George Couri
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.
As Founder of Triple 8 Management, George Couri leads a team of 31 staffers overseeing artist management, marketing, and radio promotion efforts from offices in Nashville, Austin, and Los Angeles.
Among the Triple 8 Management roster is Scotty McCreery, who recently notched his fifth consecutive No. 1 hit, as well as multi-Platinum group Eli Young Band, breakout star and new Sony Music Nashville signee Corey Kent, Australian-born country phenom Morgan Evans, and road warrior Pat Green, among others.
Triple 8 is also a founding partner in Triple Tigers Records, which celebrated its first eight singles reaching No. 1 and continues to have success outside of country mainstream with a variety of rock, pop, and Christian artists, as well as songwriters.
MusicRow: Where did you grow up?
Johnstown, Pennsylvania.
George Couri and Scotty McCreery
What was your dream job? How did you get into the music business?
I started by writing film scores for students at USC Film School. Then I realized one day that I would rather help those more talented than me realize their potential. [That led me to] an internship at the Los Angeles offices of Arista Records, assisting the west coast regional Lori Hartigan. I was working country records to radio.
What was next?
The internship at Arista Records really solidified my path. Next I took a job in a Los Angeles management company that eventually moved to Austin, Texas. From there, I started a management company that later joined forces with a concert promoter, and that ultimately spun off to become Triple 8 Management. It is named after its founding date: August 8, 2008. Triple 8 Management was born out of wanting to serve artists better than the typical management company.
Most of the Triple 8 Management team gathered for their holiday party. Photo: Ashtin Paige
Now, Triple 8 is a 31-member team with team members in Nashville, Austin, and Los Angeles with a roster that includes Scotty McCreery, Eli Young Band, Corey Kent, Morgan Evans and more. What’s a day in the life usually like?
As you can imagine, it varies every day, however it essentially involves talking with our artists about how we grow their careers, and, in turn, talking with the team—internal and external—to make sure we are supporting the team as well. No team members are on their own to manage artists, and it takes conscious effort every day to continue to make sure that remains the case.
[I am also a] co-founder of Triple Tigers Records. We support the record label team as they continue to expand and thrive.
What is a lesson you learned early in your career?
I learned early on that artists do in fact want someone to tell them the truth. Additionally, that I want to work with artists that are willing to hear it.
George Couri, Corey Kent, Nate Towne (WME), Chris Fox (Triple 8)
When do you feel most fulfilled in your role?
I am fulfilled being in service to other people. When that service results in bringing artists and team members closer to their own dreams, I am most fulfilled.
Who are some of your mentors?
My mentors early on were the late Frank Callari, TK Kimbrell, Joey Lee, Rob Light, and most definitely Chuck Flood. They’re all friends, and I definitely listened and learned from them all.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever gotten?
To remember that none of us have as much time here on earth as we think we have. Do not waste time. Handle your business and actions such that later on, you will not have regrets on how you did anything.
What is something a lot of people probably don’t know about you?
I can speak a bit of Portuguese.
George Couri with Eli Young Band and agent Brian Hill
What is one of your favorite experiences in the industry that you will share for the rest of your life?
There was a Triple 8 holiday party at our house a couple months after first signing Scotty McCreery to management. Just as the party was starting, David Crow, Scotty’s attorney, called to say Scotty was free and clear entirely of any previous recording agreements. We celebrated the freedom that comes with re-imagining what is next all night, toasting to the future we would go create!
What remains so memorable is that Scotty was absolutely on fire that entire night—he was happy, celebrating, and truly the most rowdy life of the party. It was infectious and unforgettable and absolutely set the tone for the road ahead. I still laugh when I think about things that happened that night, and it just makes his successes today even sweeter knowing they were fueled from a sense of creative freedom that remains absolutely contagious.
What are you most proud of in your career?
When the general industry consensus has been that a certain artist is not going to have success—or that a particular thing cannot be done— and then actually sometimes managing to do it. It is far more satisfying being a part of delivering that redemption or rediscovery for someone than the money that follows it ever will be. Overcoming difficult odds, not being afraid to bet on the underdog, and continuously fighting for that fuels me every day.
Bobby Karl Works The Room: Espo Feted By WMN At Hall Of Fame
/by Bobby KarlOutgoing Warner Music Nashville Chairman and CEO, John Esposito. Photo: Alan Poizner
Chapter 662
When John Esposito came to Warner Records 13 years ago, the label was fairly moribund, and now it is a powerhouse.
