Meet the Members of the XXL Awards Board

XXL Awards 2024

Meet the Members of the XXL Awards Board

Here are all of the hip-hop industry's movers, shakers and veteran artists that voted for the winners of the XXL Awards as the members of the XXL Awards Board. The winners have been announced here.

2 Chainz

2 Chainz

Artist; Entrepreneur

2 Chainz

Twenty-five years in hip-hop has given 2 Chainz the gift of reinvention, six albums, a Grammy Award, multiplatinum hits and T.R.U., his own record label. The lauded rapper, who sits comfortably as one of the leading pioneers in trap music, is helping the next generation of artists reach their potential.

Photo Credit: Thaddaeus McAdams/WireImage

50 Cent

50 Cent

Artist; Actor; Entrepreneur;
TV Show Creator

50 Cent

50 Cent began his professional career as a rapper over 25 years ago, earning a Grammy Award and selling over 30 million records worldwide along the way. In 2003, he founded G-Unit Records, and serves as CEO of G-Unit Film & TV. The powerhouse business mogul is the executive producer of TV shows like Power, BMF and many, many more.

Photo Credit: G-Unit Records

Richie Abbott

Richie Abbott

Founder and CEO of Juggernaut Sound

Richie Abbott

Richie Abbott's career in music began shortly after he graduated from high school when he worked in Priority Records' mail room. Abbott later took his talents to Capitol and Warner Records before founding his own publicity company Juggernaut Sound in 2011. For nearly three decades, he's been instrumental in campaigns for Kendrick Lamar, Gucci Mane, Wiz Khalifa, Scarface, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony and more.

Photo Credit: Sarah June Remetch

Gaby Acevedo

Gaby Acevedo

Founder and CEO at
G Starr Entertainment

Gaby Acevedo

Steve Rifkind put Gabriel “Gaby” Acevedo in position years ago as a President and Cofounder of SRC Records, where Gaby helped Akon’s career rise. Later, Gaby created his own artist relations company, G Starr Entertainment, and took the career reigns as former manager of fellow Bronx brethren French Montana and has now signed J.I.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Steve Ackles

Steve Ackles

Global Tour Promoter at Live Nation

Steve Ackles

Since his days piling into a 15-passenger van to rock stages cross-country with his local Boston band as a 16-year-old guitar hero, Steve Ackles has been tied to the road. Now Live Nation’s Global Tour Promoter with 15 years of experience, the energetic Ackles has helped organize blockbuster tours for Megan Thee Stallion, Machine Gun Kelly, Blink-182 and Green Day.

Photo Credit: Sean Behr

Traci Adams

Traci Adams

Executive Vice President of Promotion
at Epic Records

Traci Adams

Traci Adams has achieved success as a national director of promotions at Island Def Jam and music director at Radio One’s WFUN. Currently at Epic since 2012, she packs more punches by spreading the sounds of artists like DJ Khaled, Future, 21 Savage, Yo Gotti and more as Executive Vice President of Promotion.

Photo Credit: John Ricard

Jenna Adler

Jenna Adler

Co-Head of Global Hip-Hop/R&B Touring at CAA

Jenna Adler

Jenna Adler, the co-head of CAA's Global Hip-Hop/R&B Touring group, is responsible for achieving numerous festival and global headline touring success for artists such as Playboi Carti, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, Lil Yachty, Dojo Cat and more. In 2023, Jenna was instrumental in strategizing, coordinating and negotiating some of the year's most high-profile tours and deals for artists.

Photo Credit: Myles Hendrik

Cindy Agi

Cindy Agi

Global Tour Promoter at Live Nation

Cindy Agi

After working as a legislative assistant at the U.S. House of Representatives, Cindy Agi transitioned to the music industry when she became co-head of hip-hop at William Morris Endeavor in 2009. In 2021, she became Global Tour Promoter at Live Nation, where she helps book international tours.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Ray Alba

Ray Alba

Senior Vice President of Marketing at Capitol Records

Ray Alba

Ray Alba's experience in the music industry includes SVP ranks within Epic Records' publicity department, working extensively with Future, 21 Savage and many others. Prior to joining Epic in 2018, Ray served as VP publicity and head of urban publicity at Interscope Geffen A&M Records. He became a part of the Capitol Records family in 2022, in his role as Senior VP of Marketing.

Photo Credit: Lester Cohen

Ramon Alvarez-Smikle

Ramon Alvarez-Smikle

Executive Vice President/Head of Digital Marketing at Interscope Records

Ramon Alvarez-Smikle

In his past role as Senior Vice President, Head of Urban Digital Marketing at Interscope, Ramon Alvarez-Smikle has worked on campaigns for chart-topping projects like J. Cole’s The Off-Season and Kendrick Lamar’s Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers. Before his six years at Interscope, the 2021 Billboard R&B Hip Hop Power Players honoree spent time at Shazam and The Recording Academy. He is now Executive Vice President/Head of Digital Marketing at Interscope.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

JD Anderson

JD Anderson

CEO at StoveTop Marketing

JD Anderson

JD Anderson handled marketing efforts for Kanye West, The-Dream and more at Def Jam Recordings for five years before subsequently jumping to Epic Records in 2012 as Director of Digital Marketing and Content. Then, he went on to work with Future and DJ Khaled, bumping up to Senior Vice President of Marketing in 2018. After serving as Motown’s Senior Vice President of Marketing and Digital Strategy, he's now CEO at StoveTop Marketing.

Photo Credit:

Derrick Aroh

Derrick Aroh

Senior Vice President of A&R at RCA Records

Derrick Aroh

Brooklyn’s finest Derrick Aroh has worked his way up the RCA ladder from an 18-year-old intern to an SVP by signing out-of-the-box talents such as Childish Gambino and Brockhampton. Gambino’s first drop with the label, “This Is America,” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Aroh also works with some of today’s buzziest acts including Kaytranada and Latto.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Chris Atlas

Chris Atlas

CEO of Atlas Entertainment

Chris Atlas

Twenty-six years deep in the business and Chris Atlas is still spearheading campaigns for break- through artists such as NLE Choppa, IDK and Saweetie. Chris once climbed to Def Jam Recordings’ Executive VP of Marketing, where he ran point on strategies for Kanye West, Rick Ross and Jeezy, among others, before heading to Warner Records in 2017 where he worked until 2023. Now, he’s the CEO of Atlas Entertainment.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Tunde Balogun

Tunde Balogun

Cofounder and President
of LVRN Records

Tunde Balogun

Tunde Balogun cofounded Crowd Control Management in 2009, before working A&R gigs at Atlantic Records and Read & Write Publishing. He is one of five cofounders of LVRN Records, which launched in 2012, and boasts acts like 6lack and Summer Walker. The label also includes Shelley formerly Dram, DVSN and Westside Boogie on a signed or managed level.

Photo Credit: Jax Teller

Tunji Balogun

Tunji Balogun

Chairman
and CEO of
Def Jam Recordings

Tunji Balogun

Tunji Balogun’s ear for talent has taken him a long way. As a former A&R at Interscope Records, Balogun worked with Eminem, 50 Cent, Kendrick Lamar and more before commanding the same department for RCA Records for six years. In August of 2021, he was named Chairman and CEO of Def Jam Recordings, effective Jan. 1, 2022.

Photo Credit: Rolexx

Shawn Barron

Shawn Barron

President of EZMNY Records

Shawn Barron

Since interning with Koch Records in 2007, Shawn Barron formerly managed and signed Amir Obe to Atlantic Records and worked with the likes of Ty Dolla $ign, Kap G and Diggy Simmons at Atlantic, where he was Vice President of A&R. In 2020, Shawn left his post there to take the same position at Motown Records and now works with Elhae, The Hxliday and Jordan Hollywood, among others.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Rayna Bass

Rayna Bass

Co-President at 300 Entertainment

Rayna Bass

Remember how Migos’ Culture album hit the hip-hop world like a sledgehammer in 2017. Well, Rayna Bass was responsible for marketing that No. 1 LP and its breakthrough singles. And it wasn’t her first time. She’s now Senior Vice President of Marketing at 300 Entertainment, where she’s worked since 2014. Bass was previously a marketing coordinator at Def Jam Recordings.

Photo Credit: Flo Ngala

Brittany Bell

Brittany Bell

Vice President of Media Relations & Strategy at Atlantic Records

Brittany Bell

Brittany Bell's passion for PR started long before she accepted her dream job at Atlantic Records in 2017. She worked with independent firms after college, and was recruited by Rogers & Cowan, assisting with the careers of Toni Braxton, Ashanti, Machine Gun Kelly and more. Years later, she joined Atlantic, where she is now the Vice President of Media Relations & Strategy. The late Nipsey Hussle's estate, Roddy Ricch, Don Toliver and more are on her roster.

Photo Credit: Maxwell Poth

Big Boy

Big Boy

Radio Personality
on Real 92.3’s Big Boy’s Neighborhood

Big Boy

The former Pharcyde bodyguard and nationally syndicated radio personality hosted his morning show, Big Boy’s Neighborhood, at Power 106 from 1997 to 2015, when he moved to Real 92.3 and iHeartMedia. The 2015 National Radio Hall of Fame inductee has locked in interviews with Dr. Dre, Kanye West, Playboi Carti and more.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Big Tigger

Big Tigger

Radio Personality
on V-103’s The Big Tigger Morning Show

Big Tigger

Best known for being the face of BET’s Rap City: The Basement and 106 & Park, Big Tigger’s career on television and radio spans over two decades. The multitalented Emmy Award winner currently hosts The Big Tigger Morning Show on V−103 in Atlanta and serves as public announcer for the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks.

Photo Credit: Roderick Horton

Jennie Boddy

Jennie Boddy

Vice President of Publicity Capitol Music Group

Jennie Boddy

For nearly 30 years, Jennie Boddy has handled publicity for acts like Nirvana and Erykah Badu during stints at Sub Pop Records, Press Here, The Fun Star and Capitol Records. She also worked at Interscope Records during the Jimmy Iovine and Death Row era. Jennie is currently Vice President of Publicity at Capitol, where she’s worked with Migos, Lil Baby and more.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Theola Borden

Theola Borden

Senior Vice President, Brand and Communications Management at RCA Records

Theola Borden

A combination of roles at the historic Apollo Theater allowed Theola Borden a chance to get into publicity. She flipped that experience into gigs at Jive, Elektra Records and Atlantic Records. Now, Theola sits high at RCA, where virtuosos like A$AP Rocky, Childish Gambino and SZA add star power to the roster she helps guide as Senior Vice President, Brand and Communications Management.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn/Leland Hayward

Selim Bouab

Selim Bouab

Co-President at 300 Entertainment

Selim Bouab

Selim Bouab has years under his belt in the music industry, working at labels such as Def Jam, Asylum and Sony Entertainment. He later served as the Senior Vice President/Head of A&R at 300 Entertainment after joining the label in 2014. Bouab had a paramount role in the signing and development of Megan Thee Stallion, Fetty Wap and Tee Grizzley. Alongside Rayna Bass, Bouab moved up the ranks to serve as Co-President of the label.

Photo Credit: Tamara May

Amir Boyd

Amir Boyd

Senior Director of National Urban Promotion at
Interscope Records

Amir Boyd

Amir Boyd worked his way up from a party promoter to a respected label exec. Over the last two decades, he launched a career in radio, worked with Bad Boy Records and then Epic Records. Amir’s knowledge of artist discovery, management and urban promotion is now implemented as Senior Director of National Urban Promotion at Interscope Records.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Al Branch

Al Branch

Partner and CMO at
The Blueprint Group

Al Branch

Al Branch can lay claim to fostering the high-profile careers of the Watch The Throne tag team of Jay-Z and Kanye West. From General Manager of Hov’s Roc-A-Fella Records to executive positions at Elektra Records, Columbia Records, Island Def Jam and Geffen/Interscope, Branch is now Partner and CMO at The Blueprint Group.

Photo Credit: Sean Cokes Artistry & Studios

Mike Brinkley

Mike Brinkley

Senior Vice President of Artist Management
at Roc Nation

Mike Brinkley

Followed by decades of working at labels like Def Jam Recordings and Sony/BMG, Mike Brinkley landed an artist management role at Roc Nation in 2017, and has since been upgraded to Senior Vice President of Artist Management. He now helps Megan Thee Stallion, Meek Mill, Moneybagg Yo and more staple their names into rap history.

Photo Credit: Dennis Belton Jr.

Leesa Brunson-Boland

Leesa Brunson-Boland

Head of A&R Operations
at 300 Entertainment

Leesa Brunson-Boland

With nearly 32 years of experience, Leesa Brunson-Boland earned the handle “The Closer” for her ability to rally a creative team and deliver on solid projects by Kanye West, Jay-Z and, most recently, Young Thug’s Punk. Leesa is Head of A&R Operations at 300 now after spending 20 years at Def Jam Recordings as Senior Vice President of A&R.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Tammy Brook

Tammy Brook

Founder of
FYI Brand Group

Tammy Brook

A fierce entrepreneur who founded FYI Brand Group in 2001, Tammy Brook offers a full-service lifestyle brand strategy to clients in the worlds of entertainment, sports, fashion and social justice. Her goal is to help artists like 21 Savage, Travis Scott and DJ Khaled, to name a few, get bigger every day.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of FYI

Jae Brown

Jae Brown

Vice President of A&R at Island Records

Jae Brown

Jae Brown kicked off his career in music in 2015, spending three years as a Product Manager/A&R at Interscope. He had a major hand in the success of Kendrick Lamar's DAMN. album, as well as early projects for Rich The Kid, Rae Sremmurd and Mike WiLL Made-It. Jae also worked at Capitol Records/Motown in a dual A&R/Global Marketing role. Now he's appointed Island Records' Vice President of A&R since 2022.

Photo Credit:

Cortez Bryant

Cortez Bryant

Co-CEO at The Blueprint Group; Partner at Maverick

Cortez Bryant

After having a hand in guiding the game-changing careers of Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj and Drake, Cortez Bryant now co-manages a star-studded roster that features Lil Nas X, Trippie Redd and G-Eazy as Co-CEO at The Blueprint Group and partner at Maverick.

Photo Credit: Riccardo Emilien

Shari Bryant

Shari Bryant

Co-President at
Roc Nation

Shari Bryant

Jay-Z appointed Shari Bryant Co-President of Roc Nation in 2019, with her 20 years of experience in the music industry, including Vice President titles at Warner Music Group and Atlantic Records. Starting as an intern at Roc-A-Fella Records in 1999, Bryant has managed releases from Cam’ron, Meek Mill, Nas and, of course, Jay-Z.

Photo Credit: Marc C

Bun B

Bun B

Artist; Entrepreneur

Bun B

Alongside the late Pimp C, Bun B founded UGK in the 1980s and together, the supreme duo stamped in a new era of southern gangsta rap. Over the last 16 years, Bun has released five solo albums, continues to unleash potent verses for the likes of Drake and Beyoncé and strives as an entrepreneur.

Photo Credit: Michael Tullberg/Getty Images

Kareem

Kareem "Biggs" Burke

CEO and Founding Partner of MADE

Kareem "Biggs" Burke

Part of the triad of Jay-Z and Dame Dash, who launched Roc-A-Fella Records in 1996, Kareem “Biggs” Burke has stepped into other realms including film and spirits. His latest venture is management, where he works with Saint Jhn, Drink Champs and Rory & Mal podcasts and others through his MADE Management agency.

