AWARD-WINNING COMPOSER JOHN PAESANO SIGNS FOR MANAGEMENT REPRESENTATION WITH SURFDOG/DKM
BAFTA-winning, Emmy- and Grammy-nominated composer John Paesano whose music has become a defining force across film, television, video games, and themed entertainment has signed for management representation with Surfdog/DKM. He also continues to be represented by Bradley Rainey at WME. Paesano’s credits include Marvel’s Daredevil and The Defenders, PlayStation’s Spider-Man trilogy, Amazon’s Invincible, and the Maze Runner trilogy and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes. His scores have helped shape over $3 billion worth of global entertainment properties. Paesano’s score for Invincible V. 1 – Prime Video Original Series Soundtrack was released by Lakeshore Records on February 21 which features music from series 1-3 by Paesano.
Known for his deep narrative instincts and world-building approach, Paesano seamlessly moves between orchestral and electronic hybrid styles. His scores for Spider-Man, Miles Morales, and Spider-Man 2 have earned widespread recognition, including a BAFTA win and Grammy nomination. He has also written original music for Disney’s Avengers Campus, bringing his cinematic voice into immersive real-world environments.
From blockbuster cinema to interactive media and award-winning series, Paesano’s work reflects a rare combination of emotional precision and scale. Though his music is already embedded in some of the most successful franchises of the modern era, his creative journey is still unfolding—one story at a time.
“Film composition is a different world now than it was in the past—fan engagement and creative opportunities have expanded dramatically, especially within the franchises I’ve been fortunate to be a part of,” said John Paesano. “Joining Surfdog/DKM is a natural step as we grow into these new spaces. They truly understand how important fans are to everything we do and share my belief that the audience is what makes this whole thing work. Their track record has been astounding, and I’m excited to work with them across the board on all aspects of my career, alongside WME,” added Paesano.
“It’s so cool to be working with someone as passionate and talented as John. He’s a power-station of energy and you can feel his emotion and elite musicality in all of the projects he brings to life with his composing.” says Surfdog/DKM owner/founder Dave Kaplan
“We’re super excited to be working with John and we can’t wait to take some of these projects on the road to share the magic with live audiences!” adds Scott Seine, Surfdog/ DKM president.
Surfdog/DKM is an entertainment company, founded in 1985 and located in Encinitas, CA, which includes DKM Management, Surfdog Records, Surfdog & Surfmutt Music Publishing. Surfdog/DKM has a diverse and acclaimed roster and, since its inception, has worked with a number of legendary and iconic artists, including Brian Setzer, Eric Clapton, UB40, Sublime, Dave Stewart (of Eurythmics), Glen Campbell, Joss Stone, Stray Cats, Butthole Surfers, Dan Hicks, Slightly Stoopid, as well as renowned comedians Zoltan Kaszas and Bret Ernst. Surfdog/DKM is involved with several environmental charities including Oceana, Surfrider Foundation, Sea Shepherd, among many others, and is proud that their Encinitas offices are GreenPoint Rated and operate as a certified California Green Business and remain a member in good standing with 1% For The Planet.