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Pistol Annies Surprise With First Show In Five Years At Lambert’s CMHoF Residency, Reveal Third Album

Pistol Annies’ Ashley Monroe, Angaleena Presley, Miranda Lambert. Photo: CMHoF/Instagram

The Pistol Annies gave their first show in five years during the second of Miranda Lambert‘s Country Music Hall Of Fame (CMHoF) Artist In Residency slot on Sept. 26.

Designed to give artists a blank canvas to showcase their art, Lambert chose to use her final evening after the week prior to welcome the Annies sisters. Shortly after the evening ended, RCA Nashville released the three tracks previewed during the show, and by morning their third studio album Interstate Gospel had been revealed (below) for release Nov. 2.

“Surprise, y’all,” said Lambert in welcoming the sold-out CMHoF crowd of 800. “This will be the very first Pistol Annies show in five years.” Shortly after the release of their sophomore album in 2013, the Pistol Annies unexpectedly cancelled all tour dates.

The new hoppin’ rocker “Got My Name Changed Back” featured Lambert’s bold annunciations of wily lyrics anticipated after her highly public divorce. The audience reaction to: I don’t let a man get the best of me/Spent an afternoon at the DMV/I got my name changed back, were jogged by an unapologetic, jeering Lambert: “Y’all get it?”

Additional new songs—now on streaming services and available for immediate download with an album pre-order—included the album’s washboard toe-tapper, driving title track and single “Interstate Gospel” and the yearning, “Best Years of My Life,” about numbing dreams of breaking out of a settled relationship.

The Annies joked of reading lyric sheets from “hymnal” music stands in brushing up on lyrics from their catalog. With the cleverness and honesty of Loretta Lynn in “Takin’ Pills,” the crescendoing “Girls Like Us,” and the smoldering and empowering “Hell On Heels,” the Annies are able to perfectly showcase their female-empowered craft in a unique way inside country music. What they may have lacked at times in vocal dynamic or harmony was made up for in charisma and wit.

Songs like “Blue Tick Hounds,” about small town, simple, tender and true life echoed within “Trailer For Rent,” and even family reunion dynamics in “Hush Hush.” The bad girl side was explored with the swampy “I Feel A Sin Coming On,” the feisty “Unhappily Married,” or the steel-driven hula in “Bad Example.” All that eased into less colloquial, heartbreakingly honest titles like “House On Fire”—which Angaleena Presley said Lambert jumped all over because it was about burning something up. Their depth and seriousness continued with “Dear Sobriety” and even the brilliant “Housewife’s Prayer,” before the more gentle, carefree clogger “Damn Thing About It” and whistler, “Lemon Drop.”

Despite two ex-husbands between them, Lambert herself touted her singleness from the stage, echoed in the fervent “Boys From The South.” “I want y’all to love us for our mistakes, and celebrate our victories tonight,” said Lambert.

“Thank you for loving the Annies and welcoming us back to the world,” she summed. “We needed this. We’re just three girlfriends that live a lot of life. We’ve got husbands, and ex-husbands, and babies and family things, and all the things you deal with in life and we sit around write about our lives. Our records are slumber parties on wheels.”

With a pregnant Presley in a black tee shirt standing middle-ground, Annies Ashley Monroe and Lambert flanked with a black flapper and thigh-high boots, and thin suede black fringe dress, respectively.

All with a guitar available, the trio was backed by four during the CMHoF’s 14th residency. Musicians included Jonny Lam (steel), Scotty Wray (guitar), Boo Massey (guitar) and Mike Rinne (bass). Although the evening lacked drums, Lambert brought out a tambourine and washboard to keep tempo at times.

Three similar, intimate concert events will invite fans “into their living room to hang, talk, laugh and commiserate” surrounding the 14-track album’s release, which has also been revealed to fans throughout this week via an old school postcard campaign. Tickets go on sale on Friday, Oct. 5 for three dates: Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium on Oct. 25, NYC’s The Town Hall on Nov. 2 and Los Angeles’ The Novo on Nov. 7. Additionally, the trio will play at BMI’s Maui songwriter festival between Nov. 29-Dec. 1.

Interstate Gospel Track Listing
1. Interstate Prelude
2. Stop Drop and Roll One (Lambert, Monroe and Presley)
3. Best Years of My Life (Lambert, Monroe and Presley)
4. 5 Acres of Turnips (Lambert, Monroe and Presley)
5. When I Was His Wife (Lambert, Monroe and Presley)
6. Cheyenne (Lambert, Monroe and Presley)
7. Got My Name Changed Back (Lambert, Monroe and Presley)
8. Sugar Daddy (Lambert, Monroe and Presley)
9. Leavers Lullaby (Lambert, Monroe and Presley)
10. Milkman (Lambert, Monroe and Presley)
11. Commissary (Lambert, Monroe and Presley)
12. Masterpiece (Lambert, Monroe and Presley)
13. Interstate Gospel (Lambert, Monroe and Presley)
14. This Too Shall Pass (Monroe and Presley)

Pistol Annies. Photo: Miller Mobley

Bobby Karl Works The Room: SOURCE Hall Of Fame Awards

Pictured (L-R): Ronna Rubin, Holly Gleason, Cathy Gurley, JoAnn Berry, Anita Hogan, Barbara Baker and Tammy Genovese. Photo: Moments By Moser Photography

BOBBY KARL WORKS THE ROOM

Chapter 605

It’s always “Old Home Week” at the SOURCE Hall of Fame awards banquet, and this year’s event was no exception.

