A&R Worldwide Newsletter Vol. 898

SONGTOOLS ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH A&R WORLDWIDE TO EMPOWER ARTISTS WITH GLOBAL MARKETING & DISCOVERY SOLUTIONS

 

 

SongTools, the fast-growing platform empowering music creators with one-click marketing and ad tech solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with A&R Worldwide, the globally renowned artist discovery and development firm, which has a vast network of relationships across all sectors of the international music business.

This partnership connects SongTools’ full suite of automated marketing tools, including playlist outreach, digital ad deployment, smart links, and real-time performance analytics with A&R Worldwide’s proven global ecosystem for artist discovery and development, and unique ability to elevate artists, and executives’ careers. Together, the two companies will help artists, managers, and labels not only market their releases effectively but also build long-term, sustainable careers through access to mentorship, opportunities, and worldwide relationships.

“A&R Worldwide has been a trusted force in the global music community for over two decades, discovering and supporting some of the most influential artists and executives of our time,” said Danny Garcia, CEO of SongTools. “By aligning with their unparalleled network and expertise, we can expand the reach of SongTools and ensure independent creators have both the technology and the relationships they need to thrive in today’s competitive industry.”

Sat Bisla, President & Founder of A&R Worldwide added, “A&R Worldwide has always been dedicated to helping authentic talent transcend borders and connect with the right opportunities. Integrating SongTools’ innovative marketing technology into our ecosystem provides creators with powerful, effective tools that complement our traditional artist development, strategic, creative, and relationship-driven support we’ve been providing for over two decades. It’s an exciting step forward for artist empowerment.”

At a time when major-label artists often benefit from built-in teams and resources, SongTools levels the playing field by making enterprise-level promotional tools accessible to creators of all sizes. Through this partnership, A&R Worldwide artists and partners will now have direct access to streamlined, data-powered marketing solutions – empowering them to grow audiences, plan smarter campaigns, and amplify opportunities on a global scale.

 

 

 

 

MUSEXPO “The United Nations of Music” (www.musexpo.net), the pioneering global music business conference renowned for its transformative impact on the industry, has unveiled its landmark 26th edition which will take place March 22 – 25, 2026, in Burbank, California. For the first time ever, the leading FOX Sports sync licensing team will do a group panel exclusively at MUSEXPO to share key insights into the impactful work they do with music integration into sports culture.

Marking over a quarter-century of influence, MUSEXPO 2026 will highlight the continued evolution of the worldwide music business landscape across all key sectors including A&R, music publishing, live, sync (film, TV, videogames, advertising, promos, trailers), radio/streaming, digital, technology, AI, distribution, management, and more.

FOX Sports is the sports division of FOX Corporation, operating leading channels including FOX, FS1, FS2, and FOX Deportes, as well as its digital platforms. The network delivers live coverage across a wide spectrum of sports, from the NFL, MLB, and college football to NASCAR, UFC, and international soccer. FOX Sports is also the exclusive U.S. English-language broadcaster of the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be hosted across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, bringing fans unprecedented live coverage, analysis, and original programming around the world’s most-watched sporting event.

Eight executives from FOX Sports Music are slated to participate in a first-of-its-kind synchronization (sync) panel at MUSEXPO 2026. The panel will include conversation and insights into the daily aspects of the executive roles, music rights, licensing, clearances, creative partnerships, and the mechanics that power music in live sports programming. This is a must-attend panel for anyone interested in music and sports.

Participating in this exclusive panel will be Nicole De La Torriente, Vice President, Music Business Affairs & Operations, FOX Sports Music; Alexandria Schammel, Manager, Music, FOX Sports Music; Bekki Newton, Senior Coordinator, Music Clearance & Licensing, FOX Sports; Jamar Richardson, Senior Music Coordinator, FOX Sports Music; Matt Logan, Senior Coordinator, Music, FOX Sports Music; Melissa Stern, Director, Music Supervision & Tech Operations, FOX Sports Music; Nick Robelotto, Senior Coordinator, Music Clearance, FOX Sports Music, and Stephanie Urcheck, Senior Manager, Music Supervision & Clearance, FOX Sports Music. Read the full bio and role of each executive HERE.

