Motown Gospel & Tamla Records gets a new EVP
Written by Sunny Unachi on 5th February 2026
Capitol Music Group has promoted Walter Thomas to Executive Vice President of Motown Gospel and TAMLA Records—and the timing couldn’t be more fitting. Both labels are riding a powerful wave right now, and Thomas has been right at the center of that momentum.
Brad O’Donnell, President of Capitol Christian Music Group, doesn’t mince words when talking about Thomas’ impact. He describes him as a transformational leader—someone whose vision doesn’t just shape artists, but uplifts teams and pushes the entire gospel and Christian music culture forward. According to O’Donnell, Thomas has a rare gift for blending culture, faith, and strategy in a way that feels authentic, intentional, and future-facing. It’s a combination that has positioned Motown Gospel and TAMLA for an exciting new chapter.
And the results speak loudly.
Over the past year, Motown Gospel has had an undeniable run. Tasha Cobbs Leonard’s studio album debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums Chart. Pastor Mike Jr. made history at the Stellar Awards, becoming the most decorated Artist of the Year ever. The label is heading into the 2026 Grammy Awards season with five nominations, secured six No. 1 singles across Billboard and Mediabase airplay, and continues to dominate conversations around excellence in gospel music.
On the TAMLA side, new signee Lee Vasi emerged as a clear breakout star, bringing fresh energy to the roster, while the label also deepened its creative reach by extending its partnership with legendary hitmaker Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins.
With his new role, Thomas will now lead the creative vision, marketing, and long-term strategy for both Motown Gospel and TAMLA Records. His focus remains clear: building strong partnerships, nurturing artists, and championing meaningful music across gospel, Christian, R&B, and positive music spaces.
For Thomas, this moment is bigger than a title change. He sees it as a reflection of collective effort—the late nights, the belief, and the trust artists place in the label to carry their stories with care.
“This promotion is a reflection of our team’s relentless dedication and the extraordinary artists who trust us with their voices,” Thomas says. “Motown Gospel and TAMLA are home to some of the most impactful storytellers of our time. I’m honored to help lead our next era—one built on innovation, cultural relevance, and music that truly inspires the world.”
At its core, this promotion feels like recognition of a truth many in the industry already know: when leadership is rooted in purpose and passion, the music doesn’t just chart—it connects.
