Robert Plant & Alison Krauss Return To The ‘CMT Crossroads’ Stage
Pictured (L-R, back row): CMT’s Shanna Strassberg, Margaret Comeaux, and Leslie Fram. (L-R, front row): Robert Plant, CMT’s Michael McNamara, and Alison Krauss. Photo: Catherine Powell
Robert Plant and Alison Krauss returned to the CMT Crossroads stage on Tuesday night (Nov. 29), celebrating the franchise’s 20th anniversary. The duo currently have three nominations for their album Raise the Roof at the 65th annual Grammy Awards.
Tracy Lawrence Donates 60K To Nashville’s Homeless On Giving Tuesday
Tracy Lawrence donates to Brooks House on Giving Tuesday. Photo: Courtesy of OH Creative
Tracy Lawrence got in the swing of Giving Tuesday this year by supporting charities committed to ending homelessness across Middle Tennessee. The country artist, through his Mission:Possible organization, hand-delivered $10,000 to charities such as Safe Haven, People Loving Nashville, Shower Up, The Laundry Stop, Brooks House, and Open Table.
“While we were able to reach new records at the Turkey Fry last week, we realize there is a growing need around Middle Tennessee that continues to need our support,” Lawrence explains. “We’re thankful for all our supporters that make it possible for us to lend a hand to multiple organizations.”
Mission:Possible’s goal is to raise support for and awareness of the homeless population in Middle Tennessee and beyond. The organization’s longest-running annual event–the Thanksgiving week Turkey Fry and Benefit Concert–fried a record-breaking 1,200 turkeys and fed over 9,600 of those in need this holiday season. The benefit concert went on to raise another record-breaking $250,000 in support of Nashville Rescue Mission.
Riser House Entertainment Taps Ashley Mascroft As Promotions & Label Coordinator
Ashley Mascroft. Photo: Shannon Bradley
Riser House Entertainment has added Ashley Mascroft as Promotions and Label Coordinator.
Mascroft started in radio in 2007 at WRNX-FM (KIX 100.9) in Springfield, Massachusetts, and became the Promotions Director for WSIX-FM (The Big 98) in 2018, along with taking on promotional duties for WNRQ-FM (105.9 The Rock) in December 2019. Most recently, she spent time away from music as the COO of a Nashville-based apparel brand, Codeword, before rejoining the industry with Riser House.
“Ashley is incredibly competent and intelligent,” says Riser House Entertainment President and Co-Founder Jennifer Johnson. “Throw her a project, and she’ll have it planned out or fully executed that day. She’s already a huge asset, and I am honored to have her on our dynamic team at Riser House.”
“I’m excited to return to the music industry after taking a couple years away,” adds Mascroft. ‘I’m especially thankful to have found my new home with the Riser House team!”
Mascroft can be reached at ashley@riserhouse.com.
Carnival Music Brings Out The Stops At Special Gathering
Pictured (L-R): Dale Dodson (No, Dale does not work for Carnival again), Chris Beavers, Mando Saenz, Marla Cannon-Goodman, Nicole Wyatt, Brent Cobb, Brittany Hamlin, and Emily McMannis.
Nashville-based publishing company Carnival Music recently hosted a special gathering in Nashville. Among those in attendance were Dale Dodson, Chris Beavers, Mando Saenz, Marla Cannon-Goodman, Nicole Wyatt, Brent Cobb, Brittany Hamlin, and Emily McMannis.
Alexia Wilkins Inks With APA
Alexis Wilkins and her team. Photo: Courtesy of Wortman Works
Arkansas-bred, Nashville-based artist Alexis Wilkins has inked an exclusive booking agreement with APA. On the heels of her top 10 selling single “Stand,” the Saddle Up Records singer will now be represented by APA’s Jeff Hill and his Nashville team for touring, sponsorship, film and TV, and literary endeavors.
“You are who you surround yourself with, and I couldn’t be more excited to work with such a wonderful group of people who understand the vision, support this music, and believe so much in the live show,” shares Wilkins. “Thank you so much Jules [Wortman] & APA, Jeff, Jenn [Hludzik], and the team, for being incredible partners, I’m already so looking forward to what we’ve got in the pipeline. Excited for 2023, touring, and putting out this new era of music. Let’s go play some country music, y’all.”
