A&R WORLDWIDE - Newsletter CCXLV

LUCIAN GRAINGE PROMOTED TO CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP
DOUG MORRIS TO REMAIN AS CHAIRMAN

Lucian Grainge

As hinted several months ago in the A&R Worldwide newsletter, highly respected music executive Lucian Grainge has been officially appointed by Vivendi as Chief Executive Officer of Universal Music Group (UMG). Mr. Grainge is promoted from his current role as Chairman and CEO of London-based Universal Music Group International (UMGI). He will take up the position on Jan. 1 2011, succeeding Doug Morris, who will remain as Chairman. He will relocate to New York July 1, 2010. During these six months, Doug Morris and Lucian Grainge will act as co-CEOs of UMG. Lucian Grainge will report to Jean-Bernard Levy and become a member of the Vivendi Management Board.

Under Lucian Grainge’s leadership since 2005, UMGI has grown its market share worldwide, broken global acts and led the music industry in developing a range of new digital services. He started his career with CBS/April Music in 1979, advancing to positions in Artists & Repertoire (A&R) and talent development, and rising to senior management positions at PolyGram UK and Universal Music internationally.

Doug Morris commented, “The time has come for Lucian to step up to the CEO role. I am very happy with the new organization as I have been grooming him to succeed me for quite a while now. I know he is ready, willing and able to attack the challenges of the new decade.”

Commenting on the appointment, Jean-Bernard Levy, chairman of the Vivendi Management Board, stated, “I am delighted that Lucian Grainge has agreed to move to New York to take on the Chief Executive role. His track record speaks for itself, finding stars, growing revenues and building new business models. He has the right combination of experience and innovation to take UMG forward as the migration into the digital era accelerates.”

Jean-Bernard Levy added, “I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Doug Morris for the extraordinary results he has achieved over the years in a very tough environment. After starting out as a songwriter in 1965, Doug has overseen 35 years in the business and taken it from Vinyl to Vevo. Lucian will be able to benefit from their period in tandem. I know Doug, as the chairman of UMG, will continue to provide a major contribution to the business and the music industry as a whole.”

Lucian Grainge stated, “Stepping into Doug’s shoes is an honour and a privilege. This is a great industry which I believe has as much to look forward to as to be proud of. If we keep getting the basics right of exceptional music and artistry, backed by a great team and sound business sense, then we’ll continue to achieve success.”

NIC HARCOURT MUSIC SELECTIONS

Global music tastemaker, radio veteran and music supervisor Nic Harcourt joins A&R Worldwide with an exclusive monthly editorial on some of the artists he is excited about from around the world. Harcourt was instrumental in helping launch the careers of such artists as Coldplay, Corinne Bailey Rae, Doves, Norah Jones and many others during his tenure as the Music Director and host of “Morning Becomes Eclectic” on KCRW Santa Monica and continues sharing his passion for music discovery with our international readership via this month’s editorial.

Harcourt currently writes for Los Angeles Magazine (a part of the Los Angeles Times) and hosts a Sunday evening radio show on KCRW Santa Monica while also still supervising some TV and film projects.

I did an interview/guest DJ thing with Morrissey back in 2008 at which time he informed me that his favorite new band were Manchester’s The Courteeners. Their song “Not Nineteen Forever” turned out to be a modest hit in the UK and now they’re prepping their new album, Falcon, which is chock-full of new pop nuggets including “The Opener,” which starts with a simple acoustic riff then builds into a gloriously layered love song.

Describing themselves as Poncy Divas, San Diego’s Crocodiles pull on the shoe-gazing outfits of bands like Spiritualized and a few borrowed riffs with ease and a little added psychedelic Hammond B3, fuzzed out guitar and nods to Gang of Four and The Jesus and Mary Chain to create a sound that's familiar yet uniquely their own. “Here Comes the Sky” can be found on their Fat Possum release, Summer Of Hate.

Now in their 10th year, Chicago’s Califone return with All My Friends Are Funeral Singers on the Dead Oceans label…and the song “1928” certainly sounds like it could be played at some indie/slacker kids farewell party. With a slow understated beat and what sounds like found sound instrumentation and fractured textures, they continue to carve a unique space for themselves in today’s rock terrain

More groovy psychedelic garage pop in the form of Jersey City’s The Black Hollies on “Gloomy Monday Morning,” originally a 2009 single, now showing up on their recent third full length, Softly Towards The Light. I played this on my KCRW Sunday show last week and followed it with “Stop Stop Stop,” from the sixties band The Hollies and it was as if the 45 years in between these two recordings barely existed

Brooklyn-based The Drums are set to make some noise this year. “Let's Go Surfing” has nifty bass and lead guitar riffs, some nicely textured vocal harmonies and whistling! How can you go wrong with a song that opens with the lyrics, “Wake up it’s a beautiful morning…” followed by an invitation to go surfing. Already establishing itself as a fine live dance party band, look out for these guys to catch a good wave in 2010

In between albums Birmingham’s Broadcast returns with a collaboration with Julian House aka (The Focus Group). The only real song on this collection of soundscape sketches is “The Be Colony” and it grabbed my attention immediately with its haunting distant vocals from vocalist Trish Keenan and James Cargill’s jangly guitars. Start building your Halloween playlist now and put this at the top!

