Adam Smith

UNation; Head of Music

Summit Session: Taking MENA Artists to the Global Stage

Adam Smith is a seasoned music industry professional with over 15 years of experience, renowned for his influential roles at some of the most prestigious labels in the business. His career began at Virgin EMI (Universal) and Epic, Syco (Sony Music), where he played a pivotal role in the success of numerous major artist releases. Throughout his tenure, he contributed to the careers of superstars such as Justin Bieber, Florence & The Machine, Duke Dumont, One Direction, Chemical Brothers and Chase & Status, among many others. In his quest to broaden his impact on the music landscape, Adam transitioned from the label side to artist management.

This new chapter allowed him to work closely with iconic acts including Swedish House Mafia, Alesso, Don Diablo, and Chase & Status. His hands-on approach and deep understanding of the industry have made him a respected figure in artist development and management. Currently, Adam serves as the Head of Music at UNation, an innovative joint venture between Live Nation and Unsigned Group.

Founded by Gavin Myall and co-owned by Guy Berryman of Coldplay, UNation is committed to discovering, nurturing, and developing Arabic artists, aiming to transform them into globally recognised talents. Under Adam's leadership, UNation is poised to make significant strides in the music industry, bridging cultural gaps and promoting diverse sounds on the world stage. With a wealth of experience and a passion for fostering new talent, Adam continues to shape the future of music, drawing from his rich background and dedication to excellence in every endeavour.