Signed
Ludacris signed with UTA for representation in all areas, including music, film/TV and other ventures. The rapper is still repped by Cara Lewis Group for concert bookings in the U.S. He’s managed by Chaka Zulu and Jeff Dixon of Ebony Son Entertainment and attorney Darrell Miller of Fox Rothschild.
Longstanding electronic music producer Seven Lions signed with Los Angeles-based artist management company MLennial, with the partnership focused on all of the artist’s future endeavors, including global touring. Launched a year ago, MLennial is run by founder Mike Lisanti, formerly the COO of Prodigy Artists, and focuses on multi-genre DJs and producers in dance and bass music. “Jeff (Seven Lions) has been one of my favorite artists since the start of my journey in the music industry,” says Lisanti. “His win in the Above & Beyond ‘You Got To Go’ remix contest on Beatport inspired me to enter similar competitions for exposure back in 2012. At the time, I was part of Charity Strike, and my duo partner and I went on to win two Beatport contests shortly after Jeff’s iconic entry. That moment kickstarted my entire career in the industry. Now, managing Seven Lions at the company I’ve built from the ground up feels not only full circle but truly surreal. We’re thrilled to unveil this new chapter for Seven Lions and are committed to serving both longtime and new fans through a fresh, innovative lens.” – Katie Bain
Grammy- and Oscar-winning rapper, actor, author and activist Common signed with CAA and Anonymous Content. He continues to be represented by Ceremony Music Group, The Lede Company, SMAC Entertainment, and Myman Greenspan Fox Rosenberg Mobasser Younger & Light.
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McFly signed to Absolute Label Services for the release of the U.K. pop group’s “21st birthday album,” 21 LIVE. The release follows the ITV music special McFLY: The 21st Birthday Party, which was recorded at The O2. This will be the band’s fourth album released through Absolute.
Hawaiian country artist Maoli signed with ONErpm and Huff Co., which formed a joint venture last year. He’s set to release the album Last Sip of Summer on June 27 and recently embarked on a tour that will hit New Zealand, Australia, the U.S. and Canada.
Bluegrass band The Steeldrivers signed with Sun Records, which will release the group’s new self-produced album, Outrun, on May 23.
Universal Music Group Greater China signed an exclusive, multi-year global agreement with Chinese pop star Liu Han, who has been making music in the country for four decades. The deal marks the first time that his “majority body of work,” both recording and publishing rights, will be under a single umbrella, according to a press release. “Liu Huan is a towering figure in contemporary Chinese music history, and we are proud to support his journey in sharing his extraordinary music with the world,” Adam Granite, Universal Music Group executive vp of market development, said in a statement on the deal.
DJ and producer Netsky signed with One World Artists, the official artist agency of Tomorrowland, for global management representation. The drum and bass pioneer recently released the new single “California.”
HSquared Management signed Juno Award-winning artist Jordan St. Cyr. The signing of the “Rescue” hitmaker marks the company’s second joint signing since industry executives Kelli Haywood and Leigh Holt launched the company last year. – Jessica Nicholson
Pitbull’s Mr. 305 Records signed Cuban singer-songwriter and producer WhiteStar, who is regarded as one founders of the Bajo Mundo movement alongside Farruko and IAmChino. Under the deal, WhiteStar seeks to “expand this movement while exploring new musical horizons,” according to a press release. His contributions to the Bajo Mundo genre, a style that blends reggaetón, guaracha, dembow and EDM, include projects like Farruko’s mega hit “Pepas” and “Helicóptero” by El Alfa. “Joining Mr. 305 Records is a blessing, and a dream come true,” WhiteStar said in a statement. “I’ve always known I had the potential to be a star, and this is the right time to focus on my solo career. I’m excited to work with a label I’ve always admired, one that has played a key role in my development as a songwriter.” – Griselda Flores
The Ophelias signed with Get Better Records, which is set to release the band’s Julien Baker-produced album Spring Grove on April 4. Baker sings harmonies and plays instruments throughout the album, according to a press release. The Ophelias is composed of Spencer Peppet (guitar & vocals, she/her), Mic Adams (drums, he/him), Andrea Gutmann Fuentes (violin, she/her), and Jo Shaffer (bass, they/she).
Sophia Talamas, a content creator with more than 30 million followers on social media who last year participated in the influencers’ panel at Billboard Latin Music Week, signed a record deal with Sony Music Latino and will release her first single on Feb. 21. “This song is called ‘Funeral’ and is based on ‘real events’,” Talamas tells Billboard, adding that she has been working with Sony for over a year. “It’s not that easy to release a 1st song. I have learned to have a lot of patience, especially when you also have to complement or go from influencer to artist,” she adds. “When the 2nd one comes, it should be easier and faster.” – Isabela Raygoza
Mom+Pop Music signed alt-country supergroup Chaparelle, which released a new song, “Devil’s Music,” on Jan. 31. The group — composed of Zella Day, Jesse Woods and Beau Bedford — will be releasing new music throughout the year and is slated to kick off a 2025 tour on April 3. Chaparelle is managed by Jack Gallagher and Fiona Dolan at OPEN Management.
