Universal Music Publishing Group Appoints Walter Jones VP Of Creative

15 February 2017 - Press release

Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) announced today that Walter Jones has been appointed VP Creative, it was announced today by David Gray, UMPG EVP/Head of West Coast A&R. 

Reporting to Gray, Jones will relocate to Los Angeles, and joins UMPG’s global A&R team from Sony/ATV, where he served as Vice President of Urban A&R.

Jones has placed a multitude of songs on major releases and signed some of music’s top songwriters and producers. His signings have included Alessia Cara, G-Eazy, ASAP Rocky, Kid Ink, OT Genesis,  MadeinTYO, ASAP Ferg, Pusha T, and DJ Marley Waters, co producer of Tinashe’s hit song “2 On.” Jones has also worked closely with hitmakers DJ Camper (Mary J. Blige, Jay-Z, John Legend), and August Rigo (Justin Bieber, One Direction, Chris Brown). In addition, he executive produced artist H.E.R.’s debut EP, Volume 1 (MBK/RCA). 

Jones is well-known for putting together writing sessions that generate hit singles such as Usher’s “Climax” (Elijah Blake) and “Let Me See” (Eric Bellinger/Lundon Knighten), and Chris Brown's "Back to Sleep” (August Rigo). He also paired up hitmaking team Tiyon "TC" Mack and Tamar Braxton, as well as orchestrated Pusha T and DJ Yogi’s collaboration “Burial,” which has generated over $1 million in sync revenue.

Jody Gerson, UMPG Chairman and CEO, commented: “I’m a big Walter Jones fan.  I love his passion for music and his deep relationships with the artist community. I am supportive of his growth as an executive and can’t wait to see what he achieves with us at UMPG.  

“As an experienced A&R executive who’s well-known for his great ears and ability to spot and nurture writers, Walter Jones is going to be a fantastic addition to our global team. I’m really pleased he’s joined the company,” said Gray.

“I am excited to join UMPG’s incredible team and inspired by their commitment to the roster and fostering of new talent. I look forward to this exciting new chapter, and thank Jody Gerson, Evan Lamberg and David Gray for giving me the opportunity to contribute to the company’s growth, innovation, and success,” said Jones.

Prior to Sony/ATV, Jones also was an international DJ and held the position of Director of Membership (Rhythm & Soul) at ASCAP.