Tag Archive for: featured-2

BMG Names New Nashville Head

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Kos Weaver

Kos Weaver

Music publishing veteran Kos Weaver will join BMG as Executive Vice President to oversee the Nashville operations and continue to build and expand the company’s roster. Weaver will start the new role on March 15 and report directly to Laurent Hubert, President, Creative and Marketing at BMG Chrysalis North America.

Most recently, Weaver held the position of Vice President at Disney Music Publishing in Nashville and during his time there the office achieved eleven charting singles, with three No. 1’s, two Top 5’s and two Top 10’s. Prior to Disney, Weaver was Vice President of A&R at Warner/Chappell Music where he oversaw the creative staff.
Weaver joins BMG with nearly 30 years of experience in the music industry, beginning his career as a touring musician who later worked with and developed top songwriting and artist talent including Dave Berg, Jim Collins, Tim James, Wynn Varble, Brantley Gilbert (Valory Music Co.) and Canaan Smith (Mercury Records). Weaver also had publishing stops with Paul Overstreet and Reba McEntire’s Starstruck Writers Group.
Weaver commented, “I am very fortunate to join the BMG Chrysalis Nashville office in this position. Laurent Hubert and Hartwig Masuch are forward thinking music executives that I will certainly learn a great deal from. I look forward to working with the outstanding staff and writer roster that Darrell Franklin and Laurent have built.”
Laurent Hubert, President, Creative & Marketing, BMG Chrysalis North America added, “Kos has a distinguished track record of working with top music talent. I am confident his publishing expertise will further enhance our Nashville operations and will propel forward the careers of our extraordinary songwriters based there.”
Darrell Franklin has exited his role heading Nashville operations as Executive VP, but MusicRow’s Crystal Ball is flashing news of a possible joint venture between BMG and Franklin.

No. 1 Party: Jake Owen's "The One That Got Away"

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Jake Owen The One That Got Away party

Pictured (back row, L-R): Sony/ATV Music Publishing’s Terry Wakefield, Sony Music Nashville Chairman and CEO Gary Overton, co-writer Jimmy Ritchey, Sony/ATV Music Publishing’s Tom Luteran, Jake Owen, BMI’s David Preston, co-writer Dallas Davidson and producers Joey Moi and Rodney Clawson; (front row, L-R): Universal Music Publishing’s Kent Earls, Morris Management’s Clint Higham and Universal Music Publishing’s Ron Stuve. Photo Credit: John Russell

Jake Owen celebrated his third consecutive No. 1 song, and his first No. 1 as a songwriter, during a celebration at BMI’s Nashville office yesterday (March 7). Hosted by BMI’s David Preston, the event honored Owen, along with “The One That Got Away” co-writers Dallas Davidson and Jimmy Ritchey, and the song’s producers Joey Moi and Rodney Clawson.

Presentations and awards were given by Morris Management’s Clint Higham, Sony/ATV Music Publishing’s Tom Luteran, Universal Music Publishing’s Kent Earls and Ron Stuve, CMA’s Brandi Simms, Country Radio Broadcaster’s Brad Hollingsworth and Avenue Bank’s Ron Cox, who donated funds on behalf of the songwriters to two organizations: Georgia Music Foundation and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Owen gave ample credit to co-writer Ritchey, not only for co-writing “The One That Got Away,” but for Ritchey’s involvement in his career. “Jimmy believed in me,” said Owen, who brought his daughter Pearl with him onstage. “He brought me to BMI and introduced me to Keith Gale. He deserves a lot of credit. This is a town built upon people’s relationships and people helping people.” He also thanked his wife Lacey, along with Sony Music Nashville’s Chairman and CEO Gary Overton, and his radio promotion and management teams. He also asked the attendees to keep his father in their prayers; Owen’s father is currently in the Mayo clinic being treated for cancer.

Davidson was also quick to honor a plethora of people who have been there for him. “Thank God for all my blessings and letting me have this career. And for my wife Sarah, the one that didn’t get away,” he quipped. He also thanked Moi and Clawson, along with Owen’s management team, before thanking Ritchey. “Jimmy, I came to town and was a fan of yours. To be onstage and sharing this with you is a big deal to me.”

Weekly Chart Report (3/8/13)

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SPIN ZONE

WRNS’ Tommy Garrett and wife Vicki met with The Lost Trailers at the station’s pre-CD release party last week in New Bern,NC. Garrett co-wote a song on the project, titled "Trailblazer.” Pictured (L-R): Jason Wyatt, Tommy Garrett, Stokes Nielson, and Vicki Garrett.

