Kenya Barris Partners With Interscope To Launch Record Label + Secures ViacomCBS Deal

Kenya Barris has made an indelible mark in the world of television as the creator of the hit series, “Black-ish” which spawned two other shows, “Grown-ish” and “Mixed-ish.”

Now the showrunner has decided to try his hand in the world of music by signing a joint venture with a major recording label. And he’s expanded his extensive business portfolio by starting a podcast and has reportedly secured a deal with ViacomCBS’ new BET Studios after exiting a $100 million dollar Netflix deal in January.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Barris announced that he has started a record label, Khalabo Music, which is a joint venture with Interscope Records. Khalabo Music has already signed a few artists to its roster.

“Since the beginning, the goal at Khalabo has been to tell stories that reflect our culture with honesty, specificity, and from a perspective that feels unique to a singular voice,” Barris tells The Hollywood Reporter.

“Similar to how we’ve approached our television and film content, my hope is that Khalabo Music becomes a place where artists are given the space to hone their talent while embracing the specificity and individuality of their voice and sound.”

“We try to seek out creative relationships with people who not only move culture but see where culture is going,” said Interscope Geffen A&M Records vice chairman Steve Berman. “Kenya touches people in so many different ways and he wants music to be part of that experience, so the conversation is not just about, ‘Let me find this one artist and make the best record,’” Berman continued. “He wants to find the artists and be able to plug music into his universe in many different ways. It’s the complete picture with him.”

Barris has brought on two industry veterans to help helm the latest venture. Gabe Hilfer, who will serve as Khalabo Music’s director of development and operations, and Nicole Plantin, who will serve as general manager.

“Kenya is such an important voice in culture, and I am beyond excited to pair my passion and experience with his vision,” said Plantin. “I’m looking forward to creating music together that’s just as phenomenal.”