Industry Updates (5/2/12)

• MusicRow magazine founder David Ross will celebrate the release of his first book Secrets of the List with a reception Tues., May 22, 4:30 p.m. at BMI’s Nashville offices. Ross’ guide to digital marketing has been well received.

• Mark De Lelys has been named Director of Merchandising and Retail Development at the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum. Reporting to Vice President of Sales and Marketing Sharon Burns, De Lelys will oversee retail operations, including the upcoming Museum Store expansion and new retail space for Hatch Show Print; and merchandise design and development. De Lelys most recently served as director of retail and visitor services for the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. During his 18-year tenure there, De Lelys’ accomplishments included developing the concept for the academy’s new 1,800-square-foot retail store, and initiating the academy’s web store.

• Beginning June 11, The Time Jumpers will relocate from The Station Inn, where it has performed nearly every Monday night since June 9, 1999, to the recently renovated and enlarged 3rd & Lindsley. The band is making the change primarily to accommodate fans who are routinely turned away for lack of seating. “We are looking forward to making 3rd & Lindsley our new home,” says bandleader Kenny Sears. “The larger venue will enable us to accommodate our fans in a more comfortable way. We are so grateful to [owner] J.T. Gray and the Station Inn for taking a chance on us 13 years ago and giving us a place to play our music. Leaving here is truly like leaving home.” The Time Jumpers is made up of prominent musicians Sears, Joe Spivey, Vince Gill, “Ranger” Doug Green, Andy Reiss, Paul Franklin, Dennis Crouch, Larry Franklin, Dawn Sears, Jeff Taylor and Billy Thomas.

•  Congratulations to artist Josh Kelley and actress wife Katherine Heigl who recently adopted a daughter. She joins 3-year-old big sis Naleigh, who was adopted from South Korea.

• Music Row will soon have a new dining option. Soulshine Pizza is set to open in midtown in the former Hollywood Disco building, reports the Nashville Scene. The Mississippi chain is a favorite in Oxford and Jackson.