RICK RUBIN’S AMERICAN RECORDINGS’ A&R DUO MICHAEL GOLDBERG & ISAAC HEYMANN JOIN A&R WORLDWIDE FOR A SPECIAL A&R KEYNOTE AT MUSEXPO 2027
Legendary producer Rick Rubin’s longtime A&R team and co-creators of American Songs Publishing will discuss artist discovery, development, and creative collaboration with A&R Worldwide Founder Sat Bisla as part of the company’s 25th anniversary programming.
MUSEXPO 2027 has confirmed that Michael Goldberg and Isaac Heymann, A&R executives, artist managers, and executive producers at legendary producer Rick Rubin’s American Recordings, and co-creators of American Songs Publishing, will participate in a joint keynote interview during the global music business conference, taking place March 21–24, 2027, in Burbank, California.
The discussion will be moderated by Sat Bisla, President & Founder of A&R Worldwide and MUSEXPO, as part of a series of A&R keynote interviews marking A&R Worldwide’s 25th anniversary. The conversation will focus on the duo’s experience in artist discovery, signing, development, music publishing, and their longstanding creative partnership with Rick Rubin.
For the past 18 years, Goldberg and Heymann have worked as part of Rubin’s in-house A&R team at American Recordings, while also establishing American Songs Publishing. Together, they have been involved in discovering, signing, and developing artists across multiple genres, including Run the Jewels, Kaytranada, Turnstile, BROCKHAMPTON, Freddie Gibbs, Jean Dawson, Charley Crockett, Colter Wall, Marcus King, and Julia Wolf.
Their work with Rubin has also included contributions to projects involving Tyler Childers, The Strokes, and beabadoobee, among others. Their combined experience encompasses artist management, recorded music, publishing, and creative production, with an emphasis on identifying artists with distinct musical identities and supporting their long-term development.
Beyond their work in recorded music, Goldberg and Heymann served as executive producers of Showtime’s Shangri-La, the documentary series examining Rubin’s creative process and his Malibu recording studio. The pair have also helped manage and book the studio for the past 15 years, collaborating closely with artists, producers, and creative collaborators.
The MUSEXPO discussion will examine their approach to identifying and developing talent, the role of A&R in shaping artists’ careers, and how creative partnerships are maintained in an industry increasingly influenced by streaming platforms, data analytics, and changes in music consumption. The conversation will also address the relationship between artist development, publishing, and recorded music, drawing on their experiences working across different genres and stages of artists’ careers.
Moderating the conversation, Sat Bisla brings over four decades of international A&R, artist development, and music industry experience. Through A&R Worldwide and its broader industry activities, Bisla has been involved in the early discovery, development, or U.S. and global support of artists including Coldplay, Adele, Muse, Katy Perry, Dido, LMFAO, Sheppard, Lily Allen, Keane, Forest Blakk, Gavin James, Bonnie McKee, and countless others. His work has connected emerging artists and their representatives with record labels, publishers, managers, booking agents, sync placements, and media platforms across global markets.
The Goldberg and Heymann interview will be presented alongside other A&R-focused programming at MUSEXPO 2027, including a keynote conversation featuring Zane Lowe, Global Creative Director at Apple Music, and iconic U.S. music executive and A&R visionary Daniel Glass, Founder & CEO of Glassnote Entertainment Group.
In addition, a keynote interview with one of the U.K.’s leading A&R and music executives Ben Mortimer who has worked with Sam Fender, HAIM, James Blake, Lana Del Rey, Ellie Goulding, The 1975, Olivia Dean, Florence + The Machine, Michael Kiwanuka, and many others.
The series forms part of A&R Worldwide’s 25th anniversary activities, recognizing the company’s work in international artist discovery, development, and connecting the global music business.
MUSEXPO 2027 will bring together A&R executives, record labels, music publishers, artist managers, producers, songwriters, distributors, digital, tech, media, booking agents, and other music industry professionals for four days of keynote interviews, panel discussions, networking, and artist showcases.
For more information, and to register to attend the event, visit www.musexpo.net.
HYBE AMERICAS LAUNCHES LATIN POP LABEL TRU RECORDS
HYBE AMERICAS has launched TRU Records, a new label focused on developing Latin pop talent for international audiences. Announced in Mexico City on October 26, the label’s first act is SANTOS BRAVOS, the Latin pop group formed by HYBE AMERICAS.
Alejandro Mejía has been named General Manager of TRU Records, where he will oversee the label’s artistic direction and business strategy. He has nearly 20 years of experience spanning A&R, artist development, marketing, sales, international repertoire, and commercial strategy.
The launch builds on HYBE Chairman Bang Si-Hyuk’s global vision of applying the company’s artist development model to Latin America. TRU will combine training, music production, creative development, and fan engagement to support artists in building long-term international careers.
SANTOS BRAVOS’ development is supported by HYBE’s Training & Development (T&D) program, which aims to strengthen artists’ creative identities and prepare them to connect with global audiences. TRU will also use HYBE’s Weverse platform to build digital communities and deepen relationships between artists and fans.
The label says its approach will pair internationally competitive production and specialized training with a commitment to preserving each artist’s individual identity and the cultural diversity of Latin America.
MARY J. BLIGE STRIKES DEAL WITH PRIMARY WAVE
Primary Wave Music has entered a partnership with nine-time Grammy Award winner Mary J. Blige covering her catalog of compositions and recordings. The agreement will also give Blige and her team access to Primary Wave’s marketing and publishing resources, with potential collaboration across music marketing, branding, digital initiatives, and sync licensing. Financial terms have not been disclosed, and the announcement did not clarify whether the deal includes an acquisition of rights.
