{"id":2113267,"date":"2025-10-24T17:55:15","date_gmt":"2025-10-24T17:55:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/en\/?p=2113267"},"modified":"2025-10-24T17:55:15","modified_gmt":"2025-10-24T17:55:15","slug":"avatar-concert-startup-staffs-up-plus-spinnin-expats-become-fluent","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/en\/avatar-concert-startup-staffs-up-plus-spinnin-expats-become-fluent\/","title":{"rendered":"Avatar Concert Startup Staffs Up, Plus Spinnin\u2019 Expats Become Fluent"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><\/p>\n<div data-article-body=\"true\">\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Unit1 Studio<\/strong> has entered the scene as an independent producer of avatar concerts, backed by a roster of seasoned industry figures. The <a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/unit1.studio\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:company;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">company<\/a> is betting on advances in visual effects and AI-driven CGI to deliver hyper-realistic artist avatars more quickly and affordably, reimagining iconic live performances for modern audiences while addressing the high production costs that have long handcuffed immersive entertainment.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>More from Billboard<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The startup is led by CEO <strong>Barney Wragg<\/strong>, a digital leader with impactful stops at Andrew Lloyd Webber\u2019s Really Useful Group, Universal Music, EMI and AEG, along with creative director <strong>Jonathan Butterell<\/strong> and technical director <strong>Pavle Mihajlovic<\/strong> (Electric Saint and Flavourworks). Backed by influential investors <strong>Mercuri VC<\/strong>, <strong>The Taylor Brothers<\/strong> and longtime U2 manager <strong>Paul McGuinness<\/strong>, with <strong>John Kennedy<\/strong> (former Universal Music UK CEO) on its board, Unit1 aims to unlock new revenue streams for artists and rights holders.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Its debut project features Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter KT Tunstall ahead of the upcoming re-issue of her hit debut studio album <em>Eye To The Telescope<\/em>. For the Tunstall showcase, Unit1 is teaming up with several industry innovators, including Woodroffe Bassett Design (Elton John), Roe Visual (ABBA Voyage), and Brompton Technology (Adele, Metallica).<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">\u201cThere are so many concerts I wish I could have seen but never had the opportunity to experience live,\u201d said Wragg. \u201cElton at the Troubador, Queen at Live Aid, Hendrix at Woodstock or The Beatles at The Cavern. We are raising the bar in avatar and stage technology to be able to immerse audiences in the embodiment of those moments and transport fans into a world with the artists they love. Critically, we can now do this at a price point that makes commercial sense for the industry. Our goal is to wow audiences, stay true to the artist and their music, and help realise the immense potential in this new form of entertainment.\u201d<em>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Check out a full rundown of this week\u2019s staffing news below.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Michael Bryan (Apple Music)<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-3 right-3 size-10 md:size-[50px] lg:inset-0 lg:size-full lg:bg-transparent\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-0 right-0 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed inset-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<p>Michael Bryan (Apple Music)<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Michael Bryan<\/strong> exited his role as global head of country music at Apple Music, he announced on LinkedIn. His last day in the role was Friday (Oct. 17). Bryan joined Apple Music in 2020, serving as director of Apple Music Country Radio. In 2022, he was promoted to director of Editorial Operations and Audio Production, and then to Global Head of Country Music in 2024. In his role as Global Head of Country Music, he oversaw the country music team for Apple Music, and supported the company\u2019s Christian and Gospel music teams. Prior to his role at Apple Music, he worked at CAA as talent agent\/artist development lead, and as sr. vp of programming for iHeartMedia from 2012-2016. In a statement to <em>Billboard<\/em>, Bryan said, \u201cForever grateful to my Apple Music teammates and Nashville\u2019s artist community, who showed me what\u2019s possible when you build with truth and imagination. Taking time to sit still and listen for what\u2019s next. However that appears, I know for sure it will continue my life\u2019s work in supporting artists and creatives.\u201d \u2013<em>Jessica Nicholson<\/em><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Roger de Graaf and Robert Tammens (Fluent Music Group)<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Roger de Graaf and Robert Tammens (Fluent Music Group)\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/M.xtHzGOryVI44usTg8z0w--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MDtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/billboard_547\/1f7a85931e05550e5f4b544e71e146fe\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-3 right-3 size-10 md:size-[50px] lg:inset-0 lg:size-full lg:bg-transparent\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-0 right-0 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed inset-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<p>Roger de Graaf and Robert Tammens (Fluent Music Group)<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">He\u2019s<em> baaaaaack<\/em>. <strong>Roger de Graaf<\/strong>, co-founder and former CEO of Spinnin\u2019 Records, has returned to the music industry with the launch of <strong>Fluent Music Group<\/strong> alongside marketing executive <strong>Robert Tammens<\/strong>. Based in Amsterdam, Fluent aims to redefine artist development for electronic music creators by combining de Graaf\u2019s decades of A&amp;R expertise with Tammens\u2019 background in digital strategy and branding. De Graaf, who helped build Spinnin\u2019 into a global powerhouse and launched stars like Martin Garrix and Afrojack before <a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.billboard.com\/pro\/spinnin-records-roger-de-graaf-retire-dance-label\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:stepping aside;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">stepping aside<\/a> last year, says Fluent will \u201chelp artists build their careers and give them real direction in a fast-changing industry\u201d and \u201cmove quickly when they need support.\u201d Tammens, founder of Molecule and former longtime Spinnin\u2019 executive, adds a tech-driven approach to empower artists on their own terms. Fluent will operate across recordings, publishing and consultancy, offering strategic guidance, audience growth, and long-term career planning in today\u2019s fast-evolving music landscape. \u201cThis is not about nostalgia,\u201d said Tammens. \u201cIt is about creating an environment where new voices can thrive and where great music has the space to connect with audiences again.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Michael Farris (Country Music Association)<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Michael Farris (Country Music Association)\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"1138\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/c5IUP__9ChfVmDvqFReLSQ--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExMzg7Y2Y9d2VicA--\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/billboard_547\/8c5766a77ee1916b9a888f1a4bd790af\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-3 right-3 size-10 md:size-[50px] lg:inset-0 lg:size-full lg:bg-transparent\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-0 right-0 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed inset-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<p>Michael Farris (Country Music Association)<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The Country Music Association (CMA) announced key promotions and hires to strengthen its leadership and operations. <strong>Michael Farris<\/strong> advances to vice president, business strategy and insights, overseeing data-driven growth and cross-functional initiatives. <strong>Kate Watson<\/strong> becomes senior director, industry relations, leading membership strategy, partnerships and workforce development. <strong>Jeff Leet<\/strong> is promoted to director, brand integrity, managing CMA\u2019s visual identity across major events. Additional changes include <strong>Lindsey Morrison<\/strong> elevated to senior manager, community engagement for the CMA Foundation; <strong>Richard Xiong<\/strong> promoted to insights senior analyst; <strong>Kennedy Strickler<\/strong> named communications project manager; and <strong>Mary Spaulding<\/strong> hired as content production manager.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Chris Johnson and Chris Thomas (Peachtree Entertainment)<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Chris Johnson and Chris Thomas (Peachtree Entertainment)\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/k7f.5eo6p9yUKfquLV493A--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MDtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/billboard_547\/027b77a49aee62c94489da33cf2594d2\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-3 right-3 size-10 md:size-[50px] lg:inset-0 lg:size-full lg:bg-transparent\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-0 right-0 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed inset-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<p>Chris Johnson and Chris Thomas (Peachtree Entertainment)<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Peachtree Entertainment<\/strong>, a leading live event and concert promotion company, added two senior Chris\u2019s to support its national expansion. <strong>Chris Johnson<\/strong> joins as vice president of production, overseeing strategy and execution for live events. With 15-plus years of experience at ROCNATION and Big Loud Management, Johnson has managed global tours and campaigns for artists like Morgan Wallen, Lil Uzi Vert and Yungblud. <strong>Chris Thomas<\/strong> becomes senior vice president of development, bringing over 20 years in business development and partnerships with AEG Presents, Danny Wimmer Presents, and major brands including Toyota and Verizon. Thomas will lead new festivals, venues and strategic partnerships. These appointments come during record growth for Peachtree, which has produces over 250 concerts and 17 festivals in 2025. \u201cEach [executive] brings a track record of leadership and innovation that strengthens our foundation as a full-service live entertainment company, from how we build our brands to how we deliver exceptional fan experiences,\u201d said Nathan Baugh, CEO of Peachtree Entertainment.