Corey “C-Notes” Calder has been named senior vp of marketing and head of urban music marketing at Columbia Records. He’s previously held roles at Warner Records, Apple, Beats Music, Wasserman (now THE•TEAM) and the Los Angeles Clippers, as well as worked with artists including YoungBoy Never Broke Again and Kevin Gates.
Calder previously served as senior vp of marketing and creative at Artist Partner Group (APG), and appeared on appeared on Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players list in 2023.
“Black music is the lifeblood of culture and the soundtrack to people’s lives,” Calder said in a statement. “It shapes how the world sounds, moves, dresses and speaks, so stepping into this role feels both exciting and deeply personal. Columbia has an incredible legacy of iconic talent who have changed the game, and I’m excited to build with the next generation, take a big creative swings and help turn their visions into something the world can feel.”
Erika Alfredson, executive vp and head of marketing for Columbia Records, added, “We’re thrilled to welcome Corey to the Columbia Records marketing team. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a unique ability to create campaigns that connect artists with culture, from breaking emerging talent to working with some of the biggest names in music. His expertise in audience development, digital strategy and the evolving music landscape, combined with his creative instincts and marketing experience, will be a great addition to Columbia as we continue to find new ways to expand our artists’ reach and deepen fan engagement.”
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Eitara Shibasaki (Warner Music Japan)
Eitaro Shibasaki has been named chief business officer of Warner Music Japan, effective Oct. 1, and will report to Warner Music Japan’s president and CEO, Takeshi Okada. S
Shibasaki previously held roles at RecoChoku Co., Ltd., working his way up to executive director of marketing and head of platform business. He was also president of Eggs Co., Ltd.
“I am delighted to join Warner Music Japan as it continues its dynamic transformation under the leadership of president Takeshi Okada, Shibasaki said in a statement. “By acting quickly on emerging trends and taking bold, novel risks, my goal is to expand opportunities for our artist roster, forge deeper commercial partnerships, and deliver fresh value to music fans across Japan.”
Okada added, “Eitara Shibasaki has played a pivotal role in shaping Japan’s digital music ecosystem and championing artist success for over two decades. Having trusted him as a close business partner for many years, I know firsthand the deep respect he commands across the industry. I am delighted to welcome him to our leadership team as we strongly accelerate our growth strategy and push the boundaries of what a modern music company can achieve.”
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Annie Christensen (Warner Chappell Music)
Warner Chappell Music (WCM) U.K. has appointed Annie Christensen as vp of catalog, reporting to Shani Gonzales, president ofWCM U.K.
Christensen previously served at Island Records, remaining with the company for 20 years. She’s been a freelance A&R consultant since 2023, working with Universal Music Group and several management companies.
“Warner Chappell Music holds one of the most storied songbooks in music history, so it’ll be a huge privilege to help lead the strategy that connects these classic songs to brand new audiences,” Christensen said in a statement. “Having spent my career on the frontlines of A&R, I’ve gained a unique perspective on what truly resonates with fans. I’m excited to apply that creative lens to championing timeless songs and driving new catalog opportunities.”
Gonzales said, “As we continue to expand our catalog footprint, Annie’s deep creative instincts, strategic foresight and understanding of the global market will be invaluable. She has a fantastic track record in identifying culture-shifting talent and will unlock fresh and exciting opportunities for our incredible heritage.”
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Post Script Launches North Star Records
Pat Murphy’s Post Script, which encompasses PS Records, has launched a country music imprint of its record label with North Star Records. Along with the imprint, Sully Burrows serves as the label’s first signing.
“North Star is about creating a dedicated home for country artists and building around what each artist actually needs,” Murphy said in a statement. “Sully has been at the center of this from the start. We’ve worked together for the last several years, and I’ve watched him grow into an artist with a clear voice, a great instinct for songs and the work ethic to match. There is no one I’d rather launch North Star with.”
The label has a distribution partnership with Universal Music Canada.
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Jessica Thomas (100 Management/100 Publishing)
Jessica Thomas has joined 100 Management/100 Publishing as head of A&R, reporting to the company’s founder, Luke Mitzman. With the move, Thomas brings her management clients, JBACH and Trey Campbell. She previously served as director of A&R, ads and brand partnerships for Milk & Honey Silo.
“Jess has very deep relationships in the artist/songwriter/producer community and is extremely well liked and respected by her peers in the industry,” Mitzman said in a statement. “She really understands the how to get the best out of creatives through her passion, care and formidable work ethic.”
Thomas added, “I’m honored at the opportunity to join forces with Luke and the team at 100. Luke’s dedication to his clients at 100 is really unparalleled, as evident from the company’s ongoing success and expansion. I’m excited to be entrusted with this role and to work with such an incredible group of songwriters, producers and creators.”
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