Executive Turntable
Looks like another Executive Turntable, Billboard’s weekly compendium of promotions, hirings, exits and firings — and all things in between — across the music business. First and foremost, our thoughts are with the family of Sound Talent Group (STG) owner Dave Shapiro, who was among those killed in a plane crash in San Diego early on Thursday (May 22). Two other STG employees were also killed, Billboard has learned, though they were not named in order to notify their families. More on this tragedy here.
Earlier this week, we revealed our annual list of executives driving success for artists outside the United States. With that…
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Big Loud Records elevated Tyler Waugh to senior vice president of radio promotion, effective immediately. A key player at the label for nearly a decade, Waugh has contributed to 30 No. 1 singles and helped deliver a historic add day with Post Malone and Morgan Wallen’s “I Had Some Help,” which earned support from all reporting country radio stations. Based in Nashville, Waugh was honored with the CRS Award for Director of National Promotion in 2023, and his team secured Country Aircheck’s Label of the Year for 2023 and 2024, as well as Billboard’s top Country Airplay Label. Before joining Big Loud in 2016, he held radio promotion roles at Blaster, Streamsound and Arista Nashville. EVP Stacy Blythe praised Waugh’s leadership and strategic vision in announcing the promotion. “The deep respect that he earns from the team speaks volumes,” said Blythe.
Warner Music Nashville made two moves within its radio promo teams. Paige Elliott has been hired as national director for the WEA Radio Promotion Team, bringing nearly two decades of experience, including her most recent role as Columbia director of promotion at Sony Music Nashville. She also held regional promotion roles at Capitol Records Nashville and Capitol Music Group. Elliott steps into the position previously held by Stephanie Hagerty. Additionally, Kayla Burnett has been promoted to manager of radio for the WMN Team. Since joining WMN as a coordinator in 2020, Burnett has played a vital role in crafting radio strategies at the label. The announcement was made by Kristen Williams, svp of radio and commercial partnerships. They can be reached at Paige.Elliott@wmg.com and Kayla.Burnett@wmg.com.
Audio Chateau Records, a division of Audio Up Media, appointed Grammy-nominated producer Poo Bear to its advisory board. Reuniting with Audio Up CEO Jared Gutstadt, Poo Bear will co-write and produce the debut album for Randy Savvy, frontman of the Compton Cowboys. Known for his work with Justin Bieber, DJ Khaled and Nicky Jam, Poo Bear has a longstanding creative partnership with Gutstadt, including projects like Bear and a Banjo, featuring Bob Dylan. Also joining the board is Nathan Miller, CEO of Miller Ink, to enhance brand and media strategy. Randy Savvy and the Compton Cowboys will debut their album — which they’re dubbing as “street country” — on June 6 at CMA Fest’s “Been Country: Black Roots in Rhythm,” celebrating Black country music and cowboy heritage. “Poo Bear is a generational talent, and his involvement will add fuel to Audio Chateau’s creative engine, elevating our label and roster of artists to a new level,” said Gutstadt. “We’re ready to debut a bold new sound with Randy and the Compton Cowboys’ album—one that will redefine the crossroads of country and hip-hop.”
Molly DeMellier is ready to shine as chief operating officer Sundaze PR, teaming up with founder and CEO Sarah Jackson to scale the agency’s operations across the US and UK. With a background at Acast, where she was marketing and PR director in the US, the NYC-based exec brings deep experience in audio and creator tech to support Sundaze’s mission of providing strategic communications for B2B companies in the creator economy. Sundaze, known for its story-driven PR approach, already serves clients like Adelicious, Slipstream and Wondercraft. DeMellier will focus on helping creator-tech brands craft purposeful communications strategies that elevate their impact in content and community. “This next chapter is about doubling down on what we do best,” says Jackson, who founded Sundaze after leaving her role as global head of PR at Acast. “There’s a huge gap in quality PR for this space, and we’re building an agency designed to fill it.”
NASHVILLE NOTES: BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville promoted Allan Geiger to senior director and Haley Wirthele to manager within the company’s content and creative department, both reporting to vp of global content creative Jen Morgan … Prescriptions Songs promoted Kelly White to A&R coordinator from assistant … Business management firm Harris, Huelsman, Barnes & Company made three staff moves, including the promotion of Amanda Goff to client manager from assistant. It also hired client manager Amanda Remo, who previously held the same role at Farris, Self & Moore, and junior business manager Ryan Spradlin, formerly of the Mechanical Licensing Collective … Nashville Public Radio named longtime public media executive Holly Kernan — ex-chief content officer at KQED/San Francisco — as its new president and CEO, succeeding Steve Swenson, and she will now oversee 90.3 WPLN News, WNXP 91.1 and Nashville Classical Radio.
