'Our hearts are broken': Warner Chappell pays tribute to songwriter Busbee

'Our hearts are broken': Warner Chappell pays tribute to songwriter Busbee

Warner Chappell Music has paid tribute to songwriter and producer Busbee, who has died aged 43.

Busbee, whose real name was Michael James Ryan, had worked with artists including Pink, Maren Morris, Garth Brooks, Lady Antebellum and Shakira,

He had reportedly been diagnosed with Glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer, and was receiving treatment.

Busbee had a publishing deal with Warner Chappell.

In a statement, the publisher said: “Our hearts are broken by the loss of our beautiful friend. He was an extraordinary human being whose generosity, spirituality and humor inspired everyone around him. An amazingly gifted songwriter, he used his talent, his music, and his love to break down boundaries and bring people together. He left us far too soon. Our deepest condolences go to his wonderful family and all his many friends. We love you.”

As well as working with Red Light Management, Busbee also had a partnership with Warner Records for his label Altadena.

In a memo, co-chairman and CEO Aaron Bay-Schuck and co-chairman and COO Tom Corson said; “Today we lost Busbee, a dear friend, business partner with his company Altadena, and one of the best and brightest creative minds in music. Busbee’s kindness and legacy will never be forgotten and our hearts and prayers go out to his family at this very difficult time.”

Busbee recently produced the bulk of Maren Morris’ album, Girl.

The Jonas Brothers dedicated a song to him at a concert in Tulsa during the weekend.



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