LISA ELLIS GETS EVP STRIPES

Sony Music Label Group Chairman Rob Stringer sent out an internal memo to staff this morning announcing the promotion of Sony Urban head Lisa Ellis to the post of Executive Vice President of the group. Thus, Ellis, whose division is about to be revamped, and who was said to be hotly pursued by rival majors, will stay at Sony, with Sony Urban being folded into Columbia.

Here’s the text of Stringer’s memo:

“It is a pleasure to announce that Lisa Ellis has been named Executive Vice President, Sony Music Label Group, reporting directly to me. Lisa will work closely with me and be involved in all aspects of the Sony Music Label Group's activities, with particular emphasis on broadening our growth as an entertainment company in the digital era. She will be a key executive in helping map out our future.

“Lisa previously served as President of Sony Urban Music since 2005. Prior to that, she served as Sony Urban’s General Manager. During her tenure with the company, she has earned numerous industry awards, and has made important contributions to the growth and development of the company.

“In addition, as a part of our ongoing development of our roster and new emerging artists in the evolving marketplace, we are moving Sony Urban Music to Columbia Records Group. With the integration of Sony Urban Music and Columbia Records, it puts the artist roster in a position of strength under one umbrella. We remain firmly committed to signing and breaking artists in the R&B, hip-hop and gospel genres.”