A&R Worldwide Newsletter Vol. 866

BMG ELEVATES KATIE KERKHOVER TO SR. VP A&R
TO LEAD FRONTLINE RECORDINGS ACROSS N. AMERICA

 

BMG has announced the promotion of Katie Kerkhover to Sr. Vice President, A&R, Frontline Recordings, North America. In her newly expanded role, Kerkhover will now lead the A&R teams at BMG’s offices in Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville, New York, and Toronto. Currently based in Nashville, Kerkhover will split her time between Nashville and Los Angeles. She reports directly to Jon Loba, President, Frontline Recordings, The Americas.

Joining BMG in 2020, Kerkhover previously served as Sr. Director, Creative, in music publishing, where she managed BMG’s Nashville roster of songwriters, including Kurt Allison, Tully Kennedy, Stephen Wilson Jr., Emily Landis, and Chayce Beckham, among others, while also signing and developing new songwriters and artists.

Kerkhover was promoted to Vice President, A&R, Frontline Recordings for BMG in Nashville in 2022, where she was responsible for BBR Music Group‘s roster of recording artists across its imprints Broken Bow Records, Stoney Creek Records, and Wheelhouse Records, as well as scouting, signing, and developing new talent for the roster. Since leading A&R for BBR Music Group, she has worked with Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, Jason Aldean, and Chayce Beckham, among others, and is currently working with Blake Shelton‘s team on his forthcoming BMG Nashville debut.

Jon Loba said, “When looking for the perfect candidate to lead A&R in North America and elevate our frontline efforts in multiple offices, we did not have to look far. Katie has quickly become one of the most accomplished and respected A&R executives in the business, with a record to match. Like many of the best A&R executives, her background in publishing has served her well in building deep and trusted relationships within the creative community and helping artists realize their unique visions. Having seen firsthand her work with our Nashville roster, including with creatives on both coasts, I am so excited to see what additional magic she helps create for our BMG Frontline Recorded team.”

 

 

Tyler Bacon, President & CEO, Position Music, has announced a new global publishing partnership with rising producer and artist Tane Runo, in collaboration with Not Fit For Society. This deal marks a milestone for Runo, who has already contributed to high-profile projects. He played a key role in the track “dodger blue” featuring Wallie the Sensei, Siete7x, and Roddy Ricch from Kendrick Lamar‘s latest album GNX, which debuted at No.1 on the Billboard 200. The track has garnered over three million daily streams and peaked at No.7 on the Top 50 U.S. Spotify chart.

Born in Ohio and raised in Atlanta, Runo is a producer whose work has contributed to several Platinum-certified hits. His credits include Nicki Minaj‘s “Yikes,” JID‘s “Kody Blu 31,” and Kacey Musgraves‘ “Lonely Millionaire.” With a record that includes placements on Billboard charting albums, Runo has helped shape the sound of many established global artists, from Ne-Yo and Usher to Travis Scott. His involvement with Travis Scott’s “Grey” from Days Before Rodeo reached the top of the Billboard Top Albums chart.

Runo is also the executive producer for CyHi‘s upcoming album EGOT, which is set to feature collaborations with Kanye West, Pusha T, and Lizzo, further solidifying his status as one of the current most sought-after producers.

“Reflecting on the past 10 years with Tane, I can see how much we’ve grown through hard work and collaboration,” says J. Hill, CEO of Not Fit For Society. “Over the last couple of years, Tyler, Delmar, and I have been building a strong relationship and exploring ways to work together. The Tane deal was the perfect way to kick off the Position Music and Not Fit For Society JV. I am excited for this new partnership and everything ahead.”

Delmar Powell, VP, A&R at Position Music, added, “Our shared vision with J. Hill has been the foundation for crafting bold, impactful music, driving this partnership to new heights. With Tane’s undeniable talent and the dynamic synergy between Position Music and Not Fit For Society, we are poised to push boundaries and redefine what’s possible in the music industry. This is just the start of an exciting new chapter.”

 

Downtown Artist & Label Services has announced the promotion of Jeanette Porcello to Director of A&R. In her role, Porcello will continue to report to Bryan Mooney, the company’s Global Vice President of A&R, while taking on expanded responsibilities to drive growth in Nashville and offer creative guidance across Downtown’s global roster.

Porcello’s promotion comes after a series of successful signings she has spearheaded, including Drew Holcomb, Tiera Kennedy, Mat Kearney, Roar, and The Crane Wives. She has played an essential part in shaping the creative and strategic direction for these artists. Based in Nashville, Porcello previously served as Sr. Manager of A&R, where she helped define the sound and vision for a number of artists, including Abbey Cone, Fancy Hagood, MC4D, and REI AMI. She was also involved in the release of high-profile projects such as Judah & the Lion‘s The Process, Mat Kearney’s self-titled album, and Tiera Kennedy’s debut album Rooted, which garnered significant attention with placements on Spotify‘s Women of Country and Next From Nashville playlists, as well as high-visibility YouTube billboards.

Before joining Downtown Artist & Label Services in 2023, Porcello worked at Atlantic Records, whereas her signing of Sara Kays proved to be a breakout success, with Kays’ work eventually achieving Platinum status.

