Jackie Jones
The “My Music Row Story” weekly column features notable members of the Nashville music industry selected by the MusicRow editorial team. These individuals serve in key roles that help advance and promote the success of our industry. This column spotlights the invaluable people that keep the wheels rolling and the music playing.
Jackie Jones is the Senior Vice President, Artist and Industry Relations for the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and serves as the organization’s chief representative in Nashville.
Jones helps elevate creators across genres while also translating copyright reform, trade negotiations, and creative policymaking for the industry. She brings together artists, songwriters, managers, labels, venues, advocacy groups, tech companies and distribution services to work towards common goals through events, conversations and educational opportunities.
Jones will be honored as part of the current class of MusicRow’s Rising Women on the Row on March 23. For more details about the class and the event, click here.
MusicRow: Where did you grow up? How did you get into the music business?
I grew up in Memphis, so I have always been surrounded by so many kinds of music. I was also super interested in television growing up so it would make sense that my dream was to produce [the VH1 show] Behind The Music. In college I studied TV and film, but I kept coming back to the music side of entertainment. Once I transferred to MTSU, an internship at CMT turned into a full-time position and I worked as a producer and writer before I joined the talent team, where I produced and booked talent for both music programming and live events.
Pictured (L-R): Jason Derulo, Jackie Jones, Luke Bryan. Photo: Courtesy of Jackie Jones
What were your favorite things you got to do at CMT when you were a writer/producer?
I got to work with a team of producers to create original content for online programming, which was so special because no one at CMT had done that before. We were able to try a lot of new ideas while creating everything from scratch, including producing the first online awards show—hosted by Taylor Swift with Lady A as the house band. It was a blast!
What did you do once you joined the talent team?
I had never been a part of live productions and helping to create musical moments on TV until CMT Music Awards and Artists of the Year, but once I started working in that realm, there was no turning back. The rush and thrill of creating a live television show is still one of my favorite things in the world.
You joined RIAA in 2019. How did that happen?
I had never really thought about this advocacy side of entertainment, but the more I got to know Mitch [Glazier, Chairman & CEO] and Michele [Ballantyne, COO], I could see how the work RIAA does truly impacts the entire music community. Their overall approach was really appealing to me because they not only believe that if the advocacy groups work together, we can advance legislation, but their passion reminds me of my own. There are advocacy groups representing every part of the industry, and we know that if we go to legislators together as one voice, we can accomplish so much more.
Now that you’re a few years into your work at RIAA, what are some of your biggest focus areas?
My focus now is to help protect and connect the music community. Whether it is through educating policymakers on how to support our industry or educating the industry on how we need to approach new technologies, it is vital that our united voices are heard. Creators deserve to be compensated fairly for their work and that can only happen when the industry grows in a healthy way.
Pictured (L-R): Maverick’s Chris Parr, RIAA’s Jackie Jones, Darius Rucker, UMG Nashville’s Mike Dungan. Photo: Strange Bird Media
What’s a day in the life look like for you?
From the start, it has been important to see where we have needs as an industry, then begin to foster relationships where they didn’t exist or needed a bit of nurturing. From different advocacy groups to artist management teams and other industry executives, it is vital that we all educate each other and collaborate on issues. One of my primary goals has always been to show legislators why creating and protecting music is so important. I spend a lot of time planning and hosting events that encouraging conversation between artists, industry leaders and members of Congress.
When the pandemic quickly halted in-person engagement, RIAA quickly pivoted to meet the needs of our industry and worked hard to protect all sectors with the COVID relief bills. I also worked one-on-one with creators to help them find and apply for any available resources that could help during that time.
We also moved to virtual events that focused on other issues such as a panel on mental health with JoJo and Miles Adcox, a conversation with Jimmie Allen about race in country music and began a program called Music Matters to highlight artists’ advocacy and charitable acts.
The last several months as we’ve been able to come back together, I served as executive producer for RIAA Honors: Pioneers of Hip-Hop in DC, booked a panel with Caitlyn Smith and her all-female team to both celebrate and discuss their experiences of women in the industry, am helping to launch the second iteration of the Music Business Accelerator program at TSU, among other initiatives.
In 2019 you produced the inaugural RIAA Honors. Tell me about that.
