Steve Barnett To Lead Capitol Music Group

Steve Barnett

Universal Music Group has appointed Steve Barnett Chairman & CEO of its Capitol Music Group. He most recently served as Co-Chairman & COO of Columbia Records. Barnett will report to Lucian Grainge, Chairman & CEO of UMG.

Based at the iconic Capitol Records Tower in Los Angeles, Barnett will be responsible for the overall management of the company which includes Capitol Records, Virgin Records, Blue Note, Astralwerks, Harvest, Capitol Christian Music Group, Caroline and the Capitol Studios. This does not include UMG Nashville’s Capitol imprint.

According to UMG, this appointment is among the first of many steps that will be taken to expand EMI’s creative ranks, reinvest in new talent, and enhance innovation.

“As we begin to invest in and revitalize EMI globally, the Capitol Music Group, including Virgin, will play a central role in our creative and commercial initiatives. And there is no one better to spearhead this than Steve,” said Grainge.

“Throughout my career in music, I’ve always been keenly aware of EMI’s impact on the world’s culture, so I could not be more excited and grateful for the opportunity Lucian has given me to build the Capitol Music Group into an exceptional record company,” added Barnett. “I greatly appreciate his confidence in me, and I will work tirelessly to create a welcoming and supportive home for great artists while carefully tending the hugely important catalogue that defines the Capitol legacy.”