The future really is female! Women are dominating the music industry and we are so here for it! For decades women have been movers and shakers of the industry and as of lately we have been busting down the doors and shattering the glass ceilings. The most recent news is the promotion of the iconic music executive, Sylvia Rhone to Chairman and CEO of Epic Records by Sony Music Entertainment.
With her new role, she will oversee all creative direction and management of Epic Records along with overseeing a roster of chart-topping artists including familiar stars Camila Cabello, Travis Scott, Future, 21 Savage, Meghan Trainor, DJ Khaled, and French Montana.
During the announcement, stringer went on to say:
“Sylvia is a trailblazing and iconic executive who has played a critical leadership role in driving Epic’s recent artist development success. Her wealth of experience and passionate support of artistic vision will help us further grow the reach of Epic’s roster around the world.”
In response, Rhone shares her excitement for her new position.
“I am excited to continue my amazing journey at Epic Records supported by Rob Stringer’s vision and leadership,” stated Rhone. “Everything we do is a testament to our incredible artists who set the bar of the entire Epic culture, inspiring our dedicated executive team every day and enriching the legacy of this great label.”
Prior to her promotion, Sylvia held the position of President of Epic Records since 2014 where she was in charge of administering the release of projects including Travis Scott’s 2018 album “Astroworld”; Camila Cabello’s debut album “Camila” including the smash single “Havana,” which was recently named the biggest single of 2018 by the IFPI; and projects from Future, 21 Savage and many others.
The legendary music exec has been in the industry for decades and has experience prior to Sony Music. She helped guide an award-winning roster at Universal Music Group for eight years, where she was named President of Universal Motown Records and Executive Vice President at Universal Records from 2004. Rhone was Chairman and CEO of Warner Music Group’s Elektra Entertainment Group as the first African American woman to be named Chairman of a major record company from 1994 to 2004. During that time, she oversaw releases from artists including Missy Elliott, Busta Rhymes, Metallica, Staind, Third Eye Blind, Tracy Chapman, Natalie Merchant and more. Her lengthy experience doesn’t end there, prior to her time at Elektra, she held various senior roles throughout WMG, ABC Records and Ariola Records. She began her career at Buddah Records in 1974.
As recognition for her career achievements as a leading female music executive who has reached the status of label head multiple times, Sylvia received an honorary doctorate from the Berklee College of Music on April 5, 2019. Congratulations to this boss lady who is continuously breaking down barriers in a male dominated industry!