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A Houston woman is grappling with life-altering injuries after a brutal assault in late September. According to her family, the 33-year-old mother of five, known as Giovanni, was attacked with a club or bat after taking a rideshare back to her apartment on Lock Field Road in Northwest Houston. Giovanni’s family believes the assailant is someone who had been harassing her, but the suspect remains at large.

A Night Out Turns Into a Nightmare

On Sunday, September 29, Giovanni decided to take a break from her usual routine. Juggling two jobs and raising five children, she rarely has time for herself. That evening, she joined a friend at a paint-and-sip event, hoping for a relaxing night out. As the evening ended, Giovanni took a rideshare home, unaware that she was being followed. Her mother, Shamika Fortner, said Giovanni was dropped off around 9:30 p.m. near her apartment on Lock Field Road, a quiet area in Northwest Houston.

Shortly after arriving home, Giovanni called her mother in a panic, her voice shaking with fear and pain. “Mom, mom, somebody tried to beat me to death with a bat,” she said, struggling to relay the horrific incident that had just taken place. Fortner recalled her daughter’s voice as frantic and desperate.

An Ongoing Threat and Suspected Stalker

Houston police reported that Giovanni’s assailant, driving a black sedan, fled the scene after the attack. Although she did not see her attacker clearly, Giovanni and her family suspect it was a man who had been making threats against her. Fortner explained that this individual had previously harassed Giovanni after she rejected his advances, although they had no relationship and were not dating.

According to Fortner, Giovanni had previously informed her about the man’s persistent, threatening behavior, which escalated to this violent attack. The family suspects that the assailant waited for an opportunity to confront Giovanni alone and finally acted on his threats that night.

Life-Changing Injuries and a Heroic Witness

After the assault, Giovanni was left severely injured. Police and first responders arrived on the scene after being called by a witness who had found her and stayed with her until help arrived. Fortner said the family is incredibly grateful to this Good Samaritan, who ensured her daughter received immediate medical attention. “If it wasn’t for her purse, I probably would have been burying my daughter last weekend,” Fortner shared, visibly shaken as she recounted the events. She explained that Giovanni had used her purse to shield herself during the attack, a small act of self-defense that may have saved her life.

However, the assault has left Giovanni with injuries so severe that doctors have informed the family she will likely be disabled for the rest of her life. Fortner spends every day by her daughter’s side in the hospital, trying to support her through the recovery process and keeping her spirits up. She shared that as long as Giovanni maintains a positive outlook, she finds strength in that.

Family Seeks Justice and Community Support

Fortner is now calling on the community to help bring the assailant to justice. She expressed fear that her daughter may not be the first or only victim and that the individual responsible may be a threat to others. “The capture of this person needs to be top priority,” Fortner said, voicing her plea for anyone with information to come forward.

The family has also set up a GoFundMe page to help cover Giovanni’s extensive medical expenses, as her recovery will require long-term care and rehabilitation. The ordeal has shaken Fortner’s family and the local community, with many showing support and offering assistance.

Houston Police Investigation and Appeal to the Public

Houston police are actively investigating the case and have appealed to the public for any information on the suspect’s identity and whereabouts. They are particularly interested in speaking to witnesses who may have seen the black sedan fleeing the area around the time of the assault. The police encourage anyone with information to come forward to help ensure justice is served for Giovanni and prevent further incidents.

As the community rallies around Giovanni and her family, Fortner remains focused on her daughter’s recovery and hopes for a breakthrough in the case. While Giovanni faces a long road to recovery, her family is committed to supporting her every step of the way. The Fortner family’s primary goal is to see the suspect held accountable and to protect others from potential harm.

This tragic event has highlighted the need for awareness and protection against stalkers and individuals who pose a threat to others, especially in cases where harassment or rejection can escalate into violence. As Giovanni continues to recover, her family holds onto hope that justice will soon be served, providing some comfort as they face an uncertain future together.

Virgin Music Group, the world’s leading partner to independent artists, labels and entrepreneurs, announced today that it has acquired Outdustry, the market-leading artist and label services and rights management business focused on China, India and other high-potential markets. The acquisition brings to Virgin, Outdustry’s decade-and-a-half experience in these dynamic markets, where it will continue to operate its marketing services, publishing company, and label businesses under the Outdustry brand.

As part of the deal, Outdustry founder Ed Peto has been named Senior Vice President of International Strategy at Virgin Music Group, while also continuing his role as CEO of Outdustry. Based in London, Peto will join the company’s global leadership team to play a key role in charting the company’s growth strategy in China, India and other fast-growing regions. He will report to Virgin Music Group Co-CEOs JT Myers and Nat Pastor, working closely with Michael Roe, Managing Director of Virgin Music Group’s operations in Africa, Middle East, and Asia (AMEA).

“After more than fifteen years working in China, India, and other territories, Ed and his team have built unparalleled experience and relationships in some of the world’s most important growth markets,” said Myers. “Ed will be a key player as we chart our global expansion plans. We’re happy to have him and his team onboard for this exciting next step in the evolution of Virgin Music Group.”

In addition to its marketing services business, Outdustry has also built a music publishing operation, Outdustry Songs, which has landed dozens of cuts with stars within the Chinese pop landscape, including some of the biggest hits in the market with Bibi Zhou, Kun, Jolin Tsai, Chris Lee, Lu Han, Sunnee, Jane Zhang, Vin Zhou, 法老Pharaoh and many others, and a record label, Outdustry Records, focused on surfacing the next generation of breakout stars from these territories. These enterprises will continue in partnership with Universal Music Publishing Group and Virgin Music Group, respectively.

“Bringing everything we’ve built at Outdustry into Virgin Music Group represents an enormous opportunity to expand our vision globally,” said Peto. “It’s never been a more exciting time to be working in music and I’m looking forward to working closely with the incredible team that Nat and JT have assembled to create more opportunities for independent music entrepreneurs and artists all around the world.”

Established in 2008 in Beijing, Outdustry has played a major role in international success stories in China and India with such artists as Adele, Dua Lipa, Lauv, Laufey, Major Lazer/Diplo, Charli XCX among others. Outdustry has also led the landmark market entries of indie giants Beggars Group and licensing body Merlin, as well as consulting for Spotify, PRS, Believe and many others across Greater China.

A shocking incident unfolded in the heart of downtown Orlando as a mass shooting took place in the bustling bar district. According to police, a 17-year-old suspect opened fire in two separate areas, resulting in two deaths and leaving six others injured. The suspect, now in custody, has been identified as responsible for the chaotic scene that erupted overnight, shattering the peace of an otherwise busy night in Orlando’s nightlife hub.

Details of the Incident

The tragedy began late Thursday night, and law enforcement responded swiftly, setting up an immediate investigation. Surveillance footage, later released by police, shows the suspect firing indiscriminately into the crowd. The area was crowded with thousands of people celebrating Halloween weekend, adding to the scale of the danger and the panic that ensued.

Police Chief Eric Smith held a press conference early Friday morning, emphasizing the critical role law enforcement played in swiftly containing the incident and apprehending the shooter. The officers, who were already on-site for security, were seen on body camera footage identifying the suspect and detaining him within moments. Chief Smith lauded his team for their quick response, stating that they prevented further casualties during a night of absolute chaos.

The Scene at the Hospital

As news of the shooting spread, families and friends of those injured gathered at Orlando Regional Medical Center, desperate for updates on their loved ones. The hospital was placed on lockdown due to the high number of victims arriving, creating a tense and emotional environment as families waited to hear about the conditions of those affected. Many of the people present were teenagers and young adults, shaken by the horror they had just witnessed. Witnesses describe seeing individuals of all ages impacted by the tragedy.

In an effort to manage the flow of information and provide support, hospital staff organized family members into separate conference rooms to keep them informed. Some individuals described the unbearable weight of not knowing the fate of those they cared about, with many anxiously awaiting news from doctors and law enforcement.

An Act of Heroism Amid the Chaos

Among the victims were individuals who displayed incredible acts of bravery in the face of danger. One University of Central Florida student, who had been out celebrating Halloween with friends, described how his friend shielded him and others from the shooter by pushing them to the ground. The student spoke about the bravery of his friend, expressing deep admiration and noting how selflessly he acted in such a terrifying situation. “He was the bravest person I’ve ever known,” he said, holding back tears as he recalled the moment his friend took the brunt of the gunfire.

Community in Shock

For many Orlando residents, the downtown area is a place of community gatherings, celebrations, and some of their happiest memories. As locals reflected on the event, they spoke of how deeply this incident has shaken their sense of safety and comfort in the city. The downtown area, especially during Halloween weekend, has always been a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, making the tragedy even more impactful. The community is left grappling with the reality of a violent incident in a place they have long associated with joy and togetherness.

Law Enforcement and Community Response

In his press statement, Chief Smith expressed his pride in the work of his officers, who were stationed at various points around the downtown area as part of regular security protocols for the weekend. Officers were quick to respond, with many strategically positioned to observe and manage the massive crowds. Surveillance and body camera footage have been crucial in helping the authorities piece together the events of the night. Chief Smith encouraged the community to stand together in solidarity and to recognize the efforts made by first responders.

The tragedy has led to increased security measures throughout Orlando as authorities work to reassure the public of their safety. Law enforcement agencies across Central Florida have come together to coordinate efforts and provide additional resources to support the community in the aftermath of the shooting.

Moving Forward

This event has left a lasting impact on the community, and city officials are working closely with law enforcement to ensure enhanced safety measures in public spaces. Vigils are being planned to honor the victims, providing a space for community members to gather and support one another. The investigation remains ongoing as police collect additional evidence and continue to examine surveillance footage to fully understand the chain of events leading up to the shooting.

As the Orlando community comes to terms with this devastating event, they are reminded of the importance of unity and resilience. For many, the memory of a tragic Halloween weekend will linger, but so too will the stories of bravery and the determination to reclaim their sense of security and peace. Authorities urge anyone with further information about the shooting to come forward as they work diligently to bring justice to those affected by this tragedy.

Hook, the revolutionary new AI-powered social music app that allows music fans to create, share and discover authorized remixes and mashups of their favorite songs, announced today that it has partnered with Glassnote Records in an innovative deal to add new tracks from Tors, bby, Hayes Warner, and Dylan Cartlidge to its rapidly expanding library, with more acts from Glassnote to be added soon.

Glassnote’s roster includes GRAMMY Award-winning and chart-topping artists like Mumford & Sons, Childish Gambino, Phoenix, Two Door Cinema Club, GROUPLOVE, Silvana Estrada, CHVRCHES, AURORA, Jade Bird, Hamilton Leithauser, GRACEY, The Teskey Brothers, and many more. Hook officially launched in Apple’s App Store last month. Download the app for iOS for free HERE.

This first-of-its-kind tool for creators and everyday music fans uses cutting-edge, ethically-trained AI technology to realize the future of music listening in which fans become collaborators – using music to express themselves by creating sped-up, slowed-down, mashed-up or different genre versions of songs with just a few taps. Hook also opens up a new revenue stream for artists and rights holders, enabling them to monetize the infinite derivative versions their fans create and consume on Hook and social platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

Daniel Glass, Founder and President of Glassnote Music, commented on the deal: “Glassnote Records is proud to embrace progressive, open-minded, and forward-thinking ideas. It has always been our goal to run toward what’s next, focusing on the potential of new technologies while recognizing artists’ creative integrity as the number one priority and something to be strongly protected.

We believe Hook does just that: providing a comprehensive solution to the use of remixed music across social platforms in a way that emphasizes artists’ control and compensation. With Hook, fans can engage with their favorite music in a manner that rewards their own creativity while also benefiting the artists who participate with proper attribution of rights. Gaurav and his team have shown that they are truly focused on putting artists first. We are confident that Hook will deliver real value to artists of all levels, and we’re eager to hear what Hook users create.”

“Hook unlocks music expression for everyone and builds community through music in the way we always have  – through our favorite songs and artists,” said Gaurav Sharma, Founder & CEO of Hook. “Glassnote has nurtured and supported incredible, groundbreaking artists for nearly two decades. We are excited to hear how our growing community of music lovers creates with the addition of this world-class music to our library!” 

As music consumption and discovery continue to shift to social media platforms, Hook provides artists and rights holders granular controls over how fans can interact with their licensed music on social media. Hook also provides them data about how their remixes are performing globally. It brings a consumption-based model to social media, paying artists more as their fans create and their remixes are consumed to capture the full value of their IP.

Hook’s Founder and CEO Gaurav Sharma has a proven track record of building innovative music technology that integrates and aligns with the needs of the larger music industry. Sharma previously served as Chief Operating Officer for JioSaavn, India’s largest music streaming platform and one of the first platforms to secure global streaming licenses with record labels. Sharma and his team grew JioSaavn to more than 100 million active monthly users by the time he departed.

A shocking incident unfolded early this morning in the Spring Branch area of Houston, Texas, when a double stabbing left a woman dead and a man injured. The violent episode occurred at a small apartment complex located on the 7000 block of Long Point Road, not far from Antoine Drive. The attack has not only shattered the quiet of this residential area but has left the community shaken as they grapple with the reality of a horrific crime in their midst.

Initial Response and Ongoing Investigation

At approximately 7:30 a.m., Houston Police Department (HPD) officers responded to emergency calls from the apartment complex. Upon arrival, officers discovered two individuals who had suffered multiple stab wounds. Tragically, a woman was declared dead at the scene, while a man, severely wounded, was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities have yet to release additional information regarding his condition.

Investigators are still piecing together the details of the incident. According to HPD, the investigation remains in its preliminary stages, and detectives are working meticulously to determine the circumstances that led to the deadly attack. Police were observed at the scene for several hours, gathering evidence and speaking to potential witnesses. The involvement of family members in the incident has added another layer of complexity to the investigation, as HPD works to confirm the exact relationships among those involved.

Unconfirmed Reports of Family Ties and Arrest

While HPD has yet to confirm any familial connections between the individuals involved, multiple neighbors have come forward with information suggesting a disturbing narrative. According to several residents of the complex, the woman who lost her life and the man who was injured are reportedly siblings. Additionally, neighbors claim that the woman’s son has been taken into custody as a suspect in the stabbing. These accounts have yet to be verified by law enforcement, but they have painted a haunting picture of potential domestic turmoil that escalated to violence.

Residents say the family recently moved into the apartment complex, and despite not knowing them well, some neighbors remember seeing them frequently around the property. One neighbor described the woman as “super nice” and expressed shock at the tragedy that has now taken her life. Although Houston Police have not confirmed the suspect’s identity or provided an official statement regarding his potential involvement, community members report seeing the young man taken into police custody earlier this morning.

Community Reaction and Previous Disturbances

The stabbing incident has left a chilling mark on the Spring Branch community, particularly among the residents of the small apartment complex where it took place. Several units in the complex are currently decorated for Halloween, adding an eerie dimension to what residents are now calling a “real-life horror” within their own neighborhood. In the hours following the incident, neighbors gathered outside their homes, shaken and disturbed by the crime that occurred in such close proximity.

One resident, who requested to remain anonymous, recounted the terrifying scene, describing how they heard neighbors shouting about the presence of a dead body and noting the heavy presence of blood at the crime scene. This sense of horror was echoed by others who, despite not knowing the family personally, expressed a profound sense of sadness and unease.

Moreover, some neighbors revealed that this was not the first time police had been called to the family’s apartment. According to residents, HPD had previously responded to disturbances involving the family on several occasions, though details of these prior incidents have not been disclosed. Whether these previous encounters with law enforcement were connected to domestic disputes or other issues remains unclear, but it is evident that there were ongoing concerns prior to today’s tragedy.

Medical Examiner’s Role and Next Steps

As of this afternoon, the Harris County Medical Examiner’s Office has taken custody of the deceased woman’s body to determine the exact cause of death. Although her death has been preliminarily attributed to stabbing injuries, a full autopsy report will confirm the official cause. This process will be crucial in piecing together the circumstances of the crime, offering insight into the specific injuries she sustained and potentially shedding light on the severity and nature of the attack.

Houston Police have not yet released the identities of the victims or the individual in custody. They are expected to provide more information as the investigation progresses and as they confirm details related to the family dynamics involved in the incident. The HPD has called for patience from the public as they conduct thorough investigations and urged anyone with additional information to come forward.

Rising Concern Over Domestic Violence in Houston

Today’s stabbing incident occurs against a backdrop of rising domestic violence cases throughout the Houston area, an alarming trend that has put local authorities and support organizations on high alert. Khou 11, a local news station, has organized a live program scheduled for tomorrow evening to address the issue of domestic violence. This program, which will be broadcast in both English and Spanish, aims to provide viewers with information on how to identify signs of domestic abuse, seek help, and support those who may be experiencing violence in their households. The program will also offer an interactive component, allowing viewers to text in questions directly to the expert panel. This initiative underscores the critical need for resources and community awareness as the city grapples with the impacts of domestic violence on families and neighborhoods.

Conclusion

The fatal stabbing in Spring Branch has left a community devastated, with many residents questioning how such a tragedy could have happened in their neighborhood. As investigators continue to probe the motives and circumstances of the incident, residents are left to process the traumatic events of this morning and reflect on the broader issue of domestic violence within their community. With authorities and organizations working to address this troubling trend, Houston remains vigilant in its efforts to provide support, resources, and hope for families affected by domestic violence.

Cumulus Media (NASDAQ: CMLS) announces that it has appointed Leslie Whittle as Regional Content Director for Atlanta CHR station Q99.7 (WWWQ-FM) and Houston CHR station 104.1 KRBE. In the newly created position, Whittle will head programming efforts for the two stations. Concurrently, Cumulus Media has expanded Whittle’s programming purview to include oversight of Cumulus Media’s CHR stations under the new title, VP of CHR/Hot AC Formats. Whittle has served as VP of Hot AC Formats since 2019.

Whittle’s radio career started at KHFI-FM in Austin, TX, where she ultimately became Program Director for the CHR station. She joined 104.1 KRBE Houston in 2000 as Assistant Program Director and in 2006, was named 104.1 KRBE Program Director. Under her programming leadership, 104.1 KRBE won a Marconi Award for CHR Station of the Year in 2017 and again in 2019.

Brian Philips, Chief Content Officer, Cumulus Media, said: “Leslie Whittle has masterfully programmed 104.1 KRBE for almost two decades, and has led as VP of Hot AC Formats for six years. Everyone acknowledges that this natural expansion of her role will serve Houston and Atlanta well; two monster CHRs with dominant morning shows. Leslie’s warm and unaffected management style commands the respect of her Cumulus peers and the entire industry.”

Leslie Whittle commented: “The Q997 team is incredibly talented, and the Q997 brand iconic. I’m honored to be part of building its future along with being very thankful for the support of the KRBE crew in Houston. This truly is the best of both worlds. Many thanks to Brian Philips, Melissa Forrest and Alex Cadelago for their faith in me!”

Audacy has named Ray Borelli Senior Vice President of Research and Insights, effective immediately. As the Company continues its re-imagination, Borelli will lead Audacy’s audio research and insights practice, closely supporting its forward growth agenda and client enablement strategies. He will report to Paul Suchman, Chief Marketing Officer, and work closely with Audacy’s leadership team across revenue, digital and programming.

“Ray’s research experience across channels and media, coupled with his unique ability to turn data into powerful narratives, will make him an excellent addition to the team as we execute our forward strategy,” said Paul Suchman, Chief Marketing Officer, Audacy. “With tenure spanning some of the most influential media companies, his expertise in driving meaningful outcomes for clients will be a strong asset as Audacy continues to elevate our value to the advertising community.”

“I am thrilled to be joining Audacy at such an exciting time for the audio industry,” said Borelli. “Audacy’s portfolio of brands and research platform is best in class, and I look forward to working closely with our team and advertising partners to help fuel exponential growth for the business.” 

Borelli previously served as Vice President of Ad Sales Research at Warner Bros. Discovery, directing the go-to-market sales narrative for WBD’s portfolio. He also previously served as Senior Vice President for CNBC, leading the company’s Research and Scheduling teams and helping build the brand’s market-leading digital business. His research and leadership experience was also built on tenures at the National Basketball Association and FOX Sports.

In a tragic turn of events early Thursday morning, a double stabbing incident unfolded at an apartment complex on Long Point in northwest Houston. Houston police responded to the scene following reports of violence that resulted in the death of a woman and injuries to another individual, believed to be a family member. The crime, which has left the local community in shock, has led to an ongoing investigation as detectives work to determine the circumstances that led to this deadly confrontation.

Scene of the Incident

Around 7:30 a.m., the sounds of screams echoed through the apartment complex, alarming residents and prompting calls to emergency services. Paramedics and law enforcement officers arrived promptly, finding a chaotic and bloody scene, now cordoned off as authorities carry out their investigation. An eyewitness account from a resident reported hearing screaming and seeing an ambulance pull up shortly afterward. According to one of the residents, the unsettling sight of blood and the immediate presence of crime scene tape heightened the community’s distress.

Initial Findings by Investigators

Houston police initially confirmed that two individuals were found at the scene with multiple stab wounds. Though details remain limited, investigators have indicated that the stabbing involved a family member who reportedly attacked and killed his mother before injuring another family member. Authorities are working to uncover the events leading up to the stabbing, piecing together the interactions that escalated into fatal violence.

Despite the limited information, law enforcement officials have emphasized that the incident appears to be isolated, posing no immediate threat to the surrounding community. Residents, however, remain concerned, as they try to reconcile this sudden burst of violence within their typically calm neighborhood. The police department has yet to release the identities of those involved, citing the need to notify next of kin and to conclude further investigative work before making any public disclosures.

Community in Shock

The unexpected tragedy has left neighbors shaken and grieving for the victim. Many remember the deceased woman as a friendly and caring individual, frequently seen around the complex engaging in everyday activities, such as grocery shopping and laundry. Residents shared their memories of her, describing her as a “nice lady” who was often seen passing by with a kind smile and a gentle demeanor. One neighbor voiced her shock and disbelief, stating, “I can’t believe she’s gone; she never bothered anyone.”

