Musicians right here on the OM team!

By Lexi Ann Staebler

In our lovely Olivia Management Office, we not only manage talented artists, but we are proudly home to several musical artists on our very own team! Six of our devoted team members are also musicians— spanning from songwriters, to artists and multi-instrumentalists!

Two new singles by our team members were released this past week… go check em out on your favorite platforms to stream music!

Grace Carey-Hill

“Low” on all streaming platforms out now by Grace Carey-Hill

Grace Carey-Hill’s “Low” takes a spin on the struggle of mental health, pairing it with an eerie and catchy pop beat. Carey-Hill’s angelic voice is both beautiful and haunting, with an ear candy sing-a-long chorus.

Maddy Hicks

“Hall of Shame” on all streaming platforms by Maddy Hicks

Maddy Hick’s “Hall of Shame” is going to be your next favorite classic scream to pop song. If you like Olivia Rodrigo or Sabrina Carpenter, you’ll love this one! Get in your car, turn the windows down and the volume up on this banger.

Make sure to be on the look out for our team’s future releases as we wish them much success on their musical journeys!

Big Release Weekend for OM

by Faith Harting

Here at Olivia Management, we have had a big week with two releases! We couldn't be more thrilled to share the incredible music from our talented artists Alex Blue and Josh Radnor.

Alex Blue release her EP “Day Job: Pretty in Pop” on October 11th! It is such a fun and honest EP. Click to image below to give it a listen!

Josh Radnor released his new single “Don’t Get Sick This is America” on October 11th. Josh writes “Topics Covered: Health care, poverty, racism, sexism (get psyched!) Oh, and because this is the internet and tone tends to get misread or lost entirely, I mean the opposite of everything I say in the song.” Go give it a listen!

We are so proud of these artists and hope you love their new music as much as we do!

AMERICANAFEST Wrap Up - From An Intern!

By Alexa Sangalis

Now that all AMERICANAFEST events are completed and everyone’s life is back to normal, it’s time to reminisce on what a fabulous week that was! We had the pleasure of being a part of so many events at AMERICANAFEST this year, and so did I (Olivia Management’s 19-year-old intern, Alexa!). I felt so lucky and awe-struck by each of the events I attended, especially the ones OM produced. Call me biased. I went to two of our events this year: A Tribute to Mary Gauthier and In The Round. If you didn’t get the chance to catch the events in person, don’t worry, click here to see our Olivia Management highlight of the week on Instagram.

Mary Gauthier and friends backstage at City Winery

Photo Credits: Lindsey Torres

Last Tuesday, we kicked off the week with the Tribute to Mary Gauthier at City Winery. The lineup of this show was truly one of a kind. Mary is such a beautiful songwriter who has influenced so many musicians and touched the hearts of Americana music lovers everywhere. Mary’s songs were covered all through the night by many of her close friends, including EmmyLou Harris, Gretchen Peters, Lori McKenna, Jamiee Harris, and so many more. I had a unique perspective of the event because I had the job of working the merch table with some fellow friends from Olivia Management. Almost everybody who came up to purchase something (speaking of which, you can also buy Mary’s amazing merch here) shared a bit of their love for Mary with us. We met a woman who flew from Australia to celebrate her love of folk music, many, many people who praised Mary’s book, “Saved by a Song,” a man who got his book signed by Mary herself, and even a City Winery employee who asked who was performing because she loved the music so much. I knew that Mary Gauthier is critically acclaimed and appreciated by many, but I only knew this after experiencing the tribute and meeting all of those lovely Americana lovers. Click HERE to see some performance highlights!

Evan Boyer performing at In The Round Presented by Olivia Management

Then, on Saturday, it was a showcase of Olivia Management clients at Jackalope Brewing Company. In case you didn’t know, not only are we a Nashville-based folk and Americana artist management company, but we also consult for emerging artists. Our lovely CEO and Founder, Erin Anderson, advises artists in career decisions and helps them organize their lives as an artist. So Saturday was 7 amazing hours of showcasing our consulting and management clients alike. Click HERE to view the full lineup, and HERE to watch some highlights of the day! Once again, I had the pleasure of working the merch table for most of the morning. This time, I got to talk with emerging artists, make the merch table all pretty as each artist rotated, and meet audience members who were actively discovering the new music they would be streaming in the future. This showcase was really special for me. Seeing so many people who have a dream and a love of music is inspiring to anybody, and especially to a 19-year-old intern.

Mary Gauthier and Jamiee Harris Performing at City Winery

Here’s a recap: our management clients are awesome, our consulting clients are awesome, and Olivia Management is awesome. From my perspective, AMERICANAFEST is a celebration of good music (of course), good songwriting, and good times. Even as an intern, I was able to experience all of these celebrations firsthand. If you didn’t go to any Olivia Management events, you may have missed out, but now you know to join us in the future. Until then, check out our artists on tour and stay tuned for Olivia Management updates on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and our website.

