Keith Urban’s 2009 tour, labeled Keith Urban Escape Together Tour has added KC Masterpiece Barbeque Sauce and Kingsford Charcoal as a headline sponsor. The shows will begin in May and play mostly larger size venues. Drew McGowan, Sr. Grp. Manager PR/Sponsorships for Clorox Company, which owns both brands, told Billboard, “There’s a perfect link between […]
CO5 Nashville has officially announced the addition of Heather Propper to its team. She will serve as Director/Promotion and Marketing Southeast. “CO5 remains committed to finding the absolute best talent our industry has to offer,” says David Newmark, VP/Country Promotion CO5 Nashville. “We are dedicated to being the leader in radio promotion.” Propper’s music industry […]
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Jeffrey Steele, Keith Anderson, Sebastian Bach, Billy Dean, LoCash Cowboys, and other special guests will perform in Nashville at Rocketown March 12 to raise money for The Alex LeVasseur Memorial Scholarship Program. The Jeffrey Steele & Friends event will include table seating, with a limited VIP section. VIP tables are $1,500; remaining tables are $1000; […]
Newcomers, baby acts and veterans are all in the mix this week. Both Aaron Tippin and Collin Raye arrived with excellent sounding comeback discs. Chris Young, Bomshel, Jamey Johnson continue to shine with blindingly bright promise. Newcomer Mike Adkins totally nails the DisCovery Award. And I continue to be in awe of the talent of […]
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 Oermann2009-01-30 11:32:432009-01-30 11:32:43DISClaimer (1/30)
Starstruck Entertainment President, and Kelly Clarkson manager Narvel Blackstock (Reba, Blake Shelton), must be feeling good about his client’s new single, “My Life Would Suck Without You.” Clarkson’s track rocketed from No. 97 last week on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart all the way to the top—No. 1. This massive gain sets a record for the […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00bossrosshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngbossross2009-01-29 14:00:152009-01-29 14:00:15Clarkson Single Rockets To No. 1
T.J. Martell Foundation is throwing a gigantic beach party and Montgomery Gentry will host “Country On The Beach.” “We wanted to do something fun to help raise vital dollars for the T.J. Martell Foundation’s mission of funding ground-breaking cancer research,” said Troy Gentry. “A warm weather event will be great, especially at the end of the […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00bossrosshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngbossross2009-01-29 13:42:022009-01-29 13:42:02Country Beach Party Benefits Cancer Research
Judging by the problems surfacing in the entertainment and media worlds around the globe, the pace of change is accelerating and companies are frantically realizing that new models are becoming essential for survival. Even the government is working to pass an enormous $819 billion stimulus package with tax and spend provisions. Sony Corp reported (1/29) […]
https://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.png00bossrosshttps://music-row-website-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/10150319/MusicRow-header-logo-Mar19B.pngbossross2009-01-29 13:32:452009-01-29 13:32:45Escalating The Pace Of Change
It remains unofficial, but Music Row has learned that Echo Music Co-founder/CEO Mark Montgomery will soon exit the company to pursue new opportunities. Montgomery was involved in product development, plus a contributor to strategic direction. When Echo was purchased by Ticketmaster in March 2007, Sean Moriarty, Ticketmaster President/CEO said, “What echo has built is unique. […]
The Nashville Recording Workshop and Expo, hosted by the local section of the Audio Engineering society, is set for Feb. 20-21 at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum. The two-day audio production conference will boast exhibits from top audio equipment manufacturers and a full schedule of presentations, starting with a keynote address from artist […]
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Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has announced that this year’s KCRS Live! lineup at CRS-40 will include artists and songwriters Jimmy Wayne, Kelley Lovelace, Ashley Gorley and Jonathan Singleton. The annual ASCAP sponsored event will take place Wed., March 4, at 5 p.m. as part of CRS-40, which runs March 4-6 at the Nashville Convention Center […]
