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"I must thank Johnny Barbis for this tremendous opportunity to grow in my career at DreamWorks. He has shown the kind of support and creativity that you dream of in a boss—at most labels I’d never have the freedom to do all the things I’ve done on Johnny’s watch."

ZAPIN BECOMES THE EXPANDING MAN AT DREAMWORKS RECORDS

Veteran Label Promo Exec to Oversee Rock, PoMo, Video, Race Against Stuttering John
Just don't call him Elephant Boy.

Ross "The Boss" Zapin has been tapped to oversee the combined Rock and Modern Rock promotion departments at DreamWorks Records, while continuing to look after the label’s video promotion activities.

As part of his duties, he is now required to pick up the check if he invites Howard Stern to dinner for his birthday.

The appointment was announced by DreamWorks Records’ "Herrrrree’sssss" Johnny Barbis, to whom Zapin reports.

Said Barbis: "Ross has done an outstanding job of raising awareness of our artists at radio. He’s shown real leadership in not only getting songs played, but in looking after the overall development of artists’ careers. Ross has worn two hats at DreamWorks for a while now, getting impressive results in both the radio and video arenas, so we have no doubt he will excel in his increased responsibilities as head of our recently combined Rock and Modern Rock promotion efforts. He’s almost as articulate as Beetlejuice in pitching records to radio and TV."

The N.Y.-based Zapin will maintain his role as DreamWorks’ chief liaison to the MTV Networks and other major video outlets, insisting that VJ Martha Quinn always takes his calls.

Zapin formerly spearheaded the company’s Modern Rock promotion efforts, in addition to his video promotion duties.

Zapin remarked: "I must thank Johnny Barbis for this tremendous opportunity to grow in my career at DreamWorks. He has shown the kind of support and creativity that you dream of in a boss—at most labels I’d never have the freedom to do all the things I’ve done on Johnny’s watch. I’m also extremely grateful to my team members in the department, Matt Smith and Jeff Gillis. These guys are critical in making sure we get the job done. [DreamWorks Records principal executive] Michael Ostin, too, has been very important in my forward movement at DreamWorks. He has shown great faith in my abilities from day one. With this incredible group working alongside me, I’m looking forward to major success for our artists in 2003. Now, can I get a Baba-booey!?"

Zapin began his career in the music industry as Promotion Director for New York Rock station WAPP (now Hot 97). He then segued into concert promotion, joining the staff of Ron Delsener Enterprises. He joined Geffen Records in 1990 as New York Regional Promotion Manager.

In 1995, he was elevated to East Coast Modern Rock promotion director. Zapin became head of Modern Rock promotion in 1998, at which point he relocated to Los Angeles. Among the artists he’s worked with while at Geffen were Nirvana, Beck and Counting Crows. He came to DreamWorks in 1999 as head of Modern Rock and video promotion.

Added Zapin: "Hey, at least I’ve lasted longer than Jackie the Jokeman…"