Warner Music has purchased Spinnin' Records, the venerable indie dance label group, along with its music publishing and artist management divisions, both companies announced on Thursday.
Within the WMG ecosystem, the Netherlands-based Spinnin' will be run by co-founder and CEO Roger de Gaaf, who will work with Bart Cools, the label group's executive vp of global A&R and marketing, dance music. Along with its flagship label, Spinnin' is home to several imprints including Musical Freedom, Hexagon and Heldeep Records.
De Gaaf started Spinnin' Records in 1999 with Eelko van Kooten, who has decided to pursue other opportunities outside the music business. The label's current roster includes Alok, Bassjackers, Bob Sinclar, Chocolate Puma, EDX, Fedde Le Grand and Kris Kross Amsterdam, among others. Label alums who have since moved on include Martin Garrix, Afrojack, Armand van Helden, Martin Solveig and Tiesto.
Spinnin' Records' artist management services, known as MusicAllStars Management, assists international performers including DJ Carta, Lucas & Steve, Sam Feldt, Curbi, Gregor Salto and Pep & Rash. MusicAllStars also acts as a publisher to songwriters including Afro Bros, Lucas & Steve, Sam Feldt, Stevie Appleton, Niels Geusebroek, Sidney Samson and Yael Nahar (CMC$).
"Warner's past, present and future are all about creating an environment in which incredible artists and entrepreneurs thrive," said Max Lousada, who will soon take over as WMG's CEO of recorded music. "That's why I'm pleased to welcome Spinnin' to our growing family of labels, each with its own cultural identity."
Added de Graaf, "Spinnin' has found the perfect home at Warner Music. Max, Stu (Bergen, CEO, International & Global Commercial Services), Bart, and the team really believe in our culture and commitment to artist development. They share our vision for growing Spinnin' by creating even bigger opportunities for our artists and their music."
Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.
