Columbia Records in the US has made two key promotions in its A&R department.
Justin Eshak (pictured left) has been named Senior Vice President of A&R, stepping up from Vice President of A&R at the label.
He will report into Mark Williams, President of A&R for Columbia Records.
“Justin is the modern A&R executive in every way,” stated Williams. “His proven instincts and passion for identifying new talent along with his understanding of the way fans relate to music in our current environment have made him an incredible asset to our company. I congratulate him for this well-deserved promotion.”
“I’m grateful to Rob Stringer and Mark Williams for the opportunity as well as their continued support and guidance,” said Eshak. “Columbia has always been the preeminent label.
“It’s a privilege to work here and champion the innovative artists drawn to its unique culture.”
“Columbia has always been the pre-eminent label.”
Justin Eshak
Since joining Columbia Records in 2013, Eshak has played an integral role in the signing and development of artists including Hozier, Leon Bridges, Ruth B, Cherub, as well as helping identify and grow recent breakthrough act The Chainsmokers alongside Adam Alpert of Disruptor Records.
In addition to his considerable creative role, Eshak also spearheads Columbia’s analytic efforts as they pertain to A&R decision-making.
Prior to joining Columbia Records, Eshak spent five years at Brooklyn-based Mick Management. He began his career in 2003 at Republic Records where he worked in A&R until 2007.
Meanwhile, Imran Majid (pictured right) has also been promoted to Senior Vice President of A&R. Previously, he was Vice President of A&R for Columba Records.
He also reports into Williams.
“Imran’s understanding of modern approach to A&R has made him an integral part of our company,” stated Williams.
“His enthusiasm and passion for music and discovery of talent in an ever changing landscape with this promotion will continue to enhance and strengthen our roster.”
“I want to thank Rob Stringer and Mark Williams for allowing me to expand my role as an A&R executive in the most diverse and credible music company in the industry,” stated Imran.
“I look forward to continuing to sign and develop talent in an atmosphere where the artist’s creative vision and freedom are at the forefront of everything.”
“I look forward to continuing to sign talent in an atmosphere where the artist’s creative vision and freedom are at the forefront.”
Imran Majid
During his tenure at Columbia Records, Majid has been involved in the signing and development of Rachel Platten, DeJ Loaf, DJ Snake & Lil Jon’s “Turn Down For What”, amongst others.
He joined Columbia Records in 2013 after his previous role as Senior Director of A&R for Republic Records.
Majid began his career in the music business in 2004 as an assistant in the A&R department at Universal Motown Records Group.
He worked as one of the original A&R’s at Universal Republic, including his position as Senior Director of A&R when it was restructured into Republic Records in 2012. He joined Columbia Records as Vice President of A&R the following year.
News of both A&R promotions follows the departure of Ashley Newton to Capitol Music Group in January.Music Business Worldwide
