Onward and Upward around Music Row

By Preshias Harris

BMLG signs FGL’s Kelley for Solo Projects

Diamond-selling (and part of FGL) superstar Brian Kelley is returning to Big Machine Label Group (BMLG) for release of his future solo projects. The announcement was made by BMLG’s president, CEO and founder Scott Borchetta who stated, “Everyone at Big Machine gives a giant and warm welcome-back to Brian Kelley. Our results together are historic, and we look forward to building on this incredible foundation as BK enters an extremely creative season with us.”  Kelley debuted the single, “American Spirit,” on July 1. Find it on Spotify or Apple Music here. Kelley produced and wrote “American Spirit” alongside Jake Rose with Blake Redferrin and Canaan Smith also credited as songwriters.  More about BMLG here.

EMG Adds Two

Endurance Music Group is expanding both its creative team and the administrative division with two new hires.  EMG announced that Tony Lemonis, as Senior Data Analyst, will play a critical role in royalty and catalog data analysis and management while also assisting with new acquisitions. Additionally, Alannah Schwartz joins the EMG creative team as Catalog Manager, providing administrative assistance as well as marketing and promotional support for the roster of songwriters and artists.

And speaking of EMG, songwriter, producer, and recording artist Jake Rose has signed an exclusive global publishing agreement to continue his relationship with the company. Rose is the frontman of the acclaimed alternative rock band New Medicine as well as a rising solo country artist. As a songwriter, he has penned a string of recent singles and cuts for major acts. 

EMG, helmed by president Michael Martin (former veep at ASCAP) is a full-service publishing company with admin and creative services for their hit songwriters and artists, including Jimmie Allen, Matt Stell, Scooter Carusoe and more. EMG’s track record includes over 50 #1 hits and numerous top five and top ten singles. More about EMG here and on Instagram @endurancemg_nash.

Thornton Rises at G Major

Congrats to Samantha Thornton, a ten-year veteran at G Major Management, who has been elevated to the role of Director of Marketing and Digital Partnerships. Virginia Bunetta, the company’s founder, noted that in the past decade, Thornton has worked on nearly every aspect of an artist from new artist development to touring to album releases. Bunetta added, “Her new role expands her growth as our industry continues to evolve.” 

In her new role, Thornton will take on added responsibility as she handles marketing and digital relationships with partners including Amazon, Apple, Pandora, Spotify, YouTube for all G Major clients which include Thomas Rhett.