Happily, according to Nielsen SoundScan, the Top 75 Current Country albums for the week ending 1/25/09 bounced upward 8% over the previous week, without relying on new debut releases. Big Machine continued to control about 27% of that market share based mostly upon sales from its flagship femme, Taylor Swift. Despite the increase this week, […]
Dan Bowen will join the Country Music Association as Vice President of Strategic Marketing and Communications on Mon., Feb. 2, overseeing advertising, promotions, new media, research, and media/PR initiatives and staff. With more than 20 years of broadcast media experience, Bowen most recently spent 11 years with WSTR-FM (Star 94) in Atlanta. He has served […]
The T.J. Martell Foundation announced its 2009 Nashville Board of Directors and Officers at its annual kick off meeting, held last week at the Frances Williams Preston Building of the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. The music industry has long supported the charity’s fight against cancer and AIDS, with many familiar names among those who are involved […]
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has launched a $1.1 million fundraising campaign to defray costs associated with its acquisition of instruments which once belonging to Maybelle Carter, Johnny Cash and Bill Monroe. The Precious Jewel Fund opened with leadership gifts including a $150,000 donation from Scott Siman of RPM Management and a […]
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 Skates2009-01-27 15:22:402009-01-27 15:22:40Hall Undertakes Million Dollar Fundraising Campaign
“Livin’ In Paradise” Universal Records South Since signing his breakthrough publishing and production deal two years ago with Crosstown Songs Nashville, singer/songwriter Jonathan Singleton has been caught up in a creative whirlwind. His song “Watching Airplanes” (co-written with Jim Beavers) was a No. 1 hit for Gary Allan, earning Singleton an ACM nomination as well […]
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Newcomers Gloriana have been invited to open for LeAnn Rimes on six upcoming tour dates in Washington, California, and Nevada. The band made up of Tom Gossin (vocals, guitars), Mike Gossin (vocals, guitars), Rachel Reinert (vocals), and Cheyenne Kimball (vocals, mandolin) is already creating a buzz with debut single “Wild At Heart,” from its upcoming […]
Reigning ACM and CMA Male Vocalist of the Year Brad Paisley today (1/26) revealed his 2009 touring plans. The outing, dubbed American Saturday Night, will run through 41 cities starting June 5 in Charlotte, NC. Special guests Dierks Bentley and Jimmy Wayne will join him for the tour that has cross-country dates scheduled through Oct. […]
Trudie Richardson-Daniell will join Carolwood Records on Feb. 9 as Manager, Regional Promotion. With 13 years of music business experience, she will be based out of Atlanta and will work the Southeast and Southwest regions. Prior to joining Carolwood Records, the Belmont graduate worked in the radio promotions department for CO5 Nashville. Lyric Street/Carolwood Records […]
Doff your caps to the ladies, gentlemen. This week, the fairer sex rules the listening session. Carrie Underwood has a splendid outing with the Randy Travis goldie “I Told You So.” Newcomer Christen Sawyer is our DisCovery Award winner. And the Disc of the Day is by a group that actually has “Lady” in its […]
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According to a Universal Music Group spokesperson, Executive VP Sales and Marketing Ben Kline is leaving the company, effective immediately, to pursue a new opportunity. Kline was a fixture at the Nashville label for 11 years and with Universal for a total of 17 years. He was a frequent voice in many Music Row articles […]
Only three albums released in 2008 were certified multi-platinum in the same year, according to the RIAA’s year-end tally. The year’s top certifications—all double platinum—went to rapper Lil Wayne (Tha Carter, Vol. 3), Brit rockers Coldplay (Viva La Vida), and metal masters AC/DC (Black Ice). Lil Wayne’s June release reached double-Platinum prestige within only one […]
“Little” Jimmy Dickens has been moved from the hospital into a rehabilitation center to recuperate from a recent brain surgery. His stay at the center is expected to be short. The 88-year-old Grand Ole Opry star underwent surgery Jan. 13 to repair a subdural hematoma.
