JOHNSON’S MAGIC AT CAPITOL

There's a new power in the Tower.

Ronnie Johnson has been named EVP of Capitol Music Group. In this newly created position, Johnson will run the label’s Urban Music division, overseeing both Urban Promotion and Urban Marketing, reporting to President Lee Trink and based at the company’s N.Y. office.

The veteran exec most recently served as EVP of Atlantic Records, which he joined in 1999 as SVP Urban Promotion, rising to SVP/GM of the Urban division in 2002 and EVP in 2004, working closely with artists such as Sean Paul, TI and Trick Daddy.

Johnson has held several senior promotion posts within Universal Music Group, including SVP R&B Promotion at Motown Records. He was also VP R&B Promotion for Island Records and later, Mercury Records and joined the organization as National Director of R&B Promotion for what was then Polygram Label Group. He got his start in the music business at Reprise Records in 1989, rising to National Director of R&B Promotion.

Commented Trink: “Ronnie is a rare breed of record executive that wins consistently while always remaining a consummate gentleman. I couldn't think of a better partner to lead Capitol Music Group's Urban division.”

Added Capitol Music Group Chairman/CEO Jason Flom: "Ronnie is not only the best in the business at what he does, he is one of my favorite people. He is a proven winner and we are lucky to have him."

Said Johnson: “I’m excited to be working with two very passionate music executives Jason and Lee. Jason is an inspiration in that not only is he building a home for creative artists and executives, but he also gives back to the community in numerous ways, such as the work he does with the Drug Alliance and the Innocence Project. And I get to keep my bong in the office.”