Iconic music label launches first division in Asia
Island Records Philippines will be dedicated to helping the best Filipino music talent achieve domestic success whilst reaching new audiences worldwide.
MANILA, Philippines– Universal Music Philippines (UMP), a division of Universal Music Group (UMG), the world leader in music-based entertainment, today announced the launch of Island Records Philippines, a new domestic label division dedicated to helping the best musical talent from the Philippines to achieve local success, whilst reaching new audiences worldwide.
The launch marks the beginning of a new chapter in the illustrious history of Island Records, which was founded 61 years ago in Jamaica by Chris Blackwell and has helped shape and influence global artists and music culture for more than six decades. Opening its first international division within Asia, Island Records Philippines will honor the historic legacy of the label, by celebrating the rich diversity of music produced throughout the country, which itself is an island nation, made up of 7641 individual islands.
Island Records Philippines launches with a flagship roster that includes some of the most popular and respected Filipino talents including; Juan Karlos; Over October and Lala Vinzon, alongside new label signings Zack Tabudlo; Fern. and One Click Straight.
In making the announcement, Valdez said, “We are excited to launch Island Records here in the Philippines and to build our own family of local artists, that can further extend the huge legacy of Island within the region and beyond. In the coming years, we will look to establish Island as a home to some of the most impactful and important artists from the Philippines, whilst introducing them to new audiences around the world through UMG’s unrivaled global network of companies around the world.”
Calvin Wong, CEO, Universal Music Southeast Asia & Senior Vice President, Asia Universal Music said, “In keeping with the traditions and values of the historic Island label, we are looking forward to creating a respected home for great artistry and talent from the Philippines.”
The press conference featured performances from the label’s roster of artists, alongside video messages of welcome and support from across the global Island Records family including Island Records founder, Chris Blackwell, Darcus Beese, President, Island Records U.S., Louis Bloom, President, Island Records U.K. and artists including; PUBLIC; Skip Marley; Johnny Orlando; Olivier O’Brien; Keshi; Jack Ross and Banners.
“Island Records is rightly regarded as one of the most iconic record labels in the world since it was founded by Chris Blackwell just over 60 years ago. Through its many incredible and inspirational artists, Island has helped shift and shape the culture around the globe.
Universal Music Philippines has led the local music market for more than a decade and is currently home to an array of leading Filipino talent including; Darren Espanto & Autotellic. UMG recently announced the arrival of Def Jam Philippines, a new regional label dedicated to developing and nurturing the best in hip-hop talent and culture within the country, with its first signing the hotly tipped VVS Collective. The launch of Island Records Philippines will further strengthen its position as the natural home for the best in domestic music talent for many years to come.
The first release on Island Records Philippines is “BLESS Ü”, the new single from Juan Karlos which is released on July 24, followed by “Nangangamba” by Zack Tabudlo which follows in July 31.
About Island Records
More than 60 years on from its birth in Jamaica, Island Records maintains its position as one of the world’s legendary record labels, a coveted destination for new and established artists of every description. Island staked its claim at the beginning of the musical revolution that shook the 1960s and ’70s, and continues that trend-spotting spirit of adventure. Today, Island is home to a varied roster across the US and UK. Its unique ethos has provided the platform for launching some of the biggest artists from across the musical spectrum, including the UK launch of Amy Winehouse, Florence + The Machine, and Mumford & Sons, as well as the diverse and established roster on Island US which includes artists ranging from Shawn Mendes, Demi Lovato, Mike Posner, Bon Jovi, The Killers, to Elton John, Nick Jonas, Jessie Reyez, Bishop Briggs, Jack & Jack, Skip Marley, and many more.
About Universal Music Group
Universal Music Group (UMG) is the world leader in music-based entertainment, with a broad array of businesses engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising, and audiovisual content in more than 60 countries. Featuring the most comprehensive catalog of recordings and songs across every musical genre, UMG identifies and develops artists and produces and distributes the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music in the world. Committed to artistry, innovation, and entrepreneurship, UMG fosters the development of services, platforms and business models in order to broaden artistic and commercial opportunities for our artists and create new experiences for fans. Universal Music Group is a Vivendi company. Find out more at: http://www.universalmusic.com
