Warner Chappell Music, the publishing arm of Warner Music Group, has announced it has signed a worldwide deal with Emma-Jean Thackray, the Jazz composer, producer, multi-instrumentalist, singer and DJ. Thackray is widely regarded as one of the most talented young jazz artists around today.

Thackray has previously released one EP (Um Yang) via Night Dreamer and three EPs (Rain Dance, Walrus and Ley Lines) through her own record label Movementt, which she founded in association with Warp. The EPs showcased her unique sound, which is formed by her diverse influences such as classic jazz, hip-hop beats and Detroit house. Her debut album, Yellow, is set for release on 2nd July and pushes the boundaries of her sound even further.

Through Warner Chappell’s newly created bespoke score and neoclassical initiativeWCM Neo, the publisher is also working closely with the dynamic, multi-faceted artist as she moves into the world of scoring for Film and TV, with several exciting projects already in the pipeline.

Thackray makes her TV debut tonight with a performance on BBC’s Later…with Jools Holland.

Emma-Jean Thackray said: “I’m delighted to sign to Warner Chappell ahead of the release of my first full-length album and as I enter into the next stage of my career. I never want to stay in one lane when it comes to my music and the team at Chappell encourage me to take risks and do what I feel is right. I’m looking forward to working together going forward.”

Ayla Owen, VP, Sync and Creative Services, Europe, Warner Chappell Music, added: “At Warner Chappell we pride ourselves on having a roster full of unique voices and diverse sounds and Emma-Jean is a remarkably unique artist and songwriter. She’s become a prodigy in the jazz scene, taking influences from a range of genres and blending them to create truly extraordinary music. It’s a very exciting time for Emma-Jean as she’s set to release her brilliant debut album, and we couldn’t be happier to welcome her to the Warner Chappell roster.”

Thackray was born and raised in Yorkshire where she played in multiple brass bands throughout her childhood. She attended the Royal Welsh College Of Music And Drama before taking on a Master’s with Issie Barratt at the renowned jazz facility at TrinityLaban. In 2018 Emma-Jean became an artist-in-residence at the London Symphony Orchestra.