A&R Worldwide Newsletter Vol. 911

MUSEXPO 2026 UNVEILS GLOBAL POWERHOUSE PROGRAM BRINGING TOGETHER 100’S OF LEADERS & PARTICIPANTS FROM UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP, SONY MUSIC PUBLISHING, WARNER MUSIC GROUP, WME, CONCORD, NETFLIX, AMAZON MGM STUDIOS, LIVE NATION, AEG LIVE, DREAMWORKS, TIMES MUSIC GROUP (INDIA), MILK & HONEY, BILLBOARD, YUNGBLUD’S MANAGER, MALSONS MEDIA (INDIA), POSITION MUSIC & MANY MORE

 

 

 

 

 

MUSEXPO “The United Nations of Music” (www.musexpo.net), the pioneering global music business conference renowned for its transformative impact on the music industry, will take place March 22 – 25, 2026, in Burbank, California. Marking over a quarter-century of influence, MUSEXPO 2026 has revealed this year’s event program and will highlight future trends, movements, and evolution across all sectors of the worldwide music business landscape.

This year’s program brings together some of the world’s most influential executives and companies across A&R, live, music publishing, management, synchronization (film, TV), media, radio, digital, booking, distribution, and much more, including a special focus on India with the “All About India” forum. You can review the MUSEXPO 2026 event program HERE.

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 key sectors 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. There is a limited number of tickets available – further details are available upon registering HERE.

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 this 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 2026 will look to deliver an unparalleled overview of the global music business from A&R, publishing, digital, AI, streaming, brands, sync, live, management, distribution, multi-media, technology, marketing, radio, and much more, in an intimate networking experience that its flagship event is world renowned for, while also delving more deeply into the most important aspect of our global music business – the songs and the artists.

The full event program for the various panels, keynotes, awards luncheons, showcases, networking receptions, and more for MUSEXPO 2026 can be found HERE.

MUSEXPO 2026 has unveiled that more influential executives, creatives, and companies that will participate at the 26th global edition of what is one of the world’s most inspiring, influential, and impactful global music business and showcase events, which still to this day has remained independently organized by A&R Worldwide.

 

 

Confirmed speakers for this year’s event include Adam Taylor, President & CEO, APM Music; Alaap Gosher, Co-Founder & Director, TM Ventures (India); 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; Andy Gowan, Music Creative & Production, Netflix; Anurag Rao, Founder & CEO, Chain Reactor Music & Media (India); Arnold P. Peter, Founder & Managing Partner, Peter Law Group; Aton Ben-Horin, Executive Vice President, A&R, Warner Music Group; Bekki Newton, Sr. Coordinator, Music Clearance & Licensing, Fox Sports; Bob Bowen, Worldwide Head of Music, Film & Series, Amazon MGM Studios; Cheapshot, Founder, The Math Club / Music Producer & Creative Director, Format Entertainment; Christian Zabala, Music Supervisor, Format Entertainment; Clark Adler, A&R Creative, Sony Music Publishing; Clive Dickens, Founder & CEO, The Meliora Company; Danica Bates, VP, Creative Music Strategy, Paramount Global; Dave Jordan, Founder & CEO, Format Entertainment; David O’Connor, Vice President, Artist & Business Development, Live Nation; Domenico Randazzo, Client Relations Specialist, Chartmetric; Erica Farber, Former President & CEO, Radio Advertising Bureau; Eugene Galushchenko, Founder & CEO, onestop music; Gary Spivack, Sr. Executive, Eventim Live Global; Gaurav Sharma, Founder & CEO, Hook; George Garner, Editor-In-Chief, Music Week (U.K.); H. Alan Scott – Sr. Editor, Newsweek; Jamar Richardson, Sr. Music Coordinator, Fox Sports Music; Jarred Causly, CEO & Sr. Music Supervisor, Synch Different; Jason Bentley, President, Bentley Media Ventures; Jeffrey Remedios – President & CEO, REPUBLIC Collective; Jennifer Insogna, Vice President & Head of Music 360, A+E Global; Jesper Skibsby, Founder & CEO, WARM (Worldwide Airplay Radio Monitor); Jenn Tolman Hurst, Sr. Vice President, Talent Management, MDDN; Jill McCutchan, Music Creative Production, Netflix; Jim Thacker, Owner, Kazen Music Group; Jonathan Griffit, Co-Founder & CEO, Zooly.ai; Justin Tranter, Grammy & Golden Globe-Nominated Songwriter, Producer & Activist; Justine von Winterfeldt, Head of Music Supervision, Format Entertainment; 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; Lisa Worden, Sr. VP Rock & Alternative, iHeartMedia / Program Director, ALT 98.7 – LA’s Alternative Rock; Lucas Keller, Founder & President, Milk & Honey Music + Sports; 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; Melinda Newman, Executive Editor, West Coast & Nashville, Billboard; Melissa Stern, Director, Music Supervisor & Tech Operations, FOX Sports Music; Michaela Green, Music Creative, Feature Film, Netflix; Mo Ghoneim, President, Billboard U.K. & Billboard Canada / Founder, ArtsHouse Media Group (AMG); 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; Russell Manning, Senior Coordinator, Creative Music Strategy, Paramount Global; 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, Wendy Goldstein, Chairwoman & Chief Creative Officer, Republic Records, and many more to be revealed in the coming weeks and months. Click HERE for the current list of speakers.

