Kirk Sommer Named Musexpo’s International Music Person of the Year
Image Credit: Charlie Gross
A Recognition Decades in the Making: Musexpo has named Kirk Sommer, WME’s senior partner and global co-head of music, as its International Music Person of the Year for 2025. The honor will be formally presented at a VIP Awards Gala Luncheon on March 24, 2026, in Burbank, California, as part of the weeklong Musexpo conference
Sommer’s influence on the industry is difficult to overstate. From his start in the WME mailroom in 2000 to representing some of the biggest acts of the 21st century including Amy Winehouse, Adele, Andrea Bocelli, Arctic Monkeys, Benson Boone, Billie Eilish, and The Killers Sommer has helped shape the global music landscape.
The Industry Impact of Kirk Sommer’s Career
Sommer’s work has been defined by an ability to identify and cultivate world-class talent while guiding artists through the rapidly evolving music business. In an era marked by streaming disruption, changing touring models, and globalized fanbases, his approach has combined traditional artist advocacy with a forward-looking vision.
Sat Bisla, president and founder of A&R Worldwide and Musexpo, summed up Sommer’s influence:
“Kirk M. Sommer has not only shaped the careers of some of the world’s greatest musical voices but has also helped redefine what it means to be a leader in today’s ever-evolving music industry. His deep respect for artists, his commitment to mentorship, as well as his strong global perspective and vision make him an exceptional choice for this honor.”
The award signals industry recognition not just for Sommer’s client roster, but for his role in bridging markets, genres, and generations of music fans.
A Week of Industry Networking and Vision
Musexpo 2026 will bring together executives, creatives, and innovators for a slate of events, including the Global Synch & Brands Summit, the A&R Summit, and sessions on media and technology’s future in music. Sommer will also participate in a keynote conversation, offering rare insight into his professional journey and the lessons learned from two decades at the top.
Other Notable Music Industry Moves
- Warner Music Group has appointed Lo Ting-Fai (Lofai) as president of Warner Music APAC. Reporting to CEO Robert Kyncl, Lofai will oversee recorded music markets across Asia-Pacific. Formerly CEO of PCCW subsidiary MakerVille and COO of streaming platform Viu, Lofai brings both creative and commercial expertise to the role.
- Red Bull Records has signed Pynk Beard (Sebastian Kole), an award-winning songwriter and country artist, ahead of his debut EP “Red Dirt Diaries” this fall.
- YoungLA has tapped Grammy-winning rapper Lil Baby for its latest streetwear campaign launching August 13.
- Adidas has announced DJ-producer Uncle Waffles as part of its “Superstar: The Original” campaign, joining a roster featuring Samuel L. Jackson, Missy Elliott, Jennie, Anthony Edwards, Mark Gonzales, GloRilla, Teezo Touchdown, and Gabbriette.
- 5020 Records, a Sony Music imprint, has signed Carla Morrison, the Latin Grammy-winning singer-songwriter known for her indie pop and alternative sound.
Why Sommer’s Recognition Matters Now
In a moment where the music industry is both hyper-global and fiercely competitive, leaders like Sommer set the tone for how talent development and artist representation can evolve. His career trajectory from the bottom rung of the mailroom to global music leadership serves as a case study in persistence, adaptability, and the value of building genuine relationships in an industry often defined by rapid turnover.
For younger professionals entering music, Sommer’s recognition sends a clear message: long-term impact is built on both vision and staying power.
