Warner Music Group have announced the launch of a new US division to be called the Independent Label Group, which will be headed up by Todd Moscowitz, formerly head of the major record company's 'incubator label' Asylum. The new division will incorporate Asylum's existing operations, as well as those of rock label East West (which still exists in the US, kind of... it's a label with a very complicated history) and digital label Cordless Recordings, and will look to further develop the major's relationships with independent artists and labels. Moscowitz will report to John Esposito, the boss of Warner US's sales and distribution division WEA.
Confirming the new division, Warner US boss Lyor Cohen got straight on his phone and told CMU: "The Independent Label Group is designed to provide entrepreneurs the resources to organically grow their business. Recognising that each indie label has unique needs, ILG will work hand in hand with independent artists and executives, providing an individualized support system, so each label can achieve their creative or business goals. Todd is an entrepreneur, through and through, and it's hard to believe that in less than two years he and his small team have translated that entrepreneurial spirit into a variety of label partnerships that have led to amazing artist successes with Mike Jones, Paul Wall, Webbie and Bun B among others. I couldn't imagine a more appropriate executive to oversee this group of labels."
Esposito added: "As we intensify our commitment to the independent music community, we wanted to develop a structure whereby the resources available to independent labels and artists could be housed under one umbrella. Todd and his stellar team exemplify the independent spirit and share a respect and admiration for the artists and labels that make up that community."