MUSEXPO 2026 UNVEILS GLOBAL AWARDS HONOREES – CONCORD, FORMAT ENTERTAINMENT, NETFLIX, PETER LAW GROUP POSITION MUSIC, REPUBLIC COLLECTIVE, YUNGBLUD’S MANAGER & HITMAKER JUSTIN TRANTER PLUS ITS “ALL ABOUT INDIA” FOCUS
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.
A&R Worldwide will host its prestigious International Music Industry Awards during the 26th global edition of MUSEXPO, honoring influential leaders whose work has shaped the modern music and entertainment ecosystem. Launched in 2012 at MUSEXPO in the historic Roosevelt Hotel ballroom, the site of the first Academy Awards, the ceremony has become a cornerstone event recognizing global excellence, innovation, and cultural impact.
In addition, MUSEXPO will feature a focus on India & S. Asia, which represents one of the fastest-growing music markets in the world, fueled by a young, mobile-first population, rapid digital adoption, and the global rise of Indian artists, soundtracks, and cross-cultural collaborations. With hundreds of millions of music listeners and streaming growth outpacing many mature markets, India is increasingly viewed as a long-term growth engine for labels, publishers, tech platforms, live companies, and investors alike.
This year’s awards will bring together officials from the City of Burbank, Los Angeles County, and the State of California as they present official proclamations to this year’s esteemed honorees. In addition, the recipients will also receive official awards in recognition of their business and creative excellence.
Arnold P. Peter, Founder & Managing Partner, Peter Law Group, will receive the “Global Music & Entertainment Attorney Award.” Peter is widely respected for his decades-long advocacy for artists, executives, and companies, providing strategic legal counsel that has influenced major deals and long-term career trajectories across music and media. Dave Jordan, Founder & CEO, Format Entertainment, will be honored with the “Global Music Supervisor Award.” A leading force in film, television, and gaming, Jordan’s creative vision has helped define how music elevates storytelling across global platforms. Jeffrey Remedios, President & CEO, REPUBLIC Collective, will receive the “Global Music Executive Award.” Remedios has played a pivotal role in building one of the world’s most successful music organizations, championing artist-first innovation, and global market expansion. Amy Dunning, Vice President, Music, Netflix, will be presented with the “Global Media Executive Award.” Dunning has been instrumental in shaping Netflix’s music strategy, overseeing impactful soundtracks and collaborations that resonate worldwide.
Also, Tommas Arnby, Founder, Locomotion Music Group & CEO, Special Projects (worldwide manager for Yungblud), will receive the “Global Manager Award.” Arnby is recognized for developing globally influential artists through bold creative vision and strategic leadership. Tyler Bacon, Founder & CEO, Position Music, will be honored with the “Global Music Publisher Award.” Bacon has built a forward-thinking publishing company known for championing songwriters and redefining sync-driven success. Justin Tranter, Grammy, and Golden Globe–nominated songwriter, producer, and activist, will receive the “Global Songwriter Award.“ Tranter’s genre-defining catalog and advocacy have made a lasting impact on pop culture and creative equity.
The ceremony underscores MUSEXPO’s ongoing role as a global nexus for thought leadership, creativity, and recognition at the highest level of the music business.
Also, MUSEXPO will highlight its focus on India today, which represents one of the fastest-growing music markets in the world, fueled by a young, mobile-first population, rapid digital adoption, and the global rise of Indian artists, soundtracks, and cross-cultural collaborations. With hundreds of millions of music listeners and streaming growth outpacing many mature markets, India is increasingly viewed as a long-term growth engine for labels, publishers, tech platforms, live companies, and investors alike.
This year’s edition will feature Mo Ghoneim, President of Billboard U.K. & Billboard Canada, and Founder of ArtsHouse Media Group (AMG) will moderate the “All About India” panel. Joining him are influential Indian executives Alaap Gosher (Co-Founder & Director, TM Ventures – representing some of India’s biggest superstar artists including Arijit Singh, Neha Kakkar, Badshah, and more), Anurag Rao (Founder & CEO, Chain Reactor Music & Media – one of India’s burgeoning sync and brands firms) Subramanian Iyer (Founder & CEO, Sponco – a leading sponsorship agency who helped align brand partnership for Coldplay‘s last massive Indian tour), Tarsame Mittal (Founder TM & Host, The Music Podcast – considered one of India’s most influential executives who has helped shape the country’s modern music business across various sectors – and most influential podcasters), and Vivek Paul (Business & Strategic Advisor to the Founder & CEO, Malsons Media – a global thought leader in media-tech Innovations, and focuses on intellectual capital to drive transformational change to India and beyond). Each executive will bring frontline insight into India’s recorded music, A&R, publishing, digital, live, sync, brands, management, media, radio, and rights ecosystems.