The gala is now so popular that it sells out months in advance. That’s because everyone you’ve ever met and liked in the Nashville music biz attends and because it’s such a cool idea to honor, “the women behind the music.”

Staged at the Musicians Hall of Fame on Tuesday night (Sept. 25), this 16th annual celebration honored Barbara Baker, JoAnn Berry, Tammy Genovese, Holly Gleason, Cathy Gurley, Anita Hogin and Ronna Rubin.

Brenda Lee, Barbara Baker, Jeannie Seely. Photo: Moments By Moser Photography

 “I am so pleased to be among the ladies being inducted tonight,” said Barbara. “I have had such a blessed life.”

Her journey has taken her through Blue Crest Music, Tree International, Frank Mull Promotions, Ray Baker Productions and Baray/Honeytree Publishing.

Her producer/publisher husband Ray Baker and their enduring songwriting friend Dallas Frazier cheered Barbara on. Connie Smith sent video congratulations.

“It’s just such an honor to be here,” said JoAnn Berry. “It’s been a great trip and a great career.”

Jeannie Seely, JoAnn Berry, Brenda Lee. Photo: Moments By Moser Photography

JoAnn went from KHOO radio in Waco to The Jim Halsey Company, the Dick Blake Agency, World Class Talent and her own management and show-production firm. The Oak Ridge Boys appeared via video to salute her.

Tammy Genovese alluded to how male dominated the Nashville music business is. “I am so appreciative of what these SOURCE women do to acknowledge women in this industry,” she added.

Following a long career at the CMA, Tammy joined The Country Network (TCN), then launched her own Music City Sports & Entertainment Group.

“To recognize all these women is to recognize the real guts of this music,” said Holly Gleason. “Thank you very much for this honor, but really it’s been my privilege to serve the message….I’ve written for just about anybody whose check would clear the bank.”

Jeannie Seely, Holly Gleason, Brenda Lee. Photo: Moments By Moser Photography

Holly has worked as a music journalist, publicist, editor, songwriter and university educator.

Her video greeting came from Kenny Chesney. Tanya Tucker did the video honors for Cathy Gurley.

“This is definitely an exciting night,” said Cathy. “It was, and still is, an unpredictable ride. Music is a gift that enriches us, whoever and wherever we are.”

Jeannie Seely, Cathy Gurley, Brenda Lee. Photo: Moments By Moser Photography

Cathy’s career stops have included Jamboree in the Hills, the CMA, Gurley & Co., Capitol Records, Spirit of America and You Have the Power.

Suzanne Lee reminded the crowd that three prior SOURCE honorees passed away during the past year, Helen Farmer (1926-2018), Hazel Smith (1934-2018) and Jo Walker-Meador (1924-2017). Citing the banquet as “a labor of love,” she recognized the event’s planning committee and sponsors.

Co-host Brenda Lee called Kay Smith to the stage to say, “There have been many people who have been involved in this, but really, THIS is the one,” who hatched the SOURCE concept. “And wasn’t this a good idea?” The audience applauded its approval.

Pictured (L-R): Co-host Jeannie Seely, Source President Mandy Gallagher, Source Treasurer Catherine Moore, Holly Gleason, Ronna Rubin, JoAnn Berry, Cathy Gurley, Barbara Baker, Anita Hogan, Tammy Genovese, Chair of Source Hall of Fame Committee Suzanne Lee, co-host Brenda Lee, Source Vice President Alicia Jones and Source Secretary Jennifer Turbow. Photo: Moments By Moser Photography

Co-host Jeannie Seely continued the honors by bringing Anita Hogin to the podium. Anita recalled the chapters of her life by thanking Shelby Singleton, Jack Clement, Roger Cook & Ralph Murphy (Picalic Music), Ted Hacker (International Artists Management and Hugh Howser (H3 Events). Diamond Rio offered a video salute.

“I fell in love with country music, and I knew I’d found my place,” said Anita. “You’ve made me so, so happy.”

“It was Teddy Roosevelt who said, ‘Speak softly and carry a big publicist,” quipped Ronna Rubin. She recalled Cathy Gurley and Mary Ann McCready as mentors and thanked her “wing women,” Jenny Bohler, Judi Turner and Susan Niles. Helping people to make their music dreams come true, “is a responsibility I do not take lightly.

“It was Saint Teresa who said, ‘We cannot all do great things, but we can all do small things with great love.’”

