Lena Waithe is continuing her efforts to dominate the entertainment industry this week, announcing the launch of her new label with Def Jam Records.
Waithe’s new label is called Hillman Grad Records and is “committed to identifying and developing artists in hopes of priming them for long term success.” The label aims to do this by “leveraging opportunities across music, TV & film,” and to “capitalize on the cultural significance generated when these worlds meaningfully intersect.”
“Music and storytelling have always gone hand in hand. And I think that’s because musicians are the storytellers we love the most,” Lena Waithe said in a statement.
“They can take complex emotions and simplify it in four minutes, the same artist can sing about the revolution and falling in love. Music is a part of us. It’s so often connected to our fondest and sometimes our darkest memories. Musicians tell our story. At Hillman Grad Productions we believe in identifying and amplifying new talent, and we want to continue to do that in the music industry. Jeff Harleston and his phenomenal team at Def Jam have given us their trust and their resources to help develop artists that not only have potential, but staying power. We look forward to the journey ahead.”
Waithe was named the Hollywood Reporter’s 2020 “TV Producer of the Year,” the youngest ever to receive the honor. Waithe also received two 2019 NAACP Image Award nominations on behalf of “The Chi” for the “Pilot” and “The Whistle” episodes.
