Young, yet seasoned, well-connected and hard-working, this New York-based executive (who also spends a great deal of time in the ATL) has a penchant for spotting hot talent. "I am one of the luckiest people in the world," Ethiopia says. "I'm living my dream and working with some of the most incredibly talented people in music."

Talk briefly about how you brought Polow to UMPG?
I've actually known Polow since middle school. We both grew up in Southwest Atlanta and were hustling to make it in the music business. Polow was a rap artist and formed the group Jim Crow and I was interning at LaFace and Elektra Records. Fast-forward to a couple of years ago, I run into Polow and he tells me that he's producing music. I went by his studio to check out his material and he played the song he had just done for Ludacris's upcoming LP, Pimpin All Over The World along with five or six tracks - I was completely sold. Polow's level of focus and discipline is admirable. But more than anything, the music he creates is incredible.

You're a young veteran publishing executive. To what do you attribute your success?
I quickly figured out that music publishing was the career path for me. I love music and helping people - this career allows me to educate, protect, enhance and support the careers of talented writers and producers that create the music we love.

You got a chance to A&R the most recent sophomore album from Ciara. How did that come about and what was the experience like?
That was an amazing experience. I have always had complete respect for A&R's and the process of developing an artist and creating the sound of an album. I knew it would be a major challenge and I was up for it. I had signed Ciara to a publishing deal with Universal Music Publishing Group after the success of her Goodies LP. We became close and both Ciara and her management asked me to be a part of the project.

Who are some of the songwriters and producers that you're currently working with? Who should we keep an eye on?
I am so excited about all of my writers and producers. Be on the look out for: Rock City, Keri Hilson, Balewa Muhammad, Latif, Candice Nelson, Hit Boy & Chase, Andre Merritt, Brian Kennedy, Polow, Dre & Vidal, Brian Kidd and Happy Perez, just to name a few.
How do you keep your finger on the pulse of what is hot?
I'm a fan of music first.  So when I'm listening to music, I'm listening as a fan. I'm also always in the studio meeting new talent.

What's next for Ethiopia? Could you see yourself working at a label or in management?
Absolutely! I believe there is no limit to what I can do in this business and I'm just getting started. I'm also very fortunate to be at a company that is very supportive of my growth. Universal Music Publishing Group is now the number one global music publisher - and there is a lot of opportunity to find and develop new talent.