MONTE CONNER - Mini-Biography and Career

- Monte Conner: The A&R Visionary Behind Roadrunner Records' Success

MONTE CONNER

Monte Conner is a name synonymous with the heavy metal music scene, largely due to his pivotal role as the former Senior Vice President of A&R (Artists and Repertoire) for Roadrunner Records. His journey with the label began in December 1987, marking the start of an illustrious career that would shape the landscape of heavy metal for decades to come.

Early Days at Roadrunner

Conner's initial position at Roadrunner was in College Radio Promotion, a role that allowed him to immerse himself in the burgeoning metal scene of the late 1980s. His passion for the music and keen ear for talent quickly led to his transition into A&R, where he would leave an indelible mark on the label's roster.

A&R Maestro

As the head of A&R for North America, Conner was responsible for discovering and signing some of the most influential bands in heavy metal history. His signings include a veritable who's who of the genre, such as Slipknot, Sepultura, Machine Head, Type O Negative, Trivium, and countless others.

Conner's ability to identify and nurture emerging talent was unparalleled. He had a knack for recognizing bands with not only musical prowess but also the potential for widespread appeal. His signings helped propel Roadrunner Records to the forefront of the heavy metal scene, establishing it as a powerhouse label that consistently delivered groundbreaking music.

Legacy and Impact

Conner's tenure at Roadrunner Records spanned over two decades, during which he played an instrumental role in the label's success. His contributions to the heavy metal genre are undeniable, and his influence continues to be felt today. Many of the bands he signed went on to achieve mainstream success, solidifying their place in music history.

Conner's departure from Roadrunner in 2012 marked the end of an era, but his legacy lives on through the music he helped bring to the world. He is widely regarded as one of the most successful A&R executives in heavy metal history, and his impact on the genre is immeasurable.

Beyond Roadrunner

Following his time at Roadrunner, Conner continued his work in the music industry, taking on the role of Head of A&R at Nuclear Blast Records. His passion for discovering and promoting new talent remains unwavering, and he continues to be a driving force in the heavy metal scene.

Bands he has signed

The bands he has signed, in alphabetical order, are: Amen, Annihilator, Artillery, Atrocity, Atrophy, Believer, Biohazard, Both Worlds, Brujeria, Buzzov-en, Jerry Cantrell, Keith Caputo, Cavalera Conspiracy, Chimaira, CKY, Coal Chamber, Cynic, Dååth, Death, Deicide, Defiance, DevilDriver, Dirty Americans, Disincarnate, Dommin, Downthesun, Earth Crisis, Exhorder, Fear Factory, Floodgate, Glassjaw, Gojira, Gorguts, Gruntruck, Heathen, Immolation, Kinetic Dissent, Last Crack, Leadfoot, Life Of Agony, Machine Head, Malevolent Creation, Murderdolls, Nailbomb, Obituary, Optimum Wound Profile, Pestilence, Porcupine Tree, Powersurge, Realm, Revoker, Rush, Sadus, Sanctity, Sepultura, Shank 456, Skin Chamber, Slipknot, Solitude Aeturnus, Sorrow, Soulfly, Spineshank, Star Star, Stone Sour, Storm Corrosion, Suffocation, Taking Dawn, 36 Crazyfists, Times of Grace, To My Surprise, Toyshop, Treponem Pal, Trivium, Type O Negative, Wednesday 13, Willard, The Workhorse Movement

Conclusion

Monte Conner's journey from College Radio Promotion to Senior Vice President of A&R at Roadrunner Records is a testament to his dedication, passion, and unwavering belief in the power of heavy metal music. His contributions to the genre are undeniable, and his legacy will continue to inspire and influence generations of musicians and music fans for years to come.