ARTISTS

BRIDGETTE TATUM

Songwriter of “Hillbilly Rockstar,” "Loud," "That's Love Y'all," and "She's Country"

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Raw God given talent and passion for her craft is clearly the driving force behind many of artist/songwriter Bridgette Tatum’s high-profile career milestones. 

In 2009, this native of Florence, South Carolina, co-wrote the most played song on country radio stations across the U.S.  A tremendous achievement for any songwriter, the song, “She’s Country,” recorded and released by Platinum-selling country superstar Jason Aldean, held the number one position on the chart for two consecutive weeks, reached two million plays, and out sold every genres ringtones, all of which are rare accomplishments, as well.

Tatum’s song, “Loud” was selected as the official theme song for ACC football’s 2010 season. This fast-paced anthem celebrates the excitement and energy of ACC Football, captured in a raucous music video that was seen in all ACC markets, resulting in exposure for Bridgette totaling more than 27 million households. (She’s a big ‘ol Clemson Tigers fan!)

Add to these accolades Tatum’s own album released on iTunes, her single releases including “I like my Cowboy’s Dirty,” “That’s Love Y’all,” (which was in the Top 40), “Hillbilly Rockstar,” and her current two Gretchen Wilson singles, “ Summertime Town” and “Stacy” from “Ready to get Rowdy”, her recent Randy Houser’s “Back” (Fired Up), Kristy Lee Cook (“Lookin’ for a Cowgirl”), The Farm, and George Clinton cuts, you have the makings of a woman building a sustainable music career for a lifetime of success. She also has produced several acts and is torching a way for female producers to include credits and works with The Lockets, AJ Sanders, Dave McElroy, Uncle Si & The Sicotics and more. 

While Bridgette continues to create music, she balances it with her charitable work within The Charley Foundation (www.charleyfoundation.org), and donating her time and talents to various charities around the middle Tennessee area.

“If it's real and you are making it honest, that's what people need to hear from the music. I want to know if I die tomorrow that they heard it with purpose and passion.” With unfailing honesty and a penchant for risk-taking, Tatum is storming the scene on her own terms and winning fans at every turn.

BROCK BERRYHILL

Songwriter of “What Happens in a Small Town Stays in a Small Town," "Happy Does," "Good As You", and "Homesick"

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Brock Berryhill is a multi-platinum songwriter, producer, multi-Instrumentalist from Nashville, Tennessee. He has performed in more than 35 countries since the age of 19, and opened for acts such as Kane Brown, Parmalee, Kansas, Collective Soul and Candlebox. As a producer, he has produced songs for many artists including Jake Owen, Kane Brown, Chris Janson, Darryl Worley and Twenty One Pilots. His songwriting credits include the recent hit single and number one song "Good as You" by Kane Brown, and the current hit single on country radio "What Happens in a Small Town" by Brantley Gilbert and Lindsey Ell. He also has the new Kane Brown radio single "Homesick, as well as the new radio single for Jon Langston called "Now You Know." He was also a co-writer on the song "Found You" by Kane Brown, which is a RIAA certified gold single. Berryhill has had songs he's co-written recorded by Kenny Chesney, Jake Owen, Jason Aldean, Kane Brown, Parmalee, Tyler Farr, Chris Janson and Jon Langston.

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 Berryhill also co-wrote Kenny Chesney’s hit “Happy Does” and Gilbert’s single “Hard Days,” which are both currently climbing Billboard’s Country Airplay chart. The BMI-aligned songwriter has also earned cuts for Jason Aldean, Chris Janson, Dustin Lynch, Jon Langston and more.

CASEY BEATHARD

Songwriter of “Boys of Fall,” "No Shoes, No Shirts, No Problem," Hot Mama," and "Why We Drink"

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Casey Beathard moved to Nashville in 1991 after graduating from Elon College in North Carolina and playing the northern Virginia bars long enough to know music was all he wanted to do. He chose music over "the family business" of football. His father is in Canton's Pro Football Hall Of Fame as a multiple Super Bowl champion, and former general manager of the Dolphins, Redskins and San Diego Chargers. His brothers are a coach and scout at the professional and college levels. He oldest son, CJ, also plays quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers.

"Mom's love for music, playing piano and singing, got ahold of me early in life," says Beathard. "I learned to best express myself by writing notes and stories to those I had something to say to." He later in life combined making music with his story telling and next thing you know Nashville called his heart like it does all country music artists. Beathard worked two jobs a day – at the Country Music Hall of Fame by Day and the Blue Bird Café at night. Talk about a learning experience, these jobs were very instrumental in the networking process. Beathard became a demo singer and then a recording artist on Capitol Records for a short time. Having kids and beginning to get recordings of songs he wrote made it easy to decide to just write songs. Beathard was BMI and NSAI Songwriter of the year in both 2004 and 2008.

He has written songs for Kenny Chesney, George Strait, Tim McGraw, Eric Church, Trace Adkins, Rodney Atkins, Leanne Wommack, Tracy Lawrence, Tracy Byrd, Chris Stapelton, Garth Brooks, Billy Ray Cyrus, Billy Currington, Justin Moore, his son Tucker Beathard and more. He has more than 20 top 10 records including eight number one records. He has been nominated for two Grammys and one ACM Song of The Year.

KAREN STALEY

Songwriter of “Let's Go To Vegas,” "A Face in the Crowd," "Take Me As I Am," and "Keeper of the Stars"

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Karen Staley was born in Weirton, West Virginia, and raised in nearby, rural Hookstown, Pennsylvania, in the Tri-State area of West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Ohio. She is a 30-year veteran of the Nashville music industry and has been involved in virtually every facet of the business from songwriting and performing to touring, recording and producing. ​As a recording artist, Staley released two, critically acclaimed, major label albums – “Wildest Dreams”​ on ​MCA​ and ​“Fearless”​ on ​Warner Bros​, as well as several indie country and gospel albums.

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Staley’s timeless hit songs ​“Take Me As I Am”​ and ​“Hey Baby, Let’s Go to Vegas”​ by ​Faith Hill, “Keeper of the Stars”​ by T​ racy Byrd, “On A Night Like This”​ by ​Trick Pony​ and more, have been played on the radio more than 12 million times and counting. Those songs have collectively sold more than 20 million albums, singles, and downloads.

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Many of Staley’s songs have been nominated for ​Dove, Grammy​ and​ International Bluegrass Awards​. Staley won the prestigious ​Academy of Country Music Song of The Year​ award with ​Tracy Byrd's​ classic number one hit, “Keeper of the Stars.” ​An international wedding favorite year after year, ​“Keeper of the Stars”​ is also among Country Music Television’s 100 Greatest Country Love Songs of All Time.