The event will take place at the decadent Castaway venue in Burbank, for an ultimate networking, creative, and business experience. Castaway is one of Southern California’s most provocative and exciting unique event properties and upscale restaurants, featuring breathtaking views and a renewed positive energy and vibe, ready to deliver a world-class experience to 2026’s attendees.

To register to attend MUSEXPO, sign up HERE (A&R Worldwide newsletter readers can receive a 10% discount – contact dusty@anrworldwide.com for more information).

For details on sponsorships, discounted hotel room bookings, or additional information, contact info@anrworldwide.com.

 

 

 

Kobalt has unveiled a new publishing partnership with Madverse Music, a tech-enabled music distribution, publishing, and marketing company serving over 150,000 independent artists and labels across India and South Asia. The collaboration is designed to create fresh global opportunities for music from the region, helping clients connect with audiences around the world.

As one of the fastest-growing creator platforms in South Asia, Madverse Music has developed a strong, artist-first ecosystem that supports both emerging and established creators with greater reach, resources, and career-long support. Through this partnership, Kobalt will deliver end-to-end global publishing administration to Madverse’s network of songwriters, composers, and producers, including more efficient royalty collection, improved metadata management, and increased access to international sync opportunities across more than 180 territories. The alliance strengthens Madverse’s “Independent, Not Alone” ethos by enhancing transparency, rights protection, and operational efficiency, while ensuring creators retain full ownership and creative freedom. Together, Kobalt and Madverse are shaping a more inclusive and globally connected publishing ecosystem for independent talent.

“This partnership with Kobalt represents a pivotal moment in our mission to empower India’s independent music community. For too long, Indian creators have left money on the table simply because the infrastructure to collect global royalties was broken and almost nonexistent,” said Madverse CEO, Rohan Nesho Jain. “Publishing royalties are a musician’s pension fund – they generate income long after the initial release, sometimes for generations. Through this collaboration, we are ensuring that Indian independent artists can finally access and protect these earnings seamlessly, no matter where their music is played. This is more than just collecting royalties; it’s about building sustainable careers and giving our artists the financial foundation they deserve. When independent voices are properly compensated and protected, the entire music ecosystem becomes richer and more diverse.”

Simon Moor, Managing Director APAC, Kobalt added, “Madverse has built an impressive ecosystem that supports one of the most dynamic independent music communities in the world. By combining their creator-first approach with Kobalt’s global publishing infrastructure, we are committed to ensuring Madverse songwriters and producers have the resources, accuracy, and reach they need to succeed on an international scale.”

 

 

Sony Music Publishing Nashville has completed the acquisition of leading Nashville, TN-based independent publishing and artist development company Big Yellow Dog Music (BYD). The transaction takes effect immediately, with financial details remaining undisclosed.

As part of the agreement, Sony Music Publishing Nashville will now own and administer Big Yellow Dog’s song catalog and assume publishing responsibilities for its songwriter roster. Big Yellow Dog Music was founded in 1998 by Kerry O’Neil and Carla Wallace.

The company has built a notable catalog that includes Meghan Trainor‘s “All About That Bass,” “Dear Future Husband,” “No,” and “Like I’m Gonna Lose You,” as well as Maren Morris‘ “The Bones,” “My Church,” “80s Mercedes,” and “I Could Use a Love Song.” The BYD catalog also features songs from Kacey Musgraves‘ Grammy-winning album Golden Hour, along with works recorded by artists such as Chris Stapleton, Sabrina Carpenter, Hozier, Jonas Brothers, Demi Lovato, Leon Bridges, Muna, The Black Keys, Aminé, Leon Thomas, and others.