WRNS’ Tommy Garrett and wife Vicki met with The Lost Trailers at the station’s pre-CD release party last week in New Bern, NC. Garrett co-wote a song on the project, titled “Trailblazer.” Pictured (L-R): Jason Wyatt, Tommy Garrett, Stokes Nielson, and Vicki Garrett.


Blake Shelton‘s 2013 is shaping up to be quite “cool,” indeed, with his upcoming Ten Times Crazier tour and a new album, Based On A True Story…, releasing later this month. His latest single, “Sure Be Cool If You Did,” just reached the top of the MusicRow Countrybreakout chart this week. Lee Brice is close behind with his No. 2 ballad, “I Drive Your Truck”–70 spins separated these two tracks this week. Toby Keith‘s “Hope On The Rocks” jumped from No. 5 to No. 3 while Chris Young‘s “I Can Take It From There” rises from No. 6 to No. 4 and Hunter Hayes‘ “Somebody’s Heartbreak” goes from No. 7 to No. 5. Lady Antebellum‘s “Downtown” (No. 6), Miranda Lambert‘s “Mama’s Broken Heart” (No. 7), Kacey Musgraves‘ “Merry Go Round” (No. 8), Florida Georgia Line‘s “Get Your Shine On” (No. 9) and George Strait‘s “Give It All We Got” (No. 10) round out the Top 10 this week.
Brad Paisley‘s “Beat This Summer” is the greatest gainer this week, with 730 added spins. The Band Perry‘s “Done” gained 596 spins, while Taylor Swift and Tim McGraw‘s “Highway Don’t Care” garnered 467 additional spins. Jason Aldean‘s nostalgic “1994” added 413 spins and Zac Brown Band’s “Jump Right In” gained 404 spins.
Debuts this week include Phil Vassar‘s “Love Is Alive” at No. 71. Jordan Anderson‘s “Toxic” comes in at No. 73, followed by Smokey River Boys‘ “All Pure Country” at No. 75, Ryan Broshear‘s “I Don’t Mind” at No. 78, Leah Seawright‘s “Set It On Fire” at No. 79 and Bobby Cyrus‘ “Milkman’s Eyes” at No. 80.
Frozen Playlists: WUCZ, WRHT, KITX, KRRV, KYYK, WBKR

Upcoming Singles
March 11
Jason Aldean/1994/BBR
Jon Pardi/Up All Night/Capitol
The Band Perry/Done/Republic Nashville
Sheryl Crow/Easy/Old Green Barn-Sea Gayle-Warner Bros.-WMN
Tate Stevens/Power Of A Love Song/Syco Music-RCA
Billy Dean/I Can’t Leave A Good Thing/Rainman-Flying Island
Erica Nicole/Better Beer/Heaven-Nine North-Turnpike
Tobacco Rd. Band (Feat. Colt Ford)/That’s Country/Turnpike-Big Southern
March  18
Justin Moore/Point At You/Valory
Billy Currington/Hey Girl/Mercury
Phil Vassar/Love Is Alive/Rodeowave
March 25
Drake White/The Simple Life/MCA
Weston Burt/Lucky Sometimes/Hitshop

Jaida try 1

 
New On The Chart—Debuting This Week
Artist/song/label — chart pos.
Phil Vassar/Love Is Alive/Rodeowave Entertainment – 71
Jordan Anderson/Toxic/GTR – 73
Smokey River Boys/All Pure Country/Platinum Plus – 75
Ryan Broshear/I Don’t Mind/Painted Horse Records – 78
Leah Seawright/Set It On Fire/Atta Baby – 79
Bobby Cyrus/Milkman’s Eyes/BGC-GMV Nashville – 80
Most Added
Artist/song/label — New Adds
Brad Paisley/Beat This Summer/Arista Nashville – 49
The Band Perry/Done/Republic Nashville – 48
Zac Brown Band/Jump Right In/Southern Ground-Atlantic – 29
Tim McGraw w/ Taylor Swift/Highway Don’t Care/Big Machine – 24
Gary Allan/Pieces/MCA – 19
Jason Aldean/1994/Broken Bow – 17
Justin Moore/Point At You/Valory – 11
Jon Pardi/Up All Night/Capitol Nashville – 11
Greatest Spin Increase
Artist/song/label — spin+
Brad Paisley/Beat This Summer/Arista Nashville – 730
The Band Perry/Done/Republic Nashville – 596
Tim McGraw w/ Taylor Swift/Highway Don’t Care/Big Machine – 467
Jason Aldean/1994/Broken Bow – 413
Zac Brown Band/Jump Right In/Southern Ground-Atlantic – 404
On Deck—Soon To Be Charting
Artist/song/label — spins
Craig Wayne Boyd/Learning To Dance/Big Ride – 181
Stephanie Grace/Would U Be Mine/SMG – 180
Justin Moore/Point At You/Valory Music Co. – 178
Jon Pardi/Up All Night/Capitol Nashville – 165
Matt Farris/Redneck Radio/Skytone Records – 163

