Will.i.am, Jarret Myer, Rich Antoniello Acquire Uproxx, HipHopDX and More to Form New Studio

Caitlin Huston
·2 min read
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Jarret Myer, Rich Antoniello and will.i.am have formed UPROXX Studios, after acquiring Uproxx, HipHopDX, Dime Magazine and other media assets from Warner Music Group.

The studio will also have the exclusive license to represent Warner Music Group’s YouTube inventory of stars for all media sales in the United States. Myer, co-founder of Uproxx Media, will serve as incoming CEO of the studio, while will.i.am will serve as chief visionary officer.

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“We’re doubling down on growth,” Myer said. “Expect significant investments in our brands, team, and the experiences we offer – both creators and audiences alike.”

In his position, the company said will.i.am will bring “his star power, Futurism and tech expertise.” The company will also partner with software company FYI to use AI technology and FYI radio.  FYI’s AI-powered platform will have its own vertical within UPROXX Studios.

“Innovation is in our DNA,” will.i.am said. “Our continuous pursuit of developing new mediums and platforms will re-shape the future of creative expression and push culture forward.”

Uproxx Studios and WMG say they “will continue to work together to ensure the seamless continuation of all services for valued partners.”

Rich Antoniello, founder and ex-CEO of Complex, will serve as executive chairman.

“This is a game-changer,” he states. “We’re merging the agility and freedom of an independent entity with the reach and resources of a major music label. This is the recipe for groundbreaking content and unparalleled brand experiences.”

In February, Warner Music Group CEO Robert Kyncl announced the layoffs of about 600 staffers and said the company was exploring the “potential sale” of Uproxx and HipHopDX. The company also wound down the podcasting brand Interval Presents and social media publisher IMGN.

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