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• Primary Wave Enters Literary & Theatrical Catalog Acquisition Space

  Atticus Works, a new literary and theatrical catalog acquisition company, launched in partnership with Primary Wave Music. The company was founded by Richard Hurowitz, a writer, publisher and investor who previously founded the investment firm Octavian and publishes the magazine The Octavian Report.

  According to a press release, Primary Wave has committed “substantial capital” to Atticus Works, “at a minimum of” $100 million.

  “The literary and theatrical backlist represents one of the most compelling and underserved opportunities in media today,” said Hurowitz in a statement. “I have worked for many years at the intersection of finance, literature, and ideas, and Atticus Works brings those worlds together. Our goal is to ensure that our culture’s greatest literary works find the audiences and resources they deserve. Larry Mestel and his team have built something truly extraordinary at Primary Wave Music, a visionary, artist-first company that has transformed how iconic catalogs are managed and valued. We are thrilled and honored to have them as our partners, and to bring their expertise, capabilities, and creativity to our writers.”

  “Teaming up with Richard Hurowitz to invest in iconic literary properties fits like a glove with Primary Wave Music’s longstanding strategy of building, nurturing, and reimagining timeless intellectual property,” added Lexi Todd, deputy COO of Primary Wave. “We’re thrilled to align with Richard’s vision and deep connections in the literary world, and we see this partnership as a perfect complement to our mission of elevating iconic content into enduring cultural touchstones. We look forward to building a business around protecting the stories that people already love, while also bringing them to life for new audiences for generations to come.”

  Allen & Company LLC served as a financial advisor to Primary Wave in connection with the deal. — Chris Eggertsen

• [PIAS] Label Group Acquires Signum Records

  [PIAS] Label Group acquired independent classical music label Signum Records. Under the terms of the agreement, Signum will continue to operate under its established brand and creative leadership.

  Steve Long and Alistair Dixon founded Signum back in 1997. Since then, the catalog has grown to nearly 1,000 recordings. Among its roster are Philharmonia Orchestra, Paul McCreesh, Alessio Box, Tenebrae and James Rhodes. Long serves as the label’s managing director.

  In 2017, Signum received the label of the year award at the Gramophone Awards. In 2020, the Houston Chamber Choir received the Grammy for best choral performance for its recording of “Duruflé: Complete Choral Works,” which was released by Signum.

  The acquisition does not include Signum’s sister company, Floating Earth.

  “Having met and spent time with Steve over the last few years as a label partner of Integral, it was clear that his passion and forward-thinking approach to classical music together with his entrepreneurial spirit and expertise in all areas of the industry, would be a great fit for [PIAS],” Edwin Schroter, [PIAS]’s CEO, said in a statement. “Signum has grown into one of the most respected independent classical labels in the world by working with some of the finest artists, ensembles and composers. Like other genres, classical music is more accessible today than ever before as it continues to reach and connect with growing audiences around the world. And as with other genres, we believe that outstanding artists and recordings, supported by a talented team bringing them to market, will continue to create new opportunities and help build an enduring, valuable catalog.”

  Long added, “I am delighted that Signum is becoming part of the [PIAS] Label Group. Throughout our discussions, it became clear that [PIAS] understands what makes independent labels special and why preserving that independence matters. Having access to the infrastructure, expertise and global reach of an international music company while still being able to operate as an independent label is genuinely the best of both worlds. This partnership creates exciting new opportunities for our artists, or catalog and our future ambitions, while allowing us to continue doing what Signum has always done best, which is supporting exceptional music and the people who create it.” — Ariel King

• Sweet Relief Musicians Fund/Rough Trade

  Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, which provides services and financial assistance to musicians and music industry professionals, partnered with Rough Trade for an initiative that will see the two launch a donation program across Rough Trade’s U.S. platform. Through the collaboration, announced as Rough Trade commemorates its 50th anniversary, customers will be able to support Sweet Relief via “standalone digital products and optional checkout add-ons,” according to a press release.

