Paul Piticco’s Dew Process Takes Over Secret Sounds Management: A Homecoming

## Dew Process Enters Artist Management

Dew Process is making a return to the realm of artist management. The independent music label founded by Paul Piticco has acquired Secret Sounds Artist Management, which will now be rebranded as Dew Process Artist Management.

### New Management Team

This transition marks a strategic collaboration between Piticco, Managing Director of Dew Process Group, and his long-time colleagues, CFO Brian Quinn and Senior Artist Manager Rachael Dixon. Secret Sounds Artist Management was previously part of a larger acquisition deal in 2016 when Live Nation Entertainment obtained a 51% stake in the Secret Sounds Group that Piticco co-led as co-CEO alongside Jess Ducrou.

The original arrangement included Secret Sounds’ festival brands like Splendour in the Grass and Falls Music & Arts Festival, alongside event management, sponsorship, public relations, and artist management. Now, these management functions are returning to Dew Process’s independent roots and expanding its capabilities.

### A Personal Journey

“It’s where I started,” Piticco reflects on artist management. “Before that, I was booking a venue, and then I began managing bands. I’ve always wanted to remain close to creativity, and management allowed me to do that.” He emphasizes the value of seeing the industry from a manager’s perspective, gaining insight into various facets of the music business.

In light of the label’s impressive success over the past 20 years, coupled with a thriving publishing division, this buy-back seems timely. “Dew Process is widely recognized and has strong ties to Brisbane, with a rich history in artist development,” Piticco adds.

### Building Brisbane’s Music Scene

Piticco is a significant figure in shaping Brisbane’s music landscape, especially as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympics. He managed the iconic rock band Powderfinger from 1990, guiding them through five consecutive No. 1 studio albums and a farewell tour that sold over 200,000 tickets.

He established Secret Service Artist Management in the mid-90s and later founded Dew Process Recordings and Publishing. Throughout his career, Piticco has worked with notable artists like Sam Fender, Mumford & Sons, and Sarah Blasko.

### Expanding Dew Process

With Powderfinger and Bernard Fanning achieving a record-breaking four tracks on triple j’s Hottest 100 of Australian Songs, the momentum for Dew Process continues to grow. New signings like Georgia Mooney, Spacey Jane, and Tkay Maidza signal an exciting future for the company.

Rachael Dixon shares her enthusiasm, stating, “With a new album coming and shows already booked in the UK, Canada, and Australia, I’m incredibly excited for what lies ahead.”

### A Flourishing Partnership

Dew Process Publishing has also re-signed Spacey Jane, following the success of their third album, *If That Makes Sense*, which recently supported a sold-out tour in Australia and New Zealand. Fergus Jenkins, GM of Publishing & Sync at Dew Process, acknowledges the journey they’ve been on together over the last five years.

Additionally, Tkay Maidza, the current ARIA Award winner for best soul/R&B release, has renewed her contract with Dew Process Records. Johnny Mullen, Head of A&R at Dew Process Records, speaks highly of Maidza’s energy and artistry.

### Looking Ahead

The rebranding to Dew Process signifies a long-term commitment to artist development and a collaborative atmosphere. Future projects include celebrating the 20-year anniversary of Fanning’s solo debut album, *Tea & Sympathy*, originally released in October 2005.

Piticco remains active with Live Nation Australasia as Director of Touring and Venue Development. He co-founded Brisbane’s The Triffid and contributed to other venues like Fortitude Music Hall and Hindley Street Music Hall.

“Being involved in the early stages of an artist’s career fascinates me,” he notes. “It’s something I’m passionate about, and it all happens more in management, label, and publishing.”

Stay tuned for some exciting announcements from the Dew Process group!

What are you most excited to see from Dew Process Artist Management in the future?