cktrl, the songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist whose music fuses elements of classical, electronic and jazz, has signed a global publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music, the music publishing arm of Warner Music Group, covering his catalogue and future works.
cktrl, which stands for “Can’t Keep To Reality”, was chosen by Bradley Miller as his stage name when he began releasing music back in 2015. He grew up in Lewisham, South East London, where he learned instruments including the clarinet, piano and saxophone through free schemes funded by the local council. He went on to teach himself about production while working as a DJ and in a record store.
His breakthrough came with his EP Robyn, released in 2020, which portrayed the breakup of a relationship in a saxophone and clarinet-led collection of songs that reflected modern jazz and contemporary classical sounds. His work caught the eye of Beyoncé and he featured in the film of her visual album Black Is King.
Follow-up EPs Zero and Yield received widespread critical acclaim and cktrl was even invited to perform at a show put on by Dior and Denim Tears in the shadow of the pyramids in Cairo.
cktrl says: “I’m pleased to be working with Shani, Amber and the team at Warner Chappell. I value my independence and they understand my creative vision and plans for the next chapter of my career. It’s going to be an exciting year ahead.”
Amber Davis, SVP and Head of A&R, Warner Chappell Music UK, adds: “Bradley’s work as cktrl truly rewrites the rulebook when it comes to fusing genres and telling stories through the power of sound alone. Seeing him playing the saxophone and clarinet was simply stunning and his classically trained experience will be a unique asset in any room. He’s a hugely in-demand talent and we’re excited to work with him on a range of projects he’s got in the pipeline.”
Shani Gonzales, Managing Director of Warner Chappell Music UK and Head of International A&R, Warner Chappell Music, concludes: “cktrl’s music is immersive and captivating. He’s wowed audiences in the UK and around the world and has a clear and strong vision about what he wants to do next. We’re proud to be supporting him as he takes his music to the next level.”
Check out his debut album, ‘spirit,’ via R&R.
