Signed

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.

Irish rock band The Script signed a global deal with BMG. Managed by Simon Moran and Martin Hall at Hall or Nothing, the group now consists of Danny O’Donoghue and Glen Power following the death of their bandmate Mark Sheehan last year. According to a press release, the band’s global streaming tally stands at 10 billion.
Stockholm, Sweden-based, Venezuelan-born singer-songwriter Omar Rudberg signed to Elektra Records and released his major label debut single, “Red Light,” on May 17. Rudberg was previously in the Scandinavian boy band FO&O before going solo. He’s also known for starring in the Netflix series Young Royals.

TMWRK signed three artists to its management roster: ††† (Crosses), Wavves and Noeline Hofman. The company’s founder, Andrew McInnes, manages ††† (Crosses) alongside Ben Matusow, who also manages Wavves. Hofman, an Americana artist, is managed by senior vp of management Paddy Scace and executive vp/partner Nick Palmacci.

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Singer-songwriter Cameron Whitcomb (“The Devil I’ve Seen”) signed with Atlantic Records, which released his latest single, “Rocking Chair,” on May 17. Whitcomb is managed by Todd Dunsmore and John Caton at Fifthline and booked by Matt Runner and Jonathan Insogna at Wasserman.

MNRK Heavy signed Colorado-based hardcore group Fox Lake to its roster for the release of the band’s upcoming album. The group is managed and booked by Travis Porter at Forthright Booking.

“Hard house” producer and DJ Ben Keen, a.k.a. BK, signed to Hannah Laing‘s doof, which released his latest single, “No Fool,” on May 17. BK is managed by Lee Haslam at LGRP and booked by Josh Haygarth at Active Talent Agency.

North Carolina-based country singer Wesko signed to Warner Records/Underscore Works Recordings, which released his debut EP, Lost Boys, on Friday (May 24). He’s managed by Charly Salvatore and Becca Campbell at underscore works.

Mahogany, the music brand and record label behind the Mahogany Sessions video channel, launched digital distribution and artist service platform Mahogany Songs, with Dom Wallace aboard as label & marketing manager. The first signing for the new entity is singer-songwriter Áine Deane. Mahogany Songs will release Deane’s new EP, tales of a twenty something, later this year.

Boston-based indie rock-funk band Bermuda Search Party signed to Nettwerk, which released the group’s new song, “Asking 4 A Friend,” on May 17. The band is managed by Zoe Salvucci at Seven Hills Management and booked by Kameron Salek at Bandit Booking.

BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville signed duo Ryan and Rory. The band, which includes Nashville native Ryan Follesé and North Carolina native Rory John Zak, released its single “Pour Decisions” on Friday (May 24). Ryan and Rory’s self-titled debut EP will release July 26. – Jessica Nicholson

iann dior (featured on the 24kGoldn smash “Mood”) signed to Big Noise Music Group, which released his latest single, “Edge of Tomorrow,” on Friday (May 10). Formerly signed to 10k Projects, dior is managed by Andile Ndlovu at Fractal and booked by Mitch Blackman and Griffin Perkiel at IAG.
Fourteen-year-old singer-songwriter Maddox Batson (“Tears in the River”) signed with WME for global representation across departments including touring, brand partnerships, TV, film and digital. Batson is also signed to Prosper Entertainment and OH Creative.

BRITs Rising Star award-winning trio FLO (“Cardboard Box”) signed to PPL for the collection of the group’s international neighboring rights royalties. FLO is composed of Jorja Douglas, Renée Downer and Stella Quaresma. The group’s debut album is slated for release on Island Records this year.

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Stockholm-formed, Los Angeles-based band Solence signed with Better Noise Music, which will release the group’s new album this fall (preceded by the track “F— the Bad Vibes”). Solence is managed by Mike Mowery and Anna Greenhall at 10th Street Entertainment.

Country singer-songwriter Vincent Mason (“Hell Is a Dance Floor”) signed with WME in multiple areas.

Alt-rock artist Kami Kehoe (“SLEEP WHEN I’M DEAD”) signed with Coup D’Etat Recordings and 10k Projects, which released her new single, “WHERE DID IT ALL GO WRONG,” on May 3. Kehoe is managed by Alyce Hayek at Grass Fed Music and booked by Tom Windish and Andrew Buck at Wasserman. Her lawyer is Matthew Kamen of Grubman Shire Meiselas. This is the first joint venture signing for Coup D’Etat and 10k.

