WARNER MUSIC UNVEILS ATLANTIC RECORDS FINLAND
Warner Music Finland has officially unveiled Atlantic Records Finland, a new frontline label dedicated to representing and developing some of the country’s most influential pop and rap talent.
Built around an agile and artist-focused philosophy, Atlantic Records Finland blends the entrepreneurial energy and creative flexibility of an independent label with the extensive international capabilities of Warner Music’s global network. Leading the new venture is Fredi Lundén, one of the Nordic region’s most respected A&R executives, who steps into the role of Director of Atlantic Records Finland. Joining him as the label’s first key hire is Kristiina Wheeler, who has been appointed Sr. A&R at Atlantic Records Finland.
The appointments of Lundén and Wheeler reflect the label’s strong emphasis on long-term artist growth within an increasingly digital and internationally connected music landscape. Deeply rooted in culture while maintaining a global outlook, the pair brings together a shared creative vision and a proven understanding of how to maximize the opportunities offered by a major international music company.
Atlantic Records Finland launches with a roster featuring some of Finland’s leading contemporary artists, including Averagekidluke, Isac Elliot, Juuna Chill, Kerza, SANNI, and william, all of whom transition to the new label from Warner Music Finland. Together, the artists have amassed numerous chart-topping releases and hundreds of millions of streams.
Lundén has assisted in shaping the careers of many of Finland’s biggest modern artists, having signed much of the current Atlantic Records Finland roster in recent years. In addition to his label work, he is part of Warner Music Finland’s in-house publishing division, HMC Publishing, where he has contributed to the development of producers including Los Rollos, Kim Mannila, and Wille Mannila. Widely recognized for connecting Finnish talent with international songwriting and production communities, Lundén has built a reputation for balancing commercial success with sustainable artist development, making him a key figure in the label’s foundation.
Wheeler is regarded as one of the Finnish music industry’s most forward-thinking A&R executives and was named A&R of the Year in 2024. Known for her ability to identify culturally resonant talent, she has helped shape a number of successful new-generation artist careers and delivered multiple Platinum-certified successes. Her achievements include working with Mirella, whose release became the most-streamed Finnish album of 2024, as well as Minttu, who earned recognition as YleX Breakthrough Artist of the Year in 2025.
SONY MUSIC PUBLISHING BUYS RECOGNITION PORTFOLIO
Sony Music Publishing has agreed to acquire the full music rights portfolio of Recognition Music Group from funds managed by Blackstone, pending standard closing conditions. While financial details were not officially revealed, industry reports have estimated the value of the deal at as much as $4 billion (USD).
Recognition Music Group, formerly known as Hipgnosis Songs Fund before rebranding last year, owns a catalog of more than 45,000 songs recorded by globally recognized artists. The acquisition is being conducted in partnership with the investment collaboration launched earlier this year between GIC and Sony Music Group, which focuses on expanding premium music catalog investments across international markets and genres.
The catalog includes some of the most iconic songs acquired during Hipgnosis’ active dealmaking years, such as Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’,” Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “Under the Bridge,” Fleetwood Mac’s “Go Your Own Way,” Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It),” Bruno Mars’ “Locked Out of Heaven,” Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance,” Rihanna’s “Umbrella,” and Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” among many others.
Rob Stringer, Chairman, Sony Music Group, said, “We are so proud and excited to represent this incredible catalogue of many of the greatest songs in pop history through this momentous acquisition.”
Jon Platt, Chairman & CEO, Sony Music Publishing, added, “Our investment in this extraordinary catalog reflects our belief in the enduring power of great music – a belief that resonates deeply throughout Sony Music Group and is shared by our partners at GIC. These timeless songs continue to define culture and inspire generations, and it is a privilege to champion their legacy as guardians of their next chapter.”
Many of the original Hipgnosis acquisitions involved writers’ shares of publishing income. With this latest transaction, Sony Music Publishing will in some instances consolidate multiple publishing revenue streams under one umbrella, including works associated with artists such as Leonard Cohen.
RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS SELL CATALOG TO WARNER MUSIC
The Red Hot Chili Peppers have reportedly agreed to sell their recorded music catalog to Warner Music Group in a deal said to be worth more than $300 million (USD).
According to reports, the acquisition was completed through Warner Music Group’s partnership with Bain Capital. The joint venture, which launched last summer with a $1.2 billion investment fund dedicated to music rights acquisitions, has already become a major player in the catalogue market.
Warner Music Group recently revealed in its latest earnings report that approximately $650 million has already been invested in catalog acquisitions since the Bain Capital partnership was established. The reported Red Hot Chili Peppers deal would represent another significant addition to the company’s growing portfolio of legacy music assets.
The Red Hot Chili Peppers have maintained a longstanding relationship with Warner Records spanning more than 30 years. Most recently, the band achieved major chart success in the U.K. with Unlimited Love, which reached No. 1 in 2022, followed by Return Of The Dream Canteen, which debuted at No. 2 later the same year. Warner Music Group has not publicly commented on the reported transaction.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential rock bands of the past four decades, the Red Hot Chili Peppers have sold more than 120 million records worldwide and helped shape the sound of alternative rock through their fusion of funk, punk, and hard rock.
