Resources
Country Music Association (CMA)
Premier trade association for the country music industry based in Nashville.
Americana Music Association
https://www.americanamusic.org/
Non‑profit trade org supporting Americana/roots artists and professionals.
Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI)
https://www.nashvillesongwriters.com/
Large songwriting community with workshops, networking, and pitch events.
Nashville Musicians Association (AFM Local 257)
https://www.nashvillemusicians.org/
Union representing Nashville musicians, session players, and teachers.
MusicRow
Leading Nashville music industry publication and resource for 35+ years.
Make Music Nashville
https://makemusicnashville.org/
Annual city‑wide free music festival and nonprofit supporting musicians.
W.O. Smith Music School
Music education nonprofit in Nashville established in 1984.
Music Neighbors
https://www.musicneighbors.org/
Nonprofit providing studio sessions and media support to independent artists.
YEAH! (Youth Empowerment through Arts & Humanities)
Nonprofit supporting youth through music and arts since early 2000s.
SESAC Music Group
Major US rights and royalty organization with a Nashville presence.
Universal Music Group Nashville
https://www.universal-music.com/label/universal-music-group-nashville/
Major label division in Nashville — key for industry professionals.
Academy of Country Music (ACM)
Industry organization supporting the country music genre.
Nashville Chamber of Commerce – Music & Entertainment Division
https://www.nashvillechamber.com/economic-development/target-industries/music-and-entertainment/
Local association listing music employers & industry connections.
Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC)
Nonprofit for mechanical licensing headquartered in Nashville.
Black Opry
Advocacy group & label for Black artists in country music.
The Grand Ole Opry
Iconic country music institution and performance venue.
BMI Nashville
Performing rights organization with Nashville office.
ASCAP
Major US music rights organization relevant to Nashville songwriters.
Nashville Public Library – Studio NPL
https://library.nashville.org/
Free recording and music resources through Nashville Public Library.
Blackbird Academy
https://theblackbirdacademy.com/
Audio engineering school affiliated with Blackbird Studios in Nashville.
Dark Horse Institute
https://darkhorseinstitute.com/
Audio engineering school affiliated with Dark Horse Recording
Musicians Corner
Free concert series in Nashville supporting local artists.
Nashville Songwriters Foundation
https://www.nashvillesongwritersfoundation.com/
Foundation supporting songwriters through grants and events.
Record Industry Association of America (RIAA) Nashville Office
Major national recording industry association with Nashville office.