ASCAP Executives Exit Nashville Membership Team
Longtime leaders Mike Sistad and Evyn Mustoe Johnston have departed the music rights organization.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Country
Mike Sistad and Evyn Mustoe Johnston have resigned from their respective roles within the Nashville membership team at ASCAP. Their departures mark the end of significant tenures at the performing rights organization.
Why it matters
The exits of two prominent leadership figures represent a major staffing change for the Nashville office. Their departure signals a leadership transition within the group responsible for supporting the city's songwriter community.
Mike Sistad served ASCAP for 25 years, while Evyn Mustoe Johnston contributed 14 years to the team. Sistad held the title of Vice President of Nashville Membership, and Johnston served as an Assistant Vice President.
The players
Mike Sistad
He is a veteran music industry executive who served as the Vice President of Nashville Membership at ASCAP.
Evyn Mustoe Johnston
She is a long-standing industry professional who served as an Assistant Vice President for ASCAP.
ASCAP
The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers is a professional membership organization of songwriters, composers, and music publishers.
The details
Mike Sistad, who joined the Nashville team in 2001 and earned a promotion to Vice President in 2019, leaves behind a quarter-century of institutional knowledge. Evyn Mustoe Johnston, an integral member of the Nashville staff since 2012, concludes her 14-year tenure alongside him.
Timeline
Mike Sistad joined the ASCAP Nashville team in 2001.
Evyn Mustoe Johnston joined the Nashville team in 2012.
Mike Sistad received a promotion to Vice President in 2019.
Both executives exited the organization in October 2026.
Industry Dynamics
These departures mark a significant turnover within the ASCAP Nashville Membership team. Such transitions are common within major music rights organizations as they shift leadership strategies to reflect changes in the songwriting landscape.
Songwriters and members in the Nashville area may experience changes in their primary points of contact during the transition period. Artists should monitor official communications for updates on new staff assignments and membership support procedures.
The takeaway
Staffing changes at major rights organizations can lead to shifts in artist relations and membership support programs. Local industry participants should stay informed by following direct updates from the organization regarding new leadership assignments.
Further reading
For more on the industry, explore the Country section.
