David Foster, born on November 1, 1949, in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, is a highly acclaimed musician, composer, and record producer. He is recognized for his unparalleled talent and extraordinary contributions to the music industry.
Foster’s musical journey began early when he learned to play piano as a child. In his teens, he joined the pop band Skylark, which marked the beginning of his professional career. As a skilled songwriter and musician, he quickly garnered attention and became a sought-after session musician and producer in the 1970s.
Throughout his illustrious career, David Foster has worked with an impressive array of artists across genres, including Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Barbra Streisand, and many more. He has produced and co-written numerous chart-topping hits, earning him numerous awards and accolades.
Beyond his work as a producer, Foster has also released his own albums as a solo artist, showcasing his prowess as a performer and musician. His albums and live performances have garnered widespread acclaim and appreciation from audiences worldwide.
Foster’s contributions to the music industry have not gone unnoticed. He has received multiple Grammy Awards, an Emmy Award, and was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
In addition to his musical achievements, David Foster is known for his philanthropy, supporting various charitable causes, including children’s charities and arts education.
Erica Ender is a Panamanian singer-songwriter, born on December 21, 1974, in Panama City, Panama. She is a versatile artist with a remarkable career in the Latin music industry. Ender gained international fame as one of the co-writers of the global hit Despacito, performed by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee.
Her musical journey began at a young age when she started writing songs and singing. Ender’s talent and dedication led her to release her debut album, Despertar, at just 13 years old. Throughout her career, she has written songs for many renowned artists, earning accolades and recognition for her songwriting abilities.
Beyond her work as a songwriter, Erica Ender is a successful performer and has released several albums, showcasing her unique voice and genre-blending style. She has also been recognized for her philanthropy and commitment to social causes, using her influence to make a positive impact.
Ender’s contribution to the music industry, both as a performer and songwriter, has solidified her position as one of Latin music’s influential figures, and she continues to inspire and captivate audiences with her artistic endeavours.
Justin Bieber, born on 1 March 1994, in London, Ontario, Canada, is a global pop sensation who rose to fame as a teenage YouTube sensation and became one of the best-selling music artists of his generation.
At the age of 13, Bieber was discovered by talent manager Scooter Braun after he uploaded cover songs on YouTube. His captivating voice and charming personality caught the attention of millions, leading to a record deal with Island Records in 2008.
In 2010, Bieber released his debut album, My World 2.0, which spawned hit singles like Baby and One Time, propelling him to international stardom. He quickly became a teen idol, amassing a massive fan following, known as “Beliebers”.
Throughout his career, Justin Bieber continued to release successful albums, showcasing his growth as an artist and exploring different musical styles. He has collaborated with various artists, including Usher, Ludacris, and Ed Sheeran, and his music has evolved from pop to include elements of R&B and electronic dance music.
Bieber’s personal life and actions have often been under scrutiny due to his early fame and the challenges that come with it. However, he has been vocal about his struggles, showing vulnerability through his music and being an advocate for mental health awareness.
Despite the ups and downs, Justin Bieber’s talent and determination have remained undeniable. He has won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, and continues to be a force in the music industry, captivating audiences with his captivating performances and chart-topping hits.
Beyond music, Bieber is also involved in philanthropy, supporting various charitable causes and humanitarian efforts.
Justin Bieber’s journey from a young aspiring singer to a global superstar serves as an inspiration to many, and his impact on popular culture remains significant. As he continues to evolve as an artist and person, his influence on the music world and beyond continues to thrive.
Tobias Jesso Jr. is a Canadian singer-songwriter and musician, born on 11 July 1985, in North Vancouver, British Columbia. He gained recognition in the music industry with his debut album Goon, released in 2015. The album received critical acclaim for its heartfelt and soulful songwriting, reminiscent of classic pop and piano ballads. Tobias’s honest and emotive lyrics, accompanied by his piano-driven melodies, struck a chord with listeners around the world. Over the years, he has collaborated with various artists and continued to build a reputation as a talented singer-songwriter with a unique style that resonates with fans of all ages.
In 2023 he won the ‘Songwriter Of The Year’ award in the inaugural year for this award.
