Music Industry News Roundup: Sony Music Nashville Renews Deal with Kane Brown, Avex Music Group Partners with Bruno Mars, Bravado Appoints New CEO, Big Machine Records Launches Management Division, TMWRK Promotes General Manager, and Universal Music Group Invests in What the Duck Label
Sony Music Nashville and country artist Kane Brown have renewed their partnership with a new multi-album deal. Brown recently released a new track and music video titled "Woman" to kick off this new chapter. Brown expressed his excitement about continuing his journey with Sony Music, highlighting the special bond they have built over the years. Sony Music Nashville's Chair & CEO, Taylor Lindsey, praised Brown's talent and connection with fans, emphasizing their support for his creative endeavors.
Avex Music Group has announced a global music publishing administration partnership with Bruno Mars, a 16-time Grammy Award-winner and renowned songwriter. Avex Music Group will exclusively administer Mars' music globally under this new agreement. The CEO of Avex Inc., Katsumi Kuroiwa, expressed honor in partnering with Mars, while Brandon Silverstein, CEO of Avex Music Group, welcomed Mars to the company and looked forward to supporting his future works.
Bravado, Universal Music Group's merchandise and lifestyle company, has appointed Matt Young as CEO and made several senior management moves to strengthen its team. Eric Mackay has joined as general manager, Dan Goldberg as senior VP of strategy & new ventures, Amy Zaglauer as senior VP of artist strategy, and Rachel Redfearn as senior VP of A&R. UMG COO Boyd Muir highlighted the importance of creating products for superfans and praised the team's commitment to expanding opportunities for artists.
Big Machine Records founder Scott Borchetta has launched a new management division under Borchetta Entertainment Group and signed award-winning country artist Carly Pearce. Mike Blong, Pearce's longtime manager, joins as manager. Borchetta expressed excitement about this new era for Big Machine and the promising future for Pearce, starting with her new duet with Riley Green.
TMWRK management company has promoted Renee Brodeur to general manager, recognizing her essential role in the company for over a decade. Republic Records has appointed Touré Shiver as VP of marketing strategy, bringing his creative vision and artist-first approach to the hip-hop/R&B roster. Creative Artists Agency has welcomed Nikos Kazoleas as an Agent in the Global Touring division, strengthening their live business capabilities.
Universal Music Group has made a strategic investment in Thailand-based label What the Duck, with founder Moy Samkwan Tonsompong joining Universal Music Thailand as managing director. The deal aims to expand UMG's presence in growing markets and collaborate closely with the WTD team to achieve success in Thailand and beyond.