R&B artist Skylar Simone signed with Def Jam Recordings, which released her new single, “Shiver,” on May 3.

Singer-songwriter Zach John King, who plays what’s described as a blend of country, Americana and indie rock, signed with The Neal Agency for booking. King is slated to release his debut EP, Wannabe Cowboy, on May 24. He’s managed by Matt Reed at Hyphen Media Group, Boom Music Group for publishing and CMDSHFT for distribution.

Aric Improta and Stephen Harrison, coming together under the moniker House of Protection, signed with Red Bull Records. Improta and Harrison — previously of Night Verses and The Chariot, respectively — both recently departed the group Fever 333. The duo’s debut single is “It’s Supposed to Hurt.” The project is described in a press release as “bridging the disparate worlds of hardcore, electronica and punk.”

Nashville alternative band Jive Talk signed with War Buddha/Warner Records, which released the group’s new single, “Rat People,” on May 3. The band kicked off its tour on May 8 and is slated to play Bonnaroo. Jive Talk is managed by Neil Mason and Patrick Waters at Red Light.

Folk-pop singer-songwriter Julia Minichiello signed with Nashville-based Odyssey Entertainment Group for management. In 2021, Minichiello won the #Sing2gether TikTok contest held by Universal Pictures, which secured her a guest spot on The Kelly Clarkson Show. She’s also represented by lawyer Matt Cottingham.

Country singer Josh Turner, known for hits including “Your Man” and “Would You Go With Me,” has re-signed with longtime label home MCA Nashville. Later this week, Turner will be inducted into the South Carolina Entertainment and Music Hall of Fame. He released the song “Heatin’ Things Up” on Friday (April 26). – Jessica Nicholson
Sister duo Aly & AJ (“Potential Breakup Song,” “Like Whoa,” “Slow Dancing”) signed with UTA for global representation in all areas. Composed of Aly and AJ Michalka, the duo will continue to be represented by Scott Felcher at Felcher & Freifeld, LLP, Joel McKuin at McKuin Frankel Whitehead LLP, Jared Rosenberg at Redlight Management and Andrea Pett-Joseph at Brillstein Entertainment.

British-Brazilian singer-songwriter Liana Flores (“rises the moon”) signed with Verve Records. Flores, who merges bossa nova and folk music, recently toured with Laufey and is ramping up for her first U.S. headlining dates. She’ll release her debut album later this year, preceded by the single “I wish for the rain.” Her booking agents for North and South America are Sam Gans and Wilson Zheng at High Road Touring, with Primary Talent handling the rest of the world.

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Absolute Label Services signed a deal with Universal/Capitol Records Italy for the release of Jack Savoretti‘s first Italian language album. Through the deal, which covers the United Kingdom and Ireland, Absolute will manage the distribution, marketing and promotion of the album, titled Miss Italia (set for release on May 17). Savoretti is managed by Niko Michault and Danielle Livesey at P.U.S.H. Music Management.

Also at Absolute, the company signed a deal to market, promote, distribute and handle synch for a new album from “neo-skiffle” band Fairground Attraction. The album, titled Beautiful Happening and set for release Sept. 20 on band member Mark Nevin’s Raresong Recordings label, marks the first time all four original members of the group — Nevin, Eddi Reader, Simon Edwards and Roy Dodds — have worked together since 1989.

Downtown Neighboring Rights signed singer-songwriter ANOHNI (lead singer of ANOHNI and the Johnsons), whose entire catalog will be represented by the company. She’s been a Downtown Music Publishing client since 2022. The company also unveiled an international agreement with publisher and label Position Music (Welshly Arms, 2WEI, Ryan Oakes) as well as TH3RD BRAIN Records (Emmit Fenn, Zerb).

Singer-songwriter Debbii Dawson signed with RCA Records, which released her new single, “Happy World,” on April 19 ahead of a forthcoming EP. Dawson’s booking agency is Wasserman and her managers are Matthew Kennedy and Rachel Higg at WeManage. She has a co-publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music and Katy Perry‘s Unsub Publishing.

