UMPG Names Co-Heads Of A&R
• Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) has appointed David Gray and Walter Jones as Co-Heads of A&R. Helming UMPG’s bi-coastal U.S. hubs, Gray (left) has relocated to New York City and Jones (right) will remain based in Santa Monica. Jody Gerson, UMPG Chairman & CEO, said, “David and Walter are accomplished A&R executives who have helped develop some of the brightest creative talent. David is a respected and experienced executive who has built tremendous success with Shawn Mendes, Jonas Brothers, Demi Lovato and Logic. Walter is an excellent leader and trusted publishing A&R for H.E.R., Quavo, Lil Baby and Metro Boomin. Together, they form a strong partnership and lead the best A&R team in the industry.”
Gray most recently served as EVP, Head of West Coast A&R and is responsible for the signing of numerous multiplatinum artists, including Shawn Mendes, Nick Jonas, Joe Jonas/DNCE, Demi Lovato, Logic and Delacey, among others. He previously did A&R at Zomba and David Massey‘s Daylight Records imprint at Sony Music and was SVP of A&R at Syco Music. Gray started his career as a songwriter signed to UMPG and was the lead singer of the band Idle Wilds (RCA Records).
Jones joined UMPG in 2017 as VP, Creative and serves as publishing A&R for top artists including H.E.R., Quavo, Lil Baby, Metro Boomin, Lil Yachty, CuBeatz, Quay Global, City Girls and others. Before joining UMPG, Jones’ major signings included Alessia Cara, A$AP Rocky, Kid Ink, OT Genesis, G-Eazy, MadeinTYO, A$AP Ferg, Pusha T and DJ Marley Water. Jones earned his first Grammy Award this year for co-producing H.E.R.’s Best R&B Album. Gray said, “There is more opportunity than ever before for songwriters and UMPG is honored to play a key role in supporting talent who moves culture. I very much look forward to the future, and am grateful to Jody for her confidence in me and her support of our team.” Jones commented, “I’m excited to co-head UMPG’s incredible A&R team and am inspired by Jody’s commitment and mentorship to new executive talent. I look forward to this exciting new chapter and thank Jody Gerson for giving me the opportunity to contribute to the company’s growth, innovation and success.” [David Gray photo: UMPG; Walter Jones photo: Ron Goodman]
