Scott Borchetta Exiting HYBE America to Reacquire Big Machine

Photo Credit: Scott Borchetta / HYBE

Scott Borchetta is now exiting HYBE America to reacquire and launch Big Machine Records, while HYBE America will retain assets, distribution, and publishing.

On Thursday, HYBE America announced that Scott Borchetta is departing the company after serving as the CEO of Big Machine Label Group since HYBE’s purchase of Ithaca Holdings in 2021. Borchetta founded Big Machine Records in 2005, and under his leadership, the company has developed and supported major talent across the industry.

Borchetta will continue to use the Big Machine Records brand for his future ventures, while HYBE America will retain assets, the distribution deal, the publishing company Big Machine Music, and a number of talents currently on the label’s roster. This includes Thomas Rhett, Brett Young, Midland, Justin Moore, Carly Pearce, Preston Cooper, Jackson Dean, and Mae Estes. The HYBE-run company will operate under a new label name, and an announcement on the label’s new leadership will be made in the upcoming days.

“Scott has made a lasting mark on the music industry with his sharp eye for talent and his unique vision,” said Isaac Lee, Chairman and CEO of HYBE America. “He recently approached us to ask for our support as he works to pursue a new, independent, and entrepreneurial stage of his career, working to advance the Big Machine brand separately from HYBE. While we are sad to see Scott go, we understand—and want him to pursue his passions—and are grateful for all he did for the company.”

“I am incredibly appreciative of my partnership with HYBE over these last five years,” Borchetta said. “Chairman Bang often talks of his fondness for entrepreneurs, and he, Isaac, and the HYBE leadership team have extended that belief with this incredible showing of support by allowing me to continue to build upon my vision of the Big Machine Records brand. For that, I am forever grateful and wish them nothing but continued and incredible global success.”

“HYBE America will continue to support our artists’ interests across music, film, television, brands, and culture in the U.S. market and beyond,” added Lee. “We are beyond excited for our future in Nashville and will make further announcements in due course.”