SoundCloud has appointed Maurice Slade as head of music, expanding his remit after nearly four years at the company.
Slade will report to CEO Eliah Seton and lead SoundCloud’s global music strategy across artist development, cultural programming and ecosystem partnerships.
Music Week has learned that former global head of music Emmy Lovell has left the company.
“In this role, Slade will focus on supporting creators earlier in their journeys and protecting experimentation in an increasingly algorithm-driven industry,” said a statement. “As head of music, he will oversee initiatives that connect artists, culture and community, without compromising authenticity, reinforcing SoundCloud’s position as a critical launchpad for what’s next in music.”
“Maurice has a deep understanding of artists, culture, and how careers are actually built,” said Eliah Seton, CEO of SoundCloud. “He brings deep credibility in music, sharp strategic instincts, and a clear point of view on how platforms can serve artists without compromising creativity. As SoundCloud continues to invest in creators at the earliest stages of their journey, Maurice’s leadership will help shape how the next generation of artists are discovered, supported, and sustained.”
Maurice has a deep understanding of artists, culture, and how careers are actually built
Eliah Seton
Slade most recently served as SoundCloud’s head of marketing, artist relations, where he played a key role in developing relationships across the creator ecosystem.
“His expanded role reflects SoundCloud’s continued commitment to early-career artists and to preserving space for experimentation in a rapidly evolving music landscape,” added the statement.
Prior to joining SoundCloud, Slade held senior marketing and strategy roles at Epic Records, leading campaigns for global artists including Travis Scott and 21 Savage, and at Roc Nation, where he helped develop creative branding and marketing strategies for artists such as J Cole, Rihanna, Kanye West and Big Sean.
Earlier in his career, he worked at Universal Motown, contributing to the brand-building of artists including Drake, Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj and Kid Cudi.
“SoundCloud has always been the place where artists come to experiment and grow,” said Slade. “My focus is on building systems that support creators before the moment – not after – and on protecting experimentation in a world increasingly shaped by algorithms, bots, and AI.”
In addition to his executive experience, Slade is a co-founder of live-event platforms including Grits & Biscuits and Dial-Up.
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