Randy Henner, Jen Lyon Named Talent Buyers For Blue Note Entertainment Group

Blue Note Entertainment Group has added two talent buyers in the company’s New York City headquarters.

– BNEG Logo

Randy Henner will serve as the primary talent buyer for the 700-capacity Highline Ballroom, working with current inhouse buyer Becca Higgins. 

Jen Lyon also starts immediately, programming shows across various Blue Note properties (excluding Blue Note Jazz Clubs) with the group’s existing team. Both Henner and Lyon will report to Steven Bensusan, BNEG president.

“With over 40 years of combined experience, Randy and Jen’s unique and distinctive track records in the New York market and beyond will immediately enhance our talent buying efforts,” Bensusan said in a statement. “We’re thrilled to welcome them to the BNEG team and continue to present world class acts.”

Henner is a veteran talent buyer of more than 25 years, most recently as founder of Metamorphic Concerts and previously exec VP and talent buyer at Live Nation in New York City. She’s also held positions with Bowery Presents as well as 20 years with Ron Delsener Presents, SFX and Clear Channel Entertainment – all precursor companies to Live Nation.

“I’ve had great respect for the Blue Note team over the past several decades,” Henner said in a statement. “I’m looking forward to working with Steven and the entire Blue Note staff as the organization continues to grow in exciting new directions.”

Lyon, owner of MeanRed Productions and co-founder of Brooklyn Electronic Music Festival, has been a leading event producer and curator for more than 15 years. She got her start as a booker at 184-cap Joe’s Pub and opened the underground outdoor venue BKLYN Yard, among others.

“Blue Note Entertainment Group’s team embodies the values I hold close as a promoter and booker – curatorial curiosity, good taste and an unashamed fortitude to pursue supporting live music,” Lyon said in the announcement.

Blue Note Entertainment Group has grown significantly in recent years, including the opening of new Blue Note Jazz Clubs in Hawaii, Beijing, Napa, Calif., and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The company also sponsors the 2018 Festival International Jazz Plaza in Havana, Cuba