Music Industry Moves: Melanie C of the Spice Girls Partners With Virgin Music Group for New Releases
Virgin Music Group has partnered with Melanie C and her independent record label Red Girl Records ahead of the release of her new single “Sweat.” On Friday morning, the former Spice Girl also revealed the news of her incoming ninth studio album of the same name, set for release in 2026.
“I’m thrilled to be releasing my new music with Virgin Music Group,” said Melanie. “It feels like a homecoming after the successes we shared working together with Spice Girls and my first two solo albums. They are paving the way for more artist-led deals and have an incredibly strong international team. I’m really excited to see what we can achieve together.”
Recorded between Stockholm and Los Angeles, “Sweat” is a club anthem dedicated to the liberation and freedom of dance culture. Infused with nostalgic nods to the era that shaped her, the single samples Diana Ross’s “Work That Body,” and is described as a preview of what fans can expect to hear on her new album.
“Melanie is such a unique force of nature who is on the verge of another exciting chapter in an illustrious career,” commented Vanessa Bosåen, President of Virgin Music Group UK. “She captivates the heart of everyone she meets and we are thrilled to welcome her into the Virgin Music Group family. We look forward to working alongside her and her team to bring her intoxicating vision to life.”
The partnership comes on the heels of her recently announced headline show at London’s O2 Academy Brixton, set for Oct. 23, 2026.
Watch the video for “Sweat” below.
+ Interscope Geffen A&M Records today announced the next phase of its ongoing Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) initiatives, continuing its mission to uplift the institutions that have shaped many Interscope artists and executives.
Following a successful launch in 2024 with partnerships at Howard University, Tennessee State University, and Texas Southern University, Interscope is unveiling “Homecoming SZN Compilation Vol. 2,” the next installment of the vinyl-exclusive album series.
“Homecoming SZN Compilation Vol. 2” is available exclusively on vinyl and features a curated selection of Interscope catalog songs; this year’s edition includes standout hits from Kendrick Lamar, GloRilla, Rob49, EVE and more.
The campaign will additionally partner with Hampton University, Clark Atlanta University, and Alabama State University for immersive activations during their 2025 Homecoming weeks. As part of the campaign, Interscope will make a $3 donation for every item sold to the related university. In addition, Interscope will provide funding to support a variety of initiatives across campuses, with equal awards distributed to each of the three universities.
“Homecoming is a treasured tradition at Hampton University, celebrating our history, culture, and community. We are excited to partner with Interscope Geffen A&M Records to bring this innovative Homecoming SZN initiative to our campus. Music has always been a powerful bridge between generations, and this collaboration gives our students a chance to showcase their creativity while connecting with a legacy that extends far beyond our campus,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams.
+ Los Angeles-based trio Moonchild — composed of Amber Navran, Andris Mattson, and Max Bryk — has officially signed with ONErpm. The partnership ushers in a new era for the Grammy-nominated group as they prepare to release their sixth studio album, “Waves,” on Feb. 20.
“I’m excited to welcome Moonchild to the ONErpm family,” said Eddie Blackmon, vice president of A&R at ONErpm. “Their musicianship and signature blend of soul, jazz, and R&B embody the kind of boundary-pushing artistry we strive to champion. They’ve built something timeless yet forward-thinking, and I’m proud to support them as they enter this next chapter.”
+ HighGround Music has launched with a founding team comprised of former Rimas Entertainment executives, including Kamil Jacob “KJ” Assad (CEO), Federico Carmona (co-CEO/managing partner and creative director), Kent James (general vice president, head of A&R/artist development), José Carreras (head of finance and artist day-to-day operations), and Vissepo Garriga (head of legal and business affairs).
High Ground Music (HGM) is an artist development company and independent label based in Puerto Rico that integrates A&R, production, artist and management services, marketing & digital strategy, label relations, and data-driven release planning to build sustainable artist careers. Its roster is led by Fonta, Okayyy, and Cuz, with additional signings in development.
Universal Music Publishing Group has signed composer, producer and artist Daniel Lopatin to a worldwide publishing agreement through the company’s classics and screen division.
