Warner Music Group (WMG), rated the world’s third largest record label, has signed a partnership deal with one of Nigeria’s leading record labels, Chocolate City Entertainment.
Audu Maikori, group chief executive officer (CEO) of Chocolate City, made this known in a statement on Thursday, March 28.
The new deal will allow Warner invest in Chocolate City’s talent development and also handle the Lagos-based label’s international distribution; giving it a stake in one of the world’s hottest sounds right now.
The partnership will also provide Chocolate City acts including Femi Kuti, M.I Abaga, Diles Ailes, Nosa, ClassiQ, Ruby Gyang, Blaqbonez, C Kay and Street Billionaires, with a stronger global services and reach.
“At Chocolate City, we have always been passionate about discovering and developing the best talent across Africa and giving them a platform for global growth,” said Maikori.
“The partnership with Warner Music Group is unique in the sense that our clients get the best of both worlds — curated and bespoke services by a highly experienced team across Africa and a dedicated global team to further push their music and their brands.”
In addition, Alfonso Perez Soto, Warner Music executive VP Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, said:
”The music scene in Nigeria is so rich and diverse that it’s important that we develop bespoke entrepreneurial strategies.
“At the same time, we’ll keep in mind the lessons learned from other emerging markets, for instance Latin America where we successfully broke local artists globally.
“We have great affinity with Chocolate City’s creative and ambitious approach and we’re excited about Warner’s role in bringing to life their vision of taking their music worldwide.”
The new partnership will still allow Paul Okeugo, Chocolate City co-founder, along with Jude Abaga and Aibee Abidoye, its executive vice presidents, retain their leadership positions in the company.
Other artistes included in the new contract are Brymo, Ice Prince and Jesse Jagz.
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