We’ll see you next year, AMERICANAFEST!

Olivia Management Presents: In the Round at Jackalope @ Jackalope Brewery

By Charlotte Ulman 

With AMERICANAFEST kicking off this week, we've been buzzing with excitement about the events all across Nashville! We’re thrilled to be part of the festivities and are gearing up for a fantastic weekend. This Saturday, Olivia Management is proud to present our very own writers' round, showcasing an incredible lineup of talent. From Ruthie Collins and Alex Blue to some of our amazing consulting clients, the day is packed with outstanding performances from start to finish. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering new favorites, this is the place to be for incredible live music and a true celebration of artistry.

The music starts at noon and will carry on throughout the day. Best of all, this event is completely free and open to the public—no pass or ticket required! Just show up, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy some of the best music Nashville has to offer. We can’t wait to see you there!

OM at AMERICANAFEST - A Preview

By Faith Harting

AMERICANAFEST is coming up, we couldn't be more thrilled for the incredible week ahead! Join us as we kick off this amazing celebration of Americana and folk music, featuring unforgettable performances from our talented artists and more. It’s going to be a week to remember, and we hope to see you there! For more details and ticket information, head on over to the AMERICANAFEST website!

Tuesday, September 17th

A Tribute to Mary Gauthier @ City Winery
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Her story, compassion, work ethic and artistic integrity have inspired so many artists, peers and fans. This all-star event features performances from Emmylou Harris, Rodney Crowell, Lori McKenna and many more.

Mary Gauthier & Jaimee Harris Present 25 Years of 'Drag Queens in Limousines @ City Winery
8:15 PM - 9:15 PM

Mary Gauthier will perform her 1999 album, 'Drag Queens In Limousines,' in full with special guest Jaimee Harris. A special limited-edition pressing of 'Drag Queens in Limousines' on ruby red vinyl will be available at the celebratory AMERICANAFEST events while supplies last.


Wednesday, September 18th

Tour Marketing for Independent Artists: How to Market Your Shows Like a Pro (Even with a Small Team and Budget) @ Embassy Suites - Riverbed A&B
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Discover effective strategies for marketing your shows without needing a big team or hefty budget. This panel will cover collaboration techniques with venues to maximize their marketing efforts, insights into how a tour press publicist pitches for coverage, and DIY tips for pitching your own shows. Learn about essential tools and best practices for engaging your fans through social media and email marketing. Join us to enhance your promotional skills and ensure your shows reach the right audience.

Songs of Yellowstone: Presented by Fort Worth Film Commission @ City Winery
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Yellowstone Music Supervisor, Andrea von Foerster, will lead a discussion with various artists about the role and visibility of Americana music in shows like Yellowstone and feature live performances of songs heard in the show.

Ruthie Collins @ Analog at Hutton Hotel
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Join Ruthie Collins at Analog at Hutton Hotel this Americanafest. Ruthie is one of our signed artists here at Olivia Management and is a beautiful songwriter and singer within the country, americana space. She’s an amazing performer and we’re so excited to see her live again soon!




Thursday, September 19th

Drag Queens in Limousines Forever: The Importance and Influence of Mary Gauthier's Songs@ Embassy Suites - Meadow D
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

It was a quarter-century ago that Mary Gauthier shared her collection of penetratingly powerful, committedly crafted songs, Drag Queens in Limousines. This combination panel and performance will explore the world that one of Americana's definitive songwriting voices, and queer elders, brought into being. Gauthier will offer her reflections in conversation with artists who see themselves as working in the musical lineage that she mapped out.

Friday, September 20th

Sirius XM with Mary Gauthier @ The Outlaw Country Guitar Pall
12:00 PM

Saturday, September 21st

Olivia Management Presents: In the Round at Jackalope @ Jackalope Brewery
12:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Join Olivia Management for a music-filled day at the beautiful Jackalope taproom. Each hour all day we'll feature a different group of incredible songwriters in the round, all artists we love and have worked with. Join us to discover your new favorite artist (and possibly your new favorite beer!).

We can’t wait to see you there!

House of Pancake Showcase at Folk Alliance International!

By Tyler Prondzinski

As a Nashville-based folk and Americana artist management company, here's what we think about great folk-americana artists! We are curating a special event at Folk Aliance this Friday night with House of Pancakes. Here is a synopsis of all the great music that will be played!

Stacy Antonel

An idiosyncratic artist with a background in classical piano, Stacy Antonel makes jazzy, country-leaning, clever Americana that feels both vintage and hyper-modern at the same time. Her latest release, Always the Outsider feels like an elegant relic from a bygone era, other times it’s a glimpse into the distant, mystical future of country music.

