Hardy has launched his label Crow Records, a partnership with Big Loud Rock, in alignment with the debut release of their new artist, Sikarus (real name Jordan Brooker).
The country-rock artist said of his first signee, “The second I heard Sikarus’ music I thought to myself, ‘What a cool sound, I want to do anything I can to be able to work with him.’ I’ve known Jordan for many years and I’m so excited to finally be able to say that we are officially working together. I love rock ‘n’ roll, I love exploring new things and I couldn’t be happier for Sikarus to be the first artist signed to Crow Records.”
Hardy’s new label was made possible through his longtime partnership with Big Loud Rock. Together, both entities will sign, develop and release music from artists Hardy “is personally inspired by, pulling largely from the rock canon,” reads a press release.
“I’m incredibly honored to be the first signing at Crow Records,” added Sikarus, a songwriter with credits on singles for Luke Combs and more. “I think Hardy is one of the most brilliant musical minds I’ve ever met. We’ve been friends for a long time, so getting the chance to work with him in this capacity is so dope. ‘Nonchalant’ is all about that attitude of going with the flow and not getting hung up on the little things. It can be a really beautiful quality in a person, so much so that it makes you want to write a song about it.”
“His a generational talent and all of us at Big Loud Rock are honored to continue strengthening our partnership with him by joining forces on Crow Records,” says Big Loud partner and President of Big Loud Rock, Joey Moi. “Developing the next generation of alternative and rock artists is at our core, and collaborating with Hardy to sign and foster new talent in the space has the whole team excited as we continue to expand.”
Sikarus will join Hardy on select dates of the “Jim Bob World Tour” this year, slated to hit arenas and amphitheaters across the U.S. — including New York’s Madison Square Garden — in August and September.
Pictured above (L-R): Hardy and Sikarus.
+ Hybe has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Korea’s Northern Gyeonggi Provincial Police Agency (NGPPA) to combat the rising threat of deepfake cybercrimes, targeting the company’s artists across its multi-labels within Hybe Music Group.
The memorandum includes plans for action against offenders, including expedited arrests and the launch of a dedicated hotline for reporting such crimes in Korea.
Jason Jaesang Lee, CEO of Hybe, said, “We are delighted to collaborate with NGPPA, a recognized leader in the investigation of cybercrimes. HYBE is steadfast in our commitment to safeguarding the rights of our artists in today’s digital age.”
“We expect that our partnership with Hybe, Korea’s top entertainment company, will significantly improve the efficiency of our investigations,” said Ho-seung Kim, District Chief of NGPPA. ”As digital crimes become more sophisticated with the advancement of technology, we will enhance our investigative expertise based on the agreement.”
Thursday, Feb. 27
The Syndicate has hired music publicist Sue Marcus of Stunt Company Media Inc. as vice president of publicity. Marcus brings her full Stunt Company roster to The Syndicate, including acts such as Drew and Ellie Holcomb, JohnnySwim, Mayday Parade, Lime Cordiale, Wilderado and XIXA.
Marcus will serve as co-department head alongside Brendan Bourke, vp of publicity. Jeff Kilgour will continue to run select PR campaigns while now leading business development for the company as senior VP, business development along with Rob Gross, senior VP of label services and business development.
As part of her transition to The Syndicate, Marcus is bringing Stunt Company publicist Anna Jenkins, who will serve as a coordinator, alongside new hire Cassidy Berstler, who also joins The Syndicate’s press team as a coordinator — expanding the department to a nine-person team.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Sue Marcus to The Syndicate,” said Kilgour. “Sue’s incredible expertise, passion for storytelling, and the powerhouse roster she brings from Stunt Company will strengthen our expanding publicity department. With Sue and Brendan Bourke leading the team together, we look forward to continued innovation and success.”
Marcus began her career more than 30 years ago as director of publicity at Roadrunner Records, later moving to Mercury Records as senior director of artist and media relations. She continued in that role at Island Def Jam Records following the label merger before founding Stunt Company in February 2001.
“I’m beyond thrilled to be joining The Syndicate’s incredibly talented PR team and leadership,” said Marcus. “I’ve long admired the company’s growth, and after talking with the partners—most of whom I’ve known for decades—the move felt like a natural next step. This new role allows me to expand my work, mentor gifted publicists, and co-lead the department with Brendan, which is an exciting new chapter in my career. I deeply appreciate the opportunity to continue doing what I love while working with such an outstanding team.”
Courtesy of the Syndicate
Pictured above (L-R): Sue Marcus, Jeff Kilgour, Brendan Bourke.
+ Kobalt has launched Kosign, a new music publishing platform designed to collect publishing royalties for artists, songwriters and producers.
