Universal Motown’s Prez Leave Confirmed, “We’re Thankful To Sylvia For Her Contributions”

Written By S. Samuel

After weekend reports claiming Universal Motown President Sylvia Rhone was leaving her post at the iconic record label, official confirmation has now landed online.

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Based on a statement from the label, Motown is currently on the prowl for an official replacement.

In the meantime, GM Pat Monaco will continue to oversee the day-to-day operations of Universal Motown. In a statement, the company said, “We remain committed to [Motown] as a strong presence in the contemporary music scene. We will soon announce important additions to the staff and will further invest in building its artist roster so Motown can continue to bring to market the highest quality music that is best positioned to succeed artistically and commercially.” As for Rhone, the statement continued, “We’re thankful to Sylvia for her contributions. We continue to be in discussions with her on how and where she can best utilize her skills and relationships in the multiple rights arena in which UMG continues to expand.” (Billboard)

Details have also emerged on the characteristics that the would-be replacement at Universal reportedly should possess.

“They are searching for someone to bring in in a senior creative role,” says one UMG insider familiar with the situation. “If it’s someone that’s really creative-oriented, then it might be a different title, but if they find someone creative” with business qualifications, then it could be president. (Billboard)

Speculation on Rhone’s departure hit the Internet last Saturday (May 21).

A source close to Sylvia Rhone has confirmed to XXLMag.com that the Universal Motown President has left her post. Since 2004, Rhone has been the head of the popular record label, but just last year rumors began to circulate about her exit. With her contract being up in a year, it’s uncertain who will replace Rhone at the time. What is known is that her longtime mentor, Doug Morris, who was the previous UMG Chairman and CEO, is now headed to rival Sony Music; Lucian Grainge took over Morris’ position in March. (XXL Mag)

Rhone is the latest high profile music executive to leave her high-profile position since former Island Def Jam CEO L.A. Reid gave up his position earlier this year.

“Listen, I’m nobody’s fool, I didn’t give up my day job,” he said in an interview. “I just left, I had to leave Universal Music Group and try my hat on someplace else, that we’ll announce, well… we’ll announce that in a little while…It’s a little bit of a shift. You’re not done with me yet…I’m telling you the truth: I have not been shipped off to TV land. I am a record executive and I shall be right there in your face with my records.” (Hot 97)

Check out a past Sylvia Rhone interview down below:

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Written by S. Samuel

Steven Samuel is the co-founder of SOHH.com.

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