IDOL has signed US rapper and producer Erick the Architect, confirming the release of his solo album.
The independent digital distributor has agreed to a global artist services deal with the founding member of Brooklyn hip-hop trio Flatbush Zombies. The partnership will see IDOL handle worldwide digital distribution, as well as global marketing, for all upcoming releases. The first will be Erick’s upcoming single, “Parkour” which will be released on July 11. IDOL’s US team will work closely with Erick’s management at Quincy Jones Productions on release strategy and audience development.
Erick the Architect’s signing is an important step in the expansion of IDOL’s US operations and extends its roster of direct deals with entrepreneurial artists and their management teams. The deal with Erick the Architect follows Thomas Maxwell’s recent promotion to General Manager, USA to head up IDOL’s North American operations. IDOL has also inked new partnerships with Fire Records, Soundway Records, and Gondwana Records over the past 18 months.
“When I first was introduced to IDOL, I had a solid piece of music (my new album) & I felt that it had to be nourished by the right individuals considering I’ve been working on it for almost four years,” adds Erick the Architect about the deal.
“Considering how special it is to me, i wanted to work with a team of people who saw my vision and believed in it just as much as I do. Working with IDOL has been such a joy; they’ve identified how well my music can and will perform internationally and globally. It means a lot to me to work alongside them. They are an efficient, extremely competent and personable company, and I can’t wait for the world to see what I’ve been cooking up!”
Erick’s forthcoming album marks the next milestone for his solo career. He first made a name for himself as the primary producer for Flatbush Zombies, formed in 2010 in Brooklyn. The group rose to prominence alongside other rap groups like The Underachievers and Pro Era as part of the Beast Coast hip-hop collective.
“With much planned over the coming months, we look forward to working with him and his team at Quincy Jones Productions to help execute his vision for a landmark debut solo album,” adds Pascal Bittard, President of IDOL.