Diddy, Block Renew Partnership

Posted: November 17, 2006 in: Bad Boy Records | By: Jason |

Sean "Diddy" Combs and Russell "Block" Spencer announced today that they have renewed their successful joint venture between Bad Boy South and Block Enterprises.

The Atlanta-based Block Enterprises and Bad Boy South first joined forces in 2005 for the release of the Boyz N Da Hood's debut release, which premiered at no. 1 on both Billboard's Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums and Top Rap Albums charts, while entering the Billboard 200 at no. 5.

Following up the success Boyz N Da Hood, the two labels formalized their partnership in early 2006. The new joint venture made an immediate impact with the release of Yung Joc's smash debut, New Joc City, which also scored the no. 1 spot on Billboard's Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums and Top Rap Albums charts, while debuting at no. 3 on the Billboard 200. Fueled by hit singles, "It's Goin' Down" and "I Know You See It," the album is now nearing platinum sales.

"As we have continued to expand the musical scope of Bad Boy, we knew we had to be plugged into the creative and vibrant Southern scene," said Diddy. "When Block and I first met, I realized he had an ear for the streets of the South and that he would be the perfect person to be our partner in developing and breaking new talent. The success of Boyz N Da Hood and Young Joc proves that our instincts were right, and there is much more fantastic music in the pipeline from the Block/Bad Boy South team. I am thrilled that we have renewed our commitment to this great relationship."

"As the South market grew, Diddy and Bad Boy realized they needed to be involved. I was looking to take the music we make in the South to another level, and the collaboration between Block Enterprises and Bad Boy South was the perfect avenue for both of our companies. Look at the success we have already attained. When the machine is working successfully, you don't look to fix it, but to add to it to make it better. The renewal of our deal is going to make the Block/Bad Boy South partnership even bigger," added Block.

A native of Atlanta, Block first made his mark at Suave House Records, where he oversaw projects for 8 Ball & MJG, Tela and Crime Boss. Following a lengthy stint as head of A&R for Noontime Records, he and producer Jazze Pha established ShoNuff Records, home of crunk R&B sensation Ciara. But, Block's impeccable ear for new talent caught the attention of Diddy, as Bad Boy set its sights on the South. Block soon became Diddy's right hand man below the Mason Dixon line. The success of hip-hop super group Boyz N Da Hood introduced Block Enterprises.

-Ballerstatus.net