KEN BUNT, PRESIDENT, DISNEY MUSIC GROUP NAMED RECIPIENT OF THE “LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD” AT THE 27TH GLOBAL EDITION OF MUSEXPO
MUSEXPO (www.musexpo.net), the internationally acclaimed global music business conference and showcase event, widely recognized as the “United Nations of Music” – in association with leading music discovery, development, and executive consultancy firm A&R Worldwide, is proud to announce Ken Bunt, President of Disney Music Group, as the recipient of its prestigious “Lifetime Achievement Award” at the 27th global edition of MUSEXPO. The honor will be presented during a special luncheon on Monday, March 22, 2027, at Castaway in Burbank, California, as part of MUSEXPO 2027.
Throughout an extraordinary career spanning more than three decades, Ken Bunt has become one of the most respected and influential executives in the global music and entertainment industries. As President of Disney Music Group, Bunt oversees marketing and distribution of The Walt Disney Company’s recorded music, music publishing, and live concert businesses, including Walt Disney Records, Hollywood Records, Disney Concerts, and Disney Music Publishing, leading one of the world’s most celebrated and culturally significant music organizations.
Under Bunt’s leadership, Disney Music Group has continued its remarkable evolution as a global entertainment music powerhouse, releasing and marketing some of the world’s most successful and influential soundtracks, scores, artist recordings, and live music experiences. Through Walt Disney Records, Hollywood Records, Disney Music Publishing, and Disney Concerts, the company brings the music of Disney’s Live Action and Animation Studios, Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, Pixar Animation Studios, Searchlight Pictures, 20th Century Studios, Disney Television, Disney Parks & Experiences, and Disney Games to audiences around the globe, creating recordings and experiences that have transcended generations and cultures.
Beyond releasing blockbuster soundtracks, Bunt has overseen marketing and distribution of one of the world’s richest music catalogs, encompassing nearly a century of timeless recordings and beloved songs from classics including Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Mary Poppins, Beauty and the Beast, Toy Story, The Little Mermaid, Tarzan, Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Hannah Montana, Descendants, Zombies, Camp Rock, and the globally recognized “It’s a Small World.” His vision has also fueled the continued worldwide expansion of Disney Concerts, which now presents thousands of live performances annually through acclaimed productions including Star Wars in Concert, Marvel Infinity Saga, Disney Princess – The Concert, Pixar in Concert, and The Nightmare Before Christmas.
In addition to marketing Disney’s renowned soundtracks, Bunt has continued Hollywood Records’ legacy as a home for exceptional recording artists and songwriters. Throughout his career, he has worked closely with artists including the Jonas Brothers, Sabrina Carpenter, Demi Lovato, Plain White T’s, almost monday, Freya Skye, and many others.
“Ken Bunt has played an instrumental role in promoting the global soundtrack of generations,” said Sat Bisla, Founder & President of A&R Worldwide and MUSEXPO. “His visionary leadership has elevated Disney Music Group into one of the most admired and influential music companies in the world. Whether through releasing iconic film music, artist development, publishing, live experiences, or innovative business leadership, Ken’s contributions have had an immeasurable impact on our industry and popular culture worldwide. It is a tremendous privilege to recognize his remarkable achievements with MUSEXPO’s Lifetime Achievement Award.”
Added Ken Bunt, “I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from Sat Bisla and everyone at MUSEXPO. It is especially meaningful that this award will be presented in Burbank – the city where I began my music industry career at American Recordings in 1993. Looking back over the past three decades, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work alongside extraordinary artists and talented colleagues who share a passion for the power of music to tell stories and bring people together. This recognition belongs to all of them, and I am grateful to The Walt Disney Company for the opportunity to help share stories through music and contribute to a legacy that has inspired generations around the world.”
The MUSEXPO 2027 Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes Ken Bunt’s exceptional leadership, innovation, and enduring contributions to the global music business. During the award presentation, Bunt will also receive official proclamations from the City of Burbank, the County of Los Angeles, and the California State Assembly in recognition of his extraordinary accomplishments and lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
To register to attend the event with the current early bird savings, or for more information regarding MUSEXPO 2027, please visit www.musexpo.net.
ED SHEERAN TO SIGN WITH INTERSCOPE RECORDS
Ed Sheeran is set to begin a new chapter in his recording career by signing with Interscope Records, according to sources cited by The Hollywood Reporter. The move follows the expiration of his long-running deal with Warner Music Group earlier this year and is understood to be a long-term agreement, although the number of albums covered has not been disclosed.
Before reaching an agreement, Sheeran is said to have held discussions with several major labels, including Sony Music. His move to Interscope places him alongside artists such as Billie Eilish, Lady Gaga and Kendrick Lamar, while also reuniting him with Interscope CEO John Janick, who previously worked with Sheeran during his time leading Warner’s Elektra Records.
Sheeran first signed with Warner Music’s Asylum and Atlantic in the U.K. in 2011 and went on to become one of the company’s biggest global stars. He remains one of the world’s most-streamed artists, ranking sixth on Spotify’s all-time artist list with around 83 million monthly listeners. His record-breaking Mathematics (+–=÷×) Tour is also the third highest-grossing concert tour in history.
Although Sheeran is moving to a new label, Warner Music will continue to own his existing catalog, including global hits such as “Shape of You,” “Thinking Out Loud” and “Bad Habits.” While he remains one of the industry’s biggest artists, his recent releases have not matched the commercial success of blockbuster albums such as × (Multiply) and ÷ (Divide), with Subtract, Autumn Variations and Play all posting more modest chart performances than his earlier work.
WARNER MUSIC INDIA TO EXPAND ARTIST SERVICES ARM
Warner Music India is expanding its Artist Services & Expanded Rights (ASER) division, strengthening its focus on artist development, management, A&R, live entertainment, and brand partnerships.
Positioned as a link between artists and industries, including brands, sports, live events and creator culture, ASER aims to help artists grow beyond traditional music releases through touring, sync, licensing, and commercial opportunities. The division highlighted projects such as Sting Energy’s collaboration with Alan Walker, “The Sting Within Me,” which launched at the Barcelona Grand Prix and reached over one million Spotify streams within a week.
ASER is also increasing its presence in live entertainment, while working with Warner Chappell Music India on sync and creative partnerships. Recent campaigns include Women’s Premier League activations featuring artists such as Ayushmann Khurrana, Shruti Haasan, Jonita Gandhi and Hanumankind, along with partnerships involving Jameson x King x Sanjith Hegde and Darshan Raval x Dubai Tourism.
Jay Mehta, Managing Director, Recorded Music & Publishing, India & SAARC, said, “This expansion reflects our commitment to building a truly integrated ecosystem, one that supports artists to unlock new opportunities, add value to their careers, and build lasting cultural and commercial impact in India and beyond. Our ASER team is here to help turn brilliant talent into global superstars. Alan has brilliantly captured the energy of Formula 1, reflecting the sport’s pace, intensity, and atmosphere. This collaboration highlights the powerful connection between music and sport, while reflecting our continued focus on building a broader 360-degree ecosystem for artists and partners beyond the traditional recorded music business.”
Anisha Gaba, Associate Director & Head of ASER, Warner Music India, added. “Artists deserve an ecosystem, not just a release plan,” she says, describing a model that spans emerging talent, global collaborations, live experiences, sync deals, and brand platforms built to last.
