State Champ Radio signings
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Hawaiian singer-songwriter Maoli signed with WME for global representation in all areas. According to a press release, Maoli has racked up more than half a billion streams globally across nine independent album releases. He’s managed by Jason Gibbs, Shawn Dailey and Emilie Glover at Red Light. Maoli is currently on a tour of the U.S. […]
German dance producer Marlon Hoffstadt has signed with Capitol Records, in partnership with multi-faceted music company Goodlife Management and MC3. “Marlon and his team have been building something incredibly special,” Capitol Music Group Chairman & CEO Tom March tells Billboard. “He has risen to become one of the most exciting artists in dance music. We’re […]
Warner Music Latina signed three emerging urban artists who are creating a viral buzz on social media and the Billboard charts: DFZM (Colombia), Jombriel (Ecuador), and Milo Bvgatti (Venezuela). DFZM made his Billboard chart debut last November DFZM with “+57” in collaboration with Karol G, J Balvin, Feid, Ryan Castro, Maluma, and Ovy on the Drums. Jombriel hit No. 1 on the Billboard Argentina Hot 100 chart this March with his “Parte & Choke (Remix)” with Ryan Castro. Meanwhile, Bvgatti has already received stamps of approval from Feid, Jay Wheeler and Dalex. “At Warner Music Latina, we believe in the power of fresh voices from the Andean region to make waves globally,” said Roberto Andrade, MD of Warner Music Latina, in a statement. “We proudly welcome DFZM, Jombriel, and Milo Bvgatti — a new chapter begins, filled with music and momentum.” – Jessica Roiz
Southern California band Of Mice & Men signed with Century Media Records. The group released the single “Another Miracle” on May 8, marking its first new music since 2023. Of Mice & Men is currently on tour in the U.S., with festival dates including the Summer Daze Festival in Elko, Nev.; Warped Tour in Long Beach, Calif.; and Louder Than Life in Louisville, Ky.
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Jutes signed a global record deal with Position Music, which will release his new single, “Left on Dilworth,” on Wednesday (May 21). The singer-songwriter’s singles so far this year include “Red Velvet” with Ari Abdul, “House of Cards” and “SMUT”; previous album releases include Ladybug and Sleepyhead. He’s managed by Mike Maloian at 25/7.
Indonesian dream-pop duo Galdive signed with Mom + Pop Music, which released its new album, Blue, on May 9. The act’s song “Teach Me How to Love” has picked up steam on TikTok, where it has generated more than 16 million views, 1.8 million likes, and over 2,200 UGC posts, according to the label.
Armada Music struck a joint venture deal with Dutch electronic artist Joris Voorn spanning A&R, distribution, promotion and marketing. The label will work with Voorn on his upcoming album Serotonin, which is set for release in July. It will additionally leverage its publishing arm “to add creative value” to his work via “writing camps and collaboration,” according to a press release. Armada previously released Voorn’s remix of “Transmission” by Eelke Ekleijn.
Scouting for Girls signed a label services deal with Absolute. Next year, the British trio is releasing a new album, which Absolute will support with digital marketing, distribution, project management and a long-term strategic direct-to-consumer campaign.
Sub Pop signed Brooklyn-based trio Nation of Language and will release the band’s new music globally this year and beyond. The first release under the deal is the new single, “Inept Apollo.” The band will tour North America and Europe this fall.
Virgin Music Latin signed a global agreement with rising Cuban act Wampi for the release of his forthcoming debut studio album, El Rey de la Habana. His first single under the label is “Veni,” an uptempo track that represents the Cuban Reparto music scene. El Rey de la Habana will feature collaborations with Cimafunk, Ibeyi, Los Van Van, Maffio, Michael Brun, and more. – Jessica Roiz
Mom+Pop Music signed Minneapolis artist Mother Soki, whose single “Rivet Gun” has been growing on TikTok. She is managed by Avalanche in Los Angeles.
Nettwerk signed indie-pop band Joseph, composed of sisters Natalie and Meegan Closner. The first release under the deal is the single “Bye and Bye,” a track from the duo’s forthcoming album (its first without sister Allie). The band is kicking off a round of tour dates on June 13 in Spokane, Wash.
Singer-songwriter N8NOFACE signed with Stones Throw, which released his new song, “Waiting to Wait for You,” last week. N8NOFACE is touring with Eyedress on the Stoner Tour this summer.
Scout Willis signed with WME for global representation. The singer-songwriter is currently recording her second studio album on the heels of singles “Over and Over” and “Take Me” last year. The album is slated for release this fall.
Atlanta-based five-piece band Penelope Road signed to Warner Records. The first release under the deal is the single “Out Tonight.” According to a press release, the song has already racked up “millions of views” leading up to its official release. The band, which is set to embark on a summer headlining tour on June 12 in Charleston, S.C., is managed by Lindsay Brandt.
