Wynonna Judd will travel to New York next week to make several media appearances for the upcoming release of her debut fictional novel, Restless Heart. The book will be released Jan. 25 and accompanied by appearances on programs such as The Today Show (NBC), The Joy Behar Show (HLN) and Access Hollywood (NBC). On Jan. […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Michellehttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngMichelle2011-01-21 13:46:002011-01-21 13:46:00Wynonna Debuts Novel, Book Signing in Nashville and NYC
Entrepreneur Glen Blaschke and hit songwriter Tammy Hyler announced the formation of Big Country Records and the signing of singer/songwriter Morgan Tobias during an industry launch at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum this week. (L-R) standing: Joe Brazil, attorney for Morgan Tobias and Norman Gillis, attorney for Big Country Records. Seated: Glen […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00contributorhttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngcontributor2011-01-21 13:01:142011-01-21 13:01:14Big Country Signs Morgan Tobias
Sitting down? You may want to brace yourself for this news. This year’s MusicRow CRS Meet & Greet and CountryBreakout Awards is going to be a doozie, and those who miss out will likely spend the rest of their days in regret and shame. We are extremely pleased to feature emerging talents Colt Ford (Average […]
Skyville Records managing partners Paul Worley, Glen Morgan and Wally Wilson have named Kevin Herring President of Skyville Records. “I can hardly wait to get started!” declares Herring. “Few people have made bigger or better records than Paul Worley, from Lady Antebellum and The Dixie Chicks to Martina McBride. He knows hit music and recognizes […]
SPIN ZONE Three weeks into 2011, we are starting to see some movement on the CountryBreakout Chart. Luke Bryan’s long, patient climb with “Someone Else Calling You Baby” is rewarded by finally ascending to the No. 1 position. Bryan has over 150 spins on the No. 2 song, Blake Shelton’s “Who Are You When I’m […]
The Americana Music Association has announced its Executive Committee for the 2011 calendar year. These positions are held for one year terms. Returning to their posts for an additional term, David Macias from Thirty Tigers has been named Board President; artist manager Tim McFadden, Vice President; Sylvia Giannitrapani, Secretary; and the two at large Executive […]
The New York Times has reported that Warner Music Group is putting itself in play. The major music label, one of the four remaining (Universal, Sony, EMI) has hired Goldman Sachs “to seek out potential buyers for the company, a process that will play out while Warner continues to explore buying the beleaguered British music […]
This year’s 2010 RIAA shipments report shows Nashville country artists accounting for about 20 million units in Gold and Platinum treasure. Leading the Row was Capitol Nashville…
Organizers of the Country Throwdown Tour have teamed with legend Willie Nelson for its second annual summer outing. The outdoor amphitheater trek, Willie Nelson’s Country Throwdown Tour 2011, will also feature Jamey Johnson, Randy Houser, Lee Brice, Brantley Gilbert, Craig Campbell, and Lukas Nelson & the Promise of the Real. The festival-like concert tour is […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Sarah Skateshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngSarah Skates2011-01-20 15:06:322011-01-20 15:06:32Willie Nelson's Country Throwdown Tour
Sony Music Nashville today announced that it and superstar Alan Jackson have ended their relationship. He was the first artist signed to the Arista roster in 1989—today under the Sony umbrella—leading to a successful partnership for more than 20 years. According to the label’s official statement, “Sony Music Nashville wishes to thank Alan Jackson for […]
America’s love affair with talent was renewed again as the tenth season of American Idol stoked its star-maker fires introducing a judges bench with two new faces and of course a bevy of wannabe hopefuls. Not unexpectedly, opinions were mixed moving into the debut as to whether the new personalities could reverse the show’s recent […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00adminhttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngadmin2011-01-20 10:42:162011-01-20 10:42:16Idol Judges Get Thumbs Up
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Sarah Skateshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngSarah Skates2011-01-20 10:41:472011-01-20 10:41:47Performance News: Urban To Rock Super Bowl Pre-game
Dierks Bentley is set to headline the 2011 Jägermeister Country Tour which kicks off March 17. The 30-city tour runs through mid-May and will feature special guest Columbia Nashville artist Josh Thompson and brand new A&M/Octone duo Miss Willie Brown. Each concert will also feature a local Jägermeister sponsored country act. Pre-sale tickets are available […]
