Hey OD,
No Ralph was just an example of the older hit writers. Same thing we do today. It would be, new young artist, experienced hit writer, new young artist, experienced hit writer, etc. Ralph was an executive Vice President for ASCAP. It was a way to show that ASCAP is populated by hit writers, producers, artists, new writers, people with deals, people looking for deals, etc.
We do the same things on all showcases today. Publishing companies will bring out their writing roster to show off new songs and their possible artist candidates. Record labels, publishers, etc, will do showcases for new artists or a group of new artists. Showcases can be VERY EXPENSIVE, with food, drinks, giveaways, press,etc. So grouping several artists on one show will be less expensive. The "Old Dogs" are to showcase where they have been. And they have the names to draw in other people. Lynn Shultz, the guy that signed Garth was there to meet Ralph, so they could for a beer after the show.
Incidentally, Garth was supposed to go on last. Ralph dropping out and his suggestion, moved him up in the order. Had he not gone on second, Lynn would have left. And Garth was a few days from heading back to Oklahoma. So,for an odd twist of fate, Garth was signed due to one guy NOT showing up. He went on to sell more records (over 100 MILLION) in a decade,the 90's than anyone in history.
Funny how things turn out.
MAB