Black River artists Craig Morgan, Kellie Pickler, and Sarah Darling took time to visit with WQDR’s Cody Clark during the label’s CRS luncheon last week. Morgan takes our No. 15 spot this week with “More Trucks Than Cars,” and Darling is at No. 29 with “Home To Me.” Pickler was recently announced as a contestant on ABC’s Dancing With The Stars. Pictured (L-R): Morgan, Pickler, Darling and Cody Clark (WQDR-Raleigh MD). Photo: Bev Moser

Black River artists Craig Morgan, Kellie Pickler, and Sarah Darling took time to visit with WQDR’s Cody Clark during the label’s CRS luncheon last week. Morgan takes our No. 15 spot this week with “More Trucks Than Cars,” and Darling is at No. 29 with “Home To Me.” Pickler was recently announced as a contestant on ABC’s Dancing With The Stars. Pictured (L-R): Morgan, Pickler, Darling and Cody Clark (WQDR-Raleigh MD). Photo: Bev Moser


Columbia Nashville label mates Casey James and Tyler Farr recently headlined WWKA’s New Artist Showcase at Cowboy’s in Orlando, Fla. Farr performed his new single, “Redneck Crazy,” which lands at No. 48. James’ manager Bryan Frasher is featured in our 2013 CRS CountryBreakout magazine. Pictured (L-R): James, JR Schumann (WWKA PD), Farr, and Columbia Nashville Promotion reps David Friedman and Jeri Cooper.

Columbia Nashville labelmates Casey James and Tyler Farr recently headlined WWKA’s New Artist Showcase at Cowboy’s in Orlando, Fla. Farr performed his new single, “Redneck Crazy,” which lands at No. 48. James’ manager Bryan Frasher is featured in our 2013 CRS CountryBreakout issue. Pictured (L-R): James, JR Schumann (WWKA PD), Farr, and Columbia Nashville Promotion reps David Friedman and Jeri Cooper.


 

No. 1 Party: The Band Perry's 'Better Dig Two'

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Pictured (L-R): Larga Vista Music's Stephanie Cox; Bigger Picture's Jeff Carlton; Little Blue Egg's Robin Palmer; ASCAP's Robert Filhart; Shane McAnally; Brandy Clark; Trevor Rosen; The Band Perry's Neil, Kimberly and Reid Perry; Dann Huff; BMLG's Scott Borchetta and Jimmy Harnen. Photo by Fred Breedon.

Pictured (L-R): Larga Vista Music’s Stephanie Cox; Bigger Picture’s Jeff Carlton; Little Blue Egg’s Robin Palmer; ASCAP’s Robert Filhart; Shane McAnally; Brandy Clark; Trevor Rosen; The Band Perry’s Neil, Kimberly and Reid Perry; Dann Huff; BMLG’s Scott Borchetta and Jimmy Harnen. Photo by Fred Breedon.


It may have been a cold Tuesday night (March 5), but there was plenty of heated excitement inside the Hard Rock Cafe as the industry elite gathered to celebrate The Band Perry‘s third No. 1 hit, “Better Dig Two.” Written by Brandy Clark, Shane McAnally and Trevor Rosen, the song is published by Little Blue Egg, Rehits Music, Bigger Picture, and Vista Loma Music.
Hosted by ASCAP’s Robert Filhart, the celebrated chart-topper is the first single from The Band Perry’s upcoming sophomore album Pioneer, slated for an April 2 release. Produced by Dann Huff, “Better Dig Two” is Huff’s 34th No. 1 single.
It was a standing room-only crowd as Exec. VP of Big Machine Label Group Jimmy Harnen shared, “It takes a village to break an act,” adding the song was the band’s highest charting debut at 30 with 91 stations on in its first week. Giving thanks to everyone involved, CEO of BMLG Scott Borchetta told the writers and publishers, “Thank you for a brilliant song. This song just kills us.”
President/Owner of Wrensong, Ree Guyer handed out accolades on behalf of the song publishers and shared, “We had ‘demo-itus’ of this song, but you [Dann Huff] took it to another level.” Sr. Manager Brandi Simms also bestowed honors with the coveted No. 1 medallions from the CMA.
The Band Perry’s Kimberly Perry joined her brothers onstage to thank the incredible team behind their hit adding, “It truly is a sacred relationship between the songwriter and the artist.”
Co-writer Clark gave heartwarming thanks to many including Big Machine VP of A&R, Allison Jones stating, “She has always been a champion of my songs.” Clark received her first cut in 2006 and “Better Dig Two” is her first No. 1 song. Clark said, “I feel more supported than my heart can even hold.” Co-writer Rosen, who signed with Guyer and co-writer McAnally almost 10 years after moving to Nashville, shared, “To get to this point, it requires a lot of people to believe in you.” McAnally joked, “I’m a little bit afraid of Kimberly after the performance of this song,” adding a sincere reflection, “I’ve had an unbelievably blessed year.”
 