Lopatin is best known under the moniker Oneohtrix Point Never, with a body of work that spans solo albums, experimental scores and gallery installations. In music, he’s collaborated with FKA twigs, Charli XCX, James Blake, David Byrne, Iggy Pop and Anohni
In film, Lopatin’s long-standing creative relationship with acclaimed filmmakers Josh and Benny Safdie saw him compose the original scores for “Good Time” and “Uncut Gems,” with the former earning him the Cannes Soundtrack Award. He is currently working with Josh Safdie on the A24 feature, “Marty Supreme,” starring Timothée Chalamet.
He additionally executive produced the Weeknd’s 2022 “Dawn FM,” along with co-writing and producing on the Weeknd’s most recent release, “Hurry Up Tomorrow.”
Lopatin said, “I’m genuinely touched by Natasha Baldwin’s belief in my work and grateful for the dedication of the entire team at UMPG. To know that my music is embraced with such commitment and care is the foundation any artist hopes to build upon. I’m thrilled to get started.”
Natasha Baldwin, president of global classics and screen at UMPG and UMG, said, “We have long been great admirers of Dan’s prolific work across composing, songwriting, producing and scoring, and it is with genuine excitement that we join in supporting Dan on this next phase of his admirable musical journey.”
Pictured above (L-R): Daniel Lopatin, Natasha Baldwin.
+ Brandon Silverstein, CEO of Avex Music Group and S10 Entertainment, has unveiled the expansion of both companies. The following appointments are in effect:
Zeke Silvera has been named senior VP, head of East Coast operations and head of A&R, focusing on strategy across artist development, studios, and marketing while leading S10’s producer and writer management functions from Avex’s New York base.
Spencer LeBoff has been named senior VP, head of West Coast operations and publishing and acquisitions, overseeing West Coast operations from Avex’s new corporate headquarters in West Hollywood, which includes two state-of-the-art studio houses and creative offices for A&R, marketing, and S10 management.
Megan Timko has been named head of operations for Avex Music Group and S10, ensuring excellence in day-to-day execution and infrastructure as the company scales internationally.
Jessica Roxana and Claudia Schumann will oversee marketing for Avex Music Group and S10, strengthening the company’s brand strategy and campaigns across global markets.
Tay James (longtime A&R for Justin Bieber) and Miles Beard (former head of A&R at Republic Records) have joined Avex Music Group’s publishing division as senior A&R consultants. Rory Sever has been promoted to Chief of Staff.
Silverstein shared: “As we continue to expand our operations in the U.S. and globally, this team will be instrumental in advancing our mission to sign and develop the world’s most successful songwriters, producers, and artists, while growing Avex and S10’s influence on a truly global scale,” said Silverstein. “While we’re leading from the U.S., our focus is international — building a world-class roster, expanding into key markets around the world, and pursuing strategic partnerships and acquisitions that will further strengthen our creative ecosystem. Already in 2025, we’ve celebrated multiple No. 1 records and major success with talent like Grant Boutin (Tate McRae), Elkan (Drake, Rihanna), Elyas (Drake), Harv (Justin Bieber), Kamal Wilson (Kehlani), Shenseea, and many others. We’re just getting started.”
+ Anthem Music Publishing has inked a worldwide co-publishing agreement with Envy of None, the rock collective featuring Alex Lifeson (Rush), Andy Curran (Coney Hatch), multi-instrumentalist Alfio Annibalini, and vocal talent Maiah Wynne.
The deal will focus on expanding both creative and commercial opportunities for the band’s latest studio release, “Stygian Wavz,” which debuted on March 28 via Kscope. Under the agreement, Anthem will collaborate closely with the band and its partners to drive global sync placements, licensing, and strategic initiatives around the album and its standout tracks — including “The Story,” “Not Dead Yet,” “Under The Stars,” “Stygian Waves,” and the latest single, “Thrill of The Chase,” launching Sept. 19.
“Given our long-term relationship with Rush and Coney Hatch, it is fantastic that we’re able to extend our relationship with Alex and Andy, and to bring Alfio and Maiah into the Anthem family, through Envy of None,” said Jason Klein, CEO of Anthem Music Group. “This partnership allows us to shine a brighter light on the incredible songwriting and sonic depth that Envy of None brings to the table. We’re excited to help amplify their creative vision through strategic publishing efforts that extend the life and reach of Stygian Wavz well beyond the album cycle.”
