MUSEXPO UNVEILS MORE SPEAKERS FOR ITS 26TH EDITION
WITH GLOBAL HITMAKER JUSTIN TRANTER, AUDEZE, CONCORD, EVENTIM LIVE, FORMAT, FOX SPORTS,
LIVE NATION, NETFLIX, POSITION MUSIC, REPUBLIC RECORDS, SAATCHI & SAATCHI, SILVA SCREEN, TIMES MUSIC GROUP (INDIA), WARNER MUSIC, WME, YUNGBLUD’S MANAGER,
AND MORE WITH A SPOTLIGHT ON INDIA
MUSEXPO “The United Nations of Music” (www.musexpo.net), the pioneering global music business conference renowned for its transformative impact on the industry, which will take place March 22 – 25, 2026, in Burbank, California continues to reveal a growing list of speakers, awards honorees, a showcase spotlight on India (which is one of the world’s fastest growing music markets), artist showcases, and much more at it celebrates its 26th global edition next year.
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. In addition, the event will highlight a special forum and panelists across the narrative “All About India” throughout the event, as well as showcasing the crème de la crème of emerging musical talent.
MUSEXPO will also return with its esteemed “International Music Industry Awards” (which originally launched back in 2012) in association with A&R Worldwide and will recognize the contributions of some of the most influential executives and creatives across core areas of the global music business in association with Visit Burbank and City of Burbank “The Media Capital of The World” during the private VIP Gala Dinner presentations.
The highly coveted “International Music Person of the Year” honorarium will be presented to one of the most influential booking agents in the world – Kirk M. Sommer, Senior Partner/Global Co-Head of Music, WME. In addition, the annual Seymour Stein “Global A&R Award,” will be bestowed upon the highly respected and influential Kim Frankiewicz, Executive VP, Worldwide A&R, Concord Music Publishing. Also, the “Lifetime Achievement Award” will be presented to one of the world’s leading Indian-born, and British-raised music executives, who also celebrates 50 years of contributions to the worldwide music business – Reynold D’Silva, Founder & CEO, Silva Screen Group. MUSEXPO will also feature its popular Global Sync Summit, and A&R Summit, as part of its overall 2026 event program. In addition, A&R Worldwide will also be unveiling next year’s recipients of the “International Music Industry Awards,” (which first launched at MUSEXPO back in 2012), and will take place at the conclusion of the event.
MUSEXPO has unveiled a growing list of inspiring and influential executives, creatives, and companies that will participate during its 26th global edition of what is one of the world’s most impactful global music business and artist showcase events, which has remained independently organized by A&R Worldwide. More speakers from the U.S., and around the world have solidified their participation and many more will be unveiled in the next few weeks.
Confirmed speakers for next year’s event already include Alexandria Schammel, Manager, Music, Fox Sports Music; Allan Klepfisz, Chairman & CEO, FENIX360; Amanda Grocky, Head of Publishing, Format Entertainment; Amy Dunning, Vice President, Music, Netflix; Ana Capuano, Music Coordinator, American Idol; Arnold P. Peter, Founder & Managing Partner, Peter Law Group; Bekki Newton, Sr. Coordinator, Music Clearance & Licensing, Fox Sports; Cheapshot, Founder, The Math Club / Music Producer & Creative Director, Format Entertainment; Christian Zabala, Music Supervisor, Format Entertainment; Clive Dickens, Founder & CEO, The Meliora Company; Dave Jordan, Founder & CEO, Format Entertainment; David O’Connor, Vice President, Artist & Business Development, Live Nation; Erica Farber, Former President & CEO, Radio Advertising Bureau; Eugene Galushchenko, Founder & CEO, onestop music; Gary Spivack, Sr. Executive, Eventim Live Global; Jamar Richardson, Sr. Music Coordinator, Fox Sports Music; Jarred Causly, Sr. Music Supervisor, Saatchi & Saatchi; Jason Bentley, President, Bentley Media Ventures; Jeffrey Remedios – President & CEO, REPUBLIC Collective; Jennifer Insogna, Vice President & Head of Music 360, A+E Global; Jim Thacker, Owner, Kazen Music Group; Justin Tranter, Grammy & Golden Globe-Nominated Songwriter, Producer & Activist; Justine von Winterfeldt, Head of Music Supervision, Format Entertainment; Kabiru Bello, Head of A&R EMEA / Vice President Global A&R, Warner Recorded Music; Katie Romanovich – Associate Music Supervisor, Format; Kim Frankiewicz, Executive VP, Worldwide A&R, Concord Music Publishing; Kirk M. Sommer, Senior Partner/Global Co-Head of Music, WME; Laura Katz, Founder & Music Supervisor, Supe Troop; Lauren Danielak, Music Creative Executive, Netflix; Lyndsie Chlowitz, Music Creative Executive, Live Action Original Films, Netflix; Mandar Thakur, CEO, Times Music Group (India); Marek Hojda, Board Member, Music Export Poland & President, Society of Polish Audiovisual Composers SPACe; Mark Sutherland, Presenter, The Money Trench: The Music Industry Podcast With Mark Sutherland; Mason Cooper, Music Supervisor & President, Songrunner Entertainment; Matt Logan, Sr. Coordinator, FOX Sports Music; Melissa Stern, Director, Music Supervisor & Tech Operations, FOX Sports Music; Michaela Green, Music Creative, Feature Film, Netflix; Nick Robelotto, Sr. Coordinator, Music Clearance, FOX Sports Music: Nicole De La Torriente, Vice President, Music Business Affairs & Operations, FOX Sports Music; Nora Felder, Music Supervisor / CEO, Picture Music Company; Paul Rennie OBE, British Consul General, Los Angeles; Reynold D’Silva, Founder & CEO, Silva Screen Group; Ritch Esra, Publisher & Founder, Music Registry & Co-Founder, MUBU TV; Rodrigo Contreras, Head of Sync & Creative Strategy, onestop music; Rudy Chung, Music Creative & Production, Original Film, Netflix; Sankar Thiagasamudram, Founder & CEO, Audeze; Sat Bisla, President & Founder, A&R Worldwide / MUSEXPO; Satya Hinduja – Artist & Founder, Alchemic Sonic Environment; Sean Mulligan, Music Supervisor, The Music Department; Shivam Malhotra, Founder & CEO, Malsons Media; Stephanie Urcheck, Sr. Manager, Music Supervision & Clearance, FOX Sports Music; Subramanian Iyer, Founder & CEO, Sponco; Tarsame Mittal, Founder TM & Host, The Music Podcast; Tommas Arnby, Founder, Locomotion Music Group & CEO, Special Projects (worldwide manager of Yungblud); Tyler Bacon, President & CEO, Position Music, Vivek Paul, Business & Strategic Advisor to the Founder & CEO, Malsons Media, and many more to be revealed in the coming weeks and months. Click HERE for the current list of speakers.