This event is a great example of us giving legislators a behind-the-scenes experience with artists, songwriters, and their teams to actively show them why protecting music and creators is so important. It’s fascinating to see the impact of these visits, whether it’s legislators talking to a songwriter and hearing about the creative process, speaking with an artist whose music they love, or just learning about how a record is made. These moments open the door for us to have more meaningful conversations and engage our community goals with policymakers’ priorities. The inaugural RIAA Honors recognized Miranda Lambert for her support of women throughout her career and Co-President of Black Music at Atlantic Records Lanre Gaba, who has fostered careers of Lizzo, Cardi B, Jack Harlow and many others. Lanre shared how she finds artists and why labels play such an important role artists’ careers. The event also acknowledged policymakers who were instrumental in helping us pass the Music Modernization Act.
After a two-year hiatus due to COVID, we were able to again host the celebration in 2022 with RIAA Honors: Pioneers of Hip-Hop. Grandmaster Flash, MC Lyte, UMG’s Jeff Harleston and Minority Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries were recipients of the accolade for their contributions in moving the genre forward. It was a really impactful event that shared the importance of music on culture and allowed so many legislators to get a real feel for why music matters.
Pictured (L-R): Brandi Carlile, Jackie Jones, Wynonna Judd. Photo: Courtesy of Jackie Jones
RIAA is probably most known by its lauded Gold & Platinum program. What goes on behind the scenes in presenting those?
It’s interesting because prior to working at the RIAA, I only knew about the Gold and Platinum plaques because an artist would post a photo, a label would host an event, or I’d see the multi-Platinum accolade used as an awards show introduction. As I started talking to Michele and Mitch, I learned RIAA not only celebrates these commercial successes but is an advocacy group that lobbies for music rights and content protection. The Gold & Platinum program not only helps us to celebrate artists’ creativity, consumption milestones, labels at work and fan engagement, it is also great way for RIAA to engage policymakers. There are a lot of people who do not know the breadth of what the RIAA does, which is part of why I’m here: to educate and help people understand the full scope of how we are working on behalf of the industry.
It sounds like RIAA does a lot more than people realize. What do you want people to know that RIAA does?
In addition to the Gold & Platinum presentations, which are important and a lot of fun, there is advocacy going on behind the scenes where we are lobbying for the music industry as a whole. First and foremost, we are fighting for the rights of our entire community. That also includes content protection, and the RIAA has people scouring the internet for stolen music 24/7 in addition to filing federal and state court cases. Our team balances state and federal law to make sure that we’re protecting rightsholders.
Our research team is dedicated to analyzing trends and consumption, which is shared in a mid-year report and a year-end report as an asset to the broader industry as well as education tool for policymakers. As with each advancement in technology, and currently AI, protecting human creators is the priority. We are working hard to ensure that our creators are protected and that we can use AI to enhance human art, not replace it.
When do you feel most fulfilled in your role?
When an artist, industry leader or songwriter really connect with a representative, it makes me feel like the work we are doing matters on a human level. Getting to witness when it clicks that music has a broader impact on society and connects on a personal level, it’s really special.
Music and politics are two worlds that are shockingly similar—comprised of well-known people with a substantial amount of influence—so when they get together and realize that they share interests or when a representative gets excited about a project that a creator is working on, that is really motivating. It makes me feel like we all really can find common ground and be a part of something together. That’s when I feel the most fulfilled.
Pictured (L-R): Jackie Jones, Missy Elliott, RIAA Chairman & CEO Mitch Glazier. Photo: Courtesy of Jackie Jones
What’s the best advice you’ve ever gotten?
Have grace under pressure.
Who have been some of your mentors?
I was so fortunate to get to work with Chet Flippo, who was the Editorial Director at CMT when I started. Being in the room as he talked about new artists and new music was fascinating. He always had a clear opinion and was always kind about whatever opinion he had. He taught me that being direct and honest could also be kind. He made all of us better.
I have also been really lucky to come up alongside some strong, talented and brilliant women. I have learned so much from each of them and love that we have built this community that supports and cheers each other on. Finding peers you admire is an important part of building your network and will provide you with lasting friendships and advisors throughout your career.
What is one of your most fun career memories?
When Dolly Parton released her children’s album, she invited members of the media to bring their kids to a “Storytime with Dolly.” Just like her mother, my daughter has grown up listening to Dolly her whole life. When she met Dolly she said, “I love you Aunt Dolly,” and Dolly said, “Well I love you too sweetie.” It will forever be one of my favorite memories.
