FRANK ROGERS ELEVATED TO CEO OF SPIRIT MUSIC
Spirit Music has promoted multi-Platinum producer, songwriter, and music executive Frank Rogers to the role of Chief Executive Officer. The appointment marks an expansion of Rogers’ leadership responsibilities, moving beyond his previous position as Chief Creative Officer to now oversee the company’s global roster, creative direction, and overall operational strategy.
Alongside his new role, Rogers will continue serving as President of Fluid Music Revolution, the company he founded in 2016 and through which he first established a partnership with Spirit Music. His relationship with the company has steadily evolved over the years, beginning with his appointment as CEO of Spirit Music Nashville in 2019 before advancing to Chief Creative Officer of the broader Spirit Music Group in 2022.
Under Rogers’ leadership, Spirit and Fluid Music Revolution have achieved more than 40 Billboard No. 1 singles. His production career alone includes an extraordinary 46 No. 1 singles, more than 80 Top 20 hits, and over 40 singles and 20 albums that have received RIAA Diamond, multi-Platinum, Platinum, or Gold certifications. He has received 18 nominations from the Country Music Association, winning once, as well as 27 Academy of Country Music nominations, resulting in five victories. In addition, he has produced 17 Grammy-nominated songs or albums, including four Grammy-winning projects.
Widely respected throughout Nashville and the broader music industry, Rogers was named Billboard’s No. 1 Hot Country Producer for five consecutive years between 2006 and 2010. He also earned MusicRow Magazine’s Producer of the Year title on four occasions.
Throughout his career, Rogers has collaborated with some of country music’s biggest names, including Brad Paisley, Darius Rucker, Josh Turner, Scotty McCreery, Chris Stapleton, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Dolly Parton, and Alison Krauss. As a songwriter, Rogers has contributed to ten No. 1 songs, among them Brad Paisley’s “I’m Gonna Miss Her (The Fishin’ Song),” Darius Rucker’s “Alright” and “This,” and a string of hits recorded by Scotty McCreery including “Five More Minutes,” “This Is It,” “In Between,” “You Time,” and “Cab In A Solo.”
Before launching Fluid Music Revolution, Rogers served as Vice President of EMI Nashville Productions, where he assisted in signing Brad Paisley. Earlier still, in 1999, he co-founded Sea Gayle Music alongside Paisley and Chris DuBois. The publishing company went on to produce more than 45 Billboard No. 1 songs, including the Grammy-winning Best Country Song of 2003, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere.”
DEVON AGAIN SIGNS WITH INTERSCOPE RECORDS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH DANIEL NIGRO’S AMUSEMENT RECORDS
Devon Again has officially signed to Interscope Records in partnership with Daniel Nigro’s Amusement Records. The deal connects Devon with Grammy-winning producer and songwriter Daniel Nigro, known for his work with artists such as Olivia Rodrigo and Chappell Roan, helping shape some of the most influential breakout pop records of recent years. As part of the announcement, Devon is set to release her major label debut single, “Snake the Drain,” on June 2.
Devon Again was recently confirmed as part of Olivia Rodrigo’s upcoming The Unraveled Tour across North America this fall and winter. Known for her unpredictable and high-energy performances, Devon has developed a reputation for blending sharp humor, theatrical stage presence, and emotionally charged crowd interactions that turn her shows into shared, cathartic experiences.
Her live following has continued to grow, with recent headline shows at Baby’s All Right in New York and The Troubadour in Los Angeles both selling out. In 2024, Devon turned further critical attention toward her indie EP In Order, a five-track project produced by Jon Buscema (Conan Gray, Slothrust).
Devon first broke through with her self-released 2022 project PEE EP, a lo-fi and experimental collection that introduced her blend of glitchy textures, raw songwriting, and offbeat humor, including standout track “Head.”
Now based in Los Angeles, Devon is currently developing her debut full-length album, which she has described as “boy music.”
HYBE’S WEVERSE APPOINTS ZOOIL YANG AS PRESIDENT
Weverse Company, the HYBE-owned operator of the global superfan platform Weverse, has named Zooil Yang as its new President, with the appointment taking effect on June 1. Yang joins Weverse following his tenure as CEO of AXZ, the company spun off from Kakao that manages South Korea’s long-running Daum internet portal, one of the nation’s most recognized online platforms.
Earlier this month, AI startup Upstage finalized its acquisition of AXZ from Kakao through a share-swap agreement, following several months of due diligence that began after a memorandum of understanding was signed in January. The deal officially separated Daum from the Kakao group and paved the way for Yang’s transition to Weverse.
