INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED MUSIC SUPERVISOR NORA FELDER NAMED RECIPIENT OF THE MUSEXPO 2027 “GLOBAL MUSIC SUPERVISOR” AWARD
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 that acclaimed music supervisor Nora Felder has been named the recipient of the prestigious “Global Music Supervisor” Award at the 27th global edition of MUSEXPO. The honor will be presented during the annual “International Music Industry Awards” gala dinner on Wednesday, March 24th, 2027, at Castaway in Burbank, California, as part of MUSEXPO 2027.
Widely regarded as one of the entertainment industry’s most accomplished and influential music supervisors, Nora Felder has built an extraordinary career defined by creative excellence, groundbreaking collaborations, and a remarkable ability to elevate storytelling through music. Her work has helped shape some of the entertainment industry’s highly acclaimed film and television productions, earning the respect of filmmakers, composers, artists, studios, and audiences around the world.
A two-time Grammy Award nominee, six-time Emmy Award nominee, and Emmy Award winner, Felder began her career in New York City booking emerging artists and live music events before joining legendary producer Phil Ramone at Phil Ramone Inc. Rising to the position of Vice President, she contributed to landmark recording projects with artists including Paul Simon, Sinéad O’Connor, Malcolm McLaren, Cyndi Lauper, and Iggy Pop.
After relocating to Los Angeles, Felder transitioned into music supervision with the cult classic Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion, establishing herself as one of Hollywood’s rising creative executives in visual media.
Her transition into television came with the acclaimed series Californication, where her music supervision played an integral role in defining the show’s signature musical identity throughout its seven-season run. From there, Felder went on to build an exceptional body of work spanning critically acclaimed and award-winning productions, including Stranger Things, What We Do in the Shadows, Better Things, Ray Donovan, The OA, Yellowjackets, and most recently, The Boroughs.
Among her many career highlights, Felder’s music supervision on Stranger Things helped create one of the most significant cultural music moments in recent years, propelling Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill” back to the top of charts worldwide 36 years after its original release. The phenomenon underscored the extraordinary influence that music supervision can have in pairing iconic songs with unforgettable storytelling, creating lasting cultural moments that resonate across generations.
In addition to her Grammy and Emmy recognition, Felder has earned numerous awards from respected industry organizations, including the Guild of Music Supervisors, the Hollywood Music in Media Awards, the Women in Sync Awards, the U.K.’s Music Week Sync Awards, and the Banff World Media Festival/Rockie Awards.
“Nora Felder represents the very best of what music supervision has become on a global level,” said Sat Bisla, Founder & President of A&R Worldwide and MUSEXPO. “Her extraordinary creative vision, impeccable musical instincts, and ability to transform storytelling through music have made her one of the most influential and admired music supervisors in the world. Whether introducing iconic songs to entirely new generations, championing emerging talent, or collaborating with some of the industry’s most respected filmmakers and creators, Nora’s contributions have had a profound impact on the intersection of music and visual media. We are honored to recognize her with MUSEXPO’s 2027 ‘Global Music Supervisor Award.’”
Nora Felder added, “I am deeply honored to receive the MUSEXPO Global Music Supervisor Award. Music supervision has always been about collaboration – working alongside filmmakers, creators, artists, composers, and countless talented people to help bring stories to life through music. I’ve been fortunate throughout my career to be part of projects that have connected audiences with songs in meaningful and unexpected ways. I’m incredibly grateful for this recognition and for the opportunity to celebrate a craft I deeply love.”
MUSEXPO has long recognized individuals whose creative leadership has elevated the art and business of music supervision across film, television, streaming, and interactive entertainment. Previous honorees from the music supervision and entertainment community have included Dave Jordan, Founder & CEO, Format Entertainment; Amy Dunning, Vice President, Music, Netflix; Mike Knobloch, President of Music & Publishing, NBCUniversal; Alexandra Patsavas, Director of Music Creative/Production, Original Series, Netflix; Steve Schnur, Worldwide Executive & President of Music, Electronic Arts; Mamie Coleman, Executive Vice President & Head of FOX Entertainment Music; and Jen Malone, Music Supervisor, Founder & Head of Black & White Music.
The MUSEXPO 2027 “Global Music Supervisor” Award recognizes Nora Felder’s exceptional creative achievements, enduring influence, and significant contributions to the global entertainment and music industries. During the award presentation, Felder will also receive official proclamations from the City of Burbank, the County of Los Angeles, and the California State Assembly in recognition of her outstanding accomplishments and lasting impact on music, film, television, and popular culture. Felder will also participate in a special keynote interview at MUSEXPO 2027.
Further announcements regarding MUSEXPO 2027 will be revealed in the coming months.
