CRAIG A. SMITH

Music industry executive and creative strategist with 15+ years of experience across artist development, artist management, label relations, A&R, catalog marketing, digital marketing, distribution, music commerce, publishing, licensing, touring, live events, and brand partnerships. Professional experience includes collaborations with major music companies, entertainment brands, artists, management teams, DSPs, and media organizations. Industry work has supported campaigns involving Adele, Beyoncé, Justin Bieber, Doja Cat, Ed Sheeran, The Weeknd, SZA, Lizzo, Machine Gun Kelly, Ari Lennox, Miley Cyrus, and numerous other global recording artists. Berklee College of Music graduate with expertise in catalog marketing, digital audience development, music business operations, streaming strategy, artist development, and contemporary music industry practices.

• Music Business
• Catalog Marketing
• Digital Marketing
• Artist Development
• Artist Management
• Music Publishing
• Music Licensing
• Streaming Platforms
• DSP Strategy
• Brand Partnerships
• Tour Marketing
• Music Entrepreneurship
• Entertainment Marketing
• A&R
• Audience Development

• My teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that the most effective music business education bridges academic theory with real world industry application. Students learn best when they’re challenged to think critically, collaborate creatively, & apply practical solutions to authentic industry scenarios.
• Having spent more than 20+ years working across artist mgmt, label relations, A&R, digital marketing, catalog marketing, music distro, brand partnerships, touring, live events, & audience dev, I bring a practitioner-based perspective to the classroom. My goal is not only to teach students how the music industry works today, but to help them develop the adaptability, strategic thinking, & professional skills necessary to succeed in a rapidly evolving global space.
• In teaching Music Business & Catalog Music Marketing, I emphasize experiential learning. Students should leave the classroom with tangible skills they can immediately apply in professional environments. Through project based assignments, students may develop release strategies, create playlist pitching campaigns, analyze catalog revitalization opportunities, assess social media performance, evaluate synch opportunities, & design integrated marketing plans for legacy artists & contemporary releases. By simulating real industry workflows, students gain a practical comprehension of the relationship between artistry, commerce, technology, & audience engagement.
• I believe effective teaching requires creating an environment where every student feels respected, heard, & empowered to contribute. Music is a global & culturally diverse business, & students benefit from examining a broad range of perspectives, experiences, genres, & industry models. I intend to foster an inclusive classroom culture that encourages collaboration, curiosity, professional discourse, & mutual respect. Students are challenged to think independently while also learning how to work effectively within teams & across diverse viewpoints.
• As an educator, I seek to serve as both instructor & mentor. Beyond course content, I aim to help students build confidence, professionalism, communication skills, & industry awareness. I encourage students to develop their own voices while comprehending the ethical, legal, & commercial responsibilities that cultivate careers in music & entertainment.
• Ultimately, my objective is to prepare students for meaningful & sustainable careers by connecting classroom learning to the realities of the modern music business. Through practical instruction, industry insights, & a commitment to student success, I strive to create a learning environment that is engaging, inclusive, & professionally relevant.

• Sony Music Group
• Universal Music Group
• Warner Music Group
• Live Nation
• The Recording Academy
• MusiCares
• SB Projects
• Nike
• Loop Media
• World of Dance