UMG EXTENDS RELATIONSHIP WITH BEAT BUGS TEAM

The team behind Beat Bugs, Netflix’s animated series for youngsters that uses Beatles songs, and Universal Music Group have partnered on three new music-driven series.

Grace/Beyond principals Josh Wakely, Mikael Borglund and Trevor Roy are working on: 27, which looks at the musicians, artists and entertainers who died at the age of 27; Melody Island, an animated series for children that features a story inspired by a classic UMG master or composition with an uplifting message and tropical island feeling; and Mixtape, a series based on and connected to an iconic song on that forms the 12-track season. All titles are working titles.

The new productions build on the relationship that began when Republic Records started releasing Beat Bugs soundtracks.

GB is also working on an untitled Motown project at Netflix with Smokey Robinson as the series’ Executive Music Producer; the soundtrack will be released on UMG’s Motown/Capitol label through GB’s Melodia imprint.

“From my very first meeting with Josh, I was struck by his unique vision and innovative storytelling that holds music as the centerpiece of his film and TV projects,” said Michele Anthony, Executive Vice President of UMG. “I’m so proud to expand our relationship with Josh, Mikael, Trevor and the incredibly talented team behind the Emmy Award-winning Beat Bugs and the forthcoming Motown show. At UMG, we support and work with great artists from every medium and I’m thrilled to be working closely with Grace/Beyond to bring original experiences to life based on our extensive catalog and artist rosters."