The songs covered include “Family Affair,” “My Life,” “Mary Jane (All Night Long),” “You Bring Me Joy,” “Be Happy,” “Be Without You” and “I Can Love You.” Blige has sold more than 50 million records worldwide and released 15 studio albums. Her 2001 single “Family Affair” topped the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks, while “Be Without You” earned two Grammy Awards in 2007. Her 1994 album My Life was added to the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry in 2025.
“From the moment I heard ‘You Remind Me’ on NY’s KISS-FM, I became a Day 1 Mary J. Blige fan,” said Natalia Nastaskin, Primary Wave’s Partner, and Chief Content Officer. “For over 30 years, she has gifted the world with hit after undeniable hit and in the process has created the soundtrack of our lives. To partner with the Queen herself on her extraordinary catalog and her everlasting legacy is an honor for me and for our entire Primary Wave team.”
Blige was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2024 and received two Academy Award nominations for her work on the 2017 film Mudbound. Her Las Vegas residency, My Life, My Story, was launched at Dolby Live at Park MGM on May 1, with its 20-date run scheduled to conclude on February 20, 2027.
ROBERTO ANDRADE DIRAK PROMOTED TO PRESIDENT, WARNER MUSIC LATINA AND A&R, WM LATIN AMERICA
Warner Music Group (WMG) has promoted Roberto Andrade Dirak to the expanded role of President, Warner Music Latina and A&R, Latin America. Based in Miami, he will continue reporting to Alejandro Duque, President of Warner Music International, and will work with regional executives and local A&R teams to shape genre strategies, identify new market opportunities, and guide major artist signings.
Andrade has led Warner Music Latina for the past five years, overseeing artist signings, strategic partnerships, and talent development across the Latin music market, particularly in Puerto Rico and Colombia. Recent additions to the roster include Clarent, Aria Vega, Fanta Rosario, De La Rose, Kris R, Tury, Kybba, and Jombriel. He also moved Yami Safdie from Warner Music’s Southern Cone affiliate to Warner Music Latina to support her international growth.
Through the label’s Power Trap House initiative, Andrade has helped develop Puerto Rico’s emerging urban talent, including Clarent, De La Rose, Luar La L, Izaak, and Fanta Rosario, alongside Myke Towers. He has also backed Cuba’s reparto movement through signings of Dale Pututi and Nesty, while leading strategy for artists including Danny Ocean, Elena Rose, Blessd and W SOUND.
Roberto Andrade Dirak said, “I am deeply grateful for Alejandro’s continued support as we champion authentic talent, stay close to the culture, and trust artists early in their journeys. As Latin sounds redefine global music, our focus remains on building the regional foundation artists need to scale their careers worldwide.”
Alejandro Duque added, “Roberto’s grasp of Latin culture and its rich musical diversity, combined with his relentless creative drive, has been instrumental in taking Warner Music Latina to unprecedented heights. As President of Latina & Latam A&R, his expanded scope will allow him to champion our incredible artists across the entire region and amplify their impact, so I’m thrilled to continue partnering with him as we embark on this next chapter of growth.”
WME HIRES MUSIC AGENTS ALEKS LJUBOJEVIC & SOPHIA SIMON
WME has appointed Aleks Ljubojevic and Sophia Simon as agents within its contemporary music division, strengthening its international and electronic music operations.
Ljubojevic joins the agency from Amsterdam-based Ace Agency, where he represented artists including Martin Garrix, Sam Feldt and Don Diablo. He will also bring electronic artist and producer Steve Angello to WME for representation in Europe for his solo career. Based in London, Ljubojevic will focus on developing the agency’s electronic music roster and creating opportunities for emerging and established artists. He will report to Stephanie LaFera, WME Partner and Head of Electronic Music.
Simon joins from So.Connected, the agency she founded in 2024 to develop international artists and music projects in Brazil. Her work there included collaborations with Martin Garrix, Ne-Yo, Jason Mraz, Ultra Records, Maddix, Sean Paul, Alesso, and Soulja Boy. She previously co-managed Brazilian singer-songwriter and actress Giulia Be and held a day-to-day management role at Milk & Honey.
Based in Spain, Simon will report to Rob Markus, WME Senior Partner & Head of International for Contemporary Music.
“Aleks and Sophia both have strong histories of developing talent, building international touring businesses, and creating opportunities for artists across key markets worldwide,” said Kirk Sommer, Global Head of Music at WME. “The future of music is global, and their additions to our team continue to strengthen WME’s position as the leading agency for long-term global success.”
Each week, A&R Worldwide shares a snapshot of creatives and executives that we have collaborated or worked with in various music markets around the world, albeit in recent or previous times!
Sat Bisla (President & Founder, A&R Worldwide / MUSEXPO) moderated a high-level music industry panel at this year’s BIME in Bilbao, Spain, examining the growing influence of emerging and expanding music markets worldwide, particularly India, South Asia, Latin America, and Spanish-speaking territories. The discussion brought together four international industry leaders to explore how regional talent, streaming growth, cross-border collaborations, and evolving business models are reshaping the global music ecosystem.
Carlos Abreu (Agent, Music, United Talent Agency – UTA) has established himself as an influential figure in international live music and touring, representing, and working with globally recognized artists including Bad Bunny, Rosalía, Joey Valence, and many others. With experience connecting artists to audiences across international markets, Abreu brings valuable insight into how touring strategies, cultural relevance, and regional demand are creating new opportunities for artists beyond their home territories.
Noemí Planas (CEO, Worldwide Independent Network – WIN) plays a significant role in advancing the interests of the global independent music community. Through WIN, Planas works with independent music trade associations and companies across multiple territories, advocating for fair market access, equitable commercial practices, and stronger international collaboration. Her leadership highlights the increasingly key role of independent labels in developing local talent and connecting regional music ecosystems with global audiences.
