International creative audio network Squeak E. Clean Studios has added former Leo Burnett director of music Chris Clark as executive producer of its Chicago studio. A highly accomplished director and music supervisor, Clark comes to Squeak E. Clean following 11 years as global music lead at Leo Burnett Chicago.
In his new role, Clark will leverage his expertise spanning original music production, music strategy, artist partnerships, deal negotiation and licensing to facilitate new creative collaborations between clients and Squeak E. Clean Studios’ slate of award-winning composers, sound designers and more. He has secured track placements in content for top brands including Samsung, Nintendo, MillerCoors, P&G, McDonald’s, Allstate and Esurance.
Hamish Macdonald, managing director, Squeak E. Clean Studios, said “Chris truly understands and respects the trajectory and culture of our company as a former client; his exceptional abilities and experience will only continue to heighten Squeak E Clean’s offering to our clients.”
At the helm of the Chicago studio, Clark joins a team of creative director Justin Hori, sr. composer Julie Nichols and lead sound engineer Surachai Sutthisasanakul.
Clark added, “At a time where audio is truly coming back to the forefront of marketing strategies for brands and CMOs, it’s a perfect point to pivot from the agency side to join what I consider one of the most innovative music companies in our space.”
Clark’s creative achievements most notably include work on the Coors Light “Chill” campaign, and his supervision of Samsung Global’s new product launch commercials featuring “Rocket Man” by Elton John and a cover of “Across the Universe.” Clark has also lent his musicianship to take a stand in relevant social dialogue, supervising the creation of “Put The Guns Down”–an original anti-gun violence song and accompanying video for Chicago Ideas Week–and taking an agency lead position with P&G and Free The Bid to build the largest database of woman composers to-date.
Over the years, Clark has established himself as a thought leader in the music and advertising spaces, leading panel discussions at major conferences and festivals such as the Cannes Lions, MIDEM, New York Advertising Week, SXSW and Winter Music Conference, among others.
“Dune: Part Two” and “House of the Dragon” Win 2 HPA Awards Apiece
Dune: Part Two and House of the Dragon each scored two HPA Awards during a gala ceremony at the Television Academy’s Wolf Theatre in North Hollywood, Calif. on Thursday night (11/7). The HPA Awards honor trailblazing talent in the postproduction industry, celebrating standout achievements in color grading, sound, editing, restoration, and visual effects across theatrical features, commercials, and episodics.
Dune: Part Two topped the Outstanding Color Grading--Live Action Theatrical Feature and the Outstanding Sound--Theatrical Feature categories.
House of the Dragon’s two wins were for “The Red Dragon and the Gold” episode which scored for Outstanding Visual Effects--Live Action Episode or Series Season, and Outstanding Editing--Episode or Non-Theatrical Feature (Over 30 Minutes). In the latter HPA Creative Category, House of the Dragon tied with the “Part Six: Far,l Far Away” episode of Ahsoka.
The HPA’s Judges Award for Creativity and Innovation honored Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour. This recognition celebrates the profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment that defined The Eras Tour, underscoring its exceptional impact on audiences and the industry. The jury issued a statement outlining their choice: “Celebrated as the cultural phenomenon of 2023, Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour set new records in box office sales, tour revenues, and attendance. The tour showcased exceptional artistry and innovation, making a profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment.”
This year, FotoKem was awarded the Charles S. Swartz Award for its role in supporting filmmakers, studios, cinematographers, and artists across diverse film and media landscapes. Also celebrated... Read More