Jeannie Seely, Ronna Rubin, Brenda Lee. Photo: Moments By Moser Photography

Ronna’s video greeting came from Dwight Yoakam, and her cheering tablemates included Bohler, Gary Kraen, Deb Barnes, Maura O’Connell, Tom Roland and her always-genial “spousal equivalent,” Fred Pierson.

“We’re just having a big party here tonight,” Brenda beamed. She and Jeannie were having as much fun as anyone, trading wisecracks and ad libs on stage as they guided us through the three-hour ceremony.

Among the merry makers were power couples Joe & Linda Chambers, Pat & Charlie McCoy, Chuck & Sandy Neese and Areeda & Joe Stampley. Also working the room during the cocktail hour were Susan Stewart, Stacy Schlitz, Mike Martinovich, Martha Moore, Claire Cook and Fletcher Foster. Pianist/singer Ronnie Brown provided the soundtrack, and Monster Energy drinks funded the libations.

Jeannie Seely, Tammy Genovese, Brenda Lee. Photo: Moments By Moser Photography

We dined on baked Springer Mountain Farms chicken, braised carrots and cheesy risotto. Greens, shaved parmesan, tomato cubes and black-eyed peas were mixed in the salad. Each dessert cup held a chocolate brownie embedded in caramel and topped with whipped cream and a white chocolate square stamped with the SOURCE logo.

The happy diners included David Pomeroy, David Wade, Karen Clark, Karen Conrad, Jackie Monahan, Jackie Patillo, Debbie Carroll, Debi Fleischer, John Zarling, John Lomax III, Bonnie Garner, Bonnie Sugarman, Paul Moore and Paula Szeigis.

Andrea Conte was there to support Cathy Gurley, because of You Have the Power. This was heroic considering how busy her schedule is campaigning to get hubby Phil Bredesen elected Senator.

Among those basking in the convivial, “Old Home Week” atmosphere were Amy Kurland, Bebe Evans, Beverly Keel, Bob Doyle, Brandi Simms, Burt Stein, Buzz Cason, Charlie Monk, Christy Walker-Watkins, Dale Bobo, Diane Pearson, Don Cusic, Ed Benson, Fiona Prine, Hank Adam Locklin, Jennifer Turnbow, Judy Harris, Laura Crawford, Lisa Harless, current SOURCE prez Mandy Gallagher, Margie Hunt, Nathan Pyle, Neal Spielberg, Pat Rolfe, Preshias Harris, Ray Shelide, Ron “Snake” Reynolds, Sarah Brosmer, Whitney Daane and Woody Bomar.

Jeannie Seely, Brenda Lee, Anita Hogan. Photo: Moments By Moser Photography

SiriusXM Acquires Pandora In $3.5 Billion Deal

SiriusXM has acquired Pandora in an all-stock transaction valued at $3.5 billion. The transaction has been unanimously approved by both the independent directors of Pandora and by the board of directors of SiriusXM. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2019.

Under the deal, the Pandora brand will remain current, including Pandora Plus and Pandora Premium. Pandora products and pricing will not change as a result of this announcement.

SiriusXM CEO Jim Meyer said, “We have long respected PANDORA and their team for their popular consumer offering that has attracted a massive audience, and have been impressed by PANDORA’s strategic progress and stronger execution. We believe there are significant opportunities to create value for both companies’ stockholders by combining our complementary businesses. The addition of PANDORA diversifies SIRIUSXM’s revenue streams with the U.S.’s largest ad-supported audio offering, broadens our technical capabilities, and represents an exciting next step in our efforts to expand our reach out of the car even further. Through targeted investments, we see significant opportunities to drive innovation that will accelerate growth beyond what would be available to the separate companies, and does so in a way that also benefits consumers, artists, and the broader content communities. Together, we will deliver even more of the best content on radio to our passionate and loyal listeners, and attract new listeners, across our two platforms.”

Pandora CEO Roger Lynch said, “We’ve made tremendous progress in our efforts to lead in digital audio. Together with SIRIUSXM, we’re even better positioned to take advantage of the huge opportunities we see in audio entertainment, including growing our advertising business and expanding our subscription offerings. The powerful combination of SIRIUSXM’s content, position in the car, and premium subscription products, along with the biggest audio streaming service in the U.S., will create the world’s largest audio entertainment company. This transaction will deliver significant value to our stockholders and will allow them to participate in upside, given SIRIUSXM’s strong brand, financial resources and track record delivering results.”

According to the agreement, the owners of the outstanding shares in Pandora that SiriusXM does not currently own will receive a fixed exchange ratio of 1.44 newly issued SiriusXM shares for each share of Pandora they hold. The transaction is expected to be tax-free to Pandora stockholders. SiriusXM currently owns convertible preferred stock in Pandora, representing a stake of approximately 15 percent on an as-converted basis.

Breaking: Buddy Lee Attractions Closes After 54 Years

Music talent agency Buddy Lee Attractions has closed its doors after 54 years, BLA CEO Donna Lee has confirmed to MusicRow.

Located at 38 Music Sq. E., Ste. 300, the company employed approximately 12 staffers and represented a lengthy roster of tours and bookings for country, inspirational and rock artists, recently including Andy Griggs, Michelle Wright, Jamie O’Neal, Mark Collie, Darryl Worley, Presley & Taylor, Ricochet, Ty Herndon, and more.

