New Music: Consulting Client Releases from September and October

By Maddie Hardwick

Olivia Management is best known as an artist management company but did you know that we also offer consulting client services as well? We have made some amazing friends through offering this service and most of them have put out some amazing music in the last few months! Check out some of our consulting clients recent releases and our playlist below!

Katie Callahan: This Won’t Be Forever

Nick Schrader: “Joy” and “BRNAGN”

Ordinary Elephant: “If I Needed You (Live from the Salt Lick Sessions)”

Sammi Accola: “Turning The Tables”

Hallie Grace: “You’re Still Here” and “We’re Both To Blame”

Ashley Riley: “Best Try”

Nathan K.: “Johnny’s” and “Regulators”

The Imaginaries: Fever

Sara Beth Go: “Teamo” and “Cameron”

Evan Boyer: “Breakthrough”

Remi Goode: Things I’ve Said Before

Nocturnne: “If I Were A Bird”

Be sure to check out our Spotify Playlist where you can find songs from each of these artists all in one spot!

Derek Webb "Bridges" Creativity and Innovation

by Bri Rogers

They say the best products start with solving your own problem. For Derek Webb and Abbie Parker, that’s exactly how the idea for the Dead Ringer Bridge began — born from necessity and built through pure creative curiosity. What started as a small experiment in their home studio has quickly grown into a shining example of artist-led innovation.

The Dead Ringer Bridge is a high-quality replacement bridge designed to replicate that classic “rubber bridge” sound that so many artists love — the warm, percussive tone you hear on countless vintage recordings. It gives players a way to capture that vibe without sacrificing playability or stability, making it a game-changing tool for both studio and stage.

If you haven’t seen it yet, Derek’s latest project is turning heads across the music world. The video above offers a peek into how it came together — and just how much heart and ingenuity went into every detail.

Since launching, the response has been incredible. The first production runs sold out almost immediately, with musicians praising its tone, craftsmanship, and practicality. Word of mouth spread quickly through the guitar community, with players calling it a “game-changer” for achieving that warm, rubber-bridge sound on stage. Between strong early sales, glowing feedback, and growing demand from touring artists, it’s clear that Derek’s creation has struck a chord — in more ways than one.

You can stay up to date with new releases, behind-the-scenes updates, and more by following the startup on Instagram @deadringerbridge.

The excitement around this project has only grown as more artists try it for themselves. Each new demo and performance shows just how versatile and inspiring the design can be — proving that great ideas travel fast when they’re built from genuine passion.

At Olivia Management, we’re endlessly inspired by artists like Derek who follow their curiosity, build from passion, and turn bold ideas into something that moves the industry forward. The Dead Ringer Bridge is proof that when creativity leads, innovation follows.

Olivia Management Artist Throwbacks!

by Sam Van Arsdale

We work with so many artists whose talents have been impacting people from the very start. Take a trip down memory lane and revisit some anniversaries of debuts and early releases!

As mentioned last week, Aaron Lee Tasjan is headed out on his In The Blazes: 10 Year Anniversary Solo Tour! In fact, this week actually marks the 10th anniversary of Tasjan’s genre-bending album. To celebrate, he’s not only going on his solo tour, but is also releasing a special edition vinyl!

Mary Gauthier kicks off the UK leg of her tour next week, performing songs that span her entire career. Hard to believe it’s already been 20 years since the release of her most-streamed album, Mercy Now!

If you didn’t already know, Street Corner Symphony made their debut on the second season of the NBC show The Sing-Off, where they finished in 2nd place! Check out this YouTube playlist of their performances from almost 15 years ago!

Just 5 years ago, Alex Blue’s first EP, Good Company, set the tone for her artistry. An article by Marvin Twiggs wrote that it was, “a deeply-felt experience that beautifully covers rustic gems from the past…” and we have to agree!

Last year, we celebrated the 10th anniversary debut of the Ruthie Collins EP! It still stands as such a beautiful album!

Last but not least, Derek Webb’s album, Mockingbird, celebrates its 20th anniversary in December! Around the same time, Derek Webb will be finishing up his house show tour for his most recent album, Survival Songs!

These throwbacks are just a glimpse into where our managed artists came from and how much they’ve grown! We can’t wait to see more growth, new music, and all of the fun moments ahead!

Kicking Off the In The Blazes: 10th Anniversary Solo Tour!

By: Sydney Barton

Hitting the road to perform music for eager ears is such a special way for artists to connect with their supporters. For Nashville-based folk and Americana artist, Aaron Lee Tasjan, this weekend brought that connection as he kicked off his “In The Blazes: 10th Anniversary Solo Tour.” Starting in Austin, TX at the Continental Gallery, he had a 4-day sprint all around the state of Texas.  

Aaron Lee Tasjan’s “In The Blazes: 10th Anniversary Solo Tour Dates

This tour is special for Tasjan as it celebrates the release of his debut album, In The Blazes. He says that “it's been an amazing and wild ride ever since [the release]” which deserves to be celebrated in the best way he knows how: playing it live. Here at Olivia Management, we are so excited for Tasjan to get back to the stage and for the fans to hear these songs live, as they’ve grown over the past 10 years—just like all of us! In the next few weeks, “In the Blazes” will be traveling along the East Coast from Atlanta, GA (10/3), to Lynchburg, VA (10/12). After a brief break, the tour will continue to the West Coast, ending in Petaluma, CA at the start of next year (1/25/26). If you get the chance to catch Aaron Lee Tasjan along the road, you won’t be disappointed as he uniquely blends genres such as indie folk, rock, and Americana, to create an eclectic and raw performance for everyone to enjoy.  

