One of the few remaining music execs that actually has a background in music-making, (he even DJed the Big Beat Records Relaunch Party), Craig Kallman remains a guiding force in the industry as Chairman and CEO of Atlantic Records Group. Alongside Julie Greenwald, Kallman was named Music Visionary of the Year by the UJA-Federation.
Maintaining a hands-on approach in the boardroom and occasionally in the studio, the executive, in particular helped guide the career of stars like Flo Rida and B.o.B. to chart success in 2009 and 2010, respectively. He also worked directly with Lupe Fiasco and R&B songstress Toni Braxton on projects over the past year.
Kallman helped oversee the 2009 relaunch of Elektra Records, naming Fueled By Ramen founder John Janick and Atlantic EVP of A&R Mike Caren to run the resurrected imprint and immediately signing Cee-Lo to the new label.
"I really think that whether you want to be a publicist, writer, producer, a marketing person, whatever, the key is certainly perseverance," Kallman said in 2009. "I think it's getting a foot in the door. Real talent and real drive and real ambition always shine through."
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