Recognition Music Group, the Blackstone-owned catalog company formerly called Hipgnosis, launched a senior advisory group chaired by Matt Spetzler, former co-head of Europe for boutique investment bank Francisco Partners and now head of his own investment firm Jamen Capital. Top copyright and music assets lawyer Lisa Alter of Alter, Kendrick & Baron, and David Johnson, former Warner Chappell and EMI executive and Sony Music and Warner Music’s former general counsel, will also sit on the advisory committee. “We very much look forward to working with Matt, Lisa and David,” Recognition CEO Ben Katovsky said in a statement. “Their combined expertise and insight will be a powerful support as we continue to enhance and protect the legacy and value of the incredible songs in our portfolio.”
Berklee appointed Jonathan Mahoney as the new dean of its Pre-College, Online and Professional Programs (POPP) division, effective May 28. He brings nearly two decades of experience in EdTech, most recently serving as vp of online learning at the Recording Academy, where he launched GRAMMY GO — the organization’s first creator-to-creator learning platform. Before that, he spent over a decade at 2U, the technology and services provider behind edX. “Jonathan’s learner-first mindset and track record of scaling innovative programs align seamlessly with our mission,” said Debbie Cavalier, Berklee Online cofounder and CEO.
ICYMI:
Richard Grenell
Due to a prolonged delay in the reopening of Brooklyn Mirage, Josh Wyatt is stepping down as CEO of its parent company, Avant Gardner. In the interim, day-to-day operations will be overseen by Gary Richards, Avant Gardner’s non-executive chairman of the board … Live Nation elected Trump devotee Richard Grenell to its board of directors. Grenell was recently appointed to run the Kennedy Center following a shakeup. Live Nation, currently navigating an antitrust lawsuit brought by the DOJ, donated $500k towards Trump’s inauguration. [Keep Reading]
Last Week’s Turntable: Former BMG Exec Joins Armin van Buuren’s Armada
Following an extended delay in the reopening of New York club Brooklyn Mirage, Josh Wyatt will no longer serve as CEO of the club’s parent company, Avant Gardner, sources close to the situation confirm to Billboard.
Gary Richards, Avant Gardner’s non-executive chairman of the board, will manage day-to-day operations for Avant Gardner in the interim, effective immediately.
The leadership swap follows a turbulent few weeks for Avant Gardner, the company and events complex, and its flagship venue, Brooklyn Mirage. After an extensive remodel and much fanfare, the club was set to open on May 1 with a two-night run from hard techno producer Sara Landry. Those shows were both canceled by the club hours before they were set to begin, after building inspectors declined to grant the recently renovated facility a permit to open.
All subsequent shows at the venue have been canceled or postponed, with the club making a statement on social media earlier this week that read, “We’re sad to announce that our Brooklyn Mirage shows through Memorial Day weekend have been moved to dates in July and August.”
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As reported by Billboard earlier this month, sources monitoring the situation said Mirage officials were given a list of fixes that needed to be completed for the club to open following an extensive renovation at the venue complex Avant Garner, which includes the 80,000-square-foot, 6,000-capacity Williamsburg nightclub. Widely recognized as one of the top stops in New York for electronic and dance acts, the Mirage had operated for years with the support of New York Mayor Eric Adams, whose office has intervened on Avant Gardner’s behalf as part of an ongoing legal fight with New York’s State Liquor Authority.
The former CEO of NeueHouse, Wyatt was hired as Avant Gardner CEO last October. Richards, meanwhile, is a longtime dance industry figure who founded HARD Events in Los Angeles in 2007 (the company was acquired by Live Nation in 2012). He is also the former North American president of Live Style, the founder of the All My Friends and Friendship festivals, and has been a board member at Avant Gardner since 2024.
A representative for Avant Gardner did not immediately respond to Billboard’s request for comment.
Live Nation has elected acting Kennedy Center president and Donald Trump ally Richard Grenell to its board of directors, according to a recent disclosure from the Securities and Exchange Commission. Grenell was appointed to run the federally owned performing arts center in February following a Trump-led shakeup that saw the President appoint himself chairman of […]
Welcome to another Executive Turntable, Billboard’s weekly compendium of promotions, hirings, exits and firings — and all things in between — across the music business. Later, carve out some time today to peruse our annual list of the industry’s top whippersnappers (aka 40 Under 40).
Matt O’Neil is now chief marketing officer of the combined Legends + ASM Global. A seasoned sports and entertainment marketing executive, O’Neil joined Legends in 2022 as chief content & experience officer and has since led successful strategies that expanded the company’s client base and revenue. In his new role, he’ll oversee all marketing, creative, content and event initiatives, focusing on enhancing customer experience and driving growth. O’Neil previously held key leadership roles with the Dallas Cowboys and New York Red Bulls, where he developed fan engagement and branding strategies. His appointment follows Legends’ 2024 acquisition of ASM Global from AEG and Onex, forming a powerhouse that now operates iconic venues including Crypto.com Arena, Soldier Field, and AO Arena. CEO Dan Levy praised O’Neil’s expertise in fan experience and storytelling, saying his background “makes him the right person to shape our unified identity and help our clients thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.”
