Connect Music, a Memphis-based music rights and technology company led by founder, president and CEO George Monger, has raised $80 million in new financing led by Rockmont Partners and Variant Investments.
The company said the funding will support growth across music catalog acquisition, licensing activities, and data-driven products designed to help independent artists and labels increase earnings while maintaining ownership and transparency around their rights and performance data.
Connect Music pointed to momentum in its artist and producer roster, citing work tied to the viral summer hit “Blow My High” by Dee Mula and relationships with producers Mike & Keys, alongside artists including Sauce Walka, Don Trip, Boosie Badazz, and Nless Entertainment/BIG30. The company also cited prior clients, including YTB Fatt, Bread Gang Entertainment, and BigXthaPlug.
Monger’s background includes artist management, nonprofit leadership, and a prior role as chief operating officer of the Memphis Symphony Orchestra in 2016. He founded Connect Music in 2020 with the stated goal of providing independent artists and labels with technology and financing typically associated with larger industry players.
With the new capital, Connect Music said it will scale its acquisition and licensing strategy and deploy proprietary AI models intended to expand monetization opportunities for artists’ intellectual property. The company framed its approach around data transparency, equity, and creator ownership.
KEY QUOTES:
“This investment represents transformational growth capital for Connect Music and the artist partners we serve. It gives us the ability to grow aggressively while staying true to our mission: empowering creators to maximize their earnings while owning their art, their data, and their future.”
“Managing artists and running a nonprofit taught me that talent alone isn’t enough. Artists deserve systems that honor their creativity and secure their future. My mission is to redefine what it means to win in music: where ownership, education, and empowerment coexist. This investment allows us to scale while keeping creators at the center of every decision.”
George Monger, Founder, President & CEO, Connect Music
“George has consistently delivered on every promise. His leadership and vision represent what’s best about Memphis: resilience, innovation, and community.”
Richard W. Smith, CEO, FedEx Airline and International
“We have seen Connect accelerate from a bold vision into a scaled, high-performing business. George’s ability to pair operational discipline with a deep commitment to creators has been a differentiator at every stage, and we have been impressed with how he executes on his plans. We are excited to support this next chapter and help George and the team continue building on this trajectory of sustainable, mission-driven growth for independent artists and labels.”
Curt Futch, Managing Director, Rockmont Partners