Capitol Christian Music Group signed hip-hop/pop artist gio. The 21-year-old’s debut single, “reality,” was just released. His first EP in conjunction with the label is slated to arrive in the fall. – Jessica Nicholson

Country artist Louie TheSinger signed with UTA for global representation in all areas. Louie released his first single for Universal Music Group, “Brothers,” in January and recently announced his Desperado Tour, which launches in June. – Jessica Nicholson

RECORDS Nashville artist Alli Walker, along with her manager, Brad Turcotte, joined Vector Management. Walker, who just released her new single, “Creek,” becomes part of a management roster that also includes Charley Crockett, Molly Tuttle and Marcus King. – Jessica Nicholson

Universal Music Group Nashville signed singer-songwriter Timothy Wayne. A Franklin, Tenn., native, Wayne is currently a sophomore at LSU and working on his first project. He’s slated to support his uncle, Tim McGraw, for several dates on his Standing Room Only Tour. – Jessica Nicholson

Ice Spice signed with PPL for the collection of her neighboring rights royalties. The company, which also recently signed Lewis Capaldi, will collect royalties on the rapper’s behalf for the use of her music on radio, TV and in public spaces worldwide.
Singer-songwriter Dasha, who scored a breakthrough hit with “Austin” this year, signed with WME for global representation in all areas. The rising star also recently signed with Warner Records. She’s managed by Alex Lunt at Type A Management.

BBR Music Group/Wheelhouse Records artist Elvie Shane signed with WME for global representation in all areas. His agent team includes WME Nashville office co-head Becky Gardenhire along with Jon Folk, Doug Neff, Lance Alleman and Caleb Fenn, who will work alongside various agency departments for bookings in touring, brand partnerships, digital, TV and film. Shane is set to release his newest album, Damascus, on April 19. – Jessica Nicholson (652k)

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Afro-dancehall artist Stonebwoy signed a global distribution and label services deal with ADA Worldwide, through which he released his latest single, “Ekelebe.” The agreement also includes the Nigerian rapper’s sixth studio album, which is slated for release later this year. He’s managed by Casey Kobia at KVO Talent.

Bollywood star Ayushmann Khurrana signed a global recording deal with Warner Music India, with the first release under the agreement expected to drop next month.

Independent singer-songwriter and producer yaeow (a.k.a. Lars Haggstrom) signed a global licensing deal with AWAL for his catalog and 10 upcoming songs. His first single under the agreeement, “still that kid (deep down),” will be released on May 2, with his debut album to follow.

Atlantic Records/Anemoia Records signed Bossa, a 17-year-old artist from Palm Springs, Calif., who spans various genres including hip-hop and dance. The labels will release his new single, “Go Crazy,” on Friday (April 19). He’s managed by Jen Park and Kirsten VanHoose.

Mexican indie artist Girl Ultra (a.k.a. Mariana de Miguel) signed with Ninja Tune imprint Big Dada, “a label run by Black, POC & minority ethnic people for Black, POC & minority ethnic artists,” according to a press release. Her first single on the label is “rimel.”

Echos, the artist project of Alexandra Norton, signed with Outlast Records, with the single “CAROUSEL” marking the first drop under the deal. She’s managed by Derek Brewer at Shelter Music Group.

Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment (formerly BMLG Records) signed Noah Hicks via a joint venture with Red Creative Records. The Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment roster also includes Riley Green, Chris Janson, Brett Young, Lady A and Greylan James. Georgia native Hicks earned a viral hit on TikTok with “I Can Tell You’re Small Town,” followed by “Dirt on It.” He’s represented by Red Light Management and WME. – Jessica Nicholson

North London producer, DJ, composer and multi-instrumentalist Jasper Tygner signed with Ninja Tune via its imprint Technicolour, which released his latest single, “Before Me.” He’s managed by Tom Aldridge at Salt Music and booked by Evan Greenberg at CAA.

The Felice Brothers signed to Million Stars, the label started by Conor Oberst; it will release the band’s new album, Valley of Abandoned Songs, on June 27. The band is booked by Eric Dimenstein at Ground Control Touring in North America and David Hughes at the Free Trade Agency for Europe and the United Kingdom.

Country singer Payton Smith signed with The Familie for management. The signing coincided with the release of his new EP, Up From Here, on Combustion Music. He’s booked by WME.

