Los Angeles, CA – Create Music Group (CMG), a leading player in music distribution and technology, has announced a significant joint venture with Star Trak Entertainment and its co-founder, Rob Walker. This partnership marks the official relaunch of the influential record label originally established in 2001 by Walker alongside Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo, collectively known as the renowned production duo The Neptunes.
The collaboration is set to see Create Music Group provide a comprehensive suite of services to artists signed under the relaunched Star Trak banner. These services will encompass worldwide distribution, advanced technology platforms, and targeted marketing services, leveraging CMG’s established infrastructure and digital expertise to amplify the reach and impact of future releases.
A Return for Star Trak’s Legacy
Star Trak Entertainment, in its original iteration, was a dominant force in the early 2000s, known for its eclectic roster and groundbreaking sound deeply influenced by the innovative production of The Neptunes. The label played a pivotal role in shaping the musical landscape of the era, launching and supporting a diverse array of successful artists across various genres.
The decision to relaunch Star Trak with Create Music Group underscores a strategic move to reconnect with that legacy while embracing the demands and opportunities of the modern music industry. The partnership aims to discover and nurture new talent, providing them with the resources and global reach necessary to thrive in today’s competitive market.
Rob Walker’s Enduring Influence
Rob Walker, a central figure in this new venture, brings a wealth of experience and industry acumen to the relaunched label. His illustrious career includes serving as the long-time manager for The Neptunes, guiding their ascent to becoming one of the most successful and influential production teams in music history. Beyond artist management, Walker’s background also includes experience as a talent agent at UTA (United Talent Agency), providing him with a broad perspective on the entertainment business.
Furthermore, Walker’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond music. He is also recognized for his co-founding roles in the globally recognized streetwear brands Billionaire Boys Club and Ice Cream, established with his long-time collaborator Pharrell Williams and Japanese fashion icon Nigo. This diverse portfolio highlights Walker’s multifaceted understanding of culture, branding, and artist development – assets expected to be crucial for the relaunched Star Trak.
Create Music Group’s Growth Trajectory
Create Music Group’s participation in the joint venture is a testament to its significant growth and strategic positioning within the independent music sector. The company demonstrated its formidable scale and potential last year when it received a $165 million investment round, which subsequently valued the enterprise at an impressive $1 billion. This valuation underscores CMG’s capabilities and its capacity to invest in and scale new ventures like the Star Trak relaunch.
CMG has been actively expanding its footprint through strategic acquisitions and partnerships. Recent moves include the acquisition of the esteemed independent electronic music label Monstercat, known for its significant presence in the electronic dance music community and its innovative approach to rights management and fan engagement. Additionally, Create Music Group recently launched a successful joint venture with artist Ty Dolla $ign for his label, EZMNY Records, further diversifying CMG’s genre representation and artist relationships.
These strategic initiatives highlight Create Music Group’s operational strength and its commitment to collaborating with influential figures and labels across the music spectrum, making it a natural partner for the revival of a label with the historical significance of Star Trak.
Outlook for the Partnership
The relaunch of Star Trak Entertainment through this joint venture with Create Music Group is poised to become a notable development in the music industry. By combining Star Trak’s iconic brand and legacy, guided by the experienced leadership of Rob Walker, with Create Music Group’s cutting-edge distribution, technology, and marketing capabilities, the partnership is well-positioned to cultivate the next generation of influential artists. Industry observers will be watching closely to see how this fusion of historical influence and modern infrastructure will shape future releases and contribute to the evolving sound of popular music.
