EMI Names Gary Beech SVP Urban Marketing

Gary Beech has joined EMI Music North America as SVP, Urban Marketing.  Beech, who begins immediately, is based in New York. Prior to EMI, Beech held similar positions at Sony, Epic and Mercury.  More from the press release:

“Gary knows artists.  Gary understands brands and how to bring them together with artists.  He is a forward-thinking marketing professional and we are delighted he’s returning to EMI,” said Handler.  “We look forward to adding his experience and leadership as we work to create even stronger connections between fans and artists and offer consumers more ways to discover music.”

“It’s great to be coming back to EMI as the company continues a major upwards trajectory and is really embracing innovation,” said Beech.  “I am excited to work with such a strong and growing roster.”

He will oversee product management for EMI's US urban roster, including Avant, J. Holiday, LeToya, MIMs and Novel.  He and his team will also provide support for independent artist projects from EMI Label Services such as Fat Joe, Twista and Bobby Valentino.

Previously, he was SVP, Urban Marketing at Sony Music Entertainment, where he oversaw marketing for the urban rosters at both Columbia and Epic Records for artists ranging from Beyonce, John Legend, The Dreamgirls soundtrack, Lyfe Jennings, Three 6 Mafia, Nas and Bow Wow.  Before that, he was SVP of Urban Marketing at Epic.  He also had senior marketing roles at Mercury Records, and from 1992-1997, he was Vice President of Marketing at EMI Records Group, where he worked with artists such as D'Angelo, Pet Shop Boys and Prince.