Greg Laswell writes songs about truth and lies and everything in between; in other words, relationships gone south. The Long Beach native’s third full length, Take A Bow, is set for a spring release on Vanguard Records and ends in the only way it could, with a song called “Goodbye.” The opening lyric says, “It was really nice to meet you goodbye…” and sums up that moment when years of effort come down to the inevitable final realization that whatever it was or had been, it’s done.

MORE KEY MUSIC INDUSTRY INFLUENCERS ANNOUNCED
TO SPEAK AT KEY GLOBAL CONFAB

Hailed by many around the planet as the most inspiring and important music industry conference in the world for those looking to grow their int’l business and relationships, and the only music, media and technology conference on the planet to have a firm presence on the top three music continents on the globe (N. America, Europe, Asia Pacific); the 6th annual MUSEXPO 2010 in Los Angeles is rapidly shaping up to be the best event to date.

MUSEXPO 2010 will take place April 25-28 at the London West Hollywood Hotel, just off the heart of the world-famous Sunset Strip. The focus of this year’s world respected confab is solutions, innovation and inspiration for an industry that seeks to build a strong and united front for artists, fans and industry alike. Considering that the US is the world’s No.1 music market and most influential entertainment market, the setting is ideal for one of the globe’s most meaningful music, media and technology conferences (MUSEXPO) to return for its sixth year to heart of W. Hollywood.

Some of the innovative mindsets just added to the already impressive lineup at MUSEXPO 2010 in West Hollywood include: Kathy Spanberger, President, Anglo-American Region, Peermusic (US, Canada, UK & Australia); Fred Goldring, Co-Founder, Goldring, Hertz and Lichtenstein and Board Member of President Barack Obama’s Committee on Arts & Humanities; Jason Flom, President, Lava/Universal Records; John Kirkpatrick, Sr. Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer, Hot Topic; Ruth McCartney, CEO/Co-Founder, McCartney Multimedia, Inc.; Ian Rogers, CEO TopSpin; Richard K. Sussman, Vice President, Digital Entertainment, The Nielsen Company; Mike O’Neill, Sr. Vice President, Media Licensing, BMI; Grant Dexter, President/CEO, Maple Core (Canada); Julie Alonso, Engagement Marketing & PR, Gap; Ewa Björling, Swedish Minister of Trade; Joe Fleischer, Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer for BigChampagne LLC and President/CEO, Imagine Nation, Greg Lee to name just a few.


Kathy Spanberger	Fred Goldring	John Kirkpatrick	Ruth McCartney	Richard K. Sussman	Ewa Björling

For additional speakers confirmed for this year’s MUSEXPO in West Hollywood click HERE.

For registration access to MUSEXPO 2010, click HERE (Registration price includes access to all panels, keynotes, showcases, complimentary networking breakfasts, complimentary networking lunches catered by the Gordon Ramsey Restaurant, complimentary tea and coffee networking breaks hosted by The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and the complimentary networking cocktail parties. Access to the Global Consumer Brands & Synch Summit is subject to availability on a first-come basis).

MUSEXPO HOTEL: Discounted room rates are available at the MUSEXPO conference hotel at The London West Hollywood Hotel, please click HERE (discount rooms subject to availability).

IMAGEM MUSIC GROUP AGREES TO DEAL WITH EMI FOR RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN ORGANIZATION ADMINISTRATION RIGHTS

Imagem Music Group has announced that it will buy out the worldwide administration rights to The Rodgers & Hammerstein Organization (RHO), the music publishing company acquired by Imagem Music Group in May 2009.Although Imagem Music Group owns RHO many of the exploitation rights outside the US have been part of a long term administration agreement with EMI, which was in place at the time of the acquisition.

Imagem Music Group and EMI have now mutually agreed that Imagem Music Group will buy out the remainder of the EMI contract and take worldwide control of RHO catalogue administration effective January 1, 2010.

