BJ Barham of American Aquarium Signs Publishing Deal

BJ Barham of the North Carolina-based band American Aquarium has signed a worldwide publishing deal with Reservoir and One Riot. The deal includes the entire American Aquarium catalog, along with BJ Barham’s solo efforts.

“BJ Barham is the quintessential country songwriter: someone who writes honest stories about real life experiences, hard-earned lessons, and the resiliency of the heart,” says One Riot General Manager Amy Patton. “It’s a true privilege to work with such an incredible writer and artist who is re-infusing raw storytelling into country music.”

Publishing companies such as Reservoir and One Riot work to license the music of artists for placement in things such as films and television, and make sure the artists are fairly compensated when their songs are used. This is an important stream of revenue for songwriters such as BJ Barham especially during the pandemic, while also opening up opportunities for exposure for performers who may not enjoy mainstream radio play. The soundtrack of the TV series Yellowstone is a good example.

“I’m really excited to join such an amazing roster of talented songwriters,” says Barham, who joins artists such as Courtney Marie Andrews, Cedric Burside, and The Secret Sisters. “The One Riot/Reservoir team has such a great history of putting artists first and I’m looking forward to see what we can create together.”

Bj Barhamn and American Aquarium released their latest record Lamentations in May. It is their ninth studio album, not counting Barham’s solo efforts. Currently signed to New West Records, Barham is regarded as one of this generation’s top songwriters, with music that regularly straddles the line between country, Southern rock, and earnest Americana.

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