Before leading AXZ, Yang held senior leadership positions at both Kakao and Ground X, Kakao’s blockchain-focused subsidiary, where he oversaw platform development and business operations spanning digital content and technology services. His career has also included CEO roles at NHN Ticketlink, NHN Bugs, and NHN Travel Doctor, after beginning his professional journey at NHN.
According to Weverse Company, Yang’s appointment forms part of a broader growth strategy aimed at enhancing the platform’s services while strengthening operational and business execution as the company enters its next stage of global expansion. The company highlighted Yang’s experience across multiple areas of the technology industry, noting that his expertise in platform management, digital commerce, music streaming, and content services is expected to support Weverse’s continued evolution.
Yang’s background closely aligns with Weverse’s broader ambitions as it develops beyond a traditional fan community platform into a multi-functional entertainment ecosystem combining fan engagement, streaming, merchandise, memberships, and live content experiences under a single digital environment.
He succeeds former President Joon Choi, who stated in the past that the opportunities within the superfan economy were effectively “limitless,” reflecting the growing importance of direct-to-fan platforms within the global music and entertainment industries.
GRUPO FRONTERA LAUNCHES BORDERTOWN RECORDS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE ORCHARD
Grupo Frontera have officially launched their own independent label, BorderTown Records, through a partnership with Sony Music’s distribution and services company The Orchard.
The announcement was made by the Texas-based band, whose breakout success began in 2022 after their viral norteño rendition of Morat’s “No Se Va” introduced the group to a global mainstream audience.
Headquartered in the band’s hometown of McAllen, Texas, BorderTown Records will provide artists with a range of services including recording support, marketing, public relations, and distribution, with the aim of developing talent through a more customized and artist-focused approach.
The label was founded by Grupo Frontera members Juan Javier Cantú, Alberto “Beto” Acosta, and Adelaido “Payo” Solís III, while Miguel Ramirez has been appointed General Manager. BorderTown Records’ first official release was Grupo Frontera’s own norteño-inspired EP, Con Dolor, which arrived on May 28. The project featured the previously released track “Cada Vez Me Gusta Más,” a collaboration with Mexican singer Alejandro Fernández. Alongside the launch of the label, Grupo Frontera has also introduced YUMA, a newly renovated music complex and creative headquarters located in McAllen. The site originally served as the group’s first recording space before being transformed into a larger creative hub that will now operate as the central base for BorderTown Records.
According to the company, the label intends to collaborate with artists across multiple genres while applying what the founders describe as the “Grupo Frontera formula,” a strategy shaped by the band’s genre-crossing collaborations, grassroots rise, and mainstream commercial success.
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!
There are many inspiring stories, as well as mentors and legends in the music business whose work is heard but not necessarily seen. Both A&R Worldwide Founder Sat Bisla and Martin Dodd a renowned A&R executive and a key music executive for the TV show The Voice who manages one of the world’s most successful hits songwriters Max Martin (who has penned hits for Adele, Coldplay, Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, Ariana Grande, Eminem, Lady Gaga, The Weeknd, and countless others) met back in the mid-90s through their mutual trusted friend, mentor Mel Medalie, Founder, Champion Records & Cheeky Music, U.K.
Mel went from being a hairdresser in his teenage years to working with Brian Epstein (manager of The Beatles) to working with one of The Beach Boys, and eventually working with David Bowie‘s music publishing company in the 70s. Mel eventually launched Champion Records where he enjoyed a successful No.1 hit with the U.K. band Liquid Gold and their single “Dance Yourself Dizzy.” Mel followed this success with the signing of Will Smith (his first international record label deal), Kristine W, Salt-N-Pepa, Sandy B, and the global No.1 smash by Robin S “Show Me Love.” This was followed by Mel starting Cheeky Records with his business partner Rollo Armstrong, where they signed O.T. Quartet, Faithless, Dido, and others (with the last two selling tens of millions of albums and singles worldwide).
Besides’ Mel’s knack for finding hits, he has been a genuine, kind, and generous human being, he has also played a part in supporting and nurturing young professionals who have evolved into influential executives in the international music business.