Sports programming presents unique challenges for music synchronization: tight timelines, live content, multi-platform distribution, rights clearances, and the need for creative relevance under such constraints. Attendees at MUSEXPO 2026 will gain rare insight into how FOX Sports Music balances those pressures, and how sync practitioners can adapt in a rapidly changing media landscape.

To register to attend the FOX Sports Music panel and other great panel sessions, events, keynotes, networking receptions, awards luncheons, Global Sync and A&R Summit at MUSEXPO 2026, you can sign up HERE.

For details on sponsorships, partnerships, panelists, artist showcase opportunities, or additional information visit www.musexpo.net.

For more information contact info@anrworldwide.com.

 

 

 

Adelaide, Australia indie-rock four-piece The Tullamarinesare back with “Idiot,” a stirring new single that captures the quiet heartbreak of friendships fading with time and distance. “It’s about the guilt of unanswered messages and missed milestones, and the bittersweet reality of losing touch, not through conflict, but through the tunnel vision of trying to get your life together in your 20s,” the band shares. Raw yet relatable, it’s a song for anyone who’s ever looked back and wished they’d done better for the people who mattered most. Known for their warm storytelling, distinct four-voice blend, and magnetic live shows, The Tullamarines have quickly become one of Australia’s most exciting rising acts. Their recent run of singles, including “Running On Empty,” which hit No.1 most-played on triple J, has earned them full triple J rotation, viral traction on TikTok, and placements across top editorial playlists such as Spotify‘s New Music Friday AU & NZ and Apple Music‘s New in Alternative. With festival appearances at Laneway, Spin Off, and NYE On The Hill, plus supports for The Vaccines, Ball Park Music, and Dear Seattle, the band has proven their sound resonates both on stage and on record. As fans compare their sound to Ball Park Music, Spacey Jane, and Middle Kids, The Tullamarines carve out their own lane with heartfelt lyrics and melodies that feel like catching up with an old friend. Discover “Idiot” HERE, and contact Rupinder for all inquiries pertaining to The Tullamrines.

 

 

FELIX HOWARD TAKES HELM AS HEAD OF A&R AT KASSNER MUSIC GROUP: Respected U.K. A&R executive and creative Felix Howard has been appointed Head of A&R at Kassner Music Group. The hiring marks a significant step for Kassner as it strengthens its creative leadership under someone with deep experience in publishing, A&R, and songwriting. Howard has built a prolific career as a songwriter, record producer, publisher, and A&R executive. He got his start in music and culture early before his A&R work he was a child model and appeared in music videos (including for Sting, Madonna, Sinitta, and others) and covers of The Face magazine. In 2007 he joined EMI Publishing U.K. as A&R Manager. During that time, he was responsible for the signing and/or development of songwriters and artists including Calvin Harris, Lana Del Rey, MNEK, James Vincent McMorrow, Sam Sparro, Hurts, Tinchy Stryder, Beverley Knight, Tom Jones, and more. He was promoted to VP, A&R at EMI in 2008, then in 2009 became Head of A&R, U.K. & Europe Creative. After leaving EMI before its merger, Howard consulted for Universal Music Group, worked in the U.S. as Director of A&R for Budde Publishing in Los Angeles, and held senior A&R roles, including at BMG in London where he oversaw “new recordings.” While at BMG, his work involved artists such as Gabrielle, Ultra Nate, Katie Melua, Louis Tomlinson, Zak Abel, and Lady Blackbird. In addition, he played a key role in the early career of Lewis Capaldi. At Kassner Music Group, Howard will oversee the company’s A&R focus, identifying songwriters and artists, developing repertoire, and guiding creative strategies. Founded in 1944 by Edward Kassner, the publisher holds a large multi-genre catalog of over 100,000 copyrights and is known for both its legacy works and its growing push into new music in the streaming/digital era. Observers see Howard’s arrival as Kassner’s effort to bridge its storied past and catalogue strength with aggressive talent discovery and creative risk. With a pedigree in songwriting, artist development, and publishing, Howard is widely expected to help catalyze Kassner’s next chapter of hits, signings, and creative partnerships.

