Leslie Cohea Joins WME's Nashville Office

WME kicked off CMA Music Fest Week with their annual Losers Live free outdoor concert on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, spotlighting the agency's talent and celebrating the return of one of country music’s biggest weeks. Amid the festivities, veteran music executive Leslie Cohea stopped by WME’s Nashville office to greet her new colleagues ahead of officially joining the team as Partner and Music Touring Executive. Cohea brings two decades of touring experience from her roles at Sandbox Entertainment and AEG Presents, where she helped shape the careers of Kacey Musgraves, Dan + Shay, Kelsea Ballerini and Little Big Town, and played a key role in landmark tours including Soul2Soul and The Judds: The Final Tour. She officially joins the company on July 14.

L to R: Joey Lee, Becky Gardenhire, Leslie Cohea and Jay Williams | Photo Credit: Jon Plarr (WME)

Gustavo Mioto Signs with WME for Global Representation

Gustavo Mioto signs with WME, the world’s leading entertainment agency, becoming the first Brazilian sertanejo artist to join its international roster. Brazil now has an official representative of its country music on the global stage.
 
At just 27 years old, Gustavo Mioto is already one of the most consistent and respected names in the new generation of Brazilian music. With over 3.9 billion views on YouTube, 10 million monthly listeners on Spotify and multiple nationwide hits, he now enters a new chapter in his career: international expansion.
 
This week, Mioto signed with WME (William Morris Endeavor), becoming the first Brazilian sertanejo artist in history to join the agency’s global roster.
 
This milestone is more than a personal achievement — it signals a turning point for the genre itself. Mioto now takes on the role of representing Brazilian country music internationally, with a focus on expanding into Latin and North American markets.
 
Over the years, Gustavo Mioto has released nine albums, three DVDs and collaborated with top Brazilian artists such as Anitta, Jorge & Mateus, Fábio Jr., Mari Fernandez, Wesley Safadão, Matheus & Kauan and Menos é Mais. His original projects — like MiotoTerapia and the Atemporal tour — reflect his artistic range and modern take on sertanejo.
 
Now, with the support and strategy of WME, Gustavo Mioto begins a new global phase — ready to connect with new audiences while staying true to the sound that brought him here.

Photo IDs (L to R): Rob Markus, Marcos Mioto, Cesar Figueiredo, Gustavo Mioto, Shannon Saunders, Nate Towne | Photo Courtesy of WME

Hawaiian Singer-Songwriter Maoli Signs with WME for Global Representation

Hawaiian singer-songwriter Maoli has signed with WME for global representation across all areas.

A breakout voice fusing island reggae, country soul and Polynesian pride, Maoli is redefining genre lines with a sound all his own. Maoli has amassed over half a billion global streams across nine independent albums, carving out a nearly 15-year career as a beloved performer across the global stage, from the US to the Pacific Islands and Australia. 

“Signing with WME is a massive step forward, not just for me, but for everything I represent,” said Maoli. “It’s always been my kuleana – my responsibility – to share the spirit and sound of Hawaii with the world. I’m beyond grateful to take that mission even further with a team that truly understands the vision.”

“Maoli is a singular talent whose music effortlessly blends the heartbeat of the islands with the soul of country,” said WME’s Chris Hrovat. “His authenticity, passion and cross-genre appeal are undeniable. We’re thrilled to welcome him to WME and can’t wait to help take his music to new audiences worldwide.”

A veteran of the road, Maoli recently headlined a sold-out show at Navigation Homes Stadium in New Zealand (12,000 capacity), just before returning to the U.S. mainland for a string of sold-out dates on his Last Sip of Summer Tour. His ongoing tour will hit such venues as The Greek in Los Angeles on July 17 and the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on August 9. The Last Sip of Summer album, produced in Nashville by the legendary Dann Huff and David Huff, is set to release June 27, 2025, and marks his tenth studio project in 17 years.

Inspired by the likes of Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson and George Strait, along with traditional Hawaiian music – the birthplace of steel guitar – Maoli’s sonic journey began with roots-reggae and island pop. But a transformative moment in Texas in 2018 sparked a deeper connection to country music, one built on shared values, swaying melodies and simple-life storytelling. Since then, he has become a compelling bridge between two musical cultures, captivating audiences with his rangy, sand-and-soul vocals and emotionally charged covers like Brett Young’s “Mercy” and “In Case You Didn’t Know,” which have amassed more than 28 million Spotify streams combined.

As country music continues to expand its international footprint, Maoli is a defining voice, blending cultures and genres into something unmistakably his own.

Maoli is represented by Jason Gibbs, Shawn Dailey and Emilie Glover at Red Light Management.

For more information, visit www.maolimusic.com. 

Photo Credit: Reggie Villa

WME Presents LOSERS LIVE, June 2-4

WME is once again kicking off CMA Fest Week with Losers Live, a free, three-night outdoor concert series at Losers Bar & Grill in Midtown. Featuring an exciting mix of country icons, chart-toppers and rising stars, the event will run Monday, June 2 through Wednesday, June 4, with doors opening at 5 PM each night.
 
The 2025 series begins on Monday, June 2, with platinum-selling country mainstay Rodney Atkins taking the stage to get the week started. The show also includes Travis Denning, Matt Stell, Dillon Carmichael, Payton Smith, Mae Estes, Frank Ray, CeCe, Will Jones and Payton Howie. On Tuesday, June 3, the hits keep coming with a powerhouse lineup of country favorites, including Lee Brice, Craig Morgan, Mark Wills, Timmy McKeever, Kaitlin Butts, Meghan Patrick, Logan Crosby, Myles Morgan, Bottomland and multi-genre, Grammy Award winner Colbie Caillat.

Wednesday, June 4 rounds out the series with an eclectic and high-energy mix featuring Easton Corbin, Priscilla Block, Bryan Martin, Cole Goodwin, Skeez, Ian Harrsion, Timothy Wayne – with more artists to be announced in the coming days.

Presented by WME, Losers Live is free and open to the public, offering fans a chance to see some of Country music’s best and brightest in an intimate outdoor setting right in the heart of Midtown Nashville.

About WME:
WME is the world’s preeminent talent agency. With over 125 years of experience, WME enables artists, athletes and brands to grow their businesses, leverage the full potential of their intellectual property and bring projects to life that define the cultural landscape. WME’s expertise spans books, comedy, digital media, fashion, film, food, licensing, music, sports, television, theater and more.  Headquartered in Beverly Hills, WME’s office locations include Australia, Chicago, China, London, Miami, Nashville and New York. WME is part of WME Group, a global network of businesses that represent the world’s leading talent, intellectual property and brands. For more information, please visit www.wmeagency.com.

Alexis Rosenberg Named Head Of External Relations For WME Nashville

WME announces today that Alexis Rosenberg has been appointed to the newly created role of Sr. Director, External Relations in the agency’s Nashville office. In this position, Rosenberg will work closely with the agency’s Corporate Communications and Marketing teams and serve as a key ambassador between the Nashville office and the broader Nashville business community, the music industry, sports ventures and WME’s additional offices worldwide. She will report to WME Senior Partners and Nashville Co-Heads Becky Gardenhire, Joey Lee and Jay Williams. 

In her role, Rosenberg will focus on corporate partnerships and sponsorship opportunities, industry relations and initiatives and cultivating key strategic relationships to champion the Nashville team and its clients across all platforms. Rosenberg will also collaborate closely with WME’s corporate team to align Nashville initiatives with global agency efforts, while providing support across important talent and industry relationships.

“It is an honor to join WME and work with this powerhouse team and organization,” Rosenberg shares. “I’m excited to build on WME’s strong foundation—supporting our clients with intention, deepening community and industry relationships, and helping the agency grow in thoughtful, impactful ways.”

“Alexis brings to WME a unique blend of experience, strong relationships and a deep background in the sports world and large-scale events,” said WME’s Jay Williams. “Her expertise and passion will help us strengthen our artists’ ties across industries and further elevate our presence in Nashville and beyond. We’re thrilled to welcome her into this role and excited for the impact she will make.”

Prior to joining WME, Rosenberg spent thirteen years in professional sports, including a decade with the NBA’s Orlando Magic, where she oversaw premium client relations. Most recently, she served in a leadership role with Major League Soccer’s Nashville Soccer Club, playing an instrumental role in the opening of GEODIS Park, the largest soccer-specific stadium in the United States.