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Armada Music Group named industry veteran Maarten Steinkamp as interim president, a new gig designed to support the company’s next phase of growth. Previously serving as an interim board consultant, Steinkamp will now lead efforts to strengthen internal operations and prepare Armada for future expansion. He’ll report directly to CEO Maykel Piron and be based in the Netherlands. Steinkamp brings extensive global experience, having held top leadership roles at BMG and Sony BMG Europe, where he was president of BMG International and chairman/CEO of Sony BMG Europe. Founded in 2003 by Armin van Buuren, Maykel Piron and David Lewis, AMG encompasses Armada Music, BEAT Music Fund and Armada Music Publishing. Piron praised Steinkamp’s “leadership, strategic insight, and deep understanding of our industry,” adding, “with Maarten’s continued support, I’m confident we will unlock new opportunities together and take Armada Music Group to even greater heights.”
ALL IN THE FAMILY: Rolling Stone appointed Gus Wenner as executive chairman and Julian Holguin as CEO. Wenner, who has led the company since its 2017 sale to Penske Media, will now focus on strategic vision and new ventures. Under his leadership, RS expanded its digital presence, launched live events and film divisions, and earned prestigious awards, including National Magazine Awards and an Emmy. Holguin brings extensive experience from another Penske pub, Billboard, where he led major mergers and revenue growth across advertising, events and licensing. He also served as CEO of Doodles, a next-gen entertainment studio. As CEO, Holguin will oversee the brand’s business operations and report to Penske Media CEO Jay Penske. “Rolling Stone is poised for continued success leveraging Gus’ deep experience and vision for the brand and Julian’s keen business instincts and passion for innovation,” said Penske. “Rolling Stone will continue its rich legacy of world class journalism and culture shaping conversation while creating new avenues for growth” … Congrats to PMC vice chairman Gerry Byrne, who received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, an award recognizing individuals for their leadership and service across diverse fields.
Matt Harmon is the new head of rights development at Exceleration Music, an investment fund supporting indie music artists and labels. In this role, he will oversee label operations, A&R development, marketing and catalog growth across Exceleration’s portfolio, which includes +1 Records, Kill Rock Stars, Yep Roc, and more. Harmon brings over 20 years of experience from Beggars Group US, where he rose from Head of Sales to President, helping expand labels like Matador, 4AD, and XL Recordings. Exceleration Partner John Burk praised Harmon as the “perfect leader to guide and support our rights development activities,” while Harmon, a lifelong New Yorker based in Brooklyn, said he’s “energized by the opportunity.”
Rock Paper Scissors hired Adam McHeffy as the agency’s first-ever chief creative officer. He will lead a new initiative to expand RPS’s marketing and creative services, including advertising, artist collaborations, video production, and web development. McHeffey brings a strong track record from his time as CMO at Artiphon, where he led product launches, helped sell over 250,000 instruments, and raised more than $3.6 million on Kickstarter. He has also directed major marketing campaigns for innovative instruments like the Demon Box and MyTRACKS, and contributed to platforms like Musio and Feeture. His creative work spans brands such as Slack and Rivian. A singer-songwriter and children’s book author, McHeffey is praised by RPS CEO Dmitri Vietze as a top-tier music tech marketer. “Adam’s skills make him the marketing Swiss army knife every music tech company should have on hand and make our team a formidable force,” Vietze said. “Combining his marketing expertise with our PR strategy and placement creates exponential results for our clients.”
Andrew Farwell has been named president of Outback Presents, the independent live promoter. Formerly vice president, Farwell worked closely with founder and co-CEO Mike Smardak, helping produce thousands of concerts and events across the U.S. and Canada. Based in Nashville, Farwell’s promotion coincides with his recognition in Billboard’s just-released 40 Under 40 list. Farwell also serves as vp of the International Entertainment Buyers Association (IEBA) and is a 2023 Leadership Music alumnus. He previously won IEBA’s Rookie of the Year Award and has been nominated for promoter of the year. “We all have built something we are ALL incredibly proud of, and had fun doing it together,” said Smardak. “Andrew’s ethics and class are what I am most proud of. It is a great day for Outback Presents.”
NASHVILLE NOTES: The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum promoted Ed Schulte to senior director of facilities, operations and sustainability from director. He replaces Leigh Anne Wise, who is retiring after 41 years at the museum … Doug Montgomery, Townsquare Media‘s country format lead since 2017, will retire on July 31. He previously led country content and served as director of content in Grand Rapids. Prior to joining Townsquare, he spent over 20 years at iHeartMedia’s Country B93.7, where he was svp and format brand coordinator … and Empire Nashville svp of operations Heather Vassar parted with the company on May 2, six years after she joined the firm.
