– Robert Gibbs

The Builders

Over the past year, ICM Partners’ Robert Gibbs has helped guide his clients’ careers on the rise, including R&B singer Ari Lennox, who  wrapped a sold-out world tour in Australia in early March in support of her debut studio album. 

His client EARTHGANG played more than 150 shows on the duo’s sold-out “Welcome To Mirrorland” trek that concluded in late February – including crisscrossing the U.S., playing both college towns and major markets.

Gibbs’ roster also includes multi-platinum rapper J. Cole, along with JID, Bas, Cozz, Lute, Omen and PARTYNEXTDOOR. 

Asked about his predictions for the coming year, Gibbs is optimistic. He says, “2020 has taught us a lot about ourselves and finding the silver lining in what’s important, and I think that plays heavy into live music based on how people consumed music in this time of being at home and what fans are excited to see in the coming year.”

While acknowledging that diversity and inclusion have been talked about for a long time without seeing enough change – “the numbers don’t lie” – Gibbs is hopeful that the times we’re in have shifted the thinking of those making decisions to understanding that there must be more diversity across all businesses.  

He adds that action is needed at not only the entry level, and that “seeing more diversity in leadership roles inside agencies, promoters, production companies, buildings/venues, etc., and the importance of mentoring from not only the entry level but in the boardroom – that’s how real change happens.”  

Gibbs points to his own mentor, Dennis Ashley, for giving him an opportunity to work in the major agency system and for instilling values professionally in the importance of team and mentorship, adding, “I wouldn’t be where I’m at today without his mentorship, leadership and guidance.” 

Next year will mark 20 years of working together, from Gibbs being his assistant at CAA to being promoted to agent there in 2004 to being made partner at ICM in 2016.   

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