HYBE America has made a bold move in the music industry by appointing Ethiopia Habtemariam as its new President of Music. Known for her transformative leadership at Motown Records, Habtemariam is now set to shape the future of HYBE’s operations in the United States, driving artist development, A&R initiatives, and creative innovation across the company’s growing label ecosystem.
A Career Built on Breaking Barriers
Habtemariam’s appointment comes after a distinguished career spanning more than two decades in the music industry. She began as a teenage intern at L.A. Reid’s LaFace Records, later holding multiple roles at Universal Music Group, including Universal Music Publishing Group and Capitol Music Group.
During her tenure at Motown Records from 2021 to 2022, she oversaw high-profile partnerships and the development of major artists like Lil Yachty, City Girls, Migos, Lil Baby, Leon Thomas, and NBA YoungBoy. Her impact extends to pop and R&B stars such as Chris Brown, J. Cole, Justin Bieber, Ciara, Jhene Aiko, and Keri Hilson, demonstrating her versatility across genres.
“This is a company building with intention and investing for the long term while staying deeply connected to culture,” Habtemariam said of HYBE America. “I’m excited to contribute my experience as HYBE America continues to shape what’s next for music on a global scale.”
Expanding HYBE’s U.S. Presence
HYBE America, the U.S. subsidiary of South Korea-headquartered HYBE, has been rapidly expanding since its acquisition of Scooter Braun’s Ithaca Holdings in 2021 and Quality Control Music in 2023. Habtemariam’s role will be central to advancing the company’s long-term growth strategy, identifying new creative and commercial opportunities, and fostering talent across its label network.
She will operate out of Los Angeles and Atlanta, her hometown and a hub of global hip-hop influence, reporting directly to HYBE America Chairman and CEO Isaac Lee.
“Ethiopia is a once-in-a-generation leader whose impact on artists, songwriters, culture, and the music business is undeniable,” Lee said. “Her vision, taste, and strategic insight make her uniquely suited to help shape the next chapter of HYBE America as we continue building a future-facing entertainment company centered on artists and fans.”
Industry Leaders React
Industry partners have praised Habtemariam’s leadership and vision. Pierre ‘P’ Thomas, CEO of Quality Control Music, highlighted their long-standing collaboration: “Her passion for artists, commitment to culture, and deep understanding of the music landscape make her an extraordinary leader.”
Kevin ‘Coach K’ Lee, COO of Quality Control, added: “Working with Ethiopia again feels full circle. From the early days in Atlanta, we built something special at Quality Control, and it means a lot to see that legacy continue in this next chapter.”
HYBE America has also continued strategic expansions under Habtemariam’s oversight, including partnerships with VIP experiences company Confirmed360, a distribution deal with So So Def Recordings, and a joint venture with YouTube personality Alan Chikin Chow.
Shaping the Future of Music
Habtemariam’s appointment signals HYBE America’s commitment to blending cultural relevance with global scale. Her track record of nurturing artists and creating commercially successful ventures positions her to play a key role in shaping the company’s next chapter.
For an industry increasingly defined by cross-cultural collaborations, digital innovation, and global fan engagement, Habtemariam’s leadership represents not just continuity, but a vision for the future of music in the U.S. and beyond.
As she steps into this influential role, the music world will be watching how HYBE America leverages her expertise to redefine the artist experience and expand its global footprint.
