MusicRow Highlights Rising Leaders With 2021 N.B.T. Industry Directory

 

Rising Nashville music industry leaders have been selected as MusicRow Magazine’s 2021 N.B.T. Industry Directory.

Now in its second year, MusicRow’s N.B.T. Industry Directory is the first and only list of its kind, showcasing Nashville music business professionals who occupy important roles at their respective companies, and who are on a trajectory of excellence to successfully lead the Nashville music industry into the future.

All members of the N.B.T. Industry Directory are featured in MusicRow’s current 2021 Touring Issue, which releases today (Dec. 1). Single copies of MusicRow’s Touring Issue are available for purchase at musicrow.com for $45, and are included with yearly MusicRow memberships.

 

The 90 members of MusicRow Magazine’s 2021 N.B.T. Industry Directory are:

Ashley Alexander, Chief Marketing Officer – Girlilla Marketing

Paige Altone, Sr. Dir., Marketing – Sony Music Nashville

Derek Anderson, Dir. of Revenue and Streaming – Black River Entertainment

Elise Anderson, Pres./Owner – Elicity Public Relations

Christian Barker, Partner- Shackelford Bowen McKinley & Norton LLP

Kari Barnhart, Entertainment Relationship Manager/Wealth Advisor – Regions Bank

Katie Barolak, Creative Dir. – Black River Entertainment

Marieke Bianchi, Executive in Music Brand Partnerships – CAA Music Nashville

Ailie Birchfield, Dir., Media Marketing – Universal Music Group Nashville

Drew Bland, VP, Promotion – Monument Records

Linda Bloss-Baum, Sr. Dir. for Artist and Industry Relations – SoundExchange

Beth Brinker, Assoc. Dir. of Membership – ASCAP

Matt Brum-Taylor, Sr. Dir., Digital Marketing – Big Machine Label Group

AJ Burton, VP, Fluid Music Revolution – Fluid Music Revolution/Spirit Music Nashville

Robert Carlton, Sr. VP, Development – SMACK

Liz Cost, Sr. Dir., Marketing – Sony Music Nashville

Matt Cottingham, Associate – Ritholz Levy Fields

Laura Crawford, Membership Manager – Recording Academy, Nashville Chapter

Callie Cunningham, Manager – Red Light Management

Devin DeToro, Marketing Dir. – BBR Music Group

Crystal Dishmon, Artist Manager – ShopKeeper Management

Chip Dorsch, Marketing – Red Light Management

Janet Edbrooke, Publicist- Essential Broadcast Media

Emily Evans, VP, Strategic Initiatives – Country Music Association

Nicole Flammia, Sr. Creative Dir., Photo and Video Production – Big Machine Label Group

Catherine Frizzell, VP, Marketing – Country Music Association

Lauren Funk, Sr. Creative Dir. – Big Yellow Dog Music

Melissa Goldberg, Sr. Dir., Digital and Social – CMT (ViacomCBS)

Travis Gordon, Sr. Creative Dir. – Universal Music Publishing Group

JD Groover, Sr. Creative Dir. and A&R – Sea Gayle Music

Bret Guest, Business Manager, Touring – Tri Star Sports & Entertainment Group

Brooke Hardesty, Sr. Dir., Interactive Marketing – Warner Music Nashville

Jennifer Heaton, Dir., Strategic Partnerships – Academy of Country Music

Jarrod Holley, Manager – Make Wake Artists

Laura Hostelley, Dir. of Marketing – Triple Tigers Records

Jen Hubbard, Creative Dir. – Concord Music Publishing

Clay Hunt, Manager – Red Light Management

Kelly Jarrell, Manager – Sandbox Entertainment

Ashley Jeanette, Dir. of Transition – Tri Star Sports & Entertainment Group

Nina Jenkins, Creative Dir. – Jody Williams Songs

Tori Johnson, Sr. Dir. of Creative and Digital – Big Loud Records

Evyn Mustoe Johnston, Dir. of Membership – ASCAP

MaryAnn Keen, Assoc. Dir., Creative, Nashville – BMI

Katie Kerkhover, Sr. Creative Dir. – BMG

Heather Kinder, Chief Of Staff – Tri Star Sports & Entertainment Group

Lenore Kinder, Agent – Paradigm Talent Agency

Mary Catherine Kinney, Mgr., Spotify Artist and Label Partnerships, Nashville – Spotify