Pictured (L-R): Kenny Chensey, Espo. Photo: Alan Poizner
He and his team have a big roster of contemporary hit-makers, including Cody Johnson, Kenny Chesney, Dan + Shay, Ashley McBryde, Blake Shelton, Breland, Cole Swindell, Gabby Barrett, Brett Eldredge, the Zac Brown Band and Ingrid Andress.
The ebullient Espo, as he is known throughout Music Row, also built a very special community, the folks who work at Warner Music Nashville.
The occasion of his transition to Chairman Emeritus led the label’s Shane Tarleton to organize a party on Wednesday evening (Dec. 14) at the Country Music Hall of Fame. A throng of celebrants attended.
The party people snacked on a smorgasbord of multiple cheeses, chilled vegetables, mixed nuts, bacon crostini, crackers, dips, assorted berries and mini chocolate cakes. A small stage was decorated with more than 40 lit pillar candles and a buffet table holding large E-S-P-O letters blazing with marquee-style lightbulbs rising from a display of white poinsettia.
The area directly in front of the stage was embellished with living-room arrangements of couches, coffee tables and upholstered chairs. The tall cocktail tables scattered in the Conservatory held tea lights nestled in hollow metal llama statuettes. It turns out that Espo is fascinated by llamas, partly because his family called him “llama lips” as a kid. You read it here first.
Pictured (L-R): Dan Smyers, Espo, Shay Mooney. Photo: Alan Poizner
Schmoozing away were Kyle Lehning, Mary Ann McCready, Wes Vause, Clint Higham, Kenny Chesney, Lon Helton, Sarah Trahern, Kristen Williams, Rod Essig, Dan + Shay, Tony Conway, Chuck Aly, Holly Gleason, Ben Vaughn and Randy Travis.
Scott Hendricks took the stage to laud the outgoing label chief.
“Espo’s style of leadership is based out of love…and cheerleading,” Scott said. “He listened to everybody. He learned from everybody.” He recalled not knowing what to expect from Espo when the label boss was imported from New York. The first unreleased record that Scott played for the pop-music veteran was “Hillbilly Bone.” Espo didn’t balk. “He’s the biggest music lover I’ve ever met in my life,” Scott added. “It’s been my honor and my privilege to be on his team.”
One of Espo’s great gifts to Warner is that he trained his replacements. Incoming co-president Ben Kline told the honoree, “You have the longest shadow of anyone we know.” Ben added, “I’ve never met anyone who loves being around artists and creatives more than Espo does.”
Pictured (L-R): Espo, Randy Travis. Photo: Alan Poizner
Incoming co-president Cris Lacy recalled that her psychic in Virginia told her, “You’re going to get a new boss. His name starts with an E. He’s gonna be really good for the company and really good for you.” Cris lauded Espo by echoing the previous speakers: “I don’t know anyone who more fully absorbs music.”
Espo can also out-party anybody on his staff. If you try to keep up with him, you’ll be sucked into “The Espo Vortex,” as the staffers dubbed it.
Executive assistant Paula Eden said, “He always tells people that I’m the best babysitter he’s ever had. Well, he’s the best ‘baby’ I’ve ever had. I’ve gained an extension to my family.” She concluded by addressing Espo: “You’ve built an amazing legacy at Warner Nashville.”
Espo’s wife, Chantel Esposito, testified: “He wears his heart on his sleeve. You never have to wonder where he stands on something.”
WMN former Chief Operating Officer and longtime friend Matt Signore is Espo’s “life coach and wingman.” He described the honoree by saying, “He leads with his heart and soul, and his mind and body follow.” He saluted Espo with, “I’m looking forward to having this job as your friend for the rest of my life.”
“Through the years, we’ve built one helluva team, the best team in Nashville,” said Espo. “Look how it all worked out for all of us. Thank all of you for teaching me country music.
“It’s been a helluva ride.”
DISClaimer Single Reviews: Nicolle Galyon Gives A Lesson In ‘Self Care’
/by Robert K OermannUnlike county music, the Americana field is brimming with female headliners.
This edition of DISClaimer spotlights seven of them–Joy Oladokun, Larkin Poe, Sierra Ferrell, Michelle Branch, Karen Waldrup, Nicolle Galyon and Kelsey Waldon. Waldrup is probably the best singer of the bunch, and Branch has the best production. Galyon has the songwriting chops, and Larkin Poe rocks hardest.
Mind you, there are male contenders, too, notably Nathaniel Rateliff, Devon Gilfillian, Sam Bush, The Milk Carton Kids and the Lone Bellow.
