Gershon Exits WC; Portnow Wants $2M

[updated 4:36] MusicRow’s Crystal Ball previewed the story (9/29) and now comes official statements from Sr. VP Warner Chappell Music, Tracy Gershon and Scott Francis, President, Warner/Chappell Music and Chairman & CEO, Warner/Chappell Music U.S.

“I am thankful to Scott Francis for the opportunity to help rebuild and reenergize the  Warner Chappell Nashville office.” says Gershon. “Now with Scott’s blessing and support, I am able to pursue other opportunities that have come my way. It has been an honor to have worked with the incredible writers and staff at Warner Chappell Music. I will miss working with this team of people who bring so much passion and integrity to everything they do..they truly are an inspiration.”

“After five years with Warner Music Group, our friend and colleague, Tracy Gershon, has decided to leave her position as Senior Vice President and Head of A&R at Warner/Chappell, Nashville,” says Francis. “Since joining Warner/Chappell, Tracy has played an integral role in bringing our Country music roster to new heights and bolstering Warner/Chappell’s presence in Nashville. She has signed, worked with and helped develop many of our successful artists and songwriters. While it is sad to see her leave, we are sure that her diverse knowledge on both the recorded music and music publishing sides of the business as well as her television experience will lead to new exciting and successful projects. Please join me in wishing Tracy well in her future endeavors.  She will always be part of the Warner/Chappell family.”

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The New York Post reports that Recording Academy President Neil Portnow, is in the midst of renegotiating his employment salary at double his previous rate. According to sources, reports the NYP, Portnow is now seeking “to boost his annual salary to $2 million.” His current contract reportedly ends next year. Portnow responsibilities include the Grammy Awards TV show which saw ratings increase last year. All genre album sales are currently down 13.3% YTD according to Neilsen Soundscan.