Republic Records announces the hire of Ken “DURO” as SVP, A&R. This announcement comes from Rob Stevenson and Wendy Goldstein.
Based at the company’s New York City headquarters, “Duro” will focus on identifying, signing, cultivating, and introducing new talent throughout the worlds of hip-hop, rap, urban, and R&B.
About the hire, Mr. Stevenson comments, “Duro knows records inside and out as he’s mixed many of the groundbreaking records influencing this next wave of artists. His experience from behind the mixing board and as an executive give him a unique insight into the creative and real-world challenges facing artists in this evolving landscape.”
“I’ve been a fan of and have worked with Duro for many years,” says Ms. Goldstein. “He’s the consummate music visionary whose talent extends from creation to marketing and promotion. It’s an exciting moment for our team to welcome him to the fold.”
“Republic is truly a powerhouse,” says “Duro.” “I have an immense amount of respect for [Co-Founders] Monte and Avery Lipman, Wendy, Rob, and the entire team. I’d love to add that studio perspective to the label’s A&R process. I’m excited to find the next round of Republic superstars and work with them to create a new generation of classic records.
“Duro” remains a multi-faceted music industry magnate. As an in-demand engineer, he has garnered a total of six GRAMMY® Awards for his work on “Empire State of Mind” by Jay-Z & Alicia Keys, Erykah Badu’s Baduizm, Will Smith’s Big Willie Style, Jay-Z’s Vol. 2…Hard Knock Life, Ashanti’s Ashanti, and Usher’s “U Don’t Have To Call.” As an entrepreneur, he has co-founded and run Desert Storm Records since 1997. Its roster includes multiplatinum rap luminary Fabolous and more. For over two decades, he has been intrinsic to the fabric of hip-hop music and culture.