Stephanie Sammons

Stephanie Sammons is a Folk-leaning, Americana singer-songwriter who splits her time between Dallas and Nashville music scenes. Stephanie has studied extensively under Grammy-nominated singer-songwriters Mary Gauthier, Emily Saliers (Grammy winner), Beth Nielsen Chapman, Gretchen Peters, Jonatha Brooke (critically acclaimed), Verlon Thompson, and Suzy Bogguss. Her first full-length album, produced by Mary Bragg at Sound Emporium Studio B in Nashville, is set for release in May of 2024. 

Evan Boyer

Up-and-coming Americana artist Evan Boyer is not a polished, perfect singer-songwriter plucked from the glossy pages of a music magazine: He’s the genuine article, making real and relatable music from the rough fodder of personal experience. Approaching songwriting with a healthy dose of humanity, he draws inspiration from the raw edges of his own, admittedly flawed existence, offering the world a unique brand of country-leaning Americana that is down-to-earth, authentic, and emotionally compelling. This month he dropped the single “Home to You” from his forthcoming album, The Devil in Me, which is due to be released May 3.

Mary Bragg

Praised by the World Café for her “refined, sumptuously melancholy take on Southern storytelling,” Bragg’s been exploring love and its complications for much of her career now, wrestling with longing, desire, heartbreak, and insecurity across a string of widely lauded albums. NPR dubbed her breakout 2017 release, Lucky Strike, one of the year’s best, while her 2019 follow-up, Violets as Camouflage, earned similar raves, with the Nashville Scene calling it “magnificent” and Rolling Stone hailing its mix of “classic country twang and “gentle chamber-pop.” Her latest album came out in 2022 to more critical acclaim.

Remi Goode

     Remi Goode is a trained classical guitarist and choral singer turned alternative folk/pop singer-songwriter. When she first decided to put her voice and guitar together and write original music, she quickly developed a style that highlights her careful classical sensibilities, pure vocal quality, and the distinctive sound of a nylon-string guitar. She writes with blunt honesty and introspection, searching for the root of the dynamics within a relationship or a deeper understanding of her own self-conception. Although Remi’s analysis of herself and others is often unforgiving, her songs always contain a qualifying aspect of emotional ambiguity—an expression of both grief and acceptance at having to navigate a world that isn’t black or white. 

Helena Hallberg

Helena Hallberg is a Swiss/Swedish performer, songwriter and actor based in Nashville, TN. A passionate polyglot, multi-instrumentalist and producer, she often brings her four native languages into her work."No matter whether it's musical theatre, folk, pop or jazz, Helena Hallberg is like a Swiss Army Knife made in Sweden: Versatile and flawless" (Ticketcorner Magazine). In March 2024, Hallberg will release her debut album EPITHET. Recorded at the iconic Power Station at BerkleeNYC in New York City and recorded by an all-female production team comprising of Hallberg, Mary Bragg, and Gloria Kaba, EPITHET promises to be a musical journey like no other.

Paula Boggs

Hailing from Seattle, Paula Boggs blends jazz and Americana, touring and releasing a steady stream of music since 2010.“Boggs makes...urban, jazzy music...within the structures of...folk, bluegrass, and...blues...[s]he calls... “soulgrass,” and reminds me a little of Gil Scott-Heron, if only for the razor-intensity of her words...in a croony-rich street voice...evocative and easy to like” (Dave Good, San Diego Reader).

Nathan K

Hailing from Michigan, his songs are sad, but not without hope. They are hopeful, but not overly optimistic. They are specific, but strangely relatable. Honest, but not abrasive. He is shy, but long winded – the stories behind the songs are often longer than the songs themselves. “A curious mix of sadness and joy, haunting in the sense that it lingers but not completely morose or scary. A nostalgic and poignant amalgamation of fondness and love and regret, something crushing yet life affirming” (Wake The Deaf).

Emma Butterworth

Chicago songwriter Emma Butterworth is carving a niche for herself in the American indie scene with her uniquely soulful brand of indie-leaning folk rock. A keen storyteller and careful lyricist, she cuts straight to the heart of life’s big questions, examining moments of love, loss, growth, and self-acceptance with characteristic wit and wisdom. Her cheeky stage presence reveals a curious mind and a penchant for deeply melancholic songs, while her lush vocals have been compared to iconic acts like Brandi Carlile and The Head and the Heart. There’s a casual power when Butterworth sings that feels both practiced and raw: agile, occasionally vulnerable, but always sure—hers is a voice you’d follow in an emergency. The root of that strength lies in her own, joyful sense of self, which infuses even her most somber ballads with a buoyant, silver-lined charm. Or, as explained in the eponymous track from her recently released album, Fool’s Gold: “People say I’m lost without sweet words from a man, / but I never had trouble knowing just who I am.” 

