iTunes content exec departs for EMI
updated 09:20 am EST, Fri December 17, 2010
Could affect mix of iTunes music
One of Apple's primary iTunes executives is leaving the company to join EMI's Capitol & Virgin Label Group, reports say. At this new job, Alex Luke will take on a senior A&R role, discovering and manufacturing new acts. With Apple however he was the director of global music initiatives for iTunes, tasked with programming, artist relations and finding music content.
Luke is credited with a number of efforts on behalf of iTunes. These include Originals, the Single of the Week, and the "Live From" events at Apple Stores. The executive also forged deals with bands such as Radiohead, Linkin Park and the Dave Matthews Band.
His departure could potentially sway the direction of Apple's approach to music. Luke has significant experience in the industry, having worked as a DJ and program director in radio, co-founded online shop Spun.com, and later served as VP of music programming and label relations at Pressplay and Napster. He joined Apple in 2003, the same year the iTunes Store was launched.