Kosign is an alternative to traditional publishing deals, offering artists and songwriters the tools, insights, and transparency they need to take full control of their global publishing income. In a press release, Kobalt “estimates there is over $1 billion publishing royalties to collect for this underserved market every year — money that Kosign is built to help artists claim.”
“For too long, talented emerging artists have struggled to navigate the complexities of music publishing and collect the royalties they’ve rightfully earned,” said Laurent Hubert, CEO of Kobalt. “Kosign removes those barriers, giving songwriters a clear, accessible path to manage their publishing with the same power and sophistication previously reserved for major artists and songwriters.”
Applications for Kosign membership are now open. Visit kosignmusic.com to learn more and apply.
+ Empire, has hired Guillermo Ramos as managing director for Europe, and Ted May as senior vice president for international marketing operations, with both based out of the London office.
In their roles, Ramos will oversee the company’s operations, roster expansion in Europe, and provide strategic leadership to the European team of territory managers which include France and German Speaking territories. May will focus on connecting Empire’s regional divisions and marketing teams which span 6 continents and lead strategies for global growth. Together, they will collaborate to bring together the rapidly expanding ex-U.S. team, aligning Empire’s international blueprint to continue the meteoric rise of the label and its artists.
“What Empire has achieved in the last 15 years is truly game-changing, and I am very proud to be joining and contributing at this crucial moment in their story,” said Ramos. “Steady and meaningful expansion in Europe — and the globe — is a priority for our next chapter, driven by our leadership in the independent sector, at a time when an industry-wide paradigm shift is underway”.
“I am a huge admirer of Ghazi and Nima’s maverick spirit and EMPIRE’s unique place in the music ecosystem,” said May. “It’s a privilege to join the team at this special time in its history and I’m excited for the opportunity to contribute to its global expansion.”
Pictured above (L-R): Ted May, Ghazi, Guillermo Ramos, Nima Etminan (Credit: Carsten Windhorst)
+ Concord Music Publishing has signed Ryan Charles to a global publishing deal, effective immediately. The deal includes Charles’ full catalog and all future works.
In 2022, Kelly Clarkson and Snoop Dogg hosted the first season of NBC’s American Song Contest, inspired by Europe’s legendary Eurovision Song Contest. During this first season, Charles represented the state of Wyoming by performing “New Boot Goofin’.” Charles returned to the show during its fifth season to compete in the semi-finals.
Originally from Wyoming, Charles combines Western, country aesthetics with a rap flow — his singles include “Gettin’ Western” (2020), “Old Dirt Fancy” (2021), and “New Boot Goofin’” (2022). He was also featured on Ian Munsick’s 2022 single “Cowboy Killer,” which has garnered over 37 million streams on Spotify.
+ Mom+Pop Music has tapped Katie Fagan as president of Mom+Pop Nashville. In her new role, Fagan will oversee the continuing development of the M+P roster and the growth of the company’s identity.
She will also expand M+P’s global footprint, searching for talent worldwide while overseeing the strategic vision for M+P in Nashville. She joins the company after a 14-year stint at Prescription Songs, where she served as the head of A&R in Nashville for the last eight years.
Michael Goldstone, founder of M+P, said, “Katie has proven herself an important voice and advocate for creatives in the Americana, Folk, and Alt-Country spaces. No one is better suited to reinforce and grow Mom+Pop’s presence in Nashville and globally as we broaden our industry aesthetic.
Fagan added, “I am thrilled to join Goldie and Thad at Mom+Pop Music and expand their well-known reputation for artistic integrity and artist development in Nashville. Their vision for Mom+Pop aligns perfectly with my thinking, and it is an honor to learn even more from them as we develop a presence here.”
+ Arden Records, a lo-fi music label, has opened its own publishing arm.
Since launching in 2021 in partnership with Platoon, Arden has grown a roster of artists that includes its founder, Sagun, along with Clay House, Davi Juno, French WiFi, Maono, Mellodaze, NueBoo, Pecna, Sleep Culture, the Tea Shop, Trankilo, Urchn and WrongNumber.
Sagun launched Arden alongside veteran music executives Jordan Smith (S+ MGMT) and Andrew Kwan (Romantic Music Group). “In our eyes, Arden Records was built on necessity,” said Smith. “The way certain labels in the space were treating and ‘supporting’ artists and producers was never cultivating community or a space that made them feel valued. After 3 years of seeing how powerful a unified roster of artists can be, we are only now launching our publishing arm to explore a new creative workflow for our Arden Records’ family.”
