Jasmine “Jazz” Young, a former Def Jam executive and now director of the Warner Music/Blavatnik Center for Music Business at Howard University, has launched VRTEXX, a new global record label.
According to a press release, VRTEXX will be dedicated to discovering, developing and exporting artists from West Africa and the diaspora to international markets. The label will be distributed by Warner Music Group’s global distributor ADA.
Named a Billboard Global Power Player last year, Young has worked with artists including Jay-Z, DMX, Foxy Brown and Run-DMC over the course of her career. Also in 2025, under her leadership, the Warner Music/Blavatnik Center for Music Business was named one of Billboard‘s top music business schools in the world for the fourth year running.
In 2024, Young launched the West Africa Music & Arts Festival (WAMA Fest) in Accra, Ghana, in partnership with the country’s government. The VRTEXX roster will make its debut with live performances at the festival’s next installment.
“VRTEXX represents the future, a label, media, and entertainment company built on innovation, culture, and connection,” said Young in a statement. “We’re not just signing artists; we’re building legacies that will span continents and generations. This is the manifestation of decades of purpose and passion.”
“This is a full-circle moment for the culture. Jazz has always been ahead of her time — and VRTEXX is proof,” added Julian Petty, executive vp and head of business/legal affairs at Warner Records, in a statement. “What she’s about to do with this label will redefine the global music industry.”
“Jazz Young is one of the most visionary leaders in our industry, her ability to identify, nurture, and elevate talent is truly unmatched,” said Karibu Bello, former head of A&R EMEA/vp of global A&R at Warner Recorded Music. “What excites me most about this partnership is her deep commitment to bridging culture and commerce in a way that not only amplifies African voices but also creates sustainable pathways for creatives to monetize their art in powerful, authentic ways. VRTEXX represents a new chapter for global music, one where the future is diverse, connected, and full of possibility. Welcome VRTEXX….. I have no doubt that under Jazz’s leadership, this imprint will redefine how the world hears and experiences music from Africa and beyond.”
Added Adriana Sein, global head of artist & market development at ADA, “Jazz brings strong creative instincts and a clear vision to everything she does. ADA looks forward to supporting her next chapter with VRTEXX while championing new talent on the global stage.”
VRTEXX is now accepting artist submissions at WWW.VRTEXX.COM and @THEVRTEXX.
