Entertainment

Sony Music Relaunches Iconic Jive Records Under RCA

Published on February 4, 2026

Sony Music’s RCA Records announces Jive Records relaunch, led by Mike Weiss and David Melhado, reviving the iconic pop and hip-hop label

Sony Music’s RCA Records has announced the relaunch of the legendary Jive Records as a stand-alone label, with Mike Weiss and David Melhado appointed to lead the revival.

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Founded in 1981 by Clive Calder and Ralph Simon as part of the Zomba Group, Jive Records grew from a niche new-wave label into a global music powerhouse.

It launched successful acts such as A Flock of Seagulls and Whodini, before becoming a dominant force in hip-hop with artists including DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince, A Tribe Called Quest, and R. Kelly.

By the 1990s, Jive played a pivotal role in the global pop explosion, nurturing stars such as Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, and NSYNC, and later promoting artists including Justin Timberlake, Pink, Outkast, and Usher.

The label’s catalog has remained under Sony Music’s ownership following the Zomba sale to BMG for $2.74 billion.

Weiss, son of former Jive executive Barry Weiss, and Melhado bring extensive experience from United Masters, where they helped grow the independent music company and developed artists including Big X Tha Plug, Brent Faiyaz, and FloyyMenor.

Speaking on the relaunch, Weiss said Jive Records shaped his early understanding of the music business and pledged that the revived label would prioritize artist-first principles, innovation, and fairness.

Melhado highlighted a focus on artist development and long-term cultural impact.

RCA Records Chairman and CEO Peter Edge praised their track record, noting the duo’s ability to identify talent and nurture careers as central to the label’s return.

Jive Records will operate from Sony Music’s New York headquarters, with Weiss and Melhado reporting directly to Edge and RCA COO John Fleckenstein.