Major Talent Signings and Executive Shifts Reshape Global Music Industry
Industry leaders announce new representation deals, executive appointments, and strategic partnerships across music.
1Jackson Wang Joins WME
Singer-songwriter Jackson Wang has officially signed with WME for representation. Known for his 2019 debut album Mirrors, Wang remains represented by Team Wang Records and Roc Nation. He previously made history as the first Chinese solo artist to perform on the main stage at Coachella during the 2022 festival season.
2Arkai Partners with LindseyStomp
Grammy-winning group Arkai has signed a joint venture deal with Lindsey Stirling’s label, LindseyStomp, alongside Position Music. The Juilliard-educated duo, often compared to Hans Zimmer and 2Cellos, has performed at major events including the NBA Finals and the Emmy Awards. This partnership aims to foster bold artistry and creative boundary-pushing.
3Empire Strengthens Executive Team
Empire has appointed Leesa Brunson-Boland as Senior Vice President of A&R Operations and Bina Fronda as Senior Vice President of Marketing. Brunson-Boland brings extensive experience from Def Jam Recordings, while Fronda joins from Ultra Records. Both leaders will operate from the company’s New York office to drive future growth initiatives.
4Glassnote Signs Danny Griffiths
British singer-songwriter Danny Griffiths has signed with Glassnote Records following the viral success of his demo track, Lightweight Champion. Represented by Prolifica Management and Solo Agency Limited, Griffiths is noted for his passionate live performances. Founder Daniel Glass highlighted the high industry demand for the artist's unreleased music as a key factor.
5Create Music Group Appointment
Hayley Silvertown has been named Chief Legal and Business Affairs Officer at Create Music Group. Based in Hollywood, she will oversee legal functions and strategic partnerships. Silvertown joins from the firm Paul Hastings and brings prior experience from Warner Chappell and ICM, strengthening the company’s executive team for future corporate transactions.
6Nebula17 Announces Major Expansion
Nebula17 is undergoing a significant expansion, hiring Daniel Hong as COO and adding several directors to its marketing and A&R departments. The company also signed artist Hojean and added three creators to its publishing roster. Additionally, Nebula17 has secured a global distribution partnership with The Orchard to support its international growth.
7HBSE Enhances Venue Programming
Harris Blitzer Sports Entertainment has hired Joe Giordano Jr. as Senior Vice President of Entertainment Booking. Giordano will manage bookings for venues like the Prudential Center and Loew’s Jersey Theatre. Previously an executive at Oak View Group and ASM Global, he brings extensive experience in securing major touring acts for large-scale arenas.
8OVG and IAG Partnership
Oak View Group has entered a new agreement with Independent Artist Group to provide sponsorship and partnership services for touring artists. This deal allows OVG to leverage its brand network to create promotional opportunities for IAG’s music and comedy roster, maximizing marketability and impact through strategic alliances across North America.
Original article: Variety — Major Talent Signings and Executive Shifts Reshape Global Music Industry