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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.
Warner Records has signed Madrid-based pop singer and multi-instrumentalist Rusowsky via a joint venture with Rusia IDK, an artist collective led by Rusowsky and singer-producer Ralphie Choo.
Rusowsky (real name Ruslan Mediavilla) is a well-known figure in Madrid’s alternative music scene. He started releasing music in 2019 and has since collaborated with artists including C. Tangana, DELLAFUENTE and Choo; he’s also played festivals including AXE Ceremonia, Sonar and Lollapalooza in South America. According to a press release, he’s racked up more than 115 million global streams across his catalog.
“This partnership is emblematic of Warner Records’ storied history as a home for true artists across all genres,” said Jackson Harris, manager of A&R at Warner Records, in a statement. “Rusowsky and RUSIA IDK are inspiring a musical and cultural revolution. From head-turning music to mesmerizing live performances, I’m excited for new audiences to learn about these brilliant musicians.”
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Added RUSIA IDK founder Manuel Jubera Suárez: “This is an unprecedented partnership that not only marks a before and after in the Spanish music scene, but also represents a key to enter the American market. The intention is to open new doors for Spanish music, bringing its essence and diversity to a global stage. Thanks to Aaron Bay-Schuck, Tom Corson, Jeff Sosnow and Jackson Harris. And, of course, it would never have been possible without mori, DRUMMIE, Ralphie Choo, Rusowsky and TRISTÁN!, the true essence of RUSIA-IDK.”
Rusowsky is represented by agent Devin Landau at TBA.
Elsewhere…
Katharine McPhee signed a label deal with Nashville-based company Melody Place, which will release new music from the singer and actress early next year. McPhee is slated to make her Grand Ole Opry debut on Oct. 12.
U.K. band The Last Dinner Party signed with PPL for the collection of their international neighboring rights royalties. In February, the five-piece group notched a No. 1 album in the United Kingdom with their debut studio set Prelude to Ecstasy. According to a press release, the band accumulated more than 688,000 seconds of airplay between April 2023 and May 2024, with the majority (62%) of that coming from their debut single “Nothing Matters.”
PULSE Records signed former America’s Got Talent winner Grace VanderWaal. The label released her new single, “Call It What You Want,” on Friday (Aug. 16); it will be followed by an album next spring. VanderWaal is managed by Brad Cohen at Raw Material and booked by Janet Kim at UTA.
BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville signed country singer-songwriter Lanie Gardner, who first rose to attention with her rendition of Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams.” She was recently featured on the Twisters soundtrack with the track “Chasing the Wind” and is slated to tour with Jelly Roll and ZZ Ward. Her most recent single is “Lord Knows.”
Red Bull Records signed singer-songwriter Morgan (“ADCT”) and released her new single, “Bum Bum,” on Friday (Aug. 16). Morgan previously released collaborations with and wrote songs for the dance group Rudimental before collaborating with acts like Purple Disco Machine, Sonny Fodera and Sigma. She released her debut solo EP, Alien, in 2020.
Music, audio post-production and sonic branding company Barking Owl added composer, songwriter and producer Dan Romer to its roster. Barking Owl will exclusively represent Romer — whose scores include Beasts of the Southern Wild, ABC’s The Good Doctor and HBO MAX’s Station Eleven, among others — for advertising and branded content. His production credits include A Great Big World and Christina Aguilera’s “Say Something” and Shawn Mendes’ “Treat You Better.”
Pop-rock artist Bailey Spinn, known for her popular YouTube covers of songs including Olivia Rodrigo’s “Traitor,” signed with AWAL, which released the acoustic version of her viral song “Happy Ending” on Aug. 7 (to be followed by the release of her debut album). Spinn is managed by Temima Shames at Next Step Talent and booked by Jason Parent at Sound Talent Group.
Canberra, Australia band Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers signed with Mom + Pop for the world (minus Australia and New Zealand). The band is ramping up for the release of I Love You Too, an extended version of its debut album I Love You, on Sept. 20; the set will feature three new songs, including the newly-released “Dull.” The Jean Teasers opened up dates for Foo Fighters in Australia and are slated to play several shows in the U.S. later this year, including a slot at Eddie Vedder’s Ohana Festival.