  Donations can be made here.

  “We’re huge fans of Rough Trade and we’re thrilled to partner with them to raise funds for our music community in need,” said Aric Steinberg, executive director of Sweet Relief, in a statement. “It’s exciting and gratifying to see such a storied and respected company recognize the importance and urgency of our mission, and to step up to help in such a meaningful way. We’re looking forward to more creative collaborations designed to help our musicians and music industry workers in need of emergency financial assistance due to a physical or mental health emergency.”

  Stephen Godfroy, co-owner of Rough Trade, added, “At Rough Trade, music has always been about more than commerce, it’s about community, connection, and the people who dedicate their lives to creating the records that shape our culture. We’re proud to partner with Sweet Relief Musicians Fund and give our customers simple ways to contribute, whether through round-ups, direct donations or future initiatives still to come. Supporting artists and music workers in times of need feels entirely aligned with what Rough Trade has stood for over the past fifty years.” — Chris Eggertsen

• SoundCloud and Twitch Launch ‘SoundCloud Sessions’ DJ Series

  SoundCloud and Twitch partnered to launch SoundCloud Sessions, a new performance series that will see emerging DJs who are popping on SoundCloud go live on Twitch, with fans able to discover and engage with them in real time. Additionally, selected DJs will enjoy inclusion in SoundCloud discovery features, including its Weekly Download and Dusk Till Dawn newsletters, along with editorial support, amplification on social platforms and future opportunities in the SoundCloud ecosystem. The first DJs announced for the series include Jessu, Conrad Taylor and DJ Ken Dollaz.

  “By coupling Twitch’s live digital stage with SoundCloud’s native discovery ecosystem, SoundCloud Sessions brings the energy of a live performance straight to the screen, equipping emerging DJs to scale their presence far beyond the physical room,” said Eliah Seton, CEO of SoundCloud, in a statement. We’re transforming raw, live moments into digital discovery, and building on the timeless foundation of DJ culture — which has always been about discovery, community, and what’s next.” — Chris Eggertsen

• MusicNation Copyrights Management Joins the Human Artistry Campaign

  MusicNation Copyrights Management, a music rights management organization based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), joined the Human Artistry Campaign, a global alliance of more than 200 organizations across the creative and tech fields that advocates for the responsible use of AI that protects “human creativity, consent and creator rights,” according to a press release. This makes MusicNation the first signatory to the Human Artistry Campaign from the Middle East.

  Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak, MusicNation’s founder and chairwoman, said in a statement, “The UAE has quickly established itself as one of the world’s most forward-looking markets for AI, innovation and the creative economy. As that momentum accelerates, MusicNation and our allies in the Human Artistry Campaign seek to support the next phase of growth on trust, transparency and respect for human creativity. We are proud to join the Human Artistry Campaign to support responsible AI, clear licensing frameworks and protections that ensure creators and technology companies can thrive together.”

  Added Dr. Moiya McTier, Human Artistry Campaign senior advisor: “MusicNation’s support reflects the growing global recognition that responsible AI must be built with respect for human creativity. Innovators and policymakers around the world are working to embrace powerful new technologies while preserving the uniquely human artistry, identity and rights that fuel culture. MusicNation’s leadership in the Middle East is an important addition to this growing international movement that prioritizes creators.” — Chris Eggertsen

• Sony Music Indonesia and Sun Eater Group Launch Indonesian Label Via Joint Venture

  Sony Music Indonesia and Indonesian indie label Sun Eater Group launched LUNAR, a joint venture label that aims to amplify Indonesian artists. The first signings under the deal are Kecoud, Alee and Nandoshi.

  Sun Eater artists will have access to Sony Music’s global distribution platforms and marketing resources and benefit from Sun Eater’s hyper-local marketing prowess while retaining their creative independence.

