-Smith singing “Take Me to the King.” After accepting the honor and thanking those who have helped them along the way, Tamela Mann surprised the audience with an explosive performance of her mega-hit, “Change Me,” which spent 23 weeks at number one on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Chart.

Throughout the event, BMI saluted the Top 25 most-performed Gospel songs of the previous year, leading up to the coveted BMI Gospel Song of the Year, which went to “Believe For It” written by CeCe Winans and Mitch Wong. The song spent 12 weeks at the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Chart and garnered accolades including two GMA Dove Awards and a Grammy for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song.

BMI’s Gospel Songwriter of the Year was a tie between Dante Bowe and Jonathan McReynolds for each writing two of the most performed Gospel songs of the previous year. Bowe was honored for “Joyful” and “Promises” and McReynolds for “Brighter” and “Grace.” BMI’s Gospel Publisher of the Year went to Be Essential Songs for having award-winning songs “Brighter,” “Jireh,” “Promises” and “Something Has to Break,” among its repertoire.

During the ceremony, the late legendary soul singer-songwriter Otis Redding was posthumously honored with four BMI Million-Air Awards, a distinction that recognizes songwriters whose works have achieved the rare feat of surpassing one million broadcast performances on radio. Originally written and recorded by Redding in the 1960’s, the songs were “Sweet Soul Music” (4 million performances), “Hard to Handle” (7 million performances), “Respect” (7 million performances) and BMI’s Song of the Year in 1968, the incomparable “(Sittin’ on) the Dock of the Bay” (12 million performances).  Attending the ceremony were members of Redding’s family, including his wife Zelma and their daughter Karla Redding-Andrews, who accepted the honors on behalf of her father and the Otis Redding Foundation.

Tanya Tucker Rides Into Downtown Nashville To Announce Ryman Shows

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Tanya Tucker. Photo: Derrek Kupish

Tanya Tucker announced the news of her two Ryman Auditorium shows this summer in a creative way yesterday (April 3), riding through the streets of downtown Nashville on a stunning world-champion black Friesan stallion, “Lauwe The Magnificent,” according to the Tennessean.

The ride created quite a moment for fans and tourists in Music City, and occurred in celebration of her induction into The Country Music Hall of Fame as well as her two upcoming Ryman shows on June 3 and 4, her forthcoming album, and more.

The media moment was also meant to raise awareness for Redemption Road Rescue, an equine rescue nonprofit in Jackson, Tennessee. The organization has helped horses and owners in need since 2009 by taking in and housing horses, ponies, donkeys and mules in various stages of rehabilitation. The surrendered and/or seized animals are rehabilitated and then offered for adoption. Tucker reportedly adopted a colt and its mother from the rescue in 2021.

Tickets for Tucker’s Ryman shows go on sale this Friday, April 7, with additional tour dates to be announced soon. Fans can sign-up for exclusive artist presale access tomorrow. Tucker has partnered with PLUS1 on the shows, with a dollar per ticket going to support Farm Aid and their work to cultivate a vibrant and resilient family farm-centered system of agriculture in America. For more information, click here.

“The Ryman is the Mother Church of Country  Music,” shares Tucker. “It’s my favorite place in the world to play! But this time it’s not just one show…it’s two!! I’m more than excited to be performing June 3 and 4. And I bet they’ll be a few surprises!! Tanya Mother Tucker is coming to the Mother Church and I can’t wait!!!”

BMI’s Rooftop On The Row Series Returns For Fifth Season

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BMI’s Rooftop on the Row series will return for its fifth season, with R&B and country star K. Michelle kicking off the first of the five-concert series on April 11. Presented by George Dickel Bourbon, the invite-only event gives industry tastemakers and creatives an exclusive look at some of BMI’s most promising talent.

As the first show’s headliner, K. Michelle is taking a break from her R&B “I’m The Problem” tour, and returning to her Tennessee roots to give music lovers a taste of her new country sound. Born and raised in Memphis, K. Michelle has always had a love for country music. She recently collaborated with Justin Champagne on the hit song “Country Love Song,” and has a new album dedicated to the genre, which is slated for release later this year.

The following two shows of the 2023 season will also be country-themed, showcasing music by Priscilla Block and Chayce Beckham on May 16 as well as Mackenzie Carpenter and Dylan Marlowe on July 18. A celebration for the 50th Anniversary of hip-hop is set for Aug. 15 and the final concert will be the official kick-off to Americanafest on Sept. 19, with performers to be announced soon.

“We’re so excited to launch a new season of BMI’s Rooftop on the Row presented by Dickel Bourbon,” says Mason Hunter, BMI’s AVP, Creative, Nashville. “From the inaugural event in 2016, the series has become a rite of passage for Nashville’s future hitmakers, and Dickel has been our presenting sponsor since day one.

“Over the years, we’ve seen many of our rooftop performers, including Morgan Wallen, Billy Strings, The War And Treaty, Riley Green and more, become some of the biggest names in the industry. We’re excited to showcase this season’s talented performers and give them a platform to share their music. I can’t think of a better way to enjoy an evening than with great music, a Dickel Bourbon and a fantastic view of the Nashville skyline from BMI’s Rooftop.”

“The experimentation, innovation and creativity that it takes to make music is something that really speaks to us at George Dickel,” says Allison Fleischer, Diageo Brands in Culture. “These qualities are at the center of great music as well as great bourbon. We’re so proud to support songwriters and musicians through our long-standing partnership with the BMI Rooftop on the Row series because, like creating Dickel Bourbon, it’s such a special art form in which individuals can produce something truly original that’s well-loved by people all over the world.”