Steve Markland
Music publishing veteran Steve Markland has joined Utopia Music, a Swiss Music fintech company. As Vice President for the company’s Nashville presence, Markland will help Utopia Music expand into the United States.
Markland has nearly three decades of experience working with songwriters, most recently in his role as Executive Vice President, Creative in the Nashville office of Downtown Music Publishing. Prior to joining Downtown, Markland served as VP of A&R at Warner Chappell Music. From 1996 to 2006, he was Vice President, Creative Affairs at Windswept Music Publishing. Markland began his publishing career learning from veteran Pat Higdon at Patrick Joseph Music
In his new role, Markland will be responsible for setting up and rolling out Utopia’s activities in Nashville. He will report directly to Utopia Music COO, Roberto Neri, who leads the company’s operations and is responsible for expanding its international office footprint.
“I’m delighted to join Utopia on its mission towards ‘Fair Pay for Every Play’ and ultimately create new income streams for creators,” shares Markland. “Utopia’s vision is to focus on all sides of the music industry in a way that will immensely benefit writers and artists. As the number one growth partner worldwide, Utopia will leave a lasting positive impact on the wider music ecosystem.”
Working alongside Markland is Natalie Osborne, who is also joining the Utopia Music team. Osborne was fundamental in helping sign and develop artists at Downtown Nashville such as Yola Carter, Madi Diaz, Fancy Hagood, Sarah Buxton, Lucie Silvas, the Brummies and more. She also was a key part of developing the successful international writer travel program, Writer’s Across Borders.
“We are so pleased to welcome Steve and Natalie to Utopia Music,” adds Neri. “I have known Steve for many years and throughout his career he has worked passionately for Nashville’s songwriter and artist community, championing local talent and growing the city’s global profile as a music destination. Steve’s commitment to creators chimes perfectly with Utopia’s mission to deliver ‘Fair Pay for Every Play’ on a global scale and we are so excited to start this journey with him.”
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