Nicki Farag has been promoted to Executive Vice President and General Manager at Def Jam Recordings.
As EVP and General Manager of Def Jam, Farag will oversee the label’s day-to-day operations, working with artists, managers and staff to develop strategies and execute plans on behalf of the label’s roster of artists.
Based in Santa Monica, Farag will report to Jeffrey Harleston, Def Jam interim Chairman and CEO since 2020.
Farag, is a 18-year veteran of Def Jam and was previously Executive Vice President of Promotion, a position she has held since 2018 and the first female executive with that title in the label’s history.
Farag has been instrumental in breaking dozens of artists and records nationally over the past decade, including Justin Bieber, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Big Sean, YG, Alessia Cara and Logic.
Farag is multi-year Billboard ‘Women In Music’ honoree, and a 2020 Variety Hitmakers honoree.
She is also co-chair of Def Jam Forward, the label’s task force dedicated to social justice reform.
“Nicki is a seasoned, consummate professional and true leader.”
Jeffrey Harleston, def jam
Jeffrey Harleston said: “Nicki is a seasoned, consummate professional and true leader.
“She has the unique ability to understand and inspire confidence in artists, the passion and tenacity to champion their artistry, and the tireless energy to rally her staff to compete and achieve greatness.
“I’m excited to welcome her into this important new role, with every expectation that both she and the company will soar.”
“Def Jam is a label with a distinct culture.”
Nicki Farag
“Def Jam is a label with a distinct culture and DNA that has defined music for over 35 years.
“In my nearly two decades at Def Jam, I’ve never seen so much momentum and energy from our staff or with our artists.
“With Jeff’s leadership, we have all the pieces in place to take Def Jam to even greater level of success.”Music Business Worldwide