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Jake Szufnarowski and Izze Rumpp (Duck Club Entertainment)<\/h2>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Duck Club Entertainment<\/strong> has expanded its talent buying team with two key additions: longtime NYC promoter <strong>Jake Szufnarowski<\/strong> as senior talent buyer and Boise-based curator <strong>Izze Rumpp<\/strong> as talent buyer. Szufnarowski brings decades of experience from Wetlands Preserve, Knitting Factory, CBGB, Rocks Off Entertainment and Bowery Presents, where he booked major acts and iconic venues. Rumpp, a Treefort Music Fest veteran and founder of Artfort, has shaped Boise\u2019s music and arts scene for over a decade while curating music for global hospitality brands. Both will support Duck Club\u2019s year-round programming, including Treefort Music Fest, Treefort Music Hall, Hap Hap Lounge and Shrine Social Club. CEO <strong>Eric Gilbert<\/strong> will continue to lead programming and business development as Duck Club strengthens its role in Idaho\u2019s growing live music landscape.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Eric Reid (Warner Chappell Music Nashville)<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Eric Reid (Warner Chappell Music Nashville)\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/mXuvh8Li1y215ykYsd0w8Q--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MDtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/billboard_547\/5d33fa9d9784cb4436b889f9ea3067cf\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-3 right-3 size-10 md:size-[50px] lg:inset-0 lg:size-full lg:bg-transparent\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-0 right-0 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed inset-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<p>Eric Reid (Warner Chappell Music Nashville)<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Warner Chappell Music Nashville<\/strong> has promoted <strong>Eric Reid<\/strong> to junior manager of A&amp;R. Reid joined WCM Nashville in 2024 as a coordinator. Reid previously co-founded the boutique artist development company Four Count Entertainment, as well as Who\u2019s Next, a Nashville-based writer\u2019s round highlighting diverse songwriting talent. Austen Adams, president of WCM Nashville, said in a statement, \u201cEric brings a lot of passion and drive to everything that he does. He consistently goes above and beyond for our team, and our songwriters trust and respect him. We\u2019re excited to see him grow in this next chapter.\u201d \u2013<em>J.N.<\/em><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Jukebox Ventures<\/h2>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Jukebox launched <strong>Jukebox Ventures<\/strong> and its $15 million Fund I to back early-stage startups at the crossroads of music, tech and culture. The fund is led by co-founder and general partner <strong>Alex Jukes<\/strong>, a global marketing leader and founder of Jukebox PR and The Tribes; <strong>Christian Lawrence<\/strong>, general partner and head of investor relations with nearly two decades in capital markets; <strong>Kevin Caballes<\/strong>, operating partner with operational experience at Foursquare and Activision Blizzard; and <strong>Anthony Trotta<\/strong>, partner and head of trading, founder of Vernon Capital and ex-Metaversal exec. Supporting them is an advisory board featuring <strong>HOSH<\/strong> (producer),<strong> Inder Phull<\/strong> (PIXELYNX CEO), <strong>Ed Hill<\/strong> (Beatport SVP), <strong>Monica Hertz<\/strong> (SESAC Music Group), <strong>Joshua Brandon<\/strong> (Seven 7 Management),<strong> Indi Matthews <\/strong>(Jukebox Marketing Director) and <strong>Ramesh Satguru<\/strong> (Assemble Talent founder). \u201cFor over a decade, Jukebox has helped shape music and culture from behind the scenes,\u201d Jukes said. \u201cWith Jukebox Ventures, we\u2019re stepping in earlier \u2014 investing in the next wave of founders building the tools, platforms and experiences that will define the future.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Henk Schuit (Tickets for Good)<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Henk Schuit (Tickets for Good)\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/I2H6vm_1zYeYwQE_T9Qqeg--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MDtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/billboard_547\/5084cd49f1697ec82a944d6450086059\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-3 right-3 size-10 md:size-[50px] lg:inset-0 lg:size-full lg:bg-transparent\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-0 right-0 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed inset-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<p>Henk Schuit (Tickets for Good)<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Tickets for Good<\/strong>, a platform offering free and discounted tickets to live events, appointed <strong>Henk Schuit<\/strong> as its European board advisor. Schuit brings over 30 years of leadership experience, including his tenure as managing director at Eventim Nederland and current role as vice chairman of VVEM. He\u2019ll guide TfG\u2019s strategic growth across Europe, focusing on the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany, strengthening partnerships and shaping market entry strategies. The announcement follows TfG Netherlands\u2019 early 2025 launch, which has grown to over 100,000 members and contributed to a global base nearing 600,000, while the platform has distributed more than 1 million tickets in the UK through partnerships with over 1,000 event organizers.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Colt Murski (KP Entertainment)<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Colt Murski (KP Entertainment)\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"498\" height=\"438\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/KP5N1CAwD6qi7T.yZSVoUw--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTg0NDtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/billboard_547\/b79c4d1413e440cab808278c8f3ac5fe\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<p>Colt Murski (KP Entertainment)<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>KP Entertainment<\/strong> appointed <strong>Colt Murski <\/strong>as senior director of publishing at KPE Publishing, where he\u2019ll oversee publishing operations, support the writer roster, promote the catalog and drive creative growth opportunities. He joins from Curb | Word Entertainment, where he spent 20 years \u2014 rising to vp of country publishing and working with artists like Lee Brice, Dylan Scott, Rodney Atkins and others. Founded by Kerri Edwards in 2006, KP Entertainment manages artists including Luke Bryan, Cole Swindell and Dylan Scott, and its publishing roster features Davis Corley, Whitney Duncan, Mike Mobley, and Jody Stevens. Edwards praised Murski\u2019s experience and leadership, while Murski expressed excitement to collaborate with KPE\u2019s team and writers to grow the company\u2019s creative impact. \u201cThis arm of KP Entertainment is very important to me and finding the right person to lead it was just as important,\u201d said Edwards.\u00a0\u201cWith 20 years of experience in our town, Colt fills that spot perfectly. He leads with excitement and integrity.\u201d Murski is reachable here: <a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.yahoo.com\/entertainment\/music\/articles\/mailto:colt@kpentertainment.co\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ylk=\"slk:colt@kpentertainment.co;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">colt@kpentertainment.co<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Motoki Ishikawa and Dai Sakai (AXS Tickets)<\/h2>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">AXS, an AEG subsidiary, formed a joint venture with Lawson Entertainment to expand ticketing operations in Japan. The new entity, <strong>AXS Tickets<\/strong>, merges AXS\u2019s global technology with Lawson\u2019s retail network across Japanese sports, music and live entertainment. <strong>Motoki Ishikawa<\/strong>, managing director of AXS Japan, said the partnership will deliver a \u201cseamless, connected, and innovative ticketing experience.\u201d <strong>Dai Sakai<\/strong>, executive officer of Lawson Entertainment, added that combining Lawson\u2019s brand with AXS\u2019s international reach will set \u201ca new standard for live entertainment access.\u201d The venture builds on AXS Japan\u2019s success since 2018 and follows AXS\u2019s recent majority stake in Singapore-based SISTIC. AXS works with 1,600+ venues globally, including The O2.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Gemma O\u2019Brien, Shaun Wilson, Mike Newman &amp; Lora Elliott (Adelicious)<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Gemma O\u2019Brien, Shaun Wilson, Mike Newman &amp; Lora Elliott (Adelicious)\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"974\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/Fa8HfkYOZpfygTPOb9Co4Q--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk3NDtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/billboard_547\/a78ead5510bce466c2fda72501446c29\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-3 right-3 size-10 md:size-[50px] lg:inset-0 lg:size-full lg:bg-transparent\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-0 right-0 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed inset-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<p>Gemma O\u2019Brien, Shaun Wilson, Mike Newman &amp; Lora Elliott (Adelicious)<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Adelicious<\/strong> introduced a new senior leadership structure and merged Audioboom\u2019s UK sales and partnerships team to strengthen UK operations and support global growth following its acquisition by Audioboom earlier this year. <strong>Gemma O\u2019Brien <\/strong>and <strong>Shaun Wilson<\/strong> have been appointed joint vice presidents of UK sales, leading commercial strategy, while <strong>Mike Newman<\/strong> continues as vp of UK content and partnerships. <strong>Lora Elliott<\/strong> has been promoted to director of sales operations. The acquisition created the UK\u2019s largest homegrown podcast network, reaching over 40 million unique listeners and 135 million monthly downloads. The restructure follows <strong>Craig Eastwood<\/strong>\u2019s appointment as vp of international. President Andrew Goldsmith called it \u201cexciting to bring together two brilliant and experienced teams to both support our podcasters and help us deliver on our own ambitions.