Big Country Records • CRS unemployment rate • Joseph Conner joins Lotos Nile • Americana Festival submissions • HFA/Napster >>Entrepreneur Glen Blaschke and hit songwriter Tammy Hyler (Martina McBride “I Love You,” Collin Raye “I Can Still Feel You”) launched Big Country Records and Big Country Entertainment with an industry party yesterday. Singer/songwriter Morgan Tobias […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Sarah Skateshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngSarah Skates2011-01-20 09:24:422011-01-20 09:24:42News Shorts: Big Country Records Opens
Rounder Records has set an April 12 release date for the latest from Alison Krauss and Union Station, Paper Airplane. This will be the first new music from Krauss since her highly acclaimed 2007 collaboration with Robert Plant. It will be her first album with longtime band Union Station since 2004’s Lonely Runs Both Ways. […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/10195142/AKUS2.jpg260390Sarah Skateshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngSarah Skates2011-01-19 15:37:012011-01-19 15:37:01Alison Krauss + Union Station Set April Release
Jaclyn North won the Jan. 13 Country Showdown at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, taking home a $100,000 grand prize. The 29th annual competition, with new title sponsorship by Texaco, has been a starting ground for numerous country stars. North, representing radio station KHOZ/Harrison, AR, competed against four other finalists. LeAnn Rimes hosted the show where contestants […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Sarah Skateshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngSarah Skates2011-01-19 15:29:452011-01-19 15:29:45Jaclyn North Wins Texaco Country Showdown
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Michellehttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngMichelle2011-01-19 15:13:352011-01-19 15:13:35Artist News: Darius Rucker, Jerrod Niemann, Band Perry
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Bobby Karlhttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngBobby Karl2011-01-19 14:03:362011-01-19 14:03:36Bobby Karl Works The Grammy Nominee Party
Think of this week’s Nielsen SoundScan results as a giant coaster ride. The cold steel restraint has pushed you against the seat back and as the car slowly “click clicks” up the steep first curve you calm your stomach saying, “Hey, I’m going to be fine.”
Lost Highway Records will mark its tenth anniversary with a series of vinyl reissues and a blowout SXSW showcase. On March 18, Lost Highway will team with BMI for a SXSW concert at the new Austin City Limits studio, The Moody Theater. Set to perform are Lucinda Williams, Robert Earl Keen, Hayes Carll, and Black […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Sarah Skateshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngSarah Skates2011-01-19 10:12:472011-01-19 10:12:47Ten Years On The Lost Highway
Let’s do a little Grammy gazing, shall we? For starters, let’s look beyond the stunning and well-deserved six nominations for Lady Antebellum. What Nashville act has the second most? Surprise! It’s the quintuple nominated outing by the Nashville Symphony Orchestra. Which, by the way, wins our Disc of the Day. I’d also like to give a shout-out to Darrell Scott, who not only has a Country Instrumental nomination, but is also a crucial component of Band of Joy, the twice nominated CD by Robert Plant.
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Robert K Oermannhttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngRobert K Oermann2011-01-19 09:37:332011-01-19 09:37:33DISClaimer Single Reviews (1/19/11)
Colt Ford is giving fans a free download of the tune “Hip Hop In A Honky Tonk” featuring Texas star Kevin Fowler. Get it here with no strings attached, or check out the new video at CMT.com. In more news from the Average Joes artist, Ford has debuted the Mr. Goodtime Show on his website […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Sarah Skateshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngSarah Skates2011-01-19 09:34:432011-01-19 09:34:43Colt Ford's Free Download, New Web Series
Karyn Bishop announces the formation of Bishop Media & Marketing, formerly known as KB Radio Works. According to Bishop, the new company is designed to better serve the diversified client base she now represents. Services include artist radio tours, artist marketing and syndicated radio show recruitment and affiliate relations activities. Current clients include “Rise-Up Country […]
Comcast’s purchase of NBC Universal is expected to be complete before the end of the month, following today’s approval of the merger by the Federal Communications Commission and the Justice Department. The government approved the $30 billion transaction, tagging it with numerous conditions designed to ensure fair competition between Comcast and other programmers, ISPs and […]
Hollywood entertainment blog TheWrap.com, usually content to bluster over the world of film and TV has issued a pair of music industry articles offering dire 2011 predictions.