Among the company’s staffers are Lee; David Kiswiney, Sr. Executive VP; Steve Peck, VP; Joan Saltel, Agent; Mike Meade, Agent; Anthony Wozniak, Agent; Jimmy Dasher, Agent; Aura Guadagno, Agent; Amy Aylward, Agent; Jon Sayles, Agent, and Marsha Owen, Bookkeeper.

Originally founded in 1964 as Aud-Lee Attractions, the agency was fully acquired by Buddy Lee in 1968. Throughout its history, the agency has represented notable artists including George Strait, Willie Nelson, Garth Brooks, the Dixie Chicks, Florida Georgia Line, and Jason Aldean.

Weekly Chart Report (9/21/18)

Click here or above to access MusicRow’s weekly CountryBreakout Report.

Bobby Karl Works The Room: NSAI’s Nashville Songwriter Awards Gala

Pictured (L-R): Matt Dragstrem, Josh Thompson, Blake Shelton, and Ben Hayslip celebrate backstage after “I’ll Name the Dogs,” was named NSAI 2018 Song of the Year

Chapter 604

The NSAI reclaimed its place on Music Row’s social calendar with a star-splashed awards celebration at the Ryman on Wednesday night (Sept. 19).

For the past 11 years, the organization’s honors had been an adjunct of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame banquet. This new event threw open its doors to fans, maintained the NSAI’s commitment to political activism, saluted contemporary hit makers, added a “legend” component and attracted big-time country performers.

Ashley Gorley was named the NSAI’s Songwriter of the Year, an honor he has won four times in the past five years.

“I just love everybody here,” he said. “Thank you guys just for allowing me to do this. I love being a songwriter in Nashville. When you write songs in Nashville, you get celebrated. This community is totally different…and unique. This is a community helping people like me to succeed.”

He was saluted in song by Thomas Rhett doing “Unforgettable” and by the merry, bopping Chris Janson delivering “Fix a Drink,” complete with a wild harmonica break.

The Songwriter-Artist of the Year was Brandon Lancaster, who performed his solo-penned “Greatest Love Story” with his band LANCO.

“I’m just so honored that we can have songs that are the soundtrack to people’s lives,” said Brandon. “Thank y’all so much. This means the world.”

Writers of the NSAI 2018 Ten ‘Songs I Wish I’d Written’ Awards take the stage to celebrate

Matt Dragstrem, Ben Hayslip and Josh Thompson won the Song of the Year honor for “I’ll Name the Dogs.”

“I moved to Nashville 15 years ago with a dream,” said Matt. “You dream about days like this. This award is for the dreamers out there.”

“To be voted on by your peers is awesome,” added Ben. “This was a special song from the second we started to write it,” said Josh.

The three then teamed up to perform it with Blake Shelton, for whom the song was tailored. The crowd went wild.

The “legend” part of the evening was the presentation of the Kris Kristofferson Lifetime Achievement Award to Bill Anderson.

Bobby Tomberlin pointed out on video that Bill, “has had hits in seven decades, and he’s still got the fire.” NSAI president Steve Bogard termed the honoree, “one of country music’s most beloved icons” and added, “Bill Anderson, you are a treasure of American music.”

Brandon Lancaster honored as NSAI 2018 Songwriter-Artist of the Year

Jamey Johnson said to Bill, “You are the kind of songwriter who doesn’t just write great songs, you inspire great songs.” He performed a delightfully laconic rendition of “Give It Away,” which he and Bill co-wrote with Buddy Cannon.

Then he sang a flawless low-harmony third part in Jon Randall and Jessi Alexander’s stunning performance of “Whiskey Lullaby,” co-written by Jon and Bill. This resulted in a standing ovation.

Darius Rucker did a swinging version of Bill’s career-launching “City Lights.”

“I’ve had a lot of special moments in this room and on this stage,” said Bill in his acceptance speech. “They’ve only given this award one other time. That was five years ago, and it was to a guy you might have heard of…Willie Nelson. So I’m in pretty tall company, Kris Kristofferson and Willie Nelson.”

He thanked people who’d “lifted me up” over the years. When he became teary eyed, he joshed, “My kidneys are too close to my eyeballs.

“I know the best is yet to come,” concluded the honoree. “The view from up here is pretty darned incredible.”

Bill Anderson (pictured with Steve Bogard – NSAI President) received the Kris Kristofferson Lifetime Achievement Award

Bill Anderson has been previously lauded as a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and, earlier this year, the national Songwriters Hall of Fame in New York City.

The bulk of the three-hour ceremony was devoted to “Ten Songs I Wish I’d Written” during the past year, as voted on by the NSAI’s songwriter members. The format for these presentations was video recollections by the songs’ writers, followed by live performances of six of them.

That’s why the fans squealed with delight throughout the eve.