In addition to her work at Downtown, Porcello is an active participant in the CMA Women’s Leadership Academy and serves on the leadership team of The Other Nashville Society, a collective dedicated to supporting emerging talent in Music City.

Bryan Mooney, said, “Jeanette has been an invaluable member of our team both within Nashville and across our global roster, and we’re excited to see her step into this role with the same creativity and dedication that has earned her the trust of artists and industry colleagues.”

Jeanette Porcello, added, “I am thrilled to continue growing within the company and building the distribution roster for the Downtown Artist and Label Services team. I love championing independent artists, something Downtown takes immense pride in, and I look forward to further expanding our roster’s reach and impact.”

 

As the team from A&R Worldwide writes this short introduction about our visionary and inspiring leader, Sat Bisla, who prefers to typically stay behind the scenes when it comes to talking about the impactful work he does with, and, for so many key artists, creatives, executives, and companies around the world. However, we’ve convinced him to agree to do a select number of interviews as we celebrate the 25th global edition of MUSEXPO, as Sat reaches his official 40 years of contributions to the worldwide music business in 2025.

Sat “sat” down with the influential Music Week (U.K.) to share his thoughts and experiences on A&R. Below is the interview that was published in Music Week a few days ago.

Sat Bisla has given his verdict on the current state of A&R in the U.K. as he looks ahead to the 25th global edition of his music business conference MUSEXPO.

MUSEXPO will hail from the Castaway in Burbank, California from March 16-19, 2025, with confirmed speakers including Mom+Pop Music’s Michael Goldstone, CAA’s Emma Banks, Concord Music Publishing’s Kim Frankiewicz, songwriter Savan Kotecha, and Wasserman Music‘s Tom Windish. Music Week is also signed up as an event partner.

“At the end of the day, for any event to have 25 global editions, you’ve got to have some form of relevance, impact, and consistency,” said Bisla. “With MUSEXPO, it is not just an event, it is an experience. We are in the trenches of the global music industry 24/7, 365 days a year because our day jobs have us working across A&R, media, sync, publishing, management, marketing, technology, and streaming.”

“We have a really good understanding from a grassroots level, but also from a 30,000ft level of what’s happening across the globe at every single key vertical of the music business.”

Wolverhampton, England born and raised A&R Worldwide President and Founder Bisla, who emigrated to the U.S. as a teenager, keeps an eye on proceedings back home and described the U.K. as a “unique market.”

“Having been born in England, I look at what made the country such a powerful exporter and it’s because the A&R community took chances on people they believed in that had real talent,” said Bisla, speaking in the December issue of Music Week. “These days, I think the focus – not just in the U.K. – is very moment-driven, thanks in part to social media and streaming. I guess you could call it ‘fast food’ A&R. It’s like, ‘Let’s find what’s most popular.’ Well, McDonald’s is popular, it does not mean it is good for your health.”

“I’ve always been a big believer in supporting and developing artists and songwriters that have more of an organic, authentic, movement-driven mentality, which might take longer, but you get better results.”

He added: “When you look at the bulk of the major labels’ and major publishers’ revenue these days, it is catalog. Most of these catalog-driven artists took a long time to develop, were authentic, impactful, and have stood the test of time, whereas a lot of the fast-food A&R comes and goes very quickly. It is disposable, and I hate to use that word for music, but I don’t call it music, I call it content because there is a difference between an act and an artist.”

Bisla launched the Seymour Stein Global A&R Award this year as part of the “International Music Industry Awards” gala dinner held at the end of the conference.

The award, introduced in honor of Bisla’s close friend, the late Sire Records Co-Founder Seymour Stein, was first presented to Republic Records President and Chief Creative Officer Wendy Goldstein. Mom+Pop Music’s Michael Goldstone, who signed the likes of Pearl Jam, Rage Against the Machine, Regina Spektor, and Tegan & Sara, will become the second recipient next year.

“We wanted to make sure it was someone that espoused the true essence of A&R but also maintained Seymour’s vision and beliefs,” said Bisla. “Michael also worked with Seymour at Sire Records for six years, so that was another personal attachment.”

“We chose Michael for his consistency, his belief, his passion, but also his ability, on a consistent basis, to take artists from their infancy to global success. Michael’s done an incredible job of developing so many amazing artists that have had a long-lasting cultural impact!”

Bisla shared his concern that the business has “got it backwards” by placing an over-reliance on data in modern A&R.

“It’s the human emotion that creates a reaction that then causes the data to be born,” he continued. “We wanted to ensure that the importance of music at a grassroots level, and A&R at its honest level, are not forgotten.”

“The problem is that over the last 10 years, there has not been a lot of investment in teaching people how to do A&R. They have been data scientists, mining for stats. A re-educational program needs to be implemented on how to put the right ingredients together: the right songwriters, the right producers, mixers, engineers and develop the right, authentic brand for the artists before they go to market.”

The executive celebrates 40 years in the music industry in 2025, having worked as a DJ, manager, A&R, publisher, booker, journalist, and broadcaster, among other roles. In closing, he reflected on how he had been able to build a lasting career over the past four decades.

“I started off very young as an intern at a radio station when I first moved to America in my mid-teens,” he said. “I have always been a music fan, and I think that has been part of the reason why I’m still doing what I’m doing: because I still believe in music. I still get excited about new artists. I consider myself truly fortunate every morning I wake up to be able to do what I do.”