To register to attend the event before the early bird registration expires in the coming weeks, or for more information regarding MUSEXPO 2027, please visit www.musexpo.net.
FRONTIERS LABEL GROUP APPOINTS TIMO HOFFMANN AS HEAD OF A&R, GERMANY
Frontiers Label Group has named Timo Hoffmann as its new Head of A&R for Germany, bolstering the company’s efforts to expand its presence in one of Europe’s key rock and metal markets.
Hoffmann has more than 20 years of experience in the music business to the role. He began his career as a music journalist before moving into the label sector, where he held positions spanning public relations, catalog management, marketing and product management at AFM Records and, more recently, Atomic Fire Records/Reigning Phoenix Music. Throughout his career, Hoffmann has worked with a broad range of rock and metal acts, including Doro, U.D.O., Danzig, Thundermother, Orden Ogan and D-A-D.
At Frontiers Label Group, Hoffmann will lead A&R activities in Germany, with a focus on signing and developing talent while strengthening relationships with both established and emerging artists across the company’s expanding roster.
“We are thrilled to welcome Timo to the Frontiers family,” said Serafino Perugino, President & Founder, Frontiers Label Group. “His deep knowledge of the international rock and metal landscape, combined with his proven track record in identifying and developing talent, makes him the perfect choice to lead our A&R activities in Germany. Germany remains one of the most important markets for our genres worldwide, and with Timo’s experience, passion, and strong industry relationships, we are confident that we will further strengthen our position and continue to grow the Frontiers Label Group with outstanding artists.”
Timo Hoffmann added, “What Serafino and his team have created over the past 30 years is nothing short of remarkable. Frontiers have not only become synonymous with the entire genre of melodic rock but has also successfully branched out into heavier styles over the years. Their roster, consisting of legendary bands as well as great new and upcoming acts, is brimming with quality. I have followed their evolution for a long time, always with great respect for the label’s forward-thinking approach, vision, and consistency. Being invited to join this passionate team feels fantastic, and I want to thank Serafino for his trust and vision!”
Founded in Naples, Italy, by Serafino Perugino in 1996, Frontiers Label Group has grown into a leading independent rock label, releasing music from artists such as Megadeth, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Hatebreed, Skunk Anansie, Van Zant, Don Felder, Def Leppard, Journey, Yes, Mr. Big, Biohazard, Night Ranger, Whitesnake and Electric Light Orchestra (ELO).
RESERVOIR ANNOUNCE JV WITH U.K. A&R OLLIE HODGE AND HIS LABEL SOME ACTION
Reservoir Media has launched a new joint venture with U.K. A&R executive Ollie Hodge, bringing his frontline record label Some Action into the company’s label operations.
Based at Reservoir and Chrysalis Records’ London headquarters, Some Action will sit alongside Reservoir’s existing recorded music businesses, including Chrysalis Records, Tommy Boy Music and Reservoir Recordings.
Hodge joins the partnership with an established track record in artist development, having previously held creative roles at Columbia Records, Warner Chappell and Polydor. Throughout his career, he has worked with artists including George Ezra, Glass Animals, The Vaccines, Declan McKenna, Holly Humberstone, MGMT, Years & Years and Passion Pit.
He launched Some Action in 2024, overseeing the release of Good Neighbours’ debut single “Home,” which achieved Platinum certification in both the U.K. and U.S. and helped earn the duo a Rising Star nomination at the 2025 Brit Awards. More recently, Hodge served as A&R on Mumford & Sons’ albums Rushmere and Prizefighter, both of which debuted at No. 1 in the U.K.
The label’s current roster includes emerging artists McGrath, JP O’Grady and L Devine. McGrath is preparing a debut EP for 2027 following growing momentum in Ireland and an upcoming U.K. and Ireland headline tour, while Scottish American singer-songwriter JP O’Grady is set to release a new EP later this year. L Devine is currently working on her second album with producer Andrew Sarlo.
Some Action’s leadership team also includes General Manager Charlie Shawcross, formerly of Communion and Columbia Records, and A&R Dillon Hall, who comes from Common Knowledge Records. Together, the team will focus on discovering and developing the next generation of U.K. and international talent under the Reservoir banner.
UMG APPOINTS TSEYIN FOO AS GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAIN PRESIDENT
Universal Music Group (UMG) has appointed Tseyin Foo as President, Global Supply Chain, effective immediately.
Based in Los Angeles, Foo will report to Chief Operating Officer Boyd Muir and oversee the continued development of UMG’s global supply chain operations across digital distribution, direct-to-consumer services, physical music products, merchandise and other consumer offerings.
In the role, she will help strengthen the company’s ability to support artists, songwriters, labels and commercial partners, while advancing UMG’s expanding artist and label services business following Virgin Music Group‘s acquisition of Downtown, as well as the continued growth of its merchandise and direct-to-consumer operations.
Boyd Muir, COO, UMG, said, “As we continue to create more opportunities for growth throughout the music ecosystem, it’s increasingly important that we operate as one global organization with greater speed, flexibility, and precision. Tseyin brings a rare combination of strategic leadership, operational excellence, and technology expertise that will help us deliver greater impact at greater scale, driving even more value for artists, songwriters, labels and entrepreneurs around the world.”
Foo joins UMG from Skechers, where she served as Head of Global Supply Chain Planning & Strategy, leading initiatives across sourcing, manufacturing, technology and strategic planning to support the company’s global growth. Before that, she spent five years at Nike in senior leadership positions focused on supply planning and strategic sourcing and earlier held leadership roles at VF Corporation across brands including Timberland, Vans and 7 For All Mankind.
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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!
MUSEXPO 2006 was the first global music business conference in the world where YouTube’s Co-Founder, Chad Hurley had an opportunity to speak directly with stakeholders within the global music business.
As MUSEXPO celebrates its 27th global edition next year, it has consistently maintained its mantra as one of the world’s leading independent music business and showcases events that brings together both the upper echelons of the worldwide music industry and also embraces the independent sectors in an authentic and inspirational manner.
The event has brought together some of the most inspiring, influential, and entrepreneurial artists, creatives, executives, and companies from around the world. And March 2027 will be no different, as MUSEXPO is already putting together some incredible and inspiring keynotes and panels to continue to elevate the conference as an essential connector and inspiration to the global music industry.
THE FALLS
Manchester, England-based indie-rock risers The Falls continue their rapid ascent with “Loaded Gun,” the powerful new single taken from their forthcoming EP Would You Do It All Over Again, arriving September 18. Darker, heavier, and more emotionally charged than anything they’ve released before, the track marks a bold new chapter for one of the U.K.’s most exciting emerging bands. Driven by crashing guitars, relentless energy, and sharp, introspective lyricism, “Loaded Gun” explores guilt, toxic relationships, and the feeling that no matter how far you run from your mistakes, they’ll eventually catch up with you. Inspired by a pivotal scene in Martin Scorsese‘s The Departed, the song transforms its cinematic roots into a gripping indie-rock anthem that balances tension, vulnerability, and urgency. Since forming in 2023, The Falls have built an impressive reputation through sold-out hometown shows, growing national support, and a string of standout releases. Drawing influence from The Courteeners, The Kooks, and Jake Bugg, The Falls continue to combine soaring hooks and compelling storytelling with a sound that feels both timeless and fresh. With Would You Do It All Over Again set to arrive this September, “Loaded Gun” finds The Falls pushing their sound into darker territory while showcasing the ambition and songwriting maturity that continues to set them apart. Discover “Loaded Gun” HERE, and Jade Perry for additional information and opportunities on behalf of The Falls.
UNPEOPLE
One of the U.K.’s most exciting new alternative bands, unpeople continue their rapid ascent with “friends,” the latest single from their eagerly anticipated debut album, we are unpeople, due October 9th via SharpTone Records. Equal parts crushing and cathartic, the track pairs towering riffs, massive choruses, and the band’s trademark four-part harmonies with an unflinching look at the fear of emotional vulnerability. Written from the perspective of someone deeply skeptical of love, “friends” explores the instinct to push people away before they have the chance to get too close. It’s brutally honest, emotionally conflicted, and perfectly showcases unpeople’s gift for balancing punishing heaviness with unforgettable melody. That emotional honesty runs through we are unpeople, a debut built on colossal hooks, unrelenting riffs, and a belief in music’s power to unite. Alongside standout singles “clouds,” “the garden,” and “waste,” the album reveals a band unafraid to challenge expectations while forging a sound entirely their own. Comprised of Jake Crawford, Luke Caley, Em Lodge, and Richard Rayner, unpeople have quickly established themselves as one of Britain’s fastest-rising heavy acts. Hailed by Kerrang! as “one of alternative music’s best new bands,” they’ve already shared stages with Metallica, Smashing Pumpkins, and Coheed and Cambria, while earning a reputation for commanding both major rock festivals and the heaviest bills with equal ease. Following standout appearances at Download, Reading & Leeds, Copenhell, Hurricane, and Southside, we are unpeople feels less like a debut and more like the arrival of a band ready to leave a lasting mark on modern heavy music. Watch the video titled “friends” HERE. For more information on behalf of unpeople, contact Anthony.
“PASSPORT APPROVED” PLAYLIST FOR Sunday, July 26th, 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.
