Kirk Sommer to Receive International Music Person of the Year Award at MUSEXPO 2026
Kirk Sommer, a senior partner and global co-head of music at WME, will be honored with the International Music Person of the Year award at MUSEXPO in Burbank, California from March 22–25, 2026. The award presentation will take place during an awards gala luncheon at Castaway restaurant in Burbank on March 24. Sommer's professional journey will be explored in a keynote conversation prior to the luncheon.
Sommer's career in the music industry began in the mid-1990s when he started booking small concerts during his freshman year at New York University. He transitioned to becoming an agent after interning for an independent concert promotion company. In 2000, Sommer joined William Morris in Los Angeles as an agent trainee and rose through the ranks to become a partner. He currently serves as the global co-head of music alongside Lucy Dickins.
Throughout his tenure at WME, Sommer has worked with numerous artists, including The Killers, Amy Winehouse, Adele, and more. His contributions to the industry have been recognized with accolades such as being named to Billboard's 30 Under 30 and 40 Under 40 lists, as well as appearing on the Billboard Power 100 and Touring Power Players lists.
In addition to his professional achievements, Sommer and his wife, Chloe, are actively involved in supporting philanthropic organizations focused on mental health, children's welfare, and health. His dedication to artists, mentorship, and global perspective have earned him the respect of his peers in the music industry.
MUSEXPO's International Music Person of the Year award has been previously presented to notable figures in the industry, including Monte and Avery Lipman, Jacqueline Saturn, and Daniel Glass. The event brings together industry leaders to discuss the future of music, media, and technology through marquee events like the Global Synch & Brands Summit and the A&R Summit. Kirk Sommer's impact on the music industry and his leadership qualities make him a deserving recipient of this prestigious honor.