This album covers all the possible emotions over 10-tracks and will have you immediately hitting the “repeat” button. Don’t just take it from me, though, take it from other industry professionals:

  • “The songwriter’s ability to add humor and light to something that very obviously troubles him and hits a lot of folks pretty hard is uncanny. He is one in a million when it comes to spinning stories in this fashion. This, my friends, is brilliance.” (Carroll, Red Line Roots)

  • “[His] debut LP In the Blazes, established him as a left-of-center scribe in the Americana culture, one more interested in tickling the intellect than stabbing at the heart” (Moss, Rolling Stones)

Don’t miss your chance to see Tasjan performing this beautiful and meaningful record live. Grab your tickets here. We can’t wait to see you there!

Americana Fans Engage With Artists Like Never Seen Before

By Maddie Hardwick

Every year, over 20,000 fans of Americana music flock to Nashville to attend AMERICANAFEST in mid-September. Coming from all over the globe, both returning and first time spectators get to experience the heart and soul of Americana across 40 different venues in the city. As an independent Nashville-based Americana management company, this week is one that Olivia Management looks forward to every year.

Part of what makes the week of AMERICANAFEST so special is the fans that come. Without the fans, artists and industry professionals would not have these outlets and platforms to create and provide art for others.

The fans are such a special part of this industry and a recent study shows that they are planning on keeping these spaces and platforms open for Americana artists as long as possible! This article from DIMA (which you can find linked here) shows that fans are reaching almost superfan levels of spending and streaming to support the Americana artists that they love. Important points that I would like to point out from this article include:

  • Americana fans will spend twice as much on music annually than fans of any other genre

  • Fans will spend 24% more time listening in one week

  • 99% of Americana listeners choose to stream their music

  • 76% of Americana streamers are under the of 44

  • 74% of fans say that they have discovered new music through Americana

All of these stats are majorly important and exciting to companies such as OM who are incredibly involved in Americana music. Having this kind of research is incredibly helpful as it reflects that the fans are incredibly receptive and are willing to spend their time, money, and attention on these artists, especially with many of them being smaller indie artists. It says a lot about how much the fans truly love the art and music that they are consuming.

This article is also talks about the growth that Americana music has had in recent years. In a direct quote from the article, President and CEO of DIMA, Graham Davies says, “This research underlines the passion of the Americana community and how streaming is deepening that engagement. Americana has grown from a regional scene into a genre with national and international reach.”

I think this quote is a great way to summarise this article as it is reflective of all of these number and statistics that are given. In a world of streaming, it is much easier to access everything at your fingertips at any given time and Americana fans are taking full advantage of this convenience at an incredible rate, almost skyrocketing the reach of Americana.

To the fans of Americana: a major THANK YOU! You are part of what keep this industry running, without your involvement, there would not be an audience for artists and that plays such a vital role in allowing artists to perform around the world! <3

AMERICANAFEST Wrap Up

by Bri Rogers

What an unforgettable week we had at AMERICANAFEST! We loved every moment of celebrating music, reconnecting with old friends, and making plenty of new ones along the way! Our Olivia Management & Friends showcase was a true highlight—thank you to all the incredible artists who performed and everyone who came out to support. The energy in the room was electric, and we couldn’t be more grateful for this incredible folk/Americana community.

Here’s a glimpse into the showcase! 

But that was just the beginning! Throughout the week, our artists and friends took the stage all over town and filled Nashville with so much heart and soul. From intimate songwriter rounds to unforgettable evening sets, it was inspiring to see so much talent shining in every corner.

We also hosted our Olivia Management Coffee Hang, one of our favorite events of the week. There’s nothing like starting a busy festival day with great conversation, fresh coffee, and the chance to connect with friends – old and new!

Here’s a glimpse into our coffee hang!

To everyone who came out, played a set, helped behind the scenes, or just cheered us on—thank you! You make AMERICANAFEST what it is—music lovers, artists, and friends keeping the folk/Americana spirit alive year after year.” and we’re already counting the days until next year.

A Preview of OM at AMERICANAFEST 2025

by Sam Van Arsdale

We had such a blast kicking off our AMERICANAFEST week with our official OM showcase, we were so blessed to have such kind and talented artists both play and attend this show! Many of our consulting clients and OM artists can also be found throughout the week at venues across town with their own performances!

So you don’t have to, we’ve compiled a short list of performances you do not want to miss.

Consulting Clients:

The Imaginaries

Wednesday 9/10 - 11:30 AM - The Oklahoma Stage: Live from AMERICANAFEST ACME Feed and Seed

Wednesday 9/10 - 2:00 PM - GPTX Live: Where Texas Talent Meets Americana Soul Analog at Hutton Hotel

Abbie Gardner & Sara Milonovich

Thursday 9/11 - 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM - East Coast Social Brown’s Diner

These are all events you don’t want to miss! AMERICANAFEST is such a special week, we hope you enjoy it to its fullest potential! There is so much going on and you wont want to miss a single thing!

OM at AMERICANAFEST: Through the Eyes of an Intern

By Sydney Barton

In recent weeks, we’ve been gearing up for AMERICANAFEST: a week-long festival that has taken over Nashville since 2000. AMERICANAFEST highlights the “authentic voice of American roots music around the world.” The week consists of showcases, conferences, and special events for fans and industry professionals alike to gather in a shared love of Americana music. Artists that have been a part of this festival span from Emmylou Harris and Rodney Cromwell, Johnny Cash, Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Dwight Yokum, and more.  

At Olivia Management, we are so thankful to be able to host a showcase during this week for our artists to share their love and talent with festival goers. Hosted at Gray Matters Studio on Tuesday, September 9th from 6pm-10pm-- Aaron Lee Tasjan, Ruthie Collins, and more will be bringing you a night of joy, live music, and community. Did I mention it is a free event open to the public? 