The group has earned multiple Grammy Awards and released a string of globally successful albums including Blood Sugar Sex Magik, Californication, By The Way, and Stadium Arcadium. Their catalog includes iconic hits such as “Under the Bridge,” “Californication,” “Scar Tissue,” “Can’t Stop,” “Fight Like A Brave,” and “Dani California.”
BMG & RISE RECORDS INK NEW GLOBAL DEAL WITH AUSTRALIAN METALCORE BAND OCEAN SLEEPER
Australian metalcore band Ocean Sleeper has signed a new global recording deal with Rise Records/BMG, marking an exciting new chapter in the band’s already impressive trajectory. With their new single “Break the Cycle” released via Rise Records and BMG, Ocean Sleeper are poised to take their sound to new heights, building on their momentum and delivering their most ambitious material to date.
Ocean Sleeper has steadily built a reputation as one of Australia’s most compelling heavy acts, known for their dynamic songwriting, emotional depth, and explosive live performances. Since emerging, the band has amassed a dedicated global fanbase, strong streaming numbers, and consistent support across alternative radio, as well as AIR charts and award nominations. The band has sold out numerous Australian and U.S. headline tours, played Good Things Festival, and performed alongside Northlane, Parkway Drive, Polaris, Point North, Make Them Suffer, and Thornhill, cementing their place within the modern heavy scene.
The signing represents a natural evolution of the band’s longstanding relationship with BMG, who have previously partnered with Ocean Sleeper across their earlier releases, including debut album Don’t Leave Me This Way and EPs Maybe Death Is All I Need and Is It Better Feeling Nothing, while continuing to expand their international reach with the addition of Rise Records.
Ocean Sleeper said, “We could not be prouder to announce we have signed a new global record deal with Rise Records & BMG. The essence of this band has always been independent and driven by a DIY attitude, but we are ready to level up with a team that we trust with our vision. Partnering with both a powerhouse in the industry and a label behind all our core favorite bands is an absolute honor. We are so excited for what the future holds together.”
Heath Johns, President, Australia, New Zealand and Southeast Asia, BMG, commented, “Ocean Sleeper have done it their own way and have become one of Australian heavy music’s best kept secrets. It’s now time for us to share this secret with the world and with the combined powers of Rise Records and BMG, we will be taking Ocean Sleeper to every corner of the planet. The new music is massive, and it is rare to find a band with the passion and work ethic of these lads.”
Sean Heydorn, Sr. VP Rise Records, added, “Ocean Sleeper has built something incredibly authentic and special through relentless work ethic, creative ambition, and a deep connection with their audience. They have emerged as one of Australia’s stand-out metalcore bands, and we are excited to partner with them as they take the next step globally with Rise Records and BMG.”
Ocean Sleeper joins a BMG recordings roster of Australian and New Zealand talent including Chet Faker, Dope Lemon, Crowded House, Hockey Dad, The Cat Empire, Pacific Avenue, and Ladyhawke, and a Rise Records roster including Spiritbox, Sleeping With Sirens, Sum 41, Polyphia, Dance Gavin Dance, Memphis May Fire, and more.
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!
Enjoying more than twenty-five years of friendship, creative, and business collaborations with each of these highly respected U.K.-based executives is A&R Worldwide Founder & President Sat Bisla.
Nick Gatfield is a prominent British music executive and entrepreneur with over three decades of major label leadership. Transitioning from being a musician in the band Dexys Midnight Runners, he became EMI Records’ youngest-ever Director at age 26. He later served as President of Island Records U.K., Polydor Records, and EMI Music North America, before becoming Chairman & CEO of Sony Music U.K. Instrumental in the global success of Radiohead, Amy Winehouse, Sugababes, and countless others he currently funds next-generation creative entrepreneurs through his seed investment firm, Twin Music Inc.
George Ergatoudis is an influential broadcasting executive and media programmer. After early roles at Kiss 100 FM and Island Records, he spent over a decade as Head of Music for BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra, directing curation for a weekly audience of 12 million listeners. A vital tastemaker, he championed early-stage talent like Kanye West, Wiley, The 1975, and many more. He later transitioned to streaming tech platforms, serving as Spotify’s International Head of Shows & Editorial, and Head of Music U.K. & Ireland at Apple Music.
Cassandra Gracey is a multi-award-winning music executive and a leading female executive in the U.K. entertainment landscape. She built her reputation during a 15-year tenure at First Access Entertainment, rising to Executive Vice President of U.K. and Europe while managing global talent like the Sugababes, Rita Ora, and Ellie Goulding. Her success in bridging creative vision with commercial strategy led to her appointment as the founding President of 4th Floor Creative at Sony Music U.K., unifying brand partnerships, sync, and digital marketing. She now runs her own creative agency known as Gracey & Co.
