With over 18 years of experience in artist management, label A&R, and music publishing, Rich Castillo is a driving force in the global music industry. His career spans major roles at Universal Music Canada, Sony Music Publishing, Atlantic Records, and EMI Records, where he led A&R teams and played a crucial role in shaping label operations.

Rich has a proven track record of discovering and developing groundbreaking talent, working closely with artists who define contemporary youth culture. He was instrumental in the success of Tion Wayne’s “Body (Remix)”, the first-ever drill track to reach No.1 on the U.K. Singles Chart and the most-used sound on TikTok and YouTube’s most-viewed music video of 2021. Recently, he has been pivotal in the resurgence of Chase & Status, re-signing them in 2023 and overseeing a string of hits, including Baddadan, Liquor & Cigarettes, and Backbone.

As President & Founder of Lionbear Music Group Ltd, Rich continues to shape the industry, leveraging his extensive international network and A&R expertise. His career highlights include collaborations between Skepta & Mick Jagger and Ed Sheeran & Lil Baby, as well as signing major acts such as N-Dubz, Chase & Status, Jess Glynne, Young Adz, Stefflon Don, and Tion Wayne. His contributions have earned him six MOBO Awards, a Juno Award, four BRIT nominations, and a BRIT Award.

Now leading Graduation Records’ A&R division, Rich remains at the forefront of music innovation, continuing to champion the next generation of global talent.