HUNTER HAYES LANDS WITH PATRIOT

Ron Laffitte's Patriot Management has landed country star Hunter Hayes. The singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist is a Warner Nashville artist and UMPG songwriter; he's nabbed two ACA Awards, five Grammy nods and multiple other trophies and nominations. His self-titled debut album was certified double platinum.

Patriot, Laffitte's co-venture with Live Nation chief Michael Rapino, was announced at the end of last year.

In related news, rumors that Ron will help the Lakers expand their scouting department couldn't be confirmed at presstime.