The latest major shift in hip-hop publishing sees London Cyr, the producer behind seven tracks on Drake’s Iceman album, sign a global deal with Electric Feel Publishing in partnership with Sony Music Publishing. This move consolidates high-value creative assets under Austin Rosen’s leadership, signaling a strategic push by Electric Feel to secure top-tier producers who define the current sound of Black music and urban radio.
Cyr’s Iceman Impact and Strategic Partnership
Cyr’s collaboration with Drake dates back to 2024 when he worked on Some Sexy Songs 4 U, but his recent output on Iceman has cemented his status as a key creative voice. His contributions include “Whisper My Name,” “National Treasures,” “Plot Twist,” “B’s On The Table,” “Burning Bridges,” “What Did I Miss?” and “Little Birdie,” plus a contribution to “Gen 5.” In a statement, Cyr expressed that he is happy and blessed to join Electric Feel and Sony, noting he has long admired Austin Rosen’s approach to the business. Rosen, founder and CEO of Electric Feel Publishing, described Cyr as an exceptional producer with a unique creative vision. Sony Music Publishing VP of Creative added that Cyr is a true visionary whose influence on hip-hop culture is undeniable.
Industry Moves: ONE4 Venture and Quinn XCII Signing
Beyond Cyr’s signing, the publishing landscape saw Universal Music Publishing Group Nashville and ONE4 Records form a new joint venture called ONE4 Music, with Hunter Flynn as the first signing. Flynn, a Kentucky storyteller, joins the venture built on a shared belief in putting songwriters first. Additionally, Quinn XCII signed with Prescription Songs, joining a roster that values family feel and songwriter appreciation. Born Mikael Temrowski, Quinn XCII has released Platinum-certified singles like “Straightjacket” and “Kings of Summer.” These moves reflect a broader industry trend where publishers are aggressively forming joint ventures and securing versatile artists to maintain dominance in streaming and radio markets.
Catalog Acquisitions and New Joint Ventures
The week also featured significant catalog acquisitions and new venture formations. Exceleration Music and NexTone acquired the recording and publishing catalog of electronic pioneer Ryuichi Sakamoto, with NexTone overseeing Asia and Exceleration handling the rest of the world. Both companies will work with Sakamoto’s management to oversee posthumous releases. Meanwhile, Jarrett Doherty of the alt-pop duo Jady signed with Reservoir through Reservoir’s new joint venture with Sam Tinnesz’s Tinman. Doherty noted that Tinnesz opened doors to collaborations he could never dream of, making the official partnership with Reservoir a natural step for his career growth.
For editorial consideration and industry coverage inquiries, contact Radio Facts.