Rohan Kohli, Sr. Dir., A&R – Warner Music Nashville

Bailey Lathem, VP – City National Bank

Rummy Le Guevel, Sr. Accountant, Business Management -Tri Star Sports & Entertainment Group

Dorothy Leonhardt, Partner – Huskins-Harris

Mark Logsdon, Exec. Dir. – PLA Media

Sloane Cavitt Logue, Head of Crossover of the Nashville office – WME

Zebb Luster, Dir. of Creative/A&R – River House Artists

Nick Maiale, Dir., Events, Marketing and Partnerships – Music Business Association (Music Biz)

Ali Matkosky, National Dir. of Promotion – Big Loud Records

Amanda Mitchell, Junior Business Manager – Farris, Self & Moore

Melissa Moldovan, Sr. Mgr., Marketing – Academy of Country Music

Matthew Morgan, Music Agent – WME

Colt Murski, VP, Country Publishing and Creative – Curb | Word Entertainment

Travis Myatt, VP, Creative – Twelve6

Austin Neal, Music Agent – WME

Spencer Nohe, Dir., A&R – Warner Chappell

Emily Peacock, Creative Dir. – Tree Vibez Music

Mary Catherine Rebrovick, Dir., Publicity – Warner Music Nashville

Nate Ritches, Music Agent – Paradigm Talent Agency

Nicole Rivera, Dir. of Programs – Musicians On Call

Missy Roberts, Sr. Creative Dir. – Universal Music Publishing Group

Carter Robinson, Sr. VP, Music Entertainment and Sports Group – Pinnacle Financial Partners

Josh Saxe, Sr. Creative Dir. – Endurance Music Group

Diana Akin Scarfo, Dir. of International Digital Administration – SESAC

Dane Schmidt, Dir. of A&R – Sony/ATV Music Publishing Nashville

Ben Skipworth, Sr. Dir. of Creative, Video – Big Loud Records

Alex Stefano, GM Creative, Film + TV Sync – Big Yellow Dog Music

Dustin Stout, Dir., Digital/Tour Marketing – Morris Higham Management

Clark Tedesco, Sr. Dir., Artist Development – Warner Music Nashville

Alina Thompson, Mgr. of Artist Marketing and Industry Relations – SiriusXM/Pandora

Margaret Tomlin, Dir., A&R – Sony Music Nashville

Joshua Tomlinson, Assoc. Dir., Creative, Nashville – BMI

Jennifer Turnbow, Sr. Dir. of Operations – Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI)

Dustin Turner, Music Marketing Agent – CAA Music Nashville

Farrah Usmani, Associate – Loeb & Loeb, LLP

Jessi Vaughn, Mgr., A&R/Digital – Warner Chappell

Elisa Vazzana, Music Agent – CAA Music Nashville

Matt Watkins, President of Marketing and International – The AristoMedia Group

Jennifer Way, Sr. Dir., Marketing – Sony Music Nashville

Hollister Whaling, Junior Business Manager – Farris, Self & Moore

Bailey White, Promotions Manager – Black River Entertainment

Hannah Wilson, Dir., A&R – Universal Music Group Nashville

Tiffany Young, Sr. VP, Operations – SMACK

MusicRow Reveals 2021 Next Big Thing Artists List

MusicRow is proud to reveal its list of artists, who in 2021, are predicted to become the Next Big Thing (NBT). The annual NBT list features 11 artists, who are each profiled in MusicRow‘s latest 2021 Touring Issue print magazine, which hits shelves today (Dec. 1).

MusicRow Magazine’s Next Big Thing Class of 2021 has set itself apart from today’s artists with talent and hard work. Some of these NBT artists have just released their first singles, while others are celebrating chart-topping hits. All have broken through by bringing unique styles and by surrounding themselves with team members who champion them.

They are diverse in sound, style and level of success, but what they have in common is extraordinary talent and a passion for today’s ever-evolving country music format. These future stars are sure to lure a broad spectrum of listeners to the genre’s growing umbrella. And with touring at a standstill during the COVID-19 pandemic, some of these up-and-comers are making the most of their social media savviness.

Single copies of MusicRow’s Touring Issue are available for purchase at musicrow.com for $45, and are included with yearly MusicRow memberships.

