Photo Credit: Warner Recorded Music
Acclaimed director-writer-producer Lee Daniels joins Warner Music in a global deal that covers recorded music projects such as soundtracks and artist signings.
Warner Recorded Music announces a global joint venture with acclaimed director, writer, and producer Lee Daniels, head of Lee Daniels Music. Daniels is the creative force behind award-winning films like Precious, The Butler, Monster’s Ball, and the TV series Empire. The deal encompasses recorded music projects, including soundtracks and artist signings.
The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack for The United States vs. Billie Holiday, starring Andra Day, is the first project to fall under this joint venture. Daniels directed the film, which was released on Hulu in February 2021. Daniels continues to retain a multi-year deal with 20th Television.
“I am always looking for new ways to expand and grow,” says Daniels. “I’m a filmmaker first and foremost, but, theater and music are also such passions of mine. I’m excited to be teaming up with Warner Music. It’s yet another way for me to keep pushing myself creatively — and The United States vs. Billie Holiday is just the beginning!”
“This venture brings together the genius of Lee Daniels, the dynamic global team at Warner, and an array of extraordinary artistic voices. Together, they’ll propel great storytelling, create indelible images, and produce hit soundtracks,” adds Amanda Ghost, CEO of AI Film and co-founder of Unigram. Ghost was integral in arranging and launching the partnership and acted as Executive Music Producer on The United States vs. Billie Holiday project.
“At Warner, we’ve built a thriving environment for creative pioneers and inspired entrepreneurs. Lee is an artistic visionary who has crafted some of the most powerful, moving, and captivating works of our era,” adds Max Lousada, CEO of Warner Recorded Music.
“Music has always figured prominently in his productions, driving the narrative of great films such as Precious and The Butler, while playing a central role in his influential TV series, Empire. The Billie Holiday soundtrack was a fantastic way to start our relationship, and we’re looking forward to working with Lee on an exciting series of projects inspired by his deep musical knowledge and impeccable taste.”