Photo Credit: Warner Music (Jukka Immonen)
Warner Music has announced it will acquire the recorded music business of The Fried Music. Its founder, producer Jukka Immonen will become the Head of A&R at Warner Music Finland in 2024.
Warner says Immonen’s appointment will follow the retirement of Asko Kallonen, Warner Music Finaland’s current head of A&R and Domestic General Manager. Jukka Immonen is one of Finland’s most successful producers. He has worked with artists including Anna Puu, Elastinen, Jenni Vartiainen, Lauri Tähkä, Sunrise Avenue and Vesala and has received more than 50 Gold and Platinum records. Immonen will now use his expertise, connections, and creativity to sign and nuture the next generation of Finnish talent to help drive Warner Music Finland’s business forward.
Jukka Immonen founded The Fried Music in 2002. The recorded music side of the company has enjoyed success with artists including Anna Puu, Knipi and Viivi. Together, these artists have generated millions of streams and have landed multiple Number Ones in Finland. They will now integrate into Warner Music’s roster and have access to its global network, helping them connect with a wider international audience.
“Jukka is the best choice to lead Warner Music Finland’s A&R team into the future,” adds Niko Nordström, Managing Director, Warner Music Finland. “He has enjoyed incredible success as a producer and has showed brilliant A&R skills to develop artist and songwriters with The Fried Music. Also, I’m delighted to be able to bring the recorded music side of his company into Warner Music.”
“Asko is an absolute A&R icon in Finland with an unparalleled track record of successful artist careers. I’d like to say a deep thank you to Asko for all the incredible years we’ve shared and for his exceptional work at Warner Music Finland. He has been such a vital and highly appreciated team member, and we truly wish him all the best and happiness in the future.”
Asko Kallonen started his career in the music business in 1994 with BMG, holding roles such as Head of A&R and General Manager. In 2005, he founded the indie label Helsinki Music Company (HMC), alongside Niko Nordström, which was later acquired by Warner Music. During his time at Warner Music, he has worked with artists including Chisu, Behm, J. Karjalainen, Jenni Vartiainen, Lauri Tähkä, Sanni and Samuli Edelmann. Kallonen will continue to serve as an A&R consultant for Warner Music Finland on specific artists and projects.