Ben Cook, who gave Ed Sheeran his first record deal, has shocked the music industry by stepping down as president of Atlantic Records.
It comes after the executive admitted causing offence by dressed up as a member of Run DMC at a birthday party.
“While my intention was to honour a musical hero, I recognise my appearance was offensive and I made a terrible mistake,” he said in a statement.
As well as Sheeran, Cook worked with Jess Glynne and Anne-Marie at Atlantic.
Last year, he helped bring Stormzy to the label, entering a joint venture with the star’s own Merky Records, following the success of his independently-released album Gang Signs and Prayer.
Cook announced he was stepping down after seven years “with great sadness”, as stories about his Run DMC costume circulated in the industry.
“Seven years ago, at a birthday party where guests were asked to come dressed as their favourite musical icon, I came as a member of Run DMC,” he said in a statement.
“Late last year rumours began to circulate about my appearance at that event, many of which are simply untrue.
“As a consequence of this, I readily agreed to disciplinary actions by my employer last year. Since then however, allegations surrounding the party have continued to be made against me. I have therefore come to the conclusion that I should make this statement and step down, with immediate effect.”
A statement from Warner Music, Atlantic’s parent company, said: “Ben Cook is leaving Atlantic UK and this will be his last week in the office”.
