Lilly Raye Music founder and entrepreneur to bolster Warner Chappell Music’s international songwriting network and its A&R strategy
Warner Chappell Music (WCM), the global music publishing arm of Warner Music Group (WMG), today announced the appointment of music executive and entrepreneur Edward Matthew to its International A&R team as VP, International A&R and Head of Creative, WCM Scandinavia.
Based in Stockholm, Matthew will report to Shani Gonzales (Managing Director, WCM UK & Head of International A&R) and Lars Karlsson, Managing Director, WCM Scandinavia. In his dual role, he will bring his extensive cross-border expertise and entrepreneurial vision to WCM’s global creative operations. Matthew will focus on driving international collaborations, leveraging his bridge-builder reputation to connect WCM’s roster with opportunities across WMG’s expansive global network.
Since relocating from the U.S. to Sweden, Matthew has become a pivotal figure in Europe’s creative scene. In 2019, he founded Lilly Raye Music, which has collaborated with WCM in a highly successful JV since 2019. The publishing and management company has become a powerhouse for songwriter development, bridging the gap between Scandinavian talent and the global stage. Last year, through Matthew’s leadership, Lilly Raye Music earned three GRAMMY nominations, achieved more than 10 Swedish No. 1s, and collaborated with global talent, such as BANKS, Doechii, GloRilla, and FLO.
Guy Moot, Co-Chair and CEO, Warner Chappell Music, said, “Edward is a rare talent who truly understands the fluidity of the global music scene. He has an incredible ability to identify world-class creative talent and provide them with the infrastructure to scale globally. We’ve seen what he’s built with Lilly Raye, and bringing his sharp A&R instincts and entrepreneurial spirit more deeply into our international A&R fold is a win for our entire global roster.”
Edward Matthew, VP, International A&R & Head of Creative, WCM Scandinavia, commented, “My mission has always been to build a creative ecosystem that empowers songwriters to transcend borders. Music is a global language, and Sweden is at the heart of that conversation. I’m incredibly excited to join Guy, Lars, Shani, and the entire Chappell team to make my vision a reality and create meaningful moments for our writers and artists.”
Lars Karlsson, Managing Director, WCM Scandinavia, finished: “Having worked closely with Edward through our partnership with Lilly Raye, I have seen firsthand his commitment to our songwriters and delivering the best for his team. He’s deeply respected in the Nordic region and at WCM for his integrity and ‘song-first’ approach. I look forward to seeing him hit the ground running, supercharging the team and the roster.”
