VAL BLAVATNIK NAMED TO WARNER MUSIC GROUP EXECUTIVE TEAM, ELLIOT GRAINGE NAMED CHAIR OF ADA
Warner Music Group is reshaping its recorded music leadership team as the company prepares for its next phase of global growth, introducing a series of executive changes aimed at strengthening cross-border collaboration, streamlining operations and expanding its presence in key international markets.
Val Blavatnik joins the company’s executive team in the newly created role of Managing Director, Warner Music North America, U.K., & Corporate Development. In the position, Blavatnik will oversee business and operational strategy across North America and the U.K., while also helping guide Warner Music’s investment strategy and identify opportunities to support future growth.
Alejandro Duque is also taking on a significantly expanded role, becoming President of Warner Music International and adding the APAC & EMEA regions to his responsibilities. Duque previously led Warner Music Latin America, where the company says he quadrupled its frontline U.S. Latin market share during his five-year tenure. His expanded remit will see him apply that experience across some of Warner Music’s fastest-growing markets, with a focus on creating greater synergy between territories and supporting strategic investments that can accelerate the company’s international expansion.
Warner Music is simultaneously strengthening the leadership of its independent music business. Elliot Grainge, who currently serves as Chairman & CEO of Atlantic Music Group, will add Chairman of ADA in the U.S. to his responsibilities, while Zach Friedman becomes Vice Chairman of ADA alongside his existing role as COO of Atlantic Music Group. Drawing on their experience building independent label 10K Projects, Grainge and Friedman will continue to operate ADA as a standalone business, with the company maintaining its focus on providing services to the independent music community.
The leadership changes also bring a new chapter for Warner Records. Aaron Bay-Schuck will become the sole Chairman and CEO of Warner Records Group, taking full leadership of the label after serving as Co-Chairman & CEO since 2018. During Bay-Schuck’s tenure, Warner Records has expanded its market share and strengthened its reputation as an artist-development-focused label, and Bay-Schuck will now guide the business through its next stage of growth.
Across Europe, Guillermo Gonzalez has been promoted to President of Warner Music EMEA after six years leading Warner Music Iberia. The company credits Gonzalez with driving significant growth through an artist-first strategy that brought together recorded music, live and management businesses while strengthening Warner’s broader proposition across Iberia and Latin markets. Andrés Rothschild will succeed Gonzalez as President of Warner Music Iberia.
The restructuring also marks the end of an era for Simon Robson, who will step down in December after nearly three decades with Warner Music to pursue new opportunities. Over his long tenure, Robson helped develop Warner’s operations across a wide range of markets, championed local repertoire and supported a more interconnected approach to international collaboration.
ERIK WAHLBERG APPOINTED AS CEO OF EPIDEMIC GROUP
Epidemic Group, the parent company of Epidemic Sound, has appointed Erik Wahlberg as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective October 1, 2026.
Wahlberg is the Founder & CEO of Stockholm-based video production technology company Blenda Labs, which was acquired by Epidemic Group in July 2026. He succeeds Sara Börsvik, who will transition from interim CEO to a combined role as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer.
Börsvik has led the company on an interim basis since March 11, following Co-Founder Oscar Höglund’s departure as CEO and move to the board. She previously served as Epidemic Sound’s CFO.
The leadership changes come as Epidemic Group reports a return to profitable growth in the first half of 2026, following what the company described as an investment-focused 2025.
Before founding Blenda Labs, Wahlberg spent seven years as Co-Founder and CEO of mobile 3D video creation platform Frever, which was backed by Sony Music and EQT Ventures. His earlier career includes roles as Chief Creative Officer and Nordic CEO of MTG Studios at Modern Times Group, as well as positions at Jarowskij and Strix Television.
“This is a leadership structure built for what Epidemic Group is becoming,” said Hjalmar Winbladh, Co-Founder & Chair of Epidemic Group. “In Erik, we have exactly the kind of AI-native, creator-first leader to take this business further, someone who has already built the production system that our broader storytelling ambition, including video, needs. Sara’s operating discipline has been central to getting us here and now gives Erik a strong foundation to build from.”
SONY MUSIC GROUP BECOMES FIRST MUSIC COMPANY TO JOIN ARIAM COALITION
Sony Music Group has joined the Alliance for Responsible Innovation in the Arts & Media (ARIAM), becoming the first music company to join the global coalition dedicated to promoting responsible AI across the creative, media and sports industries.
The partnership expands ARIAM’s presence within the music sector as the organization works to develop AI policies designed to protect creativity and consumers while encouraging innovation.
Unlike initiatives focused solely on copyright, ARIAM takes a broader approach to AI policy, advocating for legal and regulatory frameworks that support human creativity while safeguarding consumers.
Kevin Kelleher, Chief Operating Officer, Sony Music, said, “Generative AI presents significant opportunities and challenges for artists and songwriters, which is why we are pleased to join ARIAM to help shape how it fits into the future of all corners of the creative industries. Only when developed in a responsible and ethical way that puts the value of human artistry at its heart, will AI have the potential to create an environment where innovation, creators, and consumers all thrive. Sony Music Group has an unwavering commitment to protecting music, and we see every day how art inspires, shapes culture, and powers this industry and more. We wholeheartedly share ARIAM’s view that a healthy licensing environment, where responsible AI companies proactively partner with rights-holders, is the only foundation for getting this right.”
Sony Music Group joins a growing membership that includes The Walt Disney Company, Fox Entertainment, ITV and the BBC, alongside companies from the technology and content sectors such as Adobe, Advance, Cambridge University Press & Assessment, Condé Nast, Financial Times, The New York Times, Reach and Wiley.
CARIANNE MARSHALL TO LEAVE COO/CO-CHAIR ROLE AT WARNER CHAPPELL MUSIC
Warner Music Group announced that Carianne Marshall will step down from her position as Co-Chair and Chief Operating Officer of Warner Chappell Music (WCM), the company’s global music publishing division, at the end of September as part of a streamlined leadership structure.
