Veteran Music Executive David Renzer Named Chairman At Spirit Music Group

NEW YORK, Jan. 21, 2014 — Spirit Music Group announced today the appointment of David Renzer to the position of Chairman. Renzer was previously Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG).

In the newly created position, Renzer will serve as an active chairman and play key roles in all areas of the thriving independent publisher.  He will work closely with the company’s financial partners, strengthen the company’s global platform, and oversee the development of new media initiatives.  Mark Fried will continue as President/ CEO and Renzer will work closely with Fried in growing the catalog, expanding A&R outreach, and developing and implementing the company’s strategic objectives.

“Spirit Music Group is one of the world’s leading independent music publishing companies with an incredible catalog, strong global platform and well poised for future growth.  Having started my career in the independent sector I believe now is an opportune time for the nimble, entrepreneurial independent. I’m excited to partner with Mark Fried and the entire Spirit Music staff and look forward to aggressively growing Spirit’s global operations,” stated Renzer.

In making the announcement, Fried said, “Spirit has enjoyed unprecedented growth over the last few years, and we are excited to add someone with such a rich history of accomplishment and vision as David’s to help us continue to re-define music publishing for the new millennium.”

In 15 years at UMPG, Renzer helped transform the publisher into a global powerhouse, overseeing activities in 57 offices located in 47 countries. He shepherded the company through a period of unprecedented growth which saw the acquisitions of such legendary catalogues as Zomba, Polygram, Rondor and BMG Music.

During Renzer’s tenure, major signings and renewals included the catalogues of Elton John/Bernie Taupin, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Robin Thicke, Justin Timberlake, U2, Keith Urban, Mariah Carey, Justin Bieber, Dave Grohl, Elvis Costello, Bon Jovi, 50 Cent, and Danny Elfman, among others.  In addition, during Renzer’s tenure the company was responsible for deals with Holland Dozier Holland and the Henry Mancini catalogs, Film/TV administrations deals with Warner Bros. Pictures/Warner Bros. Television, Dream Works, HBO, and others.

Renzer most recently worked at Saban, as President of Music Ventures.  He began his career at Zomba Music Publishing, where he served as Senior Vice President and General Manager. Zomba was named ASCAP’s R&B Publisher of the Year and Pop Publisher of the Year under his regime.

Renzer will be based out of both Spirit’s New York and Los Angeles offices.

Additional information on Spirit Music Group can be found at www.spiritmusicgroup.com.