WILLIAM HSIEH NAMED MANAGING DIRECTOR
UNIVERSAL MUSIC TAIWAN
Universal Music Greater China (UMGC), a division of Universal Music Group (UMG), recently announced the appointment of seasoned industry executive William Hsieh as Managing Director of Universal Music Taiwan, and Senior Vice President of UMGC, effective immediately. William Hsieh will be based in Taipei and will report directly to Timothy Xu, Chairman & CEO of Universal Music Greater China.
Boasting a diverse career spanning across music, sports, and gaming sectors, William joins UMG from Fiture, China’s leading interactive fitness tech firm, where he served as Vice President, Content. Prior to that, he was Group Vice President for Space Cycle, a boutique wellness studio chain that uniquely integrates music, community, and technology, where he acted as General Manager of Digital & Corporate Development. Additionally, he undertook a pivotal role as the Head of Regional Operations & Strategy at Electronic Arts Asia.
William’s journey in the music industry dates to 1993, when he took an internship with Sony Music Taiwan during his college years. Over the decades, he has taken on managerial roles at renowned institutions like EMI Music and Sony Music Greater China. His vast expertise encompasses areas from international and domestic repertoire marketing, artist management, and strategic business development.
In making the announcement, Timothy Xu, Chairman & CEO, Universal Music Greater China, said, “We are enthused to welcome William Hsieh to the management team of Universal Music Greater China. I have confidence that, given William’s multifaceted industry experience and his profound grasp of the content business, he is perfectly positioned to spearhead our business expansion, innovation, and growth for the Taiwan market. Taiwan’s pop music culture holds an indispensable value in the wider Chinese music scene, and I look forward to working with William to further amplify Chinese music across the Greater China region and onto the global stage.”
William Hsieh said, “I’m thrilled to be returning home to Taiwan, especially with the privilege of leading Universal Music Taiwan – a music company with an unparalleled legacy. My sincere gratitude goes out to Timothy for placing such trust in me. I look forward to collaborating with our exceptional team at Universal Music to cultivate talent, bridge cultures, and forge innovative partnerships across this vibrant landscape. Collectively, we will harness the vast potential our region presents.”
Born in Taiwan and brought up in Southern California, William’s passion for music was evident from a young age, having been trained as a classical violinist. He holds a BA in comparative religious philosophy and economics from Columbia University, as well as an MBA from the Stern School of Business at New York University.
BMG’S RISE RECORDS SIGNS RECORDING DEAL WITH
MULTI-PLATINUM CANADIAN ROCKERS SUM 41
Multi-Platinum selling Canadian rock band Sum 41 has signed a new recording deal with Rise Records to release their forthcoming double album and final album release ever titled Heaven: x: Hell. Ahead of the release, the band have unveiled the first single “Landmines” with accompanying video.
Sean Heydorn, Sr. Vice President, Rise Records & Frontline Catalog, said, “We’re ecstatic Sum 41 chose to partner with Rise/BMG on what will be the last chapter in such a storied career. The music is killer, the vision is clear… the band is going out with a bang and we’re happy to be a part of it.”
Looking back at the band’s storied 27-year career, SUM 41 have firmly cemented their place in rock history with over 15 million records sold worldwide, multiple Billboard charting releases, a Grammy Award nomination, two Juno Awards, a Kerrang! Award in 2002, multiple, Alternative Press Music Awards, and countless other accolades.
Sum 41 frontman Deryck Whibley said about the album’s first single, “When I wrote ‘Landmines’ I had no intention of writing an old school ‘pop punk’ song. It just came out really quickly and I knew right away that this song felt special to me.”
BRANDON SILVERSTEIN PUBLISHING & AVEX USA
SIGN GENT! TO PUBLISHING DEAL
Music producer GENT! has entered into a worldwide co-publishing agreement with Brandon Silverstein Publishing and Avex USA. GENT! is recognized for his collaborations with artists like Lil Yachty, Drake, 21 Savage, and Doja Cat, contributing to hit tracks such as “Privileged Rappers” and “Agora Hills.” This partnership will see GENT! join a joint publishing venture between Brandon Silverstein Publishing and Avex USA.
The joint venture already includes a roster of hitmakers like Jasper Harris, HARV, Cxdy, David Arkwright, Declan Hoy, and KOSA, who have collectively achieved over 12 billion streams across their catalog and secured three No.1 hits on Top 40 U.S. radio. Brandon Silverstein, CEO, Brandon Silverstein Publishing said, “GENT! is one of the most exciting producers in music today with a sound all his own. I’m excited to be a part of his story alongside Dylan, Naoki and the incredible team at Avex USA.”