Pictured: Jackie Jones & family with Dolly Parton. Photo: Courtesy of Jackie Jones
You will be honored as one of MusicRow‘s Rising Women on the Row later this month. What has your experience been like as a woman in the industry?
Nashville has an incredible music community, and I think we are lucky to have many leaders working to create environments that are welcoming to all people. There is still a lot of work to be done, but it has made me proud over the last several years to come together with others who believe in having more voices represented and celebrating our diverse experiences.
As a woman who has a young daughter, I also think it is vital that we create an environment where there are adequate benefits and support systems that enable women to thrive both at work and home. If we truly want to make space for more women executives, we need to make it possible. I am fortunate to work at a company that enables me to be a mom and an important contributor to this industry. But not everyone is so lucky. Which is why I am working to change that for future generations through my work as a founder of Family Alliance in Music.
What advice would you give new execs looking to you as an example?
Treat people well and be honest. In a business that can sometimes be known for schmoozing, nurture real relationships with people who support and encourage you. Those are the people that will be standing next to you in the good and bad times, no matter what path you take.
John Esposito Named New T. J. Martell Foundation Chairman Of The Board
/by Lorie HollabaughJohn Esposito. Photo: Eric Brown
The T.J. Martell Foundation for Cancer Research has named Warner Music Nashville Chairman Emeritus John “Espo” Esposito the new Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the organization, according to Billboard.
The announcement comes as the organization continues to rebuild following the embezzlement scandal concerning former Executive VP & GM Melissa Goodwin, who was found to have embezzled four million dollars from the music industry charity.
Esposito’s initial term will be for two years. He succeeds Universal Music Group General Counsel and Executive VP Jeffrey Harleston, who will now serve as Executive Chairman. Esposito, who departed his role as Chairman & CEO of Warner Music Nashville at the end of 2022, has served as a T.J. Martell Foundation trustee since 2006, but has supported the organization since 1997.
“We got the double whammy of the COVID pandemic and somebody being a bad actor,” says Esposito to Billboard. “I felt qualified with my knowledge of the organization and passion for them to do what I could to help get us back on track.”
Esposito and T. J. Martell CEO Lynn-Anne Huck noted that safeguards have been put in place, including a 28-page policies and procedures manual for financial transactions, to ensure more transparency in the future. “If you go to our website, you’re going to find more information than almost any other nonprofit. We are absolutely transparent with everything,” Huck tells Billboard.
The organization has also reported they are cutting down on the number of events held each year and are considering creating marathon teams to raise money for T.J. Martell, as well as increasing planned giving by individuals and estates in addition to increasing branding and sponsorship possibilities. By relying less on staffed events, Esposito and Huck hope to keep personnel numbers lower. In 2019, T.J. Martell had 25 full-time employees, but is now down to only three. They will reportedly hire more staffers as needed.
The T.J. Martell Foundation for Cancer Research was founded by record executive Tony Martell in 1975 following the death of his son, T.J., from leukemia. the foundation holds multiple annual charity events and campaigns with the music communities in Los Angeles, New York, Nashville, Miami and more. They have raised more than $280 million in support of medical research grants and helped secure more than one billion dollars in research funding.
Grayscale Marketing Mourns Passing Of Colleague Matt Alese
/by Lorie HollabaughMatt Alese
Grayscale Marketing Senior Project Management and Operations Coordinator Matt Alese has passed away. He was 29.
Originally from West Islip, New York, Alese started his career at Grayscale in 2016 as an intern. In his most recent role, he helped successfully manage large projects across the country.
“I saw a drive and hunger in him even early on,” recalls Grayscale Marketing CEO, Tim Gray. “There wasn’t anything he wouldn’t or couldn’t challenge himself to do and you had to love that about him.”
Armed with his work ethic and a genuine passion for music, he quickly established himself as a fixture in the industry, regularly attending functions and serving as a member of the SOLID Board.
“Matt was an incredible colleague and friend, honest, consistently improving in his work, a committed Jiu-jitsu practitioner and avid hockey player,” remarks Gray. “He was a responsible person, a go-getter, enthusiastic, dedicated and had a sense of humor. The passion that he brought to his job, our team and this industry each and every day is something myself and others will never forget.”
A funeral mass was held Saturday, Feb. 25 in New York. Memories and condolences for the family can be left here.
CMA Announces Return Of Women’s Leadership Academy, Opens Application [Exclusive]
/by LB CantrellCMA’s Women Leadership Academy class of 2022. Pictured (L-R, front row): Amanda Mitchell (Farris, Self & Moore, LLC), Kara Jackson (Spirit Music Publishing), Jessi Vaughn Stevenson (Warner Chappell Music), Lauren Funk (Endurance Media Group), Stevie Escoto (Girlilla Marketing); (L-R, back row): Tiffany Kerns (CMA), Megan Pekar (Loeb & Loeb LLP), Chrissy Hall (Ryman Hospitality Properties), Meredith Jones (CAA), Sloane Cavitt Logue (WME), Callie Cunningham Nobel (Red Light Management), Samantha Thornton (G Major Management), Kortney Toney (Naxos of America), Sarah Trahern (CMA). Photo: Drew Noble/CMA
The Country Music Association has announced its Women’s Leadership Academy will return for the second year. The professional development program is a group coaching experience for up to 16 high-performing women in the country music industry.
Applications for this year’s academy are open now through March 31 at CMAworld.com/membership.
After launching in 2022, the Women’s Leadership Academy provided a wealth of value to its members. Participants were coached with premier-level professional development training led by Diane Watson, PCC and Cory Colton, PCC, BCC. They also benefited from one-on-on coaching sessions, educational sessions as a group, and group coaching sessions twice a month.
Tiffany Kerns, CMA’s VP of Industry Relations and Philanthropy, tells MusicRow that the inaugural Women’s Leadership Academy gained the tools needed to lead their teams well, and the courage to acknowledge the achievements of other women without a sense of competition.
“The women wanted to meet more. They wanted the sessions to be longer,” Kerns shares. “We encouraged agility in the program because we ultimately wanted to be reactive to their evolving needs, especially as many of them were going back into the office post-COVID. We also had really great coaches that understood the assignment—that women need to walk out feeling supported, prepared and ready to lead in their spaces.”
Photo: Drew Noble/CMA
Kerns also says that the inaugural class built a tight bond throughout the length of the program.
“Women are looking for and need other women for a variety of reasons. Whether it’s to get personal or professional advice, women often feel the pressure to always have it figured out. When you build trust with other women, it allows you to have connection and resources,” she says. “They continue to meet! So, we are learning that it isn’t just about putting together a group of women and delivering educational sessions, but we need to create an experience that allows them to be open, honest and supportive of one another. We need to build a community that lives long after they have exited the program.”
Participants of the 2023 Women’s Leadership Academy will begin their program by establishing goals before connecting with each other for group sessions. Watson and Colton will return as coaches for this year’s program, which aims to strengthen professional acumen by working through critical topics such as increased self-awareness and how to use it strategically, confidence building and communicating effectively, managing inner criticism to unleash further potential, building a personal brand and networking successfully, as well as creating a better work-life integration by setting boundaries.
Of this year’s class, Kerns shares, “We want and desire women to advance and be retained in country music. So, I’m most excited that [a new class of] women are going to have the exact same experience. Thanks to our previous class, we have continued to improve the program, so we are meeting the needs of our class versus making assumptions about their needs.”
Koe Wetzel Celebrates February 28 With Raising Cane’s Pop-Up Event
/by Lorie HollabaughKoe Wetzel at his Raising Cane’s Pop-Up Event in Nashville on Feb. 28.
Koe Wetzel and Raising Cane’s joined forces in Nashville yesterday (Feb. 28) to celebrate Wetzel’s unofficial, official day of the year.
The Texas native joined Raising Cane’s Founder & CEO Todd Graves at an exclusive food truck pop-up event at The Outfield along with some of Wetzel’s friends including Trey Lewis, Bailey Zimmerman, Caleigh Hardy, Dylan Marlowe, and Mandie and Danae. Wetzel even worked the Cane’s Food Truck, and provided a surprise when he changed the lyrics of his song, “February 28, 2016.”
Feb. 28 is a national holiday among Wetzel fans, which recalls a fan-favorite song he was inspired to write after being arrested on Feb. 28, 2016. In the song, Wetzel asks if someone will take him to Taco Bell. But to mark his friendship with Graves and his appearance at the event, Wetzel changed the lyrics and asked for someone to take him to Raising Cane’s instead.
“Koe and I have become good friends over the years, so I was stoked to celebrate Koe Wetzel Day and the start of his ‘Road to Hell Paso Tour’ with him and some of his friends on Tuesday,” Graves says. “His song, ‘February 28, 2016’ is iconic, so to have him sing new lyrics that include Raising Cane’s on the same date was amazing.”