Subscribers to Music Week can read the full interview with Bisla here.

Sat will be doing a rare one-on-one interview at next year’s MUSEXPO on Monday, March 17th, 2025, where he will reveal some key insights, and truths, on things that he’s never ever shared publicly before. It is a conversation about the “truth” and the “real truth” behind the music. Sat will be interviewed by his close friend and respected global music executive Aton Ben-Horin, Executive Vice President, A&R, Warner Music Group.

 

The A&R Worldwide Podcast debuts as a weekly series spotlighting pivotal figures shaping the international music business. Recorded during MUSEXPO in Burbank, CA, the premier conference is renowned for its influence on the global music industry – the podcast delivers in-depth discussions with executives driving creative and strategic innovation. The inaugural episode features a compelling conversation between Mio Vukovic, Sr. Vice President A&R and Head of Creative, Disney Music Group (DMG), and globe-trotting moderator Taylor Jones, Founder & CEO, The Hello Group (THG).

Mio Vukovic, a Los Angeles native with decades of industry expertise, has played a critical role in DMG’s creative and commercial achievements since his appointment in 2012. Overseeing artist and songwriter signings, Vukovic has been integral to chart-topping projects from Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato, and Sabrina Carpenter, while also fostering the global success of Latin artist Tini, who boasts over 13 billion streams and a massive global fanbase. In addition, Vukovic has collaborated with Grammy and Oscar-winning producer D’Mile to launch a new Black music label, signing emerging talents Samara Cyn and India Shawn. His illustrious career includes A&R leadership at major labels such as Warner/Reprise, Epic/550, and Geffen, where he worked with legendary acts like Depeche Mode, Aerosmith, and New Order.

Taylor Jones brings his dynamic expertise as a globally recognized entertainment executive, celebrated for his contributions to the rise of K-Pop and his pivotal role in placing almost 50 Billboard No.1 hits. As CEO of THG, Jones manages a diverse roster of influencers, artists, and producers, while driving strategic marketing, A&R, and branding initiatives across the entertainment spectrum. A Grammy executive member and an influential voice in music and tech, Jones has earned accolades such as “CEO of the Year” at the Global CEO of Excellence Awards and has been instrumental in placing hit songs for Disney stars Miley Cyrus and Selena Gomez, and currently is expanding his creative and business impact across India and South Asia.

Together, Vukovic and Jones share their insights on the evolving dynamics of global A&R, creative leadership, and the future of the music business, making this debut episode a must-listen for industry professionals.

Click HERE to listen to this insightful and dynamic conversation.

 

Giant Rooks, Germany’s chart-topping indie sensation, continues their meteoric rise with the release of their new single, “Mind Control.” Known for their global hits like “Wild Stare” and their cover of Suzanne Vega‘s iconic and renowned single “Tom’s Diner,” the band delivers a track that captures the struggle of feeling overwhelmed and the triumph of regaining control. Blending haunting imagery with an uplifting message, “Mind Control” is both a dancefloor anthem and a reflective companion, urging listeners to seize each day as an opportunity for transformation. With a thriving fanbase across Instagram, TikTok, and Spotify, Giant Rooks solidify their position as a driving force in indie music, fresh off its No.1 sophomore album, How Have You Been? Listen to “Mind Control” HERE, and for more information pertaining to global opportunities with Giant Rooks, contact Alex Ruhl at a.ruhl@arentertainment.de.

 

 

 

SILO MUSIC NAMES MARCY BULKELEY AS HEAD OF SYNC A&R AND MUSIC SUPERVISION: SILO Music has announced the appointment of Marcy Bulkeley as the company’s new Head of Sync A&R and Music Supervision. In this role, Bulkeley will lead SILO’s sync initiatives and music supervision efforts, collaborating closely with the team while also collaborating through her own company, Subtle Mother Music Supervision Services. Bulkeley’s focus will be on curating bespoke music that enhances storytelling, ensuring each project’s emotional impact is amplified through carefully selected soundtracks. With more than 25 years of experience in the music industry, Bulkeley is a seasoned leader in music curation and sync licensing. Through Subtle Mother, her music supervision firm, she has built a reputation for offering inventive and impactful music solutions for a wide range of industries, including entertainment marketing, wellness, and advertising. Before joining SILO, Bulkeley served as Vice President of Sync A&R and Music Curation at Universal Music Group, where she managed a team that provided custom music for an array of platforms. Her collaborations with top-tier producers and remixers helped shape memorable musical moments for film, TV, and advertising campaigns.

