Intern Wrap Up: Finishing the Semester Strong

By Emma Martin

I can’t believe this semester is over! I have had so much fun interning at Olivia Management these past few months and have learned so much. Working with everyone at the company has been such an honor and a great learning experience. This was my first internship and I couldn’t have asked for a better company to begin my journey at.

What I Have Learned

One thing I have learned is that there are a ton of moving parts when it comes to managing artists, but the hard work is worth it. My favorite thing about this internship was working with everyone on releasing Jill Andrew’s album, “Thirties”. I loved seeing the beginning stages of marketing, press, planning her tour and then watching the album go out into the world. I think there’s something truly rewarding about starting a project from the beginning and then seeing the finished product be successful. I have learned so much about myself and how passionate I am about the projects I work on, especially when it’s for this lovely company.

Future Goals

I am so grateful that I am going to be interning here this summer! Hoping this summer brings new lessons that I will continue to learn more about scheduling tours, album press, marketing, and helping artists stay connected with their fans during this time of uncertainty.

Shoutout to the Olivia Management team

 This company and everyone here have allowed me to grow in ways I never thought I could and I can’t thank them enough for their support. I will take everything you all have taught me and remember it for future internships, jobs and just life in general. Erin, Maggie, and Mackenzie THANK YOU for everything you have done for me. Looking forward to continuing my experience here this summer! 

Intern Wrap Up: An Inside Perspective–Intern Style

By: Connor Kozlecar

Olivia Management = A Hidden Gem

To say that my time here with Olivia Management has been fruitful would be a terribly blatant understatement. The sheer volume of knowledge, experience, and love coursing through the veins of this office is almost too much to put into words but I will surely do my best to paint a picture of what this semester has been like and some wisdom I have gained through my experience. I’m so very fortunate to have had this opportunity, and I am even more blessed to be able to continue working alongside these wonderful women and welcome some new summer interns here in the near future!

-A Few Tidbits I’ve Grabbed Along the Way-

ASK

I like many others, have a natural-born curiosity for all things that I see, hear, read, etc. Although I’ve always felt that I have been vocal about my interests in most situations, I will never take for granted the atmosphere that Erin and the rest of the team have cultivated here. Along with being incredibly kind and open, each of them has been consistently available to answer any question you could possibly have. From semester one-on-one’s to just casual conversation, the relationships that I feel like I have built with these ladies are ones that I will cherish forever and I am confident that the knowledge I have gathered from them will continue to help me in my career moving forward. I advise you to take full advantage of any opportunity in any facet of life that you can to simply just ask questions.

Go All In

Wherever you’ve interned before, or wherever you plan to in the future; no matter how daunting or simple the task, put everything you have into it. It will pay off. Through a few large projects that I have had the pleasure of tackling I’ve learned that if you take your time and go above and beyond what you think is sufficient, the payoff is so much sweeter and wholly more rewarding. Do more than what is expected of you. Go all in. All the time.

YE OLDE ZEN ZONE

My favorite project

Play to Your Strengths AND Your Weaknesses

As an intern, you should not only help everyone out by capitalizing on your strengths, but also be clear about what you struggle with and what you would like to get better at. As someone who fears failure like no other, this is a struggle for me. As you continue to develop work relationships and grow more comfortable with those that you work with, be clear about what you need help on. No one will ever get mad about you simply asking for help. On the contrary, if you don’t know what on earth you’re doing and you mess up really badly, that is absolutely no bueno my friend.

Roll With the Punches

Nothing ever goes exactly to plan. We’ve all seen this in 2020 so far.

And so what? That’s Life.

Choosing to continue working through our current situation was the best decision I’ve made by far. Surely this group could handle their own and more without a few interns. It’s the apparent effort made by you to the people that you don’t necessarily owe anything to that sets you apart. Instead of finishing my semester solely focusing on school, I, along with our other two lovely interns Jackie & Emma locked arms and continued simply because we love what we do and who we work with. I’m a big proponent of “getting what you give,” if you will, and I would give my left arm for this company for how impactful they have been on me and my college career. I’ve had a handful of personal things happen in my life this semester, as they do, and what has kept me grounded and moving forward is the internal obligation that I feel like I have for everyone that works here to hold up my end. I will always thank them for that.

Enjoy it

Being an intern is fun, so enjoy it! Especially when you’ve got the backbone that they do here at OM. Don’t get too caught up in your own world, and just enjoy yourself and the experiences that you get to create as an intern.

A Wonderful Memory

To Erin, Maggie, & Mackenzie

I cannot express how thankful I am to be a part of this team, and I am more than excited to continue here through this summer as an intern with Emma. Nothing but wonderful things to say about my coworkers and the wildly creative, motivating, and lighthearted space that they operate in. Thank you SO SO much for the best semester I have had at Belmont.

