HYBE AMERICA has appointed veteran music executive Ethiopia Habtemariam as its new President of Music, effective immediately, marking a major step in the company’s ongoing global expansion.
In her new role, Habtemariam will help guide HYBE AMERICA’s long-term growth strategy by leading A&R and artist development initiatives across its label ecosystem. She will also identify new creative and commercial opportunities at the intersection of music, culture, and fandom, while playing a key role in expanding HYBE AMERICA’s presence in Atlanta—one of the world’s most influential hubs for R&B and hip-hop.
Isaac Lee, Chairman and CEO of HYBE AMERICA, praised the appointment, calling Habtemariam “a once-in-a-generation leader” whose vision and cultural insight make her uniquely positioned to shape the company’s next chapter.
Habtemariam joins HYBE AMERICA after a highly influential tenure as Chairwoman and CEO of Motown Records, where she revitalized the historic label and expanded its global reach. During her time at Motown, she led the landmark Quality Control–Motown joint venture and oversaw the signing and development of major artists including Lil Baby, Migos, City Girls, and Lil Yachty, while also championing talents such as Leon Thomas and NBA YoungBoy.
Before Motown, Habtemariam spent over two decades at Universal Music Group, holding senior leadership roles across Universal Music Publishing, Capitol Music Group, and Motown Records. Her career includes working closely with some of the most influential artists and songwriters of the modern era, including J. Cole, Justin Bieber, Ciara, Jhene Aiko, Hit-Boy, and Chris Brown.
“I’ve long admired how HYBE AMERICA approaches artists, fans, and the future of entertainment,” Habtemariam said in a statement. “I’m excited to contribute my experience as the company continues to shape what’s next for music on a global scale.”
Habtemariam will remain closely aligned with Universal Music Group, reflecting the longstanding partnership between HYBE and UMG. She will be based in both Los Angeles and Atlanta as she steps into her new role.
Source: HYBE
