Executive Turntable
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It’s time for another spindle around the Executive Turntable, Billboard’s comprehensive(ish) compendium of promotions, hirings, exits and firings — and all things in between — across music. On Thursday we revealed this year’s Country Power Players list, where Big Loud partner and CEO Seth England was named top executive and WME’s Jay Williams earned the peer-voted Power Players’ Choice Award.
BMG‘s new head of global corporate communications is Kristal McKanders Dube, who joins the music company following a six-year tenure leading media strategy for Warner Chappell Music. McKanders Dube will stay in Los Angeles but report to BMG’s Berlin-based chief executive Thomas Coesfeld; her main role will be to spearhead both internal and external communications effort while also connecting the dots between BMG and its parent company Bertelsmann. Prior to joining Warner, where she held the position of svp of communications and marketing, McKanders Dube worked in the consumer brand and luxury hospitality space with IHG Hotels & Resorts, and agencies MSL Group and Jackson Spalding. She succeeds Steve Redmond as BMG’s communicator-in-chief.
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“It’s an exciting time at BMG with the company uniquely positioned for growth in a rapidly evolving music landscape, and we’re happy to have Kristal join us at such a pivotal moment and bring a fresh perspective to our business,” said Coesfeld. “Kristal’s innate storytelling ability, coupled with her expertise in corporate and music publishing communications, makes her an invaluable addition to our team.”
Meanwhile…
Arista Records upped their co-heads of urban music, Kendell “Sav” Freeman and Khris Riddick-Tynes, to senior vp of A&R. The NYC-based Freeman and LA-er Riddick-Tynes will continue reporting to Arista president David Massey. Since first being named co-heads of urban music in 2021, the pair have added heat to Arista’s roster in the form of rising artists Lola Brooke, Hurry Hazan and Skylar Blatt, while Riddick-Tynes has been instrumental in developing Paul “Lil Boo Thang” Russell. “We are excited for Sav and Khris to begin this next chapter in further elevating our artists around the world,” said Massey. “They have played an integral part in helping build and develop an impressive roster here at Arista … and we look forward to their continued leadership.”
Rebecca Sapp/Getty Images for Recording Academy
NASHVILLE NOTES: Academy Award nominated singer-songwriter Allison Moorer (pictured in 2019) and Rolling Stone magazine veteran Jon Freeman joined the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum staff as writer-editors, responsible for wordsmithing across exhibitions, publications, social media and more. The Hall also promoted Brad Henton to senior director of culinary, event and museum sales; Paige Maillet to director of guest experiences; and Kayleigh Shoemaker to director of public programs … Julien’s Auctions hired Cristy Barber as vp of pop culture and business development for its new Nashville office. She was most recently with legacy firm Iconoclast as vp of global marketing and brand partnerships.
Cliff Chenfeld joined Jonny Shipes’ GoodTalk as partner and advisor at the full-service entertainment company. Chenfeld co-founded Razor & Tie, and for years served as co-CEO of the indie label and publisher. If you’re a parent, you can also (hiss/cheer) at him for developing — along with his R&T co-founder Craig Balsam — the ridonculously popular Kidz Bop compilation series, which the pair sold along with Razor & Tie to Concord in 2018. “I’ve known Jonny for 15 years and have been amazed at his ability to identify special artists, to stay on the tip of cultural developments and to expand his vision of himself and his business,” said Chenfeld. “In addition, he is a hell of a lot of fun and a good friend. I have been very selective with how I spend my time since selling Razor + Tie and Kidz Bop and working with Jonny was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.”
Sarah Mitchell is now head of BMG‘s rights and royalties operations across both music publishing and recordings in the UK and across Europe. Mitchell joined BMG in 2022 as svp of neighboring rights and in her tenure has already inked deals with Coldplay, Pete Townshend and Christine & The Queens, among others. In her new capacity as svp of rights and royalties, the London-based exec will handle rights and royalty management for most non-U.S. dealings, and she’ll work with clients on copyright administration, analytics and accounting across recordings and publishing. She reports to Sebastian Hentzschel and sits on the BMG UK board. Prior to joining BMG, Mitchell was director of membership & communications at UK neighboring rights society PPL. “Over the past two years Sarah Mitchell has proven to be a significant addition to BMG’s London-based leadership with an incredible network in the artist and business communities and an impressive ability to think differently and make things happen,” said Alistair Norbury, president of BMG UK.
Italian rock label Frontiers landed Tom Lipsky as its new head of A&R of North America. Lipsky is the former head of several rock and heavy metal labels, including Loud & Proud Records, Sanctuary Records and CMC International Records, which he co-founded, and the indie Carry On Music. Napoli-based Frontiers is the Italian home of a bevy of rock greats including Def Leppard, Winger, Night Ranger, Mr. Big, Blue Oyster Cult, YES and Electric Light Orchestra, among others. Lipsky’s remit is all about translating the label’s bellissima vision for North America. In a statement, Lipsky said he and Frontiers founder Serafino Perugino “share a common vision regarding the continuing relevance and value of veteran artists,” adding, “I look forward to working with him and his team to make Frontiers the label home of choice for the artist community.”