ONErpm Nashville signed singer-songwriter and American Idol alum Britnee Kellogg and released her new song, “Hell in a Handbag.” Kellogg is booked by The Kinkead Entertainment Agency in Nashville. – Jessica Nicholson

Country newcomer Timmy McKeever signed with Droptine Recordings, which released his new single, “Bullet Proof,” on April 5.

R&B artist Ariel signed with Mello Music Group. The label released her latest single, “Something Amazing,” on Thursday (April 11).

Provident Entertainment, a division of Sony Entertainment, signed The Voice season 22 finalist bodie. For his first single, the Los Angeles native released a cover of Brandon Lake’s “Gratitude,” which he performed on the season finale of The Voice. Provident Entertainment’s roster also includes Kirk Franklin, Lake, CAIN, Zach Williams and Casting Crowns. – Jessica Nichlson

Chicago band Babe Report signed with Exploding in Sound, which will release the band’s debut album, Did You Get Better, on May 31.

Lewis Capaldi signed with U.K.-based music licensing company PPL for international neighboring rights royalty collections. The company will collect royalties for the use of Capaldi’s music on radio, TV and in public spaces globally. Capaldi is managed by Ryan Walter at Interlude Artists.
Lil Mosey (“Blueberry Faygo”) and his label, Love U Forever, signed a global distribution partnership with Cinq Music ahead of his currently untitled EP to be released this spring. The first single from the EP, “Life Goes On,” debuted on March 22.

“Wine into Whiskey” singer Tucker Wetmore inked a deal with WME for global booking representation. Wetmore, who moved to Nashville in 2020, signed a publishing deal in 2023 with Rakiyah Marshall‘s Back Blocks Music. He follows “Wine into Whiskey” with his new release, “Wind Up Missin’ You.” – Jessica Nicholson

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Mexican singer-songwriter Beto Vega signed with Downtown Artist & Label Services. In addition to global distribution and marketing, Vega (“Me Dicen Nini” with Markitos Toys) will also take advantage of the company’s catalog management and full-service campaigns for future releases, including his upcoming track, “Los Brothers” with Edgardo Nuñez. Vega is booked by Luis Del Villar at Gerencia 360.

Pop/R&B singer-songwriter CIL signed with The Familie for management. The 21-year-old Fort Collins, Colo., native was recently signed to Warner Records by the label’s CEO, Aaron Bay-Schuck.

Turkish-Italian DJ, producer and multi-instrumentalist Carlita signed with Ninja Tune via its imprint Counter Records, which released her latest single, “Time.” She is booked and managed by Alberto Bragado.

Ukrainian band Okean Elzy signed with Warner Music, which will release the group’s first entirely-English album globally, including in the United States, where Elektra will handle distribution. The band is preparing for a series of charity gigs for its Help for Ukraine Tour, with shows slated in Ukraine and other European countries including Belgium, the United Kingdom, Germany and Poland. The group is represented by manager Joel Mark at 9122 Management and Brian Cohen and Joe Friel at WME for booking.

Shaznay Lewis, formerly a member of U.K. group All Saints, partnered with Absolute Label Services for the release of her first solo album in 20 years. Titled Pages, the album is set for release on May 17. Lewis is represented by Wayne Russell at Massive Management and Solomon Parker at Wasserman for booking.

Hip-hop/R&B artist (and actual gas station owner) WRKINSILENCE signed a distribution and licensing deal with 10K Projects, which will release his debut EP later this year. He is managed by Lauren Fukawa.

Alt pop-rock artist Zoe Ko signed to Big Loud Rock, an imprint of Big Loud Records, in partnership with producer and songwriter management company, publisher, record label and A&R consulting company Double Down 11. She is managed by Ava Solomon at NXTWAVE.

Melbourne, Australia-based vocalist, lyricist and producer Vetta Borne signed with [PIAS] Australia, which put out her latest track, “40-40.”

Americana singer-songwriter Cassandra Lewis signed to Elektra/Low Country Sound, which will release her forthcoming major label debut album, Lost in a Dream, later this year. She’s managed by Mark Cunningham at Red Light.

Country singer Kanaan Brock signed to 10th Street Entertainment for management. His debut single, “Sinner and Saint,” is out now.