STAND ATLANTIC – “Velcro” (Hopeless Records, Australia)
BALU BRIGADA – “Politix” (Warner Music Group, Australasia)
CASSIA – “Lemon Gelato” (Love Sundays/Universal Music, U.K.)
TEMPLES – “Vendetta” (Heavenly Recordings, U.K.)
CATTY – “Pavlov’s Dog” (Unsigned, Wales)
RATOON – “Are You Feeling Fine?” (Unsigned, Wales)
CHLOE SLATER – “Ugly” (AWAL, U.K.)
RUM JUNGLE – “Lowlife” (Sureshaker, Australia)
D3LTA – “Daydream” (Unsigned, Greece)
RAGING LINES – “Yamaha 237” (Unsigned, Norway)
ALEX SPENCER – “These Will Be the Days” (Modern Sky, U.K.)
TOVE LO – “I’m Your Girl Right” (Pretty Swede Records, Sweden)
D’MASIV – “On Our Own” (Unsigned, Indonesia)
KARIN ANN – “Born to Be” (3AM Records, Slovakia)
NOTHING BUT THIEVES – “Evolution” (RCA Records, U.K.)
OVERPASS – “Is This Real?” (Communion Records, U.K.)
SPACEY JANE – “Do You Really Love Her” (Dew Process, Australia)
DAVE LOFTS – “Where Is the Love?” (B-Unique, Ireland)
TONIX – “Stupid Things I’ve Done” (General Admission Entertainment, Australia)
LUSAINT – “Love Bites Back” (Heavenly Fire, U.K.)
MASTER PEACE – “My Guitar” (PMR Records, U.K.)
SOFT LOFT – “F U Want It” ([PIAS], Switzerland)
MEDUZA FT. HENRY CAMAMILE – “Don’t Wanna Go Home” (Island Records, U.K.)
THE FALLS – “The Other Side” (Rev Pro, U.K.)
DOTAN – “Last Goodbyes” (Universal Music, Holland)
WASIA PROJECT – “Bleeding Gold” (LaoLao Records, U.K.)
GIRL SCOUT – “Crumbs” (AWAL, Sweden)
ROYEL OTIS – “Sweet Hallelujah” (Ourness, Australia)
ALEXA KATE – “Good for Long” (Groundwork Records, U.S.)
FALSE HEADS – “Leader for Now” (Unsigned, U.K.)
SEAFRET FT. JAMES MORRISON – “Driftwood” (Nettwerk, U.K.)
CARDINALS – “St. Agnes” (So Young Records, Ireland)
SONY MUSIC PUBLISHING AND THE CORE ENTERTAINMENT SIGN PUBLISHING DEAL WITH DELTONA: Country-rock trio DELTONA have signed a publishing deal with Sony Music Publishing Nashville in partnership with The Core Entertainment. Made up of vocalist Ned Abernathy, guitarist Caleb Miller and drummer Chris Deaton, the Nashville-based band has built a reputation for blending Southern storytelling with rock-driven energy, earning early industry attention through its growing catalog and live performances. The signing follows the release of the trio’s latest single, “The Country,” which secured placements on streaming playlists including Amazon Music’s Breakthrough Country, Apple Music’s New in Country, Spotify’s All New Country and Pandora‘s Top Country Hits and New Country. Co-written by DELTONA with Dan Agee and Nick Wayne, the track joins a catalog featuring songs such as “Heartbreak Fix,” “Love Don’t Love Me,” “How to Not Help a Heartbreak,” “Cared Enough to Cry” and “Party’s in The Back.” DELTONA has also continued to build its profile on the road, sharing stages with artists including Lee Brice, Jordan Davis, Avery Anna, Rodney Atkins, George Birge and Cooper Alan while expanding its songwriting credentials alongside its touring career.