 

FLAVOUR SIGNS JOINT DEAL WITH WARNER MUSIC AFRICA AND AFRICORI: Nigerian artist Flavour has inked a partnership with Warner Music Africa and Africori, solidifying a joint deal that will see his upcoming music distributed through both platforms. The deal allows Flavour to tap into Warner Music’s global network, leveraging their A&R and marketing teams to open new doors for his career and expand his reach. Known for blending traditional African rhythms, highlife, and contemporary jazz, Flavour has earned a reputation as one of the foremost stars in African music. With over 1.1 billion views on YouTube and more than five million albums sold globally, he continues to build a massive international following. The agreement with Flavour adds to the growing momentum for both Warner Music Africa and Africori, which recently expanded their joint venture with the launch of Warner Music Africa Francophone, focusing on French-speaking countries across the continent. Flavour, born Chinedu Okoli in Enugu and originally from Anambra State, has long been known as Flavour N’abania, and more recently, as the “Flavour of Africa” and the “Highlife King.” Throughout his 20-year career, he has shared the stage with global stars such as Akon, Ciara, Lauryn Hill, Rick Ross, Snoop Dogg, and French Montana, cementing his place as one of Africa’s most influential musical forces. Temi Adeniji, Managing Director, Warner Music Africa, tells A&R Worldwide, “Signing Flavour is a significant milestone in our plans for growth and development and signifies our commitment to empowering world-class artists. It is artists like Flavour who will continue to shape the future of the African music industry.”

 

CARA DONATTO NAMED EXECUTIVE VP OF MEDIA STRATEGY FOR ATLANTIC MUSIC GROUP: Cara Donatto has been appointed Executive Vice President of Media Strategy at Atlantic Music Group (AMG), a role in which she will spearhead the company’s publicity and communications efforts. Operating from AMG’s Los Angeles office, Donatto will collaborate closely with artists across the AMG roster and its affiliated labels, shaping and executing media strategies to elevate their profiles. This announcement marks Donatto’s return to Atlantic, where she previously held the position of Senior Vice President of Publicity before moving to Interscope Geffen A&M in 2019. At Interscope, she spent five years as Executive VP and Head of Media Strategy & Communications, leading media campaigns for Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga, Dr. Dre, Olivia Rodrigo, and more. Donatto also managed the label’s strategy for major awards shows, including the Grammys and Oscars. Earlier in her career, Donatto assisted in developing the careers of artists like Bruno Mars and Janelle Monáe at Atlantic, working alongside music legends such as Missy Elliott. Before joining Atlantic, Donatto was Director of Media & Artist Relations at Island Def Jam Records. A Texas native and summa cum laude graduate of Fordham University‘s Honors Program, she began her career in publishing, managing publicity for Vibe and Spin magazines. Elliot Grainge, CEO, Atlantic Music Group, said, “Cara is one of the most experienced, impactful, and well-liked people in our business. Over the past two decades, she’s played an essential role in the long-term development of a string of chart-topping artists, while building invaluable relationships at every level of the music and media community. I am pleased to welcome her to our new Atlantic leadership team, and I know her many friends at the label are incredibly happy to have her back.”

 

HEATWAVE ANNOUNCE JOINT VENTURE WITH KOBALT MUSIC: Heatwave, the emerging market music specialists launched this year by former Managing Director of Syco Music, Tyler Brown, and Harold Serero, former Sr. A&R executive at Ultra Music Publishing has announced a joint venture publishing agreement with Kobalt. The new agreement will see the two companies teaming up to discover and nurture new artists, songwriters, and producers from around the world. Headquartered in London, England Heatwave, which describes itself as “a borderless label focused on connecting the dots for music worldwide,” unveiled its recording division in September after partnering with Too Lost, a U.S.-based music and technology company that works with independent music rights holders. Heatwave Records has already celebrated several signings with Nigerian artists Fido and Kvng Vinci, alongside Ivory Coast‘s døpelym, all three of whom have enjoyed international success in recent months. A recent signing is DJ Lalo & Jotta from Ecuador, whose track “Robanda” has become a viral hit across South America and is currently Top 70 on the global Shazam chart. The first fruits of the new publishing joint venture with Kobalt Music include the signing of Dave Nunes, who has worked with Sarz, Asake, Skrillex, Gunna, Ayra Starr, Sevdaliza, Ty Dolla $ign, Mahalia, Fireboy DML, and others. Co-publishing agreements are also in place for “Active” by Travis Scott and Asake which is one of the biggest global Afro records this year, “Go Pato” by Pato Banton, which has become an anthem in South America and has over 300 million streams, and “HAUSAPIANO” feat. Zerrydl, which is currently in the top five in Nigeria. In addition, Tyler Brown has announced an extension of an existing agreement with Kobalt Music for his own company Funfair Publishing. This follows the success of the company’s first signing James Essien who co-wrote ‘Rockstar’ by Lisa which went straight to No. 1 on the Global Billboard Chart and has over 600 million streams across DSPs. James has previously had releases with Tyla, Mahalia, Tom Grennan, Clean Bandit and James Blunt and has upcoming releases with Joji and H.E.R.

 

ALESSI ROSE SIGNS TO WARNER CHAPPELL MUSIC: Warner Chappell Music U.K. has signed singer and songwriter Alessi Rose. Earlier this year, Alessi released her debut six-song EP, rumination as ritual, which quickly received plaudits for her songwriting ability. Alessi Rose was drawn to music and writing from an early age, enrolling in singing lessons and entering poetry competitions as a child. She began sharing videos of her music online during Covid and submitted songs to BBC Introducing, which led to her ending 2022 as one of the most-played artists of the year on the platform, before officially releasing any songs. Her unique approach also saw her utilize social media as she started taking requests and playing covers of songs on TikTok Live every night, building up a fanbase, which then led to her performing her original songs. Having already played sold-out headline shows in London, Alessi has extended her upcoming For Your Validation tour after selling over 13,000 tickets across the U.K. and Europe in minutes. She was also recently picked to open for Noah Kahan in Belfast, playing to more than 40,000 people. Emily Green, Sr. International A&R & Catalog Manager, Warner Chappell Music U.K., tells A&R Worldwide, “We are delighted to be able to collaborate with Alessi, and are so excited for everything we know she can achieve. She has such star power and is an exceptionally talented songwriter. I am really excited for everything that is coming next for her.”