Photo Credit: Steve Granitz

LaTrice Burnette

LaTrice Burnette

Music Executive

LaTrice Burnette

LaTrice Burnette earned stripes as the Street Team leader for Roc-A-Fella Records in 1999, later taking on marketing roles with Atlantic Records, Epic Records, Island Records, and Def Jam Recordings where she helped guide the careers of Future, Travis Scott, Yo Gotti, DJ Khaled, Bobby Shmurda and more.

Photo Credit: JD Anderson

Katina Bynum

Katina Bynum

Executive Vice President, Urban Catalog, UMe

Katina Bynum

Katina Bynum began her career as the Apollo Theater’s manager before joining Universal Music in 1996. As VP of Marketing at various UMG labels, she’s worked with Lil Wayne, Drake, Nelly and more. She was promoted to Executive Vice President of East Coast Labels at Universal Music Enterprises in 2020.

Photo Credit: Meredith Truax

Jay Byrd

Jay Byrd

Global Tour Promoter at Live Nation Concerts

Jay Byrd

From his 2006 start as WME assistant-turned-agent to his five-year stint as a CAA Agent, Jay Byrd has worked with icons like Lil Wayne, Queen Latifah and Anita Baker, including Baker’s sold-out arena run and Vegas residency. Currently, he is a Global Tour Promoter for Live Nation Concerts, handling tours for acts like Lil Baby and A$AP Rocky.

Photo Credit: Jay Byrd

Rob Caiaffa

Rob Caiaffa

Senior Vice President, Commercial Marketing at Motown Records

Rob Caiaffa

Rob Caiaffa spent nearly two decades at Def Jam Recordings, rising to SVP of Marketing and working with Rick Ross, 2 Chainz and many more. Rob took his talents to SoundCloud in 2018, where he wore several hats for three years. Now, Rob is a music marketing and commerce executive. He holds position as Senior Vice President, Commercial Marketing at Motown Records.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

De'Mont Callender

Callender

Vice President of Wasserman Music, New York

De'Mont Callender

Wasserman Music VP and agent, De'Mont Callender, is one of the figures behind the live performance and touring success of artists like Jack Harlow, JPEGMAFIA and more. Callendar assisted in Jack Harlow achieving his highest-grossing tour in 2022, along with securing major campaigns and an acting debut in the reboot of White Men Can't Jump. He's also the agent responsible for Danny Brown and JPEGMAFIA’s tour as well as Maxo Kream's first Coachella performance.

Photo Credit: RJ Lewis

Sway Calloway

Sway Calloway

Radio Personality on SiriusXM’s
Sway in the Morning

Sway Calloway

Sway Calloway is a certified media vanguard who helped brands like MTV become a trusted platform for music news. He has been a prolific radio host, interviewing Tupac Shakur, The Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z and Kanye West, to name a few. With his foot still on the gas decades after his start, the Radio Hall of Fame inductee’s SiriusXM radio show, Sway in the Morning, has curated iconic interviews and freestyles.

Photo Credit: Kimberly White, Getty Images

Cam'ron

Cam'ron

Artist; Entrepreneur; Podcast Host

Cam'ron

Cam'ron helped put Harlem on the map during his more than 30-year rap career. Once signed to Epic Records, he later joined the Roc-A-Fella Records family, and delivered the Come Home With Me album. Cam's success paved the way for his collective, the Diplomats, consisting of Jim Jones and Freekey Zekey, adding Juelz Santana, 40 Cal., J.R. Writer and Hell Rell years later. Cam'ron currently hosts the It Is What It Is podcast with Mase and Treasure Wilson.

Photo Credit:

Don Cannon

Don Cannon

DJ; Cofounder/Co-CEO
of Generation Now

Don Cannon

Don Cannon gained prominence as a producer and member of the Aphilliates Music Group in the 2000s. After holding positions at Def Jam Recordings and Atlantic Records, Cannon currently focuses on Generation Now (home to Lil Uzi Vert and Jack Harlow), which he cofounded with DJ Drama and Leighton “Lake” Morrison.

Photo Credit: Folahanmi August Olawole

Rafael

Rafael "June" Cardona

Vice President of Mixshow and Lifestyle Promo at Epic Records

Rafael "June" Cardona

As Epic Records’ VP of Mixshow and Lifestyle promo, Rafael “June” Cardona has been in the game 21 years and played an integral role in driving the success of music from Travis Scott, Future, 21 Savage, DJ Khaled and more.

Photo Credit: @10Chief10K

Mike Caren

Mike Caren

CEO at
Artist Partner Group

Mike Caren

Mike Caren’s chops in the music biz spring from a love of the craft. With production and songwriting behind him, Caren began hunting talent and breaking acts mainstream. The Artist Partner Group (APG) CEO flexes relationships with Warner Music Group and Atlantic Records to leverage exposure for artists like YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Kevin Gates and more.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Steve

Steve "Steve-O" Carless

President of A&R, Associated Labels, Black Music at Warner Records; Founder of Defiant Records, Inc.

Steve "Steve-O" Carless

The creative development of acts like Big Sean, Jeezy and the late Nipsey Hussle would not have accelerated as fast without the guidance of Steve “Steve-O” Carless. His resume includes A&R positions at Republic Records and Def Jam Recordings. Now, Steve-O serves as President of A&R, Associated Labels, Black Music at Warner and is the founder of Defiant Records, Inc.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Joe Carozza

Joe Carozza

Executive Vice President of Media and Artist Relations at
Republic Records

Joe Carozza

In his rapid career trajectory, Joe Carozza spearheads publicity and strategic campaigns at Republic Records for behemoth artists like The Weeknd and Nicki Minaj. With eight years at the label, the Executive Vice President of Media and Artist Relations continues to take the press strategy for his all-star roster to the moon.

Photo Credit: Republic Records

Laura Carter

Laura Carter

Executive Vice President, Urban Marketing
at Interscope Records

Laura Carter

Laura Carter worked her way up from an intern under the guidance of Polow Da Don to an executive vice president marketing role at Interscope Records. Her resume over the last decade-plus shines, from her previous work with J. Cole and his Dreamville Records, as well as Mustard and his 10 Summers imprint.

Photo Credit: Jerome A. Shaw

Charlamagne Tha God

Charlamagne Tha God

Radio Personality on Power 105.1’s The Breakfast Club; TV Personality; Podcast Host

Charlamagne Tha God

Charlamagne Tha God has gone from shock jock to multimedia mogul. With 15 years on the airwaves, including 11 on the Radio Hall of Fame-inducted The Breakfast Club, Charlamagne has expanded his empire to television (Tha God’s Honest Truth with Lenard McKelvey), podcasts (Black Effect Podcast Network) and books (Black Privilege: Opportunity Comes to Those Who Create It). He cohosts The Brilliant Idiots podcast with Andrew Schulz.

Photo Credit: Nick Fancher

Vickie Charles

Vickie Charles

Vice President of Publicity at
Cash Money Records

Vickie Charles

After working marketing and publicity for Arista Records, BMG and Loud Records, respected, seasoned publicist Vickie Charles has spent the last 20 years at Universal Music Group. She has specifically headed the stacked Cash Money Records roster as VP of Publicity, working with Birdman, Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, Drake and others.

Photo Credit: Daniel Green

Mark Cheatham

Mark Cheatham

Co-Head of Global Hip-Hop/R&B Touring at CAA

Mark Cheatham

Queens, N.Y. native Mark Cheatham is a music agent and co-head of CAA's Global Hip-Hop/R&B Touring group. His expertise in the touring space has helped rappers such as A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, Saweetie and more, which has allowed them to tour their music in numerous cities. Cheatham has held prior positions at Norby Walter Agency and William Morris Agency.

Photo Credit: CAA

Tariq Cherif

Tariq Cherif

Cofounder/Co-CEO of Rolling Loud

Tariq Cherif

Tariq Cherif went from throwing high school parties at his grandmother’s house with childhood friend Matt Zingler to promoting concerts in October of 2010. The two eventually cofounded the Rolling Loud hip-hop festival in 2015. They've since hosted headlining performances—and internet-breaking viral moments—by the likes of Travis Scott, Cardi B, Young Thug and Nicki Minaj.

Photo Credit: Smith Durogene

Wayne

Wayne "Wayno" Clark

Co-Head and Executive Vice President of A&R at Quality Control Music

Wayne "Wayno" Clark

Wayno Clark got his start as an assistant A&R for Roc-A-Fella Records in the early 2000s, and it’s been up ever since. He founded his own management company called Triangle Offense and landed various exec jobs before settling in as VP of A&R at Quality Control Music in 2022. He’s also a sharp media personality, juggling two shows on Amazon Music’s Rotation and Amp platforms.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Tramiel

Tramiel "Twin" Clark

Senior Vice President of Motown Records; Managing Partner at
Quality Control Music

Tramiel "Twin" Clark

Tramiel “Twin” Clark hasn’t stopped racking up wins as Managing Partner of Quality Control since 2013, alongside his brethren Pierre “P” Thomas and Dr. Kevin “Coach K” Lee. Twin has helped Lil Baby and Migos’ careers, to name a few, plus been on managing teams for Atlanta legends Gucci Mane and Future. Twin is also locked in as Senior Vice President of Motown.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Az Cohen

Az Cohen

Vice President of A&R and Research at 300 Entertainment; Head of A&R Research at Sparta Distribution

Az Cohen

Az Cohen's artist management success with Post Malone and 6 Dogs at the beginning of their careers led to his eventual role as Vice President of A&R and Research at 300 Entertainment as well as Head of A&R Research at Sparta Distribution. The music industry veteran, who has been in the game over 10 years, has also had a pivotal hand in $not's Billboard-charting success.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of 300 Entertainment

Shawnae Corbett-Rice

Shawnae Corbett-Rice

Senior Vice President of Marketing at Warner Records

Shawnae Corbett-Rice

In her current role as Senior Vice President of Marketing, Warner Records, Shawnae Corbett-Rice oversees campaigns with an emphasis on artist development, which she’s done for then-rising artists like Saweetie, Chika, NLE Choppa and Baby Tate. Her career began at Disturbing tha Peace Records in 2006, before rising in the Def Jam/UMG ranks

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Ericka Coulter

Ericka Coulter

Senior Vice President of A&R at Warner Records and Founder of TheBasement Series

Ericka Coulter

Ericka Coulter has proven herself a more-than-capable music exec, working as VP of A&R at Epic Records in the past before starting at Warner Records in 2021. She's SVP, A&R at the label and oversees R&B breakout LAYA while developing a new roster. But she’s just as busy with TheBasement Series, a live performance platform showcasing up-and-coming talent. Most recently, Lola Brooke, KenTheMan and Zoe Osama, just to name a few.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

James Cruz

James Cruz

CEO of Cruz Control Entertainment and Marketing; Cofounder of UnoDosTres Think

James Cruz

James Cruz’s over 25-year career includes stints at Violator Management as VP of Marketing and Promotions, and President of Bad Boy Management and Strategic Partnerships, where he served as Diddy’s manager. He now runs Cruz Control Entertainment and Marketing as CEO, is a cofounder of Latin marketing agency UnoDosTres Think, plus manages his nephew CJ, most known for the hit “Whoopty.”

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Emmanuelle Cuny

Emmanuelle Cuny

Senior Vice President, Visual Creative & Production at Priority and Motown Records

Emmanuelle Cuny

Emmanuelle Cuny has overseen smash rap videos like Wiz Khalifa’s “See You Again”—now at 5 billion views—all of Cardi B’s 2018 clips and some of Lil Baby’s videos. Cutting her teeth at Roc-A-Fella Records and spending a creative decade at Atlantic Records, Cuny’s credits also include projects for Jay-Z, Kanye West, Lil Uzi Vert and Missy Elliott. She’s currently Senior Vice President of Video Production at Capitol.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Raymond Daniels

Raymond Daniels

CEO of R.A.Y.D.A.R.

Raymond Daniels

A self-described “father-motivator-coach-leader,” Ray Daniels may be best known to those outside the boardrooms as author of the fierce 2020 open letter “Dear White Music Executives,” published in Billboard. Daniels has invested 16 years in the game and created his own music entertainment company, R.A.Y.D.A.R., in addition to his former role as Senior Vice President of A&R at Warner.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Ebro Darden

Ebro Darden

Radio Personality on Hot 97’s Ebro in the Morning; Global Editorial Head of Hip-Hop and R&B at Apple Music

Ebro Darden

Ebro Darden has spent over 30 years in the radio industry trenches, starting out in Sacramento. In 2003, he joined New York’s Hot 97 as Music Director then Programming Director and host of Ebro in the Morning. In 2015, he also became host at Apple Music, and was named their Global Editorial Head of Hip-Hop and R&B four years later.

Photo Credit: Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for REVOLT

Amaiya Davis

Amaiya Davis

Vice President, Media/Cultural Impact and Engagement at Republic Records

Amaiya Davis

Amaiya Davis is a force who focuses heavily on creating and executing press strategies for talent at Republic Records while fostering their artist development. She holds a dual role at the label as Vice President, Media/Cultural Impact and Engagement and is at the forefront of social justice initiatives. She stamped her status in the industry with her work at Sony's RCA Records and RED Music.

Photo Credit: Stefan Pompèe

Archie Davis

Archie Davis

Chief Creative Officer/Executive Vice President at Def Jam Recordings

Archie Davis

Whether it’s a superstar artist or a blockbuster soundtrack, marketing maven Archie Davis has it handled. Between jobs at Interscope Records and RCA Records, he led campaigns for Kendrick Lamar, the Black Panther soundtrack, Judas and the Black Messiah, Nipsey Hussle and more while developing talent as CEO of Six Course Music Group. He's now Chief Creative Officer/EVP at Def Jam Recordings.

Photo Credit: Jahmad Balugo

Britney Davis

Britney Davis

Music Executive

Britney Davis

Currently an industry music executive, Britney previously worked at Motown Records, leading the development and strategy for Motown and Quality Control Music’s biggest acts. She began her career in 2008 as an intern at Creative Artists Agency and was once part of the management team for Chris Brown.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Jason Davis

Jason Davis

SVP, Media Relations & Strategy at Atlantic Records

Jason Davis

Starting as an intern at the label in 2008, Jason Davis has been an integral part of Atlantic Records for nearly two decades. He has successfully crafted, led and executed multi-faceted, strategic media campaigns for some of Atlantic’s most elite artists including Lil Uzi Vert, Meek Mill, Ty Dolla $ign, A Boogie wit da Hoodie, Wale, Jack Harlow, Symba, DRAM, Ed Sheeran and many more.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Tina Davis

Tina Davis

President of EMPIRE

Tina Davis

Tina Davis’ three decades of experience in the music industry has included overseeing the careers of rap veterans like DMX, Method Man, Redman and LL Cool J, as well as launch Chris Brown’s career. She spent over 10 years at Def Jam Recordings, and held numerous roles such as VP and SVP of A&R. In 2018, she joined EMPIRE as SVP of A&R and was recently promoted to President.