BELIEVE MUSIC PUBLISHING PARTNERS WITH JACK RUSSELL MUSIC: Believe Music Publishing has entered a long-term partnership with independent publisher Jack Russell Music. Established by Clare Ram in 2007, Jack Russell Music represents a catalog of artists and songwriters, including Vybz Kartel, Sly Dunbar, Brooklyn Funk Essentials and Michael Oliviere, as well as a host of reggae and dancehall producers. Under the agreement, Believe Music Publishing will administer Jack Russell Music’s catalog while also providing sync, creative and songwriter development services for both its existing roster and future signings. Among the publisher’s most notable copyrights is 20th Century Steel Band’s “Heaven and Hell Is on Earth.” Originally released in 1975, the track has been sampled 93 times, appearing in songs such as Jennifer Lopez’s “Jenny from The Block,” Gwen Stefani’s “Hollaback Girl,” and recordings by Black Eyed Peas, Mos Def and Grandmaster Flash. Jack Russell Music also controls “Pon De Floor” by Major Lazer featuring Vybz Kartel, which provided the foundation for Beyoncé’s “Run the World (Girls)” and has since been sampled by artists including Trey Songz and Snoop Lion. The catalog also includes “Where Love Lives,” written by Lars “Lati” Kronlund, which featured in the 2025 John Lewis Christmas advert. Kronlund later went on to form Brooklyn Funk Essentials. More recently, Denise “Saucy” Belfon’s “Work (Put Yuh Back in It)” was sampled by Drake on his album Maid of Honour. Other recent releases drawing from the Jack Russell Music catalog includes Cutty Ranks’ Black List, Protoje’s The Art of Acceptance, Protoje and Jesse Royal’s “Something I Said,” Vincent Davies’ Vindication, and Hector Lewis’ Cosmic Roots.
RACKET CLUB APPOINTS MICHAEL FRICK AS EXECUTIVE PRODUCER & MUSIC SUPERVISOR, WEST COAST: Racket Club, the creative music company known for integrating music into the creative process from the earliest stages of production, has announced the appointment of Michael Frick as Executive Producer & Music Supervisor, West Coast. Based in Los Angeles, Frick will lead Racket Club’s West Coast presence while helping expand the company’s music supervision, licensing, artist partnerships, and creative music offering. Over the past two decades, Frick has built a career where music, advertising, and culture intersect. After co-founding Mophonics, he helped pioneer a more integrated approach to music for brands, championing artists early in their careers and creating work that moved beyond traditional licensing. He signed Mark Foster before Foster the People existed, contributed to Apple’s earliest music initiatives, and has since helped shape campaigns for Google, DoorDash, QuickBooks, and more. His experience extends far beyond the creative. Frick has spent years navigating the business side of music, working across licensing, publishing, talent agreements, intellectual property, and business affairs, with trusted relationships spanning artists, labels, publishers, managers, and music attorneys alike. “Michael brings an extraordinary combination of experience, instinct, and genuine love for music,” says Justin Hori, Partner & Creative Director at Racket Club, “He champions artists, solves creative challenges, and makes everyone around him better. At his core, he’s a music fan first, and that passion is exactly what makes him such a great fit for Racket Club.” According to the company, Frick’s arrival is reflection of where Racquet Club is headed: bringing music into the creative process earlier, giving teams the confidence to make stronger creative decisions, and creating the kind of collaborative environment where the best ideas, and the people behind them, can thrive.
FONTAINES DC’S TOM COLL PARTNERS ON NEW INDIE LABEL: Fontaines D.C. drummer Tom Coll has unveiled Inis Records, a new independent record label and online music store dedicated exclusively to Irish artists and releases. Coll co-founded the venture alongside Michael Roe (Adebisi Shank/Richter Collective) and Faction Records’ Ken Allen. The label will focus on landmark reissues, overlooked recordings and new releases from both emerging and established Irish musicians. Inis Records will launch with pre-orders for Against Nature by 1980s art-rock outfit Fatima Mansions. Upcoming projects include a traditional Irish music compilation curated by Coll, a Showband compilation assembled by The Mary Wallopers’ Charles Hendy, and a series of reissues of notable Irish albums. Alongside its label activities, the Inis online store will stock Irish music across all genres while providing distribution and backend services for selected independent labels. It will also support self-releasing and emerging artists without existing distribution, with the wider aim of helping smaller independent labels bring new music to market. Beyond new releases, Inis Records says it is committed to championing overlooked albums, carefully curated reissues and artists whose work deserves to be rediscovered by a new generation of listeners.
ALLTRACK ENTERS INTO MULTI-TERRITORY DIGITAL LICENSING AGREEMENT WITH SACEM: U.S. performing rights organization AllTrack has signed a multi-territory digital licensing agreement with SACEM, significantly expanding its international royalty collection capabilities. Under the partnership, SACEM will oversee digital licensing for AllTrack’s repertoire across more than 130 countries spanning Europe, the Middle East, Africa and key markets in Asia. Effective immediately, the agreement covers both performance and mechanical royalties from streaming and download services, broadening AllTrack’s global digital licensing network and accelerating royalty collections for its members. As part of the deal, SACEM will take responsibility for multi-territory digital licensing across the covered territories and digital service providers (DSPs). AllTrack, which also administers mechanical and neighboring rights, will continue to collect royalties through its existing direct global licenses with select DSPs, as well as via partnerships with sister societies in local markets. SACEM negotiates centralized multi-territory digital licenses with leading platforms including Spotify, Apple, Amazon and YouTube, while also providing advanced metadata processing and enrichment services. AllTrack members are expected to begin receiving royalty payments under the agreement from August 2026, with earnings broken down by territory, source and usage type in their royalty statements.