Juan S. Arenas (President, Global Label Services, HYBE) brings extensive international music industry experience to one of the world’s most prominent entertainment companies. Working at the intersection of label services, artist development, and global expansion, Arenas focuses on building the infrastructure and partnerships that help artists reach audiences across borders. His perspective reflects the growing importance of localized strategies, international collaboration, and scalable artist development in today’s interconnected music marketplace.
Tarsame Mittal (Founder, TM Talent & TM Ventures, India) has been a significant force in India’s rapidly expanding music and entertainment industry, building businesses spanning artist management, live entertainment, and strategic ventures. Having managed Badshah (India’s most popular and influential rapper), and Arijit Singh, the world’s most-followed artist on Spotify, Mittal brings firsthand experience in developing major South Asian talent and navigating India’s evolving music economy. His work underscores the increasing international influence of Indian artists, audiences, and entertainment businesses. Mittal is also the founder of India’s most important and impactful music business conference and showcase event – All About Music).
BRUVVY
Miami-born alternative rock outfit Bruvvy are making some serious noise with their explosive single “Little Shiva,” featured on the EA Sports FC 27 soundtrack. The track has quickly become the game’s breakout hit, sitting at No.1 on its official Spotify playlist and leading soundtrack tracks in performance with a global audience. Already surpassing 250,000 Spotify streams and climbing, “Little Shiva” is introducing Bruvvy’s unapologetically loud, grunge-meets-punk sound to a whole new audience. Their growing online presence is just as impressive, with social clips generating millions of views, some topping ten million. What started as a joke between friends in Miami in 2019 has turned into something much bigger. Fronted by Liz Varnum alongside Paula Bunich, Nelson Gonzalez and Juan Cabrera, Bruvvy built their reputation on chaotic energy, raw guitars, and a healthy disregard for playing it safe. Named Best Emerging Act by the Miami New Times, the band has developed a fiercely engaged following. Their music is also finding a major audience through gaming, with “Devour” featured on the Madden soundtrack and enjoying a 408% streaming increase following the game’s August release. Now based in Los Angeles, Bruvvy are entering an exciting new chapter. They have signed with WME, with a global tour announcement on the horizon, while growing industry interest continues to build around the band. With major gaming placements, serious streaming momentum, and a live show built to make an impact, Bruvvy are proving that what began as a one-off gig between friends has become something worth paying attention to. Listen to “Little Shiva” HERE, and contact A&R Worldwide, as Bruvvy is available for label, sync, and festival opportunities.
ANE BRUN
Norwegian singer, songwriter, and producer Ane Brun has a knack for making emotionally complicated songs sound effortlessly beautiful, and her latest single and video, “Hold Me,” is no exception. Co-written and produced with fellow Norwegian artist ARY, the track blends Brun’s unmistakable vocals with elegant electronic textures, exploring two lovers caught in that all-too-familiar place where neither wants to leave, but neither quite knows how to stay. The accompanying video brings that push and pull to life through dance, beginning with two performers locked in an embrace before their movements become increasingly expressive and intense. “Hold Me” is taken from Brun’s new album, I Thought We Were The Same, arriving November 6th. She also offers another intriguing taste of the record with “Eat the Fruit,” a collaboration with Norwegian electronic duo Röyksopp. Dark, hypnotic, and surprisingly liberating, the track explores the restless feeling of wanting more from life while struggling to take the steps to get there. It is a striking meeting of Brun’s emotionally rich songwriting and Röyksopp’s distinctive electronic sound, bringing a fresh, dancefloor-ready dimension to her music. For more than two decades, Brun has carved out a remarkable independent career as a songwriter, producer, and founder of her own label, continually evolving without losing the voice and emotional honesty that make her music so distinctive. With collaborations spanning ARY and Röyksopp, I Thought We Were The Same finds her embracing new sounds and creative possibilities while staying true to what she does best: making music that connects on a deeply human level. Experience the video for “Hold Me” HERE, and contact Amit Kumar for additional information on Ane Brun.
“PASSPORT APPROVED” PLAYLIST FOR Sunday, November 1st, 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.
BALU BRIGADA – “BedHead” (Warner Music, Australasia)
CHLOE QISHA – “Baby Girl” (Columbia Records, U.K.)
MUSTBEJOHN – “Get the Time Back” (Unsigned, U.K.)
NOTHING BUT THIEVES – “Baby Kool” (RCA, U.K.)
ANE BRUN – “Hold Me” Featuring Ary (Balloon Ranger/BMG, Norway)
LEONIDEN – “Choking on Dirt” (Vertigo Berlin, Germany)
MEEK – “Expensive Taste” (BMG, U.K.)
SHAG ROCK – “Francesca” (Airlock Records, Australia)
THE CLOCKWORKS – “Magnificent Seven” (V2 Records, Ireland)
ANNA LILLE – “That’s A Year” (Propeller Recordings, Norway)
DECO – “You’re So Beautiful” (Modern Sky Records, U.K.)
GIANT ROOKS – “Slow Dance (For A Minute)” (Vertigo Berlin, Germany)
KARIN ANN – “I Can’t Trust Your Eyes” (3AM Records, Slovakia)
TEMPLES – “Horizon” (V2, The Netherlands)
D’MASIV – “Till We’re Old” (Unsigned, Indonesia)
STAND ATLANTIC – “LUCID” (Virgin Music, Australia)
SHOBSY – “Royalty” (SO Recordings, Ireland)
THE TULLAMARINES – “Flight Path” (Unsigned, Australia)
GRACE CARTER – “Party Baby” (United Masters, U.K.)
JUNIOR VP – “Red Cardigan” (Unsigned, Scotland)
DONKEY KID – “Suburbs” (Donkey Dub Records, Germany)
MONTANA CHANEL – “Ride or Die” (Unsigned, U.K.)
THE CHEAKS – “Situation Lost Control” (Unsigned, Australia)
JERUB – “Forever Right Now” (Elevate Music, U.K.)
