SONY WRITES A BIG CZECH FOR SUPRAPHON

Sony Music Entertainment has acquired esteemed Czech Republic-based label Supraphon, which was founded in 1932 and has released music from artists such as Karel Gott, Olympic, Lucie Bila, Marek Ztraceny and Hana Zagorova.

Supraphon has also worked with international classical acts such as the Pavel Haas Quartet, Ivan Moravec and the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra as part of a mission to preserve traditional Czech and Slovak musical culture.

The company will continue to be led by Managing Director Libor Holeček, with Martin Kudla remaining as Executive Director. Previous Board of Directors Chairwoman Iva Milerová will transition into an advisory role.

Music consumption has grown steadily in the Czech Republic in recent years, and listeners support domestic performers in large numbers. In 2023, seven of the top 10 songs and albums of the year were from Czech acts.

“Supraphon is a cornerstone of Czech music heritage, with an invaluable catalog and a commitment to promoting Czech and Slovak talent that aligns perfectly with Sony Music’s dedication to artist development,” said SME President, Continental Europe and Africa Daniel Lieberberg.

Pictured above from left to right are Martin Kudla (Supraphon), Nathan Hunt (SME), Iva Milerová (Supraphon), Arina Dmitrieva (SME), Libor Holeček (Supraphon), Daniel Lieberberg (SME) and Philipp von Esebeck (SME).

Photo: Tana Kadlecova.