Tried & Blue: Columbia Records EVP/Head A&R Rani Hancock has joined Kobalt as EVP/Head U.S. Creative. In her new role, she will lead the company’s creative teams in Nashville, New York and Los Angeles. "Rani's deep understanding of the evolving music landscape, combined with her passion for nurturing talent, will be invaluable as we continue to empower songwriters, artists and producers in achieving their greatest potential," says Pres./CCO Jeannette Perez, to whom Hancock reports. Prior to Columbia Records, Hancock spent time at RCA, Arista and Sire Records.