Lee Thomas Miller recalled writing “It Ain’t My Fault” with Brothers Osborne. Then the siblings drew a roar for their steaming-hot performance of it. Big winner Gorley, plus Shane McAnally and Jesse Frasure recalled writing “Marry Me” with Rhett, who then had the audience singing along with him.

Rhett reflected on the writing of “I Lived It” with Ross Copperman, Hayslip and Gorley. Blake Shelton’s performance of it, solo with guitar, was terrific and eloquent. He was rewarded with a thunderous standing ovation.

McAnally returned to the video screen with reminiscences about “Written in the Sand,” which co-writers Old Dominion performed with a deft, light touch. Singer-songwriter Jonathan Singleton did “Yours If You Want It” with Old Dominion’s Brad Tursi in support.

Pictured (L-R): Steve Bogard (NSAI President), Darius Rucker, Bart Herbison (NSAI Executive Director), Cong. Doug Collins (GA), recipient of The White Hat Award, and Lee Thomas Miller (NSAI Former President)

Following Frank Rogers and Monty Criswell’s remembrances about “Five More Minutes,” Scotty McCreery appeared to sing it with confident slickness.

Other songwriting memories came from Chris Stapleton and Mike Henderson (“Broken Halos”); Carly Pearce, busbee and Emily Shackelton (“Every Little Thing”); David Frasier, Josh Kear and Ed Hill (“Most People Are Good”) and Maren Morris, Laura Veltz and Jimmy Robbins (“I Could Use a Love Song”).

“It’s a big night tonight in many ways,” said Bogard. He and the NSAI’s Bart Herbison and Jennifer Turnbow presented the organization’s White Hat award to U.S. congressman Doug Collins and its Stephen Foster Award to the RIAA’s Cary Sherman. Both were being saluted for the passage of the Music Modernization Act the previous evening in the Senate.

Collins was serenaded by fellow Georgians Travis Denning on the Southern-rock staple “Whipping Post” and Brantley Gilbert on his tune “Lights of My Hometown.” The Sherman celebration music came from Kip Moore (“Last Shot”) and Jewel (“No More Tears”).

Although the sold-out event was dominated by fans, the industry was well represented. On the schmooze patrol were Cyndi Forman, Lisa Harless, Mike Sistad, Tim Wipperman, Matt Jenkins, Zach Crowell, Hunter Phelps, Pat Higdon, Sherod Robertson, Brad Clawson, Will Weatherly, Troy Tomlinson, Terry Wakefield, Lindsay Gunn, Dennis Banka, David Israelite, Jody Williams, Michael Huppe and Tony Arata. I didn’t see them, but I’ll bet that Diane Pearson and/or Lori Badgett were working the room, since City National Bank was the presenting sponsor.

The NSAI has been honoring Nashville songwriters annually since 1967, making this its 51st awards presentation.

NSAI 2018 Songwriter of the Year, Ashley Gorley with wife, Mandy Gorley

RIAA Chairman and CEO, and NSAI  Stephen Foster Award recipient, Cary Sherman and Jewel backstage at the Ryman Auditorium.

New Spotify Beta Feature Allows Artists To Directly Upload Music For Free

On Thursday (Sept. 20), Spotify introduced a new feature that allows independent artists to upload music directly to Spotify, without the need for a label or third party. Spotify will allow artists to upload their content for free, with no fees or commissions no matter how frequent you release music.

The new method would effectively allow independent, copyright-owning artists to bypass distributors to put their music on the platform. Previously, artists were required to use distributors, such as CD Baby, TuneCore, AWAL, or others.

The new feature is currently in Beta through Spotify For Artists, and is an invite-only feature for a few hundred US-based independent artists, but aims to allow more artists and teams to upload music in the future. Additionally, Spotify’s listening data will be available directly to the artists by way of their own dashboard.

Artists will see a preview of exactly how things will appear to listeners before hitting submit. After the music goes live, artists will be able to control the metadata with fast edits.

A blog on Spotify.com clarifies:

Just like releasing through any other partner, you’ll get paid when fans stream your music on Spotify. Your recording royalties will hit your bank account automatically each month, and you’ll see a clear report of how much your streams are earning right next to the other insights you already get from Spotify for Artists.

Old Dominion Charity Show Welcomes Kenny Chesney, Sam Hunt, Kelsea Ballerini, Michael Ray

Pictured (L-R): Sam Hunt, Matthew Ramsey. Photo: Mason Allen

Billed “An Evening With Friends,” Old Dominion raised a total of $40K for charity on Tuesday, Sept. 18 at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium. Half of the proceeds benefited the Opry Trust Fund and the other half benefited the Ryan Seacrest Foundation.

Surprise guests of the show included Kenny Chesney (“Save It For A Rainy Day,” which was penned by Old Dominion band members Matthew Ramsey and Brad Tursi), Kelsea Ballerini (“Written In The Sand” and “I Hate Love Songs” which was co-written by band member Trevor Rosen), Sam Hunt (“Make You Miss Me,” “Ex To See,” both co-written with Ramsey), and Michael Ray (“The One That Got Away,” which was penned by Ramsey and Rosen).

