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10 Questions with ... Meredith McCarson
June 22, 2020
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I have always had a desire to help people in the music industry and after 3 summer internships I was able to make some amazing connections that have led me to working in this business. My previous music industry roles have mostly been in the field of sales. I have been a Regional Account Manager for Brentwood Benson Music Publishing and Sales Representative for Word Music Church Resources.
2. Was your goal always to work in the CCM realm? Had you ever considered another career path, prior?
I remember taking a family trip to Nashville when I was 16 and told my dad there was something special about music row. I was so intrigued with the music industry and knew I wanted to work in it someday. With the help and encouragement of many in the business - the Lord then opened doors for me to be a part of this industry and move to Nashville. I love promoting anything I believe in and music is one thing that is very special to me.
My mom got diagnosed with cancer in 2013 so I moved back to Mobile, Alabama to be with family. I was given opportunity to be a real estate agent with an amazing firm in Mobile and loved it, but my heart was with the music industry. Once my mom got into remission- we all knew it was clear that my community and heart was in Nashville. I remember praying the Lord would intervene if he wanted me to be back in Nashville. I texted a few contacts and within a matter of 5 minutes I had a phone call and moved to Nashville 2 weeks later. The Lord has always been faithful and where He leads…I go.
3. Did you grow up on CCM at all? What's the music that has most soundtracked your life?
I remember loving Point of Grace, Amy Grant, dcTalk, Sara Groves and artists in that era. I remember listening to Tauren Wells “Hills and Valleys” and “God’s Not Done With You.” Also Hannah Kerr’s “Even in the Meantime”—these songs were healing for me and my family. Little did I know, I would soon be helping promote Tauren. Very cool to look back and see.
4. Who are some of your heroes — the people that you believe have helped shape and influence you most throughout your life?
My Dad. He has always told me, “The best is yet to be” and to remember Proverbs 3:5-6. He is a rock for my family but also has always believed in me. He was in sales before he became a pastor, so I always say the sales is in my blood. Haha! I would also say one of my mentors in the music industry is Randy Cox. I was his intern for two summers during college and he always told me to “Be yourself.” Simple but so true in any career. I have never forgotten that statement.
5. Who has been most helpful to you as you’ve acclimated to the national promotions side of the industry?
Jeff Cruz and the incredible team at Provident. Honestly, their work ethic and heart is was so clear to me from day one. They are the real deal. I am so blessed to be a part of this amazing label.
6. What made you most thrilled about taking on the new gig at PLG? Conversely, what about it make you most fearful?
Promoting music I love is something I have done all of my life. When I hear a song that hits me – I want to tell the world about it. I love to see how music encourages and brings life and healing to people. This was always the dream job for me. I don’t think I am fearful about anything – I will always want to do my very best and learn about the radio industry.
7. So far, what have you learned are the most effective ways to connect and build relationship/trust with radio programmers during your weekly phone calls?
I was eager to get my list of radio contacts when I started. I am loving chatting with them every week. I consider them new friends. Our friends in radio know their listeners well. We want to deliver the best songs for their particular stations- that is when we all win.
8. What have been some of your most memorable radio promo trip moments so far?
My first radio trip was with Elle Limebear. I remember her hearing her song on the radio for the very first time. I got tears in my eyes watching how she lit up in that moment. That was unforgettable! I think we all should keep moments in our back pockets to keep us afloat in the good and hard times.
9. What are you doing with your time when you’re not at the label office or on the road?
I am blessed to have a pretty big community of friends here in Nashville and have a great church family. I also love to visit my family in Alabama when I can.
10. There’s still a lot of year left—what’s coming up in 2020 that you’re most looking forward to?
I am excited to meet more people in the industry and grow more in my position!
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