 | |
| Formerly | Caroline Distribution (1983–2021) Virgin Music Label & Artist Services (2021–2022) |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music publishing |
| Founded | 1983 |
| Defunct | October 19, 2023 |
| Successor | Virgin Music Group |
| Headquarters | United States |
Virgin Music, known asVirgin Music Label & Artist Services until 2022 and originally asCaroline Distribution, was a music distributor of independent artists and record labels. Virgin Music operates as a subsidiary ofVirgin Music Group, and is owned byUniversal Music Group. The company focuses on the distribution of new or emerging partners.[1] Virgin Music has its operation in United States, with its flagship operating in Japan, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and across Latin America.[2]
In 1983, Caroline Distribution was established byRichard Branson &Virgin Records. In 2019, Universal Music Group acquired the digital music and network companyINgrooves (including the independent label distributorFontana Distribution).[3]
According toBillboard reporter Ed Christman; “Between Caroline and Ingrooves, UMG’s indie owned distributors will have a combine market share of about 4.4 percent Billboard estimates, based on year-end numbers”.[3] On 18 February 2021,Universal Music Group announced Virgin Music Label & Artist Services, a new global network to deliver premium and flexible artist and label services.[4]
Following its launch, Universal Music Group retained Caroline Distribution presidentJacqueline Saturn, to head Virgin Music label and artist services division ofVirgin Music Group.[5]
In September 2022, Universal Music Group announced the launch of Virgin Music Group.[6] Following its launch, its Label & Artist Services began operating as Virgin Music. On 22 September 2022,Sumerian Records signed a distribution deal with Virgin Music.[7]
In September 2023,Virgin Music Group established Virgin Music Nigeria.[8][9]
In October 2023, Virgin Music Group combined with Virgin Music.[10]
