Universal Music Group (UMG) is the world's leading music entertainment company. It discovers, develops, and promotes recording artists and songwriters globally. UMG's core business involves recording, publishing, and merchandising music. It owns and administers copyrights to musical compositions, licensing them for various uses such as recordings, public performances, films, and advertisements. Additionally, UMG sells artist and music-branded products through diverse sales channels, including online platforms, fashion retail, and live performances. UMG houses over a dozen record labels, including Interscope, Capital Music, Motown Records, and Def Jam, representing a vast roster of successful artists like Taylor Swift, Drake, The Weeknd, and Morgan Wallen.
8Ball Music is a record company that offers a range of services to artists, including music recording and publishing, live event management, and securing sponsorships.
PIAS
Acquisition in 2024
PIAS is an independent music network and services company that specializes in the licensing, distribution, sales, and marketing of music, film, and comedy. Founded in 1982 by Laurent Didailler and Michel Lambot, the company is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, and also operates from London, England. PIAS provides a range of services including an in-house record division and partnerships with various record labels, enabling a cooperative approach to distribution. The company is dedicated to supporting independent artists and labels, ensuring their work reaches a broad audience while maintaining creative control.
Mavin Records
Acquisition in 2024
Mavin Records Limited is a prominent Nigerian record label founded on May 8, 2012, by music producer and artist Don Jazzy, following the closure of Mo' Hits Records. Based in Lagos, the label specializes in music production and distribution, offering a variety of services including albums, photos, and videos through digital platforms such as YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram. Mavin Records has played a significant role in shaping the Afrobeat music scene and has produced hit songs for renowned artists, contributing to the evolution of diverse music genres including alternative rock and rap. The label continues to be a key player in the Nigerian music industry, delivering contemporary music that resonates with audiences.
Chabaka
Acquisition in 2023
Chabaka is a music marketing and distribution company focused on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. It offers digital distribution, marketing, publishing, and services for labels and artists, helping them reach their target audience and achieve their full potential on major digital platforms.
R.E.M. Beauty
Venture Round in 2023
R.E.M. Beauty is a cosmetics manufacturer dedicated to empowering individuals in their creativity and self-expression through makeup. The company offers a diverse range of products, including brow gel, concealer, eyeliner markers, lip liner pencils, eyeshadow palettes, lipstick, and lip gloss. By providing high-quality tools, R.E.M. Beauty aims to inspire users to bring their imaginative aspirations to life.
Hyperion Records
Acquisition in 2023
Hyperion Records is an independent British classical music label that focuses on producing high-quality recordings across a wide range of genres and historical periods, spanning from the twelfth to the twenty-first century. The company is dedicated to providing an extensive catalog of classical music, emphasizing both the recording and production processes. It offers music in various formats, including downloads, ensuring accessibility for customers who wish to experience classical works from different eras. By prioritizing excellence in both performance and production, Hyperion Records serves as a prominent provider of classical music recordings.
Music Health
Seed Round in 2023
Music Health is a company dedicated to enhancing the well-being of individuals through the therapeutic use of music. Focused on making music therapy accessible and affordable, it aims to empower people to manage their mental health effectively. The company's flagship product, Vera, is designed to assist the 60 million individuals living with dementia and their nearly 200 million caregivers by addressing behavioral and psychological symptoms associated with the condition. Additionally, Music Health has developed a music application that generates mood-based playlists, allowing users to create tailored musical experiences that can adapt to various settings, such as social gatherings, commutes, or work environments. By combining technology with the healing power of music, Music Health seeks to improve the quality of life for its users.
PIAS
Corporate Round in 2022
PIAS is an independent music network and services company that specializes in the licensing, distribution, sales, and marketing of music, film, and comedy. Founded in 1982 by Laurent Didailler and Michel Lambot, the company is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, and also operates from London, England. PIAS provides a range of services including an in-house record division and partnerships with various record labels, enabling a cooperative approach to distribution. The company is dedicated to supporting independent artists and labels, ensuring their work reaches a broad audience while maintaining creative control.
