Big Machine Label Group and Cumulus announced that longtime music industry exec Jim Weatherson will serve as GM of their Nash Icons record label and live events joint venture.
Nash Icons, a strategic partnership between the two companies, was created last month to expand the growing Nash platform by showcasing Nashville’s most iconic talent from the last 25 years. In addition to the partnership with Big Machine, Cumulus will introduce Nash Icons branding on some O&O stations and syndicate Nash Icons content via WestwoodOne.
Weatherson has a 35-year history of working with some of the biggest musical talents and brands. He most recently led the Nashville office of 19 Entertainment, owner of the American Idol franchise, and previously led projects for Taylor Swift in management role at 13 Management.
During his tenure at Walt Disney Records, Weatherson was appointed General Manger in 2006 with worldwide responsibilities that resulted in record-breaking sales highlighted by the Platinum and Multi-Platinum branded releases of Hannah Montana, High School Musical, Cars and Tron. His projects featured music from such artists as Miley Cyrus, Rascal Flatts, Brad Paisley, Taylor Swift, John Mayer, Daft Punk and others.
“Jim Weatherson is the perfect executive to lead the charge for Nash Icons. We have a longstanding relationship of working together on some of the biggest Country artists and album releases in history. To land him and have his 100% focus on Icons will only lead to one thing: success,” said Big Machine Label Group President/CEO Scott Borchetta.
“I have known Scott Borchetta for nearly 25 years and I am honestly thrilled and honored to finally get to work directly with him and his team as well as Cumulus on this groundbreaking concept,” said Weatherson.
“Jim’s experience and the respect he’s earned in the music business will enable Nash Icons to quickly become a leader in recording and live events for the Country stars we hold in such high regard,” said John Dickey, Executive Vice President and co-COO of Cumulus.