Our artists are also playing a multitude of events, from Aaron Lee Tasjan’s Official AMERICANAFEST showcase to Ruthie Collins playing the Country in the Afternoon event, you won’t want to miss it. We’d love to see you there!

Fall 2025 Intern Intros!

By Miriam DeYoung

We are so excited to welcome four new interns to the Olivia Management team for this Fall semester! If you’ve been around long, you know how much we depend on our interns to keep our company running and we’re so thrilled to introduce you to the four lovely ladies who will be our helping hands this semester. They’ve already been proving themselves so helpful and it hasn’t even been a week! We can already tell it’s going to be a great semester.

Bri Rogers

Bri is a Senior Creative Entertainment Industries Major at Belmont University! Her favorite artist right now is the Paper Kites and she can’t wait to learn about artist management!

Sydney Barton

Sydney is junior Music Business and Economics double major at Belmont University. Her favorite group right now is The Band Camino. She shared that she’s excited not only for the opportunity but also to learn from other women in the industry!

Maddie Hardwick

Maddie is a junior Music Business Major at Belmont University. Her favorite artist as of late is Kings of Leon. She shared that she’s super excited to get more involved in the artist management world and learn and work with such an amazing group of people.

Sam Van Arsdale

Sam is a senior Music Business major at Belmont University. Her favorite artist right now is Jean Dawson. You may recognize Sam as one of our Spring 2025 interns who has graciously agreed to join us again this semester and she says that she’s excited to be back and learn new things every single day!

Summer 2025 Intern Wrap Up

By Miriam DeYoung

As August rolls around, it’s time for us to say goodbye to the amazing interns who have joined us for this Summer semester. They have so kindly written a reflection on the time they spent interning with us. We are so grateful for each and every one of them and the hard work they’ve put into everything they’ve helped us with over the last few months. We’ll miss them dearly and can’t wait to see the amazing things they go on to do!

Interning at OM this summer has been such an educational, fun, and productive experience. I could not have asked for more kind, helpful, and hardworking co-workers with the best CEO leading us. During my first day, I was so impressed by how organized and thorough OM is—from their detailed directions to their meticulous spreadsheets. I knew exactly what was expected of me, and if I had any questions, anyone on staff was happy to help. I learned so much from doing 1:1s with Erin, assisting with tasks in the office, and watching OM’s artists perform.

My favorite memory was when a few of us saw Mary Gauthier perform at The Bluebird Cafe with Jaimee Harris. It was so incredible to watch Mary’s songs come to life, and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to attend an event in such a revered venue. Thank you to the OM team for making my summer in Nashville the best ever!

Being a summer intern at Olivia Management has been such a well-rounded, fruitful experience, especially for someone like me who was looking for an opportunity to get my foot in the door of the industry. From day one, the women who collectively make up OM made extensive efforts to make each and every intern feel welcomed and motivated to take on each day's tasks, while simultaneously trusting us with large scale projects. I am so grateful for all of the things this opportunity has allowed me to walk away with: from unique experiences to tangible skills I will be able to continue building on.
One of the most eye-opening parts of this internship was getting to witness how a “middle class” management company not only survives but thrives in an industry often dominated by giants. Seeing firsthand how Olivia Management navigates this space—with intentionality, adaptability, and deep care for their artists—has completely reshaped how I think about success in music. I leave this internship not only with a clearer path forward, but with a deeper belief that there’s space in the industry for people who lead with grit and heart.

 

Interning at Olivia Management has been an extremely educational and insightful experience. I have learned so much new information I had no idea about prior to being here. OM is filled with immensely talented women that truly care for their artists and help everyone succeed. They allowed us interns to learn from each other and be a team rather than multiple individuals in a room together. Whenever a time-sensitive situation arose, it was always handled with care and deliberation between our superiors that followed a certain flow, from a well-organized process and mission that was underneath the foundations which hold up OM. Whenever I had questions or was confused about something the answer usually resided on Slab or was a few feet away and was answered without hesitation.
Erin is a wonderful CEO and unites everyone with a divide-and-conquer mindset, showcasing her trust in everyone’s abilities. Even while Erin was on maternity leave celebrating the new addition to her family, Grace led the team as if nothing changed along with Maddy and Miriam!
I have gained so much insight into the industry and my strengths and weaknesses that make my career path so much clearer. There were a lot of fun moments and I am sad this time is coming to an end, but being here has been amazing and I will forever be grateful for my internship at Olivia Management.

 

Interning at Olivia Management this summer has been an incredibly educational and fulfilling experience. It was the perfect way to close out my college journey. As someone from New York, packing up my life and moving halfway across the country to Nashville was both stressful and exciting. From day one, the women in the office were welcoming, kind,
and understanding, which made the transition so much easier. Their depth of experience in the industry was incredibly valuable and played an important role throughout my time here.
Most of my work focused on social media projects and marketing, and thanks to the guidance and leadership of the entire team, I was able to grow both professionally and personally. I’ll definitely miss our Monday meetings and the fun, supportive energy in the office.
One of the highlights of this internship has been learning directly from such a successful and inspiring CEO and her team. Not only are they incredibly knowledgeable about the industry, but the time and care they invest in their interns speaks volumes about their dedication to shaping the future of music. Olivia Management is such a positive, dynamic place to be, and I’m so grateful to have spent my summer here.

Introducing Our Most-Streamed Tracks (So Far)

By: Brandon Carman

Often times the greatest metric we see in the music industry to rank, compare, and measure the success of a song is by the song’s number of streams. At Olivia Management, a Nashville-based folk and Americana artist management company, we’re proud to represent a roster of artists whose work has not only connected with listeners, but also earned meaningful achievements across streaming platforms.

Each of these songs represents a blend of craft, emotion, and persistence—and we’ve gathered the most-streamed tracks from every artist on our roster into one playlist: Olivia Management Essentials.

Click Here To Access Playlist!

