Charting the Future: Major Deals Reshaping the Global Music Landscape

BMG's Strategic Catalog Expansion: Honoring Musical Legacies

BMG has finalized its comprehensive acquisition of the publishing rights for blues icon John Lee Hooker, esteemed lyricist Hal David, and the historically rich ARC Music catalog. This strategic maneuver solidifies BMG's prominent role in preserving and promoting crucial works within American music history. The deal for the ARC Music catalog, initially involving a majority stake acquisition in 2016, now sees BMG gaining full ownership, building on a partnership that began in 2010 with Fuji Music Group.

The Enduring Influence of Hal David's Lyricism

The completed acquisition includes the full publishing interests of Hal David, a Grammy and Academy Award-winning lyricist whose contributions significantly shaped 20th-century music. David's legendary collaborations with Burt Bacharach and Dionne Warwick produced an array of timeless hits, including 'Raindrops Keep Fallin' On My Head,' 'I'll Never Fall In Love Again,' and 'What The World Needs Now Is Love,' among many others.

John Lee Hooker's Blues Heritage Under BMG's Wing

For the first time, the complete publishing catalog of the influential bluesman John Lee Hooker, a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, is now fully managed by BMG. This follows an earlier co-acquisition in 2022, in partnership with Fuji Music Group, from Hooker's estate, ensuring the legacy of songs like 'Boom Boom' and 'Boogie Chillen'' continues to thrive.

ARC Music: A Foundation of Blues, Pop, and Rock

BMG's latest acquisition also encompasses ARC Music, the esteemed publishing arm linked to Chess Records. Established in 1948 by Leonard and Phil Chess, ARC Music boasts an unparalleled collection of works from seminal artists such as Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, Howlin' Wolf, Muddy Waters, and Etta James, making it a cornerstone of blues, pop, and rock history.

Leadership Perspectives on BMG's Growth

Monti Olson, BMG EVP, Head of Publishing, North America, emphasized the foundational importance of these catalogs, stating that their timeless melodies continue to resonate globally. He highlighted that these acquisitions strengthen BMG's position as a steward of significant American music, dedicated to protecting and introducing these songs to new generations.

Michelle Branch Joins BMG's Recording Roster

Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Michelle Branch has entered a new global recordings agreement with BMG. This announcement coincides with the release of a fresh rendition of 'The Game of Love' and precedes her upcoming EP, 'Everywhere and Back Again,' which will feature re-recorded tracks later this year. Branch expressed her excitement about the partnership, citing BMG's palpable enthusiasm for her upcoming projects.

Michelle Branch's Enduring Impact on Pop-Rock

Jon Loba, BMG President, North & South America, praised Michelle Branch's ability to define a generation's pop-rock soundtrack. He affirmed BMG's commitment to supporting her as she reintroduces her music to both long-time fans and new audiences, recognizing the lasting appeal of her songwriting and vocal talent.

UTA Elevates James Wright to Co-Head of UK Music

UTA has announced the promotion of James Wright to Co-Head of its UK Music division, where he will co-lead the London-based team alongside Neil Warnock. Wright's impressive client list includes Lizzo, Take That, John Legend, and David Byrne. His elevation underscores UTA's investment in London as a strategic hub for its global touring ambitions and its dedication to maximizing opportunities for its artists.

Nice Life Welcomes Hank Heaven

Nice Life, the record label known for artists like The Marias and Lizzo, has signed singer-songwriter Hank Heaven. Described as a New York City trans nonbinary artist, Heaven's new EP, 'Welterweight,' produced by Phil Weinrobe, is scheduled for release on August 14. Heaven, who previously toured as a guitarist for several notable artists, debuted their first EP in 2022.

Warner Chappell Music Promotes David Goldsen

Warner Chappell Music has advanced David Goldsen to Executive Vice President of A&R, based in Los Angeles. He will continue to report to Ryan Press, President of North America, building on a 17-year career with WCM during which he has worked with artists such as Zach Bryan, Sleep Token, and Mitski.