“We love the drive and talents of Alexis. She is a strong artist, songwriter, and creative,” adds Hill. “When you have a package and a conviction like hers, we cannot go wrong. Looking forward to growing her career. When promoters call wanting an act back after their first booking, we are surely in for a great run.”
Wilkins is managed by industry veteran Jules Wortman of Wortman Works. Ava Evans of Wortman Works handles PR and day-to-day management.
Mike Curb To Match Contributions To Musicians Hall Of Fame & Museum
/by Lorie HollabaughMike Curb, owner of Curb and Word Records, has launched a matching fundraising campaign to benefit the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum.
Matching up to $100,000, the campaign kicked off on Giving Tuesday (Nov. 29) and will run through the end of the year. Donations can be made at musicianshalloffame.com/
“Mike Curb understands the need for nonprofits to raise money to be sustainable,” notes Linda Chambers, Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum CEO and Co-Founder. “Music is a common denominator that touches lives in many ways. We want everyone to feel a part of preserving music history by making a donation to the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum. Mike Curb‘s generous offer to match funds makes even a small donation have a large impact.”
“I was fortunate to work with Joe [Chambers] and Linda Chambers almost from the inception of their incredible journey building the magnificent Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum in Nashville. Unfortunately, we recently lost Joe Chambers, and we all worried about replacing his great talent, leadership and passion for this Museum. Fortunately, Linda Chambers has accepted the responsibility to be the CEO and lead the future of this great Hall of Fame & Museum. It is unbelievable the passion she has already shown and the success of the first major induction event that took place last week.”
He continues, “Joe and Linda have always believed all contributions, regardless of size, are important. In order to make sure this transition is smooth and successful, I have agreed to match up to $100,000 in gifts between now and the end of this year. Linda and I would deeply appreciate any consideration you can give during this important moment.”
The announcement follows last week’s 7th Annual Concert and Induction Ceremony at the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum celebrating the induction of Billy F Gibbons, Don McLean, Marty Stuart & The Fabulous Superlatives, Ray Stevens, Vince Gill, engineer George Massenburg, and producer James William Guercio at Nashville’s Municipal Auditorium.
Industry Ink: ‘CMT Crossroads,’ Tracy Lawrence, Riser House, Carnival, Alexis Wilkins
/by Lydia FarthingRobert Plant & Alison Krauss Return To The ‘CMT Crossroads’ Stage
Pictured (L-R, back row): CMT’s Shanna Strassberg, Margaret Comeaux, and Leslie Fram. (L-R, front row): Robert Plant, CMT’s Michael McNamara, and Alison Krauss. Photo: Catherine Powell
Robert Plant and Alison Krauss returned to the CMT Crossroads stage on Tuesday night (Nov. 29), celebrating the franchise’s 20th anniversary. The duo currently have three nominations for their album Raise the Roof at the 65th annual Grammy Awards.
Tracy Lawrence Donates 60K To Nashville’s Homeless On Giving Tuesday
Tracy Lawrence donates to Brooks House on Giving Tuesday. Photo: Courtesy of OH Creative
Tracy Lawrence got in the swing of Giving Tuesday this year by supporting charities committed to ending homelessness across Middle Tennessee. The country artist, through his Mission:Possible organization, hand-delivered $10,000 to charities such as Safe Haven, People Loving Nashville, Shower Up, The Laundry Stop, Brooks House, and Open Table.
“While we were able to reach new records at the Turkey Fry last week, we realize there is a growing need around Middle Tennessee that continues to need our support,” Lawrence explains. “We’re thankful for all our supporters that make it possible for us to lend a hand to multiple organizations.”
Mission:Possible’s goal is to raise support for and awareness of the homeless population in Middle Tennessee and beyond. The organization’s longest-running annual event–the Thanksgiving week Turkey Fry and Benefit Concert–fried a record-breaking 1,200 turkeys and fed over 9,600 of those in need this holiday season. The benefit concert went on to raise another record-breaking $250,000 in support of Nashville Rescue Mission.