THE HAUNTED YOUTH
The Haunted Youth step fully into a bold new chapter with Boys Cry Too, their sophomore album released May 8th via [PIAS], a record that doesn’t just expand their world, but fractures it open. Led by Joachim Liebens, the project leaves behind the dreamy, bedroom-pop haze of their debut in favor of something far more urgent, volatile, and emotionally exposed. At the center sits “deathwish,” a defining moment that captures the album’s raw core. It’s restless and self-destructive in tone, distortion colliding with fragile melody, where vulnerability is no longer hidden, but delivered with a clenched intensity. Featuring Max Fry, the track feels like an emotional breaking point set to sound – confessional, unfiltered, and impossible to ignore! Across Boys Cry Too, that tension becomes the driving force. Where Dawn Of The Freak drifted through soft-focus melancholy, this new record is louder, sharper, and more confrontational, channeling heartbreak through anger before gradually revealing something more vulnerable underneath. Liebens frames it as an exploration of masculinity in flux: the armor, the chaos, and the quiet unraveling that follows. Sonically, the shift is just as striking. Live drums and jagged guitars cut through the band’s signature synth textures, pulling from the grit of ‘90s alt and grunge while still holding onto their atmospheric DNA. The result is a record that feels expansive yet deeply personal, like a coming-of-age story unfolding in real time, equal parts collapse and catharsis. Listen to “deathwish” HERE, and contact Ed Atkins for additional information and available opportunities with The Haunted Youth around the globe.
MASTER PEACE
Master Peace doubles down on his status as one of the U.K.’s most exciting indie disruptors with “My Guitar,” a punchy, electroclash-tinged standout from his new EP Stupid Kids. Loud, restless, and packed with attitude, the track fuses distorted guitars with sharp-edged production, channeling a chaotic energy that feels both nostalgic and completely now. Driven by his signature indie-sleaze instincts, “My Guitar” hits hard sonically while cutting deeper beneath the surface, pairing its brash, high-voltage sound with flashes of raw social commentary. It is a perfect entry point into Stupid Kids, a project that finds Master Peace pushing his storytelling further than ever, turning inward while still making music built for packed rooms and festival stages. Produced by Dan Carey and Julian Bunetta, the EP captures an artist fully in control of his voice. At its core, Stupid Kids is about growing up misunderstood, drawing from Peace’s own experiences with identity, expectation, and neurodiversity, while speaking directly to a generation that is often overlooked or underestimated. With a string of acclaimed releases already building momentum and a major European tour supporting 5 Seconds of Summer, Master Peace is not just riding a wave, he is shaping his own lane. And with “My Guitar,” he delivers a track that’s as unruly as it is undeniable. Experience the visual for “My Guitar” HERE, and contact Finola Doran for additional information on Master Peace, and additional opportunities worldwide.
“PASSPORT APPROVED” PLAYLIST FOR Sunday, May 17th, 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.
ALEX SPENCER – “Farewell to Forever” (Modern Sky, U.K.)
RUM JUNGLE – “Coal Dust” (Sureshaker, Australia)
JERUB – “Stay” (Elevate Music, U.K.)
MEDUZA FT. HENRY CAMAMILE – “Don’t Wanna Go Home” (Island Records, U.K.)
LUSAINT – “Love Bites Back” (Heavenly Fire, U.K.)
BALU BRIGADA – “Politix” (Warner Music Group, Australasia)
OVERPASS – “Heaven” (Communion Records, U.K.)
TEMPLES – “Jet Stream Heart” (Heavenly Recordings, U.K.)
DOTAN – “Last Goodbyes” (Universal Music, Holland)
MEEK – “Fabulous” (BMG, U.K.)
TOVE STYRKE – “Prayer” (Bud Fox, Sweden)
MASTER PEACE – “My Guitar” (PMR Records, U.K.)
THOMAS AZIER – “Year In A Spiral” (Hylas Records, Holland)
YONAKA – “Trouble Follows” (Distiller Records, U.K.)
BRIGITTE CALLS ME BABY – “I Can Take the Sun Out of The Sky” (ATO Records, U.S.)
SEAFRET FT. JAMES MORRISON – “Driftwood” (Nettwerk, U.K.)
LOUIS OLIVER – “Tell Me” (Unsigned, U.K.)
SEX MASK – “Cold” (Unsigned, Australia)
JOHNNY ORLANDO – “Have Your Lovin’” (Position Music, U.S.)
VELLA – “Somebody Else” (Universal Music, Sweden)
I SEE ORANGE – “Wine Boy” (Lemon Sun Records, U.K.)
CARDINALS – “St. Agnes” (So Young Records, Ireland)
BORDERLINE – “Watching It Burn” (EMPIRE, New Zealand)
THE SOOKS – “Take It Slow” (Good Intent, Australia)
LIME GARDEN – “All Bad Parts” (So Young Records, U.K.)
CHLOE PARCHÉ – “Silver Bullet” (AWAL, Australia)
MICHAEL ALDAG – “Superstar” (3 Beat Records, U.K.)
