Michael Abitbol

Michael Abitbol currently serves as Senior Vice President, Head of US Digital for Sony Music Publishing, where he oversees all aspects of Sony Music Publishing’s US digital business and strategy.  In his role, Michael manages the negotiation of commercial deal terms for the exploitation of Sony Music Publishing’s catalog in various digital formats, drafts agreements and directs and oversees digital enforcement matters.  Prior to joining Sony Music Publishing in 2012, Michael worked at EMI Music Publishing for five years heading its US digital business.  Prior to working at EMI, Michael was an associate at Davis & Gilbert LLP for seven years, where he drafted and negotiated various entertainment and advertising-related agreements and advised clients with respect to intellectual property-related issues, including copyright, trademark and rights of privacy and publicity. 

Before practicing law, Michael worked for 21st Century Artists, a music management company based in New York City, where he handled the day-to-day management of various music groups and where he was primarily responsible for the production and routing of various live tours.  After leaving 21st Century Artists, Michael ran his own artist management company for 3 years.  Michael has also been a drummer in several college bands, that played many empty bars, and was a DJ for the George Washington University radio station for 4 years.  Nowadays, Michael is playing the bass, hanging out with his family and loving his golden retriever.  

Michael also serves as a member of the Canadian Publisher Committee of CMRRA.