Nicki Farag Named EVP/GM Of Def Jam
• Def Jam Recordings announced that Nicki Farag has been promoted to Executive Vice President and General Manager. Ms. Farag, an 18-year Def Jam veteran, most recently served as Executive Vice President of Promotion, the first female executive to hold that title in the label’s history. During her tenure Farag has been instrumental in breaking dozens of artists and records nationally, including Justin Bieber, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Big Sean, YG, Alessia Cara and Logic.
In her newly enhanced position, she will oversee the label’s day-to-day operations, working with artists, managers and staff to develop strategies and execute plans on behalf of the label’s diverse roster of global superstars and emerging talent.
Farag will remain based in Santa Monica report to Def Jam interim Chairman & CEO Jeffrey Harleston, who commented, “Nicki is a seasoned, consummate professional and true leader. She has the unique ability to understand and inspire confidence in artists, the passion and tenacity to champion their artistry, and the tireless energy to rally her staff to compete and achieve greatness. I’m excited to welcome her into this important new role, with every expectation that both she and the company will soar.”
Farag remarked, “Def Jam is a label with a distinct culture and DNA that has defined music for over 35 years. In my nearly two decades at Def Jam, I’ve never seen so much momentum and energy from our staff or with our artists. With Jeff’s leadership, we have all the pieces in place to take Def Jam to even greater level of success.”
Farag is multi-year Billboard “Women In Music” honoree, and a 2020 Variety Hitmakers honoree. She is also co-chair of Def Jam Forward, the label’s task force dedicated to social justice reform.
