Date Signed: November 2024
Label: Warner Chappell Music Benelux
Type of Music: House
Management: spags@luckygroup.au
Booking: david.gordoni@unitedtalent.com
Legal: rob.glass@mediaartslawyers.com
Publicity: amanda@bluemusicservices.com
A&R: jorn.heringa@spinninrecords.nl
Web: instagram.com/itsyaboyciz
Australian DJ Cyril, A.K.A. Cyril Riley, initially garnered notice in 2021 when he began uploading stylish remixes to various online platforms. Yet it wasn’t until ‘23 that he unleashed his version of “Stumblin’ In,” a song originally performed by Chris Norman and Suzi Quatro. As of today, that track has surpassed 570 million streams.
The gargantuan success of that cut earned the attention of Dutch electronic label Spinnin’ Records, an imprint of Warner Music Group. Seeing his potential, the company offered a deal. The superstar’s girlfriend went into labor as that agreement came together, making the moment especially momentous.
Cyril soon began spending time at Spinnin’ Records’ headquarters in Amsterdam, during which a pair of Warner Chappell’s “top fellas” befriend him. “We’d go out for lunches, have a few drinks and just had a good time,” he says. The DJ didn’t realize he needed a publishing contract until the importance of having one was explained. While numerous publishers expressed interest, he elected to stay in the Warner family by signing with Warner Chappell Music Benelux. This made particular sense to Cyril, as he prioritizes strong personal connections with everyone on his team. “I like to work with good people. That’s my main thing, because it’s really hard when you don’t get along.”
Before inking the deal, Cyril journeyed to Warner Chappell’s Nashville offices, where the corporate brass feted him with sessions and sent him to writing camps. It seemed fortuitous that they were pushing for his success even before he signed. Plus, “It was super fun,” says the ARIA nominee.
Regardless, Cyril refused to make anything official without having his legal representation weigh in. Though everything took a hot minute, experience meant it was less stressful than signing with Spinnin’. He recommends other artists exercise patience as well. “There’s no point in rushing something,” the 27-year-old says. “Work on your craft, and have things you can negotiate with. You can’t negotiate if you have nothing.”
