John Butler Changes Managers as Philip Stevens Exits After 27 Years

Australian artist John Butler will part ways with long-time manager Philip Stevens in February, bringing to a close a 27-year management relationship.

Stevens has managed Butler since the late 1990s, overseeing his career from early independent releases through international touring and the establishment of Butler’s independent operations. In the statement issued on Feb. 9, Stevens said the decision comes as he steps back from the music industry.

“With very mixed emotions I am announcing that after 27 years, I am stepping away from managing John Butler,” Stevens said. “It has been an incredible privilege to work with John. He is a total legend — a true friend, an incredibly hardworking and talented artist.”

Stevens added that he is leaving the role to spend more time with family and pursue “a less stressful future away from a music industry that is more complex than ever.”

Butler confirmed that Jess Keeley will take over management responsibilities, including oversight of Jarrah Records. Keeley has more than 20 years’ experience in artist management and has previously worked with artists including Shania Twain, Lykke Li, MARINA and Noah and the Whale.

She is currently based in Australia and works with Wonderlick Entertainment and her company Music She Wrote. She also serves as chair of the Association of Artist Managers (AAM) and deputy chair of the Sound NSW advisory board.

“There are only a few times in a management career when your gut and passion line up with opportunity and capacity,” Keeley said in the release. “I feel like being given the opportunity to work with John Butler is one of those lightning moments.”

She added, “What a gift to be stepping into a project held with such care by Philip Stevens. His legacy will also continue.”

Butler thanked Stevens for their long-running partnership and acknowledged the transition to Keeley.

“I feel deeply honoured to have worked with such a fine human as Phil Stevens over the last 27 years,” Butler said. “I’m really looking forward to continuing this journey and legacy with the innovative and motivated Jess Keeley and my deeply valued, long-term collaborator Kester Sappho.”