Hillman Grad has signed Neo-soul and R&B songwriter Davion Farris.
Hailing from Inglewood California, the two-time GRAMMY-nominated artist Davion Farris has previously written with and for artists such as Mary J Blige, Tyrese, Trey Songz, Ginuwine, Jill Scott, SiR, and more.
Davion is ready to step into the spotlight with the release of his debut single “Sometimes” via Hillman Grad Records/Def Jam Recordings. Putting love and its complications at the forefront, this soulful track has already found fans on The Chi’s Season 4 soundtrack.
“Davion is a timeless artist,” said Lena Waithe. “He isn’t afraid to be vulnerable in his music. And that’s why he stood out to myself, Albert, and Tebs as an artist we wanted to sign. He’s been a fantastic collaborator and we can’t for everyone to hear what we’ve been cooking up.
“‘Sometimes’ is for those of us who give our best and still get knocked down. It’s a reminder that we’re not alone,” said Davion Farris. “This song is about strength in vulnerability. It’s ok to acknowledge that in certain moments, you’re not ok.”
Award-winning writer, producer, actor, and creator Lena Waithe’s Hillman Grad Records got off to a strong start in 2021 with the release of soundtracks for the critically-acclaimed documentaries Mr. Soul and The One And Only Dick Gregory. True to her word at the label’s inception, Lena and Hillman Grad have leaned into artistry and storytelling, from the perspective of diverse, often marginalized voices.
Jeff Harleston, Interim CEO of Def Jam Records offered a statement upon the inception of Hillman Grad: “Lena Waithe has established herself as one of the most artistically and commercially successful creators and storytellers at work today…After making her mark on television as an actor and writer, then smoothly shifting gears into her role as a film producer and CEO, it follows that she would now spread her wings at the helm of this exciting new record label. Def Jam is the perfect partner for Lena Waithe’s new Hillman Grad venture, and we look forward to bringing her musical vision to life.”