In our Meet Our People series, we introduce the individuals working behind the scenes to guide the PRS Members’ Fund. This month, we are delighted to welcome our new Trustee, Darren Michaelson, a seasoned industry executive whose career spans the heights of global artist management, groundbreaking entertainment ventures, and sophisticated royalty finance.

With a career that bridges the gap between the creative and the commercial, Darren brings a wealth of strategic expertise to the Fund, ensuring we continue to support our members with the insight and stability they deserve.

From Management to Music Finance

Darren’s journey in music began in the 1990s as part of the 4-man core management team behind The Smashing Pumpkins, helping the band navigate a period of meteoric success that saw over 30 million records sold. His early management portfolio reads like a “who’s who” of iconic rock, including close work with Cocteau Twins, Echo and the Bunnymen, and The Sundays.

His reputation for excellence eventually led him to work within the executive management team for Elton John, providing him with a first-hand view of the needs of world-class creators before he transitioned into the world of music finance.

A Global Portfolio of Hits

In 2018, Darren co-founded the Barometer Music Royalty Fund, which was later acquired by the Swiss Fund of Funds, Alternative Partners, in 2021. Staying on to build a brand-new portfolio, Darren and the team at AP curated a catalogue that is truly global in scope, covering a diverse range of genres, geographies, and vintages.

The artists represented in his combined catalogues include legends such as The Spice Girls, Def Leppard, Judas Priest, and Slipknot, alongside modern icons like Halsey, Chris Brown, and Jason Derulo. From the timeless melodies of Simple Minds and Status Quo to global hits by Sam Smith, One Direction, and the recent resurgence of Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s “Murder on the Dancefloor”, Darren’s work touches every corner of the musical landscape. His commitment to diversity is further highlighted by his acquisition of the Gerig catalogue, one of the largest collections of schlager songs in Germany.

Strategic Vision Beyond Music

Beyond the recording studio, Darren has been a pivotal figure in broader entertainment. He acted as the sole strategic advisor and broker for the acquisition of James Grant (now YMU) in 2018—then the largest entertainment agency investment in the UK and Europe.

His flair for spotting cultural trends was also evident in his work with Sebastien Foucan, the creator of Parkour (freerunning), whose career he guided as his exclusive personal advisor. Darren was instrumental in commercialising the movement globally, leading to high-profile collaborations with Madonna on her Confessions tour, and securing Foucan’s iconic role in the James Bond film Casino Royale.

Why the Fund Matters

Our General Secretary John Logan said: “Darren’s understanding of the financial value of rights, coupled with his deep-rooted empathy for the artist’s journey, makes him an invaluable asset to our Board of Trustees. We are thrilled to have Darren on board as we continue our mission to provide financial, health, and housing support to the PRS community.”

Bringing this level of strategic depth to the PRS Members’ Fund, Darren is committed to ensuring that the Fund remains a robust safety net for songwriters and composers.

On his appointment Darren said: “My whole career has been in the music industry, and I am in awe of the songwriters who have explored the darkest depths of their souls in order to provide the universe with songs they can relate to on every level. It was my dream to work in the industry since I was a little kid growing up in Liverpool living up the road from Strawberry Fields. The Beatles brought their musical instruments from my Uncle’s music shop ” Hessys” which is commemorated in the Beatles museum – In a way my route into the industry was ordained and I am compelled to give back to those songwriters who have fallen on hard times.”