Patrice Rushen Signs With WCM
• Warner Chappell Music (WCM) has signed a global publishing deal with 4x Grammy nominee and jazz/R&B star Patrice Rushen, a classically trained pianist who first found success in the 1970s and ’80s with her signature blend of jazz, pop, and R&B. Her 1982 single, “Forget Me Nots” received a Grammy nomination for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.
Over the course of her career, Rushen has released 14 solo albums and a greatest hits compilation. She has also performed with and produced for Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, Prince, Nancy Wilson, Sheena Easton, Carlos Santana, and Freddie Hubbard, to name a few. She has also served as the first female musical director for the Grammy Awards, Emmy Awards, People’s Choice Awards, and NAACP Image Awards. Rushen has also composed musical scores for film and TV, including Showtime’s The Killing Yard; the Sundance Film Award-winning Our America; and the critically acclaimed Wonderful World of Disney telefilm, as well as the theme song for the TV sitcom, The Steve Harvey Show.
Rushen remarked, “I am so excited to be with WCM. It’s been wonderful to feel the energy and support of a company whose respect for music is matched by the progressive perspectives and ideas which serve to protect music makers. I look forward to the celebration of my existing catalog as well as the creation of new collaborative projects, and songs.”
Chuck Gamble, WCM VP of Catalog Promotions/Creative Services, said, “Patrice is a one-woman creative powerhouse — artist, producer, conductor, composer, and renaissance writer. She has built a career that extends beyond music creation, embracing versatility and authenticity, and we’re honored to work with such a remarkable legacy.”
In a joint statement, WCM Co-Chairs, Guy Moot (CEO) and Carianne Marshall (COO), added, “We’ve been fans of Patrice and her music for a long time. She’s crafted a collection of songs that continue to hold cultural significance, built on undeniable passion and natural skill. Throughout her career, she’s also served as a driving force for female songwriters and set the stage for the next generation of diverse talent to thrive, and we’re very grateful to have this opportunity to look after her timeless catalog.”
Rushen is currently composing for film and TV, as well as working closely with organizations dedicated to establishing music education and mentorship programs for inner-city youth. Having just performed to a sold-out crowd at the New Orleans Jazz Fest, Rushen is continuing a successful tour in Europe and the U.S. this summer. [Photo Courtesy of WCM]