With India cementing itself as one of the world’s most closely watched entertainment markets, Warner Music India is not waiting for culture to come knocking. It is building the door, the stage, and the billboard all at once, and daring the rest of the industry to keep pace.
VIRGIN MUSIC GROUP UNVEILS NEW GLOBAL LEADERSHIP TEAM
Virgin Music Group (VMG) recently unveiled its new global and regional leadership team following the completion of its acquisition of Downtown Music earlier this year. The new organizational structure brings together senior leaders from both companies, combining trusted local expertise with an expanded global network of services, technology, and infrastructure. The integrated business is designed to offer clients the benefits of on-the-ground market knowledge alongside worldwide revenue-generating capabilities.
The company is now organized across six key regions, with each regional leader reporting directly to Co-CEOs JT Myers and Nat Pastor. Within their respective markets, these leaders oversee the local operations of both FUGA and Downtown Artist & Label Services. Jacqueline Saturn has been appointed President of North America and Executive Vice President of Global Artist Relations, with Sarah Landy joining as Sr. Vice President of Business Development for North America. Victor González will lead Latin America, U.S. Latin, and Spain as President, while Cris Falcao has been named President of Brazil and Portugal, supported by Renato Vanzella as Managing Director of Brazil. In Europe, Nick Roden assumes the role of President, with Liz Northeast serving as Sr. Vice President and General Manager. Michael Roe will oversee Asia, the Middle East, and Africa as Managing Director, while Nathan McLay continues to lead Australia and New Zealand as Managing Director.
The integration of Virgin Music Group and Downtown also strengthens the company’s global leadership across its service offerings, technology, and product strategy. Reporting directly to Myers and Pastor, Jeremy Kramer continues as Executive Vice President of Global Marketing, while Zack Gershen remains Executive Vice President of Global Commercial and Digital Strategy.
Supporting the company’s operational leadership under Chief Operating Officer Pieter Van Rijn, Tom Allen has been appointed Chief Technology Officer, Christiaan Kröner becomes Executive Vice President of Global Operations, David Driessen assumes the role of Chief Product Officer, and Matt Sawin has been named Executive Vice President of Physical and Direct-to-Fan Growth. Gareth Mellor joins the leadership team as Senior Vice President of Communications and Brand Strategy. Molly Neuman continues to lead CD Baby as President, while Emily Stephenson remains President of Downtown Music Publishing.
As part of the expanded organization, former Downtown Artist & Label Services President Ben Patterson will lead a new premier artist-focused enterprise in collaboration with Virgin Music Group.
SONY MUSIC INDONESIA AND SUN EATER GROUP LAUNCH JV LABEL LUNAR
Sony Music Indonesia and Sun Eater Group have launched LUNAR, a new joint venture label created to support the next generation of Indonesian artists and bring local talent to a wider global audience.
The label launches with three Indonesian acts: Kecoud, Alee, and Nandoshi. The partnership combines Sony Music’s global distribution network and marketing resources with Sun Eater Group’s artist development expertise and independent music culture.
Through LUNAR, artists will gain access to international opportunities while maintaining the creative freedom and community-driven approach that has defined Sun Eater Group’s work. The venture aims to strengthen Indonesia’s presence in the global music landscape by developing artists with both regional identity and worldwide potential.
“Indonesia is currently home to one of the most vibrant and digitally active music communities in the world,” said Muhammad Soufan (Munna), General Manager, Sony Music Indonesia. “Partnering with Sun Eater Group to form LUNAR combines our reach with authentic, grassroots creative curation. Kecoud, Alee, and Nandoshi represent the exact type of genre-defying artistry that LUNAR was created to champion, and we are excited by this partnership.”
Founded in 2019, Jakarta-based Sun Eater Group has become a major force in Indonesia’s independent music scene, developing artists including Hindia, Feast, Lomba Sihir, and Reality Club. The company operates across record label services, talent management, and music publishing, with sub-labels including Satutone and Greedy Dust.
SPINNIN’ RECORDS ANNOUNCES NEW LEADERSHIP TEAM
Spinnin’ Records has strengthened its executive leadership team with the promotions of Marco Pantuso to the newly created role of General Manager and Frederick Pranger to Head of A&R.
Based at Warner Music Group’s Amsterdam Music Harbour, Pantuso will oversee the label’s global operations, artist development, and marketing strategy, reporting to Warner Music Central Europe and Spinnin’ Records President Niels Walboomers. Pranger will lead the label’s worldwide A&R strategy, reporting directly to Pantuso as he guides the development of Spinnin’ Records’ artist roster.
Pantuso steps into the role after more than a decade with Warner Music, where he has helped lead international campaigns and artist development for acts including Alok, CYRIL, David Guetta, Diplo, HUGEL, Marten Lou, Robin Schulz, Ofenbach, and Tiësto. Since Warner Music acquired Spinnin’ Records in 2017, he has played a key role in connecting the label with Warner’s global network, most recently spearheading the successful launch of Spinnin’ Records Germany.
Niels Walboomers, President, Warner Music Central Europe and Spinnin’ Records, said, “Marco and Fred live and breathe dance music culture, and their track records speak for themselves. As Spinnin’ continues to break new boundaries, Marco’s strategic vision, deep-rooted industry relationships, and collaborative leadership style make him the ideal executive to steer our day-to-day operations. Coupled with Fred’s unique blend of artist experience and legal acumen, we have a formidable leadership team in place to write the next exciting chapter for Spinnin’ Records.”
Pranger brings a unique combination of creative and industry expertise, drawing on more than 12 years of experience as an artist, DJ, and producer, alongside a legal background that includes a master’s degree in law. During his four years with Spinnin’ Records, he has contributed to projects for artists such as Afrojack, Alok, Blasterjaxx, CYRIL, David Guetta & MORTEN, and Timmy Trumpet.
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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!
Daniel Glass is a legendary American music executive whose career spans more than four decades of hitmaking and label leadership. He began his journey in the late 1970s as a club DJ before transitioning to the business side of music at Chrysalis Records and SBK Records. By the early 1990s, Glass rose to become the President and CEO of EMI Records Group U.S., overseeing a powerhouse roster that integrated the SBK and Chrysalis imprints. He later partnered with industry veteran Doug Morris to launch Rising Tide Records, which evolved into Universal Records, where Glass served as President, followed by a successful tenure as President of the prominent independent label Artemis Records.
It was during his time leading EMI in 1992 that Daniel Glass first met Sat Bisla (Founder of A&R Worldwide and MUSEXPO). At the time, Bisla was the Music Director and DJ at Central California’s leading alternative radio station, KKDJ “The Edge,” which was helping to champion and break U.S. and global artists on American radio (this included 4 Non Blondes, EMF, Jamiroquai, Manic Street Preachers, Ace of Base, and many more). The duo was introduced to each other by their mutual friend Lisa Worden (now a very influential programming executive at iHeartMedia), who was working at EMI and helping introduce the label’s new signings to Bisla and his Program Director, Don Parker. Since that initial meeting, Glass and Bisla have maintained a close personal and professional friendship that would later yield monumental success.
In 2008, Bisla and A&R Worldwide introduced Daniel to the then-unsigned Australian band The Temper Trap. Glass officially signed the group to the newly formed independent powerhouse, Glassnote Records, in 2009. Crucially, it was through his relationship with The Temper Trap that Glass was introduced to Mumford & Sons, whom he also signed to Glassnote.
