Private equity firm the Yucaipa Companies have entered into a joint venture with K2 Agency, bringing renowned music agent John Jackson’s London-based booking outfit into the same company as the Yucaipa-owned Artist Group International.
The partnership follows a recent announcement Yuciapa — the American firm founded in 1986 by Ronald Burkle — was partnering with Danny Wimmer Presents, North America’s largest independent festival producer. That deal came with the exchange for a minority stake in the concert promotion company. Yuicapa also operates booking agency X-Ray Touring as a joint venture with Paradigm Talent Agency and holds a minority stake in Primavera Sound and Primavera Pro.
“I have had the pleasure of collaborating with Dennis [Arfa] and the team at A.G.I. for many years,” Jackson says. “Not only is there mutual respect between us, but we share a similar philosophy and work ethic when it comes to our artists, agents and staff. As such, joining forces is the perfect fit and an opportunity to flourish on the global stage. Thank you to Ron Burkle and his team.”
K2 Agency handles the European touring for a number of bands including Metallica, Iron Maiden, Slayer, Alter Bridge and A Day To Remember and in recent years has acquired U.K. companies Factory Music and E.G.O. Agency. Artist Group International represents icons such as Billy Joel, Metallica, Def Leppard, Rod Stewart and Mötley Crüe.
“John runs one of the best agencies in the world. We’re thrilled to be working with him and his K2 team,” Arfa says. “We share many clients including Metallica, Ghost, and Volbeat and over the years have developed a natural synergy. We are pleased that our ownership has staunchly facilitated and supported our expansion efforts”
