Hillary Crosley, N.Y.
Warner Music Group has relinquished its exclusive distribution
rights to Talib Kweli's Blacksmith Music label. However, the major
label still has the first right of refusal for Blacksmith
acts.
A Warner spokesperson says the company has the option to release
music from Blacksmith artists such as Jean Grae, Strong Arm Steady
and singer Anjulie.
Kweli himself is still signed to Warner Bros. as a solo artist and
is currently wrapping his upcoming duet album with producer Hi-Tek,
"Reflection Eternal: Train of Thought II." The set is due sometime
this year.
Kweli and partner Corey Smyth launched Blacksmith Music in 2006.
Neither were available for comment at deadline.