Jay Gavin

Jay writes and sings songs for fans of real county music and is making a name for his catchy hooks, foot-stomping, autobiographical, everyman songs and good timin’ live shows. The Nashville Songwriters Ass. Intl. named Jay Gavin a writer that’s “One to Watch” in June 2023. At home in Canada, Jay loves hosting regular song circles bringing together the local and touring songwriting community.

Toria Richings

Toria is an Americana singer-songwriter, having spent the last few years recording and releasing music, fine-tuning her own sound, her songs have a soulful and modern edge with a strong country influence. Toria writes from the heart and promises to take your soul on an emotional journey with love laughter and tears!!

Alright Alright

Husband and wife Seth and China Kent of Alright Alright create orchestral folk for the open-minded and poetry for the broken-hearted.  Though their songs often bear a deep sense of tradition, Alright Alright aren’t afraid to experiment with boundaries, testing the limits of genre and expectations for content. From southern industrial towns to street signs to abandoned cars on I-70, there is a sense of rootedness that lends depth and dimension to their songwriting. These songs are as real as your kitchen table. Yet there’s also a striking vulnerability present, an openness and willingness to connect that draws fans from around the world to reach out and feel held by their music.

Robby Hecht

Robby Hecht has been captivating audiences as a touring singer-songwriter for over two decades, combining quietly impactful songwriting reminiscent of Tom Waits or Jim Croce with the graceful vocal resonance of James Taylor. With a remarkable blend of insightful lyricism, memorable melodies, and a voice that carries both strength and tenderness, his music resonates with audiences from all walks of life.

New Year, New Music!!!

By Sydney Wann

While the rest of us are just now settling into our 2024 rhythm, our OM team and artists have been prepping for 2024 for months. We’re excited to be able to share a couple of new releases, tour announces, and more to come.

Derek Webb just released his new single “Inside Out,” which he described as a “Piano-driven ‘folktronica’ that reflects on the ‘Fruits of the Spirit’ that serves both encouragement and warning.” His raw vocal performance over electronic beats and sweeping syncopated synths is reminiscent of Thom Yorke or Coldplay. “Inside Out” grows into a crescendo of orchestral synthesizers and ends with Webb’s bold and defiant declaration, “I do not fear your god’s hell.” You can listen to his new single anywhere you get your music by clicking here.

Also, remember to grab your tickets to see Derek Webb on tour with Flamy Grant this spring. He’s starting in Florida this weekend and there are so many amazing shows on the roster. For tickets to a show near you, click here.

Just announced new show dates for May, “An Evening With Mary Gauthier.” Shows span throughout the Southeast. Mary is also continuing her shows. Florida, too, this month. To get tickets, click the link here: https://www.marygauthier.com/tour

Be sure to stay tuned with OM social medias, artists, and more, we have so many more fun announcements up our sleeve!

Harmonies and Highlights: Olivia Management’s AmericanaFest Recap →

Though the dust has settled, melodies still resonate, and the memories will linger – AmericanaFest 2023 was a whirlwind of music, camaraderie, and inspiration that left our hearts full and our spirits soaring. We're excited to take a step back and share the incredible highlights of this unforgettable week.

The Eighth Room Showcase: A Night to Remember

On September 19, the stage at The Eighth Room came alive with the soulful tunes of our talented artists. The showcase featured a star-studded lineup, including Madeleine Kelson, Lauren Balthrop, Mary Gauthier, Ruthie Collins, Derek Webb, Alex Blue, Jill Andrews, and Sam Johnston. Hosted by the entertaining Flamy Grant, the venue was brimming with applause and . It was a night of music that will echo in our hearts for years to come.

"Saved By a Song" Panel: Mary Gauthier

September 20 brought an enlightening moment as Mary Gauthier took part in the panel discussion titled "Saved By a Song." Mary shared her insights on the transformative and healing powers of songwriting. Her words resonate with the audience, reminding us all of the incredible ability music has to heal, inspire, and uplift.

Creative Solutions in Artist Management Panel

On September 21, Olivia Management hosted a thought-provoking panel that delved into the world of artist management and brainstormed creative solutions. Led by our very own Erin Anderson and moderated by the talented Mackenzie Fey, the panel featured the wisdom of Mary Gauthier and Blair Clark from Brooklyn Basement Records. Together, they explored strategies for artists to grow their careers even without a full-time management team.

Humphrey's Street Day Party: A Celebration of Talent

Saturday afternoon was a time of celebration at Humphrey's Street, where we hosted a day party featuring some of our consulting artists. Helena Hallberg, Charlie Argo, Rachel Mcintyre Smith, Katie Callahan, Katie Boeck, Carli Brill, Remi Goode, and Alright Alright graced the stage, sharing their incredible music with a lively audience. It was a joyful conclusion to a week filled with music and creativity.