India’s presence at MUSEXPO extends well beyond a single panel. Gaurav Sharma (Founder & CEO, Hook – who also co-founded one of India’s largest music streaming services JioSaavn) will contribute to the Global Digital, AI & Technology forum, while Mandar Thakur (CEO – Times Music Group – and one of the most trusted voices in India’s record label, publishing, digital, rights and overall industry thought leaders), and Sankar Thiagasamudram (Founder & CEO, Audeze – one of the global pioneers of headphone, wearables, and consumer audio evolution) will appear on the opening Global Keynote panel, moderated by Billboard‘s Melinda Newman. Satya Hinduja (Founder, Alchemic Sonic Environment) will deliver a special keynote exploring the power of ASE – arts, science, and environment, and how her pioneering platform will impact and influence global music experiences, technology, environmental engagement, and mental health. Leading artist manager, media, and live events executive Shivam Malhotra (Founder & CEO, Malsons Media – a dynamic serial entrepreneur and visionary) will participate in the Global Artist Management & Live Business forum, offering perspective from one of India’s most dynamic live markets. Shivam represents A-list global Indian music artists like Shubh, Jxggi, Jubin Nautiyal, Gravity, and more, and has helped shape the future of music, films, OTT, and live concerts with an astounding 40 billion-plus digital footprint.
The event will also honor Indian-born, U.K.-based executive Reynold D’Silva (Founder & CEO, Silva Screen Group) with the Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by Paul Rennie OBE, British Consul General Los Angeles, alongside official proclamations from the City of Burbank, County of Los Angeles, and the State of California. With a remarkable career spanning over five decades, D’Silva has shaped the landscape of music, film, and television soundtracks with unparalleled passion, innovation, and global influence.
Sat Bisla, Founder & President of A&R Worldwide and MUSEXPO, a British-born executive of Punjabi and Indian descent has, for over four decades, quietly played a pivotal role in connecting Indian artists, executives, and companies with the global music community. From his early work and support to Indian-heritage artists like Bally Sagoo, Apache Indian, White Town (Jyoti Mishra), and countless others, to his early support of British rock band Muse (originally managed by Indian manager Safta Jaffrey) to some of India’s most influential artists, songwriters, executives, companies, and business leaders – to also being one of the most influential A&R executives and radio DJs in the world. This year’s expanded focus underscores India’s growing influence – not as an emerging market, but as an essential one.
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, visit www.musexpo.net.
RCA REVIVES JIVE RECORDS WITH MIKE WEISS AND DAVID MELHADO AS CO-PRESIDENTS
Sony Music Entertainment‘s RCA Records has revealed plans to relaunch JIVE Records as a standalone frontline label, appointing former UnitedMasters executives Mike Weiss and David Melhado as co-Presidents.
Originally founded in 1981 by Clive Calder, the British American label became a defining force in popular music under long-time leader Barry Weiss before joining Sony Music in 2004 and later the RCA Music Group in 2008. JIVE’s legacy includes groundbreaking artists such as A Tribe Called Quest, Aaliyah, Backstreet Boys, Usher, and Outkast, alongside global superstars like Justin Timberlake, P!NK, Chris Brown, *NSYNC, and Britney Spears, who remain part of the RCA family.
RCA Records Chairman & CEO Peter Edge commented, “We admire the impressive results Mike and David have achieved in their careers. Bringing them in to lead JIVE Records feels like a natural evolution – and a poetic way to revive a label that has been at the forefront of hip-hop and pop. Their sharp instincts and proven ability to discover and develop artists make them a talented team to launch JIVE’s next era.”
Based at Sony Music’s New York headquarters, JIVE will operate independently within RCA, with Weiss and Melhado reporting to Chairman & CEO Peter Edge and COO John Fleckenstein. The pair are credited for their artist-first, development-driven success at UnitedMasters, where they helped drive the rise of artists including Brent Faiyaz, BigXthaPlug, NLE Choppa, Ekkstacy, Anycia, and Sarz.
BRUCE RESNIKOFF NAMED CHAIRMAN OF UME AND JAMIE KRENTS UPPED TO PRESIDENT & CEO
Universal Music Group has elevated Bruce Resnikoff to Chairman of its global catalog division, Universal Music Enterprises (UMe), while Jamie Krents has been named President & CEO of UMe alongside his existing role leading UMG’s Verve Label Group.
Resnikoff, who founded UMe in 1998 following the PolyGram/Universal merger, will now concentrate on broadening the division’s scope, including estate management and the acquisition of name-and-likeness, recorded music, and audiovisual rights.
