Photography By L.A. Reid Courtesy of Epic Records
Antonio Marquis "L.A." Reid, born June 7, 1956, has left an indelible mark on the music industry as a record executive, A&R representative, and producer. Known for his sharp ear for talent and ability to shape music careers, Reid’s journey from drummer to industry titan is a testament to his resilience and vision.
The Origins of L.A. Reid
Reid’s musical path began early, joining Ohio R&B bands Pure Essence in 1973 and later The Deele in 1981 as a drummer. The Deele, featuring his future business partner Babyface, reached mainstream success with their hit "Two Occasions." This experience laid the foundation for Reid’s pivot into the business side of music.
Nicknamed "L.A." for frequently sporting a Los Angeles Dodgers shirt, Reid’s charisma and passion quickly led him from stage performances to the boardroom. In 1989, alongside Babyface, he co-founded LaFace Records, a label that would soon shape the sound of R&B and Black pop music.
Building LaFace Records: A New Era in Music
With funding from Arista Records’ Clive Davis, LaFace Records became a powerhouse for emerging stars. Reid signed 14-year-old Usher, who would go on to sell 65 million albums worldwide, as well as iconic acts like TLC, Toni Braxton, and Outkast. The label’s success not only transformed the careers of its artists but also helped solidify Atlanta as a major hub for the music industry.
LaFace's contributions extended far beyond chart-topping hits; Reid’s influence helped shape the sound of the 1990s and early 2000s. The label’s acts combined R&B with pop sensibilities, making Black music more accessible to mainstream audiences while maintaining authenticity. TLC and Toni Braxton each sold over 65 million records under Reid’s guidance, becoming global sensations.
Hitco Entertainment and the Evolution of L.A. Reid
In 1996, Reid formed Hitco Publishing Group, a venture that allowed him to stay connected with the pulse of emerging talent. Through Hitco, Reid fostered a new generation of producers and songwriters, setting the stage for a prosperous career as an executive. This endeavor led to his next venture: succeeding Clive Davis as the president and CEO of Arista Records in 2000. During this time, Reid signed emerging stars like Avril Lavigne, Pink, and Ciara, further cementing his reputation as a tastemaker.
As head of Arista Records, Reid oversaw some of the most successful releases of the early 2000s, including Usher's Confessions and Outkast’s Speakerboxxx/The Love Below, both of which achieved massive commercial success.
A Powerhouse at Epic Records
In 2011, Reid became chairman and CEO of Epic Records, ushering in a new era for the label. He championed the careers of artists like Future, Travis Scott, DJ Khaled, and Meghan Trainor. His tenure at Epic was marked by several albums debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard charts, and he played a pivotal role in reviving the careers of artists such as Mariah Carey and Jennifer Lopez.
While at Epic, Reid also contributed to Michael Jackson's posthumous album Xscape, released in 2014. His work on the project involved curating unreleased Jackson vocals and pairing them with new production, resulting in a Gold-certified album.
Hitco Entertainment Reborn and Legacy
After departing Epic in 2017, Reid co-founded Hitco Entertainment with Charles Goldstuck. The label quickly made its mark, signing high-profile acts like Big Boi of Outkast and Dinah Jane of Fifth Harmony. Hitco also experienced success with Yella Beezy’s hit "That’s On Me," further proving Reid’s continued relevance in the ever-changing music landscape.
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n 2022, Hitco’s assets were sold to Concord Music Group, signaling the end of another chapter in Reid’s storied career. Throughout his journey, L.A. Reid has been recognized with numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards and the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences' President's Merit Award.
The Man Behind the Music
Beyond his professional success, Reid’s personal life has seen its share of notable moments. He has three children, including a son, Aaron Alexander, from his marriage to Perri "Pebbles" Reid. In 2000, he married Erica Holton, with whom he has two children.
Reid’s influence on the music industry is undeniable, and his 2016 memoir Sing to Me: My Story of Making Music, Finding Magic, and Searching for Who's Next chronicles his life, career, and passion for discovering the next big thing in music. His journey from musician to executive is a remarkable tale of talent, hard work, and innovation. As a visionary and pioneer, L.A. Reid’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of artists and music lovers alike.
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