Universal Music Group Announces Leadership Changes in Nashville
In the aftermath of the departure of Cindy Mabe as CEO of Universal Music Group Nashville (UMG Nashville), the company has swiftly appointed Mike Harris as the new CEO and renowned producer Dave Cobb as the label group's Chief Creative Officer.
Harris, who previously served as UMG Nashville's COO and EVP, rejoined the company in 2023 after departing the previous year. Cobb, meanwhile, has a long-standing reputation as a top independent producer in Nashville and has won nine Grammy Awards but had not held any executive roles before this appointment.
The succession from Mabe to Harris and the unexpected appointment of Cobb to an executive role have drawn immediate attention within the industry. Cobb's prominence as a producer, both in Nashville and beyond, is expected to bring a fresh perspective to UMG Nashville.
Harris expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and looked forward to collaborating with Cobb and the artists on UMG Nashville's roster. Cobb, in turn, emphasized his commitment to honoring the label's legacy while embracing the future.
Harris's previous experience includes being the EVP-GM of Caroline under the Capitol Music Group/EMI. The UMG Nashville label group includes Capitol Records Nashville, EMI Records Nashville, MCA Nashville, and Mercury Nashville. The company has a deep roster of artists, including Chris Stapleton, Carrie Underwood, and Kacey Musgraves, among others.
UMG Nashville's market share has been challenged in recent years by Sony Nashville, but the company remains committed to expanding its presence and building upon its success.