CASSIA – “For You I Had a Feeling” (Love Sundays/Universal Music, U.K.)
OVERPASS – “Fall in Love” (Communion Records, U.K.)
DAVE LOFTS – “I’m All Yours” (B-Unique, Ireland)
SAINT CLAIR – “Something to Be Said” (Black Butter Records, U.K.)
GOOD NEIGHBOURS – “Superstar” (Polydor, U.K.)
UNPEOPLE – “Clouds” (SharpTone Records, U.K.)
BUDDUG – “Worn Out Body” (Côsh Records, Wales)
SPACEY JANE – “East Village” (AWAL, Australia)
CORELLA – “Thunder Strike” (Frontiers Label Group, U.K.)
AUSTRALIA’S PARCELS INK GLOBAL PUBLISHING AGREEMENT WITH BMG: BMG has signed a global music publishing agreement with Australian-born band Parcels, whose catalog has accumulated more than 1.5 billion streams worldwide. The five-piece, comprising Anatole Serret, Jules Crommelin, Louie Swain, Noah Hill and Patrick Hetherington, formed in Byron Bay before relocating to Berlin in the mid-2010s. Their international breakthrough came with 2017’s “Overnight,” co-produced by Daft Punk. The agreement was led by Jasper Niebuhr, Managing Director, GSA, working alongside BMG’s publishing teams across Europe, the U.K., North America, and Australia, with contributions from Alistair Norbury, Monti Olson, and Heath Johns. Parcels released their third studio album, LOVED, in 2025, followed by performances at Coachella and a sold-out international arena tour across Europe, North America, and Australia. Tour highlights included Paris’s Accor Arena, Berlin’s Max-Schmeling-Halle, New York’s Forest Hills Stadium, two nights at Red Rocks Amphitheatre and two performances at the Sydney Opera House Forecourt. Members of the band have also launched a new project, Dream Boat, which released its debut single, “Real!,” on October 21.
ENGLAND’S LONELY THE BRAVE SIGN WITH EASY LIFE RECORDS: Cambridge, England-based alt-rock band Lonely The Brave (LTB) have signed with Easy Life Records. Their latest single, “So Nearly,” was released on October 27th and is the band’s first new music featuring original vocalist Dave Jakes in more than a decade. Produced by Mark Roberts, whose credits include Black Peaks, Jamie Lenman and Delta Sleep, the track received its world premiere on BBC Radio 1’s Rock Show on October 26. Lonely The Brave previously reached the UK Top 20 with their 2014 debut album, The Day’s War. Follow-up releases Things Will Matter peaked at No. 35, while 2021’s The Hope List reached No. 73 on the U.K. Albums Chart. The band has also announced a short U.K. headline tour for May 2027, with Other Half supporting across all dates. Co-Manager Sam Coare said, “Lonely The Brave has forever been a band built on passion, and the foundations for today are no different. Passion for the music they made, and the desire to rekindle the bonds they shared with one another, is what led to the reuniting of the band’s original line-up. Passion is what brought me and Matt, both of us fans from the band’s earliest days to desire to work with them. And passion for the project is exactly what makes Jamie, Mark, and Jordan at Easy Life the perfect partners. There is no one involved in this new era – including our wonderful agent Steve Zapp and Danielle Reginiano at ITB – who isn’t here first and foremost for the pure love of the band. It could and should be no other way.”
BELIEVE NAMES MEL CURLEY AS GLOBAL HEAD OF EDITORIAL & MARKETING PARTNERSHIPS: Believe has appointed Mel Curley as Global Head of Editorial & Marketing Partnerships, based in New York City. She will report to Chief Marketing Officer Darya Pourshasb and lead the company’s global strategy for editorial and promotional partnerships with digital platforms. The role will focus on expanding platform relationships and developing new opportunities to support artist and label growth across Believe’s Artist Services, Label & Artist Solutions and TuneCore businesses. The appointment forms part of Believe’s “From Access to Success” strategy, which aims to combine technology, data, and global marketing capabilities to strengthen artist development. Curley joins Believe from Amazon Music, where she served as Global Head of Independent Label Relations, overseeing relationships with more than 350 independent distributors, labels, and artists worldwide. Previously, she held senior roles at Arista Records, leading commerce and marketing, and Sony Music Entertainment, where she worked in commercial business. Darya Pourshasb, Chief Marketing Officer at Believe, said, “As competition for audience attention intensifies, our ability to connect artists and labels with fans across digital platforms has never been more important, which is why editorial and marketing partnerships are a key pillar of our music marketing strategy. Mel brings an exceptional combination of DSP expertise, music industry experience, and strategic vision.”
FRONTIERS LABEL GROUP LAUNCHES NOIUS PLATFORM WITH X AMBASSADORS: Frontiers Label Group (FLG) has launched NOIUS, a new artist partnership platform focused on rock, metal, and alternative music, with X Ambassadors as its first signing. The band released new music through FLG Records, with the single “Y.O.T.H. (Year of The Horse)” on October 30. Launched as Frontiers celebrates its 30th anniversary, NOIUS is designed to offer a flexible, artist-focused approach to partnerships. The platform aims to provide acts with meaningful investment and international support while allowing them to retain ownership, creative control, and flexibility. X Ambassadors, who have more than nine million monthly listeners on Spotify, will lead the launch of the initiative. Serafino Perugino, President & CEO of Frontiers Label Group, says the name “reflects the philosophy behind the platform: moving beyond the traditional divide between artist and label and creating an ‘us.’ It is built around partnership, alignment, and shared success – artists and labels working together with the same ambition. For me, the most important part of NOIUS is US. I wanted to move away from the traditional idea of an artist on one side and a record company on the other. NOIUS is about sitting on the same side of the table. We invest together, we build together and if we succeed, we participate in that success together. That is what the name represents and ultimately what I want NOIUS to become.”
