Jive Records Revived: RCA Reboots Iconic Label with New Leadership

RCA Records announced today, February 3, 2026, the relaunch of Jive Records as a standalone label. Former UnitedMasters executives Mike Weiss and David Melhado will serve as co-presidents, operating from Sony Music’s New York City headquarters.

A Legacy Reborn

The revival of Jive Records marks a significant moment for the music industry, bringing back a label with a rich history. RCA previously shut down Jive, along with Arista Records and J Records, in 2011 following Sony’s 2008 merger with BMG. RCA relaunched Arista as a standalone imprint in 2018.

The History of Jive

Founded in 1981 by Clive Calder, Jive Records quickly became a prominent force in music. Barry Weiss, Mike Weiss’ father, led the label from 1995 through 2011. Mike Weiss himself joined Jive in 1982 and played a key role in developing the label into a hub for talent.

Did You Know? Jive Records was originally founded in 1981.

During the 1990s, Jive became known for nurturing rap artists such as A Tribe Called Quest, DJ Jazzy Jeff, and Boogie Down Productions. The label later expanded into the pop genre, representing artists including Britney Spears, Aaliyah, *NSYNC, the Backstreet Boys, and Usher during its commercial peak in the late 1990s and early 2000s. BMG acquired Jive in 2002.

Looking Ahead

Mike Weiss expressed the personal significance of Jive Records, stating it “shaped entire generations and the way I learned this business.” He believes relaunching the label with David Melhado will allow them to continue Jive’s tradition of “creative and operational excellence” while demonstrating that major labels can offer both innovation and fairness to artists. Jive Records will seek to replicate its past success by identifying and developing new talent, potentially focusing on genres where it previously excelled. The label may also explore new business models to ensure fairness for artists, as suggested by Mike Weiss. A possible next step could be announcing initial artist signings.

Expert Insight: The relaunch of Jive Records signals a broader trend of established labels revisiting their past identities to capitalize on nostalgia and potentially attract a new generation of artists and fans. This strategy could be seen as a response to the evolving music landscape and the increasing importance of brand recognition.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Jive Records originally founded?

Jive Records was founded in 1981 by Clive Calder.

Who are the co-presidents of the relaunched Jive Records?

Mike Weiss and David Melhado will serve as co-presidents of the relaunched Jive Records.

What happened to Jive Records before its relaunch?

RCA shut down Jive Records, along with Arista Records and J Records, in 2011.

How will the revival of a historically significant label like Jive Records impact the current music industry landscape?