Photo: Lester Cohen/Getty Images for Universal Music Group
Deets: Sir Lucian Grainge’s 2019 Artist Showcase gave industry insiders highly coveted seats to performances by some of UMG’s hottest established and breaking talent. This year’s showcase was presented by Citi, with support from Ray-Ban. The showcase featured exciting performances by Blackpink, Ella Mai, Greta Van Fleet, J Balvin, Lil Baby, Midland, Post Malone, YG and 2Chainz.
Today, along with the performances, Universal Music Group’s film and television division, Polygram Entertainment, officially announced four exciting projects:
“BEE GEES”: Directed by Academy Award® nominated Frank Marshall, who will produce alongside multiple-Grammy Award® winner Nigel Sinclair, the first authorized documentary feature about the Bee Gees seeks to reveal the character of the group, the individual members and the magic and mystery of their musical genius. The film was introduced at the event by Frank Marshall, who in acknowledged producer Nigel Sinclair and writer Mark Monroe. Official press release available here.
“FROM SCRATCH”: Directed by Omar Acosta, FROM SCRATCH: HOW MIXTAPES CHANGED MUSIC FOREVER reunites renowned New York City DJ’s Tony Touch and Doo Wop to produce a new mixtape that unwinds the fascinating, and often controversial history of this ever-popular medium; while celebrating Def Jam's 35th Anniversary, the mixtape tells the story of the iconic hip-hop label and includes recording of exclusive material from Def Jam artist. DJ Tony Touch introduced the project. Official press release is available here.
“THE GO-GO’S”: Directed by Alison Ellwood and underpinned by full access to the band, THE GO-GO’S is a candid archive-rich feature documentary that assesses the iconic group’s place in pop history and
examines the personalities and dynamics behind their rise, fall and numerous reincarnations. UMG’s Head of Film & Television Development David Blackman introduced the film, with The Go-Go’s band members Charlotte Caffey, Gina Schock, and Kathy Valentine in the audience. Official press release is available here.
“ICE COLD”: Directed by Karam Gill, ICE COLD is the definitive story of hip-hop jewelry; from 'DookieChains' to 'Diamond Grillz', the film explores (and celebrates) how jewelry elevated the genre of hip-hop to new heights. The first-look at the film was presented by Mass Appeal CEO Peter Bittenbender, who acknowledged Pierre “Pee” Thomas/Quality Control. The presenting sponsor, Citi, curated a piece of art signed by the performers and other notable attendees. The item will be auctioned off to benefit Musicians on Call.
Spotted: Blackpink, Ella Mai, Greta Van Fleet, J Balvin, Lil Baby, Midland, YG, 2Chainz and Post Malone
Hint For The Average Socialite: This is strictly invite only.
What’s Trending: @UMG #MusicIsUniversal
