Legendary music executive Sylvia Rhone is stepping down from her position as chairwoman and CEO of Epic Records. Her departure becomes effective at the end of September 2025 after more than a decade of leadership. Rhone made history as the first Black woman to become chair at a major record company.
The announcement marks the end of an extraordinary 11-year run at Epic Records for the trailblazing executive. Rhone became president of Epic Records in 2014 before her elevation to chairwoman and CEO in 2019. Her leadership at Epic represents the third time in her career she broke barriers as the first woman and first Black person to serve as CEO of a major Fortune 500-owned record label.
According to Billboard, Rhone addressed Epic Records staff in a letter announcing her decision to leave. “It’s been an extraordinary journey,” she wrote to her Sony Music family. “And today, I am moving on from this historic role at Epic, and I’m very excited about the future.”
Historic Career Journey From Secretary to Music Industry Pioneer
Rhone’s remarkable career began humbly when she started as a secretary at Buddha Records decades ago. This entry-level position launched what would become one of the most successful careers of any music executive. Her determination and talent quickly became evident as she navigated the male-dominated music industry landscape.
Early in her career, she landed roles at ABC Records and Ariola Records before making significant strides. Her big break came in 1981 when she was hired to work at Elektra Records. This opportunity provided the platform for her meteoric rise through the music industry ranks.
After gaining valuable experience at Elektra, she transitioned to Atlantic Records where her career truly flourished. She worked at Atlantic for five years in several different roles, steadily building her expertise. Her diverse experience across multiple departments prepared her for future leadership positions.
Atlantic Records Success Establishes Rhone as Music Industry Powerhouse
Rhone’s promotion to VP/GM of Black music operations at Atlantic Records in 1986 marked a crucial career milestone. This role showcased her ability to understand and develop urban music talent effectively. Two years later, she advanced to senior VP of Atlantic’s Black music division, cementing her reputation.
Her exceptional leadership skills caught attention when Atlantic launched EastWest Records America in 1990. Rhone was chosen to lead this new imprint as chairwoman, demonstrating the company’s confidence in her abilities. This appointment positioned her for even greater industry recognition and influence.
The success of EastWest Records under her guidance proved her capability to build and manage successful record labels. Her innovative approach to artist development and marketing strategies set new industry standards. These achievements laid the foundation for her future groundbreaking appointments in the music business.
Elektra Entertainment Group Leadership Creates Industry History
Rhone shattered another glass ceiling in 1994 when she became chairman and CEO of Elektra Entertainment Group (EEG). This historic appointment made her the first Black woman to hold such a position at a major record company. Her leadership at EEG demonstrated that diversity in executive positions could drive both artistic and commercial success.
During her tenure at Elektra, she oversaw significant artist signings and successful album releases that shaped popular music. Her ability to identify and develop talent across various genres established her as a visionary leader. Furthermore, she proved that inclusive leadership could generate substantial profits for major record companies.
Her success at Elektra opened doors for other women and minorities in music industry executive positions. She became a role model and mentor for aspiring executives from underrepresented backgrounds. Her achievements challenged traditional industry norms and paved the way for greater diversity in music leadership.
Universal Music Group Era Expands Rhone’s Industry Influence
The Universal Music Group recognized Rhone’s exceptional talents and brought her into their organization in 2004. She was named president of Universal Motown Records, executive VP of Universal Records, and chairman of Universal Motown Record Group. This triple appointment demonstrated the company’s commitment to leveraging her diverse skill set across multiple divisions.
Her leadership at Universal Motown Records revitalized the historic label and brought it back to prominence. She successfully signed and developed artists who achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success. Additionally, her strategic vision helped Universal expand its market share in urban and pop music genres.
The Universal Music Group experience further enhanced her reputation as one of the industry’s most capable executives. Her ability to manage multiple labels simultaneously showcased her exceptional organizational and strategic planning skills. This period solidified her status as an indispensable leader in the music industry landscape.
Epic Records Tenure Culminates Decades of Music Industry Excellence
After leaving Universal Music Group in 2011, Rhone launched her boutique label Vested In Culture in partnership with Epic Records. This entrepreneurial venture allowed her to maintain industry connections while exploring independent label operations. The partnership eventually led to her full-time return to major label leadership.
Rhone began her Epic Records journey as president in 2014, bringing decades of experience to Sony Music Entertainment. Her promotion to chairwoman and CEO in 2019 marked another historic achievement in her illustrious career. Under her leadership, Epic Records continued to sign and develop successful artists across multiple genres.
Her 11-year tenure at Epic Records represents the culmination of a career spent breaking barriers and achieving excellence. She consistently demonstrated that diverse leadership could drive innovation and profitability in the music industry. No details have been released regarding her next career move, but industry observers expect continued success.
