EVP Upgrade For Van Valkenburg

• Sony Music Publishing Nashville announced the elevation of Josh Van Valkenburg to Executive Vice President, Creative. In his lofty new position, Van Valkenburg will be responsible for leading the team’s A&R strategy, supporting SMP Nashville’s roster, developing new talent, and delivering new creative opportunities for the company’s songwriters.

Van Valkenburg reports directly to Rusty Gaston, CEO of Sony Music Publishing Nashville, who noted, “Josh is one of the smartest music publishing executives I’ve ever met. He leads the way in thinking strategically with every songwriter on our roster, and he takes actions that lead to results. We couldn’t be prouder to have him on our team.”

Van Valkenburg most recently served as SVP of Creative and has spearheaded SMP Nashville’s creative efforts since 2015. He’s been with the company since 2005, launching his music publishing career at EMI Music Publishing. He was later promoted to the A&R team as Creative Manager in 2008, and in 2012 Van Valkenburg joined the Sony/ATV creative team as Creative Director. Throughout his career, his signings have garnered over 70 No. 1 hits on Country radio.

“Our Sony Music Publishing family is committed to lifting up and empowering all of our songwriters, from Nashville to the entire world,” Van Valkenburg said. “This ethos begins at the top with Jon Platt and Rusty Gaston, to whom I’m so grateful for this opportunity. I’m so proud of our entire Nashville team and our recent wins as ASCAP and BMI Publisher of the Year. We’re just getting started on an incredible journey and I’m fired up to be a part of it!”