GEN AND THE DEGENERATES – “Favorite Jumper” (Marshall Records, U.K.)
D’MASIV – “Side by Side” (Unsigned, Indonesia)
FAVOURITE DAUGHTER – “You but Different” (Unsigned, U.K.)
THE ENEMY – “Trouble” (The Enemy, U.K.)
SUNDAY (1994) – “Shame” (RCA Records, U.K.)
BMG EXPANDS PARTNERSHIP WITH AUSTRALIAN ROCK BAND JET: BMG has announced the acquisition of publishing interests in the catalog of the Australian rock band Jet, further expanding its longstanding relationship with the group. The deal follows BMG’s acquisition of Jet’s recordings catalogue in 2023 and includes the publishing interests of three founding members – Nic Cester, Cam Muncey, and Mark Wilson. Originally formed in the late 1990s, Jet became one of Australia’s most successful rock exports, releasing three studio albums and selling more than 6.5 million records globally. Their debut album, Get Born, achieved 9x Platinum certification in Australia, making it one of the country’s five highest-selling Australian rock albums ever, while also earning Platinum status in both the U.S. and the U.K. The record produced hits including “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” and “Rollover DJ,” which ranked No. 1 and No. 19 respectively in triple j’s 2003 Hottest 100 countdown. At the 2004 MTV Video Music Awards, the band received three nominations and won Best Rock Video, while also earning four APRA Award nominations, taking home honors for Songwriters of the Year and Most Performed Australian Work Overseas. At the 2004 ARIA Awards, Jet secured six wins from seven nominations, including Album of the Year, Best Group, and Single of the Year. Their second album, Shine On, achieved Platinum certification in Australia, while the band’s third release, Shaka Rock, and its breakout single “Seventeen” – both reached Gold status. “Seventeen” later earned APRA Awards for Rock Work of the Year and Most Played Australian Work. Jet’s catalog has remained highly sought-after for film, television, advertising, and gaming sync placements over the past two decades. Following the iconic use of “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” in Apple’s 2004 iPod advertising campaign, the band’s music has appeared in numerous international commercials, feature films, television series, and video game franchises, helping introduce their songs to multiple generations of listeners worldwide. The band continues to perform internationally and, in recognition of their enduring cultural impact, was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2023.
AVEX REPORTS RECORD FULL YEAR 2025 RESULTS: Avex has reported strong financial results for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026. The company posted net sales of $971 million USD (JPY 146.6 billion), up 11.3% year-over-year and marking its highest revenue level since before the pandemic. Operating profit rebounded to approximately $27 million (USD) after recording a loss the previous year, while net income attributable to shareholders surged more than 212% year-over-year. The company credited the performance to increased live entertainment revenue, strong international demand for anime content, and continued optimization across operations. Avex also issued FY2026 operating profit guidance of approximately USD 40 million, reflecting expectations for continued growth driven by long-term investments in music, anime, publishing, live entertainment, and intellectual property ownership. Under the leadership of CEO Katsumi Kuroiwa, Avex continued accelerating its global rights management and publishing strategy through Avex Music Group, the company’s U.S.-based music division led by Brandon Silverstein. Avex Music Group contributed to a number of global releases across multiple genres, including projects connected to Kehlani, Drake, and Tate McRae. The company also launched a $100 million (USD) global music catalog investment initiative and acquired the catalog of producer “infamous,” which includes rights tied to Teddy Swims’ hit “Lose Control.” Furthermore, Avex entered a global publishing partnership with Bruno Mars and strengthened its international footprint through the acquisition of a majority stake in management company S10 Entertainment. The company’s Music Business segment returned to strong profitability, supported primarily by live entertainment growth and increasing digital music revenue fueled by global streaming demand. Meanwhile, the Anime & Visual Content division delivered one of Avex’s strongest performances of the year, driven by rising overseas licensing activity and growing global consumption of Japanese anime content.
PRESCRIPTION SONGS ANNOUNCES RECENT SIGNING OF SENSELESS OPTIMISM: PRESCRIPTION SONGS has announced the signing of Senseless Optimism, the creative project of Brittany Tsewole. Marking the beginning of a new chapter in her career, the partnership arrives alongside the release of her latest single, “HEAT,” available now through Prescription Songs’ independent label imprint, Amigo Records. Through her music, Senseless Optimism has cultivated a distinctive sound that combines emotionally reflective songwriting with textured guitar-driven pop, melodic instrumentation, and deeply personal storytelling. Her work often explores themes surrounding vulnerability, relationships, and self-discovery, resonating with a growing audience that includes notable admirers such as Willow and Pete Townshend. In addition to her music, Brittany Tsewole has developed a highly recognizable visual and digital identity that has assisted in her rise online. Her videos frequently feature her performing every instrument herself, including guitar, bass, and drums, through self-cloning visual effects that place multiple versions of her within imaginative settings such as bedrooms, train stations, and convenience stores. These visually inventive performances have helped her attract millions of views across TikTok and Instagram, while building a social following that now exceeds 200,000 followers. “HEAT” follows the release of Senseless Optimism’s 2025 EP, graveyard flowers, which included the breakout track “war & peace.” The song paired energetic rhythms with hypnotic grooves and further displayed her ability to balance infectious melodies with introspective lyricism. Chris Martignago, VP of A&R for Prescription Songs, said, “I remember scrolling and coming across Senseless Optimism’s music in early 2023. From that first call, there was honesty and sincerity that immediately set her apart. Watching her grow into the artist she is today has been genuinely inspiring. She’s found a voice that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant. There’s a rare fearlessness in the way she creates, and I am so excited to officially be a part of the team as she continues to push boundaries and explore new creative spaces.”