Praise for Goldsen's A&R Acumen

Ryan Press lauded Goldsen's exceptional ability to identify emerging talent and guide artists toward significant cultural impact. Press highlighted Goldsen's keen instinct in spotting future trends and his consistent success in driving massive wins for the company's songwriters and team.

Reservoir Media Acquires Nacional Records Catalog

Reservoir Media has acquired the catalog of independent label Nacional Records and its publishing arm, Canciones Nacionales. The companies will also launch a joint venture to develop new recording artists and songwriters, marking a significant expansion for Reservoir in the Latin music market. Nacional Records, founded in 2005 by Tomas Cookman, has been a leading independent force in Latin music, featuring artists like Ana Tijoux and Bomba Estereo.

A Shared Vision for Music Industry Growth

Tomas Cookman expressed his long-standing admiration for Reservoir's achievements, noting a shared work ethic and passion for music that made the partnership a natural progression. Reservoir President and Chief Operating Officer Rell Lafargue affirmed Nacional's influence in the Latin market and its incredible catalog.

Sony Music Publishing Nashville Signs Kruse Brothers

Sony Music Publishing Nashville has inked a worldwide publishing deal with country duo Kruse Brothers, comprising Chandler and Miles Kruse. The duo gained recognition last year with 'White on the Ground' and released their debut album, 'Heartbreak & Honky Tonk,' in February. Tom Luteran, Vice President, Creative A&R, praised their exceptional talent, which immediately impressed the team.

Warner Chappell Nashville Partners with Jackson Wendell

Warner Chappell Nashville and Perfect Game Creative have signed a global publishing deal with emerging Texas singer-songwriter Jackson Wendell. Austen Adams, President, WCM Nashville, described Wendell as a rare talent with sharp songwriting and authentic storytelling, noting his ability to merge traditional country roots with a modern edge.

Sherrese Clarke Joins Black Music Action Coalition Leadership

Sherrese Clarke, founder and CEO of HarbourView Equity Partners, has been appointed to the Executive Leadership Council of the Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC). Clarke, who received BMAC's inaugural Harry Belafonte Change Agent Award in 2025, will advise on strategic priorities and initiatives to expand access and drive systemic change in the music industry.

A Champion for Opportunity and Change

Willie 'Prophet' Stiggers, BMAC Co-Founder, President & CEO, lauded Clarke's visionary leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to creating opportunities within the industry, emphasizing her profound impact even before her official council appointment.

Third Side Music and Sofi Tukker Deepen Partnership

Indie music publisher Third Side Music has formed a new publishing joint venture with electronic music duo Sofi Tukker (Sophie Hawley-Weld and Tucker Halpern) through their company, Animal Talk. TSM also extended its exclusive worldwide publishing administration deal with the duo, initially established in 2017, celebrating a decade of successful collaboration.

A Decade of Collaborative Success

Sofi Tukker highlighted the rarity of such long-term team collaborations in the music industry, expressing gratitude for Third Side Music's consistent support, especially in sync placements, which have significantly amplified their global reach. Brontë Jane, TSM's EVP of A&R, emphasized the duo's dedication to creative expression and longevity as artists.

Merlin Appoints Dan Nevin as VP of Industry Relations

Merlin, the global independent-music trade organization, has named Dan Nevin as Vice President of Industry Relations. Reporting to CEO Charlie Lexton, Nevin will oversee key strategic initiatives, including the global trade association sponsorship program and Merlin Engage, an executive development program for future female leaders in independent music.

Strengthening Global Connections for Independent Music

Charlie Lexton underscored the importance of strong global relationships for the independent sector, noting Nevin's role in ensuring independent voices are represented in shaping the future of music worldwide.