Rusty Gaston, CEO, Sony Music Publishing Nashville said, “Big Yellow Dog has been a Music Row institution for more than a quarter century. Carla and Kerry are two of the most respected publishers in this business, and they have set the bar for independent success in Nashville and beyond. Their catalog contains some of the most performed songs over the past two decades – songs that have not just been hits but have defined careers. It’s an honor to represent this amazing collection of songs and to continue Big Yellow Dog’s legacy with future cuts coming from the catalog and new music from their standout roster.”

Over the past 26 years, Big Yellow Dog and its songwriters have achieved recognition across the industry, spanning multiple genres, earning forty-one No.1 songs, numerous Grammy awards and nominations, and honors across BMI, ASCAP, SESAC, and ACM awards.

Middlesbrough, England’s Finn Forster opens the year with “Pablo,” a heartfelt yet anthemic single that captures the emotional honesty and vocal power quickly setting him apart as one of the U.K.’s most compelling rising voices. Released via Interval Records (EMI North), the track highlights Finn’s signature soaring, soul-inflected vocal and his gift for turning deeply personal stories into widescreen moments. Written as a tribute to his best friend, “Pablo” explores friendship, separation, and reconnection with rare tenderness. Finn recounts growing up alongside his friend before an unexpected six-year absence reshaped both of their lives. The song traces that emotional distance, including loss, longing, and finally reunion, with warmth and restraint, culminating in a sense of quiet catharsis that lingers long after the final note. Since its release, “Pablo” has continued to gather momentum, landing on the BBC Radio 2 playlist, and being put forward for consideration as BBC Radio 1‘s “Track of the Week,” further underlining Finn’s growing presence around U.K. tastemaker platforms. The single follows on the heels of Finn’s Embers EP, released last spring, which marked a clear sonic evolution and earned widespread support from BBC Introducing, BBC Radio 2, Radio X, and key streaming playlists across Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. The release helped solidify Finn’s reputation as a songwriter capable of pairing vulnerability with scale. Live, Finn’s momentum has only intensified. After an almost sold-out U.K. & Ireland headline tour and standout appearances supporting Bastille, JADE at the BBC Proms, and Stereophonics on both stadium and arena runs, he has proven equally commanding on festival stages including Reading & Leeds and Kendal Calling. Discover “Pablo” HERE, and contact Chelsea Wood for all business opportunities pertaining to Finn Forster.

 

SONY MUSIC PUBLISHING PARTNERS WITH DANIEL NIGRO ON JON BUSCEMA SIGNING: Sony Music Publishing (SMP) has entered into a new global publishing agreement with songwriter and producer Jon Buscema, in partnership with Daniel Nigro via his Amusement publishing venture. Buscema’s catalog includes songs recorded by artists such as Conan Gray, Devon Again, Noah Rinker, Grace VanderWaal, and Sofia & The Antoinettes, among others. Most recently, he teamed up with Nigro to co-produce “Caramel,” a track from Conan Gray’s latest album, Wishbone. Nick Bral, Sr. VP, Creative A&R, Sony Music Publishing, commented, “Jon immediately impressed us with his high level of taste and decisive nature. As soon as we began working together, it was evident that he is a world builder who has an incredibly bright future. We are thrilled to welcome Jon to the SMP family and begin this exciting new chapter with Dan.” Jon added, “Finding the right team can be one of the more challenging aspects of navigating the music industry. With Dan, Amusement, and Sony, I’ve finally found a group of people who share a passion for developing artists and putting music first. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity and excited for what’s ahead” Originally from New Jersey, Buscema grew up playing in bands and became a fixture of the New York City music scene before relocating to Los Angeles in 2019, where his impact and momentum have grown even further. In addition to his work across artist projects, Jon has had consistent success across sync, landing placements with Apple, Google, Amazon, Netflix, HBO, Guinness, IKEA, Ford, and more.

 

