Spotify has partnered with Sony on a deal that will encompass both the recorded music and publishing sides of Sony’s business, according to Billboard. Spotify states the “new direct licensing arrangement in the U.S.” will result in higher royalties for songwriters. The deal follows previously made agreements with Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group and Kobalt.

“Our partnership with Sony is built on a shared drive to shape the future of music. Together, we’re accelerating the pace of innovation to create powerful new opportunities and increasing revenue for artists and songwriters,” Daniel Ek, Spotify’s Founder and CEO tells Billboard. “These agreements aren’t just a milestone; they’re a catalyst for building a more dynamic and prosperous music ecosystem for everyone.”

Last spring, Spotify started paying a reduced royalty rate to songwriters and publishers in the U.S. by creating product bundles within its subscription options, resulting in what the National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA) says was a loss of $230 million in royalties in the first year.

“Sony Music Group and Spotify have long been mutually committed to advancing music streaming and growing the marketplace for all,” adds Rob Stringer, Chairman of Sony Music Group. “This is further reflected in our new agreements where we’re working to develop futuristic approaches that ensure our artists and songwriters remain appropriately compensated for their work, and audiences are getting a high-quality experience that’s ever evolving.”

“These deals with Sony Music Group are built to better support artists and songwriters by unlocking new formats and forging deeper connections with fans,” says Alex Norström, Co-President and Chief Business Officer at Spotify. “This alignment creates space for new opportunities and long-term growth for everyone involved.”

Athena Puharic

Athena Puharic has joined underscore works as Head of Digital. In her role, she will spearhead digital campaigns for the company’s roster, which includes Warren Zeiders, Priscilla Block, Dalton Dover, Wesko, Highway Home and Sister Hazel. She will lead strategy, content creation, fan engagement and shaping artists’ online presence.

Hailing from Pittsburgh, Puharic graduated from Belmont University. Since graduating, she has gained more than ten years of industry experience in marketing and digital strategy. Prior to underscore works, she held positions at All Access Nashville and Big Machine Label Group as Project Manager, where she helmed digital marketing for new and established acts.

“Adding Athena to underscore works is a big step forward for us,” says Founder Charly Salvatore. “Her background leading campaigns and digital strategy for some of the most respected names in Nashville will play a key role in elevating our artists and helping us expand what we’re continuing to build. Athena’s energy and enthusiasm are truly unmatched, and we couldn’t be more excited to have her on the team.”

Phil Wickham will launch a new nationwide tour, the “Song of the Saints Tour,” this spring featuring Tauren Wells with special guest Jamie MacDonald.

The 24-city tour will travel across the U.S. with stops in Birmingham, Knoxville, Savannah, Baltimore, Jacksonville, Charlotte, St.Louis and more through May 24. Tickets go on sale to the general public on Oct. 2, while an exclusive pre-sale begins Sept. 29.

The announcement comes on the heels of Wickham’s brand-new album, Song of the Saints, out now. The project featuring already-released hit singles “Homesick for Heaven” and “What An Awesome God,” along with some new worship anthems sure to become fan-favorites.

“With the release of my new album, Song Of The Saints, I couldn’t wait to get dates on the calendar to sing these songs with the church,” says Wickham. “I feel a stronger stirring than I ever have before that we need to gather and raise the banner of Jesus high. There is a darkness-shaking, soul-waking, heaven-moving power in our collective song of faith. These nights are not about a show or a concert, but about the people of God shouting the praises of God in the presence of God. I am convinced we will witness eternal life-change on these nights—freedom, healing, salvation, joy, and hope—as we call on the Name above all names. Bring anyone and everyone you know who needs to know and experience the love of God in a fresh way. I can’t wait to be with you all. Much love!”

“Song Of The Saints Tour” Dates:
Mar. 18- Legacy Arena- Birmingham, AL
Mar. 19- Knoxville Civic Coliseum- Knoxville, TN
Mar. 20- Landers Center- Southaven, MS
Mar. 21- Truist Arena- Highland Heights, KY
Mar. 26- Santander Arena- Reading, PA
Mar. 27- Chartway Arena- Norfolk, VA
Mar. 28- Bon Secours Wellness Arena- Greenville, SC
Mar. 29- Enmarket Arena- Savannah, GA
Apr. 15- Ford Center- Evansville, IN
Apr. 16- George Gervin GameAbove Center- Ypsilanti, MI
Apr. 17- Schottenstein Center- Columbus, OH
Apr. 18- Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena- Baltimore, MD
Apr. 23- Hertz Arena- Estero, FL
Apr. 24- VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena- Jacksonville, FL
Apr. 25- Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum- Winston-Salem, NC
Apr. 26- Bojangles Coliseum- Charlotte, NC
May 13- Target Center- Minneapolis, MN
May 14- UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena- Milwaukee, WI
May 15- Van Andel Arena- Grand Rapids, MI
May 16- Rupp Arena- Lexington, KY
May 21- The Broadmoor World Arena- Colorado Springs, CO
May 22- Park City Arena- Wichita, KS
May 23- Chaifetz Arena- St. Louis, MO
May 24- Allen County War Memorial Coliseum- Fort Wayne, IN