Christopher ‘Tricky’ Stewart Leaves Epic Records’ President Of A&R Position

Christopher “Tricky” Stewart has stepped down from his position as president of A&R at Epic Records to focus on producing. The Grammy Award-winning songwriter/producer didn't announce if someone will be selected to fill in his A&R post.

“It’s real simple,” Stewart tells Billboard.biz. “I really want to get back into the studio; I miss making records too much. At the end of the day, that’s my No. 1 passion. I want to always give 100% to everything I do. To do both these jobs, I would need to give 200%. To be the best record person I can be is for me to be working in the studio.”

Stewart states his RedZone Records will remain affiliated with Epic. He will also continue producing for artists on the label.

“There’s no difference in the working relationship between myself and L.A.,” he said. “Nothing has changed beyond the fact that I will be in the studio making records hands-on. I’ll still be working significantly with the Epic family.”

During his time at Epic, Stewart managed the Think Like A Man soundtrack, forthcoming albums by Ciara and Wallpaper, as well as Quadron’s Avalanche. His career highlights include hits such as Beyonce’s “Single Ladies,” Rihanna’s “Umbrella” and Justin Bieber’s “Baby.”

“Tricky Stewart is and always will be a very special friend and one of the most talented people people in our industry. I completely support his decision to return to the studio full time,” Epic chairman/CEO L.A. Reid said in a statement.

[via Billboard.biz]