DENMARK’S LEGO GROUP PARTNERS WITH FRANCE’S DAFT PUNK: The LEGO Group has announced a partnership with Daft Punk, with the first release set to recreate the pyramid stage from the French electronic duo’s 2007 Alive tour. The collaboration will extend across products, content, and brand experiences, with further releases planned for 2027. The set originated as a fan-designed model created by a father-and-son team from Luxembourg. Initially submitted to LEGO Ideas in 2020, it was resubmitted in 2024 as Daft Punk Concert and secured more than 10,000 supporters in April 2025, earning approval for official development. The announcement follows Daft Punk’s split in February 2021. “What makes this partnership so special is the enduring appeal both brands share,” said Julia Goldin, the LEGO Group’s Chief Product & Marketing Officer. “Like the LEGO brand, Daft Punk inspires generations through creativity, innovation, and a deep connection with fans. We are excited to build on these foundations to reimagine the Daft Punk legacy in a fresh and unexpected way, creating something unique that resonates with fans across all ages. This is just the beginning of a bigger journey – a creative collab made for fans ready to lose themselves to play.”
CANADA’S THIRD SIDE MUSIC AND KURT VILE EXPAND PUBLISHING PARTNERSHIP: Third Side Music (TSM) has signed a new long-term co-publishing agreement with Kurt Vile, expanding its representation of the singer-songwriter’s catalog following the release of his 10th studio album, Philadelphia’s Been Good to Me (Verve). TSM has administered part of Vile’s catalog since 2015, beginning with B’lieve I’m Goin Down…. Under the new agreement, the independent music publisher will represent his complete catalog, including his solo recordings and work with Kurt Vile and the Violators, as well as administer future compositions starting with Philadelphia’s Been Good to Me. Released in 2026, the album reached No. 4 on the Coalition of Independent Music Stores’ Top 100 chart for the week ending June 4. It has generated more than 15.6 million streams and over 30,400 album-equivalent units. Singles including “Rock o’ Stone,” “Zoom 97,” “Everytime I Look at You” and “Chance to Bleed” have received playlist support across Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and TIDAL. The album has also earned coverage from outlets including NPR Music, Pitchfork, The New York Times, Rolling Stone France, and BrooklynVegan. Vile’s recent North American tour supporting the release sold more than 35,000 tickets, marking the most successful North American tour of his career.
U.K. INDIE BUCKS MUSIC GROUP SIGNS NATHEN DURASAMY: Bucks Music Group has signed composer, producer, and artist Nathen Durasamy to a publishing agreement. Durasamy is one half of Rora And The Untamed, the duo he formed with Aurora Nishevci, a member of The Last Dinner Party. The pair released their debut album, Do You Like Me Now?, through Island Records on October 9, with Durasamy co-writing and producing the record alongside Nishevci. Alongside his work as an artist, Durasamy composes music for film, television, and video games. His recent projects include Piper de Palma’s feature Jane’s Bachelorette Weekend. He previously worked as a scoring assistant to Doctor Who composer Segun Akinola and contributed additional music to the Emmy-nominated BBC documentary Kingdom, narrated by David Attenborough. Durasamy also orchestrated The Last Dinner Party’s second album, From The Pyre, alongside Nishevci. His credits include arrangements performed at the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall in 2023 and the BRIT Awards in 2025, as well as orchestration work for Jax Jones. He has collaborated with several orchestras, including BBC NOW, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and Budapest Scoring, and has received awards including the Award of Excellence and the Daryl Runswick Orchestral Prize.
AEG PRESENTS PROMOTES CHRIS HAMMOND TO SR. VP OF PACIFIC NORTHWEST IN THE U.S.: AEG Presents has promoted Chris Hammond to Sr. Vice President of the Pacific Northwest. Based in Seattle, Hammond will report to Brent Fedrizzi, President of North American Regional Offices. Hammond joined AEG’s Las Vegas team in 2018 and most recently served as Regional Vice President of Talent in the city. Chris Hammond commented, “I am really excited for what lies ahead. The Pacific Northwest’s music scene speaks for itself…it’s globally recognized. And the live business is a critical part of that ecosystem. Add to that a new venue is coming online in Portland next year, and it is shaping up to be quite an exciting time for us. I cannot wait to dig in with the team and get to work.” Brent Fedrizzi added, “Chris has demonstrated that he is ready to take this next step with the company. Over the past eight years in Las Vegas, his results have consistently spoken for themselves, and he has shown an exceptional ability to cultivate strong artist relationships while helping to drive the business’s financial performance. I look forward to seeing the impact he will make in this expanded role.”
POSITION MUSIC SIGNS ARKAI TO A JV LABEL DEAL WITH LINDSEYSTOMP LABEL: Position Music has signed Grammy-winning string duo ARKAI to a joint-venture label deal with Lindsey Stirling’s LindseyStomp label. The agreement was facilitated by the company’s A&R rep Jake Versluis. The Juilliard-trained duo has built an international profile by combining classical instrumentation with contemporary influences, creating cinematic compositions suited to film, television, trailers, video games, and brand campaigns. Described as “Hans Zimmer meets 2CELLOS,” ARKAI has performed at events and venues including the Emmy Awards, GRAMMY Museum, NBA Finals, and Carnegie Hall, alongside appearances across Europe, Asia, and the US. Their second album, Brightside, won Best Contemporary Instrumental Album at the 2026 Grammy Awards. The duo will release a deluxe edition on November 13, featuring four new tracks, including “High Noon,” a collaboration with Stirling. ARKAI’s work extends beyond their recorded catalog, with collaborations spanning photographer David LaChapelle, Hollywood trailer production companies, award-winning producers, and touring artists including Stirling, Tony Ann (formerly co-managed by A&R Worldwide Founder Sat Bisla and Tileyard U.K.’s Head of A&R Cathy Mathaone when he was in the alt-pop band The Swoons), and Jon Batiste.
