Universal Music Group (UMG) has hired Apple Music's JJ Corsini (pictured right) and Chris Hovsepian (left) as SVPs, artist development.
The pair, who both served on Apple's global artists relations team since the launch of the streaming service, will work alongside UMG’s repertoire sources in more than 60 countries to develop and coordinate long-term development strategies for UMG artists at all stages of their careers. They will be based at UMG’s global headquarters in Santa Monica, LA.
Sir Lucian Grainge (pictured), UMG’s chairman and CEO, said, “To maximise the global success of our artists at every stage of their careers and capitalise on the worldwide growth in music consumption, we are committed to building the most progressive and innovative global artist development team the industry has ever seen. I’m pleased to welcome JJ and Chris, who bring with them a strong track record for developing impactful narratives around artists that particularly resonate in streaming and social context.”
We are committed to building the most progressive and innovative global artist development team the industry has ever seen
Sir Lucian Grainge
Universal Music Group
At Apple Music, Corsini and Hovsepian helped create and program Apple Music’s global new artist initiative Up Next, which has featured UMG artists including Billie Eilish and Juice Wrld, as well as program select playlists and Beats 1 shows including Zane Lowe’s programme and Best of The Week.
Andrew Kronfeld, EVP of marketing, added: “I have admired the success that JJ and Chris have had at developing innovative strategies for artists on Apple Music and I’m thrilled to have them join our global team. At UMG, we have consistently demonstrated that a global hit can be in any language and come from anywhere in the world. JJ and Chris will further our efforts and leverage the strength of our global organisation behind the best roster of artists in the world.”
“Artist development is the most critical, yet overlooked and underserved process, in the music industry,” said Corsini. “Investing time and resources into artist development requires commitment and an understanding that patience and a common goal are the most core elements of growth. Chris and I have been on the same page with Sir Lucian about that since day 1. We are both very excited for this incredible opportunity.”
Additionally, Corsini and Hovsepian were responsible for identifying artists across every genre and every territory, including UMG artists Maggie Rogers, Jessie Reyez, Dean Lewis, Benny Blanco, Trippie Redd and Murda Beatz, and developing strategies to raise their profile.
“UMG shares our vision of embracing quality over quantity and our commitment to enhancing and executing the artist’s vision,” added Hovsepian. “Quick wins may be more frequent than ever, but the artists who take time to build a foundation are the ones who will have long careers. JJ and I look forward to working with Sir Lucian, Andrew Kronfeld, Dave Rocco, the extended team and of course UMG’s amazing artists.”