A graduate of James Madison University, Rosenberg will be based in Nashville.

Photo Credit: Nick Bastoky

About WME
WME is the world’s preeminent talent agency.  With over 125 years of experience, WME enables artists, athletes and brands to grow their businesses, leverage the full potential of their intellectual property and bring projects to life that define the cultural landscape. WME’s expertise spans books, comedy, digital media, fashion, film, food, licensing, music, sports, television, theater and more.  Headquartered in Beverly Hills, WME’s office locations include Australia, Chicago, China, London, Miami, Nashville and New York. WME is part of WME Group, a global network of businesses that represent the world’s leading talent, intellectual property and brands. For more information, please visit www.wmeagency.com

Singer-Songwriter Ian Harrison Signs With WME For Global Representation

WME has signed singer-songwriter Ian Harrison for global representation. He will be supported across multiple departments. 

A Columbus, Ohio native, Harrison first captured national attention as a standout contestant on Season 22 of NBC's The Voice. He has continued to build his career with a sound rooted in authentic country and folk influences.

“I'm incredibly excited to take this next step with the WME team,” shares Harrison. “Their track record in helping artists reach new heights is amazing, and I can’t wait to get on the road, meet new fans, and share my music with the world!” 

“I've believed in Ian for a long time,” said WME’s Lance Roberts. “His musical innovation, unwavering commitment to his craft and undeniable charisma give him everything it takes for the long run. I’m thrilled to welcome him to WME.” 

Marking this new era, Harrison recently released his four-track EP, Ways To Get On Out, followed by the heartfelt single “Keep You With Me” earlier this year. He is set to hit the stage this summer at the Lone Star Smokeout in Briarwood States, TX, as well as Fest Valley and Hoofbeat Country Fest, joining lineups that include Lainey Wilson, Brooks & Dunn and more.

For more information on Ian Harrison, please visit https://www.ianharrisonmusic.com. 

L to R): Zach Beebe (OTRmgmt), Benji Amaefule (Warner Chappell), Alyssa Augello (Wiles + Taylor), Harrison, Josh Brackin (Brackin Law), Cooper Danel and Lance Roberts (WME)
Photo Credit: Madison Mallard

About WME:
WME is the world’s preeminent talent agency. With over 125 years of experience, WME enables artists, athletes and brands to grow their businesses, leverage the full potential of their intellectual property and bring projects to life that define the cultural landscape. WME’s expertise spans books, comedy, digital media, fashion, film, food, licensing, music, sports, television, theater and more.  Headquartered in Beverly Hills, WME’s office locations include Australia, Chicago, China, London, Miami, Nashville and New York. WME is part of WME Group, a global network of businesses that represent the world’s leading talent, intellectual property and brands. For more information, please visit www.wmeagency.com.

Singer-Songwriter Evan Bartels Signs With WME For Global Representation

Breakout singer-songwriter Evan Bartels has signed with WME for global representation across all areas. 
 
Bartels recently signed with famed Lost Highway Records and will release To Make You Cry, his debut EP for the iconic label on May 23. The title track is available Below.
 
Raised in the tiny town of Tobias, Nebraska, Bartels delivers a masterclass in storytelling on To Make You Cry, crafting a sweeping, cinematic experience with nothing more than his voice and an acoustic guitar. Recorded in his self-built cabin just outside Nashville, the six-song collection shines a light on overlooked lives while delving into the quiet sacrifices and spiritual undertones that define the journey of a working musician.
 
Bartels observations on life prove why American Songwriter calls Bartels’ music “intense and intimate” as he strives to tell distinctly human stories without judgment and to truly see the unsung person where most passersby may wish to look away. 
 
“I couldn’t be more excited to join the WME roster,” said Bartels. “Chris Hrovat and Jay Williams are two of the hardest-working visionaries in the business and it’s an honor to work with them.”
 
“Evan Bartels is a powerhouse of authenticity and grit—his voice carries the weight of lived experience, and his songwriting strikes a chord that’s both raw and timeless,” said WME’s Chris Hrovat. “We’re beyond excited to welcome Evan to WME and look forward to helping him reach new audiences and stages around the world.”
 