Raising Cane’s recently signed on to sponsor Wetzel’s upcoming tour, which kicks off in Tallahassee, Florida tomorrow, March 2.
“I’m fine trading in tacos for chicken fingers and Cane’s Sauce moving forward on Feb. 28,” Wetzel says. “I had a great time hanging out with friends and learning how to man a food truck with Todd and the Cane’s Crew. I’ve been a fan of Raising Cane’s for a long time, and I appreciate Todd, his friendship and Cane’s sponsorship for my ‘Road to Hell Paso Tour.'”
Relative Music Group & Sony Music Publishing Partner To Sign Smith Ahnquist
/by Liza AndersonPictured (L-R, back row): Sony Music Publishing’s Rusty Gaston and Relative Music Group’s Caroline Bouldin. (L-R, front row): Relative Music Group’s Dennis Matkosky, Smith Ahnquist, Michael Hardy and Relative Music Group’s Jesse Matkosky. Photo: Sarah Kohrt
Relative Music Group has signed songwriter Smith Ahnquist in partnership with Sony Music Publishing.
With a focus on publishing and artist development, Relative Music Group represents an array of songwriters, including Michael Hardy who is also a partner in the company.
Originally from Danville, Kentucky, Ahnquist moved to Nashville in 2006 and earned a degree in music business from Belmont University. He has since garnered cuts with artists such as Brad Paisley, Florida Georgia Line, Hardy, Jameson Rogers, Justin Moore, Lainey Wilson and Matt Stell.
“I’ve always thought Smith was a great writer, and an even greater person. His attitude and presence in the room is so positive and contagious. I’ve been writing with him for years and have truly written some of my favorite songs with him. We have big plans for Smith and can’t wait to see the run he’s going to have in the future!,” shares Hardy.
“I’m so excited to be partnering with Relative Music. I’ve always admired their ability to make sure songs get heard. I’m looking forward to joining their close knit team,” says Ahnquist.
Warner Music Nashville CRS Luncheon Lineup Revealed
/by Lorie HollabaughA few special guests are also on tap for this year’s luncheon, which is set to take place at 12 p.m. in the Omni Nashville Hotel’s Broadway Ballroom. This will be one of three label lunches held during the three-day event.
“This year’s show will look and feel completely different – offering BIG performances from Cody Johnson, Ian Munsick and Chase Matthew,” says Warner Music Nashville SVP, Radio Kristen Williams. “These artists are selling out venues across the country and we’re bringing them LIVE to you!”
Registration for CRS 2023 is open and available through CountryRadioSeminar.com. Single-day passes are also available for purchase and include access to panels, speakers, luncheons and networking destinations on the day of pass purchase, with the exception of Friday’s New Faces of Country Music Show. Day passes can be obtained through the CRS 2023 registration page and will also be available for purchase on-site.
Morgan Evans Shares Personal Journey In Five-Part ‘Over For You’ Docuseries
/by Lorie HollabaughMorgan Evans. Photo: Chady Awad
Morgan Evans is taking viewers through the ups and downs of his 2022 musical journey with a new five-part documentary series, out now.
Directed by Peter John, the docuseries goes backstage and back home where Evans grew up, traveling to Australia and New Zealand, including the CMC Rocks QLD Festival, where he debuted his latest single, “Over For You,” for 25,000 people.
The CMC Rocks performance received hundreds of thousands of views on social media, and in response, “Over For You – Live in Melbourne” was then recorded and released to streaming outlets. “It felt like channeling all that sort of awfulness into something positive,” says Evans.
He recently released the “Over For You” music video, which was also directed by John, and captured in tandem with the documentary.
My Music Row Story: RIAA’s Jackie Jones
/by LB CantrellJackie Jones
Jackie Jones is the Senior Vice President, Artist and Industry Relations for the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and serves as the organization’s chief representative in Nashville.
Jones helps elevate creators across genres while also translating copyright reform, trade negotiations, and creative policymaking for the industry. She brings together artists, songwriters, managers, labels, venues, advocacy groups, tech companies and distribution services to work towards common goals through events, conversations and educational opportunities.
Jones will be honored as part of the current class of MusicRow’s Rising Women on the Row on March 23. For more details about the class and the event, click here.
MusicRow: Where did you grow up? How did you get into the music business?
