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Hybe America has appointed Ethiopia Habtemariam as its new president of music, effective immediately. The longtime executive and former Motown Records chief will work between Los Angeles and Atlanta.
In her new role, Habtemariam will guide Hybe America’s music strategy, leading A&R and artist development across the company’s group of labels. She will also focus on expanding creative and commercial opportunities that connect music, culture and fan communities. A key priority will be strengthening the company’s footprint in Atlanta—her hometown and a major global hub for hip-hop and R&B—while elevating the reach of Quality Control within Hybe’s broader ecosystem.
“Ethiopia is a transformational leader whose influence across artists, songwriters and the industry speaks for itself,” Hybe America chairman and CEO Isaac Lee said in a statement. “Her vision and strategic instincts make her the right person to help shape Hybe America’s next phase as we build a modern entertainment company centered on creators and fans.”
Habtemariam said she was drawn to Hybe’s long-term vision.
“I’ve always respected how Hybe America approaches artists and fandom while staying deeply rooted in culture,” she said. “This is a company planning for the future. I’m thrilled to bring my experience to what Hybe is building on a global scale.”
Habtemariam most recently served as chairwoman and CEO of Motown Records, where she launched the groundbreaking partnership between Motown and Quality Control. She led the signing, development and breakout of artists including Lil Yachty, City Girls, Migos, Lil Baby, NBA YoungBoy and Leon Thomas.
Her career spans more than 20 years at Universal Music Group, with senior leadership roles at Universal Music Publishing, Capitol Music Group and Motown. While at Universal Music Publishing, she was instrumental in signing and supporting a generation of influential artists and songwriters such as Chris Brown, J. Cole, Justin Bieber, Jhene Aiko, Ciara, Polow Da Don, Hit Boy, Keri Hilson, Happy Perez and Theron Thomas.
