Bishop Launches HitShop: Veteran label executive Skip Bishop announced the launch of HitShop Records moments ago at a press conference in Nashville. Distributed by Warner Music Nashville, HitShop is a division of Nashville-based Ramblin' Music Group and opens as a full-service label. Bishop serves as President (615-730-6344 or here), promotion vet Diane Monk-Harrison is VP/Promotion (214-824-4124 or here), Rick Baumgartner is Dir./East Coast (615-730-6344 ext. 109 or here), Kelly Symone is Dir./West (916-868-3331 or here) and Will Hamrick is Dir./Secondary & Coord./Promotion (615-730-6944 ext. 102 or here). Composer Cliff Downs heads A&R, Micah Wilshire is VP/A&R, Tim Gerst is Dir./Digital Marketing and Amara Hall is Sr. Exec. Asst. Artists include country performer Weston Burt and funk duo Gimm+Icky. Bishop was introduced by Ronnie Dunn, who is not on the roster.

"This is one of the most innovative and creative gatherings of musical talent and staff I've ever seen," says Bishop. "The young, brilliant minds and compelling musicians involved are building a new model of discovery from the street up. Everyone at HitShop is deeply committed and involved in studying the new paths music fans walk. We look forward to a productive relationship with Warner Music Nashville."

WMN President John Esposito adds, "Skip is one of the most savvy and creative executives in Nashville. His track record for breaking hit records is what excited us to be in business with him and his team. We’re pleased to be providing this impressive new label with distribution services and to be working closely with this team."