NASHVILLE, TN - Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) Nashville has signed an exclusive global publishing deal with Matt Thomas, songwriter and lead singer of the band Parmalee. The announcement was made today by Kent Earls, Executive Vice President/General Manager, UMPG Nashville.

In making the announcement, Earls commented, “At UMPG we pride ourselves on representing some of the best songwriters and artists in country music, and Matt, along with the rest of the band Parmalee, are a part of that group. Matt is a great singer/songwriter with incredible melody instinct. We look forward to the new music Matt and Parmalee are building in the studio.”

“I'm really excited about signing with UMPG Nashville. I feel like it's the perfect fit for me. Their staff and writers are great. Can't wait to see what we do over the next few years!” added Thomas.

Thomas co-wrote seven songs on Parmalee’s first album Feels Like Carolina (Stoney Creek Records), which was released in 2013 and launched four hit singles, including “Carolina” which became a No.1 Country airplay hit and was certified gold. In addition to the success of “Carolina,” the album also featured the singles “Musta Had a Good Time,” “Already Callin’ You Mine,” and “Close Your Eyes,” which became a Top 5 hit on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart. The band is currently writing and recording the follow-up to Feels Like Carolina.

PHOTO: Pictured L to R – Lesley Kalish, BBR Management; Cyndi Forman, UMPG VP, Creative; Ron Stuve, UMPG VP A&R; Noah McPike, Almon McPike Law, PLLC; Matt Thomas; Kent Earls, EVP/GM, UMPG; Missy Wilson, UMPG Sr. Creative Director; Travis Gordon, UMPG Creative Director