Michael Taylor, A&R Manager

Abstract

This chapter is an interview with Michael Taylor who is today joint managing director of Universal Music Group, Australia. At the time of the interview he was Australian VP of A&R for Universal and head of Island Records, a Universal imprint. Michael’s career began at Clark University where he booked nationally and internationally significant acts as President of the Student Entertainment Committee. His first music business job was at the William Morris Agency in New York. He then became an A&R scout for Columbia Records and went on to be A&R Manager at Madonna’s label, Maverick, and Senior A&R Director at Epic Records. In the mid-90s Michael founded the Go Big label, a project that fused music licensing with lifestyle sports, which he ran out of his kitchen in New York. In 2001 Michael moved to Australia to head up A&R at Sony Music. In 2008 he established Island Records Australia as General Manager. Michael was promoted to Executive VP of A&R Universal Music Australia in 2013 and in 2014 became co-Managing Director of the company. Michael’s interview shows how the A&R function extends well beyond the mere discovery of talent.