Samuel “Tone”
Barnes of production duo Trackmasters was named Executive Vice President of A&R
for Motown Records Group yesterday (November 23rd).
Barnes, who has
worked with a multitude of artists, will help the legendary label snag top-notch
talent.
Sylvia Rhone, who
was named CEO of Motown in October of 2004, is banking on Barnes’ talents
to help return the legendary label to it’s former glory.
"He is one
of the few producers out there who has the ability to work with everyone from
50 Cent to Jay-Z to R Kelly to Mary J Blige,” Rhone said. “His keen
instincts and invaluable insight make him a multi-dimensional asset to the entire
company."
The pair worked
on various projects over the years, making Barnes even more comfortable with
his new title.
“I’ve worked
on many projects with Sylvia over the years and share both her musical philosophy
for uplifting great artists as well as her passion and commitment for the music
business as a whole,” added Barnes.
Barnes also served
as Executive Vice President of Columbia Records in 1999, where he and production
partner “Poke” launched Trackmaster Records.
