Dave Rocco, who was recently named Global Head of Artist and Label Marketing at Spotify, has joined Universal Music Group as Executive Vice President, Creative.
In his newly created role, Rocco will advance Universal’s efforts to leverage artists’ music and brands across established and emerging channels.
He will also develop innovative digital campaigns and work with UMG’s labels around the world to accelerate artists’ storytelling through coordinated global strategies with its commercial partners.
Rocco’s departure from Spotify follows that of a string of executives that formed part of the streaming service’s Artist & Label Services and Artist Marketing teams.
He was named to lead a newly unified division earlier this year after joining as Head Of Artist Marketing in New York in 2016, following four years as EVP, Music Creative Director at advertising giant Deutsch.
While at Spotify, Rocco worked with a number of top artists, developing campaigns to connect with audiences around the world.
From May 15, he will be based at Universal’s global headquarters in Santa Monica and report to Sir Lucian Grainge, UMG’s Chairman and CEO.
“Dave has a unique ability to create powerful narratives that bring together artists and fans, and I’m confident he will be a great resource for our labels and partners around the world.”
sir lucian grainge, universal music group
Grainge said: “I’m thrilled to welcome Dave to Universal Music Group, where he will build on our ability to connect artists at every stage of their careers with even larger audiences.
“Dave has a unique ability to create powerful narratives that bring together artists and fans, and I’m confident he will be a great resource for our labels and partners around the world.”
Rocco added: “Universal Music has always been ahead of the curve when it comes to advancing the careers of their artists through thoughtful and cutting-edge campaigns.
“I’m excited to join the incredible team already in place and to help elevate the careers of some of the most artistically and commercially successful artists in the industry.”Music Business Worldwide