These songs are more than just numbers — they represent the connection between artist and audience, and the work we’re proud to support at Olivia Management. Whether you’re discovering someone new or returning to an old favorite, we hope this playlist gives you a deeper appreciation for the voices we’re honored to champion.

Listen, follow, and share Olivia Management Essentials — and stay tuned for what’s next.

Merch You Don’t Want to Miss: Summer Deals + Limited Drops

by Jameson MacNamee

Summer’s in full swing, and so is the merch from our artists. Whether you’re looking to freshen up your closet or get some new vinyl, our artists have you covered. Here is what we have right now:

Aaron Lee Tasjan: 

Brand new summer tees and tanks just dropped! Cool, comfy, and full of Aaron’s amazing vibe. These rainbow star designs are perfect for any occasion. Also on Aaron’s website are some limited-stock merch on its final run. Get them here before they sell out! 

Josh Radnor: 

After concluding his amazing tour, we have some Eulogy, Vol. II tour tees and CDs still hanging around. Available only in XS and S, make sure to get them here before they’re gone!

Street Corner Symphony:

Help us celebrate Christmas in July with 50% off tees. Plus a freebie - your choice of a magnet or kazoo! Check out this amazing deal here before it ends on August 1st.

Alex Blue: 

After celebrating one year of Kin, the Kin vinyl is still here and ready for a spot on your record player! In addition to the vinyl, Alex still has the Kin CD, black tee, and the Woodlands tee and sticker. Get them here while you can!

Derek Webb:

Grab the Survival Songs CD and vinyl still in Derek's store, or check out some of his past merch, including vinyl, posters, stickers, and so much more. Get your Derek merch here today! 

Mary Gauthier:

Keep it classic with a Mercy Now bandana now on sale or take a look at some of Mary’s past merch, including vinyl, towels, posters, and so much more. Check it out here. 

Ruthie Collins:

Help celebrate the five-year anniversary of Cold Comfort with a special edition CD. Also make sure to check out her past merch, including bandanas, tees, and sweatshirts. Get them here!

The Power of Music: Examining Our Country Through Song with the Artists at Olivia Management

By: Jo MacKenzie

Folk and Americana music has a long tradition of using songs as a form of protest, from Bob Dylan’s “The Times They Are A-Changin’” to Neil Young’s “Ohio.” With the 4th of July being this past weekend, we’d like to take a minute to spotlight some of our artists’ current and past musical contributions to the conversations about the state of our nation. 

Off of Aaron Lee Tasjan’s most recent record Stellar Evolution, Tasjan delivers the protest song “I Love America Better Than You.” In an interview with NPR, he describes this song as his examination of his “country’s complexities, contradictions, and hard truths in a way that’s conversational” (Timmons). The matter-of-fact, accessible lyricism strikes a careful balance between the benign and malignant, mentioning America’s hotdogs and soda pop but also its dirty water, wealth disparity, and insurrectionists. Listen here.

In the title track of Mary Gauthier’s 2005 release Mercy Now, Gauthier writes about the importance of forgiveness in all aspects of life: forgiving oneself, one’s church, and one’s country. In the album’s title track, she sings “My church and my country could use a little mercy now / as they sink into a poisoned pit, it’s going to take forever to climb out.” Although the lyrics cast a tone of despair, they come from a place of love and hope. Gauthier adds later in the song that, “Only the hand of grace can end the race towards another mushroom cloud…I love life and life itself could use some mercy now.” In times of hardship, love, community, and forgiveness can make all the difference. Listen here.

Inspired by the folk legends of the past, Josh Radnor took up his pen to write “Don’t Get Sick This Is America”—the first song off of his most recent record Eulogy, Vol II. In a video on Radnor’s YouTube channel that breaks down the song, he calls it “an old-fashioned Woody Guthrie-esque protest song on the guitar” (Radnor). Radnor takes a satirical approach to this song as a way to highlight the issues he sees: “Quit your whining this is America / You can get by on the minimum wage / Just make sure it’s essential / Do you really need three meals a day?” Listen here.

Music has the incredible power to take complex topics and examine them in infinite ways. Folk and Americana music can shed light on issues as complicated as our country’s history and current state, and we are so proud of our artists for continuing the conversations. We hope you had a safe and fun 4th of July with your family and friends! 

The Star and the Everyday Muse: The People Who Inspired the Song

By: Brandon Carman

Behind every compelling song is a vestige of the muse who inspired it—sometimes it's a famous face radiating from the big screen, other times it's someone whose story often goes unseen. In this blog, we’re exploring the people who linger between the lyrics: the stars who inspire from afar, and the everyday muses who linger in the quiet moments of everyday life. Whether it's Alex Blue writing to Gillian Anderson, Ruthie Collins tracing Emmylou Harris and Gram Parsons through the desert, or Mary Gauthier gathering the voices of veterans, these artists show us that inspiration can come from anywhere—and anyone. Sometimes it wears red carpet glamour beckoning for our attention; other times, it shows up quietly in combat boots waiting to be found.

Image by Andrew Freedom Parry

Last friday Alex Blue released “Gillian,” a dreamy, slow-burn track named after actress Gillian Anderson. But the song is about more than a celebrity crush—it’s a quiet anthem for queer kids who once fixated on the teacher, the character, the distant someone who felt like safety and longing all at once.

For Blue, who has spoken openly about her journey from internalized homophobia to embracing herself as a lesbian, “Gillian” becomes a kind of reclamation: of adolescence, of desire, of the awkward and formative ways queer identity takes shape. In this song, Anderson, a recurring queer icon for many, becomes a muse not through closeness, but through the allure of the unreachable—a reminder of how distant figures can shape our most intimate inner narratives.

To listen to “Gillian” and find other ways to stay connected with Alex, click here!