Kellie Pickler has signed on as a 2009 celebrity spokesperson for Sexy Hair products. As part of the multi-million dollar endorsement agreement, Pickler and fellow celeb Cheryl Burke will appear in the company’s consumer and trade publication ads, promotional materials, and publicity campaign. Advertising roll-outs will begin in April and run through December in Allure […]
(Updated 6:40 pm) With country music sales dropping from 75 to 47 million units over the last two years, ”restructuring” has become a dreaded and unfortunately, all too familiar term on Music Row streets. Sony Music Nashville is the latest label to be affected by the softness in the CD marketplace and the weakness in […]
The Americana Music Association will host a new “Live at The Bluebird Cafe” concert series every Thursday beginning Feb. 19 and running through March 26. Celebrating some of the genre’s best-loved and most influential performers, the six-show series sponsored by the Gibson Foundation will feature Jim Lauderdale (2/19), Sam Bush (2/26), Nanci Griffith (3/5), and […]
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Keith Urban’s new album Defying Gravity will be released March 31 on Capitol Records Nashville. The project’s lead single “Sweet Thing” has already reached No. 3 on MusicRow’s CountryBreakout Chart and is still climbing. “Defying Gravity comes from the lyrics of a song on the album and it just struck me at the time as […]
The eleventh annual Nashville Screenwriters Conference (NSC) is set to take place May 29-31 at the historic Union Station hotel. The open-to-the-public conference will bring some of Hollywood’s top writers, producers, directors, managers, agents and studio executives to Nashville to network and share their experiences with local aspiring screenwriters and other interested individuals. The popular […]
NSAI (Nashville Songwriters Association International) has added Erin Burr as Communications Director. She most recently spent more than three years handling publicity for the Colgate Country Showdown talent competition. At the new gig, Burr will report to NSAI Executive Director Bart Herbison. She can be reached at erin@nashvillesongwriters.com or (615) 256-3354, ext. 233. Next up: […]
Little Big Town has partnered with Web site Eventful to find aspiring country artists to open its upcoming A Place to Land tour. Starting today, fans can use Eventful’s “Demand” service to vote for artists they think should open the shows. The four performers with the most Demands will perform at different stops on the […]
Blake Shelton will join George Strait on the road this summer, along with previously announced opener Julianne Hough. Shelton’s latest Warner Bros. single “She Wouldn’t Be Gone,” recently spent two weeks at No. 1 on MusicRow’s CountryBreakout chart. The Strait tour opens May 9 in Hidalgo, TX, and hits numerous amphitheaters and festivals across the […]
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 Skates2009-01-21 15:26:592009-01-21 15:26:59Strait Adds Shelton To Tour
Clear Channel Communications has officially confirmed cuts that reduced its workforce by approximately 1850 employees or 9%. CC CEO Mark Mays wrote in a company-wide email: “As I’ve mentioned previously, we are facing an unprecedented time of distress in the general economy—and the ripple effects have hit some of our largest customers hard. Today, we […]
Kim Markovchick has joined Country Thunder as VP Sales and Marketing. Her more than 20 years of experience most recently included three years as Sr. Director of Marketing at Sony Nashville/Sony BMG. Previously Markovchick spent 17 years at Mercury Nashville, ending as VP/Marketing. Country Thunder General Manager Craig Morris says Markovchick will work to “utilize […]
Jo Dee Messina and her husband Chris Deffenbaugh were thrilled to welcome their first child, a boy, on Mon., Jan. 19 in a Nashville-area hospital. Noah Roger Deffenbaugh was born at 1:01 PM, and weighed in at 6 lbs., 15 oz. Noah, mom and dad are all doing very well. The couple was married in […]
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Numerous Nashville artists and songwriters are planning trips overseas in the coming months. Representing Music City to the international community will be a wide mix of artists and songwriters from a variety of genres. For the fifth year, Nashville songwriters will share their talents at Ireland’s Belfast Nashville Songwriters Festival & Song Writing Convention. Going […]
BMI recognized the substantial contributions of gospel pacesetters Twinkie Clark, Donald Lawrence, and CeCe Winans at the 10th Annual Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards Luncheon Fri., Jan. 16 in Nashville. Hosted by BMI Vice President, Writer/Publisher Relations Catherine Brewton, the invitation-only celebration attracted gospel music’s premier songwriters, recording artists and music industry executives, as well […]
Robb Royer, founding member of ‘70s rock band Bread, has opened NashFilms Records on Music Row. With a background also including work as a producer and director, Royer originally planned to start a motion picture production company, but it evolved into a record label
Many big name artists are set for benefit concerts in Nashville over the next few weeks. On Feb. 2 Dolly Parton, Ronnie Dunn, Kellie Pickler, Keith Anderson, Jennifer Hanson, Mark Nesler, and Matt Gary will turn out for the Gift of Music benefit at the Wildhorse Saloon. The 7 PM fundraiser for the W.O. Smith […]
Lady Antebellum has scheduled several upcoming national television performances, including NBC’s The Tonight Show with Jay Leno on Jan. 22, and a two-song performance on The Early Show’s “GRAMMY Concert Series” on CBS, Sat., Feb. 7. Additionally, in anticipation of the Grammy nominated band’s opening slot on Kenny Chesney’s Sun City Carnival tour of arenas […]
