A&R Worldwide Newsletter Vol. 913

THE 68^TH ANNUAL GRAMMY AWARDS RECAP

 

 

 

 

 

At the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA, the global music community convened to celebrate excellence across genres, cultures, and creative disciplines. The evening was defined by boundary-pushing wins, historic milestones, and performances that reflected the increasingly international scope of contemporary music.

Among the night’s most significant triumphs was Bad Bunny, whose album DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS earned Album of the Year, marking a watershed moment for non-English-language music at the Grammys’ highest level. The win reinforced his status as one of the most influential global artists of his generation and underscores the Academy’s expanding embrace of international voices.

In the evening’s top songwriting honor, Billie Eilish and FINNEAS won Song of the Year for “WILDFLOWER,” recognizing a composition that resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. Record of the Year was awarded to Kendrick Lamar and SZA for “Luther,” while Lamar further dominated the rap categories, winning Best Rap Album for GNX and Best Rap Song for “TV Off,” continuing his legacy as one of hip-hop’s most impactful and influential artists. With these wins, Lamar further solidified his standing as one of the most awarded hip-hop artists in Grammy history.

The Best New Artist award was presented to Olivia Dean, whose soulful body of work and compelling artistry have resonated widely over the past year. Her acceptance speech, centered on authenticity and creative purpose, stood out as one of the evening’s most heartfelt moments.

Elsewhere, the ceremony delivered historic and genre-spanning highlights. The Cure earned their first Grammy Awards, taking Best Alternative Music Album for Songs of a Lost World and Best Alternative Music Performance for “Alone,” a long-overdue recognition of the band’s enduring influence. FKA twigs captured Best Dance/Electronic Album for EUSEXUA, Turnstile won Best Rock Album for Never Enough, and Leon Thomas emerged as a breakout winner in R&B, claiming Best R&B Album for Mutt. Lady Gaga added to her storied career with a win for Best Pop Vocal Album for Mayhem.

Hosted once again by Trevor Noah, the broadcast balanced spectacle with reflection, celebrating both legacy artists and forward-thinking innovators. A particularly notable milestone came when Steven Spielberg achieved EGOT status following his Grammy win for Music by John Williams, adding another historic chapter to the evening.

As the night drew to a close, the 68th Annual Grammy Awards captured a music industry in motion – one that honors its legends while increasingly elevating global voices, bold creativity, and new perspectives shaping the future of music.

Read the full nominees and winners lists of this year’s Grammy Awards HERE.

 

 

 

[PIAS] has named Edwin Schröter as Chief Executive Officer of the [PIAS] Label Group. A veteran of the company for more than 25 years, Schröter steps into the role from his previous position as Group Managing Director, where he led both the [PIAS] Label Group and Integral Distribution Services.

In conjunction with the appointment, [PIAS] Co-Founder Kenny Gates moves into the newly established role of Executive Chairman. In this capacity, Gates will continue to provide strategic leadership while working closely with Schröter, the board, and the broader executive team.

The leadership update comes as [PIAS] further refines its positioning as a dedicated label group. Following the integration of Integral Distribution Services with Virgin Music Group, [PIAS] will operate exclusively as a music-first, artist-centric label organization, with a long-term focus on career development.

Established in Belgium in 1982, [PIAS] has evolved into one of the leading independent music companies globally, with a strong international presence and a wide-ranging roster of artists and label partners. The changes follow the recent retirement of longtime CFO, and COO Nick Hartley, with Aubry Caeymeax named as his successor as Chief Financial Officer.

“[PIAS] has always been a truly music-first company, created by two visionary entrepreneurs whose drive and commitment to artists, labels and their teams still inspire us every day,” said Edwin Schröter. “I feel incredibly fortunate to have spent 25 years of my career here, working alongside one of the best teams in our industry and serving the exceptional artists and labels we have been privileged to support. I’m excited to step into this role, continuing to work closely with Kenny in leading the company, as [PIAS] repositions itself as an autonomous label group. With renewed focus and ambition, we will continue to build on [PIAS]’s extraordinary legacy, growing a thriving business and a premier home for exceptional artists from around the world.”