UTA signed Mexican singer-songwriter Jasiel Nuñez. Managed by George Prajin, founder/CEO of Prajin Parlay and co-founder of Double P Records along with global superstar Peso Pluma, with whom he has a longstanding creative partnership. The Guadalajara native contributed to Peso’s 2023 album Génesis on tracks like “Laguna” and “Rosa Pastel,” the latter of which reached No. 24 on Billboard‘s Hot Latin Songs chart. In 2024, Nuñez also joined Peso on his Éxodo tour. Nuñez’s latest album, La Odisea — featuring collaborations with Luis R Conriquez, Tito Double P and Danny Lux — landed at No. 8 on Billboard‘s Top Latin Albums chart and at No. 6 on Regional Mexican Albums. “I’m excited and thankful to become part of the United Talent Agency family,” said Nuñez in a statement. “This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter, and I’m ready to push música Mexicana to new heights.” — Isabela Raygoza
Americana music luminary Charley Crockett signed with Island Records and will release his upcoming 15th album, The Lonesome Drifter, with the label in March. In 2024, Crockett released the indie albums $10 Cowboy and $10 Cowboy Chapter II: Visions of Dallas. He is nominated for best Americana album at this year’s Grammy Awards. — Jessica Nicholson
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Alternative rock trio The Hunna (“Bonfire,” “She’s Casual”) signed with FLG, the recently launched imprint of Frontiers Label Group. According to a press release, the band has racked up more than 750 million streams since hitting the scene in 2015.
EaJ (“Car Crash”), formerly a member of the Korean rock band Day6, signed a global label deal with Position Music. Born Jae Park, eaJ is managed by Coulter Reynolds and Jerren Devine of Reynolds Management.
Metal/alt-rock singer-songwriter Violent Vira signed with Mom+Pop Music, which released her latest single, “Saccharine,” on Friday (Jan. 24) and will put out her next album later this year. Booked by CAA, Vira recently got off a 34-city tour and also played last year’s Sick New World festival.
Peso Pluma’s Double P Records added Mexican singer-songwriter Julian Mercado and legacy group Reynaldos de la Sierra to its roster. Both artists, plus newcomer Saul Villareal, will be managed by George Prajin, whose roster includes superstar Peso Pluma as well as Tito Double P, Santa Fe Klan and Gabito Ballesteros. “Double P Records is a place where artists can come to grow their careers, but also a place where they can feel at home with their family, their mentor, their manager and their friends all at once,” Peso said in a statement. Prajin added, “We are excited to be welcoming Julian, Reynaldos de la Sierra and Saul to our family. As fans of their music, we have been witnessing their drive to propel their career and are confident that with our team onboard we can help them grow even further than they ever imagined.” — Griselda Flores
Provident Entertainment/Sony Music has signed former American Idol contestant Madison Watkins to the label’s roster. Watkins, who has been making music since 2019, just released a new song, “Spin,” and is readying a new project for release in 2025. — Jessica Nicholson
Monument Records, in a joint venture with Sony Music, inked a deal with six-piece, Denver-formed band Clay Street Unit. Fronted by lead singer/guitarist Sam Walker, the group recently released the EP Introducing Clay Street Unit. — Jessica Nicholson
North Carolina-based Ramseur Management signed Americana singer-songwriter Jack Blocker, who is prepping his upcoming debut LP. The firm is led by Dolph Ramseur, long-time manager for folk band The Avett Brothers, and its roster also includes Amythyst Kiah, Big Richard and Colby T. Helms. Blockers’s day-to-day managers will be Morgan Deese Locklear and Lisette Rodriguez. — Jessica Nicholson
Nashville-based label River House Artists signed twin-brother duo The Kentucky Gentlemen to its roster. The band, composed of Brandon and Derek Campbell, has previously toured with The War and Treaty and been featured on songs by Will Hoge and Fancy Hagood. The duo recently released the song “Country Hymn.” — Jessica Nicholson
Composer Mara Keen signed with ABKCO Music & Records. Keen has contributed to film and TV projects including Netflix’s Princess Power and Scrappack Production’s Just One More Thing.
Britpop icons Pulp signed with Rough Trade Records. “Rough Trade have managed Pulp for over 30 years so it feels great to be finally on the label. We did it!” the band said in a statement. Pulp’s last release was the 2001 album We Love Life, released by Island Records, though the band has toured together in the intervening years. Pulp has released a total of seven studio albums, including 1995’s Different Class, which was certified four-times platinum by the BPI.