PEERMUSIC SIGNS DAN LANCASTER TO GLOBAL PUBLISHING DEAL: Peermusic has entered into a worldwide publishing agreement with Dan Lancaster. Based in the U.K, Lancaster is a Grammy-nominated producer, mixer, and songwriter whose career spans more than a decade. He has established himself as a sought-after collaborator, working with artists including Muse, Bring Me The Horizon, Blink-182, 5 Seconds of Summer, One OK Rock, Three Days Grace, and The Warning, among others. Lancaster has received three Grammy nominations for his work with Bring Me The Horizon and Blink-182, and he has been twice shortlisted for “Best Producer” at the Heavy Music Awards. He began his career as the lead vocalist and guitarist of post-hardcore band Proceed, recording and producing early material from a self-built home studio. Between 2012 and 2014, Lancaster gained early recognition as a producer, songwriter, and mixer, achieving U.K. Top 40 success with Don Broco‘s Priorities, a U.K. Top 20 album with Lower Than Atlantis, and his first international credit with 5 Seconds of Summer. In 2015, he secured his first U.K. Top 10 album with Don Broco’s Automatic. That same year marked a major breakthrough when his mix on Bring Me The Horizon’s That’s the Spirit reached No.2 on both the U.K. and U.S. album charts and topped the charts in Australia and Canada. This success opened the door to further global collaborations, including Blink-182’s 2016 album California, which debuted at No.1 in both the U.K. and U.S. and earned Lancaster his first Grammy nomination for “Best Rock Album.” From 2017 through 2022, Lancaster contributed to Bring Me The Horizon’s Amo, which garnered Grammy nominations and No.1 chart positions in the U.K., U.S., and Japan, as well as Don Broco’s first U.K. No.1 album. During this period, he also worked on the Ed Sheeran and Bring Me The Horizon collaboration “Bad Habits,” which opened the 2022 BRIT Awards. Alongside his production work, Lancaster expanded into solo artistry, performing sold-out shows, and began an ongoing collaboration with Muse starting with their 2022 single “Won’t Stand Down.” He also served as a writer and producer on Bring Me The Horizon’s 2024 release Post Human: NeX Gen. In 2025, Lancaster co-wrote and co-produced Three Days Grace’s “Apologies,” which reached No.1 on U.S. and Canadian rock radio, followed by “Kill Me Fast,” which topped U.S. airplay charts. His recent work also includes co-producing, co-writing, and mixing Muse’s “Unravelling,” as well as co-writing Pendulum‘s “Save The Cat,” featured on the band’s U.K. Top 10 album.

 

JEFF TOIG NAMED CEO OF GMR & RANDY GRIMMETT ELEVATED TO EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN: Global Music Rights (GMR), the performing rights organization founded by Irving Azoff and valued at $3.3 billion (USD), has announced a change at the top of its executive team. Jeff Toig has been named Chief Executive Officer, stepping up from his previous role as Chief Business Officer. Toig takes over from GMR Co-Founder Randy Grimmett, who moves into the role of Executive Chairman. The transition occurred just over a year after GMR completed a landmark deal with private equity firm Hellman & Friedman, which valued the company at $3.3 billion. Established in 2013 by Azoff and Grimmett, Global Music Rights represents an elite roster of songwriters and composers, including Harry Styles, who recently revealed plans for his fourth studio album, Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally., set for release on March 6th via Columbia. The PRO’s catalog also includes works by Drake, Pearl Jam, Billie Eilish, Eagles, and the estates of John Lennon, Prince, and George Harrison, among others. In a statement, GMR said the leadership appointments reflect “continuity, stability, and alignment with GMR’s long-term vision.” Grimmett will continue to play an active role in guiding the organization’s strategic direction, while Toig assumes responsibility for day-to-day operations. Toig has served as GMR’s Chief Business Officer since 2018, where he led the company’s revenue generation and licensing efforts worldwide. Commenting on the promotions, Irving Azoff said, “Randy and Jeff have been working side by side for a long time, building GMR into what it is today. This is a natural evolution for GMR, which allows us to continue to set the industry standard for excellence and transparency for the world’s best songwriters and the folks who want to perform their incredible songs.”

 

NOTTING HILL MUSIC SIGNS RISING ROCK ACT MOUTH CULTURE: Emerging alt-rock band Mouth Culture have entered into a new publishing agreement with Notting Hill Music. Hailing from Leicester, England, the group has built momentum on the live circuit, earning slots at major festivals such as Reading & Leeds, Download, Slam Dunk, and The Great Escape. The band’s growing profile has also been boosted by strong radio support, with BBC Radio 1 and Kerrang! Radio backing tracks including “Ratbag” and “Picking Wings Off a Butterfly.” “I’d already heard great things about Mouth Culture from Roy but seeing them live for myself in Brighton and London completely reaffirmed it,” stated Notting Hill Music Group COO Leo Huntington-Whiteley. “You could feel the excitement around the band growing each time. Huge thanks to their lawyer Pete Bott at Blacks for helping make this happen, and to Rosie and the band for showing the faith – we are incredibly excited about what’s ahead.” In a statement, Mouth Culture said, “Signing with Notting Hill feels like a full-circle moment for us. Mouth Culture has always felt like an authentic representation of us as mates and as people. It is always about the songs first – the words, the feeling it gives you, the intent behind them – and it means a lot to partner with a team that genuinely understands that.”

