The independent Australian music publisher Gaga Music and London-based Warp Publishing have solidified their long-standing relationship by entering into a new strategic partnership, marking a significant expansion of their collaborative efforts. This deepened alliance, announced on August 31, 2026, ahead of the BIGSOUND conference in Brisbane, formalizes Warp Publishing’s role as an active partner in Gaga Music, joining founder Grant Gillies. The move signals a commitment to enhancing global opportunities for songwriters and composers by leveraging their combined expertise and international networks.
The partnership builds upon a successful collaboration that began in 2017. Initially, Gaga Music served as the representative for Warp Publishing’s extensive catalog across Australia and New Zealand. This was later reciprocated by Warp Publishing, which took on representation of Gaga Music’s catalog within the United Kingdom. This history of mutual representation has fostered a strong working relationship and a shared understanding of each other’s operational strengths and market insights.
As part of the new agreement, Theo Seffusatti, director of Warp Publishing, and Nadine Riezouw, general manager of Warp Publishing, will assume directorships on the board of Gaga Music. They will join Grant Gillies in steering the strategic direction of the Australian company. This infusion of leadership from Warp Publishing is expected to bring valuable international perspectives and operational expertise to Gaga Music’s governance.
The overarching goal of this enhanced partnership is to broaden the global reach and impact for the artists and songwriters whose works are managed by both entities. The agreement aims to create expanded sync, score, and songwriting opportunities on an international scale, benefiting a diverse roster of talent. While financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, the strategic intent is clear: to foster greater creative and commercial success for their respective clients.
Grant Gillies, founder of Gaga Music, emphasized the importance of independent music companies maintaining their distinct identity in an increasingly consolidated industry. "In a climate increasingly shaped by consolidation and external investment, it’s important that independent music companies continue to offer a genuinely creative and ethical alternative in rights management," Gillies stated. He further expressed his admiration for Warp Publishing, calling it "an iconic name in the global music community, with an extraordinary history and forward-thinking roster." Gillies concluded, "It’s a privilege to be working more closely together."
Theo Seffusatti, director of Warp Publishing and also publisher of New Zealand-based Heard & Seen, highlighted the shared ethos driving the partnership. "This partnership reflects a shared commitment to independence, artist-focused development and long term creative growth through sync, score and songwriting opportunities," Seffusatti commented. He added that the alliance signifies a continued investment in building "meaningful international pathways for songwriters and composers across Australia, New Zealand and the Asia Pacific region."
Nadine Riezouw, GM of Warp Publishing and a former GM of Gaga Music, brought a unique perspective to the announcement, having experienced firsthand the operational dynamics of both companies. "Having been part of both companies, I know that they share the same values and unwavering support for independent artists," Riezouw said. She articulated her pride in strengthening this collaborative ethos, stating, "Being able to strengthen this ethos now jointly, is a proud step in offering further opportunities in a way that is truly independent, transparent and sustainable for our songwriters."
This new arrangement also signifies a strategic shift for Gaga Music, as it concludes its previous partnerships and stakeholder relationships with Inertia Music. Gillies acknowledged the contribution of his former partners, stating, "their contribution will always remain an important part of our story." This amicable separation allows Gaga Music to forge a new path with Warp Publishing, focusing on integrated global strategies.
Gaga Music, established in 2007, has built a robust reputation as an independent Australian publishing and sync specialist. The company currently administers and pitches a catalog exceeding 100,000 titles, operating from offices in Melbourne, Sydney, and Auckland. Its diverse roster of represented catalogs includes prominent international independent labels and publishers such as Third Side Music, Arts & Crafts, Secretly Canadian, PIAS, Thrill Jockey, City Slang, Low Profile, and Erased Tapes, among others. This extensive network underscores Gaga Music’s significant presence within the independent music ecosystem.
Warp Publishing, with a history spanning 15 years, boasts offices in London and Los Angeles, solidifying its international footprint. The company is renowned for its music publishing services for a highly curated and influential roster of artists. This includes a diverse array of acclaimed musicians such as Kelvin Krash, Danny Brown, Yves Tumor, Kelsey Lu, Daniel Lopatin, Khruangbin, Death Grips, Caterina Barbieri, Kwes, Dry Cleaning, Bibio, and Boards of Canada. Warp’s association with such innovative artists highlights its commitment to fostering cutting-edge music and providing essential support for creative development.
The strategic integration of Gaga Music and Warp Publishing is poised to create a more formidable independent force in the global music publishing landscape. By combining their established networks, industry expertise, and shared commitment to artist development, the partnership aims to unlock new avenues for revenue and creative expression for their respective songwriters and composers. This move aligns with a broader trend in the music industry where independent entities are increasingly forming strategic alliances to compete with larger, consolidated players.
The expanded collaboration is expected to yield significant benefits for the artists represented by both companies. The enhanced global sync and licensing capabilities will provide greater exposure for their music across film, television, advertising, and video games. Furthermore, the increased focus on songwriting and score opportunities will offer composers and lyricists new platforms to showcase their talents and build sustainable careers. The partnership’s emphasis on independence and artist-centric values is a critical differentiator in a market often dominated by major corporations.
The timing of this announcement, just prior to BIGSOUND, Australia’s premier music industry conference, is strategic. It places the new partnership at the forefront of industry discussions, highlighting the evolving landscape of independent music business and international collaboration. BIGSOUND attracts a global audience of industry professionals, providing an ideal platform to showcase the expanded capabilities and future vision of Gaga Music and Warp Publishing.
The leadership transition within Gaga Music, with Seffusatti and Riezouw joining the board, signifies a deepening of operational integration. Their experience, particularly Riezouw’s prior tenure at Gaga Music, provides a unique understanding of the synergy that can be achieved. This shared vision and operational alignment are crucial for the success of any strategic partnership, ensuring that the combined entity can effectively execute its ambitious goals.
The impact of this partnership extends beyond the immediate beneficiaries. It serves as a model for other independent music businesses seeking to expand their global reach and strengthen their competitive position. By demonstrating the power of collaborative growth, Gaga Music and Warp Publishing are reinforcing the vitality and adaptability of the independent sector within the broader music industry. Their commitment to transparency, sustainability, and artist empowerment offers a compelling alternative for creators navigating the complexities of the modern music business.