Riser House Entertainment Taps Ashley Mascroft As Promotions & Label Coordinator
Ashley Mascroft. Photo: Shannon Bradley
Riser House Entertainment has added Ashley Mascroft as Promotions and Label Coordinator.
Mascroft started in radio in 2007 at WRNX-FM (KIX 100.9) in Springfield, Massachusetts, and became the Promotions Director for WSIX-FM (The Big 98) in 2018, along with taking on promotional duties for WNRQ-FM (105.9 The Rock) in December 2019. Most recently, she spent time away from music as the COO of a Nashville-based apparel brand, Codeword, before rejoining the industry with Riser House.
“Ashley is incredibly competent and intelligent,” says Riser House Entertainment President and Co-Founder Jennifer Johnson. “Throw her a project, and she’ll have it planned out or fully executed that day. She’s already a huge asset, and I am honored to have her on our dynamic team at Riser House.”
“I’m excited to return to the music industry after taking a couple years away,” adds Mascroft. ‘I’m especially thankful to have found my new home with the Riser House team!”
Mascroft can be reached at ashley@riserhouse.com.
Carnival Music Brings Out The Stops At Special Gathering
Pictured (L-R): Dale Dodson (No, Dale does not work for Carnival again), Chris Beavers, Mando Saenz, Marla Cannon-Goodman, Nicole Wyatt, Brent Cobb, Brittany Hamlin, and Emily McMannis.
Nashville-based publishing company Carnival Music recently hosted a special gathering in Nashville. Among those in attendance were Dale Dodson, Chris Beavers, Mando Saenz, Marla Cannon-Goodman, Nicole Wyatt, Brent Cobb, Brittany Hamlin, and Emily McMannis.
Alexia Wilkins Inks With APA
Alexis Wilkins and her team. Photo: Courtesy of Wortman Works
Arkansas-bred, Nashville-based artist Alexis Wilkins has inked an exclusive booking agreement with APA. On the heels of her top 10 selling single “Stand,” the Saddle Up Records singer will now be represented by APA’s Jeff Hill and his Nashville team for touring, sponsorship, film and TV, and literary endeavors.
“You are who you surround yourself with, and I couldn’t be more excited to work with such a wonderful group of people who understand the vision, support this music, and believe so much in the live show,” shares Wilkins. “Thank you so much Jules [Wortman] & APA, Jeff, Jenn [Hludzik], and the team, for being incredible partners, I’m already so looking forward to what we’ve got in the pipeline. Excited for 2023, touring, and putting out this new era of music. Let’s go play some country music, y’all.”
“We love the drive and talents of Alexis. She is a strong artist, songwriter, and creative,” adds Hill. “When you have a package and a conviction like hers, we cannot go wrong. Looking forward to growing her career. When promoters call wanting an act back after their first booking, we are surely in for a great run.”
Wilkins is managed by industry veteran Jules Wortman of Wortman Works. Ava Evans of Wortman Works handles PR and day-to-day management.
Kyle Williams Renews Deal With Centricity Publishing
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Justin Nicolet, Creative Director; Alexandra Diaz, Publishing Coordinator; Kyle Williams; and Chad Segura, VP of Publishing
Kyle Williams has renewed his long-term agreement with Centricity Publishing. He first signed with the company in 2018.
Originally from Oklahoma, Williams is a multi-genre songwriter, producer and instrumentalist, and is lead guitarist for the band We Are Messengers. He also releases his own solo projects as Willyecho and Kyle and the clouds. He has writing and production credits on six No. 1 singles, including “See Me Through It” by Brandon Heath and “The Goodness” by TobyMac (feat. Blessing Offor). His additional No. 1s include “Light It Up” (Terrian), “Enough” (Social Club Misfits), “You Are Loved” (Stars Go Dim) and “This World Is Not My Home” (Branan Murphy).
He has also co-written and produced three top 5 singles for We Are Messengers –“This Is Jesus,” “Love” and “Power”– and has production and songwriting credits with Cochren & Co., Tasha Layton, Jonny Diaz and Jason Gray. Along with his success in the Christian realm, Williams has collaborated with Rob Thomas, Marc Broussard, Cassadee Pope, Heather Morgan, Erika Ender, and many others.
