Atlantic Music Group Unveils New Leadership Structure

After an extensive round of layoffs last week that saw some 170 people leaving the company, Atlantic Music Group has unveiled the new leadership structure that will be in place when new CEO Elliot Grainge takes the helm from longtime chief Julie Greenwald next week.

Transition to New Leadership

The move, which is positioned as the first phase of the new structure, sees multiple longtime execs such as Craig Kallman, Lanre Gaba, Kevin Weaver, Rayna Bass, and Selim Bouab elevated to new roles while some veterans from Grainge’s 10K Projects take on enhanced roles as well.

Vision for the Future

Grainge expressed his vision for Atlantic Music Group, stating, “This great label has moved through a meaningful transition and emerged with a world-class team, made up of ambitious innovators and veteran visionaries. We have a plan to build on the extraordinary achievements of the last twenty years, honor the independent DNA of our labels, and collaborate with artists to pioneer a future filled with opportunity.”

Support from WMG CEO

Robert Kyncl, WMG CEO, added his support, emphasizing that AMG will be lean, agile, fiercely creative, and deeply passionate about artists and their fans. He commended Grainge for assembling a team with a wealth of experience, diversity of expertise, and a commitment to excellence.

Transition Period

Longtime chief Julie Greenwald, along with 300 co-founder Kevin Liles, will be leaving the company early next year after a transition period.

Flagship Labels and Imprints

The company will have three flagship labels — Atlantic Records, 300 Entertainment, and 10K Projects — with 10K operating within Atlantic Music Group as a standalone venture controlled by WMG. The Elektra, Fueled By Ramen, and Roadrunner imprints will continue under the AMG banner.

Leadership Changes

For Atlantic Records:

      •    Lanre Gaba is promoted to President of Hip-Hop, R&B, and Global Music. Lu Mota is EVP, Head of A&R, Hip-Hop, R&B, and Global Music and Marsha St. Hubert is EVP, Head of Marketing, Hip-Hop, R&B, and Global Music. They have supported and helped develop acclaimed artists such as Cardi B, Jack Harlow, Lil Uzi Vert, Burna Boy, and many others.

      •    Kevin Weaver is President, West Coast. The longtime Atlantic leader was most recently behind the record-breaking Barbie The Album, as well as the Twisters soundtrack.

      •    In addition, Brandon Davis & Jeff Levin are EVPs and Co-Heads of A&R, Pop & Rock. Marisa Aron is promoted to EVP, Head of Marketing, Pop & Rock. The trio has managed a roster that includes Lizzo, Charli xcx, Charlie Puth, Ava Max, Melanie Martinez, and many others.

For 300 Entertainment:

      •    Rayna Bass & Selim Bouab are Co-Presidents. Under their guidance, 300 has supported marquee names including Young Thug, Mary J. Blige, and Gunna, among others.

For 10K Projects:

      •    Nicholas Ziangas and Molly McLachlan are promoted to Co-Presidents, having been instrumental with breakout stars like Artemas, Trippie Redd, and Rich Amiri.

Integration of Key Functions

Atlantic Music Group will combine the strengths of key functions at Atlantic, 300, and Elektra, to create one central set of artist development services. These functions at the group level include Creative, Legal & Business Affairs, Promotion, Press & Media Strategy, Digital Marketing & Analytics, Sales & Streaming, A&R Research, A&R Administration, and Marketing Operations.

Further Appointments

For Atlantic Music Group:

      •    Craig Kallman is elevated to Chief Music Officer, expanding his remit to bring his wealth of expertise to artists and projects across the group, while enabling him to mentor the next generation of executives.

      •    Zach Friedman and Tony Talamo are promoted to Chief Operating Officer and General Manager, respectively. Friedman and Talamo joined 10K Projects in 2018 and their company Homemade Projects was acquired in 2022.

      •    Erica Bellarosa is promoted to General Counsel, heading legal & business affairs efforts across the entire group.

      •    Dave Rocco is appointed President of Creative, with responsibilities spanning creative strategy, video, artwork, advertising, and more. He most recently served as Chief Creative Officer at Republic Records and held the title of Global Head of Artist Marketing and Label Relations at Spotify.

      •    More appointments regarding department heads will be made over the coming weeks. Gregg Nadel has been appointed to a new role within WMG’s Recorded Music division, to be announced soon.

Conclusion

Atlantic Music Group’s new leadership structure signals a significant shift in the company’s direction, with a focus on innovation, creativity, and artist development. The integration of key functions and the appointment of experienced executives set the stage for a promising future for the iconic label.

FAQs

Q: What changes are happening at Atlantic Music Group?

A: Atlantic Music Group is undergoing a leadership transition, with new roles and responsibilities for key executives, as well as the integration of key functions across the group.

Q: Who will be leading the new structure at Atlantic Music Group?

A: New CEO Elliot Grainge will be taking the helm, with support from a team of experienced executives and industry veterans.

Q: What is the vision for the future of Atlantic Music Group?

A: The company aims to build on its past achievements, collaborate with artists to pioneer new opportunities, and maintain a commitment to excellence and creativity.

Credit: variety.com