Lucian Grainge, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group, is now a Sir.
The executive has been knighted in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for services to British business and inward investment, as well as his accomplishments in the music industry.
“It is with enormous pride that I receive this honour from Her Majesty the Queen,” said Grainge.
“It is a recognition of British music’s significance to the UK’s culture and economy, its role in inspiring investment, and the contribution of incredible creative talent from around the world.”
Grainge wasn’t the only music biz figure to be knighted, with singer/songwriter Rod (‘Roderick’) Stewart also becoming a Sir.
Elsewhere at Universal, the major’s Senior Director of HR in the UK, Morna Cook, received an MBE for services to the music industry and apprentices.
“This is a recognition of British music’s significance to the UK’s culture and economy, its role in inspiring investment, and the contribution of incredible creative talent around the world.”
Across his career, Lucian Grainge has worked with the likes of ABBA, Elton John, Jay Z, Katy Perry, Queen, Rihanna, The Rolling Stones, Sam Smith, U2 and Amy Winehouse.
Grainge joined Universal Music in 1986 to launch PolyGram Music Publishing UK, and within five years had led the fledgling division to become one of the top three publishing companies in the market.
Grainge joined UMG’s Polydor in 1993 as General Manager of A&R and Business Affairs, rising to Managing Director of the label in 1997.
He was subsequently appointed Deputy Chairman, and then, in 2001, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Universal Music UK.
In 2005, he was named Chairman and Chief Executive of Universal Music Group International, gaining oversight of global operations outside the U.S.
Grainge was appointed CEO of UMG in 2010 and promoted in 2011 to Chairman and CEO.
In 2011, he led UMG’s acquisition of the recorded music assets of EMI Music, and has has played a key role in revitalizing its iconic Capitol Records and Abbey Road brands.
Grainge, who received a CBE from the Queen in 2012, signed a new five-year contract with UMG parent Vivendi last year.Music Business Worldwide
