Habtemariam Upped To Motown Chair & CEO
• Universal Music Group (UMG) has elevated Ethiopia Habtemariam to Chair & CEO of Motown Records. In connection with Habtemariam’s promotion, Motown will have greater creative and commercial independence to advance its groundbreaking mission of artistic, social and entrepreneurial empowerment — giving voice to the sound of youth culture for more than six decades.
Habtemariam has served as President of Motown since April 2014 and oversaw the label’s relocation from New York to Los Angeles. Under her leadership, Motown continues its traditions of artist development and partnerships with creative and entrepreneurial entities, including Atlanta-based Quality Control Music. The QC-Motown partnership has produced hits from City Girls, Migos, Lil Baby, Lil Yachty and others. Other prominent companies and artists under Motown’s roof include Blacksmith Records (Ted When, Vince Staples), and Since the 80s (Asiahn, Njomza), along with artists Erykah Badu, Kem and current Grammy nominee Tiana Major9, among many others.
Habtemariam reports directly to UMG Chairman & CEO Sir Lucian Grainge, who remarked, “Motown is such an important voice and, just as when it was founded by Berry Gordy, its impact continues to be felt around the world. Motown’s resurgence and powerful partnerships under Ethiopia’s leadership has advanced the label’s legacy as home to some of today’s biggest hitmakers and most meaningful voices in music.”
Habtemariam said, “It’s an incredible honor to represent and define what Motown is today. I’ve always understood the power of music and the responsibility I have, not only to continue to be an advocate for artists and creators, but to forge new paths for entrepreneurs and to lift up our next generation of executives around the world. I’d like to thank Lucian for his constant support and guidance over the years; my Motown team for all they have done and continue to do; the Capitol team for their help in building Motown over these past six years; Clarence Avant, who has always taught me about the power of responsibility; and to Mr. Berry Gordy, for his faith in me to carry on his legacy.”
In 2014, Grainge appointed Habtemariam as President of Motown Records and Executive Vice President of Capitol Music Group. Prior to joining Motown, Ms. Habtemariam was President of Urban Music & co-Head of Creative at Universal Music Publishing Group. [Photo credit: Bonnie Nichoalds]
