Hitmaker The-Dream Named Executive VP of A&R at Def Jam

Writer and producer the-Dream (real name: Terius Nash), who has worked with Mariah Carey, Rihanna, Beyonce, Mary J. Blige and Justin Bieber, among other hit artists, has been appointed executive VP of A&R at Def Jam. 

According to a statement issued on Oct. 8, The-Dream "will have a comprehensive, broad reaching A&R portfolio." His responsibilities at the division of Universal Music Group will include overseeing the progress of current and new artist projects, signing new talent to the label and working in a production capacity with artists on the Def Jam roster. 

In his new position, the-Dream will work closely with Barry Weiss, chairman/CEO of Universal Republic and Island Def Jam Motown; Karen Kwak, head of A&R at Island Def Jam Music Group; Joie Manda, president of Def Jam Recordings; And Steve Bartels, president/COO of Island Def Jam Music Group. 

Currently, the-Dream is working with Rihanna on her upcoming Def Jam album and with Pusha T on his solo debut for G.O.OD. Music. The label will also devote additional resources to its executive VP's Radio Killa label imprint. 

Said the executive in announcing his new role: "Music means more than just a download, it's life to the culture and also the people who listen. This is a new exciting yet critical time for music -- 'You Meet Change with Change!'" 

A multiple Grammy nominee and winner over the course of his career, the-Dream wrote several songs on Mary J. Blige's 2007 album "Growing Pains," which won for best contemporary R&B Album and shared awards on Kanye West's "All Of The Lights," which nabbed best rap song and best rap sung collaboration, and Beyoncé's "Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)," which won for song of the year and best R&B Song.

Source: Billboard.biz