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">ICYMI<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"ICYMI\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/b6wofo_zdBqgSdLuRLXObg--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MDtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/billboard_547\/e2732d9cf5936058650339b114e012bb\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-3 right-3 size-10 md:size-[50px] lg:inset-0 lg:size-full lg:bg-transparent\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-0 right-0 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed inset-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<p>ICYMI<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Rayna Bass<\/strong> and <strong>Selim Bouab<\/strong>, co-presidents of 300 Entertainment and Atlantic Records Hip-Hop, R&amp;B and Global Music, have been <a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.billboard.com\/pro\/rayna-bass-selim-bouab-howard-warner-blavatnik-center-execs\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:named;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">named<\/a> executives-in-residence at the <strong>Warner Music\/Blavatnik Center for Music Business at Howard University<\/strong> \u2026 U.K. collection society <strong>PPL<\/strong> has <a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.billboard.com\/pro\/ppl-richard-james-burgess-chair-board-john-smith\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:appointed;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">appointed<\/a> industry veteran <strong>Richard James Burgess<\/strong> as its new chair, effective Jan. 5, succeeding <strong>John Smith<\/strong> after nearly a decade.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\"><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"ct:story;elm:img;itc:0;\" class=\"stretched-box\" href=\"https:\/\/ubpass.co\/billboard\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Billboard VIP Pass\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"728\" height=\"90\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/.A8tp3RoFR3tTtCdwL5.1A--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExOTtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/billboard_547\/6c5fdd1e585fffc1a8661cfd14eda443\"\/><\/div>\n<p><\/a><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<p>Billboard VIP Pass<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Best of Billboard<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Sign up for <a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/cloud.email.billboard.com\/signup\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Billboard's Newsletter;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Billboard&#8217;s Newsletter<\/a>. For the latest news, follow us on <a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/bit.ly\/31XsHSx\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Facebook;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Facebook<\/a>, <a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/bit.ly\/2TkcoeG\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Twitter;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Twitter<\/a>, and <a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/bit.ly\/2TntOHq\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Instagram;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Instagram<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><em> \u2018 The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties \u2019 <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em> \u2018 Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.yahoo.com \u2019 <\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Unit1 Studio has entered the scene as an independent producer of avatar concerts, backed by a roster of seasoned industry figures. The company is betting on advances in visual effects and AI-driven CGI to deliver hyper-realistic artist avatars more quickly and affordably, reimagining iconic live performances for modern audiences while addressing the high production costs [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":2113268,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"jnews-multi-image_gallery":[],"jnews_single_post":[],"jnews_primary_category":[],"jnews_social_meta":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[25172],"tags":[345917,400342,400341,22846,347518,21741,400343,364639,400339,400340,348281],"class_list":["post-2113267","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-entertainment","tag-apple-music","tag-chris-johnson","tag-chris-thomas","tag-country-music","tag-country-music-association","tag-entertainment","tag-fluent-music-group","tag-gospel-music","tag-michael-bryan","tag-robert-tammens","tag-universal-music"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Avatar-Concert-Startup-Staffs-Up-Plus-Spinnin-Expats-Become-Fluent.jpeg","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2113267","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2113267"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2113267\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2113269,"href":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2113267\/revisions\/2113269"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2113268"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2113267"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2113267"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2113267"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}