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00adminhttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngadmin2011-01-18 14:21:522011-01-18 14:21:52Finding A Way Out Of The Record Biz Maze
Rockhouse Partners, the Nashville digital marketing company specializing in live events, has been acquired by ticketing service Etix. Founded by former Echo executives Tawn Albright, Kevin Brown, and Joe Kustelski, Rockhouse had recently announced its expansion with Rockhouse Live, a division focused on helping live entertainment properties sell more tickets. Kustelski and Brown will stay […]
The ABC Television Network will air a Rascal Flatts concert special on Sat., March 12 at 7 PM/CT. The band’s show this Friday, Jan. 21 at St. Paul, Minnesota’s Xcel Energy Center will be taped for the special. Rascal Flatts: Nothing Like This Presented by JCPenney will be directed by George Flanigen and executive produced […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Sarah Skateshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngSarah Skates2011-01-18 13:41:302011-01-18 13:41:30Rascal Flatts Concert Special on ABC
A special episode of CMT Crossroads will pair Faith Hill with The Pretenders, live from the Super Bowl festivities. The show will premiere on CMT Saturday, February 5 at 9 p.m. CT. It is part of the NFL Pepsi Super Bowl Jan Fam, a three-show concert series being held at the Verizon Theatre in Grand […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Sarah Skateshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngSarah Skates2011-01-18 13:22:312011-01-18 13:22:31Faith Hill, Pretenders Pair For Super Bowl CMT Crossroads
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has named Jeff Schwartzenberg to the position of Sr. Dir. of Marketing. Schwartzenberg will report to VP Sales and Marketing Sharon Burns and will oversee advertising, promotions, creative, digital marketing and related initiatives for the museum. Schwartzenberg most recently served as Sr. Dir. of Marketing and Communications […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Freemanhttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngFreeman2011-01-18 12:44:342011-01-18 12:44:34Schwartzenberg Named HoF Sr. Dir. of Marketing
It’s no secret that music sales have tanked over the last several years, and today’s LA Times examines how media consumption is shifting as Hollywood also feels the hurt. All kinds of media purchases are on the decline, ranging from CDs and DVDs to video games and movie theater attendance. Another major factor impacting the […]
The monthly interview series The Producer’s Chair will begin airing online and on TV. The show from creator/host James Rea is also moving to a new venue. Beginning with the Friday, January 28 show featuring multi-Grammy winning producer, engineer, mixer, David Z (Prince, Elvis Costello, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Steve Cropper), The Producer’s Chair will be taped […]
That’s right, it’s time for the My Kinda Party party. Less than three months since the release of Jason Aldean’s fourth album My Kinda Party, it has earned Platinum certification. This makes his third career Platinum album and brings his overall sales total to five million. “I just can’t say enough about country music fans […]
Heather Conley has joined Cindy Heath’s Monarch Publicity as Director, Marketing. With the company’s expansion, it will begin offering consumer, third-party marketing and sales support, as well as publicity services. Conley was previously Marketing Director at Disney’s Lyric Street Records and most recently with Big Machine Label Group. “Heather is a great creative mind who […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Sarah Skateshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngSarah Skates2011-01-18 09:22:572011-01-18 09:22:57Hirings At Monarch Publicity, Davis Music Group
“A Little Less Comfortable” Show Dog-Universal Sister trio Carter’s Chord (Emily, Joanna, and Becky Robertson) is releasing its new single “A Little Less Comfortable.” The song was written by Emily and Joanna with Phillip White and tells the story of someone longing to return a more exciting, unpredictable time in a relationship. The music of […]
Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman announced today that they have a new addition to their family. Faith Margaret Kidman Urban was born in Nashville at Centennial Medical Center via surrogate on December 28, 2010. She joins two-year-old big sister Sunday Rose. The proud parents issued the following statement: “Our family is truly blessed, and just […]
Movies aimed directly at country music and the country lifestyle are few and far between, but one of the joys of their arrival is that they often have an original soundtrack that goes with them. Country Strong, staring Gwyneth Paltrow and Tim McGraw happily extends the tradition. The Country Strong soundtrack album has been released […]
John Hiatt, Nanci Griffith, and Rodney Crowell will lead the lineup for a concert at the Smoky Mountain resort Blackberry Farm to benefit the Americana Music Association. The concert weekend is set for March 25-27. “Hearing internationally respected poet-troubadours in such a gorgeous setting will really be a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Jed Hilly, Executive Director […]
NBC is holding Nashville auditions for its new singing competition The Voice (working title). Based on the Dutch show, Voice of Holland, the American version is from reality TV gurus/ executive producers John de Mol and Mark Burnett. Internet rumors abound that Carson Daly is in negotiations to host the show. Interested contestants can try […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Sarah Skateshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngSarah Skates2011-01-17 14:54:292011-01-17 14:54:29NBC To Search For "The Voice" In Music City
it was also a year in which some basic industry assumptions were trampled. The touring industry, thought to be bulletproof, was derailed by the weak economy and digital track sales growth, long touted as the savior of falling album sales, slowed to a crawl.
