Scott Borchetta, founder and CEO of Big Machine Label Group, is departing HYBE America to pursue independent ventures, taking the Big Machine Records brand with him to relaunch it separately.
HYBE America will retain the label group's assets, including its distribution deal, the publishing company Big Machine Music, and its current artist roster featuring Thomas Rhett, Brett Young, Midland, Justin Moore, Carly Pearce, Preston Cooper, Jackson Dean, and Mae Estes.
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| Scott Borchetta |
"Scott has made a lasting mark on the music industry with his sharp eye for talent and his unique vision," said HYBE America Chairman and CEO Isaac Lee. "He recently approached us to ask for our support as he works to pursue a new, independent and entrepreneurial stage of his career."
Borchetta founded Big Machine Records in September 2005, signing Taylor Swift as his first artist and growing the label into one of Nashville's most successful independents over two decades. The roster later expanded to include acts such as Rascal Flatts, Florida Georgia Line, Tim McGraw, Reba McEntire, and Riley Green.
In 2019, Scooter Braun's Ithaca Holdings acquired Big Machine for a reported $300 million. HYBE then purchased Ithaca Holdings in 2021 for $1.05 billion, after which Borchetta continued as CEO of Big Machine Label Group.