UNIVERSAL MUSIC CANADA UPS CRAIG ‘BIG C’ MANNIX TO VICE PRESIDENT, BLACK MUSIC
Craig ’Big C’ Mannix; photo courtesy of Universal Music Canada
November 09, 2022 (TORONTO, ON) – Universal Music Canada (UMC), the country’s leading music company, today announced that Craig ‘Big C’ Mannix has been promoted to Vice President, Black Music. In his new role, Mannix will continue to quarterback UMC’s commitment to Black Music with an integrated approach to marketing and A&R. His expanded portfolio includes an A&R remit to discover, sign, and support Black Music created by Canadians while continuing to lead the teams responsible for domestic and international Black Music marketing. Mannix first joined UMC in 2021 to establish the company’s urban music marketing team.
“Craig’s impact on UMC has been immeasurable. He’s built a best-in-class domestic marketing team from the ground up, leading impactful campaigns and marking history making firsts for artists like Savannah Ré, Preston Pablo, and many more,” said Jeffrey Remedios, Chairman & CEO, Universal Music Canada. “Craig is a true pioneer – on top of his decades of marketing experience, he is a smart, sharp and sought-after A&R advisor. With this new role, he is well placed to continue to lead in shaping the future of Black music culture in Canada.”
As part of UMC’s frontline marketing team, Mannix ensures a bold and innovative approach to marketing strategy. He joins the A&R department to directly shape and impact artist projects, tasked with signing and developing Black Canadian artists. On the A&R front, Mannix reports to Remedios and will be supported by the company’s internal A&R team and a trusted team of external consultants.
“At UMC we’re building a department that fully integrates marketing and A&R for Black Music. In my 30 years’ experience in this business, I have yet to see a music company do what we’re doing, and I’m incredibly proud to lead the Black music team,” said Mannix. “I’ve been a marketer, and I’ve been a A&R manager, and I could not be more excited to lean into doing both with a truly cohesive approach. Black music drives this industry, and Canada is home to some of the most talented artists in the world. Thank you to Jeffrey and the team for the chance to bring this to life.”
An industry mainstay since the early 90s, Mannix has been a pivotal part of the careers of iconic Canadian artists such as K-os, Kardinal Offishall, Choclair and Pressa, and has led global campaigns for some of the biggest names in music.
In addition to his work in music, Mannix is a founding member of Advance, Canada’s Black Music business collective, co-chairs the Board of Directors of the Remix Project, sits on the Board of Directors for Roy Thompson and Massey Hall, and represents Canada on Universal Music Group’s Taskforce for Meaningful Change.
About Universal Music Canada
Universal Music Canada is Canada’s leading music company, engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising, and audiovisual content. Home to the most comprehensive catalogue of recordings and songs across every musical genre, UMC is committed to artistry, innovation and entrepreneurship in broadening opportunities for our artists on both the domestic and world stages as well as creating new experiences for fans.
Universal Music Canada is part of Universal Music Group, the world leader in music-based entertainment.