  “Indonesia is currently home to one of the most vibrant and digitally active music communities in the world,” said Muhammad Soufan (Munna), general manager of Sony Music Indonesia. “Partnering with Sun Eater Group to form LUNAR, combines our reach with authentic, grassroots creative curation. Kecoud, Alee, and Nandoshi represent the exact type of genre defying artistry that LUNAR was created to champion, and we are excited by this partnership.”

  “LUNAR was born from a desire to create a progressive space that respects the pace of artistic growth,” added Kukuh Rizal Arfianto, founder & CEO of Sun Eater Group. “Partnering with Sony Music was a natural choice because they share our ‘artist-first’ DNA. Together, we are offering these artists the best of both worlds: the agility and heart of an indie label with the incomparable reach of a global leader.” — Chris Eggertsen

• Entersong Entertainment/The Heartland Network

  Image Credit: Chase Thompson / Courtesy The Heartland Network

  Entersong Entertainment, founded by songwriter Rob Hatch and Mike Every, entered a strategic partnership with broadcast and streaming company The Heartland Network. Under the new partnership, which marks Entersong’s first venture into original broadcast and streaming, the company will focus on developing and producing original music-focused programming.

  Entersong Entertainment, which launched in 2022, is known for producing the Las Vegas Songwriters Festival. The Heartland Network’s current content lineup includes Keith Stegall’s High Dollar Hill, Barbecue Country and The Chuck Wicks Show.

  “Every great song starts with a story. I’ve learned that people like knowing more about a song than just what they hear on the radio or on a finished album,” Hatch said in a statement. “They appreciate hearing about the creative sparks behind their favorite songs and music. This partnership with The Heartland Network gives us an opportunity to pull back the curtain in a fresh way and share those special stories. We’ve spent years building relationships with some of the most talented creators in music, and this gives us a new canvas to showcase their stories. The goal isn’t just to make another music show — it’s to create experiences audiences can’t find anywhere else.” 

  “What excites me most about this partnership is the chance to rethink how music stories are told and experienced,” Every added. “By combining Entersong’s relationships and creative vision with Heartland’s incredible reach, we’re creating a space where artists, songwriters and fans can connect in ways that feel meaningful. The most exciting ideas happen when great people, great stories, and great platforms come together. That’s exactly what this partnership is to us.” 

  “This partnership is rooted in years of relationships built on trust, mutual respect and a shared belief in the power of great storytelling,” added Alan Kates, vp of strategy at The Heartland Network/Get After It Media. “I’ve had the privilege of knowing and working alongside Rob, Mike and many of the artists on the Entersong roster for many years, and what stands out most is their unwavering commitment to art and excellence. This melds naturally with what Joel Wertman has built at The Heartland Network. Joel is a leader in TV and a leader in the music space going back many years; he immediately saw the long-term vision. I couldn’t be more thrilled.” 

  “When Alan brought this idea to me, it was an instant ‘yes’ to concept, talent and team. As we continue investing in original programming that resonates with audiences across broadcast and streaming, this fits right in the creative pocket,” said Joel Wertman, CEO of Get After It Media. “We’re looking forward to the creative process and giving viewers unprecedented access to the artists, songwriters and stories that shape the soundtrack of their lives.”  — Jessica Nicholson

• Symphonic/ROQ ‘N Rolla Music

  Symphonic signed Amsterdam-based indie label ROQ ‘N Rolla Music to a deal that includes both catalog and future releases. Founded in 2015 by Babek Arjang Far and Tim Kimman (pka Dutch rapper Jebroer), ROQ ‘N Rolla’s roster includes Jebroer, Snelle, Outsiders, Famke Louise, Hans Glock, Kalibwoy and RBDjan. It also encompasses sub-labels BAD MANOR Records and Nouveau Riche Music.

  Through the deal, Symphonic will provide technology, infrastructure and other support to maximize the value of ROQ ‘N Rolla’s catalog while helping secure growth opportunities globally. This includes global DSP distribution, rights and royalty monetization, analytics and reporting, playlist and editorial pitching, marketing support, and access to all of Symphonic’s artist and label services.

