A veteran executive of the entertainment business and a native New Yorker, Levine graduated from the Berklee College of Music. A content creator, curator, educator, manager and marketer, Levine is firmly positioned in the music business and has developed into an expert in the streaming and digital aspects of the business.
Known for his media savvy, sharp eye for new talent, and market insight, Levine has been discovering, developing, and distributing world class music and media for more than 30 years.
In 1994, he founded Penalty Recordings, a music and entertainment company that oversaw the success of artists like Noreaga (NORE and Drink Champs), Capone-N-Noreaga, Lord Finesse, The Beatnuts, and Crooked Lettaz (David Banner). Levine has created marketing companies, record labels, and publishing companies. He has held positions at TVT Records, launching the careers of the multi-platform artists Lil’ Jon & The Eastside Boyz; ran the worldwide operations for Rykodisc, headed UP Sony Music Entertainment’s artist development division Battery Records as well as being a key member of the Jive A&R team. He also launched an artist development division at EMI Music, Imperial Records, and ran the worldwide urban business for Capitol Records.
Now in 2022, Levine launched a producer-driven management company, Home Club Management. Additionally, he recently started a new NFT business, Def Mint, focusing on 90s hip hop. Levine still runs Penalty Entertainment which offers label services and distribution through their deal with Sony/The Orchard. Levine’s mission is to continue to give back, including being an adjunct professor teaching music business at Marymount Manhattan College and most recently NYU Steinhardt. He is also an advisory board member for the Universal Hip Hop Museum as well serving on their Artist Relations Committee. Levine also is co-host of his own podcast, Penalty Office – Music Business 101.