Famed Baltimore club music pioneer DJ Class is taking steps to further expand the reach of his hometown’s sound by aligning with Universal Republic.
The signing, which was announced by Unruly Productions and Universal Republic, marks yet another accomplishment for Class, who is currently enjoying the success of his latest single, “I’m the Ish.”
The song, which spawned a remix featuring Crunk music legend Lil Jon, is taken from the producer’s forthcoming album Alameda & ColdSpring.
For Unruly co-owner Shawn Caesar, the Universal Republic alliance is nothing short of an asset that can only enhance the status of Unruly Productions and Class.
“We are very excited to have Universal Republic get on board with us and share the same vision as we do,” Caesar told AllHipHop.com in a statement. “DJ Class has been part of the Unruly family since our very beginning, and together we have created a huge buzz with “I’m The Ish.”
A fixture on the Baltimore music scene, DJ Class is regarded as one of the founding members of the Baltimore break beat and drum & bass sound.
He is best known for producing club anthems such as “Tear the Club Up”, “Stop Snitching” and “What’s up Baby” as well as co-producing the “It takes two” remix by DJ Kool/Fat Man Scoop.
According to Class, the release of his album Alameda & ColdSpring represents the next wave in music, as well as the beginning of a worthwhile alliance with his new recording home.
“The opportunity for Unruly and myself to be a part of Universal Republic is amazing,” DJ Class stated. “I see this as long overdue for myself as an artist and club music as a genre. This union will make history.”*
Unruly’s other owner Scottie B. acknowledged the creative freedom and opportunity that Universal Republic has extended to his label.
“Both Avery and Monte Lipman at Universal Republic have allowed us to expand that vision to a wider audience while allowing Class to keep his creative integrity,” Scottie B. said. “We couldn’t be happier and with this situation, and also are looking forward to working with the UMGD team. This is just the beginning.”
DJ Class’ Alameda & ColdSpring is slated to hit stores this year.
