management and publishing
Todd Wilkes
Entertainment
Todd Wilkes is a seasoned music industry professional with a remarkable journey that began at a very young age. He gained invaluable experience working for successful recording artist Eddie Rabbit, where he delved into the world of Music Publishing. Todd’s passion for music led him to take the helm at Mary Tyler Moore Music before making significant contributions as the Vice President of the Creative department at BMG Music.
At BMG Music, Todd played a pivotal role in the company’s success, helping it earn the prestigious title of BMI Publisher of the Year. Following this accomplishment, he continued his career trajectory by serving as Vice President of publishing for the legendary Rick Hall of Fame Music. Todd has had the privilege of representing, signing, and working with esteemed writers and producers such as John Hiatt (Have A Little Faith), Angelo Petraglia (Kings of Leon), Hugh Prestwood (The Song Remembers When), DeAnna Bryant (Stupid Boy), and James LeBlanc (Relentless), among others.
Throughout his illustrious career, Todd has worked with and developed talented writers/artists like Josh Thompson, Crystal Shawanda, Gary Nichols, and Stephanie Bentley, who wrote the iconic song “Breathe” by Faith Hill. His managerial expertise has guided Grammy Award winners, ACM Awards, Emmy Awards and Juno Award recipients to success, showcasing his keen eye for talent and dedication to nurturing artists’ and writers’ careers.
Todd’s expertise in working with songwriters has led to chart-topping hits recorded by renowned artists such as George Strait, Blake Shelton, Kenny Chesney, Trisha Yearwood, Jason Aldean, Gretchen Wilson, Merle Haggard, Montgomery Gentry, Alison Krauss, Sara Evans, and many more. “You must let the song reveal itself to you the way the writer created it, I like for the song to tell me who the writer is.” Placements of over 300 songs and 100 million album sales to date. His passion for discovering and supporting unsigned artists and writers inspired him to establish Todd Wilkes Entertainment, a platform dedicated to helping emerging talents secure deals with publishers and record labels.
In addition to his contributions to the music industry, Todd is deeply passionate about motivational speaking. He shares his experiences of getting songs recorded and inspires unpublished songwriters and artists to persevere in their creative endeavors. Todd Wilkes is a visionary in the music industry, driven by his unwavering commitment to empowering aspiring talents and encouraging them to chase their gift with determination and resilience.
ARTISTS WHO HAVE RECORDED SONGS
50+
Artists
300+
Songs placed
100m
Album sales
MANAGEMENT
Awards and Achievements
Song of the Year
‘Hard Rock Bottom of Your Heart’ performed by Randy Travis
Emmy Award
‘The Song Remembers When’ performed by Trisha Yearwood
Grammy-Nominated
‘Politically Uncorrect’ performed by Gretchen Wilson & Merle Haggard
NSAI Song of the Year
‘It’s All the Same to Me’ performed by Billy Ray Cyrus
ACM Song of the Year
‘I Love The Way You Love Me’ performed by John Michael Montgomery
CMA-Nominated Video of the Year
‘Modern Day Bonnie and Clyde’ performed by Travis Tritt, featuring Billy Bob Thornton
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I send my music to a publisher or A&R rep at a record label?
Yes, but it will most likely come back to you or end up in that special file called the trash. These people are busy; they mostly listen to songs that come from a trusted resource such as a high-level manager, a publisher, or a music attorney.
How many songs will a publisher ask me to write?
If you’re fortunate enough to receive a publishing deal in the contract, you will legally have to write at least 12-15 approved songs at 100% a year. A co-written song equals 50%; a three-way song equals 33 1/3%.
Do I have to live in Nashville or LA to be successful as a songwriter?
Most publishers would say yes. I believe a bit differently since I have worked with several writers such as Hugh Prestwood who lived in New York, and we were successful without him living in Nashville. If you’re not going to live in Nashville or LA, you need someone representing you that believes in you 100%, have constant communication with each other, and schedule trips several times a year to co-write.
Do I need a publisher?
Every writer at the beginning of their career needs a publisher for at least five years to learn and understand where a publisher is coming from and how they listen to songs and learn their point of view. After that, if you stay consistent and work hard, then you can do it on your own. But it won’t be easy.
Unlock Your Music Potential
Sign up for motivational speaking events and learn from Todd’s journey to the top.