Ethiopian music executive Ethiopia Habtemariam has been appointed President of Music at HYBE America. In her new role, she will lead the company's long-term music strategy from bases in Los Angeles and Atlanta. The appointment underscores her two decades of influential leadership in the industry.
Ethiopia Habtemariam, a prominent music industry leader, has been named President of Music at HYBE America, as announced on January 9, 2026. In this position, she will guide the company's long-term music strategy, managing artist development, A&R initiatives, and creative expansion across its growing labels. Operating from Los Angeles and her Atlanta hometown—a hub for hip-hop—she aims to deepen the firm's cultural ties and spot fresh opportunities.
Isaac Lee, Chairman and CEO of HYBE America, praised her: “Ethiopia is a once-in-a-generation leader whose impact on artists, songwriters, culture, and the music business is undeniable. Her vision, taste, and strategic insight make her uniquely suited to help shape the next chapter of HYBE America.”
Habtemariam's career started as a teenage intern at LaFace Records and spans over two decades at Universal Music Group, including stints at Universal Music Publishing, Capitol Music Group, and Motown Records. Most recently, as Chair and CEO of Motown Records, she revitalized the iconic label and launched a partnership with Atlanta's Quality Control, signing and nurturing talents like Migos, Lil Baby, City Girls, and Lil Yachty.
HYBE America, a global entertainment firm emphasizing artists and fans, is in a phase of swift growth. Habtemariam noted: “I’ve long admired how HYBE America approaches artists, fans, and the future of entertainment. This is a company building with intention and investing for the long term while staying deeply connected to culture.” Her role emphasizes the value of seasoned, culturally attuned leadership in music's evolution.