Shoelace Records
Acquisition in 2022
Shoelace Records is a record label that is affiliated with a Universal Music subsidiary. Shoelace started in 1996 as Shoelace Music, and over the next 20 years it released blues music for several popular blues artists, publishing 5 Billboard charting albums.
Invenio Business Solutions
Venture Round in 2019
Invenio Business Solutions Limited, founded in 2006 and headquartered in Reading, United Kingdom, is an IT consulting firm that specializes in delivering innovative digital solutions primarily based on SAP technology. The company serves various sectors, including public, media and entertainment, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and logistics. Invenio offers a comprehensive range of services and solutions, such as SAP HANA, SAP S/4HANA, supply chain execution platforms, and financial management tools. Additionally, it provides end-to-end services encompassing integration, analytics, implementation, and ongoing support. Recognized for its expertise in leading SAP S/4HANA implementations and developing industry-specific solutions, Invenio aims to transform organizations into intelligent enterprises, enhancing their operational efficiency and accelerating digital transformation. The company maintains a global presence with offices in several countries, including the UK, UAE, India, and the USA.
INgrooves Music Group
Acquisition in 2019
INgrooves is a prominent provider of digital distribution, marketing, and promotion services tailored for the music, video, and book publishing industries. Utilizing its proprietary ONE Digital platform, INgrooves offers customized solutions for distribution and administration to record labels, distributors, and film production companies. The company focuses on maximizing revenue potential for clients through a range of services including marketing, synch licensing, and comprehensive administrative support. Additionally, INscribe Digital, introduced in 2010, streamlines digital business management for publishers of all sizes, providing them with transparent tools to navigate the digital landscape. By offering scalable distribution tools, analytics, and rights management services, INgrooves aids independent labels and content owners in optimizing their sales in the global marketplace.
Def Jam Recordings
Seed Round in 2018
Def Jam Recordings is a music company based out of 1755 Broadway, New York, New York, United States. Def Jam is a subsidiary of Universal Music Group. Def Jam was founded by producers Rick Rubin and Russell Simmons in 1984. The pair helped bring hip-hop into the mainstream with artists including the Beastie Boys and LL Cool J.
Pex
Seed Round in 2017
Pex is a company that specializes in digital rights technology, focusing on providing transparency and accuracy in the licensing and management of content. Its advanced technology operates with remarkable speed and scale, allowing for efficient transactions that simplify global licensing processes. This empowers digital platforms to make real-time decisions regarding content usage, while also enabling creators to use copyrighted material without concerns of infringement. Additionally, Pex ensures that rightsholders receive proper credit and compensation for their work. The company is committed to building inclusive and equitable solutions that address the complexities of digital rights management.
Mass Appeal
Series A in 2017
Mass Appeal Media, Inc. is a multifaceted media company that produces and develops documentaries, scripted series, and unscripted formats for the film and television industry. Founded in 1996 and headquartered in New York, it has evolved from its origins as a graffiti magazine into a prominent publisher of urban lifestyle content. The company creates and publishes music, digital video, and editorial content, while also specializing in the production of premium advertising and branded content. Mass Appeal designs and executes marketing campaigns for global brands, reflecting a rich cultural heritage that spans music, art, and fashion. Its unique perspective aims to document the cultural convergence of these elements, engaging opinion leaders and trendsetters in contemporary conversations.
Verve
Seed Round in 2016
Verve Events is a prominent player in the live entertainment industry, specializing in word-of-mouth sales. The company leverages networks of advocates to promote and sell events and experiences, incentivizing these advocates with rewards such as free tickets and backstage passes. Trusted by more than 500 events globally across over 40 countries, Verve effectively enhances event visibility and attendance through its unique marketing approach. The company collaborates with major ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster, Eventbrite, Paylogic, and Front Gate Tickets to streamline the sales process and enhance customer engagement.
Fame House
Acquisition in 2016
FAME HOUSE is a digital marketing company that takes “digital” off of the plate of the manager, artist, label, and brand. We run online marketing campaigns all day – every day – and manage digital operations for top-level artists and entertainment companies. We are experts at building and managing direct-to-fan campaigns and digital merchandising. Not only do we turn talent into Likes, Follows, Email Addresses, and web traffic for our clients; but we also build digital infrastructure, revenue streams, and brands; which in turn converts into more dollars for licensing, touring, merchandise, and record sales.
