Kevin Liles

Kevin Liles Net Worth 2024: What Is The Co-Founder Of 300 Entertainment Worth?

by

Kevin Liles’ ascent in the music industry is a narrative that exemplifies vision, leadership, and strategic innovation. Starting his journey in the world of hip-hop, Liles has risen to become one of the most influential executives in the music industry. His career, spanning various leadership roles and entrepreneurial ventures, has led to a net worth of $60 million by 2024, according to LuxLux. This reflects his significant impact in shaping the modern music landscape.

The Executive’s Playlist: Liles’ Path To Industry Preeminence

kevin liles
June 14, 2001: Leaders of the hip hop community including Russell Simmons, Sean ‘Puffy’ Combs, Jermaine Dupri. Kevin Lyles, and others pose for a photo during the ‘Taking Back Responsibilty. Hip Hop Summit’ at the New York Hilton in New York City. Photo by Scott Gries/ImageDirect

Liles’ journey began in the heart of hip-hop’s golden era, where he initially made his mark as an artist. However, his true calling was behind the scenes, orchestrating success for others. His tenure at Def Jam Recordings, where he rose to become President, was marked by a series of strategic decisions that propelled the label to new heights. Liles’ knack for identifying and nurturing talent, coupled with his understanding of the evolving music business, made him a pivotal figure in the industry. His later role as Executive Vice President at Warner Music Group further solidified his reputation as a visionary leader.

Influence & Ingenuity: Liles’s Impact On Music & Beyond

kevin liles
NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 09: Singer Mariah Carey and Kevin Liles announce the launch of her. Go N’Syde bottle “Butterfly” at the Saint Regis Hotel on June 9, 2014 in. New York City. (Photo by Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images)

Kevin Liles’ influence extends far beyond corporate boardrooms. His foresight in embracing digital technology also transformed the way music is marketed and distributed. This kept his ventures at the forefront of industry innovation. Further, his mentorship of young artists and executives has left an indelible mark, fostering a new generation of industry leaders. Liles’ involvement in various philanthropic efforts showcases his commitment to giving back, particularly in supporting arts and education initiatives.

A Vision Beyond Vinyl: Liles’ Diverse Ventures

kevin liles
NEW YORK – MARCH 20: Kevin Liles, President of Island Def Jam Music Group, poses for a portrait on March 20, 2003 in New York City, New York. (Photo by Karjean Levine/Getty Images)

Liles’ acumen is not confined to the music industry. His entrepreneurial spirit has led him to ventures in fashion and technology, demonstrating a keen understanding of broader market trends. His personal story, from a budding rapper to a top industry executive, is a compelling tale of adaptability, foresight, and unwavering commitment to his vision. Liles’ journey is not just about financial success but about leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry and beyond.

Kevin Liles’ rise to a net worth of $60 million in 2024 showcases a career that transcends traditional boundaries. His journey from the music studio to the boardroom and beyond is a reflection of his ability to adapt, innovate, and lead in an ever-changing industry, making him a true architect of modern music.

The post Kevin Liles Net Worth 2024: What Is The Co-Founder Of 300 Entertainment Worth? appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Kevin Liles Celebrates Gunna’s Barclays Performance: ‘Everything We Needed and More’

by
Kevin Liles Celebrates Gunna's Barclays Performance

Kevin Liles hit Gunna‘s Barclays show over the weekend. In an Instagram post, Kevin Liles celebrated the performance while continuing to support the movement to free Young Thug.

“What a night with the fam at Barclays!” Liles wrote. “@Gunna’s Wun Night Only was everything we needed and more. #SayLessDoMore #FreeJeffery #ProtectBlackArt“

READ MORE: Kevin Liles and Julie Greenwald Start Petition Against the Use of Rap Lyrics in Court

Gunna returned to the stage, his first headlining performance in two years. Taking over the Barclays Center, Gunna presented The Gift Show. The album carries part of the A Gift & A Curse album, which dropped in July and hit No. 3 on the Billboard 200.

During his time on the stage, Gunna had Free Jeffrey illuminated on the giant screens in the arena. You can see the visual below.

During a June 2022 hearing, Kevin Liles, CEO of 300 Entertainment, took the stand and testified that Thug, who is signed to his label, is “like a son,” and he was willing to put up his own wealth and business to secure his bond. Machine Gun Kelly also provided character testimony on Thug’s behalf.

The post Kevin Liles Celebrates Gunna’s Barclays Performance: ‘Everything We Needed and More’ first appeared on The Source.

The post Kevin Liles Celebrates Gunna’s Barclays Performance: ‘Everything We Needed and More’ appeared first on The Source.