Driven by this A&R brilliance, Glassnote Records (founded in 2007) became a dominant force in alternative music, launching a stellar global roster that has included Grammy winners and multi-platinum acts like Phoenix, Childish Gambino, CHVRCHES, Grouplove, and countless others. In recognition of his enduring A&R, creative, and leadership vision, Glass was honored in 2013 as one of the first A&R-focused music executives to receive the esteemed “International Music Person of the Year Award” at MUSEXPO in Hollywood.
Daniel Glass highlighted his relationship with Sat and A&R Worldwide by stating, “I have known Sat for many years. He has always championed music and artists from around the globe. His international perspective and passion inspire me to look beyond the obvious places for new talent. Sat has introduced me to some of my most vital relationships in the music industry. Most days, I am communicating with someone I met through Sat and his team. Above all, I respect Sat as a family man and friend.”
TONIX
Tonix kick off an ambitious new chapter with “Stupid Thing I’ve Done,” a brutally honest and emotionally charged single that serves as the opening entry into their forthcoming concept EP, from nineteen to twenty one. The Adelaide trio have built a reputation for fusing soaring indie-pop hooks, electronic textures, and explosive live energy, and here they channel all of it into a track that feels both deeply personal and instantly relatable. Driven by shimmering synths, anthemic melodies, and a sense of emotional urgency, the track highlights the genre-blurring sound that has made Tonix one of Australia’s most exciting emerging acts. Drawing inspiration from artists such as M83, LCD Soundsystem, Gang of Youths, and Sam Fender, the band effortlessly balances electronic experimentation with big-hearted songwriting, creating music that feels equally at home on festival stages and late-night drives. Their rise has been anything but ordinary. From busking outside Adelaide Oval to crowds of more than 20,000 football fans to topping the Triple J Unearthed Charts with their debut single “PEGS,” Tonix have steadily built a loyal following through relentless touring and unforgettable live performances. Along the way, they have shared stages with artists including Genesis Owusu, De La Soul, Snarky Puppy, Lime Cordiale, and Cold Chisel, while earning recognition as South Australia’s Most Popular Electronic Artist at the 2025 South Australian Music Awards. Now operating as a fully realized trio with vocalist Sammi Keough alongside founders Henry and Archie, Tonix continues to push their sound into bold new territory. Discover “Stupid Thing I’ve Done” HERE, and reach out to Jaymie Houtman for additional information and available opportunities worldwide with Tonix.
STAND ATLANTIC
Stand Atlantic’s “Velcro” is a restless, hook-laden anthem that turns emotional attachment into something impossible to escape. Exploring the magnetic pull of relationships that linger long after they should, the track captures the frustration, obsession, and vulnerability that come with being unable to let go, all wrapped in the band’s trademark blend of sharp songwriting and explosive energy. Driven by punchy guitars, infectious melodies, and frontwoman Bonnie Fraser’s unmistakable delivery, “Velcro” showcases Stand Atlantic’s ability to blur the lines between pop-punk, alternative rock, and modern pop without sacrificing any of their edge. The accompanying video mirrors the song’s chaotic intensity, bringing its themes of fixation and emotional push-and-pull vividly to life. As one of the most innovative forces in contemporary alternative music, Stand Atlantic continues to thrive on unpredictability, constantly evolving while maintaining the fearless attitude that has earned them a devoted global following. “Velcro” is another reminder of why the Australian outfit remains at the forefront of a new generation of genre-defying rock bands. Experience “Velcro” HERE, and contact Marc Kordelos for radio inquiries and Michael Willis for all label opportunities.
“PASSPORT APPROVED” PLAYLIST FOR Sunday, July 12th, 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.
OVERPASS – “Is This Real?” (Communion Records, U.K.)
THE CLOCKWORKS – “Magnificent Seven” (Creation23, Ireland)
CASSIA – “Lemon Gelato” (Love Sundays/Universal Music, U.K.)
TEMPLES – “Vendetta” (Heavenly Recordings, U.K.)
RUM JUNGLE – “Lowlife” (Sureshaker, Australia)
CHLOE SLATER – “Ugly” (AWAL, U.K.)
BALU BRIGADA – “Politix” (Warner Music Group, Australasia)
WASIA PROJECT – “2515” (LaoLao Records, U.K.)
PARK RD – “Burn Away” (Loop Recordings, New Zealand)
THE ROOKS – “Nothing to Lose” (First Run Records, Scotland)
TOVE LO – “I’m Your Girl Right?” (Pretty Swede Records, Sweden)
DOTAN – “Last Goodbyes” (Universal Music, Holland)
D’MASIV – “On Our Own” (Unsigned, Indonesia)
MEEK – “Fabulous” (BMG, U.K.)
NOTHING BUT THIEVES – “Evolution” (RCA Records, U.K.)
UNPEOPLE – “Clouds” (SharpTone Records, U.K.)
HAUTE & FREDDY – “Sweet Surrender” (Atlantic Records, U.S.)
SPACEY JANE – “Do You Really Love Her” (Dew Process, Australia)
MASTER PEACE – “My Guitar” (PMR Records, U.K.)
LUSAINT – “Love Bites Back” (Heavenly Fire, U.K.)
THOMAS AZIER – “Year in A Spiral” (Hylas Records, Holland)
GIRL SCOUT – “Crumbs” (AWAL, Sweden)
MEDUZA FT. HENRY CAMAMILE – “Don’t Wanna Go Home” (Island Records, U.K.)
THE SOOKS – “Take It Slow” (Good Intent, Australia)
MATTHEW MOLE – “In My Head” (Universal Music, South Africa)
ADMT – “Turn the Page” (BMG, U.K.)
CARDINALS – “St. Agnes” (So Young Records, Ireland)
ROYEL OTIS – “Sweet Hallelujah” (Ourness, Australia)
FALSE HEADS – “Leader for Now” (Unsigned, U.K.)
SEAFRET FT. JAMES MORRISON – “Driftwood” (Nettwerk, U.K.)
MY FIRST TIME – “The Kids Are” (Parlophone, U.K.)
THESTARIDERS – “Go Somewhere” (Unsigned, France)
PRESCRIPTION SONGS SIGNS QUINN XCII: Prescription Songs has signed Platinum-selling artist and songwriter Quinn XCII (Mikael Temrowski) to its roster. The signing was facilitated by Prescription Songs A&R executives Christian Conant and Brooke Webster. Known for blending pop, alternative, and genre-crossing influences, Quinn XCII has built a global fanbase with more than four billion career streams. His catalog includes Platinum-certified hits such as “Straightjacket,” “Kings of Summer,” and “Love Me Less,” along with Gold-certified singles including “Stay Next to Me,” “Flare Guns,” “Another Day in Paradise,” “Stacy,” and “Always Been You.” Throughout his career, he has collaborated with artists including Noah Kahan, AJR, Big Sean, Logic, blackbear, and Ashe. Beyond his success as a recording artist, Quinn XCII has earned a reputation as a sought-after songwriter, recognized for his melodic instincts, conversational lyricism, and collaborative approach. He has contributed songs for artists including Jeremy Zucker, Chelsea Cutler, ayokay, Nightly, and ALINA, while recently working with producers and songwriters such as Dr. Luke, Peter Fenn, Alexander Stewart, jxdn, Adrien Nunez, Dotan, DallasK, Gino the Ghost, Vibarco, Matt Schuster, Slush Puppy, and Kevian Kraemer. Quinn XCII has also sold more than 500,000 headline tickets, selling out Red Rocks Amphitheatre for three consecutive years, and appearing at festivals including Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, Governors Ball, and Electric Forest.