G Major Mgmt, known for a roster that includes ACM entertainer of the year winner Thomas Rhett, is bolstering its team. Led by founder/artist manager Virginia Bunetta, G Major Mgmt has added Emilie Gilbert as manager of insights & fan engagement strategy, and Madeline “Sledge” Lary as digital manager. Samantha Thornton has been promoted to senior director of marketing, while Harry Lyons has been promoted to senior director of business operations, leading G Major’s lineup of day-to-day managers, while leading touring and business expansion. Bunetta continues to guide the company, while also continuing management for Thomas Rhett. –Jessica Nicholson
Alternate Side has expanded its artist management team with key promotions and hires. Cory Hajde, a Clevelander who manages Hot Mulligan and Dayseeker, becomes the first partner outside the co-founders. He also leads BravoArtist and owns venues in Ohio. Mike Scrafford, based in Brooklyn, joins as a manager, bringing artists like Beach Bunny and Car Seat Headrest, and is known for his artist-first approach. L.A.-based Ally Ehasz, with the company since 2022, is promoted to manager, overseeing acts like Pastel Ghost. The company recently celebrated success with Sydney Rose’s viral hit “We Hug Now.” Co-founders Evange Livanos and Zack Zarrillo emphasized their commitment to intentional artist development. Founded in 2019, Alternate Side represents artists like Cavetown and Chloe Moriondo, continuing to grow with a DIY, artist-focused ethos.
Octavius “Doc Ock” Crouch launched Red Octave, an Atlanta-based R&D and label services company designed to streamline talent discovery and reduce risk for labels and investors. Leveraging proprietary software, automated outreach and deep data mapping, Red Octave delivers vetted, ownership-cleared artist opportunities. Operating like a real estate brokerage for music IP, it uses a commission-based model with no monthly overhead, in an appeal to catalog buyers and distributors. Beyond data, it offers full label services including marketing, tour support, and DSP distribution. Crouch aims to restore Atlanta’s music industry prominence by building infrastructure to match its creative talent. “We don’t just need reps—we need real estate from the majors,” he said. “It’s time to build the infrastructure to match the creativity. Red Octave is my blueprint to make that happen.”
Nice Life Recording Company promoted Becky Lopez to senior director of marketing and streaming strategy, recognizing her pivotal role in the label’s recent success. Becky joined Nice Life in 2021 and has led campaigns for artists like Lizzo, The Marías, and Tinashe — whose viral hit “Nasty” earned her first solo RIAA Gold certification. The Angeleno began her career at Power106 Los Angeles in 2014, rising from programming assistant to music director, where she supported artists like Cardi B and The Weeknd. She also contributed to programming at 93.5 KDAY and helped launch Cali 93.9. CEO Ricky Reed praised Lopez as a “driving force behind our growth for years. Her promotion… is a natural next step.”
PR firm Milestone Publicity rebranded as Milestone Collective, launching a new digital marketing division to accompany their existing publicity services. Leading the company’s new digital marketing efforts is Caylie Landerville, who previously was part of the team at Red Light Management/Silverback Music. Milestone was founded in 2019 by Mike Gowen and has worked with artists including Blues Traveler, Colt Ford, Bryan Martin, Jerry Douglas, Lonestar, Leftover Salmon, Michael Cleveland and more. –JN
Langham Hospitality Group appointed Andrew Grant as its first Group Director of Music, emphasizing the rising role of audio marketing in hospitality. With over 25 years of experience as a DJ, producer and event specialist, Grant will oversee the development of a global music strategy for Langham’s 40-plus hotels. His responsibilities include curating live performances, artist partnerships, and immersive soundscapes to elevate guest experiences and reinforce brand identity. Grant will also lead music programming and events, including special activations for Langham’s 160th anniversary, while continuing as director of music and radio at Eaton DC in the nation’s capital, where he’s based. Prior to joining Langham in 2019, Grant was a longtime talent buyer and producer for the Okeechobee Music and Arts Festival in Florida, and for years was a resident DJ at Ibiza’s DC10.
Industry veterans Alan Grunblatt and Dave Goldberg launched DNA MUSIC, a hip-hop entertainment company focused on signing talent, acquiring iconic catalogs, producing original TV content and distributing physical formats worldwide. Distributed by Hitmaker Distribution, DNA made a strong debut with Black Samson, the Bastard Swordsman by Mathematics and Wu-Tang Clan, which hit over 10 million streams in its first week. The label also found viral success with Eke’s “Ghetto” and is backing Memphis up/comer Flippa T.