 

SESAC NAMES CHRIS SHEEHAN AS VP, INTERNATIONAL: SESAC Performing Rights has named Chris Sheehan as Vice President, International. Based in the U.K., Sheehan brings more than 25 years of experience spanning artist management, music publishing, recorded music, and creator advocacy to the role. Sheehan joins SESAC following a long-standing relationship with the organization through his work as Co-Founder of Karousel Music, a multi-faceted operation encompassing management, a boutique label, publishing, and a community interest company. Through Karousel, he has collaborated closely with SESAC on a range of live and artist development initiatives, including a London showcase series launched in 2018 in partnership with the Music Managers Forum (MMF). According to SESAC, the showcase has created more than 600 live performance opportunities for emerging artists, with performers retaining 100% of their earnings. Sheehan has also curated and hosted a long-running SESAC and Karousel-branded showcase at Germany’s Reeperbahn Festival, now in its eleventh consecutive year. In his new position, Sheehan will continue the work of John Sweeney, who represented SESAC in the UK for over two decades before his passing in June 2025. Sweeney was instrumental in supporting a wide range of U.K.-based artists, including Glass Animals, Mumford & Sons, alt-J, Rex Orange County, Disclosure, and Thin Lizzy. Alongside his new role at SESAC, Sheehan continues to manage U.K. songwriter and artist Ruby Duff and remains actively involved in industry networking and professional development initiatives, such as “Industry Speed Dating” events and Music Biz #QuizWAR!. Earlier in his career, Sheehan worked at U.K. music charity Help Musicians and served on its advisory board, as well as holding a board role with the International Association of Artists and Rightsholders (IAFAR). Before moving into executive and advisory positions, he spent 17 years as a recording artist and songwriter, releasing five studio albums and collaborating with artists including Matt Deighton and Mark E Brydon. Sheehan later founded 50:50 Studios in 2005, where he worked for approximately 15 years as an engineer and producer.

 

KMG DISTRIBUTION PROMOTES ROSS ROBEY TO VICE PRESIDENT: KMG Distribution has elevated Ross Robey to the role of Vice President, a move that underscores both the company’s continued growth and Robey’s impact over the past six years. Since joining KMG, Robey has been instrumental in strengthening the company’s market position, bringing a combination of creative marketing strategies, strong industry relationships, and effective editorial pitching that has produced tangible results for artists and partners alike. His work has been central to building KMG’s reputation as a progressive, artist-first distribution company. The promotion recognizes Robey’s consistent contributions, strategic perspective, and leadership as KMG’s catalog and reach have expanded. In his new position, he will lead key initiatives spanning catalog development, partner management, acquisitions, and day-to-day operations. As Vice President, Robey will play a critical role in advancing KMG’s presence within the independent music sector, while continuing to advocate for the artists and labels that form the foundation of the company’s mission. “Ross has been instrumental in pushing our catalog to new heights,” said Frank Liwall, KMG’s President. “His creativity, his commitment to our artists, and his ability to build strong industry connections have made a lasting impact on our business. This new, elevated role is a natural next step both for recognizing the value he brings to KMG’s clients and empowering him to continue to expand KMG’s ambitions.”

 

WASTED TALENT & LONDON ON DA TRACK SIGN BERLIN-BASED PRODUCER MU LEAN: Berlin, Germany’s Wasted Talent Publishing and London On Da Track‘s All Or Nothing Publishing have announced the joint signing of producer Mu Lean, marking a brand new chapter in the producer’s rapidly ascending career. Born Ciarán Jarlath Mullan, Mu Lean is a German/Irish record producer based in Berlin whose rise has been driven by relentless consistency, creative versatility, and an instinctive understanding of modern mainstream sound. Mu Lean has already built an impressive catalog, collaborating with some of the most influential artists in contemporary music. His production credits include Travis Scott, Playboi Carti, Young Thug, 21 Savage, Kodak Black, Don Toliver, and Chris Brown, among others. Known for crafting hard-hitting, forward-thinking records that resonate across global audiences, Mu Lean continues to establish himself as a key creative force behind today’s chart-defining music. The partnership with Wasted Talent Publishing and All Or Nothing Publishing signals strong confidence in Mu Lean’s vision and trajectory.

 

BMG LAUNCHES SYNC+: BMG has announced the launch of SYNC+, a new global platform that brings together its Commercial Sync, Production Music, and Media Services into a single, unified brand. Designed as a comprehensive music-for-media offering, SYNC+ merges BMG’s catalogue, creative expertise, and services to provide a streamlined, end-to-end solution for artists, clients, and partners around the world. As the first global music company to introduce a service of this kind, SYNC+ enhances cross-regional collaboration and allows BMG to move with greater efficiency, consistency, and focus across the creative and licensing workflow. The launch marks a significant step forward in BMG’s broader ambition to scale and strengthen its music-for-media business on a global level. For artists, songwriters, and composers, SYNC+ delivers faster pitching, expanded placement potential, and stronger alignment across international campaigns. Within BMG, the new structure unites global teams, shared infrastructure, and marketing resources to drive more agile, collaborative, and impactful results. Clients gain access to BMG’s catalog of over three million songs and recordings, more than 200,000 exclusive production music tracks, and a full suite of custom creative services, alongside added capabilities such as music consultancy, talent collaborations, sonic branding, and original composition.

