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Music's Next Wave: 40 Under 40 Honored
30 Jul
Summary
- Hilary Gleason leads the 2026 40 Under 40 list for her nonprofit work.
- Executives are driving solutions for AI, ticketing, and artist well-being.
- The list features diverse leaders from labels, agencies, and tech.
Billboard has released its 2026 40 Under 40 list, recognizing young executives at the forefront of the music industry. This year's honorees are instrumental in addressing contemporary challenges such as artificial intelligence and fair ticketing practices, actively developing and implementing innovative strategies.
Hilary Gleason, co-founder and executive director of Backline, a nonprofit dedicated to music industry professionals' mental health, tops the list. Her work underscores a broader theme of support and well-being within the industry.
Other notable individuals include Tom Allen, CTO of Virgin Music Group, who oversees technology and AI data usage, and Shirin Nury, a CAA agent representing major touring artists like Gracie Abrams and Tate McRae.
The list showcases leaders across various sectors, including management, label operations, and business development, all contributing to the evolving landscape of music creation, distribution, and promotion.
