Rene McLean, partner and founding advisor at Influence Media Partners, has a new music venture to share.
Influence Media and McLean have announced SLANG, a new independent front line label under the music and entertainment company, according to a press release shared with AFROTECH™. One of the label’s first signees is Will Smith.
Prior to the announcement, the winner of both Grammy and Academy awards debuted his single “You Can Make It,” featuring Fridayy and Sunday Service Choir, at the 2024 BET Awards, per Variety. Marking Smith’s first time performing at the award show, he was joined by Kirk Franklin, Chandler Moore, and Sunday Service Choir.
“Through some of my darkest moments, music has always been there for me – to lift me and help me grow. It’s my humble wish that it can do the same for you and bring you all the joy and light you deserve,” Smith wrote in an Instagram post ahead of dropping the single, according to Variety.
Along with Smith, SLANG’s roster includes multi-platinum, hit-making producer Camper, who has worked with Jay-Z, Drake, Mary J Blige, H.E.R., and Nicki Minaj, joined by Grammy-winning producer and RIAA certified-diamond producer 30 Roc, who has worked with Kanye West, Cardi B, Travis Scott, Yo Gotti, and Roddy Ricch. The roster also features rapper and singer Leaf, Hip-Hop duo The Underachievers, alternative R&B artist Isaia Huron, and more.
“I’m proud to lead SLANG’s efforts to partner with quality artists and invest in their growth, regardless of genre or where they are in their respective careers,” McLean shared in a press statement. “In a quickly changing music industry, SLANG artists will be surrounded by a team of like-minded strategists who will stop at nothing to further their trajectory and help them meet their goals. Our commitment to culture comes first, and we consider our SLANG roster family.”