Bartels recently wrapped a successful run at C2C (Country 2 Country) international country music festival in Berlin and Germany. He returns overseas with upcoming tour dates in the UK and Ireland along with recently announced U.S. tour dates.
 
For more information on Evan Bartels, please visit https://www.evanbartels.com. 

Tour Routing:
May 15, 2025 || Glasgow, UK || Galvanizers Yard*
May 18, 2025 || Manchester, UK || New Century Hall*
May 19, 2025 || Dublin, Ireland || The Academy*
May 21, 2025 || Hollywood, CA || The Hotel Cafe
June 12, 2025 || Charlotte, NC || The Evening Muse
June 13, 2025 || Dunn, NC || Bird’s Nest Listening Room
June 14, 2025 || Greensville, SC || Doc’s Tavern
June 19, 2025 || Urbana, IL || Rose Bowl Tavern
June 20, 2025 || Riverton, IL || The Backroom Lounge
June 21, 2025 || Waterloo, NE || Buck’s Bar & Grill
June 25, 2025 || Decatur, GA || Eddie’s Attic
Aug 22, 2025 || Bottesford, UK || The Long Road Festival 2025
* With Charles Wesley Godwin
 
About WME:
WME is the world’s preeminent talent agency. With over 125 years of experience, WME enables artists, athletes and brands to grow their businesses, leverage the full potential of their intellectual property and bring projects to life that define the cultural landscape. WME’s expertise spans books, comedy, digital media, fashion, film, food, licensing, music, sports, television, theater and more. Headquartered in Beverly Hills, WME’s office locations include Australia, Chicago, China, London, Miami, Nashville and New York. WME is part of WME Group, a global network of businesses that represent the world’s leading talent, intellectual property and brands. For more information, please visit www.wmeagency.com.

(L to R): WME’s Chris Hrovat, Intelligent Noise’s Rico Csabai, Evan Bartels and WME’s Jay Williams

Cole Phillips Signs With WME For Global Representation

Rising country singer-songwriter Cole Phillips has signed with WME for global representation in all areas.

Born and raised in Bridge Creek, Oklahoma, Phillips has quickly made a name for himself with his gritty storytelling, raw authenticity and powerhouse vocals. Influenced by country legends like Hank Williams Jr. and David Allan Coe, as well as red dirt and rock icons including Zach Bryan, Cody Jinks and Nirvana, Phillips blends traditional country roots with a modern edge.

His breakout single “Drinking Alone” went viral, amassing millions of streams and establishing him as a compelling new voice in country music. His upcoming EP, Steel Toes and Texacos, is set for release on April 11 via RECORDS Nashville, featuring five tracks he co-wrote, including the recently released “West Tx,” listen HERE. 

“Cole’s unique voice as a young songwriter and performer immediately caught our attention. We are absolutely thrilled to partner with someone this incredibly talented,” shares Geoff Turner from WME.

Cole adds, "I like working with real people that are going to do right by me. The people over at WME are real folks with real values and that meant a lot to me the first time we met. Can’t wait to see where this goes!" 

Phillips is also represented by WHY&HOW for management and continues to build momentum with a slate of upcoming headline tour dates.

For a full list of tour dates, announcements and more please visit www.officialcolephillips.com

About Cole Phillips:
Born and raised in Bridge Creek, Oklahoma, Cole Phillips is a rising country artist known for his gritty storytelling, raw authenticity and powerhouse vocals. Inspired by legends like Hank Williams Jr. and David Allan Coe, as well as red dirt and rock influences like Zach Bryan, Cody Jinks and Nirvana, Phillips delivers unfiltered, from-the-gut songwriting that resonates deeply.

His breakout single “Drinking Alone” went viral, amassing millions of streams and introducing him as a compelling new voice in country music. Phillips' debut EP, Steel Toes and Texacos (out April 11), further cements his status as one to watch, featuring five tracks he co-wrote that showcase his signature blend of classic country and red dirt grit.