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Primary Wave Music Publishing, with offices in New York and Los Angeles, has purchased the late Tennessee Ernie Ford’s catalog from his estate, Billboard reports. The transaction includes about 170 songs by the Country Music Hall of Fame inductee. Also a member of the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, Ford released nearly 50 albums during […]
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 Skates2009-01-19 16:09:542009-01-19 16:09:54Publishers Snap Up Rights To Hall of Famers’ Songs
Clear Channel Communications will begin restructuring across the board next week, making changes expected to save the company $400 million, according to The NY Post. With 30,000 employees worldwide, CCC’s plan includes laying off workers in its radio, outdoor advertising and international divisions. In an attempt to consolidate duties and cut programming costs, CCC might […]
Circuit City will liquidate its nationwide chain of more than 500 consumer electronics stores. After courting prospective buyers and investors, as well as filing Chapter 11 in November, the nation’s second-biggest consumer electronics retailer announced today (1/16) that it had run out of viable options to stay afloat. The closures will leave the chain’s 30,000 […]
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 Skates2009-01-16 16:32:012009-01-16 16:32:01Circuit City Going Under
Gaylord Entertainment is in a dispute with its largest shareholder, TRT Holdings, over the way Gaylord executives are running the company. TRT, which owns properties including the Omni Hotel chain, yesterday (1/15) sent an open letter to shareholders criticizing Gaylord’s senior management and seeking support to elect four of its own people, including TRT CEO […]
The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) has set March 31–April 4, 2009 as the dates for its renowned Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival. Regions Bank is back as the presenting sponsor of the 17th annual event. A Tin Pan South Preview Party, scheduled for March 3 at The Rutledge, will feature songwriter performances and announcements […]
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The Americana Music Association is hosting an auction to raise funds for its 2009 Americana Music Festival & Conference, set to take place in Music City Sept. 16-19. Auction items include a Gibson-donated guitar signed by Robert Plant, Levon Helm and other artists who appeared at the 2008 Americana Honors & Awards show; a songwriter […]
Kenny Chesney is among the first performers announced for the 51st Annual GRAMMY® Awards telecast, where he is nominated for Best Country Collaboration With Vocals, for “Shiftwork” with George Strait. Also performing on the Sun., Feb. 8 telecast from the STAPLES Center in Los Angeles are Coldplay, Jonas Brothers, Lil Wayne, and Katy Perry. With […]
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 Skates2009-01-15 16:12:462009-01-15 16:12:46Chesney Set For Grammy Performance, Adds Tourmates
Garth Brooks and Jennifer Nettles will perform at Sunday’s (1/18) super star-powered concert “We Are One: The Obama Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln Memorial.” The free, public event will also include Sheryl Crow, Beyoncé, Bruce Springsteen, U2, Usher, Stevie Wonder, James Taylor, and numerous others. Most artists will perform cover songs with historical significance or […]
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 Skates2009-01-15 16:10:392009-01-15 16:10:39Megastars Sign On To Celebrate Inauguration
Dierks Bentley has signed with Vector Management, the powerhouse company headed by Ken Levitan. The Capitol Records Nashville artist was previously with Scott Kernahan’s Rogue Music. Bentley is planning the Feb. 3 release of new album, Feel That Fire, and heading out on the final leg of Brad Paisley’s Paisley Party Tour this weekend. He […]
Belmont University’s Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business will honor Donna Hilley with its Robert E. Mulloy Award of Excellence for accomplishments in the entertainment industry, as well as service to Belmont and the Nashville community. The award presentation will take place at the 2009 Best of the Best Showcase at Belmont’s Curb […]
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The CMT Music Awards will broadcast live Wed., June 17 on CMT and CMT.com, honoring the top fan-voted country music videos of the year. Host, venue and ticket information has not been announced. “We’re always looking for a fresh approach to our Awards Show, and this year we’ve moved the telecast to June rather than […]
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 Skates2009-01-14 11:13:382009-01-14 11:13:38CMT Sets June Awards Date
The Academy of Country Music has promoted Tiffany Moon to Senior Director, Operations and Finance, and has hired Erick Long as Director, Logistics, and Katie Jo Sheek as Junior Associate, Publicity and Marketing. All positions are based out the Academy’s headquarters in Encino, CA. Moon joined the Academy in 2004 as a project manager, a […]
Urban Barbecue Escape
/by bossrossKeith Urban’s 2009 tour, labeled Keith Urban Escape Together Tour has added KC Masterpiece Barbeque Sauce and Kingsford Charcoal as a headline sponsor. The shows will begin in May and play mostly larger size venues. Drew McGowan, Sr. Grp. Manager PR/Sponsorships for Clorox Company, which owns both brands, told Billboard, “There’s a perfect link between […]
Propper (ly) Official
/by bossrossCO5 Nashville has officially announced the addition of Heather Propper to its team. She will serve as Director/Promotion and Marketing Southeast. “CO5 remains committed to finding the absolute best talent our industry has to offer,” says David Newmark, VP/Country Promotion CO5 Nashville. “We are dedicated to being the leader in radio promotion.” Propper’s music industry […]
Jeffrey Steele & Friends Fundraiser