KOBALT FORMS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH LAA MUSIC: Kobalt has announced a new strategic partnership with LAA Music. The company, launched early last year by Zac Hiller as an extension of LAA Sports and Entertainment alongside music executive Justin Goldman, has established itself as a rising force in the music industry. In just over a year, artists and songwriters connected to LAA Music have collectively generated more than four billion streams across digital streaming platforms and earned more than a dozen gold and platinum certifications. LAA Music’s momentum has been driven by its ability to identify and sign artists and songwriters gaining traction through viral moments on TikTok and other social media platforms. Among its earliest success stories is producer and artist Rambbo Beats, whose breakout single climbed to No. 2 on the TikTok Viral Charts and continues to attract more than 150,000 daily streams in the U.S. Beyond his work as an artist, Rambbo Beats will also take on a new role within the company as an A&R Scout, helping identify emerging talent for the label and publishing venture. The partnership further strengthens a growing catalog that already includes several notable releases. Among the standout songs tied to the LAA Music repertoire are “Brrdadumdum,” performed by Joe Moses and produced by DJ Westcoast, and “Drugs Callin’” by Hurricane Wisdom, co-written by LAA Music songwriter Prod.Yari, and the platinum-certified track “ABG” by Quando Rondo.
WARNER MUSIC GROUP APPOINTS ARMIN ZERZA TO CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER: Warner Music Group (WMG) has promoted Armin Zerza to Chief Operating Officer, expanding his responsibilities while he continues in his current role as Chief Financial Officer. The appointment was announced by CEO Robert Kyncl during the company’s fiscal second-quarter earnings call on May 7, with the new position taking effect the following day. In the same quarter, WMG reported revenue of $1.73 billion (USD), marking a 12% year-on-year increase at constant currency. In his expanded COO role, Zerza will now oversee corporate development, central marketing, business and market intelligence, and WMX. Kyncl noted that the change reflects Zerza’s existing scope of work within the company, rather than a structural overhaul, and supports WMG’s broader focus on operational efficiency, simplification, and increased use of automation and AI to better serve artists and songwriters while scaling the business. Zerza joined Warner Music Group as CFO in May 2025, succeeding Bryan Castellani. Before joining WMG, Zerza spent ten years at Activision Blizzard, where he served as CFO and Chief Commercial Officer, and played a significant role in the company’s $68.7 billion all-cash acquisition by Microsoft in 2023. Earlier in his career, he held senior finance leadership positions over more than two decades at Procter & Gamble, working across North America, Europe, and Latin America.
PULSE MUSIC GROUP SIGNS JULIA WOLF TO GLOBAL PUBLISHING DEAL: Julia Capella, professionally known as Julia Wolf, has officially signed a worldwide publishing agreement with Pulse Music Group. The Long Island-born singer, songwriter, and producer first built momentum through TikTok, where her distinctive sound and artistic identity attracted a growing audience ahead of the release of her debut EP, Girls in Purgatory, in 2021. That same year, Wolf was selected as one of the first independent artists featured in Spotify’s inaugural Fresh Finds program. Continuing to develop her sound alongside longtime collaborator Scro, she went on to release the albums Good Thing We Stayed in 2023 and Pressure in 2025. Wolf’s breakout single “In My Room” marked her first appearance on the Billboard Hot 100, expanding her reach beyond the independent scene. Her profile continued to rise following collaborations with artists, including an appearance on Drake’s track “Dog House” alongside Yeat, before reconnecting with Yeat on the song “My Way.” In addition to her growing recording career, Wolf is set for a busy festival season, with performances scheduled at Lollapalooza in July, followed by appearances in the U.K. at Hinterland Music Festival and Reading & Leeds Festival in August. The publishing agreement was finalized with support from the American Songs A&R team, including Michael Goldberg and Isaac Heymann. Wolf is currently co-managed by Tanner Barry of Nu.World Industries and Nathan James of Little Worry. Lauren Bodin, Senior Director, A&R, Pulse Music Group, said, “Julia’s authenticity, emotional intensity, and lyrical vulnerability have earned her a fiercely loyal cult following that has transcended far beyond the walls of alternative music. She is what pop is missing and I am so excited to watch her continue to shape culture and blur every line drawn around her.”
