Universal Music Group Nashville Announces Leadership Changes

In the immediate aftermath of the announcement regarding the departure of Universal Music Group Nashville CEO Cindy Mabe, UMG swiftly revealed two key appointments. Mike Harris has stepped into the role of CEO for the Nashville division, while acclaimed producer Dave Cobb, known for his work with artists like Brandi Carlile and Jason Isbell, has been named the label group’s chief creative officer.

Background on New Leaders

Mike Harris previously held the positions of COO and EVP at Universal Nashville before leaving the company last September, only to return five months later. Dave Cobb, a celebrated independent producer and nine-time Grammy winner, has not held executive roles prior to this appointment, making his transition particularly noteworthy.

Announcement Timing

The promotions were officially announced by Universal on Thursday evening, Nashville time, following reports earlier in the day (with Country Aircheck being the first to break the news) that Mabe was departing after 18 years with the company, including nearly two years as CEO.

Statements from Leadership

Sir Lucian Grainge, chairman and CEO of UMG, expressed his enthusiasm in a statement: “We see an incredible opportunity to expand our presence in Nashville and build upon our industry-leading track record. The worldwide success of our country artists demonstrates that the genre truly has no boundaries, and I’m excited for what lies ahead creatively and commercially.”

Grainge also took a moment to acknowledge Mabe’s contributions, stating, “I want to thank Cindy Mabe for all her contributions to our Nashville company. She leaves UMG with our gratitude and respect.”

New Leadership Perspectives

Mike Harris shared his thoughts on the new role: “I am humbled to have been asked by Sir Lucian to lead UMG Nashville at such an important and exciting time in country music. I also look forward to working closely with Dave Cobb, the amazing roster of artists, and my friends at UMG Nashville.”

Dave Cobb added, “I am incredibly excited to work with Mike Harris. I’m here to honor the past and look to the future.”

Harris’s Experience

Harris has been with UMG Nashville since 2016, serving as EVP-COO. His previous experience includes roles at EMI, where he was EVP-GM for Caroline, a division of Capitol Music Group/EMI.

Industry Impact of Cobb’s Appointment

The transition from Mabe to Harris is sure to be a hot topic in the coming days, but equally intriguing is Cobb’s unexpected shift from producer to executive. Cobb is a recognized name not only in Nashville but across the broader entertainment landscape, having contributed to numerous high-profile film and TV projects in addition to his acclaimed album productions.

Notable Productions

Cobb’s impressive production portfolio includes Chris Stapleton’s blockbuster album “Traveller,” Brandi Carlile’s breakthrough “By the Way, I Forgive You,” the Highwomen’s self-titled album, and Jason Isbell’s “Southeastern.” Recently, he has been involved in music for the upcoming Bruce Springsteen biopic, “Deliver Me From Nowhere,” and has previously worked on films like Baz Luhrmann’s “Elvis,” “The Eyes of Tammy Faye,” and “A Star Is Born.”

Upcoming Projects

In addition to his recent work, Cobb is set to produce albums for Zayn and the Red Clay Strays in 2024, along with projects for notable artists such as Sturgill Simpson, John Prine, Greta Van Fleet, and many others.

UMG Nashville’s Artist Roster

The UMG Nashville label group includes Capitol Records Nashville, EMI Records Nashville, MCA Nashville, and Mercury Nashville. Recently, the long-dormant Lost Highway imprint was reactivated under Mabe’s leadership, with a Ringo Starr country album produced by T Bone Burnett marking its return. While UMG Nashville once dominated the market share among Music City’s labels, Sony Nashville has recently gained ground, challenging their position.

Universal Nashville’s roster boasts an impressive lineup of artists, including Chris Stapleton, Eric Church, Carrie Underwood, Kacey Musgraves, Little Big Town, George Strait, Mickey Guyton, Darius Rucker, Dierks Bentley, Jordan Davis, Keith Urban, Parker McCollum, Tucker Wetmore, the War and Treaty, Sam Hunt, Jon Pardi, and many more.