A&R Worldwide Newsletter Vol. 947

UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP REVEALS KEY PERSONNEL CHANGES AS PART OF MILLIONS IN COST SAVINGS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gunna has established his own record label, SB THE LABEL, through a partnership with Atlantic Music Group (AMG), part of Warner Music Group. The Atlanta rapper will lead the venture as CEO.

Announced earlier this month, the label has made its first three signings: Atlanta-based artists Casper Bluff, Nechie and Dracc. Nechie previously collaborated with Gunna on “i can’t feel my face,” a track from Gunna’s 2025 album, The Last Wun. Dracc is known for the song “P Star,” according to the announcement.

The label’s launch coincided with the release of Gunna’s new single, “pop it,” which is set to feature on his forthcoming album, Splurge. The track’s music video stars tennis player Coco Gauff and was directed by Spike Jordan, who serves as Gunna’s Creative Director.

The financial terms of the SB THE LABEL partnership have not been disclosed.

Gunna’s 2020 album, Wunna, and 2022 release, DS4Ever, both debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. His sixth studio album, The Last Wun, opened at No. 3 in August 2025, generating 80,000 album-equivalent units and marking his seventh top ten entry on the chart. The Last Wun was also Gunna’s final album released through YSL Records, the label founded by Young Thug.

“It’s impossible to overstate Gunna’s influence on this generation of hip-hop and music as a whole,” said Elliot Grainge, Chairman and CEO of Atlantic Music Group. “We’re grateful and honored that he’s chosen AMG as his partner to bring this endeavor to music fans.”

Warner Records Group has appointed veteran music executive Jim Roppo as Vice Chairman. Based in Los Angeles, Roppo will report to Chairman & CEO Aaron Bay-Schuck and oversee operations across the group’s labels. His start date has yet to be announced.

Roppo joins Warner after 30 years at Universal Music Group, most recently serving as Chairman & CEO of Republic Records, where he led global strategy, operations, and artist development. He previously served as President & COO of Republic Collective, overseeing labels including Republic, Island, Def Jam, and Mercury.

Since joining Republic Records in 2012, Roppo has held several senior leadership positions, progressing from EVP/General Manager to Co-President before becoming Chairman and CEO in 2025. During his tenure, he helped develop the label’s digital, data-driven, and international marketing strategies. Earlier in his career, he held senior roles at Island Def Jam Music Group, including Sr. VP of Sales, overseeing retail and commercial strategy.

Aaron Bay-Schuck, Chairman & CEO of Warner Records Group, said, “Everything we do is rooted in artist development, and Jim has spent his career ensuring that creatives have the tools, resources, and support to reach their full potential. Few have excelled across so many parts of our business – from digital to commerce to marketing – and that range, paired with a history of breaking stars, will be invaluable as we accelerate the next phase of growth for Warner Records Group.”

Roppo joins Warner Records Group as the company builds on recent successes across multiple genres. Highlights include Madonna’s return to the label, which produced a No. 1 album in both the U.S. and U.K. and her strongest domestic sales week in more than a decade. The group has also delivered releases and hits from Zach Bryan, Benson Boone, Teddy Swims, Sombr and Linkin Park, alongside country successes through Warner Records Nashville, including Cody Johnson, Gavin Adcock, Hudson Westbrook, and Avery Anna. Its emerging roster also includes Blake Whiten, Alyssa Grace, Dijon, and AZ Chike.

 

Believe has appointed Viktoria Siniavskaia as President of EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa), establishing a dedicated regional leadership structure covering Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Siniavskaia will report directly to Believe’s Global Head of Music, Romain Vivien. She previously oversaw the company’s operations across the Middle East, Türkiye, and Africa (META), East and Southern Europe, and the Americas.

The appointment marks another stage in Believe’s development of a more regionally focused management model. Siniavskaia brings more than 20 years of experience in the music industry, including over 15 years with the company.

Under the new structure, several executives will report directly to Siniavskaia: Henri Jamet, Managing Director of France; Thorsten Freese, Managing Director of Germany; Alex Kennedy, Managing Director of the UK; Sara Pedroni, Regional General Manager for Southern Europe; Denis Gorshkov, overseeing Russia, Türkiye, the Middle East and Africa; Patrycja Lobacz, Regional LAS Director for Eastern Europe; and Elena Fironova, Regional Managing Director of Operations for Russia, Türkiye, the Middle East and Africa.