/by LB CantrellJeffrey Steele, Keith Anderson, Sebastian Bach, Billy Dean, LoCash Cowboys, and other special guests will perform in Nashville at Rocketown March 12 to raise money for The Alex LeVasseur Memorial Scholarship Program. The Jeffrey Steele & Friends event will include table seating, with a limited VIP section. VIP tables are $1,500; remaining tables are $1000; […]
DISClaimer (1/30)
/by Robert K OermannNewcomers, baby acts and veterans are all in the mix this week. Both Aaron Tippin and Collin Raye arrived with excellent sounding comeback discs. Chris Young, Bomshel, Jamey Johnson continue to shine with blindingly bright promise. Newcomer Mike Adkins totally nails the DisCovery Award. And I continue to be in awe of the talent of […]
Clarkson Single Rockets To No. 1
/by bossrossStarstruck Entertainment President, and Kelly Clarkson manager Narvel Blackstock (Reba, Blake Shelton), must be feeling good about his client’s new single, “My Life Would Suck Without You.” Clarkson’s track rocketed from No. 97 last week on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart all the way to the top—No. 1. This massive gain sets a record for the […]
Country Beach Party Benefits Cancer Research
/by bossrossT.J. Martell Foundation is throwing a gigantic beach party and Montgomery Gentry will host “Country On The Beach.” “We wanted to do something fun to help raise vital dollars for the T.J. Martell Foundation’s mission of funding ground-breaking cancer research,” said Troy Gentry. “A warm weather event will be great, especially at the end of the […]
Escalating The Pace Of Change
/by bossrossJudging by the problems surfacing in the entertainment and media worlds around the globe, the pace of change is accelerating and companies are frantically realizing that new models are becoming essential for survival. Even the government is working to pass an enormous $819 billion stimulus package with tax and spend provisions. Sony Corp reported (1/29) […]
Montgomery To Exit Echo
/by bossrossIt remains unofficial, but Music Row has learned that Echo Music Co-founder/CEO Mark Montgomery will soon exit the company to pursue new opportunities. Montgomery was involved in product development, plus a contributor to strategic direction. When Echo was purchased by Ticketmaster in March 2007, Sean Moriarty, Ticketmaster President/CEO said, “What echo has built is unique. […]
Recording Workshop Set For Musicians Hall
/by FreemanThe Nashville Recording Workshop and Expo, hosted by the local section of the Audio Engineering society, is set for Feb. 20-21 at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum. The two-day audio production conference will boast exhibits from top audio equipment manufacturers and a full schedule of presentations, starting with a keynote address from artist […]
KCRS Live! During CRS-40
/by LB CantrellCountry Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has announced that this year’s KCRS Live! lineup at CRS-40 will include artists and songwriters Jimmy Wayne, Kelley Lovelace, Ashley Gorley and Jonathan Singleton. The annual ASCAP sponsored event will take place Wed., March 4, at 5 p.m. as part of CRS-40, which runs March 4-6 at the Nashville Convention Center […]
Country Sales Increase (A Little)
/by bossrossHappily, according to Nielsen SoundScan, the Top 75 Current Country albums for the week ending 1/25/09 bounced upward 8% over the previous week, without relying on new debut releases. Big Machine continued to control about 27% of that market share based mostly upon sales from its flagship femme, Taylor Swift. Despite the increase this week, […]
New CMA VP Starting Monday
/by Sarah SkatesDan Bowen will join the Country Music Association as Vice President of Strategic Marketing and Communications on Mon., Feb. 2, overseeing advertising, promotions, new media, research, and media/PR initiatives and staff. With more than 20 years of broadcast media experience, Bowen most recently spent 11 years with WSTR-FM (Star 94) in Atlanta. He has served […]
T.J. Martell Selects 2009 Board
/by Sarah SkatesThe T.J. Martell Foundation announced its 2009 Nashville Board of Directors and Officers at its annual kick off meeting, held last week at the Frances Williams Preston Building of the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. The music industry has long supported the charity’s fight against cancer and AIDS, with many familiar names among those who are involved […]
Hall Undertakes Million Dollar Fundraising Campaign
/by Sarah SkatesThe Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has launched a $1.1 million fundraising campaign to defray costs associated with its acquisition of instruments which once belonging to Maybelle Carter, Johnny Cash and Bill Monroe. The Precious Jewel Fund opened with leadership gifts including a $150,000 donation from Scott Siman of RPM Management and a […]
Jonathan Singleton & The Grove
/by ProgrammerPlaylist“Livin’ In Paradise” Universal Records South Since signing his breakthrough publishing and production deal two years ago with Crosstown Songs Nashville, singer/songwriter Jonathan Singleton has been caught up in a creative whirlwind. His song “Watching Airplanes” (co-written with Jim Beavers) was a No. 1 hit for Gary Allan, earning Singleton an ACM nomination as well […]
Gloriana Joins LeAnn Rimes Dates
/by Sarah SkatesNewcomers Gloriana have been invited to open for LeAnn Rimes on six upcoming tour dates in Washington, California, and Nevada. The band made up of Tom Gossin (vocals, guitars), Mike Gossin (vocals, guitars), Rachel Reinert (vocals), and Cheyenne Kimball (vocals, mandolin) is already creating a buzz with debut single “Wild At Heart,” from its upcoming […]
Paisley Plans 2009 Tour
/by Sarah SkatesReigning ACM and CMA Male Vocalist of the Year Brad Paisley today (1/26) revealed his 2009 touring plans. The outing, dubbed American Saturday Night, will run through 41 cities starting June 5 in Charlotte, NC. Special guests Dierks Bentley and Jimmy Wayne will join him for the tour that has cross-country dates scheduled through Oct. […]
Carolwood Adds To Promo Dept.
