Rob Stone

Rob Stone was a prominent figure in the music industry, best known as the co-founder and co-CEO of The FADER and Cornerstone Agency. He played a pivotal role in revolutionizing music marketing by blending traditional promotional strategies with innovative hip-hop street marketing techniques. This approach allowed Cornerstone to partner with major brands like Sprite, Coca-Cola, and Nike, significantly impacting the music landscape.

Career Highlights

• Co-Founder of The FADER (1999): Stone helped launch this influential magazine, which became known for its focus on emerging artists and visually captivating content. The publication set a standard that inspired others like Vice and Complex.14
• Cornerstone Agency (1996): Alongside Steve Rifkind and later Jon Cohen, Stone established this marketing agency that became a leader in integrating brands with music culture. The agency's success was marked by high-profile campaigns for various brands and artists.24
• Previous Roles: Before founding Cornerstone, Stone held significant positions at major record labels including Arista Records and EMI Records, where he worked with iconic artists like Notorious B.I.G. and Usher.13

Legacy

Stone's influence extended beyond marketing; he was also involved in film production through Fader Films, producing documentaries that highlighted significant cultural moments. His work at The FADER emphasized the importance of music in people's lives, as he believed it could profoundly shape personal experiences.5

Tragically, Rob Stone passed away on June 25, 2024, at the age of 55 after a private battle with cancer. His contributions to the music industry and his legacy as a champion of new sounds and ideas continue to resonate within the community.25