Corey Calder
| Corey Calder | |
|---|---|
 Corey “C-Notes”.jpg | |
| Born | |
| 🏳️ Nationality | American |
| Other names | C-Notes |
| 💼 Occupation | Music Marketing Executive |
| 👔 Employer | Columbia Records |
| coreynotes/ | |
Corey “C-Notes” Calder is one of today’s most influential and culturally fluent creative leaders in music marketing, recognized for building immersive, artist-first worlds that translate vision into measurable impact. Over the past half decade, Calder has played a pivotal role in shaping the rise of breakout stars including Lay Bankz, Odetari, BunnaB, BabyChiefDoit, and Baby Kia, while creatively directing and guiding global campaigns for marquee artists such as NBA YoungBoy and Kevin Gates.
Known for his ability to merge instinct, data, and culture, Calder’s work spans far beyond traditional marketing. He is deeply involved in crafting an artist’s full ecosystem — from narrative and visual language to content strategy, digital innovation, and viral moments that cut through platforms and resonate at scale. His approach prioritizes authenticity and longevity, ensuring that every creative decision reinforces an artist’s identity rather than chasing fleeting trends.
Calder’s influence is backed by industry recognition, including honors such as Billboard’s Indie Power Players and service on the XXL Awards Board, but his reputation is built on execution. He is widely respected as a hands-on creative operator who leads from the front, translating big ideas into culturally relevant campaigns that drive audience connection, fan growth, and commercial results.
With a career that spans Artist Partner Group under Mike Caren, Warner Records, Apple, Beats Music, Wasserman, and the LA Clippers, Calder brings a rare cross-industry perspective that blends music, technology, sports, and brand storytelling. This multidimensional background informs a modern creative philosophy — one that understands how artists live within culture, how fans engage across platforms, and how creative vision scales globally in today’s attention economy.
Early Life
Corey Calder was born in Livingston, New Jersey, and later grew up in Los Angeles, California. He developed an early interest in music and creative production, experimenting with recording and artist development during his teenage years.
His early exposure to music creation and digital tools contributed to his later work in marketing and artist-focused strategy.
Career
Early career and entry into music
Calder began his career working closely with emerging artists, initially exploring music production and recording. Over time, he transitioned into marketing and creative strategy, focusing on how artists are positioned and presented within the industry.
His early experience included independent work with artists and the development of small-scale music initiatives, which later evolved into professional roles within established organizations.
Artist Partner Group and industry recognition
Calder gained broader recognition during his tenure at Artist Partner Group (APG), where he served in senior marketing and creative roles. At APG, he contributed to campaigns and artist development strategies for both emerging and established musicians.
His work at APG included involvement in the development of artists such as Lay Bankz, Odetari, BunnaB, BabyChiefDoit, and Baby Kia, as well as campaign direction for artists including NBA YoungBoy and Kevin Gates.
During this period, he was recognized in industry listings such as Billboard’s Indie Power Players and participated in initiatives such as the XXL Awards Board.
Executive roles and cross-industry work
Calder’s career spans multiple sectors beyond music, including technology, sports, and brand partnerships. His professional experience includes roles at:
- Artist Partner Group
- Warner Records
- Apple
- Beats Music
- Wasserman
- Los Angeles Clippers
This cross-industry background has contributed to his approach to music marketing, which integrates elements of digital strategy, brand storytelling, and audience engagement
Think It’s A Game Records
In 2026, Calder was appointed President of Artist Marketing, Research & Development at Think It’s A Game Records. In this role, he oversees marketing strategy, artist development initiatives, and research-driven approaches to campaign execution.
His work in this capacity focuses on long-term artist positioning, integrating creative direction with data-informed marketing strategies.
Work and approach
Calder is known for an artist-centered approach to marketing that emphasizes:
- Narrative and visual identity development
- Digital content strategy and platform engagement
- Cultural alignment and audience connection
- Long-term artist positioning
His work often involves building comprehensive creative ecosystems around artists, including storytelling, branding, and audience interaction strategies.
Media and recognition
Calder has been featured in industry publications and interviews discussing music marketing, artist development, and cultural strategy. His contributions have been referenced in outlets covering music, business, and entertainment.
His recognition includes:
- Billboard Indie Power Players listing
- Participation in the XXL Awards Board
- Media coverage in industry publications
Selected work and collaborations
Calder has been associated with campaigns and projects involving:
- NBA YoungBoy
- Kevin Gates
- Lay Bankz
- Odetari
- BunnaB
- BabyChiefDoit
- Baby Kia
His work includes campaign development, creative direction, and marketing strategy for these artists.
External Links
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coreynotes/
References
https://thhm.org/blog/the-hip-hop-museum-corey-c-notes-calder/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.thebarreport.com/p/corey-c-notes-calder-interview?utm_source=chatgpt.com
