Universal Music Enterprises (UME), the global catalogue division of Universal Music Group, has appointed Andre Torres VP of the major’s urban catalogue.
In the newly created role, Torres will work closely with UME’s senior management team as well as the leadership at UMG’s labels to develop, implement and execute a global A&R, sales, branding and marketing strategy for hip-hop, rap, R&B and other urban genres. He will be based in Santa Monica and report to Bruce Resnikoff, UME’s president and CEO.
Resnikoff said: “At UME, we are focused on elevating our artists and their legacies by engaging both fans and new audiences. With Andre, we are adding a very talented, innovative and entrepreneurial executive, who will collaborate closely with our labels and artists to develop unique experiences, products and releases based on our extensive and industry-leading library of urban, hip-hop and R&B music. With his unique perspective and background, Andre has the ability to authentically represent our artists and connect with their fans.”
“I’ve spent my professional career helping artists tell their stories, some for the first time and sometimes long after they are gone,” added Torres. “This new role is the culmination of my entrepreneurial and journalism experience, my love and respect for these artists and the music they create and the opportunity to continue telling their stories I’m excited to join Bruce, the incredible team at UME and to work first hand with my musical heroes.”
With a background in media, founded quarterly music magazine Wax Poetics in 2001, before joining Brooklyn lyrics website Genius as executive editor after 15 years.
