New York, NY, September 28, 2009: Nicole George, Vice President, Membership Group - Rhythm & Soul of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) announced today that Sam Taylor has been appointed Director of Membership, Rhythm & Soul. Based in New York, Taylor will be responsible for the recruitment and maintenance of new songwriters and producers, in addition to providing support for existing artist development programs.

Commenting on Taylor's appointment, George said: "Sam's dynamic and forward-thinking style will prove an immediate asset to our already strong team. I look forward to his contributions to the Rhythm & Soul department's initiatives, and am very pleased to welcome him into the ASCAP family."

A native of Newport News, Virginia, Sam Taylor began his music career at Elektra Records in 2001 under the guidance of Merlin Bobb, EVP of A&R. In 2004, he became an A&R executive at Atlantic Records, working on a variety of projects for both emerging and high-profile artists. He joined Warner/Chappell Music Publishing in 2007 as Manager, A&R Urban, where he worked with Kevin Cossom, Danja and Don Cannon, among others.