Glazier, Ballantyne Upped At RIAA

• Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) President Mitch Glazier has formally assumed the new role of Chairman and CEO of the recording industry trade group. Representing “new leadership for a new era” of the music industry, the previously announced succession also includes the promotion of Michele Ballantyne to Chief Operating Officer, effective immediately.

“Music matters. It shapes our culture. It inspires generations young and young at heart. It makes us who we are and binds diverse communities together,” said Glazier (left), who recently helped build the unprecedented coalition that mobilized to enact the Music Modernization Act (MMA). “I am honored to lead the RIAA during these exciting times as we fight for a music ecosystem that works for everybody — from artists and fans to labels and publishers and songwriters and music services alike. That will require that we both embrace digital music innovations, and protect what has always made music great — keeping the dream alive for the next generation of artists and music creators.”

Commenting on Ballantyne’s enhanced position, Glazier added, “Michele has been a champion for music — a steady hand known for her knowledge of government, her sound judgment, unmatched policy chops, and unflappable determination to develop winning public policy campaigns. Simply put, there is no one better suited to help lead the RIAA and no one I would rather have at my side than Michele. Together, we look forward to working with RIAA’s member companies, the music community, our creative industry allies, and fans everywhere.”

Ballantyne (right) remarked, “I’m excited to be part of this new leadership team at such an incredibly dynamic and important time. By staying true to music and its creators even as we embrace change, we can help the men and women of the music industry achieve great things. I look forward to advocating on behalf of our great community.”