Since its formation in 2007, Cinematic Music Group has remained steadfast in its commitment to upholding artists’ true vision & independence. Founder and CEO Jonnyshipes was determined to give his artists total creative control; a concept heavily valued by makers and consumers of art alike. Built on a framework of artistic integrity and creating the best music possible, success seemed inevitable for the fledgling label.
And so it was. Sean Kingston, one of the label’s earliest signees, became an overnight sensation following the release of his self-titled debut album which featured two #1 Billboard singles including the double platinum single “Beautiful Girls”. After years of continuing to support the preservation of pure hip-hop with signings like Nipsey Hussle and Big K.R.I.T., Shipes once again made headlines in 2010 for discovering a then-unknown 16 year old talent named Joey Bada$$. The rest is history—Joey came into his own as a prodigious talent and made huge waves in the industry upon the release of his stellar mixtape, “1999”, which received critical acclaim from the likes of Complex Magazine, Pitchfork, Stereogum, and RESPECT.
In recent years, Shipes has continued to expand the legacy of Cinematic while keeping in line with the principles he laid down initially. Looking beyond the world of hip-hop, Cinematic has also developed partnerships with singer/songwriters Cat Clyde & Jeremie Albino and rock bands Public Access T.V. & Caveman, among others. Despite now hosting a broader coalition of artists, one thing remains clear: Cinematic continues to be one of the premier independent labels for its unwavering dedication to its artists and the preservation of quality music.