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Placebo confirm licensing deal with Universal
By CMU Editorial | Published on Friday 31 August 2012
Placebo have announced a new licensing deal with Universal Music, via the mega-major’s German business for some reason.
Placebo self-released their last album after completing their original record deal with EMI, working with independents Vagrant and [PIAS] on distribution. The new partnership with Universal will also see the major represent the band’s entire “physical back catalogue”. The first new release under the new alliance will be an EP later this year, followed by a new longer player in 2013.
Confirming the deal, Tom Bohne, Senior Vice President of Universal Music Germany, told CMU: “We’re thrilled that Brian, Stefan and Steve have chosen to sign with Universal Music Germany for a worldwide deal and we look forward to engaging with their loyal fan base as well as reaching new audiences through the release of their next album and special editions of their back catalogue. We firmly believe that Placebo will continue creating music that pushes the limits artistically and commercially and are happy they entrust us with their art”.
Alex Weston from the band’s management Riverman added: “Placebo’s last album campaign, which we were happy with, had us, as management and label, juggling various licensing deals with independents all over the world. Whilst it allowed us enormous freedom and control and resulted in a continued level of success which we are incredibly proud of, the work load was astronomical and actually made us appreciate what a major label can bring to the party. We were very fortunate to have a lot of interest from some great labels and it was a complex negotiation getting to this point”.
He added: “We’ve been incredibly impressed with the Universal teams we’ve so far met in London, France and various key territories, and we’re delighted to be doing a deal through our German friends who we’ve known for many years and who have shown enormous enthusiasm for Placebo. Through them, we know the band will get the attention, commitment and worldwide reach we require for the next phase in Placebo’s career”.