Picture (L-R): Whit Sellers, Brad Tursi, Matthew Ramsey, SVP of Programming and Artist Relations for Opry Entertainment and General Manager of the Grand Ole Opry Sally Williams, Trevor Rosen, Geoff Sprung. Photo: Mason Allen

Old Dominion with representatives of the Ryan Seacrest Foundation. Pictured (L-R): Jimmy Leach, Whit Sellers, Brad Tursi, Mamie Shephard, Matthew Ramsey, Meredith Seacrest, Trevor Rosen, Katie Klochany, Geoff Sprung. Photo: Mason Allen

Old Dominion also performed 19 additional songs during their 120-minute set, including “Hotel Key,” which is currently No. 3 on the country charts and two brand new unreleased songs: the youthfully, energetic “Make It Sweet” and the sentimental and spiritual “Smooth Sailing.”

“What an unforgettable night,” said Ramsey. “The Nashville community has given so much to us. Our lives have changed in ways we could never have—so we felt like this show at the Ryman was a great way to start giving back. There was so much love and music and history swirling around. We are beyond proud to be able to raise money and help those who need it – along with help from our friends!”

The band will pick back up on the fall leg of their arena tour, Oct. 4 in Knoxville, Tennessee at the Knoxville Coliseum.

HAPPY ENDINGS WORLD TOUR FALL 2018 DATES
Oct. 4 Knoxville, TN Knoxville Coliseum
Oct. 5 Glen Allen, VA Innsbrook After Hours
Oct. 6 Rochester, NY Main Street Armory
Oct. 11 Amarillo, TX Amarillo Civic Center
Oct. 12 Las Cruces, NM Pan American Center
Oct. 13 Albuquerque, NM Balloon Fiesta Park
Oct. 25 Atlantic City, NJ Hard Rock Atlantic City
Oct. 26 University Park, PA Bryce Jordan Center
Oct. 27 Roanoke, VA Berglund Center
Oct. 31 Dublin, IE Whelans
Nov. 1 Belfast, IE Empire Music Hall
Nov. 3 Liverpool, ENG O2 Academy 2
Nov. 4 London, ENG O2 Shepherds Bush Empire
Nov. 5 Bristol, ENG Trinity
Nov. 6 Manchester, ENG Academy 2
Nov. 8 Birmingham, ENG O2 Institute
Nov. 9-10 Glasglow, SCT Queen Maragaret Union
Nov. 29 Estero, FL Germain Arena
Nov. 30 St. Augustine, FL St. Augustine Amphitheatre
Dec. 1 Winston-Salem, NC Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Dec. 6 Toledo, OH Huntington Center
Dec. 7 Huntington , WV Big Sandy Superstore Arena
Dec. 8 Grand Rapids, MI DeltaPlex Arena
Dec. 13 Bismarck, ND Bismarck Event Center
Dec. 14 Fargo, ND Scheels Arena
Dec. 15 Duluth, MN AMSOIL Arena

Pictured (L-R): Matthew Ramsey, Kenny Chesney, Geoff Sprung (back), Trevor Rosen. Photo: Mason Allen

Pictured (L-R): Matthew Ramsey, Kelsea Ballerini. Photo: Mason Allen

Pictured (L-R): Michael Ray, Matthew Ramsey. Photo: Mason Allen

Breaking: Music Modernization Act Passes United States Senate

The Orrin G. Hatch Music Modernization Act (MMA), legislation designed to improve streaming royalty rates for American songwriters, cleared one of the final hurdles today with adoption by the United States Senate.

Tennessee Senator Lamar Alexander called for a suspension of Senate rules today resulting in an immediate vote on the legislation he called the “most important piece of legislation in a generation to ensure American songwriters are paid for their work.”

It now awaits only a final vote by the U.S. House of Representatives within the next few days where it is expected to pass and be sent to President Donald Trump for his signature. The new Music Licensing Collective would begin operation on January 1, 2021 if the bills becomes law this year.

The bill:
• Changes the standard by which songwriter streaming rates are established replacing an outdated 1909 law that governs songwriter mechanical or sales royalties, changes consent decree regulations from 1941 that govern songwriter performance royalties.
• Creates a new Music Licensing Collective governed by songwriters and music publishers to oversee and administer digital mechanical licensing and payments, resolve disputes and administer unclaimed royalties.
• Eliminates the disastrous Notice of Intent (NOI) program administered by the U.S. Copyright Office that allows digital streaming companies to put the licensing burden back on songwriters.
• Guarantees streaming royalty payments to artists whose recordings were done before 1972 who now are not required to be paid due to a loophole in the Copyright Act.
• Pays streaming royalties directly to musicians and background singers who perform on recordings instead of going through other parties first.
• Requires the random selection of judges when performing rights societies ASCAP or BMI go to a rate court proceeding. Presently those judges are appointed for life.

