Grammy-winning artist, producer, and entrepreneur Jermaine Dupri recently made an exciting announcement about a multiyear partnership between his So So Def Recordings and Create Music Group. This collaboration brings together Dupri's label's recordings, publishing, and back catalog with Create Music Group, establishing a new chapter for both parties involved.
As part of the deal, Dupri will assume the role of creative director for Create. This means he will not only bring his existing music to the partnership but also work closely with the company to release new music and launch aspiring artists under his guidance. In addition, Dupri will transition from being the CEO of So So Def to its chairman and founder.
To ensure the label's continued growth and success, Bryan Patrick Franklin has taken over as the new CEO of So So Def, while Joe Romulus Esq. has assumed the position of head of legal business affairs. These changes will bring fresh perspectives and opportunities for the label as it enters this exciting new phase.
So So Def was originally founded by Dupri in 1993 as a joint venture between Sony and Columbia. Throughout its history, the label has been housed under different record labels such as EMI and Universal, with distribution changing hands between Columbia, Arista, Virgin, Island Def Jam, Malaco, and Epic.
Over the years, So So Def has released hit albums from a range of talented artists, including Da Brat, Xscape, Bow Wow, Jagged Edge, and BoneCrusher. Dupri himself has also achieved success as a solo artist, with albums like 'Life in 1472,' which featured chart-topping tracks like 'Money Ain't a Thang' featuring Jay-Z and 'Sweetheart' with Mariah Carey.
In addition to his work as an artist, Dupri has made a name for himself as a record executive, having served as the CEO of So So Def and as the president of Island's Urban Music division for two years. His contributions to the music industry have been widely recognized, and he continues to make a significant impact as an influential force in the industry.
When discussing the partnership, Dupri expressed his excitement about finding a new home for the entire So So Def brand, allowing him to continue the work he started years ago. His vision for the label aligns with Create Music Group's commitment to supporting artists and helping them thrive in the music industry.
Create Music Group, led by founder and CEO Jonathan Strauss, is honored to have the opportunity to collaborate with Dupri and his team, recognizing him as a highly successful and impactful figure in music over the last three decades. This partnership marks a significant step forward for both parties involved, creating new avenues for growth, creativity, and success.
As the partnership between So So Def Recordings and Create Music Group takes shape, music lovers and industry insiders can't help but eagerly anticipate the exciting projects and releases that will result from this collaboration. With Dupri at the helm, the future looks bright for both the label's existing catalog and the upcoming endeavors that will showcase fresh talent and the continued evolution of So So Def.