Aldean Celebrates Two No. 1 Songs

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Jason Aldean celebrated not one, but two No. 1 singles yesterday (March 5). First, a crowd of industry members gathered at BMI‘s Nashville office to celebrate “Take A Little Ride.” Accepting honors along with Aldean were the song’s co-writers, Dylan Altman, Rodney Clawson and Jim McCormick. In addition, producer Michael Knox, Broken Bow Records’ Benny Brown, Big Red Toe Music’s Craig Wiseman and Cal IV’s Daniel Hill were part of the commemoration, along with a throng of industry well-wishers.

Pictured (back row, l-r): BMI’s Clay Bradley, producer Michael Knox, Broken Bow Records’ Benny Brown, BMG Chrysalis Music’s Daniel Lee, Big Red Toe Music’s Craig Wiseman and Music of Cal IV’s Daniel Hill; (front row, l-r): Jason Aldean; and co-writers Dylan Altman, Jim McCormick and Rodney Clawson. Photo by Rick Diamond

Pictured (back row, l-r): BMI’s Clay Bradley, producer Michael Knox, Broken Bow Records’ Benny Brown, BMG Chrysalis Music’s Daniel Lee, Big Red Toe Music’s Craig Wiseman and Music of Cal IV’s Daniel Hill; (front row, l-r): Jason Aldean; and co-writers Dylan Altman, Jim McCormick and Rodney Clawson. Photo by Rick Diamond


From there, Aldean headed to ASCAP‘s Nashville office to celebrate the hit “The Only Way I Know” (featuring Luke Bryan and Eric Church). The song’s co-writers David Lee Murphy and Ben Hayslip were on hand for the celebration. Producer Knox, along with representatives of This Music, N2D Publishing Company, and Warner/Chappell were on hand to celebrate.
Pictured (L-R), front row: Jason Aldean, Ben Hayslip, David Lee Murphy and Michael Knox. Back row (l-r): Warner Chappell's B.J. Hill, This Music's Connie Harrington and Tim Nichols, Warner Chappell's Ben Vaughn, This Music's Rusty Gaston and N2D Publishing's Douglas Casmus. Photo: Ed Rode.

Pictured (L-R), front row: Jason Aldean, Ben Hayslip, David Lee Murphy and Michael Knox. Back row (L-R): Warner Chappell’s B.J. Hill, This Music’s Connie Harrington and Tim Nichols, Warner Chappell’s Ben Vaughn, This Music’s Rusty Gaston and N2D Publishing’s Douglas Casmus. Photo: Ed Rode.


Pictured (L-R): Ben Hayslip, Jason Aldean, David Lee Murphy. Photo: Ed Rode.

Pictured (L-R): Ben Hayslip, Jason Aldean, David Lee Murphy. Photo: Ed Rode.


 

Weekly Register: Captain, New Releases Ahead!