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00adminhttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngadmin2011-01-17 13:39:362011-01-17 13:39:36Pop Shined in 2010, But All Formats Face Changes
As awards shows strive for more and more fan involvement, the Academy of Country Music has announced plans to add a Fan Jam concert, to be held in Las Vegas during and after the April 3 ACM Awards. This will let even more fans take part in the Awards show excitement. Sugarland will headline the […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/10195153/sl1.jpg260390Sarah Skateshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngSarah Skates2011-01-17 12:40:482011-01-17 12:40:48Fan Jam Remote Will Coincide With ACM Awards Telecast
Commissioned and Shirley Caesar Honored at BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards • Sara Evans Visits Pearl-Cohn Choir Students In Preparation For Keep The Music Playing All-Stars Concert • Kix Brooks Visits The Troops
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00contributorhttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngcontributor2011-01-17 11:51:232011-01-17 11:51:23BMI Trailblazers; Keep The Music Playing Concert; USO Tour
In 2010, more DVDs and Blu-ray Discs (BDs) were rented from standalone kiosks like Redbox and Blockbuster, than in retail stores. This according to the latest research by The NPD Group. “Consumers are obviously responding positively to the perceived value and convenience of kiosks,” said Russ Crupnick, entertainment industry analyst for NPD. According to NPD, […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Sarah Skateshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngSarah Skates2011-01-17 10:44:232011-01-17 10:44:23DVD Kiosk Rental On The Rise
Many members of the country music community spent the weekend in Memphis to help kick off the Country Cares for St. Jude Kids radiothon season. The event, spearheaded 22 years ago by Randy Owen, drew more than 800 artists, label representatives, radio station personnel and executives. Country Cares is one of the nation’s largest radio fundraising […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Sarah Skateshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngSarah Skates2011-01-17 10:27:102011-01-17 10:27:10Country Cares for St. Jude
Apple boss Steve Jobs is taking an indefinite medical leave of absence. During his absence, day-to-day control of the company will be in the hands of Chief Operating Officer Tim Cook. Jobs will retain the title of CEO and said in a letter to employees that he will be involved in “major strategic decisions” for […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Sarah Skateshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngSarah Skates2011-01-17 10:08:542011-01-17 10:08:54Steve Jobs Taking Medical Leave
Friends and family will gather Friday evening at Soundcheck Nashville to honor he music and the memory of longtime Charlie Daniels guitarist Tommy Crain. Crain died last Thursday, Jan. 13. He was 59 years old. During his 15-year tenure in the Charlie Daniels Band, the guitarist recorded more than 20 albums with the group. He […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Robert K Oermannhttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngRobert K Oermann2011-01-17 09:01:282011-01-17 09:01:28Memorial Set For CDB Guitarist Tommy Crain
The Nashville Alliance for Public Education, along with the Country Music Association and the Nashville Symphony will host a student concert Tuesday, Feb. 1 (6:30 PM/CT) to celebrate the return of the city’s world-class Schermerhorn Symphony Center and the development of our next generation of musicians and performers during the second Keep the Music Playing […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00Michellehttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngMichelle2011-01-14 15:50:342011-01-14 15:50:34Keep the Music Playing All Stars Concert
BNA Talent Group, located on Music Row, continues to increase its footprint in country music programming with the announcement of its signing of TV and radio hosts Patricia Lopez and Shane Tallant. BNA Talent Group represents hosts, actors and recording artists for television, feature film and commercial representation. Lopez recently made her country television debut […]
MusicRow extendes its condolences to family and friends of longtime Charlie Daniels Band guitarist Tommy Crain, who passed away yesterday (1/13) in Franklin. He was 59. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Ella Helen Crain, and survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Thomas Crain; his wife, Melissa Williams Crain; daughter, Ann […]
