In the latest episode of the "Recording Academy x EBONY: Black Music Collective Podcast," a new podcast series presented by Procter & Gamble, host and two-time GRAMMY nominee MC Lyte chats with Jeff Harleston, General Counsel and Executive Vice President of Business & Legal Affairs for Universal Music Group (UMG), the world leader in music-based entertainment with operations in more than 60 countries.
In the episode, Harleston goes deep about the keys to longevity in the music industry and his bold fight to make change, topics he knows all too well: As one of the most powerful executives in the entertainment industry today, he has overseen some of the biggest releases in music across the decades. As a member of UMG's executive management board, he is responsible for overseeing all business transactions, contracts and litigation for UMG's operations worldwide. In addition, he is also responsible for the company's government relations, trade and anti-piracy activities.
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Of course, Harleston's impact reaches far beyond music and culture: He is currently working to amplify and expand programs and initiatives to support marginalized communities in the ongoing fight for equality, justice and inclusion. He was recently tapped to lead Universal's Task Force for Meaningful Change, an initiative launched in direct response to the aftermath and civil unrest following the murder of George Floyd.
Throughout his decades-long career, Harleston has remained committed to progressing Black culture, providing artists with countless opportunities and "widening the screen" on Black culture and life worldwide.
Hear his story now in the newest episode of the "Recording Academy x EBONY: Black Music Collective Podcast" above.
**About The Recording Academy x EBONY: Black Music Collective Podcast:**
The "[Recording Academy x EBONY: Black Music Collective Podcast](https://www.grammy.com/recording-academy/black-music-collective-podcast-series)" is a six-part podcast series presented by Procter & Gamble. Hosted by MC Lyte, the series include various members of the Recording Academy's Black Music Collective (BMC), a group of prominent Black music creators and professionals who share the common goal of amplifying Black voices within the Academy and beyond, who discuss their contributions and impact within the community and the music industry at large.
The "Recording Academy x EBONY: Black Music Collective Podcast" streams every Thursday at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT through July 29 on **[EBONY.com](https://www.ebony.com/)** and *EBONY's* **[YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCptYn8_-yppTxXj46GlW_hg)** and **[Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/ebonymag)**, as well as on **[GRAMMY.com/BlackMusicCollectivePodcast](https://www.grammy.com/recording-academy/black-music-collective-podcast-series)** and the Recording Academy's official **[Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/RecordingAcademy/)** and **[YouTube channel.](https://www.youtube.com/grammy/featured)**
[The Recording Academy And EBONY Launch Collaborative Podcast Series: H.E.R., Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Ledisi, And More Confirmed As Guests](https://www.grammy.com/recording-academy/news/ebony-black-music-collective-podcast-mc-lyte-debra-lee)