 

HILARY DUFF SIGNS TO ATLANTIC RECORDS: Hilary Duff is officially making her return to music, signing a new deal with Atlantic Records ahead of her first release in nearly a decade. Duff, whose last studio album Breathe In. Breathe Out. arrived in 2015, will also be the focus of a forthcoming docuseries charting her re-entry into the music world while giving fans an inside look at her personal life. Directed and executive produced by Sam Wrench (Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour, A Nonsense Christmas With Sabrina Carpenter) through Next of Kin Content, the project promises to capture “the ups, downs, and everything in between” of Duff’s comeback. Cameras will follow her as she juggles family life, recording sessions, rehearsals, and her first live performances in over ten years. Duff launched her career with early albums on Buena Vista and Hollywood Records, including her 2003 breakout Metamorphosis. She later joined RCA Records in 2014, releasing Breathe In. Breathe Out. as her only album on the label. Her most recent release was a cover of Third Eye Blind‘s “Never Let You Go” with RAC and husband Matthew Koma. While music took a backseat over the past decade, Duff remained active on screen, starring in the long-running series Younger (2015–2021) and leading Hulu‘s How I Met Your Father.

 

BIG FAMILY MUSIC LAUNCHES WITH PARTNERSHIP WITH STEM: Big Family Music, a newly launched global music company integrating label, publishing, and management under one roof, has announced its official launch alongside a strategic partnership with Stem, the distribution and artist services platform built for independence. Formerly operating as PMR Records and Big Family, the newly unified Big Family Music will continue a legacy of developing culturally impactful artists and songwriters while doubling down on its A&R-first approach. With a roster that includes Master Peace, Amber Mark, SG Lewis, Hope Tala, John Ryan, Grant Boutin, and co-founder Julian Bunetta, Big Family will focus on signing a small number of artists and collaborating closely with them across all facets of their careers. As part of this new chapter, Big Family Music has partnered with Stem to extend their artist services capabilities and bring additional resources to their roster. More than just a distributor, Stem acts as a collaborative partner, offering a hands-on team that collaborates closely with managers, artists, and labels to support releases, rollout strategy, and long-term planning.

 

FINLAND’S BACKBONE MANAGEMENT EXPAND INTO THE U.K.: Finland’s Backbone Management has taken its first steps into the international market with the launch of a U.K. office. Founded in 2014 by CEO Panu Piippo and Head of Management Antti Eriksso, the company has been instrumental in guiding Finnish acts such as Ville Valo (VV, HIM), The Rasmus, and Blind Channel onto the global stage, helping to establish them as some of the country’s most successful music exports. The new U.K. hub will be overseen by Adam Sagir, Director of The Noise Cartel, who will run the venture while continuing his PR agency. With over 25 years of industry experience across label management, booking, artist management, and music PR, Sagir brings expertise to Backbone’s international strategy. Alongside its roster of twelve Finnish acts, including Swallow The Sun, Ensiferum, Atlas, and Stam1na, Backbone has added three British signings: Grammy-nominated rock duo Bones U.K., progressive metal band Sikth, and rising act Vexed. The wider Backbone team includes Katja Vauhkonen, a 21-year industry veteran who began her career at Sony Music Finland and was named Manager of the Year at the Finnish Music Industry Awards in 2019, and Henkka Seppälä, former bassist for the bestselling Finnish metal group Children Of Bodom, who joined the company in 2023.

