ASCAP Executive Action

• The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) has elevated Jackson Wagener to Senior Vice President and Head of General Licensing, effective Jan. 1, 2027.

Wagener is 12-year ASCAP veteran who has served as SVP, Business and Legal Affairs since 2020. In his newly enhanced role, Wagener will oversee the team that licenses ASCAP’s repertory of over 20 million musical works to restaurants, bars, hotels, airlines, fitness studios, live music venues and other establishments that use music to enhance their environment and attract customers.

Wagener reports to Stephanie Ruyle, ASCAP EVP & Head of Licensing, who commented, “Jackson pairs deep legal expertise with a clear sense of what licensees want and music creators need in today’s world. In a rapidly changing market, he is uniquely equipped to pioneer the kind of innovative licensing solutions that make it easier than ever for businesses to utilize music, while ensuring songwriters are fairly compensated for performances of their work.”

“As technology reshapes the music landscape, ASCAP keeps evolving and innovating to deliver more value for our business partners and our songwriter members,” said Wagener. “I am thrilled to join the incredibly talented General Licensing team at a time when their work matters more than ever to the music creators we represent.”