YONAKA
YONAKA return swinging with “Miss Millennial,” a snarling, swagger-heavy standout from their explosive new album Until You’re Satisfied. Fueled by sharp-edged attitude, raw self-awareness, and the kind of controlled chaos YONAKA have made their trademark, the track captures a band reconnecting with exactly what made them so vital in the first place. Drawing inspiration from the grit and emotional honesty of ‘90s alternative icons like Alanis Morissette, The Cardigans, and Radiohead, “Miss Millennial” blends punchy hooks with an undercurrent of frustration and vulnerability. Frontwoman Theresa Jarvis delivers every line with equal bite and catharsis, turning modern anxieties and emotional burnout into something loud, liberated, and impossible not to move to. That tension runs throughout Until You’re Satisfied, an album born from a period where the band nearly came apart completely. After more than a decade together, YONAKA found themselves confronting burnout, conflict, and uncertainty head-on, but instead of breaking, they rebuilt. The result is their most honest and fully realized record yet: raw, industrial, emotionally bruised, and alive with purpose. Following the massive success of Seize The Power, which amassed more than 200 million streams and topped the global Shazam chart, YONAKA could have easily played it safe. Instead, Until You’re Satisfied pushes harder, digs deeper, and embraces every rough edge along the way. Now heading into a major European run and U.K. headline tour this fall, YONAKA sounds like a band that fought to survive and came back louder because of it. Listen to “Miss Millennial” HERE and contact Finola Doran for all inquiries on behalf of YONAKA.
NOGA EREZ
Alt-pop innovator Noga Erez returns in fearless form with “I LOVE YOU,” a razor-sharp new single featuring Armani White that further cements her place as one of modern pop’s most inventive voices. Released via Atlantic Records and Neon Gold Records, the track blends punchy production, infectious hooks, and explosive chemistry into a sly, subversive take on love, obsession, and control. First premiered live during Noga’s Coachella set and sold-out Los Angeles show at the El Rey Theatre, “I LOVE YOU” immediately sparked buzz thanks to its raw intensity and undeniable swagger. Alongside longtime collaborator and producer Ori Rousso, Noga Erez has built a career by pushing genre boundaries, fusing alt-pop, hip-hop, and electronic music with fearless emotional honesty and sharp social commentary. From the global breakthrough Off The Radar to the critically acclaimed KIDS and her ambitious third album THE VANDALIST, she has continuously evolved into one of the most exciting and unpredictable artists working today. Her electrifying live performances have earned acclaim worldwide, with standout appearances at Coachella, Primavera Sound, Bonnaroo, Austin City Limits, and Lollapalooza, alongside sold-out headline tours, and television performances on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and The Kelly Clarkson Show. “I LOVE YOU” arrives ahead of the premiere of her upcoming documentary Noga at the Tribeca Festival in June, continuing a remarkable creative run from an artist who consistently turns chaos, vulnerability, and experimentation into something thrillingly original. Watch the video for “I LOVE YOU” HERE, and contact Ted Sullivan for all inquiries pertaining to Noga Erez.
“PASSPORT APPROVED” PLAYLIST FOR Sunday, May 31st, 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.
NOGA EREZ – “Stuck in Heaven” (Neon Gold/Atlantic Records, N. America)
TEMPLES – “Jet Stream Heart” (Heavenly Recordings, U.K.)
DOTAN – “Last Goodbyes” (Universal Music, Holland)
RUM JUNGLE – “Coal Dust” (Sureshaker, Australia)
JERUB – “Stay” (Elevate Music, U.K.)
MEEK – “Fabulous” (BMG, U.K.)
BALU BRIGADA – “Politix” (Warner Music Group, Australasia)
OVERPASS – “Heaven” (Communion Records, U.K.)
MEDUZA FT. HENRY CAMAMILE – “Don’t Wanna Go Home” (Island Records, U.K.)
KYLE FALCONER FT. JAMIE WEBSTER – “I’m Lost (You’re Dead” (Run On Records, U.K.)
MAX ALLAIS – “Close to You” (Warner Music, New Zealand)
YONAKA – “Miss Millennial” (Distiller Records, U.K.)
THOMAS AZIER – “Year in A Spiral” (Hylas Records, Holland)
BORDERLINE – “Watching It Burn” (EMPIRE, New Zealand)
GIRLI – “Romantic Sadness” (Virgin EMI Records, U.K.)
SEAFRET FT. JAMES MORRISON – “Driftwood” (Nettwerk, U.K.)
SEX MASK – “Cold” (Unsigned, Australia)
VELLA – “Somebody Else” (Universal Music, Sweden)
LOUIS OLIVER – “Tell Me” (Unsigned, U.K.)
MASTER PEACE – “My Guitar” (PMR Records, U.K.)
LUSAINT – “Love Bites Back” (Heavenly Fire, U.K.)
THE SOOKS – “Take It Slow” (Good Intent, Australia)
LIME GARDEN – “All Bad Parts” (So Young Records, U.K.)
RUEL – “Don’t Say That” (Giant Music, Australia)
GEN AND THE DEGENERATES – “Favourite Jumper” (Marshall Records, U.K.)
CHLOE PARCHE – “Silver Bullet” (AWAL, Australia)
ALEX SPENCER – “Farewell to Forever” (Modern Sky, U.K.)
