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Executive Profiles


Maye James
President, Unique Artistry and Hampton Marketing

 

Maye James began her career in the music industry working as the personal manager of her childhood friend, "The First Lady" of Motown, singer Mary Wells. Mary Wells' career skyrocketed with the #1 Motown hit "My Guy." After touring extensively with Ms Wells and other Motown era superstars, Maye James worked with labels such as Scepter Records (Dionne Warwick and B.J. Thomas) and Roadshow Records (Tina Turner, B.T. Express, Brass Construction and Enchantment) as Vice President of promotions. Ms James has been featured in such publications as Ebony and Jet magazines for being the first black female to hold this title.

 

In addition to being a record executive, Ms James has also worked in radio. As Assistant Program Director and Music Director of New York's WBLS, Maye James managed the entire programming staff and was part of the team responsible for WBLS' great success during the 1980s. She was solely responsible for creating "Hal Jackson's Sunday Classics" a show which went on to become the #1 Music program in New York City in its time slot! With her foresight for change, she was also responsible for bringing Rap music to top ranked radio in a major market, via radio personality "Mr. Majic!" Mr. Majic's weekend broadcast was so successful, it prompted rival New York stations to make Rap a part of their formats as well! Her hard work and perseverance started a "Hip Hop Revolution," first in the New York area and eventually all over the country!

 

Maye James eventually segued back into an executive seat at a record label and served as General Manager/Black Music for SBK Records. During her tenure, she spearheaded the success of platinum selling artists Technotronic and Vanilla Ice!

 

Today, her concentration has been on doing independent projects for major labels, as well as consulting with various artists on their career issues.

 

Her knowledge in all aspects of the music and entertainment industry, including her experience working with the "original" artist development system and her ability to work with people of all ages and backgrounds make Maye James a "bonafide" music notable!

 

We salute Maye James a NABFEME Shero! Thank you for the doors you and your career have opened.

 



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