Barry McKee, UK chief administrative officer of Warner Chappell Music, has died aged 59.
Barry McKee had worked at Warner Chappell for over 30 years, which he first joined in 1988 and took over as the UK’s Chief Administrative Officer in 2008.
A keen golfer, who had played every course in Essex and many more, McKee was also a keen footballer and a long-time supporter of Tottenham Hotspur. An enthusiastic tennis player, he could often be seen on the courts at Brook Green when WCM had an office nearby.
“Barry was always happy to share his encyclopedic knowledge and was particularly keen to train young colleagues just starting out in music publishing,” Warner Chappell said in a tribute to the publishing veteran. “A well-known character, he was as happy to chat with the security team at reception as he was with the publisher’s superstar writers.”
McKee was a big fan of punk music, and he and his wife Margaret (who also worked at Warner Chappell) both shared a love for The Jam and Paul Weller. The couple, who had been together for more than three decades, married last year.
Claire McAuley, SVP, Global Administration, Warner Chappell Musicsaid: “Barry was a wonderful man who was steeped in knowledge about our writers and their catalogues. He always had time to share his expertise with his colleagues and was particularly keen to help the younger members of the team who were making their way. in the industry. His wry humor, energetic enthusiasm and unbridled kindness will be missed. Our hearts go out to his wife Margaret and his family at this difficult time.”
Shani Gonzales, UK Managing Director and Global Head of A&R, Warner Chappell Music, added: “Barry’s reputation preceded him. He made an indelible impression and will be remembered by generations of colleagues he mentored over the years, both at Warner Chappell and in the music world. His passion for music publishing was legendary and he was always happy to share his knowledge and experience. Barry’s extended family at Warner Chappell will be dearly missed, but cherished fond memories of him forever.
Donations to MacMillan Cancer Support would be welcomed by the family.
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