In a strategic move to bolster its presence in the Belgian music market, Warner Music Group (WMG) has appointed Youssef Chellak as General Manager of its Belgian operations. Reporting to Niels Walboomers, President of Recorded Music & Publishing for WMG Benelux, Chellak will spearhead efforts to expand the company's roster of local artists and cultivate innovative partnerships. With over two decades of experience in the music industry, Chellak brings a wealth of knowledge and a culturally curious vision to this new role.

A New Chapter for Warner Music Belgium

Based out of the company’s headquarters in Brussels, Youssef Chellak is set to lead Warner Music Belgium into an exciting new era. His responsibilities encompass nurturing emerging talent and fostering groundbreaking collaborations within the country's vibrant music scene. Chellak’s career spans more than 20 years, during which he has worked extensively across Belgium, France, and Germany as a producer, executive producer, and publisher. Most recently, he served as A&R Director at Universal Music Belgium, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of several notable artists and contributed to the company’s strategic direction as part of the management team.

Prior to his time at Universal, Chellak held the position of General Manager at Top Notch Belgium, an independent hip-hop label. During his tenure, he was instrumental in developing a new generation of local talent, including artists such as Dikke, Stikstof, Tourist LeMC, and Zwangere Guy. This rich background positions him perfectly to drive Warner Music Belgium forward.

Commenting on his appointment, Chellak expressed enthusiasm about joining a company that thrives on entrepreneurial spirit and innovation. He emphasized the importance of supporting Belgian artists through cutting-edge digital tools and building sustainable business relationships. Walboomers echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence in Chellak’s ability to create an inspiring environment for local artists to thrive and reach their full creative potential.

This appointment follows recent expansions by WMG Benelux, including the acquisition of Amsterdam-based independent label Cloud 9 Recordings three months ago. Additionally, Lekeisha Irion was named Head of A&R at Warner Chappell Music Benelux in November 2024, further solidifying the company's commitment to growth in the region.

From a journalist’s perspective, this development signals a significant shift in the Belgian music landscape. Warner Music Group’s strategic appointments and acquisitions indicate a strong belief in the potential of the local music scene. By bringing in seasoned professionals like Chellak, the company aims to not only expand its market share but also foster a culture of creativity and innovation. This move could inspire other major players in the industry to invest more heavily in regional talent, potentially leading to a richer and more diverse global music ecosystem.