Warner/Chappell as appointed ‘Big’ Jon Platt to the newly-created position of President, Creative – North America.
Platt will oversee Warner/Chappell’s A&R activities in North America, including in Los Angeles, New York and Nashville, as well as playing a key role in shaping the company strategy. Platt, who previously served as President of North America, Creative, for EMI Music Publishing, will report to Warner/Chappell Chairman and CEO, Cameron Strang, and will be based in Los Angeles.
During Platt’s 17 years at EMI, the hit-makers that he personally signed at the onset of their careers included Jay-Z, Kanye West, Usher, Drake, Ludacris, Mary Mary, Young Jeezy and Snoop Dogg. He also had a hand in renegotiating deals for Pharrell Williams and Sean “Puffy” Combs, as well as signing Beyoncé.
Under his creative guidance, EMI was named Billboard‘s Publisher of the Year for the past 12 years, and claimed ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Award for Publisher of the Year for 17 years running.
Cameron Strang said “Jon’s character, his leadership skills and his ability to identify, sign and nurture talent combine to make him one of the top executives in the music business. His unwavering commitment to songwriters and their music has led to his continued and long term success. His approach makes him a perfect fit with Warner/Chappell and an outstanding addition to our senior team. I look forward to working with him as we continue to grow Warner/Chappell and strengthen the services we provide to our songwriters and publishing partners.”
Jon Platt commented “Warner/Chappell is a creative force with an incredible heritage, a world-class roster of writers and a renewed sense of energy and purpose. Cameron and the team have already achieved great things and I am excited to begin a new chapter with them, helping drive that momentum. We share a common goal: to make Warner/Chappell the best home for today’s extraordinary talent and the songwriting stars of tomorrow.”Music Business Worldwide