Image by Cal Quinn and Aly Fae

In her song “Joshua Tree,” Ruthie Collins writes in her own words that the song “is kind of like a lucky charm, like a rabbits foot, or a worry stone that you carry around in your pocket. It seems to have some kind of energy that has brought some really interesting and magical things into my life. I’ve never written a song like that before.”

She originally wrote the song about two of her heroes, Emmylou Harris and Gram Parsons, and their tragic love story and the story of how he discovered her and brought her on the road. She writes, “the story I heard was that there were feelings and chemistry there but they had never given in to it. But then the time came that Emmylou decided she was finally going to tell Gram that she was in love with him. She didn’t want to tell him over the phone though and they were about to go back out on the road in a few weeks, so she decided to wait until she could say the words face to face.”

Tragically, Gram Parson’s overdosed and passed away before she got the chance. He died in Joshua Tree in 1973. She thought it might be the saddest thing she had ever heard—and as a self-proclaimed lover and writer of sad songs, she felt compelled to take on the story. She brought the idea to her friend Luke Sheets, and together they finished the song. It became the final addition to her record, written just days before heading into the studio.

Now, the song carries many meanings. It's not only a snapshot of a great love story that almost was, but also a meditation on the idea that love is never truly gone—because love cannot die. No matter where you are in the world or in time, love always exists. To her, the song is like a message in a bottle, filled with that great love and cast into the Universe. What happens next is anyone’s guess.

Listen to “Joshua Tree” and watch the video and all the things right here!!!

Album Art by Joe Verschoyle

Rifles & Rosary Beads is more than an album—it’s a powerful act of witness.

Created by Mary Gauthier in collaboration with wounded veterans and their spouses through the nonprofit Songwriting With: Soldiers, the album gives voice to those whose stories are too often left untold. Instead of imagining what war feels like, Gauthier sat down with these men and women—not to interview them in the traditional sense, but to listen, heart open, pen in hand. Together, they shaped raw experience into song.

Each track on Rifles & Rosary Beads is co-written with a veteran or military family member, and the results are astonishing in their honesty. From the quiet ache of “Soldiering On” to the tear-soaked resilience in “The War After the War,” these songs don’t preach or politicize—they reveal.

What emerges is a body of work that is unflinching, humane, and deeply moving. Gauthier doesn’t sing for these soldiers; she sings with them, and that distinction is everything.

The album isn’t just a collection of songs. It’s a sacred collaboration. A healing project. A reminder that music can hold space for pain and transformation. Rifles & Rosary Beads offers no easy answers, only hard-won truth—and in doing so, it becomes one of the most meaningful records in recent American music.

To listen to Rifles & Rosary Beads, click here!

Image by Jim Cherewick

Nathan K’s “Bob Seger” is a quiet anthem of hope and honesty, rooted in small-town struggle. By turning to Seger—a symbol of escape and resilience—the Nathan finds a kind of nightly reassurance that making it out is possible. The lyrics reflect a tension between emotional restraint and the desire to be heard: even if the speaker isn't polished or performative, their raw truth should still matter. It’s a song about believing in something bigger while staying grounded in who you are.

To listen to more of Nathan K.’s music, click here!

Cover Art by Jessica Sayeg

Allison Asarch’s “Taylor Made” is a playful, heartfelt nod to the impact of growing up with Taylor Swift’s music. Through clever wordplay and lyrical callbacks, the song blends admiration with self-discovery, showing how an artist’s voice can shape someone’s own. It’s both a thank-you letter and a coming-of-age anthem, capturing the magic of finding your story reflected in someone else's songs—until, one day, you’re ready to write your own.

To listen to more of Allison Asarch’s music, click here!

Whether it’s a rock legend from your hometown, a queer icon on a TV screen, a country hero who never got the ending she deserved, or the quiet courage of someone who’s lived through war—muses come in many forms. These songs remind us that inspiration isn’t reserved for the famous or the flawless. It lives in the people we admire from afar, the memories we carry, and the truths we’re brave enough to tell. In the hands of artists like Alex Blue, Ruthie Collins, Mary Gauthier, Nathan K., and Allison Asarch, those influences are transformed into something more: songs that let us see ourselves—and each other—more clearly.

Artists Who Teach: From Music to the Classroom

By Jameson MacNamee

Behind each great performance is a lifetime of learning. Each artist has had to learn their skills, and many of them love to share their expertise with others. From songwriting to virtual lessons, these musicians aren't just performing; they’re mentoring and inspiring the next generation of artists. 

Here are a few of our favorite artists who are turning their stage experience into valuable learning opportunities: 

Mary Gauthier: Songwriting Workshops

Mary Gauthier is not only an amazing singer, but is also a gifted teacher who believes in the transformative power of music. Through her songwriting camps and workshops, she is able to help songwriters of all levels develop their skills and speak their truth through their words. Whether it is an intimate in-person retreat or an online session, her approach is both encouraging and personal. She creates a safe, supportive space for writers to explore difficult topics, find their voice, and connect. Highlights from her sessions include group activities, one-on-one guidance, and creative feedback. 

To learn more about Mary’s lessons, visit her website here, or sign up for the songwriting workshop email notification here. 

Derek Webb: Guitar Lessons

Derek Webb, known for his deep and personal songwriting and guitar work, offers private lessons tailored to each student's goals. Whether you are looking to refine your technique, understand theory, or learn how to express yourself through guitar, Derek brings decades of experience along with a personal teaching style. His “one song at a time” method allows you to choose the song while he guides you through it. Derek offers weekly, bi-weekly, and one-off lessons via zoom. He also offers one-off songwriting coaching sessions. 

To find more information, visit Derek Webb's main page here, his private lessons page here, or sign up for his personal email list here. 

