2023 Impact 50: David Zedeck

PARTNER & GLOBAL CO-HEAD OF MUSIC
UTA

2015 may seem like a lifetime ago, but it’s not much in music-business years. That year, United Talent Agency Music was largely formed with the acquisition of The Agency Group. Not long after, David Zedeck, whose experience included working at CAA and Live Nation, was brought on board to lead and develop the agency’s music division.

Despite its relative youth, UTA music has quickly established itself as a true force in a very competitive space. Post-pandemic, United Talent Agency has gained major agents and agencies, including, most recently, a new Atlanta office headed by recent UTA hire and veteran music agent Rob Gibbs.

These moves help demonstrate “the continued growth of the music department and the successful integration of new colleagues who have joined us and are now doing great work with our clients,” Zedeck says.

The momentum continues under Zedeck’s leadership and guidance.

“We’ve never been busier,” he adds, noting that “external challenges such as venue holds, equipment, trained technical crews, buses and trucks are some of the logistical issues that have come about for various reasons. We’ve been able to avoid significant issues through long-term planning and detailed communication with all stakeholders.”

A recent highlight includes client the Jonas Brothers’ five-show run on Broadway, where they played an album per night along with some greatest hits.

“It was exciting because it came together so quickly, and they gave the fans a unique and special experience,” Zedeck said.

While recent years will show that unexpected challenges can always make life difficult, live entertainment continues to show its resolve.

“I don’t think anyone will doubt that consumer confidence and interest in live entertainment is at an all-time high; it’s impossible to replace the communal experience of live entertainment,” Zedeck says. “I’m optimistic that the trend will continue as new and exciting artists continue to develop and new live opportunities emerge.”