RESERVOIR SIGNS T.I. TO PUBLISHING DEAL: Reservoir Media has entered into a new publishing agreement with Grammy-winning rapper T.I., expanding its relationship with the artist to cover his full songwriting catalog as well as future releases. The deal encompasses T.I.’s body of work to date and forthcoming material, including Kill The King, which the Atlanta rapper has said will serve as his final studio album. Born Clifford “Tip” Harris, T.I. has built a career spanning music, film, television, and fashion. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with artists, including Jay-Z, Rihanna, Justin Timberlake, Timbaland, Eminem, Nelly, and Mariah Carey. Over the course of his career, T.I. has sold more than 14 million albums globally, releasing eleven studio albums, over 100 singles, and 13 mixtapes. His multi-platinum 2008 album Paper Trail featured guest appearances from artists including Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, Rihanna, and Justin Timberlake, with four singles reaching the top five of the Billboard Hot 100. Outside of music, T.I. has expanded into entrepreneurship and philanthropy, launching two clothing brands, acting in film and television projects, and founding the social justice initiative Us or Else. The organization inspired the compilation album Us Or Else: Letter To The System, featuring artists including Killer Mike, Quavo, and Meek Mill.
BREAKING WAVE GROUP LAUNCHED BY BETH CLARIDGE, NICK STEWART, JEREMY MARSH, JAMES RADICE & MARC MAROT: A group of leading U.K. music executives have launched Breaking Wave Group (BWG), a new independent music company designed to offer artists a boutique alternative to the traditional major label model. Built by industry veterans with decades of experience shaping the careers of global stars including U2, Dua Lipa, and Ed Sheeran, BWG aims to combine creative focus with commercial expertise, giving artists greater attention, flexibility, and long-term support. The founding team includes Jeremy Marsh as Chief Operating Officer, bringing experience from senior roles at Virgin, RCA, BMG, and Warner Music Group, where he worked on the development of artists including Dua Lipa, Ed Sheeran, Take That, Annie Lennox, and Neneh Cherry. Marc Marot joins as Chief Creative Officer after an 18-year tenure overseeing U2’s career and leading Island Records during a period that saw signings including Tricky, Pulp, PJ Harvey, The Cranberries, Nine Inch Nails, and NWA. Former Warner Music Group executive James Radice serves as Chief Legal Officer, while Nick Stewart takes the role of Chairman following a career that includes signing U2 and collaborating with artists such as Grace Jones, Blondie, Elton John, and Dire Straits. BWG will operate across four key areas: record label services, music publishing partnerships, artist management, and special projects focused on cross-media and IP development. The company has already welcomed established acts including 10cc, Rumer, and Lemon Jelly, while also signing emerging talent such as Sofiyah Tusi and indie band Patience Please. Supporting its global ambitions, Breaking Wave Group has secured distribution partnerships with PIAS and Virgin Music Group, expanding its ability to deliver artist-focused services worldwide.
PRIMARY WAVE STRIKES PARTNERSHIP WITH MIKE EDWARDS ON HIS SONG CATALOG: Primary Wave Music has struck a partnership with Mike Edwards, singer and songwriter of the twice Grammy-nominated band Jesus Jones, acquiring rights to his music catalog spanning the group’s releases from 1989’s Liquidizer through 2001’s London. The deal includes some of the band’s best-known tracks, including “Right Here, Right Now,” “Real Real Real,” “Info Freako,” “International Bright Young Thing” and “The Devil You Know.” As part of the agreement, Edwards will also gain access to Primary Wave’s marketing, publishing, and licensing teams, with support across digital strategy, sync opportunities, and film and television production. Jesus Jones achieved international success with “Right Here, Right Now,” which reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a Grammy nomination in 1992. The band’s album Doubt was nominated for Best Alternative Music Album that year and has since sold more than two million copies worldwide. Primary Wave’s Executive VP for U.K. & Europe, Justin Dowling, said, “We are honored to partner with Mike Edwards on his catalog of songs. While Jesus Jones may humbly brand themselves as the ‘purveyors of fine indie-dance anthems since 1989’, under the hood it’s a little more than that. Mike proved that new fertile ground could be broken in music by marrying up the art of sampling with rock guitars and bringing all that to a global stage and a global audience.”
CVC CAPITAL PARTNERS TO MAKE MAJORITY INVESTMENT IN DISTROKID: DistroKid has announced that CVC Capital Partners has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a majority stake in the company through CVC Capital Partners IX. Existing investor Insight Partners will remain a significant minority shareholder following the transaction. The deal is expected to close in the third quarter of the year, pending customary regulatory and closing conditions. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed. Phil Bauer will continue serving as President, working alongside DistroKid’s current leadership team to guide the company’s next phase of growth. Since its founding in 2013, DistroKid has evolved into a comprehensive platform for independent artists, offering far more than music distribution. In addition to distributing music and videos, the company provides services including instant mastering, direct-to-fan engagement tools, custom and on-demand merchandise, and other resources designed to help musicians create, release, and promote their work worldwide. Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and The Raine Group functioned as financial advisors to DistroKid on the transaction.
ZARA LARSSON SIGNS WITH RCA RECORDS: Zara Larsson has signed a new recording deal with RCA Records. Sources familiar with the matter say the Swedish pop star received interest from multiple labels, but Sony Music opted to keep her within its family of labels by moving her from Epic to RCA. Larsson originally joined Epic in 2013 and released her international breakthrough album, So Good, in 2017. She remained with the label for subsequent releases, including Poster Girl (2021) and Venus (2024). Her momentum accelerated last year with the release of her fifth studio album, Midnight Sun, which fueled renewed commercial success and several viral hits, including the title track, her 2015 single “Lush Life,” and “Stateside” featuring PinkPantheress. The album’s popularity also drove demand for her global Midnight Sun tour, prompting venue upgrades for several Australian dates. While continuing her tour through early November, Larsson also released the remix project Midnight Sun: Girls Trip in May, featuring collaborations with Shakira, Kehlani, Tyla, Robyn, and other guest artists.
WARNER MUSIC GROUP ACCELERATES ADA GROWTH IN EMEA WITH EXPANSION: Warner Music Group (WMG) has announced an expansion of its independent distribution and label services arm, ADA, across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), reinforcing its regional presence through new leadership, technology integration, and unified branding. As part of the initiative, Howard Corner has been appointed Head of ADA, EMEA. Corner will continue serving as Managing Director of ADA U.K. while overseeing the growth of ADA’s regional operations, leading executive recruitment, and developing a coordinated A&R and commercial strategy across EMEA. Based in London, he will report to Simon Robson, President of Recorded Music, EMEA, and work closely with Warner Music’s local leadership teams throughout the region. Corner has more than 13 years of experience with WMG, having led ADA U.K. since 2013. During his tenure, the division has expanded its roster through partnerships with artists including Central Cee, Daft Punk, Kylie Minogue, Major Lazer, Noel Gallagher, Nemzzz, Stormzy, and Sonny Fodera, as well as labels such as VP Greensleeves, Cherry Red, London Music, Nuclear Blast, and Defected. WMG is also strengthening ADA’s technology capabilities by integrating the proprietary platform of Revelator, the B2B music technology company it acquired earlier this year. The integration will provide ADA partners with enhanced digital distribution, rights management, royalty accounting, real-time analytics, and greater operational efficiency. To further unify its operations across the region, WMG will bring its African and Middle Eastern distribution businesses under the ADA brand.