In 2019, he was on NBC’s Songland and won the episode with Aloe Blacc as the guest judge. Blacc recorded and released the song Williams co-wrote and performed on the show, “Getting Started,” which also landed in the end credits in the movie, Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw. Williams has also had other synch placements with various songs on ABC’s How To Get Away with Murder, NBC’s Chicago Fire, and UFC and Fox Sports promos.
“I’ve always felt like the folks at Centricity were family from the beginning,” says Williams. “I’m truly excited to further this relationship and my career.”
“We absolutely love working with Kyle,” adds Chad Segura, Centricity Publishing’s Vice President. “Whether he’s wearing the hat of songwriter, producer or artist, or some combo of the three, he always delivers at a ridiculously high level. We’re so honored to partner with him and can’t wait to see what this next chapter holds in store for us all.”
BMG Nashville Promotes Kelsey Worley & Hires Amy Hendon Scott
/by Liza AndersonKelsey Worley and Amy Hendon Scott. Photos: Jessica Crans
BMG Nashville has promoted Kelsey Worley to Sr. Director of Creative and hired Amy Hendon Scott as Director of Creative.
Worley, who relocated to Nashville from Los Angeles earlier this year, will continue to be responsible for developing and signing both established and rising talent, and working with BMG’s roster of songwriters, which includes Emily Landis, Stephen Wilson Jr., Claire Douglas, Drew Kennedy, Austin Nivarel, and Logan Wall, among others. The Berklee College of Music graduate began her career at Interscope Records as an Executive Assistant to the CEO, John Janick. She was then promoted to the position of A&R Manager for the rosters of Interscope Records, Geffen Records, and Darkroom Records.
“Kelsey is an amazing song person. She knows songwriters. She has a heart for both,” says Chris Oglesby, VP Creative. “Her determination has been on full display since arriving from L.A. Armed with a label and publishing skill set, she has opened up opportunities for our writers and their songs across all genres. In a very short time, she has made herself a part of the Music Row community, and we’re excited to have her on our team.”
As Director of Creative, Scott will also be working with BMG’s songwriter roster as well as developing and signing new and established talent. She brings her wealth of experience in publishing and artist development to BMG from Liv Write Play, with previous stops at Wide Open Music and HoriPro Entertainment Group.
“Amy is a well-respected Music Row veteran,” states Oglesby. “She rounds out our team with experience that adds value to everyone. She brings our BMG family a broader depth and knowledge. She knows writers, and she knows exactly what to do with their songs and calendars.”
Both reporting to Oglesby, Worley can be reached at kelsey.worley@bmg.com and Scott can be reached at amy.scott@bmg.com.
Weekly Register: Dolly Parton’s ‘Diamonds & Rhinestones’ Makes Top Country Album Debut
/by Lydia FarthingDolly Parton makes the biggest debut on the top country albums chart this week. Her new greatest hits collection, Diamonds & Rhinestones, comes in at No. 4 on the country charts and No. 27 overall with 19K in total consumption (14K album only/5.2 million song streams).
Joining her on the albums chart is Morgan Wallen‘s Dangerous: The Double Album at No. 1 for another week, according to Luminate data. The blockbuster record adds 42K in total consumption (1.8K album only/50 million song streams). Zach Bryan‘s American Heartbreak follows at No. 2 with 27K, Taylor Swift‘s Red (Taylor’s Version) comes in at No. 3 with 22K, and Bailey Zimmerman‘s Leave The Light On closes out the top five with 19K.
On the top country streaming songs chart, Bryan continues to lead the pack for a tenth consecutive week. “Something In The Orange” gains another 14 million streams, contributing to a total of 343 million RTD. “You Proof” (Wallen) maintains the second spot with 9.7 million streams., and his “Wasted On You” also rises back into the fifth position with 7.7 million streams. “Rock And A Hard Place” (Zimmerman) keeps its place in third with 9.2 million, and “The Kind Of Love We Make” (Luke Combs) remains in fourth with 7.8 million.
