Dr. Cheryl S. Carr, associate dean and associate professor at Belmont University’s Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business, recently received a research grant from the University to study the role of women on Music Row. Carr’s initiative to launch the study stems from a vision for the Curb College as an academic institution that not only educates and prepares the next generation of entertainment industry participants, but one that also supports the music and film industries through practical research that can identify new directions and trends to serve the industry.
As an examination of women on the Row, the study will analyze the role of women in business (non-artist) roles, from early decision-makers to newer entrants navigating and contributing to Nashville’s increasing genre and demographic diversity. The study’s aims are distinct from efforts to examine gender equity or working conditions within the industry. Rather, the study will focus on discovery of lesser-known narratives of women and their impact on the past, present and future of Music Row, particularly as the Row itself experiences a period of transition.
Carr said, “I hope the study will tell a story we may not have heard and provide insights on the power of outsider influence on an industry. I’m inspired by my belief that innovation is often found where we least expect it, fostered by those who may seem least equipped to create it, yet are uniquely positioned to shape it.”
Prior to beginning her academic career, Carr worked as an entertainment and intellectual property attorney in Maryland where she was selected as a Maryland Bar Foundation Fellow. She is also a Leadership Music alumna, a vocalist and author. She is co-author of Music Copyright Law, among other publications, and is currently at work on a book about entertainment industry careers to be released in late 2018. Molly Shehan, Belmont University alumna and Attorney at Milom, Horsnell, Crow and Kelley serves as a research consultant. Mamie Davis, a current Curb College student, is research assistant.
Dr. Carr invites narratives from women working within the music industry whose lives have impacted (or are impacting) Music Row. She can be reached at cheryl.slaycarr@belmont.edu.
