Universal Music Group has implemented a share buyback programme to repurchase the Euronext Amsterdam-listed company's own shares for an aggregate amount of €500 million to answer what the company's Chief Financial Officer Matt Ellis describes as "a meaningful dislocation in UMG's market valuation." It is the company's first buyback programme since it was floated on the Amsterdam stock market in 2021 by former parent company Vivendi. UMG said the shares will be purchased through a programme execu...

Sony Music has appointed Ezekiel Lewis as Chairman and CEO of one of the company's flagship labels, Epic Records. In this role, Lewis will report to Sony Music Group Chairman Rob Stringer.

Sony Music's Ezekiel Lewis

Lewis' elevation follows the announcement a few months ago that Sylvia Rhone would step down after over a decade at the helm of Epic Records. Lewis joined the label in 2018 as EVP, A&R and was most recently elevated to President in 2023. He was in charge of the A&R division...

Independent music publisher Spirit Music has appointed singer, songwriter, and musician David Ryan Harris as Vice President, A&R. Harris is also signed to Spirit as a songwriter and Spirit has become a JV partner with his company Peace Pourage. “I look forward to using my years of experience writing, touring, playing, and making authentic connections in the business and the world at large to bring value and new perspectives to the amazing team at Spirit,” said Harris. “I am thrilled to wel...