/by Sarah SkatesTrudie Richardson-Daniell will join Carolwood Records on Feb. 9 as Manager, Regional Promotion. With 13 years of music business experience, she will be based out of Atlanta and will work the Southeast and Southwest regions. Prior to joining Carolwood Records, the Belmont graduate worked in the radio promotions department for CO5 Nashville. Lyric Street/Carolwood Records […]
DISClaimer
/by Robert K OermannDoff your caps to the ladies, gentlemen. This week, the fairer sex rules the listening session. Carrie Underwood has a splendid outing with the Randy Travis goldie “I Told You So.” Newcomer Christen Sawyer is our DisCovery Award winner. And the Disc of the Day is by a group that actually has “Lady” in its […]
UMG Sales/Marketing To Restructure
/by bossrossAccording to a Universal Music Group spokesperson, Executive VP Sales and Marketing Ben Kline is leaving the company, effective immediately, to pursue a new opportunity. Kline was a fixture at the Nashville label for 11 years and with Universal for a total of 17 years. He was a frequent voice in many Music Row articles […]
RIAA Reveals Year-End Stats
/by Sarah SkatesOnly three albums released in 2008 were certified multi-platinum in the same year, according to the RIAA’s year-end tally. The year’s top certifications—all double platinum—went to rapper Lil Wayne (Tha Carter, Vol. 3), Brit rockers Coldplay (Viva La Vida), and metal masters AC/DC (Black Ice). Lil Wayne’s June release reached double-Platinum prestige within only one […]
Little Jimmy Recovering
/by Sarah Skates“Little” Jimmy Dickens has been moved from the hospital into a rehabilitation center to recuperate from a recent brain surgery. His stay at the center is expected to be short. The 88-year-old Grand Ole Opry star underwent surgery Jan. 13 to repair a subdural hematoma.
Pickler Scores Sexy Endorsement Deal
/by Sarah SkatesKellie Pickler has signed on as a 2009 celebrity spokesperson for Sexy Hair products. As part of the multi-million dollar endorsement agreement, Pickler and fellow celeb Cheryl Burke will appear in the company’s consumer and trade publication ads, promotional materials, and publicity campaign. Advertising roll-outs will begin in April and run through December in Allure […]
Sony Nashville Layoffs
/by bossross(Updated 6:40 pm) With country music sales dropping from 75 to 47 million units over the last two years, ”restructuring” has become a dreaded and unfortunately, all too familiar term on Music Row streets. Sony Music Nashville is the latest label to be affected by the softness in the CD marketplace and the weakness in […]
Americana Series Set For Bluebird
/by Sarah SkatesThe Americana Music Association will host a new “Live at The Bluebird Cafe” concert series every Thursday beginning Feb. 19 and running through March 26. Celebrating some of the genre’s best-loved and most influential performers, the six-show series sponsored by the Gibson Foundation will feature Jim Lauderdale (2/19), Sam Bush (2/26), Nanci Griffith (3/5), and […]
Urban Planning To Defy Gravity
/by Sarah SkatesKeith Urban’s new album Defying Gravity will be released March 31 on Capitol Records Nashville. The project’s lead single “Sweet Thing” has already reached No. 3 on MusicRow’s CountryBreakout Chart and is still climbing. “Defying Gravity comes from the lyrics of a song on the album and it just struck me at the time as […]
Nashville Screenwriters Conference Returns In 2009
/by Sarah SkatesThe eleventh annual Nashville Screenwriters Conference (NSC) is set to take place May 29-31 at the historic Union Station hotel. The open-to-the-public conference will bring some of Hollywood’s top writers, producers, directors, managers, agents and studio executives to Nashville to network and share their experiences with local aspiring screenwriters and other interested individuals. The popular […]
New Hiring At NSAI
/by Sarah SkatesNSAI (Nashville Songwriters Association International) has added Erin Burr as Communications Director. She most recently spent more than three years handling publicity for the Colgate Country Showdown talent competition. At the new gig, Burr will report to NSAI Executive Director Bart Herbison. She can be reached at erin@nashvillesongwriters.com or (615) 256-3354, ext. 233. Next up: […]
Little Big Town Lets Fans Pick Opening Act
