Music News (03/20/24)

Toby Keith, John Anderson & James Burton To Be Inducted Into Country Music Hall Of Fame

The Country Music Hall of Fame 2024 class of inductees was revealed today (March 18). Toby Keith, John Anderson and James Burton will be added to the esteemed Hall later this year.

Burton will be inducted in the Recording and/or Touring Musician category, which is awarded every third year in rotation with Songwriter and Non-Performer categories. Anderson will be inducted in the Veterans Era Artist category and Keith will be inducted in the Modern Era Artist category.

“This year’s nominees exemplify the excellence of our genre,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA CEO. “James, John and Toby have each made an indelible impact and brought their distinctive contributions to country music, enriching our format. Their influence is evident throughout the longevity of their careers, ensuring each legacy will thrive indefinitely. It is with great pride that we welcome these three remarkable individuals into the esteemed ranks of the Country Music Hall of Fame.”

Hall of Fame members Brooks & Dunn hosted the press conference to announce the news, which was also streamed live on CMA’s YouTube channel.

Tyler Hubbard Launches New Publishing Company HAYLO Music

Josh Saxe & Tyler Hubbard. Photo: Evan Mattingly

Tyler Hubbard has launched a new publishing company, HAYLO Music, named after the initials of his family.

Josh Saxe, formerly of J C Saxe Creative Consulting, has been tapped to run the new venture. As GM of HAYLO Music, he will work alongside Hubbard to facilitate the daily songwriting strategy of its publishing and creative services roster.

A Belmont University graduate, Saxe began his career as Associate Director, A&R at Round Hill Music Nashville, and later expanded his A&R and catalog development duties by fulfilling the role of Senior Director. In 2019, he moved to Endurance Music Group to help establish its offices and grow its existing business as well as manage its songwriting roster including Matt Stell, Paul Sikes and Seth Alley.

Hubbard’s previous publishing partner, former GM at Tree Vibez Music and current President of Jonas Group Publishing, Leslie DiPiero, helped facilitate Saxe’s hiring process.

“I’m really excited about this new chapter with HAYLO Music,” says Hubbard. “It’s been an incredible ride working with Leslie, who helped me fall in love with music publishing and the songwriting community, and taught me a ton along the way. Community is super important to me, and I’m excited to work with Josh to build a culture where creatives can thrive. HAYLO is a testament to the passion and drive we bring to the table every day, and I can’t wait to show the world what we’re about.”

“I’m thrilled to be part of this new adventure with Tyler,” says Saxe. “His clear vision and passion for music publishing are unparalleled. Let’s get to work.”

Hubbard has penned 17 No. 1 country radio singles between his two solo chart-toppers and cuts for artists including Jason Aldean, Cole Swindell, Bebe Rexha and more. His previous publishing endeavor, which began in 2015, earned 25 No. 1 singles, 90 singles at country radio and 700 total cuts. The hitmaker is set to release his sophomore solo album, Strong, on April 12 via EMI Nashville.

Carys Selvey Inks With Edgehill Music Publishing

Pictured (L-R, back row): Josh Joseph and Tara Joseph. (L-R, front row): Carys Selvey and Julia Keefe

London-based songwriter Carys Selvey has signed a global publishing deal with Edgehill Music Publishing.

Selvey first signed with Sony/ATV London at 14 years old and has since made her own distinctive voice in songwriting. Her partnership with Edgehill is in collaboration with her management team, Joel Reyes at Moko Management and Declan McAlister at 31 Management.

“When I first heard Carys’ work, I was immediately drawn to the rawness of her writing,” shares Julia Keefe, Head of A&R, Edgehill. “In addition to her writing, the energy she brings into every room paired with her ability to connect with creatives on a deeper level, truly sets her apart. We are so excited to have Carys apart of the Edgehill family.”

“I am unbelievably excited to be part of the Edgehill family!” Selvey shares. “Josh [Joseph], Tara [Joseph] and Julia have created an environment unlike any music company I have known beforeand I feel so honoured to be a part of it and get to work with all of their incredibly talented writers and producers.”