Beats founder Jimmy Iovine will be leaving Apple, say reports
Jimmy Iovine who co-created Beats by Dre headphones with rapper and producer Dr. Dre is reportedly leaving Apple.
Since Apple bought Beats by Dre in 2014 Jimmy Iovine, 64, has become a significant figure, helming the department and becoming heavily involved in their streaming service Apple Music. Now reports are suggesting that Iovine has had his fill with Apple and plans to leave in August.
The supposed departure was reported by Hits Daily Double who matter-of-factly said: “When Iovine steps down in August, who will become the new face of Apple Music?” Those infamous unnamed “sources” have reportedly confirmed Iovine’s departure. Although no reason for leaving has been made clear it’s assumed that it will time with Iovine’s shares in Apple fully vesting.
Iovine’s position at Apple has never solidified into a titled role though he has become a noted executive at Apple. Likely the decision wasn’t on Apple’s part and Iovine’s strengths were best spread across multiple areas thanks to his flexibility, although conflict between the two parties hasn’t been ruled out yet.
Apple won’t just lose a talented businessman and music executive in Iovine but also a valuable connection to the music industry and it’s purveyors. Before starting Beats with Dr. Dre, Iovine spent stints as a record producer and a label executive at Interscope which got him in contact with some of the biggest artists and names in music.
With no official role lost it’s uncertain whether Apple are going to look for a replacement for Iovine, but he will be hard to replace.