State Champ Radio label signings
The sheer number of artist signings announced on a weekly basis makes it difficult to keep up, no matter how closely you pay attention to the industry news cycle. That’s why every other Tuesday, Billboard compiles the latest signings to labels, distributors, agencies, management companies and more, in an effort to provide a snapshot of the latest moves in the artist space, from household names to indie stars to emerging acts.
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To start this week, label and management company XOXO Entertainment signed Grammy-winning R&B group Blackstreet. Since 2014, the group’s lineup has featured original members Chauncey “Black” Hannibal and Levi Little, along with Mark Middleton and Eric Williams.
A press release indicates that announcements regarding new music and performances from the group are forthcoming.
“We are beyond excited to partner with Blackstreet,” said XOXO president Adam H. Hurstfield in a statement. “As some of the greatest architects of that legendary 90’s RnB sound, their music shaped the soundtrack of our lives, defined an era, and left an unmistakable imprint on global culture. Around the world, fans have been yearning for that authentic feeling again, and at XOXO Entertainment, we are devoted to bringing it back, side by side with the very legends who created it. We are honored to help amplify Blackstreet’s iconic legacy into this exciting new chapter.”
In its own statement, Blackstreet added that the group “has always stood for timeless music, true artistry, excellence, and evolution. Partnering with XOXO Entertainment feels like the perfect alignment; where vision, passion, and creativity meet. As a group, we’re excited and honored to join forces with a team that shares our energy and commitment to taking BLACKSTREET into a new era. This partnership is powerful, and together we’re ready to create moments the world will remember. This next chapter will be iconic.”
Blackstreet scored a Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 hit in 1996 with “No Diggity” featuring Dr. Dre, which spent four weeks at the chart’s summit. It also enjoyed success with tracks including “Before I Let You Go” and “Take Me There.”
Check out more of the latest artist signings below.
B2K (BPC Music Group)
The sheer number of artist signings announced on a weekly basis makes it difficult to keep up, no matter how closely you pay attention to the industry news cycle. That’s why every other Tuesday, Billboard compiles the latest signings to labels, distributors, agencies, management companies and more, in an effort to provide a snapshot of the latest moves in the artist space, from household names to indie stars to emerging acts.
First up this week, UTA signed singer-songwriter, actress and model FKA twigs for global representation in all areas. Twigs most recently released the album Eusexua Afterglow, a follow-up to her acclaimed album Eusexua from earlier this year that just nabbed a Grammy nod for best dance/electronic album. She’s slated to perform at Coachella next April.
Renowned Mexican singer Lucero is embarking on a new chapter in her career with Seitrack Records, the record label division of Ocesa Seitrack. On Oct. 29, the star, who has more than 45 years of experience in TV, film and music, signed an agreement with Octavio Padilla, the company’s director. Ranchera music will be the focus of this new phase of her career, with an upcoming album produced by Aureo Baqueiro. — Tere Aguilera
Miami company Fundamentals, led by Horacio Rodríguez, signed Ecuadorian rising star Jombriel and his longtime collaborator and producer Jøtta. Hailing from Esmeraldas, Jombriel was featured in Billboard‘s On the Radar Latin earlier this year. In March, the 22-year-old earned his first No. 1 on the Billboard Argentina Hot 100 with the Ryan Castro-assisted remix of his viral hit “Parte & Choke,” also featuring Alex Krack and Jøtta. Jombriel’s breakthrough single, “Vitamina” with DFZM and Jøtta, has garnered more than 325 million Spotify streams, according to Fundamentals, and is included on his debut 2025 album, Jombriel de la Suerte. Jøtta, a rising creative force in the Latin music world, is the producer behind these chart-topping hits, which blend dancehall, reggaeton and tropical sounds. — Isabela Raygoza
Check out more recent artist signings below.
Mad Tsai (Rebellion Records)
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MCA has signed country-rock band 49 Winchester to its Lucille Records imprint. On Friday (Nov. 7), the group will release its first new music since partnering with MCA: a cover of Black Sabbath‘s “Changes,” on which the group collaborated with MCA chief creative officer and Grammy-winning producer Dave Cobb.
49 Winchester is currently in the studio with Cobb, crafting a full-length project slated for release next year. MCA will team up with New West Records on the upcoming album, while all subsequent 49 Winchester releases will be released exclusively through MCA.