“Our mission as a label has always been to showcase the diverse and undeniable talents of our artists, elevating them beyond the boundaries of the lo-fi genre,” added Kwan. “In an industry increasingly saturated with AI-generated music – especially within the lo-fi genre – we remain steadfast in championing our artists, ensuring their authentic musicianship receives the recognition it deserves. Now, through the launch of our publishing venture, we are excited to continue this mission from a fresh and dynamic perspective.”
+ BMI‘s Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards are set to honor John P. Kee as a Trailblazer of Gospel in recognition of his career spanning over 40 years. Throughout the ceremony, BMI will also recognize the songwriters, producers and music publishers of the past year’s 25 most-performed Gospel songs in the United States.
Held at Flourish Atlanta on Thursday, April 3, the Trailblazers Awards will be hosted by BMI President and CEO Mike O’Neill and BMI Cice President, Creative, Atlanta, Catherine Brewton.
“John P. Kee is a true visionary in the genre, and his music continues to have an impact in Gospel music for over forty years and counting. It’s an honor to recognize his dedication and the unwavering commitment he’s made through his artistry and evangelism,” said Brewton. “We’re extremely excited to come together and celebrate his legacy and incredible accomplishments and proudly honor all of our award-winning songwriters and publishers for a special afternoon of great music and fellowship.”
+ Merlin has announced a series of new promotions: Marta de la Hoz moves up to senior director, business analytics; Matt Rose to senior manager, strategy and growth; Nick Cashmore to director, reporting; Pavan Vasdev to senior director, strategy and growth; and Tom White to senior data analyst.
Tuesday, Feb. 25
CAA has signed Tony, Emmy and Grammy-nominated singer and actor Josh Groban in all areas.
Groban made his Broadway debut in 2016 with a starring role in “Natasha, Pierre and The Great Comet of 1812.” He has also made television appearances on “Glee,” “The Simpsons,” “The Office,” “CSI: NY,” “It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia,” and “The Crazy Ones,” as well as feature films “Coffee Town,” “Muppets Most Wanted,” and “Crazy, Stupid, Love.”
In the spring of 2023, Groban took to Broadway once again, performing the titular role in the revival of “Sweeney Todd,” which earned him Tony and Grammy award nominations, as well as widespread acclaim.
In May 2025, Groban is set to launch a five-night run at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas with his own production, “Gems.” He also remains an active arts education philanthropist with His Find Your Light Foundation that helps young people connect through arts, education, and cultural awareness.
+ Xavie Agency has closed negotiations to become the exclusive licensing representative for Celia Cruz Entertainment. Through this partnership, Xavie Agency will “protect and promote the legacy of the Queen of Salsa” by developing strategic brand partnerships and licensing opportunities that celebrate the late entertainer.
Cruz, the Cuban-American singer who became a global icon, captivated audiences with her powerful voice, flamboyant style, and infectious energy. Her music transcended generations and cultural boundaries, solidifying her as a trailblazer for Latinos and women in the music industry.
In addition to licensing, Celia Cruz Entertainment has several projects in development, including a Broadway musical and a documentary. Xavie also represents Ric Flair, Jerry Garcia and more.
“As we commemorate the centennial of Celia Cruz, this partnership with Xavie Agency represents a pivotal step in preserving and expanding her incredible legacy,” said Omer Pardillo, executor of the Celia Cruz Estate. “Celia was not only a global icon but also a cultural ambassador who broke barriers and inspired generations. With Xavie Agency’s expertise in building impactful, enduring partnerships, we are thrilled to explore new and innovative ways to share Celia’s story with fans worldwide.”
+ Ticketmaster, Universe, and SoundCloud have joined forces to streamline and connect their Ticketmaster and Universe events via SoundCloud.
Available to all SoundCloud Artist Pro users, the new partnership with Ticketmaster and Universe will allow artists to manage live events directly on SoundCloud and create events on SoundCloud with Universe.
“At Ticketmaster, we’re passionate about helping artists reach more fans by meeting them where they are. It’s why we’re thrilled to partner with SoundCloud to provide event management, discovery, and promotional support on SoundCloud, powered by Ticketmaster and Universe,” said Michael Chua, vice president global business development and strategic partnerships at Ticketmaster. “Soundcloud is a leader in lowering barriers to entry for music creators – now, Ticketmaster and Universe will enhance that mission by giving artists more control over their live events across more fan touchpoints.”
+ The Music Fights Fraud Alliance (MFFA) has hired Michael Lewan as its first executive director. Lewan will oversee the Alliance’s strategic initiatives and operations from Washington, D.C.
With a robust background in government relations and advocacy, Lewan most recently served as managing director of State and Federal Advocacy at the Recording Academy.