Kenny Gates said, “This transition reflects clarity of focus and long-term continuity for the business. It is a well-deserved promotion for an exceptional executive who has been for years a key to the success and the changes that we have seen and enjoyed during the last couple of decades. I look forward to continuing to work closely with Edwin and the wider leadership team as [PIAS] grows and evolves, while staying true to the values that have defined the company since its foundation. [PIAS] has always been built on creative independence, long-term thinking, and close collaboration.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

Warner Chappell Music (WCM) has named David Checa as Managing Director of WCM Colombia.

In the role, Checa will report to Gustavo Menendez, President of U.S. Latin & Latin America, and lead a regional roster that includes Bull Nene, Casta, Vicente García, Santiago Cruz, Juan Pablo Vega, Piso 21, Timø, and more. He joins Warner Chappell from ONE Publishing, where he most recently served as Global Head of Publishing & Rights Management.

Checa brings leadership experience across the Latin American music industry. His background includes a decade as CEO of Ecuador’s authors’ society SAYCE and neighboring rights organization SOPROFON, as well as serving as President of Colombia’s music publishers’ association, ACODEM. Earlier in his career, he led Sony Music Publishing‘s operations throughout Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, and Central America, excluding Mexico.

Guy Moot and Carianne Marshall, Co-Chairs of WCM, said, “David is a seasoned professional who understands both the art and the business of music publishing. As Colombia’s influence on the global charts continues to grow, we’re confident that David is the right person to lead our operations and champion our writers in this vital market. We’re delighted to have him on board.”

Gustavo Menendez, President, US Latin & Latin America, WCM, added, “I’ve known David Checa for many years, and it’s a pleasure to officially welcome him as managing director in Colombia. David brings a deep understanding of the market, strong leadership, and a genuine passion for the music business and the creative community. I’m thrilled to be working closely with him in this new chapter for our Colombian office.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Daily J recently unleashed “Hopetown,” a nostalgic, blue-collar indie anthem that captures the beauty, chaos, and quiet romance of Auckland’s nightlife. Named after the tucked-away street off K Road. Taken from the Scatterbrains (On Second Thought) deluxe album, “Hopetown” blends dreamy indie-pop textures with relaxed grooves and sun-soaked melodies. Shimmering guitars, smooth vocals, and an easy sense of momentum give the song its escapist pull, while a subtle ’80s-inspired sax line adds a knowing wink of nostalgia. It’s a track about chasing feelings, losing time, and finding your people in the in-between hours. For vocalist Jayden Paul, the song is deeply rooted in place. “Hopetown was a special spot for us off K Road,” he says, an ironic refuge where misfits gather to forget the world for a night or two. That tension between romance and reality runs through the song, grounding its optimism in something lived-in and real. Since the original release of Scatterbrains, the Sydney-via-Auckland outfit have continued to broaden their sound and reach, channeling the warmth and vibrancy of the southern hemisphere into a run of effortlessly melodic indiepop. With “Hopetown,” Daily J bottle a moment, part love letter, part escape, cementing their knack for turning specific places and shared experiences into songs that feel universally familiar. Listen to the track HERE, and contact Matt Harvey, management for Daily J, for additional information. For booking, contact Marlon (U.K. & E.U.), Brandon (North America), Evan (Australia/Asia), Julian (New Zealand), and for broadcast media, reach out to Robb.