Maggie Rose, a 2025 Grammy nominee for best Americana album, signed with One Riot/Virgin. Her first release under the deal is a “stripped version” of “Under the Sun” with Charlotte Sands. Rose is managed by Austin Marshall and Narvel Blackstock at Starstruck and booked by Jonathan Levine and Matt Runner at Wasserman.
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Folk-country artist Evan Honer signed with Wasserman Music for booking representation ahead of his recently announced spring 2025 tour. Honer will play 36 dates across the U.S., starting on Feb. 23 in Little Rock, Ark.
Singer-songwriter Sam Ryder signed with mtheory for management. He will be represented by Lewis Allen and Derek Gridley. Ryder is gearing up to release his second album and will embark on a tour this year.
Grammy-nominated gospel artist William Murphy signed a distribution deal with Motown Gospel, which released his new single, “Double,” on Friday (Jan. 10).
Centricity Music signed singer-songwriter Rachel Purcell to an exclusive global recording and publishing deal. Under her maiden name, Wammack, Rachel previously pursued a country music career, with songs including “Damage”; her new deals with Centricity mark her foray into Contemporary Christian music. – Jessica Nicholson
Sony Music Nashville signed singer-songwriter and Georgia native Zach John King. King just released a new song, “Slow Down,” which he wrote with Thomas Archer, Kyle Fishman and Michael Tyler. Sony Music Nashville’s roster also features artists including Brooks & Dunn, Kane Brown, Luke Combs and Megan Moroney. – Jessica Nicholson
Guitarist/producer RJ Pasin launched his own record label, Isekai Records, and signed Baltimore-based artist Lindsay Chia to the imprint. The label, which was founded by Pasin alongside his managers Ewan McGregor and Jack Mangan, released Chia’s track “Ghost” on Jan. 1. On launch, Isekai released the track “Embrace It (Remix)” by Ndotz, Sexyy Red and Flo Milli, featuring Pasin on guitar.
Luke Dean, an emerging artist in the U.K. underground dance scene, signed with Enzo Siragusa‘s LOCUS imprint, which released his new EP Ready Set Go on Dec. 13.
Jeff Roberts Agency partnered with contemporary Christian singer-songwriter Claire Leslie for booking. Leslie is managed by Hyphen Media Group and signed with Capitol CMG. She released her debut single “Original” this summer and followed with songs including “Ceiling Fan” and “Passenger Seat.” – Jessica Nicholson
Nashville-based label Quartz Hill Records, led by Brown Sellers Brown partner Benny Brown, signed country-pop duo 2 Lane Summer to its roster. The duo, composed of Illinois native Joe Hanson and Mississippi-born Chris Ray, recently joined country trio Chapel Hart on their Hartfelt Family Christmas Tour. They’ve also released a new version of their song “Eyes That Ain’t Yours.” – Jessica Nicholson
Pollinate Music, a newly-launched label under Bell Partners Worldwide, signed rapper, singer-songwriter and producer Rakeem Miles, who is also known for the clothing brand Action Figure Miles.
Singer-songwriter McCoy Moore signed an exclusive booking and artist development deal with The Neal Agency, home to fellow artists including HARDY, Nate Smith, Morgan Wallen, Anne Wilson and Bailey Zimmerman. Moore is also signed with SMACK and Worktape Music for publishing and with the newly-launched TRACK mgmt’s Tracker Johnson for management. – Jessica Nicholson
Downtown Artist & Label Services struck an exclusive distribution deal with Josa Records in support of its emerging Música Mexicana artist Netón Vega. The agreement covers the global distribution of Vega’s catalog and his upcoming debut album set for release early next year, which will include collaborations with Peso Pluma, Luis R Conriquez, Tito Double P and others. Hits for Vega include “La Patrulla,” “LINDA,” “Presidente” and “Si No Quieres No,” his collaboration with fellow Downtown client Conriquez.
Nigerian artist Flavour signed a joint deal with Warner Music Africa and Africori, which will team up to distribute his future releases. The singer is known for fusing African rhythm, highlife and contemporary jazz and has garnered more than 1.1 billion views on YouTube and sold more than 5 million albums globally, according to a press release.
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Actor, rapper and DJ IDRIS (a.k.a. Idris Elba) signed with Dirtybird Records, which released his latest single, “No Long Talk,” on Friday (Dec. 6) along with an official remix by GAWP.
Gospel singer-songwriter Jonathan McReynolds signed to Motown Gospel/Christian Music Group for the release of his first Christmas-themed EP, Red & Green. He also signed with CAA ahead of his six-city Red & Green concert tour, which launched Dec. 1 in Chicago and is slated to wrap up Dec. 21 in Atlanta.
Metal band Shadows Fall signed with MNRK Heavy and released its first new music in more than a decade with the single “In the Grey.” The group is managed by Scott Lee at SL Managemeent.
Girlpuppy, the musical project from Atlanta’s Becca Harvey, signed with Captured Tracks and released her new single “Champ” on the label.