 

LEONY SIGNS WORLDWIDE PUBLISHING DEAL WITH BMG AND WE PUBLISH MUSIC: Leony, the multi-Platinum and Gold-certified singer-songwriter, has signed a global publishing deal with BMG and We Publish Music. With hits like “Faded Love” and “Remedy,” and over one billion streams worldwide, Leony has become one of Germany’s most in-demand singer-songwriters. Her recent collaboration on “Fire,” the official anthem for UEFA Euro 2024 with Meduza and OneRepublic, has further cemented her international presence, reaching a wide audience across Europe and beyond. Since her breakout, Leony has collaborated with Alan Walker, Felix Jaehn, and Steve Aoki. Both “Faded Love,” and “Remedy,” achieved success, topping the German airplay charts, and gaining global traction. With the release of her debut album Somewhere In Between, Leony has cultivated a dedicated fan base, and her first headlining tour was met with sold-out shows and critical acclaim. Marc Johlen, Managing Director GSA, BMG, tells A&R Worldwide, “Leony has achieved remarkable success in a brief time and has established herself as one of the most promising voices in German pop and beyond. Her songwriting, creativity, and dedication are inspiring, and we are delighted to welcome her to BMG.”

 

COOKING VINYL SIGNS BLUE TO WORLDWIDE DEAL: Cooking Vinyl has inked a global services deal with British boy band Blue. Under the agreement, the indie label will release Blue’s seventh studio album in 2025, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the band’s formation. Blue first captured the U.K.’s attention with their debut album All Rise in 2001, which soared to No.1 and has since sold over 1.3 million copies. Their follow-up albums, One Love (2002) and Guilty (2003), both topped the charts and achieved multi-Platinum status. The group is one of only twenty acts to have scored two No.1 albums within a 12-month period in the U.K., a rare feat shared with bands like Cooking Vinyl’s own Shed Seven. Blue will join Olly Murs for a U.K. tour in 2025, which will wrap up at London’s O2 Arena. said Rob Collins, Managing Director, Cooking Vinyl, stated, “After our two No.1 albums this year with Shed Seven, the opportunity to sign Blue, who also had two No.1 albums in 2002, was something to get excited about, and when you look at their history, recent touring, audience size and not to mention some great new songs, they tick all of the right boxes.”

 

VARIOUS ARTISTS MANAGEMENT NAMES REBECCA DIXON AS GLOBAL HEAD OF MARKETING & GM U.K.: Various Artists Management (VAM) has elevated Rebecca Dixon to the position of Global Head of Marketing & General Manager for the United Kingdom. The promotion, effective immediately, sees Dixon move up from her previous role as Head of Marketing and Promotions. She will now split her time between the company’s London and Los Angeles offices, reporting directly to VAM’s co-CEOs, David Bianchi (based in London) and Matt Luxon (based in Los Angeles). In her expanded role, Dixon will continue to oversee all marketing and audience engagement strategies within the U.K. while also deepening her involvement with VAM’s operations in Los Angeles and strengthening connections with European partners. Dixon has played a key role across the full VAM roster, spearheading marketing campaigns, social media efforts, and creative content for a wide range of artists, including Ashnikko, Tom Grennan, The Libertines, La Roux, Supergrass, Spiritualized, and many others.

 

THE ORCHARD SIGNS GLOBAL DISTRIBUTION DEAL WITH CROATIA RECORDS: The Orchard has partnered with Croatia Records in a global distribution deal. Croatia Records, which holds the largest catalog of Croatian artists, will now benefit from The Orchard’s international network. Under the leadership of Director Zelimir Babogredac, Croatia Records, formerly known as Jugoton, has a vast collection of music from Croatian, Serbian, and Slovenian artists. With a legacy spanning over 70 years, the company has grown to be one of the most profitable labels in Central and Eastern Europe, investing heavily in classical, jazz, pop, rock, and folk, through its various independent sub-labels. In addition to its genre-spanning portfolio, Croatia Records has been actively digitizing its archive of classic recordings to engage new audiences in the digital age. The deal was led by Oleg Rozov, Director of Eastern Europe & Central Asia, and Lia Mansola, Senior Manager of Label and Artist Partnerships at The Orchard.