WME SIGNS COLTON DAWSON FOR GLOBAL REPRESENTATION: WME has signed rising country artist Colton Dawson for global representation. The 19-year-old Arizona native recently joined the roster at Warner Records Nashville and has released three new tracks, which include “Might Be in It,” “It’s Gonna Rain,” and “Piece of Heaven.” Additionally, he is managed by TKO Artist Management. Dawson’s forthcoming debut project features collaborations with Grammy Award-winning producer Chuck Ainlay and songwriter Roger Springer. The singer-songwriter first gained attention after opening for Clay Walker at the country star’s sold-out show at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium. Since then, he has shared the stage with artists including Lainey Wilson, Cole Swindell, Braxton Keith, Jake Worthington and Josh Turner, continuing to establish himself as one of country music’s emerging talents. “Colton has a voice and presence that immediately grabs your attention,” said WME’s Barry Jeffrey. “There’s an authenticity to what he does that feels deeply rooted in country music while still connecting with a new generation of fans. We’re excited to be part of what’s ahead.” “Signing with WME is a huge milestone for me,” said Dawson. “I grew up loving country music and dreaming about playing these kinds of stages, so to now have a team that believes in what I’m building means the world. I’m ready to get out there and keep earning it every night.”
SUREEL AI TEAMS UP WITH SYMPHONIC: Symphonic Distribution has partnered with Sureel AI to give its artists greater visibility into how their music is used by artificial intelligence systems, while creating new opportunities to participate in AI-related revenue. The opt-in partnership, announced on 20 July, extends to the artists, labels and managers served by Symphonic and builds on the company’s wider AI strategy. Through collaboration, creators will be able to monitor how their recordings, compositions and lyrics are used in AI-generated content, with royalty payments linked to each work’s measurable contribution. Sureel AI, which was acquired by Warner Music Group in June, enables rights holders to set permissions and restrictions on how their music is used by AI models, with the platform enforcing those preferences. According to Symphonic, the partnership is designed to give creators greater transparency, choice and control over AI-driven opportunities. The companies have not disclosed which AI developers are participating in or the commercial terms of the revenue-sharing model. Sureel describes its technology as the first attribution system capable of tracking how individual recordings, songs and lyrics influence AI models and their outputs. Using patented “AI DNA” technology, the platform breaks work into identifiable elements, allowing their use within AI systems to be traced and attributed so value can be allocated to rights holders accordingly.
NICK HOLMSTÉN AND ASH POURNOURI OFFICIALLY LAUNCH BELONG: Nick Holmstén and Ash Pournouri have officially launched Belong, a New York-based platform designed to help artists identify, reward, and monetize their most dedicated fans. Emerging from stealth this week, Belong uses verified digital identities to connect fan spending directly back to artists. Rather than relying on social media profiles or follower counts, the platform verifies users through bank-grade Know Your Customer (KYC) checks before combining that identity with engagement data from streaming, social media, merchandise purchases, and ticket sales to create what it calls a “Know Your Fan” (KYF) profile. Artists can issue branded digital “Passports” that live in fans’ mobile wallets, documenting their interactions over time – from attending shows to buying merchandise. The platform then uses that history to unlock benefits such as face-value pre-sale tickets, early product drops and exclusive member experiences, while ensuring the value generated from fan spending flows back to the artist. Belong has secured backing from investors including a16z Speedrun, Blitzscaling Ventures, Prevail Capital and Backwards Capital. Industry figures Troy Carter, Hans Vestberg and Chris Zarou have also joined the company as investors and advisors, with Vestberg serving as chairman of the board. Holmstén led Spotify‘s global music division until 2019, while Pournouri is best known for discovering and managing Avicii. Belong says its mission is to strengthen the direct relationship between artists and fans through verified identity, richer fan data and new revenue opportunities.
SONY MUSIC PUBLISHING ACQUIRES MONTY NORMAN LIMITED: Sony Music Publishing has acquired Monty Norman Limited, the publishing company belonging to the late composer best known for creating the iconic James Bond Theme. The transaction was not publicly announced but was revealed through a Companies House filing in the UK. According to the filing, Sony Music Publishing (U.K.) Limited now owns all 100 shares in Monty Norman Limited. The documents do not disclose the company’s underlying assets or the value of the acquisition. Norman, who died in 2022 at the age of 94, began his career as a big-band vocalist before becoming a successful songwriter and composer. His credits included West End productions such as Irma La Douce, Expresso Bongo and Make Me an Offer, as well as songs written for artists including Cliff Richard and Tommy Steele. He is best known for composing the James Bond Theme, first introduced in the 1962 film Dr. No. The piece was adapted from “Bad Sign, Good Sign,” a song Norman wrote for an unreleased musical based on V.S. Naipaul‘s novel A House for Mr Biswas. The theme has since appeared throughout the Bond film franchise and related video games. The track was arranged by John Barry, who later scored 11 Bond films. Ownership of Monty Norman Limited’s shares transferred to Sony on August 26th, 2025, having previously been held by Norman’s widow Rina Norman and daughter Shoshana Jane Kitchen.
