Reservoir inks publishing deal with Armani White, rapper behind TikTok hit ‘BILLIE EILISH.’

US rapper Armani White has landed a publishing deal with independent music company, Reservoir Media.

According to the announcement, the deal (White’s first publishing deal), covers his entire catalog including the viral hit, BILLIE EILISH., as well as his forthcoming works.

White soared to prominence in 2022 with BILLIE EILISH., which now amassed more than 256 million streams on Spotify. The track’s popularity skyrocketed on TikTok, with a video featuring the song amassing a staggering 40 billion views.

The song also reached claimed the No.58 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, broke into the top 20 of Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, and achieved Gold certification in the United States. The success of this single played a pivotal role in securing a record deal with Def Jam for White.

White collaborated with Denzel Curry earlier this year on his single, GOATED., which amassed more than 19 million streams on Spotify. The song was accompanied by a music video featuring boxing icon, Floyd Mayweather.

The rapper was part of Vevo’s DSCVR Artists To Watch list for 2023.

“After spending the last few years refining his craft, Armani White has been showing the world exactly what a dynamic artist looks like. His vivid storytelling is earnest and energetic,” said Jordan Ferree, Manager, Artist & Label Relations, Vevo.

“Whether freestyling while getting his hair braided, or shining on our DSCVR stage, he leaves nothing on the table. The rising MC has lived many lives, and none without adversity. We can’t wait to see the one unfolding as he becomes the star he’s destined to be.”

In April, White released SILVER TOOTH. featuring A$AP Ferg, a prelude to his EP titled Road to CASABLANCO., which debuted at #8 on Spotify’s Top Albums Global Debut chart.

Originating from Philadelphia, White gained industry attention in 2015 when he uploaded a music video for his single, Stick Up, earning him opportunities to perform alongside notable artists such as Big Sean, Goldlink, and Big K.R.I.T.  White independently released his debut album, Keep In Touch, in 2019.

“I have full confidence that Faith Newman and the Reservoir team will help me reach new heights. I eagerly anticipate sharing more music with my fans and continuing to develop the world of Armani White alongside them.”

Armani White

He followed up with the five-track EP titled Things We Lost In The Fire in 2021.

“Music has been a guiding light for me through numerous trials, and this moment represents an exhilarating opportunity to elevate my craft. I have full confidence that Faith Newman and the Reservoir team will help me reach new heights. I eagerly anticipate sharing more music with my fans and continuing to develop the world of Armani White alongside them,” White said.

For Reservoir, the agreement with White marks its latest publishing deal. Its most recent signings include multi-Platinum, Grammy-nominated hip-hop producer, and artist Byron Thomas, professionally known as Mannie Fresh, Grammy-winning artist and songwriter Michael Render aka Killer Mike of hip-hop duo, Run The Jewels, and songwriter and producer Warren ‘Oak’ Felder.

Just weeks ago, Reservoir entered into a joint venture with American Idol producer, 19 Entertainment to sign publishing deals with contestants.

“Armani also exhibits an incredible work ethic, and the Reservoir team is enthusiastic about assisting him in releasing hit songs that propel the genre forward.”

Faith Newman, Reservoir

Faith Newman, Reservoir’s Executive Vice President of A&R and Catalog Development, said: “As a fellow native of Philadelphia, it is a privilege to collaborate with Armani, whose music pays homage to the rich history of Philly hip-hop while infusing it with a modern touch that defines his unique ‘happy hood’ niche within the genre.

“Armani also exhibits an incredible work ethic, and the Reservoir team is enthusiastic about assisting him in releasing hit songs that propel the genre forward.”

“Armani has been on the rise for years, but BILLIE EILISH. helped him explode onto the scene to gain the attention he deserves.”

Rell Lafargue, Reservoir

Rell Lafargue, President and Chief Operating Officer of Reservoir, said: “Armani has been on the rise for years, but BILLIE EILISH. helped him explode onto the scene to gain the attention he deserves.”

“He is a true artist and global thinker — incorporating striking visual elements into his campaigns and recognizing the importance of impressive international collaborations. Armani is exactly the kind of artist we look to support at Reservoir, and despite billions of views and streams, he’s just scratching the surface.”

Music Business Worldwide