President & Founder, A&r Worldwide, Musexpo
Biography & Career Highlights
British-born with Indian heritage, Sat Bisla stands among the most influential global executives of Punjabi descent in the international music and media landscape. With a career spanning over more than four decades, Bisla has become a transformational force across A&R, radio, music, media, technology, cross-border strategy, and executive counsel. As Founder and President of A&R Worldwide and the creator of MUSEXPO, he has played a pivotal role in the early discovery, development, or signing of some of the world’s most successful artists, including Adele, Coldplay, Muse, Dido, Lorde, Keane, Sia, LMFAO, Jessie J, Picture This, Faithless, Gavin James, Forest Blakk, Sheppard, Tove Lo and many others.
Bisla’s insights have been spotlighted by Forbes, Billboard, Variety, the Los Angeles Times, Music Business Worldwide, and Music Week, cementing his reputation as a connector of creative ecosystems and a globally trusted advisor. His unique ability to forecast trends, identify talent early, and unite executives from multiple continents has made him one of the most connected and respected figures influencing global music discovery and innovation today.
Early Career & Music
Bisla’s foundation was built on a deep connection to music culture. Beginning as a radio DJ, journalist, and programmer at influential stations including KCRW, KCSN and the acclaimed Indie 103.1 FM (named “Best Radio Station in America” for consecutive years by Rolling Stone), he cultivated a reputation as a forward-thinking tastemaker. His passion for championing under-the-radar talent led to the launch of Passport Approved, a global pre-discovery radio platform that became a leading destination for new music. Broadcast on more than fifty stations across six continents, including Los Angeles, Berlin, Seattle, Mumbai, Chicago, Amsterdam, Johannesburg, and Lima, the show reaches millions weekly and has helped introduce countless emerging artists to global audiences long before mainstream discovery cycles.
This early chapter established Bisla as a rare executive with the instinct, credibility, and global reach to shape artist trajectories before traditional markets took notice.
Transition to Entrepreneurship
Propelled by his early successes bridging radio, labels, and emerging talent, Bisla transitioned into entrepreneurship as a trusted advisor to Presidents, CEOs, and heads of A&R at major companies including Arista, Atlantic, Warner Music Group, Capitol, RCA, EMI, Columbia, Epic, Island, Virgin, Nettwerk and others.
He went on to serve as Global Vice President of the A&R Network for Clear Channel Entertainment (now Live Nation) and Clear Channel Radio (now iHeartMedia), pioneering one of the earliest global talent-tracking and artist-development ecosystems within corporate media.
In 2006, Bisla founded Pangaea Entertainment Group, which encompasses A&R Worldwide, MUSEXPO, and additional ventures. Through these platforms, he has built a far-reaching global infrastructure that unites executives, artists, publishers, media, and technology leaders, enabling early-stage breakthroughs, market expansion, and multinational creative and commercial collaboration long before global music business integration became the industry standard.
About the Company
A&R Worldwide has evolved into a trusted global advisory and development partner for artists, executives, media companies, and brands seeking creative strategy, international expansion, and cross-border deal-making. The company has been integral in securing major label and publishing signings, building global careers, and establishing new pathways for emerging talent.
Its flagship event, MUSEXPO, is recognized as one of the world’s premier international music, media, and tech forums—often referred to as the “United Nations of Music” for its influence, executive participation, and unparalleled convening power across over forty countries. Meanwhile, the Passport Approved radio brand continues to shape global discovery cycles and remains one of the industry’s longest-running and most impactful platforms for new talent.
Impact & Vision
Bisla’s influence is felt across the global creative economy. He has helped break artists who have gone on to achieve multi-Platinum chart-topping success; forged essential industry alliances; and shaped international strategies for companies navigating a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape. His contributions have been recognized by the City of Los Angeles, City of West Hollywood, City of Burbank, and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.
With a vision centered on a borderless innovation-driven music world, Bisla continues to champion global access, cultural exchange, and authentic artistic development. Today, he remains a sought-after consultant and advisor for companies and leaders shaping the future of music, media, technology, and consumer brands, bringing strategic insight, global connectivity, and unparalleled industry foresight to every initiative he touches.