See you soon!

Intern Wrap Up: Life Lessons with an Intern

By Jackie Minton

The end of the semester is here, yet again. You would think by now I’d have learned to get used to this rhythm (after being in school for close to two decades!) but alas—I have not. It always seems to catch me by surprise! Over the handful of months I have spent here at Olivia Management, however, I have learned quite a bit about the industry, working with a team, and well, myself. Here are a few nuggets of wisdom I have gleaned from my time as an intern. I hope they are good lessons (or reminders) for you, too. 

A photo from my visit to the Library of Congress this semester, Spring Break 2020.

Organization is a worthy struggle.

The Olivia Management team has inspired me to reevaluate how I work on tasks. They spend a notable amount of time, energy, and brain power on the front end to set up processes that help their world go around in the future. From watching their approach first hand, I have learned that if a task seems overwhelming, it probably simply hasn’t been processed into manageable steps. Organizational work at the beginning may seem tedious, but it is worth the reward!

Don’t put up a wall where there isn’t one.

Why can’t a coloring book be a merch item? Why have we drawn lines where there needn't be any? Creativity is just as necessary, if not more so, on the business side of things. I hope to take this perspective into my own career as an artist and as an entrepreneur.

One simply does not stop learning. 

Not only does the music industry grow and change everyday, but so do our goals. Admitting that there is more to learn, is only the first step. Make time to research what interests you, listen to podcasts that inspire you, and seek out knowledge from those closest to you. Don’t be afraid of the unknown! That open landscape is an exciting place full of possibilities.

Humility is powerful.

Olivia Management’s founder Erin Anderson quietly teaches this invaluable lesson to all of those close to her. She makes a point to listen, consider others’ perspectives, and voice gratitude, not simply for her clients, but for everyone that walks through her office door. Being on the receiving end of her respect (even as an intern) was such a powerful reminder for me: humility doesn’t simply move mountains, it moves hearts. Living in the light of humility is a grounding gift, not just for yourself but for all you encounter. 

Saying goodbye is never easy.

(Especially when the people you’re saying goodbye to are amazing!) I’m thankful for my time with this incredible team and am dually excited for the interns to come that will get to learn from and contribute to Olivia’s future! I look forward to seeing all that is yet to come, both for them and for me.

Photo by Sophie Flemings.

Signing off with a grateful heart - Jackie :)

Olivia's Digital Tool Box: Featuring Airtable

By Jackie Minton

When trying to work in a disorganized space, I feel a bit like a fish out of water. Unsorted papers look like abandoned intentions taking up my desk and piano bench. Bring that disorganization into the kitchen and my anxiety can take root when it comes to simply looking for that matching Tupperware lid. If you’re anything like me, a clean workspace is a must. 

However, having a clean physical space isn’t the only key to peaceful and productive work these days. With working from home becoming the new normal, an organized area now includes the digital plane. Today, the Olivia team is going to share our secret weapon to making a few hours of elbow grease look like an incorporated production.

Photo by Robert Bye from Unslpash

Meet our friend, airtable.com.
Whether you’re looking for a system to organize your personal passwords or a sophisticated way to track project deadlines, Airtable can help make your organizational dreams come true. The best part about this trusty tool is that a free account comes with unlimited data bases to dream, build, and track your information.

Here are a few ideas of ways you can use this powerful tool to maximize your digital workflow!

Centralize Passwords

Get your personal information out of the notes on your phone and into a singular location you can reach from anywhere. Include links to your account’s website to have one place to click through. We use this to keep track of all of our artists’ info from PRO accounts to social media.

Log Contacts

Whether it’s from your last business lunch or the booking contacts for your upcoming show. Log contacts and tag them by company and event needs. 

Create a Business Calendar

Or 5! Airtable has a great ability to house different calendars with various sharing parameters, and the ability to overlap calendars in your personal view.  Make a calendar for your social media plan, your travel schedule, or your upcoming co-writes. 

Sort Your Work Spaces

No matter what business you are in, it’s likely that you have to wear a few different hats to make your job happen. In the music business, we know this best! Venue details, marketing operations, and even managing a blog ;) are all small parts of the big picture we paint every day we come into work.

What parts of your process need some digital additions to the cyber-office space you’re building? Don’t be afraid to dream big!

Photo by Nastuh Abootalebi from Unslplash

Disclaimer: Airtable did not approve nor pay us for this article, but they should have.

Happy 8th Birthday Olivia Management!