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As a guitar player and background singer, Staley toured with​ Faith Hill, Reba McEntire​, ​Patty Loveless, Terri Clark and ​Russ Taff​. She is also a sought-after studio session singer and demo producer. She is one of the original mainstays at the ​Bluebird Café​, the now iconic listening room popularized by the ​ABC TV​ show, ​Nashville​. Karen is one of four female pioneers ​(amidst ​Grammy winning artists Pam Tillis, Ashley Cleveland​ and ​Tricia Walker​)​ of the now very prominent, ​“In the Round”​ format for concerts, originating at the ​Bluebird Café​. Staley’s songs have not only been recorded by modern stars like ​Faith Hill, Reba McEntire, Trick Pony, Terri Clark and​ Tracy Byrd,​ but also by icons and legends including ​George Jones, Dolly Parton, Tammy Wynette, Conway Twitty​ and ​Brenda Lee​.

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The reason Karen was drawn to music in the first place was to reach people in some meaningful way. She continues to, quite naturally, endeavor for that intimate connection no matter the setting she presents in. Karen says she feels humbled and blessed to share her talents with so many diverse groups of people from all over the world and looks forward to every new opportunity to share the gift of music and human connection.

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“I jokingly call myself the Forest Gump of country music,”​ laughs Staley, ​“So often, it really IS just a matter of showing up, heart open, and being willing to say ‘yes’ to new things! One of my favorite mottos is, ‘you were born an original, don’t die a copy,’ and I love imparting examples of that wisdom from my very own life. The power of each person’s individuality, within the framework of humanity (a strong team of people!) cannot be underestimated when it comes to success. It must be embraced!”

KENT BLAZY

Songwriter of “Ain't Going Down 'Til the Sun Comes Up,” "Cold Shoulder," "If Tomorrow Never Comes," and "Papa Loved Mama"

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Kent Blazy is originally from Lexington, Kentucky, and was first inspired to play music when he heard Roger McGuinn playing guitar on the song “Mr. Tambourine Man.”  For several years, he played and toured with various bands and, in the mid-1970s traveled as the band leader and guitarist for Ian Tyson.

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After winning a national songwriting contest, Blazy moved to Nashville in 1980 and decided to focus on his writing career. Just two years later, he got his first top-five hit with Gary Morris’s recording of “Headed for a Heartache.”  In 1987, he met Bob Doyle, who would soon become the manager for Garth Brooks. Doyle connected Blazy and Brooks, which began a songwriting collaboration that continues to this day. Blazy and Brooks first co-write was “If Tomorrow Never Comes,” which became the first number one hit for both of them. They went on to collaborate on many other songs, four of which also became number one hits. And now Blazy’s got a couple of cuts on Brooks recent release, including the lead single “Baby, Let’s Lay Down and Dance.” Beyond the cuts he’s had with Brooks, Blazy also co-wrote the title track to the Reba album “All the Women I Am,” Chris Young took Blazy’s “Gettin’ You Home (The Black Dress Song)” to number one, and his songs have also been recorded by T. Graham Brown, Donna Fargo, Moe Bandy, Diamond Rio, Kenny Chesney, Terri Clark, Clay Walker, Randy Houser, Patty Loveless, Julie Roberts, Andy Griggs, Jon Pardi, Blaine Larsen and Abby Anderson.

STEVE AZAR

Songwriter of “I Don't Have To Be Me ('Til Monday)," "Sunshine," "Waitin' on Joe," and "Coldwater"

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Music and Culture Ambassador of Mississippi, Steve Azar is a modern-day Renaissance man, hit songwriter, recording artist, music producer, golfer and philanthropist. Azar likes to call his own breed of music “Delta Soul,” a mixture of country, rock and blues.  His debut album, “Waitin’ On Joe” was released in 2001. The title track went to number one on CMT, and featured Academy award-winning actor Morgan Freeman. From the same album the hit single “I Don’t Have to Be Me, ‘til Monday” received three BMI Million-Air awards for more than three million in air plays and is one of the top five most played songs of the past decade on country radio. Turn on the radio today, and you’ll likely hear it.

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In the fall of 2019, Azar will receive his own Country Music Trail Marker in his hometown of Greenville, Mississippi, along with other recipients Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Marty Gamblin and Jimmy Rodgers. Taylor Swift told People Magazine in 2010 that her favorite song of the year was Steve Azar’s “Sunshine.” “Slide On Over Here,” featuring the hit single “Sunshine,” was spotlighted in Oprah’s O Magazine in her Oprah’s Favorite Things edition in 2011. “Sunshine” was also featured in US Weekly Magazine in June 2012 as one of the most popular celebrity wedding songs.

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Azar has written, and recorded songs for film, and has been the music supervisor for a number of movies. “Doin’ It Right” (Delta Mix) off of the latest release Delta Soul Volume One, was the feature track for Sony Pictures 2013 movie Here Comes The Boom starring Kevin James and Salma Hayek. As a songwriter, Reba McEntire among many others has cut his songs. In 2007, Azar was personally chosen by Bob Seger to perform 46 shows on what has been rated the number one tour in America by Pollstar Magazine.

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In February of 2019, he co-founded and hosted his first Mockingbird Music Series. A bi-monthly musical dinner series featuring intimate performances with some of Nashville’s best and prolific award-winning songwriters, telling the stories behind their hits and performing them as originally written.

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He was named to the 2019 class of Mississippi Top 50 in the Business, Media and Culture category.

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For more information visit: www.steveazar.com & www.steveazarandthekingsmen.com

Mississippi Top 50 is an annual list of the people who are judged to be the most influential leaders in the state. This bipartisan selection of leaders comes from the ranks of elected and appointed officials.

TAYLOR PHILLIPS

Songwriter of “Hurricane,” "Good As Us," "Homesick," and "Six Strings Attached"

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The varied social and economical tides of Sanford, North Carolina, is where Taylor Phillips emerged into the songwriter that he is today. With a connection to country music internally and a lifetime of labor, love, family, triumphs, and pitfalls, Phillips’s life rang out like many of the chorus’s that had been penned on 16th Avenue South for the last 65 years. Phillips landed in Nashville, Tennessee, in 2013 and quickly made his way into the music industry by being himself.

