Why BMG Launched An Americana Label

It’s been 20 years since filmmaker Mary Harron released his horror-satire film American Psycho, and yet the infamous murder scene, in which Christian Bale brutally kills Jared Leto with an axe, continues to haunt us. The film came out on April 14, 2000, and was praised by critics and audiences.

LOS ANGELES (Variety.com) – The search for a superstar must continue. After taking some time to make the decision on how to proceed with “American Idol” as it heads into what should have been its live, shiny floor studio portion of the season, ABC has confirmed that it will continue via remote performances.

London’s Westminster Abbey has launched a new podcast, and Prince Charles will be the special guest for the Abbey’s Easter Sunday service/

Kevin Hart partnered with Fabletics to “fix what’s wrong with men’s activewear” and it led to the creation of the new Fabletics Men brand!

Third Side Music has signed Shakey Graves to a worldwide administration deal, it was announced Thursday (April 9).The deal covers Shaky Graves’ entire back catalog (with the exception of his 2014 album And The War Came), and all future releases.Third Side’s roster also includes SOFI TUKKER, Courtney Barnett, Flying Lotus, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Blonde Redhead and Kurt Vile. BMG has struck a global publishing deal with UK producer, DJ and songwriter 220 Kid, it was announced March 26.

London’s Royal Albert Hall has announced a new livestream series, Royal Albert Home. A different performance will be streamed each night from various artists’ homes while the venue is closed to the public. The first session, featuring Rufus Wainwright, takes place tomorrow (April 9). Other performers lined up for Royal Albert Home include Baxter Dury, Peter Gregson, and Toby Thompson. Learn more at Royal Albert Hall’s website.

By Todd Spangler

Rainn Wilson is helping people connect during the COVID-19 crisis.

Multiple Grammy Award-winning artist and producer Ben Harper has launched his own record label Mad Bunny Records, Billboard can announce. Harper, who will run the label out of Los Angeles

LONDON – Sony Music U.K. chairman and CEO Jason Iley says he’s building a company led by "entrepreneurs and innovators" as it launches a new label focused on finding the next generation of urban and pop talent.Called Dream Life Records, the London-based imprint will be run by Dan Owusu, Lunick Bourgess and Shane Derozario.

By Variety Staff

GUETERSLOH – Bertelsmann now owns 100% of shares in Penguin Random House, the world's largest trade publishing group. The media conglomerate, which owns music company BMG, had needed regulatory approvals in able to complete its purchase of the remaining 25% of PRH from rival Pearson.Penguin Random House is home to around 320 individual book publishing imprints across six continents, with more than 15,000 new publications and over 600 million titles sold per year.

By Dino-Ray Ramos

Two-time Grammy Award-winning artist Jason Mraz has signed a multi-album global record deal with BMG.The artist, formerly on Atlantic Records, will release three albums for the company, including Look For the Good, set for release this summer.

BMG Production Music has named Dan Pounder (pictured at right) to co-head alongside EVP and global managing director John Clifford. Pounder will head finance, operations and systems for the Berlin-based company which specializes in pre-cleared and custom production music services servicing content creators across broadcast, films, trailers, games and advertising. 

By Pete Hammond

By Andreas Wiseman

SPOILER ALERT: Key details about the new Netflix series “Tiger King” will be revealed by reading further.

Dean Brody is having a little fun while under quarantine.

Moon Taxi has signed with BMG, Billboard can exclusively announce. They also returned with the nostalgia-fueled "Hometown Heroes" on Wednesday (March 25).