Congratulations Mr. Chairman, Job Well Done!

Joe Galante, Sony Music Nashville Chairman, left his 18th Ave. S. offices today officially turning over the reins of the organization to new Sony CEO Gary Overton. His departure marked the end of a 40-year career with the same company.

The transition was first announced in April when Galante noted, “As a 21-year-old kid from Queens starting out at RCA Records in New York, I never dreamed of the nearly 40-year journey that was before me. In 1974, a temporary Nashville assignment turned permanent, and it changed my life – I thank God for it every day. I have been inspired by so many exceptional artists and songwriters and feel privileged to be a part of their careers. I’ve worked with unique managers and executives who helped me learn more about this business and how to better my craft. My RCA, BMG and Sony family’s support and passion for our artists’ music helped us build the label group of the year for seven of the last eight years. This is solely my decision and I’m excited to begin my journey down another road. Nashville is my home and will continue to be.”

Marking today’s official changeover, the entire Sony Music Nashville staff assembled to recognize and pay tribute to Galante in what was undoubtedly a very emotional and private gathering for all involved.

Galante has helped launch the careers of such stars as Alabama, Carrie Underwood, Keith Whitley, Chris Young, The Judds, Martina McBride, K.T. Oslin, Kellie Pickler, Clint Black, Jake Owen, Lonestar and Sara Evans. He and his Nashville team have bolstered the careers of superstars Kenny Chesney, Alan Jackson, Miranda Lambert, Brooks & Dunn and Montgomery Gentry, among others; and, in addition, he has worked with icons including Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton and Ronnie Milsap. He has also been a driving force serving and leading industry organizations such as CMA, Leadership Music, NARAS and others.

Sony Music Nashville currently includes  four country label operations – RCA, Columbia, BNA and Arista Nashville – and Provident Music Group, one of the world’s leading Christian music companies. Sony Music Nashville is a division of Sony Music Entertainment.