Swizz Beatz and Timbaland are set to revive the Verzuz series, this time with a significant new distribution partner. The legendary producers announced that Verzuz has secured an exclusive partnership with the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.
Swizz Beatz expressed his excitement about this new chapter for Verzuz, which gained immense popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic. “We are thrilled to bring Verzuz to X and help build the biggest entertainment company in the world,” he said, extending his gratitude to several X executives, including owner Elon Musk, for their support. “We can’t wait to get back to work.”
The agreement between the two companies is described as a “mutually beneficial alliance.” Swizz Beatz and Timbaland will retain full ownership and creative control of Verzuz, while X will have exclusive distribution rights. Timbaland is equally enthusiastic about the partnership, noting that X’s platform, with over 300 million monthly active users, will significantly expand their viewership. Importantly, viewers will be able to watch Verzuz for free.
“Our goal has always been to bring Verzuz to the world, and now we can do it on a larger scale than ever before,” Timbaland said.
Verzuz originated in 2020 as a friendly competition between Swizz Beatz and Timbaland on social media, aimed at entertaining fans stuck at home during the pandemic. The platform quickly evolved into a stage where some of the biggest names in music could compete in song-against-song battles. Initially hosted on Instagram Live, the series eventually moved to in-person events with live audiences.
Some of the most memorable Verzuz battles have featured John Legend vs. Alicia Keys, Erykah Badu vs. Jill Scott, Gladys Knight vs. Patti LaBelle, Gucci Mane vs. Jeezy, Brandy vs. Monica, and Snoop Dogg vs. DMX. An April battle between Babyface and Teddy Riley faced audio issues but was successfully completed on another night.
In 2021, the series was acquired by Triller, but Swizz Beatz and Timbaland later sued the social video platform for breach of contract. The lawsuit was settled in 2022.
X CEO Linda Yaccarino praised the partnership, stating, “Our platform stands at the forefront of innovation, and Verzuz epitomizes innovative content experiences. As we continue to collaborate with the most exciting voices to bring premium content to X, there is no better fit than this series.”
The return of Verzuz on X marks a significant milestone for both the series and the social media platform. With this new partnership, fans can look forward to more epic musical battles and a broader reach than ever before.