 

FRENCH PUBLISHERS 22D MUSIC GROUP AND VELVETICA MUSIC ANNOUNCE MERGER: French publishing houses 22D Music Group and Velvetica Music have officially agreed to merge, creating what both companies describe as a new force in the country’s independent music sector. In a joint statement, the companies said the move “signals the emergence of an independent French group supported by a trusted network of partners. Together, 22D Music Group and Velvetica strengthen their position as a central hub for production companies, authors, composers, and artists.” Founded in 2006, Paris-based 22D Music Group has built a strong international reputation in audiovisual music rights management. With around 20 staff, the company administers catalogues for producers such as France Télévisions, RTVE, UGC, Banijay Studio France, Faber, and Cartoon Saloon, alongside the works of acclaimed film composers including Amine Bouhafa, Bruno Coulais, Atli Örvarsson, Eric Neveux, and Stephen Warbeck. The company also represents a roster of artists and songwriters such as Asha Puthli, Mylène Farmer, Peter Cat Recording, Camille Bazbaz, Maddy Street, and Little Bob. Its services extend to music supervision, licensing and clearance, legal support, and full coordination for film and television projects. Velvetica Music, launched in 2011 by Thomas Jamois, who also serves on the boards of SACEM, CSDEM, CEMF, and SEAM, employs 12 people under Managing Director Johanna Bisac. The company specializes in publishing administration and sub-publishing for the audiovisual industry, representing clients such as Pathé, Gaumont, Orange, Banijay, and Fédération, as well as artists, labels, and publishers including Phoenix, Caravan Palace, JB Dunckel, Yuksek, Bucks Music, Beggars Music, and Manners McDade.

 

MERLIN SIGNS LICENSING DEAL WITH INDIE-CENTRIC MUSIC PLATFORM NINA: Merlin, the global digital rights agency for independent labels and distributors, has announced that its members’ music is now live on Nina Protocol, an artist-first platform designed to maximize revenue and fan engagement. Through Nina, artists retain 100% of sales revenue while offering fans direct access to music purchases, exclusive content, and label-specific hubs. Each participating label has its own dedicated space on the platform, enabling deeper fan interaction and discovery. The launch brings thousands of tracks from Merlin’s worldwide membership, including leading independents such as 604 Records, Armada Music, AEI, Anjunabeats, Hopeless Records, Mad Decent, Merge Records, Nettwerk Music Group, Ninja Tune, Polyvinyl Records, Secret City Records, Secretly Group, VP Music Group, and Warp Records. Repertoire from artists such as Above & Beyond, Anamanaguchi, Black Country, New Road, Coldcut, Destroyer, Marianas Trench, Sub Urban, Superchunk, Young Fathers, and Weval are now available on the platform. “This partnership, part of our Merlin Connect initiative, delivers premium independent music, streamlined operations, and strategic support to emerging platforms like Nina,” Merlin noted in a statement. Nina is also rolling out a “Selected by Merlin Connect” playlist, curated editorial features, and label spotlights highlighting both legacy catalogs and new talent. The platform positions itself as an ecosystem where creators can run their own digital storefronts with direct control over sales, transparent fan data, and tools to grow their community.

 

ALEX FRANK PROMOTED TO CHIEF BRAND OFFICER AT 237 GLOBAL: 237 Global has elevated Alex Frank to Chief Brand Officer, Founder & CEO Mark Weiss confirmed on September 10th. Frank will remain based in New York and continue reporting directly to Weiss. With more than 14 years of experience across labels, distribution, technology, and fan engagement, Frank brings a diverse perspective to the role. Most recently, she was Head of Music at blockchain gaming company Gala Games, where she shaped global music strategy and spearheaded large-scale event activations in the Web3 space. Her career also includes a 12-year tenure at Sony Music, nearly ten of those at Columbia Records, where she contributed to international marketing and radio promotion efforts for artists including Adele, Harry Styles, AC/DC, Daft Punk, and Maren Morris. Following Columbia, she joined The Orchard as Head of Global Marketing & Promotion Strategy, leading worldwide campaigns for Jack White, Ozuna, Joyner Lucas, and Caroline Polachek.