PRS FOR MUSIC NAMES BEN MCOWEN WILSON AS CEO: PRS for Music has officially named tech and media executive Ben McOwen Wilson as its next Chief Executive Officer. Following an international search led by the PRS Members’ Council, the former Google and YouTube leader will officially step into the role on October 12, succeeding outgoing chief Andrea Czapary Martin. Martin announced her departure in March after steering the U.K. performance rights organization since 2019. McOwen Wilson’s appointment signals a strategic move toward digital and tech-driven defense for the non-profit collection society, which represents over 190,000 songwriters, composers, and publishers. He brings extensive experience navigating intellectual property at the intersection of media and technology. He recently served as Managing Director, EMEA for Google Play, following a decade-long tenure leading YouTube’s business strategy across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The leadership transition comes at a monumental financial and technological turning point for the organization. In 2025, PRS distributed a record £1.07 billion ($1.41 billion) to its rightsholders, marking its second consecutive year clearing the billion-pound threshold as royalty collections climbed to £1.24 billion. However, the incoming CEO will face immediate, complex challenges, including the platform’s ongoing copyright enforcement efforts. PRS recently launched legal action against Valve Corporation, claiming its Steam gaming platform has hosted unlicensed music since 2003. “In the age of AI and accelerated digital distribution, protecting the integrity and value of human creativity is our most urgent priority,” McOwen Wilson said in a statement regarding his new focus.
FONTANA SIGNS BLUES GUITARIST TOBY LEE: British blues guitarist Toby Lee has signed with Fontana Records and marked the partnership with the release of his debut single for the label, “Work You Out.” Despite being just 21, Lee has already built an impressive live résumé, performing alongside artists including Buddy Guy, Billy Gibbons, Peter Frampton, Slash and Joe Bonamassa, in addition to touring with his own band. His growing profile has also seen him invited by Jools Holland to perform on the BBC‘s annual Hootenanny, followed by an appearance at Glastonbury Festival. Lee played 150 shows in 2025, including 66 dates as Jools Holland’s special guest, with the remainder performed alongside his trio. His touring schedule included appearances at UK festivals such as the Isle of Wight Festival, Love Supreme, Cornbury, and Cropredy. His new single, “Work You Out,” was produced by Bad Sounds‘ Callum and Ewan Merrett and co-written with Jay Flew, whose previous collaborators include Nectar Woode, Amie Blu and Avalon Emerson. Looking ahead, Lee’s 2026 touring schedule includes festival appearances across the Netherlands, Switzerland, Estonia, Italy, Hungary, Romania and Norway, alongside U.K. dates at Beautiful Days in Exeter on 23 August and London’s Battersea Park on 31 August. “As an expression of raw, explosive musical humanity, the guitar solo is unbeatable – and there are few better exponents than Toby Lee,” said Fontana President Tom Lewis. “His talent is extraordinary. His playing is thrilling, and it’s all feel. He was born to play the blues. One could argue that the global rock’n’roll scene was built on the backs of the great British-born blues guitarists. Toby is part of that lineage.”
ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC APPOINTS ANDY SCHUON AS NEW CEO: The Academy of Country Music (ACM) has named veteran music and media executive Andy Schuon as its new Chief Executive Officer. Schuon will officially assume the role on September 1st, 2026, and will be based at the Academy’s headquarters in Nashville, TN. His appointment follows a nationwide executive search led by an Academy committee in partnership with search firm ZRG Partners. He succeeds Damon Whiteside, who stepped down as CEO on June 30th after leading the organization for more than six years. Whiteside, who announced his departure in March, will remain with the Academy as CEO Emeritus through the end of 2026 to support the leadership transition. Schuon brings decades of experience across the music, media, and entertainment industries. After beginning his career as program director at Los Angeles radio station KROQ-FM, he went on to hold senior executive positions at MTV, VH1, Warner Bros. Records, Universal Music Group, Ticketmaster, and CBS Radio. His career also includes launching MTV2, Farmclub.com and the music subscription service Pressplay, which later evolved into Napster. Schuon additionally co-founded REVOLT TV with Sean “Diddy” Combs and most recently served as President of AXS TV and HDNet Movies at Anthem Sports & Entertainment, a position he assumed in February 2024.
