BEESE TO DEPART ISLAND

UMG has confirmed rumors that Darcus Beese will be exiting his post as head of Island Records.

When asked for comment, a Universal rep supplied the following statement: "Darcus informed us of his decision to return to the U.K. for personal reasons and to pursue new career opportunities there. We fully support his decision and we are thankful to Darcus for his many contributions to Island Records throughout the years."

Chatter has been getting louder regarding a new chapter for the Brit exec, who crossed the pond to helm the U.S. label in 2018 after serving for nearly two decades at Island U.K., where he entered as an intern in 1989, was mentored by founder Chris Blackwell and, in 2013, became President. Stay tuned for updates.