Eight years ago today, Erin Anderson founded her artist management company Olivia Management! The company has come a long way from when it first started, and it has grown so much over the years. Since she has started the company, she has helped grow the careers of many artists and left her mark in this corner of the music industry.

An article by Forbes says that about 80% of small businesses fail and about only half of them survive past 5 years. Olivia Management has made it to its 8th birthday and that is something to celebrate! Our current roster is something to be proud of, and Erin has cultivated a crew of good humans that make great music.

In the past year, multiple artists have released new albums.  Jill Andrews released her album Thirties, successfully ran a weeks worth of live streams spanning her entire catalog, and plans to go on tour in support of her new record in the fall of this year. Ruthie Collins, signed to Curb Records, just released her new album Cold Comfort to much critical acclaim, including mentions from Billboard and American Songwriter. Derek Webb released his album Targets in February, and has run several different series of online shows, as well as launched a Patreon. Smooth Hound Smith released their album Dog in a Manger in the summer of 2019 and just finished an incredibly fruitful European tour that wrapped up right before the pandemic hit. Hush Kids’ highlight of the past year was hitting the road for their first tour, which ended with an invite to perform on the Cayamo cruise this past February. It has been a very busy, but successful, year at Olivia Management.

When asking Erin about her proudest accomplishments in the past 8 years of Olivia Management, she responded:

“I would have to say having an artist nominated for a Grammy or having an artist play the Ryman and Red Rocks, or having an artist win an Americana Award (because all of those things were highlights for SURE), but honestly, it’s that I’ve gotten to be a part of so many amazing records. Especially right now, when music is so important to us all to get through this time, I am so proud of the music we’ve helped bring into the world.”

Here’s to 8 more years of success and 8 more after that! 

Rethinking Routine

by Mackenzie Fey

If you’ve been following along in the last couple of blog posts, you might’ve seen me fish out some tips for working at home and making yourself a pro at this. These tips included starting your days with intentionality, spacing things out mentally and physically, and the importance of taking breaks. All of these things emphasize keeping things as normally as possible within the confines of an abnormal time. There’s nothing wrong with this! For people like me, I need to maintain that mindset to continue being productive and get the responsibilities I have taken care of. But this came to a realization that during these abnormal times, it’s okay to have things be just that. Abnormal.

Don’t get me wrong! There is so much value in routine! Right now, however, times are evolving and changing. Nothing is how it was a year ago. I mean, not even a month ago! What’s the harm in evolving your own routine? Doing things a little differently and reminding yourself it’s okay to be imperfect and skip out on getting into normal people clothes on Tuesday morning and just staying in your pajamas. It’s actually kinda fun! This can even look like finally picking up that brush and paints you got forever ago and never actually used it. It could be listening to an artist or genre you haven’t taken the time to listen to during your work hours (see below!). Go ahead and eat cereal and a donut for dinner. Try a new tv show on a Monday night at 11pm. Now’s the time!

Having a hard time deciding what your new non-routine could look like? I can help with that:

Today, Ruthie Collins released her sophomore album Cold Comfort featuring singles like “Dang Dallas” and “Bad Woman”. It has everything you’d want in an album: truth, heartbreak, enchanting melodies, storytelling, incredible production, and a song that can relate to any one of us. Check it out at this link here and give it a listen! Try it out, you won’t regret it.

To further break up the “normal”, tune in tonight at 7pm central to hear the new album live from Ruthie’s couch in New York! Join us on her YouTube channel tonight at YouTube.com/RuthieCollinsMusic.

Work from Home like a Pro

by Mackenzie Fey

Some Tips for working in your new home office

If your kitchen table has seemingly become the hub for all things eating and working, tune in! This post is for you. These days, working from home is becoming the new norm. Your living and relaxing spaces are now coinciding as the same space as your concentration and effort. Check out a few tips on how to make all this crazy a little bit more manageable!

Photo from The Lighting Judge

Tip 1: Start your days off intentionally!

A long time ago (well, not really all that long ago), commutes to work were actually a thing. This could’ve consisted of getting up, starting the coffee, a quick workout and shower, the list could go on and on. Now that our “commute” is from our bedroom to the livingroom, we’ve seemingly gained a few more minutes to spare. It’s easy to fall into a pattern of waking up 5 minutes before you’re supposed to hop online. In experience, this can lead to lack of effort and motivation. Efficiency isn’t as high as it could be, well, because you woke up 5 minutes ago. You’re brain’s not fully awake! It’s possible that setting up your mornings a little bit earlier and setting up a slight routine will help, even if it isn’t much. For me, it’s getting up and still pretending that I’m heading into work. This includes getting dressed (yes, even jeans sometimes) and heading downstairs for a light breakfast and coffee. It starts my days off a little bit more motivated and gets things going!

