Songwriter News: Rep. Collins Discusses Legislation; Writers Night at The Row

The Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP) Nashville and the Copyright Society of the South welcomed Congressman Doug Collins (R-Georgia) to discuss his sponsorship of the Songwriter Equality Act (SEA) on Wednesday, March 19 at The First Amendment Center.
This member-only event began with performances by hit songwriters Josh Kear (“Before He Cheats” – Carrie Underwood, “Need You Now” –Lady Antebellum), Jessi Alexander (“I Drive Your Truck” – Lee Brice, “Mine Would Be You” – Blake Shelton) and Wynn Varble (“Waitin’ on a Woman” – Brad Paisley, “A Little More Country Than That” – Easton Corbin), followed by Congressman Collins’ remarks on the legislation and a question and answer session with the audience. A reception sponsored by ASCAP, BMI and SESAC followed the program.
The Songwriters Equality Act would allow a “rate court” to consider other royalty rates as evidence when establishing digital performance rates for songwriters and composers. It would also adapt a fair rate standard for mechanical reproduction.
“What has become a passion for me are those who write the lyrics. They are penning what I might not be able to say but penning something that is inherently valuable.  They are penning something that has worth,” said Congressman Collins. “We’ve got to get back to an understanding that what you produce with your mind, with your heart and what you share is inherently worth the price.”

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Garth Shaw, a former road manager for Kenny Rogers and indie music publisher (Singing Roadie Music Group), will launch a new monthly songwriters evening, Garth’s Night Out! at The Row Kitchen & Pub, beginning Thursday, March 20. The March 20 show will feature Wood Newton, Jimbeau Hinson, and Marc-Alan Barnette. Upcoming shows include Bobby Tomberlin and Steve Dorff on April 24, followed by Mark D. Sanders and AJ Masters on May 29.
After the first event, the free shows are scheduled for the last Thursday of every month.