 

DAN ROSEN NAMED PRESIDENT, RECORDS & PUBLISHING, AUSTRALASIA AT WMG: Warner Music Group recently revealed that Dan Rosen, the current President of Warner Music Australasia, will take on an expanded role that includes oversight of Warner Chappell Music in the region. This shift combines the leadership of both the recorded music and publishing divisions in Australia and New Zealand under Rosen’s directive. Rosen will report to Guy Moot, Co-Chair & CEO, Warner Chappell Music, as well as Simon Robson, President, Recorded Music, EMEA, WMG, who is currently managing the recorded music business across the APAC region. In his position, Rosen will focus on growing Warner Chappell Music’s presence in Australasia, assisting in collaboration between the two divisions, and creating fresh opportunities for both artists and songwriters. Since taking the helm of Warner Music Australasia, Rosen has overseen growth, both domestically and internationally, helping to sign talent like Brad Cox, James Johnson, and the duo Balu Brigada and Blusher in partnership with Atlantic Records. He has also been instrumental in supporting the careers of Australian artists such as Budjerah, Kita Alexander, and Oliver Cronin. On the global stage, Rosen has played a role in expanding the reach of Warner Music’s international artists, including Benson Boone, Charli XCX, Fred Again.., and Teddy Swims in the Australasia market.

 

OTM MUSIC NAMES U.S. HEAD OF A&R AND REVEALS SERIES OF NEW SIGNINGS: OTM Music has announced several new signings and a key leadership hire. Joining the roster are Hemlocke Springs, Erick The Architect, and Leon Michels, while Emmy Feldman steps in as the company’s new U.S. Head of A&R. Feldman has previously worked with a roster of artists including Dot Da Genius, Metronomy, Sub Focus, Honne, Still Woozy, Sudan Archives, and Hemlocke Springs. Before joining OTM, she spent several years at Heavy Duty in Los Angeles, where she helped expand the publishing roster and played a key role in the development of over fifty songwriters, producers, and artists. The past year has seen other significant appointments at OTM Music. Kristin Genovese was recruited as the new US Head of Sync, while the UK team grew with Kate Sweetsur taking on the role of Head of A&R, alongside Ethan Mizen as A&R Manager. In terms of new talent, Leon Michels, a producer, and member of El Michels Affair, is known for his collaborations with Dan Auerbach and his production work for artists like Norah Jones, Clairo, and Lee Fields. Michels has earned two Grammy nominations this year for his work with Clairo and Norah Jones. Erick The Architect, a founding member of the hip-hop group Flatbush Zombies, has also joined the publisher. With his debut solo album, I’ve Never Been Here Before, featuring production from James Blake, Erick continues to build on his career, which includes over 900 million streams with Flatbush Zombies and performances on The Tonight Show and Jimmy Kimmel Live. Hemlocke Springs, the North Carolina-based artist behind the viral TikTok hit “Girlfriend,” has also been signed to OTM. With her blend of indie pop and experimental sounds, she has already caught the attention of artists like Doja Cat, Grimes, and Steve Lacy, and has supported Doja Cat on tour.

 

THE ANCHORESS SIGNS NEW LABEL DEAL: Welsh multi-instrumentalist The Anchoress (aka Catherine Anne Davies) has joined forces with the Scottish label Last Night From Glasgow for a new recording agreement. The label, known for its eclectic roster, has previously collaborated with artists such as Hifi Sean & David McAlmont, Charlotte Hatherley, The Skids, Peter Capaldi, BMX Bandits, and The Audience. As part of the deal, The Anchoress is set to release her third album in the autumn of 2025, completing a trilogy of works. Her previous album, The Art of Losing, released through Kscope/Snapper Music, reached the U.K. Albums Chart Top 40 in 2021

 

STEPHANIE ADAMU EXITS EMPIRE TO LAUNCH KOBRA CULTURE AGENCY: Stephanie Adamu has announced her decision to step down from her role as U.K. Marketing Director at Empire to launch her own agency, Kobra Culture. Kobra Culture, founded in late 2024, will aim to elevate the voices of diasporic communities, building campaigns that bridge cultural gaps while celebrating diverse heritages. According to a statement, the agency’s mission is to foster cross-cultural connections through creative and impactful marketing strategies. At Empire, Adamu was instrumental in the success of Fireboy DML‘s global hit “Peru,” featuring Ed Sheeran, which charted in over 61 countries and accumulated more than one billion streams. She also led the marketing efforts behind Asake‘s Mr Money With The Vibe album, helping to expand its reach internationally. Before her time at Empire, Adamu was part of the international team at Universal Music West Africa, where she directed global campaigns for artists including Giggs, Darkoo, Juls, Masego, and Justin Bieber. She was also responsible for overseeing the marketing of UMG’s African campaigns across international markets. Adamu’s impact during her tenure at Empire helped fuel the rise of Afrobeats globally, collaborating with artists like Kizz Daniel, Wstrn, Bnxn, Black Sherif, Gabzy, Olamide, and Rotimi, among others. Kobra Culture is already making waves with marketing campaigns for Warner Music Nigeria, Tiwa Savage, and YBNL‘s DJ Enimoney. The agency will specialize in artist development, brand collaborations, and creating cultural impact through innovative marketing initiatives.

 

LUNAR CLIENT PARTNERS WITH STYNGR TO BRING LICENSED MUSIC TO MINECRAFT: Minecraft players can now stream licensed music directly within the game, thanks to Lunar FM, a new in-game radio service created by Lunar Client in collaboration with music licensing platform STYNGR. Lunar Client, an all-in-one mod pack for Minecraft developed by Moonsworth, allows players to access music from major record labels through the Lunar Client Launcher, integrating tunes into their gameplay experience. Players can enjoy radio stations, control playback, and view song details through a dedicated radio mod embedded in the game. Currently, some radio stations are exclusive to Premium subscribers, who pay $4.99 (USD) per month for an ad-free experience, unlimited skips, and an exclusive in-game headset cosmetic. A free, ad-supported version of Lunar FM will be available starting in early 2025, offering full access to all stations. STYNGR, the music licensing platform behind the service, specializes in providing pre-cleared music for games and virtual environments. In 2022, STYNGR partnered with Warner Music Group to give game developers access to a pre-licensed catalog of tracks from the label’s artists.

