Julian McGruther appointed Senior A&R at Sony Publishing Australia

There is activity in A&R at Sony Music Publishing Australia, where Julian McGruther has been appointed Senior A&R, a new role.

Effective immediately, McGruther will be tasked with further driving the company’s local A&R efforts, with a focus on signing and developing local talent and building successful careers for the major music publisher’s songwriters.

He reports directly to Craig Hawker, Head of A&R/Creative at Sony Music Publishing, and works closely with Alliyah Fareo, A&R Assistant/Scout.

“We are delighted to welcome Julian to the Sony Music Publishing family,” Hawker said 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, make 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 after seven years as Creative Director at Mushroom Music, where he worked closely with artists such as Budjerah, Amy Shark, Jem Cassar-Daley, Nat Dunn, Shungudzo, Mona Khoshoi and Sam Tompkins.

“Julian’s appointment marks a crucial new chapter for Sony Music Publishing Australia and I am delighted to have him on the team,” commented Damian Trotter, Managing Director of Sony Music Publishing Australia. “Julian has an excellent reputation both at home and abroad for his integrity and as a highly creative individual.”

Earlier this year, Sony Music Publishing acquired the complete song catalog and future works of Tame Impala, the forerunner of Kevin Parker, expanding a contract that began in 2009.

In 2023, the Sydney-based subsidiary of Sony Music Publishing signed The Rions to a worldwide 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 more.