Tip 2: Spacing things out

Spacing is everything for me. I tend to correlate my physical spaces to my mental spaces. If I’m relaxing, reading, and sleeping in my bedroom, that is no place for me to try and dive into work or homework. I have designated spaces for work, for hanging out, eating, and so forth. If I overlap my work spaces with any other, I find I can never really turn that work “switch” off. My brain really has a hard time differentiating what mode I’m supposed to be in at a given time. When your normal hours of work are over, turn off your computer and hide it away. Outta sight outta mind, I guess!

Tip 3: Take Breaks!

You do this at work, why would you not do this at home?! Avoid cabin fever and restlessness by taking your lunch and eating it outside, away from the screen. Walk to the corner and back with your dog for a quick 10 minute break of movement and fresh air. Do this a few times throughout your day. Maybe even call some family or friends for some outside of work social time and see how they’re doing. It helps, I swear!

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Okay, let’s be real. None of this is purely factual or scientifically researched on our end of things, but more of what seems to help us at Olivia Management that might just help you! Take what you’d like, leave what you’d like. At the end of the day, we’re all just trying to get through this as quickly and safely as possible! Stay well, and wash your hands, y’all.

Supporting Artists During Social Distancing

I believe we all can agree that this is a really strange time in the world and people are leaning on each other now more than ever (6 feet apart though, please!). As we enter further into unprecedented events, our musicians, music industry professionals, and many other industries are getting hit pretty hard right now. There’s no time like the present to support our favorite artists and those who help make it all happen right from your own couch in quarantine! Keep reading to see how you can help.

Watch Online Concerts

Whenever I go on social media there is always an artist doing an Instagram, Facebook or YouTube live. This is such a great way to see the show you might have missed. It’s not the same experience, but it’s still a great way for us to interact with artists and enjoy live acoustic/full band concerts from your couch! Take our very own artists for example!

Jill Andrews

This week, Jill has decided to play four shows each night. She’s covering her entire catalog! It’s been so long since we’ve heard some of these and couldn’t be more thrilled. Each show is leading up to this Friday, the release day of her album “Thirties” where she’ll be performing the new trackless online! She is asking for a suggested donation of $15 for each of these shows ( PayPal & Venmo details will be up on show days), but pay only what you can give! This is a time to protect the simpler moments in life. Tune in with us via her YouTube channel!

Smooth Hound Smith

This Monday, March 30th at 5pm CST, Smooth Hound Smith is going live on their Facebook page only. They’ll be playing just as they used to: as a duo! They’ll be cranking some new songs, old, and many some covers. Check it out for a great evening in the comfort of your own home and from a safe (social) distance away. This show will be a “pay what you can’ via their Venmo and PayPal made available on the day of the show if you would like to help support them financially. Will we see you there?

Derek Webb

Join Derek online for his “End of the World Online Tour” this April 7, 10, 14, 19 & 21.⁣ 5 shows, $10 tickets, 20 tickets per show.⁣ Thank goodness, honestly. Grab the family and gather around any device for an unforgettable performance all in HD. If you can’t make any of these dates, don’t worry! They’ll be around for awhile for you to watch at your leisure. Grab your tix here!

Listen to some playlists, or make your own!

Help boost their streams by making playlists with your favorite artists’ music and share them on social media. This is a perfect time to discover new artists or revisit your old faves. Here are a few links to my personal favorites right now!

Snag some merch

Have you ever really wanted that new band t-shirt they had on tour, but didn’t want to wait in the line to get one? Well what if I told you that I know somewhere where there were no lines and it would be delivered to your front door? Well, yeah you’ll have to get up off the couch, but hey, it’s worth it. Go and head over to your favorite band’s website and order that t-shirt you’ve always wanted, or maybe gift a friend who could use a little pick-me up and order them a CD or vinyl of your favorite album! Who doesn’t love that new merch feeling? Head over to our main webpage to click on any of our artists and take a look at everything they’re selling.

Send them a message!

Let them know that you are still there for them and that you enjoy listening to their music! Artists love interacting with their fans online and connecting with them so drop a kind comment on their post.

Get Creative (we’ve got the time)

Make art out lyrics or interpretation of album covers, come up with a new dance to one of your favorite artists’ songs on TikTok, cover their songs on Instagram, the list could go on and on! Keep supporting creators and each other during this crazy time and have some fun with it! I can guarantee all your followers will appreciate it.

