Jess Loper Takes the Helm as General Manager of Gotee Records, Ushering in a Fresh Era of Innovation and Creativity

News Report:

In a move that signals a bold new chapter for one of Christian music’s most iconic independent labels, Gotee Records has announced the appointment of Jess Loper as its new General Manager. Loper, a seasoned industry veteran with a rich tapestry of experience across branding, publishing, A&R, and operations, steps into this pivotal role with a vision to amplify Gotee’s legacy of groundbreaking artistry and innovation. She will report directly to Joey Elwood, who now serves as CEO of Bell Partners Christian Music, the parent company of Gotee Records under a new agreement unveiled earlier this month.

Loper’s journey with Gotee Records has been nothing short of extraordinary. Over the past eight years, she has worn multiple hats, serving as Vice President of Brand Management for Gotee Records and Publishing for Emack Music. Her fingerprints are all over the careers of acclaimed artists such as Jon Reddick, Hollyn, Aaron Cole, Joseph O’Brien, Charly Beathard, and RENEE. Beyond her work with artists, Loper has been a driving force in cultivating songwriter relationships, securing film and TV placements for major networks like ESPN, Fox Sports, ABC, NBC, and VH1, and overseeing administration for Man Cub Music, the publishing home of Bryan Fowler and Micah Kuiper.

Joey Elwood, reflecting on Loper’s ascent, shared, “As a company, we’ve evolved tremendously over the last decade, and our team is, pound for pound, the best in the business. Jess embodies the versatility and passion that define Gotee. She has touched every facet of our operations—brand management, publishing, label services, and beyond. Promoting her to General Manager feels like a natural and inevitable step in her journey as a leader, not just within Gotee but across the entire music industry.”

Loper’s career trajectory is a testament to her relentless drive and multifaceted talent. She began her professional journey in the newsroom as an Editor with Business Wire, where she honed her skills in communication and storytelling. Her love for words and music eventually led her to Capitol CMG/Universal Music, where she played a pivotal role in the A&R department, contributing to the success of legendary artists like Amy Grant, Chris Tomlin, Kari Jobe, and TobyMac. Her work extended beyond A&R, encompassing business affairs, union negotiations, and film & TV licensing—a testament to her ability to navigate the complexities of the music industry with finesse.

Since joining Gotee Records in 2017, Loper has been a cornerstone of the label’s growth and evolution. Her most recent venture, Without Labels Collective, has further solidified her reputation as a trailblazer in music supervision and licensing. Through this initiative, she has worked on high-profile projects such as The Jesus Music Documentary, Trinity Broadcasting Networks, The Huckabee Show, and collaborations with Compassion International and Thrive. Beyond her professional achievements, Loper is deeply committed to mentoring and empowering the next generation of songwriters and artists, ensuring they are equipped to navigate the business side of the creative process.

Outside of her professional life, Loper’s greatest joy comes from her role as a mother to her two sons, Brody (16) and Kellen (13). In a heartwarming twist of fate, she married her “favorite songwriter,” Brent Loper, in the spring of 2022, exchanging vows on the front porch of their charming farmhouse in Culleoka, Tennessee—a moment that beautifully mirrors her love for music, family, and the simple joys of life.

As Jess Loper steps into her new role as General Manager of Gotee Records, the music industry watches with anticipation. Her leadership promises to bring a fresh perspective, a commitment to artistic excellence, and a deep understanding of the ever-evolving landscape of music. For Gotee Records, this is not just a new appointment—it’s the beginning of a vibrant new era, orchestrated by a leader who embodies the heart and soul of the label’s mission.