WMG + 10K Projects
• Warner Music Group has entered into a joint venture with 10K Projects, the Los Angeles-based label founded in 2016 by Elliot Grainge. As part of the deal, 10K Projects will become a standalone label within the WMG ecosystem, and Grainge will join WMG’s global leadership team. Grainge will remain CEO of 10K Projects, guiding the company along with Co-Presidents Zach Friedman and Tony Talamo. Pictured, (l-r): Friedman, Grainge and Talamo.
10K Projects is home to stars such as Trippie Redd, who in just five years has scored eight Top 5 albums and mixtapes; Iann Dior, who spent eight weeks at No. 1 with the infectious hit “Mood;” and Internet Money, whose multi-platinum “Lemonade” boasts more than one billion Spotify streams and charted in over 25 countries. 10K Projects also launched the career of hip-hop sensation Ice Spice, who will continue to record for 10K Projects/Capitol Records.
“Joining Warner Music Group provides us with the backing, the collective expertise and vision to empower our artists and our employees on the next phase of our journey,” said Grainge (left). “Max and Robert have been making all the right moves to position WMG for the future in what I think is one of the most fertile and exciting growth periods for the global music business. They have also shown that they value the kind of independent spirit and commitment to artist development that has made 10K successful so far. I know I speak for Zach, Tony and the entire team when I say how excited we are to get started in our new home.”
Max Lousada, CEO, Recorded Music, WMG, noted, “Elliot and 10K don’t just discover original talent, they understand how to ignite fandom and create fresh impact with each release. It’s a label full of next generation possibilities — with its artists, its leader, and its team. As 10K joins our thriving network of independent music brands, we’re committed to giving it the freedom and backing to reach new heights.” Robert Kyncl, CEO, WMG, added, “We welcome 10K’s extraordinary artists, its talented founder Elliot, and his entrepreneurial team to WMG. Together, we’ll grow our investment in artistry and accelerate the pace of our innovation.”
10K Projects’ artist roster also includes 6ix9ine, Surfaces, Aitch, YTB Fatt, SXMPRA, COIN, and more. Grainge was also behind the signing of XXXTENTACION in 2016. [Photos by Joseph Morrison]
