Bella Figura taps Gersh, inks Sony deal for US push
London music rights firm Bella Figura Music named industry veteran Gary Gersh as chairman and signed a worldwide administration agreement with Sony Music Publishing as the company moves into American markets. The business has spent close to $160 million purchasing recording and publishing assets since its launch by former BMG UK President Alexi Cory-Smith.
Gersh previously led global touring at AEG, ran Capitol Records and founded The Artists Organization after working at Geffen Records, where he brought Nirvana and Sonic Youth to the label. He will guide strategy and major partnerships while Bella Figura opens Los Angeles operations. The catalog features iconic recordings such as Joan Jett’s I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll and compositions performed by Adele and Amy Winehouse.
Sony Music Publishing will manage administrative duties globally and connect songwriters to placement opportunities in television, film and advertising. Cory-Smith stated the partnership gives their catalog worldwide reach and licensing strength. The announcement on Monday follows Bella Figura’s April funding round, backed by private equity firm Freshstream, Canadian pension fund OPTrust and other investors.