UNIVERSAL MUSIC INDIA STRIKES GLOBAL DISTRIBUTION DEAL WITH FIRST.WAV: Universal Music India (UMGI) has entered a global exclusive distribution partnership with first.wav, a Mumbai-based music company dedicated to independent Indian artists. Announced on May 12, the agreement will see Universal Music India distribute releases from the first.wav roster worldwide, leveraging UMG’s global infrastructure and platform reach to significantly expand the international visibility of its artists. The partnership is intended to accelerate global opportunities for first.wav’s growing artist community, supporting wider discovery and audience development across international markets. Founded by singer-songwriter and A&R executive Raghav Meattle, who previously led Big Bang Music (Records) India, first.wav operates as a multi-faceted music company spanning artist management, distribution, and marketing, with a stated mission of being “run by artists for the benefit of artists.” The company has also built a strong digital ecosystem, including a playlist network with more than 400,000 followers and social media channels collectively reaching over 300,000 users. Its roster features emerging and established talent such as gini, Divyam Sodhi, Bharath, Khwaab, Samad Khan, and actor-musician Kunal Kemmu. Alongside its digital growth, first.wav is also investing in physical infrastructure, including the development of a dedicated music and video production studio in Mumbai to further support its artists’ creative output. Sanujeet Bhujabal, MD, Universal Music India and South Asia, said, “Artistry is central to the culture of Universal Music India, where we discover, nurture, enable, and celebrate the craft of artists across India. We want to make sure that artists from across the spectrum of Indian music have access to the tools and expertise they need to succeed. Partnering with an artist-forward music company like first.wav – with its rich ecosystem that supports artists from across the indie community – is a natural fit.”
BMG AND CONCORD ANNOUNCE BJÖRN BAUER AS CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER OF COMBINED COMPANY: BMG and Concord have announced that Björn Bauer is expected to become Chief Financial Officer of the combined company once the transaction officially closes. Based in Nashville and reporting directly to incoming CEO Bob Valentine, Bauer will oversee the organization’s global finance operations while also leading its mergers and acquisitions activities. Until the transaction is finalized, BMG’s current CFO, Mathis Wolter, will remain responsible for the company’s finance division and continue supporting integration planning before moving into a new role within Bertelsmann. Meanwhile, Concord CFO Kent Hoskins will continue in his current position through the close of the deal and is expected to transition into another senior leadership role within the newly combined organization afterward. Bauer joins the business from RTL Group, the entertainment company majority-owned by Bertelsmann, where he currently serves as Executive Director, member of the Executive Committee, and Chief Financial Officer, a role he has held since 2019. During his tenure, he has been instrumental in driving RTL Group’s strategic transformation, helping streamline the company’s portfolio around its core business units, expand Fremantle’s international content operations, and establish a profitable streaming business. He has also aided in several major transactions for the group, including the approved acquisition of Sky Deutschland (GSA) and the sale of RTL Netherlands. Before joining RTL Group, Bauer spent more than a decade in senior leadership roles across Bertelsmann, beginning in 2007. Among those positions was Executive Vice President of Corporate Controlling and Strategy, where he worked on company-wide financial planning and strategic initiatives. He also served as CFO of Relias, Bertelsmann’s U.S.-based online learning company, helping guide a period of substantial expansion driven by both organic growth and acquisitions following Bertelsmann’s investment in the business.
WME UNVEILS NEW HIRE AND PROMOTIONS IN LONDON OFFICE: WME has announced the appointment of Jana Recmanikova as an agent in its contemporary music division, where she will join the agency’s international festival team. The company has also confirmed the promotions of Kath Butler and Giulia Spadaro to agent roles, with all three based in WME’s London music office. The updates were shared by Josh Javor, Head of London Music at WME. Recmanikova joins WME following a nine-year tenure at Festival Republic, where she most recently worked as a talent buyer and promoter for major U.K. festivals and events including Reading & Leeds Festival, Gunnersbury Park, and Finsbury Park. In her new role, she will contribute to WME’s global festival strategy and international live music activities. Butler and Spadaro, who joined WME in 2023 and 2022 respectively, have both been promoted into agent positions focused on international touring. Their expanded roles reflect their growing involvement in supporting artists’ global live careers and developing touring opportunities across markets. “These appointments add to the incredible team in our U.K. office,” said Josh Javor. “Jana’s experience on the promoter side of top U.K. festivals will offer our roster a unique and valuable perspective as she joins the international festival team. Kath and Giulia have proven to be essential to our team’s success for the past several years. We are excited for them to take this next step in their careers as agents.”