 

FLG SIGNS TRANSATLANTIC ROCK ACT AS IT IS: Frontiers Label Group‘s rock-focused imprint FLG has added a new name to its lineup, signing transatlantic outfit As It Is. The deal follows a string of recent roster expansions for FLG and comes as the band builds momentum after their 2024 releases: A Decade Uneventful, a B-sides collection, and a reimagined version of their debut album Never Happy, Ever After. Now reunited in their original formation, As It Is are preparing to unveil their first new material together since 2018, with further projects slated for 2026. Leo Nicholas, Head of A&R at FLG, said, “Signing As It Is to FLG is a surreal full-circle moment for me. Almost 15 years ago, Leander was managing Lower Than Atlantis, one of the very first bands I signed to indie label A Wolf At Your Door. That experience was a defining one early in my career, and to now find ourselves working together again all these years later feels incredibly special. To be collaborating on the next chapter of a band with the caliber, drive, and creative vision of As It Is, is both an honor and a privilege, and I’m excited about what we can achieve together.” Founded in Napoli, Italy in 1996 by Serafino Perugino, Frontiers initially specialized in the distribution of indie rock labels across the Italian market. The company later evolved into an international rock label, working with Megadeth, Van Zant, Yes, Don Felder, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Skunk Anansie, Def Leppard, Journey, ELO, Mr Big, Biohazard, Night Ranger, and Whitesnake, while also signing, and developing new artists.

 

THE ORCHARD LAUNCHES PHYSICAL DISTRIBUTION NETWORK OPEN: Two of Germany’s leading physical music distribution companies have joined forces under The Orchard banner. SPV Distribution and Membran have merged to form OPEN (Orchard Physical European Network GmbH), described by The Orchard as a “best-in-class physical distribution entity” operating within its global network. The new venture is jointly owned by The Orchard and Napalm Records, the Austrian label that previously held ownership of SPV Distribution and has long been a client of The Orchard. Sony Music recently listed Napalm as one of its “select investments,” suggesting Sony/The Orchard acquired a minority stake in the label. Notably, SPV’s recorded music labels remain under Napalm’s full ownership and will now be serviced by OPEN. The Orchard highlighted that the merger “significantly expands one of the world’s largest independent record distribution networks,” strengthening its presence across the U.K., Europe, and Asia in online retail, mail order, and brick-and-mortar outlets. Leadership of the new company is as follows: Frank Uhle, formerly Managing Director of SPV, will take on the same role at OPEN. Michael Kirschnick, Senior Finance Director for The Orchard GmbH, will oversee finance and accounting. Manlio Celotti will remain a senior consultant, advising The Orchard on strategy, operations, and key client relationships.

 

SWEDEN’S STIM HAS LAUNCHED THE WORLD’S FIRST AI LICENSE FOR MUSIC: Swedish music rights society STIM has announced what it calls a world-first licensing deal between a collective rights organization and an AI company. The new framework, developed by STIM, is designed to let AI companies legally train their models on copyrighted music while ensuring royalties are paid back to the original creators. Under the license, compensation is generated both during the training process and using AI-generated outputs. STIM says the system is built around mandatory use of neutral third-party attribution technology. Its chosen partner, Sureel, enables AI outputs to be traced to the human work that influenced them, making revenues auditable in real time. According to STIM, this addresses one of the biggest concerns around AI in music, the lack of transparency about which works are being used and how rights holders are paid. The agreement comes as the music industry grapples with the rise of AI-generated content. A 2024 study by CISAC estimated that AI could erode up to 24% of creators’ revenues by 2028 if left unchecked. The first company to adopt STIM’s license is Songfox, a Stockholm startup that allows fans and musicians to generate legal AI compositions and covers. STIM describes the framework as “open,” meaning it can be extended to any AI company that meets its criteria, with the goal of establishing fair licensing practices across the sector. In a statement, STIM said that by combining “its collective authority with Songfox’s innovation and Sureel’s attribution system, Sweden is piloting a model that could reshape how music creators are compensated in the AI era.”

 

ROY ORBISON ESTATE SIGNS WITH SANDBOX SUCCESSION FOR MANAGEMENT: Sandbox Succession has entered into an exclusive management agreement with the estate of Roy Orbison. The legacy division of Sandbox Entertainment will now oversee Orbison’s business alongside his sons Wesley, Alex, and Roy Jr., who had previously managed their father’s affairs. “Roy Orbison is an American icon whose music and reflections of love and life are woven into the fabric of pop culture,” said Josh Matas, President of Sandbox Succession. “It is an honor to carry that legacy forward for generations to come.” Under the deal, Sandbox Succession will oversee all areas of Orbison’s career, including music, publishing, NIL (name, image, and likeness) licensing, hospitality ventures, and projects across film and television. Known for his signature black hair, dark sunglasses, and soaring, emotional voice, Orbison created timeless classics such as “Only the Lonely,” “Crying,” “In Dreams,” and “Oh, Pretty Woman.” He also earned renewed acclaim as a member of the Traveling Wilburys alongside Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne, and Tom Petty. The addition of Orbison’s estate further expands Sandbox Succession’s roster, which already includes the estates of Johnny Cash, June Carter Cash, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, and racing legend Richard Petty.

 

ARMADA’S BEAT MUSIC FUND ACQUIRES ENTIRE MASTER RIGHTS CATALOG OF MIXMASH RECORDS: Armada‘s BEAT Music Fund, which describes itself as the first investment fund dedicated to dance music, has acquired the full master rights catalog of Netherlands-based Mixmash Records. Though financial details weren’t revealed, the acquisition brings into Armada’s catalog standout hits such as “Show Me Love” by Steve Angello and Laidback Luke featuring Robin S. (169 million streams) and “Turbulence” by Steve Aoki and Laidback Luke featuring Lil Jon (40 million streams). Collectively, the Mixmash repertoire included in the deal has surpassed 200 million streams. Founded in 2004 by DJ/producer Laidback Luke and Olga Heijns, Mixmash has been a mainstay in the house music scene for 20 years, championing subgenres from electro house and progressive house to future house. Armada Music Group praised the label’s enduring influence, calling Mixmash “a cornerstone of house music.” “We ultimately chose BEAT Music Fund because their vision and capabilities aligned perfectly with our goal: to place the Mixmash catalog in expert hands, ensuring our artists’ work is properly monetized and respected,” said Heijns, who serves as Mixmash’s Managing Director.

 

SONY MUSIC’S RCA RECORDS FORMS JV WITH BOURNE CREATIVES: RCA Records, part of Sony Music Entertainment, has entered into a joint venture with Bourne Creatives aimed at discovering and nurturing emerging talent across a wide range of genres. The initiative will be spearheaded by Dylan Bourne, who launched Bourne Creatives in 2020 and brings a background in artist management, label operations, and publishing, with experience spanning Los Angeles and Nashville. The new collaboration, announced September 10th, will focus on early-stage artist development, providing what both companies describe as a “creative and strategic foundation” for long-term growth. While the joint venture operates separately, Bourne Creatives will continue running its existing management business, which currently represents a roster that includes Elizabeth Nichols, Fantom, Gabriel Jacoby, Hailey Picardi, hey daisy, Shankz, and Tucker Stone. John Fleckenstein, COO, RCA Records, said, “Dylan and his team have a keen eye for talent discovery and an expertise in grassroots artist development that will enhance our capabilities across multiple genres.” Dylan Bourne added, “Our ability to identify and cultivate talent in their early stages, paired with the proven artist development team at RCA Records, will provide the tools to build sustainable careers with both cultural and commercial impact.”

 

RESERVOIR ACQUIRES MILES DAVIS PUBLISHING CATALOG: Reservoir Media has struck a deal to acquire the publishing rights of jazz legend Miles Davis, expanding its portfolio with one of the most influential catalogs in modern music history. According to The New York Times, the transaction, finalized in August, grants Reservoir control of 90% of Davis’ publishing rights, along with a share of the estate’s earnings from his recordings. In addition, Reservoir will collaborate with the Davis estate on name and likeness initiatives. Sony Music continues to own the rights to Davis’ landmark recordings spanning 1955–1985, including classics like Kind of Blue and Bitches Brew. The Davis acquisition adds to Reservoir’s growth strategy. Since its founding in 2007, the company has reportedly invested nearly $900 million (USD) in catalog and company acquisitions, with most of its deals typically falling in the $40–$60 million range. While financial details were not disclosed, the Davis catalog is estimated to align with that bracket. Celebrated for his innovation and artistry, Miles Davis released more than 60 studio albums, alongside dozens of live recordings and compilations. His honors include eight Grammy Awards, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, a Hollywood Walk of Fame star, and induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Works such as Kind of Blue (1959) and Bitches Brew (1970) are regarded as defining albums in American music, both preserved in the National Recording Registry.

