UMG Nashville (UMGN) has named Chelsea Blythe executive vp of A&R. The executive has relocated to Nashville from Los Angeles.

Blythe most recently served as senior vp of A&R at Def Jam, leading A&R efforts for Armani White, Anella Herim and 26AR. Blythe launched her music industry career as an A&R intern at Interscope Records before becoming a department coordinator, working on projects for artists including Kendrick Lamar, ScHoolboy Q, Rae Sremmurd and Mike WiLL Made-It. Blythe moved to Columbia Records in 2016 and rose to vp of A&R, signing artists including Symba and Baby Keem to the label. Blythe also developed artists Polo G and The Kid LAROI.

Upon joining Def Jam in 2021, Blythe reunited with A&R executive Tunji Balogun, who found Blythe for that pivotal first internship.

“I’m so excited to bring Chelsea to UMG Nashville as EVP A&R,” said UMGN chair/CEO Cindy Mabe in a statement. “Her bold leadership, dynamic spirit, and passion for the music and artists will align perfectly with the culture we are building. Her love for country music brought her to Nashville and her dynamic presence and impeccable instincts will help lead our artist development strategy and innovate the future of country music.”

“I’m very excited to begin this chapter of my career with UMGN,” added Blythe. “I have immense respect and passion for country music, and I am honored that Cindy has recognized my enthusiasm with this opportunity. I am inspired by her unwavering leadership and look forward to implementing my experience in this role while building with the country community.”

Blythe’s new A&R role at UMG Nashville follows the recent exits of former UMG Nashville A&R execs Brian Wright and Stephanie Wright.