Music News (07/31/24)

Nominees Revealed For 36th Annual MusicRow Awards

MusicRow Magazine is proud to reveal the nominees for the 2024 MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank. Determined by MusicRow subscribers, this year’s winners will be revealed on all online MusicRow platforms on Tuesday, Aug. 27.

MusicRow subscribers will receive their ballots via email on Wednesday, July 31. The Ballot Voting Period runs through Friday, Aug. 9 at 5 p.m. To become a MusicRow subscriber and become eligible to vote, sign up here.

Click here to view the digital “Nominator” newsletter for a complete list of all nominees.

Schmitty Signs With Warner Chappell Music

Pictured (L-R): Ben Vaughn (WCM), Jessi Vaughn Stevenson (WCM), Schmitty and Eric Reid (WCM)

Singer-songwriter Schmitty has signed a publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music.

Raised on the farmlands of North Dakota, Schmitty gave up his third-generation seat as a grain farmer to chase his musical dreams in Nashville. Through his heartfelt lyrics and ’90s country and rock-influenced melodies, he has connected with audiences nationwide and has already garnered over 1.7 million views on TikTok. Schmitty’s recent single, “Don’t Hurt,” has already been featured in multiple editorial playlists across DSPs, and he will be releasing new music this fall.

“I am thrilled to be working with Schmitty,” says Jessi Vaughn Stevenson, VP of A&R/Digital, WCM Nashville. “Growing up in a farming family has really added an authenticity to his songwriting and artistry that I find extremely refreshing. I am excited to help him grow his fanbase both on and off Music Row.”

“I am so excited to join Warner Chappell,” says Schmitty. “For all the awards and praise given at the individual level in music, people sometimes forget the fact that success in this industry is really a team effort. To have a champion like Jessi and the team at Warner Chappell behind me, my dream is on its way to becoming a reality.”

Kaileen Mangan Smith Joins Boom Music Group As Creative Manager

Kaileen Mangan Smith

Kaileen Mangan Smith has joined Boom Music Group as Creative Manager.

Smith comes to the publishing company from UMG Nashville, where she started her career in radio promotion as Royce Risser’s assistant in May 2018 and most-recently served as Director of Regional Promotion for the MCA imprint. She also previously spent time at Sony Music Nashville as Manager of Regional Promotion for the Arista team. While working in radio promotion, Smith contributed to the success of various No. 1 singles for artists like Jordan Davis, Sam Hunt, Parker McCollum and Ryan Hurd.

“I’ve known Kaileen for a few years now, and I’ve always admired her spirit and enthusiasm,” says Shaina Botwin, Vice President, Boom Music Group. “When I heard that she was wanting to make the leap into publishing, I knew she’d be a great fit for Boom. We’re all very excited to welcome her to the team!”

“I’m thrilled to join Joe [Fisher], Shaina and the talented songwriters at Boom,” shares Smith. “I have been itching to tap into the creative space, and feel so lucky to have the opportunity to learn and grow with this inspiring team.”