SUPERSTRUCT ENTERTAINMENT U.K. APPOINTS JACQUI HARRIS AS MANAGING DIRECTOR: Jacqui Harris has been named Managing Director of Superstruct Entertainment U.K. Harris joins Superstruct after nearly 20 years with AEG Presents U.K., where she most recently held the role of Vice President and General Manager of the U.K. Touring Division. During her tenure, she oversaw touring operations across stadiums, arenas, and greenfield events, while also playing a key role in delivering outdoor festivals including All Points East and BST Hyde Park in London, as well as Cornwall’s Eden Sessions. Her appointment comes as Superstruct continues to expand its portfolio of more than 80 festivals and live event brands worldwide. The company’s roster includes Mighty Hoopla, Lost Village and Boardmasters in the U.K., Germany’s Wacken Open Air and Parookaville, Spain’s Sónar and Arenal Sound, the Netherlands’ Defqon.1 and Zwarte Cross, Finland’s Flow, and Norway’s Øya. “We are thrilled to welcome Jacqui to the Superstruct team,” said Superstruct CEO Alex Mahon. “She is a powerhouse in the live entertainment industry, with a proven history of scaling world-class festivals and tours. She understands the cultural magic of live music and the importance of creative independence – her expertise will be invaluable as we continue to grow Superstruct.”
RAFFAELLA BRAUN NAMED CO-PRESIDENT OF TRIPLE TIGERS RECORDS: Triple Tigers Records has promoted Raffaella Braun to Co-President, where she will serve alongside Annie Ortmeier. In her new role, Braun will report to Founder and Managing Partner George Couri while continuing to oversee the label’s radio promotion strategy. Previously Vice President of Radio Promotion, Braun brings more than 15 years of music industry experience to the position. She has played a key role in the label’s radio success, helping deliver 13 of Triple Tigers’ 16 career No. 1 singles for artists including Scotty McCreery, Russell Dickerson, and Ella Langley. Before joining the radio promotion team, Braun worked as a booking agent at CAA and as an event producer. “I knew Raffi as an agent, and her entire time as a promotion executive,” says Couri. “I have seen her lead teams, solve problems and think far beyond radio promotion, figuring out ways to connect an artist with a larger audience. She is relentless, focused, and able to navigate difficult situations without ever losing her wonderful attitude. She was my immediate choice upon hearing of Kevin’s stepping aside. I am excited for her to join Annie as the two-headed juggernaut that will lead this team to even more wins.”
SONY MUSIC PUBLISHING PROMOTES LUIS PINILLA TO SR. VP, GLOBAL HEAD OF STRATEGY: Sony Music Publishing (SMP) has promoted Luis Pinilla to Sr. Vice President, Global Head of Strategy, a newly expanded leadership role focused on shaping the company’s long-term global direction. Based in New York and reporting to Chairman and CEO Jon Platt, Pinilla will oversee the development and execution of Sony Music Publishing’s global strategic priorities. Collaborating closely with teams across the business, he will help identify opportunities to drive innovation, strengthen the company’s presence across international markets, and create greater value for songwriters, while ensuring the business remains aligned with emerging technologies and industry trends. Pinilla has more than 14 years of experience at Sony Music Publishing and its predecessor, EMI Music Publishing. During that time, he has played a key role in strategic initiatives and held several finance leadership positions, most recently serving as Sr. Vice President of Corporate Strategy & Financial Planning. Before joining EMI Music Publishing in 2012, Pinilla worked in investment banking at Piper Jaffray. Jon Platt, Chairman and CEO of Sony Music Publishing, said, “Luis brings deep insight and a forward-looking perspective to everything he does, and I am confident he will excel in this role. I am pleased to be continuing our work together as we invest in the growth of SMP’s songwriters and composers around the world.”
SUNO HIRES EX-ATLANTIC RECORDS AND YOUTUBE VETERANS IN SENIOR ROLES: Suno has strengthened its executive team with two senior music industry appointments as it continues to expand its partnerships with the music business. Christian Bowne, who spent 16 years at YouTube leading music business development with the major record labels, has joined Suno as Director and Head of Music Business Development. He will oversee the company’s licensing strategy and industry partnerships, reporting to CCO Jeremy Sirota, the former Merlin CEO who joined Suno earlier this year. During his time at YouTube, Bowne assisted in licensing and launching several of the platform’s music initiatives, including subscription services, Shorts, and the AI-powered Dream Track project. Suno said his appointment comes as the company prepares to launch its first music model developed in partnership with the music industry. To date, Suno’s only major licensing agreement is with Warner Music Group, signed in late 2025. Suno has also hired Grace James as Vice President and Head of Artist Marketing and Editorial. James joins from Atlantic Records, where she most recently served as Executive Vice President of Creative Marketing, leading campaigns for artists including Coldplay, Ed Sheeran, FKA twigs, Alex Warren, and Lizzo. Earlier in her career, she held marketing leadership roles at Roc Nation and TIDAL, overseeing campaigns for Rihanna‘s ANTI, Kanye West‘s The Life of Pablo, and Beyoncé‘s Lemonade. In her new role, James will lead Suno’s artist marketing efforts and develop campaigns supporting independent musicians through the company’s recently launched Spark incubator program.
PRIMARY WAVE SIGNS DEAL WITH FOREIGNER’S MICK JONES: Primary Wave Music has entered a new partnership with Foreigner Founder Mick Jones, covering his publishing and recorded music catalogs, as well as his name, image, and likeness rights and the band’s touring business. As part of the agreement, Primary Wave will provide access to its publishing and marketing infrastructure while working alongside Jones and Foreigner to develop new branding, digital, sync, film, and television opportunities. Foreigner is one of rock’s best-selling bands, with more than 80 million albums sold worldwide. The Grammy-nominated group’s catalog includes enduring hits such as “I Want To Know What Love Is,” “Waiting For A Girl Like You,” “Juke Box Hero,” “Feels Like The First Time” and “Cold As Ice.” Larry Mestel, Primary Wave’s CEO & Founder, said, “Mick Jones is one of the most prolific songwriters of all time, and Foreigner is one of the few remaining supergroups that continue to provide an amazing live experience. We are honored to partner with Mick, Phil Carson, Stewart Young, and the band to help take their songs and brand to even higher levels.”
BELIEVE RESTRUCTURES GLOBAL ORGANIZATION: Believe has announced a new global operating structure that brings together its Commercial organization with its Product, Tech & Operations teams as part of its strategy to become a “One Global Artist Development Company.” Under the new structure, Elsa Bahamonde Bourgain has been named President of Artist Services and Label & Artist Solutions, overseeing Believe’s global commercial activities and reporting to Global Head of Music Romain Vivien. Her expanded role combines the company’s artist-focused and label services divisions, with Liubov Kevkhaian appointed VP of Label & Artist Solutions and Emmanuelle de Hosson named VP of Artist Services. Romain Becker has been appointed Group Chief Operating Officer, leading a unified Product, Tech & Operations division and reporting to Founder and CEO Denis Ladegaillerie. Becker will oversee key teams including technology, operations, and products, alongside newly appointed Group CPO Luxi Huang, former TuneCore Chief Technology and Product Officer. The leadership changes support Believe’s “From Access to Success” strategic plan, aimed at strengthening its global infrastructure and expanding support for independent artists and labels.
