Universal Republic and Big Machine Records have teamed for a new Nashville imprint dubbed Republic Nashville. The imprint will be stationed on Music Row and will use the combined resources of Big Machine Universal Republic.
Big Machine and Universal Republic first joined forces in 2007 to propel country Superstar Taylor Swift to Top 40 radio and beyond, with Taylor becoming the best-selling all-genre artist in 2008.
“Scott Borchetta [Big Machine CEO] and his great team at Big Machine and the Valory Music Co. continue to tower over the country music landscape with a tireless commitment to their artists and a visionary approach to discovering new talent that has become the benchmark of Nashville,” said Monte Lipman, president and CEO of Universal Republic. “We’re thrilled to expand our relationship with them, and welcome Jimmy Harnen as he steps into this key role at a crucial juncture in our two companies’ unique history together.”
Former Capitol Records promotion executive Jimmy Harnen has been appointed president of Republic Nashville. Mr. Harnen worked with Borchetta in a previous capacity at DreamWorks Nashville.
“Monte and I have been searching for a way to expand our business relationship and I believe we have found the perfect compliment in the creation of Republic Nashville,” stated Borchetta.
Republic Nashville’s roster will include singer/songwriter Sunny Sweeney and new country duo Fast Ryde, among other artists.
