Josh Van Valkenburg has been named Executive Vice President, Creative, at Sony Music Publishing Nashville.
Van Valkenburg will be responsible for leading the team’s A&R strategy, supporting SMP Nashville’s roster, developing new talent, and delivering new opportunities for the company’s songwriters.
He reports directly to Rusty Gaston, the CEO of Sony Music Publishing Nashville.
Throughout his career, Van Valkenburg’s signings have garnered over 70 No.1 hits on Country radio, says the company.
He has worked alongside songwriters and producers including 4-time BMI Songwriter of the Year Ross Copperman, Jon Nite, Lindsay Rimes, Chris DeStefano, and 2021 ASCAP Songwriter of the Year Josh Osborne, as well as artist/songwriters such as Brett Eldredge and Chase Rice.
Van Valkenburg was recently recognized in Variety’s 2020 Hitmakers list, thanks in part to his support of SMP’s contributing songwriters and producers on Gabby Barrett’s No. 1 record I Hope.
Prior to becoming EVP, Creative, Van Valkenburg held the position of SVP Creative, and has spearheaded SMP Nashville’s creative efforts since 2015, says the company.
He has been with the company since 2005, launching his music publishing career at EMI Music Publishing.
He was later promoted to the A&R team as Creative Manager in 2008, and in 2012 Van Valkenburg joined the Sony/ATV creative team as Creative Director.
“We’re just getting started on an incredible journey.”
Josh Van Valkenburg
Josh Van Valkenburg, said: “Our Sony Music Publishing family is committed to lifting up and empowering all of our songwriters, from Nashville to the entire world.
“This ethos begins at the top with Jon Platt and Rusty Gaston, to whom I am so grateful for this opportunity. I’m so proud of our entire Nashville team and our recent wins as ASCAP and BMI Publisher of the Year.
“We’re just getting started on an incredible journey and I’m fired up to be a part of it!”
“Josh is one of the smartest music publishing executives.”
Rusty Gaston, Sony Music Publishing Nashville
Rusty Gaston, CEO, Sony Music Publishing Nashville, added: “Josh is one of the smartest music publishing executives I have ever met.
“He leads the way in thinking strategically with every songwriter on our roster, and he takes actions that lead to results.
“We couldn’t be prouder to have him on our team.”Music Business Worldwide
