Los Angeles-based power pop band the 88 has signed with Island Def Jam Records after self-releasing its first two efforts. The act’s major label debut will feature at least three tracks recorded with Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, and more studio time with the superstar producer is planned for the future.
“It was refreshing to go into the studio with a unique band that takes such pride in both their sound and their songwriting,” Edmonds says. “We’re so happy to have them join the Island family,” Island executive VP of A&R Rob Stevenson adds.
The 88 have been on a hot licensing streak, with its music having been used in a TV teaser for the film “Little Miss Sunshine” and commercials from Sears, the NFL and Target. The band’s music has also been featured in “Grey’s Anatomy,” and films “You, Me and Dupree,” and “Failure to Launch.” The group has even appeared and performed in an episode of the CBS series “How I Met Your Mother.”
The 88’s 2005 effort “Over and Over” has sold 10,000 units in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan, and spawned a number of hit tracks on iTunes. “All Cause of You” has sold more than 17,000 copies there, and also appeared the soundtrack to “You, Me and Dupree.”