Universal Music Publishing Nashville has signed Music Row songwriter John Pierce to an exclusive, worldwide publishing agreement.

Pierce has had songs recorded by Chris Young, Jon Pardi, Lainey Wilson, Reba McEntire and Trace Adkins. He also co-wrote #1 hit “Sweet Annie” for Zac Brown Band.

“John is on such an upward trajectory with his writing, and we are thrilled to be representing him at UMPG. His lyric and melody instincts are on point for today’s country market,” said UMPG SVP of A&R Terry Wakefield.

“I am beyond excited to begin this next chapter with Terry Wakefield, Troy Tomlinson and the entire staff at Universal,” remarked Pierce. “I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together.”

Pictured (l-r): attorney David Crow, UMPG Nashville Sr. Creative Director Missy Roberts, VP Creative Cyndi Forman, Wakefield, Pierce, Chairman/CEO Tomlinson, VP A&R/Special Projects Ron Stuve and Sr. Creative Director Travis Gordon.