From Music Business Worldwide · · 1m 20s
Barbara Cane Retires from BMI After 50 Years
Barbara Cane, BMI's VP of Worldwide Creative, retires after 50 years but stays as advisor to CEO Mike O'Neill.
In brief
Barbara Cane, BMI's VP of Worldwide Creative, retires after 50 years but stays as advisor to CEO Mike O'Neill. Barbara Cane retires from BMI after 50 years, remaining as an advisor to CEO Mike O'Neill. Originally reported by Music Business Worldwide.
Barbara Cane Retirement Announcement
Barbara Cane, BMI's VP of Worldwide Creative, will retire from the performing rights organization at the end of 2026.
Cane's Career Timeline
Cane began working at BMI part-time in 1970 while in high school, starting in Song Research before holding creative roles.
Cane's Creative Impact

Cane directed creative activities for BMI's Pop, Rock, and Indie teams, working with artists like Adam Levine and P!nk.
Cane's Long-Term Role
Cane worked with BMI Icons including Barry Mann & Cynthia Weil and David Foster over her five decades at the organization.
Cane's Personal Statement
Cane said creativity is the heart of songwriters and the force moving the music industry forward after fifty years.
“Through every chapter of my journey, I have come to understand that creativity is not simply a profession; it is the heart of who songwriters are and the force that moves our industry forward.”
O'Neill's Tribute

CEO Mike O'Neill called Cane a family member who has nurtured songwriters and will advise BMI for the next five years.
“Barbara is one of the first people I met when I joined BMI almost 32 years ago, and her kindness, caring nature and warm welcome showed me exactly why she is so loved by so many in our industry.”
Cane's Advisory Role
Cane will remain with BMI in an advisory role, working directly with CEO Mike O'Neill after retiring from her VP position.
What it means
Barbara Cane retires from BMI after 50 years, remaining as an advisor to CEO Mike O'Neill.





