Music Business News: Europe

Paul McCartney adds track to vinyl version of ‘silent’ album protesting UK AI copyright law proposal

Profits from sales of the album donated to the charity, Help Musicians

Live Nation acquired Pukkelpop, one of Belgium’s largest music festivals. Now the market’s competition watchdog is investigating the deal.

The Belgian Competition Authority noted that Live Nation already provides artist booking services and organizes three of Belgium’s largest festivals.

‘I see an explosion of hybrid sounds coming from Africa. The next big global hits will come from these cultural crossovers.’

MBW’s World Leaders series meets Nuno Rocha, Head of Business Development for MENA, Lusophone, and Francophone markets at ONErpm

Kabiru Bello, Head of A&R, EMEA at Warner Music, is leaving the company

Exec has worked at Warner Music Group since 2017

Sony Music strikes partnership with the Netherlands’ Avalon Music, spanning A&R, Marketing and strategic investment

The partnership aims to expand Avalon’s reach across North Africa and develop local artists.

Confirmed: Thomas Coesfeld will continue to lead BMG in dual role alongside Chairman and CEO position at parent Bertelsmann

Coesfeld to succeed Thomas Rabe as head of Bertelsmann on January 1, 2027

GoDigital Music acquires DIY distributor Octiive, forms European HQ in Zurich

Octiive has served more than 20,000 artists and over 3,000 labels since its launch

Thomas Coesfeld to become CEO and Chairman of BMG’s parent, Bertelsmann

Coesfeld will continue to lead BMG after he's promoted in 2027