ICYMI:
Jeremy Sirota
Merlin announced that Jeremy Sirota, the licensing organization’s CEO since 2020, is departing at year’s end … Candice Watkins is the new president of Capitol Records Nashville and executive vp of Capitol Christian Music Group … Verizon and Tyson Foods veteran Matt Ellis is the new chief financial officer of Universal Music Group. [Keep Reading]
Last Week’s Turntable: Country Hall Curator Retires After 51 Years
Jeremy Sirota will leave Merlin at the end of the year, the licensing organization announced on Tuesday (May 13).
Sirota has served as CEO since 2020, guiding Merlin as it steers digital music licensing for independent labels and distributors. During Sirota’s tenure, Merlin reached new deals with Apple, Audiomack, Canva, Peloton, Snap, Twitch and more.
In a statement, Darius Van Arman, who is both chairperson of Merlin and co-founder/co-owner of Secretly Group, called Sirota “an extraordinary CEO” who brought “great focus, tremendous energy and brilliant thinking to one of the most important and challenging roles within the independent community.”
“His work and leadership has Merlin more prepared than ever to manage an increasingly complex music licensing landscape and to achieve our mission of enabling greater independence for all Merlin members,” Van Arman continued.
In his own statement, Sirota called helming Merlin “the privilege of a lifetime.” He added that the organization continues “to be the most important organization representing independents” and that it “has a bright future.”
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Sirota previously worked as a tech lawyer before spending nine years at Warner Music Group and then jumping to Facebook Music.
That experience “gave me the ability to relate to people at different levels in the business, whether it’s a product manager at a digital platform, or an engineer who’s now a founder of a startup, or it’s a member who runs a metal label,” he told Billboard last year. “I’ve always been on the service side, and that’s always been the through line.”
During Sirota’s time as CEO, Merlin added over 100 members. In addition, the organization launched Merlin Engage, a program to mentor the next generation of women executives, and Merlin Insights, to help members analyze the deluge of data that’s available in world of streaming.
“We now have a data operations team to make sure that all trends data is being delivered in the right format,” Sirota explained in 2024. “Our market share on some of these platforms is significant — more than just the 15% we talk about. So we have this incredible wealth of data. We have the ability to pull out interesting stories that help our members — things they don’t know because they’re not on the ground.”
Candice Watkins has been named president of Capitol Records Nashville and executive vp of Capitol Christian Music Group.
Watkins’ new role comes as Capitol Music Group brings Capitol Christian Music Group (CCMG) and its country division, Capitol Records Nashville, under the Capitol Music Group Nashville umbrella. Artists who were previously signed to Capitol Records Nashville will remain at the newly formed Music Corporation of America (MCA) Nashville label.
Capitol Christian Music Group, which includes Motown Gospel and Tamla and distribution operations, will continue to be led by its longtime president, Nashville-based Brad O’Donnell, whowill continue to report to Tom March. CCMG is home to artists including Chris Tomlin, Anne Wilson, Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Josiah Queen; it also publishes the song catalog for gospel music luminary Kirk Franklin.
Watkins previously served as senior vp of marketing at Big Loud Records, working with artists including Morgan Wallen, HARDY, ERNEST, Stephen Wilson Jr. and Hailey Whitters. Prior to her work at Big Loud, Watkins served in marketing and artist development role at UMG Nashville and held positions at Red Light Management, Mozes Inc., Borman Entertainment and Cross Point Church.
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Capitol Music Nashville is located on Martin Street in the Wedgewood Houston area of Nashville in a 40,000-square-foot space that includes state-of-the-art recording studios, a live performance space and content studios. It will have the support of the Capitol Tower in Los Angeles for all label services.
“This reorganization reflects our commitment to growing our Nashville operations as a core creative hub in Christian, gospel and country music,” said Capitol Music Group CEO Tom March in a statement. “We’re looking forward to signing and developing the next generation of country artists on Capitol Records Nashville and are thrilled to have an executive of the caliber of Candice Watkins to lead our ambitious plans in country music while also bringing her expertise to our gospel and christian music operations.”
“This new structure will empower our Nashville executives to better serve the incredible artists on our roster. Candice is a brilliant music marketing executive who has an amazing track record in developing career artists,” said John Janick, chairman of Interscope Capitol. “Having her lead our country music business in Nashville and also add her extensive artist development expertise to our CCMG team is going to be great for our artists and for the entire executive team.”
Watkins commented: “It’s a true honor to step into the role of President of Capitol Records Nashville and EVP of Capitol Christian. These labels have a rich legacy in partnering with some of the most brilliant artists of our industry and I look forward to contributing to its continued success and cultural impact. Excited to collaborate with John, Tom, Lillia and Brad in boldly championing creatives and visionaries.”