Eighteen-year-old blues artist Muireann Bradley signed to Decca Records and its U.S. partner label Verve Forecast. The labels will release the Irish singer’s forthcoming debut album, I Kept These Old Blues, on Feb. 28.
Country-folk artist Sam Stoane signed to Wasserman Music in Nashville on the heels of her opening dates for The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Dylan Gossett and other acts. She’s slated to release her debut album next year.
Scarlet Rae of the indie folk band Rose Dorn signed with Bayonet Records and released the single “Bleu.”
Nashville-based The Band Light signed with Red Van Records and is set to release new music on the label early next year. The group, which is managed by Rachel Inglesino at Jonas Group Entertainment, also just signed a deal with Jonas Group Publishing.
Royel Otis, the Australian duo that recently earned its first Billboard Hot 100 entry with a viral cover of The Cranberries’ “Linger,” is now in the Capitol Records system after the band’s independent label, Ourness, struck a partnership with the U.S. label to supercharge the success of the duo worldwide. According to a press release, Royel Otis has racked up more than half a billion streams to date. Other successful tracks for the duo include “Sofa King” and a cover of Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s “Murder on the Dancefloor.”
Hip-hop label Mass Appeal Records, co-founded by Nas, moved into Pakistan with the signing of two of the country’s biggest stars — Talha Anjum and Umair — along with emerging artists JANI, Maanu and Blal Bloch. Mass Appeal’s entry into Pakistan follows its previous expansion into India, where it’s partnered with artists including DIVIE, AP Dhillon and Karan Aujla.
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R&B star Omarion partnered with Jeanine McLean and Jeff Robinson at MBK Entertainment, which has guided the careers of Alicia Keys, H.E.R., Elle Varner, SWV, Tyrese and more. According to a press release, the singer has “a bevy of projects in the pipeline” and is slated to co-headline The Millennium 2025 Tour also featuring artists including Trey Songz and Rick Ross.
Anthony Martini and Rich Barner‘s Gravel Road Music Group signed singer Willie Jones, known for blending country, hip-hop and soul. Jones has a forthcoming project slated for release early next year.
Warner Music Nashville and Warner Records signed Adrien Nunez to the roster. The Brooklyn native recently released his major label debut, “Apology Song,” which blends country, pop and hip-hop elements. He is managed by Dillon Goldberg at FNGRPRNT and booked by Braeden Rountree at WME. – Jessica Nicholson
Capitol Christian Music Group and Motown Gospel partnered with singer Annatoria to release her upcoming Christmas EP, Present Jesu. Additionally, Motown Gospel finalized a partnership with JJ Hairston‘s JamesTown Music, through which it will release a 25th-anniversary live recording of JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise — an album featuring reimagined versions of the choir’s songs.
Provident Entertainment added singer-songwriter Megan Danielle to its roster. The 2023 American Idol runner-up has released her label debut single “When I Found You.” Danielle is managed by Hsquared Management and booked through the Jeff Roberts Agency. – Jessica Nicholson
Big Machine Records signed Jack Wharff & The Tobacco Flatts, a group with Virginia origins that blends bluegrass, country and rock. The group, which features musicians Jack Wharff, Garrett Howell, Ryan Atchison and Evan Novoa, recently released its new single, “Picture Perfect.” Big Machine Records’ roster also includes Tim McGraw, Carly Pearce and Midland. – Jessica Nicholson
Cloakroom signed to Closed Casket, which will release the band’s new single, “Unbelonging,” with a full album coming next year. The group is booked by Geoff McGovern at Ground Control Touring.
YawnyBlew and amir. partnered with ALIBI Music to release their second album, Bouncy ‘n’ Pretty. The album follows their debut project, DREAMBIIG, a collection of songs crafted specifically for synch and licensing. YawnyBlew has enjoyed synch placements in Empire, Queer as Folk, Chucky and The Sex Lives of College Girls. amir. is a photographer and creative director who pivoted to the role of artist and producer during the pandemic.
Rapper Freddie Gibbs signed with AWAL. The announcement coincided with the surprise release of Gibbs’ long-awaited album, You Only Die 1nce, which dropped Nov. 1. AWAL senior vp/head of urban music Norva Denton previously attempted to sign Gibbs twice before finally partnering with him at his former label, Warner Records. Denton went on to executive produce Gibbs’ 2022 album, $oul $old $eparately, alongside Gibbs and Gibbs’ manager/partner Ben “Lambo” Lambert. “Happy to be where they want me…I feel Celebrated,” said Gibbs in a statement. “I’m Awal Shawty! I love the freedom… We’re able to create at our own pace and it feels good at this stage in my career.”
Madison Beer (“Make You Mine,” “15 Minutes”) signed with WME for global representation. The singer-songwriter recently finished her The Spinnin Tour, which hit 63 venues on multiple continents. She continues to be managed by Tina Kennedy at Full Stop, with legal representation by Kenny Meiselas at Grubman, Shire, Meiselas & Sacks.