 

BMG NAMES CELINE JOSHUA AS EVP, GLOBAL MARKETING & STREAMING: BMG has elevated Celine Joshua to EVP, Global Marketing & Streaming, broadening her remit to encompass the company’s worldwide marketing strategy and digital service provider partnerships. In this expanded role, Joshua is responsible for aligning BMG’s global marketing and streaming initiatives across 18 offices in 13 major international markets. She will also continue to oversee global marketing operations, content and creative, and audience insights and analytics, bringing these functions together under a unified, data-led framework aimed at amplifying the impact of artists, songwriters, and catalog on a global scale. Her responsibilities further include driving the evolution of BMG’s digital infrastructure, deepening fan engagement strategies, and accelerating innovation across emerging AI technologies and new commercial formats. Since joining BMG in 2024 as EVP, Global Marketing, Joshua has been a key architect of the company’s digital-first transformation, helping modernize its approach to artist development. She has spearheaded global campaigns and fan experiences for a range of artists across both frontline and catalog rosters. Joshua has also assisted in expanding BMG’s streaming and platform business, contributing to the development of its direct licensing ecosystem and unlocking new creative and commercial opportunities for artists at every stage of their careers. Before BMG, Joshua served as EVP of Commercial Innovation & Artist Strategy at Universal Music Group, where she worked across the global recorded music organization to design next-generation artist experiences, brand partnerships, and new revenue models. Her industry accolades include recognition on Billboard‘s Power 100 and Women in Music lists, as well as Variety‘s Women’s Impact Report.

 

PRESCRIPTION SONGS SIGNS TUNDRA: Prescription Songs has signed emerging hip-hop artist, producer, and songwriter Tundra in a deal led by A&R Lauren Kennedy. A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Tundra, born Jaden Martin, is quickly gaining attention for a sound that fuses mainstream accessibility with Southern trap influences and underground grit. As both a creator and collaborator, he has collaborated with producers including BankrollGotit, Kid Hazel, 10Fifty, ThankUTimmy, and Richie Souf, building a catalog that spans high-energy anthems and hard-hitting tracks. His music has also landed key sync placements, including on HBO Max‘s Rap Sh!t, with songs featuring artists such as Rico Nasty, Guapdad 4000, and Cozz. “I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to work with a creative who is shaping the future of music!” adds Prescription Songs’ Lauren Kennedy. “Tundra’s energy, consistency, and dedication to his craft is unmatched and a constant reminder of why I love what I do!”

 

HARTWIG MASUCH NAMED CHAIRMAN OF HYPH: Swedish music platform Hyph has named Hartwig Masuch, Founder of BMG, as its incoming Chairman, with the appointment set to take effect in April 2026. Led by CEO and acclaimed songwriter Andreas Carlsson, Hyph is developing interactive, value-added music services aimed at supporting industry growth as subscription streaming reaches maturity. Central to the platform is a vast library of millions of fully owned, human-created musical elements, described as the “building blocks of popular music.” Hyph’s first product, currently being piloted across the Nordics, the U.K., Sub-Saharan Africa, and Latin America, is an app that enables fans to create original songs using these building blocks. Additional products in development include a direct-to-consumer marketplace where artists can sell vocal lines, hooks, and other musical components, as well as APIs designed to help labels activate catalogs and deepen fan engagement. Masuch, who scaled BMG from a three-person startup in 2009 into a global business generating more than $900 million (USD) in revenue by 2023, joins Hyph immediately in an advisory role and will step into the Chairman position in April 2026.

 

UMPG AND NWS MUSIC GROUP SIGN PUBLISHING DEAL WITH ZACH NAHOME: Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) has partnered with London-based NWS Music Group to sign songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Zach Nahome to an exclusive global publishing agreement. Nahome has an expansive catalog as a writer, producer, and arranger, and most recently served as executive producer on Olivia Dean‘s second album, The Art of Loving, producing across the project. The album features “Man I Need” and “A Couple Minutes,” both co-written and produced by Nahome. “Man I Need” marked Dean’s first U.K. No.1, her first U.S. Platinum certification, and peaked at No.4 on the U.S. Hot 100, where Nahome currently holds the top spot on the Producers Chart. Beyond his work with Dean, Nahome has collaborated with artists including PinkPantheress, Loyle Carner, Justin Bieber, Maverick Sabre, Slowthai, Teezo Touchdown, Bakar, Celeste, Biig Piig, and Tendai. His music has also powered sync campaigns for brands such as Apple, Calvin Klein, Chanel, Lexus, EA Sports, Beats, Zillow, Flannels, and Burberry. Pete Simmons, UMPG’s Head of A&R, U.K., said, “Zach is an endangered species. Songwriters with taste and execution at his level don’t come around very often, and getting to know him and his process the past few months has been a joy. It’s a pleasure to be on his team alongside his manager, Laura Singer, and our friends at NWS.”

