HYBE AMERICA Renames BMLG as Blue Highway Records

HYBE AMERICA has carried out a major restructuring of music labels in the Nashville area. The existing BMLG (Big Machine Label Group) was rebranded as Blue Highway Records, with industry veteran Basden appointed as the new CEO.

Basden most recently served as president of Sandbox Management and previously held the position of vice president of communications at Big Machine Label Group. His return to HYBE AMERICA is driven by his extensive experience in the music industry and deep understanding of Nashville. Isaac Lee, chairman and CEO of HYBE AMERICA, explained, “We worked hard to find a leader who puts artists first, and Basden not only understands how to build company culture but also maintains strong ties with the Nashville community.”

Lee added, “Basden’s long history of dedication to artists, his experience within the industry, his deep roots in Nashville, and his modern, fresh perspective on making labels successful in the digital age make him the ideal candidate.” He stated, “Through Blue Highway Records and Basden’s leadership, we aim to strengthen our presence in Music City.”

Basden said, “Country, Americana, and roots rock music are in a very dynamic phase, and there is no better place than Blue Highway to shape their future.” He explained, “We’re starting with a diverse roster, each consisting of unique creators who approach music in their own distinct ways.”

The roster for Blue Highway Records includes Thomas Rhett, Brett Young, Midland, Justin Moore, Carly Pearce, Preston Cooper, Jackson Dean, and Mae Estes. Basden described them as “artists ranging from superstars like Thomas Rhett, who still possess untapped potential, to songwriters with raw charisma like Jackson Dean, CMA and ACM Female Vocalist winner Carly Pearce, Western-oriented progressives like Midland, and Justin Moore — all of whom have defined their own paths.”

Under Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment, the distribution of music by Riley Green, Shaylen, The Band Perry, and Greylan James is handled. The Valory Music Co. will be absorbed into Blue Highway Records, while Big Machine Music will remain separate under HYBE AMERICA.