Atlanta, GA Verse Management, the fast-rising entertainment company founded by music executive Ryan “Verse” Burgess, has secured a new $1.2 million strategic partnership with Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) a major milestone that further cements Burgess’s position as one of the most influential young power players shaping the future of music.
The landmark agreement continues Burgess’s streak of high-level dealmaking across the major-label landscape. Over the past several years, he has executed or consulted on deals with Warner, Sony, and Universal while earning a reputation as a trusted advisor and advocate for creative talent.
From Unpaid Intern to Industry Force
Burgess entered the music business in 2018 as an unpaid intern, breaking into a competitive industry through persistence, instinct, and an ability to identify talent early. His sharp eye and strategic thinking quickly led to consulting opportunities with Roc Nation, Cinematic Music Group, and a diverse network of global creatives.
Throughout his career, Burgess has contributed to projects connected to Lil Baby, Travis Scott, Megan Thee Stallion, H.E.R., and other chart-defining artists, building a track record that reflects both credibility and consistency.
A Company Built on Artist Empowerment
Today, Verse Management is recognized for its clean execution, industry fluency, and unwavering dedication to creators. Burgess frames his mission in a few simple pillars:
This philosophy drives the company’s expanding portfolio, which includes:
- Talent & Artist Management
- Publishing & Rights Strategy
- Global A&R scouting
- Monetization and IP protection
- Emerging work in AI-powered creative systems
Across every initiative, the focus remains the same: uplifting artists and accelerating their long term value.Verse is a Grammy nominated, BMI Award winning manager whose influence and strategic vision continue to shape the future of music
Shaping the Future of Creative Strategy
The new $1.2 million UMPG deal marks the second major Universal partnership tied to Burgess’s leadership a testament to his growing influence and the industry’s confidence in his vision. As he continues to build innovative pathways for artists, Verse Management is steadily positioning itself as one of the most forward-thinking independent companies in entertainment.
About Ryan “Verse” Burgess
Ryan “Verse” Burgess is an Atlanta-based music executive and founder of Verse Management. Since 2018, he has worked across all three major labels Warner, Sony, and Universal and consulted for leading companies including Roc Nation and Cinematic Music Group. Known for discovering talent early, negotiating complex deals, and protecting intellectual property, Burgess is dedicated to helping creators scale their value and secure life changing opportunities
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