  “I’ve known Babek for many years and have tremendous respect for his vision and the business he has built at ROQ ‘N Rolla Music,” said Sander Stijnen, director of business eevelopment, EU at Symphonic. “ROQ ‘N Rolla has established itself as a highly regarded force in the independent music space through a clear commitment to artist development, quality releases, and long-term growth. This deal represents another important addition to the diverse range of labels and entrepreneurs we support at Symphonic. We look forward to working closely with Babek and his team as they continue to expand globally.”

  Added Arjang Far, “Over the years, I’ve learned that the best deals in music are built on trust, shared values, and a genuine understanding of what it takes to grow independent businesses. I admire the way Symphonic truly supports entrepreneurs and artists rather than trying to fit them into a standard mold. At ROQ ‘N Rolla, we’ve spent the last decade doing things our own way, championing artists with unique voices and building careers that stand the test of time. As we enter our next phase of international growth, we believe Symphonic is the right partner to help us scale globally while preserving the independence and culture that define who we are.”

  Over the last several months, Symphonic has signed several European labels, including 2-Tone Entertainment, Keep Hold S.r.l., Tripel Records and House of Entertainment. — Chris Eggertsen

• ADA Central Europe/AIM Music

  ADA Central Europe signed an exclusive global distribution partnership with AIM Music, a newly launched Berlin-based indie label that will release music in multiple genres, including hypertechno and German rap. ADA will also provide streaming strategy and tailored marketing support.

  AIM Music was founded by music manager Patrick Thiede, producer and artist Fae August, songwriter Leon Israel and artist GWENDO.

  The partnership will officially launch on July 3 with the release of singles by GWENDO (“FUßFOTO FREESTYLE (INTRO)”) and marlo.mp4 & ViruzZ.

  Jean-Sébastien Permal, senior vp of A&R at Warner Music Central Europe & EMEA, said: “AIM Music is exactly the kind of label we want to partner with – founder-led, culturally rooted, and built around artists who have real audiences. The German hypertechno and rap scenes are producing some of the most energetic, streaming-native music in Europe right now, and AIM is at the centre of that. This partnership is about giving a team with genuine taste and operational instinct access to the infrastructure to scale it.”

  Added GWENDO and Thiede in a joint statement, “We know that what’s meant for us won’t miss us, and so are excited for everything this partnership has in store. We are grateful for Warner Music’s trust and very much look forward to this collaboration. Anything is possible!” — Chris Eggertsen

• Cortez Bryant Invests in MNGRS.AI

  MNGRS.AI, an artist management service developed by the French company Global Music Community, received an investment from artist manager Cortez Bryant, known for developing artists including Drake, Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj. As part of the deal, Bryant also joined MNGR.AI’s advisory team.

  According to a press release, MNGRS.AI combines AI with “decades of artist management expertise” to provide “personalized guidance, strategic planning, content support and execution tools.”

  “For a long time, I’ve been looking for a way to help more artists than I could ever support personally,” said Bryant in a statement. Throughout my career, countless artists have reached out to me looking for advice, guidance and direction, but the reality is that traditional artist management can only reach a
  limited number of people. MNGRS.AI has the potential to be a real game changer. It can make the kind of structured guidance and career support that artists need accessible to millions of people who would
  otherwise never have access to it. That’s a vision I’m excited to support.”

  “Few people have shaped artist careers at the level Cortez Bryant has over the past two decades,” added Alexandre Deniot, co-Founder & CEO of MNGRS.AI. “He brings world-class artist management experience and a proven track record of developing some of the most successful artists of our generation. What makes his involvement particularly meaningful is a shared belief that the principles behind great artist management should not be reserved for a select few. Together, we have an opportunity to make that expertise accessible to millions of artists around the world.” — Chris Eggertsen