Beat Bugs Creator Preps More Music-Themed Shows

Universal Music Group (UMG) and Grace/Beyond—led by principal partners Josh Wakely (Beat Bugs), Mikael Borglund and Trevor Roy—are developing three new music-themed TV series, including an animated children’s program tentatively titled Melody Island.

Each episode of Melody Island will feature a story inspired by a classic UMG master of composition with an uplifting message and tropical island feeling. The show will comprise live-action segments presented by pop-culture influencers, who will teach kids a project they can do at home or in school. It will incorporate classic songs that are interpreted by contemporary music stars.

UMG and Grace/Beyond are also collaborating on 27 (working title), which explores the life circumstances of fictionalized characters facing a crossroads at the age of 27, which is the same age that a number of celebrities have died. The live-action scripted series features songs from the UMG catalogs. It will have a traditional linear format as well as an interactive choice of storytelling.

Another project in development is Mixtape, an episodic drama spotlighting pivotal moments that define relationships, love and heartbreak. Each episode is based on and connected to an iconic song that forms the 12-track season.

“From my very first meeting with Josh, I was struck by his unique vision and innovative storytelling that holds music as the centerpiece of his film and TV projects,” said Michele Anthony, the executive VP of UMG. “I’m so proud to expand our relationship with Josh, Mikael, Trevor and the incredibly talented team behind the Emmy Award-winning Beat Bugs and the forthcoming Motown show. At UMG, we support and work with great artists from every medium and I’m thrilled to be working closely with Grace/Beyond to bring original experiences to life based on our extensive catalog and artist rosters.”

“It’s an incredible honor to be entrusted with the jewels of these catalogs of music and songs to create projects that will perpetuate their popularity and reach new audiences around the world,” added Wakely. “I’ve long held some very specific ideas that have been burning through me while I searched for the right environment in which to bring them to life. This agreement is a creative dream come true, as I know we have found the perfect partners in Lucian Grainge, Michele Anthony, Boyd Muir and the entire UMG team.”