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Vocalist/producer/writer Oliver Tree (“Life Goes On,” “Alien Boy”) also signed with WME. According to a press release, Tree has garnered more than 2 billion streams across major platforms. His third studio album, Alone In a Crowd, was released in September 2023. He continues to be managed by Dan Awad and Paul Donatelli at Good Luck Have Fun, with legal representation by Nicky Stein.
Hard rock band Saliva signed with Judge & Jury Records, the label founded by producer Howard Benson and Neil Sanderson of Three Days Grace. The first release under the deal is the new single “Time Bomb.” Saliva is managed by Frank Mastalerz, Dino Kourelis and Bob Hathaway at FM Music Management and booked by Ian “Newy” Koletsis at Sound Talent Group and Spencer Zubrow at Pinnacle Entertainment.
Also signing to Judge & Jury Records was L.A. metal band Butcher Babies, coinciding with the release of its new single, “Sincerity.” The band is managed by Zachry Yoshioka at Powerline and booked by Jim Sennett and JJ Cassiere (North America) and Ian Fintak (rest of the world) at 33 and West.
Tunde Adebimpe, the frontman for TV on the Radio, signed a solo recording deal with Sub Pop and released the new single “Magnetic,” his solo debut. Adebimpe’s solo debut album is slated for release next year.
“Country-infused” sister quartet The BoykinZ signed to Quality Control Music, marking the indie label’s first country music signing. The group’s latest single, “Fell in Love With a Cowboy,” will be released on Friday (Nov. 15). The BoykinZ is managed by Craig King at Gentle King Group.
Singer-songwriter Ali Sethi (“Pasoori”) signed an exclusive global distribution deal with The Orchard for his label Zubberdust Media. Sethi plans to release new music later this year and into 2025. He’s managed by Aroop Sanakkayala at Roopster Entertainment.
Egyptian artist Amr Diab signed an exclusive partnership with Sony Music Entertainment Middle East. The multi-album deal includes the acquisition of Diab’s music catalog, including popular tracks like “Inta El Haz,” “Zay Manty” and “Ya Ana Ya La.”
Warner Music Nashville signed Texas native Braxton Keith to its roster. Keith just released the song “Fall This Way” from his upcoming EP Blue, out Dec. 6. Keith is managed by Alex Torrez and Emily Vincent at Torrez Music Group and booked by Andrew McWilliams at Evergreen Artist Group. – Jessica Nicholson
ONErpm signed Nashville-based artist Tyler Rich, who has notched RIAA-certified gold singles “The Difference” and “Leave Her Wild.” ONErpm will release the first single from Rich’s sophomore full-length album this fall. – Jessica Nicholson
Indonesian R&B duo Galdive signed with Mom+Pop Music and released the first single under the new deal, “Night Charade.” More music will be released soon.
Wynn Williams signed with CAA for exclusive booking representation. Texas native Williams, known for songs including “Country Therapy,” is signed with GCE Records and has opened shows for Randall King, Aaron Watson, Cody Johnson and others. – Jessica Nicholson
Japanese-British artist, model and influencer Hana Kuro signed a global production/management deal with Handcraft Entertainment, marking the second major signing for the J-pop-focused company following Anna Aya earlier this year.
Breaking Benjamin signed with BMG to release new music, their first since 2018. According to a press release, the band has racked up 8.5 billion streams globally.
On the heels of his recent signing with Eminem’s Shady Records, Aftermath Entertainment and Interscope, Filipino rapper Ez Mil signed to Grassroots Music for global management. His representative at the company is Dan Lee.
Universal Music Canada signed Punjabi producer thiarajxtt (a.k.a. Dilmanjot Singh Thiara), who released the EP If the Sun Had a Dark Side on the label on Oct. 18. Last year, thiarajxtt produced most of Diljit Dosanjh’s album Ghost and collaborated with Jassa Dhillon, Shubh, Channi Nattan, Jerry and more.
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The Head and the Heart signed with Verve Forecast and released a new single entitled “Arrow.” A new studio album will be announced in the coming weeks.
The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus (“Face Down,” “Your Guardian Angel”) signed to Better Noise Music, which will release the band’s new album next spring.
Finnish rock band The Rasmus (“In the Shadows”) also signed with Better Noise, which jointly released the group’s new single, “Rest in Pieces,” with Nordic indie label Playground Music on Friday (Oct. 25).
Rap-rock group Hollywood Undead signed with Sumerian Records and released the new single “Hollywood Forever.” According to a press release, the group has more than 3.1 billion career streams across platforms.
Alt-pop trio Coyote Theory (“This Side of Paradise”) signed with Nettwerk Music Group and released the new single “Waiting on the Weather.” The band’s drummer, Jayson Lynn, acts as the group’s manager. A&Rs are Anne Elise Dickinson and Tom Gates.