 

CECILE BERNIER NAMED GM OF TRO EDITIONS ESSEX IN FRANCE: Cécile Bernier has been named General Manager of TRO Editions ESSEX in France, taking over from Halit Uman, who held the position from July 2005 until May 2024. In her role, Bernier will collaborate closely with the Budde Music France team, which will support her in managing the company’s publishing operations. TRO Essex Music Group, founded in 1949 by Howie Richmond, has been a major player in the music publishing world for 75 years. Known for its independence and rich catalog, the company has been a significant force in the industry since its establishment in France in 1957. Budde Music France, which Bernier has led since 2016, shares a similar legacy. Established in 1989 as a subsidiary of the longstanding European publishing company Budde Music, the French arm is part of a global, 75-year-old, independent publishing powerhouse. Benjamin Budde, Chairman & CEO, Budde Music, tells A&R Worldwide, “I have long admired the TRO Essex catalog that represents some of the biggest compositions in Anglo-American popular music history. That our companies are finally starting their collaboration in France makes me happy and proud. We not only share the history as indies, spanning both over 75 years, but we also share a similar philosophy of combining a strong focus on creative work and administration. I am now looking forward to our joint success stories in the coming years.”

 

RESERVOIR ACQUIRES RIGHTS TO THE CATALOG OF LEBO MORAKE: Reservoir Media has announced the acquisition of the music catalog of South African composer and performer Lebohang Morake, better known as Lebo M Best recognized for his contributions to The Lion King franchise, Lebo M’s work spans across film, television, and stage productions. Lebo M first gained global recognition through his collaboration with composer Hans Zimmer on the 1992 film The Power of One. His partnership with Zimmer deepened in 1994 when he contributed to the Lion King soundtrack, composing and performing the opening sequence of the song “Circle of Life.” This piece earned him a Grammy Award for “Best Instrumental Arrangement with Accompanying Vocals,” while the film’s soundtrack went on to win an Academy Award for “Best Original Score.” In addition, Lebo M was instrumental in creating the soundtrack for Rhythm of the Pride Lands, the sequel The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride, and the 2019 live-action remake. In addition to his ongoing connection to the Lion King legacy, in 2024, he teamed up with Lin-Manuel Miranda to compose the music for Mufasa: The Lion King, a new prequel set to debut this month. Beyond The Lion King, Lebo M’s portfolio includes contributions to a range of other major film projects, such as Dinosaur, Tears of the Sun, The Legend of Tarzan, and The Woman King, as well as collaborations with other influential artists and composers. He also played a key role in the music for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, composing and producing the Opening and Closing Ceremonies in his native South Africa.

 

PRIMARY WAVE MUSIC PARTNERS WITH ITZHAK PERLMAN: Primary Wave Music has announced a partnership with Itzhak Perlman, one of the world’s most celebrated violin virtuosos. Born in 1945, Perlman first gained widespread attention in 1958 when he appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show. A Juilliard graduate, Perlman’s career skyrocketed after winning the Leventritt Competition in 1964. Over the decades, Perlman has performed for some of the most notable figures in history, including Queen Elizabeth II and President Barack Obama, who honored him with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015. His list of accolades includes 47 Grammy nominations, 16 Grammy wins, a Lifetime Achievement Award, four Emmy Awards, and numerous other honors, including the National Medal of Arts (2000) and the Medal of Liberty (1986). In 2023, he was recognized by the Kennedy Center for his contributions to music. Perlman’s conducting career has seen him lead the world’s most prestigious orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony, the Chicago Symphony, and the Berlin Philharmonic. His regular conducting appearances at top institutions, including the St. Louis Symphony and the Detroit Symphony, along with his engagements as Artistic Partner at the Houston Symphony, have further cemented his place as a leading figure in classical music. As part of this collaboration, Primary Wave will manage a variety of aspects of Mr. Perlman’s musical career, including his artist royalties, and the use of his name and likeness. The partnership also provides Perlman with access to Primary Wave’s marketing and publishing resources, opening new avenues for digital and sync opportunities. This agreement includes iconic recordings from Perlman’s five-decade career, such as his renditions of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons (Spring, Winter, Summer), recorded in collaboration with composer John Williams, whose score went on to win an Academy Award. Other works covered in the deal include Black Orpheus: Manha De Carnaval, 24 Caprices, Op. 1, Concerto For Violin and Orchestra I, and Violin Concerto, Op. 35, among many others.