 

PULSE MUSIC GROUP HIRES SAUL FITTON TO LEAD ON U.K. SIGNINGS AND CREATIVE STRATEGY: Pulse Music Group has named Saul Fitton as Sr. VP & Head of Creative, U.K.. Based in London, Fitton will lead creative strategy for Pulse’s U.K. publishing roster, overseeing the signing and development of songwriters and producers. He will report to co-CEO Scott Cutler and President Ashley Calhoun. Fitton has more than ten years of experience across A&R, music publishing, and artist, writer, and producer management. He joins Pulse following his role as Senior Director of A&R at Sony Music Publishing and previously served as A&R Manager at Warner Chappell Music. Across those roles, his signings have included Ari Pensmith, Lostboy, Cleo Tighe, Mimi Webb, Pablo Bowman, Gracey, FLO, and Myles Smith. He has also collaborated closely with artists and writers such as Dan Smith of Bastille, Tom Grennan, Anne-Marie, Tom Mann, Phil Plested, Charlotte Plank, and James Vincent McMorrow. Fitton began his career in management and A&R working with Fraser T Smith. Scott Cutler, Co-CEO Josh Abraham, and Ashley Calhoun said, “Saul has a proven record of discovering, signing, and developing internationally successful songwriting, production, and artistic talent. What truly sets him apart is his ability to create innovative opportunities and to stand up for the commercial and artistic needs of his writers. We know that our writers will benefit from his exceptional dedication to their careers.”

 

GILBERTO GIL CATALOG ACQUIRED BY PRIMARY WAVE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH NAS NUVENS MUSIC GROUP: Primary Wave Music, in partnership with Brazil-based Nas Nuvens Music Group, has teamed up with legendary Brazilian composer, singer, and guitarist Gilberto Gil to acquire his music catalog. The companies describe the deal as one of the most significant to emerge from South America, combining one of the region’s largest music transactions with the legacy of one of Brazil’s most influential cultural figures. The partnership aims to preserve and expand Gil’s legacy while accelerating the international reach of his music, introducing his catalog to new generations, platforms, and global audiences. It builds on decades of careful stewardship by Gil’s wife, Flora Gil, and the team at independent label Gege. With a career spanning over six decades and more than 60 albums, Gil helped define the Tropicália movement and reshape Latin music. His songs, including “Vamos Fugir,” “Aquele Abraço,” “Toda Menina Baiana,” and “Andar com Fé,” have become integral to Brazil’s cultural identity. He has earned two Grammy Awards, nine Latin Grammys, and was the first Latin American recipient of the Polar Music Prize in 2005. Gilberto Gil has collaborated with legends such as George Harrison, Stevie Wonder, and Sting, recorded a Brazilian version of “No Woman, No Cry,” and helped introduce reggae to Brazil, collaborating with Jimmy Cliff and The Wailers. In 2025, at 83, he launched his farewell tour Tempo Rei, which continues through 2026, including a headline performance at Rock in Rio.

 