Austin Williams and Truth or Dare Records partnered with RECORDS Nashville/Columbia Records. Williams, known for songs including “Here We Go Again” and “Wanna Be Saved,” is repped by Loyd Potts and Ken Madson at Ignition Management, with agency representation from CAA. – Jessica Nicholson
Big Machine Records signed singer-songwriter and two-time Grammy nominee Ryan Hurd, who released his latest song, “This Party Sucks,” on Friday (Oct. 25). Hurd is also signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. The Big Machine Records roster additionally includes Tim McGraw, Carly Pearce, Midland, Rascal Flatts and Jackson Dean. – Jessica Nicholson
Mereba signed to Secretly Canadian, which will release her new album, The Breeze Grew a Fire, on Feb. 14. The first single from the LP, “Counterfeit,” dropped on Oct. 22.
Pop-rock duo Sparks (Ron and Russell Mael) signed with Transgressive Records, which will release their as-yet-untitled upcoming studio album — the band’s 28th — next year, with Firebird Label Services serving as distributor.
HEYOON, a Korean-born pop artist based in both L.A. and Korea who was previously part of the international pop group Now United, signed with Universal Music Korea. The label will help develop HEYOON globally.
Sibling duo Ocie and Wes Crowe, known as the country/folk/alternative duo Crowe Boys, signed with UMG Nashville. The duo’s first release for the label is “Let Me Feel Alone,” written solely by Ocie Crowe, out Nov. 8. – Jessica Nicholson
New York-based rapper-producer-trumpeter Pan Amsterdam, previously known as Leron Thomas, signed to Heavenly Records and released the new track “White Ninja.” An album is due next year.
Manchester, U.K.-based experimental punk band Maruja signed with Music For Nations and released a new single, “Break the Tension,” on the label. The group is slated to embark on a North American tour next year.
Barbadian singer/songwriter/producer Ayoni signed with Def Jam Recordings and released the single “San Francisco” ahead of a larger project set to drop next year. Ayoni is featured in the Paramount+ documentary Uncharted.
WME signed singer-songwriter Zach Meadows. The Florida native (and now Nashville resident) is repped by Torrez Music Group’s Alex Torrez and Emily Vincent. He released his debut album, Road to Nowhere, in August and will soon join Braxton Keith on the road throughout November. – Jessica Nicholson
Handcraft Entertainment signed Japanese-British artist, model and influencer Hana Kuro to a global production and management deal, marking the second major signing for the J-pop-focused firm.
Former Journey frontman Steve Perry signed to the late George Harrison‘s Dark Horse Records. The label will release his upcoming holiday album, The Season 3, on Nov. 8. “I am so pleased to announce that I have just signed with George Harrison’s label, Dark Horse Records,” said Perry in a statement. “I’ve so much music in me that has yet to be heard. To be able to work with a team of people who support and respect my creative expressions, is a dream come true.”
CAA signed singer-songwriter, actress, dancer and TV personality Nicole Scherzinger, who is set to make her Broadway debut as Norma Desmond in Sunset Boulevard on Sunday (Oct. 20). Scherzinger won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical for the play’s London run. She’s also set to reprise her role as Sina in Disney’s Moana 2, which is slated for release next month.
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British rapper-producer Jim Legxacy signed with XL Recordings and released a new single, “aggressive,” on Oct. 7. He’s slated to release a new mixtape, Black British Music (2024), next year.
Seth Shomes‘ Day After Day Productions signed Bobby Brown for exclusive global touring representation. Tour dates will be announced in the coming months. Brown is managed by Alicia Etheredge-Brown at AE Management.
Electronic music duo Deep Dish (Ali “Dubfire” Shirazinia and Sharam Tayebi) signed with Purple Wall for management and CAA for touring. The duo, which recently signed with Armada Music and returned to the studio for the first time in a decade to reimagine some of their older songs, including “Flashdance” and “Say Hello,” is slated to hold residencies in both London and New York this winter.
Big Loud Texas, the label offshoot recently co-founded by Miranda Lambert and Jon Randall, signed country singer-songwriter Jake Worthington. To mark the occasion, Lambert and Worthington released the duet “Hello S—ty Day” late last month.
Tyler Brown (former MD at Syco Music) and Harold Serero (former senior A&R at Ultra Music Publishing and Payday Records) launched Heatwave Records, which will focus on signing artists from emerging markets. The label’s first signings are Nigerian artists Fido (“Awolowo”) and Firstklaz (“Gen-Z Area”) and Ivory Coast artist døpelym (“Guala”).
WME signed singer-songwriter Adrien Nunez (“Low Road”). Managed by Dillon Goldberg at FNGRPRNT, Nunez is slated to support both Dasha and Avery Anna on their respective tours later this year.
Music licensing company PPL signed Manchester, U.K.-based pop-soul singer-songwriter Lusaint (“Sweet Tooth”) for the collection of her international neighboring rights royalties. Lusaint recently released her debut EP, Self Sabotage.
