What do Percy Priest Lake, Skull’s Rainbow Room, and a Texas dance hall have in common? Mitch Ballard.In this episode, Neil and Nikki welcome Mitch Ballard, Executive Director of BMI Texas, for a rich conversation about the evolving music scenes in Nashville and Texas, the magic of spotting “the X-factor” in young artists, and the incredible stories behind the careers he’s helped shape—from Jelly Roll to Parker McCollum, Tom Myers, and beyond.From the Opry stage to the Texas Red Dirt movement, Mitch shares how 27 years in Nashville uniquely prepared him to lead BMI’s creative efforts in Austin—bridging tradition with innovation. Hear personal stories, industry insights, and the deep roots that connect everything from Willie Nelson’s 66-year BMI legacy to the Czech-German origins of Texas dance halls.Also featuring:Legends like BJ Thomas, Jeannie Seely, and Skull SchulmanA nod to BMI legends like Clay Bradley, Samantha Cox, and Mason HunterInsights into BMI’s modern role tracking performances across TikTok, Peloton, and streaming platformsWhether you're a music lover, industry insider, or just here for the stories—you’ll walk away with a whole new appreciation for the business and the soul of country music. We mention just a few people this episode... including Jay Jackson, Jelly Roll, Taylor Swift, Pink, Laney Wilson, Eric Church, Parker McCollum, Koe Wetzel, Braxton Keith, Ty Myers, Hudson Westbrook, Tom Myers, Jeannie Seely, BJ Thomas, Gary P. Nunn, Bobby Harden, Loretta Lynn, Mark Chesnutt, George Strait, Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks, Hershel Wiginton, Michael Turco, James Gandolfini, Lady Gaga, Robert Earl Keen, Post Malone, Zach Top, Pat Green, Randy Rogers, Wade Bowen, Corey Morrow, Kevin Fowler, Cody Canada, Cross Canadian Ragweed, Jason Boland, Stoney LaRue, Saint Vincent, Khalid, ZZ Top, Black Pumas, BW Stevenson, Jerry Jeff Walker, Michael Martin Murphey, and Lyle Lovett. Industry leaders mentioned include Clay Bradley, Jerry Bradley, Owen Bradley, Harold Bradley, Mason Hunter, Samantha Cox, Tracy Verlande, Barbara Cane, Catherine (BMI Atlanta), Roger Sovine, and Frances Preston. Also featured is a reference to Texas Governor Greg Abbott.

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