New West Announces Executive Changes

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Gary Briggs

New West Records recently announced the promotion of Gary Briggs to Sr. Vice President of A&R and Artist Relations. Briggs, who is based in Austin TX, will be responsible for discovering and developing new talent. He will also continue to manage relations for the current roster, which includes longtime artists John Hiatt, Steve Earle, Kris Kristofferson, and newer signings Robert Ellis and Buxton.

Previously Briggs oversaw all AAA radio promotion campaigns in addition to producing the Live From Austin TX CD and DVD line. Prior to New West Records, Briggs was Owner/President of Beyond Rust Management representing Lucinda Williams, M Ward and Beth Orton in partnership with Azoff Music Management. Briggs also previously served as President of Vapor Records, a label founded by Neil Young and his managers, Elliot Roberts and Frank Gironda. Additionally, he held the title of VP of Artist Relations/Creative Marketing at Warner Bros. Records, where he worked on projects involving Wilco, Chris Isaak, Eric Clapton, Don Henley, Mark Knopfler and Neil Young.

“I am excited about where we are headed as a company and am confident that Gary Briggs can lead us in that new direction” says George Fontaine, Owner and President of New West Records. “Gary’s artistic instincts and talent for recognizing, developing and managing artists will undoubtedly enhance New West’s already strong roster.”

Meanwhile, Peter Jesperson has been named VP Catalog and Production, responsible for developing content for reissues, box sets and limited edition vinyl titles from the New West Records catalog. The catalog includes this year’s acquisition of the Antone’s and Watermelon record labels. In addition to his new responsibilities, he will continue his work coordinating content for packaging and final audio for current releases. Jesperson, who is transitioning from A&R into this new role, is based in Los Angeles, CA.

Caitlin Rantala
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