Healthy Ways to Spend Our Time

By Jackie Minton

 With COVID—19 on the move, suddenly we are not. Each day more schools, offices, workplaces, and venues are calling off their plans or trading face to face contact for the internet. Hand washing and social distancing are on the forefront of our community’s conscience. In this time of being tempted to despair, let’s not let loneliness be the undisputed answer. Here are a few healthy and safe ways to spend the precious day we’ve been given! Let’s not take it for granted. For official information regarding the virus, follow this link.

Call Mom

As Ben Rector wisely put it, “she’s the only mother that you have.” If calling mom isn’t an option—or you just got off the phone. Call a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while! Catch up and listen. How often we wish we had more time for these simple things.

Get Some Exercise 

Now is the time! If going outside is a safe option, take a walk. If not, move the couch over and find a simple work out video on YouTube. Pilates and yoga are great options that do not require a lot of space. Follow along and go easy on yourself! If you’re quarantined with a roommate or family member, make this a group activity (6 feet apart :D)! 

Read That Book

Yes, that one. The one that has been sitting on your shelf, that you’ve been meaning to get around to. Balance your screen time by rewarding time spent reading with an episode of your favorite TV show. You won’t regret this one.

Listen to Something New

Ask your friends what’s tunes have lifted their spirit and what podcasts have challenged their mindset. Never taken a deep dive into jazz? Checkout the discography of Miles Davis, Duke Ellington, and Ella Fitzgerald. Ever wondered why your friend was so fired up about an artist? Ask for their top 3 tracks and give them an attentive ear.

Get Creative

Do you have an instrument in your house you’ve always wanted to play? Look up instructional videos and set aside half an hour each day to picking it up. Not the musical type? Make a work of art! Follow a long a sketch video, learn how to imitate calligraphy, write a poem. Now is not the time for perfection, but for fun!

Share Your Discoveries

Authenticity can be the hardest thing to find on social media these days. Share your thoughts, your readings, and maybe even your new artistic work! Your loved ones will be glad to hear from you and to see something breaking up their feed of unproductive worry. 

“If we are all going to be destroyed by an atomic bomb, let that bomb when it comes find us doing sensible and human things—praying, working, teaching, reading, listening to music, bathing the children, playing tennis, chatting to our friends over a pint and a game of darts—not huddled together like frightened sheep and thinking about bombs. They may break our bodies (a microbe can do that) but they need not dominate our minds.”

— C.S. Lewis, "On Living in an Atomic Age" (1948)

Photo by Da Kraplak from Unsplash

From all of us at Olivia, cheers to the day at hand!

C.S. Lewis quote is from his essay, “On Living in an Atomic Age” (1948)

My Favorite Lyrics from these New Releases

by Mackenzie Fey

In case you missed it, our very own Ruthie Collins and Jill Andrews released music today. There’s so much depth and so much story behind both of these pieces. Something I strongly pick apart from the music I listen to are the lyrics. I need what I listen to to have depth and story to it. A rhyme or two doesn’t hurt either. Check ‘em out!

Nashville: Community Relief Resources

by Jackie Minton

Monday, March 2nd was a typical day for middle Tennessee, but when the sun rose on Tuesday morning the destruction that happened overnight became visible. We are utterly heart broken with the victims of this incredible storm. Below we have compiled a few resources for those affected, as well as information on how to get involved with the city’s recovery efforts. The Olivia Team is proud to be apart of this community and truly believes we are #NashvilleStrong.

Image by Brett Carlsen / Getty Images / The Basement East after the storm.

MusiCares

MusiCares is an organization within the Grammy Foundation that grants personal and financial assistance to industry professionals that suffer from critical circumstances. See their website to find the Nashville office’s contact information and to learn more about their charitable work. 

Airbnb Open Homes

Airbnb has mobilized a site to help those seeking shelter find a free place to stay, available through March, 24th. Hosts willing to open their homes to those in need, have listed their spaces for free. Learn more about their Open Homes Program here. 

Immigrant & Refugee Rights Coalition

Tennessee’s Immigrant & Refugee Rights Coalition offers a list of shelter and storage options by county, in a variety of languages. 

The Donelson Fellowship

A local church is accepting donations for its Disaster Relief Fund and encourages individuals personally affected by the storm to contact them. Their email is office@donelson.org

If you would like to help in Nashville’s recovery efforts, consider giving to the Middle Tennessee Emergency Response Fund or to the Salvation Army Nashville Relief Fund.

For those who live locally and would like to serve, you can volunteer with Hands On Nashville to assist in clean up and recovery efforts.

Making Golden Designs

by Mackenzie Fey

Have you ever heard of the Golden Ratio? No?! No fret, me neither! Until quite recently, that is. The Golden Ratio, without getting into the severe math complexities of its origin, is basically a template to follow when designing any sort of visual graphic or image! It’s an easy way to organize information and images that is pleasing to the eye of viewers. Of course this doesn’t mean you have to follow this! It’s just a fun, clean, way of starting to thinking about your designs intentionally!