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yellowmoonAs I peer through my journalistic telescope like a scraggly third mate lashed to the crow’s nest atop a windblown vessel, I’ve finally spied good news!
“New releases ahead Captain, new releases ahead…”
Yes, regular Weekly Register readers have heard me complain about the dearth of new product since the start of the year, but now the pendulum is about to swing the other way. In fact, even the Washington Post is writing about new Nashville music this week—and it’s about time because country YTD album sales are down almost 5%.
WP’s Chris Richards writes, “Time to scrub that ‘I like all kinds of music, except country’ line off your OkCupid profile.” Thank you Chris. The article lauds this week’s new release from Ashley Monroe, (Pistol Annies member) but also mentions a bevy of new females soon to offer up some tasty musical wares. Richards mentions Kacey Musgraves, Kelleigh Bannen, Gretchen Wilson and Natalie Maines (yes the same) as having upcoming product. Richards left out the sizzling Maggie Rose who is also destined to light up playlists and sales charts this spring. Richards notes, “a cascade of discs from female country singers plotting to dominate annual best-of lists eight months down the road.”
weeklygrid3-3-13But it’s not just the ladies that are coming to this dance. The gents will also be on the sales floor in full force. During the next month or so we’ll see new music from Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton, Alan Jackson, Brad Paisley and Eric Church. Now that’s a musical buffet I look forward to stuffin’ into my headphones. Groups like The Band Perry and Thompson Square are also on the list.
So now that you’ve heard the good news about the future, let’s move to the present…
Doin’ Some Album Math
The Mavericks, returning from an extended absence, have released In Time which landed at No. 8 this week on the Current Country Top 75 (14k units). And the legendary Emmylou Harris and Rodney Crowell teamed for Old Yellow Moon at No. 4 with almost 16k debut units.
weeklygrid2-24-13Taylor Swift, whose quotable Vanity Fair interview is apparently packed with comments about her expanding love life and a pointed diss at Golden Globe hosts Amy Poehler and Tina Fey, again tops the country chart with about 24k units. Swift, now more comfortable than ever in the media spotlight, remains country’s most bankable brand. Red is the highest ranking Nashville music on the YTD Albums w/TEA list.
vanityFlorida Georgia Line (No. 2; 22k), Tim McGraw (No. 3; 19k), Little Big Town (No. 5; 16k), Jason Aldean (No. 6; 15k), Hunter Hayes (No. 7; 14k), Gary Allan (No. 9; 13k) and Carrie Underwood (No. 10; 13k) round out the Top 10.
Tracks Back Jack
Love is in bloom as we near the spring and nowhere is it more evident than on our Digital Genre Country chart where lovebirds Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert occupy the top two spots. Mr. Shelton leads with about 74k units and Miranda trails with almost 49k.
Also in the tracks derby it’s nice to see Lady A’s No. 4 “Downtown” gaining momentum and moving up 5% over last week to about 48k units.
Well now that I’ve reported the new releases are on the way, I can finally climb down from this damn crow’s nest and get me some strong grog…. stay tuned…

DISClaimer: Country Embraces Some Unusual Names

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ashley monroe1You’ll find a few unusual names in this week’s country reviews, namely The Lumineers, Sheryl Crow and Mumford & Sons.
That’s because I think that the format should expand to include people like this. Just look at the good that embracing folks such as Darius Rucker and Aaron Lewis has done. Besides, they are a lot more “country” than half of what is passed off on the public from the Music Row factory system. So that’s my speech for the week.
The Disc of the Day is the triumphant outing by Ashley Monroe. I have been in this lady’s corner for years and it warms my soul to hear her arrive with something so beautiful as “Like a Rose.”
Give a DisCovery Award prize to JB & The Moonshine Band. I think they’re onto something.

