Mike Hamilton has been appointed Senior Vice President, Streaming & Commerce, Def Jam Recordings.
His appointment was announced today by Tunji Balogun, Chairman and CEO, and LaTrice Burnette, EVP Def Jam/President, 4th & Broadway.
Def Jam says that Hamilton has helped guide the streaming success of stars like Giveon, Future, DJ Khaled, Travis Scott, 21 Savage, Cardi B, and more – is based in New York.
He arrives at Def Jam after three years as Senior Director, Commerce, Epic Records, where he devised strategies and led campaigns for artists including 21 Savage, BIA, DJ Khaled, Future, GIVĒON, Jennifer Hudson, Rick Ross, Travis Scott, Yo Gotti, and more.
Hamilton launched his career in music at Atlantic Records, rising through the ranks to become Senior Manager, Streaming & Sales.
At the label, he developed and oversaw strategies for Grammy-nominated acts Cardi B, Lil Uzi Vert, Meek Mill, Janelle Monáe, Nipsey Hussle, and others.
Hamilton’s appointment follows a number of other Def Jam appointments and promotions in recent months.
Natina Nimene was promoted to Executive Vice President, Promotion & Artist Relations, at Def Jam Recordings, in May.
In April, Lynn Gonzalez was promoted to Executive Vice President, Head of Business Affairs and Business Development, at Def Jam Recordings.
In February, LaTrice Burnette was appointed Executive Vice President, Def Jam Recordings / President, 4TH & Broadway.
“Mike boasts some of the best relationships in the industry, and brings a deep, nuanced understanding of the streaming ecosystem and a keen eye for strategy.”
Tunji Balogun
“I have known Mike for some time and have always greatly admired his work,” said Tunji Balogun.
“Mike boasts some of the best relationships in the industry, and brings a deep, nuanced understanding of the streaming ecosystem and a keen eye for strategy.
Added Balogun: “Our company and our artists will immediately benefit from Mike’s experience and expertise, and I’m beyond excited to finally work alongside him in breaking new artists together under the Def Jam banner.”
“Going back to our days at Atlantic, I’ve had a front row seat for Mike’s rapid growth as an executive and the passion, creativity and dynamism he brings to the job every day.”
LaTrice Burnette
LaTrice Burnette said: “Going back to our days at Atlantic, I’ve had a front row seat for Mike’s rapid growth as an executive and the passion, creativity and dynamism he brings to the job every day.
“I’m thrilled to be reunited with Mike at this legendary label, and look forward to making more history together at Def Jam/4th & Broadway.”
“Mike is an amazing addition to Def Jam’s growing Commerce team. His relationships and expertise are second to none.”
Theda Sandiford, Def Jam
Theda Sandiford, Senior Vice President of Commerce and Digital, said: “Mike is an amazing addition to Def Jam’s growing Commerce team. His relationships and expertise are second to none.”
“No entity in modern music has had a more profound impact on culture than Def Jam.”
Mike Hamilton
Mike Hamilton added: “No entity in modern music has had a more profound impact on culture than Def Jam. The legacy of this brand is both rich and vast, and I am honored at the chance to add to it.
“I’m grateful to Tunji and LaTrice for their incredible support & I’m excited to help break the next generation of superstar artists.”Music Business Worldwide