Giant Music, a division of The Azoff Company, signed rock band Riff Wood. The band is independently producing its debut album, Tough Luck, which is set for release this summer. It’s been preceded by singles including “Blur” and “Stay a Little Longer,” the latter serving as its first release on Giant. Riff Wood is embarking on a summer tour starting July 29. The band, which won Utah’s Battle of the Bands last year, is managed by Rob Cavallo‘s Done Deal and Echo Street.
Industry executives Daniel Oakley, Darren Potuck and Cage the Elephant co-founder/guitarist Brad Shultz have partnered to form the new label Parallel Vision, it was revealed to Billboard on Wednesday (May 14). Additionally, the Nashville and Los Angeles-based label announced it has formed a joint venture with Big Loud Rock (the alternative/rock imprint of Big Loud Records) to sign its flagship artist, rock duo Girl Tones.
Composed of sisters Kenzie and Laila, Girl Tones has opened shows for Cage the Elephant in Europe and later joined The Velveteers and hey, nothing on those acts’ stateside shows. In July, the duo will join Silversun Pickups on a run of North American shows and is also slated to play festivals including Lollapalooza, Shaky Knees and Austin City Limits.
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To mark the signing, Girl Tones released its new single and video, “Blame,” on Wednesday. Described as “vintage-tinged,” the Casey Pierce-directed video was filmed at Nashville’s Dive Motel and plays up the trope of sibling rivalry.
“We’ve been friends for nearly two decades, each carving out different corners of the industry — artist, executive, creative, while also working and creating together throughout those years,” said Oakley in a statement. “Brad had spent the last several years developing and producing artists while Darren and I worked with major music and entertainment companies.”
Added Shlutz, “We were presented with a chance to have our own outlet to further develop and release the music. Parallel Vision is that avenue. It’s honestly a blessing the way it all came together. Girl Tones is the perfect first chapter. They’ve gone from local stages to global releases and touring internationally in under a year — and we’re just getting started.”
On the label’s partnership with Big Loud Rock, Potuck added, “At Parallel Vision, we’re driven by a desire to support artists who push boundaries. Partnering with Big Loud Rock gives us the infrastructure and momentum to take that vision to a much bigger audience — without compromising the art. We’re excited to build something that respects creativity while delivering at the highest level.”
Joey Moi, a Big Loud partner and president at Big Loud Rock, added, “Big Loud Rock is honored to be in partnership with the renowned team at Parallel Vision and their first signing Girl Tones. As part of our label’s mission to develop the next generation of alternative-rock artists, these strategic partnerships will be part of our core mission as we continue to build and take this company to new heights.”
Big Loud Rock is also home to artists including Blame My Youth, Bizzy and Sikarus.
Illenium has signed with Republic Records. The move comes after the electronic producer’s tenure at Warner Records, where he released two albums dating back to 2021. Prior to that, he was signed to UMG and the indie labels Seeking Blue and Kasaya Records.
“This is a completely new chapter for me,” the artist born Nick Miller tells Billboard of signing with Republic. “When I had my meeting with Republic, I just felt a family sort of love. I want people working my music that are as passionate as I am and truly have my best interest in mind. Republic absolutely has that for me.”
“I just felt an energy at Republic that was really inspiring,” he continues. “They’re also the best at what they do, so it’s hard to even consider anywhere else.”
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Illenium says that within the next six months, he’ll reveal information about a new project that he calls “my most ambitious, without a doubt.” He doesn’t say whether or not this project is a new album, but notes that “I’m working every day, but don’t have an exact ETA yet. But I’m moving at light speed.”
The last Illenium album was a 2023 self-titled project and an attendant remix album. Since then, the Colorado-based producer has released a handful of singles and remixes. His forthcoming work will include what he calls “a sick drum n bass style song” with Kid Kudi. He also says that “Ryan Tedder and I wrote something beautiful with Amy Allen and Lostboy,” and there additionally is “a bunch of other stuff that’s awesome but not ready to share yet.” On Tuesday (May 6), Illenium and Hayla also teased a new collaboration they say is “coming soon.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Illenium and his expert team to the Republic family,” Glenn Mendlinger, the evp of Republic Records and president of IMPERIAL & Casablanca Records tells Billboard. “The world he has created and the fandom he has built over the last decade is nothing short of remarkable. Nick is a true pioneer in the electronic music landscape and has carved out a lane that is distinctly Illenium. His anthemic, emotional music and signature production has touched people globally and his landmark live shows have created incredible communal moments for his fans. Together our ambitions are grand and the team is already setting up for a historic year ahead.”
