Connect Music, a Memphis, TN-based music rights and technology company, has raised $80 million in a funding round led by Rockmont Partners and Variant Investments.
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The company plans to use the funds to expand its acquisition and licensing strategy and apply its proprietary AI models to help artists earn more from their intellectual property.
“George Monger, Founder, President, and CEO of Connect Music, said the investment is a major step forward for the company and the artists it supports. He said it will allow Connect Music to grow quickly while staying focused on helping creators earn more and keep ownership of their work, data and future.”
Connect Music, a Memphis based music rights and technology company, is led by Founder, President and CEO George Monger. The company’s growth reflects Monger’s entrepreneurial vision, dedication to artists and persistence. A Memphis native, Monger has supported the region’s creative economy throughout his career. He began by managing an international touring opera singer, later founded and led a nonprofit music organisation for four years, and in 2016 became Chief Operating Officer of the Memphis Symphony Orchestra.
Connect Music’s recent achievements include the viral summer hit ‘Blow My High’ by Dee Mula. The label also collaborates with Grammy-nominated producers Mike & Keys and artists such as Sauce Walka, Don Trip, Boosie Badazz, and Nless Entertainment/BIG30. Past clients include YTB Fatt, Bread Gang Entertainment, and BigXthaPlug.
In 2020, Monger founded Connect Music to give independent artists and labels access to transparent technology and financing usually available only to major companies. His leadership blends industry experience with a strong focus on client support and on challenging traditional industry models. Richard W. Smith, CEO of FedEx AExpress, said Monger has consistently delivered on his commitments and reflects Memphis values such as
resilience, innovation, and community.
Richard W. Smith and the late Frederick W. Smith are strong supporters and shareholders of Connect Music, showing their confidence in Monger’s leadership and integrity.
“Curt Futch, Managing Director at Rockmont Partners, said Connect Music has grown from a strong idea into a successful scaled business. He praised George Monger’s ability to combine strong operations with a commitment to supporting creators. He said Rockmont is excited to support the company’s next phase of sustainable mission focused growth, for independent artists and labels.”
Connect Music now operates alongside major industry players, with a clear focus on data transparency, fairness, and artist ownership.
“Monger added that his experience managing artists and running a nonprofit showed him that talent alone isn’t enough. He said artists need support systems that protect their creativity and long-term success. His goal is to reshape success in the music industry by focusing on ownership, education, and empowerment. He added that the investment will help the company grow while keeping creators at the centre of its decisions.”
About Connect Music
Founded by CEO George Monger, Connect Music is a Memphis-based music rights and technology company that supports independent artists and labels through transparency, innovation and ownership. Using advanced data analytics and industry expertise, the company helps artists manage, earn from, and protect their intellectual property across global platforms.