To register to attend MUSEXPO, sign up HERE.
For artist showcase submissions, apply HERE.
For details on sponsorships, partnerships, panelists, or additional information, contact info@anrworldwide.com.
BELLA FIGURA MUSIC NAMES GARY GERSH AS CHAIRMAN & ANNOUNCES SONY MUSIC PUBLISHING ADMIN DEAL
Bella Figura Music the music-rights company founded by former BMG U.K. President Alexi Cory-Smith, recently announced that veteran U.S. music executive Gary Gersh has been appointed Chairman as the company expands from the U.K. into the United States and establishes a Los Angeles presence.
This move comes amid a period of significant growth for Bella Figura, which has invested $160 million (USD) in acquiring and managing a collection of publishing and recording rights.
The company’s catalog includes global classics such as “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll,” The Human League‘s “Don’t You Want Me,” Robbie Williams‘ “Angels,” David Gray‘s White Ladder recordings, Aloe Blacc‘s “I Need A Dollar,” and Hot Chocolate‘s “You Sexy Thing.” It also features songs written with or performed by Adele, Amy Winehouse, Kylie Minogue, LeAnn Rimes, Keith Urban, and others, alongside the RAK Music Publishing repertoire founded in 2022.
Coinciding with Gersh’s appointment, the company also revealed a global administration deal with Sony Music Publishing (SMP). Through this partnership, SMP U.K. will manage worldwide administration for Bella Figura’s publishing assets, leveraging its global network to create new opportunities for the company’s songwriters and catalog. Sony’s international sync and licensing team will further collaborate to place Bella Figura’s repertoire in film, television, gaming, advertising, social media, and brand campaigns, broadening both creative exposure and revenue potential.
Gary Gersh, said, “Bella Figura is building the modern gold standard for catalog stewardship, artist-first, creatively engaged, and relentlessly focused on quality. Alexi and Neelesh [Prabhu] have assembled a remarkable portfolio and team. I’m thrilled to help guide the company’s next chapter, where we’ll deepen partnerships, unlock new creative opportunities, and champion the songs and recordings that continue to define culture.”
David Ventura, President & Co-Managing Director, U.K., Sr. VP International A&R, Sony Music Publishing, added, “We are fortunate to be in business with Bella Figura, and we all feel very excited to have been selected by Alexi to represent globally a truly unique catalog with only exceptional songwriters and songs. This is a key collaboration for us after an important period of discussions as it embodies the level of state-of-the-art services that we offer here at SMP. We are all looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead as our partnership grows.”
In his new role as Chairman, Gersh, whose career includes serving as President of Global Touring at AEG, CEO of Capitol Records, Founder of The Artists Organization, and a partner at Geffen Records (where he signed Nirvana, Sonic Youth, and Counting Crows), will guide global strategy and foster high-level partnerships. He joins Co-Founder and Chief Investment Officer Neelesh Prabhu, who continues to oversee Bella Figura’s investment strategy.
VINNY KUMAR NAMED PRESIDENT OF EMPIRE PUBLISHING
Vinny Kumar has been elevated to President of EMPIRE Publishing, where he will now oversee all global publishing operations and deal-making.
EMPIRE Publishing, founded by Ghazi in 2010, announced the promotion alongside its continued international expansion, which includes the launch of a new African division led by Munyaradzi Chanetsa as Managing Director.
Based at EMPIRE’s San Francisco, CA headquarters, Kumar will guide the company’s worldwide publishing strategy. Under his leadership, EMPIRE Publishing has grown into one of the leading independent publishers, representing Grammy and Latin Grammy–nominated songwriters whose work has been celebrated across the ASCAP Pop, Country, and Rhythm & Soul Awards, BMI R&B/Hip-Hop, Country, and Gospel Awards, and numerous NMPA Gold and Platinum certifications.
In 2024, EMPIRE Publishing entered the Billboard Hot 100 Publisher Rankings Top 10 for the first time. Its global roster spans Afrobeats, R&B, country, rock, electronic, K-pop, and Latin music, featuring Billy Ray Cyrus, Travis Greene, KEM, Juhn, Fireboy DML, Yung Lan, and a joint venture with Hit-Boy.
Vinny Kumar said, “Over the past few years, EMPIRE Publishing has evolved into one of the most dynamic independent publishers in the world, expanding its global footprint, delivering chart-topping success, and fostering a team that truly embodies our culture. I’m honored to lead this next chapter as we continue building for our writers, producers, and partners worldwide.”
EMPIRE Founder & CEO Ghazi added, “Vinny has been instrumental in building EMPIRE Publishing into a global force and there is no better person to lead the team. We met two decades ago, and he’s been part of the foundation of what this company stands for. He will continue to lead with integrity and creativity, and his passion for music and strategic vision have helped elevate every facet of our publishing business.”
