Universal Music Canada (UMC) has appointed multi-platinum artist and producer Kardinal Offishall (Jason Drew Harrow) as Senior Vice President, A&R.
He will report to Jeffrey Remedios, Chairman & CEO, Universal Music Canada.
Inking a joint-venture deal with British producer Harmony Samuels (Ariana Grande, Jennifer Lopez, Mary J. Blige, Usher, Maroon 5, Ella Mai) and a yet to-be-announced label imprint (launching later this spring) are the latest in a series of significant UMC projects overseen by Offishall.
UMC says that the new role will see Offishall continue to discover, sign, and develop artists, forge new creative partnerships, and provide strategic direction.
Offishall works closely with the company’s newly created Urban Marketing team, led by industry veteran Craig ‘Big C’ Mannix, while continuing his roles as chair of UMC’s B.L.A.C.K. Label Coalition (BLC) and Canada’s representative on Universal Music Group’s Task Force for Meaningful Change.
“This promotion underscores our big aspirations – Canada is bursting with talent and we’re committed to building the best team we can to put that talent front and centre on a global stage.”
Jeffrey Remedios, Universal Music Canada
Jeffrey Remedios, Chairman & CEO, Universal Music Canada, said: “Kardi is a force. He’s a ground-breaking, internationally respected artist, a smart and insightful label exec, a compassionate and bold thought leader, and a tireless philanthropist.
“He’s always been at the forefront of Canada’s music scene and UMC’s artists and team have long benefitted from his thoughtful collaboration, unmatched energy, and drive.
“This promotion underscores our big aspirations – Canada is bursting with talent and we’re committed to building the best team we can to put that talent front and centre on a global stage. I’m honoured to continue to lead alongside Kardi.”
“I am proud to be taking steps forward with Jeffrey Remedios, who as CEO, has placed great responsibility in my hands.”
Kardinal Offishall
Kardinal Offishall said: “Whether it was intentional or the by-product of hard work and excellence, I was able to stand on the shoulders of giants who came before me.
“I’ve seen the world several times over and am able to dream with my eyes wide open, because the bar kept being raised by those brave enough to lift it to unseen heights.
“This new Senior Vice President, A&R, position at Universal Music Canada is about me continuing to prepare my shoulders, so that many others can stand taller than I did and have the opportunity to showcase their gifts on a global stage.
“Where I’m from, the phrase ‘dare to dream’ is a real warning, because without endurance and an uncanny ability to navigate through many storms – you can end up eternally picking up the pieces of broken promises and regret.
“I am proud to be taking steps forward with Jeffrey Remedios, who as CEO, has placed great responsibility in my hands. Today, I walk so that the next generation can run. Forward movements forever, until we all fly.”Music Business Worldwide