Effective October 1, Guy Moot, CEO, WCM will serve as the company’s sole chair. Marshall will remain with Warner Music Group through the end of the year to support an orderly and seamless transition.
Marshall joined WCM in June 2018 and began co-leading the publishing company with Moot in April 2019. During her tenure, she helped guide WCM through a period of significant transformation, including the modernization of digital licensing, substantial business growth, and the expansion of a diverse roster featuring both established and emerging songwriters, alongside an extensive catalog of songs.
She also launched WCM’s pioneering Creative Services division, designed to create new commercial and creative opportunities for songwriters. Throughout her leadership, Marshall helped cultivate a culture centered on curiosity, collaboration, and commitment to supporting songwriters throughout their careers.
Carianne Marshall said, “When Guy and I began this journey together, we wanted to build a songwriter-first home for the creative community. Reflecting on our time, I am proud of not only our growth, but of the incredible culture and values we’ve fostered together. I step away with immense gratitude for Len, Robert, Guy, the WMG Board, and our entire Warner Chappell team knowing that the company has never been better positioned for what’s next.”
PARTISAN ENTERS INTO STRATEGIC MERGER WITH OTM MUSIC
Partisan has announced a major expansion of its publishing business through a strategic merger with OTM Music.
The deal follows Partisan’s acquisition of investment company Firebird’s stake in OTM, with financial terms remaining undisclosed. Under the new structure, OTM will become the primary publishing arm of the Partisan Music group, incorporating the team and roster of Partisan’s Left Music division.
Founded by Partisan and Craig Michie in 2020, Left Music will now join forces with OTM to create a larger independent publishing operation spanning London, Los Angeles, New York and Paris. The combined roster includes Leon Michels, Gianluca Buccellati, Sudan Archives, Tom Brenneck, Andrew Aged, Sub Focus, Elizabeth Fraser, and Metronomy, among others.
Founded by Alex Sheridan in 2019, OTM has developed a curated roster and boutique, artist-focused approach, with expertise in creative services and sync. The expanded company will retain this model while providing greater international reach and resources.
Sheridan will remain Founder & CEO, working alongside Craig Michie, President and Head of North America, and Kate Sweetsur, Head of A&R. Partisan’s sync team will also merge with OTM’s, creating a global sync service covering the wider Partisan repertoire.
SNOOP DOGG’S DOGGYLAND JOINS BIG FEELINGS MUSIC
Moonbug Entertainment is expanding further into the children’s music market with the launch of Big Feelings Music, a new music company designed to support artists, creators and studios making content for young audiences and families.
The new venture will provide a broad range of services, including label services, music publishing administration, video distribution, rights management, marketing and audience development, with YouTube among its key platforms.
Big Feelings Music’s initial roster includes Snoop Dogg’s Doggyland, Baby Bandstand, Badanamu, Bob Zoom, English Tree TV, Lotty Friends, Mooseclumps and Skyvibe, with further signings in development.
Moonbug is positioning the business as a fully integrated music operation, drawing on the infrastructure it has built around franchises such as CoComelon, Blippi and Little Angel. The company says its content reaches more than 150 video platforms, while its music and audio experiences are available across 100-plus audio platforms worldwide.
The expansion comes as children’s music continues to generate significant streaming and video consumption. According to Luminate, the category generated 15.7 billion US on-demand audio streams in 2025, while CoComelon’s Wheels on the Bus became the world’s most-streamed music video that year.
Big Feelings Music is also already exploring cross-brand collaborations, including August’s “My Ice Cream Truck (Doggyland Version)”, bringing together Doggyland and Blippi.
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!
Music Export Poland and the Polish performance rights society ZAiKS invited Sat Bisla, President & Founder, A&R Worldwide / MUSEXPO to share his U.S. and global insights and expertise across A&R, publishing, media, sync, and beyond with forward-thinking creatives, composers, publishers, managers, labels, and others during a special workshop in Warsaw recently.
A&R Worldwide was invited to present some key insights into navigating the U.S. and other key global markets for the Polish music and creative industries. Almost two dozen Polish companies, and creatives will join a special mission to MUSEXPO 2027 to tap into creative, business, and impactful relationships through the expansive trust and capabilities nurtured by A&R Worldwide and its team.
Driven by a massive 14.2% year-on-year growth rate that surpasses double the global average, the Polish music industry has established itself as the 16th largest international market; this momentum is sustained by streaming-dominated recorded music sales approaching nearly one billion (PLN), parallel expansions in digital publishing syncs and streaming royalties, a robust domestic live festival and arena circuit, and considerable future growth potential within the European Union as local hip-hop, pop, rock, and electronic artists increasingly break through regional language barriers to achieve international cross-border scale.
Bisla has over 40 years of international experience and has been a torchbearer for global artists, executives, and companies’ development for many around the world who have benefited extensively from his knowledge, insights, and relationships. He’s been an early advocate for supporting emerging markets from the mid-80s through today, well before many in the music business realized the potential and opportunities that lay within Africa, Asia, SE Asia, S. Korea, India, China, S.E. Asia, and beyond.
BUDDUG
Hailing from Brynrefail in North Wales, Buddug is quickly emerging as one of the most exciting young voices in Welsh music. Writing and singing in both Welsh and English, the singer-songwriter has already made a major impression with her debut album Rhwng Gwyll a Gwawr, which was shortlisted for both the Welsh Music Prize and Albwm Cymraeg y Flwyddyn (Welsh Album of the Year) in 2026. Now, she opens a new chapter with “Oxygen,” an intimate yet cinematic single that captures the feeling of someone who becomes your reason to breathe, bringing light and space to even the darkest moments. Released via Recordiau Côsh, “Oxygen” pairs Buddug’s distinctive vocals with atmospheric, filmic arrangements and a growing sense of emotional scale, reflecting the maturity and confidence she’s developed since her debut. Following standout performances at the National Eisteddfod, Tafwyl and Sesiwn Fawr Dolgellau, alongside BBC Radio Cymru and BBC Introducing sessions, Buddug has firmly established herself as a major emerging talent in Wales. With her music now attracting growing international attention, “Oxygen” feels like another significant step forward for an artist whose story is only beginning. Discover Buddug’s talent HERE with “Oxygen,” and contact Ywain Gwynedd for available opportunities worldwide on her behalf.
DONKEY KID
Donkey Kid kicks off a new chapter with “Suburbs,” a driving indie-electroclash anthem that takes a nostalgic yet restless look at growing up on the outskirts of the city. Blending his unmistakable English-language indie sound with raw electronic textures, the track captures the tension between the familiarity of youth and the urgent desire to break free, channeling the distinct energy of Berlin for an international audience. Accompanied by a video that brings the song’s suburban world to life, “Suburbs” feels both reflective and propulsive, pairing nostalgia with a need to move forward. The track launches the rollout for Donkey Kid’s upcoming six-track EP Rain and Rust, due October 9th, marking what he describes as a particularly significant new era in his music. It is followed by “Goldmine,” which recently earned the cover of Spotify’s Indie Brandneu, further building momentum around the project. The Berlin-based artist has already proven his ability to connect with listeners, with tracks including “Deep Blue” surpassing 2.6 million streams and “Being Square” reaching more than 1 million. With “Suburbs” setting the tone for Rain and Rust, he is expanding that momentum into a fresh, electronic-leaning sound that feels rooted in Berlin while built for a wider international audience. Watch “Suburbs” HERE, and contact Jurek Stricker, as Donkey Kid is available for sync and brand opportunities, connecting with potential international partners and playlist curators.
“PASSPORT APPROVED” PLAYLIST FOR Sunday, September 27th, 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.
THE CLOCKWORKS – “Magnificent Seven” (V2 Records, Ireland)
SIENNA SPIRO – “Great Expectation” (Capitol Records, U.K.)
GIANT ROOKS – “Want It Back” (Vertigo Berlin, Germany)
KARIN ANN – “Born to Be” (3AM Records, Slovakia)
TEMPLES – “Horizon” (V2 Records, U.K.)
JERUB – “Forever Right Now” (Elevate Music, U.K.)
MEEK – “Beautiful Freeks” (BMG, U.K.)
RUEL – “Faking Smiles” (Giant Music, Australia)
OVERPASS – “Fall in Love” (Communion Records, U.K.)
NOTHING BUT THIEVES – “Stray Dogs” (RCA, U.K.)
RAGING LINES – “Yamaha 237” (Unsigned, Norway)
SHEPPARD – “Sayonara” (Chugg Music, Australia)
THOMAS AZIER – “Red Eyes (Mike Luck Remix)” (Unsigned, Holland)
SPACEY JANE – “I Never See Her” (AWAL, Australia)
D’MASIV – “On Our Own” (Unsigned, Indonesia)
YEARS BETWEEN – “Dogfight” (1999 Recordings, U.K.)
JUNIOR VP – “Red Cardigan” (Unsigned, Scotland)
GOOD NEIGHBOURS – “Superstar” (Polydor, U.K.)
LEONIDEN – “I Still Feel” (Vertigo Berlin, Germany)
DOTAN – “Let You Go” (Universal Music, Holland)
THE CHEAKS – “Situation Lost Control” (Unsigned, Australia)
TOVE LO – “I’m Your Girl Right” (Pretty Swede Records, Sweden)
ST. LUNDI – “Alaska” (Propeller Recordings, U.K.)
STAND ATLANTIC – “LUCID” (Virgin Music Group, Australia)
WALKING ON RIVERS – “Waste the Night” (Motor Entertainment, Germany)
SAMFIRE – “Father” (Unsigned, U.K.)
TONIX – “Stupid Things” (General Admission Entertainment, Australia)
MUSTBEJOHN – “Get the Time Back” (Unsigned, U.K.)
CASSIA – “Praise” (Love Sundays/Universal Music, U.K.)
GIRL SCOUT – “Crumbs” (AWAL, Sweden)
SHOBSY – “Royalty” (SO Recordings, Ireland)
D3LTA – “Mad About It” (Unsigned, Greece)
BUDDUG – “Oxygen” (Côsh Records, Wales)
EBAY AND GOLDIN NAME KEN BLAUSTEIN HEAD OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT FOR MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT: eBay and its premier high-end auction arm, Goldin, have appointed music industry veteran Ken Blaustein as the joint marketplace venture’s new Head of Business Development, Music & Entertainment. The move signals a concerted effort by the e-commerce giant to expand its market share in the rapidly growing modern cultural artifacts and artist archives sectors. Blaustein steps into the role with two decades of experience spanning artist relations, legacy preservation, and corporate brand strategy. He previously served as the Global Director of Music & Artist Relations for Hard Rock International, where he modernized the brand’s global entertainment blueprint and managed artist and lifestyle partnerships. He also served as a Director of A&R at Capitol Music Group and Warner Bros. Blaustein has collaborated on prominent cultural activations and archival strategies alongside figures and estates ranging from Tony Hawk and Eminem to Juice WRLD. In his new capacity, Blaustein is tasked with bridging eBay’s mass-market infrastructure with Goldin’s specialized high-net-worth collector network. The collaborative position aims to capture untapped inventory by establishing institutional pipelines directly with creative partnerships, intellectual property owners, and multi-generational music estates.