 

GENE WHITNEY JOINS HYBE AMERICA AS GENERAL COUNSEL: HYBE America has named Gene Whitney as its new General Counsel. In the role, Whitney will lead HYBE America’s legal strategy across North and South America, overseeing corporate governance across all divisions while supporting the company’s ongoing international expansion. HYBE America describes Whitney as an experienced executive with more than 20 years of expertise spanning music, technology, and media. His career includes senior leadership roles at Riot Games, Amazon Music, Meta, SoundCloud, Vevo, and Universal Music Group. Based in Los Angeles, Whitney is set to assume the position in early January. Whitney’s appointment represents another major executive addition for HYBE America. Whitney has joined the company from Riot Games, where he most recently served as Global Head of Music Business Affairs & Label Operations, managing global music strategy, licensing structures, and label operations across gaming, esports, and virtual entertainment platforms. “Gene brings a rare combination of legal expertise, business acumen, and a deep understanding of how music operates across emerging platforms,” said Chairman & CEO Isaac Lee, to whom he will report. “His leadership will be instrumental as HYBE continues to expand globally and elevate the value of our artists, IP, and creative ecosystem.” Gene Whitney added, “I am honored to join HYBE at such a pivotal moment. HYBE AMERICA is redefining the future of music, storytelling, and global fandom, and I look forward to contributing to the company’s next chapter of innovation and expansion.”

 

FRONTIERS LABEL GROUP LAUNCHES BLKIIBLK RECORDS LED BY MIKE GITTER: Frontiers Label Group has unveiled BlkIIBlk Records, a new label dedicated to metal, hard rock, and extreme music. The imprint launches with a roster that includes Biohazard and Megadeth, the latter set to release its self-titled final album on January 23rd. BlkIIBlk will operate under the leadership of Mike Gitter, who joins the Naples-based company to head the new label while also taking on the role of Global Head of A&R for Frontiers Label Group. Gitter brings decades of experience from senior A&R positions at Century Media, Roadrunner, Razor & Tie, and Atlantic Records. Over the course of his career, he has signed and collaborated closely with artists such as Lorna Shore, Killswitch Engage, Bad Religion, Orbit Culture, Starset, and Ice-T‘s Body Count. Alongside Gitter’s appointment, BlkIIBlk Records has announced additional signings, including Forbidden, Cro-Mags, Unto Others, and Nunslaughter, signaling an ambitious expansion into the heavier end of the rock and metal spectrum. “As Frontiers Label Group enters its 30th year, we do so with a renewed and bolder spirit,” said Serafino Perugino. “BlkIIBlk is not just a label, it is a meaningful statement of intent. We aim to push boundaries, support artists with something meaningful to say, and shape a future for metal that is as powerful as its legacy. With Mike Gitter’s experience, credibility, and passion, we are launching a true home for global metal. After 30 years in this business, my passion for building great artists and making great records has never been stronger. BlkIIBlk is the next chapter of that story.”

 

UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP NAMES HANNAH POFERL AS CHIEF DATA OFFICER: Universal Music Group (UMG) has named Hannah Poferl as its new Chief Data Officer, effective immediately. Based in Santa Monica, CA Poferl will report to UMG Chief Operating Officer Boyd Muir. Poferl joins UMG after 12 years at The New York Times, where she most recently served as the organization’s first-ever Chief Data Officer, a role she assumed in 2021. During her tenure, she also held senior leadership positions including Head of Audience and Assistant Managing Editor. In her new role, Poferl will oversee UMG’s global data and analytics strategy. Her remit includes audience development and engagement, leveraging data and AI to advance the company’s superfan strategy, strengthen connections between artists, labels, and fans, support talent discovery, and unlock long-term value across UMG’s global catalog, while also enhancing operational performance. At The New York Times, Poferl was instrumental in defining the company’s data strategy and building newsroom data practices that integrated editorial insight with analytics. Her work helped drive audience growth and engagement and accelerated the adoption of applied machine learning across the organization.

