Artists to watch · Interviews · music business · music industry interview

Exclusive Interview with GRAMMY-Winning Artist, Multi-Platinum Producer & Music2Deal Ambassador IKILL ORION who teams up with Industry icons Drake + Pharrell on the release of his groundbreaking new release ‘Younglord 2’

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Ikill Orion is more than just a name—he’s a force. As a Music2Deal Ambassador and a creative powerhouse with roots in Hollywood, Orion is shaping the future of music, fashion, film, AI, and beyond. With over 100 million global impressions and collaborations with legends like Jay-Z, Nile Rodgers, and Drake, he’s not just riding the wave—he’s creating it.

We sat down with Ikill Orion to talk about his journey, his label, global licensing, and his bold vision for the music industry.

Music2Deal: Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in the industry?
Ikill Orion: Hollywood global rising star in music, TV, fashion, film, AI, and lifestyle. I’m a platinum streaming artist with over 100 million impressions (including 1M+ likes, saves, follows, activations, streams, and clicks).
In addition, I work as an A&R, creative director, executive, consultant, and advisor. I’ve collaborated with Grammy-winning artists, super producers, Fortune 500 companies, and A-list celebrities.
I’ve worked with icons like Jay-Z, Nile Rodgers, and Drake—just to name a few!

Music2Deal: Have you licensed your music or signed artists on an international level?
Ikill Orion: Yes, my in-house company LE KIL owns a catalog of 222 songs. We’ve had great success placing our music and masters in TV, film, web, and ad campaigns through sync and licensing deals globally.
I collaborate with all the major labels and am currently looking to nurture and sign artists (who have both talent and a budget) to major label development deals.
We’re not a cookie-cutter company—we believe in the power of true A&R. We only sign artists who understand the business and are ready to invest in their careers.
Our bespoke services include branding, consulting, advisory, management, production, songwriting, image/styling, playlisting, and distribution via the Big 3: Universal, Sony, and Warner.

Music2Deal: In your opinion, which countries offer the best opportunities for music licensing today?
Ikill Orion: The marketplace is constantly shifting—so really, everywhere and everything is up for grabs!

Music2Deal: What are some of the standout projects you’ve completed recently?
Ikill Orion: One of my major projects is the killer new album “Y O U N G L O R D II”, a high-profile collaboration featuring Drake, 2 Chainz, Desiigner, Lil Yachty, and surprise guest appearances from multi-platinum producers and Grammy-winning artists.
It’s dropping on 8/8.
The first volume, “Y O U N G L O R D” (now streaming), is powered by AI and includes tracks like:
“Alpha”, “Invincible 3:16”, “Kink Tut”, “Like Paradise”, “Meta 4 Play”, “Rock Bottom”, “Haus of Love”, “Party in the Afterlife”, and “Stargaze”.

Music2Deal: Are there any upcoming projects or tours we should look out for in 2025?
Ikill Orion: Yes—major tours are in the works for 2025. I’m also working on TV, film, and fashion deals, as well as investor partnerships, brand endorsements, and sponsorships.
All of this is aligning with the launch of my new global media/content/venture/brand/platform called LE KIL—an artist-driven startup currently in stealth mode.

Music2Deal: What do you see as the biggest challenge facing the music industry right now?
Ikill Orion: Everything is broken and needs fixing!

Music2Deal: How do you think that challenge can be addressed or overcome?
Ikill Orion: Only time will tell, but change has to start with artists putting themselves first—and audiences finally recognizing the value of music.
Music is art, and art is commerce—so let’s treat it that way.

Music2Deal: What are your main goals or plans for the coming year?
Ikill Orion: World dominance.

A good word on Music2Deal.com
Music2Deal has always been a ray of light and beacon of hope—providing opportunities, tools, and resources for artists, executives, and creatives. It’s a safe space to connect and network.

For more info, press, updates, and exclusives check out:
https://linktr.ee/ikillorion
Music2Deal Profile
https://lekil.beehiiv.com/p/enter-a-new-dimension-the-elite

Book Ikill Orion – 1 on 1 consultation
https://intro.co/IkillOrion

Buy Now – Ikill Orion  ”Younglord 2 ”  Feat. Drake, Pharrell, 2 Chainz, Gucci Mane,
Young Thug , Lil Yachty & Desiigner 
https://linktr.ee/ikillorion

music business · Music Directory · Music2Deal.com

4 Top Music Professionals to Connect — October Spotlight

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From time to time, we spotlight standout professionals from across the Music2Deal community. If you’re looking for production power, deep industry roots, or global connections, start with these four.