The easiest choice to make is the DISCovery Award. That’s a tossup, shared by Devon Gilfillian and Sierra Ferrell, two Nashville artists who demonstrate how diverse Music City’s sounds are.
Our songwriting community has produced few talents as bright as Nicolle Galyon. In a highly competitive stack of sounds, she wins the Disc of the Day.
THE LONE BELLOW / “Unicorn”
Writers: Zach Williams/Trent Dabbs/Brian Elmquist; Producers: Brian Elmquist/Jacob Sooter; Label: Dualtone
–Enchanting. Lead singer Zach Williams croons an echoey love lyric that swoons with cloud-like beauty. You’ll find this gorgeous gem on the band’s new Love Songs for Losers Collection. And you should. At once.
JORDY & JOY OLADOKUN / “I Get High”
Writers: none listed; Producer: Drew Polovick; Label: 300 Entertainment
–Rising pop artist Jordy teams with Americana star Oladokun as his collaborator on this new version of his elegant, escapist stoner anthem. Multiple sonic layers pile sound on sound as they swirl in tune. Joy Oladokun performed at the White House on Tuesday to celebrate President Biden signing the Respect for Marriage Act (as did Cyndi Lauper and Sam Smith). Oladokun also dropped a new single this week. It’s a dramatic anthem called “Power” from the soundtrack of an Al Sharpton documentary.
SIERRA FERRELL / “Hey Me, Hey Mama”
Writers: Ray Charles/Jack Lamontagne; Producer: none listed; Label: Rounder
–I’m still waiting for her sophomore album to drop. In the meantime, this jaunty, bluesy, acoustic performance will have to do. Sierra has haunted me all year long. She’s playing a hometown show at Brooklyn Bowl on New Year’s Eve. If you’ve never seen her live, I urge you to do so. She’s a superb showoman, just as dynamic on stage as she is on records. Also, Ferrell is on the bill of “Hello From the Hills,” an all-star Kentucky benefit concert at City Winery on Jan. 7.
DEVON GILFILLIAN / “Let the Water Flow”
Writers: Devon Gilfillian/Ran Jackson/Henry Brill; Producer: Jeremy Lutitio; Label: Fantasy
–This Nashvillian first attracted my attention with his audacious re-recording of Marvin Gaye’s masterpiece What’s Going On. He has also emerged as a champion of social justice. “Let the Water Flow” was issued to coincide with our recent mid-term elections. It’s a soulful plea for voting rights and true democracy. The slow, deliberate ballad depicts Georgia folks standing and suffering for hours, just to cast a vote. A gospel organ and choir gradually come into the mix, lending the track extra power.
SAM BUSH / “Radio John”
Writers: Sam Bush/John Pennell; Producer: none listed; Label: Smithsonian Folkways
–This is the title tune of a tribute CD to the late John Hartford. Bush and band kick up serious instrumental dust while the singer-songwriter wails the lyric reflecting Hartford’s biography and music. Joyous, dazzling and pulse-quickening.
KELSEY WALDON / ”Sweet Little Girl”
Writer: Kelsey Waldon; Producer: Shooter Jennings; Label: Oh Boy
–The Washington Post has declared that Kelsey Waldon’s current No Regular Dog collection is “this year’s best country album.” Her single from it is a thumping, moody, fiddle-embellished country rocker with loads of echoey atmosphere and a lyric about a lost soul on the Hillbilly Highway. The talented Waldon is booked to play The Station Inn tomorrow night (Dec. 16).
NATHANIEL RATELIFF & THE NIGHT SWEATS / “Face Down in the Moment”
Writer: Nathaniel Rateliff; Producers: Brad Cook/RMB/Elijah Thomson; Label: Stax
–I remain a big fan. As always, this act pours soul and passion into its stately performance. A steady, marching tempo is the backdrop for Rateliff’s emoting. The track becomes ever more dense, soaring and audio loaded as it moves toward its finale. This has deservedly become a big Americana hit.
NICOLLE GALYON / “Self Care”
Writers: Nicolle Galyon/Sasha Sloan/Caroline Baker; Producers: King Henry/Jimmy Robbins; Label: Songs & Daughters
–This Nashville tunesmith’s album is a garden of delights. I’m particularly fond of this emphasis track. It is simultaneously tuneful and conversational, poetic and catchy. The lyric is about eschewing botox, hair dye, self-improvement, spiritual expansion and the like in favor of loving who you are, just as you are. “I think I like me,” indeed. An essential for your playlist.
