Alexi Cory-Smith, co-founder and CEO of Bella Figura Music, has died suddenly at the age of 58.
She launched the music catalog company in 2022 after serving as President of BMG UK. Bella Figura’s catalog includes works by David Gray, Guy Chambers, Paul Epworth, The Drums‘ Jonny Pierce, and Human League co-founder Adrian Wright.
In 2024, the company acquired RAK Publishing, and earlier this year it purchased a stake in the Jeepster Recordings catalog. Bella Figura also signed a global administration deal with Sony Music Publishing in 2025 to support its US expansion. The company had deployed over $160 million in catalog acquisitions to date.
The company issued a statement:
“We are devastated to announce the sudden and unexpected passing of our co-founder and CEO, Alexi Cory-Smith. Alexi built Bella Figura Music from the ground up, bringing the vision and passion from a successful career in the music industry. Her leadership, creativity, and unwavering commitment to our team and our work leaves a lasting legacy. Our thoughts are with Alexi’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We ask that their privacy be respected. We are committed to honouring 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.”
Dr Jo Twist OBE, CEO of the British Phonographic Industry (BPI), said: “We are profoundly saddened to learn of the passing of Alexi Cory-Smith. She made a highly valued contribution as a leading figure in our music industry, including as BPI Council member when representing BMG, and we extend our sincere condolences to her family, friends and colleagues on their great loss.”
The Independent Music Publishers International Forum (IMPF) added: “IMPF is deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of Alexi Cory-Smith, founder and CEO of Bella Figura and a valued member of the music publishing community. A principled and passionate entrepreneur she was deeply connected to the art of the business. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and the entire Bella Figura team.”
