Merlin Names Former Spotify, Apple Music Exec As Japan GM

Talk about knowing where all the bodies are buried… Indie global music rights agency Merlin has named Akira Nomoto as General Manager, Merlin Japan, the world's second largest music market.

For the last six years, Nomoto served Spotify as Head of Artist & Label Marketing and then Director of Licensing and Label Relations He previously led Apple’s Label Relations & Music Programming initiatives in the territory.

The Japanese music market recently passed a digital tipping point, with streaming revenues overtaking download revenues for the first time. 

At the October 2018 Tokyo International Music Market (TIMM) conference, Merlin revealed that distributions to Japan-based members had increased 200% year-on-year.

Akira takes over from Haji Taniguchi who, alongside Kaoruko Hill, established Merlin’s Tokyo office in October 2016. In recognition of her contribution to Merlin’s successful entry into the Japanese market, and her expertise in all areas of music rights and licensing, Kaoruko is today promoted to an expanded role as Head of Member Services and Operations for Merlin Japan.

Charles Caldas, CEO, Merlin, said:

“I am delighted to welcome Akira to the Merlin team, and to recognize Kaoruko’s ongoing contribution to our business. Their unrivalled experience will help Merlin’s expanding Japanese membership capitalise on the continued consumer adoption of music streaming, and boost our long-term commitment to the region."