M Music & Entertainment Group and Freddie Records signed up-and-coming norteño artist Nathan Acosta. The record deal comes ahead of his upcoming debut single, titled “Solo” and penned by Jesse Turner (of Grupo Siggno), which is set for release on April 19. Born in San Antonio, Tex., Acosta is a singer-songwriter and accordion player who was most recently on tour with Grupo Siggno and Jennifer Peña across the United States and Mexico. “This is an absolute dream come true for me,” Acosta said in a statement. “Ever since I was a kid, I’ve dreamed of being able to record and play music in front of big crowds.” – Griselda Flores

Nelly signed with WME for global representation. The rapper and singer’s most recent album, Heartland, was released in 2021 and peaked at No. 7 on Billboard‘s Top Country Albums chart, while the single “Lil Bit” featuring Florida Georgia Line remained at No. 1 on Billboard‘s Country Digital Song Sales chart for three weeks. Signed to RECORDS (Sony Music), Nelly also recently launched MoShine, a moonshine brand.
Symphonic metal band Nightwish renewed its contract with Nuclear Blast, reaching a new global multi-album deal with the label that it first signed with 20 years ago. The label also announced that it signed American death metal band Gatecreeper, which will release its third album, Dark Superstition, on the Nuclear Blast on May 17. Gatecreeper is represented by managers James Vitalo and James Grottola at Gold Theory Artists and booking agent Merrick Jarmulowicz at Ground Control Touring.

Play It Again Sam, an imprint of the [PIAS] label group, will release Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds‘ forthcoming album under a global license, in partnership with Cave’s label, Bad Seed. Titled Wild God, the album is slated for release on Aug. 30.

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Activist Artists Management signed folk-pop singer-songwriter Weyes Blood for management. She will be represented by Activist founding partners Bernie Cahill and Matt Maher, along with Activist senior director of A&R/creative Anna Kolander and head of global marketing Chris Ruff. Weyes Blood’s most recent album, And In the Darkness, Hearts Aglow, reached No. 1 on Billboard‘s Heatseekers Albums chart. She has performed at festivals including Coachella and Pitchfork and toured throughout the United States, Europe and Australia.

Indie-electronic pop group Metronomy signed with Ninja Tune, which released the band’s latest single, “Nice Town.” It marks the first release from the band’s upcoming Posse EP Volume 1 follow-up.

UTA signed country band Ole 60 for global representation in all areas. The group will continue being represented by Davis Danziger, Wales Toney and Ty Little at Whale Tale Management and lawyer Matt Cottingham. Coming up, Ole 60 is slated to support Dylan Gossett and Charles Wesley Godwin on their upcoming tours and will play the Grind City Music Festival in Memphis.

New York band Wild Pink signed with Fire Talk Records, which released the group’s label debut, the single “Air Drumming Fix You,” on Mar. 7. The group is booked by Ryan Farlow at Arrival Artists (North America) and Joren Heuvels at Hometown Talent (United Kingdom, EU and Asia) and managed by Joseph Marro at Lesser Matters. The band has a publishing deal with Downtown.

Nashville-based singer-songwriter Abbey Cone signed with Downtown Artist & Label Services for distribution. Her first release under the Downtown banner is a live cover of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.” Cone’s team also includes Amanda Quinton of Quinton Digital for management, Wasserman Group for booking and Warner Chappell Music/T.R.U.T.H. for publishing.

Veteran British singer-songwriter Dave Mason signed an exclusive management deal with Red Light in Atlanta. His team at the firm consists of Charlie Brusoc and Nick Manarino, which will work with Mason on his forthcoming music releases as well as the release of his memoir, which is slated for release this summer. He’s booked by Alec Vidmar and Darius Sabet at UTA.

Philadelphia artist Julia Pratt signed to RECORDS (Sony Music), which released her latest single, “Carolina,” last week in advance of a new EP. Pratt is managed by Doug Neumann and Josh Roth at Standards Music and booked by Seth Rappaport at Paladin Artists.

Singer-songwriter Alli Walker signed with RECORDS Nashville. To celebrate the partnership, Walker has released the track “I Like Big Trucks,” adding a country flavor to the 1990s Sir Mix-a-Lot hit “Baby Got Back.” Josh Easler, executive vp of promotion & commercial strategy for RECORDS Nashville, says, “The RECORDS Nashville team is always looking for artistry that stands out, and Alli Walker does just that. We are excited to get started amplifying what she is already having success with.” – Jessica Nicholson

Nashville punk band Winona Fighter, fronted by Chloe Kinnon, signed with Rise Records and shared a new single and music video, “I’m in the Market to Please No One.” More new music is slated for release this year. The band is booked by Justin Edwards at WME and managed by Michael Iurato at In De Goot Entertainment.