For those of us in the music business, sometimes you just don’t have the budget for outsourcing designs. This method can be used in tour poster design, website curation, promotional images, and much more all on your own computer.

Try it out and see what you can create with it! We even used it on our blog image template. How golden is that design?!

New Music for Your Weekend

New Music? Yes please.

Happy Friday, fellow music fanatics! Have you heard? Two great artists of ours have released some music today. Check it out!

Jill Andrews, “The Kids Are Growing Up”

This song discloses every feeling about life and the speed at which is passes that many have but don’t quite know how to put it into words. Jill has so eloquently done this for us. Take a listen!

Derek Webb, “TARGETS” full album

The long-awaited album is finally here. From songs like title track “Targets” and “Plain Sight” will open your mind to reflecting on old ideas and embracing the new. Prepare yourself for serious head bobbing.

New Spotify Feature: Songwriter Pages!

By Emma Martin

I have always been a huge fan and supporter of songwriters. They are able to put our thoughts, emotions, and experiences into a three-minute moments. If we didn’t have songwriters, where would we be? Think of your favorite song: Do you know who all wrote the song? Most people don’t know the creators behind their favorite melodies and lyrics. Well, it’s time for that to change!

After reading an article by Variety on February 12th, Variety talks about Spotify adding an expansion on their liner notes! Finally. The New Spotify feature allows users to view the songwriters on the song they are listening to. When the user looks up the credits on the song, it takes them a songwriter page (similar to an artist page) and they are able to see each song that writer as written or co-written. How exciting is that? I believe this is a great way for users to know who the creators are behind the songs they love. Songwriters are such a huge part of the music industry and they can sometimes get overlooked. This is also a great way to discover new music! 

Spotify’s efforts to recognize songwriters and creators have increased over the years and this new feature is a great way to showcase the talent that makes up the music industry. It’s important to be supportive of songwriters and give them credit where it’s due! Read the article linked below to get the whole scoop.

Recapping this Valentine's Day

In case you missed all the happening’s on this great day and holiday here at our artist management company, then you’ve come to the right place. I’ve got it written all out for ya. Take a look, take a gander, it’s all right here. From music videos to new singles to show announces to free Valentine’s, we’ve got it all.

Derek Webb’s New Singles

Today, Derek released not one, but TWO singles today. “Valentine’s Day” and “The Safest Place” are sure to make any day a great one.

Ruthie Collins’ New Single and Music Video

Ruthie released an enchanting new single, “Cold Comfort” in anticipation for her upcoming record. Along with this single, we got just lucky enough to receive a music video. Haunting and warm, check out the single and music video below. Be sure to look at The Boot’s premiere of the music video for “Cold Comfort” and take a look at American Songwriter’s article on the single.

Hush Kid’s Free Downloadable Valentines

Check out Hush Kid’s free downloadable valentines to gift any valentine in your life. It’s a good way to spread some love the way we know how: through song. Check it, give it, love it. We know we do!

Songs That I love by Olivia Management Artists

Listening to all of the great artists at Olivia Management has been a really exciting part of interning here. The artists create music that tells stories and have such rich aspects to their melodies and lyrics. They grab your attention and hold it to where I find myself turning on the rarely used repeat button. We live in a world today where access to great music has never been easier. Thanks to this interning for this little artist management company, I get first-hand access. And so do you! Here’s a condensed list of some of my favorite songs by the artists at Olivia Management! I even threw in a few music and lyric videos for fun because who doesn’t love a good visual aspect?

Click here to stream and download "Joshua Tree": https://smarturl.it/RCJoshuaTree

Jill Andrews

• “River Swimming”

• “A way to you again”

• “Free”

Smooth Hound Smith

• “Backslide”

•  “Used to Be Your Man”

in as far as what you've been through has made you who you are today, it's worth every dime & tear. take hope, friends. -derek The third single from Derek We...

Ruthie Collins

•  “Getting Out There” 

• “Joshua Tree”

•  “Dang Dallas”

Derek Webb

• “Wedding Dress” 

• “Good Grief”

Lydia Luce

• “Linens”

• “Love You True”

Hush Kids

• “Make these Colors Real”

A Playlist of Music I'm Digging

by Emma Martin

If you ever see me walking around Nashville or on-campus, my headphones are most likely in and on. Sometimes I just drive around and listen to music because I love it so much. Listening to multiple genres which is fun because one minute I could be listening to a slow acoustic song by Jill Andrews and the next song up is “Like a Girl” by Lizzo. There is an infinite variety of music out there. Check out this playlist I made of some of the songs that I just can’t stop listening to. 

