Craig Kallman
Warner Music Group (WMG) today announced that renowned music executive Craig Kallman has been appointed Chief Music Officer for the company. Based in New York, Kallman will report directly to WMG’s CEO Robert Kyncl.
In this elevated role, Kallman will provide his deep A&R expertise across WMG’s artist roster and label group globally. The move comes following his nearly 35 years at Atlantic Records, where he served as Chairman and CEO of the label for two decades before transitioning to Chief Music Officer.
At the same time, Kallman will continue to sign new artists to Big Beat, the pioneering label that he originally founded in 1987 and has been part of WMG since he joined the company in 1991. Moving forward, each of Big Beat’s artists will be worked by one of WMG’s US labels.
The first Big Beat signing by Kallman in his new role is up-and-coming artist and producer Elkan, who produced Drake and PartyNextDoor’s smash, “NOKIA.” Elkan will be releasing his debut EP entitled The Baby Bundle this Friday, December 12, via Atlantic Records.
Kyncl said: “Craig has helped shape the sound and direction of modern music, leaving a lasting imprint on artists, fans, and the industry at large. With decades of experience working at the highest level with the biggest stars, he will be an invaluable creative force and deep resource in his new post…helping drive and support A&R strategy and artist development across WMG, signing exciting new talent, and collaborating with our label leaders to bring bold, original music to the world.”
Kallman added: “I’m deeply grateful for my time at Atlantic, where I’ve had the privilege of contributing to the careers of so many remarkable artists. It’s been great seeing Elliot take the helm and open a bold new chapter in the label’s illustrious history. I am excited to take on this new role and work alongside our outstanding A&R teams around the world, while reimagining the Big Beat brand as a force across genres. As my first signing, Elkan is a statement of intent, which underscores my commitment to nurture and champion extraordinary, trailblazing talent.”