Country artist Dusty Black signed with Brown Sellers Brown and Stone Country Records for management and label representation, respectively. Black was formerly the CEO of Black Tie Moving before making the transition to artist.

ADA Japan signed a deal to distribute, promote and market Japanese-language songs by the Korean boy group One Pact via its South Korean label and entertainment agency, Armada Entertainment. Jump-starting the partnership was ADA’s release of One Pact’s debut local single, “Must Be Nice.” The band came to prominence after appearing on the Korean TV music audition series Boys Planet and the rap battle show High School Rapper 4.

MaKenzie signed with Warner Records, which released her new single, “Maybe” featuring TA Thomas, on Friday (Mar. 15). The R&B artist is managed by Tarek “Terk” Stevens at Terk Entertainment Group and attorney Donald Woodard at Carter + Woodard. Also at Warner Records, alt-rocker Willy Cobb signed with the label’s War Buddha Records imprint, which released his debut single, “Cigarette Smell,” on Friday (Mar. 15). Cobb is managed by Neil Mason at Red Light.

How to Dress Well (a.k.a. Tom Krell) signed with Sargent House for the release of his forthcoming album, I Am Toward You, which is set to drop May 10. He is managed by Shaun MacDonald at Codex Management.

BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville signed Alison Nichols, who earned a viral TikTok hit with her debut release, “is it just me?”, followed by her latest release, “HOOPS.” Nichols, who is of Asian-American heritage, grew up in Georgia and gleans influence from the Texas country music scene. – Jessica Nicholson

British-Chinese sibling duo Esme Emerson (Esme and Emerson Lee-Scott) signed with Communion Records and released its new single, “Please,” on the label, with an EP due later this year. The duo is booked by rowan@infinitefuture.co.uk.

Musician and social media influencer Peet Montzingo signed a management deal with Do Less. The signing coincided with the release of his HARV-produced debut single, “Party With a Weirdo,” on Friday (Mar. 15) through Vydia.

Punk band Gloom Girl MFG signed with R+D Artist Group for management ahead of the release of its Cage the Elephant-produced EP, POLYCRISIS. Additionally, the group recently signed with Reliant Talent Agency for booking. Gloom Girl MFG is signed to Los Angeles-based label Signs From the Universe.

Capitol Records Nashville artist Jon Pardi (“Head Over Boots,” “Heartache on the Dance Floor”) signed with WME and will be represented by multiple departments across the agency, including touring, brand partnerships, TV, film and digital. Pardi is managed by Red Light Management’s Gaines Sturdivant and C3 Management’s Charlie Walker. – Jessica Nicholson
British rock band Sleep Token signed with RCA Records. The group is an anonymous, masked collective led by a singer who goes by the name Vessel. Sleep Token is represented by manager Ryan Richards at Future History Management; booking agent Nick Storch at Independent Artist Group for North and South America; and booking agent Paul Ryan at UTA for the rest of the world. It was previously signed to Spinefarm/Universal.

Australian band Crowded House signed a global record deal with BMG for its upcoming eighth studio album, Gravity Stairs, which is slated for release on May 31.

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Bluegrass singer-songwriter Wyatt Ellis signed with WME for global representation. Ellis, who recently released his debut album Happy Valley, is represented by Red Light Management’s Neil Mason and Tom Lord, with Morris Public Relations/Alison Auerbach P.R. overseeing public relations/artist development. The Andrea Roberts Agency is handling radio promotion. “Blue Smoke” feat. Marty Stuart, a song from Happy Valley, was recently in the top spot on Spotify’s New Grass Playlist. – Jessica Nicholson

WME also signed musician and comedian Morgan Jay, whose TV credits include MTV’s Wild’n’Out, Peacock’s Girls5Eva, NBC’s Bring the Funny and Night Court. Jay boasts nearly 3 million TikTok followers and will soon announce a global tour, in addition to already-scheduled dates. He will next be seen in Comedy Central’s Stand-Up Featuring special and the Netflix Is a Joke Festival. He’s managed by Matt Sadeghian of Brillstein Entertainment Partners and Josh Sandler of Granderson Des Rochers.