CARDINALS – “St. Agnes” (So Young Records, Ireland)
D’MASIV – “On Our Own” (Unsigned, Indonesia)
THE ENEMY – “Trouble” (The Enemy, U.K.)
GOOD NEIGHBOURS – “Somebody” (Polydor, U.K.)
JOHNNY ORLANDO – “Have Your Lovin’” (Position Music, U.S.)
SULINNA ONG JOINS U2 MANAGEMENT TEAM: U2 have announced the appointment of Sulinna Ong as Management Partner, a newly established position that will see her join Irving and Jeffrey Azoff in overseeing the Irish band’s global management operations. In her new role, Ong will work across every aspect of U2’s career, with a particular emphasis on creative direction and innovation. According to an official statement released on May 26, she will report directly to all four members of the band. Ong joins U2’s management team following more than seven years at Spotify, where she most recently held the role of Global Head of Editorial & Curation, Music. During her time at the streaming platform, she became one of the most influential figures in digital music curation and artist development, earning widespread industry recognition. In 2025, she was profiled by The Wall Street Journal under the headline “The Woman with the Most Valuable Ears in Music.” Her impact across the music business has also been recognized by Billboard, which included her on its Power Players list for three consecutive years from 2024 through 2026. In addition, she has been named a Billboard Women in Music Executive Honoree for four straight years between 2023 and 2026. Beyond the music industry, Ong has also been recognized in wider cultural circles, including being named among Vogue’s 25 Most Influential Women. Ong originally joined Spotify in April 2019 as Head of Artist & Label Services before being promoted to Global Head of Editorial in October 2021, where she oversaw the platform’s global music curation strategy and editorial direction. Prior to Spotify, she built an extensive career spanning record labels, artist management, live entertainment, and music technology. Her previous experience includes roles at Sony Music, Live Nation, and Deezer, where she served as Global Vice President of Artist Marketing.
ATLANTIC RECORDS SIGNS JOINT VENTURE WITH ZEUS MUSIC: Atlantic Records has announced a new partnership with Zeus Music, the music division of The Zeus Network, the subscription-based streaming platform known for its original reality programming, unscripted series, and celebrity-focused content. The collaboration marks a new expansion for Zeus Music as it continues building its presence within the music industry alongside the broader entertainment success of The Zeus Network. The first release under the partnership comes from Dominican Republic-born rapper La Biggie, who returns with her new single “TETEO,” produced by Chael Produciendo. The track highlights the artist’s Caribbean roots and arrives alongside an accompanying music video filmed in the Dominican Republic and directed by filmmaker Jessy Terrero. “TETEO” follows the growing success of La Biggie’s breakout track “Mama,” which has already generated more than one million streams across digital streaming platforms. Atlantic Records Co-President of Hip-Hop, R&B, and Global Music Selim Bouab said, “The Zeus Network has captured a significant audience by thinking outside the box and delivering entertainment to fans where they live. Music has always been a huge part of the culture they drive, so collaborating with the team at Zeus Network on their new label is exciting for all of us at Atlantic.” “Partnering with the legacy of Atlantic Records marks a defining moment for us,” said Zeus Network CEO Lemuel Plummer. “This collaboration is about amplifying bold, culture-shifting talent and cultivating new ways where innovation meets influence. We are excited to build a new blueprint for how music is discovered, developed, and delivered.”
BSI MUSIC SIGNS BRITISH BAND PARLAY: BSI Music, the recorded music arm of BSI Merch & Artist Services, has officially announced the signing of the London-based rock outfit Parlay to its growing roster. The label division is led by BSI Merch & Artist Services Founder and CEO Andy Allen, working alongside the company’s Head of Communications and Strategy, Brandon Myers. Together, they continue to expand BSI Music’s vision of developing and supporting the next generation of British talent. Comprised of four friends who crossed paths while working at The Troubador, Parlay established themselves as one of the capital’s rising rock bands. Their momentum has seen them sell out headline shows at venues including The Social, The Old Blue Last, and The Lexington. The band’s debut single, “China Clay,” was written and recorded between RAK Studios in St John’s Wood and producer Dan Gretch’s studio in Bethnal Green, with production overseen by Luke Burgoyne. Since its release campaign began, the track has gained notable traction across streaming platforms, securing editorial playlist support from major DSPs while also attracting attention from influential radio figures and online music tastemakers. Building on that early momentum, Parlay have recently completed a run of live performances across the U.K., with additional touring activity and further live dates already planned throughout 2026. For BSI Music, the signing underlines the company’s broader strategy of offering emerging artists a fully integrated and modern support network.