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Phillips by way of southern country boy wit and grit quickly began to see that immersing himself into the Music Row country music scene was what he was absolutely born to do. Phillips was offered a position as a tour merchandising manager and that's where the story begins. From this point forward Phillips began to carve out and solidify his own network of artists, songwriters, publishers, and plainly stated, friends within the country music industry. This has led Phillips to where he is today on 16th Avenue South, in the heart of music row, where he owns a thriving songwriting studio. If you do not know Phillips then turn your radios up a little louder, because you will very soon. Phillips’ songwriting credits include two number one hits with “Hurricane” by Luke Combs and “Good As You” by Kane Brown, along with several other cuts by Kane Brown including “Found You” and “Homesick”.

THOM SHEPHERD & COLEY McCABE

Songwriters of “Riding With Private Malone,” "Grow Young With You," "I am a Woman," and "Always Saturday Night"

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Hit songwriters Thom Shepherd and Coley McCabe were both working for Nashville publishing companies in the same building when they met. Today they are a full-time traveling duo, singing songs that make people laugh and cry, everywhere from Key West to Seattle and

abroad.

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Thom is the Trop Rock Music Association’s Songwriter of the Year and the winner of 3 TropRockin’.com People’s Choice Awards. He is originally from St. Louis, MO and is the writer of two number one country hits, “Riding with Private Malone” and “Redneck Yacht Club,” three Texas Music number ones, has had over 100 songs recorded by other artists, two songs on Grammy nominated albums, and multiple top ten hits nationwide and in Texas. He is a former CMA of Texas Songwriter of the Year and appears in “The Parrot Heads Documentary” with Jimmy Buffett and the new independent film “Chasing The Sun.”

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Coley’s song “Grow Young With You” was featured in the Natalie Portman / Ashley Judd film, “Where The Heart Is,” and she co-wrote the top 5 Platinum-selling SheDaisy hit “Lucky 4 U.” She hails from West Virginia and has had songs recorded by artists ranging from Kristi Lee Cook to Loretta Lynn. She also starred in the film “Alabama Love Story.”

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Their duet project is called “I’m With U.” Coley wrote the title track, a song about a couple that “cruise this country from town to town” and know that “God and a song are gonna get us there.” She wrote the song a few years back, claiming “Little did I know I would be writing about my future life.”

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Thom and Coley won the 2019, 2020, and 2021 Trop Rock People's Choice Award for DUO/TRIO OF THE YEAR , and Thom won the award for SINGER/SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR.

LESLIE SATCHER

Songwriter of “Troubador,” "The Slow Way Home," "And the Well Run Dry," and "If I Had Wings"​

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Few female Nashville singer-songwriters are more respected or more revered than the stunning talent that is Leslie Satcher. At the age of 26, the native Texan made the move to Nashville in pursuit of a singing career and was quickly recognized for her gift with lyric and melody. After being mentored at a smaller publisher by many of the music industry’s legendary songwriters, Satcher made the move to Sony Music Publishing where she would stay for nearly 15 years. During this time, she was also signed as an artist at Warner Brothers. While recording her critically acclaimed debut album, “Love Letters,” her songs were growing in demand.

Though Leslie is primarily known as a country singer and songwriter, her talents cross all genres. She has written or co-written songs that have been recorded by everyone from Willie Nelson to Ariana Grande; Vince Gill to Sheila E.; George Strait to Sheryl Crow; Martina McBride to Keb’Mo; Blake Shelton to Bonnie Raitt and many, many more. She has received multiple Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI) Million-Air awards recognizing a song’s one millionth airplay, and her incomparable vocals contribute to an astounding number of Grammy, Country Music Association (CMA) and Academy of Country Music (ACM) award-winning projects.

Satcher’s next two albums, “Creation” and “Gypsy Boots” were recorded independently and truly exhibit the diversity of her Texas roots and Delta soul. They are available on iTunes, CDBaby and every other major digital distributor.

Satcher’s most recent achievement was being signed to a publishing deal with London powerhouse Notting Hill Music (NHM) and a recording contract with NHM’s Los Angeles based innovator of digital distribution; Notting Hill Music Masters (NHMM) label. Her debut NHMM release, “2 Days in Muscle Shoals,” features her All-Star band “The Electric Honey Badgers” and includes vocals by Vince Gill, Sheryl Crow, Trisha Yearwood and more. This amazing project landed her on the First-Round Grammy ballot in multiple categories for the 2018 and 2019 awards seasons.

Aside from writing hit songs for some of music’s most iconic artists, Satcher is in high demand as a performer known for her angelic voice, funny stories, the unique playing style and sound of her guitar; but mostly, her uncanny ability to connect with audiences of any size or demographic. Her typical year will include more than 150 songwriting sessions and 65 live performances all over the U.S., U.K. and Canada.

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ANTHONY SMITH

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Songwriter of “Chrome,” "Run,” “Kristofferson”, "and Cowboys Like Us"

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Anthony Smith Is a critically acclaimed Singer/Songwriter, Music Row Songwriter of The Year, and winner of multiple Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI) and American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) awards.

He has written songs performed by superstars such as George Strait, Taylor Swift, Tim McGraw, Blake Shelton, Chris Stapleton, Trace Adkins, Faith Hill, Montgomery/Gentry, Rascal Flatts, Kenny Chesney & Coley McCabe, Randy Houser, Craig Morgan, Trisha Yearwood, Kenny Rogers, Lonestar, Confederate Railroad, Blackberry Smoke, Shooter Jennings, Sammy Kershaw, Don Williams, Ronnie Milsap, Lorrie Morgan, David Allen Coe, Tommy Shane Steiner, Kevin Denny, Halfway To Hazard and many more.

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JEFFREY STEELE

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Songwriter of “My Wish,” What Hurts the Most,” “Knee Deep,” and "Stick That In Your Country Song”

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A five-time Grammy nominee, Jeffrey Steele has been recognized by Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI) for over 65 million airplays for hits he penned for a multitude of artists including Keith Urban, Eric Church, Zac Brown Band, Jimmy Buffett, Montgomery Gentry, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Cher, .38 Special, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, Trace Adkins, LeAnn Rimes, Rascal Flatts and Van Zant, Joe Cocker, Little Feat ft. Bob Seger, Joe Bonamassa, Cascada and more.

Among his many accolades, Jeffrey Steele has been named to the Nashville Songwriter’s Hall of Fame, honored by the Country Music Hall of Fame as a Poet and Prophet, twice awarded BMI Songwriter of the Year and three times awarded the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) Songwriter of the Year. The Country Music Association (CMA) has twice awarded him the coveted “Triple Play Award” for three number one songs in a year. His country and A/C mega-hits include a string of chart toppers including “Raise ‘Em Up,” “Knee Deep,” “Here,” “My Wish,” “The Cowboy In Me,” “These Days,” “My Town,” “Something to be Proud of,” “Everyday” and the groundbreaking “What Hurts The Most,” nominated for Best Country Song at the Grammy Awards.

