Glassnote president/founder Daniel Glass and Kobalt founder/CEO Willard Ahdritz have hailed the new partnership between the companies as a game-changer for the independent music business.
Glassnote’s releases had previously been distributed by Universal Music Group around the world, with Caroline International handling things in the UK. But the indie label has now announced an “innovative, long-term strategic alliance” with Kobalt-owned AWAL.
“It is truly a landmark day in the music industry and for the future of Glassnote as this progressive alliance and relationship with Kobalt becomes a reality,” said Glass. “For our artists, it’s the same team and family they have always been a part of, with exciting new additions from a company on the cutting edge of music’s future.”
“We’re writing an important new chapter in the history of the music industry - proving together that it’s possible to break global superstars outside the old system,” added Ahdritz. “When Lonny [Olinick, AWAL CEO], Laurent [Hubert, Kobalt Music president/chief revenue officer] and I looked at the current landscape of relevant independent labels, Glassnote stood out as an ideal partner, as we both put talent at the centre of our business. I’m looking forward to working with Daniel, a real music man, and the Glassnote team.”
In the US, Glassnote has made its name with artists such as Mumford & Sons and Chvrches. Those bands are signed to majors in the UK, but Glassnote has established itself on these shores under managing director Liz Goodwin – who joined the Music Week Women In Music Roll Of Honour this year – with artists such as Jade Bird and Ider.
Kobalt’s services arm AWAL meanwhile, has been making headway in the recordings world, enjoying UK success with the likes of The Wombats and You Me At Six.
“After a highly successful year with four Top 10 UK records, landing three artists on the US Top 50 radio chart, and pushing Lauv over 1.5 billion streams globally, we couldn’t be more excited to build on that success with Glassnote,” said Olinick. “This partnership is a testament to our achievements and Glassnote recognises our global approach and operational ability. With our commitment to breaking and growing artist careers, there’s no limit to what we can achieve together in the future.”
“Daniel has created one of the greatest independent labels in the world,” added Hubert. “This strategic partnership pairs two artist-first companies that will open a door for a whole new wave of global artists.”
To read Music Week’s recent interview with Liz Goodwin, click here. To read Music Week’s 2017 cover story with Kobalt, click here. To subscribe and never miss a vital music biz story, click here.
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