Hancock Named Pres. Of Sire Records
Sire Records announced is “being reborn” during its 50th anniversary year. To that end, and effective August 1, widely respected A&R exec Rani Hancock (left) will become President of Sire, based in New York. The legendary Seymour Stein (below, left), who co-founded Sire Records with Richard Gottehrer in 1967, will continue to bring his wealth of experience and wisdom to the label as its Chairman.
Max Lousada, who becomes CEO, Recorded Music, WMG on October 1, said, “Seymour built the label into a home for many of the world’s most influential artists, and I believe Rani will help us reignite Sire as a beacon for the bravest and biggest stars. She’s a first-class addition to our leadership, not only in the U.S., but on the global stage.” Cameron Strang, Chairman & CEO of Warner Bros. Records, remarked, “Seymour and Sire have played a central role in the story of Warner Bros. Records and helped set a new standard in the art of artist development. Rani is the perfect leader to grow Sire’s amazing legacy and chart a new course for this iconic label.”
Hancock began her career at Arista Records under Clive Davis and left after five years to start her own management company. In 2000, Hancock became one of the founding employees of J Records, and following the mergers of J Records with RCA and Arista, and then with Jive Records, Hancock rose to EVP of A&R at the RCA Music Group. In 2015, Hancock was named EVP, Head of A&R for Island Records. Hancock said, “I’ve always been inspired by Sire’s roster of artists and the label’s fearless, independent spirit. I hope to continue that tradition of finding and supporting culture-changing artists who make hugely popular music that withstands the test of time. I’m very thankful to be setting out on that mission with amazing support from Max, Cameron and Seymour. It’s such an exciting time to be joining WMG, especially with Max’s vision for evolving the concept of a modern, artist-centric music company.”
Stein said, “This year has been marked by special anniversaries for me and for Sire Records. We are celebrating Sire’s 50th anniversary, our 40th with Warner Music, and my 60th year in the music business. It has been my dream to be joined by someone I can work together with to help strengthen and expand the label. Given Rani’s exceptional track record and tremendous enthusiasm, I am convinced she is the person to build both the Sire roster and brand, and help take the company into the future.”