I grew up in Memphis, so I have always been surrounded by so many kinds of music. I was also super interested in television growing up so it would make sense that my dream was to produce [the VH1 show] Behind The Music. In college I studied TV and film, but I kept coming back to the music side of entertainment. Once I transferred to MTSU, an internship at CMT turned into a full-time position and I worked as a producer and writer before I joined the talent team, where I produced and booked talent for both music programming and live events.
Pictured (L-R): Jason Derulo, Jackie Jones, Luke Bryan. Photo: Courtesy of Jackie Jones
What were your favorite things you got to do at CMT when you were a writer/producer?
I got to work with a team of producers to create original content for online programming, which was so special because no one at CMT had done that before. We were able to try a lot of new ideas while creating everything from scratch, including producing the first online awards show—hosted by Taylor Swift with Lady A as the house band. It was a blast!
What did you do once you joined the talent team?
I had never been a part of live productions and helping to create musical moments on TV until CMT Music Awards and Artists of the Year, but once I started working in that realm, there was no turning back. The rush and thrill of creating a live television show is still one of my favorite things in the world.
You joined RIAA in 2019. How did that happen?
I had never really thought about this advocacy side of entertainment, but the more I got to know Mitch [Glazier, Chairman & CEO] and Michele [Ballantyne, COO], I could see how the work RIAA does truly impacts the entire music community. Their overall approach was really appealing to me because they not only believe that if the advocacy groups work together, we can advance legislation, but their passion reminds me of my own. There are advocacy groups representing every part of the industry, and we know that if we go to legislators together as one voice, we can accomplish so much more.
Now that you’re a few years into your work at RIAA, what are some of your biggest focus areas?
My focus now is to help protect and connect the music community. Whether it is through educating policymakers on how to support our industry or educating the industry on how we need to approach new technologies, it is vital that our united voices are heard. Creators deserve to be compensated fairly for their work and that can only happen when the industry grows in a healthy way.
Pictured (L-R): Maverick’s Chris Parr, RIAA’s Jackie Jones, Darius Rucker, UMG Nashville’s Mike Dungan. Photo: Strange Bird Media
What’s a day in the life look like for you?
From the start, it has been important to see where we have needs as an industry, then begin to foster relationships where they didn’t exist or needed a bit of nurturing. From different advocacy groups to artist management teams and other industry executives, it is vital that we all educate each other and collaborate on issues. One of my primary goals has always been to show legislators why creating and protecting music is so important. I spend a lot of time planning and hosting events that encouraging conversation between artists, industry leaders and members of Congress.
When the pandemic quickly halted in-person engagement, RIAA quickly pivoted to meet the needs of our industry and worked hard to protect all sectors with the COVID relief bills. I also worked one-on-one with creators to help them find and apply for any available resources that could help during that time.
We also moved to virtual events that focused on other issues such as a panel on mental health with JoJo and Miles Adcox, a conversation with Jimmie Allen about race in country music and began a program called Music Matters to highlight artists’ advocacy and charitable acts.
The last several months as we’ve been able to come back together, I served as executive producer for RIAA Honors: Pioneers of Hip-Hop in DC, booked a panel with Caitlyn Smith and her all-female team to both celebrate and discuss their experiences of women in the industry, am helping to launch the second iteration of the Music Business Accelerator program at TSU, among other initiatives.
In 2019 you produced the inaugural RIAA Honors. Tell me about that.
This event is a great example of us giving legislators a behind-the-scenes experience with artists, songwriters, and their teams to actively show them why protecting music and creators is so important. It’s fascinating to see the impact of these visits, whether it’s legislators talking to a songwriter and hearing about the creative process, speaking with an artist whose music they love, or just learning about how a record is made. These moments open the door for us to have more meaningful conversations and engage our community goals with policymakers’ priorities. The inaugural RIAA Honors recognized Miranda Lambert for her support of women throughout her career and Co-President of Black Music at Atlantic Records Lanre Gaba, who has fostered careers of Lizzo, Cardi B, Jack Harlow and many others. Lanre shared how she finds artists and why labels play such an important role artists’ careers. The event also acknowledged policymakers who were instrumental in helping us pass the Music Modernization Act.
After a two-year hiatus due to COVID, we were able to again host the celebration in 2022 with RIAA Honors: Pioneers of Hip-Hop. Grandmaster Flash, MC Lyte, UMG’s Jeff Harleston and Minority Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries were recipients of the accolade for their contributions in moving the genre forward. It was a really impactful event that shared the importance of music on culture and allowed so many legislators to get a real feel for why music matters.
