Universal Music UK has announced the launch of the new frontline label 0207 Def Jam. It will be the UK home of the Def Jam Recordings label and includes the appointment of the highly-respected industry executives and Ghanaian, London-born twin brothers, Alec and Alex Boateng as co-presidents.
The name 0207 is the telephone code for inner London which reflects the label’s commitment to the UK’s music, culture and art. It will partner with the Def Jam label, which has been in the vanguard of hip-hop culture around the world for over 35years.
Alex has built 10 years of experience at Universal Music UK, a tenure which included the role of president of Island Records Urban Division. He has been instrumental in campaigns and the careers of acts such as Drake, Nicki Minaj, Jessie J, and Tiwa Savage.
"Our job is to make things that have never worked, work." – co-founder of Def Jam Recordings, @RickRubin. pic.twitter.com/4mpm1QZm60
— 0207 Def Jam (@0207DefJam) November 25, 2020
Whiles Alec has been a force at Warner Music, where he recently served as co-head of A&R at Atlantic. Where he spearheaded chart-topping wins for the likes of Stormzy, Rita Ora and Jess Glynne. He has also contributed to the success of Burna Boy whose latest album was just nominated for a GRAMMY.
The Boatengs are fired up as they have already installed top-tier talent at 0207: Amy Tettey is on board as Managing Director, Char Grant is the label’s A&R Director, and Jacqueline Eyewe as Marketing Director.
Universal Music UK Chairman & CEO David Joseph in a statement said,
“Bringing the Boateng brothers together at 0207 Def Jam is an important moment in British culture. Alec and Alex have always done things their own way with success always quick to follow. They have already assembled an exceptionally talented top team with a clear vision for this exciting new chapter in the history of one of the world’s most famous labels.”
Interim Chairman & CEO of Def Jam Recordings, Jeff Harleston added,
“It is a perfect fit having Alex and Alec at the helm of 0207 Def Jam. Their creativity, artist relationships, and connection with culture are all key elements that have made Def Jam such an important label for over 35 years. I have no doubt that Alex, Alec and their team will only make the label and the brand even stronger.”
On their appointment for their new position
Co-President of 0207 Def Jam Alec Boateng said, “Music, art and artists really, really matter. I’m super excited to play a leadership role in this brilliant new space we’re creating for amazing music and talent to live and evolve. A space which will support both our teams and our artists to be the best version of themselves.”
Co-President of 0207 Def Jam Alex Boateng concluded by saying, “Especially in these times, this is a real privilege. I’m proud our collective journey now includes partnering a legendary label with a style that only London and the UK can provide. Looking forward to watching and guiding where the music and arts take the journey next.”
