AWAL Deal Cements Sony’s Position As An Indie Powerhouse [MARK MULLIGAN]
With yesterday’s AWAL deal, Sony cemented its place as an indie powerhouse and heralded in a new era where
“an artist can be independent with a major label,” writes MIDiA top analyst Mark Mulligan.
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Sony Music has bought AWAL (and Kobalt Neighbouring Rights) from Kobalt for $430 million. By adding AWAL to its already-booming Orchard division (as well as other distribution companies), it now has leading brands for independent artists as well as independent labels. Sony Music just became one of, if not
the, leading global companies for independent music. With a major now being one of the biggest indies, the obvious question is: what does being independent even mean anymore?
Sony Acquires AWAL, Kobalt Neighboring Rights
AWAL, which built a reputation as a safe harbor for independent artists seeking true global reach, is now owned by Sony, the world’s second largest music group.
Sony Music Entertainment has announced that it will acquire Kobalt’s recorded music operations, including AWAL and performance rights collection agency Kobalt Neighbouring Rights.
Together they will become a new division within SME’s suite of independent artist and label services alongside independent distribution company, The Orchard.
“Connecting AWAL with The Orchard rounds out SME’s expanded support and services opportunities for record labels as well as DIY artists,” Sony said in a statement.
Sony Acquires J. Erving’s Human Re Sources From Troy Carter’s Q&A
Sony Music Entertainment has announced the acquisition of LA-based artist distribution and services company Human Re Sources from Troy Carter’s Q&A.
The company will become part of Sony’s The Orchard independent distribution and services company. Led by J. Erving, Human Re Sources will continue to sign and develop artists.
Additionally, Erving will become Executive Vice President, Creative Development for Sony Music Entertainment serving as a resource for the Company’s artists and labels. In his capacity continuing to lead Human Re Sources, he will also become an Executive Vice President at The Orchard.