Motown Records has appointed Jamila Thomas as VP, artist marketing.
Thomas will oversee marketing strategies and campaigns across Motown’s roster of artists and partners. In addition, she will serve as a thought leader for the label and lead marketing initiatives for Motown’s newly relaunched historic spoken word imprint, Black Forum. Thomas will also continue her work as co-founder of the global initiative #TheShowMustBePaused.
Ethiopia Habtemariam, chairman and CEO of Motown, said: “Jamila is a proven and passionate advocate for artists and an incredibly talented marketer who operates from a place of true passion for music, culture and community. Motown is home to some of the most prolific and impactful voices of our time, including those of our artists, partners and executives, and we’re excited to welcome her to our team.”
Brian Nolan, EVP Motown and Motown marketing, said, “Throughout her career, Jamila has demonstrated her understanding and ability to build and execute campaigns that help artists connect with fans around the world. She has incredible instincts and vision as a marketer, and I’m thrilled to welcome her to Motown’s marketing team.”
Jamila Thomas said: “Music has always inspired me and Motown has not only provided the soundtrack to some of the greatest, and most defining, moments in music history, but it has also launched the careers of some of music’s most iconic and impactful artists, songwriters and entrepreneurs spanning more than six decades. It’s an incredible honor to join this legendary label and the forward-thinking leadership that continues to redefine and impact culture around the world. I want to thank Ethiopia and Brian for the opportunity to be part of this team that helps write the next chapter of Motown’s legacy.”
Most recently, Thomas served as senior director of marketing at Atlantic Records, where she successfully worked on campaigns for developing and established artists including Ugly God, Pardison Fontaine, PNB Rock, DRAM and Don Q, among others. Prior to Atlantic, Thomas was head of marketing at Asylum Records.
Today’s announcement marks a return to Universal Music Group for Thomas, who previously worked at Def Jam on campaigns for Jhene Aiko, Pusha T and Big Sean, among others, before joining Cash Money Records. At Cash Money, Thomas helped navigate breaking acts including Jacquees, while working on campaigns for superstar artists such as Drake and Nicki Minaj.
In the wake of the global pandemic and social injustices, both across the US and the world, Thomas co-founded #TheShowMustBePaused, a global initiative that addresses inequities, racism and social injustices.
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