Naoki Osada, CEO, Avex USA, echoed Silverstein’s sentiment, welcoming GENT! and his team to the Avex USA and Brandon and S10 family.
Brandon Silverstein, is known for his work with S10 Entertainment and his contributions to the success of artists, songwriters, and producers, has achieved nine global No.1 streaming hits, RIAA-certified albums and singles, sold-out tours, and multimillion-dollar brand deals. Avex USA, the American arm of Avex Group, is a leading music and entertainment company that bridges technology, music, finance, and global market markets.
POSITION MUSIC SIGNS JOE KEARNS
TO WORLDWIDE PUBLISHING DEAL
Joe Kearns has just inked a significant worldwide publishing deal with Position Music, based on an announcement by the company’s President & CEO Tyler Bacon.
Based in West London, Kearns has already amassed an extensive track record for his work on multi-Platinum records. He was an executive producer on Ellie Goulding’s album, Brightest Blue, where he also earned co-writing credits for several of the album’s tracks. This record has since achieved RIAA-Gold certification in the U.S. and marked Goulding’s third No.1 album in the UK upon its debut.
Kearns’s talent and expertise extend to collaborations with various artists, including Lukas Graham, Henry Moodie, Zara Larsson, IVE, Seeb, and MONSTA X, among others. With his signing, Kearns becomes part of Position Music’s burgeoning roster, which already includes artists, songwriters, and producers such as Judah & the Lion, Kyle Dion, Ryan Oakes, Kid Bloom, Jack LaFrantz, TeaMarrr, and others.
Position Music’s A&R executive Sam Sklar, who has known Kearns for over five years, praised him as someone with the unique ability to craft Top 40-worthy songs while remaining faithful to the artist’s vision.
Kearns is currently under the management of George Baker from the UK-based North Pole Management who joins A&R Worldwide’s esteemed private executive dinner in London tomorrow. North Pole’s clients include TMS, Phil Cook, LACONIC, Sakima, and more.
MUSEXPO “UNITED NATIONS OF MUSIC”
UNVEILS ITS CONFERENCE AGENDA
FOR ITS 2024 GLOBAL EDITION IN BURBANK, CA
In a harmonious convergence of music industry titans, MUSEXPO, the foremost music business conference, has unveiled its 2024 event schedule, which will take place from March 17 – 20, in Burbank, CA – “The Media Capital of the World.”
Renowned for its unwavering commitment to shaping the future of the music business, MUSEXPO has curated a rich agenda that delves into pivotal facets of the industry. The schedule of events has been unveiled HERE, with dozens of high-profile executives, and companies already confirmed for next year’s exciting event.
MUSEXPO 2024 promises a dynamic exploration of the ever-evolving landscape of A&R, where the artistry and business of music converge seamlessly. With a spotlight on cutting-edge AI technologies, attendees can expect to gain valuable insights into how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the creative process and reshaping the industry’s future.
Music publishing, artist management, and streaming will take center stage, fostering dialogue on strategies for maximizing revenue in a digital age. In the ever-expanding realm of technology, MUSEXPO will provide a comprehensive view of the latest innovations shaping the music landscape.
Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East will be in sharp focus, reflecting the global nature of the music market. Attendees will delve into the opportunities and challenges of these diverse markets, exploring new avenues for growth and collaboration.
The sync focus segment will illuminate the pivotal role of music in film, TV, promos, on-demand services, movie trailers, advertising, and interactive gaming, emphasizing its profound impact on visual media. With much more scope of the overall arching U.S. and international music business highlighted at the event with evolving movements and trends.
A highlight of the event will be the prestigious awards ceremonies, including the “International Music Person of the Year” accolade, honoring Jacqueline Saturn, President, Virgin Music, and Professor Jonathan Shalit OBE, Chairman & Founder, InterTalent Rights Group, who will receive the esteemed “Lifetime Achievement Award.”
Adding to the excitement, MUSEXPO will debut the annual Seymour Stein – Global A&R Award, celebrated during a gala dinner event curated by A&R Worldwide. This recognition underscores the conference’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent and fostering global creative and business opportunities. The honoree of this esteemed award will be announced this month.
With its signature networking receptions and awards ceremonies, MUSEXPO remains the premier destination for U.S. and international industry professionals seeking to forge meaningful connections and explore the frontiers of the music business.
In 2024, MUSEXPO reaffirms its position as the catalyst for inspiration, innovation, and collaboration in the global music industry. MUSEXPO will also present burgeoning and emerging talent from across the world with its highly anticipated artist showcases, which have led to many signings and launches of artists from around the world including Katy Perry, The Temper Trap, Frank Turner, Teddybears, LMFAO, Gavin James, Sheppard, Forest Blakk, Robyn, Lime Cordiale and many others.