“As Believe scales globally and strengthens its market positions, our next stage of growth requires a music organization combining stronger regional leadership, greater strategic autonomy, and increased global alignment,” said Romain Vivien. “Viktoria’s history of successful leadership across multiple key regions makes her ideally suited to lead EMEA as we build the leading global artist development company for independent artists, songwriters, labels, and publishers at all levels. I am particularly proud to see her continue to grow within Believe and expand her oversight to mature markets such as the U.K., Germany, and France. I am greatly confident she will be successful in her new expanded role.” 

Believe said the move underscores the strategic importance of the EMEA region and is intended to improve coordination across markets, strengthen leadership development and support closer collaboration to drive growth.

 

Warner Chappell Music has entered into an exclusive worldwide publishing administration agreement with My Chemical Romance, covering the band’s full catalog and future works. The deal includes albums such as Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge, The Black Parade, Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys and I Brought You My Bullets, You Brought Me Your Love.

Under the agreement, Warner Chappell will manage global publishing rights, copyright protection, and sync licensing across film, television, and video games, while developing new opportunities for the band’s music. The partnership builds on My Chemical Romance’s relationship with Warner Records, which began in 2003, and its global merchandise partnership through Warner Music Group.

With billions of streams worldwide, the band’s catalog includes hits such as “Welcome to the Black Parade,” “Helena,” “I am Not Okay (I Promise),” “Teenagers” and “Famous Last Words.” The agreement arrives as the group marks the 20th anniversary of The Black Parade with its 2026 stadium tour, including three sold-out Wembley Stadium shows and a five-night finale at Los Angeles’ Hollywood Bowl in October. A deluxe edition of the album is scheduled for release on October 23.

Robert Kyncl, CEO, Warner Music Group, said, “My Chemical Romance is a generational force. We are proud to expand our longtime partnership with this trailblazing band as they continue winning new fans around the world.”

Guy Moot, Chair & CEO, Warner Chappell Music, added, “Few bands have left as deep an imprint on modern rock culture as My Chemical Romance. Their music has not only redefined alternative rock for millions, but also continues to resonate, inspiring entirely new generations of fans, songwriters, and artists alike. They have built an indelible catalog, and our entire team is excited to welcome them to Warner Chappell and champion their extraordinary songs.”

 

 

London, England-based folk-pop singer-songwriter Gio Dara unveils “Alexandra,” the second single from his EP Son of My Father, via AWAL. Built around the instantly memorable refrain “Ale Ale Alexandra,” the heartfelt track explores devotion, longing, and the feeling that two people are simply meant to find each other. Written a year before its release, “Alexandra” is one of Gio Dara’s most personal songs, arriving now as he feels ready to share the story behind it. Originally from Georgia and raised in Ukraine, Gio Dara rebuilt his life in London after leaving Ukraine when the war began. He started again by busking on the city’s streets before breaking through with “Now That I Found Her,” which has surpassed ten million streams, and “Be Mine,” now above 24 million. Those songs helped him reach more than 40 million career streams, build an audience of around 700,000 monthly Spotify listeners, and sell out a headline show at London’s The Lower Third. Gio Dara has also earned BBC Introducing London support from Jess Iszatt for “One of a Kind” and “Now That I Found Her,” while “Be Mine” picked up more than 25 radio plays across the U.K. and internationally, including stations in Canada, Spain, Argentina and the U.S., as well as upcoming support on the globally syndicated Passport Approved. With “Alexandra” opening the next chapter of Son of My Father, Gio Dara continues to build a growing international audience around his emotionally direct take on folk-pop. Discover “Alexandra” HERE, and reach out to Alex Anfilova for additional information and global opportunities on behalf of Gio Dara.

 

MARC SCIBILIA SIGNS WITH CONCORD RECORDS: Marc Scibilia has signed a recording deal with Concord Records as he prepares his next studio album, scheduled for release in 2027. Scibilia has generated more than 200 million streams globally and built a social media following exceeding three million. He sold out every date on his first U.S. headline tour in 2024, followed by his 2025 More To This World Tour, which took him across Europe, the U.S. and Canada. His music has also achieved gold certification and reached the top of charts in several European markets. Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, Scibilia has drawn on his upbringing for recent releases “No One Knows My Name” and “By Your Side,” exploring the working-class community and experiences that influenced him. His forthcoming album is expected to combine elements of folk, country, alternative, and pop, with nostalgia and personal storytelling at its core. His catalog has featured in television and film projects including Shrinking, Peter Rabbit, Bones, and About a Boy, as well as advertising campaigns for Jeep, Chrysler, and Samsung. As a songwriter and producer, he has collaborated with Teddy Swims, Keith Urban, Lainey Wilson, Ian Munsick, Ingrid Andress, Seal, Ben Rector, and Lennon Stella. Following a summer supporting Teddy Swims, Scibilia is scheduled to play three headline shows in Buffalo and Nashville this fall, where he plans to preview material from the upcoming album. He has also released an updated version of “By Your Side” featuring Abigail Rose.