It’s time to drop the needle on another Executive Turntable, Billboard’s weekly compendium of promotions, hirings, exits and firings — and all things in between — across the music business. There’s been quite a bit of staffing news this week, “Da Pope” included, so let’s get to it.
Downtown Music Publishing appointed Jason Taylor as vice president of business development, based in Los Angeles and reporting to chief creative officer Jedd Katrancha. Taylor, who brings prior experience from ICONOCLAST, Hipgnosis Songs Group and Big Deal Music Group, will focus on expanding DMP’s global roster, emphasizing legacy catalogs and B2B partnerships. Additionally, Bea Koramblyum was promoted to global head of business affairs and vice president of business development (GHBAVPBD for short), recognizing her role in strategic dealmaking and catalog growth. A newly appointed chair of the Music Business Association, Koramblyum has been key in deepening industry relationships. These appointments follow a strong year for DMP, including over 30 Grammy noms-noms and notable signings like Peso Pluma and Tori Amos. Katrancha praised both execs, saying “Jason brings a rare blend of creative instinct and commercial acumen, with a track record of cultivating long-term relationships and building enduring catalog value” and that “Bea’s expanded role is a reflection of the leadership and vision she has brought to Downtown for many years.”
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The change train keeps a-rollin’ at Audacy, with the departure of longtime chief technology officer Sarah Foss, effective May 2. Foss joined the company (then Entercom) in mid-2020 as chief information officer and helped guide the company through the pandemic. “We innovated. We cut costs. We modernized. We got scrappy. We held virtual planning events. We went back to the office,” she said in her announcement on LinkedIn. Taking over is Steve Rollins, reviving the CIO title, who will oversee all IT and technical operations at the radio and podcast giant. Rollins arrives from Gabstin LLC but he previously served as CIO of SESAC — where he worked with Kelli Turner, who replaced David Field earlier this year as Audacy’s president and CEO. The shakeup at Audacy has also seen the recent departures of CMO Paul Suchman (replaced by Jenny Nelson), COO Susan Larkin, chief digital officer J.D. Crowley, and general counsel Andrew Sutor (succeeded by Michael Dash).
Range Music launched a new composer division, expanding its music management services into film and television scoring. L.A.-based industry veteran Jeff Jernigan joins as the first hire, bringing a roster that boasts Steven Price (Gravity), Tom Howe (Ted Lasso) and Helen Park (KPOP). Jernigan, formerly with Kraft-Engel Management, will represent composers, music supervisors, songwriters and executive music producers, working alongside Leah Cook, Range’s vp of creative sync and strategy. Range already has a strong foothold in music supervision, with clients like Andrea von Forester (Yellowstone) and Jordan Carroll (Dear Evan Hansen), and Jernigan has worked with Range’s film co-presidents Fred Berger and Brian Kavanaugh-Jones on projects like La La Land and A Complete Unknown. “As the first hire for this division, Jeff brings with him a wealth of knowledge, an incredible roster, and vast experience working along our film division,” says Berger and RMP co-founding managing partner Matt Graham.
NASHVILLE NOTES: Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum curator of recorded sound collections Alan Stoker retired at the beginning of the month, exactly 51 years after he started with the institution. His audio preservation and remastering expertise has been applied to recordings by Hank Williams, Patsy Cline and Merle Haggard, among others … Prescription Songs promoted Kelly White to A&R Coordinator. Based in Nashville, she works with artists, songwriters, and producers across Atlanta, LA, and Nashville, including Big Boss Vette and Trent Dabbs. A Belmont University graduate, she recently organized a songwriting camp with Tay Keith’s Drumatized label and plans additional camps to support Nashville’s growing creative community … Christian imprint Centricity Music promoted five longtime team members to senior roles, including John Mays as president of A&R and Camy McArdle and Andrew Lambeth as co-GMs. John Stokes becomes svp of marketing and operations, and Chad Segura is now svp of publishing.
Reliant Talent Agency expanded its talent division with four agents. Scott Simpson has been named as head of talent, to lead Reliant’s Talent, Comedy, Unscripted Television and beyond. Also joining Reliant Talent Agency is Jonathan Perry, who will lead West Coast Talent, alongside talent agent Katie Edwards. Melanie Moreau will lead the Unscripted Department. Industry veterans, president Steve Lassiter and his partners Heath Baumor and Matt McGuire will lead the Nashville-based agency, which had a concentration in concert touring prior to this expansion. The new infrastructure will give the agency talent outposts in Chicago, Los Angeles, Nashville, New York and Tampa. –Jessica Nicholson
WME appointed Alexis Rosenberg as senior director of external relations in its Nashville office, a new role designed to enhance connections with the Nashville business and entertainment communities. Reporting to WME senior partners and Nashville co-heads Becky Gardenhire, Joey Lee and Jay Williams, Rosenberg will work with corporate communications and marketing to foster corporate partnerships, sponsorships and strategic relationships. She will act as a liaison across music, sports, and business sectors, boosting WME’s industry presence and client support. Rosenberg brings over a decade of experience in professional sports, including roles with the NBA’s Orlando Magic and Major League Soccer’s Nashville Soccer Club.
