A veteran Nashville hitmaker is stepping into a new role. Multi-Platinum songwriter and producer Jon Stone has officially launched BIA Records. A boutique independent label built on artist development, creative freedom, and hands-on support.
What We Know: BIA stands for “Bet It All.” The label prioritizes short-term record commitments, high-volume creative output, and artist ownership of their work. Stone’s credits span Kenny Chesney, Blake Shelton, Lee Brice, and Rascal Flatts. Plus two ACM Award nominations and a SESAC Song of the Year honor. His first flagship signing is rising artist Nakessa. She has signed an exclusive international recording and publishing agreement with the label.
What They Said: “BIA Records came out of a lot of things, honestly — frustration, refinement, historical content, experiences from my own life, including trials and tribulations with record labels,” Stone said.
“As an artist myself, I know what it’s like to have your art not be supported in the way that you believe it should be. That’s what we’re really striving to do: be a boutique label that provides superior artist-focused attention.”
What Remains Unclear: Nakessa’s debut single details have yet to be announced. Furthermore, the label’s broader roster plans remain undisclosed. BIA describes its expansion as ongoing.
What It Means: Stone’s launch reflects a wider shift toward independent, artist-centered label models. His philosophy — “The sun doesn’t stop shining just because you can’t see it” — signals an intentional, long-view approach. For artists tired of traditional label structures, BIA offers a genuinely different path forward.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.
Bethany Kent is a Music Radio Editor for Barrett Media. She spent nearly 20 years bringing radio to life on stages, across the airwaves, and through unforgettable listener experiences. Her career spans local markets including Providence, Philadelphia, and New York City, most recently serving as National Director of Music Initiatives for Audacy. From producing major live events like HOT 97’s Summer Jam to leading strategic national marketing initiatives, she has built a career at the intersection of music, media, and culture. She can be reached at bethany@barrettmedia.com.