John Minch, CEO of Imagem UK said, “I am extremely grateful to EMI for their help and flexibility in putting this agreement together. They have been involved in developing these rights for many years and have done a first class job with them. But ever since we acquired RHO last year it’s been a bit frustrating not being able to let our synch team and trackers loose to maximize the potential of this great company and to channel the rights through the Imagem network worldwide”

The acquisition of RHO last year confirmed Imagem Music Group as the world’s leading independent music publisher, while expanding its position in the ownership of theatrical and film properties.

RHO owns the rights to the world’s most popular stage and film musicals, including Oklahoma!, South Pacific, The King And I and The Sound of Music and the company’s peerless catalogue contains standards from the classic American songbook, such as “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin,’” “My Favorite Things” and “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” among many others.

ROBERT-MURPHY TO HEAD BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AT
UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP INTERNATIONAL

Olivier Robert-Murphy

Olivier Robert-Murphy has been promoted to Head of International Business Development for Universal Music Group International (UMGI), with immediate effect. The appointment was announced last week by Rob Wells, Senior VP, Digital at UMGI, to whom he reports.

In his new role, Robert-Murphy assumes responsibility for UMGI’s new business activities including strategic marketing partnerships, international research, new revenue streams, brand partnerships, premiums and the company’s media-buying through its partner, Mediacom.

Robert-Murphy was VP International Strategic Marketing at UMGI, overseeing audiovisual activities, consumer and commercial marketing and catalogue exploitation. He has been with the company since 2001 and previously was VP Marketing at Universal Pictures International Video and Deputy MD PolyGram Video.

Rob Wells commented, “Business development is becoming broader than ever. From premiums and endorsements to full-blown strategic marketing and brand partnerships, Universal Music has been leading the way. With Olivier’s leadership and his highly motivated team, I know we will continue to innovate and advance.”

Oliver Robert-Murphy said, “I am delighted to have the opportunity to drive forward Universal Music’s international business development and help to shape the exciting future. In all of our territories, there are imaginative, forward-thinking people creating new business models, to generate even more success and reward for Universal and our artists.”

30TH ANNUAL BRIT AWARDS GO GAGA

The 30th Annual Brit Awards took place at Earls Court in London, England last week. A&R Worldwide attended the event at the invitation of the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) and it was well worth the journey thanks to the array of great performances that occurred last Wednesday.

Some of the highlights included a brilliant performance by Lady Gaga, who dazzled us all with her performance and amazing white dress – she also walked away (not surprisingly) with multiple awards. Robbie Williams mesmerized us with a medley of some of his biggest songs and even an encore after the official awards ceremony was over. Other highlights included Nick Raphael signing JLS who are represented by Modest Management. Jay Z and Alicia Keys put on a stellar performance as the duo sang the hit single “Empire State of Mind.” Former A&R Worldwide development artist Lily Allen kicked off the night’s festivities by delivering a cheeky and memorable performance of her hit single “The Fear” and we were also graced with a duet between Dizzee Rascal and Florence & The Machine doing a cover of “You Got The Love,” titled in Rascal’s own distinctive personality as “You Got The Dirtee Love.”

Here’s a pictorial overview of some of the activities in London last week.


AN UNCHAINED MEDLEY: Robbie Williams garnered a standing ovation as he delivered a fantastic medley of his famous songs at the 30th Annual Brit Awards.	NO THAT’S NOT SAMANTHA FOX: After having a few too many pints, our friend Dave Pichilingi (MD, Liverpool Sound City & Dubai Sound City) picks the wrong lass – mistaking her for an aging Samantha Fox.


WHERE ARE THE FISH N CHIPS ?: Executives from around the globe descended upon Earls Court for the 30th Annual Brit Awards. Networking was a core component prior to the start of the event.	THANKING THE BRITS JAY Z STYLE The now legendary Jay Z paid tribute to his British music fans during the Brits – thanking them for their support. Jay Z’s first signing was with our good friends Nick Raphael (President, Epic Records, UK) and Christian Tattersfield (Chairman, Warner Bros. UK) back in the ’90s.


OOPS SHE DID IT AGAIN: Pictured (l-r) are Polish actress and singing sensation Natalia Lesz, Neale Easterby (Managing Director, Empire Management) and Sat Bisla (Founder/President, A&R Worldwide & MUSEXPO).	WAITING FOR THE STEAK & KIDNEY PIE AND GREAT MUSIC: Thousands of music executives from around the world joined in the pre-networking dinner and drinks at the 30th Annual Brit Awards.


IT’S A FAMILY AFFAIR: Korda Marshall, President, Infectious Records (UK & Europe) is all smiles with his daughter at the Brits.	BRINGING THE XFM FACTOR TO THE BRITS: Mike Walsh, Music Director, Xfm (UK) chums it up with Liverpudlian music guru Mr. Dave Pichilingi.


