Netflix, Warner Music sign multi-year deal to produce artist documentaries
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Netflix and Warner Music Group (WMG) have signed an exclusive multi-year agreement to create documentary series and films exploring the lives, music and legacy of the label’s artists.
The partnership, announced on Friday, gives Netflix access to one of the most extensive catalogs in music history. WMG represents contemporary stars such as Charli XCX, Coldplay and Bruno Mars, as well as legends such as David Bowie, Cher, Fleetwood Mac, Aretha Franklin and Joni Mitchell.
The deal marks the latest step in a race between music rights holders and streaming platforms eager to turn deep catalogs into premium visual content and attract subscribers.
Music documentaries have increasingly become a medium for fan-driven, culturally-resonant programming – a trend highlighted by Taylor Swift. eras tour The film, which grossed over $260 million US globally.
Under the agreement, WMG will work with Unigram, a production company associated with the label, as a studio for its long-form projects. Each title will be developed in collaboration with the artists or their estates.
This partnership strengthens Netflix’s growing scope of music programming, where it has already built a reputation as a leader in the genre, with titles such as Homecoming: A Beyonce Movie And Quincy One of its highest-profile releases.
Rival platforms are also investing heavily in music storytelling. Disney+ hosts a number of high-profile releases, including beach boysWhile Max has gained attention with documentaries such as Stax: Soulsville USAShowcasing historic labels and influential artists.
Meanwhile, Apple Music has expanded into original music video content, producing documentaries and livestreaming concerts through its Apple Music Live series, which has included artists such as Harry Styles and Billie Eilish.
