If you’re a songwriter hoping to get your songs recorded by major artists, Nashville music publishers are one of the most important doors into the industry. Publishers help songwriters place songs with artists, secure publishing deals, and earn royalties from successful recordings.
While many companies prefer submissions through referrals, some publishers do review outside material, especially from independent songwriters with strong songs and professional demos.
Below is a list of 25 Nashville music publishers worth researching in 2026. Always check each company’s website for their most current submission policies before sending music.
1. Sony Music Publishing Nashville
One of the largest publishing companies in the world, representing major songwriters across country, pop, and rock.
Artists recorded songs from writers here including Luke Combs, Miranda Lambert, and many others.
2. Universal Music Publishing Group (Nashville)
A major global publishing company with a strong Nashville division representing top country writers and producers.
3. Warner Chappell Music Nashville
Warner Chappell works with some of the biggest songwriters in the music industry and regularly signs emerging talent.
4. Big Loud Publishing
Known for developing modern country hits and working closely with artists and songwriters.
5. Tape Room Music
Founded by hit songwriter Ashley Gorley, this company focuses on developing high-level commercial country songs.
6. SMACKSongs
An influential Nashville publishing company with a strong track record of major radio hits.
7. River House Artists Publishing
A company that blends publishing, artist development, and management.
8. Sea Gayle Music
An independent Nashville publisher known for nurturing songwriter careers.
9. Cornman Music
Founded by hit songwriter Brett James, this company works with many top Nashville writers.
10. Anthem Entertainment Nashville
Anthem has become a significant presence in Nashville publishing and songwriter development.
11. Curb Word Music Publishing
Part of Curb Records, this publishing division works closely with the label’s artists and songwriters.
12. Creative Nation
A Nashville-based company focused on both publishing and artist management.
13. Big Yellow Dog Music
A respected independent publisher that has helped launch several successful songwriter careers.
14. Combustion Music
Combustion works across country, pop, and rock and represents both artists and songwriters.
15. Parallel Music
Founded by songwriter Tim Hunze, Parallel focuses on developing emerging writers.
16. Liz Rose Music
Founded by hit songwriter Liz Rose, known for mentoring and developing songwriters.
17. Words & Music
An independent publisher that focuses on songwriter development and artist partnerships.
18. Endurance Music Group
A modern publishing company built around writer development and creative collaboration.
19. Spirit Music Nashville
A global publishing company with a Nashville presence and strong catalog.
20. Downtown Music Publishing
An international publishing company representing thousands of songs and artists.
21. BMG Nashville
A major music publishing company working with both established and developing writers.
22. Prescription Songs
Founded by Dr. Luke, this company has expanded its reach into Nashville songwriting.
23. Round Hill Music
A publishing company that manages catalogs and develops new songwriting talent.
24. Red Creative Group
A Nashville creative agency that also works in publishing and artist development.
25. Black River Publishing
Connected to Black River Entertainment, supporting artists and songwriters in country music.
Tips for Pitching Songs to Nashville Publishers
Before sending music to publishers, keep these important tips in mind:
1. Send your best songs only
Publishers hear hundreds of songs every week. Make sure your material is polished and competitive.
2. Use professional demos
Even simple demos should sound clean and well-produced.
3. Follow submission guidelines
Many publishers have specific policies about how songs can be submitted.
4. Send streaming links
Use SoundCloud, YouTube, or Dropbox instead of large email attachments.
5. Keep your email short
A short introduction and one or two song links is usually enough.
Read my step by step guide on How to Pitch Songs to Nashville Publishers
Final Thoughts
Breaking into the Nashville songwriting community can take time, persistence, and great songs. Many successful writers spent years pitching songs before landing their first major cut.
The key is to keep writing, keep improving, and keep building relationships in the music industry.
With the right song, the right timing, and the right connection, a single pitch can open the door to a songwriting career.
Songwriters:
Are there any Nashville publishers you’ve pitched songs to? Share your experience and advice with other writers in the comments. 🎸