With a sound that blends traditional roots with modern edge, Cole Phillips is proving himself as an artist with something to say—and a hell of a way to say it.
 
officialcolephillips.com | instagram.com/officialcolephillips | tiktok.com/@colephillips_official | youtube.com/@colephillips-music

Back Row (L-R): WME’s Jon Folk, Jeremy Upton and Caleb Fenn
Front Row (L-R): WHY&HOW’s Reid Alexander and Matt Stubbs, Cole Phillips, WME’s Geoff Turner and WHY&HOW’S Harrison Klein
Photo Courtesy of WME

Music Agent Lance Roberts Joins WME as Partner

Veteran music agent Lance Roberts joins WME as a Partner in its Country music division, based in Nashville. Roberts brings with him more than 30 years of experience and notable artists, including Chris Janson, Craig Morgan, Easton Corbin, Ian Munsick, Parmalee and Sammy Kershaw.
 
"Lance is known in our industry as an agent with a keen eye for talent and a commitment to nurturing and growing artists' careers,” said Joey Lee, Co-head of WME’s Nashville office. “We are excited to have his expertise at WME.”
 
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity to join the amazing team at WME,” said Roberts. "They have been extremely supportive of this next chapter in my career, and I am looking forward to working with the most talented agents in our industry."
 
“Most of us have known and respected Lance’s work for many years and are thrilled he is joining our team,” shared Becky Gardenhire and Jay Williams, Co-heads of WME’s Nashville office.  “He’s creative, strategic, and passionate and his knowledge will benefit all of our artists.” 
 
Roberts began his career at the Bobby Roberts Company in 1992, working alongside some of country music’s most iconic artists, including Country Music Hall of Fame members John Anderson, Merle Haggard, Ray Price and Waylon Jennings. Following the acquisition of the Bobby Roberts Company by UTA in 2014, he spent nearly a decade building and expanding his clients’ touring opportunities.
 
As a Partner at WME, Roberts will continue to champion both established and emerging talent, leveraging his longstanding industry relationships and proven track record.
 
Reach Roberts at LRoberts@WMEAgency.com. 

Photo Credit: Kathy Thomas Photography

About WME
WME is a leading entertainment agency representing the world’s greatest artists, content creators and talent across books, digital media, fashion, film, food, music, sports, television and theater. WME works with clients across the full creative spectrum to diversify and grow their businesses, leverage the full potential of their intellectual property and bring projects to life that define the cultural landscape. WME is a subsidiary of Endeavor, a global sports and entertainment company. 

WME & Safe Haven Family Shelter Partner to Distribute Gifts to 21 Local Families in Need

WME Nashville and Safe Haven Family Shelter continue their partnership to assist families in need this holiday season. WME staff, clients Lily Rose and Ashley Cooke, and industry partners donated their time and money to help make the holidays a little brighter for 21 families. 
 
“I am so thankful to be able to help the families at Safe Haven Family Shelter for a second year,” said WME agent Carrie Murphy, who spearheaded the efforts. “I am moved at the generous spirit of my colleagues, clients and industry friends for jumping in to make sure these families truly have a Christmas to remember. Safe Haven does tremendous work throughout the year and we are honored to play a small part in that as we close the year.”
 
Hundreds of gifts were purchased and wrapped and will be distributed later this week. Last year's donations included bicycles, toys, clothes, daily essentials and much more. Safe Haven Family Shelter is still accepting monetary donations, and you can give by visiting www.safehaven.org.
 
Safe Haven supports families who, because of a variety of circumstances, cannot afford gifts for their loved ones. Each year, the organization compiles a wish list from every family with the hope that volunteers will donate their time and resources to fulfill those requests.
 
WME continually seeks out new ways to serve the local community. Throughout the year, team members dedicate their time and resources to an array of initiatives—ranging from sponsoring an annual Habitat for Humanity Build to joining in the company-wide day of service, Walk the Walk. 

WME staff pictured with gifts donated to Safe Haven, benefitting local families in need | Photo Courtesy of WME

ABOUT WME: WME is a leading entertainment agency representing the world’s greatest artists, content creators and talent across books, digital media, fashion, film, food, music, sports, television and theater. Named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies, WME is a subsidiary of Endeavor, a global sports and entertainment company.
 