KAREN WALDRUP / “All American Mistake”
Writers: Marcus Hummon/Stephanie Chapman; Producers: Biff Watson/Paul Worley; Label: KW
–Waldrup’s second album, Kendall County Road, is just as potent as her first was. Its emphasis track is the tale of a hopeful survivor. She stumbles in marriage but emerges with a baby she loves. As before, her country vocal is a beacon of truth and believability.
THE MILK CARTON KIDS / “Running on Sweet Smile”
Writers: Joey Ryan/Kenneth Pattengale; Producer: Kenneth Pattengale; Label: Far Cry/Thirty Tigers
–This lilting ditty is a sneak peak at the acoustic duo’s 2023 album. It maintains the team’s sweet, folkie charm, but the sound has moved from that of an old-timey country duo and more toward Simon & Garfunkel territory. Highly recommended.
LARKIN POE / “Southern Comfort”
Writer: Rebecca Lovell; Producers: Larkin Poe/Tyler Bryant; Label: Tricki-Woo
–Blood Harmony is the new, sixth album by this Nashville rock duo of sisters. This is its single, an electrified stomper about missing your roots. Compelling listening, as is always the case with these strong attitude women.
MICHELLE BRANCH / “Not My Lover”
Writer: Michelle Branch; Producers: Patrick Carney/Michelle Branch; Label: Audio Eagle/Nonesuch/Warner
–Sensual and kinda dreamy, this pop-rock outing features her breathy soprano vocals contrasted with a danceable, irresistibly rhythmic track. The production and perfect audio mix are stellar. Well worth your spins.
Industry Ink: Ray Stevens & Brenda Lee, George Strait, Ashley McBryde, Runaway June, BMI
/by Lydia FarthingRay Stevens & Brenda Lee Receive Cecil Scaife Visionary Award
Brenda Lee and Ray Stevens. Photo: Eli Greiss
Ray Stevens and Brenda Lee were recently surprised with The Cecil Scaife Visionary Award at Nashville’s CabaRay Showroom. Stevens, who helped plan the event, thought he was giving the award to Lee and Lee thought she was giving it to Stevens.
The special sold-out evening opened with a 20-piece orchestra accompanying Mandy Barnett, who showcased Lee’s classic hit, “I’m Sorry.” Additional performances included Charlie McCoy, Jeannie Seely, Ricky Skaggs, and Lang Scott. The grand finale of “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” was performed by The McCrary Sisters, who were accompanied by Lee.
Senator Marsha Blackburn, a past recipient of the award, presented each of the honorees with a Senate Statement for the Congressional Record. She thanked them for their contributions to Tennessee and beyond, as well as for helping lift others up throughout their own careers. In between each act, video greetings were presented from Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, Dolly Parton, Tanya Tucker, Steve Wariner, Kyle Lehning, Mike Huckabee, and Mike Curb.
The Cecil Scaife Visionary Award is given to an individual whose life and work have made it possible for future generations to realize careers in the music industry. In the ’70s, it was the late Cecil Scaife’s vision to create a music business program for musicians, artists, songwriters, and future music business executives to formally learn the industry he loved so dearly. His vision grew to become the world-renowned Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business.
George Strait Raises $2.4 Million At 12th Annual Vaqueros del Mar Event
Pictured (L-R): Kerry Fisher, Ed Garahan, Jamey Johnson, George Strait, and Tom Cusick. Photo: Terry Calogne
George Strait‘s 12th annual Vaqueros del Mar golf tournament and benefit concert raised a record-setting $2.4 million for the Feherty’s Troops First Foundation, bringing the all-time total to over $17 million.
Hosted at Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort with longtime friend and Texas businessman Tom Cusick, the event featured a golf tournament as well as a concert with performances by Strait, Asleep at the Wheel, William Beckman, Wade Bowen, Dean Dillon, Keith Gattis, Randy Houser, Jamey Johnson, and Randy Rogers.
“After George and I acquired Tapatio, we had our Grand Re-Opening on 11-11-11, which was Veterans Day,” notes Cusick. “We decided holding an event for our military heroes was perfect and then we met David Feherty with Troops First, and the rest is history. I believe we both would agree that this has been one of the most fulfilling experiences we have been involved in, and have grown so close to so many that have sacrificed for our country and all of us!”
Ashley McBryde & Warner Music Nashville Celebrate Opry Induction
Pictured (L-R): Shane Tarleton (EVP Artist Development, WMN), Ashley McBryde, Ben Kline (Co-President, WMN), Tim Foisset (SVP Streaming, WMN), and Cris Lacy (Co-President, WMN). Photo: Chris Hollo
Warner Music Nashville’s Ashley McBryde recently became the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday night (Dec. 10).