DAN HAWIE PROMOTED TO MANAGING DIRECTOR OF LAST GANG RECORDS: MNRK Music Group has announced the promotion of Dan Hawie to Managing Director of Last Gang Records, effective immediately. Based in Toronto, Canada, Hawie will now oversee the label’s full P&L responsibilities while also taking on an expanded leadership role across A&R and brand strategy. In his new position, Hawie will report to Randy Derebegian, VP of Artist Development at MNRK, and Chris Moncada, Chief Operating Officer of MNRK Music Group. He joined Last Gang Records in 2017 and most recently served as Director of Marketing and A&R, where he played a key role in managing global campaigns and operations for both Last Gang and Dualtone Music Group in Canada. Prior to joining MNRK, Hawie held marketing roles at Dine Alone Records and Nevado Records, building experience across artist development and label strategy. During his time at MNRK, he has worked with a roster of internationally recognized artists, including The Lumineers, Death From Above 1979, Chromeo, Keys N Krates, Kathleen Edwards, and Stars, many of whom have received Grammy and JUNO Award recognition.
GMM MUSIC AND WARNER MUSIC LAUNCH ‘GLIIDE’: GMM Music together with Warner Music, has officially launched GLIIDE, an innovative artist development platform established under their GMM Global joint venture. Unlike conventional music export strategies that focus on building success domestically before expanding internationally, GLIIDE is structured to cultivate artists with a global audience in mind from the very beginning of their careers. The platform’s inaugural artist is SVRN, a performance-oriented talent whose artistry combines cinematic pop production with meticulously crafted choreography and a visually distinctive creative identity. His work is tailored for a new generation of listeners who engage with music not only through sound, but also through short-form digital content and immersive visual storytelling. Yesterday marked the release of the music video for “WHY,” SVRN’s debut single under the GLIIDE platform. At a time when music consumption is becoming increasingly borderless, GLIIDE introduces an innovative approach that moves beyond the traditional model of establishing artists in one market before attempting international expansion. Instead, the platform blends the reach and capabilities of major-label infrastructure, including worldwide distribution networks and advanced data analytics, with the flexibility and creative focus of a boutique-style artist development philosophy. GLIIDE is built around a three-part framework designed to meet the demands of today’s evolving music landscape, which includes lift (driving cultural impact and emotional connection through strategic amplification), design (developing every aspect of an artist’s identity, from visual storytelling to long-term artistic direction), and glide (enabling artists to transition naturally and consistently across multiple international markets). Through GLIIDE, GMM Global reinforces its vision for a more connected and globally engaged Asian music ecosystem. By focusing on authenticity and meaningful audience connection rather than scale alone, the platform aims to nurture artists who are not simply introduced to new markets, but who are able to genuinely resonate and establish a lasting presence within them.
PETE TOWNSHEND PARTNERS WITH PRIMARY WAVE MUSIC: Primary Wave Music has announced a new partnership with Pete Townshend, the songwriter, guitarist, and co-founder of the rock band The Who. Across a 65-year career, both as a solo artist and as the creative force behind many of The Who’s greatest works alongside Roger Daltrey, Townshend has created classics such as “My Generation,” “Baba O’Riley,” “Pinball Wizard,” “Behind Blue Eyes,” “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” and “Let My Love Open the Door.” Under the new agreement, Primary Wave will collaborate with Townshend on expanding and managing the use of his name, image, and likeness, while also supporting the development of future creative ventures. The partnership will also strengthen Townshend’s digital and social media presence, while the company’s licensing and sync teams continue placing his music across film, television, and other media platforms. Widely recognized as one of rock music’s most influential songwriters and guitarists, Townshend has sold more than 100 million albums worldwide through both his solo work and his contributions to The Who. His achievements have earned him numerous honors, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, a Brit Award for Lifetime Achievement, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and Kennedy Center Honors. Townshend’s body of work continues to resonate across generations and artistic mediums, particularly through the enduring success of his rock operas Tommy and Quadrophenia. Tommy achieved acclaim on Broadway, earning 11 Tony Award nominations and winning five, including Best Original Score, before returning in a 2024 revival. Meanwhile, Quadrophenia evolved from its original 1973 album release into a feature film, stage musical, and most recently a ballet production that premiered in London in 2025 before moving to New York for a sold-out limited engagement.
CD BABY LAUNCHES STAGES SELECTS INITIATIVE: CD Baby has launched its new Stages Selects initiative, representing a significant investment aimed at delivering “high-level support” to a carefully chosen group of rising independent artists. According to the company, “Stages Selects reinforces CD Baby’s longstanding commitment to helping independent artists launch and grow their careers.” CD Baby is Downtown Music’s direct-to-creator platform, and the introduction of the program arrives during a transitional period for Downtown following its acquisition by Virgin Music Group earlier this year. Through Stages Selects, participating artists will gain access to priority distribution services, targeted marketing support across digital streaming platforms (DSPs), funded digital advertising campaigns, and strategic assistance with release planning and campaign rollouts. The company further explained that “Stages Selects is designed as a full-service partnership that gives independent artists the resources and support needed to reach new audiences in a competitive global market.” The initiative officially debuted alongside the release of Morgan Nagler’s first album, I’ve Got Nothing To Lose, And I’m Losing It. Over the course of 2026, the program plans to work with ten artists, offering each a tailored package that includes both marketing resources and financial backing. CD Baby will continue supporting self-releasing artists while operating within a broader global ecosystem that spans music publishing, distribution, artist, and label services, as well as royalty management and financial solutions.
