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photo by steed media service |
Senior VP of Music Programming, BET Stephen Hill hardly seems to break a sweat. As senior VP of music programming and talent for BET Networks, he’s in charge of programming for one of the most recognizable brands in television. That might be a source of anxiety and stress for some, but Hill often comes off as the most even-keeled man in the room. However, that calm exterior hides a mind that is constantly working and seeking to push the company into bigger and broader territory. Hill understands the importance of staying on the cutting edge of brand development and forming partnerships that not only make sense for the brand — but for the brand’s audience as well.
Hill was front-and-center when BET recently announced its sponsorship of a young superstar that the network helped launch, the chart-topping teen idol Chris Brown. BET is the sponsor for Brown’s exclusive “Up Close & Personal Tour,” and for Hill, it was one of the easiest calls to make. “We at BET are very happy to be involved with Chris’ upcoming tour,” he explains. “BET was really early with Chris Brown, [and] we’ve kept our partnership going.”
“I got to see him in his very first arena show in Columbus, Ohio,” continues Hill, recalling his first time crossing paths with Brown. “[He was] opening for Destiny’s Child. Now that he’s headlining arenas, it’s a great thing.”
Hill has made his reputation being ahead of the curve when it comes to burgeoning talents and ideas. As such, BET is teaming up with Ford and Microsoft in support of Brown and to unveil the new Synch® technology. “I’ve got to get one of those,” Hill jokes. Ford has long been a leader in urban branding, having featured artists like Funkmaster Flex and Kelis in trailblazing promotions for their state-of-the-art vehicles, and Hill knows that this is a partnership that makes sense for all involved. Stephen Hill is living proof that making smart deals with progressive brands can lead to groundbreaking success. – todd williams