Photo Credit: Connor Clayton

Franz de los Reyes

Franz de los Reyes

Senior Vice President, Marketing at SALXCO

Franz de los Reyes

A new addition to the SALXCO team, Franz de los Reyes now holds the role of Senior Vice President, Marketing at the music company. Before this transition, de los Reyes worked with artists like French Montana, Yo Gotti, Big Sean, Justin Bieber and more during stints at Def Jam Recordings and Epic Records. In 2021, he was named Vice President of Marketing at Warner Records, where he worked with Isaiah Rashad, 2Rare, Remble and Omar Apollo.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Dennis Dennehy

Dennis Dennehy

Chief Communications Officer at AEG Presents; Eminem’s Publicist

Dennis Dennehy

Dennis Dennehy has helped upgrade the profiles of Eminem, Shady Records, J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar and Dr. Dre over the last two decades as an executive in the publicity department at Interscope Records. Succeeding his work with those rap juggernauts, Dennis now works at AEG Presents, where his role includes the supervision of global music entertainment events.

Photo Credit: Maggie Shannon

Caroline

Caroline "Baroline" Diaz

Founder of Great Day Records

Caroline "Baroline" Diaz

Caroline “Baroline” Diaz established her position as a young boss at companies like Def Jam Recordings and Columbia Records. In the past, she graduated to shot-caller as Vice President of A&R at Interscope, where she found the next generation of legacy artists and encourages them to never settle for less than they deserve. Now she is the founder of Great Day Records.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

George

George "G-Money" Dickinson

CEO and Partner at Grade A Productions

George "G-Money" Dickinson

George "G-Money" Dickinson cofounded Grade A Productions with his brother Lil Bibby back in 2017. Operating as Partner for the label, he helped sign Juice Wrld and The Kid Laroi.

Amina Diop

Amina Diop

Senior Vice President of A&R at Republic Records;
Founder of Diop Agency

Amina Diop

Industry veteran Amina Diop has managed rap staples Young Thug, Gucci Mane and his 1017 Records artists, Lil Uzi Vert, Peewee Longway, Bandhunta Izzy, Blackway and YSL Records artists through her own company, the Diop Agency. Since being named Senior Vice President of A&R at Republic Records in 2018, Amina has helped oversee projects for the label’s hip-hop artists.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Jeff Dixon

Jeff Dixon

Cofounder of Disturbing Tha Peace Records

Jeff Dixon

Running around as a party promoter with Heavy D and Grand Puba in the 1980s inspired Jeff Dixon to keep going in the game. He cofounded Disturbing Tha Peace Records with Ludacris and Chaka Zulu in 1995. With 30-plus years in hip-hop, Jeff continues to want more as a top executive.

DJ Carisma

DJ Carisma

DJ; Radio Personality on Power 106 Los Angeles and Hip Hop Nation Sirius XM; Official DJ for Los Angeles Rams

DJ Carisma

A three-time Female DJ of the Year champion, DJ Carisma is known as the “Queen of West Coast Radio” for good reason. Her exquisite taste in what’s banging and what’s next has ushered Carisma from cutting her own mixtapes to helping break Ty Dolla $ign, Tyga and TeeFLii on the airwaves to producing tracks for Chris Brown, Jeremih and Tinashe. She is also the official DJ for the Los Angeles Rams.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

DJ Clue

DJ Clue

DJ; Radio Personality on Power 105.1; Cofounder and Co-CEO
Desert Storm Records

DJ Clue

As a respected force who helped bring mixtapes to the mainstream in the late 1990s and launch Fabolous’ career, DJ Clue’s radio pedigree is top-notch. He had a popular mix show on Hot 97, currently mans the 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. slot on Power 105.1, is a platinum-selling producer and cofounder and co-CEO of Desert Storm Records.

Photo Credit: Shareif Ziyadat

DJ Drama

DJ Drama

DJ; Cofounder/Co-CEO
of Generation Now

DJ Drama

After establishing the premier mixtape series Gangsta Grillz in the early 2000s, and helping artists rise up from the underground scene, DJ Drama seamlessly transitioned to CEO in 2003 with Aphilliates Music Group. Since cofounding the record label Generation Now with Don Cannon and Leighton “Lake” Morrison in 2014, Drama has helped make stars out of artists like Lil Uzi Vert and Jack Harlow.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

DJ Envy

DJ Envy

DJ; Radio Personality on Power 105.1’s
The Breakfast Club

DJ Envy

DJ Envy’s New York radio ties run deep. Since rising through the mixtape ranks in the early 2000s, the Queens, N.Y. native hosted multiple shows on Hot 97 before being plucked by rival Power 105.1 in 2010, where he remains as cohost of the Radio Hall of Fame-inducted morning show The Breakfast Club.

Photo Credit: Paras Griffin/Getty Images

DJ Khaled

DJ Khaled

DJ; Artist; Entrepreneur

DJ Khaled

DJ Khaled has nearly 25 years with his ears to the streets and in the studio. He’s a supreme architect when crafting a hit. Countless streaming successes featuring Jay-Z, Rihanna and many more prove it. The Grammy Award-winning, multiplatinum-selling artist with 12 albums is king at both catchphrases and marketing.

Photo Credit: Amy Sussman/FilmMagic

DJ Self

DJ Self

DJ; CEO of Gwinin Entertainment; Radio Personality at Power 105.1; Host of
Selfish Weekends

DJ Self

DJ Self’s tenure as a record spinner in New York City goes back to the early 2000s. He’s commanded parties, put out popular mixtapes and has held down the 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. slot at Power 105.1 for 10 years. He now hosts 105.1’s Selfish Weekends. Self also launched Gwinin Entertainment in 2016, which is home to DreamDoll.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

DJ Whoo Kid

DJ Whoo Kid

DJ; Radio Personality on SiriusXM’s
Whoolywood Shuffle

DJ Whoo Kid

An accomplished producer, DJ and SiriusXM radio show host for Whoolywood Shuffle on Shade 45, Whoo Kid came up by grinding hard. He served as 50 Cent and G-Unit’s official DJ for many years, and over time, has become one of the hip-hop industry’s most respected mixtape DJs and entertaining personalities.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Marleny Dominguez-Reyes

Marleny Dominguez-Reyes

Executive Vice President of Marketing Strategy at Republic Records

Marleny Dominguez-Reyes

What Marleny Dominguez-Reyes knows is that marketing campaigns make the world see acts as the superstars they are. She launched the careers of DJ Khaled, Jim Jones and DJ Drama during a 15-year tenure at eOne Records. Since joining Republic Records in 2014, she’s turned The Weeknd and Post Malone into some of music’s biggest names.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Cara Donatto

Cara Donatto

Executive Vice President, Head of Media Strategy and Communications for Interscope Geffen A&M Records

Cara Donatto

After scoring senior publicity positions at Island Def Jam and Atlantic Records, Cara Donatto was named Executive Vice President, Head of Media Strategy and Communications for Interscope Geffen A&M Records in 2019. There, she oversees publicity for all the groundbreaking and diverse acts on the label.

Photo Credit: Jason Haberman

Jermaine Dupri

Jermaine Dupri

Artist; So So Def Recordings Founder

Jermaine Dupri

Jermaine Dupri has come a long way since he was a dancer for rap group Whodini at 12 years old. His ear for talent kicked off when he founded Kriss Kross in 1991. Dupri, a Grammy award-winner, launched his own label, So So Def Recordings, in 1993. Xscape, Da Brat, Bow Wow and Jagged Edge, among others, signed to the label over the years. Aside from being an artist himself, JD has written and produced for countless artists, leading to his induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2018.

Photo Credit: Steven Eloiseau

E-40

E-40

Artist; Entrepreneur

E-40

Mogul, entrepreneur, rapper, linguistic king, founding father of the Bay Area hyphy movement and wine maker are just a few of the ways E−40 has made his mark in hip-hop and beyond. The rap veteran’s work ethic has produced more than 25 solo albums and launched Sick Wit It Records.

Photo Credit: Stephen J. Cohen/Getty Images

Eminem

Eminem

Artist; Entrepreneur

Eminem

An elite MC with a penchant for lyrical acrobatics, compelling rhymes and outrageous bars, Eminem has set the diamond standard for hip-hop excellence throughout the last 25 years. The Shady Records cofounder’s career achievements include 15 Grammy Awards, 11 albums—10 at No. 1— and being one of the best-selling artists of all time.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Amir

Amir "Cash" Esmailian

Cofounder of XO Records; Founder of YCFU Management;
Co-Manager of
The Weeknd

Amir "Cash" Esmailian

As The Weeknd’s right-hand man, Amir “Cash” Esmailian went from the pop superstar’s close crew and road manager to brokering worldwide tours and Super Bowl halftime shows as a cofounder of XO. Cash also launched YCFU Management—“You Can’t Finagle Us”—steering The Weeknd, Metro Boomin, Young Thug and more in the right direction.

Photo Credit: YCFU

Nima Etminan

Nima Etminan

COO of EMPIRE

Nima Etminan

With over 20 years in the music industry, Nima Etminan, COO of EMPIRE, started his career off documenting hip-hop and becoming a reliable resource for West Coast hip-hop lovers. He’s helped foster the success of XXXTentacion, Young Dolph and Key Glock, among others. Nima also led Empire’s publishing wing by partnering with Hit-Boy's Surf Club and acquiring Dirtybird Records to bolster EMPIRE’s dance division.

Photo Credit: Katie Lovecraft

Bill Evans

Bill Evans

Executive Vice President at Capitol Records

Bill Evans

Bill Evans' role as Executive Vice President at Capitol Records came by way of having over 25 years of experience in the game as a marketing and promotions expert. Prior to this, he helped develop the careers of Jay-Z, Kanye West, Mariah Carey, Rihanna, Lil Baby, Justin Bieber and more at Universal Music Group. His career began back in the 1990s at Def Jam, where he was West Coast Regional Marketing and Promotion Manager and later Senior Vice President.

Photo Credit: Ramon Singley

Phylicia Fant

Phylicia Fant

Head of Music Industry & Culture Collaborations at Amazon Music; Founder of The Purple Agency

Phylicia Fant

Phylicia Fant turned her publicist prowess into a power-player position. Fant’s 20-year career includes gigs as VP of Publicity at Universal Music Group, SVP of Media and Strategic Development at Warner Music Group, and Head of Urban Music at Columbia Records, working with Lil Nas X, Polo G, Lil Tjay, Prince, Kid Cudi, MMG, Amy Winehouse and many more. Fant is also the founder of The Purple Agency and is a conduit of culture. She is currently the Head of Music Industry and Culture Collaborations at Amazon Music.

Photo Credit: Phylicia Fant

Fat Joe

Fat Joe

Artist; Entrepreneur; Podcast Host

Fat Joe

With Diggin in the Crates Crew and Terror Squad in his lineage, Fat Joe has solidified himself as one of hip-hop’s most respected rappers with nearly 30 years in the game. Ten solo albums, five Grammy nominations, and revered as the “recap god,” yesterday’s price is not today’s price when it comes to Joe’s well-earned worth.

Photo Credit: Taylor Hill, WireImage

Pio Ferro

Pio Ferro

Senior Vice President of Programming at Hot 97 and 107.5 WBLS

Pio Ferro

Pio Ferro’s post atop Hot 97 and WBLS’s operations and content team was hard to earn, with his radio career beginning at age 15. His deep résumé boasts stints at WPOW-Miami’s Power 96, CBS Radio and KLVE-Los Angeles. Despite his love for hip-hop, Ferro’s experience isn’t one note. He previously served as a national program director for the Spanish Broadcasting System.

Photo Credit: Yanet Ferroe

Jana Fleishman

Jana Fleishman

Executive Vice President of Strategic Marketing and Business Development and Head of Communications at Roc Nation

Jana Fleishman

Jana Fleishman worked at Def Jam Recordings for nearly a decade as VP of Media Relations, curating campaigns for Jay-Z, Rihanna, LL Cool J, Ludacris and more. Since 2009, she’s been running the PR department at Roc Nation, rising to Head of Communications—while wearing the hat of Jay-Z’s personal publicist—and EVP of Strategic Marketing and Business Development.

Photo Credit: Andrew Zaeh

Rich

Rich "Skane Dolla" Ford

Senior Vice President of A&R at RCA Records; Cofounder
and Co-CEO of Desert Storm Records

Rich "Skane Dolla" Ford

Back in the 1990s, Skane Dolla cofounded Desert Storm Records with DJ Clue and Duro. Skane helped cement the legendary status of Fabolous and then was VP of A&R at Def Jam Recordings. Decades later, Skane’s 20/20 vision for talent is still on display as SVP of A&R at RCA, helping Flo Milli plus Winners Circle Entertainment’s Sheff G and Sleepy Hallow shine.

Photo Credit:

Kathryn Frazier

Kathryn Frazier

CEO and Cofounder
of Biz 3

Kathryn Frazier

A PR powerhouse and founder of Biz 3, Kathryn Frazier has been strategically breaking unknown artists through film, social and magazine campaigns, celebrating Biz 3’s 25th anniversary this year. Repping indie labels like Def Jux, Fool’s Gold, Quality Control and XO Records in their early days, Frazier has also handled PR for A-listers like The Weeknd, Migos, Run The Jewels, J. Cole, Daft Punk, Lauryn Hill and many more.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Kendell

Kendell "Sav" Freeman

Vice President/Co-Head of Urban Music at
Arista Records

Kendell "Sav" Freeman

Kendell “Sav” Freeman’s profile grew as Mixshow Manager/Lifestyle Marketing at Def Jam Recordings for eight years. After working with Jay-Z, Fabolous, Jadakiss, Ne-Yo and Big Sean, Sav leveled up to VP of Rick Ross’ Maybach Music Group. Sav is now expanding Arista’s impact in the hip-hop space as Vice President/Co-Head of Urban Music.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Drew

Drew "Dru Ha" Friedman

Cofounder and CEO of Duck Down Music; General Manager Consultant at Cinematic Music Group; CEO of 3D Consulting and Distribution

Drew "Dru Ha" Friedman

Drew “Dru Ha” Friedman cofounded Duck Down in 1995, a still thriving independent label, which signed rap acts like Black Moon, Boot Camp Clik and Sean Price. The hip-hop veteran also doubles as General Management for Cinematic Music Group and CEO of 3D, which handles marketing and distribution for Young M.A.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Noah Friedman

Noah Friedman

General Manager of Duck Down Music and 3D Consulting and Distribution; Cofounder/Owner of
DNF Partners Inc.

Noah Friedman

Noah Friedman has been a marketing mind and general manager at Duck Down for two decades. From directing videos to pushing promo, Noah has worked plenty of projects from label artists Sean Price, Smif-N-Wessun, Talib Kweli, Pharoahe Monch, Random Axe and more. He’s also the general manager of 3D and the cofounder/owner at DNF Partners Inc.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Future

Future

Artist; Founder of Freebandz Entertainment

Future

Nine albums, more than 15 mixtapes and countless songs on the Billboard charts have boosted Future’s career to epic levels. Grammy award-winning, multiplatinum-selling hits dipped in Auto-Tune and melody are the Atlanta rapper’s calling card. He’s been on a tear for more than a decade while staying on top of business as the founder of Freebandz Entertainment, where he has several artists like Doe Boy signed.

Photo Credit: Prince Williams/Wireimage

Lanre Gaba

Lanre Gaba

Co-President of Black Music at Atlantic Records

Lanre Gaba

After stints at Ruffhouse Music Publishing and EMI Music Publishing, Lanre Gaba joined Atlantic Records’ A&R department in 2002. There, she’s worked with Cardi B, Gucci Mane, Lil Uzi Vert and more as she’s moved through various staff positions. In 2022, she was promoted to Co-president of Black Music.