Additionally, Steele has won more than 35 BMI Country and Pop awards, was nominated for a Golden Globe and Critic’s Choice Award for Best Original Song “I Thought I Lost You” for the Disney/Pixar animated feature BOLT, which was performed by Miley Cyrus and John Travolta, and been named one of Billboard Magazine’s top five writers eight years in a row, as well as Music Row Magazine’s Songwriter of the Year Award. Steele’s latest album features performances with Vince Gill, Emmylou Harris, Jamey Johnson, John Rich and others.

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JESSE RICE

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Songwriter of “Cruise,” the largest selling single in country music history, and "A Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega"

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Jesse Rice is a multi-platinum selling and award-winning singer/songwriter and producer in Nashville, Tennessee. Originally from low-country South Carolina, Rice moved to Nashville in 2002, where he began working for EMI Music Publishing. From 2007 to 2014 Rice was a staff songwriter at Artist Revolution Publishing. In the winter of 2014 he then signed a worldwide publishing deal with Ole Music Publishing. 

As a writer, Rice has won Academy of Country Music (ACM), Country Music Association (CMA), American Music Awards (AMA), Billboard, Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI) and The Society of European Stage Authors and Composers (SESAC) Awards, including Awards for SESAC Song of The Year and ACM and CMA Single of the Year for Florida Georgia Line's hit " Cruise." 

"Cruise" was Rice’s first number one hit as a songwriter, and the song then went on to become the longest-running number one country music song of all time, spending an unprecedented 25 weeks at the top of the Billboard charts. To date, “Cruise” has sold 11 million downloads, making it the largest selling single in country music history, and the only country song ever to receive a Diamond certification by the Recording Industry Association of America® (RIAA).  In addition, “Cruise” was remixed and re-released on the pop charts by the rap artist Nelly, going on to spend a crossover record 42 weeks in the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, and reaching a peak of number four in August 2013.

Other songs written by Rice include Ashley McBryde's debut single "A Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega," which recently garnered the number one spot on Sirius XM The Highway's Top 30 Countdown and is the lead single from McBryde’s “Girl Going Nowhere” – nominated for Best Country Album at the 2019 Grammys,  "The High Life" by Colt Ford, the Kristian Bush of Sugarland single "Light Me Up," "Whoa" by Chase Rice and "While He's Still Around" from the current Florida Georgia Line Billboard number one record “Dig Your Roots.” 

As an artist, Rice also tours promoting the act that is his passion, the “Pirate Sessions.” The first two volumes of that record each debuted in the Top 20 on the iTunes Country Album Charts. Pirate Sessions III was released Jan. 27, 2017 and debuted in the Top 5 on the iTunes Country Album charts. His single "Hope Town" is currently in rotation on Sirius XM Radio Margaritaville. At the 2017 Trop Rock Music Awards, Rice was named the winner of the Horizon Award for Best New Artist. 

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JAMES SLATER

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​Songwriter of "God Whispered Your Name", “High Cost of Living,” "In My Daughter's Eyes,” “Guys Named Captain”​

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James Slater is a two-time, Grammy nominated, piano-playing, bilingual singer-songwriter of Bolivian American descent signed to BMG Music Publishing in Nashville, Tennessee. Slater was born in Durham, North Carolina, and raised in the Panama Canal Zone in Central America.

Keith Urban, Willie Nelson, Tim McGraw, Enrique Iglesias, Rascal Flatts, Carrie Underwood, Lady Antebellum, Kenny Chesney, Kelly Pickler, Alabama, Reba McEntire, Gloriana, Martina McBride, Chris Brown, Chris Young and a host of others have recorded his songs. His Grammy nominations include Jamey Johnson's "The High Cost of Living," country song of the year, and Martina's “In My Daughter’s Eyes,” which is a modern-day standard.

James lived in Zurich Switzerland for six years touring, recording and writing with Belgian super group Vaya Con Dios and has traveled the world from Panama to Dublin and from Spain to Havana. Slater’s “Key West Address" is a love letter to the island, so much so that the mayor of Key West has awarded him the "Keys to the City" and proclaimed the song as the island's official theme. His latest release is “Mexicoma,” which is available on Spotify and ITunes features 15 new songs including the raucous “Mexicoma,” which Tim McGraw recorded.

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BRETT JONES

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Songwriter of “That’s How Country Boys Roll,” “Crazytown,” “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away” and "Whole Lotta Fun"

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Originally from Warm Springs, Georgia, Brett Jones came to Nashville 28 years ago, and signed a publishing deal songwriting for famous country singer Ronnie Millsap. His first hit in the U.S. country market was a 1993 top 20 hit, Confederate Railroad’s “When and Where.” Since then he has had more than 150 major label recordings, and 14 top 10 records, including seven number one records. His most recent hits include Billy Currington’s “That’s How Country Boys Roll,” Jason Aldean’s July 2010 chart topper “Crazytown,” and Justin Moore’s number one single, “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away.”  

Jones also recently achieved rare status in country music by having number one records in each of the past three decades. In addition to his acclaimed songwriting, Jones is also a captivating stage performer. He has opened up for many performers including Tracy Byrd, Little Texas, Kenny Chesney, Andy Griggs, Confederate Railroad, Billy Currington, Michael McDonald, Kip Moore, Darryl Worley and many more. 

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CHRIS WALLIN

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Songwriter of “Love Me If You Can," "Don't Blink," "I'm Tryin'," and "People Loving People"

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With his unique gift for finding the extraordinary in ordinary life, Chris Wallin has established himself as one of Nashville's most sought-after songwriters.

For years, Wallin has topped the charts with classics-in-the-making for the industry's biggest stars. Some of his huge hits include “Love Me If You Can” by Toby Keith, "Don't Blink" by Kenny Chesney, “I’m Tryin’” by Trace Adkins, “Something to Be Proud Of” and “Speed” by Montgomery Gentry, "People Loving People" by Garth Brooks and many more. Wallin is in an elite club of songwriters whom have actually knocked THEMSELVES out of the number one Billboard spot.

