December 05, 2000
Quality Control Music has reportedly began negotiating a distribution partnership with Warner Music Group, after eight years under the Motown Records umbrella.
Citing sources close to the deal, Hits Daily Double reports the deal would cover both QC as a label as well as the company’s management division, Solid Foundation Management. The new partnership is said to also include a film and television component, as well as an arrangement that would incorporate QC Sports, and the possibility of a branded Disney World attraction.
While the specific details of the affiliation haven’t been released, Warner Music Group could offer Quality Control as much as $450 million to finalize the deal.
Quality Control Music was founded in 2013 after renowned music manager Kevin “Coach K” Lee partnered with Pierre “Pee” Thomas to sign the Migos. Two years later, the two announced a merger with Capitol Records and Motown Records.
“We’re excited about this partnership and believe in Motown and CMG’s commitment to Hip Hop and its role in the company’s urban music profile,” Coach K said at the time. “The people there are really good at what they do, and we’ll be providing them with great music and artist development to enhance their growth. Teaming together should bring awesome results for everyone.”
Under the new distribution agreement, the label’s roster — which currently includes City Girls, Lil Baby, Lakeyah, Lil Yachty and the Migos — would likely remain signed to Capitol/Motown through the end of their respective recording contracts.
No word as to how Offset, who reportedly sued QC for the rights to his music as a solo artist, would be impacted by the move.
Quality Control expanded beyond music with the launch of QC Films in 2020 and QC Sports in 2022. The film division was one of the production companies behind the Amazon Studios documentary Untrapped: The Story of Lil Baby. Late last year QC Films announced unscripted television projects for City Girls, Migos and Lil Yachty.
The sports management, branding and marketing arm of the conglomerate represents baseball, basketball and football players including New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara.