WMG LAUNCHING ELEKTRA MUSIC GROUP

Max Lousada’s WMG is launching the new Elektra Music Group on 10/1. The standalone label group, which will include the Elektra, Fueled by Ramen, Roadrunner, Low Country Sound and Black Cement labels, will be overseen by Co-Presidents Gregg Nadel (pictured) and Mike Easterlin. They’ll report to Atlantic's top brass.

The group’s roster at launch will boast twenty one pilots, Zac Brown Band, Sturgill Simpson, Brandi Carlile, Fitz and the Tantrums, Panic! At the Disco, Kaleo, Paramore, Coheed and Cambria and Gojira, among other acts.

"Our whole approach is to create environments that give artists and entrepreneurs the freedom and support to pioneer the future of music," said Lousada, who praised the "dream leadership team, able to combine adventurous A&R, bespoke artist development, and full-force global marketing. It feels great to be bringing back the iconic Elektra brand as a major, stand-alone company for the first time in 15 years."

Nadel, who became Elektra prez in early 2017 after two years as GM, has been part of the Atlantic system since joining the company out of college in 1997. In addition to inking Zac Brown Band, Sturgill Simpson and Kaleo, among other acts, he ran point on all three Ed Sheeran albums. He also led the partnership with producer and award magnet Dave Cobb’s Low Country Sound.