PITTS MARKS HIS SPOT AT ZOMBA

Mark Pitts has been named President of Urban Music for Zomba Label Group by ZLG President/CEO Barry Weiss.

In this role, Pitts will continue to identify new talent while supervising the artistic and commercial development of Zomba’s urban artists. The N.Y.-based exec will continue to work closely with Weiss and ZLG SVP U.S. Record Labels Peter Thea.

Pitts previously served as SVP for the Zomba Label Group. His tenure spans over 15 years, beginning in 1992 with Sean “Puffy” Combs at the seminal hip-hop label Bad Boy Records. He went on to manage several artists, including Notorious B.I.G., joining Zomba in 2004 from Arista Records. As an A&R executive at Zomba, he has worked with Usher, Chris Brown, Ciara, Kelis and Anthony Hamilton.

Pitts is currently working on Usher’s follow-up to Confessions as well as Grammy-nominated Chris Brown’s sophomore album. In addition, he is helping new Darkchild/Jive Records artist Natasha prepare the upcoming release of her debut album.

Said Weiss: “I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Mark for the past three years. His ear for talent combined with his business sense is a rare combination which puts ZLG at a great advantage. I look forward to his continuing contributions to Zomba’s success. Of course, he missed a spot on my pedicure.”

Added Thea: “We are extremely happy to give Mark this well-deserved promotion. I have yet to meet another person in this business with Mark's energy, drive and determination. Mark is a highly talented executive with an entrepreneurial spirit which makes him an asset to our organization. Plus, he runs the office numbers pool, so he’s invaluable around here.”

Said Pitts: “As much as I’ve been blessed with success, I am still a student of the game, learning every day. This new position will truly allow me to grow and further bring my vision to Zomba ’s urban acts in all areas. Does this mean I get to live in the White House?”