 

“Hallelujah! The MMA gives us tools to achieve higher streaming royalty rates and important control over the payment of those royalties. Myself and NSAI have worked for nearly fifteen years on elements of this legislation. Passage of the MMA offers hope to the next generation of songwriters, especially those who are not performing artists, that writing songs will be a viable career choice.” – Steve Bogard, NSAI President and songwriter

“This was the last major obstacle. Because of their rules, the U.S. Senate is where many bills stall or die. Thanks to the leadership of Senators Orrin Hatch (UT), Lamar Alexander (TN), Sheldon Whitehouse (RI) and Christopher Coons (DE) the Senate approved the legislation today by unanimous consent. It is not too bold to say this is the most important songwriter legislation ever adopted by Congress. When we negotiate our digital rates or go to trial-type proceedings, we expect rates that are much fairer based on what the market should pay.” Bart Herbison, NSAI Executive Director

“As legendary band the Grateful Dead once said in an iconic pre-1972 song, ‘what a long strange trip it’s been.’ It’s been an epic odyssey, and we’re thrilled to almost be at our destination. For the modern U.S. Senate to unanimously pass a 185-page bill is a herculean feat, only achievable because of the grit, determination and mobilization of thousands of music creators across the nation. The result is a bill that moves us toward a modern music licensing landscape better founded on fair market rates and fair pay for all. At long last, a brighter tomorrow for both past and future generations of music creators is nearly upon us. We are indebted to the leadership of Senators Hatch, Grassley, Feinstein, Alexander, Coons, Kennedy and Whitehouse for helping get us there.” -Mitch Glazier, President, Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA)

“Today is a momentous day for songwriters, artists, composers, producers, engineers and the entire industry that revolves around them. The Senate vote marks a true step forward towards fairness for the people at the heart of music who have long been undervalued due to outdated laws. This was a long and complex process but ultimately the music industry has come out stronger and more united than ever. We commend Senators Orrin Hatch, Lamar Alexander, Chuck Grassley and Senate Leadership for swiftly moving this bill to the floor. Now we anxiously await the House’s final approval of the MMA and seeing it signed into law.” -David Israelite, NMPA President and CEO

“The Senate’s passage of the Music Modernization Act is the most exciting development I’ve seen in my career. Songwriters have suffered long enough and this bill will allow them to be paid fairly by the streaming companies that rely on their work. We got to this point because of the advocacy of hundreds of music creators who rallied behind the MMA and who will drive the future of the music industry. I look forward to seeing the MMA become law and watching the songwriters, composers, artists and producers who will greatly benefit.” -Irwin Robinson NMPA Board Chairman

“The future of the music industry got brighter today. Creators of music moved one step closer to getting paid more fairly. And industry forces that fought to maintain an unfair and harmful status quo were rebuffed. Now, SoundExchange’s 170,000-member community has just one word for the House of Representatives: Encore. The Music Modernization Act proves what can happen when constructive industry leaders work together towards a greater good. The SoundExchange community joined a historic coalition of artists, labels, songwriters, music publishers, streaming services, performance rights organizations, producers, engineers and unions. The outcome of this collaboration is a law that sets a new framework to guide the future of the music industry. There are still issues regarding creator fairness that we need to address, but today we celebrate a new era of cooperation and progress across the industry.” -Michael Huppe, SoundExchange President and CEO

“Today’s unanimous passage of the Music Modernization Act in the Senate represents a Herculean industry-wide effort to promote and celebrate songwriters and ensure their right to a sustainable livelihood. We applaud Senators Hatch, Alexander, Grassley, Feinstein, Whitehouse, Coons and the entire Senate for recognizing the value music has in both society and our hearts.” – Elizabeth Matthews, ASCAP Chief Executive Officer

“American songwriters work tirelessly behind the scenes to create the music that fans all over the world enjoy. Today, we made history by joining together and working for Senate passage of the Music Modernization Act, bringing us one step closer to a music licensing framework that reflects how people listen to music today. We urge the House of Representatives to swiftly pass the Senate bill, so the President can sign it into law and music creators can begin to see the benefits of this critical reform.” – Paul Williams, songwriter, ASCAP Chairman of the Board and President

“It’s truly a significant day, and speaking on behalf of all SESAC affiliates, we’re thrilled the Music Modernization Act has passed the Senate unanimously. We applaud everyone’s hard work and especially the Senators who have worked so diligently to get the bill passed. We urge the House to adopt the Senate bill for the President to sign, so the MMA becomes reality. We’re excited about the future of the music industry and modernization that allows all music creators to finally be paid more fairly for their hard work and dedication.” – John Josephson, Chairman/CEO, SESAC