Ticketmaster has appointed Saumil Mehta as its new global president, reporting to Live Nation CEO Michael Rapino, effective Nov. 1. Mehta succeeds Mark Yovich, who has served as president since 2020 and will now become chairman of Ticketmaster with a focus on the company’s long-term strategy and global growth.
“Ticketmaster is an incredible business that serves as the world’s portal to the best live entertainment,” said Mehta. “The real opportunity lies in how we evolve the experience by building smarter and more intuitive ways for fans to connect with the live experiences that matter so much to them.”
Under his leadership, Ticketmaster will execute AI opportunities for venues, fortifying the ticketing infrastructure against bad actors, and enhancing the ticket-buying experience for fans.
Michael Rapino, CEO of Live Nation Entertainment, added, “Over the past several years, Ticketmaster has been working to build a strong foundation for the next phase of growth. Saumil brings a fresh perspective and deep product and technology expertise that will help us build on that momentum.”
Mehta steps into the role with a strong foundation in product innovation, scaling technology businesses and global commerce. He spent over nine years at Square, where he was most recently chief product officer and head of business org.
Prior to this role, Mehta founded LocBox, a marketing automation startup that helped local businesses grow through targeted, multi-channel marketing, which was acquired by Square in 2015.
+ Nice Life Recording Company (NLRC) has signed LA-based singer-songwriter Beatrix (Arielle Kasnetz). Beatrix joins the label home to Lizzo, the Marías and Tinashe, amongst others.
On the signing of Beatrix, NLRC Founder and CEO Ricky Reed shared, “Beatrix is an artist who has already written and recorded songs that stand shoulder to shoulder with some of the great works of our time. I was blown away by her talent upon meeting her, but her kindness, work ethic, and dedication to her craft solidified her as a perfect fit for Nice Life. We are so excited to welcome her to the family and to introduce her art to the world.”
Beatrix added, “I’m thrilled to be joining Nice Life after putting my first album out independently. Ricky has assembled a special group of people – from our first meeting and through each step in the process they’ve understood and supported my vision and I’m so excited to partner with them.”
The announcement follows the release of Beatrix’s first single and accompanying video under the newly inked partnership, “Ghosts of Tennessee.”
+ Big Picture Media has upped Natalie Schaffer to vice president, and Becky Kovach to director of publicity. Founded in 2007 by Ghiraldi-Travers, Big Picture Media was born from a vision of providing unwavering dedication to clients across all areas of publicity.
Leading the New York City office, Schaffer has been a part of Big Picture Media since 2013. A California native, she began her tenure at BPM in the original Los Angeles office before relocating to New York City in 2015 as the agency unified its staff under one roof.
“I’m incredibly excited to step into this new role as Vice President at Big Picture Media,” said Schaffer. “After over a decade with the company, I’m proud of how far we’ve come and energized about where we’re headed.”
Kovach has been with the company for over a decade, successfully running BPM’s competitive internship program while leading press campaigns for artists like Winona Fighter, LS Dunes, Lilith Czar, American Authors, Bayside, Switchfoot, Simple Plan and Midtown, among others.
“I feel so honored to follow in Natalie’s footsteps as Big Picture Media’s new Director of Publicity,” Kovach shared. “Over the past decade I have learned so much from her and Dayna about what it takes to be a good publicist: dedication, creativity, and, above all, passion. Even as an intern it was clear to me that Big Picture Media cares deeply about the clients.”
In addition to its recent promotions, Big Picture Media has added Los Angeles–based publicist Liz Wiltshire. Liz joins the company after three years at The Oriel Company, where she worked on projects for artists including Hot Mulligan, Finn Wolfhard, Barry Can’t Swim, Katie Gavin of Muna, and more.
Universal Music Publishing Group has inked the Marías to an exclusive, worldwide music publishing agreement.
Known for their fusion of alternative, psychedelic rock, jazz and Latin, the Latin Grammy-nominated band is comprised of Atlanta-raised María Zardoya, Los Angeles native Josh Conway, Jesse Perlman on guitar and Edward James on keys.
Zardoya said, “We’re thrilled to sign with Jen and Ana Rosa at Universal Music Publishing. Having spent some time with them alongside Jody Gerson, we trust they’re the perfect partners to guide us through the next phase of our collective and individual writing career(s).”