Raised in the small town in East Tennessee, Wallin was influenced by the likes of Jim Croce, James Taylor and Merle Haggard as well as his own musical family – especially his mother, a singer herself. She recorded and performed in Nashville for a time, and the experience made an indelible impression on the seven-year-old Wallin. He and his mother lived in an apartment on top of the infamous bar called “The Turf” on Broadway in downtown Nashville. His mother sang there at night

Wallin began writing songs at age 12 and, perhaps inevitably, moved to Music City several years later, making the dues-paying rounds of writers’ nights and songwriting contests. He caught a break when his songs caught the ear of a small publishing company – King Lizard Music, helping to launch him on a professional career.

Wallin has worked hard to achieve his place on the “A List” of Nashville songwriters, and doesn't take his status for granted.

“Back then I used to buy 50 or so McDonald's .29 cent hamburgers a week and freeze them solid,” he said. “I could eat all week on $15. They weren’t bad, except the last few get a little crusty from freezer burn.”

Artists who have cut Wallin’s songs include Lorrie Morgan, Garth Brooks, Montgomery Gentry, Sammy Kershaw, Tommy Shane Steiner, Trace Adkins, Michael Peterson, Anthony Smith, Jeffrey Steele, Confederate Railroad, Neal McCoy, Brian McComas, Brad Paisley, Joe Diffie, Diamond Rio, Kenny Chesney, Toby Keith and many, many more.

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TYLER REEVE

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Songwriter of “I Got Away With You," "Whiskey On My Breath," "In Case You didn't Know" and "Does To Me"

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In a career that has spanned fifteen years, country music hit maker Tyler Reeve has gone through an array of life-altering moments in which the Alabama native was rocked by the intricacies of life and knew instinctively that it was time to change direction.

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Or at the very least, it was time to write a song.

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And he has done just that, having a hand in writing not only some of country music’s most thought-provoking songs, but truly authentic songs that have seen massive success on the charts. Yet now, Reeve finds himself at a moment in which he is ready to take his turn in the spotlight.

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Growing up watching his uncle play  guitar and singing at the family’s beach house, Reeve’s love of music began at an early age.

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Reeve would soon begin playing cover gigs at bars while attending college in Florida, working four hours a night and five nights a week. “I started writing and performing some of my originals, but I still couldn’t get out of that cycle of playing cover gigs,” he says. “There was one night that I was playing ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ at 2am and I realized that, while the people were all having a blast, they didn’t give a shit about who was singing.  They cared about the song. I knew from that point on that I wanted to be the person to write the songs that people sing along to.”

And that’s exactly what he did.

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Reeve would end up recording his first record in a lightening span of two weeks, while living in Atlanta, GA.  He quickly gained a loyal following while touring with his band.

But then he got a call that would allow him to expand his reach nation-wide.

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“The Country Throwdown people called asking if we would be interested in pulling a BBQ trailer across the country while kicking off the show every night,” Reeve recalls.

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It was on that tour that fans began noticing the undeniable talents of the budding songwriter, and it became evident that Reeve belonged in Nashville. He signed his lease on Valentine’s Day in 2012. “I would be out on the road from Thursday through Sunday and then would write in Nashville during the remainder of the week,” said Reeve, whose country music journey was featured on ABC’s Emmy nominated series “Hitting the Right Note”.

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Those co-writes would eventually turn into unforgettable songs such as “Whiskey on my Breath” (Love & Theft), “I Got Away with You” (Luke Combs) and “In Case You Didn’t Know” (Brett Young.) 

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And while the lover of lyrics plans to continue enjoying the fruits of his songwriting labors, Reeve is now setting his sights on the days and nights ahead where he will focus on playing his own music in his own way. “I like taking my fans on a ride, both through my songs and through my live shows,” he says. “I like to have them laughing at one song while still wiping their eyes from the last song.

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But most of all, Reeve wants to be real. “I say whatever the hell I’m thinking, and I think my fans appreciate that,” laughs Reeve, who now lives in a home overlooking the skyline of the city that has made superstars out of so many talented writers. “People are craving authenticity and they want the truth…and that’s what they get from me.”

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IRA DEAN

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Songwriter of “Just What I Do,” “Am I The Only One,” “Pour Me,” and “One In Every Crowd”

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You remember IRA DEAN as the”wild”, ”untamed”, ”crazy”, ”energetic” bass player of the country trio TRICK PONY, but since leaving the group in 2008, Ira has proven that strength doesnʼt always come in numbers.

Huge hits co-written by Dean like “Pour Me,” and the Grammy nominated “Just What I Do,” established Ira Dean as not only the wild man with headlights in his chrome stand up bass, but as a brand new singer songwriting force and studio musician in country music.

Back in 2000, Trick Pony exploded right out of the starting gate with their highly acclaimed and platinum selling self-titled CD. The trio won both the American Music Awardsʼ “Top New Artist” and the Country Music Associationʼs “Artist of the Year”. The second CD, On A Mission, which Ira co-wrote 7 cuts including the hit single “ON A MISSION”, brought five more Academy of Country Music nominations including “Album of the Year” and “Vocal Group of the Year”.

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Now a few years and more than 50 cuts later, Ira is happy being “A POWER OF 1”. Ira has had songs recorded by Rascal Flatts, Joe Nichols, Chris Young, Trace Adkins, Aaron Lewis, Colt Ford, ex- pony Heidi Newfield, Jake Owen, Gary Allan, including his hit single “FEELING LIKE THAT”, and 7 songs cut by Montgomery Gentryʼ, including their hit single “ONE IN EVERY CROWD”, and single "I'LL KEEP THE KIDS" to name a few.

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Ira has recorded with such greats as Hank Williams Jr., Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Emmy Lou Harris, Mel Tillis, Jamey Johnson, Montgomery Gentry, Blake Shelton, Uncle Kracker, Ronnie Milsap, Lee Roy Parnell and many more.

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In 2012 IRA released his first solo single titled "Somethin' Bout a Sunday" the video was a top 10 video for CMT and GAC.

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In 2015 IRA DEAN released his long overdue single "Nothin' To Do Round Here". This song consists of an all star band. Ronnie Milsap, Lee Roy Parnell, Montgomery Gentry, Colt Ford, and Jeffrey Steele. "Nothin' To Do Round Here" can be heard on XM SIRIUS radio, The Highway channel as we speak.
 This is the First Single off Ira's first DEBUT CD "IT'S ABOUT TIME."

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In 2017 the Oscars recognized Ira Dean for his work with Edwin McCain for writing and producing Edwin's song "I'm Back" which was a Oscar pick for best original music score in a movie.

