Apple Music is taking country more seriously.
The streaming platform has announced that it will open a dedicated office in Nashville later this year.
To pre-empt that expansion, Jay Liepis has relocated to Nashville to lead a team working with artists, songwriters, managers and labels across various genres.
Liepis has worked at Apple for over 13 years, focusing on music programming and industry connections.
Prior to Apple, he worked as Online Marketing Manager for Sony BMG Music Entertainment.
The major labels are very happy about the news.
“Jay is one of the brightest minds of our (well, his) generation and we are anxious for him to join our business and personal community.”
Mike Dungan, UMG
“Jay has been with Apple for a long time and has a clear understanding of the digital landscape,” said John Esposito, Chairman/CEO of Warner Nashville, according to Music Row.
“I’m thrilled he’s back in Nashville, he is a great collaborator. The work he’s done most recently for Ashley McBryde is just the tip of the iceberg. Can’t wait to see what else we accomplish together.”
“Jay is one of the brightest minds of our (well, his) generation and we are anxious for him to join our business and personal community,” said Mike Dungan, Chairman/CEO of Universal Music Nashville. “I can’t wait to take him to Arnold’s (Where every meal is our Sunday best) for beef tips and fried okra.”
“Excited, game changing, thanks be to god!” said Sony Music Nashville Chairman/CEO Randy Goodman.
“Jay’s move to Nashville is a reflection of Apple Music’s ongoing investment to our ever-growing and increasingly diverse music community,” says Sandbox Entertainment President/CEO Jason Owen.
“The impact that Apple has on our industry worldwide is undeniable, and it excites me to know that Nashville is a top priority. The expertise that Jay brings from his tenure paired with his long-term relationships with our city makes this move ideal on every level. Plus, he’s an awesome hang.”
“Jay’s creativity effortlessly crosses genres and thrives in an ever changing industry… I don’t know of a better suited person to raise the bar in Music City,” says Q Prime South’s John Peets. “Having Jay in Nashville is not only a win for the music industry, it is a win for the city.”Music Business Worldwide