Most recently, Zardoya released her debut solo album under the moniker Not for Radio entitled “Melt.” Beyond their own records, the Marías have also collaborated with Bad Bunny, Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco, and toured with Billie Eilish on her sold-out arena run.
UMPG’s Jennifer Knoepfle, executive vice president and head of U.S., and Ana Rosa Santiago, senior VP of Latin music, said, “It’s so exciting to work with a band like the Marías who are so clear and singular in their vision. They have cultivated a devoted audience over the last several years and are now on the cusp of the global stage. We could not be more ecstatic to partner with them at such an exciting time.”
+ Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Chappell Roan, Dina LaPolt, Larry Mestel and Girls Make Beats were recognized by the Songwriters of North America (SONA) at the Warrior Awards on Oct. 12 in Los Angeles.
SONA additionally awarded Toby Lightman with the 2025 Emerging Songwriter Warrior Award, presented by YouTube Songwriters. Linda Perry made a surprise appearance, and delivered a performance, while Bonnie McKee and Shane Stevens hosted.
+ Rebellion Records, the independent label co-founded by artist and CEO Michael Turner (PLVTINUM) and COO Daniel Nall, has announced a strategic seven-figure partnership with music technology company Too Lost. The deal combines capital investment with Too Lost’s technology to accelerate Rebellion’s rapid artist development model.
Since launching just two years ago, Rebellion has experienced breakout success with Chris Grey, who grew from 100,000 to over six million monthly Spotify listeners and earned a JUNO Award nomination within his first year at the label, as well as Vana, whose single “Beg” topped Octane Radio.
“Michael and the Rebellion team have an incredible vision to build artists up by focusing heavily on user-generated social engagement,” said Gregory Hirschhorn, CEO of Too Lost. “The team has extraordinary taste and a fantastic track record. Too Lost’s investment and our larger partnership will help Rebellion reach new heights.”
“Too Lost brings best-in-class distribution technology, financial firepower, and a shared appetite to break molds to this partnership,” said Michael Turner, co-Founder and CEO of Rebellion Records. “With our teams aligned, we’ll leverage our viral engine at scale, sign zeitgeist artists, and move faster than the industry can copy.”
+ Warner Chappell Music (WCM) Nashville has promoted experienced music executive Christina Wiltshire to VP, A&R. In her new role, she will continue to elevate Nashville’s presence by discovering and fostering top talent, and facilitating local and international collaborations and partnerships. She will be reporting to Austen Adams, President, WCM Nashville.
Wiltshire shared: “Feeling incredibly grateful to Austen, Phil, Guy, and Carianne for believing in my growth and creative vision at WCM. It’s a privilege to work alongside such talented songwriters and artists – and I’m deeply passionate about championing their songs and finding them innovative opportunities.
Wiltshire joined WCM in 2019 as director, A&R, having previously served as creative director at Sea Gayle Music. Prior to that, she served as creative coordinator at Patrick Joseph Music/SONGS, learning directly from the legendary music publisher Pat Higdon.
+ Tesseract Music and Hawkeye Music Publishing have announced a strategic partnership to acquire and manage music related intellectual property rights including “name, image, and likeness” (“NIL”) rights for licensing and merchandising.
Hawkeye Music Publishing is founded by Richard Stumpf, founder and former CEO of Atlas Music Publishing, president of Imagem Music, US and senior VP at Cherry Lane Music. Tesseract Music is an intellectual property management company founded by Richard Seet, an entrepreneur who has been backed by major strategic and/or private equity investors including United Business Media (Informa PLC), Angelo Gordon and Company, and Brookfield, amongst others; and Charles Riotto, the former President of LIMA (International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association).
The partnership has access to $50 million in equity capital from family offices and high net worth investors to actualize its business plan. The principals are in discussions with numerous debt providers to supplement their capital stack and are in conversations with music catalog owners to acquire their copyright libraries.
+ 1916 Enterprises is promoting Ruchir Mohan to partner as he leads the launch of the company’s artist management and services division.
1916 is led by Founder/CEO Jonathan Gordon, who has knowledge and experience across several verticals in music publishing, including records, film and TV, and investments. This expands them further into management, with new signings including Tommy Genesis (Ultra), Christian Hayes (Capitol), LOVELI LORI (broke. Records) and gavn! (Th3rd Brain).