Tixr, the primary ticketing platform based in Santa Monica, Calif., hired industry veteran Steve Oberman as the new vp of partnerships. In his new role, Oberman is tasked with growing the fast-expanding company across music and other industries both in North America and internationally. He joins Tixr from See Tickets, where he was evp and head of music. Prior to entering the ticketing game, Oberman worked in day-to-day management of artists — Stone Temple Pilots and Velvet Revolver come to mind — at Frontline and Azoff Music Management. Other recent US-based hires at Tixr include Ravi Durga, also formerly of See Tickets, as director of partnerships; Amir Mozafari, ex-DICE, as nightlife partnerships specialist; and Matt Stallknecht, formerly of NASCAR, as partnerships executive. “Tixr’s platform is the future of modern ticketing and e-commerce,” said Oberman. “The team’s speed to innovate and ship products, eye for design, and unique approach to problem-solving is second to none.”
Label, publisher and distributor Empire Nashville promoted Heather Vassar to senior vp of operations and Sarah Beth Gerlecz to director of business and legal affairs. In addition, Hannah Galluzzi has been hired as director of A&R, having previously worked in A&R at Universal Music Group Nashville for six years. Empire artists Shaboozey, Reyna Roberts and Willie Jones were featured on Beyonce’s album Cowboy Carter, while Shaboozey has the current Billboard Hot 100 No. 3 song “A Bar Song (Tipsy).” The label has teamed with Magnolia Music Group to take “Bar Song” to country radio. –Jessica Nicholson
Four industry veterans launched Fixated, described as a one-stop shop for creators, fans and brands with a goal of “reshaping the digital entertainment landscape.” Co-founders of the company include CEO Zach Katz (ex-president and COO of FaZe Clan, president of BMG North America), president Jason Wilhelm (co-founder Talent X/Sway House and Content Labs), chief studio officer Dean Johnson (co-founder Content Labs), and chief content officer Luc Boulch (content creator). The leadership team of Fixated is rounded out by Phil Ranta and Ali Adab, as chief operating officer and chief growth officer, respectively. “We are this generation’s fans who went on to become creators,” said Boulch. “In doing so, we made virality our religion. And now, whether it’s talent, content or gaming, we have a science for driving traffic to our ecosystem like no one else.”
Music marketing veteran Joe Aboud officially launched consultancy firm 444 Sounds, with a roster including Sony Music, UnitedMasters, Major Recordings and artists such as Jung Kook and Enrique Iglesias. Aboud was most recently vp of marketing and streaming at HITCO, and prior to that worked as a marketing manager at Atlantic Records.
Music Venue Trust hired Sophie Brownlee as external affairs manager and Kimberley Goddard as fundraising manager. The UK charity with a laser-focus on protecting grassroots venues also said it promoted Sophie Asquith to venue support team manager. “These new appointments will bring real experience and energy to Music Venue Trust,” said Beverly Whitrick, COO of MVT. “It is vital that, at a time when the challenges facing the grassroots music sector continue to mount, we can offer support, expertise and guidance to the venues we work with.”
SAVOR, the hospitality arm of ASM Global, added Jason Dowd as senior vp of culinary and innovation, and Craig Condra as regional vp of food and beverage. Combined, the pair have roughly 46 years of experience in the culinary and hospitality business. “At SAVOR we take the force of decades of international experience and implement a hyper-local approach, offering our clients unique culinary innovations of the highest levels while also carefully tailoring services at each venue according to the region it operates,” said Shaun Beard, svp of SAVOR. “With Jason at the helm of the company’s culinary innovation program and Craig managing the facilities at the regional level, we are fully equipped to continue delivering this signature service and unparalleled experience to all of our clients.”
LIVE, a trade group advocating for 16 live music industry associations, appointed Ross Patel to lead sustainability issues as the org’s first-ever Green Impact Consultant. Patel has many hats on already as co-founder and CEO for Whole Entertainment and chief strategy officer at UMA Entertainment Group. Plus, in June 2021 Ross joined the Music Manager Forum as a board member to help them advocate for climate action.
ICYMI:
Lu Mota
Pete Ganbarg is stepping aside as Atlantic Records’ president of A&R to launch Pure Tone Records, a joint venture with the label … Delia Orjuela is the new head of creative Mexican music/música mexicana at Warner Chappell Music … Luis “Lu” Mota left Columbia to join Atlantic as executive vp of A&R.
Last Week’s Turntable: Island Def Jamming With New VP
Concord Label Group has promoted Joe Dent to executive vp of operations and Jill Weindorf to executive vp of marketing, the company announced Tuesday (April 30). Weindorf is based in Los Angeles while Dent is located in Concord’s Nashville headquarters.
The promotions, some of the first under newly-appointed Concord Label Group CEO Tom Becci, aim to modernize Concord’s structure to support an expanding roster of talent while increasing the company’s ability to sign, develop and support artists within the global ecosystem.
Weindorf began her career in marketing at Elektra Records and has spent 17 years at Concord. In her new role, she will lead marketing efforts across Concord’s eight active labels and, in conjunction with Concord’s label presidents, continue to develop career artists globally.
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Dent previously spent a decade at Fat Beats Distribution, where he rose to GM. Since joining Concord, he has led the charge to stabilize the company’s vinyl pipeline during the COVID-19 pandemic, increased its in-house spatial audio capacity and developed a business-to-business (B2B) system for interacting with artists. In his new capacity, Dent will continue to concentrate on improving processes across the active label and back-office teams. He will also build further internal system efficiency and interconnection while working with external partners on capacity, supply chain and process efficiencies.