EMPIRE MAKES SENIOR APPOINTMENTS IN NEW YORK OFFICE: Empire has appointed Leesa Brunson-Boland as Sr. Vice President of A&R Operations and Bina Fronda as Sr. Vice President of Marketing, both based in the company’s New York office. Brunson-Boland will lead operational strategy across Empire’s A&R department, overseeing workflows, supporting A&R teams, and improving collaboration across the business. She joins from 300 Entertainment, where she served as Head of A&R Operations, following nearly 20 years at Def Jam Recordings. During her time at Def Jam, she collaborated with artists including Rihanna, Jay-Z, and Justin Bieber. Fronda joins Empire from Ultra Records, where she was Vice President of Marketing and worked with artists including Steve Aoki, Sofi Tukker, and Benny Benassi. In her new role, she will help guide marketing campaigns across the company’s roster, with particular emphasis on dance, pop, and mainstream artists. The appointments strengthen Empire’s senior leadership as the company expands its roster across genres and international markets. “I have known Leesa for over 20 years and her commitment to artists and her operational expertise is going to be invaluable to our artists and to our team as we expand the scope of the A&R team’s mandate,” said Tina Davis, President, Empire.
CHRIS YOUNG SIGNS WITH UNITED TALENT AGENCY: United Talent Agency (UTA) has signed Grammy-nominated country singer-songwriter Chris Young for global representation across all areas, including live touring, media, filmed entertainment, and brand partnerships. Young first gained national attention in 2006 after winning the television competition Nashville Star, releasing his self-titled debut album later that year. Since then, the multi-platinum artist has scored hits including “Getting’ You Home,” “I’m Comin’ Over” and “Famous Friends.” His latest album, I Didn’t Come Here to Leave, released in 2025, has generated more than 80 million global streams. A CMT Award winner and member of the Grand Ole Opry, Young is currently touring with “An Acoustic Evening” before launching his “An Acoustic Christmas” trek. His career also includes collaborations with Miranda Lambert, Jon Pardi, Ashley McBryde, and Scotty McCreery, alongside headlining shows across the US. “Chris is a world-class singer, songwriter, and live performer,” UTA Agent Brian Hill said. “We are excited to welcome him to the UTA family, and we look forward to building upon the incredible foundation he has already established. This is only the beginning!”
DISTILLER RECORDS AND SPEEDY WUNDERGROUND ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP: Independent labels Distiller Records and Speedy Wunderground have entered a new partnership, launching with the joint release of Heartworms’ latest single, “Guess I’m Stuck in The Dark.” The agreement will allow Speedy Wunderground to maintain full creative control over its A&R and production, while accessing Distiller Records’ marketing, distribution, and operational resources to expand the reach of its artists. Founded by producer Dan Carey, Speedy Wunderground has established itself as a platform for emerging guitar and alternative acts, helping introduce artists including Black Country, New Road, Squid, Black Midi, and English Teacher. Distiller Records, whose roster includes Blossoms, Reverend & The Makers, Yonaka, Sports Team and The Ramona Flowers, will provide the infrastructure to support the development and wider promotion of Speedy Wunderground’s roster. “I’ve always loved what Dan and the team at Speedy Wunderground have built, it’s a respected label brand that is the very definition of creative integrity and credibility,” said James Moodie, Managing Director at Distiller Records. “This partnership is about giving each artist a bigger platform, deeper resources, and the backing to push their incredible talents even further.”
BRITAIN’S ABSOLUTE LABEL SERVICES SIGNS ALT BLK ERA: Absolute Label Services has signed U.K. duo Alt Blk Era, the sister act comprising Nyrobi and Chaya Becket-Messam, to provide label services for a series of upcoming releases on their own imprint. Known for combining electronic music with rock, alternative pop and drum & bass, the duo will receive support across digital and physical distribution, marketing, and project management. Alt Blk Era released their debut album, Rave Immortal, in January 2025. Their single “Run Rabbit” has surpassed eleven million Spotify streams, while the duo attracts more than 350,000 monthly listeners on the platform. Their recent achievements include winning Best Alternative Music Act at the 2025 MOBO Awards, being named BBC Introducing Ones To Watch and receiving recognition at the Music Week Women In Music Awards. They also represented the U.K. at SXSW, performed at festivals including Glastonbury, Reading & Leeds, Download and Sziget, and supported Pendulum on its U.K. and European tour. Their forthcoming music, recorded with international collaborators, will arrive through the remainder of 2026 and into 2027. The first release, “Okay! Okay!,” features Japanese rapper and singer Novel Core, with a further track featuring a prominent South Korean artist scheduled for January.
U.S. MUSIC ATTORNEY JOSEPH DUTHIE JOINS ROTHENBERG, MOHR & BINDER, LLP AS NEW PARTNER: Rothenberg, Mohr & Binder LLP (RMB) has promoted Joseph Duthie to Partner, as the firm continues to expand its presence and transactional work across its New York and Beverly Hills offices. Based in New York, Duthie joined RMB in 2021 and advises clients on a range of music-industry transactions spanning recorded music, music publishing, touring, brand partnerships, and catalog deals. His clients include Gunna, LISA, Marshmello, Jon Bellion, Charlie Puth, and TDE Top Dawg Entertainment. Duthie has also taken on a leading role within RMB’s senior team handling catalog sales, overseeing several of the firm’s high-profile transactions in the sector. His client roster additionally includes Lavoro Media Group, the new record and publishing venture launched by Matt Maschi and Louis Coppola, alongside recording artist and producer Kurtis Wells, recording artist Harvey Brittain and producer Hamish. Duthie earned his Juris Doctor from Brooklyn Law School. Founding Partners Paul Rothenberg, Jeremy Mohr and Josh Binder said jointly, “We are excited to welcome Joe to our partnership. Joe is a tireless attorney with an instinct for the deal. Beyond first-rate legal work, he has invested himself in the operations and growth of our New York office. We look forward to more success alongside him and the incredible group of partners, associates, and colleagues at RMB.”