Ira was busy in 2018 in the studio playing guitars and bass on “FOREVER WORDS” (the never released works of JOHNNY CASH), sung by Chris Cornell, Willie Nelson, Brad Paisley, Jamey Johnson, Alison Krauss.

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“FOREVER WORDS VOLUME 2” is already in the works with Ira Dean co-producing.

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Ira also wrote and produced partial soundtrack for “Under Suspicion “ a 2018 Chris Mulkey film.

Ira Dean produced 22 tracks for the soundtrack for an upcoming film which Ira Dean is also co-starring with Chris Rich (Reba show, Murphy Brown). The film “DEEP RIVER” is presently shooting in Sanford N.C.

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Ira still keeps a busy tour schedule playing all over the United States.

“Itʼs crazy ain't it?”, Ira sayʼs, “ But then again my life has always been crazy”. ”When I first came to town I was drowning. I had this gig for $30 bucks a night and was going to go back home”. “Then I met this red headed kid bout my age, he came up to me at the club I was playing at and said”, “ Man you can stay at my place for a while”, “That red headed kid was John Carter Cash”. “ My first year in town and I was staying with Johnny Cash, June Carter, and John Carter”. Ira laughs........”God must love Crazy”

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J. R. WARD

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Songwriter of "We Don't Bring It Up," “90 Proof Sunrise,” “Southside of Empty,” and “Turn Your Eyes To Jesus”

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J.R. Ward is an independent country singer/songwriter originally from Chattanooga, TN who currently resides in Palm Coast, FL.  Drawing influences from artists such as Waylon Jennings,  Gary Allan, and Jamey Johnson,  J.R. writes and sings songs that show elements of another time with a fresh new sound all of his own.  J.R. tours throughout the Southeast and continues to win over crowds with his soulful authentic approach to his performances and songwriting.  

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One of the biggest influences early on in J.R.'s career was playing for people in assisted living and nursing homes. "You really find out what's important when you play music for people who are at the end of their life. It reminds me to do what I love, and that's creating memories with music."  

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J.R. has both headlined venues and played support for national touring acts such as The Steel Woods, Ward Davis, Ray Scott, Wade Bowen, Dillon Carmichael, Josh Ward, Alex Williams and Sam Riggs throughout north and central FL.  J.R. released his debut EP "My Own Way" in the fall of 2017.  The EP is named after and for one of his greatest inspirations, Waylon Jennings, who once said, "There's always one more way to do things, and that's your way..." 

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KELLEY LOVELACE

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Songwriter of “Wrapped Around,” “The Impossible,” “Don't Forget To Remember Me," and "No I in Beer"

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Kelley Lovelace was born in Paducah, Kentucky but was primarily raised in Hixson, Tennessee on the outskirts of Chattanooga. He currently lives in Franklin, Tennessee just a few miles south of Nashville.

Upon completion of basic training in the United States ARMY, Kelley received the coveted Distinguished Honor Graduate Award recognizing him as the top soldier in the company. He continued to excel in the military and obtained the rank of specialist (E-4) before receiving an honorable discharge for faithfully completing his two-year term of service at Fort Benning in Columbus, Georgia.

As a cum laude graduate of Belmont University, Kelley began working and writing at Larry Butler’s music publishing company, Perdido Key Music. In just three years he became President of this publishing company, owned by Shug Baggott, and dubbed it Music Alley before choosing to write songs full time and landing a song writing deal with EMI Music Publishing.  Kelley is currently signed to a joint venture publishing deal with Warner Chappell & Sea Gayle Music Publishing.

As a writer, he has had many songs recorded by artists such as Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood, Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Kenney Chesney, Keith Urban, Rascal Flatts, Sheryl Crow, Randy Houser, Hunter Hayes, Joe Nichols, Lauren Alaina, Scotty McCreary, Terri Clark, Montgomery Gentry, and many others. Among these recordings are 24 Top 10 Billboard / R&R / Mediabase hits: 17 of which have reached the #1 position:

Kelley has also received Song of the Year nominations for “He Didn’t Have To Be,” co-written with and recorded by Brad Paisley, from the Country Music Association (CMA), the Academy of Country Music (ACM), and the TNN Music Awards. Kelley’s first Grammy nomination came in 2002 in the category of Best Country Song for “The Impossible” recorded by Joe Nichols, co-written with Lee Miller.

He has been awarded Song of the Year for “He Didn’t Have To Be” by the TNN Music Awards and Music Row Magazine and is co-author of a gift book for stepfathers entitled “He Didn’t Have To Be.”

Kelley’s second book, published by Rutledge Hill Press, is entitled “If You’ve Got A Dream, I’ve Got A Plan”. This book is a must read for all aspiring songwriters.

As an active member, Kelley shares the vision of the Nashville Songwriters Association International of protecting the rights of songwriters worldwide.

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He is an ordained Deacon and has served at Brentwood Baptist Church. He also donates his time and talents as the celebrity spokesperson for Bethel Bible Village; a Christ centered home for children in crises.  He personally organizes and performs his songs live to help raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for charities and ministries such as St. Jude, and Pursue Ministries.

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T.J. BROWN & COLBY CRAIG

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Songwriters of “While I'm Still Here,” “We Need Love,” “Mustang Memories," and "When I Look At My Woman"

T.J. Brown has released 5 albums since 2006 and Colby Craig has been not so quietly honing her craft performing since 2008. The two singer songwriters traveled in the same circles for 6 years before joining forces in 2021 and have now hit the ground running. Whether you want to hear power house vocals or soulful heartfelt lyrics they’ve got you covered. With a unique blend of southern soul and refreshingly modern americana style, The Vibe is making waves all over Florida. Look for release of their debut EP In 2022.

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LEE THOMAS MILLER

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Songwriter of “The Impossible,” “The World,” “I'm Still a Guy," and "It Ain't My Fault"

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Miller left his hometown to attend Eastern Kentucky University and graduated in 1990. After graduation, he moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to find work as a songwriter. Ken Mellons was the first artist to record his material, in 1994, but it was not until Blackhawk released "Days of America" in 2002 that Miller had a writing credit for a chart single. Another recording from 2002, "The Impossible" by Joe Nichols, was nominated for a Grammy Award a year later. Both it and Terri Clark's 2003 single "I Just Wanna Be Mad" earned Miller BMI Million-Air awards in 2004 for receiving one million radio plays each. In addition to 3 Grammy nominations, Miller won CMA and ACM song of the year awards with "In Color".