Riser House Records signed cross-genre soul artist Stephen Day, who is set to release a two-pack of holiday songs: an original track, “It’s Christmas All Over,” and a rendition of “Pennies From Heaven.”
Universal Music Canada signed singer-songwriter Lindsay Ell, who will release a new EP, love myself, on Oct. 25. It’s preceded by lead single “Story I Tell Myself.”
Bay Area hardcore band Scowl signed with Dead Oceans. The label released the group’s new single, “Special,” earlier this month.
Irish folk band Amble signed with Warner Records and released a new song, “The Commons,” the title track off a forthcoming EP slated for release on Nov. 1.
Deb Never signed with GIANT Music and released a new single, “Not In Love,” on Tuesday (Oct. 15). Her debut full-length album is due for release next year.
Musical duo CocoRosie signed with Joyful Noise Recordings and will release the new single, “Least I Have You,” on Wednesday (Oct. 16).
Metal/hardcore band Biohazard signed with BLKIIBLK, a new heavy music imprint from Frontiers Label Group. The band is set to release a new album next year, marking its first full-length release in more than a decade. Biohazard is co-managed by Andy Gould and Paul Gargano.
Gotee Records, co-founded by CCM hitmaker TobyMac, has signed indie pop singer/songwriter Lydi Lynn. The Portland native, who now resides in Nashville, will release her debut EP Desert Dream on Oct. 11 and is currently providing direct support for Jervis Campbell’s Magnolia Tour. Lynn is booked by Reliant Talent Agency’s Kevin Castleman. – Jessica Nicholson
Warner Music Korea introduced MPLIFY, a new label designed to support Korean artists with global reach, focusing on English-language music to connect with international audiences. Samuel Ku, an executive producer at WMK, has been tasked with leading the label. The first artist signed to MPLIFY is Olivia Marsh, a Korean-Australian singer-songwriter who is set to release her debut single on all major digital platforms in October. Olivia’s sound blends pop and R&B, influenced by a wide range of artists including ABBA, John Denver, Tame Impala, and Vera Blue. A graduate of the University of Melbourne in Interactive Composition, she has worked with K-pop producers and songwriters to refine her craft. “I am delighted to sign with MPLIFY and to work with such a warm, passionate and innovative team,” Marsh said. –Marc Schneider
Big Loud Records and its Canada-based, Dallas Smith-founded imprint Local Hay Records have signed country artist Hailey Benedict. Benedict has also inked a global publishing deal with Big Loud Publishing/Local Hay. This summer, Benedict performed on the main stage at Alberta’s Big Valley Jamboree, and she’s nominated at the Canadian Country Music Awards for breakthrough artist or group of the year. –Jessica Nicholson
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Anniegee Marketing launched its artist management division, Anniegee Management, and inked a co-management deal with MUN Entertainment for Juliana Velasquez’s career development in the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. Founded by seasoned music industry professional Annie Gonzalez after working as senior director, global marketing at Sony Music Entertainment for over 20 years, Anniegee Marketing and Communications has developed communication strategies in the U.S. for global stars including Shakira, Gloria Estefan, Alejandro Fernández, and many more. Through its new deal with rising Colombian artist Juliana, Anniegee now branches out into artist management, while still offering its marketing and PR consulting services. In her new role, Annie Gonzalez will co-manage Juliana alongside current manager Juancho Muñoz of MUN Entertainment. –Sigal Ratner-Arias
LA-based producer and songwriter Stryv (Hamid Bashir) signed with WME across all areas. Known for his work with artists like Kanye West, Ty Dolla $ign, Jason Derulo, Galantis, and Rita Ora, Stryv recently launched his own artist project. His debut single, “Move,” a collaboration with Adam Port, gained attention after being teased at Keinemusik shows worldwide. Since its official release in June, “Move” has earned over 200 million streams on Spotify, topped the Beatport Top 100 chart, and positioned Stryv as one of the platform’s fastest-growing artists. A follow-up single is set for release later this year. Stryv also forms half of the DJ duo ORSO, alongside Twitch co-founder Justin Kan, further expanding his influence in the electronic music scene. –M.S.
Boutique music publishing company MV2 Entertainment and independent label New Lost City Records have signed singer-songwriter True Youngblood, a Georgia native and Belmont University student, who just released his debut single, “If I Were a Cowboy.” Youngblood joins MV2’s roster of writers, which includes Josh Thompson (“Wasted on You,” “Drowns The Whiskey”), Forrest Finn, Grant Vogel, Johnny McGuire and Blake Henderson. The New Lost City roster includes Youngblood, Henderson and McGuire. –J.N.
Universal Music Group partnered with acclaimed Indian composer and three-time Grammy winner Ricky Kej to launch Vedam Records, a new label dedicating to bringing authentic wellness music from India to a global audience. In his first collaboration with Vedam, Kej has released Break Of Dawn, his latest studio album. “Vedam Records presents an opportunity to compose music that is therapeutic and necessary – now, more than ever,” Kej said. -M.S.
