Kenny Chesney is the first flagship artist signed to HEY NOW Records.
By Website Content Manager
Could we be getting new music from Kenny Chesney soon?
Kenny Chesney has been named the flagship artist for a newly launched record label, HEY NOW Records.
The boutique label, announced Tuesday, was founded by industry veterans Clint Higham, John Esposito, and Kris Lamb. Its mission is to spotlight exceptional talent while creating the best pathways for artists to connect with their fans. Based in Nashville, HEY NOW Records focuses on agility, innovation, and customized marketing strategies that celebrate each artist’s unique story in today’s fast-changing music industry.
Co-founder Clint Higham, President of Morris Higham Management and CMA Manager of the Year, explained the label’s vision: “We’ve always prioritized finding the right people to meet an artist’s needs. That approach has allowed us to create meaningful opportunities and connections. With this label, Espo, Kris, and I saw a chance to provide focused support for a select group of artists. By concentrating on the music, the artist, and next steps, we can accelerate development through targeted execution.”
John Esposito, who served as Chairman and CEO of Warner Music Nashville for 15 years, added, “HEY NOW Records emerged from discussions with Clint, Kenny, and me about how artists today often lack focused attention as rosters grow and teams shrink. When Kris joined our conversations, it was clear he’d be an excellent leader for this venture. I’m excited to support him as co-founder, mentor, and advisor.”
Kris Lamb, Co-Founder and President, brings decades of experience in radio, publishing, and label management, including roles at Lyric Street Records under The Walt Disney Company and Big Machine Label Group. “Building something from the ground up gives us limitless possibilities,” Lamb said. “HEY NOW allows us to turn ideas into reality without being blocked by rigid structures. This is more than a dream—it’s a new way to approach artist development.”
Chesney, the label’s flagship artist, said the name HEY NOW comes from the boat he spent time on in the Caribbean, later inspiring his song Happy On The Hey Now. “When Clint, Espo, and Kris presented the idea of forming our own team, I was intrigued,” Chesney said. “This label is all about taking action and exploring possibilities. It’s exciting to be part of something where ideas can come to life in hours.”