If some corners of the music industry didn’t recognize James Grant Group as a truly global player in talent management before, today there can be no denying it.
MBW hears from top-level sources in the States that JGG is in the final stages of selling to private equity player Trilantic Capital Partners.
This follows a courting process that also saw Bowmark Capital and Inflexion express interest in a buyout.
The Trilantic deal, we’re told, isn’t yet signed but has been agreed in principle and is worth somewhere between USD $140m and $160m (£110m+).
The sale price reflects a 10-times profit multiple, say our sources, who add that JGG is planning an “aggressive transatlantic expansion” under Trilantic’s ownership.
James Grant Group declined to comment when contacted by MBW.
Today’s news follows our story yesterday (September 6), revealing that JGG had acquired UK-based Machine Management, home to Clean Bandit, Years & Years and Mika.
JGG, currently part-owned by Metric Capital, has been a notably acquisitive force in music over the past few years.
In March 2017 it bought L.A-based Deckstar in a deal worth north of $20m. Deckstar now forms the hub of JGG’s L.A-based music division, with management clients including Blink 182 (pictured), Steve Aoki, Morrissey, Rancid, Bush and 311.
In 2012, JGG acquired London-based Hall Or Nothing (The Script, Manic Street Preachers), while in October last year it swooped for 10 Management, home to Take That.
Other artists on JGG’s roster today include James Arthur, Cheat Codes and Don Diablo.
James Grant Group broadly operates four divisions, working with talent across Music, Sport and Entertainment (TV/film), as well as running in-house Professional Services, such as business management / accountancy operation OJK.
In addition, it works with online social ‘influencers’, comedians and authors.
JGG’s clients in the entertainment world include UK TV stars such as Ant & Dec, Philip Schofield, Fearne Cotton, Holly Willoughby, Clare Balding and Emma Willis.
Via a recent merger with rival agency Troika, it also represents British TV presenter Graham Norton, in addition to Hollywood actor Michael Fassbender.
In sport, it represents the likes of ex-England soccer star (and now Derby County manager) Frank Lampard, Tottenham player Harry Winks and long-time USA player Clint Dempsey.Music Business Worldwide
