Jason Iley (Chairman and CEO, Sony Music UK & Ireland) has announced the launch of a new label, Dream Life Records, which will be run by three of the UK music industry’s rising stars, Dan Owusu, Lunick Bourgess and Shane Derozario.
According to Sony, the trio will “focus on finding urban and pop talent”, while “developing artists and management teams to the highest level, bridging the gap between youth and the mainstream”.
Between them Owusu, Bourgess and Derozario combine expertise across management, publishing and A&R.
“I want to continue building a company that is led by entrepreneurs and innovators. Dan, Lunick and Shane are extremely ambitious, hugely energetic and will be an excellent addition to the Sony team.”
Jason Iley, Sony Music UK
Dan Owusu started his music career at the Notting Hill Academy of Music, followed by BMG Publishing where he worked as A&R Manager, signing artists including Chip, AJ Tracey, MoStack, Lotto Boyzz and Hardy Caprio.
Lunick Bourgess fell in love with music during his childhood in the Congo and launched his own independent label while at university. He joined Virgin EMI as an A&R scout, was quickly promoted to A&R manager and signed a host of young talent including MoStack, Hardy Caprio, Tion Wayne and the platinum-selling drill artist, Russ. (Bourgess won the Trailblazer award at MBW’s UK-focused A&R Awards in 2018.)
Shane ‘Mizermilli’ Derozario started his own management company nine years ago and has worked with UK talent including K-Trap and MoStack, who credits Shane’s vision and dedication for much of his success, including a UK Top 5 album.
Jason Iley said: “I want to continue building a company that is led by entrepreneurs and innovators. Dan, Lunick and Shane are extremely ambitious, hugely energetic and will be an excellent addition to the Sony team. Their combination of nous and flair promises to uncover an exciting roster of new talent.”
“We decided to join Sony as we are all admirers of Jason because he gives young executives brilliant opportunities and mentors them through.”
Shane Derozario, Dream Life Records
Dan Owusu said: “Jason has a tremendous track record when it comes to identifying talent and staff. His intentions when it comes to diversity are clear and this is notable when you look at each label and the label heads. We appreciate Jason for his belief and support in our vision.”
Lunick Bourgess said: “I love how Sony operates and the diverse executives the company hires. I truly think it’s a forward-thinking company in tune with today’s generation. We are excited to work with Jason, under his leadership and guidance we can really thrive as young music executives.”
Shane Derozario said: “We decided to join Sony as we are all admirers of Jason because he gives young executives brilliant opportunities and mentors them through. We are hungry and ready to start.”Music Business Worldwide
