(back row, L-R): Kevin Herring (VP National Promotion, WMN), Terry Wakefield (Sr. VP Creative, Sony ATV Music Publishing), and Clay Bradley (Asst. VP, Writer/Publisher Relations, BMI Nashville); (front row, L-R): John Esposito (President & CEO, WMN), Cole Swindell, co-writer Shane Minor, and producer Jody Stevens.
WMN Artist Cole Swindell’s “Chillin’ It” is one of those rare debut songs that reaches No. 1 for a new artist. As this accomplishment doesn’t happen very often, many industry well-wishers showed up to Swindell’s No. 1 party on Tuesday (May 27) to show their support.
As a crowd gathered on the rooftop of the BMI Nashville building, several familiar faces were seen in attendance. The Warren Brothers, Florida Georgia Line’s Brian Kelley and Luke Bryan joined the party and Bryan even took the microphone to offer congratulations. Swindell’s first job in the industry was selling Bryan’s merchandise at his shows just to get his break in Nashville. That led to a publishing deal, and then to several of his songs being cut and some taken to No. 1, including Florida Georgia Line’s “This Is How We Roll.”
“Chillin’ It” was Swindell’s first chart-topper as an artist. Swindell told the crowd of industry members, “I always wondered what I’d say if I ever got up here. It’s all about showing up and doing the work. And always surrounding myself with talented people.”
Swindell’s co-writer Shane Minor was honored during the party, and commended as being one who always takes pride in helping new songwriters. Minor is a 15 year BMI writer and has had his songs reach No. 1 seven times.
Producer Jody Stevens was also recognized for his efforts in taking a rough cut of the song and making it sound like a hit song. This marks Stevens’ first No. 1 as a producer.
Warner Bros. Nashville President John Esposito spoke of Swindell’s “depth as a songwriter” and said confidently that he will be around for many years. Esposito also credited his promo staff for their work.
Ron Cox of Avenue Bank announced a donation to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital on behalf of the songwriters. The party also saw Swindell’s manager Kerri Edwards, BMI’s Terry Wakefield, and Country Aircheck’s Lon Helton share stories and present plaques to the “Chillin’ It” team
“Chillin’ It” first went to No. 1 on MusicRow’s CountryBreakout Chart on Jan. 9, 2014, marking MusicRow’s first No. 1 of the year.
About the Author
Troy Stephenson is The CountryBreakout Chart Director at MusicRow. He comes to Nashville with 10+ years in Radio Promotions.View Author Profile
