Motown Records welcomes Ethiopia Habtemariam as the new chairman and CEO! Motown Records promoted the new chairman, Habtemariam, from her president position.
Founded in 1959 by Berry Gordy, Motown Records introduced the world to artists including; Ashanti, Boyz II Men, Queen Latifah, Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, Rick James, The Jackson Five, The Temptations, and more.
Back in 2014, Ethiopia Habtemariam was appointed President of Motown Records and Executive Vice President of Capitol Music Group.
There, she oversaw Motown’s relocation to Los Angeles from New York in 2014; and even revitalized the label under her leadership. Now, Habtemariam has been promoted to ‘chairwoman’ and CEO of Motown Records. In addition, Habtemariam will be reporting directly to UMG Chairman and CEO Sir Lucian Grainge.
“Motown is such an important voice and, just as when it was founded by Berry Gordy, its impact continues to be felt around the world,” said Grainge in a statement. “Motown’s resurgence and powerful partnerships under Ethiopia’s leadership has advanced the label’s legacy as home to some of today’s biggest hitmakers and most meaningful voices in music.”
Habtemariam adds to the public Motown Records statement.
She explains how much of an honor it is to “represent and define” Motown as it is today. Furthermore, UMG says that the label will now have “greater creative” independence. This will give the new chairwoman the ability to push the company’s “groundbreaking mission” of artistic, social, and entrepreneurial empowerment.
“I’ve always understood the power of music and the responsibility I have, not only to continue to be an advocate for artists and creators, but to forge new paths for entrepreneurs and to lift up our next generation of executives around the world.
In honor of Women’s Appreciation Month, we congratulate Ethiopia Habtemariam on her new position. Stay tuned for more with Two Bees TV!