Mohan will also continue to focus on the producer management and publishing verticals of 1916 with notable clients Yung Lan, James Maddocks, Jack Riley, and more.
“I’m thrilled to be releasing my new music with Virgin Music Group,” said Melanie. “It feels like a homecoming after the successes we shared working together with Spice Girls and my first two solo albums. They are paving the way for more artist-led deals and have an incredibly strong international team. I’m really excited to see what we can achieve together.”
Recorded between Stockholm and Los Angeles, “Sweat” is a club anthem dedicated to the liberation and freedom of dance culture. Infused with nostalgic nods to the era that shaped her, the single samples Diana Ross’s “Work That Body,” and is described as a preview of what fans can expect to hear on her new album.
“Melanie is such a unique force of nature who is on the verge of another exciting chapter in an illustrious career,” commented Vanessa Bosåen, President of Virgin Music Group UK. “She captivates the heart of everyone she meets and we are thrilled to welcome her into the Virgin Music Group family. We look forward to working alongside her and her team to bring her intoxicating vision to life.”
The partnership comes on the heels of her recently announced headline show at London’s O2 Academy Brixton, set for Oct. 23, 2026.
Watch the video for “Sweat” below.
+ Interscope Geffen A&M Records today announced the next phase of its ongoing Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) initiatives, continuing its mission to uplift the institutions that have shaped many Interscope artists and executives.
Following a successful launch in 2024 with partnerships at Howard University, Tennessee State University, and Texas Southern University, Interscope is unveiling “Homecoming SZN Compilation Vol. 2,” the next installment of the vinyl-exclusive album series.
“Homecoming SZN Compilation Vol. 2” is available exclusively on vinyl and features a curated selection of Interscope catalog songs; this year’s edition includes standout hits from Kendrick Lamar, GloRilla, Rob49, EVE and more.
The campaign will additionally partner with Hampton University, Clark Atlanta University, and Alabama State University for immersive activations during their 2025 Homecoming weeks. As part of the campaign, Interscope will make a $3 donation for every item sold to the related university. In addition, Interscope will provide funding to support a variety of initiatives across campuses, with equal awards distributed to each of the three universities.
“Homecoming is a treasured tradition at Hampton University, celebrating our history, culture, and community. We are excited to partner with Interscope Geffen A&M Records to bring this innovative Homecoming SZN initiative to our campus. Music has always been a powerful bridge between generations, and this collaboration gives our students a chance to showcase their creativity while connecting with a legacy that extends far beyond our campus,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams.
+ Los Angeles-based trio Moonchild — composed of Amber Navran, Andris Mattson, and Max Bryk — has officially signed with ONErpm. The partnership ushers in a new era for the Grammy-nominated group as they prepare to release their sixth studio album, “Waves,” on Feb. 20.
“I’m excited to welcome Moonchild to the ONErpm family,” said Eddie Blackmon, vice president of A&R at ONErpm. “Their musicianship and signature blend of soul, jazz, and R&B embody the kind of boundary-pushing artistry we strive to champion. They’ve built something timeless yet forward-thinking, and I’m proud to support them as they enter this next chapter.”
+ HighGround Music has launched with a founding team comprised of former Rimas Entertainment executives, including Kamil Jacob “KJ” Assad (CEO), Federico Carmona (co-CEO/managing partner and creative director), Kent James (general vice president, head of A&R/artist development), José Carreras (head of finance and artist day-to-day operations), and Vissepo Garriga (head of legal and business affairs).
High Ground Music (HGM) is an artist development company and independent label based in Puerto Rico that integrates A&R, production, artist and management services, marketing & digital strategy, label relations, and data-driven release planning to build sustainable artist careers. Its roster is led by Fonta, Okayyy, and Cuz, with additional signings in development.
Universal Music Publishing Group has signed composer, producer and artist Daniel Lopatin to a worldwide publishing agreement through the company’s classics and screen division.
Lopatin is best known under the moniker Oneohtrix Point Never, with a body of work that spans solo albums, experimental scores and gallery installations. In music, he’s collaborated with FKA twigs, Charli XCX, James Blake, David Byrne, Iggy Pop and Anohni
In film, Lopatin’s long-standing creative relationship with acclaimed filmmakers Josh and Benny Safdie saw him compose the original scores for “Good Time” and “Uncut Gems,” with the former earning him the Cannes Soundtrack Award. He is currently working with Josh Safdie on the A24 feature, “Marty Supreme,” starring Timothée Chalamet.