Young Thug To Put Lyor Cohen & Kevin Liles On Witness Stand

by

Young Thug recently gave the court a state a list of people he wants to take the witness stand in his RICO case, including Lyor Cohen and Kevin Liles. According to court documents obtained by AllHipHop, Thug’s list includes 36 names that he believes will prove enlightening in his trial. Moreover, jury selection for said trial began in early January after months behind bars. However, Judge Ural Glanville remarked that this process might take months to complete, as the process is exhaustive. Regardless, the YSL codefendants face multiple charges including racketeering, conspiracy to violate RICO, and weapon and drug possession charges.

NEW YORK, NY – JANUARY 24: Kevin Liles (L) and Lyor Cohen attend The Big Smoke Pre-Grammy Celebration at The Grand Havana Room on January 24, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Furthermore, Lyor Cohen is currently YouTube’s Global Head of Music and is a former Def Jam executive. Also, he co-founded 300 Entertainment with Kevin Liles, former Executive Vice President at Warner Music Group. To explain the Thug connection, 300 Entertainment distributed Young Stoner Life Records’ releases, and later sold to Warner Music Group. As such, these executives have a pretty close relationship with the Atlanta superstar. While his trial is still far, far away, the 31-year-old’s trial shocked fans with its developments multiple times. For example, officials recently accused some of his YSL codefendants in a prison stabbing.

Still, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported that Judge Glanville said jury selection will take months despite escalating developments. Moreover, 613 people represented the original juror pool. Following excuses and requests to be absent, authorities scheduled another prospective batch of 300 jurors. Those participants are due February 24, whereas another group of 300 will arrive on March 17. In addition, potential jurors must watch a full video of a reading of the indictment against Thugger and his codefendants. Also, they received the chance to request exemption or excuse from the trial for hardship. Of course, that’s what led the jury to the additional jurors they’re reviewing now.

“Just for your basic juror math, if we examine five a day, that is four months,” Glanville said. “If you examine a full panel a day, that’s about two and a half months.” Moreover, he excused more than half of the original 613 from the trial. Glanville’s goal is to qualify 90 of them, and eventually settle on 12 jurors and six alternates. While jury selection will continue to determine the speed of this case, Thug’s witnesses could determine its outcome. As always, come back to HNHH for the latest on the YSL RICO case and Young Thug.

[via]

Kevin Liles Pens Heartfelt Message In Support Of Young Thug

by

Young Thug is facing serious time as the trial for the YSL RICO case inches closer. Over the past few months, we’ve heard from a number of figures – executives, rappers, etc – who’ve called for Young Thug’s freedom. Kevin Liles, the CEO of 300 Ent., has been incredibly vocal in his support for Thug, too.

On Wednesday, he penned a heartfelt message calling for Thug’s freedom, which he posted to his Instagram page. Liles praised Thug as a family man and entrepreneur, while encouraging him to stay strong.

ATLANTA, GA – OCTOBER 25: Young Thug and Kevin Liles attend dinner celebrating Young Thug’s album “Punk” on October 25, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia.(Photo by Prince Williams/Wireimage)

“#FreeJeff The man I know is a loving father, great business partner and an inspiration to so many people around the world. Stay strong my brother and you know where I stand… #imwithhim #mybrotherskeeper #saylessdomore,” he captioned the post.

Liles previously appeared in court during a bail hearing where he vouched on Thug’s behalf. During his emotional testimony, he said that he’d put up $1M of his own money for Thug’s bail. He also pushed back against claims that the rapper would intimidate witnesses.

“This whole thing that people are talking about, that’s not him. The Jeffrey I know? The Jeffrey I know would give me the clothes off of his back… I can give him my kids, he could give me his kids. That’s the Jeffrey I know,” he said.

Though Thug has reportedly not talked to anyone outside of his attorneys in legal time, it feels as though the rapper needs all the support he can get these days. A video emerged this week of Young Thug nearly falling asleep in court, while many described him as looking “defeated.” Thug’s currently in the jury selection process but the court authorities estimated that the trial can last upwards of a year.

Lyor Cohen, Killer Mike Among 28 Names On Young Thug’s RICO Trial Witness List

by
Screen Shot 2023 01 04 at 4.41.55 AM

Young Thug maybe facing life in prison if convicted of the YSL RICO charge he faces at trial this month, but that won’t stop him from calling on his entertainment industry colleagues and friends as potential witnesses at trial.

According to WSBTV‘s Michael Seiden, music exec Lyor Cohen and ATL rapper and political activist Killer Mike were just two of the 28 names listed as potential witnesses for Young Thug’s defense, which is called the “state’s witness list.”

Cohen co-founded 300 Entertainment along with Kevin Liles, who signed Thugger to the label back in 2014. Liles, who took the stand during one of Thug’s bond hearings, called for legislators to stop using song lyrics in court against entertainers like Young Thug.