RUNNER MUSIC ANNOUNCES SLATE OF NEW SIGNINGS: Runner Music has expanded its roster with the addition of five artists and producers: John Hill, Christina Perri, Rami Yacoub, Kevin Garrett and Jonah Abraham, bringing together a group of established songwriters, producers and recording talent with credits across pop, rock, hip-hop and alternative music. John Hill joins the roster with a production and songwriting catalogue that includes work with Portugal. The Man, Rihanna, Shakira, Cage the Elephant, Charli XCX, and Slayyyter. His credits span multiple genres and include collaborations with artists across the international pop and alternative music markets. Christina Perri, known for her career as a recording artist, also joins Runner Music. Perri is best known for songs including “Jar of Hearts” and “A Thousand Years,” which have helped establish her as a recognized name in contemporary pop. Rami Yacoub brings an extensive track record in international pop, with credits involving Britney Spears, One Direction, Nicki Minaj, Lady Gaga, and Ariana Grande. His work across major pop releases has connected him with some of the genre’s most prominent artists. Kevin Garrett joins with songwriting and production credits for Beyoncé, Mumford & Sons, and Gigi Perez. His work spans pop and alternative music, alongside his own career as a singer-songwriter and recording artist. Jonah Abraham adds a younger generation of hip-hop and contemporary artist collaborations to the roster, with credits involving 2hollis, Nate Sib, Playboi Carti, and The Kid LAROI. His work reflects a range of current sounds across hip-hop and emerging pop.
EUROPE’S FLORIAN PLAKOLM NAMED HEAD PROMOTER AT ARCADIA LIVE: Arcadia Live has appointed Florian Plakolm as Head Promoter, effective November 1, 2026, as the German Austrian concert promoter prepares for its next phase of development. Plakolm succeeds company founder Filip Potocki, who will remain Managing Director while shifting his focus toward the Polish business of parent company FKP Scorpio, part of the Eventim Live promoter network. Plakolm has worked as a booker at Arcadia Live for nearly five years, helping to shape its concert and festival portfolio. His responsibilities have included programming LIDO SOUNDS in Linz and Vienna’s METAStadt Open Air series. His booking credits span Austrian and international artists, including two sold-out Soap&Skin performances at the Vienna State Opera, alongside shows featuring Air, Blood Orange, Chet Faker, Babyshambles, Flo Rida, Garbage, Idles, Jungle, Khruangbin, Little Simz, Max Richter, Sofia Isella and Yung Lean. In his new position, Plakolm will lead the strategic development of Arcadia Live’s concert business. Founded in early 2015, Arcadia Live was established through a partnership between German promoters Four Artists, Chimperator Live, KKT and FKP Scorpio, together with Austrian full-service agency Arcadia.
PEERMUSIC ACQUIRES AUSTRALIA’S 120 PUBLISHING: Peermusic has completed its acquisition of Sydney, Australia-based music publisher 120 Publishing, adding approximately 5,000 works and 120,000 administered copyrights to its portfolio. As part of the transaction, 120 Publishing General Manager Karen Hamilton has been appointed Managing Director of Peermusic Australasia. She has more than 30 years of music industry experience spanning A&R, copyright, royalties, and licensing. Founded in 2009 by Tmrw Music Group CEO Tim McGee for Ministry of Sound Australia, now operating as Tmrw Music, 120 Publishing initially supported writers and producers working with the group’s labels. Hamilton joined the company in 2011 to lead its operations. The publisher specializes in dance and electronic music, connecting local songwriters, producers, and topliners with international artists. Its business also includes representing K-pop and J-pop writers and administering international catalogues across Australia and New Zealand. Mary Megan Peer, CEO, Peermusic, said, “The acquisition of 120 Publishing marks our continued investment in the Australasian market and repertoire. We are proud to steward a catalogue with such artistic talent and cultural importance, ensuring these songs and songwriters continue to find new opportunities globally. Ralph and I are thrilled to welcome Karen to the helm of Peermusic Australia. Karen’s deep expertise, industry leadership, and proven ability to build her writers’ careers both in Australia and internationally will be a great addition to Peermusic Australia.” Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
TOO LOST APPOINTS JAMES ROSENSTOCK AS CFO: Too Lost Music Group has appointed James “Jay” Rosenstock as Chief Financial Officer, bringing more than 25 years of experience across the media and technology industries to the New York-based music company. Rosenstock will oversee Too Lost’s global finance operations and work with the executive team on capital allocation and acquisitions as the company expands its distribution, publishing, and catalog businesses internationally. He most recently served as CFO of KKR-backed PlayOn Sports, having previously held the same role at Skillshare and Co-CFO responsibilities at ezCater. Across these businesses, he helped develop the financial planning, accounting, reporting, analytics, and information security systems needed to support growth and meet institutional investor requirements. Rosenstock also brings experience in the music business. Between 2002 and 2007, he worked in corporate development and mergers and acquisitions at Sony Corporation of America, contributing to the 2004 merger of Sony Music and Bertelsmann Music Group. He also supported Sony/ATV Music Publishing’s growth through catalog acquisitions. His wider career includes leading corporate development at Discovery Communications, where he helped oversee approximately $3 billion in international expansion investments, including the acquisition of Eurosport. He later served as President of VICELAND International and Executive Vice President, International at WWE, overseeing the company’s international operations.
MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT LEADERS JOIN CREATIVE COMMUNITY FOR PEACE’S 8TH ANNUAL ‘AMBASSADORS OF PEACE’: Creative Community For Peace (CCFP), the entertainment industry non-profit organization, held its eighth annual Ambassadors of Peace (AOP) event, recognizing five industry figures for their efforts to challenge hate and use arts and culture to promote understanding, unity, and positive change. This year’s honorees were KISS Co-Founder Gene Simmons; actress, producer, and writer Erin Foster (Nobody Wants This); Kevin Weaver, President of Atlantic Music Group; producer Lynn Harris (The Notebook, Se7en, Boogie Nights, King Richard and Clayface); and Ethiopia Habtemariam, President of Music at HYBE AMERICA. The event took place at the Beverly Hills home of Aton Ben-Horin, Executive VP of A&R at Warner Music Group and CEO of Plush Management. Tributes to the honorees were delivered by actress Shannon Tweed-Simmons, KISS Co-Founder Paul Stanley, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Keri Hilson, former Paramount Pictures Chair and CEO Sherry Lansing, producer Matti Leshem, and music executives Simon Tikhman and Carianne Marshall, among others. CCFP Chairman and Co-Founder David Renzer opened the evening by stressing the importance of prioritizing facts, context, and human dignity over misinformation and hatred. Executive Director Ari Ingel also highlighted the role of entertainment professionals in opposing discrimination, saying the industry must speak up when Jewish and Israeli creatives face exclusion. Each honoree addressed the audience about their commitment to peace and the responsibility that comes with having a public platform.
WARNER CHAPPELL MUSIC SIGNS GLOBAL DEAL WITH ÉTIENNE DAHO’S SATORI SONG: Warner Chappell Music (WCM) has signed a global administration and sub-publishing agreement with Satori Song, the publishing company of French singer-songwriter Étienne Daho. The deal was negotiated by WCM France President Matthieu Tessier and A&R Director Jérôme Brucker. It covers Daho’s 45-year catalog, spanning his 1981 debut album, Mythomane, through to Tirer la nuit sur les étoiles, released in 2023. The agreement includes more than 200 songs, encompassing Daho’s own recordings and compositions written for artists including Vanessa Paradis, Jane Birkin, Françoise Hardy, Dani, and Marianne Faithfull. Emerging in the early 1980s, Daho developed a distinctive sound blending French pop with British and American influences, including through his work with the late producer William Orbit. His catalog features songs such as “Week-end à Rome,” “Tombé Pour La France,” “Épaule Tattoo,” “Duel Au Soleil,” “Comme Un Igloo,” and “Le Premier Jour (Du Reste De Ta Vie).” His subsequent albums include L’Invitation, Les Chansons de l’innocence retrouvée, and Blitz. His 2023 album, Tirer la nuit sur les étoiles, featured a duet with Paradis on the title track. In 2025, Daho also co-wrote and produced Paradis’ album Le Retour Des Beaux Jours.
CREATE MUSIC GROUP NAMES HAYLEY SILVERTOWN CHIEF LEGAL AND BUSINESS AFFAIRS OFFICER: Create Music Group has appointed Hayley Silvertown as Chief Legal and Business Affairs Officer, bringing her into the company’s senior leadership team. Based at the company’s Hollywood headquarters, Silvertown has more than a decade of experience advising businesses, investors and entrepreneurs on transactions and strategic matters, with a particular focus on the music industry. She has served as outside counsel to Create for more than three years, advising on major acquisitions and the company’s first institutional equity raise. In her new position, Silvertown will lead Create’s legal and business affairs operations and work with the executive team on strategic deals, investments, and partnerships. She comes from the law firm Paul Hastings, having previously held positions at Willkie Farr & Gallagher and Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton. Her experience also includes business affairs roles at ICM and Warner Chappell. Founded in 2015, Create Music Group operates labels, music catalogs, and creative businesses, combining proprietary technology, data analytics, digital marketing, and strategic investment. Its portfolio includes Broke Records, Monstercat, !K7 Music, Cr2 Records, and Mau5trap, the label founded by deadmau5. The company’s businesses retain operational independence while benefiting from the resources and reach of the wider Create platform.
JARED GUTSTADT’S AUDIO CHATEAU RECORDS SECURES UP TO $9 MILLION IN SERIES A FINANCING: Audio Chateau Records (ACR), the music and creator company founded by Jingle Punks Co-Founder Jared Gutstadt, has raised up to $9 million (USD) in Series A financing to support the next stage of its artist-development strategy. The company’s model combines traditional record-label services with content production and commercial partnerships spanning sports, brands, live entertainment, and media. ACR integrates audience development, content, and brand opportunities into an artist’s career from the outset. Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer Jason “Poo Bear” Boyd, known for his work with Justin Bieber, has joined ACR as a strategic advisor. Boyd has co-written three Billboard Hot 100 No.1 singles: Bieber’s “What Do You Mean?,” and the “Despacito” remix, as well as DJ Khaled’s “I’m the One.” Boyd and Gutstadt previously collaborated on the podcast series Bear and a Banjo, featuring a soundtrack produced by T Bone Burnett and a song with lyrics by Bob Dylan. The project received two Webby Award nominations in 2020, recognizing its writing and original music and sound design. “I’ve built a career working with some of the biggest hitmakers in music, and I fully believe Jingle Jared approaches the music business differently,” said Boyd. “He is not thinking about competing on the charts. He’s thinking about brand positioning and standing out in this very noisy marketplace. Together we can craft hits and create some noise for creators of the future. I am excited to be part of this next leg of the journey.”
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Anjula Acharia, Ann Kline, Jeffrey Azoff, Brandon Davis, Katie Romanovich, Mike Knobloch, Jeff Regan, Eugene Galuschenko, Gary Calamar, Anita Chinkes-Ratner, Bob Bowen, Trapper X, Jason Owen, Jody Gerson, and Ben Adelson.
