In a move that could mean big things for a raft of Australian artists and echo throughout the local music industry, WME | IMG, one of the world’s most powerful talent agencies, have acquired Australia’s leading music booking agency, Artist Voice.
WME | IMG, which stands for William Morris Endeavor & International Management Group, made the announcement today, writing in a statement that the acquisition will further strengthen the company’s music roster and global footprint.
The move is not only a boon for the artists on Artist Voice’s roster, but many are speculating it represents the start of what will be continued international interest in the Australian market. Indeed, this acquisition is likely a sign of big things to come.
Artist Voice was co-founded in 2010 by Brett Murrihy and Matt Gudinski as part of Michael Gudinski’s Mushroom Group. The acquisition by WME | IMG will see conclusion of the Mushroom Group’s shareholding of Artist Voice.
With offices in Sydney, Melbourne, and Hong Kong, Artist Voice have built a reputation for quality tours and performances throughout Australia and Asia, boasting a roster including 5 Seconds of Summer, Angus & Julia Stone, Broods, Chet Faker, Chvrches, and many more.
Artist Voice will now be absorbed into WME | IMG’s music division. In an exciting move for the co-founder, Murrihy will become WME’s Head of Asia Pacific for Music, reporting to WME Music Head Marc Geiger.
“We have admired what Brett has built at Artist Voice, and are incredibly excited to welcome him and his team to WME | IMG,” said Geiger. “We share the same passion for our artists and entrepreneurial approach to business that made this partnership a natural fit.”
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“This addition will help us continue to elevate the level of service we are committed to providing our clients around the world.” Murrihy’s new role will see him expanding and managing WME’s presence throughout Australia. He will be joined by six agents from Artist Voice.
“I am excited to join Marc and his incredible team,” said Murrihy. “This acquisition will significantly enhance the opportunities for all of our artists and their management, and I look forward to remaining at the forefront of the live music landscape and expanding our footprint throughout Asia Pacific.”
Michael Gudinski, chairman of the Mushroom Group, was also positive, saying the acquisition would further bolster the success that Australian artists have been experiencing overseas in recent years, increasing their profiles globally.
“We have enjoyed a strong working relationship with William Morris Endeavor over the past 35 years and William Morris Endeavor opening its doors in Australia can only help put further international attention on Australian artists,” he said.