For registration and more information on sponsorship, speakers, artist showcases, and early registration savings, click HERE.
Each week, A&R Worldwide shares a snapshot of creatives and executives that we have collaborated or worked with in various music markets around the world, albeit in recent or previous times!
A&R has always been the centerpiece of the work we do across artist and executive relationships across the music business. Pictured (L-R) at the “Global A&R” panel a few years ago at MUSEXPO are Martin Dodd (A&R legend and manager of worldwide music hitmaker Max Martin), Peter Edge (CEO, RCA Records), Jody Gerson (Chairman & CEO, Universal Music Publishing Group), Martin Kierszenbaum (musician, manager, publisher and Founder, Cherrytree Music Company), legendary A&R man, executive, producer, and composer Ron Fair, Craig Kallman (Chairman & CEO, Atlantic Records Group) and Sat Bisla (President & Founder, A&R Worldwide / MUSEXPO).
JACK HARRIS
Rising Thai artist Fyeqoodgurl, known for her unique blend of R&B and pop, recently dropped her fourth solo single, “Lowkeyy” via D.U.M.B. Recordings/Warner Music Thailand. The song’s relatable and infectious track is about unclear relationships according to Fye. This release follows her successful performance on Korea’s popular competition show Queendom Puzzle’s third season, where she made a strong impression. Fye performed “Lowkeyy” live for the first time at the Asia Song Festival 2023 in Seoul last month. Her music videos are known for their simple yet visually stunning aesthetic. Initially gaining attention in Asia and Korea through her covers, Fye’s journey led her to the show’s invitation. “Lowkeyy” represents a significant artistic step for Fye, marking a break from constraints and a clearer musical vision in English. For inquiries and opportunities related to Fyeqoodgurl, contact Karl Kongkham at Karl.Kongkham@warnermusic.com and watch the video for “Lowkeyy” HERE.
“PASSPORT APPROVED” PLAYLIST FOR Sunday, October 1st, 2023: The weekly import show. Heard on more than 50 radio stations on six continents weekly including: Flux FM Berlin, Germany; NINETYSIX Radio (Indonesia); JioSaavn (India); Radio Doble Nueve, Lima, Peru; WZRH–FM New Orleans, LA; KWSS “93.9FM”; Phoenix, AZ; KRML “102.1FM”; Carmel, CA; KFRR “New Rock 104.1FM”; Fresno, CA; Radio 1, Mumbai, India; WCNR Charlottesville, VA; KIWR “The River”; Council Bluffs, IA; 2XM Ireland (national radio); 96.2 ZFM The Netherlands; WAPS–FM “The Summit.FM”; Akron–Canton, OH; WKTL–FM Youngstown, OH; 105.5FM XFM Nairobi, Kenya; PUK–FM Johannesburg, South Africa; Rock 96.5FM Zambia; 897 FM Bratislava, Slovakia; WITH “90.1FM”; Ithaca, NY; UCFM 87.8FM Australian Capital Territory, Australia; WRUR 88.5FM Rochester, NY; WCRU–FM Hamilton, NY; KZND Anchorage, AK; KQCJ Quad Cities, IL; Allgauhit–FM Bavaria Germany; Indie Xfm Los Angeles and on The Independent FM (iHeartRadio) in the United States, as well as many others internationally.