AEG Presents Expands Venue Development Team

AEG Presents has bolstered its Venue Development team with internal promotions and new hires. Cameron Marcotte has been elevated to Vice President, while Jake Hiersteiner and Mike Ryan are now Directors. Additionally, Alyssa Sarilarp joins as Senior Design and Construction Specialist, Will Evans as Senior Project Manager, and Marysol Flores as Administrative Assistant, reflecting the company's commitment to creating bespoke venues.

Crafting Unique Experiences for Artists and Fans

Colin Conway, SVP, Venue Planning, Acquisition and Development, emphasized the diverse perspectives within the team, from operations to design, which enable the creation of distinctive venues for artists and fans alike. AEG Presents operates a range of notable venues, including Brooklyn Steel and Mission Ballroom.

Artist Legacy Group to Represent Raul Malo Estate

Artist Legacy Group (ALG) has announced its representation of the Estate of Raul Malo, the acclaimed singer, songwriter, and frontman of The Mavericks. ALG will manage the estate's intellectual property rights, business interests, and archival assets, seeking opportunities for media projects, brand partnerships, and consumer products. Founder and CEO Ashley Austin expressed gratitude to the Malo Family and highlighted Raul Malo's unique ability to bridge styles and generations.

Preserving a Musical Icon's Legacy

Betty Malo, Executrix of the Estate, underscored the duty of preserving Raul Malo's musical and creative legacy. She emphasized that engaging Ashley Austin as estate manager ensures professional protection of his intellectual property and opportunities that honor his artistic vision and personal wishes.

River House Artists Launches The House Management

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, River House Artists has launched its management division, The House Management. Led by River House EVP Zebb Luster and founder Lynn Oliver-Cline, the roster includes Hudson Westbrook, Austin Snell, Kenny Whitmire, Tyce Delk, Matt Lang, and Christian singer-songwriter Chevas Phillips.

Empowering Artists with Trust and Vision

Zebb Luster expressed his excitement for The House Management, emphasizing its focus on artists and the trust they have placed in the team. He highlighted the team's ongoing inspiration from the artists' talent, work ethic, and vision.

Nvak Collective Promotes Hannah Hyman Bein

Nvak Collective, the management-label services-publishing company founded by Tamar Kaprelian, has promoted Hannah Hyman Bein to Director of Operations and Business Development. In her expanded role, she will continue to oversee company operations and support revenue growth, strategic partnerships, and artist initiatives across Nvak's global roster.

A Mind for Both Analysis and Action

Tamar Kaprelian praised Bein's integral role since the company's early days in 2020, highlighting her rare ability to work across various business aspects with intelligence, taste, and nerve. Kaprelian noted Bein's seasoned mindset, characterized by deep thought, quick action, and the unique gift of being both analytical and useful.

Alta Music Group Unveils Alta Publishing

Alta Music Group has announced the launch of its music publishing division, Alta Publishing, led by Zeb Berg. The new division debuts with the signing of producer/songwriter Elise Eriksen and Finnish singer/songwriter Alma, who joins through a new creative venture with Evan Baker's Silqscreen. Alta Publishing is supported and administered by Sony Music Publishing.

A Shared Vision for Modern Music Publishing

Jeremy Erlich expressed enthusiasm for launching Alta Publishing under Berg's leadership, aiming to collaborate with top songwriters and producers globally. Evan Baker shared a vision for the future of publishing, focusing on supporting talented individuals in both established and developing markets, with a commitment to building something truly unique for artists.

Music Venue Trust Appoints Chris Hurne

Music Venue Trust (MVT) has appointed Chris Hurne as its new Head of External Affairs, based in London. Hurne brings extensive experience from government policy, international trade, science, innovation, and the creative industries. In his new role, he will strengthen relationships with government, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to support the UK's grassroots music venue network.

Advocating for Grassroots Music Venues

Beverley Whitrick, Music Venue Trust COO, emphasized Hurne's deep understanding of government workings and policy development. She highlighted his experience in fostering growth within the UK's creative industries and his knowledge of the music sector as invaluable assets in MVT's mission to protect and advocate for grassroots music venues facing significant challenges.