Warner Records and producer Tony Berg have established Crime & Punishment Records, a joint venture label focused on developing new artists. Singer-songwriter Elle Bramhall is its first signing.
A focus on artist development
Berg described the label’s direction:
“Crime & Punishment Records is intended to champion young, ambitious artists. Right now, I’m seeing a return to lyric content, harmonic ambition, and musical curiosity. It’s as exciting a time as I can remember, and I hope we can be at the forefront of discovering the best new music.”
Aaron Bay-Schuck, Warner Records Group Chairman and CEO (chief executive officer), said:
“Bringing Tony’s JV to Warner Records was an easy decision. He’s already signed an incredibly promising young singer-songwriter, Elle Bramhall, and we’re so excited about what he’s building and what’s to come.”
Berg’s production and label career
Berg’s career spans more than 50 years as a producer, musician and A&R (artists and repertoire) executive. His recent production work includes:
- Phoebe Bridgers’ 2026 album Lost Weekend.
- Sarah McLachlan’s Better Broken.
- Bruce Hornsby’s Indigo Park.
- Co-production of SOMBR’s 2025 debut album, I Barely Know Her.
His other studio credits include Bob Dylan, Peter Gabriel and Fiona Apple.
In A&R roles at Geffen and Virgin, Berg helped sign At The Drive-In, Beck, A Perfect Circle and Black Rebel Motorcycle Club.
Earlier in his career, Berg was Bette Midler’s musical director. He now co-runs Sound City Studios in Los Angeles with producer Blake Mills.
