Music Industry Moves: Sony Music Publishing Signs ‘Short n’ Sweet’ Collaborator Julian Bunetta
Sony Music Publishing has signed songwriter and producer Julian Bunetta to a global publishing agreement. Bunetta’s recent work includes co-writing and co-producing Sabrina Carpenter’s No. 1 single, “Espresso,” in addition to Teddy Swims’ “Lose Control,” which scored No. 1’s on Top 40 and on the Billboard Hot 100.
Bunetta said, “I’m excited to be working with the Sony team. I’ve known Katie and Jon nearly my whole career and they’ve always been incredibly supportive of my songwriting.”
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Throughout his career, Bunetta has also worked with One Direction (“Story of My Life” and “Drag Me Down”), Niall Horan (“Slow Hands”), Rudimental (“These Days”) and Thomas Rhett (“Look What God Gave Her”).
“Julian and I have crossed paths many times since the beginning of his career, and it has been incredible to see all that he has accomplished,” said Jon Platt, chairman and CEO of Sony Music Publishing. “His continued success speaks volumes about his talent and integrity, and we are honored to be on this journey with him.”
Sony Music Publishing’s Senior VP of Creative, Katie Welle, said, Julian is an exceptional talent who continues to up his game. His authenticity shines through in everything he works on, and he brings the best out of everyone. We are excited to join forces with Julian and his team, and we look forward to further extending his success together.”
Pictured above (L-R): Damon Bunetta, Julian Bunetta, Katie Welle
+ Republic has appointed Mary Catherine Kinney as executive VP of artist and label strategy, as confirmed by Republic Corps President and COO Jim Roppo.
Based in Nashville, Kinney will support artist and label strategy for the Republic Corp Collective which includes Republic Records, Island Records, Mercury Records and Def Jam Recordings. She helms business strategy for the group’s labels, reinforcing their strong presence in Music City.
About the news, Roppo commented, “Mary Catherine is one of the music industry’s most inspiring leaders. She’s widely respected across the business and in Nashville. Her reputation and work ethic have uniquely positioned her to flourish supporting the labels at Republic. She’s the perfect executive to seamlessly facilitate our expansion in the market.”
Kinney said, “I’m thrilled to join Republic to build with each label team on their unique mission and work with such a phenomenal roster of artists. For over a decade, I’ve called Nashville home and I’m honored for the opportunity to steward Republic’s vision within this vibrant, ever-growing creative community. I have deeply admired Monte, Avery and Jim as visionaries and esteemed leaders for many years; I thank them for this extraordinary opportunity.”
+ FUGA has announced the promotion of Renato Vanzella to general manager, LATAM.
Formerly FUGA’s general manager of Brazil, Vanzella will oversee all of the company’s business activities in the LATAM region, including Argentina, Brazil, Columbia and Mexico. Vanzella will be responsible for driving the distributor’s business development efforts, overseeing client relations, DSP partner relations and managing FUGA’s team. He continues to report directly to LA-based Sarah Landy, FUGA’s Senior VP for the Americas.
Sarah Landy, FUGA’s senior VP of the Americas commented, “Renato’s promotion to General Manager, LATAM is well-deserved. His exceptional strategic vision and leadership have been instrumental in building a strong foundation for FUGA in Brazil, and his impact now will be felt across the entire Latin American region. Renato consistently has demonstrated a deep understanding of the local music landscape, and his passion for collaboration and client service has earned him the respect of our team and our partners. I have no doubt that he will continue to drive compelling growth and success in his new role, and I look forward to celebrating all of his achievements to come.”
+ Fat Beats has announced the appointment of Rob Caiaffa as its new head of marketing.
Caiaffa will lead Fat Beats’ marketing efforts as the brand focuses on growth, market positioning, and further developing artist and industry partner relationships, per a press release. His appointment comes as Fat Beats celebrates its 30th anniversary.
Caiaffa has held positions at SoundCloud, Motown Records and Def Jam Recordings. As senior VP at SoundCloud, Caiaffa led initiatives such as the Fresh Press artist interviews and the CloudBar industry insights program. His efforts expanded SoundCloud’s reach through innovative artist-centric programming and strategic partnerships with global labels and platforms, including collaborations with Sirius XM and Pandora.
“Fat Beats is such an iconic and respected brand in the music community. Its impact has stood the test of time and I couldn’t be more honored to play a role in laying out its next 30 years,” said Rob Caiaffa. “Our efforts will be focused on driving creative campaigns that continue to uphold the legacy of Fat Beats while exploring new, innovative avenues for the brand.”
“We are incredibly excited to have Rob on board as our new Head of Marketing,” said Chris Atlas, president of Fat Beats. “His long standing and highly respected reputation made him the obvious pick when filling this role. We look forward to working alongside Rob and further building the Fat Beats brand.”
+ Armada Music has named Susanne Hazendonk as head of catalog. In her new role, Hazendonk will oversee the label’s catalog department and expand the company’s place in the acquisition market.
With over 15 years of experience at Spinnin’ Records and Warner Music Benelux, Hazendonk has worked with dance acts such as Lucas and Steve, Sam Feldt, Afrojack and KSHMR. Based in the Netherlands, Hazendonk will report directly to Armada Music’s COO, Jop Bonnike.
“With an unwavering passion and infectious enthusiasm for dance music, Susanne’s exceptional talent makes her an ideal addition to the Armada Music team,” said Bonnike. “As we continue to prioritize the growth and evolution of our catalog department, we’re looking forward to working alongside Susanne to seize new opportunities in the market.”
+ Newport Folk has unveiled its new Newport Folk Stewardship Program. At its core, the program hopes to identify “remarkable individuals with a demonstrated history of enriching and supporting the legacy of Newport Folk,” according to a statement. “The Newport Folk Stewards will pledge to continually challenge and celebrate the ‘Folk Family’ by pioneering meaningful initiatives that impact the future of the Festival in significant and collaborative ways.”
Its first appointee is artist and band-leader Nathaniel Rateliff — chosen for his artistry, perseverance and continued allyship. The position holds a three-year term, which will see Rateliff serving as Steward actively for two years and advising the next recipient during a third transition year. As the first Newport Folk Steward, Rateliff has chosen to devote his term to artist advocacy, fellowship and mentorship both at the Fort and beyond.
“I have always held the Newport Folk Festival in high regard historically, but once I finally attended as a performer, it felt life-changing,” said Rateliff. “I was immediately drawn into the community of musicians and fans. There is a general feeling of family among everyone present, and I consider it an honor to help curate, cultivate, and expand the spirit of Newport and the community that exists there. I view this as a valuable opportunity to learn from the talented performers who return each year, as well as from the dedicated fans and individuals who help shape the festival into what it has become today.”
+ Amazon Music has released its two-part documentary on the growth of the música mexicana industry featuring artists, producers, songwriters and executives. “GEN MEX, Your Generation of Música Mexicana” is executive-produced by Jessy Terrero and directed by emerging filmmaker Alejandra Hinojosa. The documentary features interviews with artists like Fuerza Regida, Natanael Cano, Banda MS, Ana Bárbara, Grupo Frontera, Chiquis, William Beckmann, and more, discussing the genre’s impact and its connection across generations and nations.
Wednesday, Oct. 2
Concord Music Publishing has announced the signing of producer, instrumentalist, and songwriter Ben Wilson, known professionally as Ben10k. The worldwide publishing deal, effective immediately, includes his full catalog and future works. This is Concord’s first signing with Coup D’Etat Music.
Ben10k contributed to Blxst’s debut album, “I’ll Always Come Find You,” producing tracks that featured artists Anderson. Paak, Offset, Feid, Becky G and Ty Dolla $ign. He also has credits on City Girls’ JT’s breakout solo single “Sideways,” d4vd’s “There Goes My Baby,” Megan Thee Stallion and Glorilla’s “Accent,” and Drake’s recent singles “It’s Up,” featuring Young Thug and 21 Savage and “Circadian Rhythm.”
Ben10k said, “Partnering with Concord, an esteemed company aligned with my vision, is exactly the step I was eager to take in my career. I’m excited to expand on what myself, The Revels Group and Coup D’Etat team have been building for years now with such a great partner.”
+ Universal Music Spain has appointed Alicia Arauzo and Luis Fernández as co-managing directors. Both executives have extensive experience in marketing and A&R, leading them to work closely in shaping and implementing the Universal Spain’s business strategy and creative direction.
Arauzo held various positions at EMI, BMG and MCA Spain. In 1996, she joined Universal Music Spain as manager of international marketing to marketing director, before being promoted to her most recent role as general manager in 2020.
Fernández joined Universal Music Spain in 2023 as head of A&R. Prior to joining UMG, he was CEO and founder of Sonido Muchacho, an indie record and music publishing company.
Both Arauzo and Fernández will be based in Madrid, reporting directly to Jesús López, Chairman/CEO of Universal Music Latin America and Iberian Peninsula. In addition, Ana Hernández, managing director of Universal Music Portugal, will now report directly to López.
+ UMG Nashville and Timbaland’s Mosley Music has signed Colt Graves. Colt’s first release under UMGN and Mosley Music is new song “Burning House,” out Oct. 18.
“Colt Graves is the perfect artist for our first collaboration with Timbaland’s Mosley Music,” said UMGN Chair and CEO, Cindy Mabe. “He’s simply electric and speaks from a unique and overlooked musical fusion growing up in the bluegrass heartland and taught by his legendary bluegrass hall of fame grandfather Josh Graves. Colt is a gifted storyteller who mixes the backdrop and musical influences of his Owensboro, Kentucky lifestyle with a gritty fusion of country, hip-hop, rock and folk. His edgy vocals and musical fusion is magnetic and I’m so excited to share his musical vision with the world. He’s really a special artist.”
Adds Timbaland, “From the moment I heard Colt, I knew he was special. He crosses the boundaries of a specific format of music which I believe is what makes him stand out as an artist.”
+ Rimas Publishing has signed Chilean artist Aura Bae.
The agreement was between Rimas Publishing and Wild Company, an independent Chilean music house. Rimas Publishing will focus on providing comprehensive A&R services in Chile.
“Signing with Rimas Publishing is a dream come true,” she said. “I’m excited to explore new opportunities and grow as an artist. This collaboration will allow me to reach a broader audience and continue spreading my musical creativity.”
Emilio Morales, managing director of Rimas Publishing, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Aura Bae to the Rimas Publishing family. We appreciate the trust she has placed in us to advance her career, and we are convinced that her talent has great potential. Our commitment is to support her at every stage of her artistic journey, just as we do with our global artists, so her music can transcend into the international market.”
+ HeadCount, the nation’s leading nonpartisan youth voter registration organization, has welcomed Yeji Cha-Beach as senior director of artist relations.
Cha-Beach joins HeadCount after a successful tenure as the music associate producer at NBC’s “Late Night with Seth Meyers.” She served for over a decade producing musical guests and the 8G House Band. Prior to “Late Night,” she honed her production, operations and communications skills at non-profit performing arts organizations including the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) and Carnegie Hall. In addition to HeadCount, Cha-Beach is the founder and curator of Did You Hear, a live music series.
At HeadCount, Cha-Beach will lead music artist campaigns, foster relationships within the music industry, manage talent bookings, streamline operations, and enhance outreach efforts.
+ New West Records has promoted Tommy Robinson to general manager and VP of sales; Brady Brock has been promoted to senior VP of media and reissues producer; Katie Keller has been promoted to VP of project management, and Meg Barron has been promoted to director of A&R and publishing. Brooke Nixon has also joined the Nashville-based label as VP of digital marketing.
New West Records’ roster includes Ben Folds, Nada Surf, 49 Winchester, JD McPherson, the Secret Sisters, Buddy and Julie Miller, James McMurtry, the Wallflowers, Devil Makes Three, Sunny War, and more.
+ Alen Torosyan will effectively assume the new role of general manager of Warner Music‘s emerging markets division. Jonathan Jules also joins Warner Music as the division’s VP of creative.
Both Torosyan and Jules report to Alfonso Perez Soto, Warner Music’s president of emerging markets.
Tuesday, Oct. 1
Jack Antonoff shared a written statement on Tuesday that outlines initial plans to build inclusive recording studios that would be open to the public.
The producer and singer-songwriter said he plans “to spend a large part of the next chapter of my life bringing these spaces to people who wouldn’t have access to them, public studios available to those who are priced out.” He continued, “It’s going to take time and a lot of resources but over here we have a plan that starts with working through [Antonoff’s charity] the Ally Coalition to build studios in LGBTQ+ youth shelters. From there, we will have a network of engineers that we will fund who will train people at these sites. Our plan is to build these spaces, pay for maintenance and engineering, and let the centers give out the time slots for people to use them. From there, we can start to expand into cities once we have it happening.”
