Blue Raincoat Music has signed a label services deal with Kobalt for the future output of Chrysalis Records, which was acquired in June by the new publishing company, which was in turn recently set up by former Chrysalis Music Group boss Jeremy Lascelles and producer Robin Millar.
This extends an existing alliance between the two companies. As previously reported, having launched in March, Blue Raincoat announced in April that Kobalt would handle worldwide administration of its songs catalogue. Similarly, the label services deal will work on a worldwide basis. Kobalt Label Services President Paul Hitchman says: "The combination of the legendary Chrysalis catalogue, Jeremy and Robin's deep knowledge of music, and Kobalt's cutting edge technology and services platform is the basis for a very exciting partnership. We can't wait to get started on maximising the potential of the Chrysalis catalogue and working closely with Jeremy, Robin and the Chrysalis team on building the label for the new music business". Meanwhile, Lascelles and Millar, for maximum impact, say in unison: "From the outset of our discussions, Kobalt's desire to be in business with us was both flattering and utterly persuasive. In the past, we have seen them as a competitor. We are now THRILLED to have them as a partner. As a company, they are true industry innovators. We expect this to be the start of a long and beautiful relationship". As also previously reported, Blue Raincoat Music also has the backing of original Chrysalis co-founder Chris Wright, who was placed back at the top of Chrysalis Records following the recent acquisition of the label from Warner, as Non-Executive Chairman.