Recent Austin News

From MusicWorld, posted 1.19.21. For most of us, 2020 will rank as one of the most tumultuous years of our lifetime. The restrictions, losses, and fears caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with the emotions stirred up in the political and social arenas, touched virtually everyone—and creative people were hit extra hard. Songwriters, musicians, singers,… Read more...

From News, posted 10.22.20. BMI today announced the election of Caroline Beasley, CEO, Beasley Media Group, LLC as Chairman of the BMI Board of Directors, effective immediately. Beasley, who joined the Board in 2014, most recently served as Vice Chairman of the BMI Board. She succeeds Michael… Read more...

From News, posted 4.08.20. On April 7, BMI President & CEO Mike O’Neill sent an email to BMI affiliates reassuring them that their distributions will be on time and outlining the company’s steps to minimize the financial impact of COVID-19 on their future royalties. Read the full letter below. Dear BMI Songwriters, Composers &… Read more...

From News, posted 3.06.20. Below is the statement BMI released to the press on this matter: “Out of an abundance of caution, BMI has decided to cancel its planned events at this year’s SXSW Festival. The health and safety of our team members and our songwriters is of paramount importance, and we regret any… Read more...

From News, posted 2.14.20. Texas singer/songwriter Wade Bowen recently joined BMI, signing with Mitch Ballard, Director, Creative, Austin at the legendary Texas venue Gruene Hall. “For almost 20 years Wade Bowen has been a stand out in Texas music,” says Ballard. “His Bowen Foundation has raised millions for his hometown of Waco with Bowen Fest… Read more...

From News, posted 10.17.19. On October 15, BMI’s President and CEO Mike O’Neill was honored by the T.J. Martell Foundation with the organization’s Legacy Award, which was presented to O’Neill by gospel great and BMI songwriter BeBe Winans. The 44th Annual Honors Gala, held at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City, also celebrated Atlantic… Read more...

From News, posted 9.12.19. BMI is proud to present its 17th curated lineup for the 2019 Austin City Limits Music Festival taking place Oct. 4-6 and 11-13, in Austin’s iconic Zilker Park. This year’s acts are more musically diverse than ever, with offerings for fans of pop, Latin, hip-hop, country and more throughout the two… Read more...

From News, posted 3.13.19. Texas governor Greg Abbott today held a press conference to formally welcome BMI to the Lone Star State. BMI recently announced the opening of its new creative office in Austin, marking our first office in Texas and first company expansion in over twenty years. The Governor was joined at the press… Read more...

From News, posted 3.04.19. BMI is pleased to announce that Mitch Ballard has been named Senior Director, Creative, Austin, effective immediately. In this role, Ballard will be responsible for providing service to our existing BMI affiliates in Texas, signing new talent, and providing enhancement for the already vibrant songwriting community in Austin. Ballard reports to… Read more...

From News, posted 2.28.19. This year is a special one for BMI and SXSW. As the iconic festival turns 32 and BMI gears up for the imminent opening of our Austin office, we are proud to have yet another roster of amazing talent performing at the launchpad event. Showcasing songwriter/artists from as far away as… Read more...