BACH EXITS DISNEY

Veteran label exec Russ Bach is leaving Walt Disney Records after being brought in to reorganize the label under Buena Vista Music Group Chairman Bob Cavallo two-and-a-half years ago. His rumored replacement is said to be Luigi Calabrese, currently VP for Walt Disney Records’ European operations.

The 64-year-old Bach will retire this Friday and will remain as a consultant for the company until February.

Walt Disney Records releases the soundtracks for Disney movies such as "Tarzan" and "Fantasia 2000," as well as various children's titles.

Bach was in the WEA system from 1973 to 1988, working his way from Branch Manager to Executive Vice President. He joined CEMA in 1989 as President, a post he held until 1997, when the company was re-named EMD. Richard Cottrell took his place.

Cavallo told the L.A. Times: "He was invaluable. He did a great job for us."

A label insider said: "I'm sorry to see him go. He was a real professional and a great person. He will be missed around here."

Another industry source claimed: "He was one of the architects of modern-day distribution. With the retirement of Henry Droz last year and now his departure, it's truly the end of an era."

Bach declined comment, but did say that he could be reached at [email protected].