New Distribution Partnership Announced

HYBE America has forged a partnership with So So Def Recordings, the acclaimed label established by Jermaine Dupri. This collaboration aims to roll out both legacy music and new signings over the upcoming months.

Joining Forces to Elevate Music Distribution

The agreement provides So So Def with direct access to HYBE America’s extensive distribution and marketing capabilities. This initiative is expected to facilitate the reintroduction of So So Def’s rich catalog while offering new artists the opportunity for exposure and growth.

So So Def has been a launching pad for numerous iconic artists, including Usher, Mariah Carey, Janet Jackson, Nelly, Bow Wow, Da Brat, Jagged Edge, Xscape, and more recently, Muni Long.

A Personal Connection

For Scooter Braun, CEO of HYBE America, this partnership marks “a deeply personal full-circle moment.” Braun’s career began under the mentorship of Dupri at So So Def, making this collaboration particularly meaningful.

“Everything I learned about the music business started with Jermaine,” said Braun. “He gave me my first shot when I was just a kid with a dream. I was blessed to witness genius up close — and now, years later, it’s an honor to return to where it all began and stand beside him as a partner.”

Legacy and Future of So So Def

Jermaine Dupri expressed his excitement over the partnership, emphasizing the familial aspect of this collaboration. Drawing from their shared history, he remarked:

“This isn’t just a business move — this is family. Watching Scooter build what he has built has made me incredibly proud. He learned the game inside So So Def, and now he’s in a position to open doors the way I once opened them for him. That’s what legacy is about.”

Furthermore, Braun acknowledged Dupri’s significant influence on the music industry, stating:

“Jermaine Dupri isn’t just a legend — he’s one of the greatest producers and executives of all time. He changed the sound of a generation. This deal is about giving him the modern tools and reach his legacy deserves, and making sure the next generation hears what the last one already knows: Jermaine Dupri is a giant.”

Development at Sony Music Publishing UK

In related news, Sony Music Publishing UK has announced the promotion of Sarah Gabrielli as the new head of A&R. She will continue her work from the London office, reporting to David Ventura, the company’s President and co-Managing Director.

Gabrielli expressed enthusiasm about her new role, stating, “I’m incredibly excited to step into the role of Head of A&R. It’s an honour to lead such a talented team and to continue championing the incredible songwriters who make this job so inspiring.”

Gabrielli’s Impact and Future Vision

With a proven track record, Gabrielli has signed several notable artists, including Artemas, Beabadoobee, and Jordan Rakei. She works closely with various talented music creators and has made significant contributions towards advancing their careers.

David Ventura praised Gabrielli’s leadership abilities: “Sarah is a great leader who has exemplified excellence during her 8 years with the company. We have complete trust that Sarah will blossom in this new role and are all excited for her success.”

Upcoming Events: All Things Go Festival

Additionally, the All Things Go Festival has announced an expansion from a two-day to a three-day event, occurring from September 26 to 28. The festival, which will take place at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, MD, and Forest Hills Stadium in New York, aims to reveal its lineup in the near future.