As reported by Billboard, in a recent announcement, it was revealed that the legendary So So Def Recordings, headed by Jermaine Dupri, has signed a multi-year agreement with Create Music Group. This agreement encompasses all of the label's recordings, publishing, and back catalog. As part of the deal, Dupri will also supervise the launch of new artists and music under the partnership. He has also been appointed as the newly created Creative Director of Create Music Group.
In light of his new role, Dupri will be stepping down as CEO of So So Def Recordings and will transition into the position of Chairman and Founder. Taking his place as CEO will be Bryan Patrick Franklin, while Joe Romulus Esq. will head the legal business affairs division. In his new role as Creative Director, Dupri will focus on expanding the company's impact on the cross-section between music and culture, as mentioned in the press release.
Dupri is a Grammy-winning producer and a member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame. His talent as a songwriter-producer is behind such platinum and multi-platinum songs as Mariah Carey's "We Belong Together," Usher's "Nice & Slow," Xscape's "Just Kickin' It," and his own "Money Ain't a Thang" featuring Jay-Z. He also produced the hits "Burn" and "Confessions Part II" from Usher's diamond-certified Confessions album. Since founding So So Def Recordings in 1993, Dupri has helmed a roster of R&B/hip-hop and pop hitmakers that included Xscape, Da Brat, Jagged Edge, and Anthony Hamilton.
Dupri expressed his excitement about the deal, stating, "I have been looking for a home for the entire So So Def brand so I can continue to do what I started." The announcement comes on the heels of So So Def's 30th-anniversary celebrations last year.
Jonathan Strauss, CEO & founder of Create Music Group, commented, “Jermaine has been one of the most successful and impactful forces in music for the last three decades. We are honored that he and his team have decided to partner with us for both his catalog and future output.”
Create Music Group is a data-driven media and technology firm based in Hollywood. Founded in 2015, the company has worked with stars and global brands such as Jennifer Lopez, Marshmello, and PepsiCo. Create Music Group operates several media networks, including the independent music distribution platform Label Engine and the Gen Z-focused digital entertainment and marketing agency Flighthouse.
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