Wynonna Debuts Novel, Book Signing in Nashville and NYC
/by MichelleWynonna Judd will travel to New York next week to make several media appearances for the upcoming release of her debut fictional novel, Restless Heart. The book will be released Jan. 25 and accompanied by appearances on programs such as The Today Show (NBC), The Joy Behar Show (HLN) and Access Hollywood (NBC). On Jan. […]
Big Country Signs Morgan Tobias
/by contributorEntrepreneur Glen Blaschke and hit songwriter Tammy Hyler announced the formation of Big Country Records and the signing of singer/songwriter Morgan Tobias during an industry launch at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum this week. (L-R) standing: Joe Brazil, attorney for Morgan Tobias and Norman Gillis, attorney for Big Country Records. Seated: Glen […]
MusicRow CRS Meet & Greet Performers Revealed
/by FreemanSitting down? You may want to brace yourself for this news. This year’s MusicRow CRS Meet & Greet and CountryBreakout Awards is going to be a doozie, and those who miss out will likely spend the rest of their days in regret and shame. We are extremely pleased to feature emerging talents Colt Ford (Average […]
Skyville Adds Herring
/by adminSkyville Records managing partners Paul Worley, Glen Morgan and Wally Wilson have named Kevin Herring President of Skyville Records. “I can hardly wait to get started!” declares Herring. “Few people have made bigger or better records than Paul Worley, from Lady Antebellum and The Dixie Chicks to Martina McBride. He knows hit music and recognizes […]
Weekly Chart Report (1/21/11)
/by FreemanSPIN ZONE Three weeks into 2011, we are starting to see some movement on the CountryBreakout Chart. Luke Bryan’s long, patient climb with “Someone Else Calling You Baby” is rewarded by finally ascending to the No. 1 position. Bryan has over 150 spins on the No. 2 song, Blake Shelton’s “Who Are You When I’m […]
AMA Announces 2011 Board Executive Committee
/by MichelleThe Americana Music Association has announced its Executive Committee for the 2011 calendar year. These positions are held for one year terms. Returning to their posts for an additional term, David Macias from Thirty Tigers has been named Board President; artist manager Tim McFadden, Vice President; Sylvia Giannitrapani, Secretary; and the two at large Executive […]
WMG Tests Dual Buy-Sell Strategy
/by adminThe New York Times has reported that Warner Music Group is putting itself in play. The major music label, one of the four remaining (Universal, Sony, EMI) has hired Goldman Sachs “to seek out potential buyers for the company, a process that will play out while Warner continues to explore buying the beleaguered British music […]
RIAA 2010 Country Certs
/by adminThis year’s 2010 RIAA shipments report shows Nashville country artists accounting for about 20 million units in Gold and Platinum treasure. Leading the Row was Capitol Nashville…
Willie Nelson's Country Throwdown Tour
/by Sarah SkatesOrganizers of the Country Throwdown Tour have teamed with legend Willie Nelson for its second annual summer outing. The outdoor amphitheater trek, Willie Nelson’s Country Throwdown Tour 2011, will also feature Jamey Johnson, Randy Houser, Lee Brice, Brantley Gilbert, Craig Campbell, and Lukas Nelson & the Promise of the Real. The festival-like concert tour is […]
Photo Edits
/by contributorGretchen Wilson Nabs Grammy Nom • “ACM Showcase” • Jessi Colter and Stealing Angels Support Child Help • Josh Thompson Celebrates Co-Writes
Alan Jackson/Sony Part Ways
/by Sarah SkatesSony Music Nashville today announced that it and superstar Alan Jackson have ended their relationship. He was the first artist signed to the Arista roster in 1989—today under the Sony umbrella—leading to a successful partnership for more than 20 years. According to the label’s official statement, “Sony Music Nashville wishes to thank Alan Jackson for […]
Idol Judges Get Thumbs Up
/by adminAmerica’s love affair with talent was renewed again as the tenth season of American Idol stoked its star-maker fires introducing a judges bench with two new faces and of course a bevy of wannabe hopefuls. Not unexpectedly, opinions were mixed moving into the debut as to whether the new personalities could reverse the show’s recent […]
Performance News: Urban To Rock Super Bowl Pre-game
/by Sarah SkatesLatest tour news from Keith Urban, Jason Aldean, Billy Falcon/Bon Jovi, CMA Songwriters Series, Teddy Gentry and the Oak Ridge Boys.