Eight of Thugger’s co-defendants have already taken plea deals, dodging prison time with an admission of guilt in the conspiracy to violate the RICO Act. Two of his co-defendants, Tenquarius “Nard” Mender and Derontae Bebee, rejected their plea deals and will be at trial with Thug next week. Nard faces 50 years with a conviction, while Bebee is looking at a life sentence.

The post Lyor Cohen, Killer Mike Among 28 Names On Young Thug’s RICO Trial Witness List appeared first on The Source.

[WATCH] Gunna Smiles and Laughs with His Godson in Video Call From Jail

by
Gunna Gives Out His Number On Twitter: (470) 206-3380

In a new video that has hit social media, Gunna can be seen on a video call with his godson. The currently jailed rapper was all smiles as he spoke with those on the other side of the video call. Throughout the short clip, there is laughter and smiles as Gunna salutes his godson for looking like a “playa”.

Gunna was recently denied bond for the second time. Shortly before he released his first statement since being jailed on a 56-count indictment in Georgia along with Young Thug and the rest of YSL Records.

Currently being held in Fulton County Jail, Gunna spoke about the opportunity that he provided for other professionals and his loved ones.

The statement, in part, reads:

“The picture that is being painted of me is ugly and untrue. My fans know I love to celebrate life, I love my family, I love travel, I love music, I love my fans. I have all faith that God will grant me justice for the purity in my heart and the innocence of my actions.”

Gunna also spoke to the constraints on his art as a freedom of expression:

“My art is now allowed to stand alone as entertainment, I’m not allowed that freedom as a Black Man in America. It is a sad reality that slavery is still alive in America today and still affecting my people. In 12 states more than half of the prison population is Black, one of those states is Georgia.”

You can see Gunna’s full letter to the fans and public below.

unnamed 15
unnamed 1 7

The post [WATCH] Gunna Smiles and Laughs with His Godson in Video Call From Jail appeared first on The Source.

Warner Music Group Announces 300 Elektra Ent.

by
image001 1

A super record label has arrived.

Warner Music Group today announced the creation of 300 Elektra Entertainment – 3EE – a new frontline label group that brings together the multi-genre power of 300 and Elektra.

Headed by Chairman & CEO Kevin Liles, this supergroup of iconic, indie-spirited brands includes 300, Elektra Records, Fueled by Ramen, Roadrunner, Low Country Sound, DTA Records, Public Consumption, Young Stoner Life Records, Sparta, and 300 Studios.

MORE: SOLD! Warner Music Group Acquires 300 Entertainment

Under the umbrella of 3EE, both 300 and Elektra will maintain their independent identities and cultures. Overseeing 300 Entertainment are newly appointed Co-Presidents Rayna Bass and Selim Bouab, while Mike Easterlin and Gregg Nadel will continue to serve as Co-Presidents of Elektra Entertainment (formerly Elektra Music Group). In addition, a 3EE central hub of expertise will be established to bring together the deep knowledge and wide experience spanning the 300 and Elektra teams. 

As part of the launch, a new logo and mission statement have been unveiled, drawing on 3EE labels’ distinctive DNA and the new company’s unique indie-major philosophy. The logo combines elements of both brands, including 300’s signature red “3” and the stacked Elektra Entertainment logo. The mission statement makes clear 3EE’s creative identity, heralding the company as a family of labels driven by “the power of people, the power of service, and the power of action,” with the “mindset of an independent and the muscle of a major.”  

“Every single brand within 3EE was born as an independent, entrepreneurial label made up of music-lovers who take risks, break rules, and disrupt culture,” said Liles. “The mission of 3EE is to reimagine our value proposition to artists and creative partners globally. We fuel the spirit of our labels’ identities through the creation of powerhouse brand management teams that span genres and cultures. Our people are handpicked because they all live what they work and love what they do. Every label within the 3EE family is driven by a unique point of view and purpose, and, at the same time, they all benefit from our years of collective expertise, wisdom, and influence. We call this #BiggerFamilyBusiness.” 

MORE: SOLD! Warner Music Group Acquires 300 Entertainment

“From the day we walked in the door at 300, we’ve been on a mission to sign original artists and nurture a brand that stands out from the crowd,” said Bass and Bouab. “Mike, Gregg, and the Elektra team share our artist-first philosophy, and the combination of our companies creates an exciting, collaborative environment where artists across the musical spectrum can be anything and achieve everything.”

“From Elektra to Fueled by Ramen to Roadrunner and throughout our label family, we’re defined not by one single identity, but by a collective of distinctive brands,” said Easterlin and Nadel. “We’re very excited to be joining forces with Kevin, Rayna, Selim and the entire 300 team to build a company that nurtures authentic artists, songs, and visions from conception to global greatness.”

For more on 300 Elektra, visit the official website.

The post Warner Music Group Announces 300 Elektra Ent. appeared first on The Source.

