Mo Pitney, Kimberly Williams, and John Meyer
Kimberly Williams, one of the most celebrated and sought-after publicists in the bluegrass space, recently realized something about her life, and that of her company, East Public Relations. As so often happens in business, we can find our original career plans change as new opportunities present themselves, and just this has altered the scope and vision of her work over recent years.
A big part of the changes she has encountered come from Kimberly’s full-service approach to her clients, the reason that she only works with a limited few. If they need help with something beyond basic publicity, she’s always been there to help where she can, even if that requires developing new skills, or dusting off old ones.
So, after more than two decades of building East Public Relations, Kimberly Williams is diversifying her career in the music industry with the official launch of Williams Artist Management, a company that will encompass her longstanding publicity work while expanding into artist management and booking.
“I founded East Public Relations nearly 22 years ago and have been so blessed by the incredible artists who have entrusted me with such an important part of their careers. Over the years, my role as a publicist has evolved in monumental ways, and it’s been an exciting industry to be a part of.
East Public Relations will continue to exist, but under the umbrella of this new company.”
Prior to her career in the bluegrass music industry, Williams spent nearly a decade in Nashville with Gaylord Entertainment and the Grand Ole Opry Group. Now she finds herself coming full circle, booking country traditionalist Mo Pitney, alongside his bluegrass component, Pitney Meyer, with banjo player, singer, and songwriter John Meyer.
Because Williams was already booking Pitney Meyer, adding Mo Pitney to her roster was a seamless extension of their professional relationship. With John Meyer also preparing to release a new solo album, Williams has added him to her booking roster as well.
Kimberly says that she has especially enjoyed working with country singer/songwriter Mo Pitney, along with his wife Emily, another very gifted vocalist, who bluegrass fans will remember from time with her family band, The Bankesters.
“Pitney Meyer is one of the most engaging bands I’ve seen in a very long time, and audiences are absolutely loving them! Their album was inspiring, and they are just incredible people. They are also an official IBMA Showcase Artist this year!”
The company launch coincides with the news that Williams is now managing Michael Cleveland’s very busy career, a natural evolution after handling his publicity for more than 17 years. Williams also remains the longtime publicist for Russell Moore, supporting him as he balances his role with Alison Krauss & Union Station, while continuing to front his own award-winning group, Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out.
While Williams Artist Management represents a new chapter in Williams’ career, she is quick to emphasize that the journey would not have been possible without the encouragement and support of her husband, Blake Williams.
“He has been right by my side every step of the way, offering guidance, ideas, counsel, and a good laugh when things get to be too much.”
A former Blue Grass Boy and noted banjo picker, humorist, and MC, Blake has been instrumental in assisting his wife with her business, especially as it now includes booking and artist management.
“He has seen every scenario one can imagine,” Williams said. “His insight has been invaluable, and an incredibly large part of our success thus far.”
Williams says she is grateful not only for Blake’s support, but also that her clients recognize the value he brings to the team.
“We truly are a package deal.”
With Williams Artist Management, Williams is building on more than 30 years of experience while creating a company that reflects the many ways she has served artists throughout her career.
“I’m so grateful to have spent these years working alongside so many talented artists and industry professionals, and I’m excited to see where this next chapter takes all of us.”
Best of luck to Kimberly and Blake and their clients in all future endeavors!
You can find out more about Williams Artist Management online, and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
