Lex Borrero and Tainy's NEON16 has expanded its relationship with Mexican American producer and songwriter Frank Rio. NEON16 has inked Rio to a publishing deal in partnership with Ben Maddahi's UNRESTRICTED. The deal combines two of the most dynamic creative executives in music with Borrero and Maddahi's companies joining forces.

Rio has emerged as one of Latin music's most promising new architects, notably collaborating with Ivan Cornejo on his breakthrough debut, Dañado. On Cornejo's just-released album Mirada, Rio produced all 12 songs. Rio was initially discovered by Juan Pablo “JP” Victoria, NEON16’s VP/head of producer & songwriter management, who signed him for representation.

"We are so excited to welcome Frank Rio to the NEON16 family," said NEON16 CEO Borrero. "His unique sound and ability to transcend genres make him a perfect fit for our vision of pushing the boundaries of music. Partnering with lifelong friends like Ben and the team at UNRESTRICTED only strengthens our mission to bring innovative and groundbreaking music to the world."

"Frank is an extraordinary talent and an even more extraordinary human being," said Maddahi. "He has the rare ability to authentically bond with artists and co-writers to create exceptional and unique art. We're honored to represent him in partnership with Lex and his amazing team at NEON 16."

Mark Ambor has joined the UMPG family following the success of his hit single, "Belong Together," which exploded on TikTok in recent months.

The track soared to the Top 10 on charts worldwide and racked up more than 300m streams. His debut album, Rockwood, drops 8/16. The video itself has racked up more than 19m YouTube views.

Check out the Instagram announcement below, while we list all the place we don't belong.

Independent publishing venture Livelihood Music Company has added JKash and Michael Pollack to its team as principals. The hit-makers will serve as owners and participate in the growing publisher. The company has also tapped Wendy Christiansen as the new President, handling day-to-day operations.

Helmed by founder/CEO Liz Newmark, a longstanding advisor and attorney, Livelihood also sees A&R support services from Jamie Zeluck Hindlin's Nonstop Management.

Since Livelihood began adding songwriters to its roster in 2020, its signees have played a role in the creation of Top 40 #1’s like Teddy Swims’ “Lose Control,” Rema & Selena Gomez’s “Calm Down” and Tate McRae’s “You Broke Me First.”

Its writers have also penned for the likes of Maroon 5, Charlie Puth, Jason Derulo, Marshmello, Charli XCX, Thomas Rhett, The Chainsmokers, Ava Max, Blake Shelton, Gwen Stefani and Nick Jonas.

“I couldn’t be more excited to help build Livelihood into the next great independent music publishing company. Our leadership is uniquely comprised of both seasoned executives and active songwriter-producers, giving our clients the opportunity to both benefit from our services, and collaborate with and learn from experienced hit-makers,” said Pollack.

“Stepping into the role of President at Livelihood was a natural fit for me. I was drawn to the company's unwavering commitment to hands-on development and its dedication to supporting songwriters at every stage of their careers. Joining forces with hit songwriters like JKash and Michael Pollack further solidified my belief in Livelihood's mission to prioritize the songwriter’s journey,” added Christiansen.

The company is headquartered in L.A. and Miami, with a strong presence in Nashville, NY, London and Stockholm.