WME's Kirk Sommer Awarded "International Music Person of the Year" for 2026

In a significant recognition of his contributions to the music industry, Kirk Sommer, senior partner and global co-head of music at WME, has been named the recipient of the 2026 "International Music Person of the Year" Award. The prestigious honor will be presented during MUSEXPO's 26th global edition at its annual awards luncheon on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, in Burbank, California.

Sommer's nearly 25-year tenure at WME has earned him a reputation for integrity, mentorship, and visionary representation. He has guided the live careers of some of the most celebrated artists of the modern era, including Adele, Billie Eilish, The Killers, Andrea Bocelli, Hozier, Arctic Monkeys, Sam Smith, Steve Aoki, Benson Boone, Lewis Capaldi, Nine Inch Nails, Foster the People, and Weezer. Sommer's artist-first approach has also earned him wide respect from peers and clients alike, shaping the careers of these talents from their first club shows to sold-out arena and stadium tours.

In his current role as global co-head of music, Sommer helps steer WME's worldwide strategy across touring, festivals, and live entertainment. His accolades reflect his profound influence across the business, including being named Pollstar's "Agent of the Year" in 2025 and being inducted into New York University's Hall of Fame. Sommer has also been a mainstay on Billboard's Power 100 for more than a decade and has appeared on Variety's Top 500, Pollstar's Impact 50, and PAPER magazine's list of the most influential booking agents in the world.