Dierks Headlines Jägermeister Tour
/by MichelleDierks Bentley is set to headline the 2011 Jägermeister Country Tour which kicks off March 17. The 30-city tour runs through mid-May and will feature special guest Columbia Nashville artist Josh Thompson and brand new A&M/Octone duo Miss Willie Brown. Each concert will also feature a local Jägermeister sponsored country act. Pre-sale tickets are available […]
News Shorts: Big Country Records Opens
/by Sarah SkatesBig Country Records • CRS unemployment rate • Joseph Conner joins Lotos Nile • Americana Festival submissions • HFA/Napster >>Entrepreneur Glen Blaschke and hit songwriter Tammy Hyler (Martina McBride “I Love You,” Collin Raye “I Can Still Feel You”) launched Big Country Records and Big Country Entertainment with an industry party yesterday. Singer/songwriter Morgan Tobias […]
Alison Krauss + Union Station Set April Release
/by Sarah SkatesRounder Records has set an April 12 release date for the latest from Alison Krauss and Union Station, Paper Airplane. This will be the first new music from Krauss since her highly acclaimed 2007 collaboration with Robert Plant. It will be her first album with longtime band Union Station since 2004’s Lonely Runs Both Ways. […]
Jaclyn North Wins Texaco Country Showdown
/by Sarah SkatesJaclyn North won the Jan. 13 Country Showdown at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, taking home a $100,000 grand prize. The 29th annual competition, with new title sponsorship by Texaco, has been a starting ground for numerous country stars. North, representing radio station KHOZ/Harrison, AR, competed against four other finalists. LeAnn Rimes hosted the show where contestants […]
Artist News: Darius Rucker, Jerrod Niemann, Band Perry
/by MichelleDarius Rucker on Letterman and Rucker’s PGA Tour song • Jerrod Neimann honored in hometown • The Band Perry on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno
Bobby Karl Works The Grammy Nominee Party
/by Bobby KarlTalk about your star gazing – this year’s Grammy nominee party was the place to be.
Country Sales Brace For Roller Coaster Ride
/by adminThink of this week’s Nielsen SoundScan results as a giant coaster ride. The cold steel restraint has pushed you against the seat back and as the car slowly “click clicks” up the steep first curve you calm your stomach saying, “Hey, I’m going to be fine.”
Ten Years On The Lost Highway
/by Sarah SkatesLost Highway Records will mark its tenth anniversary with a series of vinyl reissues and a blowout SXSW showcase. On March 18, Lost Highway will team with BMI for a SXSW concert at the new Austin City Limits studio, The Moody Theater. Set to perform are Lucinda Williams, Robert Earl Keen, Hayes Carll, and Black […]
DISClaimer Single Reviews (1/19/11)
/by Robert K OermannLet’s do a little Grammy gazing, shall we? For starters, let’s look beyond the stunning and well-deserved six nominations for Lady Antebellum. What Nashville act has the second most? Surprise! It’s the quintuple nominated outing by the Nashville Symphony Orchestra. Which, by the way, wins our Disc of the Day. I’d also like to give a shout-out to Darrell Scott, who not only has a Country Instrumental nomination, but is also a crucial component of Band of Joy, the twice nominated CD by Robert Plant.
Colt Ford's Free Download, New Web Series
/by Sarah SkatesColt Ford is giving fans a free download of the tune “Hip Hop In A Honky Tonk” featuring Texas star Kevin Fowler. Get it here with no strings attached, or check out the new video at CMT.com. In more news from the Average Joes artist, Ford has debuted the Mr. Goodtime Show on his website […]
Open Road Signs Miller; Bishop Media/Marketing Formed
/by adminKaryn Bishop announces the formation of Bishop Media & Marketing, formerly known as KB Radio Works. According to Bishop, the new company is designed to better serve the diversified client base she now represents. Services include artist radio tours, artist marketing and syndicated radio show recruitment and affiliate relations activities. Current clients include “Rise-Up Country […]
Lifenotes
/by Sarah SkatesReminder—Nick Hunter memorial• Derek Crownover welcomes baby • Sony’s Joe Freel’s father passes • Chris Lucas of LoCash Cowboys loses father
Comcast, NBC Universal Merger Approved
/by Sarah SkatesComcast’s purchase of NBC Universal is expected to be complete before the end of the month, following today’s approval of the merger by the Federal Communications Commission and the Justice Department. The government approved the $30 billion transaction, tagging it with numerous conditions designed to ensure fair competition between Comcast and other programmers, ISPs and […]
Finding A Way Out Of The Record Biz Maze
/by adminHollywood entertainment blog TheWrap.com, usually content to bluster over the world of film and TV has issued a pair of music industry articles offering dire 2011 predictions.
