MUMBAI: BMG Chrysalis US and artist development publishing company Big Stage Music LLC, has entered into a joint venture. The first artist to be signed under the venture is country singer/ songwriter Alina Smith. BMG Chrysalis US has signed an exclusive co-publishing agreement with the artist.

The 23 year old released her first single ‘Free Beer’ on 17 February, which was self-produced by her. The Russian born artist has been honoured in the KTLA-TV Battle of the Bands, Great American Song Contest, Temecula Music Festival, Johnny Mercer Foundation and Hollywood Music Awards.

The Nashville-based singer has gained popularity on platforms like YouTube and Myspace through her short clips. The prodigy started singing and playing piano at the age of three, and by four she was singing in English and Russian. She has performed in Europe and America.

BMG Chrysalis Nashville EVP Kos Weaver commented, “The Nashville community has been buzzing about Alina. She offers the rare triple threat of artist power, song-writing chops and production skills. We are fortunate to have her and to be partnered with our good friends Clay and Trey.”

Big Stage Music’s Clay Myers said, “Alina Smith is a true talent that we are honored to be representing and we cherish the opportunity to be working with the great team at BMG in this venture.” Big Stage Music LLC is a newly formed artist development publishing company launched by publishing veteran Myers and artist manager Trey Turner.