Jeffrey Steele & Scott Stapp To Headline Operation Song’s 10th Anniversary Show
/by Lydia FarthingNashville Songwriter Hall of Fame inductee Jeffrey Steele and Grammy-winning songwriter, artist, and the voice of Creed, Scott Stapp, will headline Operation Song’s 10th Anniversary Show at The Franklin Theater on Dec. 5.
Echoing past variety shows which entertained troops overseas, the evening will include hit songwriters and veterans performing songs from five eras of service–from WWII to Afghanistan. The audience of civilians, active-duty military, veterans, and Gold Star families will enjoy a social hour, entertainment, and live and silent auctions, including a Bourbon raffle which also can be bid on from home.
Hosted by Sirius XM The Highway’s Storme Warren, the evening marks the organization’s first large-scale fundraiser in Music City with hopes of becoming an annual event. Tickets for the night are on sale now.
“If there was ever a show that demonstrates the healing power of music, this is it. From heartbreaking to humorous to sentimental, these songs, and the stories behind them, hit every note,” shares Operation Song Founder and Grammy-nominated songwriter Bob Regan. “Bringing Nashville’s music and military communities together makes for an incredibly powerful presentation.”
U.S. Navy Desert Storm Veteran & Operation Song’s Board President, Bob Leonard adds, “For service members, discretion is as important as valor, so putting personal, visceral experiences into words can be a challenge. The songwriters we work with are true professionals who help translate veterans’ stories of sacrifice, comradery, and loyalty into compelling, relatable songs.”
Operation Song pairs accomplished songwriters with veterans to help them tell their stories through song. Proceeds from this and other events around the country in 2023 will benefit Operation Song’s year-round work.
Apple Music Launches New Replay Experience
/by Lorie HollabaughPhoto: Courtesy of Apple Music
Apple Music has rolled out a new subscriber experience allowing listeners to learn their top songs, artists, albums, genres, and more of 2022 in a redesigned Replay experience.
Photo: Courtesy of Apple Music
The year-end experience includes expanded listening insights and new functionality, including a completely personalized highlight reel. Super fans can even discover whether they are in the top 100 listeners of their favorite artist or genre.
Apple Music listeners can continue checking Replay until Dec. 31 to see if their listening patterns evolve before the start of 2023. Once the new year begins, they can keep listening on Apple Music to explore and share new 2023 insights each week.
“When we first launched Replay, the feature became an instant fan favorite on Apple Music, and we really wanted to develop the experience further and make it even more special, personal, and unique for subscribers,” notes Oliver Schusser, Vice President of Apple Music and Beats. “The music we enjoy throughout the year becomes like a soundtrack, and it’s really fun to be able to go back and relive those meaningful and memorable moments over again.”
Kyle Coulahan Signs With Big Yellow Dog Music
/by Lorie HollabaughKyle Coulahan
Kyle Coulahan has signed a publishing deal with Big Yellow Dog Music.
A Florida native, Coulahan got an introduction to Nashville from producer Chips Moman, who took him under his wing and showed him around Music City. Since then, he has spent time honing his songwriting craft and has written songs with Bobby Pinson, Clint Daniels, and others. He is working on new music for release in 2023.
“When I heard Kyle Coulahan’s voice singing the hits he walked in with, I knew immediately we had a ringer,” says Big Yellow Dog Music co-owner and CEO Carla Wallace. “His work ethic and charm are a nice addition to the hits. Thanks to Jacee Badauex for bringing this one to Big Yellow Dog.”
Jason Aldean, Thomas Rhett, Brooks & Dunn To Headline TidalWave 2023
/by Lorie HollabaughJason Aldean, Brooks & Dunn and Thomas Rhett are set to headline the TidalWave Music Festival in 2023 on Atlantic City Beach in New Jersey on Aug. 11-13, following the festival’s successful inaugural year.
The main stage will host performances by Cooper Alan, Priscilla Block, Lindsay Ell, Randy Houser, Corey Kent, Dustin Lynch, Jo Dee Messina, Jelly Roll, Lily Rose, Dylan Scott, Nate Smith, Cole Swindell, Mitchell Tenpenny, Hailey Whitters and DeeJay Silver.