/by Sarah SkatesLittle Big Town has partnered with Web site Eventful to find aspiring country artists to open its upcoming A Place to Land tour. Starting today, fans can use Eventful’s “Demand” service to vote for artists they think should open the shows. The four performers with the most Demands will perform at different stops on the […]
Strait Adds Shelton To Tour
/by Sarah SkatesBlake Shelton will join George Strait on the road this summer, along with previously announced opener Julianne Hough. Shelton’s latest Warner Bros. single “She Wouldn’t Be Gone,” recently spent two weeks at No. 1 on MusicRow’s CountryBreakout chart. The Strait tour opens May 9 in Hidalgo, TX, and hits numerous amphitheaters and festivals across the […]
Clear Channel Cuts Official
/by bossrossClear Channel Communications has officially confirmed cuts that reduced its workforce by approximately 1850 employees or 9%. CC CEO Mark Mays wrote in a company-wide email: “As I’ve mentioned previously, we are facing an unprecedented time of distress in the general economy—and the ripple effects have hit some of our largest customers hard. Today, we […]
Country Thunder Adds Markovchick
/by Sarah SkatesKim Markovchick has joined Country Thunder as VP Sales and Marketing. Her more than 20 years of experience most recently included three years as Sr. Director of Marketing at Sony Nashville/Sony BMG. Previously Markovchick spent 17 years at Mercury Nashville, ending as VP/Marketing. Country Thunder General Manager Craig Morris says Markovchick will work to “utilize […]
Jo Dee Welcomes Baby Boy
/by Sarah SkatesJo Dee Messina and her husband Chris Deffenbaugh were thrilled to welcome their first child, a boy, on Mon., Jan. 19 in a Nashville-area hospital. Noah Roger Deffenbaugh was born at 1:01 PM, and weighed in at 6 lbs., 15 oz. Noah, mom and dad are all doing very well. The couple was married in […]
Nashville Goes International
/by Sarah SkatesNumerous Nashville artists and songwriters are planning trips overseas in the coming months. Representing Music City to the international community will be a wide mix of artists and songwriters from a variety of genres. For the fifth year, Nashville songwriters will share their talents at Ireland’s Belfast Nashville Songwriters Festival & Song Writing Convention. Going […]
BMI Honors Gospel In Nashville
/by Sarah SkatesBMI recognized the substantial contributions of gospel pacesetters Twinkie Clark, Donald Lawrence, and CeCe Winans at the 10th Annual Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards Luncheon Fri., Jan. 16 in Nashville. Hosted by BMI Vice President, Writer/Publisher Relations Catherine Brewton, the invitation-only celebration attracted gospel music’s premier songwriters, recording artists and music industry executives, as well […]
Bread Founder Launches NashFilms Records
/by Sarah SkatesRobb Royer, founding member of ‘70s rock band Bread, has opened NashFilms Records on Music Row. With a background also including work as a producer and director, Royer originally planned to start a motion picture production company, but it evolved into a record label
Top Artists Support Worthy Causes
/by Sarah SkatesMany big name artists are set for benefit concerts in Nashville over the next few weeks. On Feb. 2 Dolly Parton, Ronnie Dunn, Kellie Pickler, Keith Anderson, Jennifer Hanson, Mark Nesler, and Matt Gary will turn out for the Gift of Music benefit at the Wildhorse Saloon. The 7 PM fundraiser for the W.O. Smith […]
Lady A Making National TV Rounds
/by Sarah SkatesLady Antebellum has scheduled several upcoming national television performances, including NBC’s The Tonight Show with Jay Leno on Jan. 22, and a two-song performance on The Early Show’s “GRAMMY Concert Series” on CBS, Sat., Feb. 7. Additionally, in anticipation of the Grammy nominated band’s opening slot on Kenny Chesney’s Sun City Carnival tour of arenas […]
Publishers Snap Up Rights To Hall of Famers’ Songs
/by Sarah SkatesPrimary Wave Music Publishing, with offices in New York and Los Angeles, has purchased the late Tennessee Ernie Ford’s catalog from his estate, Billboard reports. The transaction includes about 170 songs by the Country Music Hall of Fame inductee. Also a member of the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, Ford released nearly 50 albums during […]
Clear Channel Hires Lindy, Despite Looming Layoffs