With more than four decades at UMG, he is widely credited with shaping the modern global catalog business. His career began at MCA Records in 1983, later spanning senior executive roles, the launch of Hip-O Records, a tenure as President & CEO of Verve Records, and the development of UMG’s estate management arm. He has also produced, or executive produced numerous music documentaries and is currently involved in projects including a new CNN Original Series exploring UMG’s vaults and the upcoming West End production Sinatra, The Musical.
Krents, a lifelong UMG executive and professional bassist, takes on expanded responsibilities at UMe with a mandate to drive innovative, digitally led, and direct-to-fan catalog campaigns. He joined Verve in 1998 as a temp and rose to President & CEO of Verve Label Group in 2024, overseeing labels such as Verve, Impulse!, Decca Records U.S., and their classical partners.
Under his leadership, the group has achieved Grammy success and cultivated a roster spanning contemporary artists and legendary catalogs. Krents will also oversee celebrations marking Verve Records’ 70th anniversary in 2026, featuring releases, reissues, events, and partnerships throughout the year.
NETTWERK MUSIC GROUP ANNOUNCES $300 MILLION+ MANAGEMENT BUYOUT IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CREATE MUSIC GROUP
Nettwerk Music Group has announced a definitive agreement to complete a management buyout from its current investors, with backing from Create Music Group.
The deal reinforces Nettwerk’s long-standing commitment to operating as an independent music company while scaling its global, artist-focused mission. Under the agreement, Create Capital will invest more than $300 million (USD) at closing and provide access to additional capital and support services over time.
The transaction increases ownership for Nettwerk’s management team while preserving the company’s autonomy, enabling it to continue supporting its existing roster, discovering new talent, and upholding the artist-first ethos that has defined the company for over 40 years.
Founded more than four decades ago by Terry McBride and Mark Jowett, Nettwerk has grown into a leading independent label and publisher under McBride’s leadership as CEO. Built on principles shaped by McBride’s early work managing global artists such as Coldplay and Avril Lavigne, the company today represents a roster including Paris Paloma, Passenger, Leisure, SYML, Mon Rovîa, and more.
The partnership with Create Music Group, which is one of the industry’s fastest-growing and most forward-thinking companies, gives Nettwerk access to global infrastructure, distribution, and label services, alongside efficient follow-on financing through Create Capital.
Nettwerk’s leadership team will continue to oversee daily operations, artist signings, and development, supported by Create’s platform, in a collaboration rooted in shared values and a mutual focus on long-term growth.
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 Founder Sat Bisla has had a longstanding friendship with 100 Management‘s Luke Mitzman. The duo first met over a decade ago through an introduction from a mutual friend Andrew Gould (President, Music Publishing, Roc Nation).
Luke Mitzman manages some of the world’s top producers and managers and he previously represented the well-known global DJ and curator Zane Lowe (Apple), whom A&R Worldwide’s Sat Bisla first met back in 1995 when Zane was a DJ on London-based radio station Xfm.
Madison Emiko Love is an American songwriter and singer. She is signed with Artist Publishing Group and has written songs with Madison Beer, Melanie Martinez, Lady Gaga, Selena Gomez, Katy Perry, Pink, Demi Lovato, Camila Cabello, Kesha, Dove Cameron, Ava Max, Anitta, Addison Rae, and Kim Petras.
Daniel Bisla is one of the recent staff additions to A&R Worldwide and has a knack for discovering new talent, acting, writing, as well as other creative abilities which make him a young executive poised for future global success.
ALESSI ROSE
Alessi Rose continues her rapid ascent with “Same Mouth,” a sharp, addictive pop cut that captures the fearless honesty and melodic confidence that have turned her into one of the U.K.’s most exciting breakout artists. Taken from her Voyeur (Deluxe) EP, the track distills Alessi’s gift for turning messy emotions into sleek, emotionally charged pop, equal parts biting self-awareness, and unapologetic ambition. Now firmly entering 2026 with serious momentum, Alessi comes off a career-defining year that saw her graduate from sold-out headline tours to arena and stadium stages worldwide. After supporting Dua Lipa across Europe and Tate McRae on her North American run, including a landmark Madison Square Garden debut, she has proven her music hits just as hard in massive rooms as it does through headphones. Voyeur and its deluxe edition cemented her reputation for bold, confessional songwriting, earning praise from NPR, NME, DORK, and DIY, while amassing a fast-growing global fanbase. With “Same Mouth,” Alessi Rose sharpens her pop instincts even further, cool, conversational, and quietly confrontational, sounding like an artist fully aware of her power and ready to push it. It is another step forward from a songwriter who is no longer “one to watch,” but one already shaping the future of modern pop. Discover “Same Mouth” HERE and contact Liv Browning for additional information on Alessi Rose.