 

BMG PARENT BERTELSMANN PARTNERS WITH ELEVENLABS: Bertelsmann, the parent company of music giant BMG, has entered into a partnership with AI startup ElevenLabs to explore innovative applications of artificial intelligence in voice and music production. This collaboration will see ElevenLabs’ AI tools being integrated into various media production workflows across Bertelsmann’s portfolio. Over 36 Bertelsmann companies have already begun utilizing these AI technologies to enhance efficiency and creativity in their operations. A notable example is RTL Technology, a Bertelsmann subsidiary, which recently applied AI-driven voice generation to streamline the dubbing process. The German-language version of the docuseries Myths and Monsters was fully dubbed using AI-generated voices, marking a leap forward in automated media production. While the initial focus of the partnership is on enhancing storytelling through AI, both Bertelsmann, and ElevenLabs have signaled their intent to extend this collaboration into the realm of music production, suggesting a future where AI plays a vital role in shaping the next generation of creative content.

 

KOBALT SIGNS GLOBAL PUBLISHING DEALS WITH ELA TAUBERT & PRODUCER KEVN: Kobalt has announced new global publishing agreements with Ela Taubert, the Latin Grammy Award-winning artist, and her long-time producer, KEVN. Ela Taubert, who was recently honored with the Latin Grammy for “Best New Artist,” continues to make waves in the music world. Her performance of the reimagined version of her single “¿Como Paso?” alongside Joe Jonas at the Latin Grammys in Miami, FL last month captured widespread attention. The original version of the track achieved Gold status in both the U.S. and Spain, hit No. 7 on Spotify‘s Global Viral Chart, and soared to No.1 on YouTube. Taubert’s close collaborator, KEVN, a fellow Colombian and accomplished pop producer and songwriter, plays a key role in her success. The two have worked together on several hit songs, including “¿Como Paso?” and “¿Y Si Eras Tú?” KEVN’s production expertise and creative vision have been integral to shaping Taubert’s sound.

 

SONY MUSIC ANNOUNCES ACQUISITION OF COBALT MUSIC: Sony Music Entertainment (SME) has announced the acquisition of Cobalt Music, one of Greece’s leading independent labels. Established in 1957, Cobalt Music has been a staple in the Greek music scene, known for nurturing local talent and producing hit records over the decades. With this acquisition, the Greek artists and catalogs under Cobalt Music will now gain access to Sony Music’s global distribution network and technology, opening doors to international markets. As part of this expansion, Anna Maria Antippas has been appointed Managing Director of Sony Music Entertainment Greece. A seasoned leader in the Greek music industry, Antippas brings 20 years of experience to the role. Under her guidance, Sony Music Greece is poised to offer artists and collaborators enhanced opportunities for global exposure and growth. The Greek music market has seen growth in recent years. According to IFPI data, total recorded music revenues reached $70.4 million (USD) in 2023, reflecting a significant 14.91% year-over-year increase. The driving force behind this growth has been streaming, which now accounts for 63.1% of total revenues, showing a 15.2% rise from the previous year. Furthermore, sync licensing revenues surged by 50%, contributing to the overall expansion of the market. In 2023, local artists dominated the charts, with all the Top 10 tracks in Greece being by Greek performers. Daniel Lieberberg, President, Sony Music Continental Europe & Africa, said, “We see enormous potential in the Greek market, which has a rich musical heritage and vibrant contemporary scene. By acquiring Cobalt Music, we aim to provide even more opportunities for local artists to thrive. Under Anna Maria Antippas’ leadership, we will preserve the legacy of Cobalt Music whilst also bringing Greek music to a wider global audience.”

 

JEFF ROBERTO NAMED SR. VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING AT SPLICE: Splice, the platform designed to help music creators transform their ideas into reality, has appointed Jeff Roberto as Sr. Vice President of Marketing. In this role, Roberto will lead global marketing efforts for the company. Roberto brings experience from his previous executive roles, which included serving as Chief Marketing Officer at both Nodle and DistroKid. He was also Sr. VP of Marketing at Picsart, where he played a role in the company’s expansion, helping to secure a $130 (USD) million funding round in 2021 and contributing to its $1 billion plus valuation. Picsart’s platform, which serves over 100 million users globally, is focused on empowering creators to produce high-quality content with ease. Earlier in his career, Jeff held senior positions at Shazam, Napster, MAGNIFI, and Astralwerks Records, and got his start in the music industry working at his college radio station, WHUS-FM, at the University of Connecticut.

 

DOWNTOWN ANNOUNCES JOSA RECORDS DISTRO DEAL FOR NETÓN VEGA: Downtown Artist & Label Services has entered into an exclusive distribution agreement with Josa Records, focusing on rising talent, Netón Vega. The deal, announced on December 5th, will ensure global distribution for Vega’s current music catalog as well as his highly anticipated debut album, set for release in early 2025. The album features collaborations with top names in Música Mexicana, including Peso Pluma, Luis R Conriquez, and Tito Double P. Vega, who has amassed over one billion streams across platforms, is known for his tracks such as “La Patrulla,” “LINDA,” “Presidente,” and “Si No Quieres No,” the latter of which was a collaboration with Latin Grammy nominee Luis R Conriquez. The song reached No.1 on streaming platforms and became a viral sensation on TikTok during the summer of 2024. With almost twenty million monthly listeners on Spotify alone, Vega is establishing his place as a notable face in Latin music. Raymond Tapia, VP of A&R (Latin), Downtown, described the collaboration as a “full-circle moment. Truly honored by the trust that Netón Vega and Josa Records have placed in us to be the right partner for this project. I am confident that together, we will reach incredible new heights.”

 

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