Drew Thurlow
Drew Thurlow
Music Partnerships & AI Strategy Leader | Ex-Sony/Warner/Pandora | Speaker, Author, Advisor
Specializations:
Experience:
Music industry veteran with over 20 years spanning artist, executive, and technology roles. Former professional musician signed to Atlantic Records. Held leadership positions including Senior Vice President of A&R at Sony Music and key roles at Pandora and Warner Music focused on artist partnerships and industry relations. Founder of Opening Ceremony Media advising music companies on digital transformation and AI adoption. Sought-after speaker, Billboard contributor, strategic advisor to funds like Mindset Music, and author of the upcoming book "Machine Music: How AI is Transforming Music’s Next Act" (Routledge, 2026).
Areas of Support:
Building a musictech product, startup, or platform? Get guidance on ethical AI integration in music, from rights management to practical strategies that improve efficiency, unlock new revenue, and support independents. With a full-stack view blending creator empathy, label expertise, and tech foresight, help teams adopt generative AI tools, optimize workflows, ensure fair compensation, and build commercially sound innovations aligned with fan behavior and regulations. Ideal for AI strategy, partnerships, or thoughtful adoption of emerging technologies in sustainable musictech solutions.