YUNG MIAMI SIGNS TO WME FOR REPRESENTATION IN ALL AREAS: American rapper Yung Miami has signed with WME for worldwide representation across all areas. The move comes ahead of the release of her debut solo album, due later this year via Uptown Records. She has recently enjoyed success with her viral single “Spend Dat,” which reached the U.S. Top 20, topped multiple radio airplay charts and climbed to No. 4 on TikTok’s Viral 50 chart after inspiring more than two million user-created videos. The track was also performed during the New York Knicks’ NBA Championship Parade. Previously one half of Florida rap duo City Girls, Yung Miami has built a solo career with releases including the viral 2021 single “Rap Freaks” and 2024’s “CFWM” featuring Skilla Baby. Her solo catalog has generated more than 200 million streams. Beyond music, she launched the Caresha Please podcast in 2022, which has attracted more than 45 million YouTube views and earned the BET Hip Hop Award for Best Hip-Hop Platform in 2023. She also expanded into consumer products with the launch of her drinking game, Resha Roulette, which sold out upon its release.
NOTHING STANDARD LAUNCHES LABEL WITH VIRGIN MUSIC & PUBLISHING JV WITH UMPG U.K.: London, England-based sync agency Nothing Standard is expanding into publishing and recorded music through new partnerships with Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) U.K. and Virgin Music Group. The new ventures – Nothing Standard Publishing and Nothing Standard Recordings – will leverage the firm’s five-year track record in creative sync, with a focus on signing talent for development. Singer-songwriter Morgan Harper-Jones has been named the inaugural signing for the UMPG publishing alliance. The new label arm, distributed by Virgin Music Group, began releasing music in June, aiming to integrate artist development with the agency’s specialized sync strategies. “Over the past five years, we’ve been trusted to represent exceptional catalogs and connect their music with audiences around the world,” said Nothing Standard Founder and Managing Director Tristan Wilson. “These new ventures allow us to bring that same philosophy to music we’re developing ourselves, working alongside artists and songwriters from the earliest stages of the creative process.”
SOUNDCLOUD ACQUIRES INDIE-CENTRIC PLATFORM NINA PROTOCOL: SoundCloud has acquired independent music platform Nina Protocol, expanding its suite of creator tools and strengthening its support for independent artists. Nina built a reputation for giving artists direct control over their digital storefronts, fan relationships and sales, offering transparent access to audience data and community-building tools. The acquisition follows Nina’s decision to shut down its standalone platform and includes its editorial archive and genre map. SoundCloud said the move is a natural extension of its recent investment in creator-focused tools and infrastructure, including enhancements made to its Artist and Artist Pro subscription tiers in 2025. As part of the transition, Nina artists will be able to migrate their music, followers, and other creative content into SoundCloud through a streamlined transfer process. Existing Nina users have also been offered a five-month trial of SoundCloud’s Artist Pro subscription. “As the platform where millions of artists begin their journey, we’ve always believed that the next movements in music emerge from communities long before they reach the mainstream,” said SoundCloud CEO Eliah Seton. “That belief is deeply aligned with the mission Nina has championed from the very beginning. They built an incredible platform by putting independent artists, scenes, and communities first, and our priority is to honor what they’ve created, while carrying that mission forward.
SONY MUSIC PUBLISHING NASHVILLE SIGNS ADAM JAMES: Sony Music Publishing Nashville has signed songwriter Adam James to a global publishing agreement. James has built a catalog with cuts recorded by artists including Luke Combs, Dierks Bentley and Nate Smith. Most recently, he co-wrote four tracks on Cody Johnson‘s CMA Album of the Year-winning Leather, including “Whiskey Bent” featuring Jelly Roll and “C’mon Cowgirl.” Among his songwriting credits is Kenny Chesney‘s “Knowing You”, which received a Song of the Year nomination at the 2022 Academy of Country Music Awards. Aubrey Landon, Senior Director, Creative A&R, Sony Music Publishing Nashville, said, “Adam is one of the most exceptional songwriters in this town. He is carrying the torch for country music and is the kind of writer that can make you laugh, cry, and feel emotion in his writing. I’m incredibly grateful and excited to start this creative journey with him.” “I’m so grateful for this opportunity to be at Sony Music Publishing,” said James. “The energy I feel from the team when I walk through the door every day is truly inspiring. I’m sincerely fired up to work with all y’all. It also makes me super happy to know my songs will be hanging out with Roger Miller’s and Dennis Linde’s on a massive cloud storage database somewhere. Dreams do come true!”
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