The Kid Laroi is the star of a new mental health campaign produced by Project Healthy Minds, a millennial/Gen Z-driven mental health tech nonprofit, and Michael D. Ratner and OBB Media.
The Public Service Announcement will run exclusively in AMC Theatres beginning September and is timed to National Suicide Prevention Month, also running in advance of World Mental Health Day on Oct. 10. The video will be highlighted at Project Healthy Minds’ annual World Mental Health Day Festival in New York City.
Laroi adds, “Mental health touches everyone, including me. Speaking up changed my life, and I want more people to feel safe doing the same. Partnering with Project Healthy Minds helps us normalize those conversations and connect fans to free, real support.”
“At a moment when the mental health crisis is breaking all of the wrong records, there’s something quite powerful that the iconic musician behind ‘STAY’ is telling his generation to not wait to seek help,” said Phillip Schermer, founder and CEO of Project Healthy Minds. “This World Mental Health Day, Project Healthy Minds couldn’t be more proud to partner with The Kid Laroi, OBB Media and AMC Theatres to destigmatize mental health and encourage every American to access mental health services via Project Healthy Minds’ free online marketplace.”
+ Producer Yung Lan has partnered with 1916 Enterprises to launch Milan Publishing/Production Group (MPG), a new joint venture focused on publishing, artist development and cross-genre creative strategy. The venture is co-led by 1916 executive Ruchir Mohan, and has already resulted in signings across hip-hop, R&B and country.
“I’ve always advocated for early talent over the last decade of my career – with development and mentorship being a true passion of mine,” said Lan. “1916 and Ruchir’s commitment to the same aligns with that mindset, making this a special partnership.”
+ Maren Morris and Reign Storm Clean Energy have partnered to launch Maren’s Masterclass – an exclusive mentorship experience where up-and-coming musicians get the chance to have Maren as their music coach.
From Aug. 22 through Sept. 22, artists over the age of 18 can audition for the program by submitting a short video showcasing their talent, creativity, and passion on Reign Storm’s website. A total of three singers, songwriters, DJs, producers or musical groups will be selected to be Maren’s mentees.
“I’m so happy to be partnering with Reign Storm to launch this mentorship program,” Maren said. “In the past I was lucky to have mentors who were willing to pass on their knowledge of the music industry. I’m proud to now have a chance to mentor others and cannot wait to see the amazing new emerging talent that is out there.”
The chosen artists will receive an all expenses paid trip to Nashville, Tennessee, where they will meet with Maren and her team for an in-person mentoring session at the famed Blackbird Studio. In addition to the in-person session, they will also have two virtual mentor sessions with Maren. And, making sure they get to showcase their talent and all they have learned, up to five hours of studio time to record their next hit.
Those who don’t get chosen will go into the draw to receive a year’s supply of Reign Storm to fuel their creative grind.
+ Sony Music US Latin has signed Milo J. The 18 year-old Argentine Spanish-language urban artist has released two albums (“111” in 2023 and “166” in 2024), and already has a Latin Grammy nomination under his belt. He has also collaborated with artists such as Bizarrap, Nicki Nicole, and YSY A.
“Milo J transcends genres and generations. He doesn’t write songs; he composes anthems,” said Alex Gallardo, president of Sony Music US Latin. “In an era defined by immediacy, his music invites us to pause and feel. His works are destined to endure and leave a mark on Latin American culture. His lyrics convey depth, emotion, and truth. It is truly an honor to welcome him to the Sony Music family.”
“This is a very important step for me. I’ve always dreamed of sharing my music on a bigger scale and reaching more people, without losing who I am or where I come from. I’m grateful to Sony Music for believing in my vision and for giving me the freedom to keep creating from a place that’s real. Big things are coming,” said Milo J.
+ Sony Music Publishing Nashville has signed singer-songwriter Aniston Pate to a global publishing agreement. A recent graduate of Belmont University, Pate capped off her collegiate career with a win as the 2025 Country Showcase Champion.
Pate has recently earned success with releases including “Honky Tonk Without a Woman” (2024), and is currently working on a new project alongside producers Rob Williford and Aaron Raitiere.
Pate said, “I want to say thank you to everyone in the Sony team for believing in my songs. Thank you to Emily Carignan for sticking by my side. Thank you to my friends that make even the hardest of times fun. Thank you to Mom and Ian for helping me believe I could do this. And thank you to the Lord for every time He heard me pray.”
Sony Music Publishing Nashville Vice President, Creative A&R Tom Luteran said, “Aniston is a true unicorn as an artist. When Emily Carignan first played me her music I was intrigued, and when I met her, I was hooked – we both can’t wait for the rest of the world to hear this budding superstar.”
