The music industry is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Alexi Cory-Smith, a pioneering music publisher, entrepreneur, and founder of Bella Figura Music, who passed away at the age of 58. Her death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment and publishing communities, with colleagues, artists, and friends remembering her as an exceptional leader whose influence helped shape the modern music publishing landscape. At this time, the cause of her death has not been publicly announced.
Alexi Cory-Smith built an outstanding career spanning decades, earning widespread respect through senior roles in music publishing, including her time at BMG, before establishing Bella Figura Music. In recent years, she drew significant attention after acquiring the Rak Music catalogue, further cementing her reputation as one of the industry’s most accomplished independent music executives.
News of her passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the music business. Friends described her as authentic, fearless, and deeply respected—someone whose success was built not on ego, but on integrity, intelligence, and genuine relationships. Many recalled her remarkable ability to connect with people from every corner of the industry, whether artists, executives, politicians, investors, or touring crews, treating everyone with the same warmth and respect.
Those closest to Alexi remember her as much more than an accomplished businesswoman. She was a loyal friend, trusted mentor, and generous supporter who dedicated countless hours to encouraging others both professionally and personally. Her legendary dinner parties, love of cooking, sharp wit, and candid honesty became defining parts of her personality, while her rebellious spirit and sense of humor made every conversation memorable.
Friends have also reflected on the vulnerability she carried beneath her confident exterior, noting that despite her remarkable achievements, she remained humble and approachable. Her willingness to mentor younger professionals, particularly women navigating careers in the music industry, left an enduring legacy that extended far beyond business.
A funeral service celebrating Alexi’s life drew an overwhelming turnout, with the church filled beyond capacity as family, friends, and colleagues gathered to pay their final respects. The extraordinary attendance reflected the immense admiration and affection she inspired throughout her life.
Although Alexi Cory-Smith never had children of her own, she touched countless lives through her mentorship, friendship, and unwavering encouragement. Her contributions to music publishing, her vision as an entrepreneur, and her generosity of spirit will continue to be remembered by everyone fortunate enough to have known her.
She is deeply missed by her family, friends, colleagues, artists, and the wider music community. Her legacy of excellence, authenticity, and kindness will endure for generations to come. May Alexi Cory-Smith rest in peace.