Blue Highway Records

Blue Highway Records is an American country music label formed in February 2026 when HYBE America rebranded Big Machine Label Group following founder Scott Borchetta's departure. Jake Basden, former President of Sandbox Management, was appointed as Blue Highway Records' Chief Executive Officer. The label retains the former BMLG roster including Thomas Rhett, Brett Young, Midland, Justin Moore, Carly Pearce, Preston Cooper, Jackson Dean, and Mae Estes. It also handles distribution for Riley Green, Shaylen, The Band Perry, and Greylan James under Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment. Blue Highway operates as HYBE America's Nashville-based country, Americana, and roots rock division.

The formation of Blue Highway Records marks a significant transition in Nashville's country music scene. When Borchetta departed HYBE America in early 2026, HYBE retained the BMLG roster and rebranded the label group. Basden, who previously served as senior vice president of communications for Big Machine Label Group (where he worked with Taylor Swift, Sheryl Crow, Tim McGraw, and Steven Tyler), returned to lead the new label. The name "Blue Highway" reflects the label's Nashville roots and country music heritage.

How Blue Highway Operates

Blue Highway Records runs dedicated A&R for country and Americana under CEO Jake Basden. It operates as HYBE America's Nashville division, leveraging HYBE's global synergy and Universal Music Group distribution. The label retains the former BMLG roster and continues to sign and develop country and Americana artists. Basden has emphasized the dynamic state of country and American roots music, and the power of HYBE's global platform for expanding country music's reach.

Why It Matters for Independent Artists

If you make country or Americana music, Blue Highway Records is a new label with an established roster and HYBE's global backing. Its retention of major country stars (Thomas Rhett, Carly Pearce) gives it immediate credibility. The HYBE connection provides access to a global K-pop and international music infrastructure that could expand country music's international reach.

Drawbacks and Things to Consider

• New label: Blue Highway was formed in February 2026. Its long-term strategy and signing approach are still developing.
• Country focus: Blue Highway signs country, Americana, and roots rock. Artists in other genres should look elsewhere.
• No unsolicited demos: Blue Highway does not accept cold submissions.
• HYBE ownership: As a HYBE America subsidiary, Blue Highway's strategy is influenced by HYBE's global corporate structure.

Related Resources

• Record Label Contracts Explained - What a Blue Highway deal contains
• How to Get a Record Deal in 2026 - Building a country music profile
• Tour Revenue Calculator - Touring income for country artists
• Big Machine Records - Borchetta's relaunched label
• HYBE - Blue Highway's parent company