In remembrance of Barry McKee

16 February 2022 - Press release

Warner Chappell Music UK’s Popular Head of Administration Passed Away Aged 59

Barry McKee, the Head of UK Administration at Warner Chappell Music (WCM), has passed away aged 59.  Barry had worked at WCM for more than 30 years, first joining in 1988 and taking up his role as Head of UK Administration in 2008.

A keen golfer, who had played every course in Essex and many more, Barry was also a passionate football fan and a lifelong supporter of Tottenham Hotspur.  An enthusiastic tennis player, he could often be seen on the courts at Brook Green when WCM had an office nearby.

Barry was always happy to share his encyclopaedic knowledge and was particularly keen to nurture younger colleagues starting out in music publishing.  A well-known character, he was as happy chatting to the security team on the front desk as he was with the publisher’s superstar writers. 

He was a huge fan of punk music, bonding with his wife Margaret, who he met while they both worked at Warner Chappell, over a shared love of The Jam and Paul Weller’s solo work.  The couple were together for more than three decades, formally tying the knot and getting married last year. 

Claire McAuley, SVP, Global Administration, Warner Chappell Music, says: “Barry was a wonderful man who was steeped in knowledge about our writers and their catalogues.  He always had time to share his expertise with colleagues and was particularly keen to help younger members of the team who were making their way in the industry.  We’ll miss his wry humour, energetic enthusiasm and his unbridled kindness.  Our thoughts are with his wife Margaret and his family at this difficult time.”

Shani Gonzales, Managing Director UK and Head of International A&R, Warner Chappell Music, adds: “Barry’s reputation preceded him.  He made an indelible impression and will be remembered by generations of colleagues he mentored over the years, both at Warner Chappell and across the music business.  His passion for music publishing was legendary and he was always happy to share his knowledge and experience.  Barry’s extended family at Warner Chappell will miss him greatly, but carry fond memories of him forever.”

Donations to the MacMillan Cancer Support are very welcome.