Photo Credit: Diego Gomez

Ghostface Killah

Ghostface Killah

Artist; Entrepreneur

Ghostface Killah

Ghostface Killah has the distinguished honor of being in the game for close to 30 years and still having the respect he deserves as a heralded MC. For decades, his illustrious storytelling both as a solo artist and member of Wu-Tang Clan pushed the Staten Island native to global rap star status. In addition to delivering rhymes, the rapper recently launched his Killah Koffee Company, established in 2021.

Photo Credit: Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Essence

Janelle Gibbs

Janelle Gibbs

Vice President of Publicity at 300 Entertainment

Janelle Gibbs

Laying formulaic groundwork in the PR space is what's led to Janelle Gibbs' success. She had a six-year run at Epic Records, where she played a major role in Rick Ross' career growth as well as DDG and G Herbo. She continues to do the same for artists like Gunna, Tee Grizzley and rising Atlanta rapper Hunxho as the current Vice President of Publicity at 300 Entertainment.

Photo Credit: Cachief Latchman

Robert Gibbs

Robert Gibbs

Partner & Co-Head of Atlanta Office at United Talent Agency (UTA)

Robert Gibbs

Robert Gibbs’ career began with a stint as an agent at the Creative Artists Agency in 2001. Beginning in 2006, he worked as a partner at ICM Partners before becoming Head of Music. In 2022, he was announced as Co-Head and Partner at United Talent Agency’s Atlanta Office.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Tim Glover

Tim Glover

Executive Vice President of A&R at
Interscope Records

Tim Glover

Tim Glover built up his status in the music industry by working in the marketing department for Universal Music Group Distribution, and lifestyle marketing and promo at Def Jam Recordings. In 2014, he landed at Interscope, where he helps magnify revered legacies of J. Cole and his Dreamville Records imprint, Tierra Whack and LVRN, home to 6lack and Summer Walker. Tim is now EVP of A&R at Interscope.

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Miranda

Elliot Grainge

Elliot Grainge

Founder and CEO of 10K Projects

Elliot Grainge

A 30 Under 30 Music alumnus and whip-smart entrepreneur, Elliot Grainge is forever searching for new angles to accelerate and cross-promote the careers of the artists on his roster, which features Ice Spice, Trippie Redd, Iann Dior, Internet Money and Jeleel!. 10K thinks beyond the studio, funding canned cocktail company Ohza and sunglasses innovator FutureMood while partnering with venture capital services of PlayWRK. The label partnered with Warner Music Group in 2023.

Photo Credit: Joseph Morrison

J Grand

J Grand


Founder of 88 Classic

J Grand

A diligent talent scout who connects songwriters with producers and vocalists, J Grand’s fingerprints were all over RCA Records’ success for the past 10 years. He was the Senior Vice President, A&R and Marketing until 2023. J Grand has helped shape the music and marketing of New Boyz, Maxo Kream, T-Pain, Kid Ink, 21 Savage and Latto. He founded 88 Classic in 2011.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Omar Grant

Omar Grant

Co-President at
Roc Nation

Omar Grant

Developing strategies for Roc Nation’s star-studded roster, Omar Grant’s profile has risen over 11 years with the label. Grant served as a Columbia Records intern and road manager for Destiny’s Child before breaking into Roc Nation’s boardroom. He’s helped the careers of Big Sean, managed super producer No. I.D., done A&R for Rihanna and signed Mustard to Roc Nation in 2013.

Photo Credit: Mark Clennon

Chris Green

Chris Green

Senior Vice President of Promotion at Capitol Music Group

Chris Green

With two decades of game under his belt, Chris Green, Senior Vice President of Promotion at Capitol Music Group, has contributed to campaigns for some of hip-hop's biggest names like Lil Baby, Migos, City Girls and Ice Spice. Chris continues to push the music from some of the biggest rappers in hip-hop around the country. He's also held positions at Epic and Geffen Records.

Photo Credit: Clifton Prescott

Julie Greenwald

Julie Greenwald

Chairman and COO of
Atlantic Records

Julie Greenwald

Julie Greenwald has been climbing the executive ranks of the music industry since the early 1990s, in top-dog roles at Island Records and Def Jam Recordings. Currently seated snugly at Atlantic Records as Chairman and COO since 2009, Julie continues to push forward the swelling legacies of Cardi B, Lil Uzi Vert, Roddy Ricch and many more as a renowned shot-caller.

Photo Credit: Matthew Furman

Amber Grimes

Amber Grimes

Executive Vice President/General Manager at LVRN Records

Amber Grimes

Amber Grimes, a former executive assistant at Def Jam Recordings, moved her way up the industry ladder with stops at Spotify, working artist and label marketing, and Capitol Records, where she commanded the role of SVP of Global Creative. Now, she's Executive Vice President/General Manager at LVRN Records. For the last decade, Amber has owned the full-service marketing company Cardi Brand Agency.

Photo Credit: Yaw Asiedu

Alan Grunblatt

Alan Grunblatt

Music Executive

Alan Grunblatt

After helping launch the careers of acts like Three 6 Mafia and Fat Joe, and working closely with Eazy-E as GM of Ruthless Records in the 1990s, Alan Grunblatt has been a driving force in eOne’s independent success for nearly two decades. He is the former President of Urban Music for MNRK Music Group, formerly eOne and Koch Records.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Gucci Mane

Gucci Mane

Artist; CEO

Gucci Mane

Gucci Mane, a founding father of trap music, rose his way up the ranks of hip-hop history via his onslaught of gold and platinum plaques. He has more than 100 mixtapes and albums combined to his name. Under his relaunched 1017 Records, the East Atlanta Santa now oversees the rising careers of acts like Pooh Shiesty, Foogiano, Big Scarr and more.

Photo Credit: Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

Mike “Mike G” Guirguis

Mike “Mike G” Guirguis

Partner and Music Agent at United Talent Agency (UTA)

Mike “Mike G” Guirguis

Mike "Mike G" Guirguis hovers in the music biz’s upper echelon of agents. The L.A.-bred industry veteran sprouted his career in radio (Power 106) and artist management (Chris Brown) before linking with UTA, where he is building and overseeing a creative roster that features Young Thug, Burna Boy, The Kid Laroi and Wizkid.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Ethiopia Habtemariam

Ethiopia Habtemariam

Music Executive

Ethiopia Habtemariam

After beginning her music industry career as a 14-year-old LaFace Records intern, Ethiopia Habtemariam was President of Urban Music and Co-Head of Creative at Universal Music Publishing Group before assisting careers of Lil Baby, Migos, City Girls and more at Capitol Music Group. She is the former Chairman and CEO of Motown Records.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Wayne Hampton

Wayne Hampton

Partner, Cofounder and Chief Business Development Officer at Create Music Group

Wayne Hampton

Over the last decade, Wayne Hampton applied his entrepreneurial spirit to companies like J Records and Hitco Music Publishing before branching out on his own with Starlinx Worldwide management and consulting firm. There, he worked with Chicago rappers Chief Keef and Lil Durk. In 2015, Wayne joined Create Music Group, where he’s partner, cofounder and Chief Business Development Officer. He now works with artists Gucci Mane, Young Thug and Trippie Redd, among others.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Dionnee Harper

Dionnee Harper

Executive Vice President, Marketing & Artist Development at Warner Records

Dionnee Harper

Dionnee Harper's career trajectory embodies growth and diligence. She's been at Warner Music Group for 23 years, starting as an intern at Elektra Entertainment Group. Dionnee ultimately elevated to Urban Marketing Coordinator once Elektra merged with Atlantic Records. After that, she held roles as Product Manager, Senior Director and Vice President. She was appointed EVP of Marketing (All Genres) & Artist Development in 2022.

Photo Credit: Jimmy Fontaine

Saint Harraway

Saint Harraway

Co-President at Uptown Records/Executive Vice President of A&R at Republic Records

Saint Harraway

Starting off his career as an intern for Bad Boy Records in high school, Saint Harraway worked as an A&R for Bad Boy and did the same at Republic Records. In 2019, he was promoted to Senior Vice President of A&R at Republic, where he’s helped oversee A&R work for Aminé, Ski Mask The Slump God, Coi Leray and more.

Photo Credit: Brianna "Burrbrii" Benitez

Echo Hattix

Echo Hattix

Founder and CEO of Echoing Soundz

Echo Hattix

As founder and CEO of the eponymous Echoing Soundz since 2013, Echo Hattix is a visionary when it comes to PR campaigns and lifestyle marketing. Leaning on viral content and live events to push her artists’ brands, Hattix’s expertise has touched the careers of E-40, Joyner Lucas, YG, CeeLo Green and Snoop Dogg, to name a few.

Photo Credit: ShotBySham

Randy Henderson

Randy Henderson

Senior Vice President of Publicity at Interscope Records

Randy Henderson

A self-described “full-time publicist, part-time magician,” Randy Henderson’s magic touch has been all over Interscope’s major projects. The success and prominence of Ari Lennox, DaBaby, Machine Gun Kelly and Rod Wave are all due, in part, to Henderson’s steady guidance and taste for what slaps. The veteran has been in the game long enough that he helped push Machine Gun Kelly before he picked up a guitar.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Terrence

Terrence "Punch" Henderson

President of Top Dawg Entertainment; Artist

Terrence "Punch" Henderson

Terrence “Punch” Henderson has helped steer the careers of Top Dawg artists as President of the label. He’s etched his name into the history of hip-hop, working closely with past and present TDE artists including Kendrick Lamar, Jay Rock, ScHoolboy Q, Ab-Soul, Isaiah Rashad, SZA and more. As a rapper himself, Punch is part of the music collective A Room Full of Mirrors.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Girvan

Girvan "Fly" Henry

Founder and CEO of Think It’s A Game Records and TIG7 Publishing

Girvan "Fly" Henry

Girvan “Fly” Henry got into the rap game as an artist and manager before launching his Think It’s A Game Records in 2006. The success of signees Rich Homie Quan and YFN Lucci have afforded the music collective a distribution deal with Warner Records—yet another level up, and counting. Fly launched TIG7 Publishing in 2014.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Tim Hinshaw

Tim Hinshaw

Founder & CEO of Free Lunch Agency

Tim Hinshaw

For more than a decade, Tim Hinshaw has been meshing the roles of A&R, marketing and artist relations at companies like R.E.D/Island Def Jam, Vans and Fender. In 2018, he moved on to Amazon Music, where he worked until 2023 as Head of Hip-Hop & R&B, helping superstar-level artists sneak into listeners’ speakers and playlists. Currently, he is the Founder & CEO of the Free Lunch Agency.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Shawn

Shawn "Tubby" Holiday

President at Giant Records; Manager of
Full Stop Management

Shawn "Tubby" Holiday

Shawn “Tubby” Holiday, a former member of Bad Boy Records’ street team in 2000, held gigs as SVP of A&R at RCA Records, SVP of Urban A&R at Interscope Records and co-head of Columbia Records. He’s worked with Travis Scott, Lil Nas X and many more. Now, Tubby holds a position as a manager at Full Stop Management and President at Giant Records.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Ken “Duro” Ifill

Ken “Duro” Ifill

Senior Vice President, A&R; Operations Manager at Republic Studios NYC

Ken “Duro” Ifill

Ken “Duro” Ifill put in work in the 1990s as an in-demand engineer for the likes of Jay-Z, Will Smith and Queen Latifah. But after founding Desert Storm with DJ Clue and running the mixtape game, he began to move his weight around in the boardroom. He's currently Senior Vice President, A&R; Operations Manager at Republic Studios NYC.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Zach Iser

Zach Iser

Partner/Co-Head of
Hip-Hop/R&B at WME

Zach Iser

Zach Iser got his start as a booking promotor and talent manager in New York City in the early 2000s, before becoming the youngest agent at ICM Partners, where he signed artists Kendrick Lamar and SZA. He currently acts as Partner/Co-Head of Hip-Hop/R&B at WME, where he represents several international superstars such as Future, Nicki Minaj and more.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Jadakiss

Jadakiss

Artist; Entrepreneur

Jadakiss

With nearly 25 years in the game as a solo artist and a member of The Lox, countless albums and three Grammy nominations, Jadakiss has left an impenetrable impact within hip-hop. The Yonkers, N.Y. native has also immersed himself in entrepreneurship, opening Juices for Life juice bar in his hometown with Styles P and a coffee line with his father and son called Kiss Café. Top 5 Dead or Alive might be a Kiss album, but he's living up to the title.

Jeezy

Jeezy

Artist; Entrepreneur

Jeezy

Jeezy is a pivotal figure on the Mount Rushmore of trap music, pushing it to the forefront with his 2005 critically acclaimed debut album, Let’s Get It: Thug Motivation 101. From Da Snowman to a businessman, plus 12 albums deep and being a philanthropist with his Street Dreamz Foundation, he’s putting on others by inspiring them to succeed.

Photo Credit: Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for GQ

KJ Jadav

KJ Jadav

Senior Vice President of A&R and Marketing at RCA Records

KJ Jadav

KJ Jadav's impenetrable vision as a music exectuive at RCA Records has resulted in the signing and development of numerous hip-hop acts such as Young Nudy, Kenny Mason and BabyDrill. KJ has worked tenaciously within the A&R department for over six years, currently holding the role of Senior Vice President of A&R and Marketing.

Photo Credit: Neil Patel

Dharmic Jain

Dharmic Jain

Vice President of Marketing at Alamo Records

Dharmic Jain

Within his five-year career at Alamo Records, Sanchay “Dharmic” Jain is one of the reasons Lil Durk and Rod Wave have had successful careers, which includes No. 1 albums and Billboard Hot 100-charting songs. Dharmic assumed a leadership role at Alamo after the acquisition from Sony and has seen overseen the massive growth of both their marketing and digital departments. His time at Audible Treats, where he spearheaded the brand's relationship with Rolling Loud Festival, attributed to his success at Alamo.

Photo Credit: Nora Lee

John Janick

John Janick

Chairman and CEO at Interscope Geffen A&M Records

John Janick

John Janick has been waist-deep in the game since founding his indie label, Fueled by Ramen, in college. After a Co-President position at Elektra Records and now at UMG’s Interscope Geffen A&M, he’s been IGA’s Chairman and CEO for the last seven years. In that role, John leads plenty of multiplatinum-selling artists and partnerships.

Photo Credit: Rich Polk

Peter Jideonwo

Peter Jideonwo

COO and Partner at Grade A Productions; Quantum PFS Merchandising Solutions; Manager to Juice Wrld, Lil Durk, Trippie Redd

Peter Jideonwo

Grade A Productions Partner/Chief of Operations Peter Jideonwo began his career in Chicago, where he worked as a concert promoter. The role led him to produce shows for Lil Bibby. He’s now a successful manager, who’s overseen the careers of Juice Wrld, Trippie Redd, The Kid Laroi and Lil Durk.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Barry

Barry "Hefner" Johnson

Cofounder and President of SinceThe80s

Barry "Hefner" Johnson

Barry “Hefner” Johnson is a multihyphenate of sorts with SinceThe80s, a record label that also provides management and publishing services. Barry, President and Cofounder of SinceThe80s, launched the all-encompassing venture with business partner Zeke Johnson in 2018. He manages the careers of JID, Earthgang, Mike Dimes, 2022 XXL Freshman SoFayGo and several others.

