Drake at the “Till Death Do Us Part rap battle” on October 30, 2021 in Long Beach, California.
Photo: Getty Images, Amy Sussman. All rights reserved.
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Drake is set to sign a new deal with Universal Music Group. The multi-million dollar deal is said to include various forms of publication.
Multi-layered contract
Universal Music Group chairman Lucian Grainge reportedly confirmed the deal over the phone. According to media reports, the contract is worth $400 million. It is an extensive, multifaceted agreement with the company. As a result, the contract includes recording, publishing, merchandise and visual media projects.
In late April, The Weeknd also signed a long-term deal with Universal Music Group, covering music recording, merchandise, video production and publishing.
Business relationship with sublabel remains opaque
Drake was previously signed to Cash Money through Universal sublabel Republic Records. With the supposed signing of the new contract, Drake has effectively re-signed with Universal Music Group. While his relationship with Young Money/Cash Money remains unclear, it appears he has fulfilled his obligations from his previous UMG contract.
Cash Money Records owners Bryan Williams, aka Birdman, and his brother Ronald Williams, aka Slim, said in 2019 when asked about Drake’s contractual status, “We’re in business with Drake forever.” Slim added at the time added: “We can’t talk about any of this.”
Afterward, Birdman reiterated, “All I can tell you is that we’re in business with Drake forever. We have a great friendship, a great partnership with respect on both sides. And honestly, I feel like we’re in business with Drake forever. Fuck what you heard. It is what it is. We are in business with Drake.”
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