New Era at Warner Music Group: Craig Kallman Named Chief Music Officer

In a move set to shape Warner Music Group’s (WMG) global creative direction, long-time A&R veteran Craig Kallman has been appointed as the company’s Chief Music Officer (CMO). Reporting directly to WMG CEO Robert Kyncl in New York, Kallman steps into this elevated role to apply his three decades of deep A&R expertise across WMG’s worldwide artist roster and label group.

A Career Defined by Hits and Artist Trust

Kallman’s appointment follows a remarkable nearly 35-year tenure at Atlantic Records, where he served as Chairman and CEO for two decades (2005–2024), overseeing the careers of global stars like Bruno Mars, Cardi B, Lizzo, and Lil Uzi Vert. His creative fingerprints are even on some of music’s biggest hits; he co-produced Cardi B’s chart-topping I Like It. His philosophy, as highlighted in a past interview, centers on artist trust: “Artists sign to people who believe in them, and they want to know you’re going to be there to fulfil the dreams you’re promising them.” This artist-centric approach, combined with his dedication to “sonic excellence” driven by his passion as a world-renowned vinyl collector, will now define WMG’s global A&R strategy.

Big Beat Gets a Global Remix

Alongside his new corporate duties, Kallman will continue to personally sign artists to Big Beat, the label he originally founded in 1987. The label will be “reimagined… as a force across genres,” with its future artists being worked by Atlantic Records and Warner Records. The first sign of this new direction is up-and-coming artist and producer Elkan, who previously worked on Drake and PartyNextDoor’s hit NOKIA. Elkan’s debut EP, The Baby Bundle, is set for release this Friday, December 12. Kallman called the signing a “statement of intent, which underscores my commitment to nurture and champion extraordinary, trailblazing talent.”

CEO Robert Kyncl praised the decision, stating that Kallman “has helped shape the sound and direction of modern music, leaving a lasting imprint on artists, fans, and the industry at large.” Kallman’s new role as Chief Music Officer promises a renewed focus on creative excellence, leveraging his legendary A&R instincts and commitment to fostering a collaborative environment to drive WMG’s future.