He additionally executive produced the Weeknd’s 2022 “Dawn FM,” along with co-writing and producing on the Weeknd’s most recent release, “Hurry Up Tomorrow.”
Lopatin said, “I’m genuinely touched by Natasha Baldwin’s belief in my work and grateful for the dedication of the entire team at UMPG. To know that my music is embraced with such commitment and care is the foundation any artist hopes to build upon. I’m thrilled to get started.”
Natasha Baldwin, president of global classics and screen at UMPG and UMG, said, “We have long been great admirers of Dan’s prolific work across composing, songwriting, producing and scoring, and it is with genuine excitement that we join in supporting Dan on this next phase of his admirable musical journey.”
Pictured above (L-R): Daniel Lopatin, Natasha Baldwin.
+ Brandon Silverstein, CEO of Avex Music Group and S10 Entertainment, has unveiled the expansion of both companies. The following appointments are in effect:
Zeke Silvera has been named senior VP, head of East Coast operations and head of A&R, focusing on strategy across artist development, studios, and marketing while leading S10’s producer and writer management functions from Avex’s New York base.
Spencer LeBoff has been named senior VP, head of West Coast operations and publishing and acquisitions, overseeing West Coast operations from Avex’s new corporate headquarters in West Hollywood, which includes two state-of-the-art studio houses and creative offices for A&R, marketing, and S10 management.
Megan Timko has been named head of operations for Avex Music Group and S10, ensuring excellence in day-to-day execution and infrastructure as the company scales internationally.
Jessica Roxana and Claudia Schumann will oversee marketing for Avex Music Group and S10, strengthening the company’s brand strategy and campaigns across global markets.
Tay James (longtime A&R for Justin Bieber) and Miles Beard (former head of A&R at Republic Records) have joined Avex Music Group’s publishing division as senior A&R consultants. Rory Sever has been promoted to Chief of Staff.
Silverstein shared: “As we continue to expand our operations in the U.S. and globally, this team will be instrumental in advancing our mission to sign and develop the world’s most successful songwriters, producers, and artists, while growing Avex and S10’s influence on a truly global scale,” said Silverstein. “While we’re leading from the U.S., our focus is international — building a world-class roster, expanding into key markets around the world, and pursuing strategic partnerships and acquisitions that will further strengthen our creative ecosystem. Already in 2025, we’ve celebrated multiple No. 1 records and major success with talent like Grant Boutin (Tate McRae), Elkan (Drake, Rihanna), Elyas (Drake), Harv (Justin Bieber), Kamal Wilson (Kehlani), Shenseea, and many others. We’re just getting started.”
+ Anthem Music Publishing has inked a worldwide co-publishing agreement with Envy of None, the rock collective featuring Alex Lifeson (Rush), Andy Curran (Coney Hatch), multi-instrumentalist Alfio Annibalini, and vocal talent Maiah Wynne.
The deal will focus on expanding both creative and commercial opportunities for the band’s latest studio release, “Stygian Wavz,” which debuted on March 28 via Kscope. Under the agreement, Anthem will collaborate closely with the band and its partners to drive global sync placements, licensing, and strategic initiatives around the album and its standout tracks — including “The Story,” “Not Dead Yet,” “Under The Stars,” “Stygian Waves,” and the latest single, “Thrill of The Chase,” launching Sept. 19.
“Given our long-term relationship with Rush and Coney Hatch, it is fantastic that we’re able to extend our relationship with Alex and Andy, and to bring Alfio and Maiah into the Anthem family, through Envy of None,” said Jason Klein, CEO of Anthem Music Group. “This partnership allows us to shine a brighter light on the incredible songwriting and sonic depth that Envy of None brings to the table. We’re excited to help amplify their creative vision through strategic publishing efforts that extend the life and reach of Stygian Wavz well beyond the album cycle.”
Ticketmaster has appointed Saumil Mehta as its new global president, reporting to Live Nation CEO Michael Rapino, effective Nov. 1. Mehta succeeds Mark Yovich, who has served as president since 2020 and will now become chairman of Ticketmaster with a focus on the company’s long-term strategy and global growth.
