Boutique publisher OTM signs DJ & Producer, Sub Focus, and expands US office with new hire

14 September 2023 - Press release

 

• Independent music publisher signs DJ & Producer, Sub Focus, to its roster

• New Head of North America and SVP of Creative appointed to expand US office

 

London and LA-based independent music publisher, OTM, has announced the signing of DJ and producer, Sub Focus, as well as the expansion of its US office with a brand new hire. Melissa Maskan joins as Head of North America and SVP of Creative at OTM.  

Entering into an exclusive worldwide publishing deal with Sub Focus, OTM will be responsible for the majority of the artist's catalogue as well as his future works. He joins the ever growing roster at the boutique publisher that includes the likes of Slinger (Ashnikko), The Heavy, Alessandro Buccellati (SZA, Mike Sabath), Joseph Mount of Metronomy, Gianluca Buccellati (Arlo Parks, Declan Mckenna, Easy Life), and many more. The new signing represents a key time for the music firm in its continued development and period of growth.

Sometimes labelled solely as a drum & bass act, those who know his output and influences notice a surprising restlessness in Sub Focus' creative approach, which has led him to release tracks which helped push genres beyond their boundaries. The DJ, producer and artist has become known for pushing the envelope with regards to the strict boundaries within electronic music's various subgenres, something he continues to do with his latest material, including 'Ready To Fly' (ft. Dimension), which has just been certified silver - and his recent touring has seen him hit new heights by selling out Wembley Arena in March 2023. Having been an integral part to the rebirth of drum & bass of the early 2010s which was followed by widespread acclaim, this latest signing will see OTM and Sub Focus collaboratively work together to generate more opportunities for his catalogue of music.

In addition, OTM has appointed Melissa Maskan as Head of America and SVP of Creative, which will expand its US office. Reporting into Alex Sheridan, the founder of OTM, Maskan will be managing OTM's US operations with a focus on creative services including sync and A&R. With her extensive experience in helping to develop artists in the world of scoring to picture for various media, she will bolster OTM's offering.

Based in LA, Maskan joins after 6 years at publishing company Third Side Music as Executive VP of A&R / Creative, where she established the company's US presence and was instrumental in the development of SOFI TUKKER, ODESZA, Surf Curse and the Ninja Tune/Just isn't Music catalogue. Rob Hunt (Head of A&R) and Emily Keating (SVP of Sync) will report into her.

Alex Sheridan, Founder of OTM, commented: "The signing of Sub Focus and hiring of Melissa represents how OTM is going from strength to strength. 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. 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. 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" 

Sub Focus said: "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!

Melissa Maskan, Head of North America and SVP of Creative of OTM, added: "It's an exciting time to join OTM and head up its US operations. OTM has always invested in visionary artists & 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." 

Having worked with artists such as Lizzo, BANKS, SOFI TUKKER, Flying Lotus, Colin Stetson and many more, Maskan brings a wealth of experience and expertise that will help develop OTM's artists in the world of scoring. She went on to say: "There is great ambition here at OTM to pair strategic thinking with hands-on creative services. The goal is to connect our artists with the most ideal creative partners, thus leading to inspiring collaborations and expansive success across multiple media platforms."

Following a partnership with music firm Firebird last year, which saw investment into OTM, this new hire and signing marks a chapter of growth for the boutique publisher. For more information, please head to: www.otmmusic.com.