 

HAYLEY WILLIAMS UNVEILS DEAL WITH SECRETLY DISTRIBUTION FOR NEW LABEL: Hayley Williams has teamed up with Secretly Distribution for her new label venture, Post Atlantic. The partnership arrives on the heels of Williams’ third solo album, Ego Death At A Bachelorette Party, released in August. Under the deal, Secretly will manage global physical and digital distribution, as well as marketing, retail strategy, and financial and technology support for all Post Atlantic releases. Williams’ previous solo projects came via Atlantic Records, while Paramore, her longtime band, released music through Atlantic affiliate Fueled By Ramen. With her contract at Atlantic now complete, both Williams and Paramore have formally stepped away from the major label system, opening the door to this new chapter. Evan Whikehart, Secretly Distribution’s Head of Label & Shared Services, called it “a thrill” to support Williams and her team on “an incredible album and creative campaign.” A physical edition of Ego Death At A Bachelorette Party is set to arrive on November 7. A press statement hinted that Williams’ move marks just the beginning for Post Atlantic, noting that Secretly anticipates “many more additions to the family” in the months ahead.

 

IFPI APPOINTS MIRA CHATT AS ASIA REGIONAL DIRECTOR: IFPI has named Mira Chatt as its new Regional Director for Asia, broadening the scope of the role to cover the wider Asia-Pacific region. In her position, Chatt will oversee IFPI’s activities across the territory, supporting member labels and coordinating the network of national groups that represent the global recording industry. She will also drive the organization’s public policy initiatives and engagement efforts, working in tandem with IFPI’s Greater China office, which continues under its own dedicated leadership. Chatt brings experience in both public policy and international affairs. She most recently served as Head of Government Affairs and Public Policy for India at YouTube, and before that was a career diplomat with Canada’s Foreign Service, where she held senior posts throughout South and Southeast Asia and in global roles. Currently based in Delhi, Chatt will transition to IFPI’s Singapore regional office in 2026. Victoria Oakley, IFPI CEO, said, “We are delighted to welcome Mira to IFPI. Asia is a region of enormous importance and opportunity for the global recording industry, and Mira’s appointment reflects our commitment to continuing to invest in and support our work across these markets.

 

GERMANY’S BAMBOO ARTISTS EXPANDS INTO THE US: Bamboo Artists is stepping onto the international stage after establishing itself as one of Europe’s most successful indies. Founded by CEO Leander Kirschner at just 17 years old, the company now represents 32 artists and 47 songwriters, including Ski Aggu, 01099, and Zartmann. Its catalog generates more than three billion annual streams (over 80 million weekly) and has delivered more than 180 charting tracks in Germany, 11 of them No.1’s, earning upwards of 200 Gold and Platinum certifications. To drive its U.S. expansion, Bamboo has appointed Nils Gums as General Manager USA and established a permanent office with two dedicated studios in Los Angeles. Gums, who reports directly to Kirschner, brings two decades of experience collaborating with artists such as Anderson .Paak, Meghan Trainor, and Charlie Puth. In the UK, Mike Burns steps in as UK Label Lead. With over a decade of experience at EMI and Ultra Records/Sony Music, Burns has worked on campaigns for Jonas Blue, The Chemical Brothers, and Duke Dumont. He will oversee Bamboo’s roster in the market, including Ella Boh, Zimmer90, and WizTheMc, while scouting and developing new talent. The company is also strengthening its commercial capabilities with a new brand partnerships and influencer marketing unit, led by Dorothea Szota, who has held roles at Lichdicht Records (Milky Chance) and MBG Premium Brands.

