Tony Harlow – CEO, Warner Music UK, Former V2 MD

My guest on this episode of my Paul Weller Fan Podcast is Tony Harlow, one of the most influential figures in the modern music industry and the current Chairman & CEO of Warner Music UK.

He was MD of Richard Branson’s V2 Records during Paul Weller’s time at the label and their paths have crossed again more recently, with Paul signing back with Warner’s Parlophone label for Find El Dorado.

Beyond his work with Paul Weller, Tony has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of a diverse range of artists. At V2, he championed acts like The White Stripes, Stereophonics, and Moby, while his leadership at Warner Music Australia saw him help launch the global success of Ed Sheeran and Dua Lipa.

His approach has always been artist-centric, blending a keen ear for talent with a progressive vision for the industry – evident in his efforts to support independent musicians through initiatives like Co-Op Music, and his recent investments in regional UK studios and digital innovation at Warner.

Our chat was for my upcoming Dancing Through the Fire – Paul Weller oral history book, and Tony has kindly let me use the audio for an episode of the podcast.

We cover his early days working at Beggars Banquet record shop and going to punk gigs … to V2 during Paul’s time for Studio 150, As is Now and Catch Flame onto the sale of the label at the point that Paul had just finished creating 22 Dreams.

Tony shares his memories of working with Paul, his relationship with John Weller, and why he believes Paul Weller remains one of the greatest and most enduring artists of our time.

Dancing Through the Fire

My upcoming book, Paul Weller: Dancing Through the Fire, is published on 11th September.
Click on the image below to reserve your copy now…