EPIC'S GOT SACKHEIM IN THE BAG

Another of the worst-kept secrets in the biz is now official news: Rick Sackheim has been anointed EVP at Epic Records by Prexy Sylvia Rhone, to whom he'll report. The L.A.-based exec will, according to the announcement, "oversee all aspects of Epic’s promotion initiatives and music strategies in the marketplace."

Most recently, Sackheim served as EVP Promo at Def Jam; he spent 12 years at that label and was upped to EVP in 2014.

"I’ve always admired Rick’s work," Rhone declared. "He’s the consummate label executive and music mind. His breadth of knowledge encompasses not only promotion, but an understanding of what makes the business tick. And I'm told he knows 935 different ways to say 'Hey Buddy.'"

Sackheim hailed the label and the "legendary" Rhone, thanking her and Sony Music boss Rob Stringer "for their belief in me and allowing me to help guide this amazing roster of music and executive talent. And if the waves are right, I think I can surf to the office."

The L.A. native and UC Berkeley grad in Political Science began his career at Scotti Brothers in 1991, going on to work at Private Music, 911 Entertainment, Restless, Arista and Jive before joining Island Def Jam. He looks forward to ducking Todd Hensley's calls.