Justin Timberlake’s early stardom proved to be a step-by-step preparation for achieving even greater things. He started as a child performer on The New Mickey Mouse Club in 1993, alongside future stars like Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, and Ryan Gosling. Major superstardom quickly came his way as the heartthrob frontman of NSYNC, arguably the biggest boy band phenomenon at the turn of the millennium. By 2000, with their hit album No Strings Attached, NSYNC became a global success story, selling 2.4 million copies in one week, a record that stood for 15 years.
As NSYNC continued to gain new fans, Justin’s star shone even brighter. He embarked on a solo career with his debut album Justified in 2002. Collaborating with top producers like The Neptunes and Timbaland, the album was a critical and commercial success, showcasing hits like Señorita, Like I Love You, Rock Your Body, and Cry Me a River. The album earned Grammy nominations for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration (Like I Love You) and Best Male Pop Vocal Performance (Cry Me a River). It sold over ten million copies worldwide.
Timberlake’s second album, FutureSex/LoveSounds (2006), raised the bar with its lead single SexyBack, staying at number One for seven weeks. Other hits like My Love and What Goes Around… Comes Around also topped the charts. The album’s Prince-esque sound was critically acclaimed and earned multiple Grammy nominations. Timberlake won Best Dance Recording for SexyBack and Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for My Love. The “FutureSex/LoveShow” tour was one of the highest-grossing tours of 2007.
By 2007, Timberlake began focusing more on his acting career, with roles in “Shrek 3,” “The Love Guru,” and “The Social Network,” among others. Despite this, he continued to deliver hit songs, collaborating with artists like 50 Cent, Madonna, and Timbaland. His next career move involved investing in multiple restaurants in Los Angeles and New York.
In 2013, Timberlake released The 20/20 Experience, featuring standout tracks like Suit & Tie with Jay-Z and Mirrors. The album sold nearly a million copies in its opening week in the US and was the best-selling album of the year. It also became Timberlake’s third consecutive number one album in the UK. The album earned Grammy nominations, with Suit & Tie winning Best Music Video and Pusher Love Girl winning Best R&B Song. Part two of The 20/20 Experience, released six months later, also hit number One in the US and featured hits like Take Back the Night and TKO.
In 2014, Timberlake’s involvement in the “Trolls” movie provided a platform for the global hit Can’t Stop the Feeling!. The soundtrack, produced by Timberlake, was a commercial success. He co-composed the soundtrack for his wife Jessica Biel’s movie “The Book of Love”.
His 2018 album Man of the Woods was tied to a Super Bowl performance and featured collaborations with Chris Stapleton and Timbaland. The single Say Something was nominated for a Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance.
Throughout his career, Justin Timberlake has excelled as a singer, songwriter, record producer, actor, and businessman. With over 90 million albums sold, 10 Grammy Awards, and three Brit Awards, Timberlake is one of the world’s best-selling music artists and an exceptional entertainer in the history of show business.
Nile Rodgers, born on September 19, 1952, is an American musician, songwriter, producer, and composer. He is best known as the co-founder of the iconic band CHIC and for his prolific work as a producer for numerous successful artists.
Rodgers’ musical journey began as a session guitarist and songwriter in the 1970s. In 1976, he co-founded CHIC with Bernard Edwards, and the band quickly gained fame for their disco-infused funk sound. Hits like Le Freak and Good Times solidified their status as disco pioneers and had a lasting impact on the music scene.
In addition to his work with CHIC, Nile Rodgers became one of the music industry’s most sought-after producers. He collaborated with a diverse array of artists, including David Bowie, Madonna, Diana Ross, Duran Duran, and Daft Punk, among others. His production style, characterized by infectious grooves and intricate guitar work, became synonymous with chart-topping hits.
Despite facing personal and professional challenges, Rodgers’ determination and talent allowed him to maintain his influence over several decades. He continued to produce music, collaborate with contemporary artists, and receive recognition for his contributions to the industry.
Beyond his musical achievements, Nile Rodgers is also known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting various causes, including cancer research and humanitarian initiatives.