WARNER MUSIC INDIA NAMES VIKRAM KULKARNI AS ITS NEW CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Warner Music India has hired Vikram Kulkarni as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Vikram brings over 17 years of experience in financial leadership, strategic business partnering, and governance across global and Indian enterprises. With the now-strengthened team in India, Warner Music’s APAC region will see more collaboration, helping bring music to a wider global and regional audience.
Prior to Warner Music India, Vikram served as Finance Controller at Thermo Fisher Scientific, partnering with its India & South Asia leadership team to drive sustainable growth and operational efficiency. He has also held key roles at Ernst & Young and Welspun Group, with expertise spanning financial reporting, audit, tax, and business performance management.
Vikram Kulkarni, CFO, Warner Music India said, “I’m honored to join Warner Music India during such a dynamic and pivotal time for the Indian and South Asian music markets. The company’s artist-first approach and bold vision for the future of music in India and South Asia is truly inspiring. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team to build sustainable growth, strengthen financial governance, empower creativity, and contribute to the company’s continued success in this high-potential market.”
Jay Mehta, Managing Director, Warner Music India & SAARC added, “Vikram brings a rare combination of financial expertise, strategic insight, and leadership experience that aligns perfectly with Warner Music India’s growth ambitions. I am confident that Vikram will play an instrumental role in enabling our teams, empowering creativity, and steering the company toward sustainable success in this dynamic market.”
IMPEL EXPANDS GLOBAL REACH WITH FIVE NEW SIGNINGS
IMPEL has strengthened its global presence and membership base with the addition of five new companies. The international collective licensing agency, which manages digital music publishing rights for its members, welcomes Afro Soundtrack (Nigeria), Elite Embassy Publishing (U.S.), and three U.K.-based companies, Wings Music Group, Perfectly Formed Songs, and Full Thought Publishing.
Afro Soundtrack, a Nigerian music rights management and publishing company, represents an expanding lineup of artists, songwriters, and producers across Africa, Europe, and the U.S. Its catalogue spans Afrobeats, Amapiano, R&B, hip-hop, gospel, and contemporary African pop. The company’s sync achievements include placements with Red Bull, Netflix‘s Far From Home, Ebuka Turns Up Africa, and Amazon/MGM Studios‘ Christmas in Lagos, among others.
Elite Embassy Publishing oversees hundreds of writers and nearly 30,000 songs across genres including pop, R&B, hip-hop, gospel, reggaeton, Latin, Afrobeat, reggae, and dancehall. Its catalogue includes works connected to The Wailers, Jimmy Cliff, Shabba Ranks, Buju Banton, Vybz Kartel, Popcaan, Shenseea, Koffee, and Stefflon Don. Their clients’ works also feature collaborations with Burna Boy, Ed Sheeran, Chris Brown, Eminem, Sean Paul, and DJ Khaled, among others, spanning territories across Africa, Europe, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East.
Wings Music Group, founded in the UK in 2020, serves the independent Christian and gospel community, expanding into publishing administration in 2025. Its roster features Jonathan Ogden, Hannah Hobbs, Harvest Grapevine, Moflo, and Hyper Fenton. The company also partners with churches and ministries such as Rock Harbor, New Wine, Gas Street, HTB Worship, and RMC Worship to manage their catalogues and writers.
Perfectly Formed Songs, an independent publisher based between London and the Southwest, was founded by Ellie Kading and co-managed by Alan Kading. The company represents clients including Slim Chance Music (Ronnie Lane), Simon Dine (Paul Weller, The Spitfires, The Waterboys), and I-Global Music Publishing (Tommy Scott and Franny Griffith of Space). Through its consultancy arm, it has collaborated with companies such as Abood Music, Cooking Vinyl Publishing, BMG, 4AD, and Felt Music.
Full Thought Publishing, established in 1999 alongside Tru Thoughts Records, has evolved into an independent publisher representing Tru Thoughts’ artists as well as external composers and labels. Its catalogue spans genres from funk and soul to hip-hop, reggae, drum & bass, and electronica, with artists including Alice Russell, Quantic, Flowdan, Moonchild, Hot 8 Brass Band, and Bonobo. Full Thought’s music has featured in campaigns for Apple, Google, Prada, and Nike, and in TV and film productions such as Sex Education, Orange Is the New Black, The Blacklist, and Venom 2.
Sarah Williams, CEO, IMPEL stated, “IMPEL is growing at a fantastic rate, both in terms of our global footprint and the diverse catalogue of works we represent. It brings me immense pleasure to welcome Afro Soundtrack from Nigeria, Elite Embassy Publishing from the U.S., Wings Music Group, Perfectly Formed Songs, and Full Thought Publishing from the U.K. The relationship between our members is very symbiotic, with each individual publisher bringing fresh perspectives, expertise, and of course great songs to the whole collective.”
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 Worldwide and its team have been involved in the world of sync since the mid-90s when the role and impact of the music supervisor was not widely known to the global music business. Since then, A&R Worldwide has helped music supervisors discover and land syncs with artists from Sia, Clubbed To Death (Rob Dougan), Imogen Heap (Frou Frou), All Mankind, Lily Allen, Ting Tings, Robyn, Teddybears, All Mankind, Klaxons, Vassy, The Temper Trap, Miss Li, Neil Davidge (Halo 4), and hundreds of other artists and songwriters.
Also, thanks to A&R Worldwide’s close and trusted relationships with the music supervision community, as well as its licensing work across film, TV, video games, trailers, promos, and brands, it regularly assists events around the world with curating and organizing some of the “best in class” sync forums.
A&R Worldwide was also the first organization in the U.S., and internationally to organize the annual Global Sync & Brands Summit, which launched at MUSEXPO 2010 and has since been replicated by other events.