 

PAUL HAAGENSON NAMED PRESIDENT OF BRUCE ALLEN TALENT: Paul Haagenson, formerly President of Live Nation Canada, has been appointed President of Bruce Allen Talent. The move marks a major leadership transition at the management firm, with Canadian manager and company founder Bruce Allen stepping into the role of Chairman as the firm approaches its 50th anniversary. Haagenson officially begins on October 6, 2025, bringing decades of live music and executive experience to the storied company, which has long managed Canadian superstars such as Bachman-Turner Overdrive, Loverboy, Bryan Adams, and Michael Bublé. The firm also assisted in launching U.S. country star Martina McBride‘s career. In a statement issued by the company about the appointment of Haagenson and Allen’s transition to the role of Chairman, the firm said that its founder “has positioned the company for long-term success by being hands-on, and being incredibly loyal and supportive of his staff, giving them space to evolve. Haagenson looks forward to creating new opportunities with the talented leadership team.”

 

NETEASE CLOUD MUSIC SECURES DEAL WITH PRODUCTION COMPANY MOST CONTENTS: NetEase Cloud Music has inked a new partnership with South Korea’s Most Contents, further strengthening its Korean content library for Chinese listeners. The agreement will see more than 70 original soundtracks from hit K-dramas become available on the platform. Titles include Young Lady and Gentleman, That Year, Us, Boyhood, The World of the Married, and Love in the Moonlight. Highlights also include V‘s “Christmas Tree,” the first K-drama OST to enter the Billboard Hot 100, and Lim Young-woong‘s “Love Always Runs Away”, which continues to resonate with fans across Korea. Founded in 2014, Most Contents is a force in the OST market, claiming control of half of South Korea’s drama music sector. Beyond soundtrack production and distribution, the company is also active in drama production, content planning, and OST-focused concerts. With this deal, NetEase Cloud Music, one of China’s leading streaming platforms and a direct competitor to Tencent Music Entertainment, deepens its catalog of premium Korean repertoire for its growing user base.

 

PRIMARY WAVE MUSIC EXPANDS ITS BRAND DIVISION: Primary Wave Music has announced an expansion of its brand partnerships division, led by Chief Brand Officer Jeffrey Straughn, with the addition of two executives and an internal promotion. Camille Hackney joins the company as Head of Brand Partnerships, based in New York, bringing decades of experience at Warner Music Group labels, EastWest Records, and Elektra Entertainment Group. Over the course of her career, including 20 years at Atlantic Records as Chief Partnerships Officer & Head of the Global Brand Partnerships Council, Hackney has developed collaborations with Fortune 500 companies such as American Express, Pepsi, Apple, Citibank, Puma, Samsung, Starbucks, Frito Lay’s/Pepsi, Google, AT&T, Stellantis, LVMH and SC Johnson as well as programs with the NBA, NFL, NHL, and NCAA. Her history of creating campaigns that deliver cultural and commercial impact will strengthen Primary Wave’s efforts to spotlight its catalog of artists. On the West Coast, Bart Saunt steps in as Senior Vice President, Brand Partnerships, based in Los Angeles. With more than 25 years in the music and branding space, including senior roles at Universal Music Group, Saunt has overseen campaigns for catalogs including Bob Marley, The Beatles, Motown, Bon Jovi, Katy Perry, Demi Lovato, OneRepublic, Blue Note, Lady Gaga, The Beach Boys, Alice Cooper, Velvet Underground, Tony Bennett, Robbie Robertson and many more. His partnerships have spanned brands like Microsoft, Sonos, Bulova, and Gatorade, and he brings experience in licensing and gaming to his new role at Primary Wave. The company also announced the promotion of Sam Sklover to Vice President, Brand Partnerships in New York. Since joining Primary Wave six years ago, Sklover has spearheaded campaigns pairing Prince with Airbnb and Boyz II Men with Chili’s, alongside deals with McDonald’s, Adidas, and Narragansett Beer. Recognized on Billboard‘s “40 Under 40” list this year, Sklover has been instrumental in building creative, high-visibility partnerships for the company’s artist roster.

 

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