Wasserman Music signed country singer-songwriter Angie K to its roster, with Wasserman’s Nate Ritches representing her for worldwide representation. A 2024 CMT Listen Up Artist, Angie K is repped by JR Schumann for management, Huskins-Harris for business management and Essential Broadcast Media for public relations. – Jessica Nicholson
Singer-songwriter Christian Hayes, who first garnered attention when he posted a video of himself singing his song “Leaving” on Instagram in September 2023, has signed with WME, Universal Music Publishing Group and Flood Bumstead McCready & McCarthy for business management. He is managed by Helena Capps at Wildrose Projects. According to a press release, Hayes’ single “LILY” has racked up more than two million streams since its release this spring.
Warner Music Nashville signed The Band Loula and will release its major label debut track, “Don’t Call Me,” on Friday (Aug. 23). The band is managed by Mary Hilliard Harrington, Chip Dorsch and Christina Dunkley and booked by Grace Stern and Jay Williams at WME.
Artist-composer duo Idle Echoes (composed of Arkfoo and Jeff Dodson) has released its debut album Velvet Phoenix on the ALIBI Music label. ALIBI Music is best known as a provider of music and sound effects for licensing in film, TV, advertising, video games and more.
Monica signed with WME in all areas. The Grammy-winning singer recently came off a supporting slot on Nick Minaj’s Pink Friday 2 Tour in North America and is prepping the release of two full-lenghts this year: R&B album MDA and country album Open Roads (executive produced by Brandi Carlile). She recently joined Brandy on a remix of Ariana Grande’s “the boy is mine” — a reimagining of the pair’s smash 1998 duet. Monica continues to be managed by Melinda Dancil.
English punk rock duo Soft Play partnered with Rise Records/BMG for the release of their new album, Heavy Jelly, which debuted at No. 3 on the UK Official Albums Chart dated July 25, 2024. The duo was previously known as Slaves before changing their name in 2022 following a backlash over their former moniker.
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ONErpm signed L.A.-based alt-rock trio Sick Puppies (“You’re Going Down”) for the release of the band’s forthcoming sixth album Wave the Bull, which is due out early next year. The album’s first single, “There Goes the Neighborhood,” was released July 26.
RECORDS Nashville signed newcomer singer-songwriter Drew Green, who has seen viral success with the song “Lotta Bit of You.” RECORDS Nashville is the boutique outpost of industry executive Barry Weiss’ label RECORDS. Green’s first RECORDS Nashville-helmed single is “Town Drunk,” while he’s also prepping an upcoming collaboration with HARDY titled “Colorado.” – Jessica Nicholson
Bruce Kalmick‘s WHY&HOW added artists Tyler Halverson and Cameron Sacky Band to its artist management roster. Halverson will be overseen by Patrick Farr while Allie Petko and Eddie Kloesel will oversee Cameron Sacky Band. Halverson has released the independent singles “Beer Garden Baby,” “Mac Miller” and “Your Bar Now,” while Cameron Sacky Band issued a self-titled 2021 EP and is set to release the full-length project Quicksand. Cameron Sacky Band is repped by The Neal Agency for booking. – Jessica Nicholson
Singer-songwriter John Morgan signed with Rich MGMT. The North Carolina native is also signed to Night Train Records/BBR Music Group and is currently on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart with the song “Friends Like That” featuring Jason Aldean. Morgan also has writing credits on hits including Aldean’s “That’s What Tequila Does,” “Trouble With a Heartbreak” and “If I Didn’t Love You” with Carrie Underwood. Rich MGMT was founded by Brendan Rich in 2023 with a roster that also includes Matt Stell, George Birge and Darren Kiely. The company also recently added to its staff with digital coordinator Jordan Policastri, who joins day-to-day managers Sarah Paravia and Chase Miller. – Jessica Nicholson
Montreal beatmaker/instrumentalist tender spring, who is part of the Canadian indie band Afternoon Bike Ride, signed to Nettwerk for the release of the album you are now listening to a tender spring. Born David Tanton, the musician released the album’s “side a” on July 26, with the remainder to be released at a later date.