Evening Performances: Our Artists Shine

As the sun set on AmericanaFest, our artists continued to shine. Sam Johnston played in the round at the iconic Bluebird Cafe, Jill Andrews enchanted the audience at AB Hillsboro, and Mary Gauthier delivered an unforgettable performance at Eastside Bowl. Their music echoed through the Nashville night, a fitting conclusion to a week packed with extraordinary talent and fellowship.

While the curtain may have fallen on this year's AmericanaFest, we’ll take the memories with us. We're grateful for the opportunity to showcase our artists, engage in insightful discussions, and celebrate the power of music with the vibrant Americana community.

But, as they say, the music never stops, and there's work to be done. We're excited to continue nurturing talent, offering consulting services, and applying creative solutions in the world of artist management day after day. Until next time, keep the music alive, and stay tuned for more harmonies and highlights from Olivia Management!

The Sewing Club's Newest Single, "Cool Girl" Has Arrived

by Maddie Humble

Are you tired of trying to be a cool girl?

The Sewing Club, a five-piece band on the rise made up of Hannah McElroy (lead singer/writer), Stephen Meaux (electric guitar), Will Harris (bass guitar), Justin McKinney (electric guitar) and Zach McCoy (drums) have just released their newest single and it is bedroom rock gold. If you are craving the nostalgic feeling of listening to 90’s rock along with a modern sparkly pop spin, this is the band for you.

The Sewing Club’s latest single, “Cool Girl” transports the listener to a time where maybe they have not felt so “cool.” McElroy uses her gentle yet gritty vocals to describe a time where she felt like she was trying too hard to impress another person but getting nothing in return. The lyrics are so fantastic because this is something most people can relate to. Meaux’s guitar and Harris’ bass skills add another level of grittiness that gives a 90’s ambience and edge while McCoy’s beat on the drums is infectious. It’s the perfect angsty tune to jam out to in your car or in an underground club.

However, if you want to hear this song live, then you’re in some luck! Not only has The Sewing Club taken Nashville by storm, but they are about to take the whole U.S. by storm as a special guest on the Arlie’s Angels U.S. tour with Arlie!

Here are the tour dates to catch The Sewing Club in your neck of the woods:

Trevor Lombardi

Finally, go listen to "Cool Girl"on all streaming platforms!

The Sewing Club Releases New Single, "I Like to Break Things"

By Anna Sampson

The Sewing Club is a four piece bedroom rock band based in Nashville, TN! They have just released their new single, “I Like to Break Things.”

The Sewing Club, four piece band made up of Hannah McElroy (lead singer/writer), Stephen Meaux (Electric Guitar), Will Harris, (Bass Guitar), and Zach McCoy (Drums), create a sound that is reminiscent of sparkly 90’s rock and grunge with hints of punk and Nashville indie influences. They began as a band in the basements of their college homes in Nashville, Tennessee. The Sewing Club now call Nashville home, and continue to spread their sound through all of the southern regions and beyond!

Following their September 9 release of “I Like to Break Things,” The Sewing Club released their music video for the song on September 16! The dreamy lights and colors of this video create a beautiful aura to what seems like would be a dark damp basement, in any other setting! Confirming the speculation of this band liking to break things… in some scenes the video depicts some of the band members smashing various objects.

Recording in Stephen’s garage, bedroom, or in the hills of Hartsville, TN at Polychrome Ranch, they have stayed true to their DIY Rock roots. The Sewing. Club has also released singles “Trying,” “Clarity,” and “My Dad Wants You Dead” with Jared Corder of *Repeat Repeat. The band continues to write and record at The Ranch, working hard on their debut EP that is set to release soon.

Check out more of their music below!

Come see The Sewing Club play “I Like To Break Things” and more at the East Room on Thursday, September 29!!

Jill Andrews "The Parthenon Sessions" Review

By Luke McMahon

For over one hundred years, the Parthenon has stood proudly in Centennial Park as one of Nashville's most popular attractions. One hundred years means this building has witnessed millions of little moments. It has been a place for nervous first dates or the silent walk of a couple that has been together for 50 years, a place for locals and tourists alike to come and gaze at the impossibly green grass and walk through the extraordinary building. From all kinds of gatherings, breakups, and proposals, the Parthenon has arguably seen it all. But I can only imagine how this old building must have felt when it was swelled by the musical stylings of Olivia Management's very own Jill Andrews in her recently debuted "Parthenon sessions."

