MusicRow Exclusive: 101 Ranch Records Launches, Appoints Doug Howard as President

Doug Howard

101 Ranch Records has announced its official label launch, including the appointment of industry veteran Doug Howard as President. Founded by RayLynn Records creator Bob Simpson, the label’s office will be based in Nashville. The first signing to the label will be accomplished singer, songwriter, actor, producer and filmmaker Mark Collie. Tammy Collie, VP/GM of RayLynn Records, is also a member of the 101 Ranch Records management team.

Doug Howard’s notable music industry career includes the recent self-started ventures including Vandermont Music Group and WHAT MATTERS, a second production company launched in 2012. He previously held highly esteemed positions including Sr. VP of A&R for Walt Disney-owned Lyric Street Records, Sr. VP/GM of Disney Music Publishing Nashville, and VP/GM of PolyGram Music Publishing Nashville.

“It’s an honor to be working with Bob on the launch of 101 Ranch Records and we’re very excited about the road ahead of us,” said Doug Howard, president. “Mark Collie, who is a tremendously talented performer and songwriter, is a great fit as the first artist signing to the label and we look forward to him joining us on this new journey.”

Collie is best known for songs including “Even The Man In The Moon Is Crying” and “Born To Love You.” Collie will reverse his role and go behind the lens as filmmaker for an upcoming project that combines his love of film and music. Details on that project will be announced shortly. “I’m thrilled to have a new home with 101 Ranch Records and to be working with a terrific team with Doug, Bob and Tammy,” says Mark Collie. “There are some new and exciting projects coming up on the horizon that I look forward to debuting with the label.”

101 Ranch Records marks the second record label venture from Texas businessman Bob R. Simpson after the 2011 launch of the gospel label RayLynn Records.