Nettwerk also signed L.A.-based, New Zealand-born Laotian artist Alisa Xayalith, who is best known as the frontwoman of The Naked and Famous. The label is set to release her new single, “Roses,” on Friday (Aug. 9), to be followed by more new music produced by Tyler Spry (OneRepublic, Tate McCrae).
Elektra Records signed Kevian Kraemer, an 18-year-old singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer based in New Jersey who released his debut EP Seventeen earlier this year. On Friday (Aug. 2), the label released a stripped-down version of his breakthrough track “Attention.” Kramer is managed by Chris McAndrew and Jamar Richardson at Paia Management, with legal representation by attorney Paul Rothenberg at Rothenberg, Mohr, & Binder.
Ken Pomeroy, a Cherokee singer-songwriter from Moore, Okla., signed to Rounder Records. Now based in Tulsa, Okla., Pomeroy’s song “Cicadas” was featured in an episode of the FX series Reservation Dogs. She also appeared in this summer’s Twisters, performing her song “Wall of Death” with Wilderado and James McAlister. The song is also featured on the film’s soundtrack.
Downtown Neighboring Rights signed a global deal with singer-songwriter Lady Blackbird to represent her catalog, which includes singles such as “Woman,” “Feel It Coming” and “Dark Days” with Moby.
Secretly Canadian signed singer-songwriter Brandon. The label will release his EP Blush on Sept. 13; the first single, “Without You,” was released Wednesday (July 31).
My Brightest Diamond signed to Western Vinyl, which will release her new album, Fight the Real Terror, on Sept. 13. The singer-songwriter, who just came off her originating role in Broadway’s Illinoise (based on the Sufjan Stevens album), is managed by Andrea Troolin at Ekonomisk and booked by Alex Fang at New Frontier (North America) and James Alderman at Free Trade (international). Her new song, “Have You Ever Seen an Angel,” was released July 26.
Capitol CMG has signed artist-writer Claire Leslie, who just released her label debut single, “Original.” The song was written by Leslie, Jordan Sapp and Daniella Mason. – Jessica Nicholson
Third Man Records signed Australian band The Belair Lip Bombs and will reissue the group’s 2023 album, Lush Life. It is the label’s first Australian signing. The Bombs’ second album is expected for release sometime next year.
MARINA signed with Janelle Lopez Genzink (Sabrina Carpenter) at Volara for management. The artist, who previously recorded as Marina and the Diamonds, has released a total of five albums; her most recent, Ancient Dreams in a Modern Land, dropped via Atlantic in 2021. Volara signed a strategic partnership with Red Light Management in 2023.
Canadian rock band Finger Eleven signed with Better Noise Music (Five Finger Death Punch, Asking Alexandria). The label will release the group’s forthcoming album next year, to be preceded by first single “Adrenaline” on Aug. 2. Finger Eleven is currently supporting Creed on its Summer of ’99 tour.
U.K. electronic-pop outfit London Grammar signed with PPL for the collection of its international neighboring rights royalties. The group has released a total of three albums and is due to release a fourth, The Greatest Love, on Sept. 13.
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Phoebe Bridgers‘ Saddest Factory Records signed trans singer-songwriter jasmine.4.t. The label released her latest single, “Skin On Skin” (produced by Bridgers and her Boygenius bandmates Julien Baker and Lucy Dacus) on July 16. Based in Manchester, jasmine.4.t is the first U.K. signee to Saddest Factory.
Italian singer Michele Morrone signed to New York-based indie label 477 Records. Morrone, also an actor who starred in Netflix’s 365 Days, is currently at work on his third studio album.
Country-rock duo Lakeview (Jesse Denaro and Luke Healy) inked with UTA for exclusive global representation in all areas. The duo broke through with the single “Home Team” and recently issued the new song “Money Where Your Mouth Is” featuring Gideon. – Jessica Nicholson
Singer-songwriter JD Clayton signed with Nashville-based roots, Americana and bluegrass label Rounder Records. Clayton released his debut album, Long Way from Home, in early 2023. He’s slated to embark on a fall tour beginning Aug. 30.