She and fellow Opry member Terri Clark performed “Girl Goin’ Nowhere,” which McBryde made her Opry debut with in 2017. She also performed “Sparrow” from her sophomore album Never Will and new song “Made For This.” Eric Church joined her for “Bible and a .44.”
Runaway June Performs At The CMHOF During Ford Community Day
Runaway June. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Gold-selling trio Runaway June, made up of Stevie Woodward, Natalie Stovall, and Jennifer Wayne, performed at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s CMA Theater on Dec. 11. The performance was part of the museum’s partnership with the Ford Motor Company Fund for the museum’s 14th Ford Community Day.
In addition to touring the exhibit galleries, visitors were able to choose from a variety of programs and events, including a Songwriter Session with Parker Welling, a Musician Spotlight with Country Music Hall of Fame member and Grammy winner Charlie McCoy, and various family programs.
BMI Partners With JP Morgan Chase For Annual Meeting
Pictured (L-R): Region Manager JPM Chase’s Jeff Goodwin, Natalie Hemby, Luke Dick, CEO Gibson’s JC Curleigh, and BMI’s Mason Hunter
BMI once again partnered with JP Morgan Chase to provide entertainment at their annual meeting held at Gibson Garage in Nashville. Guests were treated to tours of the Gibson Showroom and a performance by hit songwriters Natalie Hemby and Luke Dick.
WME Nashville Partners With Safe Haven Shelter For Christmas Holiday
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured: Staff members from WME’s Nashville Office surround gifts purchased for sponsored families through partnering with Safe Haven Family Shelter. Photo: WME
WME’s Nashville Office has once again partnered with local non-profit Safe Haven Family Shelter this season to assist in providing families in need with a special holiday.
During November and December, Safe Haven works with over 150 families who are unable to provide gifts for their loved ones due to various circumstances. Each year they gather a wish list of items from each family.
“The holidays should be a special time for every family, no matter your circumstance,” shares WME agent Carrie Murphy, who spearheaded the agency’s holiday outreach effort. “When I shared I was looking to sponsor a few families, I was amazed at how many people wanted to help. I’m truly overwhelmed at the response of our WME family and friends wanting to ensure these parents will have something special to put under their tree for their kids.”
Over 20 families were sponsored through WME’s efforts with over 100 gifts purchased, ranging from bicycles and toys to clothes and daily essentials.WME client Lily Rose also sponsored a family.
“I’m a big believer in giving back to the community year-round, but there is something special about specifically getting kids gifts from Santa,” Rose notes. “I was so blessed to grow up in a household where my parents worked so hard and were able give us a dream Christmas year in and year out. Daira and I are so grateful to have the opportunity to give back and love this new tradition we’ve started. We cannot wait to get more people to hop on the Safe Haven train next year!”
Safe Haven Family Shelter is still accepting monetary donations, which can be made through visiting safehaven.org.
Centricity Music Adds Three Staffers, Celebrates Record-Breaking Year
/by Lorie HollabaughCentricity Music is closing out a record-breaking year with unprecedented growth and success.
The Franklin, Tennessee based label has added three new staffers to its marketing and finance departments. Tyler Osswald has been named Digital Marketing Manager and Sarah Shinn joins as Marketing Manager, Radio. Meanwhile, Camy McArdle comes on board as Sr. Manager Finance / Business Affairs.
Additionally, Centricity has received RIAA Platinum and Gold certifications for Lauren Daigle and reached the top of the charts four times with songs from Brandon Heath, Jordan Feliz and Katy Nichole.
Nichole’s “In Jesus Name (God of Possible)” went on to become the biggest song this decade on the Hot Christian Songs chart, holding 20-weeks at No. 1. Her second single, “God Is In This Story,” spent another three weeks atop that chart. She tops six categories in this week’s Billboard Year in Music, including Top Christian Female, Top Christian New Artist, Christian Airplay and Christian Digital Song Sales.
Nominated for an American Music Award and a Dove Award, plus winning a K-LOVE Fan Award and making her Grand Ole Opry debut, Nichole was also featured on the “K-LOVE Christmas Tour 2022” and wrapped up successful tours with Jeremy Camp, Matthew West and more.
Signed to Centricity Music in 2021, 5x Grammy-nominated, 8x Dove Award-winning Brandon Heath released his first full-length album on the label, Enough Already, in April. The album sparked the No. 1 Billboard Christian AC radio hit, “See Me Through It,” and features eight more tracks.
RIAA Gold-selling, Dove award-winning pop artist and songwriter Jordan Feliz reached radio’s top position on multiple Billboard charts with his celebratory “Jesus Is Coming Back.” The song is featured on the 18-track deluxe version of Feliz’s third full-length album, Say It.
