Warner Chappell Music, the global publishing arm of Warner Music Group, announced today that it has entered into an exclusive administration agreement with breakout singer/songwriter Ari Lennox, covering her existing and future work. Lennox rose to the top of the neo-soul wave with her critically acclaimed debut studio album, Shea Butter Baby, which includes the RIAA platinum-certified single, “Shea Butter Baby (ft. J. Cole).” Most recently, she collaborated with award-winning R&B artist Jazmine Sullivan on Heaux Tales, which reached the top spot on Billboard’s Top R&B Albums chart and peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 chart.
Warner Chappell Music President of A&R, U.S., Ryan Press, said: “There’s so much to be said about Ari and her music, but her artistic drive is what truly sets her apart. She’s spent the last seven years working towards this moment, and I’m looking forward to the many successes I know we’ll share with her and the Dreamville team.”
Warner Chappell Music Vice President of A&R, Wallace Joseph, added: “Ari and I have known each other for a while now, and it’s been incredible to see her progress as both a songwriter and a performer. Her unique sound has captivated fans around the world, and I personally couldn’t be prouder to welcome her to our Warner Chappell family.”
Ari Lennox shared: “The Warner Chappell team has always supported me. I’ve known Wallace and Ryan Press for some time now and I am so thrilled to be a part of the family.”
Lennox got her start in music by releasing powerful renditions of well-known songs on YouTube, including Frank Ocean’s “Thinkin Bout You” and Beyoncé’s “Drunk in Love.” In 2013, she independently released her debut EP, Ariography, which led to a collaboration with rapper Omen on his track, “Sweat it Out.” She went on to become the first female artist signed to J. Cole’s Dreamville Records, and in 2016, she made her major label debut with the Dreamville/Interscope EP, Pho, which reached the Top 20 on Billboard’s R&B Albums chart. Lennox had a banner 2019, releasing Shea Butter Baby and embarking on her first sold out headlining tour in the United States, Europe, and Australia, in addition to opening for Lizzo’s sold out “Cuz I Love You Too” tour. In 2020, she teamed up with rapper Bas and R&B singer/songwriter Baby Rose on “Self Love” from Revenge of the Dreamers III. The No. 1, Grammy-nominated, RIAA platinum album was lauded as one of hip-hop’s best collaborations. Lennox has collaborated with Doja Cat, Chance the Rapper, Wale, Ty Dolla $ign, Kiana Ledé, Dreezy, J.I.D., among many others.
