10 AAPI Music Executives Making an Impact in 2022

variety.com:

Shirley Ju The Asian American and Pacific Islander community has long played an integral role in American culture at large, and its influence has extended to the music industry with more visibility than the past.“As someone who has worn many hats across the music industry — as an artist, digital marketing label executive, DJ and journalist — it’s incredible to see how far the AAPI community has come since I began 20 years ago,” says Zeena Koda, head of brand digital at the North Face and previously an executive at Atlantic Records. “We’re showing up across genres, across generations and becoming a huge financial contender in the modern music game globally.”But with AAPI hate crimes on the rise during the COVID-19 pandemic, representation and inclusion are more important than ever.

And that means going beyond the rhetoric to quantifiable action. As Koda articulates: “When we have a seat at the table, our views are considered.

Our futures are considered. Much like other underrepresented groups, our influence through positions of power and sway helps to cement a more truly inclusive future for the AAPI music community.” Among those who do have a seat at the table are these 10 key execs from such companies as YouTube, CAA, Spotify and labels like Epic, Warner and Capitol.Annie Chen – VP of Marketing at Mass AppealThe Taiwanese-American Chen has led multiple marketing campaigns at Mass Appeal, working closely with Nas, DJ Shadow, Dave East and many more.

She also plays a crucial role in the company’s “Hip Hop 50” marketing rollout, which extends through 2024 and includes partnerships with Showtime, Spotify and others.