SAXOPHONIST AND composer YolanDa Brown, told her social media followers that she had to keep things quiet for a couple of weeks but she was ‘full of gratitude and joy’ to announce she had been appointed Chair of the BPI.
The BPI – the representative voice for independent and major record labels across the UK confirmed the news last week.
Brown takes over from film producer and ex-head of Sony Music UK Ged Doherty, who announced in February that he would be standing down after seven years in the role.
An acclaimed musician, composer and broadcaster, Brown enthused: “There is something special about British music – our artists across many genres and generations have been the soundtrack to people’s lives.
“The last few years have been challenging for our music community – we’ve had to evolve, listen more and show greater empathy, address past issues and collaborate to a much greater extent.
“There’s still more to do, but there are also so many exciting opportunities that lie ahead.”
The double MOBO Award winning artist added: “I am honoured to take on this role as Chair of the BPI. A big thank you to my predecessor Ged Doherty for his drive and dedication, which I will continue to build on.
“I am looking forward to working with the entire BPI Council and members, CEO Geoff Taylor and his team, labels of all shapes and sizes, and of course artists and the wider industry bodies as we all continue to fly the flag for British music.”
Geoff Taylor, Chief Executive BPI, BRIT Awards & Mercury Prize, said: “I am delighted that someone of YolanDa’s extraordinary talent and creative energy is joining the BPI as its new Chair, and I also welcome the fresh perspective that she will bring to our work at this pivotal and exciting time for British music.
“Her breadth of experience drawn from across so many parts of the music community will prove invaluable as we continue to support the success of our label members and their artists globally.”
Doherty, outgoing BPI Chair, said: “This is an exciting appointment for the BPI, and I congratulate YolanDa and wish her all the very best in the role.”
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