ICYMI: Gunna Releases Open Letter to Fans and the Public: “I Am Being False Accused and Will Never Stop Fighting”

by
Gunna Gives Out His Number On Twitter: (470) 206-3380

Gunna has released his first statement since being jailed on a 56-count indictment in Georgia along with Young Thug and the rest of YSL Records.

Currently being held in Fulton County Jail, Gunna spoke about the opportunity that he provided for other professionals and his loved ones.

The statement, in part, reads:

“The picture that is being painted of me is ugly and untrue. My fans know I love to celebrate life, I love my family, I love travel, I love music, I love my fans. I have all faith that God will grant me justice for the purity in my heart and the innocence of my actions.”

Gunna also spoke to the constraints on his art as a freedom of expression:

“My art is now allowed to stand alone as entertainment, I’m not allowed that freedom as a Black Man in America. It is a sad reality that slavery is still alive in America today and still affecting my people. In 12 states more than half of the prison population is Black, one of those states is Georgia.”

Last week, Kevin Liles, the co-founder of 300 Entertainment, teamed up with Julie Greenwald, COO of Atlantic Records, for a petition to cease the use of rap lyrics in court. Liles also testified on behalf of Young Thug and YSL.

You can see Gunna’s full letter to the fans and public below.

unnamed 15
unnamed 1 7

The post ICYMI: Gunna Releases Open Letter to Fans and the Public: “I Am Being False Accused and Will Never Stop Fighting” appeared first on The Source.

Gunna Releases Open Letter to Fans and the Public: “I Am Being False Accused and Will Never Stop Fighting”

by
Gunna Gives Out His Number On Twitter: (470) 206-3380

Gunna has released his first statement since being jailed on a 56-count indictment in Georgia along with Young Thug and the rest of YSL Records.

Currently being held in Fulton County Jail, Gunna spoke about the opportunity that he provided for other professionals and his loved ones.

The statement, in part, reads:

“The picture that is being painted of me is ugly and untrue. My fans know I love to celebrate life, I love my family, I love travel, I love music, I love my fans. I have all faith that God will grant me justice for the purity in my heart and the innocence of my actions.”

Gunna also spoke to the constraints on his art as a freedom of expression:

“My art is now allowed to stand alone as entertainment, I’m not allowed that freedom as a Black Man in America. It is a sad reality that slavery is still alive in America today and still affecting my people. In 12 states more than half of the prison population is Black, one of those states is Georgia.”

Last week, Kevin Liles, the co-founder of 300 Entertainment, teamed up with Julie Greenwald, COO of Atlantic Records, for a petition to cease the use of rap lyrics in court. Liles also testified on behalf of Young Thug and YSL.

You can see Gunna’s full letter to the fans and public below.

unnamed 15
unnamed 1 7

The post Gunna Releases Open Letter to Fans and the Public: “I Am Being False Accused and Will Never Stop Fighting” appeared first on The Source.

Kevin Liles and Julie Greenwald Start Petition Against The Use Of Rap Lyrics In Court

by
kevin liles julie greenwald

The use of song lyrics in court has been a hot topic over the years, especially in regard to rap music. While Jay-Z, along with other artists, are pushing for the use of rap lyrics to be inadmissible in court and treated as artistic expression, in Atlanta, prosecutors are using lyrics against Young Thug and Gunna to prove that they were behind many of the crimes there accused of being involved in.

Now, 300 Entertainment co-founder Kevin Liles is teaming up with Atlantic Records COO Julie Greenwald to start a petition that would ban rap lyrics from being used in court.

The “Rap Music on Trial: Protect Black Art” petition seeks to pass Federal and State laws that limit prosecutors from using “creative and artistic expression as evidence against defendants in criminal trials.”  The petition uses the YSL RICO case as an example as prosecutors are using Young Thug’s and Gunna’s lyrics against them in order to prove their involvement in the alleged crimes.

“Weaponizing creative expression against artists is obviously wrong. But what gets us so upset is what’s happening to Young Thug, Gunna, and YSL is just the most high-profile case,” Liles and Greenwald said in a joint statement. “In courtrooms across America, Black creativity and artistry is being criminalized. With increasing and troubling frequency, prosecutors are attempting to use rap lyrics as confessions, just like they’re doing in this case.” 

The two music industry executives applauded the New York Senate for passing State Bill S7527, which aims to “protect freedom of speech and artistic expression in New York State. This bill effectuates the enhanced free speech protections provided by the New York State Constitution, ensuring that criminal defendants are tried based upon evidence of criminal conduct, not the provocative nature of their artistic works and tastes.”

You can view the “Rap Music on Trial: Protect Black Art” petition and sign it here.

The post Kevin Liles and Julie Greenwald Start Petition Against The Use Of Rap Lyrics In Court appeared first on The Source.