Universal’s US jazz label Verve Music Group has promoted Mike Rittberg to the position of general manager.
Rittberg is based in Santa Monica and oversees Verve’s operations, artist development and release schedule. He will work closely with Interscope Geffen A&M, which is now responsible for Verve’s sales, marketing and film and TV licensing. Rittberg reports to Verve Chairman David Foster.
“I congratulate Mike on his well-deserved promotion,” Foster said. “Mike has been a wonderful partner, and together I look forward to bringing new talent to Verve and building on our iconic label’s vast accomplishments.”
“I’m honored to carry on the tradition of great music coming from Verve as we redevelop its brand during the coming year,” Rittberg said. “I’m especially grateful to David Foster, Michele Anthony, John Janick, Steve Berman and David Cohen for this incredible opportunity and for their support.”
Prior to his promotion, Rittberg served as Senior Vice President of Branding and Marketing at Verve. He joined Universal Music Group in April 2012 as Verve’s Vice President of Artist Development and Promotion. Before Verve, Rittberg was Senior Vice President of Promotion at Warner Music Group‘s Warner Bros./Reprise.
Verve has a line-up of both jazz and adult contemporary releases in store for 2015, building on the strong debut of Diana Krall’s new album Wallflower. Verve plans to release new music this year from Andrea Bocelli, Brenna Whitaker, The Falls, The Fairground Saints and Charles Perry. The label is also developing a “We Love Disney” project, with more details to be provided soon.Music Business Worldwide
