A New Era in Music: Jeremy Erlich Launches Alta Music Group
Nine months after stepping down from Spotify, Jeremy Erlich has taken a bold step into the music industry by launching Alta Music Group. Based in Los Angeles, this new company is set to operate as a full-service entity with divisions covering recorded music, music publishing, and artist management. The launch marks a significant shift for Erlich, who previously held high-ranking positions at some of the most influential companies in the music world.
Alta's first major client is Jennie of Blackpink, who recently released her debut solo album Ruby through Columbia Records. This partnership highlights the company’s ambition to support artists in achieving global success. In addition to managing talent, Alta is collaborating with Sony’s distribution arm, The Orchard, to ensure that its artists reach a wide audience. The company has also formed a strategic alliance with TheBlackLabel, a label founded by producer Teddy Park.
Erlich expressed his vision for Alta during a statement, emphasizing his long-term focus on creating an environment where artists can thrive. “With ALTA, we have the opportunity to do just that – a best in class team focused solely on supporting our artists and the music they create,” he said. He also thanked the artists and executives who have already placed their trust in the company.
Before joining Spotify, Erlich had a successful career in the music industry, starting as a VP and head of music strategy in 2019. He was later appointed as the global head of music in 2021. Prior to that, he worked at Universal Music Group and its subsidiary Interscope Geffen A&M. His extensive experience has given him a deep understanding of the industry, which he now aims to apply to Alta.
Brad Navin, CEO of The Orchard, praised Erlich’s decision to launch Alta, calling it a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to artist development. “His artist-first philosophy aligns with The Orchard's mission to empower creators,” Navin said. The collaboration between The Orchard and Alta is expected to provide valuable resources for the company’s artists, helping them reach audiences around the world.
Erlich is not alone in building Alta. He has assembled a team of experienced professionals, many of whom come from the Interscope system. Key members include Nima Khalilian, Parker Ulry, Drake Hofer, Elise Eriksen, Gillian Taugher, and Michael Seltzer. Khalilian, who serves as the General Manager at Alta, previously held roles at Stem and Interscope. Ulry spent six years at Interscope as a digital product management executive, while Seltzer brings decades of experience from Universal Music Group.
Khalilian shared his perspective on the company’s mission, stating, “ALTA is about putting artists first and helping them navigate an ever-evolving industry with a clear strategy.” He emphasized the importance of being a strong partner to artists, enabling them to build lasting legacies.
As Alta Music Group prepares to make its mark, it is clear that Erlich and his team are committed to redefining how artists are supported in the modern music landscape. With a strong foundation and strategic partnerships, the company is well-positioned to become a key player in the industry.