Signed: Royel Otis Heads to Capitol Via Label Partnership, Mass Appeal Enters Pakistan

Royel Otis, the Australian duo that recently earned its first Billboard Hot 100 entry with a viral cover of The Cranberries’ “Linger,” is now in the Capitol Records system after the band’s independent label, Ourness, struck a partnership with the U.S. label to supercharge the success of the duo worldwide. According to a press release, Royel Otis has racked up more than half a billion streams to date. Other successful tracks for the duo include “Sofa King” and a cover of Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s “Murder on the Dancefloor.”

Hip-hop label Mass Appeal Records, co-founded by Nas, moved into Pakistan with the signing of two of the country’s biggest stars — Talha Anjum and Umair — along with emerging artists JANI, Maanu and Blal Bloch. Mass Appeal’s entry into Pakistan follows its previous expansion into India, where it’s partnered with artists including DIVIE, AP Dhillon and Karan Aujla.

R&B star Omarion partnered with Jeanine McLean and Jeff Robinson at MBK Entertainment, which has guided the careers of Alicia Keys, H.E.R., Elle Varner, SWV, Tyrese and more. According to a press release, the singer has “a bevy of projects in the pipeline” and is slated to co-headline The Millennium 2025 Tour also featuring artists including Trey Songz and Rick Ross.

Anthony Martini and Rich Barner‘s Gravel Road Music Group signed singer Willie Jones, known for blending country, hip-hop and soul. Jones has a forthcoming project slated for release early next year.

Warner Music Nashville and Warner Records signed Adrien Nunez to the roster. The Brooklyn native recently released his major label debut, “Apology Song,” which blends country, pop and hip-hop elements. He is managed by Dillon Goldberg at FNGRPRNT and booked by Braeden Rountree at WME. – Jessica Nicholson

Capitol Christian Music Group and Motown Gospel partnered with singer Annatoria to release her upcoming Christmas EP, Present Jesu. Additionally, Motown Gospel finalized a partnership with JJ Hairston‘s JamesTown Music, through which it will release a 25th-anniversary live recording of JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise — an album featuring reimagined versions of the choir’s songs.

Provident Entertainment added singer-songwriter Megan Danielle to its roster. The 2023 American Idol runner-up has released her label debut single “When I Found You.” Danielle is managed by Hsquared Management and booked through the Jeff Roberts Agency. – Jessica Nicholson

Big Machine Records signed Jack Wharff & The Tobacco Flatts, a group with Virginia origins that blends bluegrass, country and rock. The group, which features musicians Jack Wharff, Garrett Howell, Ryan Atchison and Evan Novoa, recently released its new single, “Picture Perfect.” Big Machine Records’ roster also includes Tim McGraw, Carly Pearce and Midland. – Jessica Nicholson

Cloakroom signed to Closed Casket, which will release the band’s new single, “Unbelonging,” with a full album coming next year. The group is booked by Geoff McGovern at Ground Control Touring.

YawnyBlew and amir. partnered with ALIBI Music to release their second album, Bouncy ‘n’ Pretty. The album follows their debut project, DREAMBIIG, a collection of songs crafted specifically for synch and licensing. YawnyBlew has enjoyed synch placements in Empire, Queer as Folk, Chucky and The Sex Lives of College Girls. amir. is a photographer and creative director who pivoted to the role of artist and producer during the pandemic.