Kardinal Offishally UMC SVP/A&R
• Universal Music Canada (UMC) announced that multi-platinum, award-winning artist and producer Kardinal Offishall has been named Senior Vice President, A&R. Among his latest projects: inking a joint-venture deal with British mega-producer Harmony Samuels (Ariana Grande, Jennifer Lopez, Mary J. Blige, Usher, Maroon 5, Ella Mai) and a yet to-be-announced label imprint launching later this spring.
“Kardi is a force,” said Jeffrey Remedios, Chairman & CEO, Universal Music Canada. “He’s a ground-breaking, internationally respected artist, a smart and insightful label exec, a compassionate and bold thought leader, and a tireless philanthropist. He’s always been at the forefront of Canada’s music scene and UMC’s artists and team have long benefitted from his thoughtful collaboration, unmatched energy, and drive. This promotion underscores our big aspirations — Canada is bursting with talent and we’re committed to building the best team we can to put that talent front and centre on a global stage. I’m honoured to continue to lead alongside Kardi.”
Offishall remarked, “Whether it was intentional or the by-product of hard work and excellence, I was able to stand on the shoulders of giants who came before me. I’ve seen the world several times over and am able to dream with my eyes wide open, because the bar kept being raised by those brave enough to lift it to unseen heights. This new Senior Vice President, A&R, position at Universal Music Canada is about me continuing to prepare my shoulders, so that many others can stand taller than I did and have the opportunity to showcase their gifts on a global stage. Where I’m from, the phrase ‘dare to dream’ is a real warning, because without endurance and an uncanny ability to navigate through many storms — you can end up eternally picking up the pieces of broken promises and regret. I’m proud to be taking steps forward with Jeffrey Remedios, who as CEO, has placed great responsibility in my hands. Today, I walk so that the next generation can run. Forward movements forever, until we all fly.”
Reporting to Remedios, Offishall will continue to discover, sign, and develop artists and forge new creative partnerships, while working closely with the company’s newly created Urban Marketing team, led by Craig “Big C” Mannix, while continuing his roles as chair of UMC’s B.L.A.C.K. Label Coalition (BLC) and as Canada’s representative on UMG’s Task Force for Meaningful Change. [Photo credit: Paul Jones Media]
