UMGD WHISTLES A DIGITAL TUNE

Universal has made yet another move into the digital frontier, as UMGD forges a strategic alliance with digi-distribbery TuneCore. The announcement was made jointly by UMGD President/CEO Jim Urie and TunCeCore founder and CEO Jeff Price.

As part of this agreement, TuneCore will provide and host distribution portals for UMG’s labels, partner labels and artists. Additionally, developing acts will have opportunities for exposure via a number of artist-discovery, marketing and upstreaming opportunities within the UMGD system.

On the other side, UMGD will also provide TuneCore’s customers with a comprehensive menu of artist services, including licensing opportunities and audio mastering. Meanwhile, TuneCore investor and strategic partner Guitar Center will provide to UMGD access to its 200-plus stores nationwide as a nontraditional retail channel for the sale of physical product, which will include select TuneCore artist titles.

“Our agreement with TuneCore highlights UMGD’s commitment to a strong sales philosophy and long-term artist development,” said Urie in making the announcement. “UMGD is uniquely positioned to provide the most flexible and comprehensive digital and physical distribution, sales and marketing services in the industry, all of which results in more profitable opportunities for both our labels and our artists.”

Added Price: “Honestly, Universal is one of the most forward-thinking record labels on the planet. With this deal, UMGD has truly changed the rules and the major label model by providing true choice for a musician. If an artist is doing well, there is a direct line through which UMGD can extend its hand, or, via the existing TuneCore model, the artist can choose to continue to succeed on their own. It is the continuation of the shift to serve the musician.”