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MUSEXPO has announced Kirk Sommer, senior partner and global co-head of music at WME, as the recipient of the 2026 “International Music Person of the Year” Award. The honor will be presented during MUSEXPO’s 26th global edition at its annual awards luncheon on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at Castaway in Burbank, Calif.
The prestigious award recognizes Sommer’s profound global influence and artist-first leadership within the music industry. Across his nearly 25-year tenure at WME, Sommer has earned a reputation for integrity, mentorship, and visionary representation — guiding the live careers of some of the most celebrated artists of the modern era. His roster spans genres and generations, including Adele, Billie Eilish, The Killers, Andrea Bocelli, Hozier, Arctic Monkeys, Sam Smith, Steve Aoki, Benson Boone, Lewis Capaldi, Nine Inch Nails, Foster the People, and Weezer, among others. Sommer also worked closely with the late Amy Winehouse, a testament to his long-standing commitment to nurturing emerging talent into global icons.
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In his current role as global co-head of music, Sommer helps steer WME’s worldwide strategy across touring, festivals, and live entertainment. His artist-first approach has earned him wide respect from peers and clients alike, shaping the careers of artists from their first club shows to sold-out arena and stadium tours.
Sommer’s accolades reflect his influence across the business. In 2025, he was named Pollstar’s “Agent of the Year” and inducted into New York University’s Hall of Fame. He’s been a mainstay on Billboard’s Power 100 for more than a decade, and has also appeared on Variety’s Top 500, Pollstar’s Impact 50, and PAPER magazine’s list of the most influential booking agents in the world.
Beyond his professional impact, Sommer and his family are dedicated supporters of causes focused on mental health, children’s welfare, and healthcare access.