Photo Credit: Shamaal Bloodman

Keinon Johnson

Keinon Johnson

Executive Vice President of Urban Radio Promotions at Interscope Records

Keinon Johnson

Starting out as a rep for Loud Records’ street team in the 1990s, Kienon Johnson has been in promotions for 25-plus years. As Interscope’s Senior Vice President of Urban Radio Promotions, he has overseen hits from Mustard, Moneybagg Yo and Summer Walker.

Photo Credit: Harold Daniels

Jim Jones

Jim Jones

Artist; Entrepreneur

Jim Jones

Jim Jones is a pillar in the New York City rap scene as a solo artist and part of the Diplomats. His debut album, On My Way to Church, arrived in 2004. Jim's second album, Harlem: Diary of a Summer, was released in 2005, when he simultaneously took a role as A&R for Entertainment One Music, formerly known as Koch Records. Jim started Byrd Gang in 2008, delved into fashion, co-owns Vampire Life Clothing and launched a gym bootcamp initiative.

Photo Credit: FleeFlicks

Lallie Jones

Lallie Jones

Vice President, Marketing at 300 Entertainment

Lallie Jones

Lallie Jones is a visionary whose foresight and talent has led to the success and impact of initiatives and campaigns for artists at 300 Entertainment. Responsible for the impact of PinkPantheress' "Boy’s a Liar, Pt. 2" with Ice Spice," Lallie has both RIAA certifications and award nominations on her résumé. She champions the story of young Black women at the forefront of a new wave of music.

Photo Credit: Alyssa Kyle

Kenoe Jordan

Kenoe Jordan

Senior Vice President of A&R at
Motown Records/Capitol Records

Kenoe Jordan

Kenoe Jordan’s producing talents are heard on songs from G.O.A.T.s like Jay-Z, Nicki Minaj and Lil Wayne, among plenty of others. The Grammy Award-winning musician was Vice President of A&R at Motown until 2023, and brought other artists like YoungBoy Never Broke Again and London On Da Track along with him. Now he is Senior Vice President at Motown and Capitol Records.

Photo Credit: Kenoe Jordan

Juicy J

Juicy J

Producer; Artist; Entrepreneur

Juicy J

The hustle continues for 30-year hip-hop veteran Juicy J. The multiplatinum-selling frontman for the Academy Award-winning group Three 6 Mafia has played more of a CEO role in recent years, launching Paycheck Pub with BMG. He’s also a fervent investor, having held stakes in companies like Core Water, Asterisk cannabis and Epic Games.

Photo Credit: Aaron J. Thornton/WireImage

Just Blaze

Just Blaze

Producer; DJ; Director of Music and Culture at Brass Lion Entertainment

Just Blaze

Just Blaze, a former in-house producer for Roc-A-Fella Records, has used his production expertise to help artists like Jay-Z, Cam’ron and Fabolous take their music from the streets of New York to the headphones of millions worldwide. The legendary sample savant has since crafted hits for Kendrick Lamar, Drake and many more.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Fadia Kader

Fadia Kader

Executive VP & GM of Venice Music

Fadia Kader

A creator and executor of big ideas, Fadia Kader has been designing strategies, partnering brands and connecting dots in the industry for more than 14 years. Jumping from Instagram after four years to Clubhouse in 2021, the former curator of Atlanta’s A3C Hip-Hop Festival is now the Executive VP and GM of Venice Music.

Photo Credit: Nolan Knight

Ashley Kalmanowitz

Ashley Kalmanowitz

Senior Vice President of Publicity at Atlantic Records

Ashley Kalmanowitz

Ashley Kalmanowitz envisions, enacts and executes media campaigns for Atlantic’s multiplatinum A-list superstars. Cardi B, Lizzo and Bruno Mars have all leaned on Kalmanowitz’s knowledge to develop their soaring media profiles since the inception of their careers. Her expertise in brand collabs, plus traditional and social media has helped boost her clients to Grammy Award and trendsetting status.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Craig Kallman

Craig Kallman

Chairman and CEO of
Atlantic Records

Craig Kallman

Craig Kallman was a young nightclub DJ who worked his way up to musical director and then CEO of Atlantic Records. His ear for talent and innate passion for A&R has led to an introduction of the world’s biggest stars in the genres of R&B (Aaliyah, Trey Songz), pop (Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran), hip-hop (Cardi B, Wiz Khalifa, Flo-Rida) and many more.

Photo Credit: Jimmy Fontaine

Jason Kpana

Jason Kpana

Senior Vice President of Artist & Label Relations at TIDAL

Jason Kpana

With nearly 20 years in the music business, Jason Kpana has brought his talents to record labels and a streaming service. Kpana held various positions over the years, including Vice President of Operations and Director of A&R at SRC for five years. He’s now Senior Vice President of Artist & Label Relations at TIDAL, where he strives to support artists based solely on the music.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Mike Kyser

Mike Kyser

President of Black Music
at Atlantic Records

Mike Kyser

Mike Kyser’s musical track record has been magnifying since the 1990s, with his assistance in the rise of Roc-A-Fella Records and Murder Inc. Following a run that includes work alongside Kanye West, Missy Elliott and Jay-Z, he now reigns as the President of Black Music at Atlantic and has for a decade.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Bryan Leach

Bryan Leach

President and Founder of Polo Grounds Music

Bryan Leach

Bryan Leach opted to stay behind the scenes and launched Polo Grounds Music in 2006. The label has been home to A$AP Rocky, A$AP Ferg, Calboy and Jay Gwuapo, among others, and has since accrued plenty of multiplatinum records, several No. 1 albums and billions of global sales.

Photo Credit: Bryan Leach

Dr. Kevin

Dr. Kevin "Coach K" Lee

Cofounder and COO of
Quality Control Music

Dr. Kevin "Coach K" Lee

A former student baller for Saint Augustine’s College in the early 1990s, Dr. Kevin “Coach K” Lee cofounded the genre-defining label Quality Control Music in 2013 after years of managing rappers including Gucci Mane and Jeezy. Lee’s mother used to bring home wax from the RCA Records pressing plant she worked at. Now, her son runs the QC roster of Migos, Lil Yachty, Lil Baby, City Girls and more.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Ezekiel Lewis

Ezekiel Lewis

Executive Vice President and Head of A&R at Epic Records

Ezekiel Lewis

Ezekiel Lewis’ hit-making ability led to a publishing deal with LaFace Records in the 1990s, and a string of hits from Timbaland to Justin Beiber. That skillset secured him an A&R role at Motown Records prior to changing his home team to Epic. As the Executive Vice President and Head of A&R, Zeke now works with Future, Tyla Yaweh, Giveon and more.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Lil Bibby

Lil Bibby

CEO of Grade A Productions

Lil Bibby

Lil Bibby began as a drill music forefather in Chicago, delivering his Free Crack series to much fanfare through the years. His quiet demeanor paled in comparison to the deep voice that made songs like "You Ain't Gang" and "Know That" stand out. These days, he’s been in music exec mode. In 2017, he founded Grade A Productions, a label that’s been home to the likes of Juice Wrld, The Kid Laroi and more.

Photo Credit: OGUT/Star Max/GC Images

Lil' Kim

Lil' Kim

Artist; Author; Entrepreneur

Lil' Kim

Lil’ Kim’s ground-breaking career in hip-hop has spanned 25 years. The Grammy Award-winning rapper started Queen Bee Entertainment in 1999, and has served as spokeswoman for companies like MAC Cosmetics, Old Navy and others. An author and beauty shop proprietor, the hip-hop legend is co-owner of the cannabis brand Aphrodisiac.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Avery Lipman

Avery Lipman

Cofounder of
Republic Records

Avery Lipman

Avery Lipman began his career working for Clive Davis. In 1995, Avery cofounded Republic with his brother Monte. In Avery’s time with the label, he’s worked with Lil Wayne, Post Malone, Nicki Minaj and many more heavy hitters.

Photo Credit: Republic Records

Monte Lipman

Monte Lipman

Cofounder of
Republic Records

Monte Lipman

After working under Clive Davis, Monte Lipman cofounded Republic with his brother Avery in 1995. In recent years, Monte has helped oversee releases from Drake, The Weeknd, Post Malone, Lil Wayne, Pop Smoke, Amy Winehouse, Taylor Swift and countless other superstars.

Photo Credit: Republic Records

Sydney Lopes

Sydney Lopes

Music Executive

Sydney Lopes

Over the past five years, Sydney Lopes has worked with artists, managers and labels to execute impactful campaigns that build global audiences and engagement as the former Head of Hip Hop and R&B, Artist Partnerships at Spotify. Sydney was previously an account manager for multiple advertising agencies, including Weiden & Kennedy, The Martin Agency and TBWA/Chiat/Day. She managed commercial production and consumer activations for multiple brands including Heineken, Equinox and Gatorade.

Photo Credit: Bukunmi

Courtney Lowery

Courtney Lowery

Founder, CL Media & Brand Strategy

Courtney Lowery

In a career that stretches more than 18 years, Courtney Lowery has handled publicity for the likes of Future, DJ Khaled, Swizz Beatz and more during his work at Epic Records and independently. Courtney joined Motown Records as the Executive Vice President, Media and Lifestyle in 2021. Now he focuses on his own agency, CL Media & Brand Strategy.

Photo Credit: Karl Ferguson

Kevin Liles

Kevin Liles

Chairman and CEO of 300 Entertainment and Elektra Music Group

Kevin Liles

After stints as President and CEO of Def Jam Recordings and Executive Vice President of Warner Music Group, Kevin Liles cofounded 300 Entertainment with Lyor Cohen, Roger Gold and Todd Moscowitz. As the label’s CEO and Chairman of the Board, Kevin oversees a roster that includes Young Thug, Megan Thee Stallion and more. Liles is also Chairman and CEO of Elektra Music Group.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Roberta Magrini

Roberta Magrini

Talent Relations/Talent Producer at
Mass Appeal Media

Roberta Magrini

For almost three decades, Roberta Magrini has handled publicity for artists like Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg, Bun B and more. Between 1994 and 2009, she held down senior publicity positions at Priority Records and Jive/Sony before becoming an independent publicist. Since 2016, Roberta has also worked as a Talent Relations/Talent Producer at Mass Appeal Media.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Imran Majid

Imran Majid

Co-CEO of Island Records

Imran Majid

With 20 years of experience under his belt, Imran Majid, co-CEO of Island Records, worked his way through the A&R space, starting off at Universal Motown Records in 2004. Nearly a decade later, he joined Columbia Records, where he helped nurture then-rising artists Lil TJay, Polo G, Russ and more. Imran now holds his current Island Records position alongside longtime colleague Justin Eshak, whom he met at Universal Motown.

Photo Credit: Rick Wenner

Joie Manda

Joie Manda

CEO of Encore Recordings

Joie Manda

A two-decade industry vet, Joie Manda has held high-powered gigs as EVP of Asylum Records, headed urban music operations at Warner Music Group, was President of Def Jam Recordings and also EVP of Interscope Geffen A&M, where he worked with artists like J. Cole and Rae Sremmurd. Now, Joie holds the position of CEO of indie label Encore Recordings.

Photo Credit: Encore Recordings

Greg Marella

Greg Marella

President, Promotion and Executive Vice President at Capitol Music Group

Greg Marella

Greg Marella's storied success includes a major role in the career accomplishments of Lil Baby, Migos, Internet Money, Halsey, Sam Smith, Niall Horan and more. Marella joined Capitol Music Group following his time at Kemosabe Records, where he was the Executive VP of Promotion—a position held after 16 years spent at Interscope-Geffen-A&M and MCA Records.

Photo Credit: Dennis Kwan

Sydney Margetson

Sydney Margetson

CEO of SGM Unlimited

Sydney Margetson

Sydney Margetson has made a significant impact on the music industry. With over 20 years of experience as the Senior Vice President of Publicity at Atlantic Records until 2023, Sydney has pushed new artists to the forefront and landed major press in the industry for artists such as T.I., Kevin Gates, Lil Uzi Vert, Lupe Fiasco, Wiz Khalifa, Cordae and more. He has since embarked on a new venture, establishing SGM Unlimited publicity agency.

Photo Credit: Ray Tamara

Dallas Martin

Dallas Martin

President of Asylum; Executive Vice President of A&R at Atlantic Records

Dallas Martin

Mentored by late music exec Shakir Stewart, Dallas Martin brought Rick Ross’ Maybach Music with him to Warner Records as Director of A&R after working with the rapper at Warner in 2011. Martin became Vice President of A&R at Atlantic, signing Nipsey Hustle and Roddy Ricch, and simultaneously runs the show at Asylum as President.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Angie Martinez

Angie Martinez

Radio Personality on Power 105.1’s
The Angie Martinez Show

Angie Martinez

Known as “The Voice of New York,” Angie Martinez’s name is synonymous with NYC radio. As one of the leading voices in radio on Hot 97 through the 1990s and 2000s, she moved to Power 105.1 in 2014. A Grammy Award-nominated recording artist, actress and author, Martinez was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2020. She also has her own podcast, Angie Martinez IRL.

Photo Credit: Angie Martinez

Jonathan Master

Jonathan Master

Senior Vice President of A&R and Marketing at RCA Records

Jonathan Master

Under the tutelage of RCA Records' Mark Pitts, Jonathan Master has helped shape and guide the label's breakout talent within his role as Senior Vice President of A&R and Marketing. Jonathan has contributed to amplifying the success and trajectories of artists such as Flo Milli, Young Nudy, Teezo Touchdown, Nardo Wick, Sleepy Hallow, Skillibeng and more.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of SamePlate

Michelle McDevitt

Michelle McDevitt

Cofounder and President at Audible Treats

Michelle McDevitt

Armed with a master’s degree in music business from New York University, Michelle McDevitt cofounded the entertainment marketing and boutique PR firm Audible Treats in 2004. The company is home to some of your favorite rappers’ favorite rappers. Her creative and strategic campaigns have embraced new media and boosted the diverse brands of TikTok, ESPN and Ubisoft, to name a few.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Orlando McGhee

Orlando McGhee

Head of Urban Music at ONErpm

Orlando McGhee

Orlando McGhee’s work in the music industry began when he was an intern for Organized Noize and started managing them in the late 1990s. He then secured A&R positions at Warner Music Group and Roc Nation. Over the last few decades, Orlando has worked with Lil Jon, E-40, Future and more. He is currently Head of Urban Music at ONErpm.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

James McMillan

James McMillan

Founder & CEO of ART@WAR; Attorney

James McMillan

James McMillan has combined his music industry expertise as a manager and executive with his skills as an attorney to help guide the careers of artists old and new. 8Ball & MJG, Machine Gun Kelly and Cool & Dre are among his past clients. After launching his first label in the 1990s, he then studied law and eventually founded the imprint Art@War. Artists YBN Nahmir and Jucee Froot are on McMillan's label roster.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Randall

Randall "Sickamore" Medford

Senior Vice President of A&R Talent at
Interscope Records

Randall "Sickamore" Medford

Between stints at Atlantic Records, Def Jam Recordings and Interscope Records, Randall “Sickamore” Medford has worked with Travis Scott, YG and multiple other chart-topping luminaries. Sickamore currently works as Senior Vice President of A&R Talent at Interscope Records.