MusicRow Magazine’s 2021 Next Big Thing Artists:

BRELAND

Bad Realm/Atlantic Records / self-published / WME / Why & How Projects/SAL&CO / BMI

BRELAND roared into the burgeoning territory of country-trap with his co-written and self-released smash “My Truck.” The track blew up on social media, reaching Gold certification and a music video with more than 30 million views, and solidified his place as a pioneer of the sub-genre that melds rural lyrical references and hip-hop beats.

As a songwriter, BRELAND previously scored cuts by rappers ELHAE and YK Osiris, and recently Trey Songz. After “My Truck” took off, a record deal followed, and BRELAND’s self-titled EP affirmed his country status with guest appearances by Sam Hunt, Lauren Alaina, and Chase Rice.

 

PRISCILLA BLOCK

Mercury Nashville/InDent Records / BMI

Buzzed-about singer-songwriter Priscilla Block signed with Universal Music Group Nashville this fall, bringing with her a significant fan base and fast-rising single “Just About Over You.” No wonder the labels were chomping at the bit—this Raleigh, North Carolina native is going to be a showstopper.

She’s a spitfire on sassy songs “Thick Thighs” and “PMS,” but has plenty of songwriting depth and vocal talent to back up these candid tracks.

One of five children, Block approaches life and music with an unapologetic, let-it-all-hang out attitude that resonates with listeners. Her fans rallied together to finance the studio recording of “Just About Over You” after hearing her play it online. Produced by Ross Copperman, the song shot to the top of the iTunes all-genre chart within 12 hours.

 

SHY CARTER

Warner Music Nashville / BMG / WME / T.R.U.T.H. Management / BMI

Shy Carter is a go-to songwriter and producer behind some of the biggest songs of the last decade—now he’s ready for his turn in the spotlight. He’s been criss-crossing the country on a quarantine-friendly bus tour, taking debut single “Good Love” to radio, spreading a message of gratitude destined to be his next hit.

The Memphis native merges gospel, R&B and soul influences with a love of storytelling, and the results have garnered critical acclaim and captivated millions of listeners.

His track record includes Charlie Puth’s “One Call Away,” Billy Currington’s “It Don’t Hurt Like It Used To,” Sugarland’s “Stuck Like Glue,” Rob Thomas’ “Someday,” and Tim McGraw and Faith Hill’s “Speak To A Girl.” That’s in addition to his trio of Kane Brown hits (“Good As You,” “Worldwide Beautiful,” “Heaven”) and as a featured guest on Keith Urban’s “Never Comin’ Down.”

 

TRAVIS DENNING

Mercury Nashville / RED Creative / WME / Red Light Management / BMI

Travis Denning scored his first No. 1 in 2020, with the enticing, driving rhythm of “After A Few,” and with 340 million streams under his belt buckle, this Georgia boy is just getting started.

Heading into 2021 he’s adding fuel to the fire with the clever new single “Where That Beer’s Been” (hint: he knows where it’s going). Denning also released fan-favorite track “Goodyears” after it grew to popularity during his live shows. “After A Few” and “Where That Beer’s Been” are from his recently-released debut EP Beer’s Better Cold.

Kicking off his career as a talented songwriter, Denning moved to Nashville and secured cuts by Jason Aldean, Justin Moore and others. Adding to his success this year is Michael Ray’s Top 20 single “Her World Or Mine,” which he co-wrote.

 

FILMORE

Curb Records / Sony/ATV Music Publishing Nashville / CAA / Victory Entertainment / BMI

When FILMORE moved to Nashville in 2011, he already had a load of performance experience, ranging from musicals to leading a band. As a solo artist he started independently releasing music, including the 2018 track “Slower” which racked up millions of streams and caught the attention of Curb Records.

His hooky debut album, State I’m In, is a hefty 18-song project chronicling a chapter of his life filled with ups and down, taken from experiences on the road and his hometown of Wildwood, Missouri.

FILMORE draws from a broad palate of influences, from his Colombian mother’s salsa music to his father’s 1980s favorites like John Mellencamp and Def Leppard. The result is a pop-friendly and radio-ready sound.

 

NIKO MOON

RCA Nashville / Warner Chappell / CAA / Make Wake / River House Artists / SESAC

Niko Moon is bringing laid back vibes to country radio—just like he’s been doing for more than a decade. The rising star, known as co-writer of five No. 1’s by Zac Brown Band, is riding high with his own Gold-certified single, “Good Time.” It is climbing the country charts and marks his first solo entry on the Billboard Hot 100 all-genre chart.

