R.I.P.: Mike Borchetta, Influential Music Label Executive

(1941-2025)

Mike Borchetta, a towering figure in the music industry, passed away on June 14, 2025, at the age of 84, surrounded by his family. His decades-long career left an indelible mark on Nashville’s music scene, with a legacy that spans genres, labels, and generations.

Borchetta’s career is notable for its breadth and impact across multiple labels and artists. Curb Records (Late 1980s–Mid 1990s):As Vice President of Promotion at Curb Records, Borchetta played a pivotal role in shaping the label’s success during a dynamic era for country music. His most significant achievement was his involvement in signing Tim McGraw, who would become one of the genre’s biggest stars. McGraw’s debut album in 1993 and subsequent hits like “Don’t Take the Girl” owe much to Borchetta’s promotional expertise and belief in the young artist’s potential.

Lofton Creek Records:As President of Lofton Creek Records, a smaller independent label, Borchetta achieved a remarkable milestone with Heartland’s “I Loved Her First” reaching No. 1 on the country charts in 2006. The song, a heartfelt ballad about a father’s love for his daughter, resonated widely and showcased Borchetta’s ability to identify and promote emotionally compelling music.

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Borchetta’s career included stints at major labels like RCA, Mercury, Capitol, and Philips Records, as well as independent outfits like Broken Bow and Rebel Engine. At these labels, he worked with a diverse array of artists, from country acts like Hal Ketchum to pop and rock legends such as The Four Seasons, The Beach Boys, Glen Campbell, Dusty Springfield, and Wayne Newton.

Borchetta also operated his own promotion company, a venture that allowed him to work directly with artists and labels to boost their visibility. This entrepreneurial endeavor underscored his reputation as a hands-on executive who could bridge the gap between artists and audiences.

Borchetta’s work in promotion was particularly impactful. In an era before streaming platforms, radio airplay was the lifeblood of an artist’s success, and Borchetta’s expertise in this area helped launch and sustain careers. His relationships with radio stations, producers, and artists were critical to his effectiveness, earning him respect as a trusted figure in Nashville.