CONCORD PROMOTES ANDY SERRAO TO LABEL GROUP CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER: Concord has elevated Andy Serrao to Chief Creative Officer of the Concord Label Group, effective immediately. Reporting to CEO Tom Becci and based in Los Angeles, Serrao will lead A&R and strategic marketing initiatives across Concord’s label portfolio, including Fearless Records, Concord Records, and Rounder Records. Serrao joined Fearless Records shortly after the label became part of Concord, having been brought on by Founder Bob Becker and swiftly promoted to President. In that role, he played a key part in shaping the label’s creative direction and growth within the alternative and rock space. Under Serrao’s leadership, Fearless and its team have driven the success of artists such as Ice Nine Kills, I Prevail, Pierce the Veil, and The Pretty Reckless, delivering strong chart performances and sustained impact on rock and alternative radio. “As CCO of Concord Label Group, Serrao will focus on widening Concord’s A&R lens and expanding the creative expectations for each of its label imprints,” said a statement. “His mandate includes broadening the sonic scope of the rosters and ensuring Concord remains the strongest possible label partner for its artists – one that understands every aspect of artist development and building a lasting career, not just album release cycles.” Concord Label Group CEO Tom Becci added, “Andy’s success at Fearless over the past seven years, along with his ability to build and lead an exceptional team and artist roster, made him the obvious choice for this role. He embodies the kind of creative leadership we value – direct, intentional, and grounded. I’m excited to watch him step into this challenging new position.”

 

PRIMARY WAVE MUSIC ANNOUNCES INVESTMENT IN MUSIC FINANCING PLATFORM RUN: Primary Wave Music announced a strategic investment in music financing platform RUN. The investment marks RUN’s first institutional backing and its largest source of capital since launching in 2023. With Primary Wave’s support, RUN will be able to pursue advance and financing opportunities of up to $25 million (USD) per transaction for both emerging and established artists, producers, songwriters, and other proven creators. RUN was founded by Diego Farias and Christoffer Mård to provide flexible financing solutions across the music ecosystem, from short-term advances to full catalog acquisitions for artists, labels, and rights holders. To date, the company has deployed tens of millions of dollars to hundreds of artists across five continents. RUN’s proprietary platform combines extensive historical data with machine learning models to deliver highly accurate music rights valuations. By pairing RUN’s technology with Primary Wave’s decades-long expertise, global relationships, and deep knowledge of music rights, the partnership is expected to significantly accelerate RUN’s deal sourcing, execution, and growth. At the same time, Primary Wave gains access to innovative music technology and a data-centric underwriting model that strengthens deal selection, enhances forecasting accuracy, and complements its broader investment and acquisition strategy.

 

VITTORIO COPPOLA & LUCA STOCCO SIGN PUBLISHING DEAL WITH BMG: The Italian production duo Vittorio Coppola (aka Vito Salamanca) and Luca Stocco have signed a publishing agreement with BMG. Vittorio and Luca have a strong artistic background and demonstrate boundless versatility. They have a vision that blends contrasting genres and soundscapes seamlessly. Following their successful debut with the hit “Halo,” performed by Samurai Jay, they will bring the song “Ossessione” to the prestigious 2026 Sanremo Festival stage. They are distinguished by their contemporary production approach and genre-defying songwriting. Drawing from a rich tapestry of influences, including funk, ’80s pop, fusion, and classic singer-songwriter traditions, they infuse their compositions with the vibrant energy of Naples. Antonio Cortesi, A&R Publishing, BMG, tells A&R Worldwide “We look forward to a long and fruitful partnership with Vittorio and Luca, and we anticipate the exciting creative endeavors that lie ahead. We warmly welcome Vittorio and Luca to our publishing roster.”

 

BROKE RECORDS LAUNCHES BROKE PUBLISHING, NAMES BRENNEN BRYANT AS HEAD OF PUBLISHING: Broke records, the independent label founded by Andre Benz and Brandon De Oliveira under Create Music Group, has announced the launch of broke publishing, a new publishing arm created to nurture and empower the next wave of artists, producers, and songwriters. The division will be led by Brennen Bryant, who joins the company as Head of Publishing. The launch of broke publishing advances the company’s long-standing goal of becoming a fully integrated music platform, bringing creative development, strategic career support, and publishing administration together under one ecosystem. At launch, the division encompasses approximately 6,600 ISRCs, significantly expanding broke’s catalog and creative capabilities. Bryant brings a decade of experience spanning both creative and commercial roles, with knowledge of talent discovery and direct artist development. At 28, he has already held senior positions including Senior Director of A&R at Avex USA Publishing, where he assisted in shaping creative strategy and growing the publishing roster. His career began at The Revels Group, working on tours for Drake and G-Eazy, before joining Murda Beatz‘s team in management, touring, and A&R roles. Over five years, he signed and developed producers, writers, and engineers such as Nickie Jon Pabón, Kyle Reynolds, Finesse, and Tobias Wincorn, and later held leadership roles at 2wenty 2wenty Music Group, Hallwood Media, and Range Music.