ADAM REESE
Chicago genre-shifter Adam Reese brings bold reinvention and emotional depth to his new EP Lowdown Heights, a cinematic fusion of rock, pop, electronic, and hip-hop influences that proves him one of the most inventive new voices in alternative music. A self-producing singer, songwriter, and poet, Reese turns introspection into art, blending infectious rhythm with vivid storytelling. His reinterpretation of Beck‘s cult classic “Loser” is a standout, transforming the 1990s slacker anthem into something sleek, rhythm-driven, and emotionally charged. Reese captures the song’s outsider spirit but reshapes it through his own lens of resilience and self-discovery, giving it new relevance for a modern audience. Originally rooted in visual art, Reese discovered music as his true calling at 15 and never looked back. With Lowdown Heights, Adam Reese doesn’t just bend genres, he builds bridges between them, creating a sound that’s cinematic, fearless, and unmistakably his own. Discover Adam’s take on “Loser” HERE, and contact Adam, as he is available for signing, licensing, publishing, booking, and sync opportunities.
ALICE MERTON
Alice Merton, forever the girl with no roots, returns with her electrifying new single and visual for “Ignorance Is Bliss.” Born in Germany and raised between Canada and England, Merton has built a career on defying borders, crafting anthems of freedom, identity, and self-definition. Since breaking out with her global hit “No Roots,” she’s amassed over one billion streams, earned eight-times Platinum certifications, topped charts across Europe, and played Coachella, all as a fully independent artist. Co-written with Jenn Decilveo, Paul Whalley, and Bastille‘s Dan Smith, “Ignorance Is Bliss” marks the first glimpse of her forthcoming third album Visions, out January 16th on CIRCA/Paper Planes Int. The track is a shimmering, defiant reminder to shape your own reality and refuse to let anyone else dictate your path. With its cinematic energy and undeniable hook, it’s Merton at her most confident and creatively free. Already spinning on Alt Nation (SiriusXM), Music Choice, KTBG Kansas City, WEQX Albany, and KXTE Las Vegas, “Ignorance Is Bliss” proves Alice Merton’s vision is clearer, and louder, than ever. Take a look at the video for “Ignorance Is Bliss” HERE, and contact Gary McDonald for additional information and available opportunities pertaining to Alice Merton.
“PASSPORT APPROVED” PLAYLIST FOR Sunday, November 9th, 2025: The weekly import show is heard on more than 40 radio stations on six continents weekly including: Flux FM Berlin (Germany); NINETYSIX Radio (Indonesia); Radio Doble Nueve, Lima (Peru); Radio C Luxembourg; 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; RTÉ 2XM Ireland (national radio); 96.2 ZFM The Netherlands; WAPS/WKTL “91.3 The Summit” Akron–Canton-Youngstown, OH; 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; WSHR Long Island, NY, WRUR 88.5FM Rochester, NY; WCRU–FM Hamilton, NY; KZND Anchorage, AK; KQCJ Quad Cities, IL; Allgauhit–FM Bavaria Germany; Indie X FM Los Angeles, QCIndie Saskatchewan, Canada; WJSE Cape May/Atlantic City, NJ 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:
GOOD NEIGHBOURS – “People Need People” (Polydor Records, U.K.)
THE TULLAMARINES – “Gimme Luv” (Broken 8 Records, Australia)
SHOBSY – “Smalltown Boy” (SO Recordings, U.K.)
CIRCA WAVES – “Cherry Bomb” ([PIAS], U.K.)
GORDON’S GRANDSON – “Sunlight” (Anti-Dismal, Australia)
FLORENCE ROAD – “Break The Girl” (Warner Records, U.K.)
ALICE MERTON – “Ignorance Is Bliss” (Paper Plane Records, Canada)
ROYEL OTIS – “Car” (Ourness/Capitol, Australia)
DEAF HAVANA – “Carousel” (SO Recordings, U.K.)
VELLA – “Settle Down” (Universal Music, Sweden)
NEWDAD – “Misery” (Atlantic Records, U.K.)
KIDS RETURN – “Time To Time” (Hamburger Records, France)
RED RUM CLUB – “Wild” (Modern Sky, U.K.)
HORROR DISCO – “Asteroid Fields of Regret” (Neon Genesis Records, Denmark)
NONĒ SUNSHINE – “Nobody, Nobody” (Unsigned, U.S.)
RHETT REPKO – “Home Is Where Her Heart Is” (Unsigned, U.S.)
SKAAR – “Missing Out” (RMV Grammofon/Universal, Norway)
THE ROYSTON CLUB – “Glued To The Bed” (Modern Sky, U.K.)
MIA WRAY & GABRIELLE ALPIN – “Ghost In My Machine” (Mushroom Music, Australia)
ST. LUNDI – “Mercury” (Good Taste, U.K.)
INHALER – “X-Ray” (Polydor, U.K.)
NECKBREAKERS – “Don’t Leave Me Hangin'” (Unsigned, U.K.)
ANNA OF THE NORTH – “Waiting For Love” ([PIAS], Norway)
ADAM REESE – “Loser” (Unsigned, U.S.)
GLASS CITIES – “Issues” (Unsigned, U.S.)
ALEX SPENCER – “Where Do We Go From Here?” (Modern Sky, U.K.)
HARD LIFE – “Y3llow Bike” (Island Records, U.K.)
GRANDSON – “Self-Immolation” (XX Records, U.S.)
KARIN ANN – “I Was Never Yours” (3AM Records, Slovakia)
THE MOLOTOVS – “Today’s Gonna Be Our Day” (Marshall Records, U.K.)
LENNY – “Told Ya” (Unsigned, Czech Republic)
THE AMAZONS – “Night After Night” (Fiction Records, U.K.)
CAT SERRANO – “Sculpture” (Unsigned, U.S.)