Originally from Texas, Moon relocated to Georgia as a child, absorbing the state’s country music influences as well as Atlanta’s hip-hop sound. Along the way he grew to embrace elements of the rural lifestyle and his musical family introduced him to artists such as John Prine and Patty Griffin.

He melds these influences into tracks “Paradise To Me,” and the newer “Dance With Me,” which he co-wrote with wife Anna Moon, and longtime co-producer Joshua Murty.

 

JAMESON RODGERS

River House Artists/Columbia Nashville / Combustion / CAA / Red Light Management / ASCAP

Jameson Rodgers is one of today’s best new artists, offering rock sensibilities which fit snugly into a country radio playlist—that’s part of the appeal of his No. 1 debut single, “Some Girls.”

He can lean a little dark (“Midnight Daydream”), or veer smoothly into the mainstream sunshine with “Grew Up In The Country” and “Cold Beer Calling My Name” featuring Luke Combs. What all of Rodgers’ songs have in common are smart lyrics and his knack for selecting quality material.

It’s no surprise he’s a song man, he’s co-writer of Platinum-selling hits for Florida Georgia Line (“Talk You Out of It”) and Chris Lane (“I Don’t Know About You”) as well as the title track of Luke Bryan’s Born Here Live Here Die Here. Rodgers is the 2020 MusicRow Awards Robert K. Oermann Discovery Artist of the Year.

 

ELVIE SHANE

BBR Music Group/Wheelhouse Records / Rome Phrey Publishing / UTA / Maverick / BMI

Elvie Shane’s soulful Southern rock sound first caught the attention of the national audience during his 2016 appearance on American Idol, and grew exponentially two years later with the self-release of his song “My Boy.” The heartfelt song about his stepson became a viral sensation, and an anthem for non-traditional family dynamics.

Raised in Kentucky, Shane took small town sensibilities to heart, grew up on gospel music at the local Baptist church, and absorbed influences as varied as John Fogerty, Steve Earle, Roger Miller and The Temptations.

In 2019 Shane signed with BBR Music Group. The label began working “My Boy” at country radio in late September, with Shane performing about five full-band shows per day for six weeks as part of his virtual radio tour.

 

PAYTON SMITH

Big Machine Records / Eclipse Music Group / WME / The AMG / BMI

20-year-old guitar slinger Payton Smith is on the fast track to stardom. The Louisiana native’s debut single “Like I Knew You Would” is rising quickly at radio, powered by a sound sure to entice fans.

It’s one of the songs Smith co-wrote for his upbeat, self-titled EP produced by hitmaker James Stroud. On the tracks, Smith shows off a mix of solid songs, youthful charm and his killer skills as a multi-instrumentalist.

Smith’s onstage performance chops first caught the attention of BMLG Pres./CEO Scott Borchetta when the young artist was playing on a small stage at CMA Music Festival in 2018. After seeing Smith tear through his original songs, Borchetta signed him to the label.

 

HAILEY WHITTERS

Pigasus Records/Big Loud Records/Songs & Daughters / CAA / BRND MGMT/Make Wake Artists / ASCAP

The Dream has come to fruition. Hailey Whitters is on a hard-fought, well-deserved path toward lasting success. Long championed by the Nashville music industry, this singer-songwriter has come into her own as an artist, being recognized beyond Music City.

Her excellent album The Dream explores struggle, perseverance, happiness and hope, all delivered by her lovely, distinctive voice. Whitters doesn’t shy away from honest perspective—both her own and others’—offered by vivid characters like “Janice at the Hotel Bar.” Among many excellent songs on the album, one obvious standout is “Heartland,” about finding comfort in your hometown.

Whitters frequent collaborators include heavyweights like Lori McKenna with whom she co-wrote “Happy People,” which was previously recorded and released by Little Big Town and is now on The Dream. In 2020, Whitters was voted AIMP Nashville Rising Artist-Writer of the Year and was part of CMT’s Next Women of Country Class of 2020.