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His credits include 7 number one country hits: "The Impossible" (Joe Nichols), "The World", "I'm Still a Guy" and "Perfect Storm"- all by Brad Paisley, "You're Gonna Miss This" for Trace Adkins, "I Just Wanna Be Mad" by Terri Clark and "Southern Girl" (Tim McGraw). Three of his songs — "You're Gonna Miss This", "The Impossible" and "In Color" by Jamey Johnson — were nominated for Best Country Song at the Grammy Awards. Miller also co-wrote "Whiskey and You," with Chris Stapleton. The song appears on Stapleton's album "Traveller".

TIM NICHOLS

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Songwriter of “Live Like You Were Dying,” “Cowboys and Angels,” “The Man I Want To Be," and "Heads Carolina, Tails California"

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With nearly two dozen smash hits, multiple BMI songwriting awards, a  Grammy for Best Country Song, as well as being inducted into the Nashville  Songwriter Hall of Fame in 2017, Tim Nichols has earned his place among  Nashville's most elite and respected tunesmiths.  

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In 2004, along with Craig Wiseman, Nichols wrote Tim McGraw's "Live Like  You Were Dying," which stayed at #1 for ten consecutive weeks. In addition  to breaking a 30 year record, "Live Like You Were Dying" won the Grammy  award for Best Country Song in 2005. It also won the Song of the Year  award from the Country Music Association, Academy of Country Music, BMI  Country Awards, ASCAP Country Awards, Billboard and the Nashville  Songwriters Association International. It is the only song to have won every  major song award that is presented for country music.

Other Nichols’ hits helped launch the careers of Jo Dee Messina,  (Heads Carolina, Tails California) and Dustin Lynch. (Cowboys and Angels)  Sony Music artist Chris Young stayed at the top of the charts for 3 weeks  with the Nichols composition, “The Man I Want To Be.”  

Feeling the importance of giving back to the community and the music  industry, Nichols is a former member of the Board of Directors of the  Country Music Association, and a current member of the Nashville  Songwriter Association International Board of Directors. Nichols is also the  current President of the Board of Directors of the High Hopes Preschool and  Pediatric Therapy Clinic, which serves children with special needs in  Nashville and surrounding counties in middle Tennessee. 

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When not on Music Row in pursuit of his next hit, Tim enjoys finding  inspiration by traveling with his wife, Nashville Edit Magazine founder and  publisher, Stacie Standifer. Out of their travels Nichols developed, "From  A Songwriter's Camera," a collection of images that speak visually with  the same heart, intensity and voice as his songs. Whether visually  through photography or sonically through music, Nichols says he loves  "the process of creating" and looks forward to the images and songs yet to  come.

LAUREN MASCITTI

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Songwriter of “God Made a Woman,” “Steel Me Away,” “Play Me Like a Song," and "All The Words He Never Said"

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Lauren Mascitti is a country music singer/songwriter from Louisville, Ohio who moved to Nashville after graduating from nursing school. Singing since the age of 7, she has shared the stage with many notable acts across the United States and has been blessed to have written and/or performed with the likes of country music legends Ricky Skaggs, The Whites, Larry Gatlin, Pam Tillis, Shawn Camp, Matraca Berg, Delbert McClinton, Gary Nicholson, and many more. Recently, she was a standout on American Idol season 3 where she finished in the top 21. Her most recent album, “God Made A Woman” was named in the Best Albums of 2020 list by The New York Times and is listed in the Top 12 Albums of 2020 by Saving Country Music. To learn more, visit her website www.laurenmascitti.com

JEREMY BUSSEY

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Songwriter of “Girl Going Nowhere", "Higher Education", "Hang In There Girl", and "You Make It Look So Good".

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Jeremy Bussey grew up in the small town of Sylvan Springs, Alabama just outside of Birmingham. He started taking piano lessons at 5 years old. While he loved music itself, the first time he wrote a song, that love took on a whole new meaning. Jeremy started playing songwriter nights as often as he could. He continued to work at crafting his lyrical skills and ultimately signed with Fluid Music Revolution/Spirit Music Nashville in 2019. These days, he has become the “go to guy” for great lyrics and song ideas. 

Jeremy’s songs have been recorded by Jason Aldean, Brantley Gilbert, Ashley McBryde, Luke Bryan, Chase Rice, Tyler Farr, Thompson Square, Lonestar, Tate Stevens and Mark Wills to name a few.

Jeremy has also landed songs for synch with tv/film including Pepsi, Ram Trucks, Dallas Housewives, Heart of Dixie and others. 

“I have always loved the stories in songs. That’s why the lyric has always been my strongest suit. I enjoy playing the piano, guitar and singing, but I love writing a great lyric and idea. It’s like putting the last piece of the puzzle together…then starting another puzzle.” 

TONY LANE

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Songwriter of “On My Way To You,” "A Little Past Little Rock," "Hello World," and "Letters From Home".

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Tony Lane comes from the small town of Comanche, Texas. By way of Waco, he made his way to the bars of Ft. Worth and Dallas where he played until the early morning hours for many years. Tony made the move to Nashville back in the 90s and played many songwriter nights before signing his first deal with Famous Music. He quickly celebrated his first number one with LeaAnn Womack’s “A Little Past Little Rock”. This hit was followed by many others, including “Run” by George Strait, “Letters from Home” by John Michael Montgomery, “I Need You” by Tim McGraw (featuring Faith Hill), “Hello World” by Lady A, “Roll with It” by Easton Corbin, “On My Way to You” by Cody Johnson, and many others. Through the years he’s enjoyed cuts by Kenny Chesney, Keith Urban, Trace Adkins, Randy Travis, Alan Jackson, Chris Janson, and many others. 

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Tony currently writes at Warner Chappell. He has cuts on the recent Kenny Chesney, Tim Mcgraw, Cody Johnson and Chris Janson albums.

WYATT McCUBBIN

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Songwriter of “Heaven Don't Want Me and The Devil Ain't Done,” "A Long Time Ago," "My Honky Tonk," and "Waiting on Tennessee"

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Wyatt McCubbin is a singer-songwriter originally from southwestern Ohio where he began writing songs & playing shows at an early age. As a performer, Wyatt has opened for artists such as Merle Haggard, George Jones, Charlie Daniels, Dwight Yoakam, Easton Corbin, Josh Turner and more. Since moving to Nashville he has had his songs recorded by Riley Green, Cody Johnson, Tracy Lawrence, Brent Cobb and many others. Wyatt’s wide range of influences between country, blues and soul have helped him create his very own brand of country music.