JULIAN PARKER JOINS SPOTIFY’S ‘ARTIST-FIRST AI’ TEAM: Julian Parker, a London, England-based senior researcher who assisted in developing Stability AI’s Stable Audio line of generative AI music systems, has officially moved to Spotify, where he will contribute to the company’s growing “artist-first AI” strategy. The announcement came less than a day after Spotify and Universal Music Group introduced new licensing agreements that will allow listeners to create AI-generated song covers and remixes using music from participating artists and songwriters. These AI-powered features are expected to be offered as an additional paid upgrade for Spotify Premium subscribers. Parker’s transition to Spotify was also disclosed just two days after Stability AI introduced Stable Audio 3.0. The release included a suite of four music-generation models trained exclusively on fully licensed audio datasets. The new models can produce music tracks for as long as six minutes and twenty seconds. According to Parker, he intentionally waited until Stability AI launched its latest audio technology before sharing news of his departure. In a social media post, Parker wrote, “Now that Stable Audio 3 and SAME are released, I can announce that I recently joined Spotify to support their artist-first AI initiative, alongside Sebastian Ewert, Peter Sobot, Rachel Bittner, and many other fantastic researchers and engineers. I am super excited to work with such a phenomenal team.” The researchers Parker mentioned are already part of Spotify’s AI and audio research division: Sebastian Ewert serves as Spotify’s Director of Research and publicly oversees the company’s artist-first AI research initiatives. Peter Sobot works as a Staff Machine Learning Engineer within Spotify’s Audio Intelligence Lab. Rachel Bittner holds the role of Senior Research Scientist at Spotify. Before joining the Stable Audio team in 2024, Parker previously worked at TikTok as a machine learning Research Scientist.
808AM WELCOMES ELEKTRIC ANIMALS TO ARTIST MANAGEMENT ROSTER: 808AM has announced the signing of Elektric Animals to its expanding artist management roster, as the company continues its focus on developing innovative, forward-thinking talent. Elektric Animals, composed of Nick Sanders (vocals/guitar) and Will Hubert (drums/bass/guitar), have built a following through their live shows, genre-blending approach, and distinctive mix of indie pop rock. Originally gaining traction in Colorado before expanding their reach nationally, their arrival at 808AM marks a new chapter for the band as they continue to build momentum around their latest album B&B Motel, released via Open Your Ears Records. Since its release earlier this month, B&B Motel has begun attracting growing attention from listeners, playlist curators, and independent music publications, with the track “Lullaby” serving as the album’s first focus single. Through the new partnership, the focus will be on long-term strategic development, touring opportunities, sync placements, brand expansion, and future music releases as Elektric Animals continue their rise within the independent music landscape. “We’re incredibly excited to welcome Elektric Animals to the 808AM roster,” said Will Carlan, President of 808AM. “Their artistry, energy, and vision align perfectly with the type of talent we are enthusiastic about supporting and growing. We believe they have something truly special.”
LAYLO EXPANDS IN THE U.K. WITH APPOINTMENT OF TAZ SHARP: Laylo has announced the appointment of Taz Sharp as its new Director of Artists & Events for the EMEA region, as the U.S.-based company continues to accelerate its expansion across the U.K. and Europe. Sharp, who is based in London, will oversee Laylo’s regional growth strategy, working alongside artist managers, promoters, labels, and festival teams to help strengthen direct-to-fan relationships through data-driven marketing, ticketing, merchandise, presales, and music release campaigns. Originally recognized for its SMS-based release campaigns, Laylo has evolved into a comprehensive marketing and fan engagement platform for the entertainment industry. The company now offers integrations with platforms including Instagram, WhatsApp, Spotify, Shopify, and ticketing partners such as Dice, while its audience segmentation capabilities and proprietary ‘RealFan’ technology are designed to identify genuine fans and reduce the impact of bots and ticket brokers. Laylo’s RealFan system has already been utilized by artists including Zara Larsson, Noah Kahan, and Muna for verified pre-sale campaigns, giving dedicated fans access to exclusive tickets and experiences through unique access codes and two-factor authentication measures. According to the company, more than four million unverified sign-ups were blocked in April alone. Sharp joins Laylo following a career spanning more than 15 years across music, artist development, technology, and brand marketing. Most recently, she was part of the founding team at AI-powered Discord platform Levellr, where she developed the company’s music division and worked with artists such as Fred Again.., Noah Kahan, Bring Me The Horizon, Oasis, Gorillaz, Jade, Caroline Polachek, and Laufey. Before joining Levellr, Sharp aided in building Believe’s U.K. artist distribution business, helping to sign and develop acts including Royel Otis, Cian Ducrot, and Genesis Owusu. Earlier in her career, she also worked across artist management, touring, and consumer marketing campaigns for global brands including Puma, Microsoft, and IHG.