“Music is about connection and Jill’s ability to devise a marketing strategy in concert with an artist, while considering their priorities, who they are, the place they want to be, and then work tirelessly in support of that plan is unparalleled,” said Becci in a statement. “Having Jill in this role will certainly allow Concord to remain competitive in an increasingly complicated and global market. Joe has an incredible understanding of how to look at a classically messy system, identify areas for improvement, and make real and lasting corrections. I have no doubt that Joe will continue guiding Concord towards further operational efficiencies in support of our artists.”
“My focus has always been the artists and music,” Weindorf said in a statement. “Concord has offered me the opportunity to build long-term trust with so many career artists and I love being part of the journey with them. I’m also excited by our legacy recordings and the depth and historical relevance of our catalog. Many executives don’t get the chance to work across such a wide breadth of repertoire; I have been here for 17 years, and I am still excited by that opportunity every day.”
“What I genuinely appreciate about Concord is that, despite our size, we are still incredibly nimble,” added Dent. “If we believe there is a superior way that we can do things, there is a reasonable chance that we will do it that way. I’m incredibly grateful for the trust that so many amazing artists put in us and I’m excited to continue finding ways we can better support them. This really is a dream come true for a punk from New Jersey.”
Fonovisa-Disa, Universal Music Group‘s regional Mexican label, has appointed Ana Martinez to U.S. GM. Based in Los Angeles, Martinez, a 19-year music industry veteran, will report directly to Antonio Silva, MD of Fonovisa-Disa for the United States and Mexico.
“The legacy that Fonovisa has historically created, mainly across Mexican music, has been the inspiration and reference for entire generations, and will continue to build long into the future,” Martinez said in a statement. “With the current moment in Latin music, it is exciting for me to join a company and team of this nature, to herald a new era for this historic label, where our music continues to elevate, leaving its mark on history and culture, not only across Latin music, but also globally.”
Martinez previously spearheaded strategy and relations as part of Amazon Music’s global Latin team, where she carried out global campaigns for the likes of Bad Bunny, Karol G and Shakira, as well as multi-platform Amazon livestreams, including Maluma‘s concert from Medellín in 2022, ”Medallo En El Mapa.” Prior to Amazon, she spent seven years at Universal Music México, joining the company as label manager of Anglo repertoire before landing the role of marketing director.
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“I am very excited about the integration of Ana Martínez to the team, her experience across different fields of the industry complements our business vision and strategy for the Fonovisa-Disa roster,” added Silva. “I fully trust that her ability to foster success across projects will further strengthen our vision of generating global hits for Mexican music in the future.”
Martinez’s appointment comes just months after Alfredo Delgadillo was appointed as president/CEO of Universal Music México. Of Martinez’s return to Universal Music Group, Delgadillo said: “Ana is always connected and thinking ahead of the market and this, together with her extensive experience across the Latin music industry from independent labels, booking and production of concerts, artist management, her time in specialized magazines and most recently in her position at Amazon Music, will further nourish our ecosystem and help Fonovisa-Disa to maintain its position as the leader of Mexican music in the world.”
It’s time for another spindle around the Executive Turntable, Billboard’s comprehensive(ish) compendium of promotions, hirings, exits and firings — and all things in between — across music.
Sony Music Germany appointed Jean-Sebastien Permal and Jenny Walzer to run noted. records, the label giant’s newly launched electronic music imprint. A&R and strategy at the Berlin-based label will be handled by Permal, whose day job is vp of A&R for Europe & Africa, while marketing and operations will be the purview of Walzer, also a senior product manager at Sony Music. The label’s first signing is DJ-producer Anfisa Letyago, whose first track on noted. — “Feelin” — was just released.
Germany is the fourth-biggest market for recorded music, growing 7% in 2023, according to IFPI’s latest global report. The country also has the most dance music listeners on Spotify, on a monthly basis, according to figures via the annual IMS Business Report. Another key finding in that tome: “The global dance music business is now firmly in its post-pandemic growth phase,” with 17% annual growth and a valuation of $11.8 billion.
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“Electronic music as a genre has never been as potent as it is today,” said Permal. “We recognized the need to provide a home for artists with a strong and unique musical and visual identity. We are thrilled to have Anfisa Letyago as our first signed artist and are incredibly ambitious about her project.“
Meanwhile…
ASM Global named veteran sustainability strategist Lindsay Arell as its first-ever chief sustainability officer. The company’s portfolio already boasts more than 50 green certified venues, and Arell’s appointment speaks to its “leadership and commitment to sustainability,” says chief executive and president Ron Bension. Arell said she will will continue to lead Honeycomb Strategies, her 14-year-old consulting firm advising sports and events industry leaders on sustainable strategies. “I’m thrilled at the chance to spearhead ASM’s sustainability initiatives working alongside our teams and communities across our over 400 global venues.” Arell said. “By providing our venue teams with the necessary knowledge and resources, we can accelerate the progress of our program significantly.”
