Stepping into the year 2025, let’s take a nostalgic journey back to 2019, when the BMI Songwriters Spotlight Series was the highlight of the Radio Show, supported by HD Radio. This engaging series gave emerging songwriters a platform to express their artistry and connect with the audience. Today, we’ll be revisiting this memorable event, shedding light on the artists who performed and the impact it had on their careers. It’s fascinating to see how these artists, who were just emerging back then, have now become industry leaders with their distinctive sounds and styles.
Background of the BMI Songwriters Spotlight Series
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The BMI Songwriters Spotlight Series returned to the Radio Show in 2019 with support from HD Radio. The performances were free for registered attendees and took place during select sessions and events. The Radio Show was held from September 24-26 in Dallas, Texas, and produced by the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB).
“BMI is proud to once again partner with the Radio Show to give our emerging songwriters a platform to showcase and share the artistry behind the music we all tune into every day,” said BMI Vice President of Industry Relations Dan Spears.
The Featured Performers
The schedule and performers were as follows:
Max Stalling
Max Stalling, a country musician and native Texan, performed on September 24. His , “Home to You,” earned nominations for Best and Best Male Vocal at the Lonestar Music . He was honored with a star on the South Texas Music Walk of Fame in 2008.
Kylie Rae Harris
On September 25, Kylie Rae Harris showcased her unique blend of country and folk. She was named New Female Vocalist of the Year in Texas and starred in the reality documentary series “Troubadour, TX.” “Waited,” the opener from her first EP, was played on The CW’s show “Hart of Dixie.”
Madison Ryann Ward
Madison Ryann Ward, known for combining soul, blues, and pop music, performed during lunch on September 25. Her timeless sound gained the attention of producer Jay-Z and led to an appearance on David Letterman’s “My Next Guest Needs No Introduction.” Ward’s single, “Mirror,” received acclaim from Billboard and Music Connection, among others.
Payton Smith
Payton Smith, influenced by ‘90s sound and classic guitar rock, performed on September 25. The Nashville-based performed at the CMA Music Festival in 2018 and released his first single, “Let Me Help You,” in 2017. Smith was signed by Big Machine Label Group this time.
Chris Colston
Chris Colston, a Texas native, performed on September 26. He combines a classic sound with his hometown roots, also influenced by his love for blues and rock n’ roll. “Gone,” the title track from his 2018 EP, quickly surpassed a half-million streams upon its release.
Additional information about the 2019 Radio Show is here.
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