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With a lineup that includes Bus Shelton, Noah Patrick, Isaac Gibson, Justin Louthian, Tim Hall and Chase Chafin, 49 Winchester got its start in Virginia and has become known for songs including “Russell County Line” and “Everlasting Lover.” The group will headline two shows at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium on Nov. 14 and 15. In 2023, they were nominated for duo/group of the year at the Americana Honors & Awards ceremony.
“We’re thrilled to be joining the MCA and Lucille family,” Gibson, 49 Winchester’s lead vocalist and guitarist, said in a statement. “Working with Dave Cobb is a dream, and we can’t wait for our fans to hear the new music we’re creating together.”
Chase Chafin, 49 Winchester’s bassist and co-founder, added, “So grateful to the fans and team who helped us build this to where it is today. We couldn’t be more excited for MCA to be the home of future 49 Winchester releases, and to share this next chapter with those who made it possible.“
“We are so excited to have 49 Winchester join Lucille Records,” said Mike Harris, president & CEO of MCA, in a statement. “Their mix of Southern rock is powerful and authentic, and we look forward to supporting them as they continue to evolve.”
“In working with 49 Winchester it felt like they laid it all out on the line,” added Cobb. “The record is pure heart and honesty, a lotta heart, soul and love went into making this album.”
“Watching 49 Winchester’s remarkable growth and success over the past several years has been incredibly rewarding,” said John Allen, president of New West Records. “Their achievements reflect the band’s extraordinary talent and relentless work ethic, as well as the dedication of everyone at New West. Partnering once again with my longtime friend Dave Cobb is always a pleasure, and MCA is the perfect home for 49 Winchester as we work together to reach even greater heights.”
In addition to 49 Winchester, Lucille’s roster includes Lamont Landers. In February, Cobb and Harris were named the new heads of UMG Nashville, which then rebranded as MCA.
Trending on Billboard The sheer number of artist signings announced on a weekly basis makes it difficult to keep up, no matter how closely you pay attention to the industry news cycle. That’s why every other Tuesday, Billboard compiles the latest signings to labels, distributors, agencies, management companies and more, in an effort to provide […]
Trending on Billboard The sheer number of artist signings announced on a weekly basis makes it difficult to keep up, no matter how closely you pay attention to the industry news cycle. That’s why every other Tuesday, Billboard compiles the latest signings to labels, distributors, agencies, management companies and more, in an effort to provide […]
Brazilian sertanejo artist Gustavo Mioto signed with WME, which will focus on expanding his reach in Latin and North American markets. Over his career, the singer-songwriter has released nine albums and collaborated with Anitta, Jorge & Mateus, Fabio Jr. and more.
Tuscaloosa, Ala., band Gideon signed with Sumerian Records, which released the group’s latest single, “Til the Wheels Fall Off.” Gideon has several festival dates coming up, including at Vans Warped Tour, Louder Than Life and the New England Metal & Hardcore Fest.
Ty Herndon signed a three-album deal with Club44 Records. He just released a new version of his 1995 hit “What Mattered Most” as a duet with LeAnn Rimes. Herndon is also set to release the upcoming album Thirty, which will celebrate his three decades in country music. — Jessica Nicholson
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Country singer-songwriter Jenna Davis signed with UTA for touring. She will be repped at the agency by Jeffrey Hasson and Lauren Holland. Davis is set to release her debut album, Where Did That Girl Go?, via SMACKRecords on June 27.
Los Angeles-based artist management company MLennial signed American DJ and producer GorillaT. This year, the rising artist is set to play Bonnaroo, Electric Forest, Los Lands and more.
Chinese rapper jackzebra signed to SURF GANG Records, the evilgiane-led artist collective and record label based in New York. Jackzebra recently released Above & Beyond, a 34-track tape written during a visit to the U.S. SURF GANG recently released his new single, “Givenchy,” with evilgiane.
Big Machine Records signed country singer-songwriter Cole Goodwin. His first song for the label, “Girlfriend’s Got a Boyfriend,” was released on Friday (June 13). He’s slated to open select dates on Luke Bryan’s summer tour.
Indianapolis, Ind., “fake emo” band Summerbruise signed to SideOneDummy Records, which released the group’s new single, “Never Bothered.” The band will play a short U.S. tour this summer.
