WILLIAMS CROSSES OVER TO J

Michael Williams "Sonoma" has been named Vice President Crossover Promotion at J Records.

Williams will report to his mentor, Richard Palmese, Executive VP of Promotion for Clive Davis' label. He comes to J from his own company, One Nation Management, which primarily handled producers.

"I'm very excited about the opportunity to work with Richard Palmese again," said Williams. "My career seems to bloom when he is involved, and the opportunity to work so close to Clive Davis is invaluable! Plus, neither of them can resist my sweet potato pecan pie! By the way, please make sure that all of my sentences end in exclamation points!"

Palmese added, "Michael is a star! His love of music coupled with his dynamic personality guarantees our success in the all-important Crossover arena. And have you tasted his Cajun fried turkey? It's to die for."

Williams' early career began at MCA Records in Pop and Rock Promotion under the tutelage of Palmese. In the earl '90s, Williams became VP Pop Promotion at Motown, helping break such artists as Another Bad Creation and Boyz II Men. Following that, he formed One Nation.

In related news, Carolyn Williams "Burg Bridge" has been named Director, Urban Marketing. Williams, who is based in New York, reports to EVP Worldwide Sales and Marketing Tom Corson, but she'll also work in tandem with Ron Gillyard, Sr. VP Black Music.

"Carolyn's marketing expertise and creative flair will be an asset in launching our new artists and bringing our superstars to new heights," Corson said.

Most recently, Williams was Director of Marketing for Tommy Boy Records. Prior to that, she was Product Manager at Penalty Records.