 

NMPA ANNOUNCES NEW PROMOTIONS: The National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA) has promoted Danielle Aguirre and Charlotte Sellmyer to key executive roles. Aguirre has been named Chief Legal Officer & Chief Operating Officer, continuing to oversee legal and business affairs as well as NMPA operations. Sellmyer has been elevated to EVP, External Affairs, maintaining oversight of songwriter advocacy, public relations, events, the Gold & Platinum Program, and other external initiatives. During her 15-year tenure, Aguirre has negotiated landmark agreements with major music platforms, successfully litigated multiple rate proceedings before the Copyright Royalty Board (CRB), and aided in shaping copyright legislation, including the Music Modernization Act. She also co-led the team that established the Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC) and now serves as its statutorily designated non-voting publisher representative on the board. Sellmyer, with 11 years at NMPA, has expanded the organization’s national presence, strengthened advocacy for songwriters, and led campaigns supporting key reforms such as the Music Modernization Act, the MLC launch, and multiple CRB successes. She continues to drive communications initiatives encouraging licensing by major digital platforms, including streaming, social media, and AI. Both Aguirre and Sellmyer are members of the Recording Academy and the Country Music Association (CMA).

 

STANDARD MUSIC LIBRARY BECOMES BUCKS PRODUCTION MUSIC: Bucks Music Group has unveiled a new identity for its production music library business, rebranding Standard Music Library as Bucks Production Music. The move reflects a closer alignment between the production music arm and Bucks’ wider operations, strengthening the company’s ability to deliver fully integrated music solutions to clients. Originally established in 1968 as a joint venture between London Weekend Television and Bucks Music, the library has built a legacy of representing composers and artists such as Brian Eno, Delia Derbyshire, George Martin, Ron Grainer, Norma Tanega, and Dudley Moore, alongside contemporary creators including Ben Salisbury, Krust, The Heavytrackerz, and Marco Pirroni. Its catalog has featured across film, television, gaming, and brand campaigns, with placements spanning titles like Triangle of Sadness, Serpico, Grand Theft Auto, I’m A Celebrity, Come Dine With Me, and campaigns for Kit-Kat and Burberry. Under the new Bucks Production Music banner, the business continues to house the flagship Standard Music Library while also representing a roster of specialist production labels. These include Picture Box Music from composers Warren and Brian Bennett, Cinetiks from Savage & Spies, and Fold Music, the first production music label dedicated exclusively to collaborations with independent labels and artists such as Domino, Mute, Fat Cat, and creators including Steve Mason, Denis Bovell, and Laura Cannell. Honoring its rich history, the Standard Archive imprint within Bucks Production Music preserves the original catalog as it was first released on vinyl, newly remastered from original tapes, and celebrates iconic themes and influential composers from the 1960s through the 1980s.

 

PAM SCHOENFELD APPOINTED SR. VP, CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER AT BMI: Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI) has named Pam Schoenfeld as Sr. Vice President and Chief Legal Officer. Based in New York, Schoenfeld will report to BMI President & CEO Mike O’Neill. She succeeds Stuart Rosen, who will remain with BMI as Sr. VP, Senior Legal Advisor, on a consulting basis until his planned retirement in June 2026. In her new role, Schoenfeld will lead BMI’s legal strategy and operations, overseeing teams focused on music licensing, product strategy, and complex commercial transactions across the music and technology sectors. She joins BMI from TouchTunes Music Company, where she served as General Counsel, and previously held senior legal roles at Radancy, DoubleClick/Google, and major law firms including Davis Polk and Paul, Weiss. Schoenfeld holds a BS from Boston University and a JD from Fordham University School of Law.