BLACKSTAR AGENCY STRENGTHENS NORTH AMERICA PRESENCE WITH HIRING OF ED WATSON: Blackstar has announced the appointment of Ed Watson as Artist Strategy Director, marking the latest step in the company’s continued expansion across the North American market. The artist strategy and audience development agency has experienced significant growth over the past year, delivering campaigns for artists including Nine Inch Nails, Outkast, André 3000, Lenny Kravitz, Hayley Williams, DJO, Lucky Daye, and Motionless In White, as well as international projects for acts such as Muse, Arlo Parks, and Robyn. Watson joins Blackstar with a background in digital strategy, audience engagement, and content development, having previously held senior positions across BBC Radio 1, 1Xtra, and Asian Network. During his time at the BBC, he led several social-first campaigns and worked on projects involving Olivia Rodrigo, Sabrina Carpenter, Dua Lipa, and Lewis Capaldi. Now based in New York, Watson will work closely with Blackstar’s artist strategy teams in both New York and Los Angeles, while collaborating with the company’s U.K. leadership to strengthen campaign execution across North America. His role will also focus on building new relationships throughout the music industry and developing innovative digital-first strategies for artists, management teams, and record labels. According to Blackstar, the appointment reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to investing in the North American market as it continues to expand its roster of artists, label partnerships, and creative collaborators. Alongside its campaign work, Blackstar has also been growing its presence within New York’s music community through a series of grassroots and networking initiatives, including artist showcases, industry panel discussions, and the collaborative Indie Label Coffee Market event.
DAVE HILL FROM SLADE SIGNS PUBLISHING DEAL WITH NOTTING HILL MUSIC: Slade guitarist Dave Hill is set to release his solo album, Dirty Foot Lane, this October via JCPL Records. The album presents an autobiographical journey through music, memory, and self-expression. Known worldwide as a founding member of Slade, Hill explores a fresh musical direction on this release, weaving together elements of rock, blues, folk, and atmospheric textures. Dirty Foot Lane balances the raw spirit and energy of his live-performance heritage with a more introspective and emotionally resonant approach inspired by the experiences of recent years. Dave Hill rose to prominence as the lead guitarist of Slade, one of Britain’s most successful bands of the 1970s. The group achieved remarkable chart success with twenty-three Top 20 singles, including six No. 1 hits, alongside six successful albums. Roy Davis, Head of Rock and Country for Notting Hill Music Publishing said, “I am absolutely over the moon with bringing Dave into the Notting Hill family. If anyone had told the 15-year-old me that one day I would be working with Dave, I’d have said they would have lost their minds. To be involved in Dave’s new project is incredibly exciting, it is a great album, and a new chapter in Dave’s musical journey, and I am proud that both Notting Hill Music and I will be part of it!” “I am excited that my first solo album, Dirty Foot Lane, is being released this October and to be working with Roy Davis, at Notting Hill Music. They are one of the world’s leading music publishers and I know that being with them will get my solo work out to a massive global audience. And with Roy Davis, I am in the best hands,” said Dave Hill.
BASILE BEAUGENDRE AND CYRUS CHEN PROMOTED TO REGIONAL HEADS FOR EUROPE AND APAC AT TUNECORE: TuneCore has announced the appointments of Basile Beaugendre as Regional Head of TuneCore, Europe, and Cyrus Chen as Regional Head of TuneCore, APAC, further strengthening the global leadership structure of the Believe-owned music distribution platform for independent artists. The promotions expand TuneCore’s international management team as the company continues its worldwide growth strategy. In their new positions, both executives will oversee strategic operations across their regions, lead international TuneCore teams, manage relationships with digital streaming platforms, and guide artist development initiatives. The appointments were announced by TuneCore Chief Business Officer Brian Miller, who stepped into the role in April and will directly oversee both executives. Beaugendre has led TuneCore France since 2019, assisting in turning the French division into the company’s second-largest business unit globally. In his expanded role overseeing Europe, Beaugendre will manage teams across France, Germany, the U.K, Italy, the Netherlands, Scandinavia, and Eastern Europe. Chen has served as Head of TuneCore Southeast Asia since 2020, where he focused on expanding the company’s presence in developing music markets across the region. He established community hubs outside major capital cities, bringing TuneCore’s services to areas that the company said had previously been underserved by the wider music industry. Chen also spearheaded localized payment solutions in Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, helping drive substantial growth across the region. According to TuneCore, the number of active artists in Southeast Asia has increased more than fourfold during the past three years under his leadership. As Regional Head of TuneCore, APAC, Chen will oversee teams operating in India, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Laos, and Thailand, while also leading the company’s expansion into additional Asia-Pacific territories beyond Southeast Asia.
