Former Island A&R head Annie Christensen to 'connect classic Warner Chappell songs to new audiences'

Former Island A&R head Annie Christensen to 'connect classic Warner Chappell songs to new audiences'

Warner Chappell Music UK has appointed Annie Christensen as vice president, catalogue. She will report into WCM UK president, Shani Gonzales. 

“In her new role, Christensen will lead the company’s UK catalogue acquisition and rights management strategy, sourcing new business opportunities and maximising the commercial and cultural value of Warner Chappell's legendary song portfolio,” said a statement. 

Warner Chappell said she will focus on “identifying high-quality music assets”, as well as building relationships with iconic songwriters, estates and rights-holders, and delivering strategic catalogue initiatives alongside the A&R, creative, sync and business affairs teams.  

Christensen is well established in the industry with Warner Chappell’s announcement highlighting her “two decades of elite A&R experience”. 

She spent 20 years at Island Records, starting as a work experience placement and marketing intern and then rising from A&R assistant to head of A&R. During her time at Island, she worked across multi-platinum selling acts such as Busted, The Feeling, The Fratellis, Keane and McFly, and signed and developed Ben Howard, FLO, Hozier, Mumford & Sons and Sigrid.

She has a fantastic track record in identifying culture-shifting talent and will unlock fresh and exciting opportunities for our incredible heritage

Shani Gonzales

Since 2023, Christensen has been lending her expertise as a freelance A&R consultant, collaborating with leading labels across Universal Music Group and a host of management companies. She has recently worked on projects including Self Esteem’s A Complicated Woman, Cian Ducrot’s Little Dreaming, Girli’s It's Just My Opinion and Luna’s Fairy Pop, and is currently working with ABBA’s Bjorn Ulvaeus on a new project.

Annie Christensen said: “Warner Chappell Music holds one of the most storied songbooks in music history, so it'll be a huge privilege to help lead the strategy that connects these classic songs to brand new audiences. Having spent my career on the frontlines of A&R, I’ve gained a unique perspective on what truly resonates with fans. I’m excited to apply that creative lens to championing timeless songs and driving new catalogue opportunities.” 

Shani Gonzales added: “As we continue to expand our catalogue footprint, Annie’s deep creative instincts, strategic foresight and understanding of the global market will be invaluable. She has a fantastic track record in identifying culture-shifting talent and will unlock fresh and exciting opportunities for our incredible heritage.”

 

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