Brendan Rich Launches Nashville-Based Rich MGMT

Talent manager Brendan Rich has opened the Nashville-based, boutique artist management company Rich MGMT.

New York native Rich began his music industry career with stops at Buddy Lee Attractions and Paradigm before joining United Talent Agency, where he signed Matt Stell, Chris Bandi, Jimmie Allen and Logan Mize. He followed his time at UTA by segueing into artist management and spending five years as a manager at Ash Bowers’s Wide Open Music.

Joining Rich at his new company are former Wide Open Music management clients Stell, George Birge and Bandi, as well as new signee Darren Kiely. Stell has notched two Billboard No. 1 Country Airplay hits with “Everywhere But On” and “Prayed For You.” Meanwhile, Birge’s song “Mind on You” is currently at No. 46 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart.

Also joining Rich from Wide Open Music is Sarah Paravia, who will serve as day-to-day coordinator.

“Since my first days in the music business, I’ve always dreamt of opening my own management company, ” Rich said via a statement. “Those dreams have now come to fruition as we open our doors to manage world class artists, who we are honored to represent and guide in their careers.”

A statement from Rich MGMT notes the company’s mission “is to operate with integrity in every aspect of its business while helping its artists to build successful and long-lasting careers.”

Additionally, former Wide Open Music management client Jimmie Allen recently joined California-based firm The Familie, which also represents Machine Gun Kelly, Avril Lavigne and more. Wide Open Music’s Bowers did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Jessica Nicholson

Billboard