Etix Acquires Rockhouse Partners
/by Sarah SkatesRockhouse Partners, the Nashville digital marketing company specializing in live events, has been acquired by ticketing service Etix. Founded by former Echo executives Tawn Albright, Kevin Brown, and Joe Kustelski, Rockhouse had recently announced its expansion with Rockhouse Live, a division focused on helping live entertainment properties sell more tickets. Kustelski and Brown will stay […]
Rascal Flatts Concert Special on ABC
/by Sarah SkatesThe ABC Television Network will air a Rascal Flatts concert special on Sat., March 12 at 7 PM/CT. The band’s show this Friday, Jan. 21 at St. Paul, Minnesota’s Xcel Energy Center will be taped for the special. Rascal Flatts: Nothing Like This Presented by JCPenney will be directed by George Flanigen and executive produced […]
Faith Hill, Pretenders Pair For Super Bowl CMT Crossroads
/by Sarah SkatesA special episode of CMT Crossroads will pair Faith Hill with The Pretenders, live from the Super Bowl festivities. The show will premiere on CMT Saturday, February 5 at 9 p.m. CT. It is part of the NFL Pepsi Super Bowl Jan Fam, a three-show concert series being held at the Verizon Theatre in Grand […]
Schwartzenberg Named HoF Sr. Dir. of Marketing
/by FreemanThe Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has named Jeff Schwartzenberg to the position of Sr. Dir. of Marketing. Schwartzenberg will report to VP Sales and Marketing Sharon Burns and will oversee advertising, promotions, creative, digital marketing and related initiatives for the museum. Schwartzenberg most recently served as Sr. Dir. of Marketing and Communications […]
Media Consumption Shifts Content Value
/by Sarah SkatesIt’s no secret that music sales have tanked over the last several years, and today’s LA Times examines how media consumption is shifting as Hollywood also feels the hurt. All kinds of media purchases are on the decline, ranging from CDs and DVDs to video games and movie theater attendance. Another major factor impacting the […]
The Producer's Chair Expands; Radio Show Debuts
/by Sarah SkatesThe monthly interview series The Producer’s Chair will begin airing online and on TV. The show from creator/host James Rea is also moving to a new venue. Beginning with the Friday, January 28 show featuring multi-Grammy winning producer, engineer, mixer, David Z (Prince, Elvis Costello, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Steve Cropper), The Producer’s Chair will be taped […]
Aldean's "Party" Goes Platinum
/by FreemanThat’s right, it’s time for the My Kinda Party party. Less than three months since the release of Jason Aldean’s fourth album My Kinda Party, it has earned Platinum certification. This makes his third career Platinum album and brings his overall sales total to five million. “I just can’t say enough about country music fans […]
Hirings At Monarch Publicity, Davis Music Group
/by Sarah SkatesHeather Conley has joined Cindy Heath’s Monarch Publicity as Director, Marketing. With the company’s expansion, it will begin offering consumer, third-party marketing and sales support, as well as publicity services. Conley was previously Marketing Director at Disney’s Lyric Street Records and most recently with Big Machine Label Group. “Heather is a great creative mind who […]
Carter's Chord
/by ProgrammerPlaylist“A Little Less Comfortable” Show Dog-Universal Sister trio Carter’s Chord (Emily, Joanna, and Becky Robertson) is releasing its new single “A Little Less Comfortable.” The song was written by Emily and Joanna with Phillip White and tells the story of someone longing to return a more exciting, unpredictable time in a relationship. The music of […]
Urban, Kidman Welcome New Daughter
/by Sarah SkatesKeith Urban and Nicole Kidman announced today that they have a new addition to their family. Faith Margaret Kidman Urban was born in Nashville at Centennial Medical Center via surrogate on December 28, 2010. She joins two-year-old big sister Sunday Rose. The proud parents issued the following statement: “Our family is truly blessed, and just […]
Country Strong Sales Jump
/by adminMovies aimed directly at country music and the country lifestyle are few and far between, but one of the joys of their arrival is that they often have an original soundtrack that goes with them. Country Strong, staring Gwyneth Paltrow and Tim McGraw happily extends the tradition. The Country Strong soundtrack album has been released […]
Americana Fundraiser at Blackberry Farm
/by MichelleJohn Hiatt, Nanci Griffith, and Rodney Crowell will lead the lineup for a concert at the Smoky Mountain resort Blackberry Farm to benefit the Americana Music Association. The concert weekend is set for March 25-27. “Hearing internationally respected poet-troubadours in such a gorgeous setting will really be a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Jed Hilly, Executive Director […]
NBC To Search For "The Voice" In Music City
/by Sarah SkatesNBC is holding Nashville auditions for its new singing competition The Voice (working title). Based on the Dutch show, Voice of Holland, the American version is from reality TV gurus/ executive producers John de Mol and Mark Burnett. Internet rumors abound that Carson Daly is in negotiations to host the show. Interested contestants can try […]
Pop Shined in 2010, But All Formats Face Changes
/by adminit was also a year in which some basic industry assumptions were trampled. The touring industry, thought to be bulletproof, was derailed by the weak economy and digital track sales growth, long touted as the savior of falling album sales, slowed to a crawl.
