Nearly a year after officially relaunching TAMLA Records, Walter Thomas has been promoted to executive vp of Motown Gospel/TAMLA. Thomas formerly served as senior vp of the faith-based/inspirational music divisions under Capitol Music Group Nashville.
Thomas will supervise creative, marketing and strategic planning for Motown Gospel and TAMLA, which both achieved several milestones in 2025. Tasha Cobbs Leonard’s latest album Tasha, which includes the No. 1 single “Church” featuring John Legend, debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums chart last August. The project is also a current Grammy Award nominee in the best gospel album category. Other artists across the labels’ rosters who earned nominations as well for the 2026 ceremony include Tye Tribbett (best gospel album), Pastor Mike Jr. and Jonathan McReynolds. The latter two are up for best gospel performance/song alongside Leonard.
In announcing Thomas’ promotion, Capitol Christian Music Group president Brad O’Donnell stated, “Walter is an exceptional leader with a strong work ethic and clear vision. Working alongside him over the past few years, I’ve seen firsthand his passion for artist development and the role faith plays in his leadership. Motown Gospel and TAMLA are entering a new era of growth and impact under his leadership.”
Capitol Music Group CEO Tom March added, “Walter Thomas is one of the most forward-thinking executives in music today. His leadership has driven incredible growth, creative excellence and cultural impact across Motown Gospel and TAMLA. This promotion reflects not only what he’s accomplished, but the extraordinary future ahead under his vision.”
TAMLA, the precursor to founder Berry Gordy’s Motown Records, was initially established in 1959. Thomas relaunched TAMLA as “the new home of positive music” last March with a roster that includes a partnership with Grammy-winning songwriter/producer Rodney Jerkins’ EVOLVE Music Group and Dove Award-nominated artist Lee Vasi. An Amazon Music Artist to Watch in 2025, Vasi is also a 2026 NAACP Image Award nominee for outstanding new artist.
“This promotion is a reflection of our team’s relentless dedication and the extraordinary artists who trust us with their voices,” said Thomas in the press announcement. “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 inspires the world.”