 

BMG SIGNS NINA NESBITT TO EXCLUSIVE SONGWRITER DEAL: Scottish singer-songwriter Nina Nesbitt has signed an exclusive songwriting agreement with BMG, returning to the company as she continues to expand her work as a writer for other artists alongside her own recording career. Nesbitt’s songwriting credits span artists including Perrie Edwards, IVE, Jessie Ware, and Illenium. She contributed to five tracks on Edwards’ debut album, including the single “If He Wanted to He Would.” She also co-wrote “Classic,” featured on IVE’s Wave EP, and “Luv Me A Little” by Illenium, on which she also performs alongside the producer. The latter track was co-written with Lewis Capaldi. Across her own career, Nesbitt has accumulated more than one billion streams and headlined sold-out tours in the U.K., U.S., and Australia. She has also performed in support of artists including Stevie Nicks, Lewis Capaldi, Coldplay, and Justin Bieber. Her most recent album, Mountain Music, released in 2024, reached No. 1 on the Official Folk Albums Chart. Her songwriting collaborators have included MNEK, Lauren Aquilina, and Lostboy. Nesbitt is currently working on new material with artists that include Say Now, Tom Walker, Isabel Van Gelder, and Darren Kiely. “Nina writes with a clarity and honesty that’s completely her own,” said Ciara Newell-Bailey, BMG’s Senior Director, Creative, Publishing. “Her melodies stay with you, and her lyrics say the things most of us cannot quite put into words. Having previously worked with Nina, welcoming her back to BMG is a real privilege. Beyond the talent, she is one of the kindest, most grounded people in music, and together with her manager Vicky Dowdall we are building something special for this next chapter.”

 

LIVE NATION PARTNERS WITH BIZARRO TO GROW THE LIVE LATIN MUSIC MARKET IN CHILE: Live Nation has reached an agreement to take a majority stake in Bizarro Chile, establishing a partnership aimed at expanding the Latin live music market and creating further opportunities for artists across the region. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval. The agreement will bring together Live Nation’s international reach and experience with Bizarro’s understanding of the local market, with both companies seeking to expand opportunities for artists and enhance live music experiences for audiences across Chile. Bizarro Founder Alfredo Alonso will remain at the helm, continuing to oversee the company’s creative and strategic direction. Meanwhile, Live Nation’s established partner in Chile, DG Medios, will retain what Live Nation describes as a “central role in the growth of international live music events in the country.” Under the arrangement, Bizarro will focus on developing Latin artists and supporting local content, complementing DG Medios’ role in international live events. Michael Rapino, President and CEO of Live Nation Entertainment said, “Chile is one of the most dynamic music markets in Latin America, and a priority for Live Nation. This agreement with Bizarro complements our existing partnership with DG Medios and strengthens our commitment to Chile and the growth of Latin music across the region.”

 

PAYDAY MUSIC PUBLISHING EXTENDS REPRESENTATION FOR HAYLA: Payday Music Publishing has renewed its agreement with Grammy-nominated, Gold-certified songwriter and vocalist HAYLA, extending a partnership that began in 2023. Founder Patrick Moxey announced the re-signing on October 13. HAYLA’s catalog has generated more than one billion Spotify streams and has earned her seven No. 1 singles on the Billboard Dance chart. Her credits include John Summit’s “Where You Are” and ILLENIUM’s “In My Arms,” tracks featured on their respective albums CTRL ESCAPE and ODYSSEY. She has also worked with Kx5 on “Escape,” KYGO on “Without You,” and MEDUZA on “Another World.” Additional songwriting credits include “Meet Again” for Kaskade, Layton Giordani and Natalie Jane, “Silence” by MEDUZA and RANI, and “I’ll Wait for You” by Seven Lions, Subtronics and Skylar Grey. Earlier this year, HAYLA released “FADED,” co-written and performed with Nelly Furtado. An Amazon-exclusive remix by Nora En Pure is scheduled for wider release on October 16. Alongside her collaborations, HAYLA has released two solo albums: her 2024 debut, DUSK, featuring the singles “Visions of You” and “Fall Again,” and 2026’s DARK, which explores a more experimental, ethereal sound. The latter received support from NPR Music, NYLON and Billboard, among others. HAYLA plans to spend 2027 writing her third studio album.

 

SPOTIFY EXPANDS BEYOND STREAMING WITH NEW TECHNOLOGY BRAND: Spotify has introduced Spotify Technology, a new brand bringing together its software development tools and technology products designed to help research and development (R&D) teams build, launch, and improve products more efficiently. The initiative consolidates existing offerings, including Backstage, Confidence, Portal by Spotify, and the recently introduced Xirp, under one umbrella, with room for future products and developments. The move also signals Spotify’s intention to expand its technology business beyond its core music streaming operations. In a blog post, Tyson Singer, Spotify’s Sr. VP of Technology and Platform, explained that the initiative combines tools created to support the company’s own product development with media technology developed for its internal operations. These solutions are tested within Spotify at scale before being made available to external organizations as open-source tools or commercial products. By drawing on its experience building and operating services used by hundreds of millions of people worldwide, Spotify Technology aims to help other businesses address the challenges of developing, launching, and scaling products.

 

PRIMARY WAVE PARTNERS WITH BRIAN VANDER ARK: Primary Wave Music has entered a partnership with Brian Vander Ark, the lead singer, guitarist and songwriter of alternative rock band The Verve Pipe, covering his music publishing and recorded music catalogs, including the songs he wrote for the group. The agreement also gives The Verve Pipe access to Primary Wave’s marketing resources and publishing infrastructure, including digital strategy, licensing, synchronization, and film and television production services. The catalog spans more than three decades of Vander Ark’s work with the band and includes songs such as “Colorful,” “Photograph” and “The Freshmen,” the group’s highest-charting single. Released in January 1997 as the third single from The Verve Pipe’s 1996 RCA debut album, Villains, “The Freshmen” reached No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the publication’s Modern Rock Tracks and Triple A charts. The song also received an ASCAP Pop Award. American Songwriter described it as “a stone-cold hit,” while Cryptic Rock said the track established the band as “a band to follow on the scene.” Formed in Michigan in the early 1990s, The Verve Pipe initially released two independent albums, I’ve Suffered a Head Injury and Pop Smear, before signing with RCA. The band’s Villains album peaked at No. 24 on the Billboard 200 and led to appearances on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Late Show with David Letterman. The group’s 2001 album, Underneath, featured “Colorful,” which appeared in the film Rock Star, starring Mark Wahlberg and Jennifer Aniston. Vander Ark also appeared in the film as an actor. Throughout its career, The Verve Pipe has moved between alternative rock and children’s music, releasing family-oriented albums including A Family Album and Are We There Yet? before returning to rock with Overboard and the live release Villains – Live & Acoustic. The band released its latest album, Reconciled, in summer 2025 and continues to perform rock and children’s shows across the U.S.

 

AM2 HIRES LIDDY CLARK AS MANAGER OF CREATIVE SYNC (TRAILERS): Angry Mob Music has appointed Liddy Clark as Manager of Creative Sync & Trailers at AM2, its creative sync division. Based in Los Angeles, Clark will report to Creative Sync Director Jessie Labelle and oversee creative pitching for trailer campaigns, collaborating with clients, composers, and the company’s in-house production team to develop custom remixes, trailerizations, and original music. In her new position, Clark will lead AM2’s trailer-focused sync activities, connecting clients with the Angry Mob and AM2 catalogs while developing tailored music opportunities for the company’s roster. Clark joins from a background that includes roles at SILO: Music, Think Music, and All Clear Music, where she developed experience across brand campaigns, gaming franchises, and custom music production. Her credits include music placements for Apple, Epic Games, Target, and Amazon Prime, as well as custom compositions for the Fortnite Season 7 trailer, LEGO Fortnite NINJAGO, and multiple Fortnite Battle Pass anthems. She has also worked on custom remixes with Universal Music Group, Warner Music, Mass Appeal, and gamma, alongside placements in television series including Grey’s Anatomy and All American. Outside her sync work, Clark co-founded Women in Sync, a networking and events initiative that began with 15 women meeting in her apartment and has since grown into a community attracting more than 100 attendees to its quarterly gatherings. The organization focuses on fostering industry connections, supporting creative talent, and building opportunities for women in music. Clark graduated magna cum laude from the University of Southern California, earning a Bachelor of Science in Music Industry with a minor in Business Administration.

 

FLG RECORDS SIGNS BAND OF SKULLS: British rock band Band of Skulls have signed with FLG Records, the rock and alternative label under Frontiers Label Group. The Italian label described the group as one of the U.K.’s distinctive rock acts, citing their blend of alternative, indie and blues rock, established catalog and live performances as key factors in building an international audience. Formed in Southampton in 2004, Band of Skulls released their debut album, Baby Darling Doll Face Honey, in 2009. The band has since released five studio albums through label partners including PIAS, BMG, and SO Recordings. Their touring history includes performances alongside Muse, Queens of The Stone Age, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and The Black Keys. Leo Nicholas, Managing Director U.K., Frontiers Label Group, commented, “Band of Skulls are one of the great British rock bands of their generation, and their live show is second to none. We are thrilled to be working with Russell and Iona [Kohler Alven] and cannot wait to get started.” Vocalist and guitarist Russell Marsden added, “I am thrilled to be working with Frontiers Label Group as we move into an exciting new chapter for the band. We are focused on what’s ahead – creating new music, building on the connection we have with our fans, and continuing to evolve while staying true to the sound they love. Their support continues to drive us forward, and we cannot wait for them to hear what is next.”

 

DISNEY MUSIC GROUP NAMES J.J. ITALIANO AS VP OF SALES AND DIGITAL: J.J. Italiano has joined Disney Music Group as VP of Sales and Digital, less than two months after being named Head of Editorial at Spotify. Based in Burbank, Italiano will lead Disney Music Group’s sales and digital marketing team, focusing on expanding global audiences, strengthening fan engagement, and identifying growth opportunities across digital platforms and emerging technologies. Italiano spent the past four years at Spotify during his second stint with the streaming service. Previously, he served as Spotify’s Head of Music Culture and Editorial for North America from January 2017 to September 2019, before consulting for Sony Music for six months. In February 2020, he joined YouTube as Head of Music Programming, North America. “It’s clear that J.J. has a genuine passion for artist development and an excitement for reaching and serving fans,” said Disney Music Group Sr. Vice President of Commerce and Digital Karen Lieberman, who has worked with Italiano for years as a Spotify partner. “These qualities, paired with his robust experience across key platforms, make him an ideal fit for our team, and we’re delighted to welcome him to Disney Music Group.”

 

FABER ALT SIGNS ISHMAEL ENSEMBLE: Faber Alt has signed British musical collective Ishmael Ensemble, the Bristol-based group known for combining electronic music with jazz. Led by producer and saxophonist Pete Cunningham, the collective gained recognition with its 2019 debut album, A State of Flow. Their latest album, Rituals, was released in 2024, reaching the UK Top 40 and No. 2 on the Official Dance Albums Chart. In 2026, the group introduced Ishmael Ensemble & The Rituals Orchestra, an expanded live format featuring a string quartet, harpist and guest vocalists drawn from across the collective’s catalog. The group is also working on a new album. Faber Alt Senior Creative Manager Ed Marquis commented, “Ishmael Ensemble is an incredible outfit, and working with Pete feels like a great fit for both sides. Faber Alt had previously talked about signing Ishmael Ensemble, so this feels like a brilliant full-circle moment. Pete’s new album is amazing, and everyone should hear it!”

 

WARNER CHAPPELL SIGNS BENJAMIN INGROSSO: Warner Chappell Music Nordics has signed a global publishing agreement with Swedish singer, songwriter, and producer Benjamin Ingrosso. The deal coincides with the release of Ingrosso’s double single, “Funny Feeling” and “Waste My Time,” marking his first new music in nearly two years. The releases follow his Swedish No. 1 album, Pink Velvet Theatre. Ingrosso has accumulated more than one billion global streams, three chart-topping albums, multiple gold and platinum certifications, and a series of sold-out tours. He first gained widespread recognition after winning Sweden’s Eurovision selection competition, Melodifestivalen, in 2018. Beyond music, Ingrosso has hosted three seasons of the television show Benjamins and featured in the documentary series This Is Benjamin. “Waste My Time” was co-written with longtime collaborator and Warner Chappell Music UK songwriter Jon Shave. Later this month, Ingrosso will begin his 11-date What Happens Next? Nordic Arena tour, which includes two performances at Stockholm’s Avicii Arena. Eddie Matthew, VP, International A&R & Head of Creative Nordics, Warner Chappell Music, said, “Benjamin is a unique, multi-faceted star whose passion, work ethic, and songwriting prowess continue to elevate Swedish pop music around the world. He is a brilliant addition to Warner Chappell, and we are excited to support him as he enters this new chapter of his dynamic journey.”

 

REINIER ZONNEVELD RAISES $1M IN PRE-SEED FUNDING FOR GASLAB: GasLab (Generative AI Solutions Lab), a generative AI music platform founded by DJ and producer Reinier Zonneveld, has been unveiled with approximately $1 million (USD) in pre-seed funding. The company aims to establish a model for AI music that recognizes the artists whose work informs generated tracks and ensures they share in the resulting value. The funding round includes Bitpanda Co-Founder & Executive Chairman Eric Demuth, WeTransfer Founder Bas Beerens, and other European entrepreneurs. The investment will support GasLab’s development as a global platform for transparent music attribution, with technology that could also be applied to other generative AI services. GasLab allows users to generate music using catalogs supplied by artists and labels that have agreed to participate. Its proprietary attribution technology, called the Digital Notary, analyses each output against participating in music and records contributing artists and rights holders at both master-recording and publishing levels. Each generated track receives a permanent ID and a linked watermark, creating a record that underpins attribution and revenue sharing. When GasLab generates income through subscriptions or music releases, the attribution record provides the basis for distributing revenue to the rights holders whose work contributed to each track. The system is designed to give original creators an economic stake in AI-generated music, including when a track achieves commercial success. Zonneveld has worked with machine learning for eight years alongside longtime friend and business partner Cas Luuring. Their work led to R2, an AI model trained on Zonneveld’s own catalog that he performs alongside at festivals. The company’s core team also includes Thijs Emondts, a former venture capital partner, and Uber General Manager. 

 

BELIEVE AND IMMORTAL MUSIC GROUP PARTNER ON NEW HEAVY MUSIC LABEL: Believe has partnered with Australian management company Immortal Music Group (IMG) to launch a new heavy music label operating under the IMG name. The artist-first venture aims to discover, develop and promote emerging Australian heavy and alternative acts to international audiences. The partnership will combine IMG’s artist management experience with Believe’s global distribution network, local market knowledge, data-driven technology, and international artist development capabilities. The label will initially concentrate on a select roster of priority releases while building a wider pipeline of developing artists. Its first release arrived in August with an EP from Brisbane hardcore act ZUKO, with Reliqa set to follow. Founded in 2019 by Chris O’Brien, Head Promoter at Destroy All Lines, and Josh Smith, IMG originally operated under the Open Door Management banner. Its roster includes Australian acts Northlane, whose members include Smith, Make Them Suffer, In Hearts Wake, RinRin, and Yours Truly. Mick Tarbuk, Country Manager AUNZ at Believe, said, “IMG has built an exceptional roster and a genuine understanding of what it takes to develop Australian heavy and alternative artists with global ambition. What makes this partnership particularly exciting is that we are not simply providing distribution; we’re building something together. We can combine IMG’s artist relationships, creative vision, and genre expertise with Believe’s global infrastructure, technology, and market expertise to help take that vision beyond Australia and onto the world stage.” 

 

WISE MUSIC GROUP SIGNS ADIESCAR CHASE: Wise Music Group has signed BAFTA-nominated composer and multi-instrumentalist Adiescar Chase to a worldwide publishing agreement covering her existing catalog and future compositions across screen media and classical music. Under the deal, Chase’s media works will be represented through the Campbell Connelly catalog, while Edition Peters will publish her classical compositions. Her recent credits include the Netflix series Heartstopper, comedy film All Night Wrong, Channel 4’s Falling, the television drama Bergerac and the BBC series Waterloo Road. Chase’s additional work includes the BBC documentaries Sarah Everard: The Search for Justice and Tommy Jessop Goes to Hollywood, Channel 4 drama Consent, and a collaboration with electronic music pioneer Jean-Michel Jarre. “We are delighted to welcome Adiescar Chase to Wise Music Group,” said CEO Marcus Wise. “Adiescar is an exceptional composer with a distinctive musical voice and an impressive ability to connect with audiences across screen and concert music. With the combined support of our global teams, we look forward to championing her work worldwide and supporting the next chapter of her career.”