CARDINALS
Cork, Ireland’s Cardinals sharpen their edge with “Barbed Wire,” a swaggering yet shadow-laced new single that stands as a defining moment from their forthcoming debut album Masquerade, due February 13 via So Young Records. Melodic and menacing in equal measure, the track pairs muscular guitar lines with gothic imagery, pulling listeners deep into a reimagined vision of the band’s hometown. Inspired by Cork’s layered history, from the Gaol that once stood on South Gate Bridge to the silhouetted city walls that still loom large, frontman Euan Manning weaves a narrative steeped in romance, unease, and civic myth. The stark black-and-white video, directed by Xander Lewis, mirrors that tension, amplifying the song’s sense of beauty caught behind the fence. Recorded at RAK Studios with producer Shrink, Masquerade is both grand and intimate: a debut that shifts from bright-eyed vulnerability to simmering discontent, nodding to folk honesty and goth-rock drama while carving out something unmistakably their own. Forged through family and friendship, Cardinals have quickly emerged at the forefront of Ireland’s independent rock resurgence, with early syncs on Netflix‘s House of Guinness, appearances in EA Sports‘ Skate, and standout live turns alongside Fontaines D.C., Wunderhorse, NewDad, and more. Experience the visual for “Barbed Wire” HERE, and Karen for additional information and available opportunities with Cardinals worldwide.
“PASSPORT APPROVED” PLAYLIST FOR Sunday, February 8th, 2026: The weekly new music radio show is heard on over 50 radio stations worldwide on six continents weekly including the U.S., Germany, U.K., Canada, Peru, India, Australia, Uganda, Zambia, South Africa, Egypt, Bolivia, Indonesia, Philippines, Holland, Dominican Republic, and many other territories. More information can be found HERE.
THE ENEMY – “Not Going Your Way” (Unsigned, U.K.)
CHLOE QISHA – “So Sad So Hot” (Columbia Records, U.K.)
GIRL SCOUT – “Same Kids” (AWAL, Sweden)
LUSAINT – “Blind” (Heavenly Fire, U.K.)
CASSIA – “Miles Out” (Love Sundays / Universal Music, U.K.)
ZOCO – “Searching” (Z3 Records, Switzerland)
VELLA – “Somebody Else” (Universal Music, Sweden)
KID KAPICHI – “Rabbit Hole” ([PIAS], U.K.)
THE STARIDERS – “Hey! All The Lovers” (Unsigned, France)
FINN FORSTER – “Pablo” (Interval Records, U. K.)
HORROR DISCO – “Asteroid Fields of Regret” (Neon Genesis Records, Germany)
CAMBER – “Paranoia” (Fierce Panda, U.K.)
MAX ALLAIS – “Everywhere” (Real Thing Records/Universal Music, New Zealand)
RHETT REPKO – “Bad At Love” (Unsigned, U.S.)
RED RUM CLUB – “American Nights & English Mornings” (Modern Sky, U.K.)
KARIN ANN – “All My Money” (3AM Records, Slovakia)
PICTURE THIS – “Yours Forever” (Sony Music, Ireland)
STREELIGHTS – “What’s Your Name?” (Unsigned, Australia)
ALESSI ROSE – “Get Around” (Capitol/Polydor, U.K.)
MICHAEL ALDAG – “3Minutes” (3 Beat Records, U.K.)
SEX MASK – “Cold” (Unsigned, Australia)
LØLØ – “Me With No Shirt On” (Fearless Records, Canada)
GIRLI – “Better Undressed” (Virgin EMI Records, U.K.)
ROYEL OTIS – “Who’s Your Boyfriend” (Ourness/Capitol, Australia)
JERUB – “Kumbaya” (Elevate Music, U.K.)
DAILY J – “Hopetown” (Unsigned, New Zealand)
FOOL NELSON – “Bad Dreams” (AWAL, Australia)
EKKSTACY – “If I Had A Gun” (Dine Alone Records, Canada)
GIANT ROOKS – “The Future Is Cancelled” (Universal Music, Germany)
D’MASIV – “Side By Side” (Musica Studios, Indonesia)
LENNY – “Told Ya” (Unsigned, Czech Republic)
DEAF HAVANA – “Carousel” (SO Recordings, U.K.)
CAT SERRANO – “Sculpture” (Unsigned, U.S.)
APG WELCOMES JOS WATKIN VP, A&R & INT’L ARTIST DEVELOPMENT & PROMOTES A&R DIRECTOR, TYLER BORLAND: APG has appointed Jos Watkin as Vice President, where he will partner closely with the team to help grow the company’s expanding presence across recorded music and publishing. Watkin joins from Polydor Records, where he signed and developed artists such as Good Neighbours, Confidence Man, and Elmiene, delivering both commercial impact and critical recognition. Before that, he held a senior role at BMG, working with A. G. Cook, Mura Masa, Overmono, FKJ, and Floating Points. Known for spotting culturally resonant talent and balancing creative vision with long-term strategy, Watkin will focus on building APG’s pop-leaning writer and producer roster while driving opportunities across records and publishing. In addition, APG has promoted A&R Executive Tyler Borland to Director. Borland has signed and developed artists including Odetari, 6arelyhuman, and asteria, with Odetari earning five Gold and three Platinum records. His work also includes the signing of instrumental artist and producer Flawed Mangoes, who has surpassed 200 million lifetime streams and recently produced for sombr, as well as securing deals for Billboard-charting DJ jigitz and femtanyl. In his new role, Borland leads a team of A&Rs focused on discovering and developing the next generation of innovative talent, as APG continues to strengthen its position as a leading force across music publishing, recording, and artist development.
SKETCH MUSIC AND BMG INK NEW GLOBAL RECORDINGS PARTNERSHIP: BMG has unveiled a new global recordings partnership with Sketch Music, a digital-native, multi-genre label at the forefront of discovering and developing the next wave of artists. Built from internet-led culture, Sketch Music spotlights creators driving emerging sounds, from viral phonk to electronic music. Its roster has already delivered streaming successes, including Ogryzek‘s “Aura,” “Glory,” and “Empire,” Qmiir‘s “Sempere,” Hussvrx‘s “I Love You So Jumpstyle,” Dygo‘s “Montagem Buda,” as well as breakout tracks from Sayfalse, Trxveler, DJ Alim, Snxp, and ßino. Through the partnership, BMG will support Sketch Music with global distribution and infrastructure, helping scale its digital-first approach and expand into new territories. The collaboration underscores a shared focus on innovation, creator empowerment, and connecting audiences with the most exciting sounds emerging online, while further advancing BMG’s broader BMG Next strategy centered on data, agility, and artist-first growth. Dan Gill, EVP, Recorded Music, BMG, tells A&R Worldwide, “Sketch represents the forefront of what is happening in music right now, a new generation of artists who are born online, move fast, and think globally. Partnering with Ian and the Sketch team aligns perfectly with BMG’s vision as a modern music company built around creativity, technology, and fairness. Together, we are building the bridge between viral discovery and lasting artistry.”
FLG SIGNS MICHAEL SHUMAN FOR SOLO PROJECT GLU: FLG has announced the signing of GLU, the solo project from Queens Of The Stone Age bassist Michael Shuman. Blending elements of hip-hop, pop, electronic, and alternative music, GLU brings a genre-fluid edge to the FLG roster. An imprint of Frontiers Label Group focused on alternative and modern rock, FLG first introduced GLU in early 2023 with the debut EP My Demons. In 2025, GLU released the single “Boogie Man,” which landed a high-profile sync in MLB The Show ’25 alongside Kendrick Lamar and De La Soul, helping drive the project past three million streams worldwide. GLU has since toured across the U.K., Europe, and the U.S., sharing stages with acts including The Kills, Blood Red Shoes, and Miles Kane, and is set to support The Blue Stones on three U.K. dates this month. The project has also received airplay from BBC Radio 1 and BBC 6 Music. Frontiers Label Group operates a global portfolio of labels including Frontiers Music Srl, FLG Records, and BlkIIBlk Records, with worldwide distribution via The Orchard and offices across Europe and the U.S. Leo Nicholas, Head of FLG, said, “Continuing our mission to partner with boundary-pushing artists, I am super proud to welcome GLU to the FLG roster. Having long admired Mikey’s exceptional range and songwriting prowess, we knew this collaboration was the perfect fit for our label’s evolving sound.”
WISE MUSIC GROUP SIGNS CLARA MANN: Wise Music Group has welcomed singer-songwriter Clara Mann to its publishing roster, signing her to the Campbell Connelly catalog. The agreement covers both Mann’s existing catalog and all future compositions. A Franco-British artist, Mann is known for her poetic, narrative-driven songwriting, shaped by her upbringing in rural France and inspired by figures such as Jacques Brel and Edith Piaf. Her debut album, Rift, was released in March 2025 through State51 Conspiracy. Most recently, she unveiled Live In The Royal Albert Hall, a film and accompanying EP captured from within the iconic venue’s box seats. “I am delighted to announce the signing of an exclusive publishing agreement with Clara Mann,” said Dirk Lange, MD of U.K. Rights at Wise Music Group. “Clara has deeply impressed all of us with her beautifully crafted songwriting and her remarkable, sensitive, and unique performance style. Her voice carries a rare emotional immediacy and is echoing the lineage of artists such as Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez, and Judy Collins, while remaining unmistakably contemporary and entirely her own.”
B2B MUSIC STREAMER SOUNDTRACK ACQUIRES AMBIE AND TUNIFY: Soundtrack Technologies (formerly Soundtrack Your Brand) has expanded its reach with the acquisitions of U.K.-based Ambie and Belgium/Netherlands-based Tunify, both background music providers for hospitality and retail. Financial terms were not disclosed. Both companies will adopt the Soundtrack brand while keeping their local teams, giving their clients, ranging from Hyatt, Hilton, and Rocco Forte to D&D London, as well as Belgian and Dutch retailers, access to Soundtrack’s AI-driven music scheduling, remote management tools, and catalog of over 100 million licensed tracks. Founded in 2013 as a joint venture with Spotify and originally known as Spotify Business, Soundtrack has since rebranded twice and now operates in Sweden, the U.S., the U.K., and Benelux, serving customers in 75 countries. With more than 100,000 subscribers, including global brands like Uniqlo, Dr. Martens, Four Seasons, Kiehl’s, Joe & The Juice, and TAG Heuer, the company sees the music-for-business market, used in over 100 million commercial locations worldwide, as a $40 billion growth opportunity. Ola Sars, Founder and CEO of Soundtrack, said, “Music is a universal language, but business is local. By welcoming Ambie and Tunify to Soundtrack, we aren’t just acquiring customer bases; we are investing in the specific cultural and musical nuances of several markets. We are thrilled to bring their expertise into the Soundtrack family: it is a strategy of local focus and global scale.”
NOTTING HILL MUSIC SIGNS THE CLAUSE TO PUBLISHING DEAL: Notting Hill Music has welcomed rising band The Clause to its roster, signing the group to a global publishing agreement. The deal comes as the band continues to build momentum around their debut album and an expanding live schedule across the U.K. and Europe. The Clause scored a No.1 on the independent albums chart last year, alongside a Top 20 placement overall, with their debut LP Victim of a Casual Thing. They recently wrapped a sold-out U.K. headline tour, culminating in a 3,000-capacity hometown show at Birmingham’s O2 Academy, and have since returned to the road as part of the sold-out Independent Venue Week tour. The band will kick off the next leg of their Victim Of A Casual Thing tour in March and April with dates across Europe, Ireland and additional U.K. cities, before heading into a busy summer festival season that includes headline slots at This Feeling By The Sea and 110 Above, alongside appearances at In It Together, Tramlines, Together Again, Y Not? and Victorious. Notting Hill A&R Roy Davis stated, “I am thrilled to have signed The Clause, we are confident we can highlight their songwriting talents to put further momentum behind one of the best young bands in Europe. Their recent show at the Birmingham O2 Academy was the best live event I have witnessed in many years. I was determined to sign them and help develop them even further.”
ROMEL MURPHY LAUNCHES ‘MULTI-MILLION-DOLLAR’ JV WITH CREATE MUSIC GROUP: Create Music Group is teaming up with Romel Murphy, manager of AI artist Xania Monet, to launch a “multi-million dollar” joint venture label, dai + drm (“daydream”). The label blends AI and traditional music approaches, helping artists scale their impact while retaining equity in both master recordings and publishing. Murphy’s roster already includes Xania Monet, whose AI-generated music, created from a poem by Telisha “Nikki” Jones, has racked up over 11 million Spotify streams and 1.2 million monthly listeners, marking her as the first AI-powered artist to chart on Billboard airplay. Dai + drm’s roster features AI-powered artists like Solomon Ray and Nova Sole, alongside traditional acts including Jenneske, Renee Harmoni, and IME Casino. Its partnership with Create Music Group (CMG) underscores a shared commitment to long-term vision and growth in both AI-driven and traditional music. “Romel is an extremely bright entrepreneur,” stated Jonathan Strauss, CEO, Create Music Group. “We look forward to seeing his record label flourish.”
BLACKSTONE SELLS PART OF RECOGNITION MUSIC CATALOG TO SONY MUSIC: Blackstone has sold a portion of its Recognition Music Group catalog to Sony Music Group for over $200 million (USD), primarily covering publishing rights and some master recording royalties, according to Billboard. The deal includes works by hitmakers Jeff Bhasker, co-writer of Uptown Funk, and songs for Taylor Swift, and Jack Antonoff. Recognition Music Group, rebranded in March 2025 after Blackstone merged its Hipgnosis Songs Fund and other music assets, manages a catalog of 45,000 songs across 145 catalogs, featuring artists like Neil Young, Fleetwood Mac, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Justin Timberlake. The portfolio, valued at nearly $3 billion in a 2025 third-party Kroll report, has also supported major asset-backed securitizations, highlighting its significant financial scale. Although Recognition has sold part of its catalog to Sony, sources tell Billboard that Blackstone is not looking to exit the music business. The firm remains open to selling individual assets if the price is right. Meanwhile, Recognition is reportedly exploring partnerships to manage its master recordings and publishing administration once existing third-party deals expire, with Sony among the potential partners under consideration.
