Music Industry Moves: Milk and Honey Launch Record Label to Support Songwriters ‘Like Never Before’

Milk and Honey Records, a new label from the established music management firm Milk and Honey, has officially launched with a focus on pop and dance genres. The label has secured a worldwide distribution partnership with The Orchard, a Sony Music Entertainment-owned distribution and artist services powerhouse. Lucas Keller, the company's founder, framed the move as a strategic evolution. "The industry is seeing a marked increase in artists and managers creating successful independent enterprises separate from the major label framework," Keller observed. "Our entry into this arena is a natural progression, and we remain committed to our songwriter-first ethos, a principle rooted in our origins."

Distinguishing itself from competitors, the label pledges to provide songwriters with a significant share of master recording royalties. The offer is substantial, featuring a perpetual production royalty that can hit double-digit percentages, paid directly to the creators. This approach is part of a broader trend where artists are seeking more ownership and financial transparency. The label also guarantees clear marketing budgets, adaptable contracts, and single-track deals, which reduce the initial commitment required from artists. Industry analyst Dr. Lena Petrova commented, "This model directly addresses the core grievances of modern creators. If successful, it could pressure other labels to reform their own royalty structures, potentially reshaping standard deal terms."

In other executive news, the Country Music Association has elevated Michael Farris to Vice President of Business Strategy and Insights. Previously the Senior Director, Farris will now guide the CMA's strategic expansion by utilizing data analytics and technology to enhance operations and foster innovation. His responsibilities continue to encompass the insights, ticketing, and data architecture teams, and he will now also spearhead a cross-departmental initiative to align revenue-generating activities across the organization. The Country Music Association, founded in 1958, is a trade organization dedicated to promoting country music worldwide. Concurrently, Kate Watson has been promoted to Senior Director of Industry Relations, where she will manage the CMA's industry relations, membership strategy, partnerships, community programs, and talent relations.

Warner Chappell Music Nashville has also announced a promotion, naming Eric Reid as its Jr. Manager of A&R. In this capacity, Reid will be tasked with scouting and developing new talent, pitching songs, and generating opportunities for the publisher's expanding roster of songwriters. He will continue to assist with onboarding new signings, maintaining marketing assets, and coordinating songwriting camps, reporting directly to Austen Adams, President of WCM Nashville. Adams praised Reid's dedication, stating, "Eric's passion is palpable. He consistently exceeds expectations and has earned the trust of our entire songwriting community." Reid expressed his gratitude, saying, "I'm incredibly thankful for this opportunity and for the mentorship I've received. It's an honor to work with such talented writers and professionals on Music Row."

In a significant international development, Warner Chappell Music has entered a global administration agreement with composer Victor Le Masne, covering all works from his Multiman Records. The deal will be co-managed by WCM's teams in France and the United States. Le Masne is renowned as the composer and music director for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games Ceremonies, for which he created the original score and the official anthem, "Parade," working with global icons like Lady Gaga and Jean-Michel Jarre. Since 2022, he has also held the position of musical director for the legendary musical "Starmania." His recent honors include a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance and a Victoire de la Musique for his Olympic work. Le Masne remarked, "After the immense project of the Olympics, I'm proud to join Warner Chappell's incredible teams. This transatlantic partnership is uniquely thrilling."

Finally, producer and DJ Maesic has inked a worldwide representation deal with the agency WME. He will be represented by veteran agent Steve Hogan, who will book his international shows alongside colleagues in London and Los Angeles. Maesic shared his enthusiasm, stating, "I'm thrilled to join such an iconic agency and to collaborate with the legendary Steve Hogan to advance the dance music scene." Hogan echoed the sentiment, noting, "From his performance at Exit Festival, it was clear Maesic possessed a unique energy. The feedback from industry insiders has been resoundingly positive; he embodies the complete artist." Maesic, known for his collaborations with Major Lazer, Dillon Francis, Jung Kook, and frequent partner Diplo, is scheduled to perform with Diplo at The Edge NYC on October 25th.