 

LAINEY WILSON

Broken Bow Records / Sony/ATV / WME / Red Light Management / ASCAP

Lainey Wilson’s debut EP, Redneck Hollywood, is an impressive piece of work from a debut artist, accented by her lilting twang and elevated songwriting. Adding to the appeal is production courtesy of studio wizard Jay Joyce.

Wilson wraps up a balance of spitfire and sensitivity into a radio-ready package. It’s a winning combination found on her current single “Things A Man Oughta Know.” The Louisiana native isn’t afraid to get rowdy on “Straight Up Sideways” and embraces her home state on the loosely autobiographical “LA.”

After landing her record deal with BBR Music Group/BMG, Wilson was selected as part of CMT’s Next Women of Country Class of 2019, and earned a spot opening for Morgan Wallen during his 2019 If I Know Me tour.

On The Cover: MusicRow Magazine’s Touring Issue Features Russell Dickerson

 

MusicRow Magazine’s 2021 Touring Issue, with Triple Tigers Records artist Russell Dickerson gracing the cover, releases today (Dec. 1).

Multi-Platinum Nashville-based singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Dickerson has established himself as a prolific songwriter and powerhouse showman. In 2017, his Gold-certified full-length debut album, Yours, bowed at No. 5 on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart, while Dickerson rose to No. 1 on the Emerging Artists Chart. Yours yielded three consecutive No. 1 smashes, including the double-Platinum “Yours,” the Platinum “Blue Tacoma,” and Platinum “Every Little Thing.” In 2020, he received a nomination in the category of Best New Male Artist of the Year at the ACMs. He has opened shows for Thomas Rhett, Florida Georgia Line, Darius Rucker, Lady A, and Kane Brown in addition to bringing the “RD Party” to sold out venues everywhere as a headliner. His second full-length album, Southern Symphony [Triple Tigers Records], will release Dec. 4. Led by No. 1 single, “Love You Like I Used To,” Dickerson has also released two additional tracks off the forthcoming album, “Home Sweet,” and “Never Get Old.”

MusicRow Magazine’s annual Touring Issue also features its 2021 Next Big Thing Artists list, as well as the N.B.T. Industry Directory, which spotlights many of Nashville’s rising music industry executives.

This issue also celebrates MusicRow Magazine Owner/Publisher Sherod Robertson‘s 10-year anniversary of leading the publication. WME Nashville Co-Heads Becky Gardenhire and Jay Williams, UTA Nashville’s Curt Motley, and CAA Music Nashville Co-Head Marc Dennis discuss how touring could look in 2021, while concert lighting and design expert Chris Lisle examines how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted touring professionals. Touring specialists Trent and Joey Hemphill offer one example of how their touring company has pivoted during the pandemic. MusicRow also provides an update on the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA)’s work to aid independent music venues. Additionally, the 2021 Touring Directory is included in this issue, featuring contact information for touring transportation, production and insurance companies.

Single copies of MusicRow’s Touring Issue are available for purchase at musicrow.com for $45, and are included with yearly MusicRow memberships. Please note that issues of MusicRow Magazine’s Touring Issue can only be purchased online, as the MusicRow building is currently closed to the public due to COVID-19.

Russell Dickerson Career Stats:
LABEL: Triple Tigers Records
CURRENT ALBUM: Southern Symphony – Out Dec. 4
CURRENT SINGLE: “Love You Like I Used To”
CURRENT PRODUCERS: Dann Huff, Casey Brown, Russell Dickerson
PRO: BMI
MANAGEMENT: John Dennis – Dennis Entertainment
BOOKING: CAA
RECENT HITS: “Love You Like I Used To,” “Every Little Thing,” “Yours,” “Blue Tacoma”
RIAA CERTS TO DATE: “Every Little Thing” – Platinum, “Blue Tacoma” – Platinum, “Yours” – 2x Platinum, “Love You Like I Used To” – Gold, Yours – Gold
HOMETOWN: Franklin, TN
INTERESTING FACTS: Grew up in a musical household, Mom was a piano teacher and Dad a choir director. In a metal band in high school. Was a guitar tech for Chris Tomlin. Left handed but plays guitar right-handed. Aspiring pro tennis player. Aspiring sommelier.
MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Garth Brooks, Keith Urban, Usher, Michael Jackson, Shania Twain, Tim McGraw, The Chicks, Blink 182
FAVORITE RECORDS: In Pieces (Garth Brooks), A Place In The Sun (Tim McGraw), Bad (Michael Jackson), My Way (Usher), Californication (Red Hot Chili Peppers), Wide Open Spaces (The Chicks), Defying Gravity (Keith Urban), Space Jam (Soundtrack)

 

Rakiyah Marshall Launches Music Publishing, Artist Development Company Back Blocks Music

Rakiyah Marshall

Music publishing executive Rakiyah Marshall has launched the independent music publishing and artist development company, Back Blocks Music. The Nashville-based company will announce its roster in the coming weeks.