jb-and-the-moonshine-band111

JB And The Moonshine Band


AMBER DIGBY/It’s A Long Way From Heaven
Writers: Jimmie Helms/Sharon Higgins, Producer: Amber Digby, Randy Lindley and Justin Trevino. Publisher: none listed, BMI
–Amber’s new CD opens with this steel-soaked, twin fiddled two step, and I was instantly in heaven. For my money, she remains the finest female country vocalist in the entire state of Texas. The World You’re Living In is, I believe, her fifth studio album, and word is steadily spreading about this gifted singer-songwriter. Her cowriters on the collection include such Nashville heavyweights as Vince Gill, Dale Dodson and Bill Anderson, and Pete Wade, Hargus “Pig” Robbins and Lloyd Green are in the backing band. If you aren’t already, get on board, people. Her versions of the classics “We Loved it Away,” “How Can I Unlove You” and “If It Ain’t Love,” alone, are worth the price of admission.
SHERYL CROW/Easy
Writers: Sheryl Crow/Chris DuBois/Jeff Trott; Producer: Sheryl Crow and Justin Niebank; Publisher: Old Green Barn/House of Sea Gayle/Cyrkllikc Soup/Wixen;
BMI/ASCAP
–Pop princess Sheryl goes country with this lilting, sweet ode to making a romantic vacation right in your own backyard. Very pretty and very enjoyable.
JB AND THE MOONSHINE BAND/The Only Drug
Writers: JB Patterson; Producer: JB Patterson; Publisher: JBMB, BMI
–He sings in a robust, warm baritone that instantly communicates, “buddy.” In the song, he’s giving up all his bad habits by embracing her love. Promising.
THE BAND PERRY/Done
Writers: Reid Perry/Neil Perry/John Davidson/Jacob Bryant; Producer: Dan Huff; Publisher: When I Go To The Moon/Famdamily/Rio Bravo/Castle Bound, BMI/SESAC
–He’s done her wrong one too many times. This hit-bound, ultra-rhythmic, tongue-tripping, punchy outing has just one word in its chorus kiss-off finale. Done.
JJ LAWHORN/Stomping Grounds
Writers: JJ Lawhorn/Jamie Paulin/Brian Maher; Producer: Jeremy Stover; Publisher: EMI April/Songs of Hanover Holler/Tunes of Bigger Picture/EMI Blackwood/Pawpaw Paulin, ASCAP/BMI
–He has a vocal drawl you can cut with a knife. And since the focus is almost entirely on his voice, its a good thing that the down-home, back-roads lyric is as strong as it is. Even so, a little more creativity and finesse in the production would have been welcome.
BILLY DEAN/I Can’t Leave A Good Thing
Writers: Billy Dean/Tommy Cecil; Producer: Ray Barnette and Billy Dean; Publisher: Billy Dean/Lost River/Mow Money Lawn, BMI/ASCAP
–I dig the deep thump in the backbeat and the sizzling fiddle work. His chesty vocal is sexy-hillbilly in an outlaw kinda way. Recommended listening.
THE LUMINEERS/Stubborn Love
Writers: none listed; Producer: Ryan Hadlock; Publisher: none listed
–With the inescapably catchy “Ho Hey” still on everyone’s lips, these hearty folkies are following it up with this equally upbeat ditty of a love that won’t give up. Nominated as Best New Artist at the Grammys, this rollicking acoustic band definitely deserves some country attention.
THOMPSON SQUARE/If I Didn’t Have You
Writers: Keifer Thompson/Shawna Thompson/Jason Sellers/Paul Jenkins; Producer: NV; Publisher: none listed
–Chosen as Vocal Duo of the Year by both the CMA and the ACM, this married couple returns with a new album titled Just Feels Good later this month. In the meantime, here’s a rousing, catchy, power-ballad ode to fidelity sung with immense energy by both Keifer and Shawna.
ASHLEY MONROE/Like A Rose
Writers: Ashley Monroe/Jon Randall/Guy Clark; Producer: Vince Gill & Justin Niebank; Publisher: Reynsong/Ayden/Wha Ya Say/EMI April, BMI/ASCAP
–Openly autobiographical and honestly heartfelt, this title tune to Ashley’s album is like having a comforting blanket wrapped around your shoulders. Her clear-as-country-rain voice and the rippling production are both simply awesome. Right now, she’s best known as “Hippie Annie” in The Pistol Annies. With songs like this mini masterpiece, that is all about to change, my friends.
MUMFORD & SONS/I Will Wait
Writers: Mumford & Sons; Producer: Marcus Dravs; Publisher: none listed
–I find it amusing that the leading “Americana” act is British. Country radio could do itself a big favor by programming this banjo-bubbling bundle of energy with its wildly catchy harmonized choruses and plea for forgiveness. It belongs right alongside Darius’s “Wagon Wheel” and the Zac Brown Band. And it certainly doesn’t hurt that it appears on the Grammy Album of the Year.

CRS Luncheon Features Morgan, Pickler, and Darling

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sarah

Sarah Darling


CRS attendees enjoyed performances by Craig Morgan, Kellie Pickler and Sarah Darling today (Mar. 1) at a lunch hosted by Black River Entertainment. Black River’s CEO Gordon Kerr welcomed guests at the showcase that included both new material and hit songs from the label’s roster.
Darling kicked off the show with “Hey Monday,” followed by “Soldier’s Girl.” She also performed the current single “Home To Me,” recently featured on an episode of ABC’s The Bachelor and from her EP released in January. She shared her enthusiasm with the audience from working with acclaimed producer Dann Huff on the project.
On the side stage, Black River Publishing’s Josh Osborne and Forest Glen Whitehead performed several tunes “in the round” including Kenny Chesney’s No. 1 hit “Come Over” and Greg Bates’ current single “Fill In The Blank,” both co-penned by Osborne, which the audience really enjoyed.
craig