Country singer Kashus Culpepper signed with CAA. According to the agency, Culpepper has played sold-out headline club shows throughout the South and opened shows for Charles Wesley Godwin, Charley Crockett and Needtobreathe. He recently signed with Big Loud Records, which released his first-ever single “After Me?” on June 21.
Folk singer-songwriter Olive Klug signed with Tommy Alexander and Paige Maloney at Wasserman Music for global representation. Klug released their first album, Don’t You Dare Make Me Jaded, on Aug. 11, 2023. They toured throughout 2023 with Kevin Atwater, Odie Leigh and Daisy the Great, with more tour dates to come this year, including at the North Carolina Folk Festival in Greensboro.
Indie folk singer-songwriter Shaya Zamora has signed with Atlantic Records, which will release his new single, “Sinner,” on Friday (July 12), the label tells Billboard. Atlantic says shortform content teasing the upcoming track has already generated more than 24,000 creates and 20 million views on TikTok.
A native of rural Washington, Zamora only officially began releasing new music last summer and dropped his debut EP, Eulogize, in late January. The set was propelled by the success of its breakout track “Cigarette,” which boasts more than 25 million streams on Spotify alone. That was followed by his Atlantic debut, the single “Pretty Little Devil,” which caught fire on TikTok where it has racked up more than 160,000 creates and over 260 million views, according to the label (“Devil” was added to TikTok’s #NewMusic global discovery hub.) On Instagram Reels, “Devil” boasts more than 16,000 creates and over 85 million views.
More new music from Zamora is slated to drop later this year.
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Zamora is managed by Matt Reed at Hyphen Media Group and Devin Poindexter at Mad Jack Management.
Also this week…
Ciara signed with WME for worldwide representation in all areas. The singer, who a press release states has sold more than 23 million records and nearly 30 million singles worldwide off hits like the Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 single “Goodies” and “1, 2 Step” featuring Missy Elliott, is currently working on her eighth album, which will include the previously-released single “How We Roll.” In addition to her music, Ciara was recently featured in Warner Bros.’ 2023 musical adaptation of The Color Purple. She also recently signed with align PR and continues to be represented by IMG Models.
Also at WME, Belgian techno DJ and producer Amelie Lens signed with the agency which will represent her for touring and support the expansion of her labels and brand across events and collaborations. Lens owns two labels: Lenske (Farrago, AIROD, Ahl Iver) and Exhale Records, which is geared toward aspiring producers and is behind the EXHALE event series. Lens’ upcoming tour dates include performances at festivals including DOUR Festival, Tomorrowland and Junction 2.
Vector Management welcomed several new artists to its roster under the leadership of Vector West head Nicki Loranger. They include rapper Yung Gravy, electronic duo 3OH!3, DJ Valentino Khan, indie pop band The Aces, singer-songwriter Jack Harris and DJ-producer 4B. Gravy, Khan and 4B came to the agency through manager Henley Halem, who also officially joins Vector as a manager alongside Bryant Barnes and Gabriel Apodaca, who brought 3OH!3 to the firm.
Nashville-based label and management company Gravel Road, led by Anthony Martini and Rich Barnerhas, signed country-rock duo Lakeview to the label side of the business. According to a press release, the duo’s Jesse Denaro and Luke Healy earned nearly 30 million streams with their breakthrough hit “Home Team” and recently released the new song “Money Where Your Mouth Is” featuring Gideon. The Gravel Road roster also includes Compton Cowboys and producer Scattered Brains. – Jessica Nicholson
Big Machine Label Group imprint Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment (formerly BMLG Records) signed rising singer-songwriter Shaylen. Following a decade in Los Angeles making pop music, Shaylen returned to Nashville in 2022 and has since scored successes on the country music front including the single “What If I Don’t,” which currently boasts more than 29 million streams on Spotify alone. She’s managed by Two Hats Music Group in Nashville.