Listen to this two hour show by clicking HERE:
GIANT ROOKS – “Somebody Like You” (UMG, Germany)
NOTHING BUT THIEVES – “Tomorrow Is Closed” (AWAL, UK)
MIDDLE KIDS – “Highlands” (EMI Music, Australia)
MATTHEW MOLE – “See Me Again” (Universal Music, South Africa)
SAHARA BECK – “Thinking Twice” (Unsigned, Australia)
BELLZZZ – “No Shoes Girl (Succession)” (Unsigned, UK)
BANNERS – “C’est La Vie” (Island Records, UK)
TRIBE FRIDAY – “Salt Clouds” (ICEA, Sweden)
ONLY THE POETS – “Crash” (EMI, UK)
KYTES – “Out of Time” (Frisbee Records, Germany)
ALEX SPENCER – “One Way Ticket” (Modern Sky, UK)
PAUL PARTOHAP – “BESTFRiEND” (Warner Music, Indonesia)
THE SLATES – “What Have You Done” (Unsigned, UK)
ASHLEY ESPER – “It’s Called Art” (Unsigned, N. America)
AMSER – “Don’t Let Go” (SO Recordings, UK)
LAUREN WALLER – “Green Eyed Jealousy” (Unsigned, N. America)
RHETT REPKO – “I’ve Been Feeling Down Lately” (Unsigned, N. America)
PICTURE THIS – “Ireland” (RCA Records, Ireland)
BLAIRE DAVIE – “Lovely” (Watercolour Heart, Scotland)
YARD ACT – “The Trench Coat Museum” (Island Records, UK)
LIME CORDIALE – “Imposter Syndrome” (Chugg Music, Australia)
THE SHERLOCKS – “Remember All The Girls” (Unsigned, UK)
TALISCO – “Keep ur head up” (Talisco Music, France)
THE ROYSTON CLUB – “Blisters” (Run On Records, UK)
CASSIA – “Whatstheuse” (Republic of Music, Australia)
THE VALMONTS – “Love Overdose” (Unsigned, Ireland)
COYLE GIRELLI – “Jane Tells A Lie” (Unsigned, UK)
DECLAN MCKENNA – “Sympathy” (Believe, UK)
THE MOVING STILLS – “Westside” (Sureshaker, Australia)
ST. LUNDI – “Fall” (Propeller Recordings, UK)
RUM JUNGLE – “Dash of Speed” (Sureshaker, Australia)
BARBERA MARI – “Torn” (Unsigned, Czech Republic)
IAMJJ – “On My Way” (Unsigned, Denmark)
JAMIE HANNAH – “Surrender To You” (Unsigned, UK)
SONY MUSIC PUBLISHING & CHUMBA MUSIC INK HITMAKER TO GLOBAL DEAL: Sony Music Publishing UK has announced its partnership with Chumba Music to sign renowned songwriter and producer Pablo Bowman Navarro to a global publishing deal. Navarro has achieved critical acclaim across this year thanks to his work on the No.1 hit “Miracle” by Calvin Harris and Ellie Goulding, which spent an impressive eight weeks atop the UK Singles chart and helped the hitmaker achieve ASCAP’s coveted “Songwriter of the Year” honor at its 2023 London Awards. With over 7 billion total streams across his catalog on Spotify alone, his creative talent is showcased in many other hits including “The Motto” by Ava Max and Tiësto, “Leave Before You Love Me” by Marshmello ft. Jonas Brothers, “Numb” by Marshmello and Khalid, “Sacrifice” by Bebe Rexha, as well as “House on Fire” by Mimi Webb, which peaked at No.6 on the UK Singles chart. In addition to his work in the UK, Pablo, who is fluent in Spanish, has spent the past year working on new projects across Latin music with top talent including J Balvin and Tainy, as well as collaborating on projects in the U.S. and globally with Kid Cudi, Pnau, Empire of The Sun, Ava Max, Marshmello, London Grammar, Channel Tres, Emir Taha, Kamal and Nemahsis and more. Chumba Music was founded by Jason Evigan in 2015 and brought in Aaron Sander to be Head of A&R in 2021. It is home to an impressive roster of talent including Gian Stone, Castle, GRACEY, Lionel Crasta, Mark Schick, Chrstina Galligan, Smiley and Bluf. The deal reflects Sony Music Publishing’s ongoing creative partnership with Chumba Music.
WK ENT’T FORMS PARTNERSHIP WITH HITS DONT LIE: Latin music management company WK Entertainment, helmed by CEO Walter Kolm, has forged a strategic partnership with producer Andres Castro’s Hits Don’t Lie. This collaboration has resulted in a co-management deal for Puerto Rican duo Zion & Lennox and Colombian artist Silvestre Dangond. Silvestre Dangond boasts a career spanning over two decades, with achievements including a Latin Grammy, Premio Lo Nuestro, and an ASCAP Award. His hit track “Ya No Me Duele Más” exceeded 150 million views on YouTube, while “Cásate Conmigo,” his collaboration with Nicky Jam, reached the No.1 spot on multiple U.S. radio charts. Dangond’s 14th studio album, Las Locuras Mias, led to extensive touring across various countries and a Latin Grammy win. WK Entertainment CEO Walter Kolm expressed his excitement about the partnership, Walter Kolm is a former President of Universal Music Latin Entertainment, and in 2020, he launched the Latin music label WK Records, which received investment from Sony Music in March 2022.
NEED TO MAKE CONTACT, SEND NEWS AND NEW MUSIC RELEASES?: If you have any A&R, publishing, technology, agent/promoter, international radio, management, new media or film/TV music supervisor news you’d like to share with A&R Worldwide, or need to respond to information published in the weekly newsletter please E–mail it to the attention of Sat Bisla at sat@anrworldwide.com. Also, all demos and new music releases should be sent as STREAMING LINKS ONLY to info@anrworldwide.com.
and Andy Kipnes.
Share this: