BMG APPOINTS TIM MILES AS EVP, GLOBAL SYNC+
BMG has confirmed the appointment of Tim Miles as Executive Vice President, Global SYNC+. He will be based in London and report directly to Chief Strategy Officer Johannes von Schwarzkopf, taking charge of the company’s newly established SYNC+ division.
In this position, Miles will spearhead the development and implementation of BMG’s global SYNC+ strategy, working to unify teams across multiple regions while accelerating growth within the company’s music-for-media operations. His responsibilities will include overseeing global licensing, managing operational frameworks, and coordinating regional services, as well as deepening partnerships with key players across film, television, advertising, gaming, and digital platforms.
Miles brings extensive experience to the role, having spent more than ten years at Warner Music Group. Most recently, he served as Sr. Vice President of Global Sync, where he directed the company’s international sync activities across more than 25 markets. During his time there, he was instrumental in shaping high-profile music-for-media collaborations across film, television, gaming, and brand partnerships, contributing to some of the most impactful projects in this space over the past decade.
Johannes von Schwarzkopf, Chief Strategy Officer, BMG, said, “Tim brings a strong record of building high-performing teams and driving impactful music-for-media partnerships. As we scale SYNC+, our focus is on a more innovative, technology-enabled service – combining global scale with advanced capabilities in data, product, and AI to better connect music to opportunity. With a strong global leadership team, consisting of Allegra Willis Knerr, Amberly Crouse-Knox, Scott Doran, and Caspar Kedros, in place, Tim will help drive the next phase of growth.”
Tim Miles added, “The opportunity with SYNC+ is clear – a unified rights platform, a world-class catalog, and a structure designed around our customers, from global studios to emerging digital platforms. The next phase is about being faster, smarter, and more connected – through better product, sharper processes, and a more integrated global approach. With GenAI and other technologies playing an increasing role in how music is discovered and licensed, there is competitive advantage available to those who move decisively.”
MAX LOUSADA AND JULIE GREENWALD LAUNCH 26.2 IN PARTNERSHIP WITH SONY MUSIC
Max Lousada and Julie Greenwald have launched their new venture, 26.2, in a strategic partnership with Sony Music. Positioned explicitly as a record label, rather than a distributor, services company, or joint venture, the pair are framing 26.2 as a traditional label model with a modern, artist-first philosophy at its core.
Two weeks ago, they finalized a strategic agreement with Sony Music in New York, which includes investment support and global distribution through Sony’s infrastructure. The partnership is already active, with 26.2 offices opening in both New York and London and beginning conversations with prospective artists.
The name 26.2, referencing the 26.2-mile distance of a marathon, reflects the company’s guiding principle: a commitment to fewer artists, longer-term development, and sustained creative journeys rather than short-term output. According to sources, the founders also explored potential backing from Wall Street investors and held discussions with major private equity firms but concluded that financial structures of that kind can conflict with instinct-led A&R decision-making.
Lousada and Greenwald describe the Sony partnership as a way to combine independence with scale, giving them the freedom to build their own team and operate globally, while collaborating with a partner that understands the time-intensive nature of artist development and the non-linear path of building careers.
“We are music and art-first and digital solutions-second, not the reverse,” says Lousada. “Fundamentally, we believe that there is too much conversation today on the distribution of art versus the creation – and the raising up – of that art. When you play in culture, it is a different thing from chasing an audience,” he adds. “Initially, you are not playing for scale. You are playing for meaning and impact, and then it grows from there.”
Lousada also points to his long-standing 25-year relationship with Sony Music CEO Rob Stringer as a key foundation for the deal, alongside Sony’s broader entrepreneurial ecosystem and its history of supporting independent labels and ventures through entities such as The Orchard, AWAL, and various label partnerships. Greenwald and Lousada previously worked closely together for over two decades at Warner Music Group, where they built a long-shared history in A&R and executive leadership.
WARNER CHAPPELL MUSIC INKS GLOBAL PUBLISHING DEAL WITH CLAUDIA BRANT & REVEALS EXECUTIVE PROMOTION
Warner Chappell Music (WCM) U.S. Latin has entered into a global publishing agreement with Claudia Brant, a songwriter and inductee of the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame, whose career spans more than four decades.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in contemporary Latin music, Brant is a multi-year recipient of SESAC and ASCAP Latin Songwriter of the Year honors and has written hits for Alejandro Sanz, Becky G, Bruno Mars, Calibre 50, Camila Cabello, Danny Elfman, David Foster, Desmond Child, Diane Warren, John Legend, Julia Michaels, Marc Anthony, Motiff, and Ricky Martin. In 2024, Brant launched Cha Cha Cha Publishing, a venture focused on developing the next generation of songwriters, and partnered with WCM to provide global reach, infrastructure, and creative support to help elevate emerging talent, including Colombian singer-songwriter Laura Prias. Brant has also brought in Fran Chandia and Agua Tinta.
Through the partnership, WCM has also signed Argentine artist Santiago “Toto” Rovito, who is currently preparing to release his debut single. With a catalog exceeding 4,000 songs, Brant’s accolades include winning the Latin Grammy for Song of the Year in 2009 for Luis Fonsi‘s “Aquí Estoy Yo,” as well as a Grammy Award in 2019 for Best Latin Pop Album for her project Sincera. Her impact on the charts is equally significant, with Fonsi’s “No Me Doy Por Vencido” recognized as Billboard‘s Latin Pop Song of the Decade in 2009 after a record-breaking 21-week run at No. 1 on the Latin Pop Airplay chart. Beyond her songwriting achievements, Brant currently serves as a National Trustee for The Recording Academy‘s Los Angeles chapter, sits on the ASCAP Board, and holds the role of Sr. Vice President at the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame, following her induction in 2016.
Warner Chappell Music has also announced the promotion of Wendy Recio to Head of Legal & Administration for Spain and Portugal. In this elevated role, Recio will lead the publisher’s regional legal and rights management divisions, overseeing all copyright, royalties, and tracking operations across the Iberian Peninsula.
Based in Madrid, Recio will report directly to Santiago Menéndez-Pidal, President, Warner Chappell Music Southern Europe.
Recio joined WCM three years ago and has been a driving force in modernizing the legal department. She has played a pivotal role in structuring major deals for a premier roster of talent, including Dani Fernández, Guitarricadelafuente, Lia Kali, and Quevedo. Her appointment followed a distinguished 14-year tenure within the legal team at Warner Music Spain, bringing a wealth of cross-sector expertise to the publishing division.
CONCORD EXPANDS HIP-HOP PRESENCE WITH VICTOR VICTOR WORLDWIDE PARTNERSHIP
Concord has entered into a strategic multi-year partnership with Victor Victor Worldwide (VVW), the New York-based record label founded by Steven Victor.
According to the announcement, the collaboration is designed to fuel the next phase of growth for VVW while also strengthening Concord’s footprint in the hip-hop space. Under the agreement, Concord will provide support across the label’s roster and work to expand the global reach of its catalog, music that has played a defining role in shaping a generation of artists and continues to influence the genre today.
Established in 2016, Victor Victor Worldwide has been instrumental in launching the careers of artists including Pop Smoke and Ski Mask The Slump God. The label also played a key role in Japanese creative Nigo‘s return to music with his 2022 project I Know Nigo, which featured collaborations with A$AP Rocky, Lil Uzi Vert, and Tyler, The Creator.
“At Concord, we build for what’s next by strengthening our creative teams,” said Tom Becci, CEO, Concord Label Group. “This venture with Steven and Victor Victor Worldwide unites organizations with distinct voices and a shared record of developing artists at the highest level. By combining Victor Victor’s cultural leadership with Concord’s global resources, we are creating a long-term partnership designed to break new talent and build lasting careers. Alongside this collaboration, we are honored to steward VVW’s culturally impactful catalog, allowing us to continue to build upon the legacy of its artists such as Pop Smoke and Ski Mask The Slump God. Together, we will focus not just on preservation, but on thoughtful expansion – amplifying impact, creating new opportunities, and ensuring these recordings continue to evolve and inspire for years to come.”
Steven Victor began his career in the publicity department at Interscope Records before transitioning into artist management. He later served as Chief Operating Officer of G.O.O.D Music before going on to found Victor Victor Worldwide, building it into a culturally influential label within hip-hop.
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 first met Paul Tollett in the early 2000’s when the two were making their own respective marks as trusted global music tastemakers and influencers who were championing emerging talent before most could see their potential.
In the fast-paced ecosystem of live global music, few figures command as much quiet respect as Paul Tollett, the visionary President & CEO of Goldenvoice. Emerging from the DIY punk scene of Southern California, Tollett and his late partner Rick Van Santen transformed a risky 1999 gamble into the highly respected and “must play” global festival event – Coachella!
Tollett remains an “engineer at heart,” famously obsessed with every detail of the fan experience, from gourmet food and architectural art to the definitive poster placement that dictates an artist’s industry standing. His uncanny A&R intuition has led to iconic moments, whether it is curating the historic classic rock summits of Desert Trip or breaking global boundaries with countless artists.
Despite running a behemoth empire under AEG Presents, Paul maintains a “soft-spoken music aficionado” persona that built his reputation for fair dealing. Paul remains the gold standard for how to scale a grassroots vision into a global cultural phenomenon without losing the authentic alternative musical soul that started it all.
RUEL
Burgeoning global artist Ruel steps into a striking new chapter with “Don’t Say That,” a sleek, emotionally charged single that captures the push and pull of a relationship on the brink. Blending bittersweet honesty with an undeniably infectious pop sheen, the track reveals a more nuanced side of the U.K.-born, Sydney-raised star, one unafraid to sit in the discomfort of letting go while still clinging to what once was. Co-written with hitmakers Joel Little and Sean Douglas, “Don’t Say That” pairs its upbeat, pre-summer energy with a quietly devastating core. Beneath the polished production and soaring hooks lies a story of denial, heartbreak, and the slow realization that something slipping away might already be gone. It is this emotional tension, particularly in the stripped-back, confessional bridge, which gives the track its lasting punch. Originally teased as a fan-favorite outro, anticipation for the song has been building for months and its arrival more than delivers. It also offers a compelling glimpse into Ruel’s next move: Kicking & Screaming, a 10-track expansion of his sophomore era that pushes his sound further into bold, melodic territory, due June 12th. With an all-star roster of collaborators including Julian Bunetta, Kenny Beats, Dan Wilson, and M-Phazes, the project signals an artist fully coming into his own. Already boasting billions of streams, global acclaim, and a reputation as one of pop’s most captivating young voices, Ruel continues to evolve with confidence and clarity. With “Don’t Say That” he proves that sometimes the most powerful pop moments are the ones that hurt the most. Listen to “Don’t Say That” HERE and contact Team Ruel for press inquiries, and Brigid Neill for all available international opportunities with Ruel.
I SEE ORANGE
Swindon, England-based alt-rock trio I See Orange hit a new stride with “Wine Boy,” a bold, hook-laden single that captures a band rapidly stepping onto the global stage. Fresh from standout U.S. showcase dates in New York and an official slot at SXSW, as well as a sold-out Los Angeles show at the Moroccan Lounge, the track arrives with the kind of confidence that only comes from a group finding its moment and running with it. Now bolstered by a new endorsement with Orange Amps, their ascent feels both hard-earned and unstoppable. Blending gritty ’90s grunge textures with a sharp, melodic instinct, “Wine Boy” surges with driving basslines, fuzzed-out guitars, and a vocal performance that balances raw intensity with undeniable pull. It is heavy but accessible, channeling that sweet spot where underground edge meets widescreen ambition. At its core, the song leans into a striking metaphor: love as intoxication. What begins as a fascination with red wine, its richness, its ritual, quickly spirals into something deeper and more obsessive, where desire blurs into dependency and the object of affection takes on a life of its own. It is vivid, slightly surreal, and completely absorbing. Formed in 2022, I See Orange quickly carved out a reputation for their high-energy, riff-driven sound, anchored by the chemistry between Giselle Medina, Cameron Hill, and Charlie Hart. With growing international buzz, major showcase slots, and sessions in Los Angeles with acclaimed producer Philip Broussard (Red Hot Chili Peppers, System of a Down), “Wine Boy” feels like a turning point, one that signals a band ready to push far beyond their roots. Watch the video for “Wine Boy” HERE. For available opportunities for I See Orange, contact LAMA Management.
“PASSPORT APPROVED” PLAYLIST FOR Sunday, April 19th, 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.
RUM JUNGLE – “Coal Dust” (Sureshaker, Australia)
TOVE STYRKE – “Prayer” (Bud Fox, Sweden)
SEAFRET – “Signal Fire” (Nettwerk, U.K.)
MEEK – “Fabulous” (BMG, U.K.)
SEX MASK – “Cold” (Unsigned, Australia)
LAVA LA RUE – “Scratches” (Dirty Hit Records, U.K.)
OVERPASS – “Sandman” (Communion Records, U.K.)
VELLA – “Settle Down” (Universal Music, Sweden)
GOOD NEIGHBOURS – “Somebody” (Polydor, U.K.)
BALU BRIGADA – “Backseat” (Warner Music Group, Australasia)
DEAD DADS CLUB – “That’s Life” (Fiction Records, U.K.)
MIA WRAY – “When We Were Young” (Ivy League Records, Australia)
MICHAEL ALDAG – “Superstar” (3 Beat Records, U.K.)
YONAKA – “Trouble Follows” (Distiller Records, U.K.)
RHETT REPKO – “Bad At Love” (Unsigned, U.S.)
THE SHERLOCKS – “In Your Hands” (Teddyboy Records, U.K.)
LIME GARDEN – “All Bad Parts” (So Young Records, U.K.)
CHANIN – “Whisper” (Unsigned, Germany)
GIRL SCOUT – “Operator” (AWAL, Sweden)
D’MASIV – “Side By Side” (Unsigned, Indonesia)
GIRLI – “Slap on The Wrist” (Virgin EMI Records, U.K.)
FAVOURITE DAUGHTER – “You But Different” (Unsigned, U.K.)
THE SOOKS – “Take It Slow” (Good Intent, Australia)
LUSAINT – “Blind” (Heavenly Fire, U.K.)
CARDINALS – “St. Agnes” (So Young Records, Ireland)
CHLOE QISHA – “So Sad So Hot” (Sony Music, Malaysia)
NEWPORT – “Slow Down” (Liberation Records, Australia)
JERUB – “Kumbaya” (Elevate Music, U.K.)
STEFAN LALCHEV – “Won’t Let Go” (Unsigned, Bulgaria)
THE ENEMY – “Trouble” (Unsigned, U.K.)
LOUIS OLIVER – “Tell Me” (Unsigned, U.K.)
THE LATHUMS – “Cobblestones” (Island Records, U.K.)
BIRD – “The Boy And The Swan” (Pop Fiction/AWAL, Belgium)
KOBALT SIGNS RISING IRISH BAND BLEECH 9:3: Kobalt has announced the signing of Bleech 9:3, the fast-rising alternative rock band emerging from Dublin, Ireland’s underground scene. Built around songwriters and guitarists Barry “Baz” Quinlan and Sam Duffy, the four-piece, completed by James Quinlan (bass) and Luke O’Neill (drums), has quickly become one of the most talked-about new acts on the U.K. and European live circuit. Kenny McGoff, EVP, Head of Creative U.K. & GSA, Kobalt, tells A&R Worldwide, “I met Baz in a coffee shop and saw deep into the white of his eyes in real time, not just from the stage. Everything connected, the heart, mind, body, and soul. Soon after, the rest of the band joined, and I knew this was something that meant more to me than any business could ever give you.” Having just a handful of releases, the band has already built significant momentum. Breakthrough single “Jacky,” a visceral exploration of addiction and survival, has resonated widely, while their debut track “Ceiling” marked the beginning of a bold new chapter, drawing influence from artists like Radiohead, Nirvana, and Deftones, alongside contemporary acts such as Fontaines D.C. A breakout 2025 saw Bleech 9:3 rapidly evolve into one of the most in-demand live acts in the scene, supporting artists including Keo and Shame, selling out headline shows, and culminating in a three-night residency at London’s Blue Basement. Their relentless touring schedule and word-of-mouth buzz have helped them cultivate a fast-growing and deeply engaged fanbase. Now based in London, the band continues to write and record new material while preparing for an extensive run of live shows. With over 150 dates on the horizon and a growing global audience, Bleech 9:3 is poised for a breakout year ahead.
GERMAN RAP AND POP PHENOMENON FAYAN SIGNS WITH ADA: ADA, the distribution and label services division of Warner Music Group, has announced the signing of FAYAN (Yannick Steffen), one of the most exciting and versatile voices in the modern German music landscape. The partnership arrives as FAYAN transitions from a prolific behind-the-scenes songwriter to a dominant solo force. FAYAN has already established himself as a powerhouse in the industry, contributing to over 180 tracks and amassing approximately one billion streams for artists such as Ayliva, MERO, Shirin David, and Luciano. As a solo artist, he is reaching new heights, with his hit single “VERLIEBT IN MICH” (In Love with Me) recently reaching No. 1 on the Spotify Viral Charts and the German-language radio charts, while breaking into the Top 20 of the German Singles Chart. The signing comes at a pivotal moment in FAYAN’s career. He was recently honored with the “Breakthrough Award” from GfK and a nomination for the prestigious 1LIVE Krone as “Best Newcomer Act.” Currently, he is a nominee for the 2026 German Pop Culture Prize for “Most Promising Newcomer.” To celebrate the new partnership, FAYAN is set to release his third single of the year, “VERSPRICH MIR,” produced by long-time collaborator Dalton (Reezy, Montez). The track is an intimate, melodic anthem that highlights FAYAN’s signature deep vocals and emotional storytelling. The production features a live horn section recorded by Amsterdam’s Miracle Horns, under the direction of Gregor Sperzel, further elevating his genre-blending sound. Growing up on the edge of the Black Forest, FAYAN’s journey from small-town soccer practices to becoming a TikTok” Hot Artist of the Week” serves as the backdrop for his music. His lyrics navigate themes of mental clarity, self-determination, and the glow-up from shadow to light. Fans will soon have the chance to experience his energetic stage presence firsthand. FAYAN will embark on his first-ever headlining tour this April, with all German dates already officially sold out.
AIMPRO LAUNCHES AS WORLD’S FIRST PRO DEDICATED TO THE CREATORS OF AI MUSIC: AIMPRO has launched as the first of its kind Performance Rights Organization (PRO) created specifically for generative AI music. Designed to address a growing gap in the industry, AIMPRO focuses on ensuring that creators working with AI tools have clear, reliable ways to earn income from their work. AIMPRO states it reimagines the traditional PRO model by offering a framework tailored to AI-generated music, where creative ownership often blends human input, iterative prompting, and machine-generated output. Leading the company are Steve Stewart, a music and technology executive and former manager of Stone Temple Pilots, and Joe Berman, who has more than 25 years of experience in publishing, licensing, and A&R. Together, they state they’ve built AIMPRO to be more flexible and creator-friendly than traditional PROs. The platform offers a free basic membership, allowing any creator to join, with AIMPRO taking a 15% commission only on collected earnings, the AIMPRO Marketplace, a searchable licensing hub where filmmakers, advertisers, and media producers can discover and license AI-generated music with verified ownership records, and a Pro subscription tier at $9.99 per month, offering expanded marketplace access and hands-on support to help creators secure placements. One of AIMPRO’s core innovations is its ability to address the “human vs. machine” attribution challenge. AIMPRO says PROs have shown openness to AI-assisted works but lack the tools to clearly separate human contributions or provide the legal certainty required by commercial licensors. AIMPRO says it fills that gap by enabling creators to document their role in the creative process and register works accordingly.
PLAY IT AGAIN SAM SIGN MASSIVE ATTACK: Play It Again Sam has announced the signing of legendary U.K. trip-hop collective Massive Attack. Alongside the deal, Massive Attack have revealed details of their new single, “Boots on the Ground,” which was released on April 16, 2026, via Play It Again Sam. The track marks the group’s first new material in several years. The release will be accompanied by an original film co-directed by the band in collaboration with U.S. photo artist thefinaleye. Premiering across Massive Attack’s digital platforms on the same day, the film delivers a high-intensity visual narrative that reflects a turbulent moment in contemporary America, shaped by widespread public protests around immigration enforcement, civil liberties, and state authority. “Boots on the Ground” is the first in a series of upcoming releases tied to the band’s renewed activity, which will also include a slate of major festival appearances scheduled throughout summer 2026. Kenny Gates, Executive Chairman of [PIAS] said, “We are honored to welcome Massive Attack to Play It Again Sam. They are a band I have admired for decades, not just for their groundbreaking music but for their uncompromising creativity and cultural impact. To be collaborating with them is genuinely exciting for all of us at [PIAS], and this partnership feels like the start of an exciting journey.” Russell Crank, Director of A&R at Play It Again Sam added, “In a time like this, standing behind the vital voice of Massive Attack is a privilege. We are fully committed to Rob, Grant, and the important art they continue to make, and the remarkable work they are about to share this year.”
WARNER MUSIC GROUP ANNOUNCES INVESTMENT AND PARTNERSHIP WITH TUSTREAMS: Warner Music Group has announced a new alliance with TuStreams, a prominent independent player in the expanding Música Mexicana market, alongside a minority investment in the company. Through the deal, Warner will function as the global distribution partner for TuStreams’ entire catalog and upcoming releases, pairing TuStreams’ independent, creator-driven approach with Warner’s worldwide reach to expand visibility and growth opportunities across international markets. The partnership also includes collaboration on artist signings, A&R, and creative development, building a strong pipeline for new talent to enter the global Warner network. By combining TuStreams’ ability to spot emerging hitmakers with Warner’s scale and long-term artist development expertise, both companies aim to accelerate the global rise of the genre. Founded in 2019 by Tony Larios, TuStreams has quickly become a key platform for independent artists and labels, offering services across distribution, development, and artist support. The company helped fuel the early success of Grupo Firme and now represents a roster spanning regional Mexican and broader Latin music, including reggaeton and pop. Alejandro Duque, President, Warner Music Latin America & ADA said, “TuStreams is a force at the center of one of the most culturally significant movements in music today. Música Mexicana is a global priority for us; it is one of the fastest-growing and most impactful genres worldwide. This partnership deepens our commitment to investing in the leaders of the movement.”
UMPG SIGNS COMPOSER AND PIANIST YU-PENG CHEN: Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) has entered into a global publishing agreement with composer, pianist, and producer Yu-Peng Chen. The deal covers both his existing catalog and future works, with UMPG set to support the worldwide growth of his music across concert stages, film, gaming, and interactive media. Best known as the composer behind the global hit open-world game Genshin Impact, Chen has cultivated a massive international audience. His compositions have been featured in over one million TikTok posts, earned more than 126 million views on official YouTube channels, and generated upwards of 1.5 billion streams globally. In 2025, he also made history as the first Chinese composer to sign an exclusive agreement with Deutsche Grammophon. Chen initially built his reputation through work in film, television, and video games, with Genshin Impact serving as a breakthrough that brought him worldwide recognition. His music has since been performed and recorded by leading orchestras such as the London Symphony Orchestra, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, Shanghai Philharmonic Orchestra, and Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra. His orchestral album Fantasyland was recorded at London’s Abbey Road Studios alongside the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Now working independently, Chen continues to compose for major game titles like Justice and Where Winds Meet, while increasingly dedicating his efforts to large-scale orchestral compositions.
MARK PITTS EXITS AS PRESIDENT OF RCA RECORDS, LAUNCHES COFVNDERS: Mark Pitts has stepped down from his role as President of RCA Records, a position he held following his promotion in 2021 after previously serving as President of Urban Music at the label. He has confirmed he will be exiting his role as CEO of ByStorm Entertainment, the imprint he founded in 1998. While stepping away from his executive post, Pitts will continue to maintain a consultancy relationship with RCA and Sony Music, collaborating closely with artists he helped develop over the years, including Chris Brown and Miguel. His departure coincides with the launch of COFVNDERS, a new multimedia management company based between New York and Los Angeles. The venture has already been linked to major activity around Chris Brown, including his upcoming co-headlining stadium tour with Usher, The R&B Tour, set to launch in June in Denver in partnership with Live Nation, with Pitts credited as a producer on the project during its early development phase. Beyond artist management, COFVNDERS is also expanding into international cultural initiatives, including a partnership with entertainment attorney Tamayu Takayama on the Tokyo Sound Continuum (TSC). Backed by Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs through its Creator Support Fund, the program is designed to bring U.S. producers and songwriters to Tokyo to collaborate with Japanese creators, with a long-term goal of developing a pipeline to elevate Japanese talent globally. A Brooklyn-born executive, Pitts began his career at Bad Boy Records in the early 1990s working alongside Sean “Diddy” Combs and managing The Notorious B.I.G. He later served as VP of A&R at Arista Records, contributing to Usher’s diamond-certified Confessions, and went on to become President of Urban Music at Jive Records, where he signed a teenage Chris Brown and managed J. Cole. Following the 2011 Jive-RCA merger, he continued his ascent at RCA, becoming President and overseeing artists including Latto and others across the roster.
NOTTING HILL MUSIC SIGNS SONGWRITER & PRODUCER HUGO CHEGWIN: Notting Hill Music has announced a long-term exclusive publishing agreement with two-time Ivor Novello Award winner Hugo Chegwin. Chegwin’s career spans both songwriting and production, with credits on major hits for artists including Sam Smith, Emeli Sandé, and Leona Lewis, as well as collaborations with Plan B, Maverick Sabre, and Mary J Blige. His work has established him as a versatile creative across both mainstream pop and U.K. urban music. Alongside his writing career, Chegwin launched his debut EP last year via independent label Modern Sky, which received dedicated support from playlists, radio, and press. The newly signed publishing deal is set to further support and expand his ongoing artist career. In addition to his music work, Chegwin is widely recognized as a co-creator, co-star, and composer of the BBC comedy series People Just Do Nothing, which became a cultural hit across five seasons and earned him a BAFTA Award. Notting Hill Chairman Andy McQueen said, “It is Hugo’s versatility and astounding ability to succeed and thrive in the most competitive sectors of the entertainment business – music, television, and film, and conquer every creative and executive discipline he chooses to take on within each of those fields that we find so exciting and which compelled us to pursue this deal so ardently. We are totally committed to creating and seeking out new musical opportunities and collaborations for him to select whatever he finds most interesting to him.” Hugo Chegwin added, “Signing with Notting Hill is such a big moment for me. From the very start, I felt their drive, passion, and genuine belief in what I do. I am honestly so excited and grateful to be joining a team that really backs their artists. It is a major next step, and I cannot wait to create something special together with Notting Hill Music!”
BELIEVE INDIA ELEVATES AKHILA SHANKAR AS DIRECTOR OF ARTIST SERVICES, INDIA & SOUTH ASIA: Believe, one of the world’s leading independent music companies and distributors, has elevated Akhila Shankar to lead its Artist Services business across India and South Asia. Shankar, who currently heads TuneCore India and South Asia, will take on the new role immediately and will continue to oversee TuneCore. Based in Mumbai, she will focus on artist development, deepening artist partnerships, expanding local capabilities, and building pathways for artists to grow both regionally and globally. The hiring reflects Believe’s continued investment in one of the fastest-evolving music markets, where independent artists are playing an increasingly significant role in shaping culture and consumption. This transition follows the decision of current Director of Artist Services, Shilpa Sharda to move on from Believe India to pursue other interests after being with the company for 12 years. Shankar has played a key role in scaling TuneCore’s presence in the region, helping independent artists access global distribution and build sustainable careers while retaining control of their rights. As of today, TuneCore is home to independent releases from artists like Ritviz, Talwiinder, and projects with Famous Studios (Diljit Dosanjh). At the same time, Believe Artist Services, as part of Believe’s broader artist development ecosystem, has been instrumental in nurturing and scaling artists such as Sanju Rathod, Cheema Y, and Gur Sidhu, supporting them across key stages of their growth journeys.
MUSICBIRD ACQUIRES CATALOG OF SUPERTRAMP BASSIST DOUGIE THOMSON: MusicBird has announced its third investment in just six months, acquiring the catalog income associated with Scottish musician and Supertramp bassist Dougie Thomson. The deal includes master royalty income from Thomson’s recordings with Supertramp, covering some of the band’s most enduring hits, including “Goodbye Stranger,” “Give A Little Bit,” and “Breakfast in America.” The company described the latest transaction as part of its focused approach to targeted, efficient deal-making, noting that it further strengthens portfolio diversification by adding additional income streams tied to established, high-performing catalogs. MusicBird continues to manage its broader music catalog of more than 2,000 songs spanning hundreds of artists, working in partnership with publishers, labels, and other industry stakeholders, with a stated goal of generating long-term revenue and capital growth for its investors. Formed in 1970, Supertramp became one of Britain’s most successful rock bands, selling over 60 million albums worldwide and accumulating billions of global streams, demonstrating the continued cultural and commercial longevity of their recordings decades after release. Dougie Thomson was a key member of the band’s classic lineup, performing with Supertramp across seven albums over a 15-year period until 1988. During that time, he contributed to several landmark records, including Crime of the Century, Crisis? What Crisis?, Even in the Quietest Moments…, and Breakfast in America. The latter remains one of the best-selling albums of all time, earning two Grammy Awards, while its lead single “The Logical Song” received the 1979 Ivor Novello Award for Best Song Musically and Lyrically.
ROAM PROMOTES JESS KINN ALONGSIDE KEY HIRES IN MARKETING AND BRAND PARTNERSHIPS: Roam has promoted Jess Kinn to partner, while also announcing two senior appointments aimed at expanding its artist services and brand offering. Kinn, who joined Roam in October, steps into the partner role after establishing herself as a key agent within the company. Her roster includes artists such as Olly Alexander (Years & Years), Africa Express, Moonchild Sanelly, Jessie Buckley & Bernard Butler, Bimini, Pale Waves, Mae Muller, Emma Harner, Precious Pepala, and Solya. She also represents Roam’s U.S. signings internationally, including Say She She, Flower Face, Raegan, Ruby Waters, and The Aces. Alongside her promotion, Roam has appointed Malaika Thomas as Head of Tour Marketing, joining from AEG Presents where she led campaigns for live events including BST Hyde Park, All Points East, and Roundhay Festival. Her background also includes marketing roles at Live Nation Entertainment, Universal Music Group, and Sony Music Entertainment, with experience spanning international touring and global artist campaigns. The company has also hired Saskia Collins as Head of EU Brand Partnerships at its in-house strategy division companyX. With more than a decade of experience building brand collaborations across music and culture, Collins joins from Universal Music Group’s Globe division, where she delivered partnerships with brands including Pinterest, Tia Maria, Rimmel, Jack Daniel’s, Coca-Cola, Puma, Topshop, The Singleton, O2, and ELF Cosmetics, and worked on the Lewis Capaldi LEGO Christmas campaign. Her earlier career includes roles at SBTV, experiential agency ITCH Ltd, working on activations such as Virgin Media‘s V Festival stage programming, and six years at Save the Children, where she led ambassador campaigns including #BigUpUganda with Adwoa Aboah and Felix Cooper. In her new role, she will oversee EU-wide brand partnerships to ensure Roam’s integrated services extend across all European markets with global reach.
YMU GROUP MAKES SENIOR PROMOTIONS IN ENTERTAINMENT DIVISION: YMU Group has announced a series of five senior promotions within its entertainment division. The company, which represents leading talent across entertainment, sport, music, and digital, continues to operate across sectors including television, film, publishing, live performance, and brand partnerships. Meghan Peterson, Jordan Johnson, Lauren Clark, and Nader Dehdashti have each been elevated to executive director roles, in recognition of their impact on YMU’s client portfolio, commercial performance, and internal culture. The appointments are positioned as a clear investment in the next generation of leadership within the company. In their new roles, Peterson will serve as Executive Director of Business and Operations, Johnson as Executive Director of Unscripted, Clark as Executive Director of Creators, and Dehdashti as Executive Director of Growth and Innovation. In addition, Claire Dundas has been promoted to Sr. Executive Director, acknowledging her 15-year contribution to the division. These changes sit within YMU’s broader leadership structure, with Melanie Rockcliffe continuing as Chair of the Entertainment division, while Paul Worsley remains Chief Client Officer and Darren Worsley continues as Group Vice Chair, maintaining oversight of key client relationships and commercial strategy.
FORMER UMG NASHVILLE CHIEF CINDY MABE LAUNCHES JOAN OF ARC MUSIC: Cindy Mabe, former Chair and CEO of Universal Music Group Nashville (UMG), has launched a new multi-faceted entertainment company, Joan of Arc Music, headquartered in Nashville, TN. The venture spans artist management, label services, publishing, TV and film production, and philanthropy, positioning itself as a broad-based platform for creative and business development across the industry. Joan of Arc Music has also secured a distribution partnership with Warner Records Nashville, giving the company access to Warner Music Group‘s global distribution network. Mabe departed UMG Nashville in February 2025 after more than a decade, during which she aided in guiding the careers of artists including Carrie Underwood, Chris Stapleton, Luke Bryan, Kacey Musgraves, Keith Urban, and George Strait. The company is structured into four divisions: Joan of Arc Entertainment, which encompasses artist management, label services, and publishing; Joan of Arc Studio Works, focused on television, film, and audio production; Joan of Arc Ventures, serving as a strategic investment arm; and the Joan of Arc Music Preservation Foundation, a philanthropic initiative dedicated to preserving country music heritage. The foundation has already launched partnerships with the CMA Foundation, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and Porter’s Call, a nonprofit that provides mental health support for touring musicians and their families. Mabe has received extensive industry recognition throughout her career, including being named Billboard‘s Country Power Players Executive of the Year in 2019, consistent appearances on Billboard‘s Women in Music list from 2015 through 2024, and the Louise Scruggs Memorial Forum Award from the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. The leadership team at Joan of Arc Music includes Lori Christian, Dawn Gates, Harper Grae, Leigh Morrison, and Allison Winkler, bringing together expertise across artist development, marketing, operations, and strategic partnerships.
SYMPHONIC HIRES MICHELLE GARRAMONE TO LEAD EXPANSION INTO CATALOG DEALS AND PARTNERSHIPS: Symphonic has appointed Michelle Garramone as Head of Strategic Partnerships. In this position, she will lead efforts to expand the company’s activity in catalog acquisitions while developing partnerships designed to create new growth opportunities for Symphonic’s artists and business partners. In her new role, Garramone will manage relationships with catalog owners, investment firms, brand partners, and other collaborators on a global scale, strengthening Symphonic’s ability to support independent music businesses in a fast-changing market. She will also work closely with the company’s leadership and deal teams to identify opportunities both within Symphonic’s existing network and across emerging international markets, helping to ensure the company remains competitive as the industry evolves. Bringing more than 15 years of experience, Garramone has built a history in developing sustainable, scalable business models for artists, managers, and independent labels, with a particular focus on maximizing long-term catalog value through strategic planning and operational execution. Before joining Symphonic, Garramone served as President of Blue Rose Music, an investor-backed American heritage label, where she oversaw operations and led growth initiatives spanning artist development, distribution strategy, and catalog optimization. Following that role, she launched her own advisory firm, collaborating closely with independent artists, labels, and music companies to support expansion strategies, restructuring efforts, systems optimization, and market repositioning. Garramone will report directly to CEO Jorge Brea and will be based in Miami, Florida.
SPANISH POINT TECHNOLOGIES LAUNCHES AI MODULE FOR MATCHING ENGINE PLATFORM: Matching Engine, developed by Spanish Point Technologies, has introduced a new AI-powered module to its platform used by collective management organizations (CMOs). CMOs using the system are expected to distribute more than €1.2 billion (Euros) in royalties to over 500,000 creators and rights-holders globally in 2026. The launch comes as the industry faces increasing complexity driven by the growth of streaming, short-form content, gaming, social media, and the rapid rise of AI-generated music from platforms like Suno and Udio. These shifts are placing new demands on data processing and rights attribution, requiring more advanced technological solutions. Matching Engine, a cloud-native enterprise platform, is already used by leading organizations across Europe and North America, including SOCAN, TONO, KODA, and IMRO, and plays a key role in global copyright infrastructure, supporting systems such as the International Standard Musical Work Code (ISWC). Unveiled at the Matching Engine Symposium in Dublin on April 15–16, the new AI module is designed to improve how CMOs access, analyze, and act on data, enabling faster and more accurate royalty processing at scale. It allows rights and repertoire teams to identify and resolve matching and attribution issues in real time, reducing delays and errors. Through an AI assistant interface, users can interact directly with usage and repertoire data, helping to quickly spot discrepancies, ensure correct attribution, and enhance transparency in royalty distributions. In response to the growing issue of AI-driven fraudulent streaming activity, Spanish Point Technologies is also developing a dedicated fraud detection module, expected to launch later this year. This tool aims to identify suspicious patterns, strengthen confidence in data matching, and support more accurate and transparent royalty payments.
LIVE NATION APPOINTS CHRIS MARKING TO LEAD GLOBAL VENUE SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM: Live Nation has appointed Chris Marking as Executive Vice President of International Venue Sponsorship, where he will oversee the company’s venue sponsorship strategy across markets outside North America. In this role, Marking will lead initiatives spanning naming rights, founding partnerships, venue network deals, and broader commercial strategy across Live Nation’s growing global venue portfolio. With major projects in development, including Cardiff Arena and Munich Arena, alongside additional venues planned through 2031, Live Nation continues to expand an international network that attracts millions of fans annually. This scale is driving increased demand from brands looking to establish long-term visibility through live events, particularly via naming rights deals that integrate brands into city landmarks and high-frequency event spaces tied to ticketing and fan engagement. Marking will collaborate closely with venue development teams from the earliest planning and construction phases, ensuring that partnership opportunities are embedded into the design and overall fan experience of each venue. He will also work on evolving and enhancing partnerships across Live Nation’s existing venues. The company has significantly accelerated its global venue partnership activity in recent years, securing naming rights deals and brand collaborations across multiple territories, including venues such as BNZ Theatre in New Zealand, Veikkaus Arena in Finland, AFAS Dome in Belgium, Vive Claro Stadium in Colombia, GNP Stadium of Guadalajara in Mexico, and several Canadian venues including RBC Amphitheater, TD Coliseum, and Rogers Stadium. Based in London, Chris joins Live Nation from AEG, where he spent 20 years working through venues, tours, and festival partnerships, contributing to major projects including The O2 in London, Uber Arena in Berlin, and Accor Arena in Paris.
INVERTED MUSIC U.K. SIGNS DEAL WITH ESTATE OF COMPOSER OTAR TAKTAKISHVILI: Inverted Music U.K. has announced a long-term worldwide publishing agreement with the estate of Georgian composer Otar Taktakishvili, covering his complete catalog of works and granting Inverted full global administration rights. The partnership positions Inverted to oversee and manage the international exploitation of Taktakishvili’s music, helping further expand the reach of a body of work that holds deep cultural importance in Georgia while steadily gaining new audiences around the world. In recent years, renewed interest in his compositions has been driven by high-profile performances and recordings, including interpretations by mandolin virtuoso Avital. His Between Worlds project (Deutsche Grammophon), which features Mingrelian Songs performed with the Rustavi Choir, was also highlighted at the BBC Proms at London’s Royal Albert Hall. Inverted Music U.K. noted that this agreement aligns with its ongoing strategy of expanding a curated catalog that bridges both contemporary and historical composers, strengthening its roster through culturally significant works with enduring global appeal.
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: Aaron Bay-Schuck, Jason Bentley, Steven Melrose, Kate Loesch, Carianne Marshall, Tom Mackay, Ben McLane, Brett Alperowitz, Clotaire Buche, Naoshi Fujikura, Kevin Weaver, Nora Felder, Jeff Sosnow, and Charley Londono.
