MTV executive to lead MySpace Music

by Staff, Brand Republic 26-Nov-08, 09:40

NEW YORK - MySpace has appointed Courtney Holt, former executive vice-president of digital music for MTV, as president of MySpace Music,

Holt will be responsible for overseeing the growth and development of the MySpace Music brand and its global operations.

Holt has extensive knowledge of the music industry and while at MTV oversaw several initiatives for the company's digital music group, including working with the MTV, VH1 and CMT brands and extending these online. He also worked closely with integrated marketing and ad sales teams to drive new business partnerships and advertising models.

Chris DeWolfe, CEO and co-founder of MySpace, said: "Courtney understands how to successfully blend technology with music and the resulting new business opportunities born from such a combination. Courtney's unique vision and willingness to innovate makes him an incredible addition to our executive team--we're thrilled to have him on board."

Prior to joining MTV, Holt was senior vice-president of new media at Interscope Geffen A&M during which time he worked with MySpace to premiere new albums from artists including Weezer, Nine Inch Nails, Beck, Black Eyed Peas, and Audioslave.

"MySpace Music cultivates relationships between artists and fans by enabling and reinforcing music discovery both online and offline and providing the tools to customise and personalise their music experience," said Holt. "The new company will explore different and evolutionary revenue streams that provide real opportunities for artists and the industry as a whole. I can't wait to help build those opportunities even further."

Since officially launching in September 2008, MySpace Music has exclusively premiered new albums and singles from artists as Guns N' Roses, The Cure, Oasis, Beyonce, Justin Timberlake, Linkin Park and John Legend.

MySpace Music has also expanded into offline activity by connecting bands and fans around the world through various concert series and live events.