Manager of YUNGBLUD recognized at MUSEXPO 2026 Music Conference
YUNGBLUD’s music manager, Tommas Arnby, was awarded the prestigious title of International Music Manager of the Year at the 2026 MUSEXPO & A&R Worldwide Awards Gala in Burbank, California. This recognition underscores Arnby’s vital role in steering the artist’s global triumph and his forward-thinking, artist-centric management approach. The annual MUSEXPO event, situated in the heart of the “Media Capital of the World,” unites prominent figures from the international music industry, shining a spotlight on Arnby’s ability to merge creativity and business acumen. Furthermore, it commends his dedication to empowering artists to grow authentically.
Arnby’s philosophy, drawn from his professional journey, emphasizes that success in the music industry teeters on the edge of potential failure. His belief in the necessity for the UK music industry to embrace the idea that achieving the seemingly impossible is feasible resonates deeply. He advocates for artists to have the space and support to evolve and mature over time, rather than being hastily judged based on immediate commercial outcomes.
As the mastermind behind Locomotion (Music, Entertainment, and Recordings) and the Co-Founder and CEO of Special Projects, Arnby’s foundation in music began with his venture as a musician in the DreamWorks-signed band Subcircus. With a perspective shaped by his experience, he infuses his management style with a focus on creators. His tenure in A&R at Sony Music offered him the opportunity to collaborate with icons like David Bowie and nurture talents such as Beth Hart.
This accolade marks a significant juncture for both Arnby and YUNGBLUD. YUNGBLUD, who recently made history as the first British artist to receive three Grammy nominations in the Rock category in a single year, is gearing up for a twelve-date UK arena tour commencing in April. Concurrently, the expansion of YUNGBLUD’s festival, Bludfest, into Europe for 2026 signifies a growing international presence. Noteworthy achievements including securing a Grammy for Best Rock Performance, clinching two UK Number 1 albums in 2025, and rising to the top of the Billboard charts demonstrate YUNGBLUD’s unwavering success under Arnby’s strategic guidance.
The triumph at the 2026 MUSEXPO & A&R Worldwide Awards Gala celebrates more than a singular moment of recognition. It symbolizes the enduring impact of Arnby’s creative leadership and his enduring commitment to fostering the long-term development of artists. Through his visionary approach and dedication to artist empowerment, Arnby’s influence on YUNGBLUD’s stellar trajectory remains unmistakable.