RANI HANCOCK MUSIC QUEEN
She Signed Miley, Kesha, Pitbull, Britney, Adam
Sire Records has a legacy as an American label that’s launched many beloved artists, from The Ramones to Madonna. In more recent years, it’s kickstarted the careers of some of the breakout artists we’ve been obsessing over. Sire Records’ continued success can most recently be attributed to its fearless leader, Rani Hancock.
Hancock kicks off PROVOKR’s series on women in the arts, fashion and entertainment who have broken barriers to become phenomenal successes in their respective fields.
Hancock is a graduate of the prestigious Berklee College of Music. She started her career in the music industry as an assistant at Arista Records, where she eventually rose to director. She hopped from label to label under the Sony Music umbrella, working with mega-stars like Miley Cyrus, Kesha, Britney Spears and countless more. Before working for Sire Records, her most recent previous position included work alongside Demi Lovato and Nick Jonas.
The founder of Sire Records, Seymour Stein, named Hancock the label’s new leader in July 2017. She joined only a few other women who lead major record labels –– a topical issue that still permeates the industry today.
Since taking over as Sire Records president, Hancock has worked closely with the twin indie rockers Tegan and Sara. The duo released their ninth album, Hey, I’m Just Like You, this year to widespread acclaim. She’s also credited for taking Bryce Vine to the top of the charts this year with smash hits like “Drew Barrymore” and “La La Land (feat. YG).
