FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Nashville, TN (June 06, 2007) -- Melanie Smith-Howard, President and CEO of Harlan Howard Songs, Inc. announced today the signing of Brandon Rhyder to a songwriting contract with her venerable publishing house. “The first time I heard Brandon’s music, I knew he was special. His songs showcase a distinctive songwriting voice, yet he’s really honest and relatable. I was instantly drawn to him,” says Melanie Smith-Howard. 

Harlan Howard Songs, Inc. is among the most respected publishing houses in the industry yet the addition of songwriters to her small roster is rare. “We never wanted to be the largest publishing company on the block, says Howard. “We did, however, want to be among the most respected. Brandon fits in perfectly.”

Brandon Rhyder, a native of Carthage, Texas (pop.6,664) and recent Austin resident, turned down five music scholarships because he dreaded living out his life as a marching band director. It wasn’t until after he graduated college with a degree in industrial technology in 1997 that he casually picked up the guitar and began writing songs. He found that melody and storytelling came easily. The breaks, however, did not. He toured steadily (averaging well over 200 dates per year) and continued to hone his craft while putting out two independent records on his own Dogwood Hill Records (“Because She Loves Me” in 2001 and “Behind the Pine Curtain” in 2003). His audience and fan base grew progressively but industry notice still eluded him. As he readied for a third album release, he made himself a private deal. “This is it,” he told himself. “This is the last straw. If this record doesn’t move me any further toward my goal then I’ll pack it all in and get a real job.”

Fate stepped in. Rhyder’s third disc, “Conviction,” earned him notice from a Nashville concert promoter who booked him on a popular live show in Nashville. His appearance resulted in immediate attention from some major publishing companies on Music Row. “We had several publishers call us the next day after that show,” explains Rhyder. “It felt a little like going from the minor league to the majors.”

Although Rhyder had his choice of opportunities, he signed with Harlan Howard Songs, Inc. In the end, it was the specialized “boutique” climate of Smith-Howard’s company that cinched the deal. “I never felt like I’d be swallowed up at Harlan Howard Songs, Inc.,” explains Rhyder. “It always felt like home around Melanie. I think of her as a friend, but a friend that I know is going to get me cuts. I know we’re in this together and I have the ultimate faith in her.” 

Rhyder’s next disc, a live album, will be released August 21, 2007. He’s currently working with famed singer/songwriter/producer Radney Foster on sides for his forthcoming live album and sides to shop for a major label.   Rhyder continues to tour the US with plans in the works for a European tour in 2008.

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About Harlan Howard Songs
Harlan Howard Songs is among the most notable publishing companies in the music industry. Established in 1988 by Harlan Howard and his then fiancée, Melanie Smith, the company represents the extensive catalog of legendary Hall of Fame songwriter Harlan Howard as well as back catalogs of Jimmy Melton, Rory Lee, Jackson Leap, Willie Mack, Bobbie Cryner and Lisa Scott. The company currently represents Texas native Brandon Rhyder, Mark Stephen Jones, Warner Brothers recording artist Lori McKenna and Lost Highway recording artist Mary Gauthier. 

For More Information:

BrandonRhyder.com
www.myspace.com/brandonrhyder  
HarlanHoward.com
www.myspace.com/harlanhoward 

Alisa T. Moore
Harlan Howard Songs
(615) 321-9098
alisa@harlanhoward.com