Underground heads should
clear some space in their backpack, cause indie Hip-Hop label and underground
stalwart, Rawkus Records, has just signed a exclusive distribution deal with
RED Distribution.
The label was founded by
Brian Brater and Jarret Myerin 1996. Rawkus helped launch the careers of Mos
Def, Talib Kweli, Pharaoh Monch and countless others until they closed their
doors in January of 2004.
The owners said the reactivated
Rawkus imprint will aim at releasing more quality music.
“Jarret and I are very
excited to bring Rawkus to the RED/Song/BMG fold,” says Brater. “We
intend to make RED Distribution, once again, the dominant urban music player
in the independent world. Expect an extremely active 2006 schedule.”
RED Distribution is an independent
distribution company owned by Sony/BMG that distributes more than 20 independent
labels and Sony/BMG product. According to Vice President and General Manager
Bob Morelli, Rawkus should feel right at home.
“We are thrilled to
work with Brian and Jarret as they re-create the Rawkus Records brand,”
says Morelli. “Their vision and passion for everything they do will be
right at home with us. RED is committed to its urban music roster and Rawkus
will be a major part of this commitment in 2006 and beyond.”
A fall release schedule will
be announced shortly.
In addition to the music,
Rawkus has also formed its own management company called Rawkus Management,
and will be launching a film division.
The first project to be released
will be through Lake Shore Entertainment called “Excite Loves Vita,”
starring Rosario Dawson.