The distress of neighbors has been further compounded by the knowledge that a family member was allegedly involved. The notion of a loved one turning violent has stirred deep sadness and unease among residents. “No one deserves to die like that, especially from a family member,” remarked a neighbor, struggling to make sense of the tragedy.

A History of Violence in the Area

Some residents expressed that while the stabbing incident is tragic, it is unfortunately not entirely surprising. The neighborhood has been plagued by a spate of violent crimes in recent months, and some locals cite five recent deaths that have stirred ongoing safety concerns. “Things just don’t stop happening in Houston,” one resident remarked, lamenting the recurring violence that has marred the community.

While police have reiterated that Thursday’s stabbing appears to be an isolated occurrence, residents worry that the violence in the area could escalate further. Community members have frequently voiced concerns about safety, and this recent incident has added to the apprehension shared by many in the neighborhood.

Addressing Mental Health Concerns

The tragedy has also sparked discussions around mental health and the importance of intervention in families dealing with such issues. A neighbor, who had known the family, mentioned that the suspected attacker had a history of mental health challenges, expressing sadness that it may have contributed to the violent episode. “She knew he had mental health problems,” the neighbor said, reflecting on the challenges faced by those living with loved ones experiencing psychological struggles.

The incident underscores the need for greater support and resources for families navigating mental health crises, as neighbors reflect on the delicate balance between love, care, and safety. As the investigation continues, police officials have noted that any indications of underlying mental health issues will be further explored to better understand the sequence of events.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Response

Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with additional information to come forward, as they seek to provide closure to the family and the community. In the meantime, residents have expressed their condolences for the family and have held small gatherings to honor the memory of the victim. They also continue to discuss measures to improve safety in the area, hoping for change in the wake of this tragedy.

As the Houston police work to bring clarity to the details of this heartbreaking incident, the community grapples with the lasting impact of such violence, hoping for healing and peace in the difficult days to come.

Virgin Music Group, the world’s leading partner to independent artists, labels and entrepreneurs, announced today that it has acquired Outdustry, the market-leading artist and label services and rights management business focused on China, India and other high-potential markets. The acquisition brings to Virgin, Outdustry’s decade-and-a-half experience in these dynamic markets, where it will continue to operate its marketing services, publishing company, and label businesses under the Outdustry brand.

As part of the deal, Outdustry founder Ed Peto has been named Senior Vice President of International Strategy at Virgin Music Group, while also continuing his role as CEO of Outdustry. Based in London, Peto will join the company’s global leadership team to play a key role in charting the company’s growth strategy in China, India and other fast-growing regions. He will report to Virgin Music Group Co-CEOs JT Myers and Nat Pastor, working closely with Michael Roe, Managing Director of Virgin Music Group’s operations in Africa, Middle East, and Asia (AMEA).

“After more than fifteen years working in China, India, and other territories, Ed and his team have built unparalleled experience and relationships in some of the world’s most important growth markets,” said Myers. “Ed will be a key player as we chart our global expansion plans. We’re happy to have him and his team onboard for this exciting next step in the evolution of Virgin Music Group.”

In addition to its marketing services business, Outdustry has also built a music publishing operation, Outdustry Songs, which has landed dozens of cuts with stars within the Chinese pop landscape, including some of the biggest hits in the market with Bibi Zhou, Kun, Jolin Tsai, Chris Lee, Lu Han, Sunnee, Jane Zhang, Vin Zhou, 法老Pharaoh and many others, and a record label, Outdustry Records, focused on surfacing the next generation of breakout stars from these territories. These enterprises will continue in partnership with Universal Music Publishing Group and Virgin Music Group, respectively.

“Bringing everything we’ve built at Outdustry into Virgin Music Group represents an enormous opportunity to expand our vision globally,” said Peto. “It’s never been a more exciting time to be working in music and I’m looking forward to working closely with the incredible team that Nat and JT have assembled to create more opportunities for independent music entrepreneurs and artists all around the world.”

Established in 2008 in Beijing, Outdustry has played a major role in international success stories in China and India with such artists as Adele, Dua Lipa, Lauv, Laufey, Major Lazer/Diplo, Charli XCX among others. Outdustry has also led the landmark market entries of indie giants Beggars Group and licensing body Merlin, as well as consulting for Spotify, PRS, Believe and many others across Greater China.