PRESCRIPTION SONGS SIGNS RILEY AKI: Prescription Songs has signed Los Angeles-based producer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Riley Aki to its roster. Aki was introduced to the company by frequent collaborator Slush Puppy, with A&Rs Brooke Webster and Caitlin LoPilato leading the signing. Aki has quickly emerged as a producer to watch in Los Angeles, working across artist development and contemporary pop while collaborating with a growing roster of emerging talent. He co-produced ADÉLA’s debut single “Homewrecked” and has become a regular collaborator with artists and producers including Slush Puppy, Wes Patrick, Grace Power and Babe America. His current and upcoming credits include work with aespa, DANNA, Rhea Raj, Lilyisthatyou, EARTH TO EMILY, Alexandra Starr and Marianne Ross, among others. Recent studio sessions have also included Zhone, Gino The Ghost, Nate Campany, Judith, Malik Ninety Five, and Celine del Carmen. “I’m excited to be signed to Prescription and to be working with the most wonderful A&Rs Brooke Webster and Caitlin LoPilato. I would also like to extend my appreciation to my close friend and collaborator, Slush Puppy, who introduced me to the amazing team at Rx,” reflects Aki. “When Slush Puppy introduced us to Riley, we quickly realized how hardworking, driven, and talented he is,” shared Brooke Webster and Caitlin LoPilato of the signing. “He has so much potential and an incredibly bright future ahead. We are excited to support him as he continues to develop his craft, and even more excited about everything that’s still to come.”
BMG SIGNS ITALIAN SINGER/SONGWRITER VINICIO CAPOSSELA: Acclaimed Italian singer-songwriter Vinicio Capossela has signed an agreement with BMG encompassing both recorded music and music publishing. With a career spanning more than 35 years, Capossela has established a distinctive body of work across music, theater, and literature. He released his debut album, All’una e trentacinque circa, in 1990, with recent releases including Tredici canzoni urgenti (2023) and SCIUSTEN FESTE N.1965 (2024). Throughout his career, Capossela has received four prestigious Targhe Tenco Awards and was awarded the career achievement award, Premio Tenco, in 2017. His new studio album is scheduled for release in January 2027. The signing comes as Capossela prepares to debut E morte non avrà dominio, his first Ballad Opera, created with Pierpaolo Capovilla and inspired by the life of Renato Striglia and the work of Dylan Thomas. The production will premiere at the Romaeuropa Festival on October 3 and 4, then tour theaters across Italy through December.
INDIA’S FIRST AI PLATFORM TO PROTECT PERSONAL IDENTITY: Almost 90% of Indians have reportedly encountered a fake celebrity endorsement, highlighting how easily a public figure’s face, voice, and identity can be manipulated and distributed online. As AI-generated content becomes more sophisticated, Indian celebrities are increasingly turning to the courts to protect their personality and identity rights. But legal action often begins only after the damage has already been done. ContentLens is aiming to move protection upstream. For every protected celebrity, ContentLens creates a unique biometric signature covering their face, voice, and visual identity, then continuously monitors social media around the clock. When a potential violation is detected, the celebrity’s team receives an instant alert, supported by evidence and the information needed to initiate a takedown request or support legal action. The scale makes automated detection essential. With approximately 15 million active content creators in India, even 5–6 videos per creator each month could mean 75–90 million pieces of content. What once took months to detect can now take minutes. Hari Nair, Strategic Advisor (ContentLens) & Former CEO (Tips Music Limited), said, “Across celebrity teams in India, the reaction is always the same: they know the deepfake threat is real. What they often don’t realize is that their identity is also being used by brands without permission, a clear revenue loss, and that fake endorsements built on it can just as easily be used to run scams. Do celebrity teams know what’s being done with their face, voice, and visuals on social media today? If the answer is no, that’s exactly the problem ContentLens solves.”
GIRL IN THE YEAR ABOVE SIGN TO TRANSGRESSIVE RECORDS: Transgressive Records has signed Irish Cornish five-piece Girl In The Year Above, with the label and SJM Management backing the band for what they describe as a “very bright future.” Transgressive’s Toby L, Tim Dellow and Lilas Bourboulon praised the group as a “truly extraordinary and captivating band,” while SJM Management, represented by Conrad Murray, Antony Genn, Simon Moran and Jake Etches, called Transgressive the “perfect home” for the emerging act. The band said they already feel part of the Transgressive family, adding that they feel “very, very lucky” to have joined the label. The partnership launches with “Wet Paint,” the band’s first single through Transgressive. Girl In The Year Above previously released a cover of Massive Attack’s “Teardrop,” which appeared on the Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man soundtrack. The band will also take their music on the road with U.K. and Ireland dates scheduled for October. “Their songs are at once heartbreaking and euphoric; empathetic and empowering; and always infectious,” said the trio in a joint statement. “It’s been years since we’ve seen a band so adept at writing unifying anthems that move, inspire and rouse in equal measure. They’re youthful visionaries and proper grafters – they’ve been on the road consistently, and every time you see them, it goes up yet another gear. Once we sat down with them for a chat, there was an instant connection. We’ve had the pleasure of hearing upcoming recordings and cannot wait for their debut album, and all that’s to follow.”
REGISTER NOW: MUSEXPO “EARLY BIRD RATE” EXPIRES ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2026: MUSEXPO 2027 will return to Burbank, California, from March 21–24, 2027, marking over a quarter-century of pivotal influence as one of the global music industry’s premier business and showcase forums. Independently organized by A&R Worldwide, the 27th landmark edition will focus on the cross-border evolution of the music ecosystem, exploring advancements in A&R, publishing, live touring, sync licensing, digital infrastructure, and artificial intelligence. The conference has unveiled its first substantial wave of executive and creative speakers from sector-defining global brands, including Apple Music, Billboard, Disney Music Group, Netflix, DreamWorks Animation, Glassnote Entertainment Group, Polydor Label Group, and Milk & Honey Music + Sports. Key programmatic highlights include a definitive “Music Focus Poland” forum and a “Market Spotlight on the U.K.,” alongside the event’s popular Global Sync Summit and A&R Summit. A cornerstone conversation will feature Zane Lowe (Global Creative Director, Apple Music) in a keynote dialogue with Daniel Glass (Founder & CEO, Glassnote). MUSEXPO 2027 will also host the International Music Industry Awards during a private VIP Gala Dinner, recognizing executives whose contributions have shaped modern entertainment culture. This year’s top honors include International Music Person of the Year: Awarded to Marty Diamond, EVP & Managing Executive at THE· TEAM, celebrated for his global impact as a premier booking agent for artists like Coldplay, Bastille, Louis Tomlinson, Lorde, RAYE, and many more. Seymour Stein Global A&R Award: Bestowed upon Ben Mortimer, President of Polydor Label Group, recognizing his leadership in British and international talent development. Lifetime Achievement Award: Presented to Ken Bunt, President of Disney Music Group, honoring a career that has transcended music curation across Disney, Marvel Studios, Pixar, and Lucasfilm. Music professionals and creatives looking to join global decision-makers in “The Media Capital of the World” can secure registration at a reduced cost. The special Early Bird rate for MUSEXPO 2027 is set to expire on September 30, 2026. Click HERE to save before the Early Bird rate expires at the end of this month.
VALUEPUNKS EXPANDS ITS CATALOG VALUATION PLATFORM TO MUSIC PUBLISHING: ValuePunks is expanding its catalog valuation platform into music publishing, giving songwriters, composers and publishers a free and transparent way to assess the value of their catalogs. The platform, which launched in July with a focus on recording rights, now evaluates publishing catalogs across multiple revenue streams, including mechanical royalties, performance income and sync. Its valuations draw on royalty audits covering catalogs generating more than €100 million (Euros) annually, alongside consumption data spanning more than 120,000 catalogs and millions of songs. The audit data comes through Royalty Radar, the audit platform owned by Swiss company Tribe Music Group, which launched ValuePunks. ValuePunks says its approach addresses a key challenge in publishing: royalty payments can arrive months after the underlying consumption occurs, meaning traditional valuations can quickly become outdated. The platform has already seen significant adoption. Within the first 48 hours, recording rights-holders had onboarded catalogs representing more than €50 million in annual royalties, a figure that has since grown beyond €300 million. “Giving this away free to artists and labels was a punk thing to do – and the same logic has to hold for the people who actually wrote and composed the songs,” said Constantin Thyssen, Co-Founder & CEO of ValuePunks. “They sit right at the start of the value chain and end up the least informed about what it’s worth. Publishing gets the same treatment: a real, professional valuation, free, for the writers themselves.”
GRAI ACQUIRES SOCIAL LISTENING PLATFORM HANGOUT: AI music company GRAI has acquired Hangout, the social listening platform created by the team behind Turntable.fm, bringing its community-driven approach to music discovery into GRAI’s growing technology ecosystem. With the acquisition complete, GRAI plans to continue developing Hangout’s relationships with record labels, publishers, and collecting societies, while combining the platform’s social listening insights with its own AI and consumer technology. Hangout was designed to make streaming more social, creating virtual listening communities where music discovery is powered by human recommendations and shared experiences. The acquisition follows GRAI’s recent move into music rights technology. In August, the company became one of the first two businesses to license patents from Music IP Holdings covering the use of recorded music with AI, including licensing and payment mechanisms. Founded in 2025 by the team behind AI video-editing app Vochi, which was acquired by Pinterest, GRAI has raised seed funding co-led by Khosla Ventures and Inovo VC. The company is preparing for its public launch and has opened a waitlist. Terms of the Hangout acquisition were not disclosed. “I built Hangout to fix what’s broken in online spaces,” said Joseph Perla, Founder, Hangout. “We wanted to recreate that feeling of sitting on a bedroom floor passing around records, turning music back into a collective experience. Integrating our work into GRAI is how we keep that core belief in human connection moving forward!”
PRIMARY WAVE TO PARTNER WITH ESTATE OF ROBERT PALMER: Primary Wave Music has entered a partnership with the estate of Robert Palmer, bringing the company on board to work across the artist’s publishing and recording catalog, as well as his name, image, and likeness rights. Under the agreement, Palmer’s estate will gain access to Primary Wave’s marketing expertise and publishing infrastructure. The two sides will collaborate on new opportunities spanning marketing, branding, digital initiatives and sync licensing, along with potential film and television projects centered around Palmer’s enduring body of work. Over a career span of four decades, Palmer sold millions of records worldwide and released 14 studio albums. His catalog includes “Addicted to Love,” “Bad Case of Loving You (Doctor, Doctor),” “Simply Irresistible,” “Johnny & Mary” and “She Makes My Day.” Palmer was a member of The Power Station, contributing to the group’s hit “Some Like It Hot,” while his collaboration with UB40, “I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight,” became a Top 10 hit. Additionally, Palmer won two Grammy Awards for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance, taking home the award for “Addicted to Love” in 1987 and “Simply Irresistible” in 1989. “Addicted To Love” also received nominations for Record of The Year and Song of The Year. Released in 1986, “Addicted to Love” topped the US Billboard Hot 100 and reached the Top 5 in the United Kingdom. Its music video, directed by Terence Donovan, earned five MTV Video Music Award nominations and won Best Male Video. Island Records Founder Chris Blackwell later called it “one of the defining videos of the 1980s.” Palmer’s final studio album, Drive, arrived in 2003. He died several months later at the age of 54, leaving behind a catalog that continues to resonate across music, popular culture and visual media.
YOUTUBE EXTENDS COACHELLA LIVESTREAM DEAL WITH GOLDENVOICE: YouTube will continue as the exclusive global livestream partner for Coachella through 2030 after renewing its long-running content agreement with festival promoter Goldenvoice. The extension continues a partnership that was previously set to conclude following this year’s festival. The companies did not disclose financial terms. The renewed agreement covers both Coachella weekends and will reach a 15-year milestone in 2027, marking 15 years of YouTube bringing the festival to audiences around the world. According to YouTube Global Head of Music Lyor Cohen, this year’s livestream attracted the largest simultaneous audience in the platform’s history of broadcasting Coachella, although no specific viewership figure was released. The platform has continued to expand its festival offering with features including Multiview access across multiple stages, backstage Shorts from artists, creator-led co-viewing and merchandise sales. Past performances streamed on YouTube include Beyoncé’s Homecoming set and BLACKPINK’s 2023 headline performance. This year’s festival also featured a performance by Justin Bieber alongside videos from his own music catalog. “For artists, Coachella on YouTube offers a global stage that extends far beyond the festival grounds,” said Cohen. “Performers can reach billions of international viewers to kick off their next album cycle, launch their own world tour, experience a collaboration they’ve dreamed of, or introduce the new look we’ll all be rocking this summer. As we look toward 2027, YouTube will continue delivering behind-the-scenes access and exclusive artist content.”
WARNER CHAPPELL MUSIC MEXICO TAPS CARLOS RUIZ AS HEAD OF MÚSICA MEXICANA: Warner Chappell Music Mexico (WCM) has promoted Carlos Ruiz to Head of Música Mexicana. Based in Mexico City, Ruiz will report to Gustavo Menéndez, WCM President of U.S. Latin & Latin America. In his new role, Ruiz will lead efforts to expand Mexican and Mexican-driven music internationally, with a particular focus on strengthening connections and collaboration between the Mexican and U.S. markets. Delia Orjuela, WCM’s Head of Creative, Mexican Music/Música Mexicana, will report to Ruiz while remaining based in Los Angeles. She will work closely with the company’s Mexico and Miami offices as part of the expanded Música Mexicana team. Ruiz commented, “I am deeply grateful to work in a field I’m so passionate about, and taking on this expanded role within the company is a great responsibility. Música Mexicana has been a fundamental part of my professional career for over three decades. Today, we’re witnessing a watershed moment for the genre – driven by a talented new generation of artists, songwriters, and producers who are creating new sounds and innovative fusions. It has grown exponentially, evolving from a regional movement into a truly global phenomenon. I am confident that with Delia’s support in the U.S. and our A&R team in Mexico, we will strengthen our presence in the genre and write many more success stories in the future.”
APPLE MUSIC HALL OPENS IN LONDON: Apple Music has opened Apple Music Hall, a new 600-capacity live music venue inside London’s iconic Battersea Power Station, designed to combine an intimate concert setting with the production capabilities of a much larger stage. The venue features a 38-foot-wide adaptable stage, a 48-speaker Spatial Audio system and sightlines designed to keep audiences close to performers. Behind the stage, two professional recording and mixing studios allow performances to be captured as multitrack recordings and produced in Spatial Audio. Apple Music Hall is also equipped with infrastructure for more than 16 cameras and a dedicated broadcast control room, enabling artists to leave a single performance with high-quality audio recordings and multicamera video. Shows can also be livestreamed globally, extending the venue’s reach beyond London. The new space is housed within Battersea Power Station and incorporates architectural details inspired by the building’s industrial heritage, including exposed brickwork, fluted arches and bronze balconies. Alongside the venue launch, Apple has opened new radio studios at Battersea, with Apple Music Radio’s London-based hosts and shows now broadcasting live from the location.
LIDO RECORDS LAUNCHED BY JOHN PARENTI, DAVID HELFANT NAMED GENERAL COUNSEL: John Parenti, known professionally as “JP,” is launching Lido Records, a new independent record label. JP created Lido so artists can focus on their music while drawing on an experienced network of professionals across marketing, publicity, distribution, publishing, royalty administration and artist development. JP’s career began as a touring drummer and session musician before establishing himself as a songwriter, arranger and producer. His songwriting credits include “When God Ran,” “Secret Thoughts” and “Whoever Touches You,” which simultaneously reached No.1 in three different categories of the National CCM market, marking the first time a composer had achieved three simultaneous No. 1s on those charts. “When God Ran,” co-written and recorded by Benny Hester, remained at No.1 for 13 consecutive weeks. The song subsequently returned to the top of the charts when recorded by other artists in each of the following two decades. Joining JP at the launch of Lido Records is music industry executive and entertainment attorney David A. Helfant, who will serve as General Counsel. His career includes serving as Head of A&R and Business Affairs at Immergent Records and Sr. VP, Music Business & Legal Affairs at Paramount Pictures. He has also served as Chairman of the Board of the Guitar Center Music Foundation and as a Governor on the Board of The Recording Academy’s Los Angeles Chapter, where he remains involved with the Advocacy and P&E Wing Committees. The label is funded by John Giannone and Jane Frederick. Lido has also announced PHIA as its first artist signing.
BLACKSTAR PROMOTES ROBYN ELTON TO ARTIST STRATEGY DIRECTOR: Blackstar has elevated Robyn Elton to the newly expanded role of Artist Strategy Director, recognizing their growing influence across the agency’s international operations. Elton joined Blackstar in 2022 as Head of Social & Digital and has since expanded their remit to encompass artist and audience strategy, client leadership, team development and new business. The agency said the promotion reflects both Elton’s contribution to its evolving audience strategy offering and its broader investment in senior leadership across the U.K. and North America. The move follows the appointment of Ed Watson as Artist Strategy Director in New York, creating a stronger senior strategic structure across Blackstar’s connected teams in both markets. Together, the appointments are intended to encourage greater international collaboration while preserving market-specific and culturally relevant strategies for artists and their audiences. The leadership changes come amid continued activity for Blackstar across artist strategy, audience development, digital campaigns, CRM, data, fan communities and creative production. The agency’s recent work includes projects with Hayley Williams, Nine Inch Nails, André 3000, Muse, Shania Twain, Robyn, Arlo Parks, Honey Dijon, Metric and Aurora.
PROPER SIGNS DISTRIBUTION DEAL WITH ACE RECORDS: Proper has entered a new distribution partnership with Ace Records. Beginning October 1, 2026, Proper will take responsibility for Ace’s physical distribution across the U.K. and Ireland, covering sales, fulfillment, invoicing and cash collection while supplying Ace releases to record retailers throughout both markets. Established in 1975, Ace is one of Britain’s longest-running independent record labels and is home to an extensive and enduring catalog. As of September 2026, the label has released 5,772 albums, with total sales exceeding 12 million units. Ace has built its reputation around the restoration, curation and reissue of influential recordings from the U.K. and U.S., with its catalog featuring artists including Gil Scott-Heron, John Lee Hooker, Etta James, B.B. King, The Sonics, Funkadelic, Isaac Hayes and Wanda Jackson. The label’s compilation series has also become a defining part of its identity, with recent projects involving artists such as Bob Dylan, Paul Weller, Jarvis Cocker and David Holmes. Further collaborations are planned for 2027. Ace’s history also extends into punk and rock through its Chiswick Records imprint, which has released albums by artists including Motörhead and The Damned. Chiswick is set to relaunch as an independent standalone label in 2027, combining rare and previously unreleased material with new signings that reflect the rock’n’roll spirit of the original imprint. As the last U.K. independent label to operate its physical distribution entirely in-house, Ace’s decision to partner with Proper marks a significant move for the company and underlines its confidence in the distributor’s capabilities. The new agreement follows Ace’s 50th anniversary celebrations in 2025, which included a series of performances at Koko in Camden, a week-long pop-up shop and a program of exclusive releases throughout the year.
MSG ENTERTAINMENT PROMOTES JOSEPHINE VACCARELLO TO PRESIDENT: Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. has appointed Josephine Vaccarello as President, expanding her leadership role as the company continues to grow and enhance its portfolio of live entertainment experiences. Vaccarello, who previously served as EVP, Live, will oversee strategy and operations across the company’s entertainment and sports bookings, productions business, and major live programming. Her responsibilities include concerts, comedy, family shows, performing arts, special events, and sports bookings outside of the New York Knicks and New York Rangers. She will also continue overseeing concert residencies and touring acts at Sphere in Las Vegas. A nearly 30-year veteran of MSG Entertainment, Vaccarello has been instrumental in developing signature events, artist residencies, and new experiences across venues including Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, The Chicago Theatre, and Sphere. Her recent work includes Billy Joel’s 150-show run at The Garden, Harry Styles’ 30-show residency, and programming at Sphere since its opening with U2 in 2023. Vaccarello has also helped introduce advanced audio innovations, including Sphere Immersive Sound, which has expanded from its debut at Beacon Theatre to Sphere and Radio City Music Hall.
BUCKS MUSIC GROUP SIGNS PIOTR WIESE: Bucks Music Group has signed Polish-born, Spain-based composer, pianist and producer Piotr Wiese to an exclusive worldwide publishing deal. A leading name in contemporary classical music, Wiese has amassed more than 150 million streams worldwide, with releases through labels including Moderna Records, 1631 Recordings and LoFi Girl, alongside distribution via Decca/Universal Music. Wiese has also built a sync portfolio, with his composition “Idio” recently featured prominently in Paolo Genovese’s Follemente (Madly), Italy’s highest-grossing film of 2025, which is now being released internationally in cinemas and on Disney+. Alongside his recorded work, Wiese has performed as a solo pianist and with expanded live shows incorporating electronic elements. He has now completed his new Llocnou Studio at his base in Valencia, where he will record his forthcoming album, Kosmos. The concept album explores new possibilities between piano and electronics, featuring a restored 1895 Bechstein Grand Piano. Ahead of the album, Wiese released the single “If” this month via Bigo & Twigetti. Howard Price, Bucks Music Group Head of Media, said, “Piotr is a fantastic multilingual character driven by challenge and musical possibilities. We’re extremely excited about Piotr’s upcoming album Kosmos, working with his catalog, and the opportunity to develop his career and recognition.”
JOSH REMSBERG NAMED HEAD OF COMMERCIAL PARTNERSHIPS AT EVEN: Direct-to-fan platform EVEN is expanding its commercial leadership with the appointment of Josh Remsberg as Head of Commercial Partnerships. Remsberg will oversee EVEN’s commercial relationships with record labels, distributors, managers, artist teams and other industry partners. His responsibilities will also extend to the platform’s commerce network, including merchandise partners, as well as relationships with key industries and chart-reporting organizations. Remsberg joins EVEN after more than two decades working across commercial strategy, revenue, business development, marketing, and artist management. He most recently served as Sr. VP, Head of Commercial Strategy & Revenue at Warner Records, where he was responsible for revenue, commercial partnerships and strategic marketing across a roster that included Zach Bryan, Benson Boone and Teddy Swims. During his time at Warner Records, the label’s U.S. revenue increased by 30%, while its U.S. market share grew by 35%. He joined Warner Records in 2022 as Sr. VP, Commercial Revenue and departed in July 2025 as part of a restructuring of the label’s marketing and commerce teams. Before Warner, Remsberg spent roughly 20 years at Universal Music Group, most recently as Sr. VP, Commerce & Business Development at Capitol Records. His work there spanned digital strategy, business development, digital deals, marketing technology, advertising and the Capitol 360 Innovation Center. In his commercial marketing role, he also helped shape release strategies for artists including Katy Perry, Halsey, Paul McCartney and Niall Horan. Beyond his label experience, Remsberg has also been involved in the independent artist-management space. He co-founded the independent management company Art Associates, whose clients have included Mayer Hawthorne, Gabriel Garzón-Montano and Tuxedo. His move to EVEN comes as the direct-to-fan platform continues to build out the infrastructure connecting artists with their audiences and commercial opportunities.
TEG MAKES SENIOR LEADERSHIP CHANGES TO TOURING AND TECHNOLOGY TEAMS: Ticketek Entertainment Group (TEG) is reshaping its senior leadership team, making a series of appointments and departures across its touring, technology and festival businesses as the company shifts its focus toward expansion across the Asia-Pacific region and further investment in ticketing and venue technology. As part of the changes, Mark Dodds has been appointed Managing Director of TEG Live and Handsome Tours, taking over the role previously held by Tim McGregor, who has departed the company after two decades. McGregor most recently served as Global Head of Touring at TEG Live, bringing a long tenure at the entertainment group to an end. Paul Dainty is also taking on a new position as President of Touring and Theatrical, a newly created role that will add another layer of senior leadership to TEG’s touring operations. The company has also appointed John Ranieri as Chief Information Officer, strengthening its focus on technology as TEG looks to develop its ticketing and venue infrastructure. According to Variety, the leadership changes form part of a broader strategy centered on expanding touring activity across Asia-Pacific while investing in the technology underpinning its ticketing and venue businesses. The reshuffle follows significant changes to TEG’s country music operations. TEG Live Senior Vice President of Country Brad Turcotte and Head of Country Music Touring Alex Kelsey have both left the company, while Jessie Parker departed Laneway Festival after 16 years with the event.
JON MOSKOWITZ JOINS PYRAMID ENTERTAINMENT: Veteran booking agent Jon Moskowitz has joined Pyramid Entertainment, bringing more than 20 years of experience in the live entertainment business to the agency. A New York City native from Greenwich Village, Moskowitz spent the past 15 years at Universal Attractions Agency, where he built a diverse roster of artists across hip-hop, R&B, funk, pop, and legacy acts. During his time at the agency, he worked with artists and touring brands including I Love 90s, George Clinton, Ludacris, Black Eyed Peas, UB40, Flo Rida, Rick Ross, Nelly, Ja Rule, Ashanti, Trey Songz, Mya, Floetry, Morris Day and Sheila E. Moskowitz now joins Pyramid Entertainment Group, an agency founded in 1988 by owner and CEO Sal Michaels, a veteran of the music business with four decades of experience. Michaels began his career during the disco era of the 1970s, when he signed underground disco star Gloria Gaynor, before going on to represent a wide range of music legends including Marvin Gaye, Luther Vandross, Rick James, Gladys Knight, KC & the Sunshine Band, and the Commodores. Today, Michaels continues to represent Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Kool & the Gang, along with dozens of other established acts.
NEW FALL EDITIONS OF THE FILM/TELEVISION MUSIC GUIDE & A&R REGISTRY ARE HERE: The brand-new Fall Editions of the Film/Television Music Guide and A&R Registry are now available from Music Business Registry, providing music professionals with valuable industry contact information and resources for building connections and creating new opportunities. Published for more than three decades, Music Business Registry maintains directories covering key areas of the music business, including A&R executives, music supervisors, film and television music departments, publishers, attorneys, and other industry professionals. The A&R Registry focuses on record-label A&R executives and their teams, while the Film/Television Music Guide covers more than 20 areas of the licensing and placement ecosystem, including music supervisors, labels, publishers, scoring stages, and music libraries. PDF editions feature searchable listings with clickable email addresses and websites, making it easier to research and connect with industry contacts. Whether you’re an artist, songwriter, producer, music publisher, manager, or industry professional, these updated directories can be valuable tools for staying current and expanding your professional network. For more information, contact Ritch Esra at ritch@musicregistry.com.
SPHERE AND DISGUISE ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP: Sphere Entertainment Co. and Disguise are expanding their relationship through a new multi-year partnership focused on developing advanced technology tailored specifically for Sphere’s immersive productions and live events. Disguise has worked with Sphere as a technology partner since the venue opened in 2023, providing media servers and software used to process, synchronize, and deliver content in real time for productions and corporate events. The expanded collaboration will focus on developing new technologies and workflows designed to enhance video playback capabilities and support Sphere as it moves into its next phase of global expansion. As part of the partnership, Sphere will become the first customer to bring Disguise’s next-generation technology to market. “Sphere was built to redefine live entertainment, and continuing to push the boundaries of immersive experiences requires technology partners that share our ambition”, said Ryan Dolan, EVP, Head of Event & Interactive Technology, Sphere. “Every artist who has performed at Sphere has benefited from Disguise’s technology, and we’re looking forward to developing future iterations of immersive productions to support our long-term vision of offering these experiences to audiences in new Sphere venues around the world.”
ASCAP PROMOTES JACKSON WAGENER TO SR. VP AND HEAD OF LICENSING: The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) has appointed Jackson Wagener as Sr. VP & Head of General Licensing, effective January 1, 2027. Reporting to EVP & Head of Licensing Stephanie Ruyle, Wagener will lead the team responsible for licensing ASCAP’s catalog of more than 20 million musical works to businesses and venues including restaurants, bars, hotels, airlines, fitness studios and live music spaces. Wagener brings 12 years of experience at ASCAP to the role. Since 2020, he has served as Sr. VP of Business and Legal Affairs, overseeing the strategic implementation of ASCAP’s nationwide copyright infringement litigation program across general licensing, broadcast radio, television, internet and emerging technologies. He joined ASCAP in January 2014 as Vice President of Business and Legal Affairs, having previously worked at Greenberg Traurig LLP’s New York office. “Jackson pairs deep legal expertise with a clear sense of what licensees want and music creators need in today’s world,” said Stephanie Ruyle. “In a rapidly changing market, he is uniquely equipped to pioneer the kind of innovative licensing solutions that make it easier than ever for businesses to utilize music, while ensuring songwriters are fairly compensated for performances of their work.”
NEED TO MAKE CONTACT, SEND NEWS AND NEW MUSIC RELEASES?: If you have any A&R, publishing, technology, agent/promoter, international radio, management, new media or film/TV music supervisor news you’d like to share with A&R Worldwide, or need to respond to information published in the weekly newsletter please E–mail it to the attention of info@anrworldwide.com. Also, all demos and new music releases should be sent as STREAMING LINKS ONLY to info@anrworldwide.com
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Adam Taylor, Nick Keynes, Jon O’Mahony, Jason Flom, Clio Massey, Jos Watkin, Katie O’Hagan, Danny Garcia, Brandon Young, Vijay Nair, Ric Salmon, Jules Borie, and Steve Zapp.