“Ticketmaster is an incredible business that serves as the world’s portal to the best live entertainment,” said Mehta. “The real opportunity lies in how we evolve the experience by building smarter and more intuitive ways for fans to connect with the live experiences that matter so much to them.”
Under his leadership, Ticketmaster will execute AI opportunities for venues, fortifying the ticketing infrastructure against bad actors, and enhancing the ticket-buying experience for fans.
Michael Rapino, CEO of Live Nation Entertainment, added, “Over the past several years, Ticketmaster has been working to build a strong foundation for the next phase of growth. Saumil brings a fresh perspective and deep product and technology expertise that will help us build on that momentum.”
Mehta steps into the role with a strong foundation in product innovation, scaling technology businesses and global commerce. He spent over nine years at Square, where he was most recently chief product officer and head of business org.
Prior to this role, Mehta founded LocBox, a marketing automation startup that helped local businesses grow through targeted, multi-channel marketing, which was acquired by Square in 2015.
+ Nice Life Recording Company (NLRC) has signed LA-based singer-songwriter Beatrix (Arielle Kasnetz). Beatrix joins the label home to Lizzo, the Marías and Tinashe, amongst others.
On the signing of Beatrix, NLRC Founder and CEO Ricky Reed shared, “Beatrix is an artist who has already written and recorded songs that stand shoulder to shoulder with some of the great works of our time. I was blown away by her talent upon meeting her, but her kindness, work ethic, and dedication to her craft solidified her as a perfect fit for Nice Life. We are so excited to welcome her to the family and to introduce her art to the world.”
Beatrix added, “I’m thrilled to be joining Nice Life after putting my first album out independently. Ricky has assembled a special group of people – from our first meeting and through each step in the process they’ve understood and supported my vision and I’m so excited to partner with them.”
The announcement follows the release of Beatrix’s first single and accompanying video under the newly inked partnership, “Ghosts of Tennessee.”
+ Big Picture Media has upped Natalie Schaffer to vice president, and Becky Kovach to director of publicity. Founded in 2007 by Ghiraldi-Travers, Big Picture Media was born from a vision of providing unwavering dedication to clients across all areas of publicity.
Leading the New York City office, Schaffer has been a part of Big Picture Media since 2013. A California native, she began her tenure at BPM in the original Los Angeles office before relocating to New York City in 2015 as the agency unified its staff under one roof.
“I’m incredibly excited to step into this new role as Vice President at Big Picture Media,” said Schaffer. “After over a decade with the company, I’m proud of how far we’ve come and energized about where we’re headed.”
Kovach has been with the company for over a decade, successfully running BPM’s competitive internship program while leading press campaigns for artists like Winona Fighter, LS Dunes, Lilith Czar, American Authors, Bayside, Switchfoot, Simple Plan and Midtown, among others.
“I feel so honored to follow in Natalie’s footsteps as Big Picture Media’s new Director of Publicity,” Kovach shared. “Over the past decade I have learned so much from her and Dayna about what it takes to be a good publicist: dedication, creativity, and, above all, passion. Even as an intern it was clear to me that Big Picture Media cares deeply about the clients.”
In addition to its recent promotions, Big Picture Media has added Los Angeles–based publicist Liz Wiltshire. Liz joins the company after three years at The Oriel Company, where she worked on projects for artists including Hot Mulligan, Finn Wolfhard, Barry Can’t Swim, Katie Gavin of Muna, and more.
Universal Music Publishing Group has inked the Marías to an exclusive, worldwide music publishing agreement.
Known for their fusion of alternative, psychedelic rock, jazz and Latin, the Latin Grammy-nominated band is comprised of Atlanta-raised María Zardoya, Los Angeles native Josh Conway, Jesse Perlman on guitar and Edward James on keys.
Zardoya said, “We’re thrilled to sign with Jen and Ana Rosa at Universal Music Publishing. Having spent some time with them alongside Jody Gerson, we trust they’re the perfect partners to guide us through the next phase of our collective and individual writing career(s).”
Most recently, Zardoya released her debut solo album under the moniker Not for Radio entitled “Melt.” Beyond their own records, the Marías have also collaborated with Bad Bunny, Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco, and toured with Billie Eilish on her sold-out arena run.