Reservoir made a slate of key promotions at Big Life, its UK-centric artist management agency. Kat Kennedy, Colin Roberts and Claire Kilcourse were promoted to partners, with Kennedy also taking on a new role as managing director, the company said. Combined, the trio have clocked roughly 46 years at Big Life — no small fete. “They’ve all shown incredible loyalty to the company,” said Big Life co-founder Tim Parry. “The longstanding relationships they have built with their clients are testament to their dedication, thoughtfulness, and expertise as managers, and I look forward to the continuing success they will bring to the Big Life brand.”
Samantha Sklar
Position Music promoted Samantha Sklar to vp of A&R at the Virgin Music-distributed indie publisher. Sklar, who joined Position in 2022 following a fruitful tenure at Warner Chappell Music, recently found success with the signing of Jack LaFrantz, who co-wrote Benson Boone’s hit “Beautiful Things.” While at WCM the A&R exec notably signed Stephen Kirk, co-writer of BTS’ “Butter.” Position Music head of A&R Mark Chipello dubbed Sklar a “publisher through and through [who] has an incredible drive to serve writers and create opportunities for them.”
Como No‘s founder Andy Wood announced he’s stepping down as director of the U.K.-based Latin music promoter company after 40 years, with Elena Beltrami unveiled as the new director. Wood will stay on as a non-executive board member. “On a daily basis I have felt humbled by the breadth of talent from Latin America and beyond that I have had the good fortune to work with,” said Wood, who formed Como No in 1985 and founded La Linea Festival, which just wrapped its 24th edition. “It’s been a privilege to work within a culture that I love, and with artists that I love in this great city of ours, for incredible audiences and with supportive venues and partners.” –Griselda Flores
AIM and BPI appointed Roxy Erickson as project manager of its ramped-up Music Climate Pact. The pact, initiated by the two UK organizations, works to bring music businesses together to take collective action to combat the climate crisis. The pact’s signatories include BMG, Beggars Group, Ninja Tune, Partisan Records, Secretly Group and the big three majors. Erickson is co-founder of Creative Zero, a collective of like-minded professions working to “generate positive environmental and social impact throughout the creative industries,” according to its website.
ALL IN THE FAM: Pam Sturchio is Billboard‘s new regional vp of brand partnerships, effective immediately. The Chicagoan joins Billboard after more than 10 years at Conde Nast, where she oversaw Midwest sales for the media company’s sprawling portfolio of brands … We also welcomed Lilian Gonzalez as our new e-commerce writer, based in Los Angeles. She was previously an associate producer at POPSUGAR, where she focused on all things beauty and fitness (including the Dance Fitsugar video series).
Joanne Hunter and Renata Muniz launched a new media and brand strategy agency called Out of Office Group. The partners, who both served as vps of media and brand strategy at Def Jam Recordings, have hit the ground running and are already working with several breakout acts, including KenTheMan, Shanae and Genia, among others. You can reach the LA-based Hunter and the NYC-based Muniz at info@outofofficegroup.com.
Dan P Carter, longtime curator of ‘The Rock Show’ on BBC Radio 1, joined Spinefarm Music Group as director of artist development. The London-based rock n’ roll evangelist will work alongside the Spinefarm team to sign and develop artists, and is set to report directly to general manager Jonas Nachsin. Other recent Spinefarm hires include Leah Devine and Tristan Pratt as marketing managers. Spinefarm’s current roster includes Bullet For My Valentine, Atreyu, Airbourne, Killing Joke, Black Label Society and While She Sleeps, among others.
Please & Thank You, an agency specializing in VIP events & experiences, hired a couple veterans of the experiential arts. Meg Pollaro is the Eddie Meehan-founded company’s new vp of business development and partnerships, following notable roles at CAA, WME/Endeavor and Superfly. At P&TY, she’ll connect the dots between brands, consumers and artists. Jason Barrett joined as vp of strategy and development following a GM role at WMX, the creative services division of Warner Music Group. At his politely named new job, Barrett will focus his efforts on creating long-term deals for artists, managers and agents.
Kendra Whitehead
NASHVILLE NOTES: Brown Sellers Brown welcomed Kendra Whitehead as director of artist relations and day-to-day management of Joe Nichols. The veteran radio promoter previously banked 11 years with BMG, specifically with Wheelhouse Records and Red Bow Records … The Folk Alliance International named Jennifer Roe executive director of the organization after holding the post in an interim capacity. She was previously the FAI operations director.
Recording Academy veteran Jeriel Johnson is celebrating early successes following the launch of Telescope Arts & Music Group, his own artist management and consulting company. Johnson, former executive director of the Academy’s DC chapter and most recently a senior director at UMG, announced that his first signing, Bajan singer-songwriter Ayoni, signed a record deal with Def Jam Recordings earlier this month. Johnson is also co-producing the next United States Army Field Band album and, as an artist, helped write a new track on Shenseea’s forthcoming album. You can reach Johnson at jeriel@telescopearts.com.
Endeavor hired public policy executive Matt Kaplan as vp of government relations. Kaplan was most recently director of public policy at Meta, with prior experience at Instacart and Lyft. In DC, he has worked for Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and the Biden-Harris campaign in 2020. His appointment at Endeavor was first reported by Variety.
