UMG Nashville Names Blythe EVP of A&R
• Universal Music Group Nashville has named Chelsea Blythe as its Executive Vice President of A&R. Blythe makes the move from Def Jam, where she most recently served as Sr. Vice President of A&R, leading A&R efforts on Armani White, 26AR, and Anella Herim, among others.
“I’m so excited to bring Chelsea to UMG Nashville as EVP A&R,” says UMGN Chair & CEO Cindy Mabe. “Her bold leadership, dynamic spirit, and passion for the music and artists will align perfectly with the culture we are building. Her love for Country music brought her to Nashville, and her dynamic presence and impeccable instincts will help lead our artist development strategy and innovate the future of Country music.”
Blythe began her career as an A&R intern at Interscope Records, later becoming the department coordinator where she worked on award-winning artists including Kendrick Lamar, ScHoolboy Q, Rae Sremmurd, and Mike WiLL Made-It. In 2016 Blythe moved to Columbia Records where she was elevated to VP of A&R, signing Symba as her first artist, played a role in signing Baby Keem to the label, and developed multi-platinum-selling artists Polo G and The Kid LAROI. Two years ago Blythe joined Def Jam, which marked a reunion with celebrated A&R executive Tunji Balogun, who originally found Blythe for that pivotal first internship.
“I’m very excited to begin this chapter of my career with UMGN,” said Blythe. “I have immense respect and passion for Country music, and I am honored that Cindy has recognized my enthusiasm with this opportunity. I am inspired by her unwavering leadership and look forward to implementing my experience in this role while building with the country community.” [Photo credit: Cécile Boko]