Pictured (L-R): Brandi Carlile, Jackie Jones, Wynonna Judd. Photo: Courtesy of Jackie Jones
RIAA is probably most known by its lauded Gold & Platinum program. What goes on behind the scenes in presenting those?
It’s interesting because prior to working at the RIAA, I only knew about the Gold and Platinum plaques because an artist would post a photo, a label would host an event, or I’d see the multi-Platinum accolade used as an awards show introduction. As I started talking to Michele and Mitch, I learned RIAA not only celebrates these commercial successes but is an advocacy group that lobbies for music rights and content protection. The Gold & Platinum program not only helps us to celebrate artists’ creativity, consumption milestones, labels at work and fan engagement, it is also great way for RIAA to engage policymakers. There are a lot of people who do not know the breadth of what the RIAA does, which is part of why I’m here: to educate and help people understand the full scope of how we are working on behalf of the industry.
It sounds like RIAA does a lot more than people realize. What do you want people to know that RIAA does?
In addition to the Gold & Platinum presentations, which are important and a lot of fun, there is advocacy going on behind the scenes where we are lobbying for the music industry as a whole. First and foremost, we are fighting for the rights of our entire community. That also includes content protection, and the RIAA has people scouring the internet for stolen music 24/7 in addition to filing federal and state court cases. Our team balances state and federal law to make sure that we’re protecting rightsholders.
Our research team is dedicated to analyzing trends and consumption, which is shared in a mid-year report and a year-end report as an asset to the broader industry as well as education tool for policymakers. As with each advancement in technology, and currently AI, protecting human creators is the priority. We are working hard to ensure that our creators are protected and that we can use AI to enhance human art, not replace it.
When do you feel most fulfilled in your role?
When an artist, industry leader or songwriter really connect with a representative, it makes me feel like the work we are doing matters on a human level. Getting to witness when it clicks that music has a broader impact on society and connects on a personal level, it’s really special.
Music and politics are two worlds that are shockingly similar—comprised of well-known people with a substantial amount of influence—so when they get together and realize that they share interests or when a representative gets excited about a project that a creator is working on, that is really motivating. It makes me feel like we all really can find common ground and be a part of something together. That’s when I feel the most fulfilled.
Pictured (L-R): Jackie Jones, Missy Elliott, RIAA Chairman & CEO Mitch Glazier. Photo: Courtesy of Jackie Jones
What’s the best advice you’ve ever gotten?
Have grace under pressure.
Who have been some of your mentors?
I was so fortunate to get to work with Chet Flippo, who was the Editorial Director at CMT when I started. Being in the room as he talked about new artists and new music was fascinating. He always had a clear opinion and was always kind about whatever opinion he had. He taught me that being direct and honest could also be kind. He made all of us better.
I have also been really lucky to come up alongside some strong, talented and brilliant women. I have learned so much from each of them and love that we have built this community that supports and cheers each other on. Finding peers you admire is an important part of building your network and will provide you with lasting friendships and advisors throughout your career.
What is one of your most fun career memories?
When Dolly Parton released her children’s album, she invited members of the media to bring their kids to a “Storytime with Dolly.” Just like her mother, my daughter has grown up listening to Dolly her whole life. When she met Dolly she said, “I love you Aunt Dolly,” and Dolly said, “Well I love you too sweetie.” It will forever be one of my favorite memories.
Pictured: Jackie Jones & family with Dolly Parton. Photo: Courtesy of Jackie Jones
You will be honored as one of MusicRow‘s Rising Women on the Row later this month. What has your experience been like as a woman in the industry?
Nashville has an incredible music community, and I think we are lucky to have many leaders working to create environments that are welcoming to all people. There is still a lot of work to be done, but it has made me proud over the last several years to come together with others who believe in having more voices represented and celebrating our diverse experiences.
As a woman who has a young daughter, I also think it is vital that we create an environment where there are adequate benefits and support systems that enable women to thrive both at work and home. If we truly want to make space for more women executives, we need to make it possible. I am fortunate to work at a company that enables me to be a mom and an important contributor to this industry. But not everyone is so lucky. Which is why I am working to change that for future generations through my work as a founder of Family Alliance in Music.
What advice would you give new execs looking to you as an example?