Greg Kastelman joined Park Avenue Artists as co-director of artist bookings, working alongside co-director Devi Reddy. Kastelman spent the last five years running his own booking agency and brings to PAA a roster that includes Brazilian singer Badi Assad and Ethio-American singer Meklit Hadero, among others. “PAA’s approach reaffirmed my confidence that artist managers and agents could be compassionate and forward thinking, affirming artists in their journey,” Kastelman notes. “I am thrilled to be working alongside Devi and the agency to tackle big challenges and embrace unique opportunities.”
BOARD SHORTS: Indie music publishers trade body IMPF elected six new members to its board at its 2024 general assembly in Dublin. They are Emily Stephenson (Downtown Music Publishing), Rosa M. Vizcaíno Gómez (Ediciones Musicales Clipper’s), Claudia Mescoli (Edizioni Curci), Tatjana Bukvić (Tin Drum Music), Cecilia Léon Rodrigo (Ediciones Joaquín Rodrigo) and Denise Andrikopoulou (D-Version Music Publishing) … The National Association of Broadcasters elected five new members to its NAB Radio Board: Mary Menna (Beasley Media), Chris Forgy (Saga Communications), Erik Hellum (Townsquare Media), Tim Swift (Bonneville) and Jerry “J” Chapman (Woof Boom Radio).
Symphonic Distribution hired BMG and UMG veteran Stephen Nightingale as vp of A&R and business development, Canada. Reporting to Symphonic’s chief creative officer, Randall Foster, Nightingale will be responsible for expanding the independent music distribution and marketing company’s roster and building up its partnerships in the region. Based in Toronto, Nightingale was most recently vp of recorded music in Canada for BMG. Earlier in his career, he was a marketing and business development exec at Universal Music Group.
ROYAL TEA: Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have a new executive communications team in place. Charlie Gipson is director of communications and will be point of contact for all UK and European media outlets. Kyle Boulia is deputy press secretary and director of communication for US media relations and is based in Los Angeles. They replace Miranda Barbot, who has been upped to vp of programs and media operation for the D&DofS.
ICYMI:
Elliott Wilson
Gary Roden abruptly resigned as general manager of Oak View Group’s Co-op Live, the UK’s biggest arena that’s been beset with hiccups ahead of its opening … Audacy reduced its workforce by “less than 2%” … Elliott Wilson was named editorial director of UPROXX, HipHopDX and Dime magazine … Kelli Skye Fadroski joined the AEG-owned Crypto.com Arena, Peacock Theater, and L.A LIVE as Manager of Communications.
Last Week’s Turntable: ‘Tiny Desk’ Maestro Has New Job
The troubled launch of Co-op Live, the United Kingdom’s biggest entertainment arena, has hit further difficulties with GM Gary Roden resigning from his role just a few days ahead of the venue’s already delayed opening.
Roden’s exit was announced late Thursday evening (April 25) U.K. time by Jessica Koravos, president of Oak View Group (OVG) International. “Gary Roden has decided to resign,” said Koravos in a statement. She went on to thank the outgoing exec for “his help bringing the UK’s newest arena to live entertainment fans” and wished him “the best for the future.”
Replacing Roden in the position of interim GM is Rebecca Kane Burton, who ran the U.K.’s highest-grossing venue, London’s The O2 arena, from 2012 to 2016 before serving as CEO of LW Theatres. Burton takes over at Co-op Live with immediate effect, said Koravos.
The change of leadership at Co-op Live follows a tumultuous week at the 23,500-capacity venue, which was originally due to open on Tuesday (April 23) with the first of two consecutive shows by British comedian Peter Kay.
Those plans were postponed after a heavily publicized preview show at the Manchester arena 48 hours prior, headlined by Rick Astley, which saw Co-op Live cut capacity, resulting in large numbers of fans’ tickets being canceled on short notice as the venue was not ready.
Two days later, Co-op Live announced that Kay’s opening shows were being rescheduled to Monday (April 29) and Tuesday (April 30) to give operators “the extra time we need to continue testing” the building’s infrastructure and power supply, according to a venue spokesperson.
At the time of publication, representatives of Co-op Live had not responded to inquiries from Billboard asking if the two Kay shows were still going ahead next week — or if a 10,000-capacity test concert by The Black Keys scheduled for Saturday (April 27) was still taking place.
Koravos’ statement doesn’t mention either upcoming event and simply says, “We are focused on opening Co-op Live.”
Set to be the United Kingdom’s biggest and most sustainable arena, Co-op Live is the first major project outside the United States from Oak View Group (OVG), the Denver-headquartered global management and development giant co-founded in 2015 by Tim Leiweke and Irving Azoff. (Harry Styles, who grew up in the small Cheshire village of Holmes Chapel, around 30 miles outside of Manchester, is an investor in the project and advised on aspects of the venue’s design).
Prior to his sudden and unexpected exit on Thursday, Roden had sparked ire from U.K. trade body The Music Venue Trust for comments he made in an interview with the BBC in which he reportedly said that some small grassroots venues were “poorly run” and that calls for a £1 ticket levy from every arena ticket to support pubs and clubs was “too simplistic.”
Referencing those comments, Koravos said that “neither Co-op Live nor Oak View Group share the sentiment expressed by former Co-op Live General Manager Gary Roden regarding the grassroots industry.”
