Vibe veteran Datwon Thomas has joined Dick Clark Productions in the newly created role of Executive Producer, Talent. Thomas, who has been at the helm of Vibe for the past 13 years, will serve as Editor-at-Large for the storied music, lifestyle and culture brand and he will remain in his role as VP of Culture and Media for Penske Media Corp. parent company for Vibe and Dick Clark Prods. as well as PvNew.
“We’re very excited to have Datwon bring his experience and unmatched expertise in Hip-Hop and R&B to DCP,” said Jay Penske, Chairman, PMC Founder and CEO and CEO of Dick Clark Prods. “His deep relationships and innate creative sensibilities will be instrumental in shaping the future vision of DCP’s world-class portfolio of shows.”
Thomas will work on talent strategy and relations, bookings and related creative materials, leveraging his deep experience from his time as the editorial leader of Vibe and even longer tenure with the storied brand that recently marked its 30th anniversary. Thomas will work out of New York and Los Angeles in his new roles.
Thomas has already worked with Dick Clark Prods. since 2019 as a consultant on awards shows and specials such as the American Music Awards, Academy of Country Music Awards and ABC’s annual “Dick Clark’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest.” As Editor-at-Large for Vibe, he will look to support big-picture strategy for the brand.
“I am thrilled to start this new chapter in my media and entertainment career,” Thomas said. “My time as Editor-in-Chief of Vibe has been incredibly rewarding. I would like to thank my staff of all eras for their hard work and support. Entering this new role is a valued achievement and one I take as an honor. I have been consulting with the DCP team for years, and during that time, my love of the rush of live television has grown. I look forward to getting even more involved in all aspects of great projects with amazing talent.”
Before his time at Vibe and PMC, Thomas worked as founder and editorial director of the men’s lifestyle guide King magazine and Rides magazine, aimed at car enthusiasts. He was also editor-in-chief of hip-hop focused XXL magazine. He also worked as Editor-In-Chief of Hookt and as chief operating officer and editor-in-chief of GlobalGrind.