WARNER CHAPPELL MUSIC SIGNS GLOBAL PUBLISHING DEAL WITH RISING SINGER-SONGWRITER BRENDAN WALTER: Warner Chappell Music (WCM) Nashville has signed a global publishing deal with emerging singer-songwriter Brendan Walter. In 2024, Walter released his seven-track debut project, I don’t know what I’m doing yet, and has since followed it with his sophomore release, Disappearing Days, out today. Blending elements of Texas country, folk, and turn-of-the-millennium alt-rock, the album captures a sense of nostalgia, while exploring his journey as a young adult. Originally from Dallas, Texas, Walter had a successful college and semi-professional hockey career. After completing his final hockey season, he relocated to Austin to pursue a music career and started playing shows at local venues such as The Saxon Pub, Mohawk, and Parish. In 2024, he moved to Music City to fully immerse himself in the songwriting community and shortly after released his debut project (I don’t know what I’m doing yet), followed by “If A Song Could Change Your Mind,” with Low Gap. Since then, he’s toured with WCM’s Wyatt Flores and Evan Honer. Brendan has an impressive 2.5M global career streams and garnered over 84k monthly listeners on Spotify alone. Spencer Nohe, VP, A&R, WCM Nashville who helped with the signing said, “Brendan is a rare artist whose songs feel fresh yet instantly familiar. He’s an exceptional songwriter whose humility and work ethic set him apart. We’re thrilled to welcome him to the Warner Chappell family and support him in this next chapter of his creative journey.”
PEERMUSIC SETS ITS SIGHTS ON NORWAY’S AURORA, AS IT SIGNS A GLOBAL PUBLISHING DEAL: Peermusic has announced the signing of Norwegian singer, songwriter, and producer Aurora Aksnes, known professionally as AURORA, to a global publishing agreement. The deal encompasses future compositions, further expanding Peermusic’s international roster. AURORA’s recent albums, The Gods We Can Touch (2022) and What Happened to the Heart? (2024), both released via Decca, reached the U.K. Top 10. She is also part of the launch roster for the newly revived Fontana label. In addition to her own work, AURORA has made her mark across film, television, and gaming soundtracks, contributing to projects such as Disney‘s Frozen 2, Wolfwalkers, HBO‘s Girls, Netflix‘s One Piece and Adolescence, Kaiju No. 8, FIFA 16, Sky: Children of the Light, Assassin’s Creed, and Genshin Impact. Her collaborative credits include The Chemical Brothers, Bring Me The Horizon, Jacob Collier, Wu Qing-feng, Tom Odell, and Hans Zimmer. In recognition of her artistic achievements, AURORA received the Nordoff and Robbins O2 Silver Clef Award for Contemporary Music in 2025. Harry Knyt, Head of A&R, UK, Peermusic, and Dylan Myerscough-Harris, Senior A&R Manager, Peermusic, said, “We are incredibly excited to be collaborating with a seminal artist like Aurora, who constantly evolves her creativity. Her spirit, vision, and music transcend boundaries and redefines the word ‘possible’.”
UTA INKS RITA ORA FOR GLOBAL REPRESENTATION: United Talent Agency (UTA) has officially signed Rita Ora for global representation across all areas of her career. With more than ten billion streams to her name, Ora stands as one of the U.K.’s most successful female artists, holding the record for 13 U.K. Top 10 singles, including four No.1 hits. In the United States, she’s achieved seven Top 10 placements on Billboard‘s Dance Club Songs chart, five of which reached the top spot. Ora continues to be managed by Melissa Ruderman, Dave Bugliari, and Michael Cooper of Range Media Partners. On the acting front, she is set to appear in upcoming films He Bled Neon, Voltron, and Descendants: Wicked Wonderland. Her previous film credits include the Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy and The Descendants: The Rise of Red, which became the most-watched Disney+ premiere for a Disney Channel Original Movie. In television, Ora’s work spans both scripted and reality programming, including appearances in Netflix‘s Too Much and Kung Fu Panda: The Dragon Knight. She has also become a familiar face on competition shows, serving as a panelist on The Masked Singer in both the U.S. and U.K., and as a coach on The Voice Australia. “Rita is a bona fide superstar who has shown, time and again, why she is beloved by fans worldwide,” said UTA partners and Co-Heads of Global Music, Samantha Kirby-Yoh and David Zedeck. “We’re looking forward to joining her team for this next exciting chapter.”
PRESCRIPTION SONGS ADDS A DOSE OF LUSID TO ITS ROSTER: Prescription Songs has welcomed LuSID, a multi-instrumentalist, producer, and composer, to its roster. Known for blending gritty analog textures with the energy of modern club culture, LuSID brings a fresh and fearless sound to the label. The signing was led by Cameron Kooklanfar, A&R Manager at Prescription Songs. Inspired by Nine Inch Nails and Jack White, LuSID translates that same creative intensity into the world of contemporary dance and electronic music. He has collaborated and shared stages with artists such as Ben Sterling, Beltran, and members of the Solid Grooves collective. Prescription Songs A&R Manager Cameron Kooklanfar said, “LuSID is one of those rare next-gen artists who blurs the lines between genres with ease–combining live instrumentation, electronic energy, and real creative depth. We’re thrilled to welcome him to the Prescription family and to be collaborating with him and Michael Discenza at Prime Culture on the next chapter of his sound.”
WARNER MUSIC LIVE EXPANDS FESTIVAL COLLABORATION WITH NELONEN MEDIA LIVE: Nelonen Media Live and Warner Music Live have entered into a new partnership agreement that strengthens their collaboration in festival programming and artist bookings. Under the deal, Warner Music Live, a division of Warner Music Finland, will lead on programming strategy, artist acquisitions, and contract negotiations for Nelonen Media Live’s festivals. Artist bookings will continue to be overseen in close cooperation with key industry partners and booking agencies. As one of Finland’s premier festival and event organizers, Nelonen Media Live produces a range of festivals and concerts across the country, including Himos Juhannus, Iskelmä Festival Himos, Tikkurila Festival, Suomipop Festivals in Jyväskylä and Oulu, and Kuopiorock. The company will continue to serve as the main event organizer, managing overall festival production and marketing efforts. In a joint statement, the two companies said the partnership aims to deliver “even more engaging and unforgettable festival experiences” for audiences. Beyond festivals, Nelonen Media Live and Warner Music Live will also collaborate on the co-production of major concerts. “It’s inspiring to see what the shared passion and vision of two major music industry players can achieve,” said Ramona Forsström, Managing Director, Warner Music Finland. “We’re committed to bringing festival content that is fresh, engaging, and emotionally resonant for audiences. This collaboration gives us the opportunity to offer unforgettable experiences to Finnish music lovers.”