Nile Rodgers’ impact on the music world remains immense, and his legacy as a multi-talented musician and producer continues to inspire both aspiring artists and seasoned professionals alike. His timeless compositions and infectious rhythms continue to resonate with audiences, making him an enduring figure in the history of popular music.
Leonard Cohen, born on 21 September 1934, in Montreal, Canada, was a legendary singer-songwriter, poet, and novelist. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential and revered artists of his generation.
Cohen’s literary career began with the publication of poetry collections in the 1950s and 1960s. He gained recognition as a gifted poet, earning critical acclaim for his introspective and thought-provoking work. In the late 1960s, he transitioned to music, releasing his debut album, Songs of Leonard Cohen, in 1967.
His music was characterized by its poetic lyrics, deep emotions, and distinctive baritone voice. Hits like Suzanne, Hallelujah, and Bird on the Wire became classics and contributed to his iconic status in the music industry.
Throughout his career, Cohen continued to release acclaimed albums and tour around the world, captivating audiences with his powerful performances. His music touched the souls of listeners across generations, and his influence extended beyond the realm of music, inspiring countless artists and writers.
Beyond his artistic achievements, Leonard Cohen was also known for his spiritual exploration and humanitarian endeavours. He spent time in Buddhist monasteries and engaged in charitable work, showcasing his commitment to seeking meaning and giving back to the world.
Leonard Cohen’s passing on 7 November 2016, left a profound void in the music and literary communities. However, his legacy lives on through his timeless creations, which continue to resonate with audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the artistic landscape.
Nelly Furtado is a Canadian singer-songwriter, born on 2 December 1978, in Victoria, British Columbia. Her multicultural background, with Portuguese ancestry, influenced her music style. Nelly rose to fame in 2000 with her debut album Whoa, Nelly! and the hit single I’m Like a Bird, which earned her a Grammy Award. Throughout her career, she continued to release successful albums like Folklore, Loose, and The Spirit Indestructible. Known for her versatile vocals and blending of various genres, Nelly Furtado remains an influential figure in the music industry.
Kenny Chesney, born on March 26, 1968, in Knoxville, Tennessee, is a renowned American country music singer and songwriter. He rose to fame in the mid-1990s with his unique blend of country, rock, and reggae influences, earning him a dedicated fan base.
Chesney’s musical journey began during his college years at East Tennessee State University, where he performed at local venues and honed his craft. He released his debut album in 1994, but it was his 1999 album Everywhere We Go that catapulted him to mainstream success with hit singles like How Forever Feels and You Had Me From Hello.
Throughout his career, Chesney has released numerous chart-topping albums, won multiple awards, and embarked on several successful concert tours, solidifying his status as one of country music’s top performers. Known for his energetic live shows and heartfelt ballads, he has captured the hearts of fans worldwide.
Aside from his musical accomplishments, Chesney is also recognized for his philanthropic efforts, supporting causes such as cancer research, disaster relief, and environmental conservation.
Kenny Chesney’s enduring success and down-to-earth personality have made him a beloved figure in the world of country music, inspiring and entertaining audiences for decades.
Hipgnosis Songs Fund
Hipgnosis Songs Capital
TMS, the British songwriting and record production trio of Tom ‘Froe’ Barnes, Benjamin Kohn and Pete ‘Merf’ Kelleher, are among the most successful songwriting trios in the world.
They have co-written records for a host of artists including Lewis Capaldi, Dua Lipa, John Legend, Marroon 5, Ed Sheeran, Lily Allen, Jessie J, One Direction, Olly Murs, Professor Green, Little Mix, Leona Lewis, JLS, Bebe Rexha and many others, among others.
TMS wrote the very powerful Read All About It, Pt. III for Emile Sandé’s album Our Version of Events, which won the Brit Award for Best album in 2013. This song was performed by Emelie Sandé at the Closing Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympics.
They have had twenty Top 10 singles, sold over 15 million records and have contributed to over fifty top 40 albums.
Lewis Capaldi’s Someone You Loved is one of Spotify’s most streamed Songs, having been played around 3 billion times on the platform.