Ralph Torrefranca has been promoted to executive director of writer creative at Angry Mob Music Group, where he has been a key player since 2015. Torrefranca has significantly contributed to the success of hits like “My Fault” by Shaboozey and “She Likes It” by Russell Dickerson. He has also fostered the growth of writers and producers such as Bus and Bailey Bryan. In his new role, Torrefranca will continue to oversee the creative development of Angry Mob’s roster and expand his influence across company projects. He founded The New Normal, an inclusive writing camp that highlights underrepresented voices in music, with over 70% women participation and representation from over 10 cultural backgrounds. Torrefranca is based in L.A. and will continue to report to Angry Mob’s CEO Marc Caruso, who said “his ability to work with and develop relationships that reach the core of who our writers and artists are as humans and creatives is incredibly unique and unlike any other A&R in music publishing.”
RADIO, RADIO: Connoisseur Media acquired Alpha Media, forming a combined company under the Connoisseur name, led by CEO Jeff Warshaw. The new entity will operate 218 stations across 47 markets, covering 20% of the U.S., and rank among the top 10 U.S. radio groups by station count and revenue. The deal, subject to FCC approval, is expected to close in late 2025 … Hope Media Group promoted Jeff Evans to vp of radio, having joined as WayFM Network program director in July 2023. In his new role, he’ll oversee WayFM programming, all program directors, and the creative audio services department, enhancing talent development across the Houston media group’s brands, including WayFM, Vida Unida and the God Listens Prayer App.
444 Sounds, the label services and management firm founded by former HITCO marketing exec Joe Aboud, appointed Izzy Parrell as director of streaming and digital partnerships. Parrell will manage streaming and digital strategies, enhancing the firm’s focus on long-term artist development and fan engagement. Previously at Apple Music, she shaped the platform’s global editorial voice, specializing in viral and pop playlist curation. As part of Apple Music’s global programming team, Parrell worked on Apple Music’s Viral Hits playlist and contributed to the 100 Best Albums list. “I’m beyond excited to join 444 Sounds at such a pivotal moment.” said Parrell “This team is reshaping the future of digital strategy in today’s ever-evolving music landscape, and I’m honored to be part of a mission that champions creativity, culture, and community.”
Tresóna named Jann-Michael Greenburg as president of the specialty licensing company. Greenburg, who has served as vp of business affairs since 2017 and interim president since 2024, brings early-career experience as an analyst for Deloitte UK. Founded in 2009 and based in Scottsdale, Ariz., Tresóna uses proprietary technology to streamline music licensing, ensuring proper rights for performances and recordings. Mark Greenburg, Tresóna’s Founder and Chairman, praised Jann-Michael’s impact on the business and his commitment to fair remuneration for songwriters.
Dynamic Talent International further expanded its Nashville presence with the opening of its new office at 401 Commerce Street. The company has also hired Nashville-based agent Robert Baugh, who will work alongside fellow Dynamic Talent International representatives in promoting artists including Danielle Bradbery, Drew Green and Erin Kinsey. Dynamic Talent International has operated in Music City for the past decade and has been instrumental in the K-pop arena, helping P1Harmony become the first K-Pop act to play at the Grand Ole Opry and aiding K-Pop artists including Mamamoo. –J.N.
Alex Stolls is now partner at Boyarski Fritz LLP, a top music and entertainment law firm where he has worked since 2017. Specializing in entertainment and intellectual property law, NYC-based Stolls represents a high-profile roster that includes the Estate of Maurice White, Lil Kim, Will Smith, JISOO of BLACKPINK, and top producers like Louis Bell and Hit-Boy. He also serves as outside business affairs counsel for companies such as Create Music Group and BMG. His early career included roles at William Morris Endeavor and Cowan, DeBaets, Abrahams & Sheppard LLP. Founding partner Jason Boyarski praised Stolls as a “homegrown success story,” citing his strategic thinking and key role in the firm’s growth.
ICYMI:
Andrew Spencer
AEG promoted Katie Pandolfo from Dignity Health Sports Park to GM of Crypto.com Arena in L.A., effective June 1, succeeding Lee Zeidman … AEG also announced that Andrew Spencer has been named chief operating officer of AEG Presents Europe … EarthPercent, the Brian Eno-founded org taking on climate change, appointed five new U.S. board members … and Sara Nix and Joe Mortimer were named co-heads of creative at Capitol Music Group. [Keep Reading]
Last Week’s Turntable: New Head of Lumineers Label
EarthPercent, the organization co-founded by Brian Eno that works to take on climate change, has hired five new U.S. board members.
