Music News (09/11/24)

Jim McCormick Extends Publishing Agreement With Eclipse Music Group

Pictured (L–R): Anna Thiel, Penny Gattis, Jim McCormick and Courtney Crist

Grammy-nominated songwriter Jim McCormick has extended his exclusive worldwide publishing agreement with Eclipse Music Group.

McCormick boasts three No. 1 hits with Gabby Barrett’s “The Good Ones,” which won an American Music Award for Favorite Country Song and received a CMA Award nomination for Song of the Year, as well as Jason Aldean’s “Take A Little Ride” and Brantley Gilbert’s “You Don’t Know Her Like I Do.” His credits also include songs recorded by Luke Bryan, Cody Johnson, Jon Pardi, Tim McGraw, Keith Urban, Harry Connick Jr., Randy Travis, Trisha Yearwood, Charley Pride, Ronnie Milsap, Trace Adkins, Smash Mouth, Kelly Clarkson, Jamey Johnson, George Birge, Chase Matthew, Matt Stell and Samantha Fish, among others.

“We are thrilled to continue building upon our success with Jim. It’s been an honor to partner with him over the past few years, and the future looks incredibly bright,” says Penny Gattis, Partner, Eclipse Music Group. “Jim elevates every room he’s in with his carefully-crafted lyrics, experience and insight. He inspires everyone to invest the time needed to perfect a lyric, demo or song until it’s truly great.”

Courtney Crist, VP of Publishing, Eclipse Music Group, adds, “Jim is a true professional. His expertise and mentorship are invaluable. He is a tremendous asset to Eclipse. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to work with someone so collaborative and talented.”

“I’m privileged to have Penny Gattis, Courtney Crist and Anna Thiel in my corner,” shares McCormick. “Their dedication to songwriters and determination to succeed are an inspiration to me every day and allow me to focus on this crazy and wonderous job of writing songs.”

Country Duo Heartwreckers Ink Publishing Deal With BMG

Pictured (L-R): Jackie Martinez Marushka, James Stewart, Matt Cottingham, Scott Siman, Brock Butler and Ryan Garrett, Joe Carter, Keith Lazorchak, Mike Taliaferro, Chris Oglesby, Amy Scott and Camryn Clark. Photo: Paula Nelson

Heartwreckers, a new country duo consisting of Texas natives Brock Butler and Ryan Garrett, have signed a publishing deal with BMG.

Earlier this summer, the duo released their debut EP, Shut Up And Drink, following their performances opening the 28th Annual Key West Songwriters Festival Presented by BMI, supporting Denmark’s “Nashville Nights Spring Tour ‘24” and the UK’s Buckles & Boots Music Fest. Butler and Garrett then hit the road supporting Tim McGraw on his “Standing Room Only Tour” and performed stadium shows in Chicago, Kansas City and more.

“I’m looking forward to the world discovering Heartwreckers’ music,” says EM.Co’s Scott Siman, McGraw’s manager and the publishing partner for Heartwreckers. “Brock and Ryan are each powerhouses on their own, and together their writing and performing just goes to another level.”

McGraw, also a publishing partner for the duo, agrees. “The guys were awesome on the tour this year and I’m thrilled we could partner up with BMG Publishing,” he says.

“Ryan and Brock are strong vocalists and performers in a live setting but what sets these two apart as Heartwreckers is their depth of talent as songwriters,” adds Chris Oglesby, VP, Publishing, BMG Nashville. “They have tapped into what connects with listeners; there’s a rawness and vulnerability that balances the ‘in your face’ truth-telling songs they’re becoming known for. They understand their craft and are dedicated to growing as artists and writers. We couldn’t be more thrilled to partner with Scott, Tim and team EM.Co on what I believe will be an enduring career.”

Concord Music Publishing Signs Erin Kirby

Pictured (L–R, back row): Concord’s Garrett Stephenson, Dennis Entertainment’s Lily Fine, John Dennis, Grace Schoper, Concord’s Lily Bunta, Jen Hubbard, Matt Turner, Courtney Allen and Claire Buchanan; (L–R, front row): Concord’s Brad Kennard, Erin Kirby and Concord’s Melissa Spillman. Photo: Audrey Spillman

Concord Music Publishing has signed country artist Erin Kirby to her first worldwide publishing deal, which includes her full catalog and future works.

The Atlanta native began writing her own songs at the age of 12, drawing inspiration from James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Adele and Luke Combs. Now at 20 years old, she has worked alongside various established producers and writers as well as performed during televised Motocross and Supercross events in addition to NBA, MLB and NFL games.

Her pop-country sound has attracted hundreds of thousands of listeners on both TikTok and Instagram. Since her first country release of 2023, “Boys These Days,” Kirby has dropped multiple singles, including “Raised In A Barn” and “Redneck Rich.” She was also invited to record a feature on “I Can Lie (The Truth Is)” with Kameron Marlowe after a TikTok duet of her adding her harmonies over the song went viral with over one million views. Additionally, Kirby unveiled “Pick My Own Flowers” early this year ahead of latest single “Leaving Eyes,” which she dropped this summer.

“The very first time I heard Erin’s voice on a worktape, I was all in. She has the kind of pure vocal and songwriting talent that is true to country music, and we are so excited to partner with her,” says Melissa Spillman, VP of A&R, Concord Music Publishing Nashville. “I am eager for fans to discover the incredible human and artist Erin is, and I look forward to celebrating the many musical successes in her future.”

“I am so grateful for Melissa and the Concord team that believes in my sound and artistry,” Kirby shares. “So excited for this new partnership and the big future ahead!”

Andy Skib Inks With Sheltered Music

Pictured (L-R): Freeman Wizer (Creative Director Sheltered Music Publishing), Andy Skib and Darrell Franklin (Sr. VP Sheltered Music Publishing)

Songwriter and producer Andy Skib has signed a global publishing deal with Sheltered Music.

Skib moved to Nashville in 2012 from L.A. and has collaborated with a variety of artists, with cuts by Keith Urban, Hunter Hayes, Mickey Guyton, Adam Doleac, Caylee Hammack and others. His production work includes Kenny Chesney’s song “Streets,” Brett Eldredge’s tracks “No Stopping You” and “Something I’m Good At,” Steve Moakler’s album Make A Little Room, Augustana’s upcoming album Something Beautiful and music from Tenille Townes.

“I first learned of Andy’s talents through co-writes with some of our songwriters,” shares Sr. VP Sheltered Music Publishing Darrell Franklin. “The more I heard, the more I continued to be blown away by both his writing and his production skills. Andy is a great fit for us at Sheltered and we are excited to have the opportunity to represent him and his music.”

“I am honored and thrilled to join the Sheltered team,” says Skib. “Their passion for music and production is evident and inspiring, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to their journey moving forward.”