Great Songs from Artists at Olivia Management 

Jill Andrews - “River Swimming”

Smooth Hound Smith - “Second Hand News”

Ruthie Collins - “Dang Dallas”

Derek Webb - “Wedding Dress”

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How Do You Find New Music?

By Connor Kozlecar

If you’re anything like me, you listen to a song or album on repeat until you literally can’t stand to hear it again and are always craving something new to grace your ears. In the ever-changing vast world of consumable music, how do you sort through the MILLIONS of songs and albums to find something that appeals to your specific taste? As consumers, we are blessed with an overwhelming amount of music to choose from. Many of the major platforms used around the world are equipped with algorithms to help out with just that. I’m going to help walk you through a few of the platforms that I use and the processes that I have to find new music to listen to. Check it out!

1. Spotify

   Personally, my streaming service of choice is Spotify. One of the primary reasons that I love Spotify so much is the ease of being introduced to new music. First and foremost, they create a playlist every week literally called “New Music Friday.” This playlist introduces you to newly-released music from all different genres and allows you to explore that with the tap of a finger. Additionally, Spotify has a very effective algorithm that collects data from all of the tracks and albums that you listen to on a daily basis. It then uses that data in a few different ways to expose each listener to fresh music: every Monday, Spotify will take the data that it has collected from your listening tendencies, and it will create a playlist for you called “Discover Weekly.” Discover Weekly compiles a list of around 30 songs that are similar in style to what you have listened to in the last week and tries to nail down the next song that you could be looking for. Every Monday for me is a tradition. An opportunity to take advantage of this playlist and find new tracks and artists while having my morning coffee. On the same day, a similar algorithm will take that data and do a mass search through all of the artists that you have liked or saved in the past and compile a playlist of any new releases from artists that you enjoy or are similar.

   Spotify’s search engine is also incredibly helpful when wanting to find new music. Similar to other platforms, you can browse through genres by scrolling through the browse option in the app. What’s great about manually searching instead, is the ability to search for things such as what kind of mood you’re in or a specific (maybe less familiar) genre and having a plethora of company created playlists to choose from. An example being, if you searched for “rainy day” (your mood) or “Americana” (a genre), hundreds of songs, hand-picked by Spotify will conveniently be organized into sub-playlists for you to choose from however you please!

2. Youtube

   When it comes to visual stimulation alongside music, Youtube is the place to be. With literally millions of videos on YouTube being music forward, the opportunities here are endless. Similar to Spotify, YouTube uses an algorithm to track your views and suggest a video for you to watch next that you most likely will enjoy. One of my favorite tactics on the site to find new music is to subscribe to channels that ask artists to come in and perform acoustic or alternate versions of their own songs, and or covers of artists they look up to. A few of these channels that are my favorite include: Jam in the Van, AudioTree, NPR Music, Colors, and Triple J (in no particular order.) Youtube is endless music fun, for any style.

3. Just listening!

   Living in Nashville has gifted me the most accessibility to live music that I’ve ever had in my life. In my opinion, there is no better way to find new music than going to local events or just noticing the music that is always playing around us. These days, in nearly every restaurant or store, you’ll hear music playing in the background. I’ve found that taking a moment to stop and listen has introduced me to some of the best songs and genres using tools like Shazam. When I first moved to Nashville a few years ago, I found the first Americana artist that I truly enjoyed using Shazam on my phone after just hearing a short snippet in a restaurant I was eating in. With tools like Bandsintown we also have access to lists of new artists and concerts coming to our very own cities that otherwise may have slipped by without knowing. Take advantage of your city and enjoy the music that’s around you!

HOWEVER you do it, we all know the joy of finding our new favorite song, and I hope some of these suggestions and tips on how I typically do it help you find your new favorites!!

How I Balance School and an Internship

by Emma Martin

The new year motto is always “New year, New Me!” but we all know that’s easier said than done. Going into the year of everything new: a new decade, new classes, a new internship, I had to find the balance between being a full-time student and having an internship for the first time. It has been such a rewarding experience but that does not go without struggling a little. Here are a few practices that have helped me navigate my new normal and some that I need to work on!

Time Management 

I am learning more about myself each day as I juggle my classes and interning at an artist management company. This is the first time I am having to focus my energy on two completely different settings that are equally important to me. I manage my time by being 100% present while I am interning and only thinking about what I can do to help Olivia Management. While I am in my classes, I try my best to focus and learn as much as I can. When I am not in class or at the office, I am studying and putting my energy towards school and extra-curricular activities. 