Marshall previously spent three years at BMG; her career also includes time at Republic Records in New York and Nashville’s Cornman Music. She was named a 2020 Billboard Power Player.

“Throughout my time in Nashville, I have been continuously inspired by independent entrepreneurs, especially in the independent music publishing and artist development space. Having the time that 2020 has afforded us all to be home has allowed me to realize that now is the time to chase my dream of owning my own business,” shares Marshall. “I am so thankful for my time at BMG and all of the relationships I have developed through the experience. I will miss my writers immensely and know they all have bright futures ahead.”

Marshall can be reached at rakiyah@backblocksmusic.com.

Chris Stapleton Moves Into Top 10 On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart

Chris Stapleton. Photo: Becky Fluke

Following the release of his fourth studio album Starting Over, Chris Stapleton enters the top 10 on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart this week with credits from five charting tracks from the album. At No. 8, Stapleton’s rise is powered by the songs “Cold, “You Should Probably Leave,” “Devil Always Made Me Think Twice,” “Maggie’s Song,” and “Starting Over.”

Josh Osborne maintains the No. 1 position, and Randy Montana stays at No. 2. Hillary Lindsey moves up to No. 3 on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart this week, with co-writer credit on HARDY’s “One Beer,” Kelsea Ballerini’s “Hole In The Bottle,” and Jordan Davis’ “Almost Maybes.”

The weekly MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart uses algorithms based upon song activity according to airplay, digital download track sales and streams. This unique and exclusive addition to the MusicRow portfolio is the only songwriter chart of its kind.

Click here to view the full MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart.

Weekly Register: Morgan Wallen Dominates Top Country Streaming Songs Rankings

Morgan Wallen. Photo: John Shearer

Morgan Wallen holds the top three tracks on the country on-demand audio streaming chart this week, according to Nielsen. Wallen leads with “Somebody’s Problem” at No. 1 with 14 million streams, followed by “Still Goin’ Down” at No. 2 with 10 million streams, and “More Than My Hometown” at No. 3 with 9.4 million streams. Luke Combs‘ “Forever After All” ranks at No. 4 with 8.8 million streams, while Wallen also takes the No. 5 spot with “7 Summers” earning 7.6 million streams.

Combs continues to lead the country albums chart, with What You See Is What You Get at No. 1 with 41K in total consumption. Last week’s chart leader, Chris Stapleton‘s Starting Over is at No. 2 this week with 37K, followed by Carrie Underwood‘s holiday album My Gift at No. 3 with 35K. Dolly Parton‘s holiday offering, A Holly Dolly Christmas, is at No. 4 with 28K, followed by Wallen’s If I Know Me rounding out the Top 5 country albums this week, with 19K.

Garth Brooks‘ new project FUN is the top debut this week, entering at No. 7 on the country albums chart with 18K in total consumption. Lee Brice‘s Hey World debuts at No. 8 on the country albums chart with 17K.

LOCASH To Host Virtual Christmas Bash Dec. 16

 

LOCASH is getting into the holiday spirit with the LOCASH Christmas Bash, a holiday livestream event on Dec. 16 at 8 p.m. ET. Fans have the opportunity to be a part of the show’s virtual “Front Row,” where participants will be seen and heard by LOCASH throughout the show. Front Row tickets also include admission to LOCASH’s pre-show hang.

“Every year we have our LOCASH holiday party and this year is no exception! Like 2020, it’s going to be different than in years past – we’re going virtual! We’re so excited because this time fans will get to join us,” said LOCASH’s Chris Lucas. “We all have so much to celebrate and want to give folks a reason to laugh and smile—and we are ready to bring that to our families and friends!”

The pair has lots to celebrate this season, with their No. 1 smash hit “One Big Country Song” recently being certified Gold, their latest single “Beers to Catch Up On” being second most-added at country radio this week, and their Platinum Tim McGraw hit “Truck Yeah” being included on McGraw’s McGraw Machine Hits (Greatest Hits).

