Warner Music Group and Netflix Agree Multi-Year Deal for Music Documentaries

Warner Music Group has signed a multi-year agreement with Netflix to develop new music-focused documentaries and series.

The deal, described as an “exclusive multi-year first-look” partnership, will see the streaming service create films and documentary series exploring the lives and legacies of artists and songwriters from Warner’s catalogue.

As part of the agreement, Warner will work with Unigram, a production company led by Amanda Ghost and Gregor Cameron, to develop long-form programming. The company was founded in 2015 with backing from Access Industries, Warner Music Group’s majority owner.

Warner and Unigram said projects would be developed in collaboration with the artists themselves or their estates.

Warner Music Group’s chief executive, Robert Kyncl, said the partnership would help bring its catalogue to a wider audience.

“The combination of Warner Music Group’s IP with Netflix’s global reach is an incredible opportunity to introduce new fans to our artists and songwriters all around the world,” he said.

Warner’s roster includes artists such as David Bowie, Madonna and Aretha Franklin, as well as contemporary acts including Dua Lipa, Ed Sheeran and Charli xcx.

Netflix said the deal builds on growing audience demand for music-related programming. Adam Del Deo, the company’s vice president for documentary films and series, said music storytelling had proved popular with viewers.

“We’ve seen how music inspires incredible fandom on Netflix, so we’re excited to partner with Warner Music Group and the artists they work with to bring more stories to our members,” he said.

The agreement comes as Netflix increases its investment in music content.

The platform recently secured exclusive live streaming rights to a comeback concert by BTS, and earlier this month released a concert special featuring Harry Styles. It also launched a one-take performance film with Ed Sheeran last year, following the artist through the streets of New York as he performed a selection of his songs.