Founded in 2025 by Ricky Smith (Smith Music Group) and Dan Dugan (5 Lively Stones), Whistleblower Management, Inc. is a full-service artist management company dedicated to building sustainable careers for exceptional talent. With decades of combined experience in the music industry, Ricky and Dan launched Whistleblower with a clear mission: to guide artists with honesty, strategic vision, and a relentless focus on long-term success.
Whistleblower offers a comprehensive suite of services including career development, brand partnerships, touring strategy, financial oversight, and creative direction. With deep industry relationships and a hands-on approach, we act as a trusted partner in every facet of an artist’s journey.
Whistleblower is a Texas company with strong ties to Tennessee and the greater Southern music scene. We’re passionate about championing artists who are willing to do the work, stay true to their craft, and connect with audiences in a meaningful way.
Ricky Smith is the co-founder of Whistleblower Management, Inc. Based in Nashville, Ricky brings over two decades of experience guiding artists through every phase of their development, drawing from his leadership at Texas-based Smith Music Group.
Over the years, Ricky has worked with many artists—some including Whiskey Myers, Maren Morris, Parker McCollum, Tanner Usrey, and many more—helping in the early days of their development. His deep understanding of the music business, combined with a hands-on, honest approach, reflects Whistleblower’s mission to provide artists with strategic vision, creative support, and long-term career infrastructure.
With a leadership philosophy rooted in integrity, innovation, and respect for the craft, Ricky continues to champion artists who are willing to do the work and stay true to their voice—empowering them to own their futures in an evolving industry.
Dan Dugan, the co-founder of Whistleblower Management, Inc. is a seasoned creative visionary whose path through art, media, and music laid the foundation for a modern, principled approach to artist advocacy. Dan began his career with Rattle magazine—an independent publication he founded—building a platform that championed raw talent and authentic voices.
Dan transitioned into the music industry when he joined Smith Music Group, bringing his editorial rigor and creative instincts to artist development, branding, and distribution. For nearly a decade, he played a pivotal role in spotting and nurturing emerging talent, seamlessly blending traditional craftsmanship with modern strategy.
Dan brings a unique blend of artistic integrity, media savvy, and operational acuity—rooted in his history of building things from the ground up and honoring the craft along the way.
