Posted by | Ray Cornelius
Jay-Z’s Roc Nation has raised the bar yet again! The music mogul announced yesterday that he is entering into a multi-year international distribution partnership with Universal Music Group. The lucrative deal will allow HOV to remain a standalone independent label within the UMG family. According to UMG Chairman Lucian Grainge, the five-year-old label has a “reputation for developing some of today’s most influential and popular talent.”
“Not only does this agreement provide a dynamic platform for Roc Nation’s exciting emerging artists, it extends our relationship with the extraordinary Rihanna and represents a homecoming for Jay-Z — a brilliant artist and entrepreneur, who has been a creative cornerstone of our company.”
Jigga, who has been causing quite a stir with his wedding anniversary trip to Cuba with wife Beyoncé and their mothers says, “This agreement presents a unique opportunity for Roc Nation’s artists — being able to continue to operate as an independent label with the strength, power and reach of the best major,” Jay said. “I look forward to a long and prosperous collaboration with UMG. It feels good to be home.”
Roc Nation is home to such artist as Rihanna, J. Cole, Rita Ora, Calvin Harris, Solange Knowles, Timbaland, Shakira, Wale and deadmau5. Just last week, HOV signed New York Yankees baseman Robinson Cole to Roc Nation Sports, a new division that is affiliated with Creative Arts Agency (CAA).
Congratulations Jay! RC is looking forward to Roc Nation doing bigger and better things!
