Capitol Music Group Expands with New Nashville Division

UMG’s Capitol Music Group has officially announced the launch of a new Nashville division, which includes both Capitol Records Nashville and the Capitol Christian Music Group. Industry veteran Candice Watkins has been appointed to lead this exciting new venture.

Candice Watkins Takes the Helm

Watkins will hold dual roles as president of Capitol Records Nashville and executive vice president of Capitol Christian Music. She joins from the renowned Nashville label Big Loud, where she served as senior vice president of marketing, collaborating with notable artists such as Morgan Wallen, Hardy, and Stephen Wilson Jr.. Prior to her time at Big Loud, Watkins garnered experience at UMG Nashville, Red Light Management, Mozes Inc., Borman Entertainment, and Cross Point Church.

Leadership and Structure

Brad O’Donnell, president of Capitol Christian Music Group, will continue to oversee the label, which encompasses Motown Gospel and Tamla. While Capitol Records Nashville retains the Capitol name, it previously operated under the UMG Nashville umbrella, which has recently rebranded to Music Corporation of America. The current roster of artists at Capitol Records Nashville will remain under MCA as Watkins and her team work to expand the label’s lineup.

Commitment to Growth in Nashville

“This reorganization underscores our dedication to enhancing our Nashville operations as a vital creative hub for Christian, gospel, and country music,” stated Tom March, CEO of Capitol Music Group. “We are eager to sign and nurture the next wave of country artists at Capitol Records Nashville and are thrilled to have an executive of Candice Watkins’ caliber leading our ambitious plans in country music while also contributing her expertise to our gospel and Christian music initiatives.”

Ongoing Changes in UMG’s Country Operations

This announcement is part of a broader transformation within UMG’s country operations, marking another significant development for UMG’s LA-based Interscope Capitol Labels Group. Earlier this year, Mike Harris was appointed CEO of UMG Nashville, succeeding Cindy Mabe, while Dave Cobb joined as chief creative officer. By April, UMG unveiled the MCA rebrand, and Interscope Capitol also announced the revival of the iconic Lost Highway Records, welcoming Kacey Musgraves in April.

Empowering Nashville Executives

“This new structure will empower our Nashville executives to better serve the incredible artists on our roster. Candice is a brilliant music marketing executive with an impressive track record in developing artists’ careers,” said John Janick, chairman of Interscope Capitol. “Having her lead our country music business in Nashville while also bringing her extensive artist development expertise to our CCMG team will be immensely beneficial for our artists and the entire executive team.”

Watkins Expresses Excitement

In her statement, Watkins expressed that it is “a true honor” to step into these new executive roles at Capitol.

Looking Forward to Collaboration

“These labels have a rich legacy of partnering with some of the most talented artists in our industry, and I look forward to contributing to their ongoing success and cultural impact,” Watkins stated. “I am excited to collaborate with John, Tom, Lillia, and Brad in boldly championing creatives and visionaries.”

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Persons

Candice Watkins, Morgan Wallen, Hardy, Stephen Wilson Jr., Brad O’Donnell, Tom March, Mike Harris, Cindy Mabe, Dave Cobb, Kacey Musgraves, John Janick, Lillia

Company Names

Capitol Music Group, Capitol Records Nashville, Capitol Christian Music Group, Big Loud, UMG Nashville, Red Light Management, Mozes Inc., Borman Entertainment, Cross Point Church, Music Corporation of America, Interscope Capitol Labels Group, Lost Highway Records

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