Warner Chappell Names Austen Adams President of Nashville Division

Warner Chappell Music publishing has named Austen Adams president of its Nashville operation, the company announced today. He will report to Warner Chappell’s co-chairs, CEO Guy Moot and COO Carianne Marshall, effective September 15.

Adams joins from powerhouse entertainment company Big Loud, where he served as chief operating officer of its publishing and label divisions for six years, working with such artists as Morgan Wallen, Hardy, Miranda Lambert, Ernest, and Stephen Wilson Jr., among many others. According to the announcement, Adams played a key role in that company’s explosive growth, which saw its staff expand from 30 to 100 people and its songwriters, including co-founders Craig Wiseman and Joey Moi, score 90 No. 1 hits and three Grammy Awards. Adams’ two-decade career also includes roles in artist management and 15 years as an entertainment attorney.

He takes on the role previously occupied by former president-CEO Ben Vaughn, who passed away in January.

In a joint statement, Moot and Marshall said: “Austen is a class act, with trusted relationships across the industry, and a holistic understanding of both the creative and the commercial. Given our longstanding, successful partnership with Austen, Seth, and the Big Loud team, this is a very natural move for both him and us. We’re excited about what he’ll contribute to Warner Chappell and the songwriting community, nurturing the culture in Nashville, while finding fresh ways to bring its talent global opportunities. With Austen and our amazing team on Music Row, we know the commitment, integrity, and humanity of Ben Vaughn’s legacy will be carried into the future.”

Adams said: “I’ve always believed that songs and songwriters are the soul of our business. Which is why I’ve been a longtime admirer of what Ben Vaughn and the Warner Chappell team have built. I’m deeply honored to be entrusted with leading the next chapter. Together, we’ll champion storytelling, protect creativity, and help songwriters share their visions in bold and impactful ways. Thank you to Guy and Carianne for their trust in me, and to everyone at Big Loud – especially Seth, Craig, and Joey – for their faith and support these last six years.”