Alexi Cory-Smith, Bella Figura Music CEO and Music Industry Leader, Dies at 58
London, UK — Alexi Cory-Smith, the co-founder and CEO of Bella Figura Music, has passed away at the age of 58. Cory-Smith was a prominent figure in the music industry, previously serving as an executive at BMG’s U.K. division before establishing Bella Figura Music.
Sudden Passing Announced
Bella Figura Music released a statement on July 3, expressing devastation over Cory-Smith’s unexpected death. The firm, known for managing rights to classic hits such as Joan Jett’s “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” and The Human League’s “Don’t You Want Me,” acknowledged her significant contributions to the company and the industry. The statement emphasized her leadership, creativity, and commitment, which have left a lasting legacy.
“Our thoughts are with Alexi’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement read. “We ask that their privacy be respected. We are committed to honoring Alexi’s vision and achievements and will share further updates when we are able. In the meantime, our focus is on supporting one another and remembering an extraordinary leader who meant so much to all of us.”
Industry Reactions
Jo Twist, CEO of the British Recorded Music Industry (BPI), expressed profound sadness at Cory-Smith’s passing. She highlighted Cory-Smith’s valuable contributions as a leading figure in the music industry, including her role as a BPI Council member representing BMG. Twist extended sincere condolences to Cory-Smith’s family, friends, and colleagues.
Founding Bella Figura Music
Cory-Smith co-founded Bella Figura Music in 2022 with longtime colleague Neelesh Prabhu. She envisioned a company that prioritized quality and curation in music publishing. In her own words, she stated, “I began Bella Figura with a very simple thing: I wanted to own my own publishing company.”
Reflecting on her journey, Cory-Smith remarked, “It’s the best thing I ever did in my life, personally, selfishly and professionally. I love this business … It’s learning and doing and making mistakes all at the same time, but it’s fantastic. It’s the thing I’m proudest of.”
Growth and Expansion
By 2025, Bella Figura Music had amassed a portfolio valued at over $160 million. The firm made significant strides into the U.S. market, appointing industry veteran Gary Gersh to establish an office in Los Angeles. Additionally, in April 2026, Bella Figura acquired the publishing catalog of producer/songwriter Paul Epworth, which included notable works from Adele and Florence + The Machine.
Cory-Smith remarked on the acquisition, stating, “For us, acquiring Paul’s catalog defines what Bella Figura was built to do. His body of work speaks for itself. Songs that have moved hundreds of millions of people and stand the test of time.”
Career Milestones
Before founding Bella Figura, Cory-Smith held various leadership roles at BMG U.K., culminating in her position as president of repertoire and marketing before leaving the company in 2017. She played a crucial role in managing relationships with high-profile artists, including the Rolling Stones and Roger Waters.
Cory-Smith described a pivotal moment in her career involving the Rolling Stones, stating, “The Rolling Stones deal — well, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards specifically, because it was about them as writers and the songs — that was for me, a turning point.”
Her career began at IRS Records, where she described herself as “basically office junior, girl Friday, do it all.” Despite initially aspiring to be a criminal lawyer, she found her passion in the music industry, pursuing a law degree that would later inform her work in music publishing.
Legacy and Future Vision
Cory-Smith reflected on the challenges and rewards of building Bella Figura, stating, “It was worth every second and every penny and every tear. I don’t regret a second, but it wasn’t easy.” She expressed a desire for the firm to continue thriving, saying, “I’d like it to go and go.”
As reported by www.billboard.com.
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Published on 2026-07-03 23:08:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk