Interscope Taps Robert Knotts, Jake Gear to Lead Revived Lost Highway Records

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Renowned American record company Lost Highway Records is making a comeback, Interscope Records confirmed on Tuesday. The CEO, John Janick, has appointed Nashville industry veterans Robert Knotts and Jake Gear to lead the revamped label. In their roles as executive vice presidents, Knotts and Gear will jointly oversee the new entity.

25 years ago, Lost Highway Records was established by ex-CEO of UMG Nashville, Luke Lewis. Over the years, it has collaborated with artists such as Willie Nelson, Ryan Adams, Lucinda Williams, Elvis Costello, and Kacey Musgraves. One of its most recognized works is the soundtrack for “O Brother Where Art Thou”, which achieved an impressive 8-time platinum status and is one of only four movie soundtracks to win the Grammy for ‘Album of the Year’. Unfortunately, after Lewis’ resignation in 2012, Lost Highway was merged into Mercury Nashville.

Janick declared that ‘Lost Highway left an indelible mark on Nashville’s outstanding musical heritage.’ It was a label that stood out with unique artists at its heart, who were exceptional songwriters and catalysts for cultural change. Just like Interscope, which has consistently been a guiding light for artists who don’t conform to traditional norms but are poised to influence the future, this new phase in Lost Highway’s journey is all about supporting the upcoming wave of pioneers – both artists and industry leaders.

The newly established record label, Lost Highway, will be headquartered in Nashville, while it will fall under the broader umbrella of West Coast-based Interscope Records. This move is part of the current trend of coastal labels establishing a presence in Nashville. Previously, Cindy Mabe, former CEO of UMG Nashville, announced the revival of Lost Highway along with T Bone Burnett in January. Since then, the label has released Ringo Starr’s country album “Looking Up.” (Mabe left UMG Nashville in February, to be replaced by Mike Harris.) Burnett will collaborate with the label on various projects, one of which is a 25th Anniversary edition of the soundtrack for “O Brother Where Art Thou.

Originally hailing from the independent Nashville-based label 30 Tigers, Knotts is now joining Lost Highway. This label has previously worked with artists such as Jason Isbell, Sturgill Simpson, Turnpike Troubadours, and many more. In his latest role, Knotts served as a senior executive in charge of artist and label services at this company. Meanwhile, Gear is transitioning from UMG Nashville’s sister company, where he held the position of Vice President of A&R. There, he was responsible for signing Tucker Wetmore and contributing to the music production for Parker McCollum, Jordan Davis, and Dierks Bentley, among others.

Throughout my professional journey, my aim has consistently been to work in harmony with an artist’s creative vision while appreciating the deep emotions attached to their art. This was exemplified by Lost Highway’s influence on the Nashville community – offering a platform for artists who transcend genre boundaries and acknowledging that it’s the artist’s unique perspective that ultimately molds our culture. I feel privileged to continue this philosophy, joining forces with one of my dearest friends, Jake Gear.

In his words, “Lost Highway boasts a profound past. Numerous of these albums and artists have significantly shaped my understanding and admiration for songwriting,” Gear stated. “This label was groundbreaking, embodying an aesthetic that prioritized artistry, encouraged creative daring, and highlighted musicians who resided on the edges of the mainstream as defined by major labels. Alongside my friend, Robert, and under John Janick’s support from Interscope, I am excited about selecting the artists for this label.

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2025-04-15 17:24