KWAK JOINS L.A.’S IDJ TEAM

Karen Kwak "& Roll" has been named Senior Vice President A&R Operations, Office of the Chairman for the Island Def Jam Music Group by Reid.

Kwak will work directly with L.A., managing all operational duties of the A&R department, including the administration of all A&R-related affairs for IDJ and its affiliated labels. Ms. Kwak will also head the Def Jam A&R department, with full responsibility for all of its creative and operational aspects.

Commented Reid: "I am thrilled to have Karen here with me. She consistently displays uncommon leadership, a keen sense of strategy in a broad range of situations and an unwavering commitment to artists and their creative process. I am sure she will be instrumental in helping take IDJ to even greater heights. And she can whistle the entire Deele songbook."

Added Kwak: "I am truly grateful to L.A. Reid for yet another opportunity. Having worked closely with him for the last several years, I am continually inspired by his commitment to excellence. It is a real privilege to be part of this dynamic team and to work with L.A. in executing his vision for the Island Def Jam Music Group, a label with a rich history, an incredible roster of artists and talented executives. But I draw the line at letting him call me ‘Babyface.’"

Kwak joins the label from Arista Records, where she most recently served as Sr. VP A&R Ops. & Administration. Prior to that, she was VP A&R Administration at LaFace Records in Atlanta. Kwak began her career at Motown Records in 1991, rising to VP A&R Administration before joining LaFace in 1999.