UMG Nashville has tapped Jake Gear as VP of A&R. Gear arrives at the company with more than 10 years of experience as a publisher, producer and writer manager.

"Jake brings an unparalleled passion for nurturing artists, writers, and producers within the vibrant Nashville community,” said UMGN EVP of A&R Chelsea Blythe. "With his keen ear to the ground and unwavering dedication, I’m excited for the creativity he brings to the department, and I know he’ll be a huge asset to our roster.”

The Iowa-born Gear graduated from Nashville’s Belmont University and kicked off his career in the Music & Licensing department at CMT.

He then went on to hold publishing posts at Magic Mustang Music, Sea Gayle Music and BMG before launching Hang Your Hat Music in 2020 with Concord Music and Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Hillary Lindsey.

He also managed Lindsey and produced albums for Flatland Cavalry, Ben Chapman, Harper O’Neill and Hailey Whitters.

Gear has notched hit records with artists like Kelsea Ballerini, Dierks Bentley, Priscilla Block, Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Jordan Davis, Tyler Hubbard, Sam Hunt, Parker McCollum, Jake Owen, Jon Pardi, Jelly Roll, Blake Shelton, Cole Swindell, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Morgan Wallen and Little Big Town, among others.

Photo credit: Jason Myers