2x Grammy-winner and multi-Platinum selling artist Lauren Daigle had her Grammy-winning crossover hit, “You Say,” the longest-running No. 1 song of any genre on the weekly Billboard Hot charts, certified 5x Platinum. Her second full-length album, Look Up Child, is also certified Platinum, while her latest radio single and sixth No. 1, “Hold On To Me,” also certified Gold.
Academy Of Country Music Officially Opens New Nashville Headquarters [See Inside]
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R): Paul Moore, Parliamentarian, ACM Board of Directors; Randy Bernard, Vice President, ACM Board of Directors; Ebie McFarland, Vice-Chair, ACM Board of Directors; Chuck Aly, Chairman, ACM Board of Directors; Parker McCollum, reigning ACM New Male Artist of the Year; Damon Whiteside, CEO, ACM; Lainey Wilson, reigning ACM New Female Artist of the Year and three-time ACM Award winner; Nashville Mayor John Cooper; Deana Ivey, President, Nashville Convention and Visitors Corp; Ben Weprin, CEO and Founder, AJ Capital Partners. Photo: Courtesy of the ACM
The Academy Of Country has cut the ribbon and opened the doors to its new headquarters in Nashville. After nearly 60 years on the West Coast, the Academy now resides in the growing Wedgewood Houston neighborhood of Music City.
Photo: Digital Love courtesy of the ACM
ACM CEO Damon Whitside presided over the grand opening ceremony. Special guests and featured speakers in attendance included reigning ACM New Male and Female Artists of the Year Parker McCollum and Lainey Wilson; Nashville Mayor John Cooper; Deana Ivey of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp; AJ Capital Partners CEO and Founder Ben Weprin; and ACM officials including Academy Board of Director Officers and members.
“I have to pinch myself right now, because this literally feels like a dream,” Whiteside shared at the ceremony. “It’s been three years in the making, and I just can’t believe, looking out on everybody’s faces, that we’re here. Welcome to the new Academy of Country Music headquarters!”
“I am thrilled to welcome the Academy of Country Music to their new home in Nashville. What better place for the Academy to put down their roots than the capital of Country Music itself,” said Nashville Mayor John Cooper. “I’m grateful to ACM CEO Damon Whiteside and the ACM Board of Directors for their commitment to Nashville and for bringing yet another outstanding cultural institution to our great city.”
After hearing from ACM officials and speakers, guests toured the new space in the Nashville Warehouse Co. Building. Throughout the office there are art installments, historical artifacts, and pieces of design that reference the six-decade history of the Academy of Country Music.
Pictured (L-R): Lorie Lytle, Chair, Board of Directors, ACM Lifting Lives, and Lyndsay Cruz, Executive Director, ACM Lifting Lives. Photo: Courtesy of the ACM
The new office features a state-of-the-art content studio for capturing original media with artists, songwriters, producers, and industry professionals. It was named after the late Lisa Lee, a beloved longtime Academy staffer and passionate country music champion who passed away in 2021. There is also a full performance stage and event lounge to host and showcase established and emerging artists from across the musical landscape, paying homage to the Academy’s first unofficial Awards banquet at the Red Barrel club in Southern California in 1964.
It’s clear that the Academy’s intention is to create a space where the Nashville music business and artist community feels welcome to come to. ACM winners McCollum and Wilson talked about the impact the ACMs have had on their careers when they spoke at ribbon cutting.
“This award show captured my attention as a really small kid watching on television. My sister and I would sit on the ground in front of the TV and watch, not that she probably thought that I would ever be up there on that stage or be here today, but it was certainly in my mind,” McCollum said, with the Academy of Country Music’s logo on the wall behind him. “So just to even have that behind me right now, speaking about something like this as an award winner, it’s just crazy. Not something I take for granted, certainly.”
Photo: Digital Love courtesy of the ACM
“What an unforgettable year it was for both me and the Academy. I won my first three ACM Awards this year, performed on the show, and I did it all in a football stadium and streaming live all over the world on Amazon Prime Video,” Wilson said. “I am just so happy to be here to help welcome the Academy as they open this spectacular new headquarters here in Music City. To have the Academy here in Nashville just makes a whole lot of sense.”
The new office also serves as the Nashville headquarters of ACM Lifting Lives, the philanthropic partner of the Academy of Country Music. Their work is celebrated in the space with a prominent wall featuring the ACM Lifting Lives rallying cry, “Let’s Lift Lives,” spelled out in bright neon and set against a custom wallpaper featuring the lyrics to an original song written this summer at ACM Lifting Lives Music Camp.