CMAT SIGNS TO PPL FOR INTERNATIONAL NEIGHBORING RIGHTS ROYALTY COLLECTIONS: CMAT has signed with PPL for the administration and collection of her international neighboring rights royalties. PPL announced that the Irish singer-songwriter and two-time BRIT Award nominee has joined its growing roster of performers represented for international collections. Her addition follows artists such as Charli xcx, who partnered with PPL last year, alongside other recent signings including The Last Dinner Party and Lewis Capaldi. As part of the agreement, CMAT will utilize PPL’s international network and neighboring rights expertise to collect royalties generated whenever her recordings are broadcast on radio and television or played in public venues worldwide. Based in London, PPL collected £315.3 million (GBP) for its members last year and distributed £77.7 million to more than 28,000 performers and recording rightsholders during the first quarter of 2026 alone. The organization aims to become the leading global destination for neighboring rights services and currently maintains 117 agreements with collective management organizations across 55 countries. Since expanding its international operations, PPL has generated more than £1 billion in international neighboring rights revenue, including £94 million collected in 2025.
HYBE TAPS PLEDIS’ JIWON NO, SUNG SOO HAN FOR NEW ALL GIRL GROUP LABEL ABD: HYBE has unveiled a new subsidiary label named ABD, which will focus entirely on developing girl groups, with its first act expected to debut in the latter half of 2026. The name ABD stands for “A Bold Dream,” according to the K-pop company behind globally successful acts including BTS, LE SSERAFIM, NewJeans, ILLIT, and KATSEYE. In announcing the launch, HYBE explained that ABD’s creative direction will be built around “unconventional, flexible, and playful ideas that push beyond the norm.” The company added that the label intends to prioritize a deep understanding of both artists and fans while exploring new creative opportunities and broadening the scope of K-pop through music-driven innovation. ABD will be headed by Jiwon No, who has been appointed President of the label. In her new role, she will oversee overall operations and strategic planning. No previously worked as Head of Artist Planning at PLEDIS Entertainment, another HYBE-owned label, and has also held positions at MORE VISION, the South Korean entertainment company founded by Jay Park in 2022. Production for ABD will be led by veteran producer Sung Soo Han, recognized for his work with artists such as SEVENTEEN, After School, IZ*ONE, and TWS. Han, who founded PLEDIS Entertainment, will oversee the label’s creative output across music, concepts, and performance. HYBE stated that the creation of ABD further reflects the company’s ongoing multi-label strategy.
MERLIN STRENGTHENS GLOBAL MEMBERSHIP DIVISION WITH SENIOR LEADERSHIP PROMOTIONS: Merlin has unveiled a series of senior-level promotions within its Membership division. Jim Mahoney was named Chief Membership Officer. Having joined Merlin in 2014, Mahoney has aided in building the organization’s North American presence before going on to oversee its global membership operations. Now, he will step back from day-to-day operational oversight to concentrate on shaping Merlin’s worldwide membership strategy, engagement, and growth, ensuring it stays closely aligned with the evolving needs of independent music companies. Before Merlin, he was VP at A2IM and served on the SoundExchange board as the representative for independent labels. His earlier career includes senior positions at Fat Beats Records, Roadrunner Records, and Profile Records, where he contributed to campaigns for DJ Quik, Camp Lo, and Atmosphere. Additionally, Bela Zecker has been named Senior Director, Global Membership Development. Since joining Merlin in 2023, she has assisted in expanding the company’s global membership strategy and strengthening engagement across its global network. Her previous experience spans roles at Exceleration, SoundCloud, and Ninja Tune, where she focused on label relations and project management within the independent sector. In London, Joe Mercer Danher has been promoted to Director, Member Relations. He now leads Merlin’s global member relations function and serves as the primary liaison for members across EMEA. Since 2020, he has worked closely with independent labels, distributors, and artist services companies to maximize their engagement with Merlin’s commercial and promotional programs. His background includes artist management in the European rock and metal scene, as well as work with organizations such as Help Musicians and PRS Foundation. He is also a composer whose work has been commissioned by brands including Apple, Tesla, Vice, and Wired. Lastly, Ben Sperling has been promoted to Manager, Global Membership Development, where he has focused on increasing member participation in commercial and promotional initiatives linked to the organization’s global DSP partnerships. His journey with the company began as an intern during his studies, later transitioning into a full-time role where he built a strong track record in member engagement. Prior to Merlin, he worked as a Distribution Analyst at ASCAP.
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Sir Lucian Grainge, Justin Shukat, Alexandra Nickson, Jerome Porritt, Tyler Henry, Tarsame Mittal, Sanjeeta Khullar, Ken Bunt, Andrew Gould, Jamie Nelson, Rani Hancock, Jbeau Lewis, Chris Price, Steve Robertson, and Charlie Lycett. 
