Greg Thompson has been promoted to EVP of Capitol Music Group. The promotion was announced today by SteveBarnett, Chairman/CEO of the company. In his new position, Thompson serves as a senior member of Barnett’s executive team, overseeing Sales, Promotion, Marketing, Publicity, Creative Services & Video Production, Digital Planning & Production, Strategic Research and Insight, as well as shepherding the company’s brand partnerships through its in-house agency. Thompson has relocated to Hollywood, CA and is based in the company’s iconic Capitol Tower.
Barnett says, "I was highly aware of Greg’s accomplishments and stellar reputation within the industry before I came to Capitol, knowing he was instrumental in the success of Katy Perry, Lady Antebellum, Coldplay and David Guetta, among others. I realized very quickly that Greg would be a key member of my senior team as we build the new Capitol Music Group, and I couldn’t be happier and more grateful that he and his family have made the big move to the west coast. Our artists and the entire Capitol team are fortunate to have Greg as a leader in our company, and I congratulate him on this well-deserved promotion."
Thompson commented, "Lucian Grainge clearly had a vision for Capitol’s future, as he hired one of the best music men in the business to lead the rebuilding of this historic label. I am amazed at how Steve’s energy and vision have already begun to reinvigorate Capitol and transform it into a forward thinking, aggressive company that is positioned for huge success. I am honored to be part of Steve’s team and am thrilled to be working with him and everyone here to support our artists and make Capitol the talk of the industry."
Prior to his new appointment, Thompson was EVP of Marketing and Promotion for EMI Music North America. He joined EMI as EVP of North America in 2008 after three years as EVP of Promotion for Island/Def Jam Records, where he played a key role in the success of artists such as Rihanna, Kanye West, Mariah Carey, The Killers, Ludacris and Fall Out Boy.
Thompson was previously SVP of Promotion at Elektra Entertainment Group, before being promoted to EVP/GM. He began his career at Chrysalis Records in 1985 as Regional Promotion Manager for the Midwest.