UMPG’s Jennifer Knoepfle, executive vice president and head of U.S., and Ana Rosa Santiago, senior VP of Latin music, said, “It’s so exciting to work with a band like the Marías who are so clear and singular in their vision. They have cultivated a devoted audience over the last several years and are now on the cusp of the global stage. We could not be more ecstatic to partner with them at such an exciting time.”
+ Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Chappell Roan, Dina LaPolt, Larry Mestel and Girls Make Beats were recognized by the Songwriters of North America (SONA) at the Warrior Awards on Oct. 12 in Los Angeles.
SONA additionally awarded Toby Lightman with the 2025 Emerging Songwriter Warrior Award, presented by YouTube Songwriters. Linda Perry made a surprise appearance, and delivered a performance, while Bonnie McKee and Shane Stevens hosted.
+ Rebellion Records, the independent label co-founded by artist and CEO Michael Turner (PLVTINUM) and COO Daniel Nall, has announced a strategic seven-figure partnership with music technology company Too Lost. The deal combines capital investment with Too Lost’s technology to accelerate Rebellion’s rapid artist development model.
Since launching just two years ago, Rebellion has experienced breakout success with Chris Grey, who grew from 100,000 to over six million monthly Spotify listeners and earned a JUNO Award nomination within his first year at the label, as well as Vana, whose single “Beg” topped Octane Radio.
“Michael and the Rebellion team have an incredible vision to build artists up by focusing heavily on user-generated social engagement,” said Gregory Hirschhorn, CEO of Too Lost. “The team has extraordinary taste and a fantastic track record. Too Lost’s investment and our larger partnership will help Rebellion reach new heights.”
“Too Lost brings best-in-class distribution technology, financial firepower, and a shared appetite to break molds to this partnership,” said Michael Turner, co-Founder and CEO of Rebellion Records. “With our teams aligned, we’ll leverage our viral engine at scale, sign zeitgeist artists, and move faster than the industry can copy.”
+ Warner Chappell Music (WCM) Nashville has promoted experienced music executive Christina Wiltshire to VP, A&R. In her new role, she will continue to elevate Nashville’s presence by discovering and fostering top talent, and facilitating local and international collaborations and partnerships. She will be reporting to Austen Adams, President, WCM Nashville.
Wiltshire shared: “Feeling incredibly grateful to Austen, Phil, Guy, and Carianne for believing in my growth and creative vision at WCM. It’s a privilege to work alongside such talented songwriters and artists – and I’m deeply passionate about championing their songs and finding them innovative opportunities.
Wiltshire joined WCM in 2019 as director, A&R, having previously served as creative director at Sea Gayle Music. Prior to that, she served as creative coordinator at Patrick Joseph Music/SONGS, learning directly from the legendary music publisher Pat Higdon.
+ Tesseract Music and Hawkeye Music Publishing have announced a strategic partnership to acquire and manage music related intellectual property rights including “name, image, and likeness” (“NIL”) rights for licensing and merchandising.
Hawkeye Music Publishing is founded by Richard Stumpf, founder and former CEO of Atlas Music Publishing, president of Imagem Music, US and senior VP at Cherry Lane Music. Tesseract Music is an intellectual property management company founded by Richard Seet, an entrepreneur who has been backed by major strategic and/or private equity investors including United Business Media (Informa PLC), Angelo Gordon and Company, and Brookfield, amongst others; and Charles Riotto, the former President of LIMA (International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association).
The partnership has access to $50 million in equity capital from family offices and high net worth investors to actualize its business plan. The principals are in discussions with numerous debt providers to supplement their capital stack and are in conversations with music catalog owners to acquire their copyright libraries.
+ 1916 Enterprises is promoting Ruchir Mohan to partner as he leads the launch of the company’s artist management and services division.
1916 is led by Founder/CEO Jonathan Gordon, who has knowledge and experience across several verticals in music publishing, including records, film and TV, and investments. This expands them further into management, with new signings including Tommy Genesis (Ultra), Christian Hayes (Capitol), LOVELI LORI (broke. Records) and gavn! (Th3rd Brain).
Mohan will also continue to focus on the producer management and publishing verticals of 1916 with notable clients Yung Lan, James Maddocks, Jack Riley, and more.