Lena Waithe has made her way into the music development scene and is starting her own label, Hillman Grad Records. The Emmy-winning screenwriter and proud LGBTQ activist’s new label is an offshoot of her production company and a joint venture with Def Jam.
Waithe said she is launching her own record company in the hopes of bringing bring back the “old atmosphere and nostalgia” that music lacks today.
In an interview with Rolling Stone for the magazine’s “The Future of Music” issue, Waithe talked about her new record company venture and the importance of music in her life and how it plays a key role in her film and TV projects.
Although no artist signings were announced as part of the public launch on Wednesday, June 16, Waithe is looking forward to signing new talent. Lil Nas X, Jazmine Sullivan, Summer Walker, H.E.R. and Miguel are some of the types of artists she hopes to sign because of their storytelling and continuous development.
“At Hillman Grad Productions we believe in identifying and amplifying new talent,” Waithe told Rolling Stone, “and we want to continue to do that in the music industry. Jeff Harleston (Def Jam’s CEO) and his phenomenal team at Def Jam have given us their trust and their resources to help develop artists that not only have potential but staying power. We look forward to the journey ahead.”
Waithe wants to bring the aesthetics and bold images of artists back into the music scene. She cites Erykah Badu, Brandy and Prince are among her early idols, so she knows exactly what sound she’s looking for.
“I don’t want to do the typical thing,” she said. “We are not going to come out with 10 albums a year. It’s about finding really interesting artists who have a real drive and sense of wanting to figure out who they are over time. We really want artists that can grow. Yes, it includes albums and singles, but to me it’s about personality and moments.”
As a newcomer to the music business, Waithe also plans to work with artists to develop their film and aesthetic strategies.
