Three prominent figures from the media and music sectors announced the formation of UPROXX Studios, a new autonomous media conglomerate that includes Uproxx, HipHopDX, Dime Magazine, and additional significant media assets from Warner Music Group (WMG). The venture aims to advance digital creativity through groundbreaking technology and foster innovation by combining will.i.am’s AI tech company, FYI, with the expertise of Jarret Myer, the creator, and former CEO of UPROXX, and Rich Antoniello, the founder, and ex-CEO of Complex Networks.
UPROXX Studios has obtained the exclusive license to represent WMG’s esteemed YouTube content for all United States media sales, providing a distinctive asset for the company. By incorporating household names, the venture aims to offer unique opportunities for brands and advertisers seeking entry into music culture. will.i.am’s FYI AI and its accompanying SiriusXM radio station, FYI radio, serve as central components for operations at UPROXX Studios, with creations like AI StoryLabs set to revolutionize content creation, publishing, advertising, distribution, and audience consumption.
Will.i.am expressed his belief in the transformative power of AI and technology in changing societal dynamics, suggesting that underserved individuals can leverage these tools to create new industries and bring about an era of societal redefinition. The initial endeavors of UPROXX Studios include a performance series powered by AI, a personalized radio concept, and a social media-based tech show, all aimed at showcasing the expanding opportunities of AI in marketing and content creation.
Jarret Myer, the incoming CEO of UPROXX Studios, emphasized the company’s commitment to growth and expansion, with plans for significant investments in brands, teams, and experiences. Rich Antoniello, the founder and former CEO of Complex Networks and current partner and executive chairman of UPROXX Studios, highlighted the groundbreaking nature of the initiative, merging the agility of an independent entity with the resources of a major music label to create unparalleled brand experiences. Elliott Wilson, a veteran in hip-hop journalism, has been appointed as the editorial director for Uproxx, HipHopDX, and Dime Magazine, with a focus on elevating the brands to new heights.
Maria Weaver, the President of WMX, expressed confidence in appointing Jarret Myer as the head of Uproxx, citing the successful track record of the team and the attractive opportunities for advertisers due to the independence of UPROXX Studios. The collaboration between UPROXX Studios and WMG represents a potentially transformative shift in hip-hop media, with a focus on ethical information consumption, authenticity, and the influence of hip-hop culture. The new venture is poised to unleash the explosive potential of its newly combined assets, shaping the future of media and culture.
