Amit Sharma of Virgin Music India Named to Billboard’s 2025 Global Power Players List

Amit Sharma, the Country Manager for India and South Asia at Virgin Music Group, has earned a prestigious spot on Billboard’s 2025 Global Power Players list. This recognition celebrates his significant contributions to the music industry, particularly his role in promoting and expanding the reach of independent music across the South Asian region. Sharma’s inclusion in this elite list highlights his influence in shaping a more dynamic and diverse music landscape in India and beyond.

Since taking the helm at Virgin Music India in 2020, Sharma has played a pivotal role in building the company’s footprint throughout South Asia. His strategic leadership and deep understanding of the region's music scene have helped Virgin Music forge essential partnerships and deliver tailored support to independent artists. One notable collaboration under his leadership was with Hungama Digital Media, which aimed to promote Indian regional music on global platforms. This partnership exemplified his commitment to amplifying the reach of South Asian music and ensuring that independent artists have the tools and support to succeed globally.

Amit Sharma’s efforts have led to Virgin Music India becoming a key platform for a diverse range of artists. The company has worked with established and emerging talent alike, including Himesh Reshammiya, Rito Riba, Ammy Virk, Babbu Mann, and Neha Bhasin. Sharma's approach is centered on empowering artists by offering them the freedom to retain creative control while providing them with strategic resources for career development. His model supports both the commercial and artistic aspects of music, ensuring that artists do not have to compromise on their individuality to succeed.

His recognition by Billboard places him among a select group of Indian music executives who have made a mark on the global stage. Others in the 2025 list include Devraj Sanyal of Universal Music Group and Jay Mehta of Warner Music India. This not only reflects Sharma’s individual achievements but also highlights the growing presence and influence of Indian professionals in the international music industry. The inclusion of multiple Indian executives indicates that the global music world is increasingly acknowledging the innovation and talent emerging from South Asia.

Sharma's success is symbolic of the ongoing evolution of India’s music ecosystem, where independent music is beginning to thrive alongside the traditional Bollywood-centric model. The rise of streaming platforms, digital distribution, and social media has enabled independent artists to find their voice and audience, and leaders like Sharma have been instrumental in this shift. By nurturing grassroots talent and creating opportunities for regional music to flourish internationally, Sharma is playing a key role in redefining how Indian music is consumed and appreciated worldwide.

Amit Sharma’s recognition on Billboard’s 2025 Global Power Players list is not just a personal accolade—it’s a testament to the growth and global potential of India’s independent music scene. With visionary leaders like him at the helm, the future of South Asian music looks more vibrant, inclusive, and globally connected than ever before.