Kevin Brown to exit Spotify by the end of 2017

Kevin Brown is departing Spotify, where he is head of artist and label services UK and international, at the end of the year. He first joined Spotify in 2013 and is one of the most senior industry-facing leaders at the company. During his tenure, Brown helped improve relationships between the company and artists. Several well-known streaming hold-outs, including Radiohead and Coldplay, reversed or softened their stance on the distribution method while he held the position. Brown has not yet shared any further specifics about his departure or what his next move will be.

Spotify saw several changes over the course of 2017. The streaming service saw several new hires, including two former execs from Pandora and a Disney veteran. Most recently, the company announced an arrangement with Tencent and Tencent Music Entertainment to buy minority stakes in each other.

Anna Washenko