Jill Andrews: Songwriting Lessons
Singer-songwriter Jill Andrews has also stepped into the teaching space, offering songwriting lessons and creative guidance. With a career filled with melodies and heartfelt lyrics, Andrews assists aspiring writers by teaching them to shape their ideas and focus their stories into songs. She offers three packages consisting of virtual lessons that last one hour each to help fit each person's goals and schedule. 

To learn more about her private lessons visit her homepage here, her lessons page here, or sign up for her mailing list here. 

Ali Sperry: Yoga on Patreon

Ali Sperry, a well-versed singer and songwriter brings a balance of music and mindfulness into her teaching. In addition to performing and releasing her own music, Ali is a certified yoga instructor with a long-standing passion for yoga. One of her favorite pastimes is sharing her love of yoga through teaching. As a yoga instructor for over 18 years, Ali offers private one-hour yoga sessions or group sessions. These lessons are offered over Zoom or in person if you are local to Nashville. 

To find out more information on Ali Sperry, visit her homepage here, visit her store to buy a yoga session here, or sign up for her mailing list here. 

A Guide to TikTok for Artists and How to Use It!

By Holt Atkinson

TikTok has rolled out the new TikTok for Artists platform that allows artists better to understand data analytics for their music and marketing! This is a big addition to TikTok and shows they are working to improve their music economy within TikTok and will likely result in a huge improvement to their internal music economy. 

Launched officially in June 2025, this platform is designed to help artists build their careers by providing powerful analytics, promotional tools, and enhanced fan engagement features. TikTok for Artists offers a unique opportunity to grow your fan base and showcase your work. In this blog post, we’ll explore what TikTok for Artists is, its key features, and how you can leverage it to elevate your music career.

What is TikTok for Artists?

TikTok for Artists is a specialized platform within TikTok that provides artists with tools to promote their music, track performance, and engage with fans. Unlike the standard TikTok app, this feature is made specifically for musicians and their teams, offering data-driven insights and promotional capabilities to maximize impact. Launched in select markets including the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan, it will be expanding globally, making it accessible to artists worldwide.

The platform is free to use and integrates with TikTok’s existing ecosystem, allowing artists to tap into the app’s huge user base of over 1 billion monthly active users.

Key Features of TikTok for Artists:

Enhanced Artist Profiles with Music Tab

The Music Tab acts as a mini homepage for your music, displaying your full catalog in one place. Fans can easily explore your tracks, and new releases are automatically updated with a “New” badge for 30 days to boost visibility.

The Artist Tag appears under your account name, signaling your certified status and helping you stand out as a professional artist.

Real-Time Analytics 

Gain access to detailed performance data, including views, likes, shares, and engagement per song or post. You can also learn about your audience demographics to curate your content more effectively.

Promotional Tools 

  • Launch pre-save campaigns for upcoming releases on Spotify or Apple Music, driving excitement before your music drops, and improving the streaming algorithm.

  • Use the “By Artist” feature to pin your preferred video to the top of relevant sound pages, ensuring maximum exposure.

  • Highlight fan-created content with the Fan Spotlight feature, showcasing user-generated videos in your Music Tab to improve community engagement.

Monetization Opportunities 

  • Drive streams to external platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, where 67% of TikTok users are more likely to seek out songs they discover on the app. This can lead to significant revenue and streaming growth.

  • Create engagement campaigns, such as exclusive merch drops or album promotions, to better monetize your fanbase!

How to Get Started with TikTok for Artists

Ready to claim your TikTok Artist Account and start using the platform? Follow these steps to set up and make the most of TikTok for Artists:

Apply for a TikTok Artist Account

To access TikTok for Artists, you need a certified artist account. Eligibility requires at least 4 songs released and 100 TikTok videos using your music. Here’s how to apply:

  1. Log in to TikTok and go to your profile tab.

  2. Tap the three-dot icon in the upper-right corner to open settings.

  3. Select TikTok Studio, then scroll to the “More tools” section and tap Artist Hub or TikTok for Artists.

  4. Tap Apply now, enter your full artist name, and search for your profile in TikTok’s music library.

  5. Click Claim and provide proof of ownership by submitting screenshots from your music distributor (DistroKid, TuneCore) or streaming platform (Spotify for Artists).

  6. TikTok will review your application, and if approved, you’ll receive the “Artist” tag and access to exclusive features!


Pro Tip: Use a music distributor like DistroKid, CD Baby, or TuneCore to upload your music to TikTok’s library. This ensures your songs are available for use in videos and linked to your profile.

TikTok has redefined music discovery, with 75% of users saying they’ve found new artists on the platform. Its algorithm gives every video a chance to go viral, making it an ideal space for independent artists to break through. Utilize TikTok for Artists today to take control of your career and gain eyes on your music.

Works Referenced
https://www.gyrostream.com/blog-posts/apply-for-tiktok-artist-account-link-your-music
https://techcrunch.com/2025/04/03/tiktok-quietly-launches-a-new-tiktok-for-artists-platform/
https://www.reddit.com/r/musicmarketing/comments/1en7x9b/anyone_tried_tiktok_for_artists/
https://www.constantcontact.com/blog/tiktok-for-artists/
https://support.label-worx.com/hc/en-us/articles/15263339112210--TikTok-Artist-Certification-A-Guide-to-Special-Features-and-Tools
https://artists.tiktok.com/

Newsletter Necessity: Sign Up Now and Never Miss an Update

By: Jo MacKenzie

In this digital day and age, it’s difficult to keep up with everything—from work emails to funny TikToks to 10% Uber Eats coupons. Inevitably, some things fall through the cracks. As such, there are nights when I wake up in a cold sweat after having a nightmare where my favorite artist plays in my city without my knowledge. However, I am immediately comforted when I remember that I’m on my favorite artist’s email list and therefore will never miss a show in my city due to the advanced targeting systems. Without this reassurance, I don’t know if I’d ever get a full night’s sleep! 