In addition to his recorded music, Illenium has carved out a wildly successful touring career, becoming one of the few electronic artists able to play and sell out stadiums and arenas. His Trilogy shows have taken place at a handful of stadiums across the U.S., with a 2023 show in Denver grossing $3.9 million and selling 47,000 tickets, according to numbers reported to Billboard Boxscore.
Content creator and streamer N3ON has signed a record deal with EMPIRE, the company tells Billboard. Through the agreement, which EMPIRE calls the first of its kind with a streamer, the label will release a collaborative project from N3ON and his network of creatives. Jake Moritt at Proper Loud, a management company that specializes in […]
Andrea Bocelli signed an exclusive, five-year worldwide agreement with AEG Presents for the creation and management of his live performances, in collaboration with his management team (Veronica Berti and Francesco Pasquero), agency WME and record label Universal Music Group. The deal, which begins on Jan. 1, 2026, covers all of Bocelli’s ticketed live events globally.
Mark Ambor, who scored his first Billboard Hot 100 entry with the smash 2024 track “Belong Together,” signed to Capitol Records. The singer-songwriter is currently touring in Europe and set to play festivals including Governors Ball, Lollapalooza (in both Chicago and Berlin) and Outside Lands. He concluded his North American tour last year.
Don McLean (“American Pie”) signed with Day After Day Productions for exclusive global touring representation. The singer-songwriter currently has more than a dozen tour dates lined up in the U.S.
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Country singer-songwriter Ink signed with Big Loud Records and Electric Feel Records. She is managed by SALXCO. Ink co-wrote three tracks for Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter, including “16 Carriages,” “Texas Hold ‘Em” and “American Requiem,” as well as Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s smash single “Luther,” among many other credits.
Management firm Shelter Music Group announced the signings of five artists: Cheap Trick, Boys Like Girls, Chiodos, American Hi-Fi and Dead Poet Society. Cheap Trick is gearing up for its 2025 tour and a new album; Boys Like Girls will support the Jonas Brothers on its 20th anniversary stadium and arena tour; Chiodos is currently touring to promote the 20th anniversary of All’s Well That Ends Well and will embark on another tour in the fall, with a new studio album and more touring to come next year; American Hi-Fi are gearing up to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the band’s self-titled debut album; and Dead Poet Society are set to tour across Europe and the U.K. this summer, and later across the U.S. in support of Chevelle.
New Found Glory signed to Pure Noise Records, which released the band’s latest single, “100%.” The band is set to perform at Slam Dunk Music Festival before touring with The Offspring and Jimmy Eat World on the SUPERCHARGED: Worldwide in ’25 Tour in North America, followed by several U.K. headline dates.
Country singer-songwriter Mark Chesnutt signed with Conway Entertainment Group/Ontourage Management for management and Absolutely Publicity for PR. Chesnutt is represented by Risha Rodgers at WME’s Nashville division for live bookings.
RaeLynn signed with The Valory Music Co., which will release her latest track, “Heaven Is a Honky Tonk,” on Friday (May 9) in partnership with Red Van Records/Jonas Group Entertainment. The country singer-songwriter is touring with Jason Aldean on his Full Throttle Tour this summer.
British Columbia-based singer-songwriter Luca Fogale signed to Nettwerk, which released “Begin,” his first single of 2025, with more music set for release in the coming months. Fogale just wrapped a headline tour of North America and is currently touring in Europe. He’s managed by Colin McTaggart and Piers Henwood at Amelia Artists and booked by Grant Paley at Midnight Agency for Canada.
R&B artist RAAHiiM (“Peak (Fed Up)”) signed with MNRK Music Group, which released his single “Just Like Me” on Friday (May 2). He’s set to support Jessie Reyez on her North American tour beginning on June 10. RAAHiiM is managed by Joven Haye and booked by Olivia Mirabella, Yves Pierre and Jacqueline Reynolds-Drumm at CAA.
Capitol Christian Music Group signed singer-songwriter Eli Gable, whose debut single, “Holy Ghost Town,” releases May 16. The Ohio native moved to Nashville in 2020 and creates music that blends worship, folk and rock styles. Gable will join Rend Collective on the Folk! 2025 Fall Tour starting Oct. 17 in Portland, Maine. The CCMG roster also includes Chris Tomlin, Blessing Offor, Crowder and Franni Cash. – Jessica Nicholson
Universal Music Korea signed hip-hop artists Okasian and Bryan Chase. Both rose to prominence in Korea as part of The Cohort’s hip-hop crew. Both recently featured on “LOV3,” a track off Sik-k and Lil Moshpit’s [K-FLIP+] EP released in March.
Zach Bryan has re-upped with Warner Records, Billboard has confirmed.
