The US bit of EMI Music has announced the appointment of veteran independent hip hop entrepreneur Neil Levine to establish a new unit within the major record company that will provide a range of promotion, marketing and digital services in the urban music market. These services will be offered to developing urban artists on EMI's US labels, and to independent labels distributed by EMI's Caroline Distribution company.
Levine was until recently Worldwide General Manager of Rykodisc, the independent label group recently acquired by Warner Music. He will bring his own label, Penalty Recordings, until recently part of the Rykodisc group, to EMI with him.
Levine will report to Senior VP and General Manager of Caroline Distribution William Hein in his new role, though he will also work closely with and advise EMI Music North America's Chairman David Munns and COO Ivan Gavin.
Confirming the appointment, Hein told reporters: "A thriving music industry needs a thriving independent music community in all genres. Neil's experience in the urban independent world will be key as we begin expanding Caroline Distribution into a more full-service operation. Neil has a knack for spotting and nurturing great talent, particularly at the grassroots level. Caroline's urban-oriented label customers will really benefit from his extensive expertise."