Whether it be uplifting the culture, fighting for client interests, defending music creators, wanting to edge out competition or simply keeping up with the kids, these 2020 Billboard Power List executives share their motivations for innovation on a daily basis.
Bryan “Birdman” Williams, co-founder/co-CEO, Cash Money Records: “It’s like therapy for me, being able to help young people become very successful, change their lives and help their families. That’s what the music business did for the culture. Having come from nothing ourselves, it’s a blessing.”
Raúl Alarcón Jr., chairman/CEO, Spanish Broadcasting System: “The ability to play a role in changing the face of America and in helping secure a worthwhile future for the 100 million-plus U.S. Hispanic citizens of tomorrow.”
Alisa Coleman, board chair, Mechanical Licensing Collective: “Doing the right thing. My mentors taught me that giving counts — whether it’s time or money — but the important thing is to make an impact.”
Lisa Alter, founding partner, Alter Kendrick & Baron: “The desire to protect our clients’ interests through reasoned thinking and strategic advice — to provide them with the most zealous representation while always acting with integrity. As Ruth Bader Ginsburg said, ‘Fight for things you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.’ ”
Scott Borchetta, founder/president/CEO, Big Machine Label Group: “I’m as competitive as ever. I still love breaking records. I still love finding great new talent. I still love figuring out the next great marketing plan. The day I don’t, the next day I’ll be gone and I won’t be back. But until that day, we are here to disrupt, destroy, break down walls, drive at 200 mph … and it’s fuckin’ elbows out.”
Merck Mercuriadis, founder/CEO, Hipgnosis Songs Fund: “Songwriters are still treated like they are at the lowest point on the totem pole because they are owned by the three biggest record companies in the world. I want to empower songwriters to bring the community together, in the same way that the screenwriters’ guild is very powerful.”
Lucy Dickins, head of U.K. music, WME: “Staying relevant. I make sure I’m surrounded by young people who are living and breathing the latest music, bands and DJs.”
Pierre “P” Thomas, CEO, Quality Control Music: “My children and money.”
Jason Owen, president/CEO, Sandbox Entertainment; co-president, Monument Records: “Cheetos, Speedos and Tito’s.”
This article originally appeared in the Jan. 25, 2020 issue of Billboard.