HARBOURVIEW EQUITY PARTNERS ACQUIRES PRE-2024 CATALOG FROM STEFFLON DON: HarbourView Equity Partners has acquired the publishing and recorded music rights to Stefflon Don’s catalog of works released prior to 2024, adding the British rapper and singer’s hit recordings and compositions to its growing portfolio. The deal includes tracks such as “16 Shots,” “Hurtin’ Me,” “Boasty,” “Senseless,” and “Can’t Let You Go,” though financial details of the acquisition have not been revealed. Born Stephanie Victoria Allen in Birmingham and raised within a Jamaican heritage, Stefflon Don first gained international attention with her 2017 breakout single “Hurtin’ Me” featuring French Montana, which reached No. 7 on the UK Singles Chart. Since then, she has established herself as a force in U.K. rap, dancehall, and global pop through collaborations with artists including Drake, Mariah Carey, Nile Rodgers, and French Montana. Her 2018 mixtape Secure featured contributions from producers such as DJ Khaled and DJ Esco. According to Luminate data cited by Billboard, Stefflon Don’s catalog has generated more than 673 million official on-demand streams in the U.S. as of May 14. Looking ahead, Stefflon Don is preparing a series of new releases and international collaborations spanning hip-hop, dance, and dancehall music. Upcoming projects include collaborations with French rapper Leto, Dutch DJ and producer Don Diablo, and a dancehall track featuring Skillibeng and Vybz Kartel.
JULIE SWIDLER, SONY MUSIC’S EVP BUSINESS AFFAIRS & GENERAL COUNSEL, TO LEAVE COMPANY AFTER 18 YEARS: Julie Swidler, Executive Vice President of Business Affairs and General Counsel at Sony Music, will depart the company at the end of June after an 18-year tenure in the role. Since joining Sony Music in 2008, she has overseen global Business, Legal, and Governmental Affairs across the company’s labels and operating divisions, playing a leading role in strategic negotiations, talent agreements, litigation, corporate transactions, and joint ventures. Following her departure, she plans to launch an advisory practice focused on creative ventures. During her time at Sony Music, Swidler advised on key industry moments, including supporting Sony Music Nashville through a leadership transition in 2015 and serving on the Recording Academy’s Task Force on Diversity and Inclusion in 2018, which produced a major set of industry recommendations. Earlier in her career, she held senior legal and business affairs positions at Arista Records, J Records, RCA Records, and BMG, and was part of Clive Davis’ team at J Records, contributing to landmark releases such as Alicia Keys’ “Songs in A Minor.” She has also received numerous industry honors, including recognition from UJA-Federation of New York, the Grammy Foundation, the T.J. Martell Foundation, and the Music Business Association. Rob Stringer, Chairman of Sony Music Group, said, “Julie has been a vital component of the Sony Music senior management team for many years, and her wisdom, experience, and knowledge have been a bedrock of our company’s strategy and growth. She leaves us with our deepest respect and gratitude. As a friend and colleague, on a personal note, as Julie and I have planned together her departure for a while now, she will be missed at Sony Music, but I know that her next working chapter will be equally stimulating and rewarding.”
PALAYE ROYALE SIGN WITH U.K.-BASED EXPECTATION MANAGEMENT: Palaye Royale have officially joined forces with U.K.-based management company Expectation Management. Founded in 2008 by brothers Remington Leith, Sebastian Danzig, and Emerson Barrett, Palaye Royale has built an international following over the years, generating more than one billion global streams, and establishing themselves as one of modern rock’s most distinctive acts. In 2024, the trio headlined London’s OVO Arena Wembley during a completely sold-out European tour. Previously managed by Red Light Management, the band are now preparing to embark on a fresh creative and professional direction as work continues on the successor to their 2024 album Death Or Glory. Speaking about the partnership, Palaye Royale praised Expectation Management for its “disruptive, forward-thinking industry campaigns,” describing the agreement as a “definitive turning point” in the group’s career. Expectation Management is headed by Ant Andrews and represents an expanding roster of rising talent. Among its clients are London-based band The Molotovs, whose debut album Wasted On Youth became a success earlier this year, reaching No. 3 in the UK charts with 14,252 sales. “Palaye Royale are one of the few genuinely distinctive modern rock bands operating at this level globally,” said Andrews. “The next record has all the makings of being a real career-defining moment for the band. They have already built an incredibly loyal fanbase across the U.K. and Europe and have a fantastic live team at Solo led by Charly Beedell-Tuck and John Giddings. Our focus now is building on that foundation globally, aligning the wider U.K., European, and U.S. teams around a clear long-term strategy, and helping maximize the scale of the opportunity ahead. We are also looking forward to working closely with Ash and the team at [record label] Sumerian as Palaye Royale enter this next phase.”