Booking agency Main Attraction Management added bluegrass artist Caroline Owens to its roster. Owens’s most recent single, “You’ve Still Got It,” has gained traction on SiriusXM’s Bluegrass Junction, while Owens has garnered nominations from the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) and the Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America (SPBGMA). She’s signed with Billy Blue Records and Billy Blue Publishing, and is repped by Jules Wortman of Wortman Works Media & Marketing, who serves as both manager and head of public relations. — Jessica Nicholson
After enjoying explosive success with his 2023 single “Praise Jah in the Moonlight,” YG Marley has signed a deal with Tony Bucher‘s Hitmaker Music Group/Hitmaker Distro. The announcement on Friday (June 13) did not include any details of the agreement, but both Bucher and Marley expressed excitement for the new partnership. “We’ve worked together the […]
Warner Music Latina signed three emerging urban artists who are creating a viral buzz on social media and the Billboard charts: DFZM (Colombia), Jombriel (Ecuador), and Milo Bvgatti (Venezuela). DFZM made his Billboard chart debut last November DFZM with “+57” in collaboration with Karol G, J Balvin, Feid, Ryan Castro, Maluma, and Ovy on the Drums. Jombriel hit No. 1 on the Billboard Argentina Hot 100 chart this March with his “Parte & Choke (Remix)” with Ryan Castro. Meanwhile, Bvgatti has already received stamps of approval from Feid, Jay Wheeler and Dalex. “At Warner Music Latina, we believe in the power of fresh voices from the Andean region to make waves globally,” said Roberto Andrade, MD of Warner Music Latina, in a statement. “We proudly welcome DFZM, Jombriel, and Milo Bvgatti — a new chapter begins, filled with music and momentum.” – Jessica Roiz
Southern California band Of Mice & Men signed with Century Media Records. The group released the single “Another Miracle” on May 8, marking its first new music since 2023. Of Mice & Men is currently on tour in the U.S., with festival dates including the Summer Daze Festival in Elko, Nev.; Warped Tour in Long Beach, Calif.; and Louder Than Life in Louisville, Ky.
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Jutes signed a global record deal with Position Music, which will release his new single, “Left on Dilworth,” on Wednesday (May 21). The singer-songwriter’s singles so far this year include “Red Velvet” with Ari Abdul, “House of Cards” and “SMUT”; previous album releases include Ladybug and Sleepyhead. He’s managed by Mike Maloian at 25/7.
Indonesian dream-pop duo Galdive signed with Mom + Pop Music, which released its new album, Blue, on May 9. The act’s song “Teach Me How to Love” has picked up steam on TikTok, where it has generated more than 16 million views, 1.8 million likes, and over 2,200 UGC posts, according to the label.
Armada Music struck a joint venture deal with Dutch electronic artist Joris Voorn spanning A&R, distribution, promotion and marketing. The label will work with Voorn on his upcoming album Serotonin, which is set for release in July. It will additionally leverage its publishing arm “to add creative value” to his work via “writing camps and collaboration,” according to a press release. Armada previously released Voorn’s remix of “Transmission” by Eelke Ekleijn.
Scouting for Girls signed a label services deal with Absolute. Next year, the British trio is releasing a new album, which Absolute will support with digital marketing, distribution, project management and a long-term strategic direct-to-consumer campaign.
Sub Pop signed Brooklyn-based trio Nation of Language and will release the band’s new music globally this year and beyond. The first release under the deal is the new single, “Inept Apollo.” The band will tour North America and Europe this fall.
Virgin Music Latin signed a global agreement with rising Cuban act Wampi for the release of his forthcoming debut studio album, El Rey de la Habana. His first single under the label is “Veni,” an uptempo track that represents the Cuban Reparto music scene. El Rey de la Habana will feature collaborations with Cimafunk, Ibeyi, Los Van Van, Maffio, Michael Brun, and more. – Jessica Roiz
Mom+Pop Music signed Minneapolis artist Mother Soki, whose single “Rivet Gun” has been growing on TikTok. She is managed by Avalanche in Los Angeles.
Nettwerk signed indie-pop band Joseph, composed of sisters Natalie and Meegan Closner. The first release under the deal is the single “Bye and Bye,” a track from the duo’s forthcoming album (its first without sister Allie). The band is kicking off a round of tour dates on June 13 in Spokane, Wash.
