MUMBAI: Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) Nashville has renewed its exclusive worldwide deal with songwriter/ producer Luke Laird. The deal, which encompasses Laird’s entire catalogue and future works, was announced by UMPG Nashville EVP/ general manager- Kent Earls.

Speaking on the renewed deal Earls said, “From his first No. 1 co-written single in 2007 through his 19th No. 1 last week, we have been honoured to work with Luke Laird every step of the way.  His tireless passion, endless creativity and genre leading songwriting excites the UMPG staff every day.  We look forward to what he delivers next!”

Laird, who has had a successful and longstanding relationship with the company, said, “I’ve been part of the Universal Music Publishing family for over 10 years and I'm excited to continue the partnership with Kent and the entire team.”

The Grammy winner has more than 800 credits to his name and has penned chart toppers for a number of artists including Eric Church, Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, Lady Antebellum, Brad Paisley, Little Big Town, Hunter Hayes, Tim McGraw and others. Laird’s tracks have contributed to over 20 million in album sales. He has also co-written 19 of Billboard’s Nashville Country Airplay chart toppers.

He also has a number of prestigious awards to his name. In 2012, Laird won BMI’s Country Songwriter of the Year award and his track ‘Take A Back Road’ earned him the Frances W. Preston Award for Song of the Year. Last year he won his very first Grammy for co-producing country singer- Kacey Musgrave’s 2013 release ‘Same Trailer Different Park’.

Earlier this year Laird also won his fourth CMA triple Play Award for getting three number one singles within a 12-month period. He has also worked with other artists like Ne-Yo, John Legend, Rascal Flats and Charlotte Church among others.