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Island Def Jam Music Group’s recent structural changes continue with its CEO & Chairman, Barry Weiss announcing David Massey as the new President of Island Records in a press release from Universal Music Group.
Weiss attributed Massey’s ear for music, people skills and more to reasons on him as the choice for Island Def Jam president:
“David has had great successes since joining the company six years ago,” said Mr. Weiss, “and it is a track record that he now takes with him to Island, as we put even more resources into our vital creative areas. David’s musical instincts for spotting talent are second to none, and his relationships with the artists and his proven leadership skills are the perfect fit to drive Island Records into the future.”
David Massey’s track record is quite extensive starting with a decade tenure with Sony Music Label Group US as Vice President of A&R in 1991, Executive Vice President/General Manager in 1997 and finally Executive Vice President/General Manager in 2001. He also has a long history with the Island Def Jam imprint as he assumed A&R duties for Fall Out Boy, Bon Jovi and The Killers. Massey recently spent six years as president of Mercury Records, an imprint under Island Def Jam.
Massey shared his joy and plans for the future:
“The extraordinarily talented artists and executives I have worked with at Mercury and Island have been an inspiration, and no one could ask for any more experienced and astute leadership than Barry Weiss and Steve Bartels . I hope to bring even greater success to Island Def Jam in the years ahead.”
The Island Records artists includes Justin Beiber, Jennifer Lopez, FeFe Dobson, Mariah Carey and an assortment of other hitmakers. Massey will work closely with Steve Bartels, Island Def Jam Music Group’s Chief Operating Officer/President. The A&R team at Mercury Records will still report to Massey.
