Native Tongue Music Publishing signs Vera Ellen

Native Tongue Music Publishing has signed Vera Ellen to a worldwide deal.

Ellen was a founding member of both LA-based Girl Friday and New Zealand four-piece Maple Syrup, and her solo album It's Your Birthday was released on Friday, October 8.

Native Tongue's New Zealand general manager Pennie Black said she was thrilled with the new signing.

"I've been a fan of Vera's songwriting for some time and I am thrilled that she has joined the Native Tongue whānau," she said. "Her new album It's Your Birthday is a soundtrack for the summer, and her back catalogue is equally stunning."

Ellen said she was stoked to be joining the Native Tongue crew.

"There are many great writers and artists on Native Tongue, and I am highly honoured to be a part of it," she added.

This year, Native Tongue has signed Merk to a global publishing deal as well as There's A Tuesday, Reb Fountain and Sit Down In Front.