LABELWORX UNVEILS ELEVATE TO BOOST ELECTRONIC MUSIC LABELS: LabelWorx has unveiled a new program designed to help independent labels scale their businesses more rapidly and sustainably. Called Elevate, the initiative aims to support the next generation of independent electronic music labels through a combination of upfront funding, strategic guidance, and enhanced promotional assistance. The program has been created to tackle one of the biggest challenges faced by independent labels, the lengthy gap between releasing music, generating income, and receiving royalty payments. As part of the first round of the scheme, LabelWorx plans to distribute $10 million (USD) in capital to selected labels, giving them earlier access to funds before royalty payments arrive. In addition to financial backing, participating labels will receive a tailored 12-month development strategy, priority use of LabelWorx’s Pick N’ Mix promotional support services, and ongoing performance reviews focused on maximizing return on investment, building long-term growth, and strengthening sustainable partnerships. Dominic Kerley, VP of LabelWorx, said, “Elevate is our commitment to the electronic music community and the labels shaping its future. Independent labels move culture forward but too often are constrained by slow royalty cycles and limited access to capital. We want to change that with Elevate. We are combining funding with real strategy to help labels grow at the pace they deserve while building sustainable long-term business every step of the way.”
DOWNTOWN MUSIC PUBLISHING SIGNS DEAL TO REPRESENT BIZ MARKIE CATALOG: Downtown Music Publishing (DMP) has entered into a new agreement to represent the catalog and associated rights of hip-hop artist Biz Markie. The deal covers publishing administration and sync licensing for the late rapper’s body of work, while also including representation of his name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights. Born Marcel Hall, Biz Markie became one of hip-hop’s most recognizable and influential figures, earning global recognition through his 1989 hit “Just A Friend.” Following his death in 2021, his legacy has continued to resonate across generations of music fans and artists alike. Over the course of his career, Markie’s music has been sampled more than 1,500 times by a wide range of artists, from Wu-Tang Clan to The Rolling Stones. He also collaborated with Jay-Z, Nas, Beastie Boys, Big Daddy Kane, Will Smith, and Slick Rick, helping to shape the sound and culture of hip-hop during its formative years. The announcement arrives as the music industry marks the 40th anniversary of Markie’s 1986 EP Make The Music With Your Mouth, Biz, one of the projects that established him as a pioneering voice in rap music. Management of Biz Markie’s catalog and related rights continues under the direction of Hall, while his recorded music assets are overseen through Revilo Records. Distribution and catalog support are being handled in collaboration with Rhino Entertainment and Warner Music Group. Under the arrangement, publishing interests are represented through Surrey Lane Publishing and administered by Downtown Music Publishing. Meanwhile, The Biz Markie Experience will oversee initiatives connected to his intellectual property, name, image, and likeness rights, as well as experiential projects, with administration also managed by DMP.
JAY MOORE APPOINTED CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER AT TOO LOST: Too Lost has appointed Jay Moore as its new Chief Investment Officer. In his new role, Moore will oversee Too Lost’s investment strategy, with a focus on music rights, catalog acquisitions, artist financing opportunities, and long-term growth initiatives, according to the company. Moore joins Too Lost from Burbank, CA-based Position Music, where he served as Vice President and Head of Investments. During his time there, he assisted in shaping investment activity for the independent publisher, record label, and management company, which is distributed by Virgin Music Group. His responsibilities included leading financial modelling, deal structuring, and catalog acquisition strategies, including Position Music’s acquisition of producer and artist Gesaffelstein’s publishing and master recording catalog. Prior to Position Music, Moore held the position of Chief Investment Officer at Ditto Music, where he managed the company’s broader investment approach across music rights, catalog opportunities, and artist funding initiatives. Earlier in his career, Moore spent several years at Kobalt Music Group, working across the company’s investment division, including its managed Funds 1 and 2, as well as AWAL, Kobalt’s former recorded music and artist services business. “Jay brings a rare combination of investment discipline, catalog expertise, and real operating experience inside the modern music business,” said Gregory Hirschhorn, CEO & Co-Founder of Too Lost. “As Too Lost continues to expand our role as both a technology platform and a capital partner for independent artists and labels, Jay’s leadership will be instrumental in helping us identify high-quality opportunities, structure thoughtful deals, and build a long-term investment strategy that supports the next generation of music rights owners.”
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Divya Ramani, Lyor Cohen, Tarsame Mittal, Pete Giberga, Imran Majid, Craig Kallman, Jon Ollier, Andreas Katsamabas, Dan Chertoff, Lanre Gaba, Daniel Glass, Summer Marshall, Jason Iley, Andrew Dixon, and Zane Lowe. 