Giovanna Melchiorre

Giovanna Melchiorre

Vice President of Media Relations at
MNRK Music Group

Giovanna Melchiorre

Three decades in and Giovanna Melchiorre is still shining in music publicity. Managing roles at Virgin Records America, eOne and more have found her heading standout campaigns for RZA and Juicy J, among others. As Vice President of Media Relations at MNRK (formely eOne and Koch Records), Gio proceeds to amplify both veteran and rising artists’ legacies in music.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Method Man

Method Man

Artist; Actor

Method Man

Look to Method Man as the blueprint for rappers who can successfully transition to acting while continuing to have a successful rap career for nearly 30 years. The Grammy-winning artist’s seven solo albums, several joint projects and endless releases with Wu-Tang Clan have kept him in the conversation as one of the G.O.A.T. New York rappers decades later. As for his acting résumé, Meth brings the funny and drama to TV and film.

Photo Credit: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images

Dana Meyerson

Dana Meyerson

Partner at Biz 3

Dana Meyerson

Longtime Biz 3 partner and 20-year veteran of the PR game, Dana Meyerson branched out in 2021, with the launch of her own label imprint, Slashie. The Chicago native helped sign Grammy-nominated rapper Chika to Warner Records, and has worked closely with cutting-edge acts like Terrace Martin, Jessie Reyez, Danny Brown and Diplo, to name a few.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Missy Elliott

Missy Elliott

Artist; Entrepreneur

Missy Elliott

With a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame last year, an induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2019, four Grammy Awards throughout her career and six studio albums marking a different artistic era, Missy Elliott’s creative impact in the entertainment industry is irrefutable. The Virginia native has remained supa dupa fly for over 30 years.

Photo Credit: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images

Simone Mitchell

Simone Mitchell

President of
Quality Control Music

Simone Mitchell

Back in the building stages of Quality Control, circa 2013, Simone Mitchell worked part-time at the label performing administrative duties. After rising up and helping acts like Migos and City Girls make names for themselves, the powerhouse’s leading lady began co-managing Lakeyah and recently inked a new deal to become QC’s President.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Thea Mitchem

Thea Mitchem

EVP of Programming (Major Markets) and EVP of Hip-Hop and R&B Strategy at iHeartMedia; Programming Director at
Power 105.1

Thea Mitchem

As iHeartMedia’s Executive Vice President of Programming, Thea Mitchem is familiar with demolishing barriers in a male-dominated industry for the last 20 years. She previously poured in eight years with airwave monolith Clear Channel and captured several awards for her excellence in radio programming. Mitchem is behind the sound and reach of NYC’s Power 105.1 as EVP of Programming for iHeartMedia’s major markets.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Erika Montes

Erika Montes

President of Rostrum Records

Erika Montes

Erika Montes’ industry journey has included stops as Senior Director of Video Marketing and Promotions at Def Jam Recordings, VP of Music Programming and Development at Fuse Networks and Director of Label and Artist Relations at LoveLive. From 2017 to 2022, Erika was at SoundCloud, where she worked her way up to VP of Artist Relations. She's now President of Rostrum Records.

Photo Credit: Billy Clark

Didier Morais

Didier Morais

Founder and CEO at Vital Versatility

Didier Morais

Didier Morias is responsible for the publicity of numerous rap powerhouses and brands. His five years at Berk Communications empowered him to climb the growth ladder from Account Director to Senior Director of Music & Entertainment, later holding the role of Vice President of Music and Entertainment. He ultimately formed his own publicity company, Vital Versatility, where he is the founder and CEO, maintaining a roster that includes Megan Thee Stallion, Fat Joe, Yo Gotti, Roc Nation and more.

Photo Credit: Shareif Ziyadat

Riggs Morales

Riggs Morales

EVP of A&R at Def Jam Recordings

Riggs Morales

Riggs Morales stamped himself as a writer 25 years ago by highlighting rising talent like Eminem. After putting 50 Cent on the radar of Em as the Director of A&R at Shady Records, Riggs slid to Atlantic, where securing gold, platinum and diamond plaques were regular feats as Senior Vice President of A&R. In 2023, Riggs grabbed a spot as EVP of A&R at Def Jam Recordings.

Photo Credit: Patricia Stone

Leighton

Leighton "Lake" Morrison

Cofounder/Co-CEO of Generation Now; CEO of Lakeshow Management

Leighton "Lake" Morrison

Getting his start managing Ma$e in the mid-2000s, Leighton “Lake” Morrison went on to work with Beanie Sigel, Freeway and Bobby Valentino before forming Generation Now with his college friends, DJ Drama and Don Cannon, in 2014. Lake currently manages Drama and Cannon through his Lakeshow Management company and is a cofounder and Co-CEO of Generation Now.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Todd Moscowitz

Todd Moscowitz

Founder and CEO of Alamo Records

Todd Moscowitz

Over the last few decades, Todd Moscowitz was CEO at Warner Bros. Records and President at Asylum Records. Becoming a big dog led him to cofounder of 300 Entertainment, which set the blueprint to launch his own label, Alamo, the current home to Rod Wave, Lil Durk, Comethazine and more.

Luis Mota

Luis Mota

Senior Vice President of A&R at Columbia Records

Luis Mota

Securing his SVP promotion at Columbia Records in 2021, Luis Mota represents an A&R-focused shift at the Sony stable. With an ear for melodic rap, Mota was key to the signings of breakout stars Lil Tjay and Fivio Foreign and was instrumental in the former nailing a No. 3 Billboard Hot 100 hit with “Calling My Phone.” Mota’s docket also includes buzzy acts like 24KGoldn and Polo G.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Mustard

Mustard

Founder of 10 Summers; Artist; Producer; DJ

Mustard

Mustard has been delivering heat from behind the boards on the West Coast to ears around the globe for more than a decade. Producing club-friendly hits and street-certified tracks that include his signature “Mustard on the beat, ho!” tag are the usual for him. Besides being a respected DJ, Mustard is a Grammy-winning artist and producer in addition to founder of 10 Summers Records, where artists like Ella Mai are signed.

Photo Credit: Brandon Xay

Mike Navarra

Mike Navarra

Senior Vice President of Publicity at Columbia Records

Mike Navarra

After working as an intern as part of Columbia Records’ Rhythm Radio Promotions Department, Mike Navarra was recruited to the label’s publicity team. Since then, he’s worked with Harry Styles, Polo G, Lil Tjay and more while moving through various executive positions, including his current post as SVP of Publicity.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Jean Nelson

Jean Nelson

Co-CEO at The Blueprint Group; Partner at Maverick

Jean Nelson

Jean Nelson kicked off his journey by signing “Flava in Ya Ear” rhymer Craig Mack to Diddy’s Bad Boy Records in 1994. Jean holds a position as Co-CEO at The Blueprint Group and partner at Maverick. Nelson has been instrumental in helping Lil Wayne, Lil’ Kim, G-Eazy, Lil Nas X, Trippie Redd and more pop off.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Natina Nimene

Natina Nimene

Executive Vice President, Promotion & Artist Relations at
Def Jam Recordings

Natina Nimene

Natina Nimene has been a respected name in the urban promotion department for over a decade, working for Virgin Records, Atlantic Records and Def Jam. She’s collaborated closely with Kanye West, 2 Chainz, Jeezy, Big Sean and more at Def Jam, where she is the Senior VP of Urban Promotion and Artist Relations.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

No I.D.

No I.D.

Executive Vice President
at Capitol Music Group

No I.D.

No I.D. helped craft Common’s early sound, once managed Kanye West and cranked out pristine production for Drake and Jay-Z, among others over the past 30 years. From launching his ARTium Recordings label and jumping from G.O.O.D. Music to Def Jam Recordings, the exec’s golden ear has landed at Capitol Music Group as Executive Vice President.

Brian Nolan

Brian Nolan

President, Global Marketing and Sync, Artist Partner Group and Head of Synch at Artist Publishing Group

Brian Nolan

Earning a promotion to the Motown’s executive leadership team in 2021, Brian Nolan oversees in the legendary label’s marketing initiatives. Nolan’s 20-plus years of background in promotion, international and sport marketing and brand partnerships includes orchestrating synergies with Lil Baby and Pepsi, Migos and Mountain Dew and TNT, and Halsey and Beats by Dre.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

N.O.R.E.

N.O.R.E.

Artist; Entrepreneur

N.O.R.E.

A pioneer of the New York City rap scene, N.O.R.E. put Queens on the map in the mid-1990s as rap duo C-N-N alongside Capone. N.O.R.E. amassed musical success with his self-titled debut and his sophomore effort, Melvin Flynt – Da Hustler, before joining the Def Jam family and releasing God's Favorite. Besides hits sonically constructed by Pharrell Williams under his belt, N.O.R.E. has also found success with his Drink Champs podcast.

Photo Credit: Johnny Nunez/Getty Images

Cheryl Paglierani

Cheryl Paglierani

Partner and Music Agent at United Talent Agency (UTA)

Cheryl Paglierani

Recently promoted to partner at powerhouse UTA, Cheryl Paglierani has been thriving in the male-dominated arena of music agency since 2008. She has represented Post Malone for seven years, helping guide him to pop stardom and worldwide stadium status. Other clients include Cardi B, 21 Savage, Flo Milli and Offset.

Photo Credit: Eric Cui

Gabrielle Peluso

Gabrielle Peluso

General Manager, Hitmaker Music Group

Gabrielle Peluso

A longtime music industry executive, Gabrielle Peluso previously played a part in Def Jam Recordings’ 1990’s dominance and walked the tightrope as the late, great DMX’s publicist. She also recently rebooted Asylum as a hip-hop and R&B-focused label. In 2022, she was pushing fresh acts like Sada Baby and KenTheMan as Co-President of Asylum. Now she is General Manager at Hitmaker Music Group.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Desiree Perez

Desiree Perez

Cofounder and CEO at Roc Nation

Desiree Perez

Desiree Perez is a visionary who, along with Jay-Z, has pushed the Roc Nation empire beyond its beats-and-rhymes origins. In addition to being involved in all aspects of Hov’s own career, Perez is responsible for the 10-year, $200 million worldwide touring deal between the rapper and Live Nation. She also secured the Roc’s landmark 360 deal with the global entertainment company.

Photo Credit: Jerritt Clark, Getty Images

Yves C. Pierre

Yves C. Pierre

Music Agent at CAA

Yves C. Pierre

Yves Pierre worked in sales at the since-dissolved Island/Def Jam, then moved on to focus on marketing at Roc Nation for two years. Since then, Yves was employed by ICM Partners, moving up to Concerts Agent in 2016. In that role, she helped put together shows for clients like Migos, Lil Yachty and Lil Baby. Now she's a music agent at CAA.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Mark Pitts

Mark Pitts

President of RCA Records; CEO at
Bystorm Entertainment

Mark Pitts

Mark Pitts’ resume is long enough for two millennia. In the early 1990s, he managed The Notorious B.I.G at Bad Boy Records and A&R’d for labels like Arista Records. In 2011, he transitioned to RCA, where his feats include signing Chris Brown and J. Cole. Mark is now President of RCA and CEO at Bystorm Entertainment, home to artists like Miguel and Deante’ Hitchcock.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Kawan

Kawan "KP The Great" Prather

A&R; Executive; Producer; DJ; Songwriter; Head of Music IAMother

Kawan "KP The Great" Prather

From being a founding member of the early 1990’s Dungeon Family group Parental Advisory to working with ground-breaking LaFace Records acts like OutKast and Usher as A&R, Kawan “KP The Great” Prather’s executive clout raised when he signed T.I. A Grammy Award winner and current in-demand DJ, KP has held A&R gigs at various labels for the last 25 years, and is now Head of Music at Pharrell’s IAMother.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Ryan Press

Ryan Press

President, North America,
Warner Chappell Music

Ryan Press

Ryan Press has worked at Warner Chappell Music since 2009, and he currently operates as President, North America. The exec handles overall strategy for the business. He was previously President, A&R, U.S. During his time with the company, Press has helped artists and producers including Lil Wayne, Tay Keith, Meek Mill and more.

Photo Credit: Jonathan Weiner

Danielle Price

Danielle Price

Executive Vice President at Republic Records

Danielle Price

As Executive Vice President at Republic Records, Danielle Price is building upon an impressive 13-year music business career. She came to Republic from 10K Projects as SVP of Business & Legal Affairs, and before that led LaPolt Law, P.C. 's hip-hop arm, working with Nicki Minaj, Megan Thee Stallion and 21 Savage, helping to secure Savage’s release from ICE custody. Danielle began her career as an attorney for Warner Music Group.

Photo Credit: Korey Davis Photography

Pusha T

Pusha T

Artist; Founder of Heir Wave Music Group

Pusha T

Twenty years into his career and Pusha T still finds himself in rap album of the year conversations. The discussion is warranted considering he once cut rhymes as part of the Clipse with albums like 2002’s Lord Willin’, and hasn’t missed a step since. It’s Almost Dry is proof of that. As his artistry continues to shine bright, Pusha is also founder of Heir Wave Music Group, a label that focuses on “album artists”—artists who have a story to tell.

Photo Credit: Ahmed Klink for XXL

Dominick Prieto

Dominick Prieto

Global Tour Promoter at Live Nation

Dominick Prieto

In addition to managing Joe Kay, Soulection and Mild Orange, Dominick Prieto promotes and books concerts, tours and festivals as a Talent Buyer for AEG Presents/GoldenVoice. In his career, Prieto has helped book major events like Day N Vegas Festival and has bolstered rising acts as talent buyer for The Novo. He is now the Global Tour Promoter at Live Nation.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Isabel Quinteros Annous

Isabel Quinteros Annous

Global Lead of Music Partnerships at TikTok

Isabel Quinteros Annous

Los Angeles–based Isabel Quinteros Annous succeeded in her roles at the Chamber Group, PMK-BNC, Rubenstein and 5W prior to jumping on the TikTok train in 2019. She has since been promoted to lead music partnerships, amplify campaigns and head tentpole events for the platform credited with breaking some of hip-hop's most viral smashes.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

LA Reid

LA Reid

Cofounder and CEO of Hitco Entertainment; Producer; Songwriter

LA Reid

After drumming for R&B group The Deele, LA Reid cofounded LaFace Records, home to TLC and OutKast, with his former bandmate Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds in the late 1980s. The music mogul has since held executive roles at Arista Records, Island Def Jam and Epic Records before eventually launching Hitco Entertainment, which is currently led by acts like J.Lo, Saint Jhn and Rubi Rose.