“We are thrilled to have Michael Lewan join Music Fights Fraud as our first Executive Director,” said Andreea Gleeson, CEO of TuneCore. “When TuneCore and Believe co-founded the Music Fights Fraud Alliance together with Downtown, our goal was to unite the music industry, foster collaboration, and take smarter, more impactful action to tackle fraud in all its forms. Michael’s extensive experience in government relations, policy advocacy, and building stakeholder partnerships makes him the ideal leader to guide MFFA’s mission forward. His leadership and vision will be crucial as we continue working toward a more equitable and transparent music industry.”
Lewan commented, “As streaming fraud increasingly threatens the livelihoods of artists and right holders and undermines the integrity of the music economy, the Alliance’s work has never been more critical. I am excited to lead this dedicated group of industry leaders in our mission to create a fairer, more secure, and more transparent music ecosystem. Together, we will continue to build on the progress we’ve made, strengthen our collaboration, and drive impactful solutions that protect artists and ensure they are fairly compensated for their work.”
Monday, Feb. 24
ADA, Warner Music Group’s global independent music distribution and artist services arm, has announced their partnership with Three Six Zero Recordings, which will see the company cover global distribution for all new releases from the label’s roster. Three Six Zero Recordings is home to artists including Willow and Jaden Smith, while the first releases under the new deal have come from Four Tet, Max Styler and horsegiirL.
“We’re thrilled to join forces with Mark [Gillespie], Pete [Tong], and the entire Three Six Zero team,” said Cat Kreidich (pictured above), president of ADA. “Their commitment to the music, and to the boundary-pushing artists carving their own paths, is matched by our own ambition and creativity at ADA.”
Mark Gillespie, founder and CEO, Three Six Zero Recordings, added, “Working with ADA allows us to further our mission of supporting the next wave of talent with the right infrastructure and global reach.”
+ The Republic Collective (Island Records, Def Jam Recordings, Mercury Records and Republic Records) has announced a new round of executive promotions and hires across various departments. Jeffrey Remedios has been named president of strategic development; on the media team, Joe Carozza has been promoted to executive vice president, global media officer; on the sync team, Brittney Ramsdell rises to executive VP, creative sync, while the creative team see’s Julie Vastola elevated to senior VP, creative. Additionally, on the global marketing team, Zoë Briggs has been promoted to VP, global marketing.
Gary Spangler has also expanded the audience team with the following advancements:
Natina Nimene to executive VP, urban audience and artist relationsLucas Romeo to executive VP, pop audienceBrett Dumler to senior VP, pop audienceJames Brown to senior VP, urban audienceRoya Raji to VP, touring
Similarly, Kevin Lipson has grown his team with two key new hires: Jeff Temske as executive VP, global research and analytics and Colin Yost as VP, innovation and gaming partnerships. He has also announced the following:
Brian Sutnick to executive VP, global replay strategyRyan Stevens to senior VP, commerceCharlene Thomas to senior VP, global replay strategyBlair O’Brien to VP, commerce
Monte Lipman, founder and chairman of Republic, commented, “This is an exciting chapter for the Republic Collective. These key announcements were hard-earned and well-deserved. Along with our Founder and Vice-Chairman Avery Lipman and President and COO Jim Roppo, this elite team of executives will undoubtedly usher in a new era of artist development, innovation, and generational talent.”
+ Gravel Road Records, the independent record label co-founded by Anthony Martini and Rich Barner, has signed Travis Bolt.
“Travis Bolt’s voice stopped me dead in my tracks the second I heard it,” said Martini. “He’s a rare talent and I couldn’t be more excited to help push his music out to the world.” Added Barner, “Travis is an amazing human being and family man that has busted his ass to get here. He has a voice like I’ve never heard before. It’s going to be our absolute pleasure at gravel Road to watch him take off like a rocket ship.”
+ Sheppard, Mullin, Richter and Hampton LLP have promoted Aaron J. Campbell and Nicolas Urdinola to partners within its entertainment, advertising and technology practice.
With offices in the bustling entertainment hubs of Century City and New York City, Sheppard Mullin offers legal help with acquisitions, financings, production and distribution of content for major studios, streaming services, and other platforms throughout the world, including Amazon MGM Studios, Spotify, Netflix, Peacock, Twitch and TelevisaUnivision, among others.
“Aaron and Nico are excellent lawyers and critical advisors to our entertainment industry clients,” said Alexis Robinson, entertainment, technology and advertising practice group leader. “Their cutting-edge knowledge and work will help our clients continue to grow profitably as the industry continues to evolve. I am incredibly proud of the hard work they have put in to help both our practice and clients continue to prosper.”