Koravos went on to say that the venue remains “committed to grassroots music in Manchester and beyond” and will donate over £1 million a year to good causes via the Co-op Foundation.
“Oak View Group and Co-op Live remain happy to meet with grassroots organisations once the venue is fully operational,” Koravos’ statement concludes.
Artists confirmed to perform at the venue this year include the Eagles, Take That, Liam Gallagher, Olivia Rodrigo, Nicki Minaj, Kid Cudi, Slipknot, Eric Clapton, Pearl Jam, Justin Timberlake, Noah Kahan and Megan Thee Stallion.
Elliott “YN” Wilson is re-entering the journalistic landscape after being named editorial director of hip-hop journalism overseeing UPROXX, HipHopDX and Dime Magazine. The news follows the announcement on Wednesday (April 24) that all three brands were acquired by media veteran Jarret Myer to form UPROXX Studios alongside Complex alum Rich Antoniello and will.i.am.
“I’m thrilled for this new chapter of my illustrious career and to work with proven winners like Jarret, Rich and will,” Wilson tells Billboard. “My focus is on elevating the three rising brands — UPROXX, HipHopDX and Dime — to greater heights and to help shape the future of media and culture. The fun begins.”
Wilson will continue holding down his role as co-host of the Rap Radar podcast with Brian “B. Dot” Miller. In the past, Wilson worked at TIDAL and also served as editor-in-chief of XXL from 1999 to 2008.
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UPROXX Studios will operate as an independent company, with Antoniello serving as partner/executive chairman and will.i.am aboard as partner/investor. The move to acquire the trio of brands along with other Warner Music Group assets comes about two months after WMG CEO Robert Kyncl announced in an internal memo obtained by Billboard that Warner was looking to find a suitor to offload HipHopDX and UPROXX after nearly six years in business together.
“We’re in an exclusive process for the potential sale of the news and entertainment websites UPROXX and HipHopDX, with more to say on that soon,” Kyncl said in February.
Will.i.am’s FYI AI technology and FYI radio will also be an integral part of UPROXX Studios’ operating systems in the ever-evolving media industry.
“Innovation is in our DNA,” will.i.am said in a statement. “Our continuous pursuit of developing new mediums and platforms will reshape the future of creative expression. We are crafting products and experiences so groundbreaking that they compel the world of media to evolve alongside us. This is our mandate as pioneers of culture.”
UPROXX Studios CEO Myer expects the company to be a pioneer in the media space with its investments in technology and forward thinking.
“We’re doubling down on growth. Expect significant investments in our brands, team, and the experiences we offer — both creators and audiences alike,” he added. “Through its partnership with FYI, UPROXX Studios embraces pioneering technology and also signals its commitment to fostering creativity and pushing the limits of digital expression.”
It’s time for another spindle around the Executive Turntable, Billboard’s comprehensive(ish) compendium of promotions, hirings, exits and firings — and all things in between — across music.
Shore Fire Media promoted five staffers to key leadership posts at the 34-year-old public relations agency. Allison Elbl, Matt Hanks, Mark Satlof and Rebecca Shapiro are now co-presidents at Shore Fire, while Jaclyn D. Carter has been promoted to senior vice president. Founder and CEO Marilyn Laverty will continue leading the Brooklyn-based firm while taking on an expanded role at Dolphin Entertainment, which acquired Shore Fire in late 2019. The agency’s roster includes Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, the Avett Brothers, Sylvan Esso, Hurray for the Riff Raff and Robert Plant/Alison Krauss, as well as corporate clients including Rhino, Secretly and Gateway Studios. Geographically, Elbl heads Shore Fire’s West Coast office in Los Angeles, while Carter helms the Nashville outpost and Hanks, Satlof and Shapiro hold down the fort in Kings County.
“These executives each put their imprint on Shore Fire in a unique and powerful way,” said Laverty. “They have shaped Shore Fire with their passions, creativity, broad interests and expertise. I’m so grateful to work with them and thrilled to recognize their leadership with the announcement of these new roles. I anticipate great success as Mark, Rebecca, Matt, Allison and Jaclyn drive innovation and growth for both Shore Fire and Dolphin in the future.”
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Meanwhile…
Sony Music knew there was something about Harri Davies, hiring the industry veteran as head of A&R at RCA Records UK, effective immediately. As his title confirms, Davies will be handling all things A&R for the label — scouting, signings, strategy, etc — and will report into co-presidents Glyn Aikins and Stacey Tang. He’s got over a decade of experience in the bank, most recently as senior director of A&R at Concord Music Publishing. Davies’ more notable signings in the line of duty include Krept & Konan, Imanbek, Flowdan and Tyla. “Harri embodies the globally-minded, creative spirit that has always been at the heart of RCA UK,” said Aikins and Tang. “His understanding of the music landscape and passion for nurturing artists will undoubtedly have a positive effect, steering our team and artists towards further global success.”
Monument Records promoted Casey Thomas to vp of marketing & commercial partnerships, with Ansley Neeley promoted to manager, marketing & creative. Boston native Thomas joined Monument from the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in 2018, serving first as a manager of PR; she was elevated to publicist and later director of marketing, publicity and creative. Alabama native Neeley began her career at The Greenroom PR, before joining Monument in 2021 as the label’s promotion coordinator, before adding in marketing coordinator responsibilities in aiding the setup of all label releases, planning artist events and overseeing/developing the roster’s creative elements. Monument Records’ roster includes Walker Hayes, Tigirlily Gold and Shelby Lynne. –Jessica Nicholson
Bob Boilen
Doby Photography/NPR
RADIO, RADIO: NPR legend Bob Boilen, creator of Tiny Desk Concerts and All Songs Considered, is the next program director at DC-area community station Takoma Radio (WOWD-LP). The station said Boilen will take over from Steve Hoffman, the PD since 2017, starting June 1. The native New Yorker departed NPR last October after a 35-year run, having left his mark as a digital pioneer as a long-time producer at NPR Music. “It’s a thrill to be a part of community radio with a spirit of commitment and imagination that this station and its volunteers offer,” said Boilen, who already hosts My Tiny Morning Show on the 8-year-old station … SiriusXM president and chief content officer Scott Greenstein signed a three-year extension of his employment agreement, stretching until May 24, 2027. The former movie executive (USA Films, Miramax) is celebrating 20 years at the satellite radio giant.
Secretly Distribution hired Rich Thane as the new associate director of artist and label strategy. Based in London and reporting to Josh Madell, director of artist and label strategy, Thane is tasked with growing Secretly’s client roster of indie labels and forming label services deals with management firms and estates, among other duties. Previously, Thane rose to senior director of global playlist strategy during an eight-year stretch at Warner Music, where he led teams across London, NYC and LA. Thane has also held a variety of positions at Eventim, Billetto and Amazon Music. “Rich’s passion for and knowledge of independent labels and artists is unparalleled, and he comes to Secretly Distribution with a wealth of close personal connections across the global music community,” said Madell. “Add to this his deep understanding of modern playlisting strategy, and it’s hard to imagine someone better suited to this role, as Secretly leans into our global growth.”
Nashville’s Big Loud Records is making some changes in its radio promotion department. Current vp of radio promotion Ali Matkosky will soon exit the company for a new role with Relative Music Group, while director of promotion Southeast Tyler Waugh will take over the role at the label, home of Morgan Wallen, HARDY and Dallas Smith. “Ali has been an integral part of this team and her contribution over the past six years has been nothing less than significant,” Big Loud Records svp of radio promotion Stacy Blythe said. “Tyler’s unwavering passion and dedication have propelled him to the role of vp of radio promotion, where his leadership will continue to inspire and drive success.”
Sony Music stalwart Pauline Duarte was named vp of Columbia Records France. She’ll oversee all operations at Columbia France in addition to her other gig leading Epic Records France. Duarte succeeds Laurent Chapeau, who joined Sony in 2008 in a business development capacity and has helmed Columbia’s French division since 2013. Duarte has been a member of the Sony fam for roughly 14 of the last 21 years, only taking a Def Jam detour in 2013 before joining Epic in 2020. As part of the reorganization, Franck Hiag has been named director of Epic Records France, reporting to Duarte. “The vision of Columbia that Laurent Chapeau has developed over the past decade is outstanding,” Duarte said. “I admire his work with iconic artists and his ability to spot young talents. I’m delighted to succeed him and to be able to help shape the future of the label while respecting its musical heritage.”
LiveCo, an independent concert promoter, hired live events veteran Chuck Steedman as its next president and CEO. Steedman takes over from co-founder Brian Becker, who has helmed LiveCo since it was formed two years ago by consolidating five indie promoters — BASE Entertainment, Premier Productions, Icon Concerts, Rush Concerts and Peachtree Entertainment — under one roof. Steedman arrives at LiveCo from private equity fund Raptor Sports Capital, where he was a principal, and previous roles include global evp of strategy and development at ASM Global and chief operating and development officer at AEG Facilities. LiveCo brands specialize in country, faith music, family shows and comedy, and have the backing of private equity fund Waterland. “LiveCo is a fantastic company made up of some of the most innovative and talented people and brands in live entertainment,” said Steedman. “I am humbled that Waterland and LiveCo leadership have chosen me to lead this incredible organization into a new era of providing experiences for fans, artists, and entertainers across our amazing platforms.”
ALL IN THE FAM: Penske Media Corporation launched PMC Brand Group (PMBG), an in-house agency dedicated to building licensing programs, partnerships and consumer products for PMC’s portfolio of brands including this one, plus The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, Rolling Stone, SXSW, The Golden Globes, VIBE and quite a few more. The PMBG team will be led by Thomas Ferguson, vp of licensing, partnerships and consumer products, with assistance from Laura Ongaro, associate vp of licensing and partner management, and Noelle Hickey, who is promoted to associate director of marketing and partner management.
Allie Gruensfelder
Allie Gruensfelder joined marketing agency The Syndicate as director of publicity. In her new role, Gruensfelder will focus on overall press strategy and creating opportunities for national and local media coverage for clients. Prior to The Syndicate, she led campaigns for Hoobastank, The Maine and other acts as vp of Trendsetter Media & Marketing. Gruensfelder will report to Jeff Kilgour, svp of business development, and work from the firm’s office in Weehawken, NJ. “Allie is an exceptional talent and her experience, creativity, and passion will be invaluable to the company,” said Kilgour. “She always brings innovative ideas to her campaigns and we’re thrilled to have her fresh perspective strengthen the team.” Reach her at allie@thesyn.com.
