Ministry of Sound sale to Sony Music confirmed

Ministry of Sound has been at a prime position to experience and view the rapid expansion of the electronic genre. Responsible for much of it success also, it will always be heralded as the pioneering independent labels over the past two decades or so.

Now sold to be part of the Sony Music’s British branch, Sony Music UK, one of the biggest independent labels has now joined one of ‘big four’ global music businesses.

Debuting in 1993, it was founded by James Palumbo as an extension of the iconic London Nightclub. With cumulative sales over the past 23 years comfortably over the 70 million mark, it can lay claim to releasing a grand total of 40 UK No.1 albums and over 20 No.1 singles.

As a condition of the deal with Sony, Ministry of Sound has handed over control of its roster, back catalogue and renowned compilations concept. A concept so popular, the business arm from it is responsible for one in every six of the compilation albums sold in the British Isle’s. These include the likes of “The Annual”, “Clubbers’ Guide” and “Dance Nation”.

The acts moving include the like of DJ Fresh and Sigala, with previous names from Ministry of Sound including Eric Prydz, Example and Wretch 32.

All we can hope for is that it doesn’t inhibit the precious artist nurturing it has performed in the past, and continues to be of creative benefit to the electronic dance music scene. Especially given Ministry of Sound’s elite status in the genre’s gospel and archives.

H/T: Billboard