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Vale Mike Taylor

Story Published Monday 15 January 2024
Mike Taylor at the Sydney APRA AMCOS Office - Photo by Belinda Dipalo

Vale Mike Taylor.

Mike Taylor, former Universal Music Australia Executive passed away on 11 January, following a battle with cancer.

Taylor was surrounded by family and friends in Brewster, New York. He is survived by his wife Jenny and son Charlie.

Dean Ormston, Chief Executive, APRA AMCOS, shared: “We are saddened to hear about the passing of Mike Taylor. He was such a force and advocate for local talent. Mike was instrumental in helping secure our spot on the world’s stage. His legacy speaks volumes. Our thoughts are with Jenny, Charlie and his loved ones during this time.”

For 15 years, Taylor worked in high-profile positions at Universal Music Australia and Island Records Australasia.

Prior to joining Universal, Taylor was notably the A&R executive at Sony Music Australia who worked with Delta Goodrem on her 2003 classic debut album, 'Innocent Eyes'.

At Island Records, Taylor was paramount in launching careers of homegrown talent, including Hilltop Hoods, Boy & Bear, Havana Brown, Dean Lewis, The McClymonts, Briggs, Shane Nicholson and Clare Bowditch.

Following Universal, Taylor launched Shoot True Music Management, serving as the company’s Executive Music Consultant in A&R and Artist Management.

Universal Music Australia and Island Records Australasia shared, “[We] wouldn’t be what [we are] today without Mike’s vision and passion for music and artists, and his legacy will forever live on in the records he made and lives he touched. We send our love, strength and support to his wife Jenny and son Charlie. Rest In Peace MT."

Mike Taylor (left), with Dean Lewis at the APRA AMCOS Sydney office in 2019. Lewis received a Billions Award for his track 'Be Alright'
Photo: Belinda Dipalo

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