Former Black Deer Festival Managing Director Dies
Chris Russell-Fish, former managing director of the UK Black Deer Festival, has died, prompting tributes from colleagues across the live music industry.
Russell-Fish joined the independently run Americana festival as operations director before becoming managing director in 2023.
Black Deer, held at Eridge Park in Kent, UK has become known for major headline artists and industry accolades. Its 2024 edition featured performances from Sheryl Crow, Joe Bonamassa and Rufus Wainwright.
In 2023, Russell-Fish and co-founder Gill Tee launched Black Deer Live, an initiative that expanded the brand to include an international touring programme, the digital radio station Black Deer Radio and standalone urban events under the Black Deer In The City banner.
Before his time at Black Deer, Russell-Fish held senior roles in the imaging sector, including UK managing director at Hasselblad and sales and marketing director at Kodak.
Black Deer director Ini Ghidirmic described his death as a “profound shock” to the team, “During our time working together, Chris was not only a highly capable and inspiring leader, but also a true friend. We will deeply miss our conversations – not only about music, but about the many interests we shared. Chris held a vision for the music industry that was uniquely his own, and one that will not be easily replicated. His absence will be felt tremendously.”