Chris Horton

About Me

Chris Horton, EVP Strategic Technology, leads Universal Music Group’s Strategic Technology team, which oversees the technology aspects of digital partner deals and long-term strategic technology initiatives and policies. Chris reports to Michael Nash, UMG’s Chief Digital Officer and head of the Digital
Strategy division. Chris has worked on UMG’s digital distribution deals for more than 25 years, including the first successful download and subscription services. His team collaborates with companies on the development of new music-related products and services, including high-resolution audio, stem-based formats, AI, Web3, AR/VR, and anti-piracy technology. Chris co-founded several music industry standards, including DDEX. Most recently, he has focused on UMG’s AI strategy, working on deals with
consumer-facing services, artist tools, research collaborations, and related standards and policy initiatives like C2PA and the first voluntary AI labeling guidelines from a media industry. He is also responsible for UMG’s patent development initiative. He holds B.S. and M.Eng. degrees in computer science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.