WAN YIN KOH NAMED VP, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, DIGITAL AT WCM ASIA PACIFIC: Warner Music Group has named Wan Yin Koh as VP of Business Development, Digital at Warner Chappell Music Asia Pacific. Based in Singapore and reporting to EVP Global Digital Natalie Madaj, Koh will lead digital licensing and partnership strategy across the region, focusing on revenue growth and navigating Asia Pacific’s evolving digital music landscape. She brings 15+ years of experience from BMAT Music Innovators and FUGA, working on multi-territory licensing deals with platforms like Spotify and Tencent Music. Koh holds degrees from Nanyang Technological University and the University of Barcelona. Arica Ng, President of Warner Chappell Music Asia Pacific, said, “Wan Yin’s vision aligns perfectly with our commitment to innovation. Her appointment reinforces our dedication to being the most forward-thinking partner for creators across Asia Pacific.” Natalie Madaj added, “The Asia Pacific region is a powerhouse of digital growth and cultural influence. Wan Yin’s deep-rooted expertise in music publishing and her track record of scaling businesses in these markets will be a massive asset. She’s uniquely positioned to maximize value for our songwriters as we expand our digital footprint.”
MOM+POP CO-FOUNDER MICHAEL GOLDSTONE INTERVIEW WITH MUBUTV: Veteran A&R executive and Mom + Pop Music Founder Michael Goldstone sat down for an in-depth interview on the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Video Series, now streaming on YouTube. In the conversation, Goldstone, whose career includes signing major acts such as Pearl Jam, Rage Against the Machine, and MGMT, opens up about key moments across his decades in the music industry and the lessons he has learned behind the scenes. Goldstone discusses the intuition and risk-taking involved in championing artists before they break, the evolution of A&R in a changing musical landscape, and what it takes to build and sustain an independent label like Mom + Pop Music, which he co-founded with Thaddeus Rudd and continues to lead. The interview is part of MUBUTV’s mission to educate and empower music professionals and creators, offering viewers insider perspectives on artist development, industry strategy, and the enduring importance of creative vision. Fans and industry insiders can watch the full conversation on MUBUTV’s YouTube channel for a behind-the-scenes look at one of music’s most influential tastemakers. The interview was recorded at MUSEXPO in Burbank, CA, last year with the support of A&R Worldwide who continue to assist MUBUTV with connecting with some of the world’s most inspiring music, media, and technology minds at its annual event. Michael Goldstone is the second recipient to receive the annual “Seymour Stein Global A&R Award,” which is presented annually at MUSEXPO, which was one of the late Sire Records Co-Founder, Seymour Stein‘s favorite independent music business conferences and showcase events. Watch the interview HERE.
AVEX MUSIC GROUP FORGES GLOBAL DISTRIBUTION DEAL WITH THE ORCHARD: Avex Music Group (AMG) has announced a new worldwide distribution partnership with The Orchard covering all future releases. Led by CEO Brandon Silverstein, AMG will kick off the deal with upcoming music from We The Band, best known as Justin Bieber‘s longtime backing band. Founded in 1988, Avex has grown into a major force in global entertainment, employing more than 1,500 people across 40+ labels and ten international offices. The company operates across talent management, music publishing, live touring, marketing, and distribution, and reported nearly $1 billion (USD) in revenue in 2024. Avex also runs the Avex Artist Academy, a nationwide training and scouting platform in Japan that auditions over 10,000 aspiring artists each year, reinforcing its role in developing the next generation of global talent. “Avex is a significant global player, and we are delighted to partner with them on their future output. We are looking forward to working with Brandon and the entire Avex Music Group team on an amazing schedule of releases for 2026,” said Brad Navin, CEO, The Orchard. “This alliance will ensure that Avex’s diverse and exciting catalog reaches a wider international audience than ever before, leveraging The Orchard’s extensive global distribution network and expertise in local market development.”
