Mathews Named VP, Back Blocks Music

• Nashville-based Back Blocks Music welcomes Kirby Mathews as VP of Publishing. In her new role, Mathews will oversee the publishing arm for Back Blocks, with a roster that includes Ashley Cooke, Blake Pendergrass, Ethan Burdick and Tucker Wetmore.

Mathews brings with her a decade of Nashville experience, most recently as Sr. Director of Publishing & A&R at Riser House Entertainment. She previously served as Creative Coordinator at Play It Again Music and founding publisher/Creative Director at WinSongs Music Publishing with GRAMMY®-winning songwriter/producer Chris DeStefano.

“Kirby is a songwriter’s advocate in every sense of the word,” said Back Blocks Founder & CEO Rakiyah Marshall. “Her creative instincts, leadership and commitment to service make her an incredible addition to our team, and we’re proud to welcome her as VP of Publishing.”

“I’m thrilled to be joining Back Blocks at such an exciting moment of growth,” Mathews said. “The team has built a catalog and culture that truly puts songwriters first, which is so important to me, as I’ve dedicated my career to elevating songwriters and protecting their craft. At the end of the day, there is nothing more powerful than a song.”