Warner Records partners with Protect the Culture

“Marc has already proven to be an invaluable A&R resource with the signings of breakout Nigerian artist Pheelz and rising Afro-fusion star Lord Afrixana,” Warner Records president Steven ‘Steve-O’ Carless said.

“We’re confident it’s just the beginning of what’s to come from Marc and Protect the Culture. The team is excited to be championing such inspiring young talent from the electrifying African and world music scenes with passionate entrepreneurs, and we’re looking forward to all we can accomplish together.”

On his part, Byers said: “I’m excited to bring Protect the Culture to Warner Records. I have a passion for this genre and feel it will be the pop music of the world. Lord Afrixana is our first artist on the label and he’s incredibly talented.”

Byers added that his outfit’s objective extends beyond featuring exclusively African sounds, highlighting the universal appeal and diversity of Afrobeats.

PTC’s inaugural release is ‘No Dey Tire’ by Ghana-born Massachusetts-based singer-songwriter Lord Afrixana. The song heralds his forthcoming solo project set to be released later this year.

The musician’s songwriting credits include collaborations with Afrobeats stars Tiwa Savage and Davido, as well as global pop stars such as Beyoncé, Pharrell Williams and Bebe Rexha.

Byers boasts a 25-year career, collaborating with renowned artists such as Michael Jackson, Justin Timberlake, Usher, Eve, Chris Brown, Jamie Foxx and Raven-Symoné, while also working with producers such as Andre Harris, Vidal Davis Rodney Jerkins and Idris Elba.

Additionally, Byers was influential in the establishment of Philly360.com and the sponsorship of The Roots Picnic during his consultation agreement with Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation from 2009 to 2011, and produced the 2012 film Black November featuring notable names like Mickey Rourke, Kim Basinger, and Vivica A. Fox, among others. Earlier in his career, he held the position of A&R director at Atlantic Records, working with Intro, Monie Love and The Braxton Sisters.