Sylvia Rhone Out At Sony Music’s Epic Records After Six Years

A live performance from Future, who released two studio albums via Epic with Sylvia Rhone at the helm. Photo Credit: Frank Schwichtenberg

After six years and change at the helm of Sony Music’s Epic Records, Sylvia Rhone has announced plans to step down at September’s end.

The 73-year-old confirmed her quick-approaching departure in a note to staff. Conspicuously absent from said note, however, is any mention of the longtime exec’s career plans from here.

But it was only in June that Rhone, who started as CEO and chair of Epic back in 2019, described herself as “addicted” to working in the music business. Plus, the former Motown and Elektra exec indicated in the staff memo that she was “moving on from this historic role at Epic” – not retiring altogether – and remained “excited about the future” following this latest “transition.”

Also in the memo, Rhone recapped her multi-decade career, explored high points therein, and applauded the capabilities of Epic’s team in particular, to name a few of the many covered topics.

Additionally, Rob Stringer penned a send-off note that was shared with DMN. Across 160 or so words, the Sony Music CEO touched on the “trailblazing” Rhone’s “extraordinary career” – with an emphasis on her accomplishments with Epic, of course.

In the bigger picture, Rhone’s exit marks the latest in a line of 2025 executive departures, hires, and promotions at the majors. Multiple shifts have hit WMG, where Warner Music UK CEO Tony Harlow is expected to step down next month, for instance. And UMG’s Polydor just recently fired off eight promotions.

Here’s Stringer’s full note on the departure of Sylvia Rhone.

Today, I want to reflect on the extraordinary career of Sylvia Rhone. In an industry defined by its constant evolution, Sylvia has adapted and embraced change, time and time again. Her journey is more than just a list of accomplishments. She is a trailblazing executive with a distinguished background and unwavering commitment to supporting artists.

She has made history, including becoming the first woman to be named Chair of a major record company, and guided some of the most prominent artists in our business across every genre. Sylvia’s influence is rooted in an understanding of music’s power to connect with people.

And as Chairwoman and CEO of our Epic Records, she has shepherded No. 1 chart successes with 21 Savage, Future, Travis Scott, and Tyla, among others.

It has been our honor to work with a true icon, and our collective responsibility to continue to build on her work at Epic Records.

Thank you, Sylvia, for your leadership and inspiration.