 

ROSTRUM PACIFIC INKS DEALS WITH SPOTIFY, TIKTOK & PROMOTES SAMANTHA MOORE: Rostrum Pacific, the parent company of independent label Rostrum Records, has entered into direct licensing agreements with Spotify and TikTok. At the same time, the company has formally rolled out its new distribution platform, SpaceHeater, and named Samantha Moore as President of SpaceHeater, where she will lead the platform’s operations and strategic direction. In addition to Spotify and TikTok, SpaceHeater maintains direct partnerships with Amazon Music and Tidal, alongside other major digital service providers, according to Rostrum Pacific. The announcements follow a $150 million financing secured last month to support the expansion of the company’s music catalog. As Rostrum Pacific transitions to a fully independent operating model encompassing both physical and digital distribution, SpaceHeater will now manage distribution for the entire Rostrum Records catalog, as well as catalogs owned and managed by Rostrum Pacific, including Cantora and Fat Beats. Previously, Rostrum’s catalog was distributed by ADA. Moore brings more than a decade of experience in digital distribution and data strategy, having held senior leadership roles at The Orchard, where she founded the Commercial Insights and Business Intelligence teams, and at ADA, where she served as Chief of Staff and Sr. VP of Business Operations. Rostrum says SpaceHeater is designed to address key challenges in music distribution, including complex and opaque catalog migrations, limited access to in-depth data, and under-optimized catalogs. Described as an “AI-native” platform, SpaceHeater offers real-time analytics and tools tailored for independent labels, artists, and catalog owners, supported by a team of experienced music industry professionals.

 

BMG TO RELOCATE GLOBAL HEADQUARTERS TO LUMINA BUILDING IN BERLIN: BMG has revealed plans to relocate its global headquarters to the top floor of Berlin, Germany’s Lumina building, formerly home to Galeries Lafayette, with the move scheduled for early 2027. The relocation follows the signing of a lease agreement with international real estate firm Tishman Speyer. The new headquarters will be located at Friedrichstrasse 76–78, just a short distance from BMG’s existing Berlin offices, allowing the company to maintain its strong presence in the city center. Lumina is recognized for its striking contemporary design, defined by a glass façade, and distinctive glass cone structures that flood the interior with natural light and create an open, airy environment. The building is currently undergoing extensive redevelopment by Tishman Speyer and retains the architectural identity of Jean Nouvel‘s original design while introducing a reimagined, modern use. Once completed, Lumina will provide sustainable, thoughtfully designed office spaces, along with premium amenities including a rooftop garden with sweeping views over Friedrichstrasse, secure bicycle parking with changing rooms, and dedicated event areas. The building is also pursuing multiple certifications focused on sustainability, workplace wellbeing, digital infrastructure, and mobility.

 

JOHANNA FUENTES NAMED HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS & PR AT HYBE AMERICA: HYBE America has named longtime communications and marketing leader Johanna Fuentes as Executive Vice President & Head of Communications and Public Relations, a newly established position within the company. Fuentes joins HYBE following her tenure at Warner Bros., where she most recently held the roles of Head of Global Communications for WarnerMedia Studios and Networks Group and EVP of Worldwide Corporate Communications and Public Affairs. During her time there, she oversaw communications strategy during pivotal moments such as the launch of HBO Max, pandemic-related initiatives, the rollout of day-and-date theatrical releases, and multiple executive leadership changes. Her oversight extended across Warner Bros. Pictures and Television Group, HBO and HBO Max, Turner networks, gaming, and major brands and franchise properties. Prior to Warner Bros., Fuentes spent ten years as EVP of Communications at Showtime Networks and previously led communications at Bravo during the growth of several of its signature franchises. After departing Warner Bros., Fuentes launched a consultancy advising senior executives and brands across entertainment, media, culture, politics, philanthropy, technology, and communications. Her recent work includes clients such as Regal Cineworld, Shakira‘s Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran world tour, Activision, and Blumhouse. In her new role at HYBE America, Fuentes will oversee all internal and external communications across the company’s North and South American operations. She will shape communications strategy for HYBE America’s portfolio, which includes Big Machine Label Group, Quality Control Music, its Latin American labels, U.S. Hispanic market initiatives, and its partnership with Universal Music, spanning music as well as film and television assets.