Antonoff explained that he was sharing his plans early in the process in an attempt to “raise awareness and ask for help,” he wrote. “Anyone who believes in this and has resources that can help should please reach out as we get this off the ground.” The letter concludes with a point of contact, [email protected].
+ Spotify‘s Global Head of Music Jeremy Erlich will be exiting the company. Erlich, who has been with Spotify for over five years, will remain in an advisory role through the end of February. The news was first reported by Hits Daily Double.
“As I thought about the future, I found myself more and more excited about embarking on my own entrepreneurial journey,” Erlich wrote in a letter to staff. “It’s been a goal of mine for a long time and now feels like the right time to pursue it. This was a very difficult decision but, as I’ve said many times before, you are the best team in the industry and I know you’ll be in good hands going forward.”
Erlich’s previous reports — Sulinna Ong, global head of editorial, Joe Hadley, global head of music partnerships & audience, and Madeleine Bennett, global head of music go-to-market — will now look to David Kaefer, VP, music and audiobook business.
+ Align PR has expanded its music and Latin entertainment teams. The company announced they have officially tapped new team members Lauren Morris-Ruff, who joined align in 2022, as well as Erica Goldish in Los Angeles, Victoire Selce and Nick Vinci in New York, and Justin Tejada in Miami.
Madonna, Zayn Malik, Lil Wayne, Ciara, Christian Nodal, Nicky Jam, Bella Poarch, Manuel Turizo, the Pretty Reckless, Ruel, Artemas, Sevdaliza, and Loud Luxury, are all under the Align PR roster.
The music department will continue to work alongside align PR long time staffers who work across talent and music including Nicole Perez-Krueger, Brit Reece, Cait Bailey, Paul Samaha, Alec Huerta, Trixie Richter, and Isa Perez.
+ UTA Music has partnered with Rimas Entertainment for Advertising Week New York.
Together, the companies will host the event’s official wrap party, an invite-only gathering for Advertising Week New York attendees that will feature performances from clients including Eladio Carrión, Latin Mafia and DJ Alex Sensation. Rimas Entertainment and UTA Music will also partner with Advertising Week New York to host two exclusive panels on Oct. 9-10, featuring Carrión and the following executives: Noah Assad (CEO, RIMAS Entertainment), Jorge Bracero (COO, Rimas Entertainment), Kristen Quintero Garriga (VP of Brand Partnerships, Rimas Entertainment), Monica Jimenez (Talent Manager, Rimas Entertainment) and Toni Wallace (Partner & Head of Music Brand Strategy & Partnerships, UTA)
+ Sony Music Publishing has named Caroline Elleray its new VP creative, songwriter services, effective immediately.
Elleray will be responsible for leading and advancing SMP’s service efforts on behalf of the company’s songwriters. She will report to SMP UK’s Co-Managing Director Tim Major and David Ventura, SMP UK president/co-managing director and senior VP international.
Major said, “If you have ever spent any time with Caroline, you will know instinctively that she lives and breathes our mission to be a true creative partner for songwriters and their songs. We are therefore delighted that she’s agreed to step into this vital role. She is the very definition of a creative music publisher, always aiming to make a difference and to bring ideas, energy, empathy and commitment into the lives of those she works with. Music is in Caroline’s DNA and we know she will therefore feel very at home at Sony Music Publishing.”
+ Sony Music Latin has signed Mexican singer-songwriter óscar Ortíz.
“We are excited to have óscar Ortíz join the Sony Music Latin family. At 22, Oscar has repeatedly shown his extraordinary talent as a performer and songwriter, positioning him as one of the most promising voices in contemporary música mexicana,” said Alex Gallardo, president of Sony Music US Latin.
+ Global Talent Services (GTS), a Latin artist services agency, today announced the appointment of Narcís Rebollo as GTS’ CEO and president, effective immediately. GTS becomes a standalone company, with its management and operation now managed independent of UMG’s local music labels.
In this newly created role, Rebollo will oversee GTS’s global operations and divisions in the U.S., Latin America, Spain and Portugal. Based in Madrid, he will report to Jesús López, chairman/CEO, Universal Music Latin America and Iberian Peninsula.
Rebollo has served as president of Universal Music Iberian Peninsula since 2015, responsible for UMG’s recorded music and GTS operations in Spain and Portugal. Under his leadership, the company has successfully expanded to include (booking and promoting) concerts, tours, festivals, live events and commercial audio-visual entertainment. GTS clients include David Bisbal, David Bustamante, Pablo López, Morat, Lola Indigo, Aitana, Camila Fernández, Ela Taubert, Joaquina, Lauana Prado, Felipe Araujo and Leo Santana, among others.