 

AEG PRESENTS ACQUIRES FRENCH ARTIST PRODUCTION COMPANY AUGURI: AEG Presents has acquired French artist production and development company Auguri Productions, strengthening its presence in France and its focus on discovering and developing local talent. Founded in 1997 by President Charles Bensmaine, Auguri Productions has helped launch and build the careers of artists across the French and French-speaking music markets, including Stromae, Angèle, Louane, Julien Doré, David Guetta, Dominique A, Philippe Katerine, -M-, Gazo, Sofiane Pamart, Tiakola, Gaël Faye, Vanessa Paradis, Thomas Dutronc, Yodelice and Jain. The deal forms part of AEG Presents’ broader European expansion, with operations spanning the U.K., Norway, France, Germany, and the Benelux region. Adam Wilkes, President & CEO of AEG Presents Europe, said, “France has an extraordinary depth of artistry, a vibrant live music culture and a generation of artists with real international potential. Charles and the Auguri team have earned their reputation by recognizing those artists early on and helping them build careers with lasting relevance. Bringing Auguri into AEG Presents deepens our roots in France and creates a meaningful bridge between that local expertise and our global platform. I am thrilled to welcome Charles and the team as we build this next chapter together.”

 

SECRETLY DISTRIBUTION ANNOUNCES GLOBAL DISTRIBUTION DEALS WITH NAYA BEAT & NATURE SOUNDS: Secretly Distribution has signed worldwide distribution agreements with independent labels Naya Beat and Nature Sounds, expanding its partnerships across electronic music, reissues and hip-hop. Founded in Los Angeles in 2019 by Filip Nikolic (Turbotito) and Raghav Mani (Ragz), Naya Beat focuses on dance and electronic music from South Asia and its diaspora. The label has built its profile through the Naya Beat Volume series, reissues, remixes, and compilations that have brought renewed attention to recordings including work by Asha Puthli and the Punjabi Disco collection. Its releases have received support from DJs including Solomun, Peggy Gou, Gilles Peterson, and DJ Harvey. Brooklyn-based Nature Sounds, founded in 2003, has spent more than two decades championing hip-hop and its wider musical influences, including jazz, soul, funk, and reggae. The label gives artists room to develop and release music on their own terms, while building a catalog shaped by hip-hop and record-collecting culture.

 

SONY MUSIC PUBLISHING NASHVILLE SIGNS PAYTON SULLIVAN: Sony Music Publishing Nashville (SMP) has signed country artist and songwriter Payton Sullivan to a worldwide publishing deal. Born in Florida and raised near Nashville, Sullivan is now based in Hawaii. Her recent releases include “F150” and “Blondie,” produced by Kristian Bush, which earned a placement on Spotify’s All New Country playlist. Sullivan is also set to support Grammy-winning country duo Sugarland on their 2026 Ride or Die Tour, joining the group for 21 dates across the US this autumn. In a joint statement, Sony Music Publishing Nashville Vice President, Creative A&R Tom Luteran and Manager, Creative A&R, Synnovea Halsel, commented, “With southern roots running as deep as her island breezes, Payton brings a high-octane energy to the genre that is entirely her own. Her electrifying debut release captures that signature larger-than-life spirit. We are excited to have her on the Sony Music Publishing team.”

 

MOHNISH SANI APPOINTED HEAD OF STRATEGY AND GROWTH FOR HYBE AMERICAS: HYBE Americas has appointed Mohnish Sani to the newly created position of Head of Strategy and Growth, where he will help guide the company’s long-term expansion across the US, Canada, and Latin America. Based in New York, Sani will report to Chairman and CEO Isaac Lee and work closely with HYBE’s strategy team in South Korea. Sani comes from Amazon Entertainment, where he led strategy and operations for Creator Services. His previous roles include managing global digital licensing and content acquisition at YouTube Music, overseeing strategy and worldwide commercial partnerships at Amazon Music and Kobalt Music Group, and positions at Sony Music. He has also served as Managing Partner at Flying Ventures and Camarilla Ventures. Sani holds an MBA from Columbia Business School and serves on the board of music education nonprofit Save The Music Foundation.

