Music Industry Moves: Chvrches Sign With Futures Music Group; MSG Entertainment Names Josephine Vaccarello President

The Scottish synth-pop outfit Chvrches have entered into a new partnership with Futures Music Group, marking their first label alignment since the release of lead singer Lauren Mayberry's solo project last year. This collaboration coincides with their unveiling of “Roses,” their first single in three years, signaling a fresh chapter for the band.

Futures Music Group, a relatively new independent collective founded in 2024 by industry veterans Derek Davies and Dave Wallace, emphasizes artist-centric deal frameworks. Their approach prioritizes long-term collaborations over traditional ownership, integrating transparent contracts and tech partnerships to benefit the creative talent. The label's roster already boasts artists such as Lykke Li and Phantogram, positioning Chvrches among a diverse and innovative lineup.

Following the single's release, Chvrches have scheduled two UK performances in November, with shows in London and Glasgow, the latter being their hometown. This move highlights their continued connection to their roots while expanding their reach under the new label arrangement.

In a significant executive development, Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. has promoted Josephine Vaccarello to president. She will oversee the company’s entertainment bookings outside of its flagship sports properties, including the iconic Radio City Rockettes and related productions. Her expanded role also covers the strategic management of live events at Sphere, an entertainment venue under the MSG umbrella, reinforcing her influence across the company’s live performance sectors.

Vaccarello’s elevation comes after nearly three decades with MSG and reflects the company’s confidence in her leadership to steer operational growth and innovation in live entertainment. Her deep industry experience is seen as central to MSG's vision for strengthening its position in a competitive market.

On the catalog acquisition front, Primary Wave Music has secured a broad-ranging partnership with the estate of Robert Palmer. This deal encompasses Palmer’s extensive publishing and recording rights, as well as control over his name, image, and likeness. The catalog includes classics such as “Addicted to Love” and “Simply Irresistible,” alongside collaborations with acts like Power Station and UB40.

Palmer’s legacy, marked by versatility and collaborations with artists from diverse genres, stands to benefit from Primary Wave’s commitment to preserving and revitalizing his music for new audiences. Representatives for the estate have expressed enthusiasm about this partnership, which aims to extend Palmer’s cultural footprint.

Emerging artist-producer MPH, known for his work in the UK garage scene, has signed with DisOrder/Capitol Records. His forthcoming album, “Here, Forever,” is slated for release in late November, supported by a U.S. tour launching in early October. MPH’s credentials include collaborations and remixes with prominent electronic and hip-hop figures, showcasing his growing influence.

Within the organizational structures of prominent music institutions, ASCAP has announced Jackson Wagener as its incoming Senior Vice President and Head of General Licensing, effective January 2027. Wagener, a seasoned legal expert with a twelve-year tenure at ASCAP, will lead licensing operations covering diverse venues and industries that utilize music publicly. His appointment reflects the organization's focus on adapting licensing models in a changing marketplace.

Meanwhile, Chrysalis Records has restructured its London-based marketing team, reinforcing leadership roles and expanding digital and audience development capacities. The label’s efforts signal an emphasis on integrated campaigns and enhanced market engagement amid shifting industry dynamics.

Lastly, attorney Sasha Safavi, formerly with UnitedMasters, has launched Syndicate, a new law firm representing a range of clients including sports media entities, streaming services, and record labels. This initiative underlines ongoing specialization in entertainment legal services tailored to emerging digital platforms and artist empowerment.

Collectively, these moves underscore an evolving industry landscape where artist partnerships, executive leadership, catalog management, and innovative legal frameworks continue to shape the future of music business.