Courtney Marr, YouTube Music

💭 Thoughts on Chappell Roan, Rosebud Salve, and focusing on gratitude.

Courtney Marr is an Artist Partnerships Manager at YouTube Music, where she works with artists and managers — from every genre, at every stage of their careers — to develop impactful release strategies and creative partnerships. 

During her time at YouTube, Courtney has played a strategic role in helping launch YouTube Shorts, and most recently is working across YouTube & Google’s AI Music initiatives. Courtney has a background in artist management, and prior to joining YouTube, she was a Sr. Director of Digital & Marketing Strategy at mtheory. Courtney was raised in Mobile, AL and has a Master's degree in Performing Arts Administration from NYU.

🎯 Current focus 

In addition to my strategic work alongside managers and artists – this year I have been focusing on several of YouTube Music’s AI initiatives. It’s a particularly interesting time for music & technology, so I am fortunate to work at a company where innovation, creativity, and responsibility are all equally important. My work has primarily involved leading YouTube’s Music AI Incubator -  announced in August of 2023 - as well as the launch of YouTube + GoogleDeep Mind’s DreamTrack  experiment. The incubator is designed to help inform YouTube’s approach to AI by working with some of music's most innovative artists, songwriters, and producers. This test group has been helping us learn and gain feedback to develop the best experience possible for our community of artists, viewers and fans across a diverse range of cultures and genres. 

🎶 Chappell Roan

I’ve been a huge fan of Chappell Roan for years, and her new song “Good Luck, Babe!” has been on constant repeat since it was released. She is such a special artist and her voice is unbelievable. What I love about her - aside from her incredible fashion, songwriting, and live shows - is that she is really stepping into her own as an artist, and brings fans into her world while making everyone feel welcome. I was fortunate enough to work with her and her team - in partnership with my colleagues at Google Pixel - at this year’s Coachella, to celebrate the unique relationship she has with her fans. If you somehow missed her in person (or on our livestream) she’s going to be on tour throughout the summer at festivals – you will absolutely not want to miss her! 

🙏 Focusing on gratitude 

A big focus for me in 2024 is gratitude. I feel really lucky to live in my favorite city (New York City), in my favorite neighborhood (Carroll Gardens), and work alongside the incredible team at YouTube Music. I grew up in a very small town in Alabama, and always knew I wanted to get out and experience something bigger. I don’t think my younger self would believe where I ended up, and I actively try to take the time each day to step back and recognize how far I have come. I am so grateful that I get to work with such incredible artists every day, and also have an incredible support system through my friends and family.

👗 Mr. Larkin

My current obsession is the women-owned clothing brand - Mr. Larkin - based in Houston, TX & Copenhagen. Having roots in the south myself and an appreciation for European design, I am especially drawn to the pieces from their in-house collection. I love that their clothes are the perfect mix of femininity and bold design, and I look forward to wearing their clothes to work, during a night out, or to any special event! 

🌹 Rosebud Salve

I was introduced to this miracle chapstick over 20 years ago, and I have used it religiously every day since. I also travel all the time for work, and going to different climates really affects my skin/lips. Fun fact: Rosebud Salve has multiple uses! If you’re in a pinch, it can be used to treat minor burns; a little on the eyelids at a show will make your eyes pop; and I’ve even used it mixed with blush for a dewy skin look when I’m feeling dry (hello Los Angeles)! 

🕯️ Casa Veronica

I discovered Casa Veronica - a female-owned interdisciplinary studio and brand - after a trip to Mexico City last year. I am passionate about interior design, and have tried to fill my apartment with pieces that are influenced by my travels. I want to buy every single lamp on their website, and am in love with all of their ceramics and glassware. The colors used throughout their designs would be a perfect addition to any home, and pretty much everything on their website would make a great gift for friends or family members! 

Follow Courtney on Linkedin & Instagram, and check out YouTube Music here.

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