ABBA co-founder Björn Ulvaeus has been appointed President of CISAC (International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers), which represents more than 230 authors societies in over 120 countries.
Björn Ulvaeus and ABBA’s Benny Andersson are one of the most successful songwriting duos of all time, and according to CISAC, Ulvaeus “brings a deep understanding of the creative industries and the systems that help authors get fair payment for their works”.
Ulvaeus was elected President by CISAC’s General Assembly, which took place in a virtual meeting today (May 29) and succeeds French electronic music pioneer Jean-Michel Jarre, who held the CISAC Presidency role for seven years.
As CISAC President, which has a three-year term, Ulvaeus “will support the organization’s work to secure stronger rights, more royalties, better systems, and improved conditions for creators across five repertoires – music, audiovisual, visual arts, drama and literature,” according to a release announcing his appointment to the role.
“CISAC has a unique international authority, and I believe passionately in its mission to secure better, fairer terms for creators.”
Björn Ulvaeus
Björn Ulvaeus, said: “I have made a great living as a songwriter and an artist, and I have been fortunate enough to have enjoyed a lot of success.
“Now, as President of CISAC, I am happy to have a different kind of opportunity, to try and help the next generation of creators in their working lives. CISAC has a unique international authority, and I believe passionately in its mission to secure better, fairer terms for creators.
“I am also interested in how the technologies we use can work better, earning creators fairer rewards for their work and more royalties. I am therefore very excited about the opportunities ahead and looking forward to our collaboration”.
“Björn has an extraordinary track record – as a creator himself, as a champion for creators’ rights, and as an expert in the systems which ensure creators are fairly paid.”
Gadi Oron, CISAC
CISAC Director General Gadi Oron, added: “Björn Ulvaeus has moved us, inspired us and lit up our lives with his songs and creations.
“I am absolutely thrilled that he has decided to take on the role of CISAC President, to support us in our mission to serve creators internationally.
“Björn has an extraordinary track record – as a creator himself, as a champion for creators’ rights, and as an expert in the systems which ensure creators are fairly paid.
“These qualities will be invaluable to CISAC’s work and we look forward immensely to collaborating with him”.Music Business Worldwide
