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IFPI chief steps down

By | Published on Friday 25 June 2010

I suppose there are only so many times you can ramble on about how illegal file-sharing is preventing labels from investing cash into new musical talent before you send yourself to sleep. Whether that’s behind John Kennedy’s decision to step down as CEO of the International Federation Of The Phonographic Industry I don’t know, but he is leaving the global trade body, that much is certain. Frances Moore, currently IFPI’s Exec VP and Europe Director, will takeover.

Various record industry chiefs lined up yesterday with quotes saying what a wonderful job Kennedy had done in his five years in the top job at the trade body, but I won’t bore you with them. Instead, here’s some words from the man himself: “I leave behind a fabulous team at IFPI well qualified to deal with the many and complex issues the recording industry has to deal with. Frances Moore will be the perfect successor to me at IFPI, and she is uniquely qualified to make a success of her new role. I wish IFPI continued success in assisting the recording industry with the ongoing challenges”.

Outlining his future plans, Kennedy added: “I am now going to pursue a plan I had before I was asked to take on this role – I am going to start a business management/agency business representing talent in the world of music, film, sport, TV and theatre. Artistic talent is, of course, at the heart of the music industry and I am looking forward to enjoying the commercial environment that this new venture will be operating in”.

His official statement concluded: “I promise not to mention piracy for a while!” We’ll be holding you to that John.



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