Julian McGruther Appointed Senior A&R At Sony Music Publishing Australia

Sony Music Publishing Australia has announced the appointment of its new Senior A&R, Julian McGruther, with the music industry professional to begin the position effective immediately.

McGruther joins Sony with decades of experience. For the last seven years, he’s been the Creative Director at Mushroom Music and has worked closely with publishing clients from Australia and abroad, including Amy Shark, Budjerah, Nat Dunn, Jem Cassar-Daley, and more.

At Sony, McGruther will directly report to Craig Hawker, Sony Music Publishing’s Head of A&R/Creative. He’ll also work with Alliyah Fareo, the company’s A&R Assistant/Scout, as part of a team that further advances Sony’s local A&R efforts, signing and nurturing local talent, and helping to build successful careers for the roster of songwriters at Sony Music Publishing.

Of the new role, McGruther revealed in a press release, “I’m so happy to join the Sony Music Publishing team and to be representing such a diverse and talented roster of songwriters. I’ve been lucky to collaborate with Damian [Trotter], Craig, Liyah and the team over the years and have always respected their taste and passion.”

McGruther continued, “Championing local music and the people who make it is a privilege, and I am ready to roll my sleeves up and get to work supporting the incredible songwriters at Sony Music Publishing and amplifying their unique stories and careers.”

Hawker added that Sony Music Publishing is “delighted” to welcome him to the family, stating that McGruther’s “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.”

“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.

Damian Trotter, the Managing Director of Sony Music Publishing Australia, said, “Julian’s appointment marks a pivotal new chapter for Sony Music Publishing Australia, and I am extremely excited to have him join the team. Julian comes to us with a stellar reputation both here and abroad for his integrity and as a highly creative individual.”

McGruther's appointment follows a couple of months for Sony Music Publishing Australia.

Last month, award-winning musician and filmmaker Macario De Souza (aka Kid Mac) signed a new deal with the company for the Australian market. In May, Sony Music Publishing acquired Kevin Parker's entire existing catalogue and extended his global deal for future works.