Bruno Mars and Warner Music Group’s Recent Achievements
MBW readers are already aware that Bruno Mars has consistently shattered records on Spotify over the past two months, emerging as the artist with the highest monthly listeners on the platform.
What you might not know is the remarkable accomplishments of other talented artists affiliated with Warner Music Group on the streaming service.
As noted by the CEO of WMG, Robert Kinkle, Warner is now home to the “hottest songwriter on the planet,” Amy Allen, co-writer of the megahit APT alongside Bruno Mars and ROSE.
Moreover, WMG, through Warner Records, is partnering with the artist behind the world’s biggest Billboard hit of 2024, Benson Boone, as well as the biggest hit in the US this year, Teddy Swims.
These achievements were highlighted by Kinkle today (December 18), in an internal memo obtained by MBW.
In his note, Kinkle applauded the company’s “innovative strides” in 2024 and expressed gratitude to WMG’s global team for their “dedication and passion over the past year.”
Kinkle emphasized that the company has “helped (its) artists and songwriters do new, bold and revolutionary things” and that WMG holds itself to the same high standards.
Kinkle stated: “The industry is at a turning point, and the changes we made this year put us at the forefront.”
Highlights from Robert Kinkle’s Note
Read the full text of Robert Kinkle’s note below…
Hi all,
I want to take a moment to acknowledge your incredible dedication and enthusiasm over the past year.
In January, I mentioned how 2024 would be the year of the next 10, as we prepare for the coming decade. We close the year with the No. 1 most popular artist, the No. 1 song of the year, and the most sought-after songwriter. I recognize that the last twelve months have been challenging, and I’m deeply grateful for your commitment. We have achieved what only a united and dedicated team can accomplish—we have benefited our artists and songwriters while driving through the hard work of change.
Change is essential in this industry… Music thrives on the new. New sounds, new ideas, fresh perspectives, and different directions define what sets us apart. This explosion of originality energizes the industry and brings optimism.
Our company has numerous examples of innovative success. While I can’t list everything in a message like this, I will highlight just a few key examples to illustrate our trajectory.
New Talent and Innovative Success
When it comes to discovering new talent, we’re leading the industry this year.
Benson Boone had the most popular song of 2024 globally, whereas Teddy Swims topped the charts in the US, his largest market. Both are signed to Warner Records and Warner Chappell and nominated for a Grammy Award for Best New Artist. Amy Allen, now the most popular songwriter in the world, is also nominated for a Grammy for Songwriter of the Year, alongside Jessie Alexander of WCM and RAYE.
Across the globe, we have an exceptional new generation paving the way forward, including talents like Artemas, Asia, Bea and her business, BENNETT, Bug Aid, Dasha, Florence Road, Forrest Frank, Jeff Satur, Jordan Adetunji, Marias, Michael Markaghi, Tokisha, Roxy Dekker, TitoM, and Juppe.
We’ve also assisted established artists and songwriters in reaching new heights by telling their stories in bold and innovative ways.
Bruno Mars has officially claimed the title of the world’s greatest entertainer (breaking records with 138 million monthly listeners on Spotify!), thanks in part to new collaborations like ROSE, which set new streaming records for a K-pop soloist.
Additionally, we see the radical newness of Charli XCX’s Brat and Linkin Park’s groundbreaking comeback with a soulful new vocalist. This year has also presented incredible projects from global stars such as Alex Warren, Ana Mena, Burna Boy, Cardi B, Coldplay, Dua Lipa, Ed Sheeran, Megan Thee Stallion, and many others alongside reissues from iconic artists like David Bowie and Madonna, attracting new fans and sparking a surge in listening.
In summary, we are committed to elevating our artists, songwriters, and ourselves to stay at the forefront of the industry. With the strides we’ve made this year, we have positioned ourselves for innovation and success in the upcoming year.
I hope you and your loved ones enjoy a well-deserved break. Exciting developments await us in 2025!