 

TUNECORE CEO ANDREEA GLEESON TO TRANSITION TO ADVISOR ROLE AT BELIEVE: Andreea Gleeson is set to step down from her position as CEO of TuneCore after spending a decade at the digital music distribution, publishing, and licensing company. She will transition into a new role as a strategic advisor at Believe, TuneCore’s parent company. Gleeson has served as CEO for five years, a period during which the company continued to expand and strengthen its position in the independent music ecosystem. Under Gleeson’s leadership, TuneCore experienced significant growth, with the company announcing in November that artists using the platform have earned a combined $5 billion (USD) since its founding in 2006. Believe has yet to name a successor to Gleeson as chief executive. However, the company confirmed that oversight of TuneCore’s leadership will remain with Romain Vivien, Believe’s Global Head of Music, ensuring continuity during the transition. In a statement, Denis Ladegaillerie, Founder and CEO, Believe, said, “We are grateful to Andreea for her leadership of TuneCore and the lasting impact she has had on the business. Over the course of her tenure, TuneCore strengthened its platform, expanded its global reach, and deepened its commitment to artist success. As part of an evolution aligned with TuneCore’s next phase of growth and Believe’s long-term strategy, Andreea will transition into a strategic advisor role for Believe, where her experience and perspective will continue to support the Group at a strategic level.”

 

ATLANTIC SCREEN GROUP SECURES $30M FOR FILM, TV SCORE, AND MUSIC CATALOG ACQUISITIONS: Atlantic Screen Group has secured $30 million (USD) in financing from Corrum Capital Management, with the funds earmarked for the acquisition of film and television scores as well as music catalogs. The new investment supports the London, England-based music, and media company’s continued expansion in the screen music space. Atlantic Screen Group has been actively building its portfolio, focusing on music assets tied to projects with long-term revenue prospects. During 2025, the company acquired score rights to more than 25 feature films, including productions starring Sydney Sweeney (Christy), Jason Statham (Shelter and Mutiny), and Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Fuze). These acquisitions span both major studio releases and independent films, reflecting a strategy centered on diversification and sustained value. In addition to acquiring screen music assets, Atlantic Screen Group operates Copyright Administration Services, a publishing administration arm that provides royalty collection and catalog management for more than 50 clients worldwide. The subsidiary continues to expand its client base each year, according to the company. Corrum Capital, a U.S.-based private investment firm, specializes in lending across music, entertainment, and sports. Since its founding, the firm has originated more than $1.4 billion in customized loans for those sectors, backed by a broad investor base that includes pension funds, endowments, insurance companies, family offices, and fund-of-funds.

 

DEREK COURNOYER NAMED HEAD OF STRATEGY, MUSIC BUSINESS AFFAIRS AT ELEVENLABS: Derek Cournoyer is making the move from independent publisher Kobalt to AI music company ElevenLabs. The company has confirmed his appointment as Head of Strategy, Music Business Affairs, a role that places him at the center of ElevenLabs’ growing music initiatives. ElevenLabs operates Eleven Music, an AI-powered music creation platform that competes with Suno and Udio, while differentiating itself by training its models exclusively on legally licensed recordings. ElevenLabs has also formed a separate partnership with independent licensing body Merlin. Based in Los Angeles, CA, Cournoyer will be responsible for helping define ElevenLabs’ music business strategy and overseeing relationships with record labels, music publishers, and collection societies worldwide. He joined the company after ten years at Kobalt, where he most recently held the position of Sr. VP, Global Digital Business, a role he assumed in July. During his tenure at Kobalt, Cournoyer was instrumental in advancing the company’s AI and creator-economy initiatives and led major deals and partnerships with platforms including Meta, TikTok, and YouTube.

 

MUBUTV MUSIC BUSINESS INSIDER PODCAST TO HOST A CONVERSATION WITH BOB EZRIN: The MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast invites listeners to experience an extraordinary, in-depth conversation with producer Bob Ezrin, one of the most influential creative architects in the history of recorded music. Few figures have shaped the sound, ambition, and emotional scope of popular music as profoundly as Ezrin, whose work spans more than five decades and bridges generations, genres, and cultural movements. From Pink Floyd‘s The Wall to KISS‘s Destroyer, and from Alice Cooper and Lou Reed to Peter Gabriel, Nine Inch Nails, Jane’s Addiction, and Andrea Bocelli, Ezrin’s legacy is defined not merely by iconic records, but by a philosophy of creation. He did not simply produce albums, he transformed them into immersive, cinematic narratives, elevating the album format into a storytelling medium capable of lasting cultural impact. In this rare and revealing interview with MUBUTV hosts Ritch Esra and Eric Knight, Ezrin reflects on a career spent shaping both sound and sensibility. He speaks candidly about mentorship and psychology in the studio, navigating ego and vulnerability, and leading artists toward their most honest work. He also examines how he has adapted through dramatic technological and industry shifts, offering insight into longevity in an ever-changing business. At its core, this conversation is about curiosity, reinvention, and the discipline of creativity. More than an interview, it is a masterclass in art, leadership, and endurance, an essential listen for anyone passionate about music and its future. View the interview HERE.

 

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