Singer-songwriter N8NOFACE signed with Stones Throw, which released his new song, “Waiting to Wait for You,” last week. N8NOFACE is touring with Eyedress on the Stoner Tour this summer.
Scout Willis signed with WME for global representation. The singer-songwriter is currently recording her second studio album on the heels of singles “Over and Over” and “Take Me” last year. The album is slated for release this fall.
Atlanta-based five-piece band Penelope Road signed to Warner Records. The first release under the deal is the single “Out Tonight.” According to a press release, the song has already racked up “millions of views” leading up to its official release. The band, which is set to embark on a summer headlining tour on June 12 in Charleston, S.C., is managed by Lindsay Brandt.
Giant Music, a division of The Azoff Company, signed rock band Riff Wood. The band is independently producing its debut album, Tough Luck, which is set for release this summer. It’s been preceded by singles including “Blur” and “Stay a Little Longer,” the latter serving as its first release on Giant. Riff Wood is embarking on a summer tour starting July 29. The band, which won Utah’s Battle of the Bands last year, is managed by Rob Cavallo‘s Done Deal and Echo Street.
Charli XCX appointed PPL for the collection of her international neighboring rights royalties, joining a client list that includes Ice Spice, Kenya Grace, London Grammar, Becky Hill, Sigala, Joel Corry and Lewis Thompson.
Downtown Artist & Label Services announced a trio of new deals including with Capital Cities (“Safe and Sound”), which partnered with the distributor to support the band’s catalog and future releases, including the release of the band’s A Hurricane of Frowns album on Feb. 14. Downtown also signed with Sofi Tukker for the U.S. rights to the duo’s catalog and upstreamed Twenty One Pilots‘ self-titled debut album, originally released via Downtown-owned distributor CD Baby in 2009.
Indian singer Sid Sriram signed a joint venture with Warner Music India that encompasses recorded music, management, live performances, brand collaborations and strategic ventures focused on non-film Indian-language music. Sriram and Warner Music India will “scout and nurture a new wave of global talent” under the agreement. The first release under the deal is Sriram’s “Sivanar,” which was released on Thursday (April 3).
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Indian star Guru Randhawa also signed with Warner Music India, which will release his next album, Without Prejudice. The first single, “Gallan Battan,” was released on March 28. Randhawa’s deal covers recorded music, live experiences, fan engagement and more. The deal includes new management led by Gurjot Singh, who founded BeingU Studios.
Chicago pop-rock quintet The Walters (“I Love You So”) signed a licensing deal with Amuse, which released the band’s debut album, Good Company, late last month. Amuse is providing frontline support, including DSP optimization, playlisting, editorial relationships, marketing, design support and UGC monetization help.
Indie singer-songwriter Alice Phoebe Lou signed with Nettwerk, which will release her first self-produced single, “You and I,” on Friday (April 11). Lou is managed by Gorka Odriozola at Independent Artists Management and booked by Brian Greenwood and Carly James at CAA.
Country band LANCO signed with UTA for representation in all areas. The band released its debut album, We’re Gonna Make It, in January; recently completed its We’re Gonna Make It tour; and is slated to play multiple fairs and festivals this summer. LANCO is managed by Bryan Coleman and Eleanor Kohl at Union Entertainment Group/Red Light Management.
Caroline Jones, a country singer-songwriter and member of Zac Brown Band, signed a recording deal with Big Machine Label Group’s Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment. The label released her latest track, “No Tellin,’” on March 28.
Former We The Kingdom member Franni Cash is launching a solo career and has formed her new team, which included signing a label deal with Capitol Christian Music Group and aligning with WME for booking representation. She is managed by Round Table Management’s Hannah Gifford. As part of We The Kingdom, Cash has earned two Grammy nominations and won three GMA Dove Awards. – Jessica Nicholson
Americana band The Brudi Brothers signed with Mom+Pop Music on the heels of its viral single “Me More Cowboy Than You.”
Emerging country singer-songwriter Tyler Nance signed a management deal with Redline Entertainment in Nashville. Nance will be managed by the firm’s Larry Blackford and Wes Mayers. He released his debut EP, Wasted Chances, last year.