Brazilian electronic artist and DJ Victor Lou (“Diu Diu Lai”) signed with UTA for global representation, excluding Brazil, in all areas. Lou recently came off his international tour Summer All Day, which concluded in Orlando, Fla., at the end of March. It was Lou’s first run in the U.S. Festival performances on the tour included Rock in Rio, Lollapalooza, Tomorrowland, XXXperience and Só Track Boa.
Nettwerk signed San Jose, Calif.-based lo-fi beatmaker and multi-instrumentalist Knowmadic, who has scored streaming success with tracks including “Faces” and “Fade.” The label will release his upcoming album, rain check, later this summer.
R&B singer-songwriter TA Thomas signed with High Standardz/Def Jam Recordings, which released his new single, “Risky,” on June 27. Thomas’ debut album, Caught Between 2 Worlds, dropped last September. Thomas is managed by Tosh Mac.
King Thief, billed as a “punk supergroup” featuring members of Teenage Bottlerocket, This Is a Standoff, Choke and The Fullblast, signed to Thousand Islands Records, which will release the band’s debut single, “Gymposter Syndrome,” on Wednesday (July 10), followed by an album this fall. The band consists of Eric Neilson (Change Methodical, Midnight Peg), Ryan Podlubny (Fullblast), Shawn Moncrieff (Choke), Nick Kouremenos (Fire Next Time, This Is a Standoff, TheJohnsons) and Darren Chewka (Teenage Bottle Rocket, Old Wives).
Giant Music, the record label launched under The Azoff Company banner in 2022, has signed Australian singer/songwriter Ruel, the company tells Billboard. This marks the first signing for Nate Albert, who joined Giant Music as president in January. The label will release “Kiss Me,” Ruel’s cover of the hit song by Sixpence None the Richer, on Thursday (June 27).
“Ruel is truly a singular talent, and we are thrilled to be part of his next chapter,” said Albert in a statement.
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Best known for songs like “Painkiller,” “Dazed & Confused” and “GROWING UP IS ___”, Ruel released his debut album, 4TH WALL, last year. In August, he’s slated to play Lollapalooza for the first time.
Also this week…
Hip-hop producer, singer and songwriter Lithe signed with WME for global representation. The Melbourne-bred artist began putting out music in 2018 and has released several EPs since. His single “Fall Back,” released in March, currently boasts more than 97 million streams on Spotify. He’s managed by Benjamin James of Mutual Friends.
Boston-bred alt-rock band Vundabar signed to Loma Vista Recordings. The label released the group’s new garage-rock song, “I Got Cracked,” on Tuesday (June 25). Composed of Brandon Hagen, Drew McDonald and Zack Abramo, Vundabar is best known for its RIAA platinum-certified track “Alien Blues,” which boasts more than 540 million streams on Spotify alone. “Vundabar has already accomplished so much as a totally independent band, and we are thrilled to welcome them to Loma Vista for this exciting next stage of their career,” said Loma Vista A&R Susan Busch in a statement. The band is managed by Ally Ehasz and Zack Zarrillo at Alternate Side and booked by Greg Horbal and Carly Goldberg at Wasserman.
Rising country singer-songwriter Bayker Blankenship (“Maxed Out”) signed with Lone Star/Santa Anna Records. According to a press release, “Maxed Out” boasts more than 26,000 creates and more than 6 million views on TikTok. In a statement, Alamo Records/Santa Anna Records CEO Todd Moscowitz said the song “is quickly establishing itself as a very reactive hit.”
Drew Baldridge signed with UTA for representation in all areas. The country singer-songwriter’s single “She’s Somebody’s Daughter” currently sits at No. 15 on Billboard‘s Country Airplay chart, a feat he reached without the backing of a major label or a management team. Baldridge is signed with Sony Music Publishing. His team also consists of business manager Becky Harris (Huskin-Harris Business Management) and attorney Jeff Biederman (Greenberg Traurig, LLP). – Jessica Nicholson
Grammy-nominated artist, songwriter and producer Gallant (“Weight in Gold,” “Cave Me In”) signed with Mom+Pop Music. The first release under the deal is Gallant’s new single, “Coldstar.” Gallant has collaborated with artists including Dua Lipa, Zhu, Brandy, Noah Cyrus and Sufjan Stevens and appeared at festivals including Coachella, Bonnaroo and Austin City Limits.