GARY NICHOLSON

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Songwriter of “One More Last Time,” "Live Laugh Love," "She Couldn't Change Me," and "Worry B Gone"

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Gary Nicholson is a number one hit songwriter, two time Grammy winning producer, recording artist, world traveling performer, and session guitarist. He was inducted into the Texas Heritage Songwriter’s Hall of Fame in 2011. There are over six hundred recordings of his songs in various genres including country, rock, blues, folk, bluegrass, and pop by Willie Nelson, Ringo Starr, Waylon Jennings, Fleetwood Mac, George Jones, Chris Stapleton, Van Morrison, The Dixie Chicks, BB King, Eric Clapton, Delbert McClinton, John Prine, Emmylou Harris, Keb Mo, Bonnie Raitt, Stevie Nicks, Guy Clark, Vince Gill, Michael McDonald, Garth Brooks, Billy Joe Shaver, Marty Stuart, Robert Plant, Kenny Chesney, Joe Bonamassa, Dierks Bentley, Patty Loveless, The Mavericks, Wynonna, The Judds, Trisha Yearwood, Buddy Guy, Brad Paisley, and the list goes on.

In addition to his two Grammy winning records with Delbert McClinton, he has produced records for Billy Joe Shaver, Marcia Ball, The Judds, Wynonna, Pam Tillis, T Graham Brown, Chris Knight, Seth Walker and many others. As a guitarist he has played live and recorded with Guy Clark, Billy Joe Shaver, Asleep at the Wheel, Bobby Bare, Joe Ely, and participated in Delbert’s Sandy Beaches Cruise for twenty five years. His songs have been included in many major motion pictures and television, the song “Falling and Flying" is featured in the Oscar winning film “Crazy Heart” performed by Jeff Bridges. Recent songwriting credits include the co-written title of Ringo Starr’s release “Give More Love” and the Grammy winning title song of Buddy Guy’s “The Blues is Alive And Well”, also a tribute to Merle Haggard recorded by Willie Nelson, “He Won’t Ever Be Gone” , and “Worry B Gone” is featured on Chris Stapleton’s new release.

Gary has conducted songwriting and guitar workshops at various festivals and colleges including Berklee School of Music. For more info and complete discography visit garynicholson.com.

HUNTER PHELPS

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Songwriter of “Give Heaven Some Hell,” "The Worst Country Song of All Time," "That Ain't Me No More," and "Drinkin' Beer, Talkin God".

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Hunter Phelps was born and raised in Niceville, Florida, where he was introduced to songwriting at a young age by his father, who owned a small recording studio. Growing up, his passions included hunting or fishing the bayous and bays of the Florida panhandle, and spending his days teaching himself to play the guitar.  After high school, Hunter attended the University of Florida in Gainesville, where he began writing songs. He joined a band, started playing tailgate parties and bars around town, and quickly developed a loyal following.

Hunter moved to Nashville in 2012, before ever having visited the town and without really knowing how to break into Music City’s circles. Armed with his guitar, he honed his craft in the honky-tonks of Lower Broadway and sharpened his songwriting skills in the writers’ rooms of Music Row. 

2021 has turned into a special year for Hunter with seven radio cuts including “The Worst Country Song of All Time” (Brantley Gilbert feat. Hardy and Toby Keith) , “Cold Beer Calling My Name” (Jameson Rogers feat. Luke Combs), “That Ain’t Me No More” (Matt Stell), “Drinkin’ Beer. Talkin’ God. Amen.” (Chase Rice feat. Florida Georgia Line), “Give Heaven Some Hell” (HARDY), “Thinkin’ Bout You” (Dustin Lynch feat. Mackenzie Porter), and “Hot Beer” (Dillon Carmichael); plus more on the way, and no telling what else will follow in the years to come. 

SPALDING McINTOSH

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Songwriter of “Little Things,” "How 'Bout a Dance," "Weary Traveler," and "Ballad of McIntosh".

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“Songwriter Spalding McIntosh is a Western North Carolina native. His band, McIntosh and the LionHearts are known for their high- energy, heart felt performances of his compositions on home, love and the challenges of manhood , all in a tight rolling groove. “Little Things” is the bands debut release. Recorded at Brighter Shade Studios in Atlanta. Produced by John Driskell Hopkins of the Zac Brown Band.”  For more information and to check out his music,  go to​ Https://spaldingmcintoshmusic.com

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RANDY MONTANA

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Songwriter of “Beer Never Broke My Heart,” "Cold As You," "I Hope You're Happy Now," and "We Didn't Have Much".

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Nashville native, singer-songwriter Randy Montana has been described as a standout among his “I’m more country than you peers.” His songs are pure, honest, &  gritty but still manage to be from the heart. His style clings to the rough edges of country’s musical highway with clear hints of his childhood musical influences intertwined throughout. Randy has penned songs recorded by Jon Pardi, Luke Combs, Justin Moore, Riley Green, Jimmie Allen, Drake White, David Nail, Cody Johnson, Luke Bryan, & George Strait, and wrote “What If I was Willing” that was featured on the hit TV show NASHVILLE. In 2020, Randy was named Breakthrough Songwriter of the Year at the MusicRow Awards. He  currently writes for Warner Chappell Music and lives with his wife, Montgomery, and their three kids in Nashville, TN.

MONTY CRISWELL

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Songwriter of “Tough,” "Like Jesus Does," "Just Fishin'," and "Five More Minutes".

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Monty Criswell grew up on the coast of Alabama and began his professional songwriting career in 1993, after graduating from the University of Alabama and passing on an acceptance to law school. Monty is a two-time Grammy nominee for Country Song of The Year (“I Saw God Today” and “Just Fishin’) and won the CMA Single of the Year award in 2008 (”I Saw God Today”). In 2021, his Eric Church song “Hell Of A View” won the Music Row Awards Song of the Year and received a CMA nomination for both song and single of the year. He's had over 300 songs recorded over the span of his 29-year career as a full-time songwriter. His songs have been recorded by such artists as Jake Owen, Kenny
Chesney, Justin Moore, Brantley Gilbert, Chris Young, Darius Rucker, Eric Church, George Strait, Michael Ray, Scotty McCreery, Frank Ray, Drake White and Trace Adkins among others. On the most recent Trace Adkins album, several of Monty’s songs include collaborations between Trace, Luke Bryan, Pit Bull, Keb Mo’, Stevie Wonder and Snoop Dogg. Hits include "Tough" (Craig Morgan), "Like Jesus Does" (Eric Church), "I Saw God Today" (George Strait), "Just Fishin" (Trace Adkins), "Five More Minutes" (Scotty McCreery) and most recently “Hell of a View” (Eric Church) among others.