ABOUT SAFE HAVEN FAMILY SHELTER: For 38 years, Safe Haven has served as the premier shelter-to-housing program in Middle Tennessee that accommodates families experiencing homelessness. Safe Haven leads our community’s efforts to house, support, empower and advocate for families, allowing them to stay together. Transformative services focused on housing and employment provide families with the resources to become self-sufficient and successful. For more information, visit safehaven.org.

Singer-Songwriter-Creater CeCe Signs with WME

WME has signed artist-songwriter-creator CeCe for exclusive representation. She recently released her new single, “All Boots,” via independent record label, EMPIRE, and has more than 11 million global streams. In addition to her music, she taught herself how to direct music videos and make her own clothes. That ingenuity landed her unexpected success in the fashion world. Music Industry Weekly called her “a creative powerhouse.” 
 
“I couldn’t be more excited to be working with such a legendary agency like WME, and I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together,” said CeCe. “This is just the beginning.” 
 
“CeCe brings new light and a fresh sound to the genre,” said WME’s Morgan Kenney. “With her distinctive style, powerful songs, and magnetic stage presence, she is uniquely her. We’re honored to welcome her to the WME team and excited to be part of her journey ahead.”
 
Born and raised in Southern Illinois, CeCe’s roots are steeped in an ethos instilled by her parents. She cultivated her early passion for music by performing at church, local fairs, and gritty dive bars. Though raised in small-town America, CeCe defies convention. Her music – self-described as "where country’s past meets its future" – fuses country with pop, rock, hip-hop and Americana, creating an experimental sound that feels both innovative and timeless.
 
CeCe became a viral sensation with her 6th place finish on The X Factor USA where she amassed more social media followers than the season’s winner. After the show, she deepened her artistry, not just as a singer and songwriter but as a multi-faceted creator. CeCe has demonstrated she is a force, relentlessly redefining and expanding the standards and carving her own path forward.
 
CeCe embodies the essence of a true artist, blending the values of her rural upbringing with the insight and experience gained from navigating the entertainment industry. In 2025, she is set to unveil her most authentic vision yet—a seamless blend of country roads and high fashion that steer her artistry.

L to R: Morgan Kenney (WME), CeCe and Hannah Galluzzi (EMPIRE) | Photo Credit: Danielle Del Valle

About WME:
WME is a leading entertainment agency representing the world’s greatest artists, content creators and talent across books, digital media, fashion, film, food, music, sports, television and theater. WME works with clients across the full creative spectrum to diversify and grow their businesses, leverage the full potential of their intellectual property and bring projects to life that define the cultural landscape. WME is a subsidiary of Endeavor, a global sports and entertainment company. 

Singer-Songwriter Zach Meadows Signs with WME

WME has signed singer-songwriter Zach Meadows for exclusive representation. His debut album, Road To Nowhere, was released in August, and Holler Magazine named him a “New and Upcoming Artist You Need To Know.” 
 
“I’m so incredibly thankful to have partnered with WME. Since moving to Nashville, I’ve dreamed of the opportunity to reach a larger audience with my music,” said Meadows. “Performing live will always be what drives me in this industry, and I couldn’t imagine doing it with a team better than this.”
 
“Zach is an incredible storyteller and musician with a captivating voice that melds classic folk with rock and roll,” said WME’s Hayley Riddle. “I could not be more excited to welcome him to the WME Roster.” 
 
A Florida native now living in Nashville, Meadows spent formative years honing his craft in Asheville, NC. He recently participated in the Blue Ridge Recovery Benefit to raise money for relief efforts from Hurricane Helene. 
 
Musician Gabe Lee introduced Zach’s music to managers Alex Torrez and Emily Vincent of Torrez Music Group and they instantly knew Meadows was bound for a wider stage. “It's always such an honor to be recognized by a major force in the agency world like WME, much less get invited to join the team. Thank you, Hayley Riddle, for believing in the incredible talent that is Zach Meadows,” manager Alex Torrez shared. 
 
In addition to his Road To Nowhere album, Meadows recently wrapped a stint on the road with Amble and will soon join Braxton Keith on tour throughout November. 

Photo ID L to R: Alex Sera (WME), Alex Collignon (WME), Hayley Riddle (WME), Zach Meadows, Alex Torrez (TMG), Emily Vincent (TMG) | Photo Courtesy of WME