About The Author
For three decades, Ohio native David Junk has been a trailblazer in the mu- sic industry, leaving an indelible mark through his diverse experiences and unwavering commitment to promoting cultural understanding. Born with a passion for music and a keen sense of entrepreneurship, David’s journey has taken him from the heart of the Russian music industry to the epicenter of cultural preservation in Ukraine.
David’s foray into the music industry began after the fall of the Berlin Wall and the collapse of the Soviet Union when he answered a “Help Wanted” advertisement in the Moscow Times, leading him to join PolyGram, the first multinational record company to establish a presence in Russia. Initially hired as an English-speaking accountant, David’s passion for music and business acumen quickly propelled him to more prominent roles. As PolyGram merged with Universal Music Group, David, the first American to work in the Russian music industry, became the inaugural chief executive of Universal Music Russia, overseeing the promotion of international artists, including Elton John, U2, Andrea Bocelli, Bon Jovi, Eminem, Jay-Z, and Shania Twain, introducing hip hop and country to the Russian audience.
His impact extended beyond promoting Western artists; David discovered and signed Russian talent, such as t.A.T.u., the best-selling Russian act in music history. In the face of rampant music piracy threatening the industry’s legitimacy, David actively participated in law enforcement raids against pirate factories, testifying in court against criminal gangs and advocating for intellectual property rights in Russia. His efforts drew attention globally, with interviews on television and radio and contributions to esteemed publications like the Wall Street Journal.
After leaving Russia and returning to the United States in 2006, David took on the role of general manager at Universal’s Machete Records in Los Angeles, where he played a crucial part in transforming it into the no. 1 Reggaeton label in America. His work involved collaborating with renowned artists such as Don Omar and Wisin Y. Yandel, further expanding his experiences in the music industry. David’s dedication to bridging cultures continued even after his tenure at Universal Music, and his connection to Ukraine deepened. In 2007, while living in Los Angeles, he conceptualized and pitched the TV reality show American Chance, blending Ukrainian and Hollywood elements. The show, a ratings success, showcased Los Angeles on Ukrainian TV and launched the careers of several Ukrainian talents.
In 2013, David embarked on a new career chapter, joining the iconic American musical instruments manufacturer Nashville-based Gibson Guitars. David opened Gibson’s first showroom in Russia and signed the very first Russian guitarist to be endorsed by Gibson, rock star Diana Arbenina. After leaving Russia for the second time in 2015, David managed Gibson’s East Coast entertainment relations from the guitar showroom at the iconic Hit Factory recording studios in New York City. On behalf of Gibson, David presented honorary guitars to The Steve Miller Band and Cheap Trick to commemorate their induction into the Rock ’n’ Roll Hall of Fame and to Elvis Costello, Tom Petty, and Nile Rodgers to commemorate their induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. One of David’s memorable achievements at Gibson was organizing a national TV performance featuring Andrew Lloyd Webber’s School of Rock Broadway cast on Gibson’s float in the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Amid his career, David’s connection to Ukraine deepened. Witnessing the devastation of war in Bucha during a visit in 2023, he became an advocate for preserving Ukrainian culture. Motivated by the atrocities committed by the Russian Army and determined to raise awareness, David launched a podcast focused on Ukrainian art and culture called Art during Wartime. Drawing from his extensive knowledge and experiences, he aims to illuminate the richness of Ukrainian culture, counteract centuries of overshadowing by Russia, and highlight the importance of cultural preservation in the face of war. As a cultural ambassador, David Junk continues to pursue his career calling by weaving together music, advocacy, and cross-cultural understanding.
-Thank you.