Rob Wells, former worldwide digital boss at Universal Music Group, says he’s “incredibly excited” to join new London-based, music-focused social media company Crowdmix as its Global Chief Commercial Officer.
Crowdmix, which has been likened to ‘Instagram for music’, is still in beta, with an app due to launch in Q1 next year.
Crowdmix’s smartphone app presents consumers with a feed of posts from other users including 2,000 “influencers” – such as major artists and celebrities – who can share music and other updates with followers.
The UK company has raised £14m ($21m) this year alone, and says it’s in the process of raising another $20m-$30m.
In addition to his new title as Chief Commercial Officer, Wells also becomes Crowdmix’s new CEO for the Americas. MBW understands that Wells has not relinquished his advisory responsibilities at firms such as LoveLive and Revelator to take the Crowdmix gig.
“Helping build something truly unique is a very exciting proposition.”
Rob Wells, Crowdmix
The Crowdmix app promises to ‘enable users to develop and enjoy rich, social media experiences by joining crowds, or communities, of like-minded people, using music as the link’.
Wells, who left UMG in February after a 14-year tenure, will be based in Los Angeles, developing Crowdmix’s West Coast hub and driving the US-business as well as assuming responsibility for developing and implementing a commercial strategy for the company within the global entertainment sector.
As a key member of the Crowdmix Board, he will spend a proportion of his time at Crowdmix’s head office in London.
Ian Roberts, founder and CEO of Crowdmix said: “This appointment massively strengthens our senior team. Rob has been one of the most high profile and respected music industry executives of recent years with a well-deserved reputation for innovation and forward thinking. Bringing talent of his calibre into our team is thrilling and demonstrates our ambition for Crowdmix.”
Rob Wells added: “Initially sceptical, I quickly became incredibly excited by the scale of Crowdmix’s ambition, its ridiculously talented tech team, music industry support, strong funding and vision to give fans the social experience they crave.
“Helping build something truly unique is a very exciting proposition and I am looking forward to revealing more about our platform and plans as we move closer to launch early next year.”
Music Business Worldwide
