Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) has signed an exclusive global publishing deal with country music songwriter Derrick Southerland.
“Universal has such an incredible team and I feel lucky to be a part of it. The artists and writers at UMPG are inspiring and humbling to be around, and the pluggers are the kind of champions every writer is searching for on Music Row,” said Southerland. “I’m so thankful that Kent and Missy made me a part of such a talented roster, and I’m looking forward to sharing success together!”
Kent Earls, UMPG Nashville Executive Vice President and General Manager, said, “An exciting addition to our UMPG Nashville roster, Derrick is a wonderfully gifted songwriter with a talent for collaborating with writers across genres to create hits. Between his work ethic and lyrical sensibilities, we are honored that he has joined us and look forward to his future success.”
Within six months of his first publishing deal, Southerland had a major label cut for “Breaking” (The Swon Brothers) and his song “Be My Girl” was featured on ABC’s Nashville. Southerland also wrote “Mexico,” which was recorded by Carrie Underwood. He also had single success in Canada, Australia and the U.K. with “Young, Alive and in Love” (Tim Hicks) and “Be My Girl” (John & Jacob).
The deal was led by UMPG Nashville’s Missy Roberts.
Category: Featured
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Jessica Nicholson serves as the Managing Editor for MusicRow magazine. Her previous music journalism experience includes work with Country Weekly magazine and Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) magazine. She holds a BBA degree in Music Business and Marketing from Belmont University. She welcomes your feedback at jnicholson@musicrow.com.View Author Profile
