WMG TRIES ON MILAN

Warner Music Group and Milan Entertainment have signed exclusive long-term, worldwide licensing and distribution agreements.

Under the agreements, WMG’s WEA will manufacture and distribute releases from Milan in the U.S., while WMG’s Warner Music International will market and distribute Milan throughout the world excluding France and Japan. The agreements are effective Jan. 1.

Milan’s catalog contains soundtracks, electronic, jazz and world music recordings from composers including Maurice Jarre, Ennio Morricone, Hans Zimmer, Angelo Badalamenti, Joe Hisaishi, Mychael Danna, Nicola Piovani and Alberto Iglesias as well as selections from artists including Astor Piazzolla, Ravi Shankar and Claude Bolling.

Among Milan’s collection of major film soundtracks are Backdraft, Brazil, Ghost, Little Buddha, Mulholland Drive, Monsoon Wedding and Talk To Her.

Furthermore, the agreements also cover recordings on Milan’s sister label Jade, which specializes in ancient and modern liturgical music with repertoire from internationally celebrated artists ranging from the Monks of Silos to Olivier Messiaen.

WEA CEO Jim Caparro said, "Over the years, Milan has served as a beacon of artistic integrity, demonstrating that there is a strong demand for high-quality music that exists outside of the mainstream. We’re confident we will be able to enhance Milan’s distinguished track record by providing them with WEA’s unparalleled resources."

Paul-Rene Albertini, President WMI, said, "Milan holds a unique position as one of the world’s pre-eminent soundtrack companies allied with a collection of influential electronic, jazz and world titles. WMI is delighted and excited to be working with Milan to further exploit both their extensive catalog and important new recordings."

Emmanuel Chamboredon, Founder, President/CEO of Milan, added, "This is a very important step in the development of Milan and with WMG’s support we aim, more than ever, to deliver the most attractive soundtracks from the movie industry all around the world. We have the expertise and WMG gives us the muscle and support; for me it is the perfect partnership."