THE MOLOTOVS SIGN A GLOBAL PUBLISHING DEAL WITH NOTTING HILL MUSIC: Hotly-tipped alt-rock band The Molotovs have inked a global publishing deal with Notting Hill Music as they set their sights on achieving a third consecutive No.1 on the U.K. physical singles chart. Under the new agreement, Notting Hill Music will oversee the band’s catalog, including their upcoming debut album, Wasted on Youth, which is slated for release on January 30th via Marshall Records. The high-energy punk trio, led by siblings Mathew and Issey Cartlidge, aged just 17 and 19, have already performed over 600 live shows, building a reputation on the U.K. circuit. Fresh off a sold-out headline show at the Electric Ballroom, The Molotovs are now dropping their latest single, “Rhythm of Yourself,” as they chase their third vinyl chart-topper in a row. Issey said, “We’re delighted to be with a company that has worked with the likes of Buzzcocks and Paul Weller. We’re so proud of the album, Wasted On Youth, but we have lots of songs already racked up and this is just the start for The Molotovs.” John Saundserson, Head of Creative at Notting Hill Music, told A&R Worldwide, “I first met Matt and Issey from The Molotovs a year ago, when their amazing manager, Ant Andrews, introduced us at their fantastic gig at Dingwalls. They asked who I was and I told them, ‘I’m your future publisher.’ One year later – here we are! The Molotovs are one of the most exciting and electrifying bands I’ve ever seen, with an energy and attitude that truly stands out in today’s music scene. I’m absolutely thrilled and proud to welcome them to the Notting Hill Music family.”
WARM “HEATS-UP” MID-YEAR REPORT HIGHLIGHTING GLOBAL DANCE-RADIO TRENDS: The newly published Global Dance Radio Insights: Mid-Year 2025 Report from WARM (World Airplay Radio Monitor), powered by the company’s radio tracking technology, offers an in-depth look at the state of electronic music on radio worldwide. The report delivers valuable intelligence for A&R teams, highlighting key trends, breakout artists, and fast-developing markets across the global dance landscape. Based on airplay data from 185 radio stations in 35 countries, analyzed using WARM’s proprietary data tools, the study uncovers how listener tastes are evolving and how independent labels are increasingly shaping the genre’s trajectory. The report identifies notable shifts, including regional airplay trends, the growing presence of international crossover hits, and measurable improvements in gender representation and diversity across dance playlists. For A&R executives, the findings go beyond numbers, offering a glimpse of where momentum forms before it’s reflected on streaming charts. By mapping the earliest signs of audience engagement, WARM’s analytics help labels and talent scouts spot emerging artists sooner and refine market-specific strategies with greater accuracy. The mid-year report also highlights a defining industry development: independent labels and new-generation producers are accounting for a larger portion of global radio play, signaling both renewed creative energy and a continued shift toward decentralization within the worldwide dance music ecosystem. WARM’s Founder & CEO Jesper Skibsby will participate at this year’s MUSEXPO focus on “Global Radio, Streaming, Podcasting & Audio Communication” panel.
POSITION MUSIC & CULTURE CLUB PUBLISHING ANNOUNCE JV SIGNING OF ROBONBASS: Tyler Bacon, Founder & CEO of Position Music, has announced the signing of producer and songwriter RobOnBass through a joint venture publishing partnership with Culture Camp Publishing, the company established by Grammy Award winning producer Camper and A&R executive Omar Grant. RobOnBass and Camper share deep roots, having first met in their hometown of Atlantic City, New Jersey, where they played together in church bands. Renowned for his bass skills, Rob earned a scholarship to the Berklee College of Music in Boston. While Rob pursued his studies, Camper was already producing and writing for some of R&B’s leading artists, including H.E.R., Mary J. Blige, and John Legend, earning a Grammy Award for his work on H.E.R.’s self-titled album. After completing his degree, Rob moved to Los Angeles, where Camper took on a mentorship role. They later joined forces with Omar Grant, an A&R executive known for shaping hits for Rihanna, Mustard, Tainy, Big Sean, and others. RobOnBass’s growing catalog highlights collaborations with artists, including Justin Bieber (“All the Way” from Swag Vol. II), Ty Dolla $ign (“Smile Body Pretty Face” feat. Kodak Black & YG), Alex Isley (“Hands”), Eric Benét & Ari Lennox (“Gaslight”), and Camper (“OOWEE” feat. Jill Scott & Ty Dolla $ign*), among other notable releases.
LEDA CHANG JOINS WMG AS SVP, GLOBAL BRAND & AUDIENCE, CATALOG: Warner Music Group(WMG) has appointed Leda Chang to the newly established position of Sr. Vice President, Global Brand & Audience within its Global Catalog division. In this role, she will collaborate closely with Kevin Gore, President of Global Catalog, and his leadership team to advance WMG’s “always-on” marketing approach, driving a cohesive, artist-focused strategy for long-term catalog growth and legacy development. Based in Los Angeles, Chang will oversee initiatives aimed at expanding audience engagement and uncovering new opportunities to reinvigorate the catalogs of WMG’s iconic artists. Chang has more than 20 years of experience in digital and social marketing, having held senior roles at Peacock, Paramount Pictures, Universal Music Group, and Edelman Digital. Before joining WMG, Chang served as VP of Social Brand Strategy at Peacock, where she led high-profile social and digital campaigns to strengthen brand visibility, boost engagement, and foster more meaningful connections with fans and culture. Prior to that, she spent five years at Paramount Pictures, where she oversaw digital marketing for the home entertainment division and managed award-winning campaigns for major releases. Her earlier career includes senior marketing roles at Universal Music Group, Edelman, Red Bull Records, and The Orchard.