 

DOM DOLLA LAUNCHES GOOD FORTUNE RECORDS: Australian DJ and producer Dom Dolla has launched Good Fortune Records, a new label extending his Good Fortune party series, which began in 2024. The series hosted events in Melbourne, Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Detroit, London, and Manchester, showcasing emerging and established artists. The label’s first release arrives on Friday, October 16, with “DANCE” by Torren Foot and rhys from the sticks. The announcement follows Dolla’s record-breaking performance for 60,000 people at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium on September 24. He is also scheduled to headline Auckland Domain on February 6, 2027, for what is billed as New Zealand’s biggest-ever electronic music event. Dom Dolla commented, “After 20 years of DJing, I still find nothing more exciting than discovering new records that rip holes through a dance floor. This week, I am finally launching Good Fortune Records. A record label that began as a party brand, I have been running events under it for the last few years. A place where both new up-and-coming artists and established legends can come together and do what they do best.”

 

PIPELINE NAMES BEN KATOVSKY AS CEO: Pipeline has appointed Ben Katovsky as CEO. He will work alongside Co-Founder & Chairman Matt Spetzler, with responsibilities spanning the company’s offices in London, New York, and Los Angeles. Pipeline provides music companies, rights holders, and creators with access to financing, investment expertise, and technology traditionally associated with larger industry players. Katovsky has more than 20 years of experience in music rights. He most recently led Recognition Music Group, which agreed to sell its entire catalog to Sony Music Publishing in July 2026. Before that, he spent seven years at BMG, serving as Chief Operating Officer. Launched in January 2026 with more than $200 million (USD) in capital, Pipeline has since partnered with Merlin to offer advances against digital royalties to its members. In March, the company acquired music valuation firm Clarty Partners, bringing its founders and former BMG executives, Stéphane Hubert, and Pierre Suignard, into the business. Matt Spetzler commented, “We started Pipeline because there is enormous value in music IP, and too many of the companies that own it have not had the backing to realize their ambitions. Ben is one of very few people who has built, financed, and run a world-class rights business at scale, delivering very strong outcomes for investors while caring for the music and the people behind it. He is the perfect person to lead Pipeline into its next phase.” 

 

MAIA UNIVERSE ANNOUNCES RAFT OF INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS: MAIA Universe, the Stockholm, Sweden, and London, England-based music sync licensing platform, has announced new partnerships with major rights holders and the Mechanical Copyright Protection Society (MCPS) as it expands its catalog and licensing services. The company now works with more than 200 record labels and 90 music publishers. New agreements include BMG for publishing and recordings, Kobalt Music for publishing, and Warner Music Group for recordings. These deals build on existing partnerships with Warner Chappell Music, Sony Music Publishing, and other rights holders, with approximately 10,000 tracks added to its sync discovery platform each week. MAIA Universe has also been selected by MCPS to support sync licensing opportunities under its Enhanced Operating Model. A pilot program is scheduled to launch in early 2027, followed by a wider rollout to members during the year. The platform has also secured investment from music industry figures and companies including MxM, Björn Ulvaeus and the RMV team, led by Ludvig Andersson. The expansion comes as commercial sync revenues are projected to grow from $2.5 billion in 2026 to $3.9 billion by 2035, according to an analysis of Goldman Sachs’ Music in the Air report (2025). MAIA aims to simplify music rights discovery and licensing while helping artists and songwriters access new commercial opportunities.

 

RESERVOIR SIGNS RILEY BIEDERER TO PUBLISHING DEAL: Reservoir has signed Los Angeles and Nashville-based singer-songwriter Riley Biederer to a publishing deal covering her existing catalog and future works. The deal comes through Reservoir’s joint venture with independent publisher Superreal, which has represented Biederer since 2024. Her breakthrough came with the 2018 collaboration “Heartbreak Back” alongside DJ Frank Walker, which became a long-running Canadian Top 10 hit. Biederer has also appeared on The Voice and signed with Rocket Music, Elton John’s management company, while co-writing and collaborating with artists including Avery Anna, Carter Faith, and Dustin Lynch. Josh Toll, VP, Head of A&R, Superreal, said, “When we signed Riley to Superreal, we were immediately struck by her lyricism and ability to tell memorable stories through song. We have always been intentional about keeping the Superreal roster selective and going all-in on writers who have something truly special, and Riley immediately felt like someone worth making that kind of bet on. As Riley continues to grow, particularly within Nashville and country music, we wanted to build an environment where that evolution could continue while bringing in another exceptional team. Reservoir is the right partner for that next chapter, and we are excited to be collaborating with them.”

 

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