Julian McGruther Named Senior A&R at Sony Music Publishing Australia
There’s activity in the A&R ranks at Sony Music Publishing Australia, where Julian McGruther is appointed senior A&R, a new position.
With immediate effect, McGruther is tasked with further advancing the company’s local A&R efforts, focusing on signing and nurturing local talent and building successful careers for the major music publisher’s roster of songwriters.
He reports directly to Craig Hawker, Sony Music Publishing’s head of A&R/creative, and works closely with Alliyah Fareo, A&R assistant/scout.
“We are delighted to welcome Julian to the Sony Music Publishing family,” says Hawker in a statement. “His passion for music and deep understanding of the music landscape, combined with his proven track record of identifying and nurturing talent, makes him an invaluable addition to our team.”
He adds, “I have no doubt that Julian will play a key role in driving our creative vision forward and creating exciting new opportunities for our songwriters.”
McGruther joins Sony Music Publishing following a seven-year stint at Mushroom Music as creative director, where he worked closely with the likes of Budjerah, Amy Shark, Jem Cassar- Daley, Nat Dunn, Shungudzo, Mona Khoshoi, and Sam Tompkins.
“Julian’s appointment marks a pivotal new chapter for Sony Music Publishing Australia, and I am extremely excited to have him join the team,” notes Damian Trotter, managing director, Sony Music Publishing Australia. “Julian comes to us with a stellar reputation both here and abroad for his integrity and as a highly creative individual.”
Earlier this year, Sony Music Publishing acquired Tame Impala spearhead Kevin Parker’s complete song catalog and future works, expanding on a deal that began in 2009.
In 2023, the Sydney-based affiliate of Sony Music Publishing signed The Rions to a global deal, introducing the Northern Beaches indie rock group to a roster of homegrown talent that includes AC/DC, Hilltop Hoods, Thelma Plum, MAY-A, King Stingray, Brad Cox and others.