Digital music company Believe launched PLAYCODE, a new imprint dedicated to the Japanese hip-hop scene, and signed three artists: ¥ellow Bucks, Red Eye and Issei Uno Fifth. This marks Believe’s latest expansion in Japan after launching operations in the country in October.

Melbourne, Australia-based band Glass Beams signed to Ninja Tune ahead of the release of its new EP, Mahal, which is set for release on Mar. 22. The band’s booking representatives are Wasserman agents Brad Owen and Tom Windish in North and South America and Wasserman’s Michael Harvey-Bray for the rest of the world, excluding Australia and New Zealand, where the group is repped by James Ware at WAT artists.

Alt-rock band Dexter and the Moonrocks signed with Nashville-based Severance Records, a division of Big Loud Rock. Its first single on the label, “She Likes Girls,” was released Wednesday (Feb. 14). the band is represented by Mike Krug at WME and manager Chris Schoemann at Lion’s Claw Entertainment.

Rapper and singer-songwriter TK Kravitz (“Ocean”) signed with MNRK Music Group for management. Currently without a label, Kravitz is also represented by VA Premiere Booking out of Atlanta.

MNRK also signed Cleveland-based alternative metal band A Killer’s Confession to its MNRK Heavy imprint globally. “Greed,” the first single under the deal, will be released on Mar. 15, with an album slated for fall. The band is represented by booking agent Andrew Goodfriend at TKO.

French-born singer, model, dancer and actor Lucky Love signed with UTA for live representation worldwide, excluding France. Love released his debut EP, TENDRESSE, in April 2023; he is signed to Belem Music.

Country singer-songwriter Jenna Paulette signed with indie label Leo33. Her debut album, The Girl I Was, was released in March 2023.

Sugar Pit, the rock project of Carbondale, Ill.-based artist Kian Stevens-Winston, signed with Atlantic/Good Luck Have Fun. His debut single on the labels, “Pay Me,” releases on Wednesday (Feb. 21).

Country singer-songwriter Carson Wallace signed with Red Light Management, where he will be represented by Enzo DeVincenzo and Anthony DeVincenzo. Wallace also recently signed a global publishing deal with Relative Music Group in partnership with Sony Music Publishing.

UTA signed Nasvhille-based country singer-songwriter Ian Harrison, a contestant on season 22 of NBC’s The Voice, for global representation in all areas. Harrison is managed by Zach Beebe at OTR Management and Laurel Kittleson-Cobb at Rainier Entertainment. He currently has no label.

Singer and actress Freya Skye signed with Hollywood Records, a division of Disney Music Group, as well as Disney Music Publishing as a songwriter. Skye, who will next appear in the fourth installment of Disney’s Zombies film franchise, previously represented the United Kingdom in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest with the single “Lose My Head.” She will soon record her debut album. Skye is represented by Link Entertainment.

Singer-songwriter Jenna LaMaster signed a management deal with Maverick Nashville. She previously signed to Sheltered Music for publishing. Her representative at Maverick Nashville is Marne McLyman.

WHY&HOW partnered with Audio Up and Audio Chateau Records to manage Uncle Drank, the fictional character created by Audio Up founder Jared Gutstadt and voiced by Will Sasso. The character was first created for the hit Uncle Drank podcast, on which he was voiced by Sasso. Uncle Drank will release a debut album titled Eternal Sunshine of the Tropical Mind via Audio Chateau and Virgin in June, to be followed by a tour. “In the spirit of Spinal Tap and Cheech and Chong, the album will thrill music aficionados and comedy nerds alike with plenty of beer, babes, bananas, boats, bong hits and most importantly beaches,” reads a press release.

Production, label, artist management and publishing company Handcraft Entertainment partnered with long-running Japanese label and entertainment conglomerate B Zone Japan, which signed Handcraft artist Anna Aya. Her debut single, “Someone Else,” was produced by Louis Bell and Michael Africk. The single was distributed by Virgin Music globally, with the exception of Japan. Aya is also a model who has worked with Dior, Chanel, Gucci, Valentino, Fendi and Louis Vuitton and appeared in numerous advertising campaigns.