Music News (05/08/24)

SMACKSongs Signs Jenn Schott To Publishing Deal

Pictured (L-R): Carly Sater, Lee Krabel, Jenn Schott, Robin Palmer, Jeremy Groves and Sam Sarno

Renowned songwriter Jenn Schott has signed a publishing deal with SMACKSongs.

Schott’s track record includes hits such as Tim McGraw‘s “7500 OBO” and “Two Lanes Of Freedom,” Mickey Guyton‘s “Better Than You Left Me” and Rascal Flatts‘ “Feel It In The Morning.” Previous stops include Dreamworks, UMPG, Big Loud and Red Creative.

“Jenn has always been a talented, hardworking and positive force in this songwriting community,” shares Robin Palmer, Chief Creative Officer at SMACK. “We’re really excited to finally get to welcome her to our family!”

In addition to her songwriting talents, Schott sits on the Board of Directors as Vice President of the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) alongside fellow SMACK writer and President of NSAI, Lee Thomas Miller.

Of the deal, Schott shares, “I’m so honored to be joining the SMACK family. I’ve known and admired Robin and Lee [Krabel] for many years, and to get to work with them alongside Jeremy [Groves], Sam [Sarno], Carly [Sater], Emily [Carignan], and the rest of the SMACK team feels like I hit the songwriter jackpot. I’m excited to get to work and see what we can accomplish together!”

Brian Fuller Inks With Sony Music Publishing Nashville

Pictured (L-R, back row): Kenley Flynn, Dale Bobo, Josh Van Valkenburg, Anna Weisband, Tom Luteran and Synnovea Cleveland; (L-R, front row): Aubrey Landon, Brian Fuller and Rusty Gaston. Photo: Courtesy of Sony Music Publishing Nashville

Songwriter Brian Fuller has signed a global publishing deal with Sony Music Publishing Nashville.

The Georgia native moved to Nashville in 2019, where he spent time writing and touring. He has released several tracks as an artist including “Blue Sky Beautiful” and “Tellin’ On You,” and recently received his first major label cut with “I Could Be That Rain” from Randall King‘s debut album Into The Neon.

“I give all the glory and credit to God for blessing me with the amazing team and people at Sony,” says Fuller. “The first time I sat down and talked with Rusty [Gaston] I felt like he truly cared to hear about who I was and my story. Aubrey [Landon] has the drive and work ethic of 10 people and I feel so lucky to have her in my corner. Every time I step foot within Sony, I’m welcomed by nothing but smiles and I feel right at home. Excited is an understatement for how I feel starting this next chapter with them.”

“Brian is a special talent—his song sense, unique melodies and ideas set him apart as one of the most promising young songwriter/artists,” shares Landon. “We are excited to join forces and be a part of his team! There’s no doubt in my mind he’ll be the talk of the town soon.”

Fuller is set to release his newest single “That Girl Can Drive,” co-penned with Joey Hyde and Justin Wilson, on May 24.

UMPG Nashville Signs John Hollier

Pictured (L-R): Cyndi Forman (UMPG Nashville), Don Glista (UMPG Nashville), Alex Brahl (7S Management) and John Hollier. Photo: Courtesy of UMPG Nashville

Universal Music Publishing Nashville has signed singer-songwriter John Hollier to an exclusive, global publishing agreement.

Hollier is a Louisiana native whose music combines gruff heartland rock with country soul. He recently signed to Thirty Tigers Records and opened for the Red Clay Strays. Hollier is managed by 7S Management.

“John’s lyrics are full of heart and soul. Combine that with one of the most incredible live shows I’ve seen in a long time, and I’m in! Let’s geaux, John!” says Cyndi Forman, Senior VP, A&R, UMPG Nashville.

“Cyndi and the entire UMPG team have made me feel at home and, more importantly, shown me that they are going to help foster my songs and style as passionately as I do,” says Hollier. “It’s a true honor to join an elite group of songwriters such as the Universal Music Publishing roster.”