In an industry often consumed by the rush for the next big deal, Ari Gelaw is a refreshing reminder that success and purpose can coexist. As Vice President of Creative at Sony Music Publishing, Ari has made a name for herself by nurturing songwriting talent and creating meaningful connections in the music world. But for Ari, it’s never been about the short-term win—it’s about helping artists and songwriters stay true to themselves while finding commercial success.
Before joining Sony, Ari played a key role as Director of A&R at Universal Music Publishing, where she helped sign major artists like Megan Thee Stallion, Coi Leray, and DaBaby. But beyond the high-profile names, Ari’s true magic lies in building bridges between artists, producers, and songwriters. Her mission? To ensure the music always stays authentic and impactful.
Purpose Over Profit
Ari’s approach to the music business is clear: “Money rules the world, but you can’t pay God with it.” In a world that often prioritizes deals over integrity, Ari stands firm in her belief that true success comes from aligning creativity with purpose. She focuses on building genuine relationships with songwriters, allowing them to create from a place of authenticity. When your creatives trust you and remain true to themselves, magic happens. The music resonates with people, and that’s when purpose aligns with success.
A&R in Publishing vs. A&R at Labels
In her conversation with Hassahn, Ari breaks down the difference between A&R roles in publishing and labels. While label A&Rs are focused on artists and their overall brand—managing projects, marketing, and public relations—publishing A&Rs like Ari work exclusively with songwriters. “We care about the craft. We see artists as songwriters first,” she explains. Publishing offers songwriters long-term careers, even beyond the limelight.
The Power of Music to Change Lives
For Ari, the true reward comes in moments when an artist’s hard work finally pays off. “It’s that energy when the plan actually works. It’s beautiful to witness dreams come to life, especially when you’ve helped make that happen, even in a small way.” It’s not about the fame, but the lasting impact the music has on people’s lives.
From Ethiopian Roots to A&R Pioneer
Ari’s journey into music wasn’t always clear-cut. Growing up Ethiopian, traditional music was a constant in her home, but it wasn’t until she heard Lauryn Hill’s The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill that Ari’s love for music truly clicked. “It felt like an audiobook,” Ari recalls. “Her words resonated so deeply.” This album was a pivotal moment, one that made Ari realize the profound emotional impact music could have on people.
Her passion for music discovery grew from that point on, leading her to a career in PR after graduation. Eventually, Ari found her true calling in A&R, where she has since thrived—putting people on to new music and shaping careers.
Advocating for Black Creatives in the Music Industry
As Black Music Month unfolds, Ari highlights the importance of advocating for Black creatives in a historically white-dominated industry. “Black music is the most popular in the world, but Black creatives still face barriers,” she says. “I fight to get them in rooms, fight for fair pay, and fight for recognition.” For Ari, being a Black woman in the industry has made advocacy even more personal. “Black creatives should never feel like outsiders in spaces we created,” she adds.
Working for a Black CEO, Ari finds herself surrounded by leadership that supports and encourages her mission to uplift others. This has empowered her not only to help elevate Black creatives but also to advocate for herself and ensure she’s treated with the respect she deserves.
Advice to Her Younger Self
If Ari could talk to her younger self, trying to break into the industry today, she’d offer two key pieces of advice: “Never lose sight of why you do this. Music and creatives should always be the priority.” She also urges young women to set boundaries and advocate for themselves. “There’s no opportunity so great that you can’t stand firm in how you want to be treated.”
What’s Next for Ari?
Ari’s vision for the future is ever-evolving. While she once thought the path to success was linear, she’s now realized that it can be winding. Still, her goal is clear: leadership. “I hope that’s where I’m headed,” she says. “But I also want to stay open to exploring new ventures, maybe school, maybe something else.” Whatever path she takes, Ari is committed to passing on the knowledge she’s gained and making sure the door stays open for others—if not taking the door off entirely.
Ari Gelaw’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that success in the music industry doesn’t have to come at the expense of integrity. She’s a beacon for authenticity, proving that staying true to yourself and lifting others as you rise can truly create lasting legacies.