TSR Exclusive: Barry Hankerson, the man who brought us talents including his niece, the late Aaliyah, is reviving his old record label Blackground Records rebranded as Blackground Records 2.0.
Multiple streets were shut down in Atlanta Saturday as the first lady of Blackground Records 2.0, Autumn Marini, shot her first video ahead of the label’s launch.
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Barry spoke exclusively to The Shade Room to talk about the rebirth of his label–which gave us Timbaland’s “Shock Value II” in 2009 before a more than 10-year hiatus–and bragged on his new artist who he says can’t be compared to any artist out.
Barry tells us he moved Blackground to Atlanta, where he has been meeting so many talented artists who couldn’t find a way to get their music out. This inspired him to bring Blackground back as Blackground Records 2.0 and do what they do, which he says is to push young artists.
“It’s a good time to promote young talent,” Barry said.
He was especially taken by Autumn Marini, who he says has the whole package and can’t be compared to other artists, past or present as she’s in her own lane.
“She’s beautiful, she writes her own songs,” Barry bragged. “I couldn’t resist working with her. I couldn’t resist working for her”
He continued, “She’s totally her own artist. She’s very original.”
Barry added that Autumn Marini’s newest project will be an “explosive album.” “It’s an incredible piece of work,” he said.
Blackground Records is responsible for finding some of our other faves including Tank and Jojo, as well as Toni Braxton’s “Libra” album, which featured her hit single, “Please.”
Are you here for the rebirth of Blackground Records 2.0? Let us know!
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