The music community is reeling after the tragic loss of Emma Huke, a rising professional in the live music scene, who was among the four individuals killed in a small plane crash near San Diego. She was just beginning to make her mark as a Booking Assistant at Sound Talent Group.
Emma was traveling alongside industry veteran Dave Shapiro, fellow Sound Talent Group team member Kendall Fortner, and musician Daniel Williams, when their plane went down, claiming the lives of all on board. The sudden and heartbreaking news has shaken friends, colleagues, and artists alike.
Tandem Management Co. shared a deeply emotional tribute to the victims, saying, “Yesterday, the music world lost some extraordinary individuals who made a lasting impact on our community and beyond. We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dave Shapiro, Kendall Fortner, Emma Huke, and Daniel Williams. Each of you was cherished, respected, and loved—you will be missed.”
Emma Huke, a graduate of the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism and Communication, had only recently joined Sound Talent Group in January 2024 but had already shown a rare drive, compassion, and professionalism that endeared her to everyone she worked with. Her role involved supporting talent bookings for live events—work she approached with dedication and passion.
Before joining Sound Talent Group, Emma built an impressive résumé that reflected her love for music, journalism, and media. She held positions such as Social Media Manager for MTV host Kevan Kenney, Takedown Team Assistant at Crowd Surf, and interned at Grass Fed Music and Sweety High Media. Her expertise spanned music marketing, digital communication, journalism, and live event support.
Emma’s peers remember her as someone who brought light into every room. Whether managing social media campaigns or coordinating with artists and clients, she carried herself with poise and kindness.
Her former colleagues at Intersect Magazine noted her talent as a writer and curator, where she promoted music discovery through thoughtful journalism. At Duck TV, she lent her voice to sports storytelling. No matter the medium, Emma always aimed to connect people with meaningful content.
Her ambition extended beyond work—she hoped to shape the future of music and broadcast journalism, bringing stories to life with honesty and heart.
Emma is remembered not only for her accomplishments but for her genuine spirit, sense of humor, and unwavering love for music and media. Her sudden passing has left a deep void in an industry she was just beginning to transform.
As tributes pour in from friends, mentors, and former coworkers, one thing is clear: Emma Huke’s life, though cut tragically short, left a meaningful legacy. She believed in artists, in voices that needed to be heard, and in the power of bringing people together through music.
FAQs
Q: Who was Emma Huke?
Emma Huke was a Booking Assistant at Sound Talent Group and a University of Oregon journalism graduate with a strong background in music media and communications.
Q: How did Emma Huke die?
Emma died in a tragic small plane crash near San Diego alongside three others, including booking agent Dave Shapiro and drummer Daniel Williams.
Q: What is Sound Talent Group?
Sound Talent Group is a music talent agency based in San Diego, known for organizing live events and representing a wide roster of artists.
Q: What has been the public reaction to the crash?
The music community has expressed deep grief and shared heartfelt tributes. Tandem Management Co. released a public statement mourning all the victims.
Q: What were some of Emma’s professional experiences?
Emma worked with Crowd Surf, Kevan Kenney, Grass Fed Music, Sweety High Media, Intersect Magazine, and more. She was known for her talents in journalism, marketing, and music industry relations.