Spring Aspers has been named vice president of soundtracks and supervision for the Island Def Jam Music Group. This newly created position is intended to enhance Island Def Jam’s soundtrack activities after the establishment of Universal’s Film Music Division under Kathy Nelson. That Division created new opportunities for all of Universal Music Group’s record labels by Universal Music and Universal Pictures soundtrack album activities.
Based in Los Angeles, Aspers’ responsibilities will encompass A&R for all Island Def Jam soundtrack albums, in addition to increasing the awareness of the label’s artists and its music catalog to the film and television communities. She will also continue to supervise music films, including those with soundtracks outside of the Island Def Jam Music Group. She will report to Def Jam/Def Soul Records SVP of A&R Tina Davis and Jeff Fenster, SVP of A&R for Island Def Jam Music Group. She will also work with Kathy Nelson, president of film music for Universal Music Group/Universal Pictures on label-related activities as well as on soundtrack projects released through Island Def Jam.
Also, Lisette Rioux has been named director of artist development for Island Records. That announcement was made today by Stu Bergen, vice president of promotion for Island Records. Rioux will report directly to Mr. Bergen.
Based in New York, Rioux’s main responsibilities are managing the day-to-day schedules for Island artists on tour, which includes working with artists’ managers and agents with overseeing promotional activities, maximizing tour dates, and seeking out new opportunities for developing artists. Rioux will be working with Island Record artists such as Saliva, Christina Milian, PJ Harvey, Melissa Etheridge, Shelby Lynne, CKY, Injected, Slayer, and Bon Jovi, among others. Rioux previously held the position of director, aritst development for London-Sire Records for over two years. There, Ms. Rioux handled all aspects of tour related activities for the entire roster, working closely with artists such as Guster, Morcheeba, and Eden’s Crush.
Rioux said, “Island Def Jam is in the business of building careers and superstar acts and I am thrilled to be working alongside such a dedicated and passionate staff.”
Commenting on her appointment, Aspers said, “I’m thrilled to become part of the team. Not only does Island Def Jam have an incredible array of artistic talent, but the talent of executives and staff at the company is equally impressive. I also look forward to working closely with Kathy and her team to maximize our soundtrack opportunities.”
