Vanessa Williams Launches Record Label, Releasing the First Pop Album in 15 Years
Vanessa Williams, a celebrated star of stage and screen, is making a dynamic return to the music scene. Launching her record label, Mellian Music, Williams is set to release her first pop album in 15 years. The album's lead single, "Legs (Keep Dancing)," will hit streaming platforms on April 26.
Williams has partnered with Mod Squad, LLC, distributed by GoDigiPath, LLC, and ADA Worldwide, Warner Music Group’s independent label and artist services division. Steven C. Beer, known for his work with Lady Gaga and Britney Spears, joins as her strategic lawyer and management consultant.
“What a joy it is to be making new music behind the mike again with old friends,” Williams shared. “Creating new works in the studio while reminiscing about my journey in this business is exciting. Every challenge is exciting, and more new music to share with my fans fuels my fire.”
Cat Kreidich, President of ADA Worldwide, praised Williams, saying, “A true multi-hyphenate and savvy businesswoman, there’s not much Vanessa can’t do. We’re looking forward to supporting this exciting next chapter of her career and connecting her with fans eagerly awaiting her return to music.”
Williams' upcoming album, her first non-seasonal release in 15 years, promises to showcase her vocal talents across various genres, including Pop, R&B, Latin, Jazz, and Dance. Executive produced by Mellian Music, Mod Squad, LLC, and Christopher Todd Hall, the album aims to be a real music album with stellar acoustic and electronic performances.
The first single, “Legs (Keep Dancing),” co-written by Disney songwriter/producer Chantry Johnson, songwriter Kjersti Long, and Kipper Jones, will be available in MSQ Stereo and Dolby Atmos Immersive Audio. Williams has also produced a music video for the single, set to premiere on her official YouTube channel.
Following the release of “Legs (Keep Dancing),” two remixes by 808 BEACH, known for their work with Zayn, Sia, Lizzo, and others, will be released as digital streaming configurations and on 12-inch vinyl.
Leighton Singleton, Senior VP of Distribution, Operations, Sales, and Managing Partner of GoDigiPath, LLC, expressed his excitement, saying, “Vanessa Williams is one of the most professional and talented individuals I've ever had the pleasure of representing. We are extremely happy to be associated with her iconic artistry and business acumen.”
In addition to her music career, Williams is set to star as Miranda Priestly in London’s West End production of "The Devil Wears Prada" and is part of the producer team for "A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical," set to debut on Broadway this fall.
Reflecting on her career, Williams said, “You can call it a comeback, a full circle moment, or just plain serendipity. But I call it a blessing to be creating more history with the iconic force of nature that is Vanessa Williams.”