GETTING CAUGHT IN THE ACT (l-r) are ITB booking agent Steve Zapp (pretending to be a copper) and his accomplice giving some unique European hand gesture.	A PRE BRITS CATCH UP: Norwegian producer/writer Mads Hauge (Pixie Lott, Kate Havnevik), Simon Williams (MD, Global Publishing) and Natalia Lesz mingle pre-Brits in London.

BEING A BIT TOO CHEEKY (l-r) are Music Week’s News Editor Ben Cardew and the loveable BPI representative Julian Wall.

GLOBAL NEWS UPDATES…

Justin Bieber has been inked to a worldwide publishing deal with Universal Music Publishing Group. Under this agreement, Bieber’s catalogue, including his debut album, My World, and his forthcoming album, My World (Part II) will be a part of the UMPG acquisition. David Renzer, Chairman/CEO of Universal Music Publishing Group stated, “Justin Bieber’s incredible charisma, talent, and mass appeal is already clearly evident with the breakthrough success he is experiencing. Under the skilled direction of his manager Scooter Braun, we are confident that Justin will continue on his path toward global superstardom.” Bieber’s album, My World, was released in November 2009 and has already reached Platinum in the US.

Respected UK A&R executive Jamie Nelson (who signed and A&R’d Lily Allen and Eliza Doolittle) has left Parlophone Records in the UK and joined the Jason Iley (President, Mercury Records, UK) team based in London.

mFlow, the digital music service that encourages social music discovery and helps fans recommend and share music in return for a percentage of any resulting sales, has made two senior hires ahead of its public launch in April. Former Warner Music Strategic Marketing manager Kerry Newman, who also held senior positions at Channel 4 and 20th Century Fox before helping to set up talent management and content promotions agency Triple A Media in 2007, has joined the company as Brand Manager. Newman will report to mFlow Music Director Don Jenkins Kerry who has been tasked with working across the existing marketing and creative departments to help refine the mFlow brand positioning and to increase awareness and visibility of the company's music discovery offering in the marketplace.

Santa Monica College has announced that Jennifer Ferro, who currently serves as Assistant General Manager of public radio station KCRW 89.9FM, has been named as the new General Manager of the influential radio station. Ferro replaces the outgoing Ruth Seymour, who held the position of GM for 32 years. Ferro will take on the position as GM for KCRW effective March 1, 2010.

UK artist and DJ Calvin Harris will launch a new imprint label called Fly Eye label, which will make its debut with the release of Mr Blink’s Gecko and will focus on club-oriented music. Harris stated that his goal for Fly Eye is to release the most exciting club music he can get his hands on.

Ian Ramage, Head of A&R, UK & Europe, Sony/ATV has left the successful publisher after the creation of his specially crafted role for just around two years. No reason has been given by Ramage or Sony/ATV for his recent departure.

Stephen Peach, CEO of industry organizations ARIA and Phonographic Performance Company of Australia (PPCA), has announced his resignation from the positions he has held for the last eight years.

UK agents Paul Bolton and Adam Saunders have left Universal’s Helter Skelter booking agency and joined X-Ray Touring. Bolton and Saunders take artists such as Kaiser Chiefs, White Lies, Faithless, Airbourne, Enter Shikari and others with them.

Kaine Taylor has announced that he is leaving Air Chrysalis Scandinavia as A&R Manager and that all correspondence should be send to Managing Director Ben Malén.

Bauer Media’s Kerrang Radio recently announced a strategic partnership with global music filter and fan financing engine Slicethepie. Any artist or band seeking regional or national airplay on Kerrang Radio can upload their tracks on www.kerrangradio.co.uk. Kerrang Radio listeners will get paid to review and rate tracks from these undiscovered artists. Kerrang’s producers and presenters will then hand pick from the top rated artists and potentially offer them exposure across key specialist shows.

Hamburg-based Edel AG recently sold its 51% stake in the Scandinavian independent label and distribution company Playground Music to Playground’s CEO Jonas Sjöström. Edel CEO Michael Haentjes said the sale is representative of the company's new strategy. “During the past years, Edel AG has changed its strategy.” He added, “The company will be systematically formed into a full service entertainment company. We decided to concentrate our music activities only on a few European territories.” Stockholm-based Playground was founded 10 years ago and had Platinum-selling acts such as the pop-rock act the Rasmus. In Scandinavia, Playground also has the distribution for independent labels such as Beggars Banquet, Domino, Eagle, Edel and Naïve.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Keith Wozencroft, Paul Burger, Darcus Beese, Thorsten Koening, Martin Kierszenbaum, Rob Wells, Chris Barton, Neill Dixon, Peter Edge, Guy Sigsworth, David Chitty, Walter Turbitt, Troy Carter and Mike Caren.