ROLI
Series B in 2016
ROLI is a music technology company that specializes in creating innovative hardware and software solutions for music learning and creation. The firm develops a modular music creation system that features a three-dimensional pressure-sensing digital keyboard, designed to enhance musical expression by responding to variations in pressure. ROLI's team, composed of musicians, programmers, teachers, anthropologists, engineers, and artists, is dedicated to redefining how individuals engage with music through their products, which include a range of music-making devices, software, sounds, and accessories. By focusing on the intersection of technology and music, ROLI aims to make music more accessible and expressive for users of all skill levels.
Doppler Labs
Series B in 2015
Doppler Labs was founded in 2013 with the mission to make computing more immersive and human. Here Active Listening, Doppler Lab’s first digital product, was named TIME magazine’s Best Invention of 2015. In February 2017, Doppler Labs released Here One, the evolution of Here Active Listening and the first 3-in-1 wireless smart headphone, delivering premium sound quality, Smart Noise Cancellation, and Speech Enhancement
Jelli
Series B in 2015
Jelli, Inc. is a cloud-based advertising company specializing in the radio market in the United States. Founded in 2008 and headquartered in San Mateo, California, the company offers several key products, including SpotPlan, a programmatic buying platform for radio advertising; RadioSpot, an advertising server designed for broadcast radio that automates terrestrial radio advertising; and RadioDash, a dashboard for managing radio campaigns. Jelli's platform aims to enhance the audio advertising ecosystem by connecting publishers with listeners, thereby improving the overall quality of audio advertising experiences. As of December 31, 2018, Jelli operates as a subsidiary of iHeartMedia, Inc.
Shots Podcast Network
Series A in 2015
Shots Podcast Network, founded by John and Sam Shahidi, is a creator network that offers media management services specifically designed for influencers and celebrities. The company specializes in producing original mobile-first content tailored for platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. By facilitating content management and promotional strategies, Shots Podcast Network enables creators to effectively navigate the complexities of digital media, enhancing their reach and engagement with audiences. The network has garnered support from notable figures, including Justin Bieber and Floyd Mayweather, further establishing its presence in the entertainment industry.
VULCUN
Series A in 2015
Vulcun offers the largest prize pools in Fantasy eSports today, allowing gamers to support their favorite pro players and win hundreds of thousands in real money each season. The service is trusted by dozens of Pro players such as Voyboy, Imaqtpie, MandatoryCloud, Westrice and others.
Houseparty
Series B in 2015
Houseparty is an internet company based in San Francisco, California, that operates a social networking platform focused on enhancing online communication through empathy. Founded in 2011, the company specializes in live video streaming and interaction. Its mobile application allows users to engage in group video calls with friends, facilitating real-time communication and social interaction. By integrating with popular social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook, Houseparty enables users to share and influence live video content, creating a unique space for connecting with others.
Merchbar
Seed Round in 2014
Merchbar, Inc. operates an online platform dedicated to selling merchandise from various music bands and artists. Founded in 2012 and based in San Francisco, California, the company offers a wide range of products including apparel, posters, hoodies, vinyl records, compact discs, jackets, hats, and accessories. Merchbar provides fans with a convenient way to discover and purchase items related to their favorite artists, facilitating access to music-related merchandise at reasonable prices. Through its marketplace, Merchbar aims to enhance the fan experience by making it easier to find and buy desired products.
Pluto TV
Series A in 2014
Pluto TV is a free streaming television service based in Los Angeles, offering an extensive array of over 100 live channels and thousands of on-demand movies. It partners with major television networks, movie studios, and digital media companies to provide a diverse content library that includes news, TV shows, sports, lifestyle programming, and original digital series. The platform attracts millions of viewers each month and is accessible across various devices, including mobile, web browsers, and connected TVs, allowing audiences to enjoy premium content without subscription fees.