The new ACM headquarters was designed by Hastings Architects with the goal of embracing the country western and Hollywood vibes from across the Academy’s history and translating it to a look and feel that reflects modern Music City. The Academy’s Design Director Lori Kraft led the creative development of the art installations and nods to organizational heritage throughout the office. The furniture was designed and selected by Ai Corporate Interiors.
Photo: Digital Love courtesy of the ACM
Photo: Digital Love courtesy of the ACM
Photo: Digital Love courtesy of the ACM
Photo: Digital Love courtesy of the ACM
Jason Aldean, Jimmie Allen, Luke Bryan, More Join ‘Nashville’s Big Bash’ For New Year’s Eve
/by Lorie HollabaughJason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Darius Rucker, and more have been added to the lineup to help Nashville ring in the New Year on New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash, airing live from Music City on Dec. 31 on CBS.
Jimmie Allen, Dierks Bentley, King Calaway, Sheryl Crow, Flo-Rida, Riley Green, Elle King, Ashley McBryde, Steve Miller, Thomas Rhett, Darius Rucker, Lainey Wilson, and The War And Treaty have also been added to the star-studded lineup for the five-hour celebration. Featuring 50 back-to-back performances, the special will cross multiple time zones, live from the home of country music.
Previously announced superstars also performing on the special include Kelsea Ballerini, Brooks & Dunn, Little Big Town, and Zac Brown Band. Artists will perform their biggest hits and perform covers of some of the most iconic country songs of all time, and collaborations will be stacked throughout the lineup. More details will be announced in the coming weeks.
Nashville will count down with the east coast at midnight and keep the party going through midnight CT with the city’s renowned Music Note Drop. The celebration will air live from 7- 9 p.m. CT and 9:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. CT on CBS, and will be available to stream live and on demand on Paramount+.
My Music Row Story: Triple 8 Management’s George Couri
/by LB CantrellGeorge Couri
As Founder of Triple 8 Management, George Couri leads a team of 31 staffers overseeing artist management, marketing, and radio promotion efforts from offices in Nashville, Austin, and Los Angeles.
Among the Triple 8 Management roster is Scotty McCreery, who recently notched his fifth consecutive No. 1 hit, as well as multi-Platinum group Eli Young Band, breakout star and new Sony Music Nashville signee Corey Kent, Australian-born country phenom Morgan Evans, and road warrior Pat Green, among others.
Triple 8 is also a founding partner in Triple Tigers Records, which celebrated its first eight singles reaching No. 1 and continues to have success outside of country mainstream with a variety of rock, pop, and Christian artists, as well as songwriters.
MusicRow: Where did you grow up?
Johnstown, Pennsylvania.
George Couri and Scotty McCreery
What was your dream job? How did you get into the music business?
I started by writing film scores for students at USC Film School. Then I realized one day that I would rather help those more talented than me realize their potential. [That led me to] an internship at the Los Angeles offices of Arista Records, assisting the west coast regional Lori Hartigan. I was working country records to radio.
What was next?
The internship at Arista Records really solidified my path. Next I took a job in a Los Angeles management company that eventually moved to Austin, Texas. From there, I started a management company that later joined forces with a concert promoter, and that ultimately spun off to become Triple 8 Management. It is named after its founding date: August 8, 2008. Triple 8 Management was born out of wanting to serve artists better than the typical management company.
Most of the Triple 8 Management team gathered for their holiday party. Photo: Ashtin Paige
Now, Triple 8 is a 31-member team with team members in Nashville, Austin, and Los Angeles with a roster that includes Scotty McCreery, Eli Young Band, Corey Kent, Morgan Evans and more. What’s a day in the life usually like?
As you can imagine, it varies every day, however it essentially involves talking with our artists about how we grow their careers, and, in turn, talking with the team—internal and external—to make sure we are supporting the team as well. No team members are on their own to manage artists, and it takes conscious effort every day to continue to make sure that remains the case.
[I am also a] co-founder of Triple Tigers Records. We support the record label team as they continue to expand and thrive.
What is a lesson you learned early in your career?
I learned early on that artists do in fact want someone to tell them the truth. Additionally, that I want to work with artists that are willing to hear it.
George Couri, Corey Kent, Nate Towne (WME), Chris Fox (Triple 8)
When do you feel most fulfilled in your role?
I am fulfilled being in service to other people. When that service results in bringing artists and team members closer to their own dreams, I am most fulfilled.
