The Rolling Stones And Universal Music Group Announce Unprecedented Partnership

UMG to Provide Multifaceted, Global Support to Band's Iconic Recorded Music and Audio-Visual Work Including Merchandising, Brand Management and Archive

SANTA MONICA, California, July 9, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The Rolling Stones and Universal Music Group (UMG), the world leader in music entertainment, today announced an expansive worldwide agreement covering the band's iconic recorded music and audio-visual catalogues, archival support, global merchandising and brand management.

This multi-faceted partnership marks the beginning of a new era of expanded collaboration between The Rolling Stones and UMG.

Few bands in history have so profoundly impacted global culture as The Rolling Stones. Through their powerful music, infectious live performances, unique visual identity and attitude, the band is renowned throughout the world to audiences of all ages, widely influencing popular culture through art, fashion and film. With UMG, the band has a partner that complements and supports their global stature, with expertise and resources that enable the band to maximize their reach while underscoring their enduring cultural relevance across numerous forms of entertainment.

In making the announcement, Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman & CEO of Universal Music Group, said, "After a decade of working in partnership together, we are thrilled to expand and extend our relationship with The Rolling Stones.  We look forward to bringing our expertise and passion to bear as we put our global organization work on behalf of this iconic band who continue to create music and influence culture around the world."

David Joseph, Chairman & CEO, Universal Music UK, said, "The Rolling Stones continue to define rock and roll, they are loved the world over and they are the band who never let up. It's a privilege to work with them and Joyce Smyth, their exceptional manager."

Joyce Smyth, The Rolling Stones manager said, "For many years now we've had a wonderful partnership with Universal Music and look forward to an even more successful future together.''

As part of the agreement, UMG extends its position as the home for The Rolling Stones' iconic catalogue, which includes some of the most celebrated and influential albums of all time, from Sticky Fingers through to 2016's Grammy award-winning Blue & Lonesome. UMG will continue to distribute the band's celebrated recorded music catalogue globally with future projects and reissues to be released through UMG's labels and networks around the world.