VIDA
Seed Round in 2014
VIDA & Co. operates an e-commerce platform that connects manufacturers and artists for the design and production of clothing and accessories. Founded in 2014 and based in San Francisco, California, the company utilizes direct-to-fabric technology to enable the rapid production of unique apparel from designers worldwide. This innovative approach allows any submitted design to progress from sketch to finished product within a week, leveraging a network of ten manufacturers. By strategically selecting its partnerships, VIDA aims to bridge the gap between artists and consumers while promoting socially responsible fashion. In 2018, VIDA became a subsidiary of Cimpress plc.
Pluto TV
Seed Round in 2014
Pluto TV is a free streaming television service based in Los Angeles, offering an extensive array of over 100 live channels and thousands of on-demand movies. It partners with major television networks, movie studios, and digital media companies to provide a diverse content library that includes news, TV shows, sports, lifestyle programming, and original digital series. The platform attracts millions of viewers each month and is accessible across various devices, including mobile, web browsers, and connected TVs, allowing audiences to enjoy premium content without subscription fees.
ROLI
Series A in 2014
ROLI is a music technology company that specializes in creating innovative hardware and software solutions for music learning and creation. The firm develops a modular music creation system that features a three-dimensional pressure-sensing digital keyboard, designed to enhance musical expression by responding to variations in pressure. ROLI's team, composed of musicians, programmers, teachers, anthropologists, engineers, and artists, is dedicated to redefining how individuals engage with music through their products, which include a range of music-making devices, software, sounds, and accessories. By focusing on the intersection of technology and music, ROLI aims to make music more accessible and expressive for users of all skill levels.
Rockbot
Seed Round in 2014
Rockbot, Inc. is a technology company that specializes in providing music and media solutions for businesses, allowing them to control their soundtracks and enhance customer engagement through an online dashboard. Founded in 2009 and based in Oakland, California, with an additional office in Detroit, Rockbot offers a comprehensive platform that includes background music, digital signage, and video services. Its technology enables clients, which range from restaurants and retail stores to fitness centers and educational institutions, to customize their audio-visual experiences and manage music remotely. Rockbot also features a mobile jukebox application for iOS and Android, allowing customers to choose licensed music in public venues. The company has gained recognition in the media-for-business sector and serves nearly 50,000 businesses across North America, including notable clients such as Planet Fitness and Walmart.
Pogoseat
Seed Round in 2014
Pogoseat, Inc. is a technology company based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2012. It specializes in developing mobile applications that enhance fan engagement during live events such as sports games and concerts. Pogoseat's platform allows fans to upgrade their seats in real-time through their smartphones, offering features like text-to-buy and subscription passes. The company provides a white-labeled system that enables sports teams, concert venues, ticket brokers, and promoters to monetize unused inventory and gather valuable data on fan behavior and preferences. By leveraging AI-driven personalization, Pogoseat aims to create new revenue streams and improve the overall fan experience.
Bellabeat
Seed Round in 2014
Bellabeat, Inc. is a wellness technology company focused on developing products specifically for women. Founded in 2014 and based in San Francisco, the company offers a range of health tracking devices, including the Leaf, Ivy, and various accessories, which allow users to monitor their sleep, activity, and reproductive health across different life stages. With a strong emphasis on design and functionality, Bellabeat has gained recognition as a leading brand in the femtech sector, providing hyper-personalized wellness solutions that align with women’s menstrual cycles. In addition to its product offerings, Bellabeat operates a research platform that evaluates wellness techniques and products, enabling users to share encrypted data and gain personalized insights. The company distributes its products through independent stores, resellers, and online channels, contributing to its rapid growth and international expansion.
ROLI
Series A in 2014
ROLI is a music technology company that specializes in creating innovative hardware and software solutions for music learning and creation. The firm develops a modular music creation system that features a three-dimensional pressure-sensing digital keyboard, designed to enhance musical expression by responding to variations in pressure. ROLI's team, composed of musicians, programmers, teachers, anthropologists, engineers, and artists, is dedicated to redefining how individuals engage with music through their products, which include a range of music-making devices, software, sounds, and accessories. By focusing on the intersection of technology and music, ROLI aims to make music more accessible and expressive for users of all skill levels.
