Jonathan Azu

Founder & CEO, Culture Collective

Jonathan has played a pivotal role in the careers of some of the most celebrated artists of our time, including Jon Batiste, Miguel, Destiny’s Child’s Michelle Williams, Cory Henry, Anita Baker, Luke James, Emily King, Lecrae, 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Kool & the Gang, and rising superstar, Leon Thomas. Beyond artist development, he has driven strategic innovation through his consultancy partnership with Killian + Company, forging high-value partnerships with global brands like Ford and American Express. His collaborations have delivered groundbreaking music strategies that have featured artists such as Eminem, Harry Styles, Olivia Rodrigo, and Tyler the Creator.

Jonathan’s influence extends into film and television, where he has earned co-production credits on NBC’s global broadcast of Live From Detroit, the Concert at Michigan Central and Lifetime’s original biopic Keyshia Cole: This Is My Story. These ventures underscore his ability to bridge creativity and commerce, turning cultural moments into enduring legacies.

Early in his career, Jonathan held executive roles that positioned him at the intersection of cultural influence and business innovation. At Superfly Presents, he helped shape legendary festivals like Bonnaroo and Outside Lands, and at CBS Radio, he connected Fortune 250 brands with artists and audiences through music partnerships with legendary radio stations such as Los Angeles’ KROQ, Philadelphia’s WYSP and more. Recognized as a two-time Billboard 40 Under 40 Power Player and a Change Agent by Billboard, Variety, and Pollstar, Jonathan’s contributions are both enduring and transformative.

As a mentor and humanitarian, Jonathan is deeply committed to fostering the next generation of leaders and creators while advancing meaningful change across communities. A cancer survivor himself, Jonathan channels his personal journey into his work as chair of City of Hope’s Music, Film, and Entertainment health inequities committee, advocating for equitable access to healthcare and resources within the entertainment industry. He also serves as a Trustee at Drake University, an adjunct professor at University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music, and a member of the Black Music Action Coalition’s Executive Council, where he focuses on addressing systemic inequities. Additionally, as a Governor for the Los Angeles Chapter of the Recording Academy, Jonathan shapes the future of the industry through his visionary leadership and collaborative spirit, ensuring his efforts leave a legacy for both emerging talents and established institutions.

The Music Industry Advisory Board aims to ensure that students have access to a diverse set of successful music professionals, so they are aware that there is more to the industry beyond being on the main stage. Our mission is to close the gap for the next generation of music industry professionals to create a more inclusive and diverse future.