Big Loud COO/Records & Publishing Austen Adams has been named Pres. of Warner Chappell Music (WCM) Nashville, effective Sept. 15. He succeeds the late Ben Vaughn, who had been Pres./CEO until his passing in January (CAT 1/30). Adams joined Big Loud in 2019 from the law firm of Dickinson Wright Music (CAT 8/29/19). Prior to his law career, Adams worked in day-to-day artist management.

"I’ve always believed that songs and songwriters are the soul of our business," he says. "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."