Mike Sistad and Evyn Mustoe Johnston have left the Nashville office of ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers), ending a combined 39 years with the performing rights organization.
The departures leave vacancies in two membership leadership roles. Sistad most recently served as Vice President of Nashville Membership, while Johnston was Assistant Vice President; the reasons for their exits have not been disclosed.
Sistad’s 25 years at ASCAP
Sistad joined ASCAP in 2001 and became Vice President in 2019. Over his 25-year tenure, he helped expand its Nashville presence and worked with established country artists and songwriters.
Those relationships included Ashley Gorley, Chris Stapleton, Kelsea Ballerini, Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, Carly Pearce, Brothers Osborne and Old Dominion. He also supported emerging talent, including Nate Smith, Hailey Whitters and George Birge.
Before ASCAP, Sistad worked in artists and repertoire (A&R) at Arista Records Nashville for nine years and performed in Phil Vassar’s band.
Sistad said:
“I am proud of our Nashville team and my 25+ years with ASCAP. My heart is, and always will be, with the songwriters and musicians that give this town its voice. Thank you to Connie Bradley for bringing me to ASCAP and all my friends in our Nashville Music community. I look forward to my next chapter and will see you soon.”
Johnston’s songwriter and festival work
Johnston joined ASCAP in 2012, spending 14 years working with established and emerging songwriters across multiple genres. She also helped organize songwriter camps, showcases and networking events for members.
Her responsibilities included managing partnerships with:
- 30A Songwriters Festival
- AmericanaFest
- Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival
Johnston said:
“I have deep respect, love, and am extremely grateful for every experience and memory that came with my nearly 15 years at ASCAP. Nashville is home, music is a huge part of who I am, and I’m excited to see how I can continue to be an advocate for songwriters, publishers, and all creators in this town I love so much.”
ASCAP has not publicly named replacements or provided details about the circumstances of either departure.
