Mike Sistad and Evyn Mustoe Johnston exit ASCAP Nashville after a combined 39 years at the PRO (report)

Mike Sistad and Evyn Mustoe Johnston have left ASCAP’s Nashville office, in departures described as unexpected by MusicRow. Their exits mark a change in the team responsible for relationships with songwriters, publishers and performers in a major country music centre; ASCAP has been contacted to confirm the report.

Sistad joined ASCAP in 2001 and most recently served as Vice President of Nashville Membership, a role he took on in 2019. Johnston joined the Nashville team in 2012 and was most recently an Assistant Vice President. Their combined service was 39 years. Sistad worked with artists and songwriters including Chris Stapleton, Kelsea Ballerini and Ashley Gorley, while Johnston oversaw festival partnerships and member events. ASCAP’s creative membership is now led by EVP Nicole George-Middleton, promoted to the role in April 2025.