Organization 

Staying organized really helps me when I have a lot on my plate. I write everything down in my calendar and I list my tasks that I need to get done in order of priority. This is something that I have always done as a student and now I am doing it for my internship. It helps me organize my thoughts, so I don’t feel so overwhelmed. For me, it’s the best feeling in the world to be able to cross things off of a list. I also take some time every weekend to sit down and plan out my week. I usually look at what assignments are due that week and schedule time for when I am going to get assignments done. 

Struggles

Of course, I try my best to be on top of everything and accomplish my goals, but it hasn’t been easy. Something that has been difficult for me is knowing when to transition from being in the college environment to being in the workplace and vice versa. I am only interning at the office two days a week, but I find it hard to switch my mind back to student mode when I walk out the door to go back to campus. I am still figuring out how to dedicate myself 100% to school and Olivia Management and still be able to succeed at both.

The Support 

Everyone at Olivia Management has been extremely supportive and kind. They’ve helped me feel like I am more than capable of succeeding at being a good intern and student. My friends have also been a huge help in reminding me that I can still have fun and make mistakes as both a college student and an intern. 

Top 5 Indie Venues in Nashville

By Jackie Minton

As a new Nashville native, many of my friends ask me where they can hear good live music. Now if you’re looking for a night of classic country covers, Broadway is your best bet. But off Music Row, where do the locals go to get their music fill? Now that you are here, search no further. I have compiled a list of the best independent music venues in the Nashville and I am ready to get you listening like a local. 

1. The Basement East

Located at 917 Woodland St., The Basement East has been home to a number of budding and established acts. Noted for hosting quirky shows such as singer-songwriter Charlie Worsham’s annual John Mayerathon and world-renowned acts such as Avi Kapplan, former member of the Pentatonix, a bad night at Basement East is slim to none. Last time I went to a show here, I turned around to see Leon Bridges listening in the midst of the crowd behind me. If that isn’t enough of a seal of approval— I don’t know what is. 

Derek Webb plays to an attentive crowd at The Basement East. Photo by Maggie Adams

2. Mercy Lounge

This cozy venue features acts from across the board of the independent music. This upstairs brick hall is surprisingly cozy when filled with strangers. The packed atmosphere is balanced by sweeping, silent fans hung above the crowd— making for a notably pleasing (and less sweaty) listening experience. May be TMI, but you’ll thank me later! Performers range from pop-rock to folk-americana, but the air is always filled with an excitement from the crowd. Pictured below, Nashville-based artist Jill Andrews performs as a part of the city’s annual Americana Fest. Jill is set to return to Mercy Lounge on April 2nd (4/2/20) to celebrate the release of her upcoming album Thirties. This is an anticipated night you won’t want to miss! (Get your tickets here!)

Jill Andrews performs for Nashville’s annual Americana Fest on Mercy’s Stage. Photo by Erin Anderson.

3. 3rd & Lindsley

The slogan of this warehouse is “Good music. Good food. Good friends.” Fittingly, 3rd & Lindsley hosts both artists and songwriters, featuring a breadth of the music local and traveling through music city. Ranging from a table-and-chairs listening room experience to a standing-room-only concert hall, this indie venue is versatile and compatible with all kinds of audiences. Shown below the folk-rock duo Smooth Hound Smith steals the stage of this prominent Nashville venue. 

Americana-Rock Band Smooth Hound Smith takes the stage at 3rd & Lindsley. Photo by Maggie Adams.

4. The 5 Spot

On the East side of Nashville, The 5 Spot occupies the cozy and cool corner of the city. They feature everything from throwback dance parties reminiscent of the 70s and rising country acts, such as Ruthie Collins. Their unexpected mix of shows blend well into the host of bars and restaurants popping all over East Nashville. This 21 & up club is noted for their relaxed vibes and spunky entertainment!

Ruthie Collins pulls her audience close during this intimate show at The 5 Spot. Photo by Madeline Heiskell.

5. The Bluebird Cafe

Known best for spotlighting artists like Garth Brooks and Taylor Swift early in their careers, the Bluebird Cafe is often filled with listeners from all over the world. Even still, this landmark is a resting place for some of Nashville’s local jewels. It may be last in this list, but it is certainly not least! The venue’s popularity has only garnered with their common feature on the previous hit show Nashville and the late release of the documentary film, Bluebird. Nestled between Whole Foods and a Tuesday Morning, this whole in the wall is not one you want to miss. Pictured below the Americana duo Smooth Hound Smith performs at this neighborhood icon.

Indie Americana duo, Smooth Hound Smith performs below the neon bluebird. Photo by Madeline Heiskell.