Your Weekly Roundup of Promotions, Hires and Exits Across the Music Industry
The music industry is constantly evolving, with new talent emerging and established names making big moves. This week was no exception, as we saw major promotions, exciting hires, and significant exits across various music companies. From record labels to media platforms, here’s a rundown of the latest developments that are shaping the industry.
Warner Chappell Music (WCM), one of the world’s leading music publishers, has announced the promotion of Ryan Press to President of A&R, US. Press, who has been with WCM since 2009, has played a crucial role in signing and developing hitmakers such as DJ Khaled, Wiz Khalifa, and Meek Mill. In his new role, he will oversee the A&R team and work closely with songwriters to continue WCM’s success in the US market.
Meanwhile, whynow, a new media platform that focuses on music, art, and culture, has appointed music industry veteran Tony Wadsworth as Non-Executive Chairman. Wadsworth, who previously served as Chairman and CEO of EMI Music UK and Ireland, brings a wealth of experience to whynow. His expertise will be instrumental in driving the platform’s growth and expanding its reach.
In other news, popular festival promoter Danny Wimmer Presents (DWP) has named Joe Litvag as its new President. Litvag, who has over 25 years of experience in the music industry, has previously held senior positions at Live Nation and AEG Presents. He will now oversee all aspects of DWP’s operations, including festival production, talent buying, and marketing.
In the world of independent record labels, 1916, a label that focuses on Irish music, has announced the appointment of Mark Redfern as A&R Director. Redfern, who has worked with artists such as U2, The Cranberries, and Sinead O’Connor, will be responsible for discovering and developing new talent for the label. This move is expected to bring fresh energy and diversity to 1916’s roster.
Another independent label making waves is LVRN Records, home to artists like Summer Walker and 6LACK. The label has promoted Nina Kennedy to President, making her the youngest female president of a major record label. Kennedy, who joined LVRN in 2017, has been instrumental in the label’s success and will now oversee its operations and strategic direction.
In a surprising development, music streaming giant Spotify has announced the departure of its Chief Content Officer, Dawn Ostroff. Ostroff, who joined Spotify in 2018, was responsible for the platform’s original content strategy, including podcasts and video. Her exit comes at a time when Spotify is aggressively expanding its podcast offerings, and her successor has yet to be named.
In the world of live events, concert promoter AEG Presents has named Gary Gersh as its new President of Global Touring. Gersh, who has worked with artists such as Nirvana, Foo Fighters, and Green Day, will now oversee AEG’s global touring business, including booking and promoting tours for artists across all genres.
Lastly, Universal Music Group (UMG) has announced the promotion of Michele Anthony to Executive Vice President of UMG’s US Recorded Music division. Anthony, who has been with UMG since 2013, will continue to oversee the company’s domestic recorded music operations, including its labels and distribution channels.
These are just a few of the many promotions, hires, and exits that have taken place in the music industry this week. These moves not only reflect the ever-changing landscape of the industry but also highlight the importance of having strong and dynamic leadership in shaping its future.
As we continue to see new talent emerge and established names make strides, it’s clear that the music industry is constantly evolving and adapting. These developments serve as a reminder that in this fast-paced industry, one must be willing to take risks, embrace change, and always be open to new opportunities.
So, whether you’re a music industry veteran or an aspiring artist, take inspiration from these latest developments and continue to make your mark in this ever-evolving world of music. Who knows, you could be the next big move in our next weekly roundup.