Presented by the Centennial Park Conservancy and containing 5 of Jill's original tunes, the Parthenon sessions offered the perfect environment for Andrews' unforgettable artistry, "tailored to the unique 5-second reverb of the building's 42-foot tall ceilings." If there is a "right way" to enjoy Jill Andrews' music, this is that way. Accompanied and surrounded by a variety of string players throughout each song makes the experience not only sonically beautiful but visually stunning. Seeing the exposed instruments that culminate to produce such a unique raw sound, paired with Andrews’ soulful voice and thoughtful lyrics makes for a memorable performance.

One performance, in particular, stood out to me as it captured so perfectly the magic that makes Jill, well, Jill. Performing her song "Sorry Now," from her 2020 Album, Thirties, accompanied by a quartet of string instruments, Andrews drifted through the sound system on my TV, allowing it to feel as though my living room ceiling was 42 feet high. It is a special thing to witness a musician in such a stripped environment, it is even more special to see them absolutely crush it. Andrews doesn’t need much to shine.

The Parthenon sessions are a masterful way to showcase artists and the most authentic parts of their talent. Do yourself a favor and check it out. You can stream Jill's Session via YouTube or wherever you like to get your tunes!

Be sure to see Jill Andrews on tour this fall! Grab your tickets here!

Featured Merch: Alex Blue Spring Selection

by Maddy Hicks

In March, our artist Alex Blue launched a merch line with all new items! Alex spent time designing these pieces to make sure she would actually want to wear them herself. We might be biased, but everyone here at the office is in love with these items. They’re so aesthetically pleasing, and they really feel like Alex! From t-shirts to tote bags, hoodies to hats, there’s something for everyone.

My personal favorite is the “Remind Me of the Magic” t-shirt. It’s soft and sweet and reminds me of one of my all-time favorite Alex songs.

Check out Alex’s merch here to find your favorite!

Some of Our Favorite Lyrics by Our Artists

by Maddy Hicks

Not only are our artists amazing performers, but they are also exceptional songwriters. I wanted to highlight a few lyrics of theirs that make us smile, cry, and feel all the feels.

“So while you sit by the fireplace reading poetry

I will love every word that you say to me”

Alex Blue - “Mary”

“I was wrong

I'm sorry

And I love you”

Derek Webb - “I Was Wrong, I’m Sorry & I Love You”

“I knew it in the month of you

In the middle of your living room”

Christina Cone, Andrew Doherty (Frances Cone) - “’93 or ’94”

“The morning is made for the touch of your skin

The morning is made for ‘I love you’ again”

Jill Andrews, Peter Groenwald (Hush Kids) - “Morning Is Made”

“You’re like swimming in the river in the darkness

Never have to question where my heart is”

Jill Andrews, Trent Dabbs (Jill Andrews) - “River Swimming”

“We are raindrops in a river

One day we’ll all be memories

To be lost is to be looking”

Peter Groenwald, Fiona Bevan, K.S. Rhoads (Peter Groenwald) - “We Carry On”

“So what are you doing?

If it's no bother

Could I come over?

Hide under your covers

I swear I won't ask much

I've learned how to beg, steal, and borrow your love”

Ruthie Collins, Rick Brantley (Ruthie Collins) - “Beg Steal Borrow”

“Well, I been reelin’, left with my demons

But I still got feel

in’ in my arms and legs

And I’ve been thinking I’ll ride the blinds now

Maybe find a new town

One where I can see again”

Zachary Gibson Smith (Smooth Hound Smith) - “Waiting for a Spark”

“I keep in tax on all of the innocence I′ve lost

And all the mistakes that got me here

I've always felt a night like this was sure to come

Rain would finally let on”

Street Corner Symphony - “Myriad of Stars”

Female Representation In Music Industry Executive Positions Is Lacking

By Madison Moll

Within the past 2 weeks, the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative’s newest report entitled “New report shows diversity on the charts, but not in executive ranks of music companies” highlighted some not-so-shocking statistics about women in music industry roles, specifically in higher-up executive positions.

The study examined executive diversity in three ways: among CEOs and presidents across 70 major and independent companies, across senior management teams at nine major music companies, and in executive roles across 119 companies from the VP-level and above in different industry categories.

 
Graphic creation credit to Instagram account @AMPLIFYHERVOICE

Graphic creation credit to Instagram account @AMPLIFYHERVOICE

 

As an artist management company run mostly by women, it is interesting to see such little representation in other large areas of the industry. Covering 4,060 executives from the vice president level to C-Suite roles across 119 companies and industry categories including record labels (reported 11.7% women in executive roles), publishing (reported 22.2% of women in executive roles), streaming (reported 7.1% women in executive roles), live music (reported 6.7% women in executive roles), and radio (reported 20% women in executive roles) (See image above).

Image credited to Annenberg USC Research

Image credited to Annenberg USC Research

Next in other major positions, amongst 70 major and independent music companies, only 13.9% of the people in the roles of CEO, Chairmen, and Presidents were reported to be women. This is more of a median statistic compared to the previous findings in the five different industry categories.