The extremely prolific singer-songwriter has released three studio albums on the label since first signing with it in 2021: 2022’s American Heartbreak, 2023’s self-titled set and 2024’s The Great American Bar Scene. He’s also put out three EPS and two live sets. The Hollywood Reporter first reported the news, adding that the new deal is for at least two albums.
Bryan’s rise has been meteoric. Billboard named him its top new artist of 2023, and he has dominated at both country and rock since then. “I Remember Everything,” his duet with Kacey Musgraves, and “Something in the Orange” were the top two songs on Billboard’s 2024 year-end Rock Streaming Songs chart. That same year, he ranked third on Billboard’s Top Artists of 2024 and No. 1 on the Top Rock & Alternative Artist chart. His self-titled set became his first album to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, and all three of his full-length Warner Records sets have bowed atop Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart.
Bryan has also been a critical favorite, earning four Grammy nominations, with “I Remember Everything” winning best country duo/group performance at the 65th annual Grammy Awards in 2024.
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He’s also a crowd favorite. After headlining the opening night of Stagecoach last month, Bryan is headed to Dublin for three shows in June and then will play BST Hyde Park in London on June 28-29. He will then return stateside for seven stadium shows, including three nights at Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J.
Bryan helped usher in a new wave of country-oriented acts signing with coastal labels, as Billboard reported in September. Bryan wasn’t the first country-leaning act signed by a major coastal label, but his massive success has proven that an act no longer necessarily needs the usual Nashville methods, including country radio, to break through.
Prior to the pandemic, Nashville labels generally had a lane to themselves when it came to signing country artists, with their relationships at country radio giving them almost exclusive access within the genre. But once COVID hit and touring slammed to a halt, labels became laser-focused on data and analytics as the only available metrics to gauge an act’s success. The coastal labels saw tremendous opportunity and jumped in, with New York and Los Angeles labels signing country-leaning acts with strong streaming numbers and a high TikTok engagement rate, including Warren Zeiders (Warner Records), Koe Wetzel (Columbia), Dasha (Warner Records) and Ella Langley (Columbia); or jointly with a Nashville partner, such as Megan Moroney, who is signed to both Columbia and Sony Nashville.
Warner Records declined to comment on the news.
The Weeknd has signed with William Morris Endeavor (WME) in all areas, the agency announced on Thursday (May 1). He leaves Creative Arts Agency (CAA) after signing with them in 2021, having left WME. WME is also representing the superstar’s production company, Manic Phase, which produced his 2023 HBO series The Idol and his upcoming […]
Kacey Musgraves is coming full circle with her new label deal, signing to the recently relaunched, Nashville-based Lost Highway Records. The eight-time Grammy winner was the final artist signed to the label in 2011. In 2012, Lost Highway was absorbed by Mercury Nashville as Musgraves was crafting her debut studio album Same Trailer, Different Park (which contained her breakthrough hit “Merry Go ‘Round”).
Now, she is the first artist signed to the revitalized label.
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Lost Highway’s revival was announced earlier this month, with former Thirty Tigers executive Robert Knotts and Universal Music Group Nashville (UMGN) executive Jake Gear serving as co-heads and executive vps of the resurrected label.
“Lost Highway was always a musical stable for artists who might be considered outliers or outlaws; those who live on the fringe,” Musgraves said in a statement. “In 2011, when other record labels questioned my songwriting and my more traditional country sound, Lost Highway believed in me, signing me to my first label deal and helped me take my music around the world. That journey has now come full circle in such a special way with John Janick and Interscope and I’m deeply honored to be able to once again call Lost Highway my musical home.”
Musgraves is celebrating the label deal with Lost Highway Records by releasing her interpretation of the label’s namesake song, the Leon Payne-written “Lost Highway,” which Hank Williams covered in 1949.
John Janick, chairman/CEO, Interscope Capitol and IGA, said in a statement, “Kacey exemplifies the kind of culture- shifting, left-of-center artists that Lost Highway has always been known for. Given the close relationship she’s had with both Lost Highway and Interscope, it seemed only natural for her to be the first artist signed in this new chapter.”
Music exec Luke Lewis, who founded Lost Highway in 2000 and signed Musgraves in 2011, said in a statement: “For 20 years, my job was to run Mercury and MCA labels, which were primarily mainstream country endeavors. The last 10 years of my time there were passionately dedicated to starting and leading Lost Highway, which was the most rewarding time of my entire career. The label went on to cultivate some of the greatest singer/songwriters I have had the honor to work with, and I am extremely proud to have helped them further their amazing musical journeys. I am beyond grateful that this very special label is now in the hands of John Janick, Robert Knotts, Jake Gear and the Interscope team, and I am certain Lost Highway will have an incredible second inning.”
