Warner Chappell Music (WCM) has promoted Lázaro Hernández to the position of Senior Vice President, A&R, US Latin & Latin America.
In this elevated role, Hernández, a seasoned A&R executive, will continue to report to Gustavo Menéndez, the President of US Latin & Latin America, WCM said in a press release announcing the promotion on Friday (January 26).
Hernández’s responsibilities will expand to include leading the US Latin A&R team and shaping the overall A&R strategy of WCM in Latin America.
Hernández is recognized for his contributions to signing prominent Latin music artists and songwriters such as Chencho Corleone, Gabito Ballesteros, and María Becerra. These artists have had several global hits in 2023, WCM said.
He has been with WCM since 2008 and held the position of VP since 2020, overseeing a roster of artists, songwriters, and producers. The roster includes Andres Torres & Mauricio Rengifo, CASTA, Chris Jedi, Gaby Music, GALE, Jhayco, Natanael Cano, Pedro Capó, Paulo Londra, Piso 21, Rauw Alejandro, Vibarco, and breakout artist Villano Antillano.
“There are more opportunities than ever before for Latino songwriters to share their music with the world, and I’m grateful for my role in that.
Lázaro Hernández, Warner Chappell Music
Commenting on his appointment, Hernández said: “I have so much gratitude for Warner Chappell. I get to work with a passionate team and help our songwriters get to the core of their creativity. There are more opportunities than ever before for Latino songwriters to share their music with the world, and I’m grateful for my role in that. I’m eternally thankful to Gustavo, [WCM Co-Chair and CEO] Guy [Moot], and [Co-Chair and COO] Carianne [Marshall] for believing in me and entrusting me with this opportunity.”
Menéndez said, “Láz is one of the most talented A&R leaders in the industry, and I’ve had the fortune of working with him for over 15 years, witnessing not only his growth as an executive but also his ongoing commitment to our songwriters.”
“[Lázaro Hernández’s] drive is unstoppable, and he has such an intuitive approach to working with artists and songwriters, spotting hidden talent, and helping to develop their songwriting careers.
Gustavo Menéndez, Warner Chappell Music
“His drive is unstoppable, and he has such an intuitive approach to working with artists and songwriters, spotting hidden talent, and helping to develop their songwriting careers. I couldn’t be more excited for him as he takes on this next role.”
Hernandez’s achievements extend beyond his professional role, as he was recognized in Billboard‘s annual Pride list in 2020 and 2023, celebrating LGBTQ executives shaping the industry. In 2017, he was also featured in the 40 Under 40 list by Billboard.
The promotion came a day after Warner Music Group launched a new headquarters and creative hub in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The new hub brings Warner Music Brazil, Warner Chappell Music Brazil, and ADA Brazil under the same roof.
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