Figure 2 image credited to Annenberg USC Research

Figure 2 image credited to Annenberg USC Research

And finally, data provided from 9 major music companies broke down and reported their percentages for women in leadership positions in areas such as Music Groups (31.6%), Radio & Streaming (23.4%), and Live Music & Concert Promotion (40.6%). The highest being Live Music & Concert Promotion is a step in the right direction for inclusion and equality, but there still are miles required to get to full inclusion of women in music industry leadership roles

As women and advocates for women’s equality in executive roles in the music industry, it is crucial for you to let your voice be heard and to speak out about inequality in these roles so that we all can see change!

 

To read more in-depth about their research and reportings, check out the full article from Annenberg USC Research and check out Amplify Her Voice to read more on their blog about female empowerment and equality in the music industry.

A Playlist for Your Nashville Valentine

by Kylie Rose

Valentine’s Day, but Nashville edition. No matter your relationship status this Sunday, we’re bringing you stellar music to celebrate this holiday.

Check out our playlist, “Nashville’s Valentine,” for a perfect date night or an evening exploring new tunes!

Nashville based artists and their tales of love, for your Valentine's Day listening.

Happy Valentines Day <3

My Favorite Music in TV & Movies

by Kaila Divak

1.     “Tiny Dancer” – Elton John – Almost Famous

I honestly think this song has to be at the top of my list, because it is tattooed on my wrist for the rest of my life. When “Tiny Dancer” plays in Almost Famous, the whole band is singing together on the bus. Sir Elton John himself said that this song became as famous as it is today because of this movie. It came at such a pivotal part of the film, right after a huge fight, where nobody was speaking. One of the men in the band begins to sing along with the song, playing on the radio, and everyone else just follows suit.

2.     “Epilogue” – Justin Hurwitz – La La Land

This one really pulls at the heart strings for me. I think I’ve always loved this song, but the idea that it was in the most frustrating part of the movie for me really made me overlook it for a long time. Once I watched La La Land a few times and understood that not every movie needs to end on a happy note, I realized how amazing this song was. It brings you along on a seven-and-a-half-minute story, and you don’t even need the video to picture what is going on, in my opinion. I also love how the end of the song is so simple, yet so heartbreaking. If you really listen to the end of the song, Sebastian doesn’t play the last note on the piano. I always thought that that was symbolism for him not wanting him and Mia’s relationship to end.

 3.     “You Don’t Mess Around with Jim” – Jim Croce – Stranger Things

This one was awesome to me. I remember watching this part of the episode in season three of Stranger Things and immediately wanting to be a music supervisor. It obviously fit perfectly because the title is “Don’t Mess Around with Jim” and the scene was focused on Jim Hopper. He just successfully managed to get his step-daughter and her boyfriend to break up, and he is over the moon about it. It cuts from his initial satisfaction about the breakup to him screaming along to the song in his Bronco truck. The transition to this was unbelievable and could not have been placed better.

 4.     “Joshua Tree” – Ruthie Collins – The Ranch

I love the way this Ruthie Collins song was placed in the Netflix series, The Ranch. The song has a pretty melancholy sound to it, and in this case, it is playing in the background at the bar where Mary meets Heather and Luke to pick up the things that they saved for her when she was evicted from her house while in jail. It is a very powerful scene, as she refuses all help from them. “Joshua Tree” is super powerful in this part of the show, and I think that the music supervisors did a great job at placing Ruthie’s song here.

 (This one’s on Netflix… Part 7, Episode 5 of The Ranch)

5.     “Between the Bars” – Elliott Smith – Stuck in Love

I love the music in this movie. This song is played as Louis and Samantha sit in his car and share their favorite songs. Louis asks Samantha to close her eyes and listen, and she starts to cry because she’s scared of committing to having feelings for someone. I think that this song was a very indie choice, and it fits so well. It became sort of mainstream because of this moment in the movie. And I will always think of this moment in this movie when I hear this song.

My Favorite Songs by Smooth Hound Smith

by Kaila Divak

When I was first researching Olivia Management, before I applied to intern here, I looked through all of their artists’ catalogs. I was really into everything that they put out, but I was particularly drawn towards one duo, and that was Smooth Hound Smith. I was obsessed with their harmonies, a mix of country and blues. Honestly, it was hard for me to even make that comparison because I think that they have so many different genres of music stitched into their three albums that it’s almost impossible to pin them within one.

