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US Agencies Merge European Operations
September15
Music Works International and B Natural have announced a strategic merger that will combine MWI’s European operations with the New York-based B Natural agency, creating an expanded international artist representation business.
The changes will take effect on January 1, 2027, when Music Works International founder Katherine McVicker steps back from her active agency responsibilities in the United States and Europe.
Luigi Sidero, currently MWI’s Senior Agent for Europe, will take over leadership of the agency’s European representation. Those operations will merge with B Natural, led by founder and president Chris Mees in New York.
Origins of the agencies
Music Works International was founded by McVicker in the US in 2014, following her 27-year career with International Music Network. The independent agency has developed a particular presence in jazz, blues, world music and related genres, representing artists internationally and organising tours across Europe, North America and other global markets. MWI says it booked performances in 57 countries during 2026.
B Natural also traces its origins to 2014, when Mees founded B Natural Management in New York after working as a musician and in concert production and programming. His earlier industry experience included work at New York jazz venue Jazz Standard and with booking agency J. Chriss & Company. The company was subsequently rebranded and launched as B Natural, Inc. in 2017, developing into a booking and management agency representing artists in North America and international markets.
The merger therefore brings together two independent US-founded agencies with strong backgrounds in jazz and international touring. MWI contributes its established European and wider international network, while B Natural brings its North American operation and existing booking infrastructure.
The combined agency will provide worldwide representation and seek to increase touring opportunities for its artists across the United States, Europe and other international territories.
“Our success has always been built on the extraordinary artists we are privileged to represent,” said McVicker. “We are sincerely grateful to the promoters, artist managers, presenters, festivals, and industry colleagues who have supported Music Works International throughout the years. Their trust and collaboration have made this journey incredibly rewarding.”
McVicker said the new structure would provide continuity for MWI’s artists while creating further international opportunities.
“This transition represents growth, continuity, and opportunity,” she said. “I have tremendous confidence in Luigi Sidero and Chris Mees, and I am excited to see Music Works International`s artists continue to thrive under their leadership while I focus on the next phase of my own work.”
Mees added: “B Natural was built on the belief that great artists deserve world-class global opportunities. Joining forces with Luigi and welcoming the incredible roster and community that Katherine has cultivated over decades is the most powerful step we could take toward making that vision a reality. Katherine`s legacy speaks for itself — and Luigi and I are ready to build on that foundation.”
Sidero said: “After so many wonderful years working alongside Katherine — and thanks to her enlightened guidance and mentorship — I am excited to begin this new chapter in my career.”
He added that he and Mees would focus on supporting artists, presenters and partners while developing further global opportunities.
McVicker to retain MWI in other territories
While stepping back from day-to-day agency operations in the US and Europe, McVicker will retain the Music Works International name and continue to lead the company’s activities in South America, Asia, the Pacific Rim and Africa.
She will also continue developing her educational programme, Anyone Can Book a Gig, alongside consulting work focused on helping artists build touring and live-performance strategies.
McVicker will additionally continue her work with two nonprofit organisations she founded, one focused on Africa and the other on Latin America.
Following the merger, MWI’s European representation will become part of the expanded B Natural operation under Sidero and Mees, while McVicker continues Music Works International’s activities in other international territories.
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