Eclipse Music Group Acquires Harding Road Catalog
Eclipse Music Group has acquired the Harding Road catalog from ERNEST Entertainment.
The acquisition includes songs from the early catalog of multi-Platinum, award-winning songwriter and recording artist HARDY including “Up Down,” recorded by Morgan Wallen featuring Florida Georgia Line, and “Some Girls,” recorded by Jameson Rodgers.
“We’re thrilled to welcome this incredible body of work into the Eclipse Music Group catalog,” says Penny Gattis, Partner at Eclipse Music Group.
“HARDY has become one of the defining songwriters of his generation, and these early songs represent the foundation of an extraordinary career. It’s especially meaningful to complete this transaction with friends, and we’re grateful to Jonathan Watkins for bringing this opportunity to us,” adds Kurt Locher, Founder/Principal.
“First, a thank you to Kurt and Penny for championing this sale and getting us to a deal,” says Jonathan Watkins, Owner/President of Ernest Entertainment Inc. “I want to say how proud I am of HARDY, whose incredible work ethic, dedication and talent as a writer has clearly set him apart — he wrote more in his time with us than most writers ever will, and it shows in every song. Grateful as well to my business partner in Watsky Music for bringing Michael to the table, and to Kobalt Music and Stephanie Cox for being so instrumental in helping HARDY break through as a writer. I’m thrilled that Eclipse Music is now taking the catalog forward, excited to continue exploiting the many terrific songs still waiting to be discovered.”
The Harding Road catalog will continue to be administered by Kobalt.
John R. Ouellette handled the transaction on behalf of Harding Road. Matthew Beckett of Milom Horsnell Crow Kelley Beckett Shehan PLC represented Eclipse Music Group in the transaction.
Lauren Daigle, Brett Young, The Band Perry To Headline The Maui Songwriters Festival In January
The 12th Annual Maui Songwriters Festival is set to take place Jan.6-9 at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua featuring headliners Lauren Daigle, Brett Young, and The Band Perry.
The 2027 lineup also includes Drake White, Chris DeStefano, Trannie Anderson, Jon Nite, Jimmy Robbins, and more. Hosted by radio personality Katie Neal of Katie & Company, the Maui Songwriters Festival showcases the artistry of songwriting through performances that celebrate the stories, experiences, and inspiration behind today’s biggest hits.
“Music has a remarkable ability to bring people together, and we’re honored to once again welcome the Maui Songwriters Festival to Kapalua,” says Melissa Lee, Hotel Manager at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua. “The festival embodies the spirit of connection, storytelling, and shared experiences that align seamlessly with our commitment to creating meaningful moments for our guests and community.”
A silent auction will also be held during the events that will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Maui, with proceeds supporting youth programs across Maui. Festival packages, accommodations and ticket information are available at mauisongwritersfestival.com.
Cledus T. Judd Inks With Warner Chappell Music
Pictured: Spencer Nohe (WCM), Phil May (WCM), Benji Amaefule (WCM), Austen Adams (WCM), Kayce Russell (WCM), Cledus T. Judd and Allen Mitchell (Reverie Ranch). Photo: Courtesy of WCM
Country comedian and recording artist Cledus T. Judd has signed with Warner Chappell Music.
The signing follows the release of his latest single, “Just Another Day In Parodies – Cease & Desist.”
Judd first entered the country music scene in the mid-1990s with tracks including “I Love NASCAR,” “My Cellmate Thinks I’m Sexy,” “How Do You Milk a Cow” and “If Shania Was Mine.” His catalog includes 12 albums along with dozens of singles and music videos. Over his career, Judd’s tracks have been recorded by Rascal Flatts, Montgomery Gentry and others. He has toured alongside Brooks & Dunn, Rascal Flatts and Toby Keith. Judd signed with Reliant Talent Agency earlier this year.