Monument Records Announces New Hires, Promotion In Marketing Department

 

Monument Records has made some additions to its marketing department, hiring Jamie Graves as Director, Digital Marketing & Streaming, Jacquie Painten as Coordinator, Marketing, and promoting Joel Beaver to Manager, Marketing. All three positions will report to Katie McCartney, General Manager of Monument Records.

Graves joins Monument from Universal Music Group Nashville where he worked in commercial partnerships and digital marketing for nearly a decade. In his new role, he will oversee digital marketing and strategy, sales, and streaming for all Monument artists.

“Jamie’s passion for this business is inspiring. His vision for Monument’s roster, vast knowledge of artist development, and creative nature made him the perfect choice for this role, and we are thrilled to have him on board,” said McCartney.

Beaver, who has been with Monument Records since its launch, has been promoted to Manager, Marketing. Previously, Beaver served as the company’s marketing coordinator and prior to that, one of Monument’s first interns. In this new role, Beaver will serve as project manager for Monument’s artist roster and be responsible for all marketing and brand initiatives.

Painten officially joins the Monument team as Coordinator, Marketing after two years as an intern for the company while she completed course work at Belmont University. Painten has worked throughout her studies with companies such as the Country Music Association, and joins Monument to support the staff’s various marketing efforts.

McCartney said, “Joel and Jacquie have been incredibly valuable members of this team. Their dedication and passion for the company and our artists has been instrumental. I am excited to officially welcome Jacquie, and to promote Joel into this new role. I know they will both continue to thrive, and we are lucky to have them.”

Services To Be Held For Esteemed Publicist Susan Keel

Susan Keel.

Entertainment publicist Susan Keel died on Nov. 20 at age 58. A memorial service will be held on Sunday (Dec. 6) at 2 p.m. at Mount Olivet Funeral Home & Cemetery, following a visitation beginning at noon. The 2 p.m. service will be streamed on Facebook Live.

During her career in Music City, she was associated with Conway Twitty, Ray Stevens, Opry Mills, the Ryman Auditorium, TPAC, Kroger and the Tennessee Titans.

Keel was a Nashville native, the daughter of Pinckney Keel, a Nashville Banner newspaper editor and of Gloria Keel Coles, a marketing executive at Donelson Hospital. After graduating from the Recording Industry Management program at MTSU, she worked for Cashbox magazine, Bullet Recording studio and the Top Billing booking agency. She next worked for U.S. Sen. Jim Sasser and The Tennessean’s John Seigenthaler. She then returned to the music business.

Much of her career was subsequently spent at The Andrews Agency. She and company founder Susan Andrews were known as “The Susans” during the 1990s.

After leaving The Andrews Agency, Keel became director of public relations for Fletcher Rowley Inc. She ended her career with her own firm, Keel PR.

Susan Keel is survived by her mother, brother Dr. William Keel, stepsisters, nieces and a nephew. Also surviving is sister Beverly Keel, a dean at MTSU who has been a record label executive, a music journalist and a Music Row publicist.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to MusiCares or to the Music Health Alliance.

SiriusXM Launches Next Wave Virtual Concert Series

 

SiriusXM is helping music lovers discover new artists and new music (virtually) with the launch of its Next Wave Virtual Concert Series, starting today (Nov. 30).

SiriusXM will present six new virtual concerts over three consecutive weeks: Alt Nation’s Virtual Advanced Placement Concert, Octane Accelerator Virtual Concert, Highway Finds Tour: Quarantine Edition, Coffee House Live: At Home Edition, Hip Hop Nation: Nation’s Next Virtual Concert, and Liquid Metal Hard Attack Virtual Concert. See the full schedule below.

SiriusXM Next Wave Virtual Concert Series debuts today with Octane Accelerator Virtual Concert on channel 37 and Coffeehouse Live: At Home Edition on channel 14 at 6 p.m. ET. Octane Accelerator Virtual Concert will feature new, live performances from new hard rock bands, Saul, Any Given Sin, and AVOID, hosted by Jose Mangin. Coffee House Live: At Home Edition will include exclusive sets from singer-songwriters Phoebe Bridgers, Sam Fischer and Ruth B.