Sea Gayle Music executives Chris DuBois and JD Groover have joined with Geoff Ogunlesi of The Ognlesi Group to form a new management company, 1221 Artist Management. Groover will take on the title of vp of management at 1221 while keeping his senior creative director/A&R role at Sea Gayle. DuBois, who is CEO of Sea Gayle, and Ogunlesi will oversee 1221 while continuing at their respective operations. The execs see only benefits to adding management services to their arsenal. “In today’s publishing world, having turnkey management services is a natural way to grow and support an artist’s career,” said DuBois. Ogunlesi, whose LA-based management company counts Young Thug and Reyna Roberts as clients, said he found the right partners. “As our company has thought about expanding into the country space and into Nashville, we wanted to do so with integrity as I have the utmost respect for the culture and the people involved,” he said.
NASHVILLE NOTES: The Country Music Association promoted Michelle Kirk to senior director of integrated marketing, and Mary Overend to senior director of marketing. Kirk previously re-joined the CMA in 2019 after time at WME. Overend joined the CMA in 2015 following time at Carters/OshKosh B’Gosh … Ashley Gorley’s publishing company Tape Room Music elevated Caroline Hodson to director of A&R. The native Mainer joined TRM as an intern in 2020, the year she graduated Magna Cum Laude from Belmont University. “Caroline has been a rockstar since day one and is immensely deserving of this promotion,” shares president Blain Rhodes. “She is an integral part of our team, and our writers are lucky to have her in their corner.”
Melissa Newhart, an executive in UTA‘s music brand partnerships division and a former vp at Roc Nation, joined the board of directors of WhyHunger. The non-profit, which advances initiatives aimed at ending world hunger, also appointed philanthropist Jimmy Zankel to the board.
Max Cutler, former head of talk creator content partnerships at Spotify, launched a new multi-media storytelling company called PAVE Studios. According to the announcement, PAVE Studio will work to build a “unique ecosystem of genre-specific brands” creating hyper-targeted content across audio, video, books, live experiences and more. “Storytellers who successfully engage audiences and create fandoms through written, audio, and video content have led the charge in cultivating their robust communities into diverse businesses,” Cutler said. “PAVE Studios will set the stage for a better way of producing, distributing and consuming the world’s greatest original content, all while empowering creators, simplifying content discovery, and fostering vibrant fan communities.”
ICYMI:
Cindy James
The Verve Label Group promoted Joseph Oerke to executive vice president of Decca Records U.S., tasked with leading it into a “new era as the leading classical record company in America” … One-time executive of the week Cindy James was promoted to general manager of Virgin Music Group‘s operations in North America … and Telemundo‘s got a new structure.
Last Week’s Turntable: BMI’s New Digits
Cindy James has been promoted to general manager of Virgin Music Group‘s operations in North America, the company announced on Tuesday (April 16). The former executive of the week — and regular entry on Billboard’s Indie Power Players lists — joined the UMG-owned indie music distributor and label services company in 2019 as head of […]
Joseph Oerke has been promoted to executive vice president, Decca Records U.S., the Verve Label Group announced on Tuesday (April 16). “I love classical music,” Oerke said in a statement. “In fact, I moved to New York to study oboe and got my first job in the gift shop at the Metropolitan Opera. I think […]
Round Hill Music LP said Friday that producer and former American Idol judge Randy Jackson and management executive John Greenberg have joined the company as advisors.
Round Hill hopes the addition of Jackson and Greenberg will help it connect with a broader community of artists and further its ability “to source and secure early access to premium music rights investment deals in a competitive environment for high quality assets,” according to a press release.
Founded by Josh Gruss in 2010, Round Hill Music is a privately held fund that manages a portfolio of song rights worth around $900 million, according to the company. Concord acquired Round Hill’s publicly traded business, Round Hill Music Royalty Fund, last September in a deal originally valued at $469 million.
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Gruss said Jackson and Greenberg’s partnership will create business opportunities by reinforcing the company’s relationships with artists and songwriters.
“As one of the largest independent music rights holders in the world, we have big ambitions to grow our exposure to high quality, iconic music that stands the test of time and to continue to nurture the creator community through our wider group, which includes record labels, neighboring rights specialists and sync experts,” Gruss said in a statement. “We are looking forward to working with Randy and John to accelerate those ambitions and to continue unlocking music’s incredible potential on behalf of all our artists, writers and investors.”
A longtime musician and former A&R rep at Columbia Records and MCA Records, Jackson was an executive producer on the MTV series America’s Best Dance Crew as well as one of the original judges on American Idol.
Throughout his muti-decade career, Jackson has collaborated with Smokey Robinson, Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin and performed with stars like Mariah Carey, Bob Dylan, Billy Joel, Bon Jovi, Keith Richards, Journey, Carlos Santana, Bruce Springsteen, Jerry Garcia and Bob Weir. According to the release, Jackson has earned more than 1,000 gold and platinum plaques, with over 200 million albums sold worldwide.
Greenberg is COO/founder of management company Shorebreak International. Since 1988, he has worked with artists including Steven Tyler, Duran Duran’s John Taylor, Mötley Crue’s John Corabi, Duff McKagan, Nickelback and Ratt.