SNOW PATROL SIGN GLOBAL RECORDING DEAL WITH BMG: Snow Patrol have signed a new global recording agreement with BMG, which will see the company release the band’s future studio recordings worldwide. The partnership is built on a shared commitment to artistic excellence, long-term development, and global growth. The band launched with a new single, “These Alarms,” featuring Kylie, on July 1. Originally written with Kylie in mind during the sessions for Snow Patrol’s 2024 U.K. No. 1 album The Forest Is the Path, the band chose to hold the song until they had the opportunity to record it together. Alongside the new recording deal, BMG also represents the music publishing interests of band members Gary Lightbody and Nathan Connolly. Since forming in the mid-1990s, Snow Patrol have become one of the U.K.’s most successful rock bands, releasing multiple critically acclaimed, multi-Platinum albums and earning several U.K. No. 1 records. Their catalog includes enduring hits such as “Chasing Cars,” “Run,” “Open Your Eyes,” and “Just Say Yes,” while their career has been recognized with BRIT Awards and Grammy nominations. Alistair Norbury, President, U.K., Continental Europe and APAC, BMG, said, “Snow Patrol are one of the great songwriting bands of their generation. There’s a rare consistency to their work – songs built on emotional honesty that continue to resonate around the world. At BMG, we are focused on long-term artist partnerships, and we are proud to work with the band as they focus on new music and enter their next creative chapter.”
MEG DONNELLY SIGNS WITH WME: Singer-songwriter, actress, and dancer Meg Donnelly has signed with WME for representation across all areas of her career. A New York City native with roots in musical theater, Donnelly first rose to prominence through Disney’s Zombies franchise and ABC’s American Housewife. Most recently, she made her Broadway debut as Satine in Moulin Rouge! The Musical. She also has several screen projects on the horizon, including a voice role in the upcoming animated musical Brave Knight alongside Sydney Agudong, Skylar Astin, Jordan Fisher, and Peyton List. Alongside her work on stage and screen, Donnelly continues to establish herself as a recording artist. Her latest EP, dying art, displays her evolving sound through emotionally candid songwriting and a blend of contemporary pop influences, highlighting a new chapter in her artistic journey. With the signing, Donnelly joins WME’s roster of multi-hyphenate talent, which includes artists such as Anitta, Camila Cabello, Coco Jones, Dove Cameron, Justin Timberlake, King Princess, Lainey Wilson, Lisa, LL Cool J, Renee Rapp, Rihanna, Snoop Dogg, Sofia Carson, Teyana Taylor, The Weeknd, and many others.
LOGAN LIGHT JOINS WARNER MUSIC GROUP AS CHIEF OF STAFF: Warner Music Group has appointed Logan Light as Chief of Staff to CEO Robert Kyncl, according to his LinkedIn profile. Based in New York, Light joined the company in March after serving as Director of Strategy at video game publisher Take-Two Interactive, where he worked on strategic initiatives for the company behind major franchises including Grand Theft Auto and NBA 2K. Prior to that, he spent nearly five years at management consulting firm Bain & Company, advancing from Consultant to Senior Manager. Before transitioning into corporate strategy, Light co-founded the electronic music duo Mako alongside Juilliard-trained producer Alex Seaver in 2011. He also holds both an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a J.D. from New York University School of Law. Light joins a group of executives who have supported Kyncl’s office in recent years. Among them is Val Blavatnik, who has served as Special Advisor to the CEO since 2024 after previously holding the role of Senior Director of Business Development at Warner Chappell Music. Blavatnik, who joined Warner Music Group’s board of directors in 2023, continues to serve in both capacities. Previous senior support staff have also included Peter Lee, a former Google and YouTube executive who served as Chief of Staff to the CEO.
RESERVOIR ANNOUNCES PUBLISHING DEAL WITH JARRETT DOHERTY: Reservoir Media has signed singer-songwriter Jarrett Doherty to a global publishing agreement covering both his existing catalog and future works. The deal marks Doherty’s first publishing agreement and the inaugural signing through Reservoir’s newly launched joint venture with Tinman, the publishing company founded by Reservoir songwriter Sam Tinnesz. Best known as the frontman of the alt-pop/rock duo Jady, Doherty co-founded the band with Ashton Bergdorf in Columbus, Ohio, in the early 2020s. Since then, Jady has built a growing fanbase through independent releases including The Haze (2022), Napalm (2023), and Silver (2025), accumulating more than five million Spotify streams. The duo has performed more than 200 shows worldwide, supporting artists including Red Leather, The Cab, Call Me Karizma, IDKHow, and Saint Motel, and sold out Columbus’ Newport Music Hall. Doherty has played a key role in the band’s creative direction, co-writing songs such as “Boltcutter” and the recent collaboration with colby! titled, “Take What You Want.” Jady is set to embark on its largest headlining run to date, THE NOSEBLEEDS TOUR, visiting 24 cities across the U.S. and Canada this fall. Beyond his work with Jady, Doherty has established himself as a sought-after collaborator, writing alongside artists, producers, and songwriters including Sam Tinnesz, Curtis Peoples, Tyler Joseph, Julia Wolf, Paul Duncan, Erik Ron, Trent Dabbs, and Kodeblooded. He also performs as a bassist and regularly collaborates with solo artist Jay Joseph.
WARNER CHAPPELL SIGNS PUBLISHING DEAL WITH JULIAN SUDEK: Warner Chappell Music has signed Australian singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Julian Sudek to a global publishing agreement covering his existing catalog and future works. Based in Sydney, Sudek is an ARIA Award-winning creative whose work has assisted in shaping some of Australia’s most successful emerging artists. He co-produced Royel Otis‘ debut EP Campus and contributed as a songwriter across the duo’s first two EPs, helping lay the foundation for a career that has since generated more than half a billion streams worldwide. In addition to his studio work, Sudek spent five years as Royel Otis’ touring drummer, performing across Australia, the U.K., Europe, and the U.S. before shifting his focus entirely to songwriting and production. Beyond Royel Otis, Sudek’s production and songwriting credits include collaborations with Genesis Owusu, Rum Jungle, Bean Magazine, and other rising Australian artists. He now works full-time from his Sydney studio, where he continues to develop new music under his publishing partnership with Warner Chappell Music. John Halstead, Senior A&R Manager at Warner Chappell Music Australia, said, “Julian is one of the most talented and instinctive producer-songwriters to come out of Australia in recent years. His fingerprints are all over some of the country’s most exciting music, and we are incredibly proud to be partnering with him as he steps fully into his own creative chapter.”