Photo Credit: Dennis Leupold

Sylvia Rhone

Sylvia Rhone

Chairman and CEO of Epic Records

Sylvia Rhone

Before becoming Chairman and CEO at Epic in 2019, Sylvia Rhone held down senior positions at several major record labels, including Chairman and CEO of Warner Music Group’s Elektra Records in 1994. In her current role at Epic, she’s helped guide the careers of Travis Scott, 21 Savage, Future and DJ Khaled, among a slew others.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Steve Rifkind

Steve Rifkind

Founder of Loud Records; Founder of SRC Records; Cofounder of
Spring Sound

Steve Rifkind

Steve Rifkind founded Loud Records in 1991, and signed Wu-Tang Clan, Mobb Deep and more. He also served as Loud Records’ Chief Executive Officer. In 2012, Steve founded Street Records Corporation (SRC) and was the former Chairman of the Board at Loud Music Group in 2020. He’s also cofounder of Spring Sound, dedicated to developing burgeoning talent.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Gee Roberson

Gee Roberson

Co-CEO at The Blueprint Group; Partner at Maverick

Gee Roberson

Coming up as VP of A&R at Roc-A-Fella Records, Gee Roberson held posts of SVP at Atlantic Records and Chairman of Geffen Records before establishing The Blueprint Group artist management company in 2008. Roberson, a partner at Maverick and former manager of Drake and Kanye West, helped guide Lil Wayne and Lil Nas X to success.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Paul Rosenberg

Paul Rosenberg

Eminem’s Manager; President of Shady Records, Inc.; Founder and CEO of Goliath Artists, Inc. and
Goliath Records

Paul Rosenberg

Paul Rosenberg is a prominent music industry leader who became Eminem’s manager. He also cofounded Shady Records alongside Em, and is President. Since then, Rosenberg has also managed artists like Danny Brown and Action Bronson. In 2018, Paul became Def Jam Recordings’ CEO before stepping down in 2020. That same year, the music exec founded Goliath Artists, Inc.

Photo Credit: Jenny Risher

Peter Rosenberg

Peter Rosenberg

Radio Personality on Hot 97's Ebro in the Morning and Real Late With Peter Rosenberg

Peter Rosenberg

Getting his start as a DJ, Peter Rosenberg eventually became one of the most visible voices in New York as the cohost of Hot 97's Ebro in the Morning with Ebro Darden and Laura Stylez. He also has his own show on the station, Real Late With Peter Rosenberg. When he’s not on the air, he’s cohosting the Juan Ep Is Life podcast with Cipha Sounds, where he nerds out with hip-hop legends. He also talks pro wrestling on his Cheap Heat podcast and is seen on TV as a WWE analyst.

Photo Credit: Natalie Amrossi

James Rubin

James Rubin

Partner/Co-Head of
Hip-Hop/R&B at WME

James Rubin

Promotor-turned-talent agent James Rubin has spent nearly two decades pushing artists. The former VP of The Agency Group is currently a co-head and partner at WME, where he reps Tyler, The Creator, Joey Bada$$, Macklemore and more. He’s also listed Run The Jewels, PartyNextDoor, Action Bronson, Vic Mensa and G-Eazy as clients.

Photo Credit: WME

Run The Jewels

Run The Jewels

Artists; Entrepreneurs

Run The Jewels

Since 2013, Killer Mike and El-P’s inimitable skills have been flourishing as the hip-hop tag team Run The Jewels. Four albums replete with brilliant bars and fine-tuned beats prove their dedicated audience welcomes the discourse on societal ills and thrills. Plus, a Grammy nomination as a unit adds to their acclaim.

Photo Credit: Robin Little/Redferns

Rick Sackheim

Rick Sackheim

General Manager and Executive Vice President at Epic Records

Rick Sackheim

Last year, Rick Sackheim landed the title of General Manager and Executive Vice President at Epic, after working at Def Jam Recordings. Now he leads the way in the marketing, video production and publicity departments. His former 12-year stint at Sony Music includes the increased radio reach of Travis Scott and Future, making him more than equipped for his title upgrade.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Tresa Sanders

Tresa Sanders

Founder and CEO of TreMedia

Tresa Sanders

Tresa Sanders has a diverse entertainment publicity, marketing and branding portfolio stretching back to 1991. She currently heads up her own TreMedia, growing her artists’ brands through placements on TV and coveted media. Tresa also co-manages iconic acts D’Angelo and Uncle Luke, and has lent her golden touch as a publicist to the likes of Jay-Z, Future and more. She’s also worked with many labels including Interscope Geffen A&M and Warner.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Lenny

Lenny "Lenny S" Santiago

Senior Vice President at Roc Nation

Lenny "Lenny S" Santiago

Securing an SVP position at Jay-Z’s Roc Nation is what happens when Lenny “Lenny S” Santiago’s hard work paid off. Lenny left Bad Boy Records at its peak in the 1990s, and linked with a bubbling upstart called Roc-A-Fella Records. He has since contributed to the success of many of Roc-A-Fella and Roc Nation’s biggest stars while also managing Fabolous and DJ Khaled.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

John Vincent Salcedo

John Vincent Salcedo

Vice President of Digital Marketing at Columbia Records

John Vincent Salcedo

John Vincent Salcedo is an anomaly as he's the youngest Vice President at Columbia Records, but his age is no factor in the moves he's making. He sat in the driver's seat as it pertained to strategy for Tyler, The Creator's No. 1 album, Call Me If You Get Lost, in addition to Lil Nas X's "Montero (Call Me By Your Name)" and "Industry Baby" featuring Jack Harlow.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Columbia Records

Reggie Saunders

Reggie Saunders

Vice President of Entertainment Marketing at Jordan Brand

Reggie Saunders

Reggie Saunders has over 20 years of expertise in PR and marketing within the sports and entertainment industries. He started his career with the Baltimore Orioles then pivoted to the NFL League office as Assistant Director of Youth Events. Positions with the NBA and Midway Games, as well as work with clients Sony PlayStation and GM followed. Reggie now serves as Vice President of Entertainment Marketing at Jordan Brand, where he has formulated collaborations withTravis Scott, DJ Khaled and more.

Photo Credit: Reggie Saunders

Roderick Scott

Roderick Scott

Vice President of Marketing and Strategy at Republic Records

Roderick Scott

Roderick Scott's marketing and strategy tactics for PartyNextDoor, Jason Derulo, Bebe Rexha and Andra Day at Warner Bros. Records only led to his career ascendance. As a former Atlantic Records marketing director, he honed in on his craft, which ultimately led to a role as Director of Marketing Strategy at Republic Records and a promotion to VP of Marketing Strategy a couple years later.

Photo Credit: Meredith Truax

Mona Scott-Young

Mona Scott-Young

Missy Elliott’s Manager; Executive Producer and CEO Monami Entertainment; CEO of
Monami Productions

Mona Scott-Young

If you’re a fan of VH1’s prized gem Love & Hip Hop, executive producer Mona Scott-Young is one of the people to thank for its more than 10-year run. She’s also had over 20 years in the music business, with many of those as a manager for Violator Management and her own management company, Monami Entertainment, through which she still works with Missy Elliott.

Photo Credit: Jaxson Photography

Sam Selolwane

Sam Selolwane

Head of Promotion (Hip-Hop, R&B, Mixshow) at RCA Records

Sam Selolwane

Sam Selolwane is a passionate exec with more than 20 years of music industry experience that jumps from on-air to promotion. She has been integral to the radio dominance of Chris Brown, H.E.R., SZA, Usher, Miguel, A$AP Rocky, Doja Cat and many others. Her expertise is currently showcased in her position as Head of Promotion (Hip-Hop, R&B, Mixshow) at RCA Records.

Photo Credit: Annette Navarro

Ghazi Shami

Ghazi Shami

CEO and Founder of EMPIRE

Ghazi Shami

Before founding EMPIRE in 2010, Ghazi Shami worked at a company building large-format servers. Since launching the San Francisco-based digital distribution venture, he’s operated as CEO, overseen releases from artists like the late XXXTentacion, Migos, Rich Homie Quan, Kendrick Lamar, Young Dolph, Key Glock, Yung Bleu, Fat Joe, Remy Ma, Tyga and more, and even built custom software for internal use.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Aaron “Dash” Sherrod

Aaron “Dash” Sherrod

President of Urban A&R at Geffen Records

Aaron “Dash” Sherrod

A longtime creative executive, Aaron "Dash" Sherrod oversees the signing and artist development for talent on Geffen's urban roster. Dash spent time at RCA Records as well, where he served as Senior Vice President of A&R and was responsible for signing 2021 XXL Freshman Nardo Wick. During the earlier years of his Interscope Geffen A&M tenure, Dash signed Playboi Carti, Juice WRLD and Pierre Bourne. Dash has also assisted in Lil Bibby, G Herbo and A$AP Rocky's career success.

Photo Credit: ThirdEyeRaz

Kevin Shivers

Kevin Shivers

Partner at
William Morris Endeavor

Kevin Shivers

Kevin Shivers has been one of WME’s most productive partners. Since joining the talent agency in 2008, Shivers has manned a roster of hip-hop heavy hitters including Nicki Minaj, Tyler, The Creator, Kid Cudi, Brockhampton and others. Shivers was also instrumental in helping Tyler grow the annual Camp Flog Gnaw Festival.

Photo Credit: WME

Sterling Simms

Sterling Simms

Vice President of A&R at Columbia Records

Sterling Simms

An alumnus of Hitco Music and Songs Music Publishing, Sterling Simms plays a crucial role in A&R at Columbia Records. He's a multifaceted talent himself—Sterling was a Def Jam signee at one point—which he applies to his VP of A&R position. Simms also has experience as a publisher and is a Grammy-nominated songwriter, which further connects him with artists.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Columbia Records

Wassim

Wassim "Sal" Slaiby

Founder and CEO of Universal Arabic Music; Cofounder and CEO of XO Records; Founder
and CEO of SALXCO

Wassim "Sal" Slaiby

Wassim “Sal” Slaiby was inspired to enter the music industry by Belly, who Slaiby managed early on. As founder of SALXCO management company, Sal has led The Weeknd to superstardom. Sal also cofounded the singer’s XO Records. Doja Cat, Ty Dolla $ign and Metro Boomin are also thriving under Slaiby’s umbrella.

Photo Credit: Kathryn Frazier

Brent Smith

Brent Smith

Executive Vice President & Managing Executive at Wasserman Music Los Angeles

Brent Smith

Brent Smith, EVP & Managing Executive at the Los Angeles sector of Wasserman Music, is responsible for the touring success of some of the biggest names in hip-hop, including Drake's It's All a Blur Tour and Kendrick Lamar's The Big Steppers Tour. He joined the Wasserman team in 2021, and has been a force with his heavy-hitting roster, which also includes Childish Gambino, Frank Ocean, Pharrell, Aminé, Ice Cube, Baby Keem and more.

Photo Credit: Haldane Morris

Marsha St. Hubert

Marsha St. Hubert

Senior Vice President of Urban Marketing at Atlantic Records

Marsha St. Hubert

Over the past 20 years, Marsha St. Hubert has worked her way up from an intern to the A&R operations manager at Atlantic. She currently spearheads marketing at the label as Senior Vice President of Urban Marketing. Marsha focuses on campaigns for favorites like Gucci Mane, Cardi B, Kodak Black, Lil Uzi Vert and Wiz Khalifa, among others.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Ron Stewart

Ron Stewart

Senior Vice President, Promotion at Warner Records

Ron Stewart

Originally a hardworking Jive Record intern, the New York–based Ron Stewart jumped from Atlantic to Warner in 2019 after fueling the careers of Cardi B, Meek Mill, Kodak Black, Wale, and Nipsey Hussle. Now boasting more than 30 No. 1 singles, Stewart’s current hit-making roster boasts Saweetie, NLE Choppa, DVSN, Freddie Gibbs and Baby Tate.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Styles P

Styles P

Artist; Entrepreneur

Styles P

For over two decades, Styles P has been making an impact in rap as part of the Lox with Jadakiss and Sheek Louch and as a solo artist. On an individual level, he unleashed his debut solo project, A Gangster and a Gentleman, in 2002. On the entrepreneurial front, Styles and Jadakiss launched Juices for Life juice bar in 2011, and opened Farmacy for Life, a local health food store, with his wife, in 2018.

Photo Credit: Shareif Ziyadat

Laura Stylez

Laura Stylez

Radio Personality on
Hot 97’s
Ebro in the Morning; Talent Director for ENVSN Fest

Laura Stylez

Breaking into hip-hop radio by answering phones at Power 105.1, Laura Stylez eventually landed a dream gig at rival station Hot 97 as an Online Digital Producer in 2013. She’s now the first lady of Hot 97’s Ebro in the Morning show alongside hosts Ebro Darden and Peter Rosenberg, and a respected voice on NYC radio. She's also talent director for ENVSN Fest.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Laura Swanson

Laura Swanson

Executive Vice President, Media & Strategic Development/Head of Publicity at Warner Records

Laura Swanson

Laura Swanson's spent years working closely with artists such as Travis Scott, Future, DJ Khaled, Meghan Trainor, Fifth Harmony and Camila Cabello. While at Island Def Jam for a decade, Laura served as EVP, Publicity & Artist Relations, where she developed campaigns for Rihanna, Justin Bieber, Mariah Carey and many others. She currently holds the role of Executive Vice President, Media & Strategic Development at Warner Records.

Photo Credit: Warner Records

Nelson

Nelson "MoneyNels" Taboada

Vice President of Marketing Promotions & Lifestyle of The Orchard

Nelson "MoneyNels" Taboada

Getting his start in the early 2000s, Nelson "MoneyNels" Taboada has moved through radio positions at Loud Records/Sony Music, Shady/Interscope Records—including a seven-year stint as National Director for G-Unit Records—and Sirius XM Radio, and worked with artists like Bad Bunny, Joey Bada$$ and Ozuna. Now, he is part of the Mixshow Radio Promotions team at The Orchard.

Photo Credit: Dylan Conlin

Nigel Talley

Nigel Talley

Manager for EST Gee, Founder of Warlike Records

Nigel Talley

Nigel Talley has been EST Gee's right-hand man for much of the rapper's career, using crafty management skills to take Gee's uncompromising rhymes to Billboard success. The artist manager has helped ensure Gee doesn't sacrifice the authenticity that earned the rhymer such fan loyalty. Talley is also the founder of Warlike Records, where Gee is signed in partnership with Yo Gotti's CMG Records.

Photo Credit: Nigel Talley

Arnold Taylor

Arnold Taylor

Founder of
South Coast Music Group

Arnold Taylor

The engine behind the label that made DaBaby a global star, South Coast Music Group founder Arnold Taylor has made the most of his experience at Def Jam Recordings, Interscope Records, Epic Records and Blackground Records over the last 20 years. Arnold hit a home run by signing DaBaby. Now, Toosii and Blacc Zacc are following suit.

Photo Credit: Marselle Washington

Tech N9ne

Tech N9ne

Artist; Entrepreneur

Tech N9ne

From an independent artist to a globally recognized name, Tech N9ne has elevated his entrepreneurial spirit by cofounding his Strange Music label, touring consistently for decades and bringing in unrivaled merch sales. He's released over 15 albums, earned three gold records and collaborated with Lil Wayne, Eminem and many more. The Kansas City, Missouri rapper continues to serve his dedicated fan base, known as Technicians.

Photo Credit: Darryl Woods

Gabe Tesoriero

Gabe Tesoriero

Executive Vice President of Media and Artist Relations at
Def Jam Recordings

Gabe Tesoriero

Gabe Tesoriero is known for being Kanye West’s publicist, a position he’s held throughout the rapper’s career. Since handling publicity for Roc-A-Fella Records via Def Jam in the early 2000s, Gabe has risen up the ranks at Def Jam, serving as Senior VP of Media and Artist Relations and is currently Executive VP of Media and Artist Relations.