But my all-time favorite song by them came out after I had discovered them. I would have to say that their newest single, “Little Rock N Roll Clubs”, is by far my favorite song that they’ve ever released. I had the privilege of listening to it to create social media content prior to the release, and I found myself walking around my house, doing something mundane like cooking or cleaning, and singing the song. I wanted to play it on Spotify so badly that I even looked it up a few times, remembering mid-search that the single wasn’t out until August 28th. “Little Rock N Roll Clubs” is a tribute to independent music venues across the world that have been getting hit hard due to concerts and other events being cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This song was written with Save Our Stages, the National Independent Venue Association, and the National Independent Talent Organization in mind. So not only is it an amazing song, it also has some purpose behind it, which makes you feel good.

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My second favorite song by Smooth Hound Smith is for sure “Steal Your Crown” off of their 2013 record, Smooth Hound Smith. This song has such a real rockabilly feel, like they were playing homage to The Black Keys and Thickfreakness. Every last detail down to the harmonica, tambourine, fuzzy guitar, and the steady drumbeat compliment Zack’s growly vocals and Caitlin’s harmonies perfectly. This song makes you want to get up and sing a karaoke song at a dive bar. I love to play this one while driving on the highway, with all of my windows down. And I’m sure you’d feel the same way.

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My third and final favorite song would definitely be “Stopgap Woman Blues” off of their sophomore album, Sweet Tennessee Honey. For some reason, whenever I listen to this song, I think of “Black Country Woman” by Led Zeppelin. I don’t know if it’s the way the drums enter later on in the song, or the gritty guitar melody, but it gets me every time. The music video for this song also makes me laugh, but it’s true.

And I’ve missed so many amazing songs that Smooth Hound Smith has recorded, because if I listed all of the songs that I loved by them, this post be way too long long. They really do blend so many genres together to make an extremely unique genre of their own.

My Favorite Songs by Smooth Hound Smith

By James Muller

When I first began interning at Olivia Management one of the things I was most excited about; and continue to be excited by, is digging into all of our artist’s catalogs and enjoying the beautiful art that they create. I was familiar with our artists before starting, but I hadn’t yet fully committed my ears to their songs. From Jill Andrews to Derek Webb, Ruthie Collins, Hush Kids , and Smooth Hound Smith there’s a lot of great stuff to take in. Boy, am I glad I took the deep dive. It’s always difficult to pick favorites, but I am going to highlight some of the songs from Smooth Hound Smith that really spoke to me in the past month of diving into these tunes. 

I love all kinds of music, but the music that really grabs my attention and sticks with me is the kind of music that you can put on, and it immediately has an effect on your mood. Music that puts you in the space where the artist is coming from. For me, that’s what music is all about: connecting with something and letting it take you to another place. 

It wasn’t terribly difficult to find some favorites as I started listening to Smooth Hound Smith. They bring a vibe and a feeling to their music that makes you want to dance, and intently listen to the lyrics at the same time. Which is pretty awesome. Their song “Get Low”, is one of those tunes that gets your feet stomping with it’s pulsating rhythm, laid back guitar grooves, and ethereal vocal harmonies. It’s a song that could just as easily be played at a party as it could on a long drive. As a lover of blues music, “Get Low” is one of those songs that instantly scratches my itch for current blues music that is fresh and fun, while still holding on that rootsy, vintage inspiration. If I was on Spotify going through the blues and roots playlist, this would be the song I would hope to hear. 

While listening to records is something  I can’t get enough of, there is a level of energy that live music brings that takes a song to another level. 

Check out Smooth Hound Smith playing “Get Low” live on #JamInTheVan here.

My next favorite song by Smooth Hound Smith is “Three Shades of Lonely”. This is one of those songs that comes on, and you immediately perk your ears up a little bit. The song perfectly showcases what I love about the band— they undeniably catchy hooks that are melded together through beautiful harmonies by this duo. The chorus from this song gets stuck in my head in the best kind of way, the kind that you are happy to have stuck in your head. One of the other reasons that “Three Shades of Lonely” is a favorite of mine is because of the gritty and soulful guitar that sits back with the drums and then comes out to speak later in the song. As a guitar player myself, this tasteful and expressive guitar work is what I love to hear. Luther Dickinson from the North Mississippi Allstars and  The Black Crowes plays slide guitar on this song, and If you're familiar with him then you know that he brings the soul to whatever group he plays with. Next time I’m in need of some music that brings the feels, this will undoubtedly be in the rotation.   

Like I said before; It’s tough for me to pick favorites, especially when you're choosing from a lot of great music. I’m glad that I sat down and spun all three of Smooth Hound Smith’s records because I found some seriously groovy, soulful, and fun songs in there that I will be keeping in the mainstay of my listening routine. “Get Low” and “Three Shades of Lonely” take me to those places that I am looking to go when I listen to music, and I hope they can do the same for you! 

Check out the duo live next Tuesday, June 30th on their Facebook page for a free livestream of all cover songs. Be sure to mark your calendars for the show! You won’t want to miss it.