We here at Olivia Management, a Nashville-based folk and Americana artist management company, are all in favor of a good night’s rest and a great night of live music with one of our artists. To ensure this, you can sign up for our artists Aaron Lee Tasjan, Alex Blue, Derek Webb, Josh Radnor, and Mary Gauthier’s email lists to receive newsletters that update you on all the important happenings! 

Not only will these newsletters keep you informed of tour dates, they also give you a front-row seat to hear about new music, special exclusives, and sneak peeks into our artists lives. So what are you waiting for? Sign up for the newsletter of your favorite artist(s) at the link below to stay up to date on everything!

To give you a little taste of what we’re talking about, here are some snippets from our artists latest newsletters!

From Alex’s May Newsletter - What I’m Loving Lately…

  • No joke, streaming on Twitch. Current obsession.

  • Painting my nails different colors on each finger.

  • Dandelions.

  • Singing my song “Neil Young Song” on the guitar, just me in my room. It’s been making me very emotional in a good way.

  • Writing pop music…. (I share one unreleased pop song I write for Meta a month for my Lavender Patrons)

From Aaron Lee Tasjan’s May Newsletter - Record of the Month

Released May 22nd, the latest single from the forthcoming James McMurtry album is titled, "Sailing Away." The song is that perfect McMurtry emotional punch in the face that stings as it grabs you by the shirt and reveals eternal truths, one after the next. To say I am eagerly anticipating his next album would be an understatement. James is one of America's finest songwriters and based on the quality of "Sailing Away," I'd say we're all in for yet another special record from James. Adding to the excitement around this one for me, is James's collaboration here with one of my favorite producers, the great Don Dixon. Check out this gem of a tune and get ready for the full shebang coming our way on June 20th via our dear friends at New West Records.

From Derek’s Newsletter - Announcing Survival Songs

“i’ve always considered it my job description to ‘look at the world and describe it’, which has taken my songs and albums to some very unexpected places over the years. as an artist, citizen, and dad of teens, let me tell you what i see when i look at the world today: queer people, especially queer kids, are in imminent danger and desperately need a soundtrack to comfort, encourage, and empower them.

over the past month, i’ve actually written and recorded an entire album that seeks to do just that.”

From Josh’s Latest Museletter - On “How We Made Your Mother”

“Three years ago I met my wife, Jordana. She had never seen HIMYM, which was a great relief. It’s hard to make a true first impression when people have already spent hours with you, even in a fictional context. She and I have talked a lot over the years about some of the strange challenges of being associated so deeply with a character, both professionally and personally. And given that she’s a psychologist and an all-around wise being, her insights into this have been immense and immeasurably helpful.

At some point she told me she’d like to watch the show, to fill in the blanks on this major chapter in her husband’s life that she missed. It felt like enough time had passed and that I might be able to watch it along with her, older and wiser and (hopefully) more forgiving of my younger self and how hard I was on the guy who played Ted. I no longer wished to put police tape around this huge swath of my life.”

From Mary’s June Newsletter - On Writing a New Book

“My week has gone like this: I wake up early, and spend six to eight hours writing, get about 2000 words, doing my best to shape them into something that makes sense. At the end of the day, I send my work to my friend Beth who is my editor in first reader. We talk the next morning, and she inevitably proceeds to tell me to remove 1500 of the 2000 words because they’re not working.

So, I do.

Then, I get back to work.

Wash, rinse, repeat, and just like that, a week of writing is behind me.

There’s still time to walk the town in late afternoons, go to the gym, share great meals with friends. But the weeks down here go quickly.

I wake up grateful to watch the sun rise on the water. I never want to leave. But leave I must!”

Tour Fever: The Artists Heating Up Stages This Summer

By: Brandon Carman

As this year’s rainy spring comes to a close, it’s time for summer concerts—and our artists have a lot in store!

Josh Radnor: The Eulogy II Tour

Former actor turned Americana storyteller, Josh Radnor launched his Eulogy II Tour in late April and will bring it to a close this weekend with performances in Annapolis, Maryland—a sold-out show in Vienna, Virginia—and a final homecoming at the Franklin Theatre in Franklin, Tennessee on June 5th. Blending raw honesty with rich, melodic textures, Josh Radnor has reinvented himself as one of Americana’s most compelling new voices. His music unfolds like a handwritten letter—vulnerable, reflective, and deeply human. Radnor isn’t just performing—he’s crafting a legacy, one intimate evening at a time

These are shows you won’t want to miss, get tickets here!

Tickets

Mary Gauthier: Drag Queens in Limousines 25th Anniversary Tour

Carrying the weight of hard-won truths, Mary Gauthier’s music bears a grit and a tenderness that is deeply redemptive. Sometimes referred to as “Lady Prine” for the similarities her storytelling and songwriting approaches have to John Prine, Gauthier writes with the precision of a poet and the empathy of someone who’s lived every word. She isn’t just performing—she’s bearing witness one soul-stirring night at a time. Next week Gauthier is set to begin the North American leg of her 25th Anniversary Drag Queens in Limousines Tour in Seattle, the album that earned her wide acclaim within the Americana world. She will tour throughout America and Canada the entire month of June with a few shows in late July and early August before heading overseas to the UK and Ireland in October to bring the tour to a close.

Get tickets here to see Mary at a venue near you!

Tickets

Derek Webb: SURVIVAL SONGS TOUR

Derek Webb is a veteran singer-songwriter known for his fearless honesty, razor-sharp lyrics, and genre-bending artistry. With a career spanning decades, from his early days with Caedmon’s Call to a bold solo catalog, Webb has never shied away from tackling the hard questions. His latest project, Survival Songs, is no exception. Written and recorded in just one month, the new album is a powerful response to the urgent need for comfort, courage, and empowerment, especially for queer youth facing growing threats in today’s world. As an artist, citizen, and dad of teens, Webb invites listeners to join him on tour and experience these powerful songs live: a soundtrack for survival in dangerous times.

