HYBE America’s BMLG Rebrands as “Blue Highway Records”

by Lee Yiseul

Published 19 Feb.2026 09:14(KST)

Appointment of CEO Jake Basden

Basden Jake, CEO of Blue Highway Records. Provided by HYBE

Big Machine Label Group (BMLG), a label under HYBE America, has changed its name to "Blue Highway Records" and appointed music marketing expert Jake Basden as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Blue Highway Records announced this on the 17th (local time), adding that it will retain its existing assets, distribution agreements, and artists. Artists and songwriters such as Thomas Rhett, Brett Young, Justin Moore, Carly Pearce, and Preston Cooper will remain with the company. It will also continue to handle distribution for artists including Riley Green and The Band Perry through Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment. Valory Music will be integrated into Blue Highway Records, while the publishing company Big Machine Music will remain under HYBE America.

CEO Jake Basden is an expert with an extensive network in music, film, and live entertainment. Until recently, he served as president of the artist management company Sandbox Management, where he guided the careers of top-tier artists such as Kacey Musgraves and Kate Hudson. During his previous tenure at BMLG as Senior Vice President (SVP) of Publicity, he collaborated with artists including Taylor Swift and Tim McGraw. He was also nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song for a track featured in the documentary "Glen Campbell: I'll Be Me."

Isaac Lee, Chairman and CEO of HYBE America, said, "In searching for a new leader, it was most important to choose someone who puts artists first," adding, "We expect CEO Basden's extensive experience and modern sensibility to drive the expansion of HYBE's influence in North America."

CEO Basden stated, "At a time when country and American roots music are changing dynamically, Blue Highway Records is the best place to define the sound of the future," adding, "By combining HYBE's capabilities and global synergies, we will push the boundaries of creativity."

Meanwhile, former CEO Scott Borchetta, who had been leading BMLG, recently left the company. He has reacquired the rights to the "Big Machine Records" brand from HYBE America.