Who are some of your mentors?
My mentors early on were the late Frank Callari, TK Kimbrell, Joey Lee, Rob Light, and most definitely Chuck Flood. They’re all friends, and I definitely listened and learned from them all.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever gotten?
To remember that none of us have as much time here on earth as we think we have. Do not waste time. Handle your business and actions such that later on, you will not have regrets on how you did anything.
What is something a lot of people probably don’t know about you?
I can speak a bit of Portuguese.
George Couri with Eli Young Band and agent Brian Hill
What is one of your favorite experiences in the industry that you will share for the rest of your life?
There was a Triple 8 holiday party at our house a couple months after first signing Scotty McCreery to management. Just as the party was starting, David Crow, Scotty’s attorney, called to say Scotty was free and clear entirely of any previous recording agreements. We celebrated the freedom that comes with re-imagining what is next all night, toasting to the future we would go create!
What remains so memorable is that Scotty was absolutely on fire that entire night—he was happy, celebrating, and truly the most rowdy life of the party. It was infectious and unforgettable and absolutely set the tone for the road ahead. I still laugh when I think about things that happened that night, and it just makes his successes today even sweeter knowing they were fueled from a sense of creative freedom that remains absolutely contagious.
What are you most proud of in your career?
When the general industry consensus has been that a certain artist is not going to have success—or that a particular thing cannot be done— and then actually sometimes managing to do it. It is far more satisfying being a part of delivering that redemption or rediscovery for someone than the money that follows it ever will be. Overcoming difficult odds, not being afraid to bet on the underdog, and continuously fighting for that fuels me every day.
Americana Music Association Announces 2023 Board Of Directors
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Americana Music Association has announced its 2023 Board of Directors.
This year’s newly-appointed board member is Lenore Kinder (Wasserman Music). Tracy Gershon (Northern Lights Music Publishing) and Kim Buie (New West Records) were also elected for a first and second term, respectively.
The 2023 Executive Committee includes President Courtney Gregg (Blue Sky Artist Management), President-Elect Bruce Warren (WXPN, Philadelphia/NPR), Treasurer Kurt Vitolo (KV Financial Group) and Secretary Lynne Sheridan (Grammy Museum). The Executive Committee’s At-Large members are Kim Buie (New West Records), Shannon Sanders (BMI/Producer) and Jody Whelan (Oh Boy Records).
Americana Music Association 2023 Board of Directors:
Kim Buie, New West Records
Emily Cohen, Amazon Music
Tressie McMillan Cottom, Author/MacArthur “Genius Grant” Award Recipient
Gail Gellman, Gellman Management
Tracy Gershon, Northern Lights Music Publishing
Brian Greenbaum, CAA
Courtney Gregg, Blue Sky Artist Management
Lenore Kinder, Wasserman Music
Mike Kopp, Kopp Management/Arts Advocate/Political Consultant
Jackie Marushka, Marushka Media
Gina Miller, MNRK Music
Mark Moffatt, Producer
Allison Russell, Artist
Shannon Sanders, BMI/Producer
Lynne Sheridan, Grammy Museum
John Strohm, Frost Brown Todd Attorneys
Kurt Vitolo, KV Financial Group
Andrea von Foerster, Firestarter Music
Bruce Warren, WXPN, Philadelphia/NPR
Megan West, Meta, Inc.
Jody Whelan, Oh Boy Records
Rachel Whitney, Spotify
Combustion Music Adds Chris McKenna To Writer Roster
/by Lydia FarthingPictured (L-R): Combustion Music President Chris Farren, Combustion Music VP Chris Van Belkom, Chris McKenna, Combustion Music GM Keithan Melton, Combustion Music Director of Operations Kelly Lyons, and Combustion Music Senior Creative Director, A&R Blake Duncan. Photo: Austin Goodloe
Combustion Music has signed songwriter Chris McKenna to an exclusive publishing deal.
McKenna moved to Nashville in 2019 and quickly built relationships with writers in town. He has garnered a number of cuts, including “Biggest T-Shirt” from Avery Anna, “After Me” released by Morgan Johnston, “Blue Eyes” from Pierre Alexander, and more.
“Chris has built a solid co-writing foundation over the first few years of his songwriting career,” notes Combustion’s Keithan Melton. “What he’s been able to accomplish on his own is highly impressive and we’re thrilled to be on board for the next chapter.”
“I’m so excited to be joining Combustion Music for my first publishing deal,” McKenna adds. “This team has put so much faith into me and quickly made me feel like a part of the family. I can’t wait to get to work and see where it goes from here!”