Larry Mestel, Founder & CEO of Primary Wave Music, joins NMPA Board of Directors

Primary Wave Music founder and CEO Larry Mestel has been appointed to the Board of Directors of The National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA).

Mestel had over 30 years experience working at multiple record labels before founding Primary Wave, an independent music publishing, marketing and talent management company in the United States.

New York-headquartered Primary Wave has acquired rights to music by the likes of PrinceBing CrosbyLuther VandrossChris IsaakTeddy PendergrassGerry Goffin,  James Brown and many others.

The company also recently acquired all rights of Regent Music Corporation and Jewel Music Publishing Co., Inc., the publishing catalogs founded by music publishing legends Gene Goodman and his late brother, Harry.

Before founding Primary Wave Music, Mestel was Chief Operating Officer and General Manager of Virgin Records, where he was responsible for marketing, sales and business-related aspects of the company.

During his tenure there, he worked with artists including The Rolling Stones, Janet Jackson, Jermaine Dupri and Lenny Kravitz.

From 2000 – 2004, Mestel was Executive Vice President and General Manager at Arista Records, managing sales, international and strategic marketing, A&R and marketing administration, finance and business affairs.

While at Arista, he helped develop artists such as Avril Lavigne, Outkast, Usher, Pink, Carlos Santana and Dido.

Mestel also held the position of Chief Operating Officer for Island Entertainment Group, which included Island Records, Island Music Publishing and Island Pictures.

“Larry has always had great vision about where the business is headed.”

Irwin Robinson, NMPA

Irwin Robinson, NMPA Board Chairman, said: “Larry has always had great vision about where the business is headed and has closely fostered the careers of some of the most talented songwriters in the world.

“I am thrilled to welcome him to the board and know he will make an immediate impact as we confront so many exciting changes and massive challenges.”

“I have known and respected Larry for many years.”

David Israelite, NMPA

David Israelite, NMPA President & CEO, added: “I have known and respected Larry for many years and am so excited to have him on our board as we lead the charge for music creators to be properly valued, a mission Larry takes very seriously.

“He has been a strategic leader in all facets of our industry and was ahead of the curve on many of the biggest trends we’re seeing today.

“Known for his passion and commitment to creators, his insight and experience will be huge assets to our leadership.”

“I am honored to work with David, Irwin and the rest of the Board members.”

Larry Mestel

Larry Mestel, said: “I am honored to work with David, Irwin and the rest of the Board members.

“I have admired David Israelite’s tenacity, intellect and commitment to the artist and publishing community for over a decade.

“The NMPA is a vital partner for those that create and own songs and I’m looking forward to making a meaningful contribution to its mission.”Music Business Worldwide

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