Derek kicked off the tour at the beginning of the month, and will only have a string of shows throughout late June before returning to tour for the majority of the months of August and September.

Get tickets here!

Tickets

Then vs Now: The Journeys of Our Multi-Talented Artists

By Jameson MacNamee

There is something amazing and magical about watching an artist grow in real time. From evolving lyrics, braver choices, or the rise in confidence that sparks from life experiences, these changes are unique and powerful. At Olivia Management, as a Nashville-based folk and Americana artist management company, we help our artists’ voices stay true while encouraging them to embrace their individuality.

Let's take a look at some of the incredible journeys where our artists started, and who they have become. 

Alex Blue

From Youtube Covers to Indie Intimacy

Once known as Alex G, she entered the industry with heartfelt covers back in 2011. Her takes on songs like “Marry You” by Bruno Mars,  “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac, and “Mean” by Taylor Swift only added to her growing platform. Her inspiring and unique covers, still up on YouTube, were just the beginning for her. Soon after, she was touring internationally with full-length pop albums. 

Fast forward to today: Alex has fully stepped into herself. Longing for an identity, she has now found it as a proud mother, wife, and bisexual Hispanic Jew with her music reflecting her authenticity. Her latest release “You Wont Miss Me” showcases her vocal confidence, and the depth of her journey. This is a major change from her early songs like “Noise” now showing her depth as a human and telling her truth in every way possible. 

Derek Webb

From Church Roots to Queer Anthems

If you were raised on Christian rock music, you have probably heard of Caedmon’s Call. Derek Webb was one of the founding members, with hits like “Faith My Eyes”. His early solo work, such as “She Must and Shall Go Free”, leaned heavily into faith and his upbringing with his band. 

But 30+ years into his career, Webb has now turned a corner. His latest album, Survival Songs, is a love letter to the LGBTQ+ community, with songs like “Queer Kid” and “Nail Polish” inspired by real stories from his friends in the community. He wrote and recorded this album in just one month, showcasing vulnerability and authenticity. Now, Derek Webb can be found on tour, sharing his new album with people all around.

Josh Radnor

From a TV Career to Making Music

Yes, this is Josh Radnor, from HappyThankYouMorePlease, Liberal Arts, How I Met Your Mother, Hunters and All Happy Families. But beyond the screen, Radnor is a theater-trained, Ohio native with a passion for writing songs. His artistic roots go all the way back to high school, and later to Kenyon College, NYU Tisch, and Broadway, where he got his first breakthrough role as Benjamin Braddock in the 2002 production of Graduate. 

After personal hardships occurred in 2022, Radnor left L.A. He started diving into his passion for storytelling through a new form of art, music, and he headed to Nashville to make his debut double LP. The second installment from that project, Eulogy, Vol II really narrows down on his life, with each song feeling like a funeral for a different version of himself he is letting go of. Now on tour, he is bringing his authenticity and storytelling to every stage he steps on. 

Mary Gauthier

A Struggling Beginning to a Life of Hope

Mary Gauthier did not release her debut album Dixie Kitchen until she was 35. Before this, she faced many hardships. From being raised in orphanages to addictions, Mary Gauthier had to overcome her struggles and she moved on from her life as a chef. She chronicles her fascinating life journey in her bestselling book, Saved By a Song. This brought her to music, where she poured her life into her lyrics, creating songs that are filled with truth and stories. 

Her most recent album, Dark Enough to See the Stars, proves how her voice only grows stronger with time, and her stories are what help her persevere. She is currently on tour, sharing her story of resilience and her passion for music with people all over. 

Ruthie Collins

From Pop Country to Honest Americana

Raised on a farm in Fredonia, NY, Ruthie always had a passion for music. In 2007, she competed in the reality show “Can You Duet”. Following this, Collins launched her solo career with her self-titled 2014 EP “Ruthie Collins”. With songs like “Get Drunk and Cry” and “Trainwreckin'” Ruthie Collins’ early career showed promise and relatability. 

Today, she has a new glow. Her most recent single “Barefoot No Fences” showcases a mature voice, and a mindset that focuses on her goals and happiness. This song reflects the love and fulfillment she has found as a wife and a new mother. Between opening for Sam Outlaw in the UK and her “Wish You Were Here” tour, Collins is proving that growth and change are beautiful. 

Street Corner Symphony

Competition to Career

This group made its first mark on NBC’s The Sing-Off in 2010. Their inspiring and intriguing a cappella performance followed them to the end of the competition, where they were named runners-up. This competition was only the start, as they continued to share their vocal talents with their fans, adding a strong presence in the a cappella world. 

Today, they continue to bring their wide range of vocals to the stage. From pop, rock, gospel, and almost any genre imaginable, they shine with every song and harmony. Their 2022 release Jukebox really showcases their drive and passion for music. Street Corner Symphony just finished up a tour through rural America, bringing live music to small towns and spreading joy through song.

Aaron Lee Tasjan

From Rock Band to Storyteller

Back in the early 2000s, Aaron Lee Tasjan played guitar for rock band Semi Precious Weapons, while still attending Berklee. As the youngest member of the band, he was still trying to find his story, which led him to his solo career. 

Now, Tasjan is creating one of the most unique sounds in indie music. With a mix of folk and honesty, Tasjan thrives on telling stories of personal experiences, sexuality, and mental health. His latest album Stellar Evolution shows his raw and honest style that blends humor with vulnerability. You can now find him on tour, where he is traveling the country sharing his lyrics and unique style with everyone.