by Jeroslyn JoVonn
January 9, 2026
Ethiopia Habtemariam returns to the music C-suite as HYBE America’s new President of Music.
Veteran music govt Ethiopia Habtemariam is making her return to the business after a short hiatus, stepping in as HYBE America’s new President of Music.
Efficient instantly, Habtemariam will assist broaden HYBE America’s footprint in Atlanta, dwelling to its High quality Management label, Billboard experiences. As HYBE deepens its U.S. presence, the corporate is tapping Atlanta’s standing as a world hub for R&B and hip-hop, with Habtemariam tasked with strengthening High quality Management’s affect and influence as the town’s main music powerhouse.
“I’ve lengthy admired how HYBE America approaches artists, followers, and the way forward for leisure,” Habtemariam mentioned in an announcement. “It is a firm constructing with intention and investing for the long run whereas staying deeply linked to tradition. I’m excited to contribute my expertise as HYBE America continues to form what’s subsequent for music on a world scale.”
She additionally shared her pleasure in regards to the new position in an Instagram put up, which drew enthusiastic help from the High quality Management group.
“I really like music. I really like serving to people who find themselves blessed with the reward of music. Let’s get it 🙏🏾🤞🏾,” she captioned her put up, with High quality Management Music CEO Pierre ‘P’ Thomas responding with the cool face emoji.
Habtemariam, former chairwoman and CEO of Motown Data, will assist drive HYBE America’s long-term technique by main A&R and artist growth throughout its labels as the corporate expands past Okay-pop within the U.S. Her appointment reunites her with High quality Management co-founders Kevin “Coach Okay” Lee and Pierre “P” Thomas, with whom she beforehand partnered at Motown to develop artists together with Migos, Lil Child, Metropolis Ladies, and Lil Yachty.
Thomas mentioned he and Habtemariam have “a protracted historical past of working collectively, pushing boundaries, and breaking limitations on this business. Her ardour for artists, dedication to tradition, and deep understanding of the music panorama make her a unprecedented chief.”
“Working with Ethiopia once more feels full circle,” Lee added. “From the early days in Atlanta, we constructed one thing particular at High quality Management, and it means rather a lot to see that legacy proceed on this subsequent chapter.”