LOYLE CARNER SIGNS EXCLUSIVE GLOBAL PUBLISHING DEAL WITH BMG: BMG has confirmed a global publishing deal with Loyle Carner. Known for his candid songwriting and wide-ranging creative output spanning music, film, fashion, and social causes, Carner has built a body of work that connects with audiences worldwide. The agreement covers much of his songwriting catalog, including material from his 2025 album hopefully!. Carner is a two-time Mercury Prize nominee with multiple BRIT Award nominations to his name, having over 1.1 billion global streams and a track record of selling out U.K. venues such as Alexandra Palace, Wembley Arena, and the Royal Albert Hall. Momentum continues into 2026, with Carner set to make his acting debut in the BBC drama Mint while maintaining a strong international touring presence. His world tour, which launched in 2025, rolls on across the US and Canada, complemented by appearances at major summer festivals. Following recent nominations for Best Hip Hop Act at both the MOBOs and the BRIT Awards, the partnership with BMG marks a significant next step as Carner broadens his creative reach across disciplines. Clemmie Woodhouse, Senior Director, A&R Publishing, BMG, said, “We are delighted that Loyle has joined the BMG roster. He is a one-of-a-kind artist and songwriter, and from our first meeting, it felt like we were going to have an extremely exciting partnership. We are really looking forward to this next chapter with him and his team.”
GALLO RECORD COMPANY AND CONTENT CONNECT AFRICA EXTEND DEAL WITH VIRGIN MUSIC GROUP SOUTH AFRICA: Virgin Music Group has announced the extension of its global distribution partnership with two of Africa’s most influential music companies, Gallo Record Company and Content Connect Africa (CCA). The renewed agreement blends a century of musical heritage with modern, forward-thinking strategies designed to expand the global reach and commercial potential of African artists. The collaboration brings together Gallo and CCA’s expertise in artist and label development, spanning marketing, release planning, and creative writing camps, with Virgin Music Group’s worldwide infrastructure, advanced analytics, and monetization capabilities. Together, the partners will continue advocating for African talent globally, fostering cross-border collaborations, and tailoring release strategies to maximize impact across international markets. Founded in 1926, Gallo Record Company is South Africa’s oldest independent label, home to artists such as Miriam Makeba, Lucky Dube, and Ladysmith Black Mambazo, while continuing to champion new-generation talent across genres. CCA, meanwhile, assists in developing and amplifying contemporary African artists through content creation, marketing, and innovative distribution models, including telecom partnerships that broaden access and revenue opportunities across the continent.
SONY MUSIC’S COMBINED REVENUE FROM RECORDED MUSIC AND PUBLISHING BLASTS PAST $3 BILLION MILESTONE IN Q4 2025: Sony‘s worldwide music rights business hit a major revenue landmark in calendar Q4 2025 (fiscal Q3 2025), with combined income from recorded music and music publishing reaching $3.01 billion (USD) for the three months ending December. This marks the first time the company’s music operations have crossed the $3 billion quarterly threshold. Based on earnings release on February 5, the $3.01 billion total represented an 11.4% year-on-year increase on a U.S. dollar–converted, consistent-currency basis. Sony attributed the growth not only to higher streaming revenues, but also to its expanding involvement in live touring and merchandise. In absolute terms, Sony’s music rights revenues rose by roughly $309 million compared with the same quarter a year earlier. Recorded music remained the largest contributor, generating $2.30 billion in calendar Q4 2025, an 11.2% increase year-on-year in dollar terms. Streaming accounted for $1.45 billion of that total, up 5.1% YoY, combining both paid subscription and ad-supported formats. A standout performer within recorded music was the corporately defined “Other” category, which includes live concerts, merchandise, and licensing income from public performance, broadcast, and synchronization. Revenue from this segment climbed sharply to $583.5 million for the quarter, a 28.6% increase versus the prior year. Sony’s music publishing arm, led by Sony Music Publishing, delivered $703 million in revenue during the three months ending September 2025, up 12.2% year-on-year on a U.S. dollar basis. It is estimated that approximately $418 million of this publishing revenue came from streaming in calendar Q3 2025, an increase of 13.0% compared with the same period last year.
NEED TO MAKE CONTACT, SEND NEWS AND NEW MUSIC RELEASES?: If you have any A&R, publishing, technology, agent/promoter, international radio, management, new media or film/TV music supervisor news you’d like to share with A&R Worldwide, or need to respond to information published in the weekly newsletter please E–mail it to the attention of info@anrworldwide.com. Also, all demos and new music releases should be sent as STREAMING LINKS ONLY to info@anrworldwide.com
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Harvey Goldsmith, Alistair Norbury, Preston Rodie, Tim Ingham, Damon Forbes, Amanda Grocky, Vijay Nair, Donna Caseine, Bob Pittman, Chris Taylor, Brett Marks, Jen Malone, Patrik Larsson, Reynold D’Silva, and Bundeep Rangar.