/by Sarah SkatesClear Channel Communications will begin restructuring across the board next week, making changes expected to save the company $400 million, according to The NY Post. With 30,000 employees worldwide, CCC’s plan includes laying off workers in its radio, outdoor advertising and international divisions. In an attempt to consolidate duties and cut programming costs, CCC might […]
Circuit City Going Under
/by Sarah SkatesCircuit City will liquidate its nationwide chain of more than 500 consumer electronics stores. After courting prospective buyers and investors, as well as filing Chapter 11 in November, the nation’s second-biggest consumer electronics retailer announced today (1/16) that it had run out of viable options to stay afloat. The closures will leave the chain’s 30,000 […]
Turmoil on Gaylord Board
/by Sarah SkatesGaylord Entertainment is in a dispute with its largest shareholder, TRT Holdings, over the way Gaylord executives are running the company. TRT, which owns properties including the Omni Hotel chain, yesterday (1/15) sent an open letter to shareholders criticizing Gaylord’s senior management and seeking support to elect four of its own people, including TRT CEO […]
Tin Pan South Dates Announced
/by Sarah SkatesThe Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) has set March 31–April 4, 2009 as the dates for its renowned Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival. Regions Bank is back as the presenting sponsor of the 17th annual event. A Tin Pan South Preview Party, scheduled for March 3 at The Rutledge, will feature songwriter performances and announcements […]
Americana Auction Open, Conference Planning Underway
/by Sarah SkatesThe Americana Music Association is hosting an auction to raise funds for its 2009 Americana Music Festival & Conference, set to take place in Music City Sept. 16-19. Auction items include a Gibson-donated guitar signed by Robert Plant, Levon Helm and other artists who appeared at the 2008 Americana Honors & Awards show; a songwriter […]
Chesney Set For Grammy Performance, Adds Tourmates
/by Sarah SkatesKenny Chesney is among the first performers announced for the 51st Annual GRAMMY® Awards telecast, where he is nominated for Best Country Collaboration With Vocals, for “Shiftwork” with George Strait. Also performing on the Sun., Feb. 8 telecast from the STAPLES Center in Los Angeles are Coldplay, Jonas Brothers, Lil Wayne, and Katy Perry. With […]
Megastars Sign On To Celebrate Inauguration
/by Sarah SkatesGarth Brooks and Jennifer Nettles will perform at Sunday’s (1/18) super star-powered concert “We Are One: The Obama Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln Memorial.” The free, public event will also include Sheryl Crow, Beyoncé, Bruce Springsteen, U2, Usher, Stevie Wonder, James Taylor, and numerous others. Most artists will perform cover songs with historical significance or […]
Bentley Is Latest Addition To Vector Roster
/by Sarah SkatesDierks Bentley has signed with Vector Management, the powerhouse company headed by Ken Levitan. The Capitol Records Nashville artist was previously with Scott Kernahan’s Rogue Music. Bentley is planning the Feb. 3 release of new album, Feel That Fire, and heading out on the final leg of Brad Paisley’s Paisley Party Tour this weekend. He […]
Belmont to Honor Donna Hilley
/by bossrossBelmont University’s Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business will honor Donna Hilley with its Robert E. Mulloy Award of Excellence for accomplishments in the entertainment industry, as well as service to Belmont and the Nashville community. The award presentation will take place at the 2009 Best of the Best Showcase at Belmont’s Curb […]
CMT Sets June Awards Date
/by Sarah SkatesThe CMT Music Awards will broadcast live Wed., June 17 on CMT and CMT.com, honoring the top fan-voted country music videos of the year. Host, venue and ticket information has not been announced. “We’re always looking for a fresh approach to our Awards Show, and this year we’ve moved the telecast to June rather than […]
ACM Promotes Moon, Adds New Staffers
/by Sarah SkatesThe Academy of Country Music has promoted Tiffany Moon to Senior Director, Operations and Finance, and has hired Erick Long as Director, Logistics, and Katie Jo Sheek as Junior Associate, Publicity and Marketing. All positions are based out the Academy’s headquarters in Encino, CA. Moon joined the Academy in 2004 as a project manager, a […]