Milk & Honey, the Los Angeles-based powerhouse best known for managing top-tier songwriters, producers, and DJs, has officially stepped into the label business. On October 21, the company announced the launch of Milk & Honey Records, a new imprint focused on pop and dance music, with global distribution secured through The Orchard.
Songwriters at the Center
For years, Milk & Honey has built its reputation on championing creators, and its new label continues that mission. Unlike traditional record deals, Milk & Honey Records promises to give songwriters a sizeable share of master points—a move founder Lucas Keller says is long overdue. “Milk & Honey is a house built by songwriters, and the firm has never lost its way in putting them first,” Keller explained. Additionally, the label pledges transparent marketing commitments and flexibility in deal structures, including single-track agreements when appropriate.
To lead the new venture, Keller tapped industry veteran Dana Shayegan, whose career spans iHeartRadio, Studio71US, and The Collective. Moreover, Shayegan co-founded Monk Music, which released thousands of tracks across Caribbean and African genres, and brings both traditional A&R instincts and a deep understanding of digital strategy. “We’re launching a label that honors proper old-school A&R while also embracing data and new technology to stay steps ahead in artist advocacy,” Shayegan said.
Support & Momentum
Meanwhile, The Orchard’s CEO, Brad Navin, praised the move, calling Milk & Honey’s expansion into the label space a “natural progression” that will create new opportunities for artists worldwide. In fact, the company projects a staff of 60 employees by the end of 2025, with a 15-person creative team and a 15-person electronic dance music team already in place. Its clients have earned 19 Grammy nominations this year, and recent successes include work with Doja Cat, Ed Sheeran, Charli XCX, Post Malone, and Madonna.
Ultimately, Milk & Honey Records represents more than just another label launch—it’s a statement about the future of the music industry. By prioritizing songwriter equity, transparency, and adaptability, the company is challenging the traditional label model and offering creators a fairer path forward. As a result, for artists and songwriters seeking ownership and opportunity, Milk & Honey’s new venture could mark a turning point in how music is made and shared.
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