Fan Jam Remote Will Coincide With ACM Awards Telecast
/by Sarah SkatesAs awards shows strive for more and more fan involvement, the Academy of Country Music has announced plans to add a Fan Jam concert, to be held in Las Vegas during and after the April 3 ACM Awards. This will let even more fans take part in the Awards show excitement. Sugarland will headline the […]
BMI Trailblazers; Keep The Music Playing Concert; USO Tour
/by contributorCommissioned and Shirley Caesar Honored at BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards • Sara Evans Visits Pearl-Cohn Choir Students In Preparation For Keep The Music Playing All-Stars Concert • Kix Brooks Visits The Troops
DVD Kiosk Rental On The Rise
/by Sarah SkatesIn 2010, more DVDs and Blu-ray Discs (BDs) were rented from standalone kiosks like Redbox and Blockbuster, than in retail stores. This according to the latest research by The NPD Group. “Consumers are obviously responding positively to the perceived value and convenience of kiosks,” said Russ Crupnick, entertainment industry analyst for NPD. According to NPD, […]
Country Cares for St. Jude
/by Sarah SkatesMany members of the country music community spent the weekend in Memphis to help kick off the Country Cares for St. Jude Kids radiothon season. The event, spearheaded 22 years ago by Randy Owen, drew more than 800 artists, label representatives, radio station personnel and executives. Country Cares is one of the nation’s largest radio fundraising […]
Steve Jobs Taking Medical Leave
/by Sarah SkatesApple boss Steve Jobs is taking an indefinite medical leave of absence. During his absence, day-to-day control of the company will be in the hands of Chief Operating Officer Tim Cook. Jobs will retain the title of CEO and said in a letter to employees that he will be involved in “major strategic decisions” for […]
Memorial Set For CDB Guitarist Tommy Crain
/by Robert K OermannFriends and family will gather Friday evening at Soundcheck Nashville to honor he music and the memory of longtime Charlie Daniels guitarist Tommy Crain. Crain died last Thursday, Jan. 13. He was 59 years old. During his 15-year tenure in the Charlie Daniels Band, the guitarist recorded more than 20 albums with the group. He […]
Keep the Music Playing All Stars Concert
/by MichelleThe Nashville Alliance for Public Education, along with the Country Music Association and the Nashville Symphony will host a student concert Tuesday, Feb. 1 (6:30 PM/CT) to celebrate the return of the city’s world-class Schermerhorn Symphony Center and the development of our next generation of musicians and performers during the second Keep the Music Playing […]
BNA Talent Signs Lopez And Tallant
/by adminBNA Talent Group, located on Music Row, continues to increase its footprint in country music programming with the announcement of its signing of TV and radio hosts Patricia Lopez and Shane Tallant. BNA Talent Group represents hosts, actors and recording artists for television, feature film and commercial representation. Lopez recently made her country television debut […]
Former CDB Guitarist Tommy Crain Passes
/by FreemanMusicRow extendes its condolences to family and friends of longtime Charlie Daniels Band guitarist Tommy Crain, who passed away yesterday (1/13) in Franklin. He was 59. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Ella Helen Crain, and survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Thomas Crain; his wife, Melissa Williams Crain; daughter, Ann […]