Warner Records Inks Bolton As VP/A&R
• Kelly Bolton has joined Warner Records as VP of A&R. Working out of Nashville and reporting directly to EVP/Head of A&R, Karen Kwak, Bolton will collaborate closely with Co-Chairman & CEO Aaron Bay-Schuck on signing, developing, and cultivating Country artists for the Los Angeles-based label, which has firmly committed to building a new vanguard of Country-leaning superstars.
Bay-Schuck said, “I’ve known Kelly for years, and her ear for talent is impeccable. She’s widely admired not only in the Nashville artist and songwriter community, but throughout the industry. Her addition to the team enables us to have boots on the ground in Music City with the advantage to actively engage, sign, and develop new artists hands-on. The potential to make a major impact is limitless.”
Bolton most recently served a five-year stint at Ashley Gorley‘s Tape Room Music, rising from VP of Creative to SVP, A&R and building a roster of 15 songwriters. Throughout her Tape Room tenure, the roster earned 25 Country No. 1s, while Gorley personally notched a staggering 40 No. 1s. Prior stops include Big Deal Music, where she signed and developed talent both in Nashville and Los Angeles. Bolton launched her career in publishing at Black River Entertainment over a decade ago, where she proved instrumental to the careers of Kelsea Ballerini and others.
Bolton commented, “I’m excited for this new role, and I’m honored to have the ability and latitude to take these artists to a mainstream label. It’s a unique position. Living and working in Nashville and helping artists reach a global platform is the best of both worlds. I’d like to thank Aaron, Tom [Corson], Karen, and the entire team for this incredible opportunity.”
Bolton may be congratulated at Kelly.Bolton@warnerrecords.com. [Photo Courtesy of Jessica Amerson]
