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August 24.2025
3 Minutes Read

Nashville Music Welcomes Justin Ford as BMLG's VP of Creative Design

BMLG Justin Ford Promotion smiling man in casual setting.

Big Machine Label Group Welcomes Justin Ford as New VP

On August 14, 2025, Big Machine Label Group (BMLG) officially promoted Justin Ford to the position of Vice President of Creative Design and Branding. This significant move comes after Ford's successful tenure as the Senior Creative Director, where his contributions greatly influenced the visual identity of the label's diverse artist roster. With over a decade in the industry, Ford is recognized as a pivotal figure in merging artistry with innovative design.

Transformative Leadership in Nashville's Music Scene

BMLG Founder and CEO Scott Borchetta praised Ford for his remarkable creativity and passion for his work, saying, "Justin is the ultimate creative executive. He always over delivers, with extraordinary speed and a smile." This acknowledgment underlines the vibrant energy that Ford brings to the Nashville music scene, where competition is fierce and originality is crucial.

A Decade of Dedication and Impact

Ford's journey has been marked by numerous accolades, including multiple Davey Awards and Communicator Awards, reflecting his profound impact in crafting compelling visual narratives for artists like Thomas Rhett and Carly Pearce. His Bachelor of Fine Arts from Murray State University laid a solid foundation, enabling him to blend corporate and creative expertise effectively. Ford's positive demeanor and commitment to excellence have not only led to personal success but have also inspired those around him in a notoriously demanding industry.

What This Means for Nashville's Creative Community

This elevation to VP positions Ford as a key player in driving BMLG’s creative strategies forward. As Nashville continues to evolve musically and culturally, the role of creative directors like Ford becomes ever more crucial. The intersection of design and branding in artist promotion is pivotal, particularly in a time when consumers are seeking deeper connections with music. This recognition sends a positive signal to indie artists and up-and-coming creatives that growth is possible and that dedication is rewarded.

Words of Gratitude and Future Aspirations

Expressing his excitement about the new role, Ford remarked, "It truly is an honor to do what we do, alongside so many talented individuals with such passion for music and artists." His enthusiasm reflects a broader sentiment within the Nashville music community, where collaboration and support among creatives can lead to outstanding results. It signals a bright future for both him and the label as they embark on new projects that call for innovative thinking.

The Broader Implications for Music Professionals

As professionals across the Nashville industry watch closely, Ford’s promotion highlights an essential trend — the value of strong leadership in creative endeavors. The emphasis on creative branding in music not only enhances artist visibility but fosters an environment where artistic expression thrives. This trend is crucial for cherished Nashville traditions while navigating the shifting landscape of the music industry influenced by digital media and evolving audiences.

If you enjoyed this story, why not stay connected? Join Nashville Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive local information.

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08.26.2025

Nashville Music Industry News: New Leaders, Chart Triumphs, and Touching Moments

Update Austin Adams Takes the Helm at Warner Chappell Nashville This week in the vibrant world of Nashville's music scene, we’re witnessing monumental shifts as Austin Adams steps into the role of President at Warner Chappell Music Nashville. Starting September 15, Adams will lead the esteemed publishing company, continuing its tradition of nurturing both established and emerging artists. His track record as COO at Big Loud, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of stars like Morgan Wallen and Miranda Lambert, positions him to inspire a new era at Warner Chappell. Kinkead Entertainment Family Grows Stronger with Promotions As a cherry on top of Kinkead Entertainment’s 10th anniversary celebrations, the agency has elevated Julie Devereux and Greg Scott to CEO and President, respectively. Devereux, with her remarkable background in branding, will steer agency development, marrying artistic vision and strategic management. Meanwhile, Scott’s extensive experience in live performances promises to amplify the agency's talent booking efforts, showcasing why this duo is ready for their new challenges. Big Machine Label Group Elevates its Creative Strategy In a strategic move, Big Machine Label Group has promoted Justin Ford to Vice President of Creative Design & Branding. Having enhanced the visual appeal of the label for a decade, Ford’s leadership is expected to cement the distinct identities of its artists, appealing to existing audiences while attracting new fans. The music industry thrives on creativity, and Ford’s role will be pivotal in ensuring that Big Machine remains at the forefront. Touching Moments on the Grand Ole Opry Stage This past Saturday, the Grand Ole Opry witnessed a heartfelt moment when Kathy Mattea was invited to become its newest member, a moment echoing through the hearts of country music lovers everywhere. Such monumental moments not only celebrate the artist’s accomplishments but also remind fans of the rich heritage and community that is Nashville. Additionally, rising star Lanie Gardner made her debut, further intertwining the old with the new. New Challenges in Artist Representation On the artist management side, LOCASH has joined forces with CAA for exclusive representation, aiming to take their careers to soaring new heights, while Sticks Management has expanded its roster with Gavin Adcock, indicating a strong commitment to artist development. The evolving landscape of artist representation underscores the importance of strategic partnerships in navigating the complex music industry. Benny Brown's Ambitious Steps in Music Publishing Industry veteran Benny Brown has made headlines with his acquisition of Wide Open Music Publishing, launching North Chapel Music in the process. This venture will house chart-topping songs, catering to a diverse array of artists while expanding his influence in the music landscape. Brown’s knack for identifying market trends and talent is what keeps Nashville’s music ecosystem alive. Latest Chart Insights: Scotty McCreery and Hootie’s Triumph The latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart reveals that Scotty McCreery and Hootie & the Blowfish have returned to the No. 1 spot with their collaborative hit, "Bottle Rockets." This speaks not only to the enduring popularity of these artists but also provides insights into current musical tastes and industry movement. This issue of The MusicRow Weekly keeps you connected with the pulse of the Nashville music scene. With each executive transition, promotional milestone, and touching moment on stage, we’re reminded of the rich tapestry that is MusicRow. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a budding talent, there’s always something new to learn and explore in this thriving community. If you enjoyed this story, why not stay connected? Join Nashville Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive local information. @nashvillelocalunplugged

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Discover Zach John King: The Wannabe Cowboy Reinventing Country Music!

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Experience the Magic of Stripes at Nashville Zoo This Halloween!

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