PRIMARY WAVE MUSIC PARTNERS WITH THE ESTATE OF PHIL LYNOTT: Primary Wave Music has announced a new partnership with the estate of the late Phil Lynott, Co-Founder, frontman, and principal songwriter of the rock band Thin Lizzy. Through this collaboration, Primary Wave will work closely with Lynott’s estate to manage his interests in both his music publishing catalog and his recordings. The company will also provide marketing and promotional support for Lynott’s body of work, which spans two decades and includes his songs with Thin Lizzy, his solo projects, and his collaborations with other artists. In addition, the estate will gain access to Primary Wave’s licensing, sync, branding, and content creation teams. Described by Variety as “a mesmerizing frontman and an uncommonly gifted singer and songwriter,” Lynott was responsible for penning some of rock’s most enduring anthems, including “The Boys Are Back in Town,” “Dancing in the Moonlight,” and “Whiskey in the Jar.” The latter, released in 1972, became Thin Lizzy’s breakout hit, a success story made even more remarkable considering the band’s initial hesitation to record it. Five years later, “Dancing in the Moonlight,” from the Bad Reputation album, became another chart success, landing in the U.K. Top 20 and later being covered by artists such as The Smashing Pumpkins. The band’s defining track, “The Boys Are Back in Town” was released in 1976 as the lead single from Jailbreak. The song reached the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100, topped the charts in Ireland, and entered the Top 10 in both the U.K. and Canada. It earned the NME Award for “Best Single” that same year and continues to be celebrated as one of rock’s quintessential songs, with Rolling Stone ranking it among the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” and Pitchfork calling it “a perfect rock ‘n’ roll song.”
VIRGIN MUSIC GROUP EXTENDS PARTNERSHIP WITH BRAZILIAN LABEL GR6: Virgin Music Group (VMG) has announced the renewal of its successful partnership with Brazilian independent record label GR6, extending their collaboration well into the next decade. Home to artists such as Perera DJ, Nilo, MC PH, and DJay W, GR6 ranks among Brazil’s most prominent independent labels. Earlier this year, the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) placed GR6 in the Top 10 Brazilian independent labels. Founded and led by CEO Rodrigo Oliveira, GR6 has partnered with Virgin Music Group since 2020. The label is now gearing up for one of its most ambitious projects to date, “GR6 Histórias,” a 60-track compilation that reimagines some of its biggest hits. The album features new renditions of classic tracks performed by MC Livinho, MC Davi, MC Don Juan, MC Kevinho, MC Neguinho do Kaxeta, and more. The project is being developed in collaboration with KondZilla, the influential Brazilian label executive and music video producer known for shaping the sound and visuals of modern funk and urban music. “Rodrigo has built one of Brazil’s most important and enduring independent record labels by discovering and backing a collection of singular career artists who together have had an enormous impact on music culture in Brazil and around the world,” said Cris Garcia Falcão, General Manager, Latin America and Managing Director, Artist and Label Strategy at Virgin Music Group. “We are honored to be able to continue our relationship with Rodrigo and his entire team into the next decade.”
NATALIE HEMBY EXTENDS PARTNERSHIP WITH CTM OUTLANDER MUSIC: Grammy-winning songwriter Natalie Hemby has renewed and expanded her long-term partnership with CTM Outlander. The new co-publishing agreement builds on a collaboration that began four years ago, when CTM Outlander first joined forces with Hemby and acquired a sizable portion of her catalog and writer’s share. Under the renewed deal, CTM Outlander has now obtained the majority of Hemby’s remaining publishing rights and writer’s share, strengthening their ongoing relationship, and ensuring continued collaboration on both her existing and future works. Currently, Hemby is celebrating a Top 10 hit at Country Radio with Parker McCollum‘s “What Kind of Man.” Over the course of her career, she has become one of modern music’s most in-demand songwriters, credited with eight No. 1 Billboard Country hits and a roster of collaborators that includes Alicia Keys, Ed Sheeran, Kacey Musgraves, Maren Morris, Sheryl Crow, Miranda Lambert, Lady Gaga, Yola, Dierks Bentley, Rag’n’Bone Man, Lady A, Kelly Clarkson, Mumford & Sons, Little Big Town, and Labrinth. Hemby’s most-streamed songs include “Always Remember Us This Way” (Lady Gaga), “Jealous” (Labrinth), “I’ll Never Love Again” (Lady Gaga), “Heartache Medication” (Jon Pardi), and “Rainbow” (Kacey Musgraves). Additionally, Jody Williams Songs will continue to represent Natalie in her writer management relationship.
ONERPM REVS UP PROMOTION FOR NUNO ROCHA AS HEAD OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT IN MENA, LUSOPHONE & FRANCOPHONE MARKETS: ONErpm has announced the promotion of Nuno Rocha to Head of Business Development for Portugal, as well as the Lusophone and Francophone African territories and the MENA region. Previously serving as General Manager for Portugal, Rocha will now oversee the company’s continued expansion across these growing markets. As part of its global strategy, ONErpm will open a new office in Luanda, Angola, this fall. The company also revealed plans to strengthen its operations in Morocco and Tunisia while accelerating growth in Egypt. Working closely with the marketing team in Brazil, ONErpm’s Portugal office continues to provide comprehensive support for all Lusophone territories across Africa. According to ONErpm, Rocha’s new focus will include building a stronger marketing infrastructure across the MENA region, creating customized strategies to help artists succeed within local markets. Before joining ONErpm, Rocha founded DJ Selektion, a Vidisco-affiliated label, where he collaborated with international and regional artists including Fat Joe, Fatman Scoop, Vitor Kley, Mc Fioti, DubVision, Daniel Santacruz, Pedro Cazanova, and Boy Teddy, offering management and booking support. He also assisted in organizing Portuguese music festivals such as RFM Beach Power, in partnership with the country’s leading radio network. Rocha began his professional career at Portugal Telecom, managing national sales teams, before moving into the music industry. ONErpm credits him with signing talent to the roster, including MAGIC, Yuri de Cunha, Firebeatz, and Badoxa. Under his leadership, Hélio Batalha earned three awards at the 2025 Cabo Verde Music Awards, while Badoxa achieved over 90 million YouTube views and 60 million streams.