Shazam Entertainment
Venture Round in 2014
Shazam Entertainment Limited is a technology company focused on music discovery through its flagship application, Shazam. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in London, the company enables users to discover, explore, and share music and television content via its mobile application, available on iOS, Android, and Windows platforms, as well as on MAC and Windows PCs. Shazam has established strategic alliances with several media companies, including iHeartMedia and Cumulus, to enhance its offerings and reach. The company operates additional offices in major cities, including New York City, Redwood City, Los Angeles, San Diego, Chicago, and North Sydney, Australia. Since September 2018, Shazam Entertainment has functioned as a subsidiary of Apple Operations Europe.
Stance
Series B in 2014
Stance, Inc. is a designer and manufacturer of socks and underwear for men, women, and children. The company offers a diverse range of products, including casual, performance, snow, and artist socks, as well as anklets, thigh highs, knee highs, and a variety of underwear. Stance aims to help athletes, performers, and cultural influencers express their individuality through its unique designs. Founded in 2009, Stance is based in San Clemente, California, and sells its products online and through retail partnerships in major cities like San Clemente, Salt Lake City, and New York.
Eagle Rock Entertainment
Acquisition in 2014
Eagle Rock Entertainment is the largest global producer and distributor of music programming across various formats, including DVD, Blu-Ray, television, and digital media. The company collaborates closely with renowned artists to create high-quality concert films and documentaries, featuring iconic acts such as The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, and U2. With a vast library of nearly 2,000 hours of programming, Eagle Rock offers over 800 titles available worldwide. The company has received numerous accolades, including Emmy and Grammy Awards, as well as multiple platinum and gold certifications for its releases. Additionally, Eagle Rock operates two audio music labels and has recently launched physical and digital albums by artists like Ronnie Wood and Counting Crows, further solidifying its position in the music industry.
WillCall
Seed Round in 2013
WillCall is a smartphone application that focuses on music discovery and ticketing for live shows. It curates a selection of notable events occurring within a two-week timeframe, making it easy for users to find and purchase tickets with minimal effort, eliminating the need for waiting in line or dealing with box offices. The platform emphasizes quality by featuring carefully selected shows, encouraging users to engage in local music experiences.
Wool and the Gang
Seed Round in 2013
Wool and the Gang is a global fashion brand specializing in handcrafted knitwear for men and women. The company is committed to exceptional design, ensuring that each item is never factory-made but instead crafted by a team of artisans and makers worldwide. In addition to ready-made garments, Wool and the Gang offers easy-to-follow Knit Kits, enabling customers to create their own customized designs at home. This approach not only promotes quality fashion but also aims to reduce stress and anxiety through the art of knitting.
EMI Group
Acquisition in 2012
EMI Group is a British music company known for its significant presence in the music industry. It operates through two main divisions: EMI Music, headquartered in London, and EMI Music Publishing, located in New York. As one of the leading record companies, EMI Music focuses on signing, developing, marketing, and promoting artists, while also distributing their music to retailers. The company plays a crucial role in the music ecosystem, contributing to the creation and dissemination of various musical works.
Stance
Series A in 2011
Stance, Inc. is a designer and manufacturer of socks and underwear for men, women, and children. The company offers a diverse range of products, including casual, performance, snow, and artist socks, as well as anklets, thigh highs, knee highs, and a variety of underwear. Stance aims to help athletes, performers, and cultural influencers express their individuality through its unique designs. Founded in 2009, Stance is based in San Clemente, California, and sells its products online and through retail partnerships in major cities like San Clemente, Salt Lake City, and New York.
MOG
Series C in 2008
MOG Inc. is a music media company established in June 2005, aimed at enhancing the music listening experience. It offers an on-demand streaming service that grants users access to a vast library of over 14 million songs from more than a million albums. This service is available across multiple platforms, including mobile apps for iPhone and Android, web browsers, and desktop applications for Mac, with plans for Windows integration. MOG's service is noted for its user-friendly interface, strong discovery features, and high audio quality. Additionally, MOG operates The MOG Music Network, a prominent online hub for music content and the largest advertising network focused on music, attracting over 60 million unique visitors monthly across more than 1,500 music-related websites. The company is based in Berkeley, California, and has garnered investment from notable firms including Menlo Ventures and Universal Music Group. Rick Rubin, a renowned record producer, serves on MOG's Board of Directors.
