SONY U.K. UNVEILS SINCE '93 LABEL

Sony Music U.K.’s Jason Iley, and Ministry of Sound’s David Dollimore, right, welcome Since ‘93’s Glyn Aikins and Riki Bleau to their new label home.

There’s a new label at Sony Music U.K. Jason Iley has tapped Glyn Aikins from UMG and Naughty Boy manager Riki Bleau to run their own imprint under RCA, Since ’93. Both execs have played a key role in the success of multi-million seller Emeli Sandé, while also working with Sam Smith and Labrinth.

In their new roles, Aikins and Bleau will report to RCA Records and Ministry of Sound President David Dollimore, who said: “Glyn and Riki are the definition of entrepreneurial spirit. They are game changers and two of the most respected execs in the business. It’s a very exciting time for the company and we are committed to investing in A&R, so to launch Since ‘93 as a standalone label is a landmark moment for RCA.”

As co-Presidents of Since ’93, Aikins and Bleau aim to nurture a new era of entrepreneurial artists into future global successes. The first releases for Since ’93 include a Top 5 mixtape by West London rapper Fredo, the first single from rapper Loski, “Forrest Gump,” and music by Manchester MC, Aitch.

“Glyn and Riki have a great knack for discovering and nurturing artists, who have defined the musical landscape in recent years,” Iley said. “They are bringing to Sony Music their ambition, enthusiasm and a clear vision for the Since '93 label, that will see them continue to set the agenda. I’m delighted to be working alongside them.”

Aikin’s career in A&R started at Relentless Records where his first signing was classic garage track “Rewind’” by Artful Dodger and Craig David. He also signed So Solid Crew, whose “21 Seconds” video was an era-defining moment that inspired a generation of British artists.

In 2003, Aikins joined Universal at Virgin Records, where he was most recently A&R Director, signing Roll Deep and Lethal Bizzle, and writing partners Naughty Boy and Sandé.

After starting out at urban music TV station Channel U, in 2007 Bleau entered into a publishing/management venture with Tim Blacksmith & Danny D where he signed Labrinth, Sam Smith and Sandé for publishing. He has managed Naughty Boy since 2008 and also looks after Grammy-winning producers Mojam.

“With Since ’93 we’re building a label uniquely placed in British culture with a truly global outlook,” Aikins said.

Bleau added, “Having sat with David and Jason it was clear I’d be given the freedom and support to make Since ‘93 Records into a global powerhouse.”