TidalWave also has a “Next from Nashville” lineup that will feature George Birge, Ben Burgess, Mackenzie Carpenter, Madeline Edwards, Dylan Marlowe, Chase McDaniel, John Morgan, Megan Moroney, Pillbox Patti, MacKenzie Porter, Peytan Porter, Aaron Raitiere, Lauren Watkins, and Jake Worthington, plus a special performance by Ray Wylie Hubbard.
Fans who travel to TidalWave will be able to stroll along the Boardwalk and enjoy ocean views and shopping, as well as visit casinos, restaurants, and the amusement rides at legendary Steel Pier. Three-day passes for the festival will go on sale beginning Friday, Dec. 16 at tidalwavefest.com.
TidalWave Music Festival on the Atlantic City Beach is presented by Country Nation and Live Nation in partnership with the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA) and the City of Atlantic City.
Liz Rose Renews Publishing Deal With Warner Chappell Music
/by Lorie HollabaughLiz Rose. Photo: Courtesy of Warner Chappell
Renowned songwriter Liz Rose has renewed her global publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music.
The Grammy, CMA, ACM, and SESAC Songwriter of the Year recipient is one of the first two songwriters to be inducted into the National Music Publishers’ Association, and was recently nominated for the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Rose also received the 2012 ACM Award for Song of the Year for Eli Young Band’s “Crazy Girl,” and in 2015, won Song Of The Year at the CMA Awards and the Grammy for Best Country Song for writing “Girl Crush” by Little Big Town.
“I hope everyone understands that Liz is a modern-day legend in our business,” explains Ben Vaughn, President & CEO, Warner Chappell Music, Nashville. “She’s a world-renowned lyricist, successful business owner, noted advocate for songwriter rights at the highest level of government, engaged board member, and a fiercely loyal friend to all in her world. I’ve been fortunate enough to partner with her for over a decade and I cannot understate how passionate and dedicated she is to her craft. Our entire Warner Chappell team is so proud to be a part of the next chapter in her historic body of work.”
Rose moved to Nashville in the mid ’90s and began writing songs at the age of 37. One of her first cuts was for Gary Allan, “Songs About Rain,” which became a top 20 country hit. She soon became a frequent collaborator to Taylor Swift, co-writing 16 songs with the superstar, including the No. 1 crossover hits “Teardrops on My Guitar;” “You Belong With Me,” which won the 2010 BMI Award for Song of the Year; “Tim McGraw;” “White Horse,” which won the 2010 Grammy Award for Best Country Song; and “All Too Well,” among others.
She also co-wrote the 10 minute version of Swift’s “All Too Well,” from the iconic Red (Taylor’s Version) album, which landed at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 and just received a nomination for Song of the Year at the upcoming 65th Grammy Awards. Rose also recently collaborated with Miranda Lambert on her album Wildcard, with five cuts including “It All Comes Out In The Wash,” which was nominated for a Grammy for Best Country Song in 2020.
Other recent credits include “Hummingbird” by Maren Morris, “No Choice” by Ingrid Andress, “Three Whiskeys And The Truth” and “Something Strong” by Little Big Town, “Better Strangers” by Karley Scott Collins, and a sync placement with “The Card You Gamble”–the theme song for the new Fox series Monarch. Rose also has two cuts on Parker McCollum’s upcoming project, and has also penned songs for Tim McGraw, Dan + Shay, Allison Krauss, Blake Shelton, Lee Ann Womack, Chris Young, Bonnie Raitt, and more.
In the midst of a career telling other people’s stories, Rose debuted an album of her own life story, Swimming Alone, in 2016. She serves on the board of directors for the CMA and Nashville Songwriters Association International. A successful publisher, she launched Liz Rose Music with her son, Scott Ponce, in 2010 as a home for burgeoning songwriters.
“I can’t think of a better partner and champion than Warner Chappell to continue this crazy songwriter journey with,” notes Rose. “I look forward to the future with Ben Vaughn and the entire team!”