EMI announced another non-recording-centric arrangement with one of its artists yesterday, another sign of a major record company tapping into new revenue streams other than recording sales. The arrangement is with the estate of Dean Martin, the famed crooner whose recording catalogue is already distributed by EMI. Under the new deal, EMI will licence Martin's 'name, image and likeness', presumably with the intent of generating new revenues streams with them (Dean Martin pencil cases, that kind of thing).
Likening the new deal to existing relationships with Robbie Williams and Korn, which extend beyond traditional recording contracts, EMI said the new deal was another in its "growing portfolio of groundbreaking relationships".
EMI Music boss David Munns told reporters: "We're delighted to deepen our relationship with Dean Martin. It's part of EMI's objective to offer a more full-service approach. As the label, we are an integral part of creating artists brands, so it's a natural progression to extend our involvement beyond the traditional recording deal. Ultimately, it helps to ensure all our interests are aligned."