Odd Future to Remain Independent with Sony Distribution Deal

After being wooed by the major labels with everything from donuts to Justin Bieber, Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All has decided to remain independent. The rap collective is in the process of inking a deal with RED Distribution/Sony to put out albums without compromising their creative freedom.

According to manager Chris Clancy, the deal allows the West Coast crew to control their art and own their masters. “It’s based on getting the distribution deal we’ve always envisioned that allows the group to ‘sign themselves’ to their own company and keep their masters,” he told RapRadar. “They will have 100% creative control of all aspects of their music, art, and release schedule with no third party participation in outside business.”

He explained that this is what OFWGKTA had always envisioned for their product. “Freedom and ownership was the whole point. RED and Sony know that it’s in everyone’s best interest to maintain the group’s authenticity and control,” he stated. “They built it, they deserve it. There’s no cheesy hooks or fluorescent liquor product placements in the works. … It’s about to be fun…and different.”

Ringleader Tyler, the Creator is first up to release an album, with his second solo LP Goblin hitting shelves on May 10. The offering is part of a one-album deal with XL Recordings.

“I’d never sign a deal without 100% creative control,” Tyler previously told the L.A. Times. “You lose a lot when you sign with the major labels. I’d rather be broke than have to rap over the same chord progressions as everyone else.”