PUNCH RECORDS PARTNERS WITH RICH CASTILLO ON LAUNCH OF THE A&R ACADEMY: Punch Records and A&R executive Rich Castillo have announced the launch of the A&R Academy, a new national talent development program created to support the next generation of music industry talent scouts in the U.K. The eight-week initiative will provide ten young people aged 18–30 with practical A&R training, artist development experience, and direct access to leading industry professionals. Beginning in September, the program will include workshops, live music scouting, guest sessions, networking opportunities, and a final pitch event where participants will showcase an emerging artist they believe into a panel of industry experts. Designed to reflect the evolving role of A&R today, the academy will cover everything from discovering and evaluating new talent to artist branding, marketing, digital strategy, and label operations. Participants will also gain real-world experience through attending key industry events, including the Mercury Prize, and learning from professionals working across the music business. Open to applicants across the U.K., the A&R Academy aims to create new pathways into the industry, with a focus on supporting young people from communities that have traditionally faced barriers to accessing A&R, artist development, management, and label careers.
KYBBA AND TRIBAL KUSH SIGN PUBLISHING AGREEMENT WITH BMG: BMG has signed global publishing agreements with Kybba and Tribal Kush, while also entering a partnership with Basshall Movement, the music platform and label founded by Kybba. Through its partnership with Basshall Movement, BMG will help identify, develop, and support emerging songwriters, producers, and artists across the platform’s growing international network. Originally from Salento, Italy, and now based in Amsterdam, Kybba has reached a combined audience of 4.8 million followers across his social platforms. His recent releases include the global hit remix of “Ba Ba Bad” featuring Ryan Castro, Sean Paul, and Busy Signal, which has generated more than 500 million combined streams and views while reaching No. 1 in Colombia. He also recently released “Se Le Ve” alongside Bad Gyal, Ryan Castro, and TopBoy TGR. Amsterdam-based production duo Tribal Kush have been instrumental in defining the Basshall sound through both their own music and high-profile production work. Their breakout single “Bad” has amassed more than 115 million Spotify streams and over 180 million YouTube views, while their production credits include Carlos Vives‘ Latin Grammy-winning Cumbiana II, Major Lazer‘s Grammy-nominated “Bam Bam,” and Myke Towers’ Island Boyz, which received an Album of the Year nomination at the 2026 Premio Lo Nuestro Awards. Basshall Movement has evolved into a vertically integrated global music platform encompassing Basshall Records, its YouTube channel, live events, including a two-day festival at De Ven near Amsterdam this August, and the newly launched Basshall Publishing. Together, the platform reaches more than four million followers worldwide and continues to champion genre-blending urban music on a global scale.
FIREBIRD LAUNCHES $750M MUSIC CATALOG FUND: Firebird has announced the launch of a new music catalog acquisition platform in partnership with investment funds from global firms Ares and The Raine Group. Backed by more than $750 million (USD) in capital, the platform will allow Firebird to become a direct partner in acquiring artist music catalogs, expanding its role in the evolving music rights marketplace. As part of the launch, Ares funds have also made a direct investment in Firebird, with Ares Managing Director Jeevan Sagoo joining Firebird’s board of directors. The new initiative follows Firebird’s recently announced strategic partnership with Goodlife Management and strengthens its growing network of global industry partners, including Mick Management, Red Light Management, Transgressive Records, JET Management, Defected Records, Special Projects, Tape Room, Leo33, and All Things Go. “We created this platform to expand the ways in which we partner with artists, building on the trust Firebird has earned as stewards of their creative work,” said Nat Zilkha, Executive Chairman of Firebird. “With this investment, Firebird will help artists receive value for their recorded music and publishing catalogs while leveraging the power of the Firebird ecosystem to drive new growth and discovery of their music.”
MERLIN HIRES HARMEN HEMMINGA AS VP BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Merlin has appointed Harmen Hemminga as Vice President of Business Development, strengthening the organization’s leadership team as it continues to support independent labels and distributors worldwide. Hemminga joins Merlin from Downtown Music, where he most recently served as Vice President of Product & Services Strategy. During more than nine years with Downtown and its subsidiary FUGA, he held a range of senior positions across product development, licensing, partnerships, and strategic initiatives. Bringing more than 15 years of experience across artist development, rights management, digital distribution, data strategy, and commercial partnerships, Hemminga has worked across multiple areas of the music industry. Before joining FUGA, he was involved in artist management, A&R, marketing, publishing, and live music, including helping launch the label and publishing division of Dutch entertainment company ID&T/Headliner Entertainment. Reporting to CEO Charlie Lexton, Hemminga will lead business development initiatives at Merlin while contributing his industry expertise across the organization.
SONY MUSIC MASTERWORKS SIGNS EMILY BEAR: Sony Music Masterworks has signed Grammy and Emmy-winning artist Emily Bear. Known for her versatility across jazz, classical, pop, film, television, and musical theatre, Bear is currently in the studio creating new music for her Sony Music Masterworks debut. She will also bring her live performance to Blue Note stages, with upcoming shows in New York on September 14 and in Los Angeles on November 10 and 11. Bear has made history throughout her career, becoming the youngest composer to score a Disney animated feature film with Moana 2 and the youngest recipient of a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theatre Album for The Unofficial Bridgerton Musical Album, where she served as composer and sole producer. Mentored and produced by the late Quincy Jones, Bear has also earned recognition from the Songwriters Hall of Fame and received an Emmy Award for Best Original Score. Her extensive credits include work with Netflix, Warner Bros., DreamWorks, Hulu, Universal, and Google, while her performances have included Carnegie Hall, the Hollywood Bowl, and the Montreux Jazz Festival. She was also featured as a pianist on Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour. A founding member of the Recording Academy’s Songwriters & Composers Wing, Bear continues to expand her creative footprint across film, television, Broadway, and recorded music as she begins this new partnership with Sony Music Masterworks.
ARTISTS FIRST LAUNCHES MUSIC DIVISION LED BY CARMEN MURRAY: Artists First has launched a new Music Division, bringing on Carmen Murray, Founder & Co-CEO of TITLE 9, as its Founding Advisor. In the newly created role, Murray will help shape Artists First’s music strategy and identify opportunities across music, sports, branding, intellectual property, and strategic partnerships. Working alongside her TITLE 9 business partner Michael Michel, she will collaborate with Artists First’s management teams to build new opportunities for athletes and actors to connect with the music business through creative ventures and brand collaborations. Murray brings decades of experience in artist management, production, publishing, and music partnerships. As co-founder of TITLE 9, a Los Angeles-based creative company with operations in New York, she has represented artists, producers, songwriters, and other creatives while building relationships with leading music companies including Universal Music Publishing Group, Def Jam Recordings, Atlantic Records, Republic Records, Epic Records, Motown, Warner Chappell Music, EMPIRE, BMG, and Roc Nation. Throughout her career, Murray has contributed to Grammy-recognized projects and helped create collaborations across artists, executives, athletes, and global brands. The launch of Artists First’s Music Division marks the company’s expansion into music-focused development and cross-industry opportunities.
ADA CENTRAL EUROPE SIGNS DISTRIBUTION DEAL WITH AIM MUSIC: ADA Central Europe has signed an exclusive distribution partnership with AIM Music, a newly established independent label based in Berlin. Founded by music manager Patrick Thiede alongside producer and artist Fae August, songwriter Leon Israel, and recording artist Gwendo, AIM Music was created with a vision reflected in its name, Alles Ist Möglich (“Anything Is Possible”). The team also includes Noémie Mucha and Lena Delabre, bringing together a collective of experienced creatives behind millions of streams. Among the founders, Fae August has produced music for artists including Milano, Lune, and Morpheuz, while Leon Israel’s songwriting credits span Monet192, Sampagne, Finch, Esther Graf, Kauta, and others. The partnership officially launches on July 3 with a dual-single release from Gwendo and Marlo.mp4 & ViruzZ. Through the agreement, ADA Central Europe, Warner Music Central Europe’s distribution and label services division, will provide AIM Music with global distribution, streaming strategy, and tailored marketing support across its roster. Jean-Sébastien Permal, Sr. VP A&R, Warner Music Central Europe & EMEA, said, “AIM Music is exactly the kind of label we want to partner with – founder-led, culturally rooted, and built around artists who have real audiences. The German hyper techno and rap scenes are producing some of the most energetic, streaming-native music in Europe right now, and AIM is at the center of that. This partnership is about giving a team with genuine taste and operational instinct access to the infrastructure to scale it.”
EXCELERATION ACQUIRES CATALOG OF RYUICHI SAKAMOTO IN JV WITH NEXTONE: Exceleration Music has acquired the recording and publishing catalog of Japanese composer and musician Ryuichi Sakamoto through a new joint venture with Tokyo-based rights administrator and distributor NexTone Inc. The catalog was acquired directly from the Sakamoto estate and includes Sakamoto’s entire body of work. Under the partnership, Exceleration Music will oversee rights management and revenue collection outside Asia, while NexTone will manage the catalog throughout Asia in collaboration with Fuji Pacific on publishing administration. Together, the companies will work alongside Sakamoto’s management company, KAB, to preserve his artistic legacy and support future posthumous releases. The acquisition represents Exceleration Music’s first major catalog investment in Japan, expanding its global footprint into a market where large-scale catalog acquisitions remain uncommon. Widely regarded as a pioneer of electronic music, Ryuichi Sakamoto rose to international prominence as a founding member of Yellow Magic Orchestra before building a solo career spanning electronic, classical, and experimental music. His work in film earned him an Academy Award, a Grammy, and a Golden Globe for The Last Emperor, while his scores for Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence, Little Buddha, and The Revenant further cemented his influence. Across his career, Sakamoto collaborated with artists including David Bowie, David Byrne, Iggy Pop, David Sylvian, and Alva Noto.
WARNER RECORDS FORMS PARTNERSHIP WITH SICKAMORE: Warner Records has entered a partnership with veteran music executive Randall “Sickamore” Medford and his New York-based creative institute, Three Times Louder (IIIXL), expanding the organization’s mission to discover and develop emerging hip-hop and R&B talent. The collaboration builds on Three Times Louder’s existing relationship with SoundCloud, extending its artist development platform through Warner Records. Founded in 2023, IIIXL serves as a creative hub for rising artists, with talent including Ovrkast and Liim already emerging from the initiative. Brooklyn-born alternative R&B artist Laila! becomes the first flagship signing under the partnership. Originally identified in 2023 through SoundCloud’s A&R Talent Identification team alongside Sickamore, Laila! built momentum on the platform before breaking out with her viral single “Not My Problem,” which inspired the #NotMyProblem beat challenge and generated hundreds of thousands of playlist streams. She released her debut album, Gap Year!, in 2024. Sickamore brings A&R and management experience to the venture, having previously held senior roles at Epic Records and Interscope, where he helped shape campaigns for artists including Travis Scott, YG, and Sheck Wes. He also works alongside Travis Scott and David Stromberg at Cactus Jack Management, where he co-manages Don Toliver.
WARNER MUSIC FINLAND ACQUIRES MÖKKITIE RECORDS’ MUSIC CATALOG AND PUBLISHING RIGHTS: Warner Music Finland and Mökkitie Records have announced the signing of a definitive agreement under which Mökkitie Records’ extensive recorded music catalog and associated publishing rights will become part of Warner Music. Established in 2012 following singer-songwriter Arttu Wiskari’s breakthrough success with the hit singles “Mökkitie” and “Tuntematon potilas,” Mökkitie Records has grown into one of Finland’s leading independent labels. Working closely with Warner Music for nearly a decade, the company has released all of Wiskari’s albums while building a roster that includes Finnish artists Erika Vikman, Mira Luoti, and Olli Halonen. As part of the agreement, Mökkitie Records’ artists and leadership team will join Warner Music Finland. Arttu Wiskari has signed a new multi-year recording agreement with the company, while songwriter Janne Rintala will continue contributing to songwriting teams and a range of artist development projects. Former Mökkitie Managing Director Olli Saksa joins Warner Music Finland’s A&R team, bringing his experience in discovering and developing talent across the wider roster. Meanwhile, producer Mika Laakkonen will focus on his studio work while leading the new Katutaso label. Ramona Forsström, Managing Director of Warner Music Finland, said, “Mökkitie Records has an exceptional record in the Finnish industry, genuinely shaping the domestic music scene with its distinctive, story-driven approach. Having witnessed its success story up close for years, this acquisition is a natural milestone in our long-term partnership. I am delighted to continue our close cooperation with the Mökkitie team. Their A&R instincts and ability to cultivate stellar musical talent are first-class, and we highly value the opportunity to integrate their expertise into our operations.”
PUBLIC SERVICE BROADCASTING AND BIG SPECIAL TO HEADLINE BENEFIT CONCERT IN MEMORY OF SO RECORDINGS’ JAMES BORRER: Public Service Broadcasting and Big Special will perform a special benefit concert in memory of SO Recordings executive James Borrer at London’s indigo at The O2 today, July 13, 2026. Held in partnership with Bowel Cancer U.K., the event will raise funds for Borrer’s wife and two young daughters while also increasing awareness of the symptoms of bowel cancer. Public Service Broadcasting, Big Special, indigo at The O2, and ticketing platform AXS are all donating their services, venue hire, and booking fees to maximize the funds raised. Borrer, who worked in the music industry throughout his career, passed away in January after a short illness. His colleagues at SO Recordings said the event is intended to celebrate both his life and his passion for live music. In a statement, the label said, “This benefit is a celebration of the life of James Borrer. James died of bowel cancer on January 14, 2026, after mistaking the symptoms for colitis. He leaves behind his wife, Caroline, and two young daughters, Amelie and Seren. “James worked in music his whole life, and this event celebrates the music that meant so much to him. Public Service Broadcasting and Big Special were two of his favorite artists, but above all, he loved the experience of live music – from Dublin Castle to Wembley Stadium. He was easy to spot – tall, bopping along, beaming with that huge grin of his. We decided to put on this show in his memory. He would have loved it. All money raised will go to his family.” Big Special said they hoped the concert would reflect Borrer’s positive outlook and create something meaningful in his honor. Public Service Broadcasting added, “We’re honored to be part of a fundraising night in memory of James Borrer, raising money for his family and awareness for Bowel Cancer U.K. We hope as many people as possible can join us and support this very worthy cause.” The event also aims to highlight the importance of early diagnosis. According to Bowel Cancer U.K., more than nine in ten people survive bowel cancer if it is detected and treated at the earliest stage, compared with just one in ten when diagnosed at stage four. Around one in 17 men and one in 20 women will be diagnosed with the disease during their lifetime.
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Mia Goodley, Josh Javor, Alistair Norbury, Adam Taylor, Nicolas Klersy, Ram Sundar, Mary Megan Peer, Nick Gatfield, Matt MacFarlane, Brian Schall, Mike Daly, Mike Hayes, John Stein, Lillia Parsa, and Jason Bentley. 