“The AIMP applauds today’s unanimous passage of the appropriately named Orrin G. Hatch Music Modernization Act (MMA) in the U.S. Senate, clearing the path for its much-needed reforms to become law once ratified in the House and signed by the President. With support from both sides of the political aisle, along with unprecedented cooperation between the music and technology industry, the MMA will be a massive step forward for the independent publishing community and the music industry in general, which has been hamstrung by antiquated copyright laws for far too long. Now, independent publishers and songwriters will enjoy a more modern and realistic rate standard, a central public database to ease royalty payments from digital services, the end of evidence limitations placed on rights-holders arguing for more accurate royalty rates, the ability for PROs to be heard by more than just the same two judges, and a clear and final determination that digital services must pay for the use of pre-1972 recordings. None of this would be possible without NMPA President & CEO David Israelite and his staff, who have been instrumental in crafting and passing the MMA, and the AIMP thanks them along with Sen. Lamar Alexander for his articulate explanation of why this legislation is so important, and every U.S. Senator who has recognized the rights of independent publishers and songwriters by passing this legislation.” – Joint statement from Michael Eames, President of the Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP); Alisa Coleman, AIMP New York Executive Director; and John Ozier, AIMP Nashville Executive Director

“The passage of the Music Modernization Act by the Senate is a historic moment for the tens of thousands of music creators across the nation. Since first proposing the music industry unite around a common bill in 2014, our members have lobbied in Washington and all 50 states to achieve this vision. When creators raise their voices for fairness, they make great progress.” – Neil Portnow, President/CEO of the Recording Academy

“With this bill, we are one step closer to historic reform for our badly outdated music laws. The Music Modernization Act provides a solution, and it does so in a way that brings together competing sides of the music industry and both sides of the political spectrum. As a songwriter myself, I know firsthand how inefficient the current music marketplace is. The MMA will benefit all artists who make music such a rich, vibrant, and meaningful part of American life.” – Senator Orrin Hatch

“Not only have laws governing songwriter royalties not kept up with the arrival of the internet, they have not been modernized since the days of the player piano a century ago. As a result, it has become impossible for most songwriters to make a decent living. Our legislation will help make sure songwriters are paid when their songs are played, and that they are paid a fair market value for their work. Our success in Congress is the result of most parts of the music industry—songwriters, publishers, digital music companies and broadcasters—working together on what they agree on instead of fighting over what they disagree about. It is taken several years to do this but I believe the results will be well worth the effort.”   – Senator Lamar Alexander

Warner Music Nashville Luncheon Returns To CRS, With Blake Shelton Headlining

Blake Shelton will perform at 2019’s Country Radio Seminar, as part of the return of a third label luncheon, hosted by Warner Music Nashville. The luncheon will be held on CRS 2019’s Opening Day on Feb. 13, with additional performers from the Warner Music Nashville roster to be announced.

CRB, Inc.® also announced Blake Shelton has been named the recipient of the CRS 2019 Artist Humanitarian Award. The CRB Artist Humanitarian Award was created in 1990 by the organization’s board to honor those Country music artists who have exhibited exceptional humanitarian efforts during their career. Past recipients of the annual award have included Dierks Bentley, Lady Antebellum, Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts, Tim McGraw, and Faith Hill, Trace Adkins, Randy Owen, Toby Keith, Brad Paisley, Brooks & Dunn, Reba McEntire, Vince Gill, Garth Brooks, and Charlie Daniels, among others.

Blake Shelton has demonstrated his dedication to giving back through many charitable initiatives and events. In May 2013, Blake hosted “Healing In The Heartland,” a benefit concert for those affected by the numerous tornadoes that ravaged the country. The event was broadcast on NBC and more than $6 million dollars was raised for the American Red Cross of Oklahoma. In September 2016, Blake donated $600,000 to the Jimmy Everest Children’s Hospital in Oklahoma City, OK. and in September 2017, he hosted “Hand In Hand: A Benefit for Hurricane Relief,” a multi-city telethon that broadcast on all major television networks. So far, more than $50 million has been raised for relief efforts for hurricane Harvey and Irma. In Sept. 2017, the Oklahoma-native opened his Ole Red Bar & Grill in his hometown of Tishomingo, OK. All proceeds raised from his performance that evening were donated to a local charity in Tishomingo.

“Warner Music Nashville is very excited to kick-off CRS activities with an exciting and diverse line up of our amazing artists,” said WMN Chairman & CEO John Esposito. “I’m proud of Blake being recognized as Humanitarian of the Year. Over the years, I’ve watched him give back in so many profound ways. He responded immediately to those in need after the devastating tornadoes in Oklahoma in 2013, holding a benefit that was televised nationwide. He continually gives back to his hometown of Tishomingo, to the children’s hospital in Oklahoma City and so much more. But it’s what he does on a daily basis that really sticks out to me. He will send us an email about something he’s read and say, ‘I want to do this to help this person.’ And I think Blake has helped more stranded motorists than Triple A – but that’s just his character. He’s a humanitarian every day. Congratulations Blake, you earned it!”

Country Radio Seminar’s 50th Anniversary event will be held Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2019, through Friday, Feb. 15, 2019, at Omni Nashville. The three-day convention is an educational and networking event for country radio and music industry professionals, offering attendees access to informative panels, networking opportunities, speakers, research presentations and performances from some of today’s biggest stars and emerging artists.

Tomorrow, Tuesday, Sept. 18 marks the deadline to register at the discounted rate of $549. Starting Sept. 19, the price will increase to $599. Registrations are available for purchase at countryradioseminar.com.