This group includes sustainability consultant and former vp of creative at Kobalt Music Emily Bines, YouTube’s manager of artist partnerships Courtney Marr, Los Angeles city council senior communications advisor Dae Levine, Warner Music Group’s new business & ventures rep Michael Delle Donne and longtime industry exec Harry Poloner, who will be the board’s U.S. chairman. Bines will serve as board treasurer, Levine as secretary and Marr and Dalle Donne as members.
“Music has the power to drive real change, and at EarthPercent, we’re using that power to take action on the climate crisis,” Poloner tells Billboard. “I’m honored to serve as board chairman in the U.S. and help mobilize the music industry to protect our planet.”
“We’re very honored to welcome such a strong and driven group to EarthPercent’s U.S. Board,” adds EarthPercent’s co-executive director Joel Gardner. “Their collective passion, experience and stewardship will be instrumental as we further grow our presence and impact across the states.”
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Founded in 2021, EarthPercent raises awareness and funding for climate initiatives — both in the U.S. and globally — by empowering artists and the broader industry to take meaningful action on real environmental solutions. Funding is achieved by getting artists and industry members to pledge a small portion of their income to the organization, which in turn directs it to climate-related projects. Funding also comes via partnerships, merch collaborations and individual fundraisers.
The project, which was also co-founded by music managers Adam Callan and Hiroki Shirasuka, has received support from approximately 300 artists and 50 industry organizations and raised approximately $2 million over the last four years. EarthPercent is also a partner of Sounds Right, the cross-DSP playlist that incorporates nature sounds into tracks and directs of a percent of each song’s royalties to conservation projects. “EarthPercent makes it easy for industry and artists to support the earth through music,”” Gardner continues, “and in our first four years we’ve made a real difference to some of the most impactful climate and biodiversity projects around the world.
“This is thanks to nearly 300 artists and 50 industry organizations joining us through pledges in their tours, records and publishing — collectively raising over $2 million. These new appointments are a really positive and exciting next step to further build our movement and unite the power of music in service of the planet.”
AEG Presents announced today that Andrew Spencer has been named chief operating officer of AEG Presents Europe. In his new job, Spencer will oversee the concert promotions company’s network of promoters, venues and festivals and focus on realigning the company’s strategy and growth initiatives in the region. Spencer will be headquartered in London, where he […]
Sara Nix and Joe Mortimer have been named co-heads of creative at Capitol Music Group, based at the label’s iconic Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
Nix joins Capitol after six years as executive producer at Partizan, the company founded by Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind director Michel Gondry. With nearly 15 years of global production experience, she has worked with artists like Pharrell Williams, Billie Eilish and Burna Boy, and directors such as Warren Fu and Ally Pankiw. Her portfolio spans music videos, branded documentaries and short films for major lifestyle and brand clients. Nix began her career in Amsterdam and has led projects across continents.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the Capitol team,” said Nix. “It’s an iconic label with a rich history, and I’m excited to collaborate with the incredible artists here to help them bring their creative visions to life.”
Mortimer joins the mothership after serving as creative director at CMG’s Astralwerks since 2018, where he led global campaigns for Marshmello, Illenium, Zhu, and others, while also collaborating with Capitol artists like The Beatles and Katy Perry. He worked on the Grammy-nominated campaign for Troye Sivan’s Something to Give Each Other. Previously based in London, Mortimer was an art director for acts like Jungle and Bob Moses, and has collaborated with top creatives including Jack Bridgland and Hannah Lux Davis.
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In 2025, Mortimer co-created the California Picture Project, a photographic print sale that raised funds for the Los Angeles wildfires, with contributions from over 160 artists including Spike Jonze, Sofia Coppola, Gabriel Moses, Nadia Lee Cohen, and Petra Collins.
“Over the years I’ve worked closely with many of the executives and artists at Capitol,” said Mortimer. “I’m so excited to be taking on this role to steer the creative vision of the label along with Sara.”
The executive team at CMG includes former Geffen head Tom March as chair/CEO and UMPG veteran Lilia Parsa as president, replacing ex-CMG chair/CEO Michelle Jubelirer and president Arjun Pulijal earlier this year. These changes were part of a significant restructuring of Universal Music Group’s label organization, placing UMG’s West Coast labels — Interscope, Geffen, A&M, Capitol, Blue Note, Priority, Verve and Motown — under the oversight of John Janick as part of the Interscope Capitol Labels Group.
“Sara and Joe come to Capitol after having worked with some of the most acclaimed artists, directors and creative visionaries in the world,” said March. “Together they form a potent team to help the incredible artists on our label reach their full creative potential and drive our ongoing transformation at Capitol.”