BOOTSTRAPPED TO $1B: CREATE SCORES BIG INVESTMENT

Create COO Alexandre Williams, CEO Jonathan Strauss and Chief Business Development Officer Wayne Hampton

Create Music Group has received a $165m investment from private equity firm Flexpoint Ford, which will support the company's efforts to bolster its global label and distribution services.

“Our partnership with Flexpoint marks a significant milestone for our company and their expertise will be instrumental as we continue to scale our operations and find new ways to serve our client’s evolving needs,” said Create CEO Jonathan Strauss. “Flexpoint’s investment will also support our ambitious acquisition strategy, which will allow us to expand our market presence and create the scale to continue to provide unparalleled services to our clients and partners.”

“We believe Jonathan and his team have set a new standard for the industry, challenging traditional music companies to rethink their strategies,” added Flexpoint Ford MD Mike Morris. “By acting as a media company that offers comprehensive support to artists, including distribution, marketing, financial solutions and audience engagement, Create Music Group has created a blueprint for the future of music.”

Create also operates independent music-distribution platform Label Engine and the Gen Z-focused digital entertainment brand Flighthouse. The Los Angeles company has 400-plus employees worldwide.

Among those participating in this round of funding were veteran music executive Charles Goldstuck and financial advisor The Raine Group.

Photo: Rich Polk