Ohio native and country-rock artist Preston Cooper has signed with The Neal Agency for booking representation. Cooper has released songs including “Numbers on a Mailbox” and Weak” and will release his debut album, Toledo Talkin’, on May 30. The Neal Agency’s roster also includes Morgan Wallen, Ernest, HARDY, Bailey Zimmerman, Ella Langley and Anne Wilson. – Jessica Nicholson
Lynyrd Skynyrd signed a label deal with Frontiers Music Srl, which will release the iconic rock band’s live album and DVD, Celebrating 50 Years – Live At The Ryman, taped at its 50th anniversary concert at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium in 2022. The show featured the final performance of founding member Gary Rossington. The band is managed by Vector Management.
Downtown Neighboring Rights will manage and represent Jason Mraz‘s neighboring rights. Mraz’s catalog includes such hits as “I’m Yours,” “Lucky” featuring Colbie Caillat, “I Won’t Give Up” and “I Feel Like Dancing,” the lead single from his latest album, Mystical Magical Rhythmical Radical Ride.
Nashville-based singer-songwriter Sydney Rose (“Turning Page,” “We Hug Now”) signed to Mercury Records and will release her new EP, I Know What I Want, on the label on April 4. “We Hug Now” went viral on TikTok earlier this year. Rose is booked by CAA.
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Thelma & James (“Happy Ever After You”), a duo composed of married Nashville-based singer-songwriters MacKenzie Porter and Jake Etheridge, signed with Big Loud Records. The label released the duo’s new song, “First Love,” on March 14. Thelma & James is currently in the studio working on new music.
R&B singer JayDon signed a label deal with Usher and L.A. Reid‘s mega. The label released his single “I’ll Be Good” — which samples Usher’s “How Do I Say” — on March 14 ahead of his forthcoming EP Me, My Songs and I, which is set for release this spring. Under the name JD McCrary, JayDon is known for voicing Young Simba in 2019’s The Lion King and starring in films and TV shows including The Paynes and Little. He also appeared on Beyoncé’s The Lion King: The Gift soundtrack.
Country singer-songwriter Cole Phillips signed with WME for global representation. The Oklahoma native will release his EP Steel Toes and Texacos on April 11 on RECORDS Nashville. The EP will feature five songs he co-wrote, including “West Tx.” Phillips is repped by WHY&HOW for management. – Jessica Nicolson
Singer-songwriter Alexandra Savior signed with RCA Records and released a new single, “Unforgivable.” Savior previously released two albums, Belladonna of Sadness and The Archer, on Columbia and 30th Century Records, respectively.
Concord and Pulse Music Group’s Pulse Records signed Nashville-based singer-songwriter Elizabeth Nichols, who released her debut single, “I Got a New One,” on Dec. 6. Pulse released her latest single, “Bad Taste,” on Friday (March 21). Nichols is managed by Dylan Bourne and James Martin at Bourne Creatives and booked by Meredith Jones Long and Cheryl Paglierani at CAA.
Third Man Records signed Austin, Texas, rock band Die Spitz. The quartet, which has previously supported Amyl and the Sniffers, Sleater-Kinney and OFF! on the road, is slated to embark on a world headlining tour starting May 28, including slots at The Governors Ball and Bonnaroo.
Mexican pop group ALMAS — composed of Alegría, Dae, Dany and Steph — has signed to Universal Music Latino. “Being welcomed to the Universal Music Latino family is more than just a milestone for us — it’s a celebration of our journey, our voices, and the strength of women in music,” the band said in a statement. “We are excited to share our story with the world and continue to push innovative boundaries while staying true to who we are.” – Griselda Flores
Also signing with Universal Music Latino was emerging Colombian artist Annasofia. Based out of Miami, Annasofia is also a musician and producer, and the signing marks “the next step” in her career, according to a press release. The 24-year-old is a graduate of Art House Academy under the mentorship of renowned producer Julio Reyes Copello. – Griselda Flores
Billy Ray Cyrus and Scott Adkins (who manages Cyrus) signed Native American guitarist, songwriter and producer Micki Free as the flagship client of the duo’s newly-formed Roam Man Management. Free, who recently released an EP, Dreamcatcher, won a Grammy for his contribution to the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack.
Americana artist Connor Daly signed with Burning Ground Entertainment for management. Daly released his debut album, Colors Fade, in July. Daly, who counts Jason Isbell, Zach Bryan and Ed Sheeran as inspirations, recently released a new single, “Curtains Never Close.” Burning Ground Entertainment also represents artists including Mic Drop, The Pretty Wild, and Tayiha. – Jessica Nicholson