Craig Morgan


A video of Kellie Pickler was shown to the crowd revealing a touching story about her father who, although incarcerated at the time, gave her a small radio as a birthday gift she treasured as a child. Pickler took the stage and performed new material including “Tough All Over,” a power ballad that oozed classic Country. Pickler expressed her excitement for finding a new home at Black River and closed with an up-tempo and full-on-attitude ditty called  “Ring For Sale.” The audience was with her every step of the way.
Craig Morgan delivered a medley of hits including, “International Harvester,” “That’s What I Love About Sunday,” “Redneck Yacht Club,” “Bonfire” and “This Ole Boy.” It was a good reminder of Morgan’s many hits and we enjoyed going down memory lane with him. With the engaged audience in hand, he performed his current single “More Trucks Than Cars” then asked the audience if he could try out a new song, “I Wake Up Loving You” showing his full range of vocal ability. The audience didn’t mind at all.
kellie

Kellie Pickler

Sony Boat Show Keeps On Rolling

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REOandBrad1

Brad Paisley and REO Speedwagon


Celebrating its 27th year, Sony Music Nashville’s General Jackson Show & Dinner Cruise on Thursday night (Feb. 28) offered attendees performances from many of the label’s diverse roster and ended the evening with a very special guest.
Sara Evans and Sony Music Chairman/CEO Gary Overton began the festivities with Radio Ink’s Lois Chooljian honoring the 2013 class of Best Country Radio Program Directors.
Miranda Lambert kicked off the evening with “Mama’s Broken Heart” after sharing with the crowd, “this is my first time to start the boat and I’m very excited!” She then brought out husband and Warner Music Nashville’s Blake Shelton to perform their duet and 2012 CMA Song of the Year, “Over You.” Shelton admitted he never thought he would ever be performing on the Sony boat.
Ashley Monroe and Angaleena Presley joined Lambert (forming the Pistol Annies) and performed “Hell on Heels” and a new song, “Hush, Hush” from their upcoming album. After host Gary Overton joked that not everyone gets to come on the boat, television producer Simon Cowell introduced via video 2012’s The X Factor winner Tate Stevens who delivered his upcoming single, “Power of a Love Song.”
KellyPistolAnnies1

Pictured (L-R): Ashley Monroe, Kelly Clarkson, Angaleena Presley and Miranda Lambert


Sporting a life jacket, Brad Paisley appeared on stage and quickly had the guests laughing as he bantered with Overton about being prepared for any mishap on the boat. Paisley introduced upcoming tour mates, The Henningsens who performed “American Beautiful” and “To Believe.” Next up was Jerrod Niemann stepping up for “Only God Could Love You More” and his No. 1 hit “Lover, Lover.” Chris Young performed “I Can Take It From There” and thanked RCA “for sticking with me” followed by his new song, “Aw Naw.”
Kelly Clarkson delivered “Don’t Rush” with Jason Sellers and performed her new song “Ain’t Gonna Like This,” backed by the Pistol Annies. Two words: standing ovation. Brad Paisley returned to the stage offering up his new single, “Beat This Summer,” before the special guest for the evening was introduced.
REO Speedwagon surprised the crowd performing “Take It On The Run” and being joined by Evans. Lead singer Kevin Cronin shared with the guests, “the line between rock and country has never been grayer.” The legends continued with such mega hits as “Music Man,” “Keep On Loving You,” and “Time For Me To Fly.” The finale brought out the Sony Nashville artists as they performed “Roll With The Changes.”
The boat had docked, but we were indeed still rollin’.

Weekly Chart Report (3/1/13)

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SPIN ZONE

Sidewalk Records' Morgan Frazier (L) recently visited with Stephanie Crist (R) from 97-3 The Dawg in Lafayette, LA.

Sidewalk Records’ Morgan Frazier (L) recently visited with Stephanie Crist (R) from 97-3 The Dawg in Lafayette, LA.


With her debut single, “Merry Go Round,” Kacey Musgraves has etched her first No. 1 on the MusicRow CountryBreakout Chart. Blake Shelton‘s “Sure Be Cool If You Did” takes up residence at No. 2, while Lee Brice‘s ballad “I Drive Your Truck” ups a notch to No. 3. Taylor Swift‘s “Begin Again,” previously a No. 1 single, is at No. 4 this week. Toby Keith‘s “Hope On The Rocks” holds on strong at No. 5 again this week. Rounding out the Top 10 are Chris Young‘s “I Can Take It From There” at No. 6, Hunter Hayes‘ “Somebody’s Heartbreak” at No. 7, Miranda Lambert‘s “Mama’s Broken Heart” at No. 8, Lady Antebellum‘s “Downtown,” which breaks into the Top 10 this week at No. 9 and George Strait‘s “Give It All We Got” at No. 10.
Jason Aldean‘s “1994” is the biggest gainer this week, hitting the chart full-throttle with 233 added spins. The Band Perry‘s “Done” earned an increase of 195 spins, while Brad Paisley‘s “Beat This Summer” gained 194 spins. Zac Brown Band‘s “Jump Right In” added 161 spins, and Gary Allan‘s “Pieces” with 146 additional spins.