10K Projects signed virtual artist angelbaby via Web3 agency Hume and and will re-release the track “Life Is Good” featuring Jagwar Twin. “This agreement is a major milestone for Hume as we continue our mission to become Pixar for music,” said the Hume team in a statement. “We’ve been looking for a partner that can push our artists further into culture and we’re excited to work towards that goal with 10K on ‘Life Is Good.’”
Big Loud Records signed singer-songwriter Kashus Culpepper. The Alabama native began performing during a deployment with the U.S. Navy in Rota, Spain. On Friday (June 21), the label released his single “After Me?”. Culpepper is repped by CAA for booking and managed by Jay Harren. – Jessica Nicholson
Dexter and the Moonrocks, “a formerly country/western band” that now makes “Western Space Grunge music,” according to a press release, signed to Severance Records, an imprint of Big Loud Rock. The label will release the band’s latest EP — aptly titled Western Space Grunge — on July 19. “Bleach,” the first song from the EP, was released on June 12. The band is managed by Chris Schoemann at Lion’s Claw Entertainment and booked by Mike Krug at WME.
Country singer-songwriter Ashland Craft signed with independent record label Leo33. Craft has supported artists including Cody Johnson, Ashley McBryde, Zac Brown Band, Luke Combs and Morgan Wallen on tour. She recently wrapped her Damascus Acoustic Tour with Elvie Shane and performed at CMA Fest. She’s next slated to play festivals including Summerfest, Watershed Music Festival and Field & Stream Festival.
U.K. music licensing company PPL signed singer-songwriter Kenya Grace for the collection of her international neighboring rights royalties. The company, which has also signed the likes of Ice Spice and Lewis Capaldi as of late, licenses the use of recorded music in the United Kingdom and collects neighboring rights royalties worldwide through more than 110 agreements with collective management organizations (CMOs) internationally.
Country singer-songwriter Carter Faith (“Late Bloomer,” “Strong Stuff”) signed with Universal Music Group Nashville, marking her first major label deal. She’s working on new music expected for release later this year. Faith is booked by Meredith Jones and Bennett Beckner at CAA and managed by Range Media Partners.
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L.A.-based band LA LOM signed to Verve Records, which will release the group’s debut album, The Los Angeles League of Musicians, on Aug. 9. The group is booked by Ethan Berlin and Karl Morse at Arrival Artists and managed by Alex Kadvan and Rick Goetz at Red Light.
Singer-songwriter Liam St. John signed with Big Loud Rock, which will release his upcoming EP, Believer, on June 28. St. John is managed by Aidan Crowley at Legacy Content.
Ashley Ryan signed with ONErpm Nashville. California native Ryan moved to Nashville in 2018 and has honed her skills performing at local venues including Whiskey Jam and The Listening Room. She also caught the attention of country artist Keith Urban, who invited Ryan to perform his hit song, “Without You,” at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena during his 2022 world tour. Ryan’s new single, “Them Cowboys,” was released on May 31. – Jessica Nicholson
London/Madrid-based singer-songwriter pablopablo (a.k.a Pablo Drexler) signed with Mom+Pop Music. The two-time Latin Grammy winner, who won Record of the Year and Song of the Year at the 2022 ceremony for “Tocarte,” will release his debut album on the label. His new single, “Mi Culpa,” dropped on May 30.
Omaha, Neb., band Cursive signed to Run for Cover Records, which will release the group’s next album, Devourer, on Sept. 13. Cursive is booked by Eric Dimenstein at Ground Control Touring in the United States and Steve Zapp at International Talent Booking in Europe.
Vocalist, songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist Croixx signed to Elektra Records, which released his new single, “Higher,” on May 31.
Alternative pop-rock artist Liam Benzvi (formerly of Strange Names) signed to Fat Possum. He will release his upcoming album, …And His Splash Band, via the label on Sept. 27.