Photo Credit: Andrew Zaeh

Bu Thiam

Bu Thiam

EVP, A&R at Columbia Records;
CEO of Bu Vision

Bu Thiam

Bu Thiam got his first taste of being an A&R in the early 2000s, by working with his brother Akon for Konvict Muzik. Bu went on to discover R&B legends Jeremih and T-Pain, became Def Jam Recordings’ youngest Vice President of A&R and helped usher Kanye and Jay-Z’s Watch The Throne into the light, among many other wins. He was once Ye’s manager. Now he's EVP, A&R at Columbia Records.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Rob “Reef” Tewlow

Rob “Reef” Tewlow

Content Producer at Apple Music

Rob “Reef” Tewlow

Rob "Reef" Tewlow kicked off his career as a journalist documenting hip-hop. He later transitioned to the record label side as an A&R and marketing role at Big Beat/Atlantic Records, where he signed and worked with artists like Fat Joe, Junior M.A.F.I.A and more. Following a 10-year tenure as Program Director for Eminem's Shade 45 on SiriusXM, Reef joined Apple Music where he produces content for the company's radio properties.

Photo Credit: Paul Rosenberg

Pierre

Pierre "P" Thomas

CEO and Cofounder of
Quality Control Music

Pierre "P" Thomas

The self-described “first successful person in my family,” P has devoted himself as the CEO and Cofounder of the Quality Control Music empire alongside Dr. Kevin “Coach K” Lee since 2013. P oversees a talented roster of rappers that have become brands of their own: Migos, Lil Yachty, Lil Baby, City Girls and Lakeyah.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Anthony

Anthony "Top Dawg" Tiffith

Founder and CEO of Top Dawg Entertainment

Anthony "Top Dawg" Tiffith

Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith’s acclaimed Top Dawg record label went on an undefeated run in rap in the 2010s, thanks to Kendrick Lamar, ScHoolboy Q, Ab-Soul, Jay Rock and Isaiah Rashad. Now in a new era, Top has secured acts like Reason and Zacari to maintain his imprint of higher power.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Moosa Tiffith

Moosa Tiffith

Co-President of TDE

Moosa Tiffith

Moosa, son of Anthony "Top Dawg" Tiffith, is Co-President of Top Dawg Entertainment alongside Terrence "Punch" Henderson. Moosa oversees the growth and success of an independent label-turned-household name that Kendrick Lamar, SZA, ScHoolBoy Q, Ab-Soul, Jay Rock, Isaiah Rashad, Doechii and more call home.

Photo Credit: Vinny Nolan

TT Torrez

TT Torrez

Vice President of Artist and Label Relations, Music Director and Radio Personality at Hot 97

TT Torrez

A savvy radio industry veteran, TT Torrez has donned many hats during her 20-year career working the airwaves, including on-air host and music director at Hot 97. She’s now breaking barriers as the first woman of color to hold the position of Vice President of Artist and Label Relations at the storied radio station.

Photo Credit: TT Torrez

Colby “Colb” Tyner

Colby “Colb” Tyner

Senior Vice President of Programming at Radio One and Reach Media

Colby “Colb” Tyner

In his 20-plus years at the Black-owned Radio One group, Colby "Colb" Tyner has swelled ratings, launched nationally syndicated programs such as The Morning Hustle and Get Up Mornings With Erica Campbell. He's also executive-produced podcast series for Reach Media. Tyner cut his teeth at WUSL Philadelphia and Power 105 in New York.

Photo Credit: Colby Tyner

Jeff Vaughn

Jeff Vaughn

Founder and CEO at
Signal Records

Jeff Vaughn

As former Vice President of A&R at Artist Partners/Atlantic Records for nearly a decade, Jeff Vaughn signed acts like YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Kevin Gates, NLE Choppa, NoCap and Don Toliver. From 2020 to December of 2021, he was Chairman and CEO of Capitol, working with Toosii, Queen Naija, Kay Flock and more. In 2022, he founded Signal Records, where he's developing the next generation of hip-hop stars like 2sdxr3tall, Sha Gz, Certified Trapper and more.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Melissa Victor-Burkhardt

Melissa Victor-Burkhardt

Senior Vice President, Head of Publicity at
Epic Records

Melissa Victor-Burkhardt

Melissa Victor-Burkhardt went from Bad Boy Records intern in the early 2000s to assistant in Interscope Records’ publicity department. Stops at Arista Records, J Records and Virgin Records followed along with PR work for A-list artists. Melissa parlayed a gig as VP of Media and Artist Relations at Def Jam Recordings into running PR as Senior Vice President at Epic.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Steven Victor

Steven Victor

CEO of Victor Victor Worldwide

Steven Victor

On top of managing stars like Pusha-T and The- Dream among others, Steven Victor has racked up extensive experience as COO of G.O.O.D. Music, SVP of A&R at Universal Music Group, plus EVP and Head of A&R at Def Jam Recordings. His own label, Victor Victor Worldwide, was home to the late Pop Smoke.

Photo Credit: Colin Young Wolff

Ebonie Ward

Ebonie Ward

Partner at Emagen

Ebonie Ward

Ebonie Ward began her career by promoting concerts while enrolled at Albany State University. From there, she eventually became Future’s assistant. Now she operates as a partner for management company Emagen and works on the careers of Gunna, Flo Milli, Turbo and Playmaker Production Collective.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Wendy Washington

Wendy Washington

Founder and CEO
of TID Agency

Wendy Washington

A veteran publicity maven, Wendy Washington’s credentials include SVP of Public Relations for Universal and Motown Records, EVP of Publicity at Jive Records and heading marketing at Sony Music’s RED Associated labels. She’s worked with artists including OutKast, Chris Brown and Nelly, all of Cash Money Records and more. Since 2016, Wendy has run her own marketing firm, TID Agency.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Orlando Wharton

Orlando Wharton

Executive Vice President at Capitol Music Group

Orlando Wharton

An industry veteran for 10 years, Orlando Wharton worked for Lyor Cohen and Kevin Liles at 300 Entertainment, a stint that saw him sign Fetty Wap to the label. Orlando joined Atlantic’s team as Senior Vice President of A&R. While at Atlantic, he signed Kodak Black, PnB Rock and A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie. Now he's Capitol Music Group Executive Vice President upon leaving Atlantic in 2022.

Photo Credit: Angie

Aishah White

Aishah White

Senior Vice President, Media & Strategic Development at Warner Records; Founder of AKW PR

Aishah White

Prior to leveling up with a senior role at Warner Records, where she strategizes for the likes of Saweetie, Aishah White founded AKW PR, where she spearheaded media rollouts for breakout stars Ty Dolla $ign, Lil Pump and XXXTentacion. White has repped artists from across the hip-hop landscape, working with Atlantic, Columbia, Def Jam and Roc Nation, among other labels, over her decade-plus in the game.

Photo Credit: Georgette Bowen

Ariana White

Ariana White

Vice President of Media Relations & Strategy at Atlantic Records

Ariana White

Ariana White's career in the music industry began at Atlantic Records, where her tenacity has allowed her to work her way up from an assistant to senior director of publicity. She has been instrumental in the career success of artists such as YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Rico Nasty and Pink Sweat$. Additionally, she was also named one of PRWeek's 40 under 40 in 2022.

Photo Credit: Jimmy Fontaine

Victoria White-Mason

Victoria White-Mason

Vice President of Marketing at Columbia Records

Victoria White-Mason

At Columbia Records, Victoria White-Mason has a list of heavy-hitters under her belt such as Beyoncé and Pharrell, where she oversees career-changing, impactful campaigns. She previously led marketing operations for Joey Bada$$, Baby Keem, Lil Tjay and John Legend as the Senior Director of Marketing. Before joining Columbia Records, Victoria held roles at United Masters, RIAA and Sony Music’s Global Digital Business.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Columbia Records

Lisa Wiggins

Lisa Wiggins

Vice President of Artist Relations and Touring at Columbia Records

Lisa Wiggins

A Columbia Records mainstay, Lisa Wiggins has spent over 20 years at the label overseeing touring and events for major artists, such as Solange’s When I Get Home and J. Cole’s 2014 Forest Hills Drive, his final album with the label. Previously Director, then Senior Director at Columbia, Wiggins is currently the label’s Vice President of Artist Relations and Touring and reps Fivio Foreign, Lil TJay, Polo G, and Chloë and Halle Bailey.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Jason Wiley

Jason Wiley

CMO of T.I.D. Agency

Jason Wiley

Before his time at full-service marketing firm TID Agency, Jason Wiley has cultivated a multi-industry career over the past 20 years, including marketing executive posts at Bad Boy Entertainment—where he got his start in 2003—Jive Records, the Philadelphia 76ers and a partner role at Bridge Agency. At TID (This Is Dope), he serves as Partner and Chief Strategist.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Carolyn Williams

Carolyn Williams

Executive Vice President
at RCA Records

Carolyn Williams

Carolyn Williams’ commerce finesse, formerly applied in RCA’s urban marketing division and at J Records, has been used to grow the careers of artists like A$AP Rocky, Childish Gambino and Brockhampton. Her additional emphasis on brand management has shaped her formula. Carolyn presently holds it down as Executive Vice President at RCA.

Photo Credit: Daniel Green

Garrett Williams

Garrett Williams

Head of Operations and Marketing at South Coast Music Group

Garrett Williams

Garrett Williams is one of the driving forces for South Coast Music Group's success. He worked his way up from an assistant at Interscope Records to Director of Urban Promotions, campaigning for acts like 50 Cent, Kendrick Lamar, The Game, Schoolboy Q and more. He later elevated to Vice President of Urban Marketing. In 2020, Garrett joined SCMG as Head of Operations and Marketing, to help continue building the label's legacy with stars like DaBaby and Toosii, among others.

Photo Credit: Marselle Washington

Ronald

Ronald "Slim" Williams

Cofounder and Owner of
Cash Money Records

Ronald "Slim" Williams

The quieter owner of Cash Money Records and older brother of Birdman, Ronald “Slim” Williams has been leading the empire after its launch in the early 1990s. Slim helped create the Hot Boys empire that branched out to sprout solo careers of Lil Wayne and Juvenile, plus Drake, Nicki Minaj and many more.

Photo Credit: Andrew Toth

Bill Wilson

Bill Wilson

CEO of Townsquare Media and
XXL Publisher

Bill Wilson

Bill Wilson got his start at Arista Records in the 1990s, working with artists like The Notorious B.I.G. During his SVP of Marketing tenure at BMG, he also locked in with OutKast and more. The Emmy Award-winning executive, who was once President at AOL Media, is now CEO of Townsquare Media (XXL’s parent company) and XXL Publisher, directing strategies for media brands and radio stations.

Photo Credit: Akira Ruiz

Lauren Wirtzer-Seawood

Lauren Wirtzer-Seawood

Chief Content and Marketing Officer at SoundCloud

Lauren Wirtzer-Seawood

Transferring her experience as Instagram’s Head of Music Partnerships and Head of Digital at Beyoncé’s Parkwood Entertainment, Lauren Wirtzer-Seawood joined SoundCloud in 2021. She now guides the streaming service’s artist development, industry relations and brand marketing strategies as Chief Content and Marketing Officer. The goal: Allow acts to remain independent while fueling long-term careers.

Photo Credit: Aviva Klein

Doc Wynter

Doc Wynter

President of Hip-Hop and R&B Programming Strategy at iHeartMedia; Program Director at
Real 92.3

Doc Wynter

With over 30 years in the game, programming vet Doc Wynter has been improving iHeartMedia radio by scouting worldwide on-air talents like Big Boy, Steve Harvey, Keith Sweat and more. The President of Hip-Hop and R&B Programming Strategy’s seasoned run also includes the undeniable rise of The Breakfast Club, hosted by Angela Yee, Charlamagne and DJ Envy.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Nicole Wyskoarko

Nicole Wyskoarko

Executive Vice President/Co-Head of A&R at Interscope Geffen A&M

Nicole Wyskoarko

In 2020, industry veteran Nicole Wyskoarko took on the role of Executive Vice President/Co-Head of A&R at Interscope Geffen A&M, overseeing an A&R department that handles artists like the late Juice Wrld, Moneybagg Yo, Playboi Carti and more. She previously worked in UMG’s business and legal affairs department for over 15 years.

Photo Credit: Maya Ayanna Darasaw

Angela Yee

Angela Yee

Radio Personality; Entrepreneur

Angela Yee

Angela Yee has flourished as one of hip-hop’s leading voices in radio after cutting her teeth on satellite radio at Eminem’s Shade 45. As a former cohost of The Breakfast Club on Power 105.1, she has enjoyed award-winning success including an induction into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2020. As an avid entrepreneur, her next endeavor is a new show, Way Up With Angela Yee.

Photo Credit: Derek White/Getty Images for REVOLT

Caroline Yim

Caroline Yim

Partner/Co-Head
Hip-Hop/R&B at WME

Caroline Yim

After starting her career at MCA Records, Caroline Yim has turned into a premier music agent, steering a star-studded roster that includes Kendrick Lamar, Future, Anderson .Paak, Gunna, Rae Sremmurd and more at talent agency powerhouses ICM Partners and CAA. In 2021, she was appointed to Partner/Co-Head of Hip-Hop/R&B at WME.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward

Yo Gotti

Yo Gotti

Artist; Entrepreneur

Yo Gotti

Memphis rap veteran Yo Gotti has had the streets on lock since 1996, with his debut album, Youngsta’s on a Come Up. Now, he’s more than 10 albums deep. Gotti has worked his way from just talent to music executive over the last 25 years, recently securing a partnership between his CMG empire and Interscope Records for his artists including Moneybagg Yo, 42 Dugg, EST Gee, Blocboy JB and Big Boogie.

Photo Credit: Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for MTV/ViacomCBS

Meko Yohannes

Meko Yohannes

Cofounder of 10 Summers Records; Manager for Mustard and Ella Mai

Meko Yohannes

Meko Yohannes is a cofounder of recording, publishing and management company 10 Summers, home to Mustard and Ella Mai, both of which Meko manages.

Photo Credit: Brandon Xay

Yashar Zadeh

Yashar Zadeh

Vice President, Media & Strategic Development at Warner Records

Yashar Zadeh

Making the leap from boutique publicity operation Biz 3 to Warner Records in 2019, L.A.-based Yashar Zadeh understands recording artists because he once was one. Dropping early 2000's indie gems as artist Yak Ballz on Eastern Conference/Rawkus and Definitive Jux, Zadeh left that life to go behind the scenes to spearhead promo campaigns for Quality Control Music, Migos, G-Eazy, Adult Swim Network, Lil Baby, Quavo and City Girls.

Photo Credit: Travis Shinn

Matt Zingler

Matt Zingler

Cofounder/Co-CEO of Rolling Loud

Matt Zingler

Matt Zingler began hosting concerts with childhood friend Tariq Cherif at Tariq’s grandmother’s house while the two were in high school, and they formed a partnership that has made them unstoppable in the music industry ever since. In 2015, they cofounded Rolling Loud, one of the biggest hip-hop-only music festivals in the world.

Photo Credit: Smith Durogene

Chaka Zulu

Chaka Zulu

Co-CEO of Disturbing Tha Peace Records;
Co-CEO of Ebony Sun Entertainment

Chaka Zulu

Experienced manager Chaka Zulu helped cofound Disturbing Tha Peace Records in 1995. He’s a jack of all trades with over 30 years in hip-hop having worked with Ludacris, Jeezy, Swizz Beatz, Big K.R.I.T. and more. Chaka’s resume recently included being Head of Artist and Talent Relations at Spotify for two years. He’s also Co-CEO of Ebony Sun Entertainment.

Photo Credit: Leland Hayward