Proper Records has inked a label management agreement with Topic Records, which claims to be the world’s oldest independent record label.
The UK-based folk label has been in business for 78 years, releasing music from the likes of Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger.
The deal will enable Topic to retains its independent status, with Proper handling the day-to-day running of the label. Topic business manager and co-owner, David Suff, will consult in an advisory capacity, while Tony Engle, who joined in the ‘70s, remains a majority shareholder.
Speaking to Music Week, Suff said: “Topic Records has earned a reputation as an important custodian of the recorded folk music of the British Isles.
I believe that we will be in a much stronger position to develop and promote the catalogue as a result of our new partnership with Proper Records.
“Working within the Proper Music Group will strengthen our position as the leading British folk music label both in Britain and internationally.”
Drew Hill, MD at Proper, added: “Topic is one of the industry’s greatest treasures, consistently putting out the best folk music from across the world.
We have very much enjoyed working with the team so far and will continue to work to ensure that the label remains true to its roots and continues to grow and develop.”
