BIZ BIDS FAREWELL TO SONGWRITER ANDREW DORFF

The music community is mourning the loss of Andrew Dorff, the songwriter behind hits by Kenny Chesney, Blake Shelton and more, who died Monday at age 40. Industry execs and artists alike have expressed their sorrow at the passing of the veteran tunesmith.

Among the artists who recorded Dorff's songs were: Gary Allan, Dierks Bentley, Tim McGraw, Jake Owen, Cole Swindell, and The Cadillac Three. Most recently he co-wrote four #1 country singles by Chesney (“Save It For A Rainy Day”), two by Shelton (“My Eyes” and "Neon Light”), and one by Hunter Hayes ("Somebody’s Heartbreak”).

Dorff was signed as a writer to UMPG; pubco CEO Jody Gerson offered the following tribute: "I've known Andrew’s dad, songwriter Steve Dorff, for many years. It was Steve who introduced me to Andrew in his early 20s. We lost him too soon. My heart sincerely goes out to his family and all the people who loved him.”

Added UMPG Nashville EVP/GM Kent Earls: "Andrew Dorff was family to all of us at UMPG Nashville. We’re completely heartbroken and saddened. His words will forever live in song and his light will forever shine on. Our thoughts and prayers are with Steve and the rest of the Dorff family."

BMI VP, Writer Publisher Relations, Nashville, Jody Williams, also commented:

"The BMI Family is incredibly shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of songwriter Andrew Dorff. The Nashville music business community will miss his kind and generous spirit, his unparalleled talent, and his gift of friendship. BMI was so fortunate to be a part of his career from the very beginning. Whether swinging by our office for a quick meeting or receiving an award at our annual dinner, Andrew’s presence was always a welcome one in the room. He will be sorely missed by our entire staff."