John Marks Exits Spotify

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John Marks

John Marks is leaving his position as Global Director of Country Music at Spotify, effective March 31, 2021.

Marks joined Spotify in 2015, as one of only two Nashville Spotify employees covering the country market. While at the company, Marks was instrumental in growing the music streaming platform’s Hot Country brand, championing new artists, and establishing Spotify’s footprint in Nashville. He was an integral figure in building Spotify’s reputation as a global symbol for music consumption and discovery and a driver of country music culture; culminating 6 million followers and 5 billion streams as of 4th Quarter 2020.

Marks spent most of his career in programming and operations in terrestrial radio. He moved to Nashville in 2010 to work at SiriusXM, where he became Head of Country Music Programming. During his 5-year tenure at SiriusXM, he brought The Highway to prominence, helping to bring artists like Florida Georgia Line, Old Dominion, Kelsea Ballerini, Chase Rice, and Russell Dickerson to a national audience.

“It has been a privilege to work at Spotify since the beginning of its Nashville journey,” says Marks. “But I am also excited about what adventures lie ahead. I want to thank Jeremy Erlich, Rachel Whitney, our editorial team and the entire Spotify crew for the work that we have accomplished both in the United States and internationally.”

“When John Marks joined Spotify, he brought a wealth of knowledge and passion for the country genre—and has been an incredible asset to the Nashville team,” says Jeremy Erlich, co-head of Music, Spotify. “John will be truly missed and we wish him well.”

Marks has served on the Board of Directors of the Country Music Association since 2012, and served on the Board of Directors for the Academy of Country Music between 2018 – 2019. He is also the recipient of the 2018 Jo Walker-Meador International Award from the CMA and the 2018 International Services to the Industry Award from the British Country Music Association. Marks can be reached at [email protected].

Rachel Whitney, who joined Spotify over a year ago as Head of Editorial for Nashville, is leading the team that covers all things country, Christian, gospel, folk, Americana and roots music. Whitney has over 15 years of experience in Nashville working at music companies such as Pandora and Youtube, where she led country music programming.

LB Cantrell
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