Monday, Sept. 30
Global fan communication platform company Dear U has partnered with J Balvin and Peso Pluma in its first efforts into the Western market.
Launching on Sept. 30, Balvin and Peso will be able to “personally engage with fans around the world through Dear U’s new U.S. version of the app,” per a press release. Dear U’s “bubble” app provides a personal setting where only subscribing fans can engage with the artists. Over 600 artists and celebrities are already on the platform, including major K-Pop stars such as NCT, Stray Kids, LISA and Jisoo of Blackpink, EXO, aespa, Twice, as well as actors, sports stars, and entertainers.
Dear U reports that bubble has over 2 million paid subscriptions, of which 73% comes from outside Korea, across Asia, the United States and Europe.
Balvin offered in a statement, “For me it has always been important to be connected to my fans, La Familia. I love reading comments and conversations, so it’s exciting to communicate with fans no matter what their first language might be. This is why ‘the bubble’ is the perfect platform to keep in touch.”
Peso added: “Peso Pluma wouldn’t exist without our dedicated fans who have supported us since the very beginning. Even though we don’t speak the same language, our music is crossing borders and I’m always excited to find new ways, such as through this partnership with bubble, to connect with them.”
+ Sony Music Publishing UK has announced the signing of singer-songwriter Myles Smith to a global publishing agreement.
Myles has continued to gain momentum in 2024 with his debut EP, “You Promised A Lifetime,” and the release of his platinum-certified single “Stargazing.” He also recently performed on BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend and made his UK and U.S. television debuts.
Myles is currently touring with sold-out dates across the US and Canada after embarking on his first-ever headline tour in the UK and Europe earlier this year. He recently announced his second headline tour, slated to begin in 2025.
Sony Music Publishing UK Senior Director of A&R Saul Fitton said, “Myles is a once-in-a-generation talent, with exceptional drive and dedication. Witnessing his global impact as an artist from the UK is really exciting, and it’s a privilege to be part of his remarkable journey.”
+ The Vita Coco Company has teamed up with its brand ambassador Becky G to build a new green space at her childhood elementary school in Inglewood, California. The greenspace is located in Oak Street Elementary School.
“Growing up, my Inglewood community shaped who I am today,” said Becky. “Partnering with Vita Coco to reimagine a space where students can learn and play means everything to me. We wanted each element to be intentional, reflecting my own experience in middle school and addressing the needs and dreams of the community.”
Designed in close collaboration with the school’s Parent-Teacher Association and local community leaders, and brought to life by Terremoto, the fully customized 2,100-square-foot greenspace features garden plots, compost bins, a farm stand, fruit trees, a water feature, reading nooks, and a versatile outdoor classroom and play area.
+ Adam Wright has been appointed CFO and managing partner of Breakaway, an independent live music company.
Wright previously served as VP of corporate development and M&A at Sony. In his new role, Wright will drive strategic initiatives, corporate development, brand expansion, and overall financial operations for Breakaway.
“Adam Wright’s financial pedigree and industry background, including his executive experience at one of the most recognizable names in entertainment, will fuel Breakaway’s growth as we further extend our geographic footprint and launch new business verticals. We are excited to welcome Adam into the Breakaway family!” said CEO and co-founder Adam Lynn.
+ Day After Day Productions (Day After Day) and Emancipated Icon Entertainment Group have partnered up to represent Lil’ Kim and Teddy Riley for worldwide touring engagements.
Emancipated Icon, recently formed by Emancipated Talent’s CEO Rich Murphy and Icon Entertainment CEO Greg Walker, have established a strategic partnership with Day After Day, founded and led by veteran agent Seth Shomes.
Shomes said, “I have known Greg (Walker) and Rich for many years and have deep respect for all they have achieved in the industry. I couldn’t be happier to strategically align with them on icons such as Lil’ Kim and Teddy Riley and I can’t wait to collaborate on behalf of these legendary artists.”
Walker stated, “I have had the privilege of collaborating with Seth Shomes and Richard Murphy for over a decade in the entertainment industry. Their creativity and vision are truly remarkable, and I couldn’t be more excited about the innovative projects we have lined up together. It’s a thrilling journey to bring our shared ideas to life with two of the most talented individuals in the business.”
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