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American Idol leaves Sony for Universal
By CMU Editorial | Published on Thursday 5 August 2010
As was speculated last month, the makers of ‘American Idol’ have entered a new partnership with Universal, after a nine year marketing and distribution deal with Sony Music, which meant they got to release records by the telly-talent-show’s winners, came to an end. The new deal was seemingly negotiated by the show’s founder and Executive Producer Simon Fuller.
In a statement, Universal incoming CEO Lucian Grainge said: “We like delivering hits and new artists. UMG and ‘American Idol’ is the right combination at the right time. Pairing the renowned expertise of Simon [Fuller] and [Universal exec] Jimmy [Iovine] in developing and marketing musical talent creates a truly winning combination that will allow [the show’s] artists to realise their fullest potential”.
Sony Music also issued a statement, saying: “After enjoying a successful relationship, Sony Music Entertainment wishes Simon Fuller and [his company] 19 Entertainment well in this transitional period for the ‘American Idol’ franchise. We look forward to continuing our relationships with the many artists on the Sony Music roster who have graduated from the ‘American Idol’ system, including Kelly Clarkson, Daughtry, Carrie Underwood, Fantasia, David Cook, Adam Lambert, Kellie Pickler, Jordin Sparks and David Archuleta among others and we are excited for the upcoming albums later this fall from season nine’s winner and runner-up Lee DeWyze and Crystal Bowersox”.
The first series under the new deal will begin in January next year.