Druv Kent — Artist, Songwriter & Live Performer (Singapore)

Asia’s first BBC Radio 2–supported artist in 20 years, Druv has landed several songs on US Top 20 radio charts and reached #1 on the World Indie and Euro Indie charts. Through Druv Kent Productions, he helps create, record, produce, promote, and support music and live entertainment.
What to talk about: releases, co-writes, live bookings, brand partnerships.
Connect on Music2Deal: [Insert Druv Kent profile link]
👉 View Druv’s profile on Music2Deal

Malaica Valiente — Founder & CEO, Valiente Concerts (USA)

A veteran global entertainment executive with 38+ years producing sold-out international tours, delivering $500M+ in ticket sales across 300+ venues in 30+ countries. Project history includes Alicia Keys, Bon Jovi, Bryan Adams, Eric Clapton, Shakira, Stevie Wonder, Sting and more.
What to talk about: tour planning, co-promotions, venue strategy, sponsorships.
Connect on Music2Deal: [Insert Malaica Valiente profile link]
👉 View Malaica’s profile on Music2Deal

Philip Israel — Possum Records & Publishing (Australia)

Independent Australian record and publishing company active for roughly 40 years, with a roster history touching Ace of Base, Depeche Mode, Judas Priest, Technotronic, Tom Waits and many others.
What to talk about: catalog/masters, licensing, distribution, ANZ market entry.
Connect on Music2Deal:
👉 View Philip’s profile on Music2Deal

Jens-Markus Wegener — Publisher & Music Business Consultant (Germany)

With 35+ years in publishing, consulting, and management, Jens-Markus was MUSEXPO’s 2016 Global Publisher of the Year. He built Public Propaganda into a leading European dance-promo company, managed Karl Bartos’ solo launch, and led major catalog deals at AMV Talpa and Imagem Germany. Today he heads Hamburg’s AMV Publishing, brokering catalog/master sales and financing solutions for artists and rights-holders.
What to talk about: catalog sales, financing, European publishing, release strategy.
Connect on Music2Deal:
👉 View Jens’s profile on Music2Deal

➡️ Want to grow your network and be featured?
Join Music2Deal — the exclusive business network with 18,000+ proven music professionals from around the world.
Whether you’re an artist, label, publisher, producer, or manager — create your profile, share your music offers, and discover new opportunities.
You could be next in our spotlight.

Interviews · music industry interview · Music2Deal.com

Interview: Shreshth Singh (aka SSTG)—India’s Face of Music2Deal & Pop Musician.

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Music2Deal: Shreshth, congratulations on becoming Music2Deal’s representative in India! How did your journey with music begin?

Shreshth: Thank you! I go by the name SSTG, and I started making music back in 2015. Since then, I have gained extensive experience not only creating music but also understanding the global music scene deeply. This journey has allowed me to explore various styles and trends worldwide, shaping my approach as both a musician and an industry professional.

Music2Deal: Music2Deal is a global platform. How does your role connect Indian musicians and the international music business?

Shreshth: Music2Deal is unique: it’s not just a network but also a marketplace where professionals—artists, producers, managers—can discover, connect, and collaborate internationally. My role involves guiding Indian talents to expand their reach, presenting them to global partners, and helping navigate cross-border challenges. We’re making it easier for Indian artists and businesses to showcase their work on a worldwide stage.

Music2Deal: In your view, what’s special about the Indian music scene today?

Shreshth: India’s scene is incredibly diverse and vibrant. There’s a tremendous embrace of experimentation, fusion genres, and indie music, alongside a rich tradition in classical and commercial formats. With digital platforms and international collaborations, more artists can stay authentic and experiment freely—something that resonates with listeners across the globe.

Music2Deal: You’ve worked from music creation to commercials. What advice do you have for artists hoping to succeed on both artistic and commercial fronts?

Shreshth: Stay true to your own voice; authenticity resonates most deeply. Developing strong craft, storytelling, and relationships in the business are crucial. Commercial success often comes from understanding your audience and adapting, but never at the expense of creativity. Also, build a network—connections matter tremendously in both artistry and commerce.

Music2Deal: What’s your vision for Music2Deal India over the next few years?

Shreshth: I want to see Music2Deal India become the leading hub for discovering and developing talent—not just connecting people but amplifying opportunities for creative and commercial growth. We’ll launch more workshops, virtual showcases, and partnership programs to ensure Indian music professionals are well-represented on the world stage.

Music2Deal: For artists and labels seeking entry into the Indian market, what’s your advice on making an effective start?

Shreshth: Understanding the cultural landscape here is key—India isn’t a monolith, but a tapestry of regions and tastes. Take time to collaborate locally, listen to real stories, and offer something genuine. Music2Deal provides a trusted route to build relationships and find partners suited to your style and ambition.

Music2Deal: Any final tips for aspiring musicians and music professionals?

Shreshth: Tell your story—through your music and through your interactions. Don’t shy away from sharing your vision, personality, and unique journey in every opportunity, whether performing, networking, or negotiating deals. The music business thrives on genuine voices and committed professionals, and Music2Deal is here to help nurture both.

Links:

https://music2deal.com/in/SSTG