Andre Harrell

Andre Harrell of Uptown Records is regarded as one of the most significant links between hip-hop and R&B. Harrell gained some degree of prominence as half of the early-80s hip-hop duo, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. The team dressed in suits and ties and released hits like Genius Rap and A.M./P.M.

He founded Uptown Records, which aimed for an upscale market that included hip-hop fans and upper-middle-class young adults. As a result, the label was able to ride the wave and carve out a profitable niche. It partnered with industry giant MCA in 1988, and during the golden age of CDs, it became a pillar of success. In 1995, Harrell was appointed chief executive officer of Motown and stayed there for two years. He also worked as a film director, producing films such as Strictly Business and Honey. Harrell shared in the development and creation of some of the most influential artists to emerge in the late 1980s and 1990s.