 

GOLDSTATE HIRES RABIH AOUAD AS PRINCIPAL TO LEAD INVESTMENTS IN TECH, SERVICES, AND MORE: GoldState Music, founded in 2022 by Charles Goldstuck, has appointed Rabih Aouad as Principal, Growth Equity Investments. In this role, Aouad will support GoldState’s growth equity strategy across the global music ecosystem, driving investments in technology, data and analytics, services, and rights ownership, while fostering strategic partner relationships. Aouad brings a decade of experience in private equity and investment banking, having previously served as Principal at HarbourView Equity Partners, where he led investments including Paris-based Animaj, as well as in roles at Providence Equity Partners, PSG, and Bank of America Merrill Lynch. Based in London, he will oversee global initiatives as GoldState continues to expand its international presence. GoldState Managing Partner Charles Goldstuck, said, “The global music industry is undergoing a period of continuous transformation, and we believe that there is a significant opportunity for growth-oriented capital to partner with market leaders. Rabih’s appointment builds on our commitment to continue investing in the music ecosystem.”

 

SUNO EXPANDS ARTIST PARTNERSHIPS TEAM WITH APPOINTMENT OF SAM BERGER: Suno has strengthened its artist partnerships team with the appointment of Sam Berger. Berger has managed artists including Charlie Puth, Portugal. The Man, and Miguel, and previously held roles across the music teams at Spotify and Patreon. Suno said the hire underscores its ongoing efforts to build deeper relationships across the music ecosystem, from emerging creators to global superstars. The appointment follows Suno’s recent licensing agreement with Warner Music, a major milestone for the company amid broader industry conversations around the role of AI in music and rights protection. Under the Warner deal, artists can opt in to allow their voices and compositions to be used in generative AI music, alongside the introduction of enhanced licensed music creation models, mirroring similar agreements reached by other AI platforms. As Suno continues to resolve legal challenges and expand its rights-holder collaborations, Berger will focus on scaling partnerships with artists, managers, and creative teams, exploring how AI can be used responsibly to support modern music creation. Most recently, Berger led music strategy at Patreon after founding and heading the music team at Moment House, where he helped pioneer large-scale cinematic livestreams for artists including Justin Bieber, Tame Impala, and Anderson .Paak, selling more than two million tickets across 180 countries and contributing to the company’s eventual acquisition by Patreon.

 

JP EVANGELISTA NAMED EVP OF CONTENT, PROGRAMMING & MARKETING AT VEVO: Vevo has promoted JP Evangelista to the newly expanded role of EVP of Content, Programming & Marketing, effective immediately. In the position, Evangelista will lead Vevo’s global creative and marketing strategy, deepen relationships with artists and labels, and drive audience growth through innovative programming and multi-platform storytelling. Before joining Vevo, Evangelista held roles at Universal Music Group within its eLabs and Global Digital Initiatives teams, where he was part of the core group responsible for developing and launching Vevo alongside Sony Music Entertainment in 2009. “JP and his teams collaborate closely with artists to establish, grow, and nurture fanbases, maximize exposure, and increase revenue,” said a statement. “His leadership has been instrumental in evolving Vevo’s content ecosystem and distribution network, championing the music video as a key visual promotional and commercial tool for artists.”

 

SONY MUSIC GROUP AND GIC FORM CATALOG INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP: Sony Music Group (SMG) has entered into an investment partnership with GIC, Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund, aimed at acquiring and growing premium music catalog assets across multiple genres. The partnership is expected to deploy between $2 billion and $3 billion (USD) in capital. According to a joint statement, the collaboration brings together GIC’s long-term capital base and global investment expertise with Sony Music Group’s deep operational capabilities and decades-long history in the music business. SMG’s global infrastructure, along with its longstanding relationships with artists and songwriters, will play a leading role in sourcing, acquiring, and managing music catalog opportunities. Founded in 1981, GIC manages Singapore’s foreign reserves and has been investing across the music industry since 2017, spanning companies, catalog, and music-focused funds. The firm is focused on building partnerships with leading industry operators and identifying opportunities in both established and emerging markets. GIC has also maintained a long-standing investment presence in Japan, home to Sony Corp, since the 1980s. Sony Bank Inc. is also participating in the partnership. Kevin Kelleher, Chief Operating Officer, Sony Music, said, “Partnering with GIC brings together long-term capital and Sony Music Group’s operational capabilities to acquire and manage premier catalog, creating new opportunities for artists’ and songwriters’ music globally.”