PETER QUINLAN NAMED MD FOR EUROPE AT AXS AS HANNAH ROUCH JOINS AS VP, MARKETING, EUROPE: AEG‘s ticketing arm, AXS, has announced two leadership appointments as it continues to expand its footprint across Europe. Peter Quinlan has been appointed Managing Director, Europe, and Hannah Rouch joins as Vice President, Marketing, Europe, both newly created roles aimed at strengthening the company’s European operations. Based in London and reporting to Blaine Legere, President, International, Quinlan will oversee AXS’s business across Europe, driving growth and operational alignment while executing a unified regional strategy. Rouch, also based in London, will lead AXS’s marketing efforts throughout Europe, collaborating closely with Quinlan to enhance brand visibility, innovation, and engagement across all territories. Quinlan brings two decades of experience from Live Nation Entertainment, where he held senior leadership roles across marketing, sponsorship, and ticketing in international markets. Most recently, he served as a Global Executive at Ticketmaster for four years, overseeing initiatives in commercial partnerships, payments, fraud prevention, and ancillary revenue. Reporting directly to Quinlan, Rouch will be responsible for driving marketing growth and brand strategy across the region. She joins AXS from Gumtree/eBay, where she led a major brand repositioning effort. Her background also includes senior roles at Motors.co.uk and Bauer Media, bringing a mix of media, digital, and agency expertise to her new position.
WME MUSIC FOR VISUAL MEDIA DEPARTMENT JOINS FORCES WITH ALLEGRO TALENT GROUP: William Morris Endeavor‘s (WME) Music for Visual Media division and Allegro Talent Group announced today that Allegro will officially join WME, combining forces to create a powerhouse film and television music department. Founded in 2012 by Patty Macmillan, Allegro is a boutique agency known for representing leading composers and music supervisors. This merger unites two rosters of accomplished, cross-disciplinary composers whose talents span touring, production, songwriting, and directing. Allegro Founder Patty Macmillan and agent Lauren Kahler will come aboard WME, continuing to manage their existing clients while gaining expanded opportunities across film, television, gaming, live performance, and other creative fields through WME’s collaborative network. WME partner Bradley Rainey will remain at the helm of the Music for Visual Media department. Collectively, WME and Allegro’s clients have claimed six of the past seven Oscars for “Best Score.” Allegro’s lineup, including Hildur Guðnadóttir (Joker, Chernobyl), Volker Bertelmann (All Quiet on the Western Front, Conclave), Clément Ducol and Camille (Emilia Perez), Dustin O’Halloran (Eleanor the Great, Lion), and Natalie Holt (Loki), will now join WME’s roster, which features Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross, Ludwig Göransson, Jonny Greenwood, Max Richter, and Mica Levi.
STEVEN LANKENAU TO LEAD CONCORD’S BOOSEY & HAWKES; JANIS SUSSKIND OBE TO STEP DOWN: Boosey & Hawkes, the classical music publisher owned by Concord, has announced a leadership transition that will take effect in 2026. Janis Susskind OBE will step down as Managing Director in June 2026, concluding a 46-year tenure with the company. Steven Lankenau, currently Sr. Vice President, will be promoted to President on January 1st, 2026, and will take full leadership of Boosey & Hawkes’ international operations from July 1st, 2026. Home to over 5,000 composers and a catalog of more than 20,000 works, Boosey & Hawkes remains a cornerstone of the global classical music landscape, representing both “the timeless and the transformative,” according to Concord. Its roster includes composers such as Béla Bartók, Leonard Bernstein, Benjamin Britten, Igor Stravinsky, John Adams, Unsuk Chin, and Steve Reich, with a catalog that continues to influence both the concert hall and contemporary culture. The publisher’s music has featured prominently in projects, including Igor Stravinsky’s ballet scores in Wes Anderson‘s The Phoenician Scheme, John Adams’s compositions in Luca Guadagnino‘s After the Hunt, and Karl Jenkins‘s music in L’Oréal‘s global advertising campaign. Susskind joined Boosey & Hawkes in 1980 and became Managing Director in 2012, assisting in the company’s expansion and modernization. In 2003, she helped guide the firm through its transition from public to private ownership, securing its independence and long-term growth. Under her leadership, Boosey & Hawkes adopted a bold international strategy that resulted in a threefold increase in new-music revenues since 2004. Steven Lankenau, who joined the company in 2010 and became Sr. Vice President in 2021, currently oversees all artistic and business activities across the Americas. His achievements include spearheading the global “Leonard Bernstein at 100” centenary campaign, which generated more than 5,700 performances worldwide; signing composers such as Courtney Bryan and Gabriela Ortiz; and managing estates including Aaron Copland and Alberto Ginastera. Lankenau also aided in integrating Boosey & Hawkes into Concord following its 2017 acquisition, aligning its catalog, operations, and global strategy within Concord’s wider publishing framework.
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT: John Janick, Sol Parker, Jenna Andrews, Ron Burman, Jesse Peters, Terry McBride, Lyor Cohen, Jennifer Knoepfle, Kevin Weatherly, Mark Lieberberg, Mason Cooper, Anjula Acharia, George Ergatoudis, and Jamie Oborne.
