Jackson Wendell Secures Global Publishing Deal with Warner Chappell Nashville and Perfect Game Creative

Texas singer‑songwriter Jackson Wendell has signed a worldwide publishing agreement with Warner Chappell Music Nashville and Perfect Game Creative, announced on 16 July 2026. The contract gives the Nashville‑based publisher and the Los Angeles‑based creative agency full rights to Wendel’s catalog and future compositions.

Wendell, a native of Lufkin, Texas, began playing guitar as a child and joined his church worship team. He wrote his first original track, “Ain’t Coming Home,” at age 14. While attending high school as a homeschool student, he travelled with his family, an experience that influenced his songwriting. After a chance opening slot for Scotty McCreery in his hometown, Wendell chose to pursue music full‑time and enrolled at Stephen F. Austin State University. He left school after two years to focus on touring and writing.

Since then, Wendell has performed with established country acts such as Parker McCollum, Tucker Wetmore, Flatland Cavalry, Randy Rogers, and William Beckmann. He was named to Pandora’s and One Country’s 2026 Artists to Watch lists. His 2025 single “Drunk Words Are Sober Thoughts” has accumulated nearly three million global streams across Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.

The publishing deal was announced by Warner Chappell Music Nashville’s president, Austen Adams, who said, “Jackson is a rare talent who captivates listeners with his sharp songwriting and authentic storytelling. His ability to blend traditional country roots with a fresh, contemporary edge is exactly what makes him stand out, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to Warner Chappell alongside our partners at Perfect Game Creative.”

Perfect Game Creative’s founder, Jessi Vaughn Stevenson, added, “I love the raw emotion, honesty, and vulnerability he brings to his songwriting and artistry. Those authentic qualities have helped him build a rapidly growing fan base that deeply connects with him and his music. I can’t wait to champion his career and build something meaningful together alongside our incredible partners at Warner Chappell.”

Wendell expressed gratitude for the partnership: “Songwriting has always been the foundation of my passion and getting to call it a career is such a blessing. I am beyond grateful to be starting this next chapter with Perfect Game and Warner Chappell. Having a team that not only is passionate but also pushes me creatively means more than I can put into words.”

Warner Chappell Music, a subsidiary of Warner Music Group, manages a catalog of over 1.4 million compositions and represents more than 150,000 composers worldwide. The Nashville division focuses on licensing, royalty collection, and artist development. Perfect Game Creative, founded in 2019, specializes in artist branding, marketing, and creative strategy for musicians and other creators.

The agreement places Wendell’s catalog under the umbrella of a major publisher while retaining the creative support of a boutique agency. This hybrid model reflects a broader trend in the industry, where independent artists seek the global reach of large publishers while maintaining close, personalized guidance from smaller firms.

Industry observers note that the deal could accelerate Wendell’s exposure on streaming platforms and in sync licensing opportunities. Warner Chappell’s extensive network of music supervisors and its experience in placing songs in film, television, and advertising could open new revenue streams for the artist.

Wendell’s trajectory—from a self‑taught guitarist in Lufkin to a touring performer and streaming‑successful songwriter—illustrates the evolving path for country artists in the digital age. His partnership with Warner Chappell and Perfect Game Creative positions him to expand his reach while preserving the authenticity that has defined his work.

The publishing agreement is effective immediately, with both parties indicating plans to collaborate on future releases and licensing projects. No additional financial terms were disclosed.

As the industry continues to adapt to streaming‑centric revenue models, Wendell’s deal underscores the importance of strategic publishing alliances for emerging artists seeking sustainable careers.