Universal Music Group Partners with WTSL for Innovative Artist IP Expansion
Universal Music Group (UMG) has officially announced a strategic joint venture with WTSL, the investment firm established by Patrick Whitesell and supported by the renowned private equity firm Silver Lake. "This venture is dedicated to shaping the future of artist intellectual property (IP) with the scale and ambition that it truly deserves," Whitesell stated. The collaboration aims to broaden Universal Music’s catalog and artist roster across various entertainment and consumer sectors while ensuring that music remains at the forefront of this evolution.
Patrick Whitesell, a prominent figure in Hollywood and a consistent presence on the Variety500 list, previously served as the executive chairman of Endeavor, a leading agency valued at $13 billion, before stepping down earlier this year when the company transitioned to private ownership under Silver Lake. Following his departure from Endeavor, Whitesell announced his plans to launch a new media company supported by Silver Lake, alongside the creation of WIN Sports, a sports talent agency.
Erykah Badu’s Juneteenth Concert to Be Livestreamed by Amazon Music
In an exciting event, Amazon Music will host a livestream of Erykah Badu’s Juneteenth concert, titled "Badu Presents: Echos 19," on June 19. The concert will take place at the Bomb Factory in Dallas and will be available via Amazon’s Prime Video service and Twitch. Local fans can secure free tickets through ErykahBadu.com. Part of Amazon’s "Forever in Rotation" initiative celebrating Black Music Month, this performance features Badu with a full band and will begin at 9 p.m. CT, hosted by Wayno, Nyla Symone, and Mouse Jones, with an opening act by Dallas rapper Tye Harris.
Sierra Lever, head of hip-hop and R&B at Amazon Music, expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, "Erykah is a one-of-a-kind innovator and visionary who has redefined music time and again. We are thrilled to bring this moment to her fans worldwide."
Wasserman Elevates Shelley Pisarra to Chief Insights and Innovation Officer
Wasserman has announced the promotion of Shelley Pisarra to the role of Chief Insights and Innovation Officer, where she will report directly to COO Darrell Coetzee. Previously serving as Executive VP of Global Insights, Pisarra will focus on developing strategies and platforms that drive growth across sports, music, and entertainment. Her initiatives will include expanding Wasserman’s product and innovation efforts, aiming to create unique commercial opportunities for top talent, brands, and rights holders. Pisarra expressed her excitement for the new role, emphasizing Wasserman’s commitment to leveraging insights to enhance client service and anticipate fan needs at the intersection of sports, music, and entertainment.
Anthem Music Publishing Acquires Marty Robbins’ Song Catalog
Anthem Music Publishing has successfully acquired the song catalog of the legendary country artist Marty Robbins, who passed away in 1982. Robbins, an inductee of the Grammy Hall of Fame, Country Music Hall of Fame, and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, is best known for his classic tracks like "Big Iron" and "El Paso." Jason Klein, CEO of Anthem Music Group, remarked, "Marty Robbins was a monumental figure in American music, and his storytelling transcends genres. We are honored to preserve and elevate his legacy, introducing his timeless work to new audiences."
Horacio Rodriguez Launches Fundamentals to Support Latinx Artists
Horacio Rodriguez, a veteran in the Latin music industry, has founded Fundamentals, a Miami-based company dedicated to providing artist and label services. With over 20 years of experience in talent development at Universal Music Latin Entertainment and WK Records, Rodriguez aims to support and elevate Latinx artists by reimagining their paths to success through innovation and cultural impact. He stated, "The launch of Fundamentals marks a new chapter in my commitment to supporting Latinx artists."
Sony Music Publishing Acquires Hipgnosis Songs Group
In a significant move, Sony Music Publishing has acquired Hipgnosis Songs Group, which includes a diverse catalog of songs from artists such as Sabrina Carpenter, Blake Mills, and Kali Uchis. The terms of the deal remain undisclosed. This acquisition follows Hipgnosis’s rebranding to Recognition Music Group earlier this year, and it reflects Sony’s strategic expansion in the music publishing sector.
HarbourView Secures $500 Million in Debt Financing
HarbourView, the content-focused investment firm, has announced a new $500 million debt financing deal with KKR. This capital will help accelerate HarbourView’s strategy in line with evolving media, sports, and entertainment markets. The firm has previously financed projects like a Queen Latifah biopic and acquired rights to significant music catalogs, solidifying its role in the industry.
Exceleration Music Acquires Cooking Vinyl
Exceleration Music, based in the U.S., has announced its acquisition of Cooking Vinyl, known for representing iconic artists like Billy Bragg and Roger Waters. Founded in 2021, Exceleration has quickly made its mark in the music industry by acquiring various companies and creating alliances with independent labels, demonstrating the growing interest of investors in the music sector.
These developments highlight the dynamic landscape of the music industry, showcasing how collaborations, acquisitions, and innovations are shaping the future of music and entertainment.
