Virgin Music Group (VMG) has announced a partnership with UK-based independent label Chess Club Records.
Under the new deal, Chess Club Records’ repertoire will be distributed globally via VMG.
“With their strong track record, deep credibility, and highly experienced team, this partnership with Chess Club feels like a natural fit," said Bonita McKinney, head of business development, Europe, Virgin Music Group. "We’re excited to see what we can achieve together on a global scale.”
Formed in 2007, Chess Club Records' roster has typically included a mix of established globally touring artists and emerging acts, such as Alfie Templeman, Coach Party, SOFY, Pixey, Siobhán Winifred and Zander.
New music from Templeman, Coach Party and new signing Jo From School is expected in coming months as part of the new agreement, with further signings to follow imminently.
“I’m delighted to usher in this new chapter of Chess Club Records with Virgin Music Group," said Will Street, A&R and co-founder of Chess Club. "As we eagerly look ahead to the label’s 20th anniversary next year and celebrating two decades of dedication to artist development, this exciting new partnership with the amazing team at Virgin Music Group provides us with all of the resources needed for Chess Club to continue to thrive and support new music for years to come.”
When it came time to decide on a new partner for our label business, they were front and centre
Peter McGaughrin, Chess Club
Chess Club alumni include the likes of Wolf Alice, Jungle, MØ, Hard Life (fka Easy Life), Billie Marten, White Lies, Sundara Karma, Swim Deep, Mumford & Sons and Local Natives.
Peter McGaughrin, co-founder of Chess Club, added: “Having worked with Virgin Music Group recently on campaigns for artists I manage, I saw the enthusiasm, experience and hustle of the Virgin Music Group team first hand, so when it came time to decide on a new partner for our label business, they were front and centre. I’m delighted we are introducing our artists to them and taking everything to the next level.”
As well as the label arm, Chess Club also has a history as a live promoter, dating back to 2005, where its new music nights in London hosted formative UK shows for the likes of MGMT, Bon Iver, Mumford & Sons, Florence & The Machine, The XX and Michael Kiwanuka over the course of a decade.
Chess Club Live recently relaunched in association with Kilimanjaro Live, with the nights now taking place on a seasonal basis at The Social.
PHOTO (L-R): Vanessa Bosåen (president UK, Virgin Music Group), Peter McGaughrin (Chess Club co-founder), Will Street (Chess Club A&R and co-founder), Bonita McKinney (head of business development, Europe, Virgin Music Group), Jade Johnston (Chess Club, head of marketing & label operations), Emmy Buckingham (senior label manager, Virgin Music Group)