Jennifer Hudson, the multi-faceted star who has won two Grammys, an Oscar, an Emmy and a Tony — making her an EGOT — signed to Interscope Records, the label announced Wednesday (Sept. 4). Her most recent music release was the original soundtrack for Respect, in which she starred as Aretha Franklin and performed all of the songs. She has not recorded an album of original material since 2014’s JHUD, which was released by RCA. Two of her previous albums, 2008’s Jennifer Hudson and 2011’s I Remember Me, peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. “Jennifer has made so many important contributions to global musical culture onstage, onscreen and through her incredible body of recordings,” said Steve Berman, vice chairman of Interscope Capitol Label Group, in a statement. “She is a tour de force and we are thrilled that she has chosen to spend the next phase of her career at Interscope.”
Capitol Records, in partnership with THEBLACKLABEL, announced the launch of MEOVV (pronounced “meow”), a new five-piece K-pop girl group (composed of Ella, Gawon, Soooin, Anna and Narin) whose name was unveiled last month. Notably, THEBLACKLABEL was founded by K-pop producer Teddy Park (a.k.a. TEDDY), who was an early BLACKPINK collaborator and has also collaborated with K-pop acts including BIGBANG, G-Dragon and 2NE1. MEOVV’s debut single is now available for pre-save on major streaming services.
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Grammy-winning band Portugal. The Man signed with WME for representation in all areas. The group, which released the album Chris Black Changed My Life last year, recently wrapped up a world tour in support of the LP, including shows at Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Ryman Auditorium. The band also has a charitable organization, Pass The Mic, that focuses on human rights, community health and the environment, with an emphasis on issues that directly impact Indigenous Peoples.
Singer-songwriter Weyes Blood signed with Blue Raincoat Artists for management. She will be represented by New York-based Ed Harris, who also manages Cigarettes After Sex, Miss Grit and Katrina Ford. Weyes Blood (born Natalie Mering) has released a total of five studio albums, including her critically acclaimed 2022 release And in the Darkness, Hearts Aglow. “Like many people I have been entranced and mesmerised by the beauty of her records and her live performances,” said Blue Raincoat Music co-founder/CEO Jeremy Lascelles in a statement. “She is so revered and admired by her peers, that it is truly an honour that she has trusted Ed and the Blue Raincoat team to guide her into and through the next exciting period of her career.”
L.A.-based electronic trio Cheat Codes partnered with Create Music Group to release the group’s next crop of music, including singles and an album. The first single to be released under the deal was “BLOOM” featuring Train. The band is managed by Jon Camche and Ricardo Zambak at Seminal Music Group.
Neon Gold Records and Tove Lo‘s label Pretty Swede Records jointly signed L.A.-based singer-songwriter-producer googly eyes. Her latest single, “Internet Star,” was released on Aug. 27 and was preceded by her debut single “Bareback on the Motherf—ing Plains.” Both will be included on her debut EP, Starlet, representing the first release on Pretty Swede outside of Tove Lo’s own music. “Internet Star has such a beautiful yet witty vulnerability that I think anyone who’s had dreams that maybe didn’t go their way can relate to,” said Tove Lo in a statement.
Heather Kolker‘s Dreamshop Management signed L.A.-based artist Hemlocke Springs. The singer-songwriter recently supported Doja Cat on her European tour and released her debut EP, going…going…GONE!, last year.
Singer-songwriter Diamante signed with Sumerian Records. The announcement coincided with the release of her new single, “All for the Glory.” Diamante, who is slated to embark on a North American tour alongside Sumerian labelmates Palaye Royale, I See Stars and Weathers, has released two studio albums to date: 2018’s Coming in Hot and 2021’s American Dream.
Also signing with Sumerian was Slovenian metal band Within Destruction, which released its new single, “Demon Child,” on Aug. 28. The band, which has released five studio albums to date, is set to play several dates in the United Kingdom and Europe this fall.
Warner Music Nashville signed William Beckmann to its roster. The bilingual Texas native will release his first post-signing song, “Not That Strong,” on Aug. 30. In 2022, he released the independent album Faded Memories followed by 2023’s Here’s To You, Here’s To Me, which featured “Tennessee Drinkin’,” Beckmann’s fifth consecutive top 20 song on the Texas Regional Radio Chart, according to a press release. – Jessica Nicholson
Audio Chateau Records, the new label launched by Jared Gutstadt‘s Audio Up Media, signed Nashville-based songwriter-musician Clayton Johnson, who recently co-wrote Lana Del Rey and Quavo’s “Tough” with Del Rey at the Audio Chateau studio space in Nashville. As a songwriter, Johnson is currently signed under a joint venture between Audio Up and Universal Music Publishing Group.