Lekeisha Irion Takes the Helm: A New Era for A&R at Warner Chappell Music Benelux

In the bustling creative enclave of Amsterdam, where bicycles outnumber citizens and tulips seem to be in a perpetual state of bloom, a brilliant new chapter is unfolding at Warner Chappell Music Benelux. Enter Lekeisha Irion, recently promoted to the illustrious post of Head of A&R. She may be new to the title, but trust me, she’s far from a rookie.

Since stepping onto the scene as an A&R Manager at the start of last year, Irion has immersed herself in the pulsating rhythms of Dutch pop and hip-hop. If you've heard a catchy tune in the air, chances are it was crafted in collaboration with the talents she has championed—names like Antoon, Bankzitters, and Brahim Fouradi, all of whom have likely provided the soundtrack to someone’s mundane Tuesday afternoon.

Oh, and let’s not forget about Roxy Dekker, her star signing who has recently turned heads and ears alike. With four No. 1 hits under her belt in 2024 alone (because who doesn’t want to wake up to such news?), Irion played a pivotal role in catapulting Dekker into the limelight, also netting her an Edison Award for Best Newcomer. Let’s pause here: four No. 1s and an award—now that’s what I call a busy year!

One of those delightful little hits, “Sugardaddy,” showcases the phenomenal collaboration of WCM songwriters—Beer Petrie, Julian Vahle, and Renske te Buck—each carefully nurtured by Irion. A happy little accident? Absolutely not—this is evidence of her keen eye for talent and a portfolio that reads like a fantasy list of collaborators.

When we caught up with Lekeisha, she could hardly contain her excitement: “I’m delighted that Niels has placed his trust in me with this promotion. We’ve got some ambitious plans for our songwriters and the business over the next year, and I can’t wait to get to work.” Because, let’s face it, who wouldn’t be thrilled to helm the creative ship of such an exciting talent hub?

With the Benelux being a vibrant tapestry of cultures, Irion feels right at home: “It’s one of the most exciting places in the world for new music. It’s a privilege to be a part of this exhilarating market.” A sentiment that could make any music lover’s heart swell with pride—pardon me while I grab my headphones!

Niels Walboomers, President of Records and Publishing at WMG, sees Irion’s potential clearly: “Lekeisha is a brilliant A&R executive who has proved herself super early in her career. I’m delighted to give her this opportunity to take her career to the next level.” And it sounds like he’s thrilled to have her on board, ready to make heights that not even the most ambitious towers of Amsterdam could rival.

Meanwhile, Shani Gonzales, Head of International A&R and MD of WCM UK, couldn’t agree more. She aptly emphasizes Irion’s insights into evolving genres and her knack for identifying opportunities: “Lekeisha is an amazing asset to our global network of A&Rs. I’m so pleased her hard work is being recognized, and as a young female executive, she is one to watch for the future.” Well, mark that in your calendars, everyone—this is one rising star who’s not just making waves; she’s creating ripples in the world of music that may very well turn into tsunamis!