Chris Atlas has been named president of Fat Beats. The music industry veteran's appointment comes as the legendary distributor and retail brand celebrates its 30th anniversaryu anniversary this year.
In his new role at Fat Beats, New York-based Atlas will chart the course for the company's future. Along with business development and marketing, his oversight includes building industry relationships, expanding the company's market presence and identifying new growth opportunities.
Announcing Atlas's appointment, Rostrum Pacific COO Jonathan Parts noted that the executive was “someone we've admired for many years. Having him join Fat Beats as president during this important period of growth at Rostrum Pacific is beyond exciting. He brings incredible leadership, vision, insight and experience. I can think of no better person to lead and continue to build the legacy of this great company. With Chris at the helm, we are putting our great partners in the best position to succeed.”
Atlas brings two decades of music industry experience to Fat Beats. He most recently served as executive vice president, urban music and marketing at Warner Records — he was promoted to that position in 2022 after a three-year stint as the label's senior vice president, head of urban marketing. Prior to that, he held key executive roles at Tommy Boy Records, Cornerstone Promotions and Def Jam Recordings. Since arriving at Fat Beats, Atlas has recruited artists such as Talib Kweli, Large Professor, Pete Rock and Rsonist.
Talking to me Advertising sign, Atlas called his new appointment “a full circle moment. When I started the business at Tommy Boy, Fat Beats was not only the most popular record label but also a brand that had such an affinity and reputation for hip-hop. Now, 20 years later, I am thankful and grateful to have been a part of guiding this very historic brand into its next era. It's about how we continue to evolve the brand in terms of strategic alliances that will allow us to live on other platforms in terms of branding, digital and marketing opportunities — expanding Fat Beats' presence not only domestically but global level. Good.”
Rostrum Pacific acquired Fat Beats earlier this year. The multifaceted entertainment company's portfolio also includes Rostrum Records and catalog marketing agency SpaceHeater.