Zac Brown Band‘s “Jump Right In” makes its debut this week at No. 71, while The Band Perry‘s “Done” lands at No. 77 and Brad Paisley‘s “Beat This Summer” opens at No. 78.

Frozen Playlists: KWWR, KMOK, WZZS, WTCM, WBYZ, WWBE, WOKA, KVWF, WTHO, KFAV, WIFE, KXIA, WKDZ, WDGG, WMEV, WTRS, KWOX, KCNY, WJVL, KGMN, WDHR, KDKD, KDOL, KDXY, KIAI, KITX, KKAJ, KKOW, KMGO, KVVP, KXBZ, KXKZ, KYTN, WAAG, WKWS, WPPL, WXXK
Upcoming Singles
March 4
Brad Paisley/Beat The Summer/Arista Nashville
Randy Houser/Runnin’ Outta Moonlight/Stoney Creek
March 11
Jason Aldean/1994/BBR
Jon Pardi/Up All Night/Capitol
The Band Perry/Done/Republic Nashville
Sheryl Crow/Easy/Old Green Barn-Sea Gayle-Warner Bros.-WMN
Tate Stevens/Power Of A Love Song/Syco Music-RCA
Billy Dean/I Can’t Leave A Good Thing/Rainman-Flying Island
Erica Nicole/Better Beer/Heaven-Nine North-Turnpike
Tobacco Rd. Band (Feat. Colt Ford)/That’s Country/Turnpike-Big Southern
March  18
Justin Moore/Point At You/Valory
Phil Vassar/Love Is Alive/Rodeowave
 

High Valley

Jaida try 1

 
New On The Chart—Debuting This Week
Artist/song/label — chart pos.
Zac Brown Band/Jump Right In/Southern Ground-Atlantic – 71
The Band Perry/Done/Republic Nashville – 77
Brad Paisley/Beat This Summer/Arista Nashville – 78
Most Added
Artist/song/label — New Adds
Jason Aldean/1994/Broken Bow Records – 18
The Band Perry/Done/Republic Nashville – 16
Brad Paisley/Beat This Summer/Arista Nashville – 15
Zac Brown Band/Jump Right In/Southern Ground-Atlantic – 13
Gary Allan/Pieces/MCA Nashville – 12
Tim McGraw w/ Taylor Swift/Highway Don’t Care/Big Machine – 11
Justin Moore/Point At You/Valory Music Co. – 6
Greatest Spin Increase
Artist/song/label — spin+
Jason Aldean/1994/Broken Bow – 233
The Band Perry/Done/Republic Nashville – 195
Brad Paisley/Beat This Summer/Arista Nashville – 194
Zac Brown Band/Jump Right In/Southern Ground/Atlantic – 161
Gary Allan/Pieces/MCA – 146
On Deck—Soon To Be Charting
Artist/song/label — spins
Jordan Anderson/Toxic/GTR – 180
Jaida Dreyer/Half Broke Horses/Streamsound – 174
Stephanie Grace/Would U Be Mine/SMG – 173
Smokey River Boys/All Pure Country/Platinum Plus – 170
Joe Bachman/Small Town Rock Stars/Joe Bachman – 163

Show Dog Universal Music’s Joel Crouse (L) made a recent pit stop on the west coast at KKGO to visit with PD Tonya Campos (R) in support of his debut single, “If You Want Some.”

Show Dog Universal Music’s Joel Crouse (L) made a recent pit stop on the west coast at KKGO to visit with PD Tonya Campos (R) in support of his debut single, “If You Want Some.”


Atlantic/WMN’s Hunter Hayes recently paid a visit to KKWF on top of the Hard Rock in Seattle. Pictured (L-R): Kevin Herring (VP of Promotion WMN), Mike Preston (KKWF PD), Hunter Hayes, Wingnut (KKWF MD), Deanna Lee (KKWF Assistant MD), and Rick Young (West Coast Regional WMN).

Atlantic/WMN’s Hunter Hayes recently paid a visit to KKWF on top of the Hard Rock in Seattle. Pictured (L-R): Kevin Herring (VP of Promotion WMN), Mike Preston (KKWF PD), Hunter Hayes, Wingnut (KKWF MD), Deanna Lee (KKWF Assistant MD), and Rick Young (West Coast Regional WMN).