News Archive
On Wednesday night, friends, family, and the Nashville music community celebrated the success of “Son of a Sinner,” the first number one hit from Nashville native, Jelly Roll (Jason DeFord). The event, hosted by BMI at our Music Row offices, honored Jelly Roll and his co-writers, Ernest K. Smith and…
BMI Mourns the Loss of Gospel Singer Deborah McCrary
BMI is saddened by the passing of Deborah McCrary, one of four sisters in the legendary gospel group, The McCrary Sisters. Having learned to sing from her Baptist preacher and gospel musician father, Reverend Samuel H. “Sam” McCrary of the famed Fairfield Four, Deborah, along with Ann, Regina, and Alfreda…
When Clever is Too Clever in Songwriting
Before addressing what might constitute being “too clever” in lyrics, I’ll begin by defining what I mean by “clever” lyrics. For the purposes of this article I’m referring to songs with lyrics that are witty, tongue-in-cheek, humorous, or amusing. These are in contrast to those that fall into the category…
BMI Mourns the Loss of Paul Craft
Broadcast Music, Inc. mourns the loss of legendary songwriter and recent Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Paul Craft, who passed away October 18, 2014, at the age of 76. Craft was known for his heartfelt and often humorous stories delivered by song, including GRAMMY nominated “Dropkick Me, Jesus,” “Hank…
Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson and Fred Foster Tapped as Dale Franklin Award Recipients
Leadership Music will present the Dale Franklin Award to BMI Icons Kris Kristofferson and Willie Nelson, as well as BMI legend Fred Foster, during the organization’s annual benefit gala, slated for Sunday, August 29 at the Renaissance Hotel in downtown Nashville. Named for the first executive director of Leadership Music,…
Musicians Hall of Fame Inducts BMI Pioneers
Industry admirers, peers, and contemporary stars gathered to salute the 2009 class of virtuosos inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame on Monday, October 12 at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville. BMI legends Chet Atkins, Fred Foster, Charlie Daniels, Billy Cox, and band Toto all became members of the…
2009 Inductees Announced for Musicians Hall of Fame
The 2009 inductees into the Musicians Hall of Fame include a slew of BMI legends: Chet Atkins, Fred Foster, Charlie Daniels, Billy Cox, and band TOTO will all become members of the prestigious club that already includes Booker T. & The MGs, The Crickets, Duane Eddy, Al Kooper, The Memphis…
Leadership Music Honors The Bradleys
Leadership Music honored Music Row’s First Family The Bradleys with the prestigious Dale Franklin Award during a recent gala and all-star musical tribute held August 26 in Nashville. Harold, Jerry, Patsy and Connie Bradley were honored along side the family’s late patriarch Owen, for their substantial contributions to the very…
Toby Keith Reclaims Lead in CMA Nods
Recognized in six categories, Toby Keith led the list of BMI-affiliated nominees for the 38th Annual Country Music Association Awards (announced August 30). Nominated for Entertainer and Male Vocalist of the Year and Album of the Year for Shock'N Y'all, Keith also picked up…
Unconventional Songs Add Spice To Your Company Holiday Parties
Looking for a rockin' good time at your next company holiday party? A mix of non-traditional holiday songs might be the key to lighten the mood and create a more memorable event. How about the Beach Boys' "Little Saint Nick," written by Brian Wilson and…