OUR TEAM OF WRITERS
Rudy Gunn
Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
Head Writer / Founder of Nashville North Publishing
Writing Influences:
Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Garth Brooks, Jason Aldean, Nate Smith, Joe Diffie, George Strait, James Blunt
Bio:
Rudy Gunn is a Dutch-Canadian country artist and songwriter known for his modern country sound with classic roots. His writing blends heartfelt storytelling with stadium-ready hooks that resonate with fans across Canada and beyond. He has received 7 nominations at this years Josie awards in Nashville. 5 for songwriter achievement as well as "Emergent Artist", and "Expressive Verse Video of the Year."
He had 3 top 5 hits on Canadian radio, including "Queen of the Bar Stool Rodeo", "Slow Down", and "When You're Tipsy"
You can find Rudy Gunn on any streaming platform, who knows...maybe you will like him ;)
Songwriter Achievement Nominations:
Heaven For This Cowboy – Rudy Gunn, David Ronald Sullivan
Better Every Day – Rudy Gunn, Cindy Kay Skinner
Those Weren’t My Boots – Rudy Gunn
If You Ain’t About It – Donna Rose Dutchess, Rudy Gunn
Eight Second High – Donna Rose Dutchess, Rudy Gunn, Cindy Kay Skinner, John Rose
Donna Rose Dutchess
Buffalo, NY, USA
Head Writer at Nashville North Publishing
Writing Influences:
The Beatles, The Stones, Peter, Paul & Mary, John Denver, Bob Dylan, Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Tony Bennett, Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson
Bio:
Stricken with spinal meningitis at 18 months, Donna Dutchess lost 60% of her hearing, yet music has always been central to her life. By age five, she was “composing” symphonies in her head, and at 13 she began playing guitar and writing songs, igniting a lifelong passion for music. Over the next three decades, Donna led several bands, including Buffalo’s first all-female country band, performing throughout Western New York and Pennsylvania while writing all original music and mastering guitar and banjo. Featured in a televised special highlighting her musical accomplishments despite her hearing loss, Donna now focuses on songwriting full-time, perfecting her craft in Nashville for a pure country sound. Drawing on her extensive life experience, her music has gained a new depth and richness, reflecting her philosophy: “I tell it like it is because I’ve been there, done that, and have a lot to say.”
Songwriter Achievement Nominations:
Nominated for Josie Music Awards for three consecutive years, including two songs for Song of the Year in 2025
13 songs released by artists over the past three years, with more exciting releases planned
If You Ain’t About It - Donna Dutchess, Rudy Gunn
Eight Second High - Donna Dutchess, Rudy Gunn, Cindy Kay Skinner, and John Rose
Kevin Nevel
Burlington, NC, USA
Head Writer at Nashville North Publishing
Writing Influences:
Garth Brooks, George Strait, Waylon Jennings, and Toby Keith, alongside rock icons including Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen, The Goo Goo Dolls, Journey, Adele, Amy Lee (of Evanescence), Melissa Etheridge, and Carole King
Bio:
Kevin Nevel is recognized internationally as one of Nashville North Publishing’s most versatile and dynamic writers. His catalog spans country, rock, pop, and R&B, showcasing his ability to craft songs with emotional depth, memorable melodies, and broad commercial appeal. Known for blending traditional country storytelling with contemporary rock and pop sensibilities, Kevin continues to collaborate with passionate artists and songwriters, building a diverse and impactful career in the global music industry.
Songwriter Achievements:
Two-time Akademia Music Award winner: “What You Do to Me” (R&B/Soul) and “I Am a Ukrainian” (Best Pop Music Video, performed by Mary Dovgopoliuk)
“Fine Line” — on hold with Keith Urban for 1 year
“A Better Man” — on hold with Tim McGraw for 6 months
“Truthful Lies” — on hold with Leona Lewis for 1 year
“Falling” — on hold with Josh Groban for 6 months
Wrote “Insane”, debut single for X-Factor UK 2018 finalist Maria Laroco
Wrote “Fallen Angel”, tribute to Patsy Cline
Recognized internationally for versatility across country, rock, pop, and R&B
David Sullivan
Deerfield, NH, USA
Writer at Nashville North Publishing
Writing Influences:
Cody Johnson, Chris LeDoux, Garth Brooks, Ian Tyson, Darius Rucker
Bio:
David Sullivan has been writing professionally for only a few years but already demonstrates a natural gift for storytelling through song. While his roots are firmly planted in country music, his influences span a wide range of genres. His recent Josie Music Award nomination in Nashville for “Heaven for This Cowboy” marks an exciting milestone in his growing career. David has been writing like a maniac and is excited to be part of the Nashville North Publishing team. We are certain there will be many more songs and successes on the horizon.
Songwriter Achievement Nominations:
Heaven For This Cowboy – Rudy Gunn, David Ronald Sullivan
