Sony Music is looking to develop the next generation of British talent with the launch of Since '93 -- a new U.K. imprint headed by Glyn Aikins and Riki Bleau.
Both men will report to RCA Records and Ministry of Sound President David Dollimore who called them "the definition of entrepreneurial spirit."
"They are game changers and two of the most respected execs in the business," said Dollimore, hailing the launch of Since '93 as a "landmark moment for RCA."
Sony Music says the standalone label will utilize Aikins and Bleau's proven A&R skills to "nurture a new era of entrepreneurial artists" and build future global stars.
Prior to forming Since '93, Aikins scored early success as an A&R man at Relentless Records, where his signings included hit British urban act So Solid Crew and U.K. No. 2 single "Re-Rewind (The Crowd Say Bo Selecta)" by Artful Dodger, featuring Craig David.
In 2003, Aikins joined Virgin Records, where he signed Roll Deep, Lethal Bizzle, Naughty Boy and Emeli Sandé, whose 2012 debut, Our Version of Events, topped the U.K. charts for 10 weeks and spent 67 consecutive weeks in the Top 10.
Bleau's career began at urban music TV station Channel U, before establishing Avant-Garde Music -- a full service entertainment company spanning publishing, live, merchandise and management. The company's management roster includes Grammy-nominated producers Mojam and British producer Naughty Boy, while publishing clients (in conjunction with Sony/ATV) include Sam Smith, Labrinth and Emeli Sandé.
"Glyn and Riki have a great knack for discovering and nurturing artists, who have defined the musical landscape in recent years," added Sony Music UK and Ireland Chairman and CEO Jason Iley. Praising the pair's "ambition, enthusiasm and clear vision," Illy said the duo would "continue to set the agenda."
"With Since '93 we're building a label uniquely placed in British culture with a truly global outlook," said Aikins, calling Sony Music "the perfect place" for the label. His words were echoed by Bleau, who said his ambition for the label was to build it into a "global powerhouse.
"We want to be up there with the greats of the past creating a label of the future," Bleau stated.
Signings to the label so far include London rapper Fredo, grime artist Loski and fast-rising Manchester MC Aitch.