On December 7, Alt Nation’s Virtual Advanced Placement Concert on channel 36, as well as Hip Hop Nation: Nation’s Next Virtual Concert on channel 44, will both begin at 6 p.m. ET. Alt Nation’s Virtual Advanced Placement Concert will feature breaking alternative artists Royal & The Serpent, beabadoobee, and Holly Humberstone. Hip Hop Nation: Nation’s Next Virtual Concert will hand the mic to Mulatto, Tyla Yaweh and Yella Beezy.

Highway Finds Tour: Quarantine Edition and Liquid Metal Hard Attack Virtual Concert will close out the three-week series on Dec. 14 on channel 56 and channel 40 at 6 p.m. ET. Highway Finds Tour: Quarantine Edition will showcase new performances from Drew Parker, Parker McCollum, Priscilla Block, Angie K, and Shy Carter. Liquid Metal Hard Attack Virtual Concert will feature performances with Slaughter To Prevail, Spiritbox, and Tetrarch.

SiriusXM Next Wave Virtual Concert Series Broadcast Schedule:

Octane Accelerator Virtual Concert
Debuts Monday Nov. 30 at 6 p.m. ET & 9 p.m. ET
Rebroadcasts:
Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 12 p.m. ET
Wednesday, Dec. 2 at 9 a.m. ET
Thursday Dec. 3 at 9 p.m. ET
Friday, Dec. 4 at 3 p.m. ET
Saturday, Dec. 5 at 8 p.m. ET
Sunday, Dec. 6 at 4 p.m. ET

Coffee House Live: At Home Edition
Debuts Monday, Nov. 30 6 p.m. ET & 9 p.m. ET
Rebroadcasts:
Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 2 p.m.ET
Wednesday, Dec. 2 at 10 a.m. & 8 p.m.ET
Thursday, Dec. 3 at 3 p.m. & 11 p.m.ET
Friday, Dec. 4 at 12 p.m.ET
Saturday, Dec. 5 at 6 p.m.ET
Sunday, Dec. 6  at 11 a.m.ET

Alt Nation’s Virtual Advanced Placement Concert
Debuts Monday, Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. ET & 9 p.m. ET
Rebroadcasts:
Tuesday, Dec. 8 8 a.m., 3 p.m. & 11 p.m. ET
Wednesday, Dec. 9 10 a.m. & 6 p.m. ET
Thursday, Dec. 10 8 p.m. ET
Friday, Dec. 11 4 p.m. ET
Saturday, Dec. 12 3 p.m. ET
Sunday, Dec. 13 6 p.m. ET

Hip Hop Nation: Nation’s Next Virtual Concert
Debuts Monday, Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. ET & 9 p.m. ET
Rebroadcasts:
Tuesday, Dec. 8 at 1 a.m. & 4 p.m. ET
Thursday, Dec. 10 at 10 a.m. & 10 p.m. ET
Friday, Dec. 11 at 12 p.m. & 9 p.m. ET
Saturday, Dec. 12 at 1 p.m. & 7 p.m. ET
Sunday, Dec. 13 at 11 p.m. ET

Highway Finds Tour: Quarantine Edition
Debuts Monday, Dec. 14 at 6 p.m. ET & 9 p.m. ET
Rebroadcasts:
Tuesday, Dec. 15 at 12 p.m. ET
Wednesday, Dec. 16 at 8 p.m. ET
Friday, Dec. 18 at 12 a.m. ET
Saturday, Dec. 19 at 12 p.m. ET

Liquid Metal Hard Attack Virtual Concert
Debuts Monday, Dec. 14  at 6 p.m. ET & 9 p.m. ET
Rebroadcasts:
Tuesday, Dec. 15 at 12 p.m. ET
Wednesday, Dec. 16 at 5 p.m. ET
Thursday, Dec. 17 at 10 a.m. ET
Friday, Dec. 18 at 4 p.m. ET
Saturday, Dec. 19  at 8 p.m. ET
Sunday, Dec. 20 at 11 a.m. ET

SiriusXM subscribers can listen to the SiriusXM Next Wave Virtual Concert Series beginning today via SiriusXM Radios, SiriusXM online or on the SiriusXM app on a wide variety of connected devices, including smart TVs, devices with Amazon Alexa or the Google Assistant, Apple TV, PlayStation, Roku, Sonos speakers and more.