Independent music publisher OTM has announced that it has signed DJ and producer Sub Focus - real name Nicolaas Douwma - to a worldwide publishing deal. In addition to that, the company has expanded its LA office with the hire of Melissa Maskan - who previously worked in A&R at Third Side Music - as its Head Of North America and SVP Creative.
"The signing of Sub Focus and hiring of Melissa represents how OTM is going from strength to strength”, says the publisher’s founder Alex Sheridan. “Already this year we have secured a string of fantastic artist signings which showcases how we are carefully adding to a roster of the most exciting songwriters and producers in the world”.
“Nick has been a dear friend for almost 20 years and as an artist he has never been bigger”, he goes on. “I’m so proud he’s entrusted us with his songs, we are beyond excited for what’s to come, both for his own artist projects and writing for others”.
“I’d known Melissa for some time and always held her in the highest esteem for what she’s built at Third Side”, he adds. “Her heading up our US business will add immeasurable value to our offering there and now provides OTM with a platform for further growth. I am delighted to have her on the team”.
OTM announced an alliance last year with Firebird Music, which has invested in the publisher. It also has an administration partnership with Sony Music Publishing. I thought I'd mention these bits of trivia before checking in to see what Sub Focus and Maskan have to say about this week's announcements.
Says Sub Focus: “I’ve been friends with Alex Sheridan of OTM for coming up to 20 years, so to have their expertise in tandem with working with Sony was a perfect combination. I’m excited to see what we can achieve together!”
Maskan adds: “It’s an exciting time to join OTM and head up its US operations. OTM has always invested in visionary artists and producers, and now with the incredible support of our parent company, Firebird, we have the ability to expand our vision even further. I am looking forward to helping the company grow and develop its roster by supporting our artists to fulfil their utmost creative endeavours”.