Country takeover...

Hot Press favourite Luan Parle has signed a management deal with Derek Mackillop, the UK industry heavyweight who also looks after Elton John and Mis-Teeq.

"Luan was over in London doing some writing and someone sent a tape to Derek, thinking it would be his type of thing," explains Mary Clare O'Siochru of Sony Ireland. "He loved it and came to see her showcase at the Herbert Park Hotel. They hit it off immediately and now Derek's arranged for her to go to LA and hook up with Billy Sandberg and Bill Botrell."

It's distinguished company, with Sandberg penning songs for the likes of Madonna and Cyndi Lauper, and Botrell best pals with Michael Jackson and Shelby Lynne.

"What Derek said to me is that he sees Luan as the next Lee Ann Rimes," O'Siochru continues. "The talent part was never a problem, but now she's got the people round her to make that happen."