Amp'd Mobile
Venture Round in 2007
Amp'd Mobile was a mobile virtual network operator that resold services using the infrastructure of other mobile phone carriers, as it did not own its own spectrum. The company primarily targeted a younger audience, positioning itself in competition with other brands such as Disney Mobile, Helio, and Virgin Mobile. Despite raising over $350 million in funding, Amp'd Mobile faced financial difficulties and ultimately filed for bankruptcy in July 2007.
Amp'd Mobile
Venture Round in 2006
Amp'd Mobile was a mobile virtual network operator that resold services using the infrastructure of other mobile phone carriers, as it did not own its own spectrum. The company primarily targeted a younger audience, positioning itself in competition with other brands such as Disney Mobile, Helio, and Virgin Mobile. Despite raising over $350 million in funding, Amp'd Mobile faced financial difficulties and ultimately filed for bankruptcy in July 2007.
Amp'd Mobile
Series A in 2005
Amp'd Mobile was a mobile virtual network operator that resold services using the infrastructure of other mobile phone carriers, as it did not own its own spectrum. The company primarily targeted a younger audience, positioning itself in competition with other brands such as Disney Mobile, Helio, and Virgin Mobile. Despite raising over $350 million in funding, Amp'd Mobile faced financial difficulties and ultimately filed for bankruptcy in July 2007.
eMusic
Acquisition in 2001
eMusic is a digital music service for independent-minded music lovers. eMusic Members sign up for a monthly subscription that allows them to discover, download and own more music for less. eMusic also sells downloadable audio books from all major audio book publishers. For more information, visit http://www.eMusic.com/ eMusic is enrolled in Trustwave’s Trusted Commerce℠ program, which validates compliance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) mandated by all the major credit card associations. eMusic protects Member credit card information in accordance with payment card industry best practices.
Rondor Music
Acquisition in 2000
The world's greatest song catalog from the No.1 global leader in music publishing includes hits from top recording artists, producers, and songwriters such as Eminem, Justin Bieber, Coldplay, U2, Elton John, Mariah Carey, Adele, Bon Jovi, Justin Timberlake, and more...
360HIPHOP.com
Venture Round in 2000
360HIPHOP.com is an online platform dedicated to providing the latest news and trends in hip-hop culture. The website covers a wide range of topics, including music, fashion, lifestyle, and politics, making it a comprehensive resource for hip-hop enthusiasts. By focusing on diverse areas within the genre, 360HIPHOP.com aims to keep its audience informed and engaged with current developments and discussions in the hip-hop community.
Magex
Venture Round in 2000
Magex, Ltd. is a digital commerce services company that specializes in electronic payment solutions for financial institutions, telecommunications operators, and e-commerce businesses. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in London, with additional offices in San Francisco and Phoenix, Magex offers a range of services, including person-to-person and person-to-merchant payments, electronic funds transfers, cross-border remittance services, mobile payments, and comprehensive stored-value card solutions. The company serves a diverse clientele, including international banks and retailers in the United States, facilitating transactions across the Internet, mobile networks, and point-of-sale systems. Magex operates as a subsidiary of Magex Holdings, Ltd.
Listen Ventures
Venture Round in 2000
Listen Ventures, established in 2010, is a Chicago-based venture capital firm focusing on early-stage investments in consumer-focused technology sectors. The firm specializes in seed and Series A rounds, typically investing up to USD 5 million in 12 consumer brands per fund. It targets companies operating in B2C, e-commerce, financial services, and technology sectors, with a mission to back and build the brands of tomorrow.
Artistdirect
Venture Round in 2000
ARTISTdirect, Inc. is a digital media entertainment company based in Santa Monica, California, founded in 1996. The company operates an online platform that offers a variety of services related to music and recorded labels, including multimedia content, music news, online fan communities, and digital music services. Additionally, ARTISTdirect manages iMusic record labels that focus on rock and urban music. The company also includes a subsidiary, MediaDefender, which specializes in anti-piracy solutions within the Internet-piracy-protection industry. ARTISTdirect operates through three primary segments: Internet Piracy Prevention, Media, and E-Commerce, positioning itself as a key player in the digital music landscape.
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