 

UNIVERSAL LAUNCHES NEW LIVESTREAMING CHANNEL ON TWITCH: Universal Music Group has announced the launch of a new livestreaming channel on Twitch, marking an expansion of its live digital programming. The channel is being developed by UMG’s in-house creative team, °1824, and kicked off with a livestream from UMG’s Grammys Afterparty this past Sunday, February 1st. Branded as Universal Music Live, the initiative aims to spotlight key moments from music-driven events, performances, conversations, and cultural moments, creating new ways for fans around the world to connect in real time. The platform will also help artists build and grow their presence on Twitch, extending their reach to new audiences. So far, °1824 has produced more than 300 live broadcasts, featuring artists including Doechii, NAV, Benee, Lexa Gates, Tucker Wetmore, Dierks Bentley, Gryffin, Coco Jones, Girlset, and others. Todd Goodwin, UMG’s Sr. VP, Culture Marketing & Creative Strategy and Head of °1824, commented, “Universal Music Live will extend the reach of our live events far beyond their physical locations, opening new opportunities for fans around the world to engage with the artists they love. This initiative is designed to elevate the fan experience by offering unprecedented access, rewarding our artists’ most resolute supporters on a truly global scale, and we are excited to expand our collaboration with the team at Twitch.”

 

WEST ONE MUSIC GROUP NAMES GEORGE HYDE, GLOBAL HEAD OF LEGAL & BUSINESS AFFAIRS, ROYALTIES & COPYRIGHT: West One Music Group has named George Hyde as its new Global Head of Legal & Business Affairs, Royalties & Copyright. In the newly established role, Hyde will report to COO Maria Scott and join the company’s executive leadership team. He will be responsible for overseeing global strategy across rights, licensing, and administration, helping support the company’s operations while enhancing its collective management structures. According to the company, the appointment underscores West One Music’s commitment to developing streamlined, scalable, and commercially resilient systems for artists and partners as its global footprint continues to grow. Hyde will collaborate closely with teams across the organization to support these efforts. Speaking about the appointment, Edwin Cox, Global CEO, said, “George brings extensive industry knowledge and commercial clarity. His expertise is crucial as we continue building a global framework that delivers for our writers, partners, and business. We’re thrilled to have him on board.”

 

REBECCA KANE BURTON JOINS SUPERSTRUCT ENTERTAINMENT AS CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER: Superstruct Entertainment, Europe’s largest independent festivals group, has appointed U.K. venue executive Rebecca Kane Burton as its new Chief Operating Officer. Kane Burton joins the company following her role as EVP of Venue Management at Oak View Group International. Prior to that, she spent four and a half years as VP and General Manager of AEG‘s The O2 in London, before leaving in 2016 to become Managing Director of Andrew Lloyd Webber‘s Really Useful Theatres, now known as LW Theatres. With more than three decades of experience in live entertainment, her career also includes senior leadership positions at Sodexo Live! and Alexandra Palace. Kane Burton joins Superstruct under CEO Alex Mahon, who took over leadership of the company in fall 2025. Superstruct’s portfolio includes festivals such as Sónar in Spain, Zwarte Cross in the Netherlands, Wacken and Parookaville in Germany, and the UK’s Field Day and Lost Village. Speaking about Kane Burton’s appointment, Superstruct CEO Alex Mahon said, “I am so excited by the depth of experience that Rebecca brings having run such massive live venues. She has first-class event management, partnership, and F&B experience. She will be a fantastic addition to the Superstruct team.”

 

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