Treat people well and be honest. In a business that can sometimes be known for schmoozing, nurture real relationships with people who support and encourage you. Those are the people that will be standing next to you in the good and bad times, no matter what path you take.
Industry Ink: Hailey Whitters, BMI, Masquerade Gala of Music City, Mixtape Music
/by Caela GriffinHailey Whitters ‘Everything She Ain’t’ Certified Gold
Pictured (L-R): Seth England (CEO / Partner, Big Loud), Nicolle Galyon (Label Head / Songwriter, Songs & Daughters), Hailey Whitters, Jake Gear (Producer / EVP, Hang Your Hat Music), Matt Graham (Managing Partner + Head of Music, Range Media Partners), Chris Kappy (Founder + CNO, Make Wake Artists)
Hailey Whitters‘ hit song “Everything She Ain’t” has attained RIAA Gold certification. To celebrate the accomplishment, her team at Big Loud presented Whitters with the certification plaque in Nashville.
“Everything She Ain’t” appears on Whitters’ 2022 album Raised. It is climbing at country radio and recently passed 100 million global streams.
BMI At The Blue Room Kicks Off 2023
Pictured: Members of Carol, The Blonde Bones, Olivia Barton, and BMI’s Nina Carter and Tyler Burns backstage at the Blue Room. Photo Credit: Angelina Castillo for BMI.
“BMI At The Blue Room” held its first showcase on Feb. 22 with performances by BMI singer-songwriters Olivia Barton, Carol, and Blonde Bones.
In partnership with The Blue Room at Third Man Records, this quarterly concert features talents from the Nashville community across a variety of genres. OneRPM is the official sponsor of this series. Next up, “BMI At The Blue Room” returns for another showcase on May 24. The show will be free and open to all ages.
Fifth Masquerade Gala of Music City Raises $55,000
5th Annual Masquerade Gala of Music City organizers and talent
Masquerade Gala of Music City marked its fifth year by drawing over 800 attendees to Marathon Music Works last week. The night, filled with dining and entertainment, raised over $55,000 for The Aloe Family organization.
Performers for the evening included Tenille Arts, Levi Hummon, Leah Turner, Kat & Alex, and more. Guests also donned festive masks and enjoyed the event’s pop-up bars, local art displays and an extensive auction.
“We are blown away with the talent and generosity of Nashville coming together for such a memorable night,” says Natalie Firkser, The Aloe Family founder and Masquerade Gala of Music City organizer. “This will create a huge and positive impact on our community with The Aloe Family!”
Mixtape Music Welcomes Hannah Meacham
Hannah Meacham
Mixtape Music Publishing announces the addition of Hannah Meacham as Assistant Catalog Manager.
Meacham is a graduate from Middle Tennessee State University’s Recording Industry Program. Her job will include strengthening Mixtape’s footprint as a source for labels looking for new songs. Mixtape’s Bobby “McSongs” has a song on MusicRow’s CountryBreakout Radio Chart, and two more releases coming this month.
Warner Music Nashville Promotes Bri Small, Claire Russo
/by Caela GriffinBri Small, Claire Russo
Warner Music Nashville announces the promotion of Brianna (Bri) Small from Manager of Interactive Marketing to the new Director of Digital Content Strategy & Partnerships role. Coordinator of Interactive Marketing, Claire Russo, will rise to fill the vacancy.
“I am thrilled for Bri and for the way this role will serve to further enhance our label’s marketing capabilities and our artists’ reach,” says Torie Mason, SVP Strategic Marketing & Analytics. “Bri is an absolute star, and I can’t wait to watch her excel in this new, exciting, future-forward position.”
The newly created Director of Digital Content Strategy & Partnerships role will enhance end-to-end marketing campaigns and span the interactive, creative, publicity and business development departments.
Small graduated from St. Edward’s University with a Digital Media Management degree before starting her career at NBC Entertainment in Los Angeles. In addition to her accomplishments at WMN with artists including Ingrid Andress, Kenny Chesney, Blake Shelton and Bailey Zimmerman, she worked alongside the corporate DEI team to launch the Warner Music HBCU Immersion Program.
Russo holds a Entertainment Industry Studies and Music Business degree from Belmont University. She held several digital marketing internships leading her to a job at Crowd Surf after graduation. She joined Warner Music Nashville in February 2022.
“Claire is a champion for our artists. Her experience, passion and creativity make her the perfect fit to step into this role,” adds Mason.