LONDON, UK (AX) — In an exciting development for the music industry, Forbes has officially recognized Nasra Artan, a Somali-Norwegian executive at the forefront of international A&R at Sony Music Publishing, by including her in their prestigious 2025 30 Under 30 Europe list within the Entertainment category. This distinction highlights her transformative impact on the global music landscape, particularly through remarkable cross-cultural collaborations and innovative artist development strategies.
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At just 27 years of age, Artan has quickly made her mark as the Head of International A&R at Sony Music Publishing, a role she assumed in May 2024 after joining the company two years prior. Based in London, she diligently spearheads the company’s international creative strategy. Her work involves not only fostering innovation across various continents but also managing global songwriting camps and nurturing the careers of emerging songwriters from diverse backgrounds.
“I am incredibly excited to step into this new role at SMP, and I am deeply thankful to Jon and Guy for their trust and support,” Artan expressed upon her promotion. “My passion for creative collaboration runs deep, and I look forward to working closely with our A&R teams to elevate the careers of our songwriters internationally.” Such words reflect not only her gratitude but also an earnest enthusiasm for her work, a sentiment that resonates well with anyone who has ever taken on a new challenge.
Since her arrival at Sony, Artan has been instrumental in signing significant talents, such as Indian producer Kalmi and UK artist AoD. It’s fascinating to consider how her contributions echo the intricate tapestry of global music culture, where every partnership represents a blending of unique stories and sounds. Furthermore, her organization of songwriting camps in cities like Miami, Stockholm, Accra, and Johannesburg illustrates her profound commitment to creating a network of global creative connections. Each camp not only serves as a launching pad for new ideas but also as a gathering point for diverse artistic expressions.
Before her noteworthy tenure at Sony, Artan honed her skills at Warner Music Norway, where her journey began as an A&R assistant and transitioned into the role of A&R project manager. Reflecting on her journey, one might wonder about the myriad decisions and moments that shaped her path. For instance, during her time at Warner, she played a pivotal role in artist signings and project leadership, including overseeing the noteworthy work with Norwegian act Amara under Rolig Records. Each experience contributed to her evolving perspective on the music industry.
Born and raised in Oslo, Artan’s upbringing was marked by an early inclination toward music. Her career began not in the boardroom, but behind the decks as a DJ and later as a radio host for NRK P3’s National Rap Show, alongside the well-known presenter Tommy Tee. Imagine the thrill she felt as her voice reached the airwaves, connecting her with audiences across Norway. Her early success within Norway’s vibrant live music scene, which included performances throughout Europe, ultimately paved her way into the formidable world of the record industry.
Arising from an academic foundation, Artan holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Business from BI Norwegian Business School and furthered her education with an MBA from the University of West London. Her rapid ascent to prominence is not just a personal victory, but a significant milestone in an industry where few women of Somali heritage have reached executive positions. Indeed, it raises an important question: How can we continue to support and pave the way for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds in fields traditionally dominated by a homogeneous set of voices?
Artan’s story is not just about her achievements; it serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring professionals wrestling with their unique struggles. She emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability, reminding us all that the journey—often filled with unexpected twists and turns—can lead to genuinely remarkable outcomes.
In conclusion, Nasra Artan’s recognition by Forbes is not merely an acknowledgment of her career; it’s a celebration of diversity and innovation in an industry ripe for fresh perspectives. Her unwavering dedication to creative collaboration and her trailblazing efforts are setting the stage for the next generation of music professionals. Such stories inspire us all to pursue our passions relentlessly, regardless of the obstacles we face.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring.
