Netflix, Warner Music sign multi-year deal to produce artist documentaries

Netflix ​and Warner Music Group (WMG) have signed an exclusive multi-year deal to produce documentary series and films exploring the lives, music and legacies of the label’s artists.

The partnership, announced Friday, gives Netflix access to one of the most extensive catalogues in music history. WMG represents legends including David Bowie, Cher, ​Fleetwood Mac, Aretha Franklin and Joni Mitchell, ​alongside contemporary stars such as Charli XCX, Coldplay and Bruno Mars.

The deal marks the latest move in ​an intensifying race between music rights holders and streaming ⁠platforms eager to turn ⁠deep catalogues into premium ‌visual content and attract subscribers.

Music documentaries have increasingly become a vehicle for fan-driven, culturally resonant programming — a trend underscored by Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour film, which grossed more than $260 million US ⁠globally.

Under the agreement, WMG will work with Unigram, a production company aligned with the label, which will serve as the studio for ‌its long-form projects. Each title will be developed in collaboration with the artists or their estates.

The partnership bolsters Netflix’s growing slate of music programming, where it has already ​built a reputation as a leader in the genre, with titles such as Homecoming: ⁠A Film by Beyonce and Quincy among its highest-profile releases.

Rival platforms ⁠have also been investing heavily in music storytelling. Disney+ hosts ⁠a ⁠range of high-profile releases, including The ​Beach Boys, while Max has drawn attention with documentaries such as Stax: ​Soulsville U.S.A., showcasing historic ⁠labels and influential artists.

Apple Music, meanwhile, has expanded into original music video content, producing documentaries and livestreaming concerts through its Apple Music Live series, featuring artists such as Harry Styles and ⁠Billie Eilish.